NBC News Accused of Editing 911 Call in Trayvon Martin Controversy (Video) - The Hollywood Reporter
In the NBC segment, Zimmerman says: “This guy looks like he’s up to no good. He looks black.”
The full version, though, unfolds like this:
Zimmerman: “This guy looks like he’s up to no good, or he’s on drugs or something. It’s raining and he’s just walking around, looking about.”
911 operator: “Okay. And this guy, is he white black or Hispanic?”
Zimmerman: “He looks black.”
Saturday, March 31, 2012
Fuel Strike Threat Explained
Fuel Strike Threat Explained: Q And A On Risk Of Petrol Shortages And Why Drivers Could Walk Out | Politics | Sky News
What should drivers do?
According to the Prime Minister's spokesman, there is no fuel shortage in the UK.
The AA said people should do nothing they would not usually do.
Any shortages are "self-inflicted" as drivers top-up their tanks unnecessarily due to panic.
What should drivers do?
According to the Prime Minister's spokesman, there is no fuel shortage in the UK.
The AA said people should do nothing they would not usually do.
Any shortages are "self-inflicted" as drivers top-up their tanks unnecessarily due to panic.
Teachers would have to pay to keep their pensions
Teachers would have to pay to keep their pensions | MLive.com
Most teachers and other public school employees could see more than 10 percent of their paychecks go to retirement costs next school year under legislation that would take some of the burden for retiree benefits off school districts' shoulders and hand the cost to workers.
Teachers unions and public retiree groups say it's just one more attempt by Republican lawmakers to shift the cost for retiree benefits to current and former teachers.
They argue the state stopped prefunding retiree health care in the 1990s and now is taking money from individuals to make up for its mistake.
Retiree health care benefits make up the bulk of the $45 million hole Michigan finds itself in for unfunded school employee liabilities.
Asking so much from teachers "is not very fair," Michigan Education Association spokesman Doug Pratt said Friday.
Most teachers and other public school employees could see more than 10 percent of their paychecks go to retirement costs next school year under legislation that would take some of the burden for retiree benefits off school districts' shoulders and hand the cost to workers.
Teachers unions and public retiree groups say it's just one more attempt by Republican lawmakers to shift the cost for retiree benefits to current and former teachers.
They argue the state stopped prefunding retiree health care in the 1990s and now is taking money from individuals to make up for its mistake.
Retiree health care benefits make up the bulk of the $45 million hole Michigan finds itself in for unfunded school employee liabilities.
Asking so much from teachers "is not very fair," Michigan Education Association spokesman Doug Pratt said Friday.
3 unpaid parking tickets could stop drivers
3 unpaid parking tickets could stop drivers | MLive.com
Here's another reason to pay your parking tickets: Your driver's license could be blocked.
A Michigan law kicking in on May 16 says three unpaid parking tickets can prevent renewal of a license. The current threshold is six.
Here's another reason to pay your parking tickets: Your driver's license could be blocked.
A Michigan law kicking in on May 16 says three unpaid parking tickets can prevent renewal of a license. The current threshold is six.
Is sugar toxic?
Is sugar toxic? - CBS News
Americans are now consuming nearly 130 pounds of added sugars per person, per year.
Those include both sugar and high fructose corn syrup.
And while many vilify high fructose corn syrup and believe it is worse than sugar, Dr. Lustig says metabolically there is no difference.
"They are basically equivalent.
The problem is they're both bad.
They're both equally toxic," he says.
Americans are now consuming nearly 130 pounds of added sugars per person, per year.
Those include both sugar and high fructose corn syrup.
And while many vilify high fructose corn syrup and believe it is worse than sugar, Dr. Lustig says metabolically there is no difference.
"They are basically equivalent.
The problem is they're both bad.
They're both equally toxic," he says.
2012 Senate Bill 918: Increase state fuel taxes
2012 Senate Bill 918: Increase state fuel taxes - Michigan Votes
2012 Senate Bill 918: Increase state fuel taxes
Comments on this legislation Post new comment Text and Analysis Add to Watch List
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Introduced by Sen. Roger Kahn (R) on January 26, 2012, to replace the current 19-cent per gallon gas tax and 15-cent diesel tax with a 10.1 percent wholesale fuel tax (subject to various adjustments), which would initially be levied at an effective rate of 28.3 cents per gallon.
This would extract an additional $541 million from motorists each year, or more if the price of fuel increases (up to 40-cents per gallon would be allowed, and a minimum of 28.3 cents per gallon).
This would be phased in gradually at an annual rate of increase of 1-cent per gallon.
This is part of Gov. Rick Snyder’s road and transit tax proposal. Referred to the Senate Appropriations Committee on January 26, 2012.
Michigan currently has the 5th highest total state taxes on gasoline at 39.4 cents/gal:
http://taxfoundation.org/taxdata/show/26079.html
The new tax offers the possibility of more than double our current rate.
Is our problem that we don't pay enough in taxes...or is it that our state government spending and growth is out of control?
2012 Senate Bill 918: Increase state fuel taxes
Comments on this legislation Post new comment Text and Analysis Add to Watch List
Previous Next
Introduced by Sen. Roger Kahn (R) on January 26, 2012, to replace the current 19-cent per gallon gas tax and 15-cent diesel tax with a 10.1 percent wholesale fuel tax (subject to various adjustments), which would initially be levied at an effective rate of 28.3 cents per gallon.
