Patient care needs to be No. 1 priority
"Does any of this apply to the current layoff announcement? Only if fewer nurses translates into less attention to detail within the Mercy Health Care system."
Interesting editorial from the remains of the once great Muskegon Chronicle.
The editorialist seems to advocate for greater "attention" for patients yet past editorials have shown our local paper to be a tireless champion of government run health care.
Like our post office?
Our wonderful state unemployment office?
Our US Treasury?
Just where in the world is a government run health care system better than the USA?
The crocodile tears of The Chronicle betray their contempt for the patient in need of quality care.
Thursday, January 22, 2009
Not Warming As Much as We Thought
Not Warming As Much as We Thought
"John Ray over at the Greenie Watch site found a little nugget from James Hansen and NASA: the warming trend has been projected downward. Since Hansen’s GISS data always seems to be at odds with satellite observations, it has come under close scrutiny as of late. The latest revision from Hansen and company is downward, to 0.15 degrees C per decade, which is a full 25% lower than the IPCC’s “gold standard” predictions (with 95% accuracy) of 0.20 degrees C per decade. No press release yet on this, however."
"John Ray over at the Greenie Watch site found a little nugget from James Hansen and NASA: the warming trend has been projected downward. Since Hansen’s GISS data always seems to be at odds with satellite observations, it has come under close scrutiny as of late. The latest revision from Hansen and company is downward, to 0.15 degrees C per decade, which is a full 25% lower than the IPCC’s “gold standard” predictions (with 95% accuracy) of 0.20 degrees C per decade. No press release yet on this, however."
Muskegon Taxpayers Alliance
Muskegon Taxpayers Alliance: "Today 3:30 commissioners meet!
The big one here today is the Transportation committee and will they continue their quest to tear down the Herman Ivory bus terminal and replace it 50 yards away in the new parking ramp across from the Holiday Inn."
Today Thursday 3:30 4th floor County Building
The big one here today is the Transportation committee and will they continue their quest to tear down the Herman Ivory bus terminal and replace it 50 yards away in the new parking ramp across from the Holiday Inn."
Today Thursday 3:30 4th floor County Building
Wednesday, January 21, 2009
Geithner apologizes for not paying taxes
Geithner apologizes for not paying taxes
"Treasury Secretary-designate Timothy Geithner said Wednesday he was careless in failing to pay $34,000 in Social Security and Medicare taxes earlier this decade but declared 'I have paid what I owed' and apologized to Congress.
He told the Senate Finance Committee he was sorry that his past transgressions were now an issue in his confirmation at a time of deepening economic distress
This man will be our Treasury Secretary?
He got caught and now apologizes?
And that's OK?
What a way for Obama to start!
"Treasury Secretary-designate Timothy Geithner said Wednesday he was careless in failing to pay $34,000 in Social Security and Medicare taxes earlier this decade but declared 'I have paid what I owed' and apologized to Congress.
He told the Senate Finance Committee he was sorry that his past transgressions were now an issue in his confirmation at a time of deepening economic distress
This man will be our Treasury Secretary?
He got caught and now apologizes?
And that's OK?
What a way for Obama to start!
Snarky Huntress: Lessons In Reality: Bitches With Guns
Snarky Huntress: Lessons In Reality: Bitches With Guns
"But his size was not the only ominous thing.
He had a rope, coiled up on his arm in big circles.
Maryann recognized it right away as the type of rope used in rodeos and ranches.
He was grinning, but it was a cruel kind of grin.
Her surprise clearly registered on her face, and the giant man began to laugh, but his laugh was as mean as his smile.
Then he spoke.'I'm gonna have some REEEEEEAL fun now!!'"
Yikes!
Read it all and tell yourself you support "gun control".
"But his size was not the only ominous thing.
He had a rope, coiled up on his arm in big circles.
Maryann recognized it right away as the type of rope used in rodeos and ranches.
He was grinning, but it was a cruel kind of grin.
Her surprise clearly registered on her face, and the giant man began to laugh, but his laugh was as mean as his smile.
Then he spoke.'I'm gonna have some REEEEEEAL fun now!!'"
Yikes!
Read it all and tell yourself you support "gun control".
GRCC hires Muskegon football coach Tony Annese
GRCC hires Muskegon football coach Tony Annese
"Grand Rapids Community College's search for a new head football coach has ended with the man the school wanted all along.
Tony Annese, who led Muskegon High School to state Division 2 championships in 2004, 2006 and last season, signed a one-year renewable contract Wednesday"
(hat tip to KegonMan at the Muskegon Forum)
"Grand Rapids Community College's search for a new head football coach has ended with the man the school wanted all along.
Tony Annese, who led Muskegon High School to state Division 2 championships in 2004, 2006 and last season, signed a one-year renewable contract Wednesday"
(hat tip to KegonMan at the Muskegon Forum)
Judge Obama on Performance Alone
Judge Obama on Performance Alone
"For example, Mr. Obama was forced to give a speech on race as a result of revelations that he'd long attended a church led by a demagogue. It was an ordinary speech. At best it was successful at minimizing a political problem. Yet some in the media equated it to the Gettysburg Address."
The liberal media will never judge Obama on merit alone.
They have judged him purely on the color of his skin and will continue to judge him on the deepness of his socialism.
All the while preaching to us about the racism of anyone who would criticize.
"For example, Mr. Obama was forced to give a speech on race as a result of revelations that he'd long attended a church led by a demagogue. It was an ordinary speech. At best it was successful at minimizing a political problem. Yet some in the media equated it to the Gettysburg Address."
The liberal media will never judge Obama on merit alone.
They have judged him purely on the color of his skin and will continue to judge him on the deepness of his socialism.
All the while preaching to us about the racism of anyone who would criticize.
Big Brothers, Big Sisters needs mentors
Big Brothers, Big Sisters needs mentors
"Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Lakeshore has launched a campaign to find mentors willing to help at-risk children who need positive role models.
Right now, there are 78 children on a waiting list in Muskegon, Oceana, Ottawa and Mason counties."
This is an excellent program, though far more effective for Little Brothers than Little Sisters.
If you have the time and want to truly help a young person, give it a try.
You'll feel better about yourself and our entire community.
"Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Lakeshore has launched a campaign to find mentors willing to help at-risk children who need positive role models.
Right now, there are 78 children on a waiting list in Muskegon, Oceana, Ottawa and Mason counties."
This is an excellent program, though far more effective for Little Brothers than Little Sisters.
If you have the time and want to truly help a young person, give it a try.
You'll feel better about yourself and our entire community.
Making Michigan MORE expensive!
Making Michigan more expensive!
"Lastt week, Gov. Jennifer M. Granholm signed into law a measure that should make Michigan's Great Lakes cleaner.
Beginning July 1, 2010, retailers can sell dish and laundry detergents only if they contain no more than 0.5 percent phosphorus. Right now, amounts are as high as 8.7 percent....
Legislators shouldn't stop with just soap. They should take a close look at Bay County, where a ban on phosphorus-based lawn fertilizers went into effect Jan. 1. Then the next logical step is to examine the economic impact of mandating environmentally friendly fertilizers for agriculture use.
In any case, the phosphorus detergent law is a good one -- and a good start."
Way to go Jenny!
We don't have any other problems in our state so more enviro-interference is just what the fiscal doctor ordered!
For the benefit of Indiana and Ohio that is.....
"Lastt week, Gov. Jennifer M. Granholm signed into law a measure that should make Michigan's Great Lakes cleaner.
Beginning July 1, 2010, retailers can sell dish and laundry detergents only if they contain no more than 0.5 percent phosphorus. Right now, amounts are as high as 8.7 percent....
Legislators shouldn't stop with just soap. They should take a close look at Bay County, where a ban on phosphorus-based lawn fertilizers went into effect Jan. 1. Then the next logical step is to examine the economic impact of mandating environmentally friendly fertilizers for agriculture use.
In any case, the phosphorus detergent law is a good one -- and a good start."
Way to go Jenny!
We don't have any other problems in our state so more enviro-interference is just what the fiscal doctor ordered!
For the benefit of Indiana and Ohio that is.....
Michigan Chamber of Commerce upset over jobless claims logjam
Michigan Chamber of Commerce upset over jobless claims logjam
"But the Michigan Chamber of Commerce said Michigan's unemployment insurance agency and Gov. Jennifer Granholm's office should have anticipated the problem but instead focused on less pressing issues such as renaming the labor department. The unemployment system is financed through employer payroll taxes.
Callers to a phone line handling applications for jobless benefits sometimes can't get through. The Internet system for jobless claims is operational but at times has been slowed by heavy volume."
Don't worry Jenny, it's Engler's fault!
"But the Michigan Chamber of Commerce said Michigan's unemployment insurance agency and Gov. Jennifer Granholm's office should have anticipated the problem but instead focused on less pressing issues such as renaming the labor department. The unemployment system is financed through employer payroll taxes.
Callers to a phone line handling applications for jobless benefits sometimes can't get through. The Internet system for jobless claims is operational but at times has been slowed by heavy volume."
Don't worry Jenny, it's Engler's fault!
Climate Confusion
Climate Confusion :
"Here are three indisputable scientific facts about climate that are sufficient on their own to throttle any claims of manmade global warming.
First, we know from studies of Antarctic ice that, over the last 650,000 years or so, warmer temperatures have preceded increases in atmospheric carbon dioxide levels by hundreds, if not thousands of years. The ice studies indicate that the carbon-dioxide-causes-global warming theory is precisely backwards.
Second, during the 20th century, there is simply no correlation between carbon dioxide emissions and global temperature. Not only did most of the century’s temperature rise occur before most of the century’s manmade greenhouse gas emissions, but during 1940-1975 global temperatures actually declined while atmospheric carbon dioxide and carbon dioxide emission levels steadily increased.
Finally, the ultimate test of a scientific theory is whether it has predictive value. We used Newton’s laws of physics, for example, to land men on the moon. Unfortunately, there are no climate models that predict trends and changes in global climate with any degree of accuracy. Think about the recent failures with hurricane season predictions or even the risk of relying on what your local weatherman predicts for tomorrow’s weather - and you’ll start to get an idea of how far away science is from predicting global climate 10, 50 and 100 years from now."
"Here are three indisputable scientific facts about climate that are sufficient on their own to throttle any claims of manmade global warming.
First, we know from studies of Antarctic ice that, over the last 650,000 years or so, warmer temperatures have preceded increases in atmospheric carbon dioxide levels by hundreds, if not thousands of years. The ice studies indicate that the carbon-dioxide-causes-global warming theory is precisely backwards.
Second, during the 20th century, there is simply no correlation between carbon dioxide emissions and global temperature. Not only did most of the century’s temperature rise occur before most of the century’s manmade greenhouse gas emissions, but during 1940-1975 global temperatures actually declined while atmospheric carbon dioxide and carbon dioxide emission levels steadily increased.
Finally, the ultimate test of a scientific theory is whether it has predictive value. We used Newton’s laws of physics, for example, to land men on the moon. Unfortunately, there are no climate models that predict trends and changes in global climate with any degree of accuracy. Think about the recent failures with hurricane season predictions or even the risk of relying on what your local weatherman predicts for tomorrow’s weather - and you’ll start to get an idea of how far away science is from predicting global climate 10, 50 and 100 years from now."
Michigan "works"?
Students For A Free Economy:
"MichiganWorks! office somewhere in the Great Lakes State:"
click for a laugh...... and a groan.
