Sunday, August 21, 2011

Group hopes to lure young Jews to Detroit with rent incentive

CommunityNEXT: Group hopes to lure young Jews to Detroit with rent incentive MLive.com
He is among a group of young, suburban Jewish professionals attracted to the vitality and excitement of Detroit's evolving downtown and hopes to be selected for a program that would pay $250 per month toward his rent for a year if he moves into Detroit's downtown or Midtown.

AVwebFlash Complete Issue

AVwebFlash Complete Issue: Sukhoi's Stealthy T-50 (PAK FA) Goes Public

Sukhoi's Stealthy T-50 (PAK FA) Goes Public Russia chose the MAKS 2011 airshow near Moscow to this week publicly unveil what's generally billed as its answer to the U.S. F-22 Raptor, the Sukhoi T-50.

Muskegon County Rotary Park to get playground, fishing pier if grant awarded

Muskegon County Rotary Park to get playground, fishing pier if grant awarded MLive.com
Based on the proposed project's budget, the most expensive parts are installation of the new playground, construction of the fishing pier, purchase of two barrier-free bathrooms and addition of a parking lot.

Aside from the fact that any "grant" is really borrowing from the earnings of our children and grandchildren, why do we need two more barrier-free bathrooms when we have two barrier-free bathrooms at Heritage Landing that are closed down...even during Summer Celebration?

Allegiant closing GR base, some flights

Allegiant closing GR base, some flights WOOD TV8
Allegiant Air, which 16 months ago opened a base at the Ford International Airport, will end that part of its operation and cut back on flights offered from Grand Rapids, an airport spokesperson told 24 Hour News 8.
The base housed two planes and a staff of about 60 people in West Michigan, including crews, pilots and flight attendants.
After October 31, the airline will discontinue its base in Grand Rapids.

Friday, August 19, 2011

Study: Detroit's air closely resembles dog poop

Study: Detroit's air closely resembles dog poop MLive.com
A new study released by the University of Colorado found residents of Detroit and Cleveland are breathing in harmful bacteria linked with animal feces.

Thursday, August 18, 2011

Michigan's population decline has surprising twist, new 2010 Census report shows

Michigan's population decline has surprising twist, new 2010 Census report shows MLive.com
Michigan is the only state to have lost population, Census numbers released earlier this year showed.
The state lost the equivalent of a mid-sized city, dropping about 54,000 people to 9.8 million.

That's Jenny's legacy, dudes.


Wednesday, August 17, 2011

Benelli's Ultimate 3-Gun Model - Coming Fall 2011



Ummmm, guns!

You’re Either On The Bus, Or Under It.

Instapundit » Blog Archive »
"HOWIE CARR: You’re Either On The Bus, Or Under It.
“No wonder it’s being called the Magical Misery Tour.
It’s a listening tour where Obama doesn’t listen to anybody except his own Kool-Aid drinkers.”

Many points for incorporating the Beatles, Ken Kesey, and Tom Wolfe in one passage.
Posted by Glenn Reynolds at 10:51 am"

Former Muskegon Community College instructor says he was treated unfairly by administrators

Former Muskegon Community College instructor says he was treated unfairly by administrators MLive.com
"Speaking to a packed crowd at the MCC Board of Trustees meeting, Harry Brown said he was “fired” from his position as head of MCC's TV station after he criticized Nesbary's administration for the “diminution of the faculty television program director's authority.”"

Heck, he ought to be rehired just because he can use "diminution" in a sentence........oh, it's his lawyer's verbiage..........never mind.

Pretty nice pension!


Wow!
54 years old and ya get $46,284/yr pension starting at....well ......54 years old.
But wait there's more!
Free medical!
Free dental!
Free vision!
All starting at ....54 years old!
And ending at...good golly, who knows!
It's nice being a Muskegon county retiree, ain't it?

(click to biggify)
http://co.muskegon.mi.us/boardofcommissioners/agendas/waysmeans_11_08_16.pdf

'Little Luke'

'Little Luke' - LSJ Blogs: Hey, Joe
"Some excerpts of note:
* At a cost that Shapiro estimates in the millions of dollars, he said his benefits to athletes included but were not limited to cash, prostitutes, entertainment in his multimillion-dollar homes and yacht, paid trips to high-end restaurants and nightclubs, jewelry, bounties for on-field play (including bounties for injuring opposing players), travel and, on one occasion, an abortion."

This is gonna be BIG!

David Kolb: Can Michigan Democrats catch up to Wisconsin and Ohio?

David Kolb: Can Michigan Democrats catch up to Wisconsin and Ohio? MLive.com
"Will Michigan “Go Blue” again in the 2012 presidential elections?
I remain unconvinced, and I’m an optimist."

What a surprise!

As David Kolbe continues his pro-union, anti-employer crusade, his disdain for the simple American looking for a job begins to filter through his rhetoric.

What he misses (by design?) is the reality that the business climate in Wisconsin and Ohio has improved markedly.
Employment is up, state revenue is up and employers are flocking to the newly "red" states.

Because of the pro-employer policies of the governors and legislatures of Ohio and Wisconsin, more employees are earning a paycheck-and paying taxes.

Get the connection? Employers.....employees...?

That's good for workers, taxpayers and those who need the safety net that only profitable companies and hard working employees can guarantee.

Instead, Kolbe adopts the divisive, pure politics of the MoveOn.org and ACORN playbook.

