Monday, September 07, 2009

French healthcare is 'badly run'

French healthcare is 'badly run'
"France must make big changes to its health system in order to cut waste and increase efficiency, a government-commissioned report is warning."

A day—and a death—to remember

A day—and a death—to remember
"On June 25, Michael Jackson’s death dominated the headlines.
It was a sad day for his family, friends and fans.
But another death went nearly unnoticed.
Lt. Brian Bradshaw was killed by an explosive device in Afghanistan.
Bradshaw didn’t make headlines around the world.
But nearly everyone in his hometown came out to mourn.
Martha Gillis is Bradshaw’s aunt.
She’s worried that a soldier’s death is often invisible to the public.
She hopes his nation will remember him."

The Founding Fathers Could Never Have Foreseen Obama

The Founding Fathers Could Never Have Foreseen Obama
"Now that the majority of Americans are finally realizing what kind of a Dufus they’ve elected to the Presidency, and those who know it but will NEVER admit they know it, what happens in the next three and a half years?

How can the world deal with a LAME DUCK Presidency just six months into office?

Everything this President has touched has turned into crap.

In less than 6 months he’s spent more money than ALL PREVIOUS PRESIDENTS COMBINED from the time of George W Washington, indebting the USA to the tune of TRILLIONS of dollars and still counting."

David Sirota: Glenn Beck Is A 'Right-Wing Political Terrorist'; Van Jones Is 'A National Hero' | NewsBusters.org

David Sirota: Glenn Beck Is A 'Right-Wing Political Terrorist'; Van Jones Is 'A National Hero'
"what I think what's going on here is that the White House is listening to the right-wing's political terrorists, people like Glenn Beck, people like conservative activists who have targeted Van Jones because Van Jones is an African-American"

Whitehall wants $22 million bond issue

White Lake Beacon
"Whitehall District Schools is once again investigating the possibility of going to voters with a bond vote for facility improvements.
Last May voters decidedly defeated a $22 million bond issue. "

Be afraid...very afraid!

Largest U.S. brewers say beer prices will take a hop up

Largest U.S. brewers say beer prices will take a hop up
"Drink up! Beer prices are going up.
The two largest U.S. beer sellers say they plan to raise prices,"

Jobless press benefit extension

Jobless press benefit extension
"Since June 2008, Congress has extended jobless benefits three times.
Unemployed workers initially qualify for up to 26 weeks.
But with the extensions, Michiganians are eligible for 79 weeks of benefits -- or 1 1/2 years.
The proposed extension would boost the number of weeks to 92 -- a year and nine months."

Because of high unemployment, Michigan's unemployment insurance trust fund -- which is paid for by a tax on employers laying off workers -- is depleted, forcing the state to borrow $2 billion from the federal government

Detroit takeover viewed as last resort

Detroit takeover viewed as last resort
"With increasing frequency, Mayor Dave Bing has raised the threat of receivership and warned the appointment of an emergency financial manager and even bankruptcy are possible for Detroit as he struggles to control the city's finances"

Union bigs get the best deals: A sour Labor Day lesson on pensions

Union bigs get the best deals: A sour Labor Day lesson on pensions
"unions are once again seeking to recruit new members with promises of higher wages and generous pension benefits.
These promises are made despite pension funds' reports to the U.S. Labor Department showing that collectively bargained pension funds are underfunded when compared with other pensions.

In contrast, pension funds for unions' own staff and officers have been doing just fine."

Hitler on Rich Rodriguez

You must see this!

Sunday, September 06, 2009

The hunt is on for more ammunition in Nevada, U.S.

The hunt is on for more ammunition in Nevada, U.S.
"The scarcity of ammunition is part of a trend that began immediately after the presidential election, retailers say."

No.10 turns on Obama and Clinton for criticising decision to release Lockerbie bomber

No.10 turns on Obama and Clinton for criticising decision to release Lockerbie bomber
"The US was kept fully in touch about everything that was going on with regard to Britain’s discussions with Libya in recent years and about Megrahi,’ said the Whitehall aide.

‘We would never do anything about Lockerbie without discussing it with the US. It is disingenuous of them to act as though Megrahi’s return was out of the blue."

Questions for Norman Podhoretz - The Patriarch - Interview - NYTimes.com

Questions for Norman Podhoretz - The Patriarch - Interview - NYTimes.com:
"“Why Are Jews Liberals?”"

DARN THAT YOUTUBE

DARN THAT YOUTUBE
"Rep. Baron Hill, D-Indiana, cannot possibly be this big a jerk all the time.
At a recent town hall, a young woman raised her hand and identified herself as a journalism student working on a school project who was told she could not videotape the event.
Student: Why can't I film this, isn't this my right?

Baron Hill: This is my town hall meeting, and I set the rules, and I've had these rules... (jeering) Let me repeat that one more time.
This is my town hall meeting for you.
And you're not going to tell me how to run my Congressional office.
Now, the reason why I don't allow filming is that usually the films that are done end up on YouTube in a compromising position.
Hey, guess what? He ended up on YouTube anyway:"

How to Insure Every American

Congressmen John Shadegg and Pete Hoekstra: How to Insure Every American
"•Costs and Control. The health-care reform debate centers on how to lower the cost of care, and who should ultimately control health-care decisions.
Under the current system, nobody is focused on controlling costs."

Rep. Rangel pushes the envelope of arrogance.