(hat tip to the excellent http://www.rightmichigan.com/)
"MichiganWorks! office somewhere in the Great Lakes State:"
click for a laugh...... and a groan.
(hat tip to the excellent http://www.rightmichigan.com/)
Alone among networks, Fox News gives Bush homecoming cheer
Alone among networks, Fox News gives Bush homecoming cheer
"Fox News was the only major national TV outlet that carried a live telecast of former President Bush's homecoming speech to cheering supporters in Midland, Texas."
Little surprise here from the "unbiased" main stream media.
"Fox News was the only major national TV outlet that carried a live telecast of former President Bush's homecoming speech to cheering supporters in Midland, Texas."
Little surprise here from the "unbiased" main stream media.
Mission 1 Accomplished
Mission 1 Accomplished
This is needed
You may not agree with everything President Bush has done but he HAS kept us all safe from the Islamic monsters who have vowed to kill us all.
Click on this site and thank our President for standing tall when most cowered in fear.
Click further on to see the thousands of others who share your sentiments.
We are not alone!
My note of thanks:
Mr. President,
You have been our STONEWALL in the face of unbearable pressure. From friends and foe alike.
And your stalwart determination to make the world a better place for all God's children will be remembered forever.
Thank you, President Bush and Laura, for your strength and high honor over these last eight years.
God speed
This is needed
You may not agree with everything President Bush has done but he HAS kept us all safe from the Islamic monsters who have vowed to kill us all.
Click on this site and thank our President for standing tall when most cowered in fear.
Click further on to see the thousands of others who share your sentiments.
We are not alone!
My note of thanks:
Mr. President,
You have been our STONEWALL in the face of unbearable pressure. From friends and foe alike.
And your stalwart determination to make the world a better place for all God's children will be remembered forever.
Thank you, President Bush and Laura, for your strength and high honor over these last eight years.
God speed
Tuesday, January 20, 2009
Skier Gets Summons for Hit-and-Run
Skier Gets Summons for Hit-and-Run on Aspen Slope
"A Massachusetts man has been issued a summons for allegedly leaving the scene of a skiing accident in Aspen.
A Pitkin County sheriff's deputy served the summons to 61-year-old William Marsh at a condominium complex where he was staying on Saturday.
Marsh is accused of colliding with a skier earlier that day on Aspen Mountain.
Sheriff Patrol Director Ann Stephenson says Marsh stopped to give the other skier his contact information, but left the accident scene before the ski patrol arrived. That's a violation of the Colorado Skier Safety Act.
The other man, who was not identified, was treated for a shoulder injury at Aspen Valley Hospital, where a nurse reported the alleged safety act violation."
"A Massachusetts man has been issued a summons for allegedly leaving the scene of a skiing accident in Aspen.
A Pitkin County sheriff's deputy served the summons to 61-year-old William Marsh at a condominium complex where he was staying on Saturday.
Marsh is accused of colliding with a skier earlier that day on Aspen Mountain.
Sheriff Patrol Director Ann Stephenson says Marsh stopped to give the other skier his contact information, but left the accident scene before the ski patrol arrived. That's a violation of the Colorado Skier Safety Act.
The other man, who was not identified, was treated for a shoulder injury at Aspen Valley Hospital, where a nurse reported the alleged safety act violation."
WHY KIDS LOVE BIODIESEL
WHY KIDS LOVE BIODIESEL
"When it gets cold it turns to goo... and they get a day off. Turns out the stuff wasn't realy made for our kind of winter. Who'd a thought?"
"When it gets cold it turns to goo... and they get a day off. Turns out the stuff wasn't realy made for our kind of winter. Who'd a thought?"
Verizon Femtocell Coming Soon
Verizon Femtocell Coming Soon
"Verizon Wireless is nearing the launch of its femtocell product, based on the Samsung Ubicell design already available from Sprint Nextel.
Employees at Verizon retails stores said they expect to be trained on the product imminently, as it’s due in stores as soon as next week. Various sources stated its price in the $199 to $249 range.
That would leave AT&T as the only U.S. Tier-1 wireless operator without a femtocell on the market. Testing is under way, the company said last month.
Even smaller T-Mobile has an in-home signal booster, although it works by using Wi-Fi instead of traditional home broadband systems."
This sounds great!
"Verizon Wireless is nearing the launch of its femtocell product, based on the Samsung Ubicell design already available from Sprint Nextel.
Employees at Verizon retails stores said they expect to be trained on the product imminently, as it’s due in stores as soon as next week. Various sources stated its price in the $199 to $249 range.
That would leave AT&T as the only U.S. Tier-1 wireless operator without a femtocell on the market. Testing is under way, the company said last month.
Even smaller T-Mobile has an in-home signal booster, although it works by using Wi-Fi instead of traditional home broadband systems."
This sounds great!
Detroit approves $27M plan for Tiger Stadium
Detroit approves $27M plan for Tiger Stadium
"The city of Detroit has granted preliminary approval to a nonprofit group's plans to preserve the remaining portion of historic Tiger Stadium.
The city's Economic Development Corp. approved a plan and budget by the Old Tiger Stadium Conservancy in a letter to the group dated Friday.
The conservancy wants to develop the old ballpark as a commercial and community space at an estimated cost of $27 million."
And where will the Old Tiger Stadium Conservancy get the $27 million?
Earmarks anyone?
"The city of Detroit has granted preliminary approval to a nonprofit group's plans to preserve the remaining portion of historic Tiger Stadium.
The city's Economic Development Corp. approved a plan and budget by the Old Tiger Stadium Conservancy in a letter to the group dated Friday.
The conservancy wants to develop the old ballpark as a commercial and community space at an estimated cost of $27 million."
And where will the Old Tiger Stadium Conservancy get the $27 million?
Earmarks anyone?
Michigan Gas Utilities increases rates
Michigan Gas Utilities increases rates
"'Due to inflation, our costs have risen over the past five years, so we need this increase to recover those increased costs,' said utility President Chuck Cloninger. 'We are sensitive to our customers' frustration at energy costs, and we have held the increase to a minimum.'"
Wouldn't it be nice if this reporter told us of the "how much" and "when" about the last increase?
"'Due to inflation, our costs have risen over the past five years, so we need this increase to recover those increased costs,' said utility President Chuck Cloninger. 'We are sensitive to our customers' frustration at energy costs, and we have held the increase to a minimum.'"
Wouldn't it be nice if this reporter told us of the "how much" and "when" about the last increase?
Grant to fund second phase of dock replacement at Grand Haven Municipal Marina - Muskegon News - The Latest News, Blogs, Photos & Videos – MLive.com#more#more#more
Grant to fund second phase of dock replacement at Grand Haven Municipal Marina
"The Grand Haven City Council Monday accepted a $500,000 grant from the Michigan Department of Natural Resources for the second phase of a dock replacement project at the Municipal Marina."
Is this the time to expand a marina?
The state tells us there is no money to plow the highways but lots-o-bucks for pork!!!!
And this waste goes on in every township, city and county in our state EVERY DAY!
"The Grand Haven City Council Monday accepted a $500,000 grant from the Michigan Department of Natural Resources for the second phase of a dock replacement project at the Municipal Marina."
Is this the time to expand a marina?
The state tells us there is no money to plow the highways but lots-o-bucks for pork!!!!
And this waste goes on in every township, city and county in our state EVERY DAY!
Graffiti mars downtown sculpture
Graffiti mars downtown sculpture
The vandals who spray painted graffiti on the downtown Muskegon sculpture, 'Muskegon, Together Rising,' have not only disrespected its artist but also 'offended an entire community,' said the president of the Community Foundation for Muskegon County"
Maybe police protection and public safety ARE important?
The vandals who spray painted graffiti on the downtown Muskegon sculpture, 'Muskegon, Together Rising,' have not only disrespected its artist but also 'offended an entire community,' said the president of the Community Foundation for Muskegon County"
Maybe police protection and public safety ARE important?
Monday, January 19, 2009
Muskegon Taxpayers Alliance
Muskegon Taxpayers Alliance: "The Ways and Means Committee:
More waving of the freeze!
Golly, it's almost like going to Florida for the sun!
How did we EVER survive without a deputy drainer?
WM09/01 - 05 To waive the hiring freeze and allow the Drain Commissioner to fill the vacant Deputy Drain Commissioner, position #X27001."
More waving of the freeze!
Golly, it's almost like going to Florida for the sun!
How did we EVER survive without a deputy drainer?
WM09/01 - 05 To waive the hiring freeze and allow the Drain Commissioner to fill the vacant Deputy Drain Commissioner, position #X27001."
New post at Muskegon Taxpayers Alliance
Muskegon Taxpayers Alliance: "'I don't get it. We had an empty supervisor position we didn't need and now they use that non-needed position to create two new positions we didn't need before.
HR09/01 - 07 To authorize the reclassification of the one (1) vacant full time Community Mental Health Residence Care Supervisor position (N69006) and two (2) hourly Resident Care Supervisor positions, effective January 1, 2009.'"
HR09/01 - 07 To authorize the reclassification of the one (1) vacant full time Community Mental Health Residence Care Supervisor position (N69006) and two (2) hourly Resident Care Supervisor positions, effective January 1, 2009.'"
ABC News: What Recession? The $170 Million Inauguration
ABC News: What Recession? The $170 Million Inauguration: "The country is in the middle of the worst economic downturn since the Great Depression, which isn't stopping rich donors and the government from spending $170 million, or more, on the inauguration of Barack Obama ."
The federal government estimates that it will spend roughly $49 million on the inaugural weekend. Washington, D.C., Virginia and Maryland have requested another $75 million from the federal government to help pay for their share of police, fire and medical services.
And then there is the party bill.
"We have a budget of roughly $45 million, maybe a little bit more," said Linda Douglass, spokeswoman for the inaugural committee.
The federal government estimates that it will spend roughly $49 million on the inaugural weekend. Washington, D.C., Virginia and Maryland have requested another $75 million from the federal government to help pay for their share of police, fire and medical services.
And then there is the party bill.
"We have a budget of roughly $45 million, maybe a little bit more," said Linda Douglass, spokeswoman for the inaugural committee.
Friday night news
If you missed Friday afternoon's news that Governor Granholm had appointed former Republican state Representative Ed Gaffney to a cushy $82,000 job on the Liquor Control Commission, it's because you were supposed to miss it.
You see, politicians hide unpopular news by announcing it on Friday afternoons. The major print media is mostly done writing their Sunday editions, talk show hosts don't return until Monday, and the public's attention has turned to weekend activities.
So, Granholm hopes nobody notices her appointment of recently term-limited Rep. Ed Gaffney. Why? Not because Ed Gaffney isn't a nice guy (he's well liked by Lansing's political class) but because Ed Gaffney was one of only two Republicans in the state House to vote for Granholm's unpopular income tax hike just over a year ago. She owes him - and now she appears to have delivered.
Media and political observers remember how furiously Granholm lobbied Republican House members to support the tax hike. The Governor wanted the income tax increase to be "bipartisan" and House Speaker Andy Dillon wanted to allow politically vulnerable Democrat House members to vote against it. Every 'yes' vote from a Republican meant one more Democrat was free to vote 'no'.