This would extract an additional $541 million from motorists each year, or more if the price of fuel increases (up to 40-cents per gallon would be allowed, and a minimum of 28.3 cents per gallon).
This would be phased in gradually at an annual rate of increase of 1-cent per gallon.
This is part of Gov. Rick Snyder’s road and transit tax proposal. Referred to the Senate Appropriations Committee on January 26, 2012.
Michigan currently has the 5th highest total state taxes on gasoline at 39.4 cents/gal:
http://taxfoundation.org/taxdata/show/26079.html
The new tax offers the possibility of more than double our current rate.
Is our problem that we don't pay enough in taxes...or is it that our state government spending and growth is out of control?
Federal government, 5 states put wind farms on fast track
Federal government, 5 states put wind farms on fast track | Detroit Free Press | freep.com
Critics say the giant turbines would ruin spectacular vistas, lower shoreline property values and harm birds and fish.
......Supporters describe the lakes' winds as a vast, untapped source of clean energy and economic growth.
"The goal ... is to cut through red tape so we can efficiently and responsibly evaluate offshore wind projects that have the potential to create American jobs and reduce pollution in our communities," said Nancy Sutley, chairwoman of the White House Council on Environmental Quality.
Administration officials said the region's offshore winds could generate more than 700 gigawatts of electricity -- a fifth of all potential wind energy nationwide.
.....Yet harnessing only a small portion of the Great Lakes' offshore wind could generate thousands of jobs, officials said.
......Illinois Gov. Pat Quinn said developing offshore wind energy would "promote economic development and create jobs, while reducing our dependence on foreign energy sources."
The deal "should lower yield costs and improve processing of permit applications, as each government unit learns from others' experiences," said Tim Rylan, president of Apex Offshore Wind, a Charlottesville, Va., company that is considering a Lake Erie project.
Critics say the giant turbines would ruin spectacular vistas, lower shoreline property values and harm birds and fish.
......Supporters describe the lakes' winds as a vast, untapped source of clean energy and economic growth.
"The goal ... is to cut through red tape so we can efficiently and responsibly evaluate offshore wind projects that have the potential to create American jobs and reduce pollution in our communities," said Nancy Sutley, chairwoman of the White House Council on Environmental Quality.
Administration officials said the region's offshore winds could generate more than 700 gigawatts of electricity -- a fifth of all potential wind energy nationwide.
.....Yet harnessing only a small portion of the Great Lakes' offshore wind could generate thousands of jobs, officials said.
......Illinois Gov. Pat Quinn said developing offshore wind energy would "promote economic development and create jobs, while reducing our dependence on foreign energy sources."
The deal "should lower yield costs and improve processing of permit applications, as each government unit learns from others' experiences," said Tim Rylan, president of Apex Offshore Wind, a Charlottesville, Va., company that is considering a Lake Erie project.
Trayvon Martin rally organizer: Muskegon Heights event generates potential group
Trayvon Martin rally organizer: Muskegon Heights event generates potential group | MLive.com: Among those issues, especially involving young men, are black-on-black crime and other crime, Covington said.
He pointed out that the rally can help bring people together to talk about those issues.
He pointed out that the rally can help bring people together to talk about those issues.
Tony Moulatsiotis-Muskegon Township lawsuit back in court Monday
Tony Moulatsiotis-Muskegon Township lawsuit back in court Monday | MLive.com
The township won't issue a building permit to fix the house until the municipality receives $2,257.63 in unpaid legal and inspection fees awarded by a judge in 2010.
The land bank, which now owns the house, won't allow any buyer to pay those fees. Moulatsiotis says state law scrubs all prior liens off a property when a governmental unit forecloses on it for unpaid taxes, as Muskegon County did in this case in 2010.
At 11 a.m. Monday, Muskegon County 14th Circuit Judge Timothy G. Hicks is scheduled to hear a motion by the township to add Erica Ream as a party to the lawsuit.
Ream last year paid the land bank for the house, in hopes of fixing it up and moving in, but the purchase agreement invalidates the deal if she pays the township's fees. And the township won't let her fix it up unless the fees are paid.
The township won't issue a building permit to fix the house until the municipality receives $2,257.63 in unpaid legal and inspection fees awarded by a judge in 2010.
The land bank, which now owns the house, won't allow any buyer to pay those fees. Moulatsiotis says state law scrubs all prior liens off a property when a governmental unit forecloses on it for unpaid taxes, as Muskegon County did in this case in 2010.
At 11 a.m. Monday, Muskegon County 14th Circuit Judge Timothy G. Hicks is scheduled to hear a motion by the township to add Erica Ream as a party to the lawsuit.
Ream last year paid the land bank for the house, in hopes of fixing it up and moving in, but the purchase agreement invalidates the deal if she pays the township's fees. And the township won't let her fix it up unless the fees are paid.
Should Michigan relax laws for concealed weapons in churches and schools?
Should Michigan relax laws for concealed weapons in churches and schools? | MLive.com
Should the state relax a prohibition against concealed weapons in churches, schools and other pistol-free zones?
Michigan House Speaker Jase Bolger said he doesn’t believe pistol-free zones protect the innocent.
Should the state relax a prohibition against concealed weapons in churches, schools and other pistol-free zones?
Michigan House Speaker Jase Bolger said he doesn’t believe pistol-free zones protect the innocent.
$25 million for 'Pure Michigan' ad campaign worth every penny
$25 million for 'Pure Michigan' ad campaign worth every penny (editorial with poll) | MLive.com
There is such an ad campaign.