Rep. Rangel pushes the envelope of arrogance.
"Beyond that, it turns out Rep. Rangel failed to report assets totaling more than $1 million on legally required financial-disclosure forms going back to at least 2001.
The news comes on top of revelations last year that Rep. Rangel didn’t report — and didn’t pay taxes on — income from a villa in the Caribbean. In that matter, the IRS gave him a sweetheart deal; the congressman paid about $10,000 in back taxes but was not assessed any penalty or interest.
Can we have the guy who audited him?"

Despite rip current safeguards, drownings have not diminished along Lake Michigan shore

Despite rip current safeguards, drownings have not diminished along Lake Michigan shore
"at least 46 others caught in rip currents have drowned in Lake Michigan since 2002,"

President Obama's 'Czars'

President Obama's 'Czars'

Airlines rachet up prevention to target swine flu

Airlines rachet up prevention to target swine flu
"Airlines are stowing pillows and blankets, and rolling out the disinfectant wipes to discourage transmission of the swine flu virus, all the while stressing planes are as 'safe' as trains or schools."

Saturday, September 05, 2009

The Deficits Are Coming!

The Deficits Are Coming!
'Our off balance sheet obligations associated with Social Security and Medicare put us in a $56 trillion financial hole—and that's before the recession was officially declared last year.
America now owes more than Americans are worth—and the gap is growing!'"

Wednesday, September 02, 2009

Questions and Answers to All Things Digital - The Kim Komando Radio Show

Questions and Answers to All Things Digital - The Kim Komando Radio Show
"I use multiple browsers, but each for a different reason:

1. IE8 - General web browsing. Very secure compared to previous versions. The only browser able to access Microsoft Update manually. Most web based add-ons work with IE (HP Smart Web Printing, RoboForm, TrendProtect, Google Toolbar, Adobe Acroboat, Skype, etc.). Easy to add custom search engines to the search bar. Works great with bookmarklets. Includes great features like Accelerators and InPrivate Filtering. Great zoom function (entire web page, not just text). Use it to test web sites under different resolution settings (around 90% of the market share in browsers). Many sites still rely on Active X Controls and will only work with IE.

2. Firefox - Extensions/Add-Ons, enough said. From tab and bookmark organization and navigation to download management, custom themes, FTP integration, capturing streaming media and more, there's an add-on or plug-in for just about anything you need. However, be selective in what you add as the browser's performance in hindered after a while. Faster than IE. Portable version available for running it off my thumb drive. Use it to test web sites under different resolution settings on both the Windows and Mac platforms (second highest market share in browsers).

3. Safari - Primary for RSS. When I want to browse a single source of news feeds, the clean presentation of an RSS feed in Safari is much more pleasant to the eyes than any other browser. For perusing through all my prefered feeds though, Google Reader or Thunderbird are still my primary choices. Use it to test web sites under different resolution settings on both the Windows and Mac platforms.

4. Opera - Mostly speed. Fast browser, on par with Firefox. M"

Flu Vaccinations

Flu Vaccinations
"At the health department, the cost for a flu shot is $27, a flu nasal spray is $35, and a pneumonia shot is $52. Payment by cash or check is due at the time of service.

Anyone can receive a flu vaccination at the health department, however, the health department is unable to bill Medicare or health insurance programs other than Medicaid.

Hours of service are Monday through Friday from Noon until 4:30 pm."

Music from '50s through '70s returns to the airways with WGVU-AM move to oldies format

Music from '50s through '70s returns to the airways with WGVU-AM move to oldies format
WGVU AM is answering more than a few West Michigan prayers with newly announced radio station, Real Oldies 1480/850.

The all-oldies NPR radio station, playing local to national hits from the mid-'50s to early '70s, will be hosted by former WFGR-FM (98.7) personality Len O'Kelly and Bill Bailey, formerly of WLHT.
......The format was abandoned in 2004 with WODJ and again recently with WFGR.
"Our hope is third time's a charm,"
O'Kelly said.
........."We want people to say, 'Wow, I haven't heard that in 40 years,'" O'Kelly said.

Also, the station will be the first NPR station in the country to adopt the oldies format, "which is kind of cool," O'Kelly said.

Find the fool that authorized this move and fire him/her/it NOW!

Tuesday, September 01, 2009

SETTING UP THE NEXT STRIKE - New York Post

SETTING UP THE NEXT STRIKE
"For the evidence is clear: They work.

The use of such techniques against Khalid Sheik Mohammed not only elicited significant information, it may well also have saved thousands of lives.
As Cheney pointedly noted, those who applied them -- and even those who exceeded their authority -- 'were directly responsible for the fact that for eight years we had no further mass-casualty attacks against the United States.'

Which raises the obvious question: How do those who decry such techniques as immoral propose to break other KSMs and obtain information from them -- by playing tapes of President Obama's 'outreach to the Muslim world' speech?

That may make the ACLU and Capitol Hill Democrats ecstatic.
But it's not likely to stop the next 9/11."

Rock the Boat with red-hot fest band

Rock the Boat with red-hot fest band
"Named one of the top five up-and-coming festival jam bands by Billboard Magazine, Muskegon's own Four Finger Five will return to the deck of the LST-393 for an evening of music benefiting four groups.