Obama has taken the same big spending, anti-employer stance.

How's that working out for you?


Students at Jackson high schools could choose to sleep in, start class later under proposal

Students at Jackson high schools could choose to sleep in, start class later under proposal MLive.com: "Students at Jackson High School and T.A. Wilson Academy would have the option of starting and finishing the school day later under a proposal that’s under consideration.
The Jackson School Board is considering the proposal because studies have shown teenagers are better able to learn later in the morning.
No decision has been made.
“We are still in the process of adjusting some schedules and seeking staff that would be interested in this adjusted schedule,” said Ben Pack, assistant superintendent for human resources and secondary curriculum. “It would be up and running ... at the earliest in second trimester, which would be the end of November.”"

This is a GREAT idea!
Most high pay jobs allow their employees to arrive whenever they want.....right?
Oh, that's government jobs.....and we're broke so there won't be too many new jibs like that.....bummer dudes....

Critic says anti-Sharia bill 'polarizes people based on fear'

Metro and State Critic says anti-Sharia bill 'polarizes people based on fear' The Detroit News
"Detroit— Prominent Muslim leaders and others on Tuesday announced their opposition to a bill to ban 'foreign laws' in Michigan, calling the measure a racist attack on Islam.
State Reps. Rashida Tlaib and Harvey Santana, D-Detroit, joined activists at a press conference outside Cadillac Place in Midtown to denounce a bill sponsored by Rep. Dave Agema, R-Grandville, to outlaw state courts from implementing foreign laws, including Sharia, or Islamic law.
'I'm appalled as the first Muslim woman serving in the Michigan legislature,' Tlaib said. 'This is taking a community and casting suspicion on them … targeting them, and it's completely wrong.
'It's racism at its core.'
Agema has called bigotry allegations 'hogwash.'
Santana said the bill 'polarizes people based on fear.'
'The real fear here is diversity,' Santana said.
Dawud Walid, executive director of the Council on American-Islamic Relations, attended the event Tuesday and said his group plans to file a lawsuit if the legislation is passed.
A House committee has yet to take up the bill"

Opposing Sharia law in the USA is "racist"?
We've got to out these monsters and offer them a one way to a place that does offer Sharia law.

It's getting harder for schools to measure up to federal standards

It's getting harder for schools to measure up to federal standards MLive.com
"Not only do those numbers have to be achieved by students as a whole, but also by certain subsets of students, including African-American, low-income and disabled students.
In addition, a school won't meet AYP unless 95 percent of every subset takes the exams"

Interesting the focus of this article is on "schools" rather than on the child who isn't learning.
But it's "schools" who pay teachers, right?
So we gotta focus on them....right?

New fuel could spell trouble for cruisers

New fuel could spell trouble for cruisers Detroit Free Press freep.com
"Owners of many of the classic cars that will join Saturday's Woodward Dream Cruise say they believe a gasoline blend approved to come on the market this year poses a threat to their vehicles.
The fuel is to contain 15% ethanol, an alcohol additive made from corn."

A threat to old cars?
Heck, converting corn to ethanol is a threat to every human on the earth!


Steve Holy, Steel Magnolia, and more will be unplugged for 'mellower' Moose Fest in Muskegon

Steve Holy, Steel Magnolia, and more will be unplugged for 'mellower' Moose Fest in Muskegon MLive.com
"The three main headliners are Steve Holy, Steel Magnolia and Brantley Gilbert, a newcomer who has generated a lot of buzz recently.
Pearce said the artists will sound a little different than they do on the radio because Moosefest will be entirely acoustic."

It's Muskegon!
It's free!
Come on down!
(click the link to get the free tix!)

August 16 Wisconsin recall election results

August 16 Wisconsin recall election results - JSOnline
"Six months of hugely contentious and massively expensive political warfare reaches its conclusion Tuesday, with the final elections of the 2011 state Senate recall saga."

All caused by democrats unhappy with democracy.
A bummer for the democrat party and the Wisconsin taxpayers.

DHS audit finds millions in questionable purchases

DHS audit finds millions in questionable purchases MLive.com
"The audit of the Michigan Department of Human Services' automated accounting system found state workers used taxpayer money to buy the workers' cars for welfare clients and to buy hundreds of dollars worth of gift cards."

Toll of weekend Detroit shootings now totals 25 as police increase patrols

http://tinyurl.com/4x38pot

Toll of weekend Detroit shootings now totals 25 as police increase patrols

In addition, Detroit Police are now reporting one additional shooting from 6 a.m. Friday to 6 a.m. Saturday, bringing the total to 16 people shot, six fatally, during that 24-hour period.

Tuesday, August 16, 2011

Robert Heinlein

“Throughout history, poverty is the normal condition of man.
Advances which permit this norm to be exceeded — here and there, now and then — are the work of an extremely small minority, frequently despised, often condemned, and almost always opposed by all right-thinking people.
Whenever this tiny minority is kept from creating, or (as sometimes happens) is driven out of a society, the people then slip back into abject poverty.
This is known as ‘bad luck.’”– Robert Heinlein

As true today as it ever was.