It costs $25 million.
It's worth the money, and your state lawmakers should spend it.
There is such an ad campaign.
It costs $25 million.
It's worth the money, and your state lawmakers should spend it.
Oakridge teachers 'lose confidence' with superintendent, board fires back
Oakridge teachers 'lose confidence' with superintendent, board fires back | MLive.com
“As a board we are frustrated with the whole situation,” Roomsburg said.
“We’re going on almost two years trying to get the contract settled.
There’s frustration on both sides.”
Among the issues the employees have are privatization of staff, the refusal to deduct union members’ dues from their paychecks, not awarding “professional advancement” to union members and pursuing fact-finding in stalled contract negotiations.
The board noted in its own press release that state law prevents schools from deducting union dues and from allowing step salary increases due to professional advancement.
.....The latest proposal from the Oakridge administration, from November, includes a 10 percent pay cut.
A proposal from the union on Jan. 19 includes a wage freeze, and sets financial conditions for reopening wage and benefits talks.
The Oakridge school board has pledged not to allow its fund balance to drop below 5 percent of its general fund spending.
That likely will require cuts next year, Livezey said.
“As a board we are frustrated with the whole situation,” Roomsburg said.
“We’re going on almost two years trying to get the contract settled.
There’s frustration on both sides.”
Among the issues the employees have are privatization of staff, the refusal to deduct union members’ dues from their paychecks, not awarding “professional advancement” to union members and pursuing fact-finding in stalled contract negotiations.
The board noted in its own press release that state law prevents schools from deducting union dues and from allowing step salary increases due to professional advancement.
.....The latest proposal from the Oakridge administration, from November, includes a 10 percent pay cut.
A proposal from the union on Jan. 19 includes a wage freeze, and sets financial conditions for reopening wage and benefits talks.
The Oakridge school board has pledged not to allow its fund balance to drop below 5 percent of its general fund spending.
That likely will require cuts next year, Livezey said.
Muskegon Heights school review team to meet on emergency manager recommendation
Muskegon Heights school review team to meet on emergency manager recommendation | MLive.com
The team agreed at its last meeting that Muskegon Heights' finances had deteriorated to a point where it needed the powers of an emergency manager to turn around the district.
An emergency manager would be able to nullify contracts and will take control of the district from the school board.
The team agreed at its last meeting that Muskegon Heights' finances had deteriorated to a point where it needed the powers of an emergency manager to turn around the district.
An emergency manager would be able to nullify contracts and will take control of the district from the school board.
Readers support Norton Shores bike paths, but some want road work done first
Readers support Norton Shores bike paths, but some want road work done first | MLive.com
Reader rivertown was excited for the project:
Make this happen Norton Shores!....Ottawa County has miles of trails mostly funded by grants.
Commenter patio54 liked the idea, but said road work should have a higher priority:
Here's an idea, fix the frigg#n' roads !!
Most of Norton Shores main roads resemble a war zone.
Maybe that will be an asset.
Bike path is a great idea that could follow .
Norton Shores City Council member Jerry Wiersma got into the comment thread to address patio54's concerns:
We have to wait until the state decides when they are going to pitch in for the main roads in the form of a grant.
Norton will be done this year and next, a section of getty will also be done this spring and we are hoping they approve Grand Haven Rd south of Pontaluna soon.
We are doing all that we can, believe me.
Reader rivertown was excited for the project:
Make this happen Norton Shores!....Ottawa County has miles of trails mostly funded by grants.
Commenter patio54 liked the idea, but said road work should have a higher priority:
Here's an idea, fix the frigg#n' roads !!
Most of Norton Shores main roads resemble a war zone.
Maybe that will be an asset.
Bike path is a great idea that could follow .
Norton Shores City Council member Jerry Wiersma got into the comment thread to address patio54's concerns:
We have to wait until the state decides when they are going to pitch in for the main roads in the form of a grant.
Norton will be done this year and next, a section of getty will also be done this spring and we are hoping they approve Grand Haven Rd south of Pontaluna soon.
We are doing all that we can, believe me.
Try this public policy: 'You don't work, you don't eat'
Steve Gunn: Try this public policy: 'You don't work, you don't eat' | MLive.com#incart_mce
"You don't work, you don't eat," he told the shocked young lady.
That should be public policy for all able-bodied adults in the United States of America.
"You don't work, you don't eat," he told the shocked young lady.
That should be public policy for all able-bodied adults in the United States of America.
Turkey crashes through plate glass window into Roosevelt Park living room
Turkey crashes through plate glass window into Roosevelt Park living room | MLive.com
Monica Merrill was sitting in a recliner about a foot from the window.
“All of a sudden I saw this big black flying blob and before you could distinguish what it was, the window exploded,” she said.
Monica Merrill was sitting in a recliner about a foot from the window.
“All of a sudden I saw this big black flying blob and before you could distinguish what it was, the window exploded,” she said.
A group of Muskegon citizens plan to force rezoning of Sappi site
A group of Muskegon citizens plan to force rezoning of Sappi site | MLive.com
“It is our understanding legally, (Melching) would still retain their rights to the old zoning,” Brubaker-Clarke said of initial discussions of the legal ramifications of a zone change.
But make no mistake of Page’s intentions.
“It is our understanding legally, (Melching) would still retain their rights to the old zoning,” Brubaker-Clarke said of initial discussions of the legal ramifications of a zone change.
But make no mistake of Page’s intentions.