IF YOU GO
• What: Rock the Boat featuring Four Finger Five and special guests Ultraviolet Hippopotamus, Garganta and DJ Eminent.
• Why: Proceeds benefit the LST-393, Muskegon Film Festival, Michigan Film Corps and The Harbor Theater.
• When: 7-11 p.m. Saturday.
• Where: Deck of the LST-393
, at Mart Dock in downtown Muskegon.
• Cover: $10 at the door. Cash only. Ages 21 and up. Coolers and snacks allowed, beverages not furnished. Fricanos pizza will be for sale. Limited seating, so bring lawn chairs.
• Information: 727-0805 or e-mail sarahr@watermarkcenter.com

Kirk Cousins named MSU starter, but Keith Nichol will play

Kirk Cousins named MSU starter, but Keith Nichol will play
Michigan State has a starting quarterback. Spartans coach Mark Dantonio on Tuesday named Kirk Cousins his starter for Saturday's season opener against Montana State at Spartan Stadium.
'We'll allow him to get into a rhythm,' said Dantonio of Cousins.
Keith Nichol, an Oklahoma transfer, is expected to see his first game experience in the first half, Dantonio added.
Dantonio said he will allow both players to grow into the MSU quarterback position during the season.

MSU's top three running backs for Saturday's game -- in no particular order -- are redshirt freshman Caulton Ray and true freshmen Larry Caper and Edwin Baker, Dantonio said."

Sounds like Muskegon's Leggett ain't in that group.
All frosh.

Nothing new here, except the source of U-M allegations

Nothing new here, except the source of U-M allegations
"The bigger long-term problem for Rodriguez, and the clearest sign so far that his time in Ann Arbor could be limited, is that many of his recent players ratted him out about it."

Monday, August 31, 2009

Kennedy and the KGB

American Thinker: Kennedy and the KGB: "Shortly after the announcement of Ted Kennedy's death, I had already received several interview requests. I declined them, not wanting to be uncharitable to the man upon his death. Since then, I've seen the need to step up and provide some clarification.


The issue is a remarkable 1983 KGB document on Kennedy, which I published in my 2006 book, The Crusader: Ronald Reagan and the Fall of Communism (HarperCollins). The document is a May 14, 1983 memo from KGB head Victor Chebrikov to his boss, the odious Soviet General Secretary Yuri Andropov, designated with the highest classification. It concerns a confidential offer to the Soviet leadership by Senator Kennedy. The target: President Ronald Reagan. (A pdf file of the original Russian language document and an English translation are available here.)


With Kennedy's death, this stunning revelation is again making the rounds, especially after Rush Limbaugh flagged it in his 'Stack of Stuff.' I'm being inundated with emails, asking basically two questions: 1) is the document legitimate; and 2) what does it allege of Senator Kennedy?


First off, yes, the document is legitimate. If it were not, I would have never reported it. Over the years, from my book to radio and web interviews, I've provided specifics. Briefly summarized, here are the basics:


The document was first reported in a February 2, 1992 article in the London Times, titled, 'Teddy, the KGB and the top secret file,' by reporter Tim Sebastian. Russian President Boris Yeltsin had opened the Soviet archives. Sebastian discovered the document in the Central Committee archives specifically. When his article appeared in the Times, other on-site researchers dashed to the archives and grab"

Another Failed Presidency

Another Failed Presidency
"Barack Obama is on track to have the most spectacularly failed presidency since Woodrow Wilson.
In the modern era, we've seen several failed presidencies--led by Jimmy Carter and LBJ.
Failed presidents have one strong common trait-- they are repudiated, in the vernacular, spat out.
Of course, LBJ wisely took the exit ramp early, avoiding a shove into oncoming traffic by his own party."

theblogprof

theblogprof

Go to this site every day!
Great stuff from a great mind!

Another 12 Misspelled Signs


Another 12 Misspelled Signs - Oddee.com
"Another 12 Misspelled Signs"

Obama’s Policies are Hypocritical ::


Mayor Bing: 10% of city workers must go

Mayor Bing: 10% of city workers must go
"Mayor Dave Bing this morning said his administration has found ways to keep the city's cash flowing beyond October, but said he still needs to reduce Detroit's work force by 10 percent."

An adult as Detroit mayor?
My golly, a tiny light at the end of a very long, long tunnel.
You go, Bingster!

Top Ten Poverty Cities

from an e-mail:

Top 10 Poverty Cities:

Interesting........
City, State, % of People Below the Poverty Level
1. Detroit , MI 32.5%
2. Buffalo , NY 29..9%
3. Cincinnati , OH 27.8%
4. Cleveland , OH 27.0%
5. Miami , FL 26.9%
5. St. Louis , MO 26.8%
7. El Paso , TX 26.4%
8. Milwaukee , WI 26.2%
9. Philadelphia , PA 25.1%
10. Newark , NJ 24.2%

U.S. Census Bureau, 2006 American Community Survey, August 2007

What do the top ten cities (over 250,000) with the highest poverty rate all have in common?

Detroit, MI (1st on the poverty rate list) hasn't elected a Republican mayor since 1961;

Buffalo, NY (2nd) hasn't elected one since 1954;

Cincinnati , OH (3rd)...since 1984;

Cleveland , OH (4th)...since 1989;

Miami , FL (5th) has never had a Republican mayor;

St. Louis , MO (6th)....since 1949;

El Paso , TX (7th) has never had a Republican mayor;

Milwaukee , WI (8th)...since 1908;

Philadelphia , PA (9th)...since 1952;

Newark , NJ (10th)...since 1907.

Einstein once said, 'The definition of insanity is doing the same thing over and over again and expecting different results.'