I watched from the House balcony during Granholm's lobbying efforts. One by one, Granholm called Republican lawmakers into the privacy of her Capitol office. 'Privacy' in Lansing is a relative thing, because leaks are more prevalent than on the Lion's defensive line. The Capitol media and lobbying community spread every rumor about what Granholm was offering each lawmaker in exchange for their 'yes' vote on her tax hike. Rep. Gaffney, a term-limited Republican who wouldn't face reelection and with a reputation as a moderate deal-maker, was one of Granholm's prime targets.
A judgeship was what Granholm supposedly offered Gaffney, who is also an attorney. No one except Granholm and Gaffney knows exactly what went on in the Governor's office.
After meeting with Granholm, Republican Ed Gaffney voted to raise your state income tax by 12%, a vote that cost citizens at least $750 million last year.
Now, Ed Gaffney will enjoy his new salary for years to come as a member of the state Liquor Control Commission. Very little press covered his appointment (Detroit Free Press story here.)
Of course, the Senate must first confirm Gaffney's appointment; but they certainly will. After all, Ed Gaffney is a nice guy, well liked by Lansing's political class...
Leon DroletMI Taxpayers Alliance
You see, politicians hide unpopular news by announcing it on Friday afternoons. The major print media is mostly done writing their Sunday editions, talk show hosts don't return until Monday, and the public's attention has turned to weekend activities.
So, Granholm hopes nobody notices her appointment of recently term-limited Rep. Ed Gaffney. Why? Not because Ed Gaffney isn't a nice guy (he's well liked by Lansing's political class) but because Ed Gaffney was one of only two Republicans in the state House to vote for Granholm's unpopular income tax hike just over a year ago. She owes him - and now she appears to have delivered.
Media and political observers remember how furiously Granholm lobbied Republican House members to support the tax hike. The Governor wanted the income tax increase to be "bipartisan" and House Speaker Andy Dillon wanted to allow politically vulnerable Democrat House members to vote against it. Every 'yes' vote from a Republican meant one more Democrat was free to vote 'no'.
I watched from the House balcony during Granholm's lobbying efforts. One by one, Granholm called Republican lawmakers into the privacy of her Capitol office. 'Privacy' in Lansing is a relative thing, because leaks are more prevalent than on the Lion's defensive line. The Capitol media and lobbying community spread every rumor about what Granholm was offering each lawmaker in exchange for their 'yes' vote on her tax hike. Rep. Gaffney, a term-limited Republican who wouldn't face reelection and with a reputation as a moderate deal-maker, was one of Granholm's prime targets.
A judgeship was what Granholm supposedly offered Gaffney, who is also an attorney. No one except Granholm and Gaffney knows exactly what went on in the Governor's office.
After meeting with Granholm, Republican Ed Gaffney voted to raise your state income tax by 12%, a vote that cost citizens at least $750 million last year.
Now, Ed Gaffney will enjoy his new salary for years to come as a member of the state Liquor Control Commission. Very little press covered his appointment (Detroit Free Press story here.)
Of course, the Senate must first confirm Gaffney's appointment; but they certainly will. After all, Ed Gaffney is a nice guy, well liked by Lansing's political class...
Leon DroletMI Taxpayers Alliance
It's time to pray for global warming
It's time to pray for global warming, says Flint Journal columnist John Tomlinson
"If you're wondering why North America is starting to resemble nuclear winter, then you missed the news.
At December's U.N. Global Warming conference in Poznan, Poland, 650 of the world's top climatologists stood up and said man-made global warming is a media generated myth without basis. Said climatologist Dr. David Gee, Chairman of the International Geological Congress, 'For how many years must the planet cool before we begin to understand that the planet is not warming?'
I asked myself, why would such obviously smart guy say such a ridiculous thing? But it turns out he's right.
The earth's temperature peaked in 1998. It's been falling ever since; it dropped dramatically in 2007 and got worse in 2008, when temperatures touched 1980 levels."
"If you're wondering why North America is starting to resemble nuclear winter, then you missed the news.
At December's U.N. Global Warming conference in Poznan, Poland, 650 of the world's top climatologists stood up and said man-made global warming is a media generated myth without basis. Said climatologist Dr. David Gee, Chairman of the International Geological Congress, 'For how many years must the planet cool before we begin to understand that the planet is not warming?'
I asked myself, why would such obviously smart guy say such a ridiculous thing? But it turns out he's right.
The earth's temperature peaked in 1998. It's been falling ever since; it dropped dramatically in 2007 and got worse in 2008, when temperatures touched 1980 levels."
Education reform [Mackinac Center for Public Policy]
Education reform [Mackinac Center for Public Policy]
Other than those grants required by the courts or by federal law, eliminate all "categorical grants" for state-specified school spending items, and use that money to increase unencumbered per-pupil foundation allowances.» www.mackinac.org/8584
57
Eliminate intermediate school districts (ISDs).» www.mackinac.org/5678
58
Expand public school choice programs to allow all students in all districts, not just those students within a certain proximity, to attend public schools outside their district.» www.mackinac.org/3272
59
Adopt a "Michigan Teachers' Bill of Rights" that frees individual teachers from standardized union contracts and gives them the choice to be judged and compensated based on their performance.» www.mackinac.org/1660
60
Repeal teacher certification requirements.» www.mackinac.org/1651
61
Revise the Michigan Teachers' Tenure Act to allow school districts to adopt a full-fledged teacher merit-pay system.» www.mackinac.org/9804
Other than those grants required by the courts or by federal law, eliminate all "categorical grants" for state-specified school spending items, and use that money to increase unencumbered per-pupil foundation allowances.» www.mackinac.org/8584
57
Eliminate intermediate school districts (ISDs).» www.mackinac.org/5678
58
Expand public school choice programs to allow all students in all districts, not just those students within a certain proximity, to attend public schools outside their district.» www.mackinac.org/3272
59
Adopt a "Michigan Teachers' Bill of Rights" that frees individual teachers from standardized union contracts and gives them the choice to be judged and compensated based on their performance.» www.mackinac.org/1660
60
Repeal teacher certification requirements.» www.mackinac.org/1651
61
Revise the Michigan Teachers' Tenure Act to allow school districts to adopt a full-fledged teacher merit-pay system.» www.mackinac.org/9804
Harbor Theater this week!
231-457-4274(showtimes)
http://www.theharbortheater.com
"Just in time for the announcement of the Oscar nominations on January 22nd, RACHEL GETTING MARRIED has arrived in Muskegon. Come see for yourself and judge whether or not Anne Hathaway and Rose Marie Dewitt's performances are worthy of all the critical hype and awards they have been in contention for the past few months.
Look for Bill Idding's 4 star review of RACHEL GETTING MARRIED in the Muskegon Chronicle on Thursday
Also opening at The Harbor this weekend, a pickup film, which we normally don't do, but had to make an exception at least this one time. The film is DOUBT, and with it being a posisble major contender in this years Academy Awards, we felt it needed to stay in Muskegon just a little bit longer.
Don't forget, we will be open on MONDAY January 19th at 2:00 PM in the afternoon for a free screening of the documentary DR. MARTIN LUTHER KING JR: A HISTORICAL PERSPECTIVE.
We will also host a special screening this Thursday, January 22nd, of Alfred Hitchcock's BLACKMAIL. This was Hitchcock's first "talkie" film. He began filming the thriller as a silent movie, but midway through filming, the use of sound became available to filmmakers for the first time. The producers of the film originally only wanted the final reel of the film to feature sound, but director Hitchcock thought that idea was absurd and secretly refilmed almost the entire movie with a soundtrack behind their backs. The film will play Thursday night at 7:15 PM.
Tuesday, January 20th is your last chance to see the gorgeous animated feature from France, AZUR AND AZMAR. The final showtime will be at 7:15 PM. Don't miss this wonderful film from the New York International Children's Film Festival.
On January 25th, we will have a free screening of Roberto Rosselini's THE FLOWERS OF ST. FRANCIS at 3 PM. As always, a discussion will follow this screening. The film chronicles the life story of St Francis of Assisi, known as "the people's saint.""
http://www.theharbortheater.com
"Just in time for the announcement of the Oscar nominations on January 22nd, RACHEL GETTING MARRIED has arrived in Muskegon. Come see for yourself and judge whether or not Anne Hathaway and Rose Marie Dewitt's performances are worthy of all the critical hype and awards they have been in contention for the past few months.
Look for Bill Idding's 4 star review of RACHEL GETTING MARRIED in the Muskegon Chronicle on Thursday
Also opening at The Harbor this weekend, a pickup film, which we normally don't do, but had to make an exception at least this one time. The film is DOUBT, and with it being a posisble major contender in this years Academy Awards, we felt it needed to stay in Muskegon just a little bit longer.
Don't forget, we will be open on MONDAY January 19th at 2:00 PM in the afternoon for a free screening of the documentary DR. MARTIN LUTHER KING JR: A HISTORICAL PERSPECTIVE.
We will also host a special screening this Thursday, January 22nd, of Alfred Hitchcock's BLACKMAIL. This was Hitchcock's first "talkie" film. He began filming the thriller as a silent movie, but midway through filming, the use of sound became available to filmmakers for the first time. The producers of the film originally only wanted the final reel of the film to feature sound, but director Hitchcock thought that idea was absurd and secretly refilmed almost the entire movie with a soundtrack behind their backs. The film will play Thursday night at 7:15 PM.
Tuesday, January 20th is your last chance to see the gorgeous animated feature from France, AZUR AND AZMAR. The final showtime will be at 7:15 PM. Don't miss this wonderful film from the New York International Children's Film Festival.
On January 25th, we will have a free screening of Roberto Rosselini's THE FLOWERS OF ST. FRANCIS at 3 PM. As always, a discussion will follow this screening. The film chronicles the life story of St Francis of Assisi, known as "the people's saint.""
Sunday, January 18, 2009
Circuit City-total bummer!
Circuit City: "Liquidators will start arriving in our 567 stores across the U.S. over the weekend, and closing sales will start as early as Saturday, January 17. Closing sales will run as long as it takes to sell existing inventory, but are expected to wrap up by the end of March. When the liquidation sales are completed, the stores will be closed.
Associates at our company headquarters will be asked to come back on Monday, January 19, to find out more about their status and to retrieve their personal belongings."
Associates at our company headquarters will be asked to come back on Monday, January 19, to find out more about their status and to retrieve their personal belongings."
Saturday, January 10, 2009
Elderly NYC Lobster in Restaurant Tank Gets New Lease on Life in Mainews | US News
Elderly NYC Lobster in Restaurant Tank Gets New Lease on Life in Maine
"Lobsters typically live to be 100-plus. PETA, using a rule of thumb based on weight, estimates George is about 140.
The lobster was caught off Newfoundland, Canada. He lived in the restaurant's tank for about 10 days. He is to be released Saturday near Kennebunkport, Maine, in an area where lobster trapping is forbidden."
So, umm, like isn't it gonna die soon anyway.....
"Lobsters typically live to be 100-plus. PETA, using a rule of thumb based on weight, estimates George is about 140.
The lobster was caught off Newfoundland, Canada. He lived in the restaurant's tank for about 10 days. He is to be released Saturday near Kennebunkport, Maine, in an area where lobster trapping is forbidden."
So, umm, like isn't it gonna die soon anyway.....
Friday, January 09, 2009
Editorial: CalPERS made a bet – and lost
Editorial: CalPERS made a bet – and lost - Sacramento Opinion
"CalPERS made aggressive investments in real estate at the worst possible time, when inflated property values had peaked and were already beginning to decline.
