The politicians in Washington have their pork, the Oley Valley School Board is no different. The majority voted to approve a track costing well over $1,000,000.
A special interest group complained the current track was not PIAA compliant. They also complained about the surface and appearance.
The estimates for refurbishing the facility began at $450,000. The track supporters promised to pay for half.
Board President Robert A. Heckman reassured the community that there were no decisions to move forward on the request. However, after the board voted to pay an architect $33,000 for a design of the new facility, his assurances were met with skepticism.
Soon other groups arrived with their demands and the costs rocketed over $1,400,000. Again, Mr. Heckman offered more assurances that no decisions were finalized.
Soon, the group that promised to pay half through fund raising could not meet their obligations. The board was forced to change their commitment from funding half the cost to paying “at least half the cost”. In other words, they obligated the taxpayers to pay more than their fair share.
The official cost of this new athletic facility is $1,403,356.00. It will serve up to 120 students. There are over 2,000 students in the district.
The board could have voted for the $820,356 option and met PIAA concerns, instead they choose the most expensive plan. During the bid process, the district refused to consider other less costly options than a synthetic surface.
Had they maintained the track, there would be no need to spend such an enormous sum now.
The track is not state mandated. The state does not consider this an educational expense either because it is not one of the ten exemptions to referendum on school spending.
There will be some who say the money came from the Capital Reserve Fund and not the operational budget, therefore, taxes were not affected. The Capital Reserve Fund is created will tax dollars. When the reserve is depleted by a major expenditure, it is replenished with tax dollars.
The future needs of education will be short $1,403,356.00 and it too must be funded with higher school tax dollars.
The school board could have put the plan in the 2007-2008 budget, thereby requiring in effect, a referendum vote of approval by the entire community rather than the influence of a special interest group on this extravagance.
Seven board member voted “Yes” , Robert A. Heckman, Scarlette Gotwals, Barbara M. Bieber, Richard M. Maloney, Christopher M. Hannum,Kerry Madeira, Ralph C. Richard.
One board member voted “No”, Mary Anne McCarthy. She felt the cost was too high, but she would have voted for a less expensive version. Robert Cappa was absent.
The district wants to raise taxes for the seventh consecutive year in the 2007-2008 budget. Paradoxically, they complain the state does not send enough money for “educational” needs.
The voters will have an opportunity to vote on the board’s perpetual, insatiable, spending appetite in May 2007. There are five seats up for election.
Let your voice be heard!
Posts
460 comments:
«Oldest ‹Older 201 – 400 of 460 Newer› Newest»Good Question!
You'd think they'd be advertising this by now, any way they can, so they can get VOTES.
We know who the people that are running are and I rather see them stay at home were they belong. The football people running might be the only ones that want change for all the kids. When speaking to them they are not just for football. The husband running for the board and I know who it is should of been on the board the past 4 years not his wife. It is tooooo late for him now.
He is married to a yes voter! Why would we think he would vote any different!
According to a phone conversation with the Berks County Election Services the following are running for school board in OVSD:
Carl Kubitz
Steve Burns
John Bieber
Robert Heckman
Robert Cappa
My grandmother said, "You can always count on a complainer, no matter what, they'll find something to complain about."
The OCC has been waiting four years for the opportunity to take over the majority of the board for perfection in Oley - 5 seats.
Not a single one stepped up to place their name on the ballot, and they're already complaining about the candidates who did.
What!?!? No OCCers?!? I can't believe it!?! I thought things were so horrible and they had to be fixed!?! Apathy will get you nowhere!
What does Dale have to say about the 5 runners? I have a strange feeling that he has something up his sleeve. Maybe not but he has been toooooooooo quiet lately.
Is there hope over the horizon? Could the 3 new runners actually help get this school district back into shape? Oh boy, I gather we will have to wait and see. I want to see the 5 runners have a meeting with the public to explain their positions on the issues of this district. We know about the 2 current board members but not about the 3 new ones. Heckman has been on the board way to long but I guess this is all he has to live for. He does not want to give up his Thrown! What a sad life he has. We must be in the talking stages of something big like a new admin bldg, HS for him to want to stay on so his name will be put on another plaque. Sure is sad!
Hey Al, You are way too slow with your censored editing. This thing is not timely, nor relevant. Why don't you,Cindy,Russ,Mary and LB just get together every few days at King's and abandon this blog? You must have other things you can obsess over.
Maybe there is an OCD support group somewhere.
PS: I dare you to post this.
That list is much shorter than the number of folks running FROM the board.
He is married to a yes voter! Why would we think he would vote any different!
3:19 PM, March 07, 2007
I love the assumptive narrow minded thinkers here.
I'm glad my family is from a deeper gene pool.
Oh No!!
I posted something here a few HOURS ago and it's not here.
Maybe Lord Al, Keeper of All Things Censored was busy tonight.
Come back soon Lord Al.
it's over
I hate to admit it but I occasionally offer unkind comments about the typical blogger who believes he and Al have "all the facts" and, with the exception of one or 2 Lost offerings, I have always been "allowed" on. Unlike some of the anti-board, anti-logic, keep-me-in-ignorance bloggers, I don't tend to name them. Of course most hide behind anonymity because of special reasons or, like me, because it's more fun (and the Secret Service prefers it that way). However, publishing personal attacks on board members, either specifically or in general, should also be censored if you really want to have a rule and follow it. Of course then Al would have to play fox guarding the chicken house and censor himself.
Regardless of who runs for school board they will have to abide by the state spending controls.
Otherwise, they may have to submit the budget to referendum.
Judging from the comments from the board and from the football spokespersons that is a road they do not want to travel.
Washington wants to pay educators based on performance rather than tenure.
School Districts must improve their AYP or face penalties and firings.
If anyone looks at the home page of the blog they will see the phrase, "Fiscal and educational accountability".
OCC seems to be on the right track.
Those that are trying to find reasons to howl their disapproval of the taxpayers appear to be the ones out of step and not up to date.
OCC seems to be on the right track?!? Dearie, they were derailed years ago! You best be finding a new train!!
Some comments on OCC's stated "facts" and opinions.
"A recent study conducted by the Manhattan Institute concluded that the average public school teacher hourly pay was $34.06 compared to $25.06 for the white-collar worker – a 36 percent advantage."
Is this institute an unbiased one, or one of the usual 'publish allegations to fit our agenda' groups that routinely select and mold their facts? Does this apply to Oley or to teachers in Manhattan? Does this credit teachers' hours worked after school or only contracted hours? My guestimate is that the average Oley teacher gets about $26 per hour actually worked.
"You can add the over $3,000,000 in debt service, as well. The state does not mandate unnecessary or Taj Mahal buildings."
If you think our buildings are Taj Mahals, you need to see pictures of the original. There are no cinder block walls, etc.Do you really think any of our current buildings were unnecessary? It's my impression that there is very little unused space in any of the 3 schools.
"We are seeing that they are not using these funds for some type of emergency, but rather for a wish list project just prior to an election."
Only 2 board members are running for reelection. Did the other 6 who voted for the track do so for the benefit of these 2? If they did, it must mean they thought there was widespread community support for the track or else it would hurt their chances. If there is widespread support, isn't that how they should have voted?
From another contributor @7:45 PM on 3/4:
"The liberals are shown the facts and they head for the hills."
Last time I checked, several of the board members are Republican and at least one is an independent, although registered as a democrat. You make the dual mistake of using "liberal" as a swear word, when it is actually a compliment, and cussing anyone whose opinion is different from yours and therefore probably unselfish, concerned and truly patriotic- in the sense of wanting what is best for all the people and not just themself.
I love the way Al refers to Washington and Harrisburg's pronouncements and opinions as being of such value. These are the omouthings of politicians who are reputed to be uniformly self-serving, corrupt and concerned only with their own re-election and continued power.These same accusations are routinely leveled at school board members who have none of the perks or abusable power and who usually raise and spend nothing for their elections and often don't even seek re-election (3 out of 5 this time). I would think anything out of state or federal political sources would make us tend to lean the other way, instead of quoting them as if from the Bible.
OCC at 8:52 PM certainly seems to like OCC. Maybe he knows something we don't
"I love the way Al refers to Washington and Harrisburg's pronouncements and opinions as being of such value."
These people pass laws, for example House Bill 1, which has an inflation index and referendum for the control of spending.
If Washington, which is now run by Democrats, publicly plans to put more teeth in NCLB, then it is probably a good idea to pay attention.
Of course, if may feel good to be in denial, but the obstructionists will be forced to make changes.
"My guestimate is that the average Oley teacher gets about $26 per hour actually worked."
Instead of guessing, why not do research like OCC and refute the facts with facts instead of guesswork.
"If you think our buildings are Taj Mahals, you need to see pictures of the original."
Not only are the structures extravagant, but they duplicate existing facilities in other buildings.
Waste and duplication are not the sole province of Harrisburg or Washington.
House Bill 1 addresses this problem, as well.
"OCC seems to be on the right track?!? Dearie, they were derailed years ago! You best be finding a new train!!"
Darlin', the train has come and gone, because the main reason spending controls are in place is because taxpayers organized and made a difference.
There are more changes on the way.
"All aboard"
"This thing is not timely, nor relevant. Why don't you,Cindy,Russ,Mary and LB just get together every few days at King's and abandon this blog?"
The people who want to protect the status quo are furious that public information about the gravy train is available on a blog.
Golden teacher and superintendent contracts, Middle School cost overruns, escalating legal bills, a lawsuit, runaway track costs, disappointing test scores, etc. are facts the special interests want kept secret from the community.
They wish the blog would disappear.
They would close it down if they could.
The Right To Know Law, the Sunshine Law, and most importantly the Constitution say these people cannot violate the citizen's right of access or free speech.
"However, publishing personal attacks on board members, either specifically or in general, should also be censored if you really want to have a rule and follow it."
In a democracy, you have the right to express an opinion.
Stifling different views may suit the needs of those in power and their supporters, but the First Amendment gives the right to expression even to those who oppose that freedom.
"Last time I checked, several of the board members are Republican and at least one is an independent, although registered as a democrat."
Today,a politician's party affiliation does not mean they are liberal or conservative.
Not do their words mean they are liberal or conservative.
It is their votes that determine their politics.
The board's voting record is public information.