It is the poor who habitually elect Democrats---yet they are still
POOR

"You cannot help the poor by destroying the rich.
You cannot strengthen the weak by weakening the strong.
You cannot bring about prosperity by discouraging thrift.
You cannot lift the wage earner up by pulling the wage payer down.
You cannot further the brotherhood of man by inciting class hatred.
You cannot build character and courage by taking away people's initiative and independence. You cannot help people permanently by doing for them, what they could and should do for themselves."

Abraham Lincoln .....
...................and Mr. Obama, you are no Abe Lincoln

Sunday, August 30, 2009

Sears revival of Christmas Club

Sears revival of Christmas Club draws interest from West Michigan shoppers; retail analysts wait and see
"But her eyes sparkled like tinsel when she heard about the new Sears Christmas Club, which pays 3 percent interest on money saved by consumers for holiday shopping."

Regraveling, 30s style unemployment, lay-a-way.
Everything old is new again.

State issues 30-day layoff notices to employee unions

State issues 30-day layoff notices to employee unions
"State officials said 30-day layoff notices were sent today to all state employee bargaining units, nearly five weeks ahead of the day the new budget year begins."

You reap what you sow?

CARPE DIEM: Creative Destruction

CARPE DIEM: Creative Destruction:
"1. Mobile phones replace alarm clocks.

2. 158 million U.S. Internet users watched online video in July, the largest audience ever recorded. Online video reached another all-time high in July with a total of 21.4 billion videos viewed during the month.

3. Toyota to Close Union Plant in California, the first time Toyota has ever closed a U.S. plant."

Stop 'emotionalizing' the cap-and-trade debate

Stop 'emotionalizing' the cap-and-trade debate
"The approach won't work because it would use a government mandate to create a market for which there is no consumer demand.
Since the American economy is mainly powered by energy produced from carbon fuels and will be for the foreseeable future, reducing carbon emissions requires slowing or eliminating economic growth, with the result that 2 million more Americans will become unemployed by 2012, according to an analysis by the conservative Heritage Foundation. Similarly, the Brookings Institution -- certainly no sentinel of rightward analysis -- also predicts dire economic results from Waxman-Markey."

Students in Michigan pay for broken 'Promise'

Students in Michigan pay for broken 'Promise'
"Thousands of Michigan college students are being forced to scrape together an extra $500 or more for tuition because of uncertainty over a popular scholarship program."

Aren't most government promises broken as soon as they are promised?
No mention of "why" tuition is exploding.
No mention of the abysmal graduation rates from Michigan colleges.

Grand Rapids Community College President Steven Ender calls employee salaries 'excessive and unsustainable'

Grand Rapids Community College President Steven Ender calls employee salaries 'excessive and unsustainable'
"Grand Rapids Community College salaries are 'approaching being excessive and unsustainable' and some might be frozen as the school adjusts to financial pressures, President Steven Ender told employees.
Ender, speaking at a 'Learning Day' gathering Thursday to kick off the fall semester, told faculty and staff
he wants to hire an outside firm to review salaries from top to bottom and compare them with similar posts at other community colleges"


What's going on at GRCC?

Saturday, August 29, 2009

Bill would let local Michigan governments decide on restaurant smoking

Bill would let local Michigan governments decide on restaurant smoking
"A Michigan lawmaker says local governments should be able to ban smoking in restaurants and bars since a proposed statewide ban is stalled in the Legislature.
A bill sponsored by Rep. Gary McDowell would let each county, city, township and village decide if people can smoke in local bars and restaurants.
Michigan law allows only the Legislature to ban smoking in food establishments.
McDowell says the law should be changed because legislators will not pass a statewide ban.
The Rudyard Democrat had planned to testify Wednesday in a House committee, but his bill has been taken off the agenda."

Let each community make their own decision!
What a concept!
Imagine if each restaurant and bar could make that same decision with their own businesses!

Saranac, Lowell school officials work to stem tide of student transfers

Saranac, Lowell school officials work to stem tide of student transfers
"Superintendent Jeanette Adams wants to stop the trend of students who live along Saranac's border with Lowell choosing to enroll in the Kent County district.
But how to do that without drawing lines in the schools-of-choice sand?
'We don't want to coerce people to come here,' Adams said of her Ionia County district.
'For many families, it's not always about what's better, but what's closer.'"

Maybe they ought to focus more on "attracting" rather than "coercing"?
Like providing a quality education......

Things only a Kennedy could get away with

Mark Steyn: Things only a Kennedy could get away with
"We are enjoined not to speak ill of the dead.
But, when an entire nation – or, at any rate, its 'mainstream' media culture – declines to speak the truth about the dead, we are certainly entitled to speak ill of such false eulogists."

Kennedy, Bork and the Politics of Judicial Destruction

Kennedy, Bork and the Politics of Judicial Destruction
The death of a public figure, especially a polarizing one, always makes things a bit dicey in opinionland.
Do the detractors speak ill of the dead?
Do the defenders pre-empt such criticisms, or does that just inspire the critics? In the case of Ted Kennedy, whose many accomplishments got due recognition everywhere, most chose to duck the fight on anything more problematic.

There was comparatively little talk about a Harvard scandal, a very sad end to a first marriage or a controversial rape trial. Even among the pundits and partisans, the name Mary Jo Kopechne was for the most part mentioned only in passing; those on the right who tried to make much of it seemed more petulant than aggrieved — perhaps even shrill — while those on the left who tried to make the best of it sounded patently absurd. "

But if this isn’t the occasion to dwell on the senator’s personal shortcomings, it should be one to examine his words. And in terms of both dramatic and lasting effect, nothing in his 46-year tenure in the Senate comes close to this:"

click to see the video and read the tawdry story of a scumbag.