Michigan voters would have to show photo ID to pick up an absentee ballot under House-approved bill
Michigan voters would have to show photo ID to pick up an absentee ballot under House-approved bill | MLive.com
Rep. Woodrow Stanley, D-Flint, said the legislation will suppress the vote, especially among those who are less likely to have a photo ID, such as elderly or low-income residents.
“Back in another era this would have been called a poll tax, because there is a cost item associated with receiving ID,” he said.
“You’re generally talking about folks who are in some kind of fixed-income situation anyway.”
Rep. Woodrow Stanley, D-Flint, said the legislation will suppress the vote, especially among those who are less likely to have a photo ID, such as elderly or low-income residents.
“Back in another era this would have been called a poll tax, because there is a cost item associated with receiving ID,” he said.
“You’re generally talking about folks who are in some kind of fixed-income situation anyway.”
Muskegon school district finalizing school closure, reorganization plan
Muskegon school district finalizing school closure, reorganization plan | MLive.com
The district is facing a potential $5 million deficit next year and Felske has said he hopes school reorganization can save $2 million.
The district is facing a potential $5 million deficit next year and Felske has said he hopes school reorganization can save $2 million.
Bills restricting food stamps for Michigan lottery winners head to Governor's desk
Bills restricting food stamps for Michigan lottery winners head to Governor's desk | MLive.com
The Michigan League for Human Services contends the legislation is unnecessary since the federal government does not require an asset test.
The state operates the federally funded program and shares administrative costs with the federal government.
The Michigan League for Human Services contends the legislation is unnecessary since the federal government does not require an asset test.
The state operates the federally funded program and shares administrative costs with the federal government.
Muskegon prison picketers protest end of 24-hour perimeter patrols, other cuts
Muskegon prison picketers protest end of 24-hour perimeter patrols, other cuts
Michigan Department of Corrections officials say the end of 24-hour perimeter patrols will save more than $13 million per year, partly by eliminating jobs.
They say the constant patrols are no longer necessary because of technological improvements in recent years with lighting, cameras, motion sensors and electrified fences.
Michigan Department of Corrections officials say the end of 24-hour perimeter patrols will save more than $13 million per year, partly by eliminating jobs.
They say the constant patrols are no longer necessary because of technological improvements in recent years with lighting, cameras, motion sensors and electrified fences.
Is Conservatism Our Default Ideology?
Is Conservatism Our Default Ideology? - Miller-McCune
Newly published research proposes a somewhat different, and quite provocative, answer.
................If we don’t have the time or energy to give a matter sufficient thought, we tend to accept the conservative argument.
“When effortful, deliberate responding is disrupted or disengaged, thought processes become quick and efficient,” the researchers write in the Personality and Social Psychology Bulletin.
“These conditions promote conservative ideology.”
The definitive proof, settled science!
Plus they "describe four studies that provide evidence backing up their thesis".
Newly published research proposes a somewhat different, and quite provocative, answer.
................If we don’t have the time or energy to give a matter sufficient thought, we tend to accept the conservative argument.
“When effortful, deliberate responding is disrupted or disengaged, thought processes become quick and efficient,” the researchers write in the Personality and Social Psychology Bulletin.
“These conditions promote conservative ideology.”
The definitive proof, settled science!
Plus they "describe four studies that provide evidence backing up their thesis".
Friday, March 30, 2012
Motorcycle helmet repeal receives opposition from Muskegon County lawmakers
Motorcycle helmet repeal receives opposition from Muskegon County lawmakers | MLive.com
State Sen. Goeff Hansen, R-Hart, and state Reps. Marcia Hovey-Wright, D-Muskegon, and Holly Hughes, R-White River Township, opposed the repeal of the long-standing requirement, pointing to safety concerns and the projected increase in cost from injuries.
State Sen. Goeff Hansen, R-Hart, and state Reps. Marcia Hovey-Wright, D-Muskegon, and Holly Hughes, R-White River Township, opposed the repeal of the long-standing requirement, pointing to safety concerns and the projected increase in cost from injuries.
Violence-Plagued McDonald's Agrees to Step Up Security
Violence-Plagued McDonald's Agrees to Step Up Security | NBC New York
The restaurant will hire a paid detail and make the area safer, according to Brad Hoylman, chair of the local community board.
The "restaurant" will make the area safer?!!!
The restaurant will hire a paid detail and make the area safer, according to Brad Hoylman, chair of the local community board.
The "restaurant" will make the area safer?!!!
Why New CDC Numbers on Autism May Not Add Up
Why New CDC Numbers on Autism May Not Add Up - The Daily Beast
What the CDC study doesn’t necessarily show, says Milham, is an increase in actual cases of autism. Rather, it’s possible that “it’s more about our ability to detect new cases.”
What the CDC study doesn’t necessarily show, says Milham, is an increase in actual cases of autism. Rather, it’s possible that “it’s more about our ability to detect new cases.”
Thursday, March 29, 2012
Parents of murdered British students criticise Barack Obama
Parents of murdered British students criticise Barack Obama - Telegraph
His failure to respond to three letters sent to the White House was because there was no "political value" and not worthy of a few minutes of his time.
Obama is acting as if he was a racist hypocrite.
Is he?
His failure to respond to three letters sent to the White House was because there was no "political value" and not worthy of a few minutes of his time.
Obama is acting as if he was a racist hypocrite.
Is he?
WaPo: This Rush Limbaugh boycott has pretty much fizzled, huh?