As The Sacramento Bee's Dale Kasler detailed in a recent article, one CalPERS real estate misstep stands out in particular. In February 2007, CalPERS invested $922 million in a deal with LandSource Communities Development LLC that involved thousands of homes and lots in seven states including Florida, Arizona and California.
A month before the investment was finalized, Lennar Homes, a principal partner in the LandSource deal, announced it was writing off $500 million in real estate assets because of deteriorating market conditions. That should have served as a clear warning to CalPERS, but it did not.
Sixteen months later, LandSource filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy. Depending on what assets the partnership sells to pay off creditors, CalPERS could lose its entire investment, nearly $1 billion."
"CalPERS made aggressive investments in real estate at the worst possible time, when inflated property values had peaked and were already beginning to decline.
As The Sacramento Bee's Dale Kasler detailed in a recent article, one CalPERS real estate misstep stands out in particular. In February 2007, CalPERS invested $922 million in a deal with LandSource Communities Development LLC that involved thousands of homes and lots in seven states including Florida, Arizona and California.
A month before the investment was finalized, Lennar Homes, a principal partner in the LandSource deal, announced it was writing off $500 million in real estate assets because of deteriorating market conditions. That should have served as a clear warning to CalPERS, but it did not.
Sixteen months later, LandSource filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy. Depending on what assets the partnership sells to pay off creditors, CalPERS could lose its entire investment, nearly $1 billion."
Can we Save Our Secret Ballot from political and union stealth?
Can we Save Our Secret Ballot from political and union stealth?: "One of the more odious efforts of American business affairs is about to take center stage in the very early days of our new Congress. And as when the word ‘odious’ is associated with business affairs, it can almost always signal that labor unions are involved. Be prepared America for one of the biggest farcical rip-offs ever attempted, even by shoddy union standards."
More people leaving Michigan than any other state
More people leaving Michigan than any other state
"Michigan saw the nation’s most outbound migration in 2008, with 67.1% of interstate moves heading out, according to a migration study released Wednesday.
It marked the third straight year that Michigan, hard hit by the economy and layoffs in the auto industry, has seen the highest percentage of outbound migration."
"Michigan saw the nation’s most outbound migration in 2008, with 67.1% of interstate moves heading out, according to a migration study released Wednesday.
It marked the third straight year that Michigan, hard hit by the economy and layoffs in the auto industry, has seen the highest percentage of outbound migration."
State economists predict $1.6-billion deficit in 2010
State economists predict $1.6-billion deficit in 2010
"The state budget is almost $200 million out of whack now and faces an estimated $1.6 billion deficit in 2010 unless spending is cut, according to state economists today."
"The state budget is almost $200 million out of whack now and faces an estimated $1.6 billion deficit in 2010 unless spending is cut, according to state economists today."
Why a Tiny Alabama Town Wants a $375 Million Chunk of the Stimulus
Why a Tiny Alabama Town Wants a $375 Million Chunk of the Stimulus
"The tiny town, located near the Georgia border and 26 miles from the nearest 'big city' of Anniston (population: 24,276), added 33 proposals—about two thirds of them related to 'green' energy—to the list of 'ready- to- go' projects assembled by the U.S. Conference of Mayors. Total sum: $375,076,200.
That comes out to nearly $2 million per Edwardsville resident,"
"The tiny town, located near the Georgia border and 26 miles from the nearest 'big city' of Anniston (population: 24,276), added 33 proposals—about two thirds of them related to 'green' energy—to the list of 'ready- to- go' projects assembled by the U.S. Conference of Mayors. Total sum: $375,076,200.
That comes out to nearly $2 million per Edwardsville resident,"
Baltimore Mayor Sheila Dixon indicted on perjury, theft charges
Baltimore Mayor Sheila Dixon indicted on perjury, theft charges
"Baltimore Mayor Sheila A. Dixon was charged today with 12 counts of felony theft, perjury, fraud and misconduct in office, becoming the city's first sitting mayor to be criminally indicted."
Another democrat bites the dust!
"Baltimore Mayor Sheila A. Dixon was charged today with 12 counts of felony theft, perjury, fraud and misconduct in office, becoming the city's first sitting mayor to be criminally indicted."
Another democrat bites the dust!
Thursday, January 08, 2009
Need snow shoveling help?
Tonight at about 9:00PM two 40ish women knocked on my door.....AGAIN!
I'm at the age where that normally would "make my day" ..... but sadly, they only wanted to blow my driveway...... well you get my drift.......
These last 2 years two super quality gals have been knocking on my door to see if i needed my driveway cleared.
Snow-blowed!
These hard working entrepreneurs are what America is all about!
If you need someone who will do the job, call Amy 670-3397 or Denise 798-1327.
They do a GREAT job and are dependable!
I'm at the age where that normally would "make my day" ..... but sadly, they only wanted to blow my driveway...... well you get my drift.......
These last 2 years two super quality gals have been knocking on my door to see if i needed my driveway cleared.
Snow-blowed!
These hard working entrepreneurs are what America is all about!
If you need someone who will do the job, call Amy 670-3397 or Denise 798-1327.
They do a GREAT job and are dependable!
Muskegon County Board of Commissioners
Muskegon County Board of Commissioners
"Click here if you have a high speed internet connection
and would like to view/search all 2008 meeting minutes in one PDF document."
This link has ALL of the Muskegon County Commissioners meeting minutes in a searchable format.
Try searching for "floor scrubber".
Have fun!
"Click here if you have a high speed internet connection
and would like to view/search all 2008 meeting minutes in one PDF document."
This link has ALL of the Muskegon County Commissioners meeting minutes in a searchable format.
Try searching for "floor scrubber".
Have fun!
New Muskegon bus depot "riding floor scrubber"!
No sweat. The County has oodles of extra money for a RIDING floor scrubber!
click here:
http://co.muskegon.mi.us/clerk/11252008_board_minutes.pdf
and scroll down to the bottom of page 270-271
2008-580 AWARD THE BID FOR MUSKEGON AREA TRANSIT SYSTEM
CYLINDRICAL RIDING FLOOR SCRUBBER
TR08/11-43
The Transportation Committee recommends, moved by Gill, seconded by Engle, to award
the bid for Muskegon Area Transit System cylindrical riding floor scrubber to Hull Lift Truck,
Inc. for a price of $19,995.00.
Muskegon County Board of Commissioners November 25, 2008
Regular Meeting 3:30 p.m.
271
(Continued)
2008-580 AWARD THE BID FOR MUSKEGON AREA TRANSIT SYSTEM
CYLINDRICAL RIDING FLOOR SCRUBBER
Roll Call
Ayes: Wade, Snider, Scolnik, McMurray, Mahoney, Gill, Engle, Derezinski, Collins,
Buzzell
Nays: Aley
click here:
http://co.muskegon.mi.us/clerk/11252008_board_minutes.pdf
and scroll down to the bottom of page 270-271
2008-580 AWARD THE BID FOR MUSKEGON AREA TRANSIT SYSTEM
CYLINDRICAL RIDING FLOOR SCRUBBER
TR08/11-43
The Transportation Committee recommends, moved by Gill, seconded by Engle, to award
the bid for Muskegon Area Transit System cylindrical riding floor scrubber to Hull Lift Truck,
Inc. for a price of $19,995.00.
Muskegon County Board of Commissioners November 25, 2008
Regular Meeting 3:30 p.m.
271
(Continued)
2008-580 AWARD THE BID FOR MUSKEGON AREA TRANSIT SYSTEM
CYLINDRICAL RIDING FLOOR SCRUBBER
Roll Call
Ayes: Wade, Snider, Scolnik, McMurray, Mahoney, Gill, Engle, Derezinski, Collins,
Buzzell
Nays: Aley
Take a drive by our bus station and imagine a riding floor scrubber just chuggin' along.......how did we EVER live without it?
Coach accused of having sex with 8th grade girl
Coach accused of having sex with 8th grade girl
"WHITEHALL, Mich. (WZZM)- Whitehall High School Girls Basketball coach Jared Bays is accused of having sex with an 8th grade girl.
'She recently divulged the information to her mother and her mother contacted police,' says Muskegon county Prosecutor Tony Tague.
Bays faces 3rd Degree Criminal Sexual Conduct charges.
He is suspended from his job as a coach and teacher at the Whitehall Alternative School."
Nice "alternative".
"WHITEHALL, Mich. (WZZM)- Whitehall High School Girls Basketball coach Jared Bays is accused of having sex with an 8th grade girl.
'She recently divulged the information to her mother and her mother contacted police,' says Muskegon county Prosecutor Tony Tague.
Bays faces 3rd Degree Criminal Sexual Conduct charges.
He is suspended from his job as a coach and teacher at the Whitehall Alternative School."
Nice "alternative".
U.S. companies face $409 billion pension deficit
U.S. companies face $409 billion pension deficit
"Volatile markets have saddled U.S. companies with a $409 billion deficit on pension plans, reversing a $60 billion surplus a year earlier, and will cut into earnings in 2009,"
"Volatile markets have saddled U.S. companies with a $409 billion deficit on pension plans, reversing a $60 billion surplus a year earlier, and will cut into earnings in 2009,"
Wednesday, January 07, 2009
Café Scientifique in Muskegon
Café Scientifique in Muskegon
"A fun, interesting, and FREE discussion!January 20, 2009
A discussion on anaerobicdigesters as a means to makeAmerica energy independent
Presenter: Sarah JenanDirector, Renewable Energy Group, Reynolds, Inc."
'The truth is that promoting science isn't just about providing resources-it's about protecting free and open inquiry. It's about ensuring that facts and evidence are never twisted or obscured by politics or ideology. It's about listening to what our scientists have to say, even when it's inconvenient-especially when it's inconvenient. Because the highest purpose of science is the search for knowledge, truth and a greater understanding of the world around us.'
-Barack Obama"
If you are interested in Obama's view of science, here is Muskegon's forum of believers on stage.
I'll be there.
Location: Carmen's878 Jefferson St.Muskegon, MI 49440January 20, 20096:00 to 7:30 pm
click here for directions
"A fun, interesting, and FREE discussion!January 20, 2009
A discussion on anaerobicdigesters as a means to makeAmerica energy independent
Presenter: Sarah JenanDirector, Renewable Energy Group, Reynolds, Inc."
'The truth is that promoting science isn't just about providing resources-it's about protecting free and open inquiry. It's about ensuring that facts and evidence are never twisted or obscured by politics or ideology. It's about listening to what our scientists have to say, even when it's inconvenient-especially when it's inconvenient. Because the highest purpose of science is the search for knowledge, truth and a greater understanding of the world around us.'
-Barack Obama"
If you are interested in Obama's view of science, here is Muskegon's forum of believers on stage.
I'll be there.
Location: Carmen's878 Jefferson St.Muskegon, MI 49440January 20, 20096:00 to 7:30 pm
click here for directions
Madoff is a Piker
Madoff is a Piker
"Politicians go on and on about Wall Street 'greed' and 'irresponsibility.'
But Madoff's scam was small compared to Ponzi schemes the government itself runs: Social Security and Medicare."
Mucho MSM and politician anger at profit making, job creating, product & services creating corporations. Oh yeah. They pay taxes too!
But not much interest or anger at the political ponzis who use the power of government (at EVERY level) to steal from us who have legally earned our money. And are spending our country (at EVERY level) into bankruptcy.