Peter Foster: The man who doubted Al Gore

Peter Foster: The man who doubted Al Gore
"I once attended a dinner party thrown by a corporate executive who — like his guests — was astonished at my apostasy, which was met by the requisite mime show of shock from other guests.
The following day he e-mailed me a news item about melting Arctic ice.
That, presumably, would put me straight."

READ THIS!

10 Weirdest College Mascots


10 Weirdest College Mascots
"Without a doubt, one of the strangest college sports mascots has to be Scrotie, the unofficial mascot of the Rhode Island School of Design. The costume is unique and at the same time horrific, looking exactly like a giant penis wearing a red cape with the scrotum hanging beneath.

The school's basketball team is known as the Balls, and their slogan is, 'When the heat is on, the Balls stick together.' The hockey team is called the Nads, and their cheer is 'Go Nads!'
Scrotie was created to cheer on the Nads in 2001. Despite his status as an unofficial mascot, he's present at all the games and widely accepted by the student body. (Link)"

Welcome to AfterMath


NYT Calls on Terror Regime to Stop Accidentally Terrorizing People

NYT Calls on Terror Regime to Stop Accidentally Terrorizing People:
"The Times editorializes today on abuses in the Iranian prison system, and it is one of those pieces in which you can’t tell whether the writer is dense or stupid:
Iran’s Constitution and law prohibit torture; however, the 2008 State Department human rights report cites numerous credible reports over the years in which security forces and prison personnel tortured prisoners.
The government should be ferreting out and putting an end to these abuses.
One could attempt to take this seriously and ask, Why would the government “ferret out” and “put an end” to the very brutality by which it keeps itself in power? This is like saying to a mafia boss, “You should ferret out the people in your organization who are involved in stealing, bribery, and extortion, and put an end to these abuses.” Seriously?"

Would "dense" AND "stupid" be a redundancy?

Donations, card games may help fund Holton Township culvert

Donations, card games may help fund Holton Township culvert
"So this is what local government has come to: recycled wastewater pipe and a hat passed to collect donations.
That is what has finally resolved the stalemate over the collapsed Syers Road culvert in Holton Township that has left the road closed for two years."

This is what happens when government spends all your money on ..... government employees!

Ship's log: The Indiana Harbor


Ship's log: The Indiana Harbor
Length: 1,000 feet.
Destination: Consumer Energy, Cobb slip.
Cargo: Coal.

Scheduled arrival: 7 p.m. Sunday.
Scheduled departure: 3 a.m. Monday.

Points of Interest: Built in 1979 as a twin-screw self-unloading bulk carrier for American Steamship Co. She is the ninth 1,000-footer built for Great Lakes service. Indiana Harbor is an awesome sight steaming up Muskegon Lake to deliver coal to Consumers Energy."

Grand Haven voters to decide on ward system

Grand Haven voters to decide on ward system
"'I feel that myself and other council members have tried their best to represent the whole community and not just the neighborhood in which we live,' he said. 'It is better to think of how everyone would benefit rather than a small population.'"

Oh, get real!
Look how successful the ward system is for Muskegon and Detroit!

"this 18-year nightmare did not have to be for Dugard"

http://ncane.com/uzbq


But it became increasingly clear Friday that this 18-year nightmare did not have to be for Dugard, with new details surfacing that authorities blew numerous chances to catch her alleged captor.

Neighbors complained to law enforcement that a psychotic sex addict was in their midst, alarmed that Phillip Garrido was housing young girls in backyard tents. A deputy showed up to investigate, but never went beyond the front porch.

Probation officers showed up at the home, too, but had no inkling that his back yard was actually a labyrinth of tents, sheds and buildings that were Dugard's prison.
They did not even know he had children on the premises.

Garrido also wore a GPS-linked ankle bracelet that tracked his every movement, the result of his sex-crime convictions that sent him away to Leavenworth for a 50-year stint, only to get paroled after 10 years.

"Why is he out and about?" said Dan DeMaranville, who investigated Garrido in the 1970s rape case in Nevada. "If he's on lifetime parole, where was his parole officer? The guy was a sick puppy, and should have been neutered before he was paroled."

The outrage came as a sheriff's department acknowledged that it missed an opportunity to arrest Garrido in 2006 after the neighbor complaint about children in the yard.

"We missed an opportunity to bring earlier closure to this situation," Contra Costa County Sheriff Warren E. Rupf said. "I cannot change the course of events but we are beating ourselves up over this and continue to do so."

"We should have been more inquisitive, more curious and turned over a rock or two."

Duh!
I sure hope there is a new sheriff in town soon!

Friday, August 28, 2009

Kent County prepares to sue state over unfunded foster care programs

Kent County prepares to sue state over unfunded foster care programs
"Kent County has been authorized to sue the state over provisions of a 2008 settlement Michigan reached with a national children's rights advocacy group -- which local officials say illegally impose unfunded mandates, creating a strain on county coffers.
The national group, Children's Rights Inc., sued the state last year after a series of high-profile abuse cases, alleging some children placed with Michigan foster care providers were being harmed because of a lack of adequate monitoring. The case was settled late last year, with the state agreeing to a list of provisions including providing more case workers in abuse and neglect complaints, adding legal counsel for the parties involved and expanding eligibility requirements for foster care.
Kent County officials say the settlement, reached without their consent, violates the state constitution by mandating more than $4 million in added services, only half of which would be reimbursed by the state. They also say having to pay for services mandated by the settlement places in jeopardy less-expensive programs, which are more effective in preventing abuse and neglect"

It's about time!