What Obama’s Brush with the Tea Party Reveals About Him

What Obama’s Brush with the Tea Party Reveals About Him « The Greenroom
"What’s more, being called a socialist is hardly on a par with being called a terrorist.
The term socialism may seem like a dirty word to a “centrist” like Obama, but it is a bonafide political ideology, not to mention a label proudly worn by at least one member of the U.S. Senate (and coincidentally a man who votes almost unfailingly with Obama’s congressional caucus). As far as I know, there are no self-described terrorists in Congress.

Lastly, as for the claim that Obama was not born in the United States, the birther controversy, like the truther controversy, is history. Everyone has moved on from it—except apparently for Obama."

FJ4 Runs off Runway - AirVenture 2011



And there was this.....

AirVenture 2011 - The World's Greatest Airshow


EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2011 honoring 100 Years of Naval Aviation
This is a compilation of clips from AirVenture 2011 set to "Starlight" by Muse

Lesson From Europe (Take 2)

Stephens: Lesson From Europe (Take 2) - WSJ.com
"'The real lesson from Europe,' wrote Paul Krugman in January 2010, 'is actually the opposite of what conservatives claim:
Europe is an economic success, and that success shows that social democracy works.'
Here are some postcards from the social democracy that works."

Monday, August 15, 2011

Pat Buchanan Challenges Warren Buffett: 'Set an Example and Send a Check for $5 Billion to the Federal Government'

Pat Buchanan Challenges Warren Buffett: 'Set an Example and Send a Check for $5 Billion to the Federal Government' NewsBusters.org: "The liberal media are predictably fawning over billionaire Warren Buffett's op-ed in the New York Times Monday calling for new taxes on the super-rich.
This led MSNBC's Pat Buchanan on Monday's 'Morning Joe' to challenge the Oracle of Omaha asking, 'Why doesn’t he set an example and send a check for $5 billion to the federal government?' (video follows with transcript and commentary):"

State educators: Michigan accreditation system 'no longer has relevance' | MLive.com

State educators: Michigan accreditation system 'no longer has relevance' MLive.com
"Michigan's school accreditation system “no longer has relevance” state educators say, as every school in the state has met state criteria despite sliding backward on federal testing goals."

The only answer is vouchers for parents and children.
We must free the young people from these madrases of politically correct non-teaching!

The Real Reason Warren Buffett's Taxes Are Low

The Real Reason Warren Buffett's Taxes Are Low - Forbes
"Still, Mr. Buffett is not sharing the real reason that he doesn’t pay much in the way of income tax relative to his great fortune.
The secret is hidden in plain sight.
Mr. Worstall alludes to it when he mentions that Berkshire Hathaway does not in fact pay dividends.
Mr. Buffett’s secret which you can find blasted all over the Internet is one of his famous quotations:
You only pay income taxes at any rate on realized appreciation.

An investment with a holding period of forever incurs a capital gains tax of 0%, while all along the holder can be getting wealthy from appreciation.
That’s the real reason Mr. Buffett does not pay a lot of income taxes."

Five Muskegon-area high schools miss 'adequate yearly progress,' latest school report cards show

Five Muskegon-area high schools miss 'adequate yearly progress,' latest school report cards show MLive.com
"Muskegon Public Schools was among 7 percent of school districts that did not make AYP as a whole"

Muskegon employers are having a tough time finding employees who meet their minimum standards: pass a drug test and posses a high school diploma.
Muskegon, we have a cultural problem.
A big one that too many of our "leaders" refuse to acknowledge.

Muskegon County plans another sewer rate increase

Muskegon County plans another sewer rate increase MLive.com
"County staff members inserted a preliminary wastewater wholesale rate increase of 21 percent in the proposed budget for the upcoming fiscal year, which begins Oct. 1."

‘You Lie!’ — Joe Wilson Was Right

The PJ Tatler » ‘You Lie!’ — Joe Wilson Was Right
"There are between 12 and 20 million illegal aliens in the United States.
The fact that immigration status will not be checked at these health centers means illegal aliens will be treated, at American taxpayer expense, and in contradiction to what President Obama said.
He lied in the service of passing a bill that a majority opposed and which is helping sink the US economy."

15% of Americans have trouble putting food on table

15% of Americans have trouble putting food on table - Nov. 16, 2009
"The one-year jump is all the more significant, given the number of hungry Americans had never been higher than 11.9% since these surveys began."

It was bogus back in 2009 but it is more accurate today.
Yet we see little MSM notice.
Big surprise.....yeah right.....

But these folks are trolling for morons here in Muskegon:
http://feedingamerica.org/hunger-in-america.aspx

State employee unions put trust in unified negotiations

State employee unions put trust in unified negotiations Lansing State Journal lansingstatejournal.com: "Alarmed by a lack of response from state employee unions in crafting $145 million in concessions, state officials laid down a gauntlet in late July.
Come to the table, or prepare for layoffs Oct. 1.
State employee unions responded last week: We will agree to talk with you, but only with one voice.

Bargaining together for the first time, five state employee unions representing about 35,000 workers said they will negotiate together on wages and benefits as part of a new three-year contract.
The wage and benefits portion of that contract begins Oct. 1, 2012.

It's part of a bid by unions to flex their muscle and show solidarity as they negotiate several crucial issues that might include requiring all state employees to pay 20 percent of their health care premiums, retiree health coverage and other pay or benefit reductions totaling $145 million.
Such a united approach by civil service unions may represent a nationally rising trend as financially strapped states, facing federal funding cuts, square off with employees over pay and benefits, said Gary Chaison, a labor relations expert and professor of industrial relations at Clark University in Worcester, Mass.