Based on the seventh millage increase in as many years, there is no taxpayer represented on the board.
The only voice of reason will be the referendum.
As more time elapses, this voice will grow very loud.
It will force all school boards, regardless of how they try to sell themselves to the voters, to listen.
I love how the OCC keeps beating the drum of government controls, Act 1 and the referendum. But the "fact" is that the board constructed a budget within the guidelines of Act 1 and you're still not happy.
You are a confused bunch who then go on to quote "stifling different views" and "the First Amendment," while in violation of the same under the heading of Comment Moderation.
Its hard to keep up with the "logic" here - it keeps twisting one way, then the other.
The OCC bashers have nothing to contribute but drivel. They whine and complain, whine and complain about a blog of all things! Some example they set for the children.
"I love how the OCC keeps beating the drum of government controls, Act 1 and the referendum. But the "fact" is that the board constructed a budget within the guidelines of Act 1 and you're still not happy."
The only reason the board did not increase the millage higher was because of the inflation index and the fear of a referendum.
We know the taxes would have been higher because the board refuses to disclose the infamous "Big Ticket List" to the public.
They may have been under the mandates of Act 1, but they have over $4,500,000 sitting in off-budget funds to have a no-tax increase budget, and that is a fact.
This has been the case for at least the last several years.
I am not sure which is more amusing, a school board saying they have a "bare bones budget" and no money or anonymous,venomous,uninformed, board apologists.
We speak to the board at the meetings asking questions regarding our children's education and we get time controls, you freak when Al monitors the slander you put on the blog. This does not even come close. We are concern parents, citizens, grandparents that want fiscal accountability and honesty. You want to bash us for asking questions. Well tooo bad. Al has the right to stop the hurting and name calling on this blog. From the looks of this past week it seems Al has still let your blogs post. He has been more than nice to you name calling pro-boarders that will not talk about the real issues and facts of this school district. I am still waiting 1 year later to see you put anything factual on this blog.
Big fish in a little pond. We need term limits. Heckman say good-bye.
We do not have to run for board because the state has put spending controls and a referendum into law. Even though it is not perfect it will help put controls on school districts. And yes we have over $4.5 million that could of been used for a no tax increase. Again like the past years the board raises our taxes anyway. Hopefully we will get even tighter controls from the state and federal gov't. Our money should go for the education of the children. 88% of our budget are for salaries and benefits. What a disgrace.
'...We do not have to run for board because the state has put spending controls and a referendum into law. Even though it is not perfect it will help put controls on school districts...'
That is another way of saying we want everybody do everything for us! Why should we do anything for ourselves? It is easier to have others do the work and then complain about their efforts!
Hard to imagine that our country is spiraling out of control, isn't it!
Whether you agree with the teachers' contract or not, in absolutely every district in the nation, the majority of the budget goes towards salaries/benefits - connect the dots: what would school be without teachers? Isn't that going directly to education? What is it that you think it should go towards? Are you a lap-tops advocate?
I think the group needs a new name:
OCC = Obsessive Compulsive Complainers
Here's one solid idea for you: Visit the schools, I don't mean just for a board meeting held in the auditorium or library. Actually sit in on some classes, see what's being taught. I doubt Al could find the Guidance Counselor's Office in all three buildings.
Hey! For any readers that don't like the OCC supporters:
Which do you prefer? A group of citizens that are lazy and apathetic and don't even care what the board is doing? Or a bunch of folks that just accept what the board does and plans to do, without a question being asked...ever? Or, maybe, a group of citizens that is afraid to seek answers to the questions we all have. No matter which comment gets your attention, we'd be in trouble if SOMEBODY didn't ask questions. The OCC is here, and not going anywhere. Get used to it!
to 107 p.m.
NO! that's not going directly to education. First and foremost, it's going to DEMANDS placed by teachers and their union reps...demands that stipulate that unless they get what the heck they want, they're not TEACHING. What part of that looks like it's going to EDUCATION. The only education there is the realization that if they strike, they mess up everyone's schedule. Oh, and leave the kids hanging, too. Open your eyes.
When I connect THOSE dots, I see a picture of a group of people which USE the children.
Regarding: "This thing is not timely, nor relevant. Why don't you,Cindy,Russ,Mary and LB just get together every few days at King's and abandon this blog?"
SOME who disagree with us don't want us to speak out at board meetings, and now they don't even want us to express ourselves on OUR OWN BLOG. If the thoughts and opinions posted on this blog are so upsetting to those who oppose our way of thinking, they can simply NOT look at this site!
If you don't like our blog site, don't read it! duh.
If the board and those who whole heartedly support their theories had or have nothing to hide, then a blog concerning these subjects should not bother them, or anyone. People do, however, seem to be greatly bothered by this blog and it's ability to announce truthful FACTS. Not much of a mystery why this bothers those in question, is there?
Just an FYI:
The administrators, teachers, secretaries and perhaps more will be having BREAKFAST ON THE TAXPAYERS this morning to kick off their inservice.
I wonder if the the Oley Valley Community Education Foundation is paying for this too.
Better hurry up and get your ducks in a row, so you can have the answer when the question is asked.
What bothers people is what passes as FACTS on this site.
Hey 7:35, where are your facts.
Better yet, why don't you present them and sign your name.
I'd wager you won't.
Wager, We do not have any money.
The OCC Bashers are more interested in bullying posters off the site than discussing issues. They don't even have the backbone to sign their names.
'...The OCC Bashers are more interested in bullying posters off the site than discussing issues. They don't even have the backbone to sign their names.
4:05 PM, March 09, 2007 ...'
Thank you Mr/Ms. Annonymous for that deep and well thought out issue based comment. Truly thought provoking!
Its just easy to click that anonymous button.
I see Al's gone back to putting up with the First Amendment.
The teacher union says high pay will attract better teachers and thereby a better education. The facts say otherwise.
The unions can threaten mayhem in school districts if they do not get their way. After the school boards surrender to the bullying, the taxpayer ends up funding one of the most powerful lobbyist groups in Harrisburg, the PSEA.
An article describing this problem is at the following website:
http://www.commonwealthfoundation.org/
Click on the link:
“Rendell’s love of the teacher union money cheats the taxpayer”
"I see Al's gone back to putting up with the First Amendment"
Have you ever read the First Amendment? It states: CONGRESS shall make no law...abidging the freedom of speech or of the press...
Could you tell us where the first amendment gives you the right to write anything on here you want or where the first amendment in any way prevents Al from not allowing anything he wants?
The First Amendment was written to prevent Government tyranny. Period.
The First Amendment was written because at America's inception, citizens demanded a guarantee of their basic freedoms.
Our blueprint for personal freedom and the hallmark of an open society, the First Amendment protects freedom of speech, press, religion, assembly and petition.
Without the First Amendment, religious minorities could be persecuted, the government might well establish a national religion, protesters could be silenced, the press could not criticize government, and citizens could not mobilize for social change.
Just as you question where the first amendment gives bloggers the "right to write anything on here you want or where the first amendment in any way prevents Al from not allowing anything he wants?" Same holds true to for the school board to not allow someone to go on endlessly making a speech at a board meeting. Even Congress has limits on the time of member remarks for the cause of moving meetings along in a timely fashion.
- Some Guy in Oley
"Thank you Mr/Ms. Annonymous for that deep and well thought out issue based comment. Truly thought provoking!
5:14 PM, March 09, 2007"
Thank you 5:14. You beat me to making the same comment about the "backboneless" 4:05 writer.
Way too funny.
- Also Anonymous
Big Brother Al.
Looks like you've had second,
first amendment thoughts.
Too bad, you did delete some of my best work!!
Glad you took off the rent-a cop uniform.
A Recovering Oley Grad
Dr. Cappa:
You always give yourself away.
Public Participation Rules at OVSD board meetings.
1.Filling out a blue card with your name, address, and topics to be presented at the meeting.
2.Identifying yourself when speaking.
3.Three minute time limitation at the regular board meeting.
4.Thirty minute topic limit at the regular board meeting.
5.Address only the board president.
6.Be video taped by a school representative.
7.Participation can be terminated for any reason.
8.Police can remove speaker from meeting.
The Oley Concerned Citizens Blog does not have any of these rules for participation.
"Have you ever read the First Amendment? It states: CONGRESS shall make no law...abidging the freedom of speech or of the press..."
8:40 PM, March 09, 2007
Were you the one sitting next to Al as he attended board meetings protesting a certian Policy holding a sign depicting the American flag with the words "First Amendment" printed below it? The Board isn't Congress either.
Public Participation Rules at OVSD board meetings - should read "Public Participation Rules at any Berks County school district board meetings". These are not at all unique, and IN FACT, some districts require 24 hour advance notice if a community member wishes to speak. Some are not just taped, but televised.
Attend some other district's meetings, then report back on the facts.
Al, what you're trying to do used to be called "making hay."
To the March 8, 2007 blogger who said, "I am waiting 1 year later to see you put anything factual on this blog," take a look. Maybe you "just can't handle the facts" unless they can be twisted into something else.
Try this on for size: You say there should be term limits for the board, but four years ago there were nine candidates for five seats, and who got elected? I guess the community didn't agree with you, and that's a FACT! With all the moaning and groaning by the OCC, not a one put their name on the ballot, and that's a FACT. The board voted for a preliminary budget within Act 1 guidelines, and that's another FACT. There are many more examples, you haven't been paying attention or don't like what you hear.
"Al, what you're trying to do used to be called "making hay...Attend some other district's meetings, then report back on the facts."
The factual comparison of OVSD public participation requirements to that of the Concerned Citizens participation guidelines appears to embarrass perhaps, a certain school board member who engineered a policy to inhibit and restrict community involvement and reduce board transparency.
I think he called citizens, "diatribes" and he was tired of listening to them.
If there some factual errors about OVSD rules, then the anonymous poster should present them.
It would be refreshing to see a name accompanying the rebuttal.
He seems to take pride in comparing OVSD to other districts who have gotten away with attacks on Freedom of Speech because of the constituents apathy.
Sighting other school board's scurrilous actions does not support his actions, but refutes them.
Hey 9:40:
I am all for televising the board meetings.
Too bad you you misinterpreted what Al posted.