WaPo: This Rush Limbaugh boycott has pretty much fizzled, huh? « Hot Ai
Limbaugh’s advertising losses may have been less than media accounts suggested.
While more than 100 advertisers told Premiere that they didn’t want to be associated with “controversial” radio programs of any kind in the wake of the flap, some of these companies weren’t regular Limbaugh sponsors in the first place.
Carusone said most of the advertiser exodus over the past month appeared to be among companies whose ads aired only in regional or local markets, he said.
“Fewer than five” nationwide sponsors of the program actually pulled out, he said…
Limbaugh’s advertising losses may have been less than media accounts suggested.
While more than 100 advertisers told Premiere that they didn’t want to be associated with “controversial” radio programs of any kind in the wake of the flap, some of these companies weren’t regular Limbaugh sponsors in the first place.
Carusone said most of the advertiser exodus over the past month appeared to be among companies whose ads aired only in regional or local markets, he said.
“Fewer than five” nationwide sponsors of the program actually pulled out, he said…
Wednesday, March 28, 2012
Two decades ago tonight, John Calipari and Rick Pitino had an NCAA battle in Philly few remember
Two decades ago tonight, John Calipari and Rick Pitino had an NCAA battle in Philly few remember | PennLive.com
Calipari, a man who's made a business of staying one step ahead of the NCAA enforcement posse while recruiting every primo sneaker camp phenom he desires.
Two teams at other schools he directed to previous Final Fours (Massachusetts, 1996; Memphis, 2008) have had their achievements stripped and stricken from the record books by the national governing board of college athletics.
Calipari, a man who's made a business of staying one step ahead of the NCAA enforcement posse while recruiting every primo sneaker camp phenom he desires.
Two teams at other schools he directed to previous Final Fours (Massachusetts, 1996; Memphis, 2008) have had their achievements stripped and stricken from the record books by the national governing board of college athletics.
Great Lakes residents clash over water levels
Great Lakes residents clash over water levels | MLive.com
Now, U.S. and Canadian officials are considering an audacious and costly effort to control the freshwater seas' ups and downs in a way they never have before.
This ought to scare EVERYONE in W. Michigan!
Now, U.S. and Canadian officials are considering an audacious and costly effort to control the freshwater seas' ups and downs in a way they never have before.
This ought to scare EVERYONE in W. Michigan!
Tuesday, March 27, 2012
EV firm files for bankruptcy, lays off 50 Oak Park workers
EV firm files for bankruptcy, lays off 50 Oak Park workers | The Detroit News | detroitnews.com
The company halted production of the Transit EV Monday and said it's not sure when it might be able to restart production — or if it will permanently end production.
The company has produced about 500 EV Ford Transit
The company halted production of the Transit EV Monday and said it's not sure when it might be able to restart production — or if it will permanently end production.
The company has produced about 500 EV Ford Transit
Global Warming Models Are Wrong Again
William Happer: Global Warming Models Are Wrong Again - WSJ.com
What is happening to global temperatures in reality?
The answer is: almost nothing for more than 10 years.
Monthly values of the global temperature anomaly of the lower atmosphere, compiled at the University of Alabama from NASA satellite data, can be found at the website http://www.drroyspencer.com/latest-global-temperatures/.
The latest (February 2012) monthly global temperature anomaly for the lower atmosphere was minus 0.12 degrees Celsius, slightly less than the average since the satellite record of temperatures began in 1979.
The lack of any statistically significant warming for over a decade has made it more difficult for the United Nations Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) and its supporters to demonize the atmospheric gas CO2 which is released when fossil fuels are burned.
What is happening to global temperatures in reality?
The answer is: almost nothing for more than 10 years.
Monthly values of the global temperature anomaly of the lower atmosphere, compiled at the University of Alabama from NASA satellite data, can be found at the website http://www.drroyspencer.com/latest-global-temperatures/.
The latest (February 2012) monthly global temperature anomaly for the lower atmosphere was minus 0.12 degrees Celsius, slightly less than the average since the satellite record of temperatures began in 1979.
The lack of any statistically significant warming for over a decade has made it more difficult for the United Nations Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) and its supporters to demonize the atmospheric gas CO2 which is released when fossil fuels are burned.
Monday, March 26, 2012
Special incentives on top of retirement deal made pensions even sweeter for top Ficano aides
Special incentives on top of retirement deal made pensions even sweeter for top Ficano aides | Detroit Free Press | freep.com
Less than two months after cutting union workers' pay by 20%, Wayne County Executive Robert Ficano offered retirement incentives to about 200 appointees last year estimated to cost the county's cash-strapped pension fund as much as $44.6 million.
And for a small group of insiders -- all in their early 40s -- the offer was even better. Three of Ficano's closest and highest-paid aides at the time -- Azzam Elder, Turkia Awada Mullin and Matthew Schenk -- had special deals that made their pensions even sweeter. And like the other appointees, all would get lifetime medical insurance.
The three had letters promising to boost their retirements by including generous severance payments into their final pension calculation.
Schenk acknowledged that provision "looks bad,"
Less than two months after cutting union workers' pay by 20%, Wayne County Executive Robert Ficano offered retirement incentives to about 200 appointees last year estimated to cost the county's cash-strapped pension fund as much as $44.6 million.
And for a small group of insiders -- all in their early 40s -- the offer was even better. Three of Ficano's closest and highest-paid aides at the time -- Azzam Elder, Turkia Awada Mullin and Matthew Schenk -- had special deals that made their pensions even sweeter. And like the other appointees, all would get lifetime medical insurance.