"Politicians go on and on about Wall Street 'greed' and 'irresponsibility.'
But Madoff's scam was small compared to Ponzi schemes the government itself runs: Social Security and Medicare."
Mucho MSM and politician anger at profit making, job creating, product & services creating corporations. Oh yeah. They pay taxes too!
But not much interest or anger at the political ponzis who use the power of government (at EVERY level) to steal from us who have legally earned our money. And are spending our country (at EVERY level) into bankruptcy.
Governor Granholm's trip to Washington
Fact Finder: Governor Granholm's trip to Washington
"How exactly did Governor Granholm get to Washington for her appearance on Meet the Press last weekend? And more importantly, who paid for it? A viewer emailed me wondering exactly that, and the answers I found are the subject of this Fact Finder Report."
The liberal press simply hates business leaders who are crook/hypocrites. They love government leaders who are crook/hypocrites.
Same old, same old.
"How exactly did Governor Granholm get to Washington for her appearance on Meet the Press last weekend? And more importantly, who paid for it? A viewer emailed me wondering exactly that, and the answers I found are the subject of this Fact Finder Report."
The liberal press simply hates business leaders who are crook/hypocrites. They love government leaders who are crook/hypocrites.
Same old, same old.
Tuesday, January 06, 2009
JetBlue, TSA Officials Pay $240G in Damages Over Arab T-Shirt Flap ews | US News
JetBlue, TSA Officials Pay $240G in Damages Over Arab T-Shirt Flap
"Jarrar was approached by security officials who told him to remove his T-shirt with the words 'We will not be silent' as he waited near the front of a JetBlue flight at JFK Airport because it apparently made other passengers feel uncomfortable."
Seriously, where can I get one of those T-shirts?
4 JetBlue flights in an offensive T-shirt and $960,000 bucks for your effort?
Sure beats frequent flier miles.....
"Jarrar was approached by security officials who told him to remove his T-shirt with the words 'We will not be silent' as he waited near the front of a JetBlue flight at JFK Airport because it apparently made other passengers feel uncomfortable."
Seriously, where can I get one of those T-shirts?
4 JetBlue flights in an offensive T-shirt and $960,000 bucks for your effort?
Sure beats frequent flier miles.....
Skier Suffers Exposure - January 6, 2009
Serious "Doh!"
Skier Suffers Exposure - January 6, 2009: "JANUARY 6--In a bizarre incident that will surely lead to litigation (or an out-of-court settlement), a skier at Colorado's ritzy Vail resort was left dangling upside down and pantsless from a chairlift"
Monday, January 05, 2009
Skeptics Global Warming
Skeptics Global Warming: "Some scientists have recently remarked that 2008 could be the coolest of this century. While this does appear so, sans December data, it’s also one of the coolest of the last 25 years. In fact, year-to-date, the University of Alabama at Huntsville temperature data set suggests that 2008 will be only very slightly ..."
Obama's Science Team: A Change Of Climate? : NPR
Obama's Science Team: A Change Of Climate? : NPR: "President-elect Barack Obama filled two top science jobs Saturday. In the process, he signaled a new White House emphasis on climate change.
Harvard professor John Holdren will be the chief White House science adviser and marine biologist Jane Lubchenco will run the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.
Obama said his White House is determined to turn back toward science."
Be afraid..... very afraid....
Harvard professor John Holdren will be the chief White House science adviser and marine biologist Jane Lubchenco will run the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.
Obama said his White House is determined to turn back toward science."
Be afraid..... very afraid....
Climate Change Fraud - Because the debate is not over - Wind-Farm Problems Blowin' In The Wind
Climate Change Fraud - Because the debate is not over - Wind-Farm Problems Blowin' In The Wind: "As an over-the-road truck driver, I often pass wind farms all over the country,
and usually try to make an estimate, especially on windy days, of what
percentage of the wind turbines are actually working. Typically, between 20%
and 50% of the wind turbines are NOT working, and on one wind farm in Kansas
containing at least 100 windmills, NONE of them have been working for several
months. I'll bet this knocks the hell out of the payback estimates used to
justify the massive expenditure of taxpayer dollars to build these things."
and usually try to make an estimate, especially on windy days, of what
percentage of the wind turbines are actually working. Typically, between 20%
and 50% of the wind turbines are NOT working, and on one wind farm in Kansas
containing at least 100 windmills, NONE of them have been working for several
months. I'll bet this knocks the hell out of the payback estimates used to
justify the massive expenditure of taxpayer dollars to build these things."
Muskegon Heights council, residents, business owners lock horns over budget
Muskegon Heights council, residents, business owners lock horns over budget
"Despite the pleas and concerns expressed by the crime victim and other residents, the city council on Monday reiterated that the city doesn't have the money to continue employing that many officers. Other budget-cutting options just don't exist, frustrated city officials said repeatedly.
Think about that.
The city leaders of Muskegon Heights are telling their citizens and businesses that every other city spending area is MORE IMPORTANT than adequate police protection.
The city is doomed.
Why is the city of Muskegon following the same plan?
"Despite the pleas and concerns expressed by the crime victim and other residents, the city council on Monday reiterated that the city doesn't have the money to continue employing that many officers. Other budget-cutting options just don't exist, frustrated city officials said repeatedly.
Think about that.
The city leaders of Muskegon Heights are telling their citizens and businesses that every other city spending area is MORE IMPORTANT than adequate police protection.
The city is doomed.
Why is the city of Muskegon following the same plan?
Term limits law churns Michigan Legislature
Term limits law churns Michigan Legislature
"The 110-member Michigan House will have 46 new lawmakers when it reconvenes for a new session this month. Forty-four of the seats were open in last year's election because the incumbents were term-limited.
Michigan's term limits law restricts House members to three terms of two years, or six years total.
The 38 members of the Michigan Senate are limited to two terms of four years, or eight years total. Senate seats were not up for election last year. Both the House and Senate will be up for election in 2010."
And our "progressive" Chronicle tells us that those 38 term limiteds are too important and have been too successful to look for new employment.
Yeah, right....
"The 110-member Michigan House will have 46 new lawmakers when it reconvenes for a new session this month. Forty-four of the seats were open in last year's election because the incumbents were term-limited.
Michigan's term limits law restricts House members to three terms of two years, or six years total.
The 38 members of the Michigan Senate are limited to two terms of four years, or eight years total. Senate seats were not up for election last year. Both the House and Senate will be up for election in 2010."
And our "progressive" Chronicle tells us that those 38 term limiteds are too important and have been too successful to look for new employment.
Yeah, right....
Huge success declared in effort to stamp out hunger
Huge success declared in effort to stamp out hunger
"All any sponsoring group had to do was put up 25 percent of the $780 it takes to buy and distribute 10,000 pounds of food from the Gleaners. The foundation promised to pay the rest.
'I was just astounded at how much could be done with so little funding,' Cherin said. 'This was something we could readily wrap our arms around.'
Since their decision, the foundation has 'statistically' rid Newaygo County of hunger, said John Arnold, executive director of the Gleaners"
According to a formula he's devised that uses, as factors, the number of people in poverty in a county, the pounds of food needed to feed them, and the amount actually distributed, Arnold has declared the Newaygo County Hunger Initiative's initial goal met.
"All any sponsoring group had to do was put up 25 percent of the $780 it takes to buy and distribute 10,000 pounds of food from the Gleaners. The foundation promised to pay the rest.
'I was just astounded at how much could be done with so little funding,' Cherin said. 'This was something we could readily wrap our arms around.'
Since their decision, the foundation has 'statistically' rid Newaygo County of hunger, said John Arnold, executive director of the Gleaners"
According to a formula he's devised that uses, as factors, the number of people in poverty in a county, the pounds of food needed to feed them, and the amount actually distributed, Arnold has declared the Newaygo County Hunger Initiative's initial goal met.
Michigan approves online, off-campus courses for 12 school districts
Michigan approves online, off-campus courses for 12 school districts
"State education officials have given 11 school districts and one charter school permission to let some students take part or all of their required classes on line and off campus......
The Avondale district in Auburn Hills received its waiver last month.
Avondale Superintendent George Heitsch tells the Detroit Free Press the online classes offers struggling students 'a shot at catching up.'"
I sure hope there is more to this story.... or less.
I do have a few observations:
1. Do our school districts already have an on line class program set up? When did that happen?
2. Or is this going to be another new bureaucracy that must be funded, and staffed and started from scratch? At enormous cost?
3. As Avondale Superintendent Heitsch so eloquently stated "the online classes offers struggling students "a shot at catching up."
What! Moving "STRUGGLING" kids from the teacher assisted classroom to their own home computer gives them " a shot at catching up"? !!!!!!!!!!
4. If computers are the answer for struggling students, will there be reductions in teaching positions? (little joke there...)
5. What if the little strugglers don't have a computer? A nifty high-speed internet connection.... any freakin' self control to keep them on their algebra lesson instead of all-day porn!!!!!!
6. Who authorized this idiocy? Seriously, what are their names!
Our state is broke.
Our school systems are broke.
And total loons are running the asylums.
"State education officials have given 11 school districts and one charter school permission to let some students take part or all of their required classes on line and off campus......
The Avondale district in Auburn Hills received its waiver last month.
Avondale Superintendent George Heitsch tells the Detroit Free Press the online classes offers struggling students 'a shot at catching up.'"
I sure hope there is more to this story.... or less.
I do have a few observations:
1. Do our school districts already have an on line class program set up? When did that happen?
2. Or is this going to be another new bureaucracy that must be funded, and staffed and started from scratch? At enormous cost?
3. As Avondale Superintendent Heitsch so eloquently stated "the online classes offers struggling students "a shot at catching up."
What! Moving "STRUGGLING" kids from the teacher assisted classroom to their own home computer gives them " a shot at catching up"? !!!!!!!!!!
4. If computers are the answer for struggling students, will there be reductions in teaching positions? (little joke there...)
5. What if the little strugglers don't have a computer? A nifty high-speed internet connection.... any freakin' self control to keep them on their algebra lesson instead of all-day porn!!!!!!
6. Who authorized this idiocy? Seriously, what are their names!
Our state is broke.
Our school systems are broke.
And total loons are running the asylums.
EPA 'Cow Tax' Could Charge $175 per Dairy Cow to Curb Greenhouse Gases
EPA 'Cow Tax' Could Charge $175 per Dairy Cow to Curb Greenhouse Gases
"Farm Bureau warns just this one rule may increase milk production costs up to 8 cents a gallon."
"Farm Bureau warns just this one rule may increase milk production costs up to 8 cents a gallon."
Sunday, January 04, 2009
Would the Last Honest Reporter Please Turn On the Lights?
Would the Last Honest Reporter Please Turn On the Lights?
"An open letter to the local daily paper -- almost every local daily paper in America:
I remember reading All the President's Men and thinking: That's journalism. You do what it takes to get the truth and you lay it before the public, because the public has a right to know.
This housing crisis didn't come out of nowhere."
"An open letter to the local daily paper -- almost every local daily paper in America:
I remember reading All the President's Men and thinking: That's journalism. You do what it takes to get the truth and you lay it before the public, because the public has a right to know.
This housing crisis didn't come out of nowhere."