AIG CEO defends holiday, slams lynch mob attacks

AIG CEO defends holiday, slams lynch mob attacks
"He makes no apologies for his passion for Croatia, including his palatial villa with 12 bathrooms and his vineyards on the Peljesac Peninsula about a two hours drive north of Dubrovnik."

Who doesn't need 12 bathrooms?

Ted Kennedy's Soviet Gambit

Ted Kennedy's Soviet Gambit
"Kennedy's message was simple.
He proposed an unabashed quid pro quo. Kennedy would lend Andropov a hand in dealing with President Reagan.
In return, the Soviet leader would lend the Democratic Party a hand in challenging Reagan in the 1984 presidential election.
'The only real potential threats to Reagan are problems of war and peace and Soviet-American relations,' the memorandum stated.
'These issues, according to the senator, will without a doubt become the most important of the election campaign.'"

Final Cash for Clunkers data

Final Cash for Clunkers data
"TOP SELLERS
1. Toyota Corolla
2. Honda Civic
3. Toyota Camry
4. Ford Focus front-wheel drive
5. Hyundai Elantra
6. Nissan Versa
7. Toyota Prius
8. Honda Accord
9. Honda Fit"

GM..Fiat...er Chrysler...where are you?
Chairman Obama will be looking into this soon, I'm sure!

Big Beck: Goes over 3 million viewers, beats O’Reilly

Big Beck: Goes over 3 million viewers, beats O’Reilly in demo: Cable News Ratings for Wednesday, August 26, 2009
"Though a little scandal might alienate advertisers, it’s pure ratings gold.
Last night Glenn Beck had over 3 million viewers at 5pm, second only to O’Reilly for the night.
But, Beck had more 25-54 viewers than O’Reilly (888K to 876K).
I don’t watch or really even care about the cable news wars, but still…wow.
Even though Beck airs before primetime, when there are fewer people watching TV, he had the most 25-54 viewers in the cable news world for the night."

'Cruel and neglectful' care of one million NHS patients exposed


'Cruel and neglectful' care of one million NHS patients exposed
"One million NHS patients have been the victims of appalling care in hospitals across Britain, according to a major report released today."

Obama-care with a nicer accent!

Real US unemployment rate at 16 pct: Fed official

Real US unemployment rate at 16 pct: Fed official
"The real US unemployment rate is 16 percent if persons who have dropped out of the labor pool and those working less than they would like are counted, a Federal Reserve official said Wednesday.
'If one considers the people who would like a job but have stopped looking -- so-called discouraged workers -- and those who are working fewer hours than they want, the unemployment rate would move from the official 9.4 percent to 16 percent, said Atlanta Fed chief Dennis Lockhart."

16% !!!!!!!!!

Cash For Clunkers A 'Success' At Exposing Continued Decay at Bailed-Out GM and Chrysler

Cash For Clunkers A 'Success' At Exposing Continued Decay at Bailed-Out GM and Chrysler
"'In contrast, some automakers couldn't really make Cash for Clunkers work for them, and their August sales suffered as a result,' Krebs noted, 'Chrysler and GM — both hurt by extended factory shutdowns during their Chapter 11 proceedings — had limited inventory to feed Cash for Clunkers, while high-end automakers didn't have the right products for these buyers.'
Given the extraordinarily high levels of unsold vehicles GM and Chrysler had on hand earlier this year, I'm not sure that Ms. Krebs's claim about 'limited inventory' holds up, even with the extended shutdowns cited. But even if it does, why wouldn't the geniuses who fashion themselves as 'car czars' have done something about the impending shortage in advance?
The big story in vehicle sales ever since the bailouts of GM and Chrysler commenced in December of last year has been how those two companies have consistently lost market share ever since."

ABC Buries Harsh Kennedy Obit, One That Labels Him a ‘Failure,’ in the Middle of the Night

ABC Buries Harsh Kennedy Obit, One That Labels Him a ‘Failure,’ in the Middle of the Night
"In the early hours of Wednesday, reporter John Donvan narrated a tough, comprehensive look at the life of Ted Kennedy, one that went so far as to assert that the Senator was sometimes 'a let down, an embarrassment to his family, to his party, to himself.' However, this eight and a half minute segment, which looked into Chappaquiddick, Kennedy’s cheating at Harvard and other scandals, aired at 2:30 in the morning, during a special, late night edition of Nightline.
A much shorter, sanitized version of the piece was replayed on the August 26 edition of World News With Charles Gibson. It left out the harsh words about being a 'failure,' the accounts of public intoxication and affairs, all of which were featured in the Nightline segment."

Mill's demise 'devastating' to longtime employees

Mill's demise 'devastating' to longtime employees
"Posted by anthony11 on 08/27/09 at 1:58PM
You people act like you are shocked. Everyone new why the company was bought out. It was for a patent on the special coated paper number 5 machine made. This is no shock and the people should have been locking for a job a long time ago instead of letting there unemployment run out. The plant people new this.

a commentPosted by harleyrdr on 08/27/09 at 6:01PM
Anthony11, you're exactly right except there were several patents. The first thing SLAPPI did after buying the mill was transfer all manufacturing of the #1 paper grades like lustro gloss and strobe gloss to their other mills, then gave Muskegon the #3 papers like sommerset gloss etc. Then they claimed they could'nt make a profit in Muskegon. The truth is that they could'nt make a profit on the cheap grades of paper that no printers wanted anymore."