He wasn't blogging about the district taping the meeting, he was talking about Dr. Cappa videotaping someone who was speaking at a board meeting. It had nothing to do with the district taping the meeting.
In fact, I THINK THE OLEY SCHOOL DISTRICT SHOULD TELEVISE THEIR BOARD MEETINGS.
But guess what, they won't because then everyone in the county would see how they treat their taxpaying public, how they violate the Sunshine Law, and the fact they everyone would see that they never answer any questions put to them by the public. It would also show Dr. Zackon at his best - all the faces he makes, all the flailing of his arms and legs, and how an unbiased school superintedent should not conduct himself.
That, my friend, is the OLEY SCHOOL BOARD and administration.
...In fact, I THINK THE OLEY SCHOOL DISTRICT SHOULD TELEVISE THEIR BOARD MEETINGS...
I agree. We should televise the meetings. I believe that the bloggers, inconjuction withh the OCC should perform a fundraiser to fund the necessary purchases to implement a television broadcast. I would say we could cut something out oif the budget, but that wouldn't be right either, because the new expenditures would not be for a STATE MANDATED activity. To be honest, maybe we should just eliminate the board meetings, and have them via teleconferences because then we could save on heating, air and electricity for the board room, not to mention the water bill for bathroom use. Again, all these expenditures are not state mandated.
It should meet the criteria for a public meeting, as long as the public can call in.
sorry Al et al, but none of the recent comments attributed to me actually were mine. But thank you for the unearned credit. RC
OCC for the umpteenth time made the following accusation:
"I think he called citizens, "diatribes" and he was tired of listening to them."
I actually referred specifically to Al's repeated and repetitive attacks on the school board as diatribes. They are boring, serve no apparent purpose, and are tiring to listen to over and over and over again. I believe his speeches fit the definition. To twist that, as he has done, to mean I said I don't want to listen to any Oley citizen, is a perfect example of his usual operating style.
Hey 11:55, it was the blogger before me who made the statement that some board meetings were televised.
I just happened to agree with the FACT that this poster mentioned.
Why did you pick the quote from my blog, and not the other blog? It could have been an OCC basher, but instead, you chose to pick on the blog that had a few other isses mentioned.
Did I step on your feet?
Perhaps you are the one who initially put the first televise issue on.
You people are such cowards!
Why spend needless dollars to televise any school board meetings? Don't we have a radio station in one of our schools? Is this just heresay, or do we really have a radio broadcasting station? If not, it does not matter. But if we do have one, why can't all of the board meetings be broadcast the way Reading broadcasts meetings. Don't forget, many citizens are working shift work and/or two jobs. Maybe we can't make it to a meeting, but would like to HEAR what's going on with our OWN ears.
Hey RC, How the heck are you? Lets get something clear. You said your words not mine that you do not have to listen to anyone if you do not want to and you made the board vote to change our freedom of speech to a max. of 3 minutes, but under the board president he can add more minutes he if feels the need. Now you are running again after you have been in the paper saying you do not care or need to hear the people that pay for your retirement if you choose to. Well we choose not to vote for you. Even if you get onto the board again it will not be from my vote. You should stay home like you did this past month. The board was a little more civil with you not there. A little is the word. Also you are the one that started the video thing and now you have students from the HS video taping the meetings every month. Why not show them to the public on TV? Then they could see the board in action. Maybe then you might get 1 vote into office, your own vote.
THE OLEY SCHOOL BOARD AND ADMINISTRATORS DO NOT HAVE THE GUTS TO TELEVISE BOARD MEETINGS!
Every public meeting is held IN PUBLIC and anyone can be part of the audience at no cost, without televising, yet they do not come. Even if they were televised, someone wouldn't be happy with that. There is no pleasing the OCC.
What ever happened to Clean Sweep? Without candidates to oppose the incumbants, you are correct: all they need is one vote each. The OCC is all talk and no action. All complaints and no solutions - not willing to get involved, but happy to criticize from the sidelines. And now you want to watch the meetings from your Lazyboy!
Hey Blogger 5:58:
Don't count your chickens before they are hatched.
I know something that you don't know!
The proof is in the pudding.
Is that PIGGY Pudding?
I work two jobs. When I FINALLY get home, I don't know anyone that would be stupid enough to refer to my chair as a "LAZY BOY." Well, that is, until I read the post above. By the way, my wife works full time and also baby sits nearly every evening. She volunteers for meals on wheels, too, whenever possible. I suppose you'd like to call her lazy, too> You're a pathetic excuse for a blogger. If you're married, I bet you're a real trip to live with.
All talk no action! Ha, you are the ones that refuse to write the facts on this blog. We care about this district and that is why the business of this district is being put out on this blog. We all work multiple jobs, we do not have time to sit at board meetings watching the circus. At least if it is on TV we have a remote or a mute botton to shut YOU up.
'...Did I step on your feet?
Perhaps you are the one who initially put the first televise issue on...'
You give yourself way too much credit. I picked yours because it was the comment that made me chuckle the most.
Please redirect the comment to the other television posting. I don't want to ruffle the feathers of the individual who is so outspoken as to call me a coward. Thank you mr/ms anonymous!
OCC - I thought you were policing this blog so rude and inconsiderate individuals like the one that posted at 3:01pm would be duly censored to stop the childish name calling.
Hey Blogger 6:38:
You say you are too busy to go to board meetings. But you want to stay home and watch on TV and mute it so you don't have to listen.
How insane is that? Anyone...anyone?
Don't count your chickens before they are hatched.
I know something that you don't know! 6:27 PM, March 10, 2007
OK Kreskin, let me guess.
A.) You have nude photos of a candidate, B.)one of the candidates will be hit by a bus on Main St in Oley and not be fit to complete their term,
C.) you have some super secret slate of write-in candidates.
or D.) Again, not a single Oley Concerned Critic had the courage to put themself on the ballot.
You have no inside information as you claim.
See you at the polls.
Not quite as you write it 9:05.
But there is interesting information hanging around out there in the real world.
By the way, you're way off target.
What kind of uninformed person would attempt a write in candidacy when they could have easily and with minimal effort put their name on the ballot?
If we're not running for the board, what are you worried about?
If we are of no consequence, what concerns you?
If there are only two or three of us, why do you continue to write on a blog that infuriates you?
If all we are telling are lies, then why are you wasting your time trying to convince the public otherwise?
Answer the 9:32pm blog, come on pro-boarders whats up? Hey I am just saying when I get any free time in my busy than normal life I can sit down on my time, not waste any gas, do not have to take rolaids and I can watch you make a fool of yourselves in the comfort on my own house. If I choose to turn off the nonsense I can. At board meetings you sit there and get sick looking so close at the people who are making weird faces at you and laughing at you. Hey the last laugh is on me. You do not see me and I can mute you. How wonderful. Have a good evening. And when you have any meaningful facts you would like to talk about then come on here. You are wasting your time with stupid stuff. Talk about the real concerns would you Mr. board member, Dale of whoever you are.
Insane, are you looking in the mirror.
Nude Photo's? Write In Candidates? Hit by a Bus on Main Street? Big Secrets?
Is this a gossip column or is this a blog that has been established to discuss true concerns in the OV schools?
According to the pro-boarders - it's Much Ado about Nothing.
So why are you blogging?
I am a war veteran with no legs, I cannot walk so seeing you at my house running your board meetings is something that would help me see what is happening in the district.
there is interesting information hanging around out there in the real world.
9:26 PM, March 10, 2007
Can you be more cryptic?
Go ahead spill your FACTS.
Or is it just gossip?
Sorry, you'll just have to wait.
Is this a gossip column or is this a blog that has been established to discuss true concerns in the OV schools? 9:49 PM, March 10, 2007
Great question. To me it seems more gossip than substance is found here. I never see anything about what our kids are being taught. Only complaining about school board.
To Anonymous said...
Sorry, you'll just have to wait.
10:11 PM, March 10, 2007
Cautionary note; there are consequences to libelous comments, even in cyber space.
Anon Esq.
Dear 10:15:
Do you have a clue who is teaching your children?
I do. I handpick my childrens' teachers in this district.
I choose the teachers who teach, and not those who are there for the money.
In addition, if we allow the school board to keep spending millions of dollars on Taj Mahal tracks we won't be able to pay the teachers to teach the children.
Hey 10:15:
Looks like you're a little out of touch with who runs the district.
INTO THE GROUND!
Who made a libelous statement?
Libel - the action or the crime of injuring a person's REPUTATION by means of something printed or written.
Anyone mentioned here on this blog has had their reputation well-established before this blog site became available, and have merely been reinforced by their own comments or responses.
'...Dear 10:15:
Do you have a clue who is teaching your children?
I do. I handpick my childrens' teachers in this district.
I choose the teachers who teach, and not those who are there for the money...'
Actually I do know exactly who is teaching my children. Every year, including this year, I write a letter describing the teacher I want. It is strategically written in such a manner that it can only be interpretted one way, pointing too the teacher I want for my children.
I put forth quite a lot of effort in evaluating the options, and take into account many non-educational factors. Discipline and organizational structure in the classroom and the ability for the teacher to clearly state what is expected of the students. I can't stand sitting down to review my childs homework, and to be confused because the expectations are not clearly defined. That makes it as fuzzy as this ridiculous 'new' math that they are teaching.
As for the comments directed towards teachers who teach, and are not in it for the money. I sadly must admit that no such person exists. Not now, not twenty or forty years ago. No doctor practices medicine just to help man kind and no contractor builds houses just to help the homeless.
We all go to work, regardless of our vocation or profession to earn a living. Your comments should be framed in such a manner that we collectively decide what a sincere and professional teachers services are worth,, and decide how to alter the system to pay the teachers accordingly.
Dear 10:59:
I thank you for your polite anwser to my question. I appreciate your candor and admire the fact that you take the time and interest in choosing the teacher who is the best fit for your child.
However, I do disagree with your point that there are no teachers who teach just because they want to be involved with the education of our children. I think they do exist. I also know that there are doctors out there, and scientists out there who do not make outrageous money for their contributions to medical science, and that the feeders of the systems are the individuals and companies that make money from what the truly dedicated-to-their- profession people do.
Hence the start of the teachers' union, which really equates itself with the downfall of true education.
I do truly believe there are a few who choose the teaching profession because they truly want and desire to teach our children.