Saturday, January 03, 2009
Newspapers Commit Suicide! Read All About It! - WSJ.com
Newspapers Commit Suicide! Read All About It! - WSJ.com: "Papers are not going out of business because bloggers will do reporters' work for free; papers are falling because they are confirming readers' belief that we cannot trust the mass media, ever, on anything, so why pay for lies? The blogosphere did not do this to you; you did it to yourselves."
Instapundit » Blog Archive » I’VE OFTEN ARGUED that the relationship between blogs and Big Media should be thought of as symbioti…
Instapundit » Blog Archive » I’VE OFTEN ARGUED that the relationship between blogs and Big Media should be thought of as symbioti…: "Smart news people — like Lail — are more interested in getting bloggers to deliver traffic than in complaining about blogger competition. And smart news organizations will take advantage of new technology to facilitate their hard-news reporting ability via the “Army of Davids” approach, rather than complaining that people who post breaking-news reports on blogs or Twitter don’t have journalism degrees."
InsideCatholic.com - The Christmas Classic that Almost Wasn't
InsideCatholic.com - The Christmas Classic that Almost Wasn't: "As a result, one of the great Christmas films of all time is once again protected by the law -- ironic, considering that it became a classic in significant part because it was legally unprotected. But God works in mysterious ways -- and sometimes the law does, too."
1-800-GOOG-411: Find and connect with local businesses for free from your phone.
1-800-GOOG-411: Find and connect with local businesses for free from your phone.
This is pretty cool.
I've tried it.
(thanks to Al M for the tip)
This is pretty cool.
I've tried it.
(thanks to Al M for the tip)
Friday, January 02, 2009
New Jersey Is the Perfect Bad Example
New Jersey Is the Perfect Bad Example
"Of course, there was one area where jobs did grow. From 2000 to 2007, says the New Jersey Business & Industry Association, the government added 54,800 jobs. To put that in proper perspective, that works out to 93% of all jobs created in New Jersey over those seven years."
"Of course, there was one area where jobs did grow. From 2000 to 2007, says the New Jersey Business & Industry Association, the government added 54,800 jobs. To put that in proper perspective, that works out to 93% of all jobs created in New Jersey over those seven years."
Thursday, January 01, 2009
Beware Third-Hand Smoke and Junk Science - Red Eye w/ Greg Gutfeld
Beware Third-Hand Smoke and Junk Science
"Researchers have identified 'third-hand smoke,' an invisible evil that acts like a deadly Ghost of Cigarettes Past: Polluting the air, killing innocent babies and ottomans — even if they aren't present at the time."
"Researchers have identified 'third-hand smoke,' an invisible evil that acts like a deadly Ghost of Cigarettes Past: Polluting the air, killing innocent babies and ottomans — even if they aren't present at the time."
Daly said...... the PGA Tour suspended him for six months.
My Way - Sports News
"John Daly smashed one tee shot off the top of a beer can during a pro-am. At another tournament, he returned from a rain delay with Tampa Bay Buccaneers coach Jon Gruden as his caddie. And his most memorable photo this year came in an orange jail suit, eyes half-closed....
Daly said .....'Is it fair that I got suspended?' he said. 'It's not fair in reality, but it's probably fair in perception.'"
"John Daly smashed one tee shot off the top of a beer can during a pro-am. At another tournament, he returned from a rain delay with Tampa Bay Buccaneers coach Jon Gruden as his caddie. And his most memorable photo this year came in an orange jail suit, eyes half-closed....
Daly said .....'Is it fair that I got suspended?' he said. 'It's not fair in reality, but it's probably fair in perception.'"
Baltimore not as bloody in '08 with fewer killings
Baltimore not as bloody in '08 with fewer killings
"Police in the city once nicknamed 'Bodymore, Murdaland,' are going after the most entrenched criminals and are starting to see success. As of midnight Thursday, there were 234 homicides in 2008, down from 282 killings a year ago."
"Police in the city once nicknamed 'Bodymore, Murdaland,' are going after the most entrenched criminals and are starting to see success. As of midnight Thursday, there were 234 homicides in 2008, down from 282 killings a year ago."
Suspicious packages force mass evacuation in Aspen
Suspicious packages force mass evacuation in Aspen
"Suspicious packages and threatening notes were found at two banks, forcing the evacuation of a 16-block downtown area. A fireworks show was pushed back from 8:30 p.m. until midnight and then canceled altogether."
"Suspicious packages and threatening notes were found at two banks, forcing the evacuation of a 16-block downtown area. A fireworks show was pushed back from 8:30 p.m. until midnight and then canceled altogether."
The lightbulb of the future?
The lightbulb of the future?
Luxim's plasma lightbulb
Silicon Valley's Luxim has developed a lightbulb the size of a Tic Tac that gives off as much light as a streetlight. ..."
Luxim's plasma lightbulb
Silicon Valley's Luxim has developed a lightbulb the size of a Tic Tac that gives off as much light as a streetlight. ..."
Wednesday, December 31, 2008
Today in Investor's Business Daily stock analysis and business news
Today in Investor's Business Daily stock analysis and business news: "As we've noted, 2008 has been a year of records for cold and snowfall and may indeed be the coldest year of the 21st century thus far. In the U.S., the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration registered 63 local snowfall records and 115 lowest-ever temperatures for the month of October.
Global thermometers stopped rising after 1998, and have plummeted in the last two years by more than 0.5 degrees Celsius. The 2007-2008 temperature drop was not predicted by global climate models. But it was predictable by a decline in sunspot activity since 2000.
When the sun is active, it's not uncommon to see sunspot numbers of 100 or more in a single month. Every 11 years, activity slows, and numbers briefly drop near zero. Normally sunspots return very quickly, as a new cycle begins. But this year, the start of a new cycle, the sun has been eerily quiet."
Global thermometers stopped rising after 1998, and have plummeted in the last two years by more than 0.5 degrees Celsius. The 2007-2008 temperature drop was not predicted by global climate models. But it was predictable by a decline in sunspot activity since 2000.
When the sun is active, it's not uncommon to see sunspot numbers of 100 or more in a single month. Every 11 years, activity slows, and numbers briefly drop near zero. Normally sunspots return very quickly, as a new cycle begins. But this year, the start of a new cycle, the sun has been eerily quiet."
Las Vegas public pension system broke
Las Vegas Business Press
"'We are the only state with no minimum age,' he said.
Nevada requires 20 years on the job to qualify for the pension.
More alarming, Hill said, were health care benefits offered retired public employees."
"'We are the only state with no minimum age,' he said.
Nevada requires 20 years on the job to qualify for the pension.
More alarming, Hill said, were health care benefits offered retired public employees."
Let There Be Dark?
Let There Be Dark?
"Moving past the term “controlling light wastage,” which seems to be little more than a euphemism for darker city streets, plenty of data link dim urban areas with higher crime rates. A 2004 study in the Journal of British Criminology, for example, studied 13 U.S. and British cities and concluded that improved street lighting, on average, was associated with a 20 percent decrease in crime. In contrast, I could find no data linking the inability to see the Milky Way with any sort of harm to anyone."
"Moving past the term “controlling light wastage,” which seems to be little more than a euphemism for darker city streets, plenty of data link dim urban areas with higher crime rates. A 2004 study in the Journal of British Criminology, for example, studied 13 U.S. and British cities and concluded that improved street lighting, on average, was associated with a 20 percent decrease in crime. In contrast, I could find no data linking the inability to see the Milky Way with any sort of harm to anyone."
Monday, December 29, 2008
Michelle O's a 'Goddess.' Palin is 'Worst Dressed' | NewsBusters.org
Fashion Writer: Michelle O's a 'Goddess.' Palin is 'Worst Dressed' NewsBusters.org: "It appears Obamamania has not only infiltrated British newspapers, but so has Palin Derangement Syndrome...even in the fashion section."
We must face facts!
THEY are always deranged about something/someone...
Bummer dudes!
We must face facts!
THEY are always deranged about something/someone...
Bummer dudes!
Sunday, December 28, 2008
Muskegon outsourcing?
I just was told that the address we must use to send in our city of Muskegon property taxes is in Chicago.... yes, THAT Chicago.
The Chicago of Senators-for-sale, Governors making license plates, "The Dailey Machine", "SouthSidePolitical Machine", etc.
And, oh yeah, home of our President-elect.
Anyway, I have a few thoughts about Muskegon outsourcing our tax collection services.
1. WHY!!!!!!
I assume the "official" reason is that it is "cheaper/more efficient" to outsource a city duty to the 2nd most corrupt city in the midwest (imagine if we outsourced to Detroit!).
2. But if it is "cheaper/more efficient" where are the savings right here in Muskegon?
What jobs have been cut?
What net savings accrue to us poor Muskegonites by this fiscal efficiency?
3. Why the silence from the City of Muskegon?
Why are we not proudly told by the city of their brilliant move to save costs to the taxpayers?
4. Why isn't The Muskegon Chronicle front-paging the great news that the city of Muskegon is utilizing the same methods of efficiency that The Chronicle recently imposed, ITSELF, to save moolah, outsourcing?
5. And if not pride at the new efficiency:
Where is the outrage?
The angry, double-dog umbrage!
The "say it ain't so Joe!" in high dudgeon from the editorialistas of our Muskegon Chronicle who have long warned us of the evils of outsourcing?
6. The silence is... not deafening.... simply consistent from our city of Muskegon and its lapdog/newspaper of self-destruction.
7. Or it might just be that someone paid someone to make the deal and we, the taxpayers are screwed again.
Thank God for Indiana!
GordoM-prefers-Muskegon-but-is-comforted-that-Indiana-"self"-outsourcing-is-an-option
The Chicago of Senators-for-sale, Governors making license plates, "The Dailey Machine", "SouthSidePolitical Machine", etc.
And, oh yeah, home of our President-elect.
Anyway, I have a few thoughts about Muskegon outsourcing our tax collection services.
1. WHY!!!!!!
I assume the "official" reason is that it is "cheaper/more efficient" to outsource a city duty to the 2nd most corrupt city in the midwest (imagine if we outsourced to Detroit!).
2. But if it is "cheaper/more efficient" where are the savings right here in Muskegon?
What jobs have been cut?
What net savings accrue to us poor Muskegonites by this fiscal efficiency?
3. Why the silence from the City of Muskegon?
Why are we not proudly told by the city of their brilliant move to save costs to the taxpayers?
4. Why isn't The Muskegon Chronicle front-paging the great news that the city of Muskegon is utilizing the same methods of efficiency that The Chronicle recently imposed, ITSELF, to save moolah, outsourcing?
5. And if not pride at the new efficiency:
Where is the outrage?
The angry, double-dog umbrage!
The "say it ain't so Joe!" in high dudgeon from the editorialistas of our Muskegon Chronicle who have long warned us of the evils of outsourcing?
6. The silence is... not deafening.... simply consistent from our city of Muskegon and its lapdog/newspaper of self-destruction.
7. Or it might just be that someone paid someone to make the deal and we, the taxpayers are screwed again.
Thank God for Indiana!
GordoM-prefers-Muskegon-but-is-comforted-that-Indiana-"self"-outsourcing-is-an-option
SensaAbilities - Muskegon Opinion - The Muskegon Chronicle Online - Michigan Newspaper - MLive.com
SensaAbilities
If you feel overwhelmed by too much stuff, too many responsibilities, and too little time and money, 'Voluntary Simplicity' may be for you. West Michigan Interfaith will sponsor the five-week discussion series 6-8 p.m. Thursdays Jan. 8-Feb. 5 at the Torrent House, across from Hackley Public Library.