The three had letters promising to boost their retirements by including generous severance payments into their final pension calculation.
Schenk acknowledged that provision "looks bad,"
A123 Systems to spend $55M to replace defective battery packs from Michigan
A123 Systems to spend $55M to replace defective battery packs from Michigan | MLive.com
A123 most recently made headlines for its nearly $260 million loss in 2011 and a Fisker Karma, which the company supplies the battery for, dying during testing by Consumer Reports.
A123 most recently made headlines for its nearly $260 million loss in 2011 and a Fisker Karma, which the company supplies the battery for, dying during testing by Consumer Reports.
Take our poll: What quality do you look for in a candidate?
Take our poll: What quality do you look for in a candidate? | MLive.com
Muskegon Chronicle asks the question!
My response:
"The one major (certainly not the only) quality needed at the county level is courage to say, out loud, the truth.
Our county has grown a $100 million debt in the last 10 years, given new iPads to each commissioner(with free internet connection), crammed through a $2.35 million "loan" to Brookhaven with no public notice and made promises to employees that can NOT be fulfilled without tax increases to the taxpaying public and businesses.
Yet, when citizens and the only brave commissioner, Alan Jager, ask for time to understand big spending bills before the votes, he is outvoted by EVERYONE.
The citizens are simple dismissed with silence.
It is the spending and the lack of transparency that is sinking our county.
And few have the courage to tell the people.
We need a few brave men and women!"
Muskegon Chronicle asks the question!
My response:
"The one major (certainly not the only) quality needed at the county level is courage to say, out loud, the truth.
Our county has grown a $100 million debt in the last 10 years, given new iPads to each commissioner(with free internet connection), crammed through a $2.35 million "loan" to Brookhaven with no public notice and made promises to employees that can NOT be fulfilled without tax increases to the taxpaying public and businesses.
Yet, when citizens and the only brave commissioner, Alan Jager, ask for time to understand big spending bills before the votes, he is outvoted by EVERYONE.
The citizens are simple dismissed with silence.
It is the spending and the lack of transparency that is sinking our county.
And few have the courage to tell the people.
We need a few brave men and women!"
President Obama Asks Medvedev for ‘Space’ on Missile Defense — ‘After My Election I Have More Flexibility’
President Obama Asks Medvedev for ‘Space’ on Missile Defense — ‘After My Election I Have More Flexibility’ - ABC News
President Obama: This is my last election. After my election I have more flexibility.
President Medvedev: I understand. I will transmit this information to Vladimir.
What's more amazing?
The "president's" duplicity or the fact that ABC is airing the video?
President Obama: This is my last election. After my election I have more flexibility.
President Medvedev: I understand. I will transmit this information to Vladimir.
What's more amazing?
The "president's" duplicity or the fact that ABC is airing the video?
Sunday, March 25, 2012
Dude, Where’s My Hate Crime?
The PJ Tatler » Dude, Where’s My Hate Crime?
Dude, Where’s My Hate Crime?
Since the country is busy condemning whites for the shooting of a black kid by a Hispanic man, you may have missed this story — admittedly a few weeks old–tucked neatly into a corner of the New York Daily News:
A 13-year-old boy who police say was doused with gasoline and lit on fire last week while walking home from school is recovering from first-degree burns to his face and head.
The boy was just two blocks from his home in Kansas City Tuesday when two teenagers began to follow him and then attacked him, his mother, Melissa Coon, said.
Police have described the suspects as black 16-year-olds, while the victim is white.
According to the report, while setting the kid on fire, the teens said, “This is what you deserve.
You get what you deserve, white boy.”
I am not exaggerating when I say that there was not a word about this story in the national press.
I searched, and the only stories I could find were the write up in the Daily News mentioned above and, oddly, a story in the Daily Mail, a British paper.
Nothing from the New York Times, AP, Reuters, UPI, etc.
If any reader can produce a story about this sadistic attack that was actually published or mentioned in a national outlet, let me know.
I’m only human; I may have missed it.
I welcome being proved wrong about this, because I’m about ready to fold up my tent, quit civilization, and go find myself a comfy cave in Borneo to live in.
This country is, like a bad calculus problem, rapidly approaching zero.
Dude, Where’s My Hate Crime?
Since the country is busy condemning whites for the shooting of a black kid by a Hispanic man, you may have missed this story — admittedly a few weeks old–tucked neatly into a corner of the New York Daily News:
A 13-year-old boy who police say was doused with gasoline and lit on fire last week while walking home from school is recovering from first-degree burns to his face and head.
The boy was just two blocks from his home in Kansas City Tuesday when two teenagers began to follow him and then attacked him, his mother, Melissa Coon, said.
Police have described the suspects as black 16-year-olds, while the victim is white.
According to the report, while setting the kid on fire, the teens said, “This is what you deserve.
You get what you deserve, white boy.”
I am not exaggerating when I say that there was not a word about this story in the national press.
I searched, and the only stories I could find were the write up in the Daily News mentioned above and, oddly, a story in the Daily Mail, a British paper.
Nothing from the New York Times, AP, Reuters, UPI, etc.
If any reader can produce a story about this sadistic attack that was actually published or mentioned in a national outlet, let me know.
I’m only human; I may have missed it.
I welcome being proved wrong about this, because I’m about ready to fold up my tent, quit civilization, and go find myself a comfy cave in Borneo to live in.