The same can be said for artists and actors - until they are discovered, they have multiple other jobs to make ends meet, but their true desire is to fulfill their artistic dreams, whether or not they hit it big. These people are usually the ones that GIVE BACK to others so that perhaps they too can have a chance at their dreams and aspirations.
I do agree with your comment regarding determining what a teacher's services are worth and that they be paid accordingly, but the system is too far gone for that ever to happen. So the saying, Money is the Root of all Evil.
Have a nice day.
You are welcome, and no I don't believe the system is not too far gone. The school system is no different than any other aspect of our society.
Things need to change, and all agree. We just disagree on what is first and which is the top priority. Those individuals that serve on the school board, local township commissions, etc. are not evil, just have different priorities. For every person (including me) that thinks that the track project is excessive, there is another who is in lock step. This blog refers to them as pro-boarders. However, I am sure that while in church this morning, I broke bread with many that agree with what my priorities are and many with opposing opinions. As far as church goes, it appears that many did not set their clocks ahead last night.
Therefore, if we want change, it is our collective responsibility to make the changes. Pointing fingers at the opposing team is useless. It has been pointed out many times that each school district could save millions if Harrisburg makes changes to curb the power of the teachers, collectively purchase teacher benefits, provide cookie cutter school designs and set standards when a district can upgrade its facilities, eliminate prevailing rate to encourage capitalism, and the list goes on.
The irony is that we collectively have allowed the governor to be reelected, senator o'pake to serve for 30 years,and recently elected one of oley's own who campaigned on tax reform, not spending reform!
Therefore, complaining about the actions of the board is good for making us feel good, but in no way is a practical solution, and at best, merely is a temporary band aid. Similar to draining a creek with a bucket.
I wish OCC and the rest of the taxpayer groups would channel there efforts at real change. It is silly to get our feathers ruffled over the cost of a breakfast or dinner on a 720 grant, when our efforts could reduce the school budget of 26 million by a substantial percentage.
The problem is that collectively (a common word in this long post) is that we have no established goals or benchmarks. Is our goal 'No Tax Increase'? Is our Goal a 10% spending cut? Is our goal the elimination of the teachers union? Is our goal all of the above?
Very easy questions to answer. The hard part is to provide a game plan and benchmarks to pursue any or all goals. A fragmented army of individuals that are not united with a common stated goal is only going to annoy all, and accomplish nothing.
Thanks to all for allowing this rant. I feel better. I am for good teachers, and for good public education.
The above blog must be new or has never gone to a board meeting. The OCC with their questioning at the meetings has had the board lower our tax increase, millege I am talking about the past few years. Yes we still received a blow from our board but it could of been alot worse. We have lawsuits that are filed downtown for all to review that has caused this district thousands of our tax dollars. You say not to pick on the board. They are dealing with alot of money and they need to be held accountable. And yes the 720 grant money was to be used for a education audit and recommendations from the audit not dinner at the Sheritan. You say not to pick on the little stuff but the little stuff keeps adding up. We need a county wide school system. We have them in the south and they work great. We are to heavy on the top for the amount of problems we have in this district. We have over $1 million in administration salaries. That is stupid. The south has 1 Super for the whole county. They make the same or a little more then our Super with over 100,000 students to deal with. They seem from what I witnessed they like to work with the whole community and ask for open communications. We have a board that wants to silenced the people that pay the bills. Shame on them. They are terrible. Time will come when they will be held to a standard we will all be pleased with. When that day comes it will be a joyous one.
LET THE SUNSHINE IN!!!! THE SUNSHINE LAW!!!! IT IS NATIONAL SUNSHINE WEEK!!!! DID ANYONE SEE WE ARE IN THE PAPER AGAIN TODAY!!! THIS LOOKS GREAT FOR THIS DISTRICT!! HAHAHA!
I have been at many meetings, and I guess we disagree. As for the single super and county-wide system. Sounds great until my children and grand-children are sent to the Reading Public school. The previous generations decided in the mid-60's that the centralized county school system needed to be terminated. I am not saying I am against reversing back to the 60's, because they say history repeats. However, I would prefer a county or state wide curriculum and lesson plan and allow the individual schools deal with the teaching and administrating. I like the valley, and do not necessary want the will of those outside the valley dictating my policy. And before you state the obvious, yes things are dictated to us by the BCIU, State and Federal gov'ts.
The bottom line, whether we wish to admit it or not, we have what we have because we elected and allowed those elected to incrementally make changes and decisions which, after the fact, we are not happy with. Yes the taxes have increased at a pace that far exceeds my raises at work. However, SSI cola adjustments have outpaced my raises also.
The problems that we have are not just seven years, and not 18. They are inexcess of 30, and have been incremental every step of the way.
I agree with the last blogger on one point only.
Yes, we have elected these folks and yes they have gotten the taxpayers into circumstances that are out of control, but in NO WAY DO WE HAVE TO PUT UP WITH EVERYTHING THEY DO WITHOUT PUBLIC INPUT.
This school board was not elected to continually LIE TO THE PUBLIC, they were not elected to MAKE DISATROUS FINANCIAL MISTAKES AT THE PUBLIC'S EXPENSE, AND THEN RAISE OUR TAKES AGAIN BECAUSE OF THEIR IGNORANCE, STUPIDITY OR WHATEVER ONE CALLS IT, and they were not elected to HAVE FREE REIGN WITH MONEY THAT IS NOT THEIRS.
This school district is paid by us, but they work against us, and I will continue to attend board meetings until things change, and I do have the right to do so, and will not have this right taken away because THE SCHOOL BOARD doesn't want to hear it.
AS TAXPAYERS WE DO NOT HAVE TO GIVE IN TO THE NEVER-ENDING DEMANDS OF THOSE WHO THINK THEY ARE ABOVE THE LAW.
In response to the 11:43 AM blogger, the actual quote is,"For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil. Some people, eager for money, have wandered from the faith and pierced themselves with many griefs."
1 Timothy 6:10
Actually the entire sixth chapter of 1 Timothy is worth reading (in the Bible).
Money in itself is not evil, but what those who love it do in persuit of it can become evil.
The OCC and anti-bloggers will certainly have different interpretations of what that means.
Juicy stories sell newspapers: Yet again the Reading Eagle prints a possibly (to use a term) Libelous claim that nine people who know the details of what's going on with Nextel are intentionally putting themselves and the district at risk.
Those who continue to make these claims may find that they have indeed "pierced themselves with many griefs."
This is starting to sound like an old Charlton Heston movie.
"Cautionary note; there are consequences to libelous comments, even in cyber space.
Anon Esq."
Under several sections of Federal Law, it is a felony to impersonate an officer of the court.
..."So Let It Be Written, So Let It Be Done...Long Live Al Jacobs the First."
I guess now Dr. Cappa thinks that OCC tell the Reading Eagle how to think and what to print.
HOGWASH!
Sorry, Oley School Board, you brought all this aggravation on by yourselves.
RC is full of hogwash. Now he is mad at the Reading Eagle for putting the facts in the newspaper. Who does he like? He is a very unhappy man. He does not want the OCC, Reading Eagle or anyone else for that matter to speak or write the facts. Hey RC tooooooo bad. We live in America and you cannot stop the truth from being told. Stop hiding things from the public. Come clean once and for all. Or better yet, stay home and take your name off the run for school board.
Help me to understand the connections between Dr. Cappa, the OCC, and the Reading Eagle. I don't get it.
While the board's intentions might have been good in the Nextel case they should have not allowed Nextel to dictate the terms of secrecy in the contract. On the other hand, if the Reading Eagle believes that it violates the Sunshine Law they should have the courage of their convictions and follow through with a formal complaint in the courts.
There are several examples of the Reading Eagle going to court (and winning)over Sunshine Law violations so the precedents are there. Why do they hesitate in this case? This is the second or third time they have written about this issue and have taken the school board to task. The people at the Eagle should either put up or shut up.
..."Anon. Esq."......
A silly title, if I EVER heard one. In the United States, there's never, NEVER, been a person posing as a lawyer, that didn't have their hand out. If they're really a lawyer, they will expect payment for their advice. Even...if the advice stinks!
So, anon. esq., the joke's on you. Yet again.
let the buyer beware
Where is everyone?
Come out, come out, wherever you are!
Meeting tonight at 7pm. Come on and all. It will be interesting to say the least. Important issues to be discussed. If you have children in this district you should come tonight.
Admin. bldg. is the meeting place.
You mean watch the board bob & weave questions.
OCC said "If there some factual errors about OVSD rules, then the anonymous poster should present them."
I wasn't the anonymous poster but I did respond at length. Surprise! It never appeared on the site.
4:26 said
"I will continue to attend board meetings until things change, and I do have the right to do so, and will not have this right taken away because THE SCHOOL BOARD doesn't want to hear it."
This must be the famous invisible man/woman because there is no one (?) who frequents board meetings except for the faithful five and this is not one of them. It is amazing how some complain about board actions and ACT as if they are witnesses, when all they do is repeat fabrications made by others. See you tonight? I doubt it.
Are you crazy?
Go to a school board meeting tonight?
America Idol is on!!!!
I heard a rumor that the OCC was in the Obituaries, then I looked for myself. No, not dead yet, but it looks like the blog was unconscious, with no visitors for a few days.
Dear RC:
I was at the meeting tonight.
You figure it out.
Then you must be one of two of the faithful five who went to tonight's meeting. Good for you.
Where were your pals?
Don't know.
Have a good night.
could not come to the board meeting, ran out of over the counter ancacids. You make me sick. I need my health for my children.
Can You Hear Me Now?
The district pays Nextel $10,303.07 yearly for wireless cell phone service.
At the board meeting last night, the superintendent said approximately seventeen people consisting of administrators and supervisors in the district use these cells phones.
The district has a superintendent, an assistant superintendent, a business manager, and three principles.
These are the decision makers and they are the only people who should have cell phones for essential communication.
The taxpayer should not be footing the bill for convenience communications.
OCC: That is approximately $858 per month, approximately $50 per month per phone. I assume your comment is geared towards the # of phones, not necessarily the amount per phone. Because that quick analysis is not out of line with my wireless bill. Especially since I don't have the walkie talkie feature.