Developed by Northwest Earth Institute, this program is for all who want a path away from environmental destruction and toward an increasing awareness of how personal choices impact physical, emotional and spiritual health. The study guide quotes wisdom from a variety of spiritual teachers and philosophers who have found both inner and outer peace in a simple lifestyle.
The series is FREE, but participants are expected to read a chapter each week from a study guide, which can be purchased from Northwest Institute for $25 each; guides may be shared. Call Connie at (616) 846-8465 to register."
"Free" is $25 bucks?
Newspeak it is!
If you feel overwhelmed by too much stuff, too many responsibilities, and too little time and money, 'Voluntary Simplicity' may be for you. West Michigan Interfaith will sponsor the five-week discussion series 6-8 p.m. Thursdays Jan. 8-Feb. 5 at the Torrent House, across from Hackley Public Library.
Developed by Northwest Earth Institute, this program is for all who want a path away from environmental destruction and toward an increasing awareness of how personal choices impact physical, emotional and spiritual health. The study guide quotes wisdom from a variety of spiritual teachers and philosophers who have found both inner and outer peace in a simple lifestyle.
The series is FREE, but participants are expected to read a chapter each week from a study guide, which can be purchased from Northwest Institute for $25 each; guides may be shared. Call Connie at (616) 846-8465 to register."
"Free" is $25 bucks?
Newspeak it is!
Detroit vs. Green Bay - Recap - December 28, 2008
Detroit vs. Green Bay - Recap - December 28, 2008: "The Detroit Lions own a distinction no team wants: worst in NFL history."
A PERFECT SEASON, dude!
A PERFECT SEASON, dude!
Indy tradition dead!
My Way - Sports News
"Earlier this week, the speedway began making changes as it closed its 45-year-old hotel, the Brickyard Crossing Inn, where some drivers used to stay in May and scenes from Paul Newman's movie 'Winning' were shot."
What, no bailout for Indy motels?
"Earlier this week, the speedway began making changes as it closed its 45-year-old hotel, the Brickyard Crossing Inn, where some drivers used to stay in May and scenes from Paul Newman's movie 'Winning' were shot."
What, no bailout for Indy motels?
Anger, sadness over fabricated Holocaust story
Anger, sadness over fabricated Holocaust story
"The damage is broad. Publishing, the most trusting of industries, has again been burned by a memoir that fact-checking might have prevented. Berkley is an imprint of Penguin Group (USA), which in March pulled Margaret B. Jones''Love and Consequences' after the author acknowledged she had invented her story of gang life in Los Angeles. Winfrey fell, as she did with James Frey, for a narrative of suffering and redemption better suited for television than for history."
"most trusting of...."?
Sounds more like laziness and wilful ignorance.
All in a business that thrives on both.
"The damage is broad. Publishing, the most trusting of industries, has again been burned by a memoir that fact-checking might have prevented. Berkley is an imprint of Penguin Group (USA), which in March pulled Margaret B. Jones''Love and Consequences' after the author acknowledged she had invented her story of gang life in Los Angeles. Winfrey fell, as she did with James Frey, for a narrative of suffering and redemption better suited for television than for history."
"most trusting of...."?
Sounds more like laziness and wilful ignorance.
All in a business that thrives on both.
Wednesday, December 24, 2008
Muskegon County sued by U.S. over sexual harassment - MLive.com
Muskegon County sued by U.S. over sexual harassment - MLive.com: "The federal lawsuit -- one of only 12 such filed this year in the United States -- alleges the county 'failed to respond with adequate remedial measures' to employee Eva Amaya's complaints of multiple instances of sexual harassment, and to similar complaints by other employees."
Tuesday, December 23, 2008
Last minute love!
http://www.charitynavigator.org/
http://www.capecodtoday.com/blogs/index.php/2008/01/07/best_and_worst_military_charities?blog=20
http://www.fallenheroesfund.org/Home.aspx
https://www.woundedwarriorproject.org/
http://www.specialops.org/
http://www.operationhomefront.net/
http://www.uso.org/
http://www.armedforcesfoundation.org/index1.html
It's the SPENDING Stupid!"The liberties of a people never were, nor ever will be, secure when the transactions of their rulers may be concealed from them." -Patrick Henry, revolutionary (1736-1799)http://muskegonpundit.blogspot.com/
Make your life easier with all your friends, email, and favorite sites in one place. Try it now.
http://www.capecodtoday.com/blogs/index.php/2008/01/07/best_and_worst_military_charities?blog=20
http://www.fallenheroesfund.org/Home.aspx
https://www.woundedwarriorproject.org/
http://www.specialops.org/
http://www.operationhomefront.net/
http://www.uso.org/
http://www.armedforcesfoundation.org/index1.html
It's the SPENDING Stupid!"The liberties of a people never were, nor ever will be, secure when the transactions of their rulers may be concealed from them." -Patrick Henry, revolutionary (1736-1799)http://muskegonpundit.blogspot.com/
Make your life easier with all your friends, email, and favorite sites in one place. Try it now.
Monday, December 22, 2008
U.S. newspaper shuns Web, and thrives
U.S. newspaper shuns Web, and thrives
"'Why would I put anything on the Web?' asked Dan Jacobson, the publisher and owner of the newspaper. 'I don't understand how putting content on the Web would do anything but help destroy our paper. Why should we give our readers any incentive whatsoever to not look at our content along with our advertisements, a large number of which are beautiful and cheap full-page ads?'"
The "progressives" who run our nation's newspapers thought that joint operating agreements (like the destructive "merging of The Detroit News & FreePress) would allow each newspaper to have a monopoly.
And they were right!
Except monopolies rarely produce high quality...... and progressives were never interested in quality to begin with. So......
The customers took the free stuff (who needs quality when it's free!) and dropped the rest.
It is amazing that newspaper owners are at a total loss as to why their companies are collapsing.
"'Why would I put anything on the Web?' asked Dan Jacobson, the publisher and owner of the newspaper. 'I don't understand how putting content on the Web would do anything but help destroy our paper. Why should we give our readers any incentive whatsoever to not look at our content along with our advertisements, a large number of which are beautiful and cheap full-page ads?'"
The "progressives" who run our nation's newspapers thought that joint operating agreements (like the destructive "merging of The Detroit News & FreePress) would allow each newspaper to have a monopoly.
And they were right!
Except monopolies rarely produce high quality...... and progressives were never interested in quality to begin with. So......
The customers took the free stuff (who needs quality when it's free!) and dropped the rest.
It is amazing that newspaper owners are at a total loss as to why their companies are collapsing.
Saturday, December 20, 2008
Solis' Selection for Secretary of Labor | National Right to Work Legal Defense Foundation
Solis' Selection for Secretary of Labor National Right to Work Legal Defense Foundation: "Right to Work President Mark Mix discusses Obama's upcoming appointment of forced unionism activist Hilda Solis as Secretary of Labor with Neil Cavuto of Fox News:"
Man-Made Global Warming: 10 Questions
Man-Made Global Warming: 10 Questions
"I consider myself to be relatively well-read on the matter, and I’ve still come down on the skeptical side, because there are aspects of the issue that don’t make a lot of sense to me. Though I confess to have written none-too-reverentially on the subject, I want to try to put all that aside and ask ten serious questions to which I have been unable to find definitive answers:"
"I consider myself to be relatively well-read on the matter, and I’ve still come down on the skeptical side, because there are aspects of the issue that don’t make a lot of sense to me. Though I confess to have written none-too-reverentially on the subject, I want to try to put all that aside and ask ten serious questions to which I have been unable to find definitive answers:"
More snow, cold head for Aspen | AspenTimes.com
More snow, cold head for Aspen AspenTimes.com: "The snow in Aspen just keeps on coming, but it may be too cold to enjoy it by Saturday.
A winter storm that dumped up to a foot of snow on local ski slopes over the past two days has moved out, but another system is headed for Aspen Friday night. So are plummeting temperatures and a brutal wind chill."
A winter storm that dumped up to a foot of snow on local ski slopes over the past two days has moved out, but another system is headed for Aspen Friday night. So are plummeting temperatures and a brutal wind chill."
Friday, December 19, 2008
The Real 'Torture' Disgrace
The Real 'Torture' Disgrace
"As Mr. Levin put it in laying on his innuendo this week, a commission 'may or may not lead to indictments or civil action.' It will also encourage some grandstanding foreign prosecutor to arrest Mr. Rumsfeld and other Bush officials like Pinochet if they ever dare to leave the U.S. Why John McCain endorsed this Levin gambit is the kind of mystery that has defined, and damaged, his career. We hope other Republicans push back.
Mr. Levin claims that Bush interrogation programs 'damaged our ability to collect accurate intelligence that could save lives.' The truth is closer to the opposite. The second-guessing of Democrats is likely to lead to a risk-averse mindset at the CIA and elsewhere that compromises the ability of terror fighters to break the next KSM. The political winds always shift, but terrorists are as dangerous as ever."
"As Mr. Levin put it in laying on his innuendo this week, a commission 'may or may not lead to indictments or civil action.' It will also encourage some grandstanding foreign prosecutor to arrest Mr. Rumsfeld and other Bush officials like Pinochet if they ever dare to leave the U.S. Why John McCain endorsed this Levin gambit is the kind of mystery that has defined, and damaged, his career. We hope other Republicans push back.
Mr. Levin claims that Bush interrogation programs 'damaged our ability to collect accurate intelligence that could save lives.' The truth is closer to the opposite. The second-guessing of Democrats is likely to lead to a risk-averse mindset at the CIA and elsewhere that compromises the ability of terror fighters to break the next KSM. The political winds always shift, but terrorists are as dangerous as ever."
Thursday, December 18, 2008
Black named to road commission
Black named to road commission
"Ironically, Black now believes there may be a need for a countywide millage election to properly fund road maintenance and improvements. That's because the road commission gets most of its funding from the state, and that funding has been shrinking with each passing year.
'In this day and age, asking for a millage would be tough, to say the least,' Black said. 'It would have to be done by educating people about the need."
Right.
We po folks don't got da smarts to no we gotta give the man mo of our money.
Edjukation is what we need.....
Right.
"Ironically, Black now believes there may be a need for a countywide millage election to properly fund road maintenance and improvements. That's because the road commission gets most of its funding from the state, and that funding has been shrinking with each passing year.
'In this day and age, asking for a millage would be tough, to say the least,' Black said. 'It would have to be done by educating people about the need."
Right.
We po folks don't got da smarts to no we gotta give the man mo of our money.
Edjukation is what we need.....
Right.
Proposed gas tax hike riles gas station owners
Proposed gas tax hike riles gas station owners
"A proposed gasoline tax hike to fix the state's crumbling roads and bridges is pitting road builders against gasoline station owners, who say it would give Michigan the highest tax in the nation.
With the proposed hike -- which would switch from a fixed 19 cents per gallon to an 18 percent tax on the wholesale price of gas -- being considered by the lame duck state Legislature, Michigan would jump ahead of California, the nation's current No. 1, according to station owners.
Michigan now has the nation's fifth-highest gasoline tax, including state and federal taxes, at 59.4 cents a gallon. California's is 67.1 cents."
"A proposed gasoline tax hike to fix the state's crumbling roads and bridges is pitting road builders against gasoline station owners, who say it would give Michigan the highest tax in the nation.