So far, only civil service unions in a few states, such as Connecticut, have tried the approach.

'It gives them much greater power,' Chaison said.
'They see a common argument being used against them, the need to reduce the budget and they are fearful that a weaker union will agree to concessions."

Why the GOP should give Obama the higher taxes he wants

Sunday Reflection: Why the GOP should give Obama the higher taxes he wants Glenn Harlan Reynolds Columnists Washington Examiner
"Were I a Republican senator or representative, I would be agitating to repeal the 'Eisenhower tax cut' on the movie industry and restore the excise tax.
I think I would also look at imposing similar taxes on sales of DVDs, pay-per-view movies, CDs, downloadable music, and related products."

If we taxed what we spent, the kids would know what's happenin'.

Toxic Raptors Still Grounded

AVwebFlash Complete Issue#205216#205216
"Toxic Raptors Still Grounded, Pilots Losing Currency

An investigation that grounded the fleet of F-22 Raptors back in May, 'has since expanded to include all aspects of the aircraft,' according to the Air Force Times, leaving deliveries on hold and pilots hoping for simulator time.
There are less than 160 Raptors deployed (accounting for roughly $65 billion) and two F-22 simulators -- one at Langley and another at Tyndall Air Force Base.
The actual jets have been grounded because they appear to be poisoning their pilots.
Tests have found multiple toxins in the blood of Raptor pilots affected by symptoms similar to hypoxia while flying the jets.
And the Air Force hasn't been able to source the problem, leading to a cascade of complications."

Rep. John Conyers's seat up for grabs in Michigan

Rep. John Conyers's seat up for grabs in Michigan - Politico Staff - POLITICO.com
"With the passage of Michigan’s Republican-crafted redistricting law, recently signed off on by Gov. Rick Snyder, Rep. John Conyers seat is officially up for grabs after nearly 50 years - and local Democratic district officials are not pleased"

Bummer dudes...

Saturday, August 13, 2011

Muskegon-area legislators to meet Friday with chamber members

Muskegon-area legislators to meet Friday with chamber members MLive.com
"The chamber's Government Affairs Committee will meet with state Sen. Goeff Hansen, R-Hart, and state Rep. Holly Hughes, R-White River Township Friday from 8-9:30 a.m. at the Coffee House, 255 Seminole.
No reservations are needed."

Mich. Republican Party votes to hold closed primary to pick 2012 presidential delegates

Mich. Republican Party votes to hold closed primary to pick 2012 presidential delegates The Republic
"Michigan Republicans have voted to hold a closed primary election to choose 2012 presidential convention delegates.
The Republican State Committee on Saturday approved the recommendation of the party's Policy Committee by a vote of 92-17.
Supporters say it's a more inclusive way of choosing delegates than a convention or caucus."

Suicidal GOPers!
Or are they simply fools?
The democrats must be gearing up their "get out the vote" ACORNistas to vote in the "closed" primary.
It'll be McCain/Bush 2000 all over again.
Seriously, are our republican state leaders morons or is there another agenda going on?

President Sees Bright Green Future for Battery Jobs; Details Show Reality Still Very Cloudy

President Sees Bright Green Future for Battery Jobs; Details Show Reality Still Very Cloudy [Michigan Capitol Confidential]
"Both President Obama and Gov. Granholm boasted at the event that the plant is a sign of 'economic recovery.'
Yet each of the approximately 400 jobs the operation is expected to generate will cost taxpayers $625,000"

Filing deadline approaching for school board and some city council candidates

Filing deadline approaching for school board and some city council candidates MLive.com
"Candidates seeking election Nov. 8 to area school boards as well as Muskegon Heights and North Muskegon city councils have until Tuesday to register."

The LAST day is Tuesday August 16th.
Time is running out!
Let's get out there and make our own change rather than waiting for someone else's version of "change"!

Mona Shores privatizes bus drivers, saves nearly $100,000

Mona Shores privatizes bus drivers, saves nearly $100,000 MLive.com
"The drivers will be working for a private firm, Michigan Educational Transportation Services, as the result of a cost-saving move that will reduce expenses by nearly $100,000 per year."

Good move!

Thursday, August 11, 2011

Deep Freeze for Salaries

Deep Freeze for Salaries
"As I continue to monitor developments in the public pension world, a new theme is beginning to emerge.
The only way to balance the books for some, perhaps many, state and local government pension plans will be to freeze public-employee salaries for most of this decade.
Despite valiant efforts by labor groups to raise or restore employee contributions to help bail out pension plans, the math just won't work.
Employers are facing daunting increases in pension costs and must soon begin to pay for retiree medical benefits as well."

If strong leaders don't fix this disaster, it will be the union workers and pensioners who suffer along with the taxpayers (and non-taxpayers).

Why Apple is now No. 1 company in the world

Why Apple is now No. 1 company in the world - Business - US business - msnbc.com
"Apple’s revenue is currently about $100 billion.
Exxon’s sales are $383 billion.
Walmart’s are $415 billion."

Apple is amazing!

Rhode Island Braces For Muni Crises In Wake Of Central Falls Bankruptcy

Rhode Island Braces For Muni Crises In Wake Of Central Falls Bankruptcy
"The filing was a wakeup call for Rhode Island, which is suffering from widespread pension crises. Combined, the state's municipal pension plans are only 41% funded, and face an unfunded liability of $2 billion.
Rhode Island's unfunded obligation (at the state level) is $6.8 billion, and some experts argue it could actually be as high as $9 billion."