I ask because 17 does not sound excessive to me, if in fact they are being utilized by all three schools. There are several individuals that you had identified which I believe would be justied with a need. I am also thinking of efficiencies of others such as maintenance employees and the management that runs cafateria services in each of the three schools, and quite possibly the nurses that may have a need for a medical emergency. Maybe it is quantifiably justified that the Transportation manager needs constant contact with the buses, and is not necessary in the office with out a hard line connection while the buses are on the road. This comes to mind after the Oley busnapping that made national news a few years ago.
Please don't think I am saying that there may not be an issue here. I am just saying that more facts are needed to properly vet the matter before an true opinion can be formulated. My thoughts are just that - thoughts. I have no more facts of whom have the 17 phone than you.
It's amazing how the same facts (17 cell phones) can prompt such different responses. Occ leaps to the attack with certainty that there is colossal waste. A reasonable respondent says not so fast- we don't know enough. That's the usual difference between occ and reasonable people.
From the reasonable respondent:
Please don't put words in my 'blog'. Your comparison and contrast makes it sound as if my reply to occ was a "touche'",
Complete opposite. I no manner was it meant to be antagonistic. It was the presentation of outstanding questions which went unanswered (to me) in my reading of the post provided by OCC.
I merely explained that I do not find it necessarily unreasonable for 17 nextel phones to be in a scholl with four main facilities.
Simply put, if members of the board or administration are reading this blog, it would common deciency to use there access the record, and provide a thorough answer to the questions. If no such individuals are reading the blog, then it should be asked in advance of the next board meeting so at the board meeting a clear and concise answer can be provided.
"There are several individuals that you had identified which I believe would be justied with a need. I am also thinking of efficiencies of others such as maintenance employees and the management that runs cafateria services in each of the three schools, and quite possibly the nurses that may have a need for a medical emergency...Occ leaps to the attack with certainty that there is colossal waste."
I would assume that neither of the anonymous posters were at the meeting last night to hear the explanation or rather the non response to the question about why so many cell phones.
There was no response other than a vague unsubstantiated excuse by the superintendent.
Anyone can dream up all kinds of reasons or scenarios to justify having more cell phones than necessary, but the proof would be a cost analysis indicating savings over other methods of normal communication, such as a phone!
In regards to safety and security issues, every employee in the district can have a cell phone but it will not stop an event from occurring.
"A reasonable respondent says not so fast- we don't know enough"
Spending $10,303.07 for on site communications when there are other methods to converse should raise eyebrows.
The mindset of wasting money starts small then grows.
Waste a thousand here waste thousands there and before you know it, we waste over $1,400,000 on an non-educational, non-state mandated, non-state funded synthetic track.
The blank check philosophy in the name of education sounds more political than educational.
...Waste a thousand here waste thousands there and before you know it, we waste over $1,400,000 on an non-educational, non-state mandated, non-state funded synthetic track.
The blank check philosophy in the name of education sounds more political than educational...
The over used rheoric of non-mandated this and non...that is just as antagonistic as the previous posting twisting my original response to your comment.
As for your response to the cost analysis. That sounds great, except who should do it, and at what expense. In my example(s) I cited emergencies as a well intentioned scenario. Would you ask the ambulance department to do a similar cost analysis on their communication equipment, because you (OCC) state that the wireless communication will not prevent the emergency.
And, the comment regarding the mindset of wasting is a bit odd. I believe that maybe those could and should be more prudent. I don't think anyone has intentions of wasting. They merely have different priorities.
"The over used rheoric of non-mandated this and non...that is just as antagonistic as the previous posting twisting my original response to your comment."
Calling the facts "rhetoric" and "antagonistic" is convenient for those in denial.
It is a fact the track is not state mandated or funded. And it should signal some that they are wasting precious educational dollars.
The complaint of "twisting" is because I do not agree with your opinion.
"As for your response to the cost analysis. That sounds great, except who should do it, and at what expense"
Wasting up to $10,000 a year should be of interest to someone, especially if you extrapolate the figure five to ten years.
The cost savings could pay for books, computers, supplies, etc.
The district spent $33,000 for a track architect why can't they spend some money to save on expenses?
"And, the comment regarding the mindset of wasting is a bit odd. I believe that maybe those could and should be more prudent. I don't think anyone has intentions of wasting. They merely have different priorities."
This is an apologists defense of a board who demonstrates an inability or unwillingness to provide oversight on district administration and finances.
If the district was doing such a good job, why does the state now have controls on spending and why do they require more detailed financial statements from the administration?
You might take a look at the Auditor General's website and look at the findings of the state audit.
In no way are my comments apologies for the board.
Maybe it is time that you run for the board and channel your efforts in a productive manner!
Auditor General's report has two disturbing comments. First and foremost, the commercial paper investment. However, wasn't that problem rectified by the often discussed SWAP? I don't know and am truly asking.
The second disturbing item is for whatever reason, the business manager was able to account for busing mileage???
However, the audit does cover the periods of 7/1/98 through 6/30/02. Have the problems been fixed in the past 4 to 8 years. How many of the current board wer on the board in 98 (w/o naming names)and 2002?
The current should not be held accountable for the past? It s/b the other way around!
I believe the response the district gave to the Auditor General concerning the investments in Commercial Paper was correct. We allowed these investments to be made based on the advice of our financial advisor and our legal counsel for the reasons given in the audit response. Commercial Paper is a short term investment with maturity anywhere from 2 to 200 days and, though not insured, are normally backed by a bank line of credit.
I believe that we invested these funds properly and with the best intentions. The "problem" didn't have to be rectified using SWAPS because the investments cited were very short term instruments that didn't need to be refinanced.
Also, I think 3 current board members were on the board at that time.
Thanks RS. I doubt such a concise answer would have been afforded to us if asked publically.
Also, very surprised to learn that from the last AG report to now, only a mininority (3 of 9) of the board members still exist. Is that democracy at work or coincidence?
However, it is obvious that the current board should not be held accountable for the results of the last audit, only held accountable if they did not fix or act to fix the problems cited.
Is there a job description that goes along with the board position. In business the board of directors are not responsible for the day to day operations, but are only responsible for giving direction (hence the name directors). It is mgmt's responsibility to ensure day to day operations are working and that compliance is met. Is the school board and the admin. dep't in the same or comparable roles?
Dear 9:34:
The problems and issued that the Auditor General brought up in our last audit were also in the audit before that. I have both copies from the Auditor General if you are intersted.
The exact same internal controls were found in the audit prior to the one that can be currently viewed on the Auditor General's website.
Oley has lousy or no internal controls.
It shows in the current check runs.
Also, Oley does not get their invoices okayed before they spend the money. They are put to the board a month or two after the money is spent, so if it was wasted and not used for what it should be used for, it is getting the school board's stamp of approval.
The check runs are horrendous.
The school board should okay any money that is to be spent before and not after the fact!
"Maybe it is time that you run for the board.."
I am waiting to see the results of the referendum on school spending.
If it does accomplish its purpose or is watered down by special interest groups, then perhaps a run for the board would be considered.
"..and channel your efforts in a productive manner!"
Holding a governance accountable is a productive enterprise otherwise there would not be a Constitution, state Sunshine and Right to Know Laws to assist in the process.
"Auditor General's report has two disturbing comments. First and foremost, the commercial paper investment."
Prior to the board decision on the investment, they were warned that this paper was very risky. A study by Barron's was presented but ignored that indicated billions had been lost on unsecured, unregistered commercial paper.
This vote was right after the John Gardner Black scandal which lost an estimated $69.5 million dollars in funds from public schools. He broke state law by holding public money in investments that were not fully backed by collateral.
The board risked nearly $20,000,000 to get a paltry return of $115,000. This is not a good risk to reward ratio with public funds.
Subsequently, the state audit found the district in violation of state investment law and still holds that position today.
"It is mgmt's responsibility to ensure day to day operations are working and that compliance is met. Is the school board and the admin. dep't in the same or comparable roles?"
This would be considered micro-managing by most school boards and administrators. You would be meet with resistance and eventually with exclusion.
The truth of the matter is that we need board members to audit for efficiency, accuracy, and compliance.
They should have a clearly defined school policy to assist them.
'...The school board should okay any money that is to be spent before and not after the fact!...'
Not the Board! The board of directors at any business does not approve the checks. That is not the role of the board. The administration needs to employ proper controls, and internal audits needs to properly test the controls.
To state that the board needs to review the check runs is silly. They are not elected to act as volunteer accountants. The are elected to act as a steering committee of the school.
Their skills in the department may be questioned, that I will not defend. But to ask them to be accountants is not appropriate.
OCC said -They should have a clearly defined school policy to assist them.
What policy(s) do you believe need to be re-written or further defiined? What language do you believe need to be inserted? Why?
All the policies in the world cannot replace "common sense."
The Board is the elected body of oversight. Its purpose and function appears to have become clouded over the years. Like most bureaucracies, it has become a puppet of special interests when it should really be a non-partisan body that makes sure the administration, budgets, and educational functions are in the best interests of the children and those who pay for their education.
It is stunning that politics has even overtaken this once shining model of "local control."
The board should ensure that all PA School Codes and public access laws are practiced and upheld, children are educated to the expectations of the highest educational standards, and that all funds are accounted for and spent in the proper manner. Why does the board receive copies of the check runs if not to review them and ask for clarity when needed.
It all comes down to the fact that most people don't understand the concept of self-government by leaders who put Constitutionality ahead of personal benefit or pet projects.
It's a sad day in happy valley when this has to be explained to a sitting school board.
'...It is stunning that politics has even overtaken this once shining model of "local control."...'
It has not been a shining anything for at least 30 years!!!
As for the comments regarding special interest. Every persons action is an act of special interest. Trying to condem special interest is merely using buzz words from the media.
OCC, track, the band, PTO, od. of mind, anti-bullying advocates, girls field hockey and volleyball, police dept looking to establish a k9 unit, etc. - Are all special interest.
Common Sense - another funny concept. We all have it and accuse each other for not using it. The only thing that is more over used propaganda in the use of saying the that we must just adhere to the golden rule...It is amazing how ways the golden rule are defined. 10 people - 10 golden rules.
The problem is too many people are pointing out flaws and not presenting solutions that adhere to the golden rule and utilize common sense. It is easyto point out others error, hard to specifically identify solutions that is satisfactory to all.