Interesting!

Thursday, August 27, 2009

Still 'Crazy' -- And Proud of It

Still 'Crazy' -- And Proud of It
"Us right-wing nuts sure is scary!
That's the message from the Washington Post.
To put this in language a conservative would understand, the fourth estate has been alarmed once again by the Burkean proclivities of our nation's citizens.
The Post is in a panic about (to use its own descriptive terms) 'birthers,' 'anti-tax tea-partiers,' and 'town hall hecklers.'
If, last Sunday, you spent a profitless hour reading the Washington Post (itself not too profitable), you noticed the loud yapping and desperate nipping at those who disagree with liberal orthodoxy.
It was as if top management were a toy schnauzer accidentally mistaken for a duster and traumatized by being run back and forth through the venetian blinds.
The wise and prestigious broadsheet institution was so barking mad that it sent three (Three! In these times of hardship for the print media!
When reporters are being laid off right and left--well, mostly right--and stories are going uncovered from rapidly warming pole to pole! Three!) journalists to do battle with 'The Return of Right-Wing Rage.'"

Mill's demise 'devastating' to longtime employees

Mill's demise 'devastating' to longtime employees
"Officials announced Wednesday the plant that was idled in April will not reopen."

Hoekstra slates health care town hall meetings Monday in Holland; Saturday in Cadillac, Scottville

Hoekstra slates health care town hall meetings Monday in Holland; Saturday in Cadillac, Scottville
"U.S. Rep. Pete Hoekstra, R-Holland, is hosting a town hall meeting Monday night in Holland on health care, Hoekstra spokesman Dave Yonkman said.
The session is 7 to 8:30 p.m. at Evergreen Commons, 480 State St.; doors open at 6:30 p.m.
Hoekstra is also hosting town hall meetings on health care on Saturday from 8:30-10 a.m. at the Cadillac High School Auditorium, 400 Linden St.in Cadillac; and from noon to 1:30 p.m. at West Shore Community College's Center Stage Theater at the Arts and Sciences Center, 3000 N. Stiles Road in Scottville."

What? No Muskegon?

Obama Job Approval

Obama Job Approval

Another new low.
This is getting to be a habit with Barry-O.

Congressman Demands to See Constituent’s ID Before Allowing Town Hall Question

Congressman Demands to See Constituent’s ID Before Allowing Town Hall Question
Dem. Jim Moran.....

What a moron!

Trinity Health recognized as one of country's best

Trinity Health recognized as one of country's best
"Trinity Health -- the Catholic health system that owns Mercy Health Partners in Muskegon -- has been named one of the Top 10 health systems in the United States"

Big winners in Cash for Clunkers: Toyota, Honda, and Nissan; Update: Parts business big losers?

Big winners in Cash for Clunkers: Toyota, Honda, and Nissan; Update: Parts business big losers?
"Ford’s “clunkers” sales topped 14 percent, compared with a 15 percent share for the year through July.
GM reported 17 percent of “clunkers” business compared with 21 percent from January to July. Chrysler’s “clunkers” share was 6.6 percent, compared with 11 percent otherwise."

Government-Run Healthcare: A Prescription for Failure

Investor's Business Daily
"In this exclusive series, Investor's Business Daily explores the real costs & consequences of the healthcare reforms being discussed in Congress."

Spartans enter into football series with other state schools


Spartans enter into football series with other state schools
"When asked whether Michigan was considered as a part of this series, Hollis would only say he informed U-M Athletics Director Bill Martin about the idea.
“I firmly believe Michigan State is the university of this state,” he said"


Oooh yeah!

Wednesday, August 26, 2009

HOW'S THAT STIMULUS WORKING OUT FOR YOU?

HOW'S THAT STIMULUS WORKING OUT FOR YOU?
"We blew $787 billion and all we got... were these lousy jobs numbers.

WASHINGTON – The number of first-time claims for unemployment benefits rose unexpectedly for the second straight week, a sign that jobs remain scarce even as other data show the economy is stabilizing....
The Labor Department said Thursday the number of new jobless claims rose to a seasonally adjusted 576,000 last week, from a revised figure of 561,000. Wall Street economists expected a drop to 550,000,"

As Budget Deficit Grows, So Do Doubts on Dollar

As Budget Deficit Grows, So Do Doubts on Dollar
"In a new twist to an old refrain among economists, who have long worried about the effects of growing U.S. debt, they say that the huge liabilities the U.S. is taking on to dig its way out of crisis could ultimately undermine faith in the dollar.
'There has been a lot of disappointment with the way the U.S. credit crisis was handled,' says Claire Dissaux, managing director of global economics and strategy for Millennium Global Investments Ltd., a London investment firm specializing in currencies. 'The dollar's loss of influence is a steady and long-term trend.'
On Tuesday, the Obama administration added fuel to concerns about the dollar, saying the U.S. will run a cumulative budget deficit of $9 trillion over the next 10 years, $2 trillion more than it had previously projected."

How large is the fiscal hole?

How large is the fiscal hole?
"Economistmom says the actual budget deficit over the next decade is likely to be close to $14 trillion:"

$14 TRILLION!!!!!!!!?