And municipal pension underfunding is only the tip of a giant iceberg that includes retiree healthcare benefits. 

Chrysler announces 'No Payment for 90 Days' program

Autos Insider Chrysler announces 'No Payment for 90 Days' program The Detroit News
"New deals on 2011 models are being offered, too, including 3-year financing as low as zero percent or $2,000 cash back on a Chrysler 300, 300C or Dodge Charger."

Obama's bailout ain't lookin' too good if they have give away cars.

Wednesday, August 10, 2011

Rick Santelli: If Not For Tea Party, U.S. Would Be Rated BBB

Rick Santelli: If Not For Tea Party, U.S. Would Be Rated BBB RealClearPolitics
"'Blame the Tea Party?
Geez, no wonder Kerry did so well in an election.
If it wasn't for the Tea Party, they would have passed the debt ceiling thumbs up, we would have been rated BBB.'"

Transit Agency Demands $300 to Reveal CEO's Salary

Transit Agency Demands $300 to Reveal CEO's Salary [Michigan Capitol Confidential]
"Consider the County of Muskegon’s reply to the Mackinac Center’s FOIA request for the CEO’s salary and benefits for the past two years at the Muskegon Area Transit System.
The County of Muskegon said they no longer had the 2009-10 information and the 2010-11 information would cost $300.
“Either Muskegon has the world’s most expensive employee or the world’s most expensive copier,” said Patrick Wright, senior legal analyst for the Mackinac Center.
Wright said it is “economic stonewalling.”"

Muskegon's "transit" program is a black hole for citizen tax dollars providing empty buses and fat jobs for its insiders.
Expose the rot!

Viewpoint: Why I voted for the debt ceiling compromise

Viewpoint: Why I voted for the debt ceiling compromise MLive.com
"The simple truth is, this isn’t the end of the fight.
We must continue to listen to you and fight to wrest even deeper, faster spending cuts from the Senate and Administration, so we can return America to a strong, healthy economy.
I’m dedicated to achieving that, and I want to keep hearing from you about how we can better do that.
Where can we cut next?"

Very well stated, Bill!
Keep up the great work!

Liberal Rage Won't Stop the Tea Party's Rise

Liberal Rage Won't Stop the Tea Party's Rise John Samples Cato Institute: Commentary
"The tea-party contingent in Congress drove the Republican leadership to bargain harder than it otherwise would have on last week's debt-ceiling deal.
Liberals have rightly concluded that the tea party is changing political outcomes.
Their response has been to equate tea-party members with terrorists."

The American people are adamantly against Obama's unbridled spending.
The Tea Party is America's voice!


Darling claims victory over Pasch in costly race

Darling claims victory over Pasch in costly race - JSOnline
"'Clearly the unions tried to take me out, and they didn't,' Darling told WTMJ-TV (Channel 4) from her election night party in Thiensville."

Lots of union $$moolah down the drain!

President Barack Obama's visit to Holland's Johnson Controls-Salt factory is a tough ticket

President Barack Obama's visit to Holland's Johnson Controls-Salt factory is a tough ticket MLive.com
"Unlike Obama's visit to the groundbreaking ceremony for LG Chem's new lithium ion battery plant 13 months ago, Thursday's guest list appears to be more limited and exclusive."

The emperor fears the peasants with pitch forks?

Poll: Hoekstra looking like a "shoo-in" for U.S. Senate nomination

Poll: Hoekstra looking like a "shoo-in" for U.S. Senate nomination MLive.com
"A new poll by Public Polling Associates shows former U.S. Rep. Pete Hoekstra (R-Holland) running away with the GOP U.S. Senate nomination next year with 78 percent of the vote."

Go Pete Go!

Michael Moore to Obama: 'Show some guts,' arrest S&P head

Michael Moore to Obama: 'Show some guts,' arrest S&P head - Washington Times
"Liberal firebrand Michael Moore called on President Obama to respond to the U.S. credit downgrade by arresting the leaders of the credit-ratings agencies."

Didn't the commies, Nazis and the Islamics arrest their critics?

WisPolitics.com: AUG. 9 RECALL ELECTION RESULTS

WisPolitics.com: AUG. 9 RECALL ELECTION RESULTS
GOPers keep Wisc. Senate!

The most powerful man on Earth?

The most powerful man on Earth? - The Washington Post
"It’s not exactly fair to blame Obama for the rout:
Almost certainly, the markets ignored him.
And that’s the problem:
The most powerful man in the world seems strangely powerless, and irresolute, as larger forces bring down the country and his presidency."

When you've lost the Post.....

Pawlenty Ad: Obama's Empty Podium

theblogprof: Pawlenty Ad: Obama's Empty Podium
"I'm not th least bit sold on Pawlenty.
At least not yet.
But damn - this is a good ad to throw out there:"

Tuesday, August 09, 2011

Video: Wal-Mart Rumble: 2 Grown Women Scrap Over The Picture Machine In Orlando Florida!

Video: Wal-Mart Rumble: 2 Grown Women Scrap Over The Picture Machine In Orlando Florida!