Yes, school boards have been out of whack, especially Oley's, since the days when Levi Wegman, Clayton Weber and Ken Eshbach served. Yes, since then, it has become all that I described in my previous blog. But you don't have to be so angry. We can discuss this nicely.
My solution is that the board go back to what it was intended to be, and what it USED to be. The PA School Code and many instruments shaped what the School Board is supposed to be.
Seriously, it would be most refreshing and welcome to hear your solutions to the violations of codes and laws going on in the Oley School District. Please let us have your constructive thoughts. But I don't think parsing words is very productive. Thanks.
The Golden Rule: Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.
This is not a hard idea to understand.
If you would like to be taxed out of your home, then I guess in your mind, it is okay to tax people out of their homes.
"But you don't have to be so angry. We can discuss this nicely."
Please don't take any of my comments as anger. I think a limitation of the typed word is that it does not adequately express emotion. In NO WAY are my comments meant to be taken as angry. It is more of a limitation of ability to write concisely and express my point.
Violation of codes: Can you identify. I am aware of hiding information such as Nextel, law suits, etc. However, I have not heard any authorities saying violations exist. I hear reporters and individuals. At that, I can not conclude legal violation, I merely can concluded poor judgment.
As for anger, the post after yours is one of anger.
Happy St Patrick's Day. Time to go to McDonald's and get a shamrock shake!
Oley is in the process of the state audit. Let's see why they have found.
'Oley is in the process of the state audit. Let's see why they have found.'
What type of audit - Another AG audit looking for admin. and fiscal issues, or a Dept of Ed audit looking for academic compliance?
Are these audits performed every four years and encompass four years at a time like the last one, or is this random or issue oriented?
I was referring to the Auditor General's audit.
Al says that if the referendum "doesn't accomplish its purpose or is watered down by special interest groups, then perhaps a (his) run for the board would be considered." Let me just tell you that the purpose of Act 1 was to let Ed Rendell claim "property tax reform" as a re-election campaign banner. Apparently it has already accomplished its purpose. Hopefully the results of the May primary will send a resounding NO vote throughout the state, since it will benefit very few and will increase taxes on the majority.
Unless someone puts their name on the ballot, their impact on local governance will be nill. You can stomp your feet, blog till the cows come home, make speeches from a podium, or even make a fool of yourself on the editorial page with only half-truths - but the fact is that to have any real impact, you have to be committed enough to get into the game and not just heckle from the sidelines.
He does more than an anonymous poster who sits at home complaining. There are five board candidates, but no one called anonymous.
It sounds as if the OCC doesn't fully understand what referendum question will appear on the May Primary for a vote.
Since the board adopted a preliminary budget within Act 1 guidelines, the school district budget will not be voted upon by the electorate.
The only thing we get to vote on in May is whether or not to have our earned income tax increased.
A YES vote will increase the amount of taxes paid by most, plus add a new tax on every employed renter.
Blow your kisses in the direction of Rendell and O'Pake.
You can kiss them. If it was not for the OCC asking questions the board would of had to put the budget to the people in May. We hold and will continue to hold this board accountable for what they are doing with our money. We would not run with Heckman, Zackon, Cappa and good ole Dale around. They leave then I myself would consider running. This board has left a sour smell in this valley. This board treats the public like a piece of trash. Ask a question and look out. If looks good kill we would be all gone by now. We can continue asking questions and keeping this board looking in all directions. This is our childrens school and our money. If we do not like what is going on then we are allowed by the law of our land to ask questions. The board trys to dodge the questions all the time and they find themselves looking like fools in the paper and on this blog. I would never be a part of this current board. I rather sit with the concerned citizens who care about ALL the people.
Title of the above blog should read: Tired of all the BS on this blog by the pro-boarders. Great editoral in the paper today Al. Thanks for caring.
The only authority the OCC cites as a violation of the Sunshine Law is the Reading Eagle's own editorial writer. According to the Pres. of the Board and their attorney, the Nextel contract negotiations have not been finalized and shall become a public document if and when that occurs. This question has been answered each time it was asked.
If Al really wanted all the FACTS, he would have run for one of the five open board seats himself. The FACT is that he prefers throwing stones, a position he enjoyed at his previous district as well.
DB
Dear 5:40 spewing misinformation:
"It sounds as if the OCC doesn't fully understand what referendum question will appear on the May Primary for a vote.
Since the board adopted a preliminary budget within Act 1 guidelines, the school district budget will not be voted upon by the electorate."
What you said is not entirely true.
Oley has petitioned the Department of Education for exemptions to this budget. If this is not okayed by PDE, then they have to go to the Court of Common Pleas and if not approved, then go to the voters for the budget.
Perhaps you should reread Act 1.
Dale, are you bored already with your retirement? You listen to King Bob all you want. He does not know what he is talking about with Nextel. The district has told the paper and the public they have an agreement with Nextel, now they claim they don't. Twisting the facts to save face is what this board does. In Daniel Boone School District during Al's years there, they had 2 years on no tax increase and test scores went up. Too bad Oley cannot say the same.
This blog and the citizens going to board meetings asking questions drives you people nuts. You cannot stop yourselves from coming on this blog and trying to twist the truth so you do not look like a bunch of fools. We have better things to do with our lives then make up stories about OVSD. You know what we have said is the truth and you cannot take it. Stay off this blog if it is bothering you so.
Dear 7:48 a.m.:
Who then should be overseeing that the school district is not spending money frivously?
Who should be checking to see that money is not spent on lunch for the employees of the school district; example, for instance a check to the M&M shop in the amount of $72.00.
The amount may be small, but multiply this by thousands of transactions that are not necessarily going to the education of our children, but benefitting the employees of this school district.
I cannot afford to buy my children lunch in this district, but yet my money goes to feed the employees, over and over again.
Who is the person that is supposed to watch this kind of activity?
There has to be a system of checks and balances. If this school board gets to approve tax increases, then they better know ???? well where the money is going. Wouldn't you say that is correct?
In addition 7:48 a.m.:
Would you give this school board a blank signed check from your account?
Dear 7:23 PM Blogger,
Do you really expect anyone to believe AJ's info as FACT? What years did he tell you this took place in? Do they even coincide? Have you been to DB to examine these alleged test scores? How do you even know that this information is the TRUTH?
I'm not so gullible as to believe HE was responsible for it, even it it were true or relevant, are you?
Oops, I meant 7:20 PM Blogger, although I'd bet you are one in the same.
...Who then should be overseeing that the school district is not spending money frivously?...
There should be controls in place, and the overseer should be the chief accountant (or in this case the business manager). That person should not be under the supervision of the superitendent but should answer to the board directly.
The controls should be then tested periodically by an independent auditor.
The board of directors at a company don't check expense checks. Senator O'pake or Senator Specter don't look at check runs. They have the GAO (who are professional accountants) do that type of oversight and report to the directors (senators).
If there are poor controls in place, it is the business managers job to inform the board of the problem, and for the board to authorized the business manager to change the processes.
As for my opinion, I think this problem does start with the board, and the board does need to address the matter. Why has this school gone through so many business managers? Which subcomittee, if any, is responsible for this type of oversight. The two logical groups to me would be either budget or policy. I must admit I have never attended a meeting of either. However, the stuff I hear coming out of them does do not appear to focus on operationso f administration, and one of the two should.
I hope I explained my philosophy accurately, and as civil as possible. I do not mean to come across abrassively.
...Oops, I meant 7:20 PM Blogger, although I'd bet you are one in the same...
7:48am says -I promise, NOT the same.
Let me see if I have this correct, the reporter is wrong, the editor is wrong, Mr. Jacobs is wrong, the auditor general is wrong, the judge is wrong, but the oley school board is right!?
Very well put 8:37, but what happens when the business manager does not sniff out problems?
After everything this school district has been through financially, how do we know that we can trust this person.
After all, there are members of the current board who have been there for 18 or so years, and consistently sits in the top spot, and there are a few others who have been there for quite a while, and not one of these board members seems to have any questions and everyone agrees on every item.
Is this the Stepford board, or do these board members have a mind of their own.
I'm sure if we look back at the votes on most items, we will find very few No votes. Everyone seems to go with the flow, even if they don't agree.
That is scary. If one cannot stick up for their own convictions, they should not be in this type of position.
When I was on the board, I was often strongly urged to vote with the majority, "for a show of solidarity." Of course, some of us didn't do that, we did vote our convictions. We were almost always in the minority and treated pretty badly for not "reaching consensus."
It would appear that nothing has changed since 1997. And, yes, Mr. Heckman was Board President throughout my tenure, starting in 1993. Stepford Board is a good analogy.
...Very well put 8:37, but what happens when the business manager does not sniff out problems?
After everything this school district has been through financially, how do we know that we can trust this person...
We don't. Much the same every organization must wonder if their CFO is trustworthy. In my scenario, I pointed to independent auditors, or an internal auditor. Oley is not large enough to justify an employee (internal auditor), but prudence would justify random testing by an outside consultant. A consultant that is not engaged in any other aspect of our school's operation. That will maintain independence. And they should present findings to the board first.
As for the current board's voting record, I can not comment. I am not on the board, and have no idea if there are back room influences forcing a solidarity vote. I would find it disturbing if that were the case.
I would think that each member has an agenda that caused them to throw their name into the public setting, and probably vote yes to others initiatives to get their own initiatives supported. Whether we like this is a different story, but it is how our political system was designed.
Yea and who suffers for this boards voting record, the children, the public that keeps getting tax increases when there is money hidden in different funds. We all of a sudden had 1.4 million for a track? NO the board and district had this money in a fund, which could be used for education and a no tax increase. They do what they want when they want. One day this will end. Hopefully sooner than later.
LB great blogs the past few days. You are another great caring person. God Bless. Your friend!
Talk about crative license! The writer of 9:58 PM March 16 has a future with CNN. You've taken a few different strands and tried to braid them into one "story." Take my advise through, don't accept an interview invitation from Bill O'Reilly or Sean Hannity. They'll tear you to pieces, even the average reader here can see through what you're trying to do.
To the 7:53 a.m. blogger:
Every organization is not using taxpayer money to fund their "business". They earn MONETARY PROFITS.
The Oley School district does not.
They TAKE the money they SAY THEY NEED.