This country is, like a bad calculus problem, rapidly approaching zero.
$2.3 million just poofed? EyeOnMuskegon Sunday 3-25-2012
EyeOnMuskegon: $2.3 million just poofed? EyeOnMuskegon Sunday 3-25-2012
$2.3 million just poofed?
EyeOnMuskegon Sunday 3-25-2012
We've got Muskegon Comical and ex-Muskegon Chronicle columnist Tracy Lorenz as our co-host and special guest Muskegon County commissioner Alan Jager on this Sunday morning from 8:30-10:00am on 1090AM, WKBZ.
You can also listen live at http://www.newstalk1090.com/main.html.
Among other issues, we'll try to figure out why the county just had to loan Brookhaven Medical Care (nursing home) $2.3 million!
Talk to ya at 8:30am Sunday!
Jim
$2.3 million just poofed?
EyeOnMuskegon Sunday 3-25-2012
We've got Muskegon Comical and ex-Muskegon Chronicle columnist Tracy Lorenz as our co-host and special guest Muskegon County commissioner Alan Jager on this Sunday morning from 8:30-10:00am on 1090AM, WKBZ.
You can also listen live at http://www.newstalk1090.com/main.html.
Among other issues, we'll try to figure out why the county just had to loan Brookhaven Medical Care (nursing home) $2.3 million!
Talk to ya at 8:30am Sunday!
Jim
Is There An Imposter In The White House? An Excerpt from "Hope Is Not A Strategy"
Is There An Imposter In The White House? An Excerpt from "Hope Is Not A Strategy" - Forbes
There is something very wrong when the sitting president refuses to divulge huge pieces of information about his background.
What is he hiding?
Maybe the “birthers” were a little extreme, but is there something wrong with this “manufactured candidate,” whose history remains sealed from public view?
What is he hiding?
There is something very wrong when the sitting president refuses to divulge huge pieces of information about his background.
What is he hiding?
Maybe the “birthers” were a little extreme, but is there something wrong with this “manufactured candidate,” whose history remains sealed from public view?
What is he hiding?
Tungsten-Filled 1 Kilo Gold Bar Found In The UK
Tungsten-Filled 1 Kilo Gold Bar Found In The UK | ZeroHedge
The reason the bar attracted attention is that it was 2 grams underweight.
Upon cropping it was uncovered that about 30-40% of the bar weight was tungsten.
So two documented incidents in two years: isolated?
Or indication of the same phenomonenon of precious metal debasement that marked the declining phase of the Roman empire.
Only then it was relatively public for anyone who cared to find out on their own.
Now, with the bulk of popular physical gold held in top secret, private warehouses around the world, where it allegedly backs the balance sheets of the world's central banks, yet nobody can confirm its existence, nor audit the actual gold content, it is understandable why increasingly more are wondering: just how much gold is there?
The reason the bar attracted attention is that it was 2 grams underweight.
Upon cropping it was uncovered that about 30-40% of the bar weight was tungsten.
So two documented incidents in two years: isolated?
Or indication of the same phenomonenon of precious metal debasement that marked the declining phase of the Roman empire.
Only then it was relatively public for anyone who cared to find out on their own.
Now, with the bulk of popular physical gold held in top secret, private warehouses around the world, where it allegedly backs the balance sheets of the world's central banks, yet nobody can confirm its existence, nor audit the actual gold content, it is understandable why increasingly more are wondering: just how much gold is there?
Muskegon school board approves new elementary sex ed curriculum
Muskegon school board approves new elementary sex ed curriculum | MLive.com
The new curriculum expands the information provided to fourth- and fifth-graders to include sexual intercourse and homosexuality.
The new curriculum expands the information provided to fourth- and fifth-graders to include sexual intercourse and homosexuality.
BREAKING NEWS: Michigan Senate Stops Home Health Care 'Dues Skim'
BREAKING NEWS: Michigan Senate Stops Home Health Care 'Dues Skim' [Michigan Capitol Confidential]
The “home health care dues skim” resulted from a union scheme perpetrated while Jennifer Granholm was governor.
The plan used a dummy employer and a stealth election to railroad 43,729 so-called home health care workers into the Service Employees International Union (SEIU).
That 43,729 has now swollen to 60,190.
Once this “forced unionization” was achieved, money started being extracted from the taxpayer-provided checks received by the so-called “home health care workers.”
This money continues to be sent to SEIU as dues.
Overall, the “skim” has netted more than $29 million for the SEIU.
The “home health care dues skim” resulted from a union scheme perpetrated while Jennifer Granholm was governor.
The plan used a dummy employer and a stealth election to railroad 43,729 so-called home health care workers into the Service Employees International Union (SEIU).
That 43,729 has now swollen to 60,190.
Once this “forced unionization” was achieved, money started being extracted from the taxpayer-provided checks received by the so-called “home health care workers.”
This money continues to be sent to SEIU as dues.
Overall, the “skim” has netted more than $29 million for the SEIU.
Saturday, March 24, 2012
Michigan ranks among worst states for political financing transparency and accountability
Michigan ranks among worst states for political financing transparency and accountability | MLive.com
But on a statewide level, interest seems to have waned in the past decade, said Frank Kelley, a former Michigan attorney general who sits on the State Ethics Board.
He blames that on the shrinking capitol press corps.
Without media scrutiny and pressure for disclosure, legislators haven’t been pushed into more accessibility and accountability, he said.