Role model opposites: Snooki & Kirk Cousins

HICKS: Role model opposites: Snooki & Kirk Cousins - Washington Times
"I don’t know what is more depressing: the tanked economy or a nation enthralled with the antics of a dozen undereducated, overindulged, terminal adolescents whose only unifying traits are their ethnic heritage and a colossal sense of entitlement.
Perhaps what is most incomprehensible to me is that the entitled attitudes of the “Jersey Shore” characters are expected, and even admired.
Five years ago, a survey of Americans found 83 percent believed our youth felt more entitled than 10 years previously.
And that was long before MTV’s “Jersey Shore” elevated “sense of entitlement” to “rock star” status.

In the 12- to 34-year-old demographic, the “Jersey Shore” season opener scored an 8.2 rating, or 6.5 million viewers.
If only a fraction of those young people instead watched a video of another 20-something American guy: Michigan State University quarterback Kirk Cousins."

August 9 recall election results

August 9 recall election results - JSOnline
"August 9 recall election results"

BIG Wisconsin recall election.
Click to update.

Debt ceiling more an abyss

Mark Steyn: Debt ceiling more an abyss - Orange County Register
"That's to say, as crazy as Washington is, Europe is perceived to be crazier.
In confirmation of the point, over in Italy, which is (believe it or not) a G7 economy, police raided Moody's and Standard & Poor's over allegations that all the meanie things that the rating agencies have been saying about the Italian economy were having an impact on Italian stock prices.
Apparently that's a crime in Italy."

Job participation

Job participation - Right Turn - The Washington Post
"Buried in the job stats was a number — 193,000 — that dwarfed all the rest.
That is the number of workers who left the job market.
If 193,000 left and only 117,000 jobs were added, we lost 76,000 jobs.
Moreover, this is not an aberration.

When President Obama took office in January of 2009, the labor participation rate was 65.7 percent.
Now, “The labor force participation rate is currently 63.9 percent.
That is the lowest level since 1984,”"

30,000 college students kicked out of food aid program in Michigan

Politics-State 30,000 college students kicked out of food aid program in Michigan The Detroit News
"Lansing — Michigan has removed about 30,000 college students from its food stamp program — close to double the initial estimate — saving about $75 million a year, says Human Services Director Maura Corrigan"

Another Granholm disaster put to bed!

Rep. Huizenga Announces Town Hall Next WEDNESDAY in Grand Haven to Discuss Debt Vote, Other Federal Issues

Rep. Huizenga Announces Town Hall Next WEDNESDAY in Grand Haven to Discuss Debt Vote, Other Federal Issues Congressman Bill Huizenga
"In-Person Town Hall With Rep. Huizenga
7 p.m.
Wednesday, August 10, 2011
Grand Haven Community Center Ballroom
421 Columbus St
Grand Haven, MI 49417
(Corner of Columbus and Fifth)"

A great opportunity to meet and talk to our new congressman!

Monday, August 08, 2011

Magic Jack is a scammer company!


Below is there "customer relations"

Please wait for a site operator to respond.
You are now chatting with 'Adam'
Your Issue ID for this chat is LTK55404208042X
Adam: Hello, how may I help you?
jim: I just got a new phone number but I find that anyone who calls me must include the prefix (231) when dialing. The same as my old number. I want my old number back.
Adam: I understand you, Jim,
Adam: Callers of your phone need to dial the ten digit number so that calls will go through.
jim: my old number did the same. I changed to 231 from 616-805-2616 an hour ago. I made the change so callers wouldn't need to dial (231). Your company didn't tell me that. I want my old number back or a new 616 number and my money back.
Adam: I understand you.
jim: "you understand me". When do I get my new phone number and when do I get my $10 back.
Adam: That is not possible, JIm.
Adam: Because you are successful in changing phone number.
Adam: When they call your phone number they need to dial the 10 digit number of your magicJack.
Adam: If you wish to get a new 616 number you need to pay $10 again.
jim: I need to speak with your supervisor!
Adam: One moment please...
Adam: I am transferring you to one of our top 10% agents as rated by our customers. Please hold while I transfer you.
Please wait while I transfer the chat to the best suited site operator.
You are now chatting with 'Janice'
Your Issue ID for this chat is LTK55404208042X
Janice: Hello Jim . My name is Janice. To better assist you, let me put you on hold while I read your previous chat/s. Thank you.
Janice: Thank you for waiting.
jim: my old number was 616-805-2616
Janice: One moment please...
Janice: Thank you for waiting.
Janice: Please allow me to inform you that the previous agent correctly informed you that if you wish to have another 616 number you need to pay for $10.
jim: I have a blog here in Muskegon Michigan. I believe your company was not clear in informing me that the new number would require the entry of the 231 prefix.
jim: I will put this "conversation" on my blog and tell everyone I know that your company is a scam.

Verizon strike could last months as picketers seek new contract

Verizon strike could last months as picketers seek new contract NJ.com
"Verizon is looking to tie pay increases to performance review and require union workers to contribute to health-plan premiums.
The company is also seeking to freeze pensions at the end of the year, eliminate the sickness and death benefit program, cut in half the sickness disability benefits from 52 weeks to 26 weeks and reduce sick time, according to a memo signed by William Huber, president of IBEW, Local 827."

This is simple common sense for ANY company or government if it is to survive.
The union goal seems to be bankruptcy for all of its employers.