Well, last month this school board approved $1.4 million dollars to go to a TRACK, and there is additional money that was not included in this $1.4 million that has to be paid, and the school board did not even bring up that fact. Once again, they do not present the entire picture, as at that very first meeting when they told the public that the track would cost approximately $450,000, and in two months from that meeting, the price had escalated up to possibly spending $1.4 million.
They also said that the track group would be fundraising and that they had already gotten X number of dollars. However, this figure that was given out by Dr. Zackon at every meeting has stayed the same from the first time that he announced how much money they had. Guess what - we still only have $250,000 - if that is the case! Did they stop fundraising?
The football people seemed to be able to raise money and even had a check prepared for the district. Do the track people have the money in their account, or is this figure going to drop because it never was there to begin with, and the district end up holding the financial burden.
Unless we have a GOLDEN GOOSE laying GOLDEN EGGS, I would like to know why this money wasn't put toward education?
This money came out of TAX DOLLARS, despite what the board says. This money is said to be coming from the Capital Reserve Fund. The money got into the capital reserve fund by being transferred out of the General Fund. The General Fund is funded by the taxpayers. The General fund is also made up of State monies and Federal monies which has to be used for education. The State and Federal monies cannot be used for the track.
The school board are the only people responsible for moving the money from fund to fund. It has to be a board approved transfer. The board may only move money in the last 9 months of the fiscal year.
Money within funds can be moved by the superintendent. Interesting thought. He can tell the business manager what to do, perhaps the reason why we have had 7-8 business managers in 10 or so years. He also gets to tell the interim business manager what to do.
Adressing your statement that each member has their own agenda is interesting.
I thought the only agenda was to be the education of our children, not getting a track for their child to run on, a football team for their child to play on, etc., etc.,.
The district is not composed of 1 child only. We have 2,000+ children who have educational needs that should be met over 1 child's desire to have anything their heart's desire, (or should I say everything their parents have in mind for their own heart's desire).
What's next? A new high school, a football stadium? I personally would like to see some tennis courts, and while we're at it, an ice hockey rink, a lacrosse field. As you can see, these last statements sound a little ridiculous, however, look at what has already happened.
9:49 am blogger:
I appreciate your response, and honestly agree with most of what you have to offer. You actually prove much of my thoughts. Your opinions all lead into the fact that lack of internal controls allow for mishandling of school district assets ($).
As for your response to my agenda thoughts, and your utopia response for what is best for all the kids etc. It sounds great, but unfortunately is not realistic. I am blessed that my children have no academic issues. Therefore, based on your comments, I could argue that the supplemental reading aides are only benefitting a minority of the children who are struggling with that subject matter, and those same dollars could be used to benefit all. The same argument could be used with the speech therapy, special needs, etc.
Obvious, I also am using extremes, and by no means believe what I am blogging regarding these services.
I do wish to know where the track people money, including the O'Pake photo opt cash is. Is it in the general fund, or do these people have an organization and are going to cut a check.
Today, it really hit home how terribly this school district effects lives. Our little tenant who's been with us 23 years just left this morning to move to her daughter in Kentucky. She is 80, and could probably have been on her own another 5 years or so -- she's in good shape. It was a very tearful departure. Even our dog (who she's helped care for for the past 11 years) cried when her stuff was being loaded into the moving truck.
I have spent most of yesterday and today crying over our dear tenant having to relocate at this time in her life. There is such a rage within me over the circumstances that have lead to this crossroads. It is because my husband is retired (I still work), our health insurance premiums and co-pays are $700 per month, plus $500 a month property taxes. We could not stay here without raising our tenant's rent (which we have not raised in 23 years because she was on such a limited income) and she couldn't afford more than she was already paying. She had just a little too much in her "personal nursing home fund" that she's been saving since she was widowed at 55 to qualify for subsidized housing.
This all came about, because we don't want to be in her situation in another 20 years. So, we are selling our property and moving away to an affordable area now before all of our assets are stripped from us. With us selling and moving, our tenant's rent would have more than doubled with new owners so that was not an option for her.
We have always been responsible with our income and savings -- our fiscal conduct is not the problem. The school district is the number 1 cause of our situation. We only see runaway spending forever and a day, and cannot bear to give up our lifetime of work to a bunch of spineless politicians.
So, all of you self-righteous board members who have spent us and an 80 year old widow out of our homes, and untold others -- just remember, it is written "you will reap what you have sown."
I have tried to contain my rage for quite awhile; and it's why I haven't been coming to the board meetings. The very sight of the overpaid, smug administration, and teachers union and board members who have lost touch with reality, make me physically ill.
One can only hope these people can come to understand the sadness and pain that they so casually inflict when they cast aside and laugh at those who will not condone and cannot afford this fiscal arrogance.
Watchng our dear tenant move this morning, made the pain or our own upcoming move even more palpable. We have tried to keep a good face about our move; but with our tenant's leaving, I have not been able to stop crying at the prospect of our own upcoming move from the only home my husband and I have shared for nearly 26 years. .. and the community in which I've lived for 58 years.
When I was on the board, many people hated my guts because I wouldn't vote for unnecessary or wasteful programs or spending. I voted that way because I always considered the plight of our widowed tenant and so many more like here. It also made me see first hand that not one member of this school board or administration can possibly have a conscience -- or they could not continue in their callous ways. God help each and every one of them -- it's their only hope as far as I can see.
Regarding Al's letter to the editor:
Aren't contract negotiations and legal matters supposed to be conducted in executive session and only made public at their conclusion?
Weren't the "big ticket list expenditures" actually wish list requests that have not been ok'ed? In that case they are not expenditures at all.
Hasn't the cost per copy for school documents been 25 cents per page for several years, and not recently raised to exorbitant levels? Can't anyone who wants to read info do it without charge? Don't the big time copiers like you bring your own copier and paper and pay nothing at all, not even for the business officers' time to gather your materials? I realize as taxpayers we all pay for her time but aren't you a 'special interest group' and wasting our money?
LB certainlly qualifies for sainthood-in her opinion.
I don't understand how she could pay such high property taxes without living in a mansion.
What she also doesn't mention is that her property value has appreciated 5-7% a year and she will be pocketing all her profit without paying any capital gains tax on it. The amount she has paid in property taxes should have totaled about 15% of her GAIN. This is what is charged for other capital gains and less than most people pay for most other classes of income. The conclusion: the propertty tax on her profit has been a bargain and she should find something else to complain about.
Well, we do have to pay capital gains on our sale, plus real estate transfer taxes, etc., etc., etc. Your above comment is spoken like a real teacher or perhaps a communist. You are the ilk that is ruining our society. We do not consider ourselves to be saints -- just normal people trying to help our fellow man which is what we are all supposed to do. And for sure, many others are doing the same. I intended to put a face on the runaway budgets and spending.
All you have accomplished is to show your lack of compassion for anyone. I hope you have raised your kids to be the kind of person you are, so one day they'll strip you of all of your assets, and ship you off to some cheap government funded nursing home.
The comments on the history of the track seem to deviate from my own imperfect recollections. I believe the original estimate a couple of years ago of around $450,000, was to basically replace the existing track. In order to bring it to PIAA standards for meets, or some such reason, it had to be made wider. For safety and other reasons, the D fill-ins were also added at substantial extra cost.Plus, because of material cost increases the base price of all materials went up at least 30 %.
The school board originally voted to pay "at least 1/2" the cost. This has been erroneously reported as a change from their promisimg to pay only 1/2.
The cost of the track per se is now around $880,000--admittedly quite a jump. One rationale for adding the artificial field is that we'll need it sooner or later if we don't already need it, and it is cheaper to do it before the track is in the way of construction.
We can disagree with the merits of the whole project but we should at least try to keep the facts straight.
At this point I have not heard of any specific ways that the education of our children has been directly compromised by the cost of the track although a few bloggers have made that claim. Our wallets,yes. Our children, I don't think so.
One last point, there seems to be widespread community support for the whole project at least as far as I can find from talking to people.
The board "originally" said it would pay "ONE HALF" of the cost of the new track. Two meetings later, it was then stated "AT LEAST ONE HALF."
The taj mahal of athletic fields concept came about a little later.
I was at both meetings and heard it with my own ears.
If everyone you talk to is in favor of the project, then you're talking to the wrong people. Go ask some folks at Chatty's some morning what they think.
TO 11:22 am, How dare you attack LB like that. You do not even put your name on the blog but you have the ----s to treat another person like trash. Her blog was the truth, she has tried for years to have this district be fiscally responsible, with education coming first. She cares about all the children. I hope she and her husband can finally live peacefully when they move. I for one will miss Linda. I also met the 80 year old woman that lived in Linda's home, and she was a very loving person. I can see why it was terribly hard for Linda and her husband to say good-bye today. God Bless all of them.
Way, way back at nearly the beginning of this blog, it was mentioned that people do, in fact, end up in nursing homes because they have as little as ONE medical emergency, and they end up in a situation which they didn't ask for and didn't deserve. Don't believe me? Go see for yourself. Go visit a handful of folks in nursing homes. They are NOT all at death's door. Lots of times, children pass away before their parents. Or, they move away and abandon their parents and offer no help or support. Either way, folks end up in nursing homes and stay there....until death do us part. It has been my honor and privilage to visit with people in nursing homes, and I've learned volumes by doing so. You think you're having a bad day? Take a ride to a nursing home and spend some time LISTENING to the folks that live there. If that's not for you, then listen to someone that goes, listens, and learns. We, as Americans, should be ashamed of ourselves for letting our elders be stuffed into a building and forgotten. Yet, it's common practice, and a growing problem. Many adult children just don't care.
Once you get to meet any of these people, they will be so happy to have someone to talk to, you might be surprised how cheerful they can become. A 15 or 20 minute visit becomes the highlight of their WEEK. As you get to know these living history books, you can learn volumes that are not in print anywhere.
To learn HOW some of these people ended up where they are today, is a real eye opener. It is not uncommon to hear that many were literally taxed out of the homes. Sorry if any readers don't like reading this. It's true, and it's happening more than any of the feel gooders want to acknowledge.