“There’s nobody watching the farm,” Kelley said.
“That’s your biggest problem.”
But on a statewide level, interest seems to have waned in the past decade, said Frank Kelley, a former Michigan attorney general who sits on the State Ethics Board.
He blames that on the shrinking capitol press corps.
Without media scrutiny and pressure for disclosure, legislators haven’t been pushed into more accessibility and accountability, he said.
“There’s nobody watching the farm,” Kelley said.
“That’s your biggest problem.”
After study ranks Michigan high for corruptibility potential, lawmakers push ethics reforms - but it gets political
After study ranks Michigan high for corruptibility potential, lawmakers push ethics reforms - but it gets political | MLive.com
A Democratic-led ballot proposal to require disclosure of political spending and lobbying by corporations within 24 hours was postponed after Republicans called it hypocritical for not including unions.
A Democratic-led ballot proposal to require disclosure of political spending and lobbying by corporations within 24 hours was postponed after Republicans called it hypocritical for not including unions.
Tragic death of Ravenna teens sparks new bus safety legislation called "Privacky Law"
Tragic death of Ravenna teens sparks new bus safety legislation called "Privacky Law" | MLive.com
State Rep. Holly Hughes, R-Montague, has introduced House Bills 5453 and 5507, together known as "Privacky Law," which would require new buses be equipped with enhanced rear lighting and rear guards on the top and bottom of school buses
State Rep. Holly Hughes, R-Montague, has introduced House Bills 5453 and 5507, together known as "Privacky Law," which would require new buses be equipped with enhanced rear lighting and rear guards on the top and bottom of school buses
Man assaulted at gunpoint by two Oceana County brothers during grill dispute
Man assaulted at gunpoint by two Oceana County brothers during grill dispute | MLive.com
The victim told authorities that he was trying to retrieve his charcoal grill from the brothers when the assault occurred.
The victim had a friend drive him over to the brothers home and that driver was threatened with a gun as well, Mast said.
Grills don't kill people, people do!
The victim told authorities that he was trying to retrieve his charcoal grill from the brothers when the assault occurred.
The victim had a friend drive him over to the brothers home and that driver was threatened with a gun as well, Mast said.
Grills don't kill people, people do!
Muskegon County to seek potential sites for consolidated job-training center
Muskegon County to seek potential sites for consolidated job-training center | MLive.com
Andrew Stone, director of the county’s Department of Employment and Training, described the consolidation plan to county commissioners last month during a planning session.
County officials estimate the plan would save $1.3 million that could be used for the new or existing facility and to train more workers.
.....County officials claim the consolidation plan will serve the community better by streamlining the workforce-development services and making operations more cost effective by eliminating service duplication.
No mention of how many (ANY) jobs created by these $millions.
And no questions asked by our county commissioners.
Business as usual here in Muskegon.
Andrew Stone, director of the county’s Department of Employment and Training, described the consolidation plan to county commissioners last month during a planning session.
County officials estimate the plan would save $1.3 million that could be used for the new or existing facility and to train more workers.
.....County officials claim the consolidation plan will serve the community better by streamlining the workforce-development services and making operations more cost effective by eliminating service duplication.
No mention of how many (ANY) jobs created by these $millions.
And no questions asked by our county commissioners.
Business as usual here in Muskegon.
Clayton Hardiman: Has the 'hoodie' joined the list of 'thou shalt nots' for black youth?
Clayton Hardiman: Has the 'hoodie' joined the list of 'thou shalt nots' for black youth?
If there is any hope to be found in this tragedy, it is the power of the human voice. People have raised their voices, through petition and protest, and have made themselves heard. A federal civil rights investigation has been opened into the shooting, and it has been reported that a grand jury will be opened to consider evidence in the case.
But there’s a discouraging aspect, too, in addition to the irreplaceable loss of human life and promise -- and that’s how old and familiar all this feels. For generations, African-American parents have been passing down survival training to their sons and daughters. Whole lifetimes experienced as being a suspect have taught us to teach our children a catechism of “thou shalt nots" -- how not to dress, how not to act, how not to speak and where not to go.
And as Trayvon Martin’s parents have learned, there are still no guarantees.
Now it’s the hoodie. Is this one more thing we’ll need to include in “the talk"? Is this to be yet another chapter in the lesson plan?
If there is any hope to be found in this tragedy, it is the power of the human voice. People have raised their voices, through petition and protest, and have made themselves heard. A federal civil rights investigation has been opened into the shooting, and it has been reported that a grand jury will be opened to consider evidence in the case.
But there’s a discouraging aspect, too, in addition to the irreplaceable loss of human life and promise -- and that’s how old and familiar all this feels. For generations, African-American parents have been passing down survival training to their sons and daughters. Whole lifetimes experienced as being a suspect have taught us to teach our children a catechism of “thou shalt nots" -- how not to dress, how not to act, how not to speak and where not to go.
And as Trayvon Martin’s parents have learned, there are still no guarantees.
Now it’s the hoodie. Is this one more thing we’ll need to include in “the talk"? Is this to be yet another chapter in the lesson plan?
S.S. Badger's quest to receive active opposition from high-ranking senator
S.S. Badger's quest to receive active opposition from high-ranking senator | MLive.com
“Because of your continued, long-term refusal to clean up your dangerous operations, I will actively oppose your new permit application,” he added.
“Because of your continued, long-term refusal to clean up your dangerous operations, I will actively oppose your new permit application,” he added.
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