With the proposed hike -- which would switch from a fixed 19 cents per gallon to an 18 percent tax on the wholesale price of gas -- being considered by the lame duck state Legislature, Michigan would jump ahead of California, the nation's current No. 1, according to station owners.
Michigan now has the nation's fifth-highest gasoline tax, including state and federal taxes, at 59.4 cents a gallon. California's is 67.1 cents."
Wednesday, December 17, 2008
The genesis of the $8.5 million parking ramp?
http://downtownmuskegon.org/recentnews-may09-07.shtml
(thanks to ClassifiedAd on the http://www.mlive.com/forums/muskegon/ Muskegon forum!)
Kind of amazing how $2.2 million morphs into $8.5 million in a real estate deflation..... ain't it?
more to come!
"Commission moves ahead on downtown parking ramp
Wednesday May 09, 2007
(thanks to ClassifiedAd on the http://www.mlive.com/forums/muskegon/ Muskegon forum!)
Kind of amazing how $2.2 million morphs into $8.5 million in a real estate deflation..... ain't it?
more to come!
"Commission moves ahead on downtown parking ramp
Wednesday May 09, 2007
By Steve GunnMuskegon Chronicle Reporter
Muskegon
Muskegon
County Commissioner Bill Gill may never like the idea, but his colleagues on the county board are determined to use $2.2 million in federal funds to build a new parking ramp on Third Street in downtown Muskegon."
Chrysler closing all 30 plants for one month
Chrysler closing all 30 plants for one month
"Chrysler LLC said Wednesday that it is closing all 30 of its manufacturing plants for a month starting Friday as it seeks to counter the most severe downturn in U.S. auto sales in more than two decades."
Understand that this company is owned by a hedge fund!
"Chrysler LLC said Wednesday that it is closing all 30 of its manufacturing plants for a month starting Friday as it seeks to counter the most severe downturn in U.S. auto sales in more than two decades."
Understand that this company is owned by a hedge fund!
Muskegon's $8.5 million boondoggle?
Does anyone know about the plan to demolish the current downtown bus station and replace it with a $8.5 million transit/parking ramp across from the Holiday Inn?
Parking ramps seem to be bulldozed in Muskegon, if you follow our city father's RECENT actions.
Why a new parking ramp 200 yards from the one we just tore down?
Parking ramps seem to be bulldozed in Muskegon, if you follow our city father's RECENT actions.
Why a new parking ramp 200 yards from the one we just tore down?
Granholm says she is not interested in Obama cabinet position
Granholm says she is not interested in Obama cabinet position
"'The governor has made it clear she does not want to be considered for an appointment at this time,' said Liz Boyd, a Granholm spokeswoman. 'Whether she is being vetted or has been vetted is immaterial. What she really is interested in is working on challenges facing our state, namely growing the economy and creating jobs.'"
Yeah right!
Serious "duh"!
She was "vetted" and stinko!!!!!! Worst state in the USA!
I'm thinking Blago has the same vetting.
Gotta love our "unbiased" media.
"'The governor has made it clear she does not want to be considered for an appointment at this time,' said Liz Boyd, a Granholm spokeswoman. 'Whether she is being vetted or has been vetted is immaterial. What she really is interested in is working on challenges facing our state, namely growing the economy and creating jobs.'"
Yeah right!
Serious "duh"!
She was "vetted" and stinko!!!!!! Worst state in the USA!
I'm thinking Blago has the same vetting.
Gotta love our "unbiased" media.
Schools offers buyouts to highest-paid teachers
Schools offers buyouts to highest-paid teachers
"Even if several teachers accept a new buyout option, Coopersville Schools likely will eliminate 4 1/2 staff positions next school year to stabilize a shaky financial forecast.
The school board Monday approved a voluntary separation plan that allows teachers making more than $61,000 in base salary to resign or retire and collect $54,000 afterward. Teachers making at least $75,000 would collect $60,000."
"Even if several teachers accept a new buyout option, Coopersville Schools likely will eliminate 4 1/2 staff positions next school year to stabilize a shaky financial forecast.
The school board Monday approved a voluntary separation plan that allows teachers making more than $61,000 in base salary to resign or retire and collect $54,000 afterward. Teachers making at least $75,000 would collect $60,000."
Scientists Call AP Report on Global Warming 'Hysteria'
Scientists Call AP Report on Global Warming 'Hysteria'
"'The mean global temperature, at least as measured by satellite, is now the same as it was in the year 1980. In the last couple of years sea level has stopped rising. Hurricane and cyclone activity in the northern hemisphere is at a 24-year low and sea ice globally is also the same as it was in 1980.'
Deming said the article is further evidence of the media's decision to talk about global warming as fact, despite what he says is a lack of evidence.
'Reporters, as I understand reporters, are supposed to report facts,'Deming said. 'What he's doing here is he's writing a polemic and reporting it as fact, and that's not right. It's not reporting. It's propaganda."
"'The mean global temperature, at least as measured by satellite, is now the same as it was in the year 1980. In the last couple of years sea level has stopped rising. Hurricane and cyclone activity in the northern hemisphere is at a 24-year low and sea ice globally is also the same as it was in 1980.'
Deming said the article is further evidence of the media's decision to talk about global warming as fact, despite what he says is a lack of evidence.
'Reporters, as I understand reporters, are supposed to report facts,'Deming said. 'What he's doing here is he's writing a polemic and reporting it as fact, and that's not right. It's not reporting. It's propaganda."
Tuesday, December 16, 2008
Students' work, design spread holiday cheer
Students' work, design spread holiday cheer
"If you're looking to send out Christmas cards with meaning, consider the Big Red Greeting Card Co.
Not only would you be giving business to a group of hard-working students with disabilities, but you'd also be benefiting the Noah Project animal shelter and supporting recycling to boot.
The greeting card company is housed at Muskegon High School and staffed by about 20 students in two special education classes."
THIS is worth your time!
"If you're looking to send out Christmas cards with meaning, consider the Big Red Greeting Card Co.
Not only would you be giving business to a group of hard-working students with disabilities, but you'd also be benefiting the Noah Project animal shelter and supporting recycling to boot.
The greeting card company is housed at Muskegon High School and staffed by about 20 students in two special education classes."
THIS is worth your time!
YouTube - Obama on Governor Blagojevich/Rom Emanuel
YouTube - Obama on Governor Blagojevich/Rom Emanuel
Wow!
Openess?
Gonna be a long 1000 year reich......
Wow!
Openess?
Gonna be a long 1000 year reich......
Gov. David Paterson unveils dire New York State budget that includes new taxes, layoffs and cuts
Gov. David Paterson unveils dire New York State budget that includes new taxes, layoffs and cuts
"it's the $4 billion in new fees and taxes that are sure to aggravate everyday New Yorkers, who would be paying more for a host of services:
An 'iPod tax' that charges state and local sales tax for 'digitally delivered entertainment services' - in other words, that new Beyonce song you download.
State sales tax at movie theaters, sporting events, taxis, buses, limousines and cable and satellite TV and radio.
Costlier driving with the repeal of the 8-cents-per-gallon sales tax cap on motor and diesel motor fuel, plus and increase in the auto rental tax.
Tuition increases at SUNY and CUNY, $620 and $600 a year respectively.
A 50 cent tax on cigars. The current tax is equal to 37% of the wholesale price, or 34 cents a cigar.
No more sales tax break on clothes and shoes worth $110 or less, except during two weeks a year.
Higher taxes on wine, beer and flavored malt beverages. He would also impose an 18% tax on non-nutritional drinks like soda.
The rich would pay more for luxury items through an additional 5% tax imposed on cars costing more than $60,000, aircraft costing more than $500,000, yachts costing at least $200,000 and jewelry and furs costing in excess of $20,000.
In addition, a host of a fees, including those related to motor vehicle licensing and registration, parks and auto insurance, would go up, as would various state-imposed fines.
Even with the cuts, the 2009-10 budget would increase"
"it's the $4 billion in new fees and taxes that are sure to aggravate everyday New Yorkers, who would be paying more for a host of services:
An 'iPod tax' that charges state and local sales tax for 'digitally delivered entertainment services' - in other words, that new Beyonce song you download.
State sales tax at movie theaters, sporting events, taxis, buses, limousines and cable and satellite TV and radio.
Costlier driving with the repeal of the 8-cents-per-gallon sales tax cap on motor and diesel motor fuel, plus and increase in the auto rental tax.
Tuition increases at SUNY and CUNY, $620 and $600 a year respectively.
A 50 cent tax on cigars. The current tax is equal to 37% of the wholesale price, or 34 cents a cigar.
No more sales tax break on clothes and shoes worth $110 or less, except during two weeks a year.
Higher taxes on wine, beer and flavored malt beverages. He would also impose an 18% tax on non-nutritional drinks like soda.
The rich would pay more for luxury items through an additional 5% tax imposed on cars costing more than $60,000, aircraft costing more than $500,000, yachts costing at least $200,000 and jewelry and furs costing in excess of $20,000.
In addition, a host of a fees, including those related to motor vehicle licensing and registration, parks and auto insurance, would go up, as would various state-imposed fines.
Even with the cuts, the 2009-10 budget would increase"
Survey supports minimum GPA for MHS athletes
Survey supports minimum GPA for MHS athletes
"A survey of parents, students, staff, coaches and community members showed 80 percent support a minimum GPA. Dissatisfaction with the proposal among 27 surveyed coaches -- fewer than half like the idea -- likely brought down the overall percentage of support.
Although the idea has the support of the community, the school board is still grappling with implementing a minimum GPA. Among their concerns are whether it should be applied to students in all extracurricular activities and how to pay for tutoring those who struggle to meet the GPA.
Imagine a school system that will allow its students to fail to be educated and still not help them because they are athletes.
Don't imagine!
It's Muskegon High School!
"A survey of parents, students, staff, coaches and community members showed 80 percent support a minimum GPA. Dissatisfaction with the proposal among 27 surveyed coaches -- fewer than half like the idea -- likely brought down the overall percentage of support.
Although the idea has the support of the community, the school board is still grappling with implementing a minimum GPA. Among their concerns are whether it should be applied to students in all extracurricular activities and how to pay for tutoring those who struggle to meet the GPA.
Imagine a school system that will allow its students to fail to be educated and still not help them because they are athletes.
Don't imagine!
It's Muskegon High School!
SEC chairman says agency failed to probe Madoff
SEC chairman says agency failed to probe Madoff
"Securities and Exchange Commission chairman Christopher Cox said Tuesday his agency repeatedly failed for at least a decade to pursue allegations of wrongdoing by Wall Street figure Bernard L. Madoff, the alleged perpetrator of a $50 billion Ponzi scheme.
Cox ordered the SEC's inspector general to look into the failure, saying the agency's staff had never brought the Madoff matter to the attention of commissioners after relying on information voluntarily produced by Madoff and his firm."
Why do any of these SEC employees keep their jobs?
"Securities and Exchange Commission chairman Christopher Cox said Tuesday his agency repeatedly failed for at least a decade to pursue allegations of wrongdoing by Wall Street figure Bernard L. Madoff, the alleged perpetrator of a $50 billion Ponzi scheme.
Cox ordered the SEC's inspector general to look into the failure, saying the agency's staff had never brought the Madoff matter to the attention of commissioners after relying on information voluntarily produced by Madoff and his firm."
Why do any of these SEC employees keep their jobs?
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