Why Chris Christie Will Never Be President of the United States

Why Chris Christie Will Never Be President of the United States :: Daniel Pipes

Sunday, August 07, 2011

Hard to land at Oskosh??

Hard to land at Oskosh?? - JetPhotos.Net Forums - The Friendly Way to Fly
"Hard to land at Oskosh??

2 incidents yesterday. First this F-16

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LUei3...eature=related

and afterwards this Fury
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oCr9k...eature=related

http://www.flightglobal.com/articles...y-overrun.html
A Lockheed Martin F-16 was damaged after overrunning the runway on 28 July at the AirVenture fly-in in Oshkosh, Wisconsin.
Details of the incident were not immediately available.
The F-16C belonging to the 100th Fighter Sqd of the Alabama Air National Guard rolled off the north end of Runway 36 at Wittman Regional Airport. The nose gear appeared to collapse after the F-16C continued onto the grass. The impact also cracked the single-engine fighter’s nose cone.
__________________"

Who’s the World’s Largest Exporter?

"the United States remained the world’s largest exporter of goods and services through 2009."

Per the World Trade Organization.
Why the media distorts the facts is a mystery to me........oh, wait a minute.
It IS the liberal/hate-Amerika media, isn't it?
Yep!

The numbers are clear:
billions $     merchandise    commercial    total
                                               services       exports
USA                  $1057              $470           $1527
China                 $1202              $129          $1331
Germany           $1121               $215          $1336
(Not to mention that counting Germany's EU inter-trades is much like counting Michigan's trade with every other state in the USA as international trade.)

The full report (go to pgs. 30-33)
http://www.wto.org/english/res_e/booksp_e/anrep_e/world_trade_report10_e.pdf

(click charts to biggify)

An excellent E-mail going around

These are possibly the 5 best sentences you'll ever read:

    1. You cannot legislate the poor into prosperity by legislating the
wealthy out of prosperity.

    2. What one person receives without working for, another person must
work for without receiving.

    3. The government cannot give to anybody anything that the government
does not first take from somebody else.

    4. You cannot multiply wealth by dividing it!

    5. When half of the people get the idea that they do not have to work
because the other half is going to take care of them, and when the other
half gets the idea that it does no good to work because somebody else is
going to get what they work for, that is the beginning of the end of any
nation.

Doorbell

45K Verizon workers strike over new labor contract

My Way News - 45K Verizon workers strike over new labor contract
"The Communications Workers of America said negotiations in Philadelphia and New York stalled Saturday night after Verizon continued to demand more than 100 concessions from workers regarding health care, pensions and work rules"

Every Muskegon county union contract is up Sept. 30.
Hold you breath...and your wallet!

Saturday, August 06, 2011

'No risk' the US will lose its top credit rating, says Treasury's Geithner

'No risk' the US will lose its top credit rating, says Treasury's Geithner - The Hill's On The Money
"Treasury Secretary Tim Geithner said Tuesday there is 'no risk' the U.S. will lose its top credit rating amid a new analysis that revised its outlook on American debt to 'negative.'"

Doh!

Friday, August 05, 2011

Obama Speech - Awkward Silence

Obama Speech - Awkward Silence - Veterans Jobs Mediaite
"a man in the audience took matters into his own hands and shouted “awkward!” at the President."

Decade of Stimulus Yields Nothing but Debt

Decade of Stimulus Yields Nothing but Debt: Caroline Baum - Bloomberg
"Ten years and $8.35 trillion later, what do we have to show for this decade of deficit spending?
A glut of unoccupied homes, unemployment exceeding 9 percent, a stalled economy and a huge mountain of debt.
Real gross domestic product growth averaged 1.6 percent from the first quarter of 2001 through the second quarter of 2011."

America's 10 sickest housing markets

America's 10 sickest housing markets - Business - Real estate - msnbc.com
"1. Tucson, Ariz.
Homeowner vacancy rates: 6.8 percent (1st)
Rental vacancy rates: 15.9 percent (6th)
Total housing units: 440,909
Unemployment: 7.8 percent
Tucson’s homeowner vacancy rate was 3.2 percent one year ago.
It is now over double that.
The city had a booming residential housing market before the crash.
Since then, demand is so low that median home prices have dropped 18 percent in the past year and 33 percent since 2008.
In addition, the city has among the highest rate of foreclosures in the country."

Time to Say It - Double Dip May Be Happening

Time to Say It - Double Dip May Be Happening - NYTimes.com
"It has been three decades since the United States suffered a recession that followed on the heels of the previous one.
But it could be happening again."

NYT throwing in the towel?
How's that hopee changee thing workin' out for you?

Police Investigating Multiple Beatings Near State Fair Park

Police Investigating Multiple Beatings Near State Fair Park - Milwaukee News Story - WISN Milwaukee
"Milwaukee police said that around 11:10 p.m., squads were sent to the area for reports of battery, fighting and property damage being caused by an unruly crowd of 'hundreds' of people. One officer described it as a 'mob beating.'"

No mention of race here.
I guess we all know what that means.....

Tea Party the ultimate winner in debt deal

Tea Party the ultimate winner in debt deal Susan Ferrechio Politics Washington Examiner
"There were historically steep cuts, no tax increases and a commitment to even bigger spending reductions in the near future."

And the American people!

Thursday, August 04, 2011

Detroit: A pension fantasyland

Detroit: A pension fantasyland « Burypensions Blog
"All the factors remain in place for fiscal collapse and five years from now when Detroit Police and Firemen are told the truth the only difference is that it won’t be in a Central Falls auditorium but in Cobo."