Wise advice:
Do unto others, as you would have them do unto you. Stop passing the buck and trying to make anyone believe that people are not having severe budget problems. These problems are caused, in part, by skyrocketing school taxes. Admit this for once, and do the right thing. Cut unnecessary frills, keep the perks that are for EDUCATION, and be mindful that most of the elderly are not soaking up gigantic pension checks every month. Nor are the young couples. Do what's right, be responsible, and quit allowing poor money management.
The above blog is 100%. This district with all the problems are lucky for one thing, that is have people like Linda, Al, Russ and Cindy keeping this district on the straight and narrow. Be honest for once school board. You are recking this district. We are not Wilson, Wyo, GM or the other big schools in the county. We have only 2,000 or so children. We need education to come first for once and for all. Happy St. Pat's Day. The Irish eyes are not smiling today.
We do not live in a mansion. Our property has some acreage -- not enough to subdivide and not enough for clean and green. Just enough to make property taxes miserable.
Hi again 10:17:
The funds that are associated with reading issues, I believe are coming from Title I Funds, which is from the Federal govt., which, yes are taxpayer funds, but not funds that the Oley School district raises their taxes for.
Perhaps we should check and see what kind of money is spent on speech therapy, special needs, etc., as we do receive some money for those. I do know there is an exemption for Special Education dollars that can be applied for in the budgeting process, but the STATE has deemed that every child is entitled to a free education, and by that statement alone, we must fund the items for these children.
I do believe this gets very expensive, and yes some of the money comes from the local taxpayers, but unfortunately the human race has no control as to whether or not they will have a child with special needs be born into their family, and I think it ill-advised to include this rationale in our thinking about spending, because I do not think we spend as much as you think on special education, and it is unfair to put BLAME on these children. Yet the school district cites these children in our excuse for not meeting AYP in years' past.
Interestingly the Oley School district initiated proceedings to attempt to force a family have their child undergo a special needs evaluation to see if the child qualified for Special Education Services. I just have to wonder why Oley would do this, when the child was homeschooled, and in the next breath they want to complain because we have to provide services for these children.
I certainly hope is wasn't because the district would get extra money for this child in the form of state money.
Talk about wasting taxpayer's money.
The Oley School District seems to be involved in a lot of lawsuits.
To LB,
Maybe you should have been raising your tenant's rent incrementally over all these years. Are you a landlord or a social service?
Now that your tenant is gone, why don't you double or triple the current rent and get a new tenant?
Too bad you will be moving away. I'll miss your smug self-righteous rage. Good luck in no tax land.
Way, way back at nearly the beginning of this blog it was also mentioned that people do not, in fact end up in nursing homes because they can't pay their property taxes. Specialized nursing facilities do not admit someone because they cannot afford to own a home. They admit patients with medical necessity, including Berks Heim. By the way, private nursing home care is very expensive. If you can afford that you can afford property taxes.
Dear non-caring 1:34 p.m.
We all know that property taxes do not put people in nursing homes.
However, how do you expect someone who cannot pay for their medicines, cannot pay their hospital bills, etc., be able to pay exorbitant property taxes?
I hope that you treat your parents better than you are treating the elderly in this school district.
We all know that you will be able to afford a private nursing home, because I'm sure that you or your spouse was an employee of this school district. You've been given the world at our expense.
By the way, you certainly are a pathetic excuse for a human being.
Hey 1:15:
I hope I am the social service person who gets your case.
I think it wise to SHUT YOUR MOUTH, YOU ARE GIVING YOURSELF AWAY.
We all know who you are. One of 3, and all of you are LOSERS!
It was 12:40 PM blogger that made the claim that people end up in nursing homes because of high taxes, go back and read it for yourself. I, at 1:34, merely pointed out the error of that claim.
There are, however, some lovely age and income based apartments, some subsidised by a Section 8 Housing voucher. Low and moderate income elderly reside there with many opportunities to interact with neighbors, organized events and trips, transportation to shopping and medical appointments, etc. I repeat - nursing homes are for medical patients in need of specialized physical care.
Not unkind, just spreading some truth.
to 1:34:
Wow, you're a real winner. I hope you'er not involved with caring for the elderly. They'd be in real trouble.
hey blogger at 1:34
I think you are being sold a song and dance by someone that has minimal information on the nursing homes. I work in a rehabilitation and nursing center. I have seen and heard many sad stories over the past 22 years. But setting the sadness aside, you're not quite clear on some of these issues which you're claiming to be so well informed about. All residents did not get there because they had a single illness and also did not pay their taxes. To think all of these people got in this situation is kind of silly. The fact that blogger was bringing to light was the truth. Very often, senior citizens are not blessed with children to tend to their needs, and many are now left alone due to the death of a spouse. If they live in their own home when a serious illness strikes, exactly who do you think pays their monthly bills, etc, when they are laid up in a hospital, then in rehab, and quite often, in a nursing home? Many people spend the rest of their lives in that very same nursing home. The monthly social security check goes to the home, and the services rendered, no matter how long this would occur, get registered and mount up to several thousand dollars a month. The patient that still owns their home and can't function on their own, stays in the home until they pass away. At that time, the total of services rendered by the home are presented to the estate and deducted. If the person had designated an heir, they would then receive the balance of unused monies from that estate, after the nursing home bill is satisfied.
If you believe that this is not a fact, you're talking to the wrong people I guess.
Regardless of your education in this area, or lack thereof, you're about as apathetic as they come when it comes to caring for the elderly. I, too, hope you get the same treatment you seem to have wished upon others.
Happy Saint Patrick's Day. Have an extra beer for the elderly. Toast them and thank them for all they did for you. They're a dying breed.
Hey Mr. Know-it-all
Ever read the obits and see where it states that Mr. or Mrs. so-and-so was a resident of a particular nursing home since 1991, etc? And how do you think they managed to stay there so long? If they're not in the Alzheimer's area, and they lived there that long, then they were there because there was no other place to go. Not many people lay around dying for 10 or 15 years. You're blind!
So its own your own home, or be carted off to the nursing home, huh? My mother is looking into senior living apartments which are also a fine alternative. Rotting away in a nursing home is presented to stir up these types of emotional responses. Get back to the issues or Al will cut us off again.
The Berks Housing Authority and Senior Citizen's Council have lengthy lists of affordable senior housing options. There are alternatives to being confined to a nursing home for those who are healthy enough to take care of themselves. Get real!
Linda is tooo nice to even respond to 1:15 blogger. You are a sick person. You do not like a person because they stand up to you pitiful board members and pro-boarders. You make me sick. I for one will visit Linda and her husband and I bet they will be happier not seeing your nasty looking face. You are a creep and that is being nice.
WE ARE ALL FRIENDS OF LINDA'S!! GOD BLESS HER AND HER HUSBAND! THEY ARE THE BEST.
The board and their buddies are gross!! They are going to get theres one day and I cannot wait. You are a nasty bunch.
Hey Dale and Cappa, can you even count on one hand anyone that can call you a friend? I do not think so. You be lonely old men one day and there will be no hand outs for you. You do not deserve any.
Do they have a special, warm and fuzzy place they send board members that actually voted to tax our elders out of their homes? Please inform the bloggers where to send the plastic flowers.
Check out Columbia Cottage. For a mere few thousand bucks a WEEK, you can get all warm and comfy until the fat lady sings.
The problem here seems to be that we've got a wide spectrum of retirement incomes. Maybe the ones on the high end need to lower themselves a notch or two and realize that not everybody has unlimited funds for things like FOOD and UTILITY BILLS.
To the bloggers that feel it's necessary to rip LB up one side and down the other.....you certainly don't know her. Linda is very nice and she's down to earth. I guess that's just too darned good for you.
hello blogger 2:47
So, your mom's checking out a place to retire? Make sure you remember where you put her.
If I were widowed all those years, I'd have been thrilled to have found an apartment with people like Linda B. and her husband. It's a pity that some people can't see the forest for the trees. Friends and neighbors don't come much better than Linda.
It's 10:00 pm do you know where your mother and father are?
I have an elderly Aunt and Mother and Mother-in-law that do not live near me, but I will always make sure they are OK. And if time came that they needed to leave their homes, My husband and I would bring them to our home. We would always make sure they are OK. If it was not for your mon and dad you would not be here. Ever think of that?
My neighbor's mom was widowed. She rented an apartment above a funeral home not far from our area. The neighbors did not pay much attention to their mom, as she was out of sight and out of mind. The landlord (the undertaker) found the poor woman sitting in her living room chair. Dead for 5 days. This is a sad illustration of how some adult children let the chips fall where they may. I found it very sad that adult children would leave a 92 year old woman alone for that long.
The people that take their parents in for their final care, are few and far between. Like the above blogger stated, our parents cared for us when we were not able to care for ourselves. At that point in their life, it's our turn. Almost every other country in the world respects their elders. It's an honor to care for them the best we can. It's an honor, almost everywhere but the USA, where too many people put their own wants first.
What's this got to do with taxes, education, and YOU? You do the math.
I hope the Oley taxpayers read these last few posts and can figure out what is going on.
It is obscenely obvious that some of the people who make up the tax base in this school district community think only of themselves.
This is why we have votes for a $1.4 million dollar track, and an obnoxious waste of tax dollars.
This is why certain people are elected to the school board.
BEWARE CITIZENS OF THE OLEY SCHOOL DISTRICT.
These people whom we have for some reason elected, are out of control, they think they are above the law and think nothing of it.
They vote to raise our taxes to pay their salaries, along with supposedly educating the children. What a ruse!
TO:Anonymous said...
"The Berks Housing Authority and Senior Citizen's Council have lengthy lists of affordable senior housing options. There are alternatives to being confined to a nursing home for those who are healthy enough to take care of themselves. Get real!"
Oh, yeah, and these wonderful government accommodations for the elderly are at 8th and Penn Streets in Reading ... and other equally undesirable locations. You get real. How many people who've lived in the Oley Valley all their life want to retire to crime ridden Reading?
I'd like to know how many school teachers, in any district, would approve of the living conditions in the above mentioned "senior housing". How come their benefits package does not seem to be sending them in that direction for their golden years?
Dear 3:51 a.m.:
Right on the mark. Good post!
"They vote to raise our taxes to pay their salaries," I am outraged to read this here on the blog, which must be factual - I had no idea that those --- ---- school board members were drawing a salary to boot! If I knew that, I would have run for one of those upcoming seats! The nerve of them!
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