Key dates for the Budget Control Act of 2011

Key dates for the Budget Control Act of 2011 NetRight Daily

Average Lansing Teacher Missed 3.5 Weeks of School Last Year

Average Lansing Teacher Missed 3.5 Weeks of School Last Year [Michigan Capitol Confidential]
"In the Lansing School District, the average teacher was absent from the classroom for 17.6 days — or three and a half weeks — during the 2010-11 school year"

‪Kirk Cousins Kickoff Luncheon Speech‬‏

‪Kirk Cousins Kickoff Luncheon Speech‬‏ - YouTube
"Michigan State Quarterback Kirk Cousins delivers the speech to represent the players at the 2011 Big Ten Kickoff Luncheon."

A MUST WATCH for all Spartan fans!
This talented young man is wise far beyond his years.
Watch to the end to see his comments about the "privileged".
Moving!

more:
http://espn.go.com/blog/bigten/post/_/id/29900/kirk-cousins-impresses-with-speech
http://diehardsport.com/2011/07/29/kirk-cousins-speec/

Follow the money: Bailout tracker

Follow the money: Bailout tracker - CNNMoney.com
"CNNMoney.com's bailout tracker
The government is engaged in a far-reaching - and expensive - effort to rescue the economy.
Here's how you can keep tabs on the bailouts."

Wednesday, August 03, 2011

Chevy Volt: Still Not Selling

Chevy Volt: Still Not Selling The Weekly Standard
"The July sales numbers are out and the Chevy Volt continues to electrify (get it?) the country.
GM sold … 125 Volts last month!"

Does that mean we taxpayers saved 10,000 x $7,500 rebates?

Federal $725,000 grant for 'Teaching American History' awarded to Muskegon, Ottawa counties

Federal $725,000 grant for 'Teaching American History' awarded to Muskegon, Ottawa counties MLive.com
"Educators in Muskegon and Ottawa counties have been awarded a $725,000 federal grant to continue their efforts to enhance lessons on American history"

I'm thinking the kids would just a soon have the money instead of the liberal propaganda.
I'm sure their parents would.

» Blood Money: How SEIU and Media Matters Stole Justice from Kenneth Gladney

» Blood Money: How SEIU and Media Matters Stole Justice from Kenneth Gladney - Big Government
"You can see The Narrative at work as I write this.
The same MSM that assured us that when it came to Barack Obama, the church he attended for two decades didn’t matter, is now obsessing over a church Rep. Michele Bachman’s hasn’t attended in over a year.
Here you have two separate (and wildly hypocritical) narratives at work: one meant to protect a Democratic presidential candidate, the other meant to damage a GOP presidential candidate."

Tuesday, August 02, 2011

Europe on Brink of 'Major Financial Collapse'

Europe on Brink of 'Major Financial Collapse': Guggenheim CIO - CNBC
"'They keep throwing more and more liquidity at it thinking it's going to get better and it's not,' he added.
Europe fails to recognize that it has a 'structural problem, not a liquidity problem.'"

No Snyder Recall On November Ballot

No Snyder Recall On November Ballot « CBS Detroit
"The group organizing the campaign to recall Michigan Governor Rick Snyder says it will not meet this Friday’s deadline to collect the 800,000 signatures needed to make the November ballot."

Dr. Rob Steele

F-35B Decision Data Ready Next Summer; First Look at Plane in Flight

F-35B Decision Data Ready Next Summer; First Look at Plane in Flight
"'What we wanted today was just to get the truth out,' he said.
The country, Amos said, had a basic choice: field 11 or 22 carriers.
Take away the F-35B and America would be left with half as many carriers because the Harrier jump jet is closing in on the end of its operational life.
If it is retired and there aren't any F-35Bs, then the Marines would be left with their smaller deck carriers and virtually nothing to put on them that could do what the Marines recently did in Libya.
They led the way in striking Muammar Qaddafi, without a single big-deck Navy carrier in sight."

Rust will restrict Canadian submarine’s diving range

Rust will restrict Canadian submarine’s diving range - thestar.com
"One of the Canadian navy’s four Victoria-class submarines will be restricted in its ability to dive deep beneath the seas because of rust, according to a document obtained by The Canadian Press."

Monday, August 01, 2011

The Comforting Life of Ideological Fanatics

The Comforting Life of Ideological Fanatics « Commentary Magazine
"Translation: Barack Obama, the most liberal president in generations, hasn’t been liberal enough.
His problem hasn’t been profligacy but frugality.
During the last two-and-a-half years, as $3.7 trillion has been added to our national debt, it turns out Obama has spent too little.
Despite his efforts to slander and misrepresent the proposals of his opponents, Obama turns out to be too civil, too accommodating, too darn decent.
And the man Democrats considered their Great Communicator just three years ago is suffering from a “communications problem,” unable to educate the public to the wisdom of post-Herbert Hoover economics."

Coverage with no copay extended to birth control

My Way News - Coverage with no copay extended to birth control
"Officials said the women's prevention package will be available Jan. 1, 2013, in most cases, resulting in a slight overall increase in premiums."

Party schools and sober schools list revealed

Party schools and sober schools list revealed wzzm13.com
"Ohio University has been named the nation's No. 1 party school."