Payday For Unions


Payday For Unions
"If there's any question as to why union toughs turned up at recent health care town halls and got violent, consider what they were gooning for: a $10 billion bailout for their mismanaged pensions — at our expense."
Little MSM interest in this story.

Obama Raises 2010 Deficit Estimate to $1.5 Trillion

Obama Raises 2010 Deficit Estimate to $1.5 Trillion
"U.S. unemployment will surge to 10 percent this year and the budget deficit will be $1.5 trillion next year, both higher than previous Obama administration forecasts because of a recession that was deeper and longer than expected, White House budget chief Peter Orszag said.
The Office of Management and Budget forecasts a weaker economic recovery than it saw in May as the gross domestic product shrinks 2.8 percent this year before expanding 2 percent next year, according to the administration’s mid-year economic review issued today.

Obamacare bails out union pension plans..

Obamacare bails out union pension plans
"Union bosses who have mismanaged benefits for their own members are poised to receive a $10 billion bailout from U.S. taxpayers in the form of a “reinsurance program” that has been folded into the healthcare bill, according to the Workforce Fairness Institute (WFI).
This provision should be viewed as part of a larger payback effort the Obama White House and top congressional figures have set up in exchange for the support they have received from organized labor, Katie Packer, executive director of WFI said.
Section 164 of the Affordable Health Choices Act of 2009 provides that the government pay 80 cents on the dollar to corporate and union insurance plans for claims between $15,000 and $90,000 for retirees age 55 to 64. Union health insurance funds only have about 30 cents available to cover each dollar of anticipated claims, according to the Lewin Group and other research outfits.
If this provision were to be passed as part of the overhaul package favored by the Obama Administration, the $10 billion figure would probably expand overtime as union plans continue to come under financial pressure, Packer said."

Spartans RBs reportedly starting to separate

Spartans RBs reportedly starting to separate
"'Michigan State's quarterback competition remains virtually deadlocked, but the Spartans are seeing some separation in the race to replace All-American running back Javon Ringer.
'The team has several veteran options at running back -- senior A.J. Jimmerson and sophomores (Muskegon's) Ashton Leggett and Andre Anderson all have played -- but the coaching staff expects youth to be served this fall. Heralded true freshmen Larry Caper and Edwin Baker have been as advertised so far in camp, and redshirt freshman Caulton Ray is continuing his progression after a strong finish to spring ball."

Saving the Obama Presidency

William McGurn: Saving the Obama Presidency
"The president understands that he loses when he talks about substantive issues, which is why he's been fudging on the public option. He may not understand that he is closing the gap between his unpopular policies and his personal popularity in the worst way a president can: by reducing his own credibility."
.....
"On Friday, White House spokesman Robert Gibbs said his boss was 'quite comfortable' with the idea that sticking to his agenda may well mean 'he only lives in this house' for one term. Sounds like a man who appreciates the limits of a president's personal popularity."

Senator warns of hyperinflation rivaling the 1980s


Senator warns of hyperinflation rivaling the 1980s
"The economy could spiral into hyperinflation not seen since the early 1980s if the Federal Reserve does not tighten its monetary policy soon, Sen. Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa) warned Tuesday.
Grassley, speaking about the renomination of Federal Reserve Chairman Ben Bernanke to a second term as head of the Fed, asserted that Bernanke's ability to hold down inflation would be the metric by which the Fed's success would be measured."

That's what happened last time the Fed loosened the money supply.
Bummer for us, dudes....

You wonder which side they’re on'



"A 'furious' Rep. Peter King, the hawkish, maverick Long Island Republican, blasted a 'disgraceful' Eric Holder for opening an investigation of CIA interrogators and chided his own party for what he described as a weak response to the move in an interview just now with POLITICO.
'It’s bulls***. It’s disgraceful. You wonder which side they’re on,' he said of the attorney general's move, which he described as a 'declaration of war against the CIA, and against common sense.'"

Free-Speech Organization Launches National Advertising Campaign Warning College…


NEWS FROM F.I.R.E.: Free-Speech Organization Launches National Advertising Campaign Warning College…: "NEWS FROM F.I.R.E.: Free-Speech Organization Launches National Advertising Campaign Warning Colleges That Violate Students’ Rights.
It’s pretty direct."

Fruitport Village needs help with storm cleanup

Fruitport Village needs help with storm cleanup
"Fruitport Village officials are calling on their residents to volunteer with the massive cleanup effort in the aftermath of the Aug. 9 damaging storm."

How dare they!
It's up to the "government" to provided EVERYTHING!
I sure hope the citizens have a big protest to protest Fruitport's foolish assumption that citizens do ANYTHING to make their own lives better.

That's the Obama Way, right?

Are Ye Trying To Fill The Graveyards Quicker? - Workers Solidarity Movement


Are Ye Trying To Fill The Graveyards Quicker? - Workers Solidarity Movement: "Major protest in Cork against the Government and attack on the elderly.
Over 3,000 people – the old, the young and the grandchildren – marched through Cork city centre today in anger against the proposed cuts in Medical Cards for over the 70s."

Collectivism rules!
Interesting this article is from a socialist website.
When even the socialists protest "free" health "care", something is rotten in Denmark....and every where else

The babies born in hospital corridors: Bed shortage forces 4,000 mothers to give birth in lifts, offices and hospital toilets | Mail Online


The babies born in hospital corridors: Bed shortage forces 4,000 mothers to give birth in lifts, offices and hospital toilets
"Thousands of women are having to give birth outside maternity wards because of a lack of midwives and hospital beds.
The lives of mothers and babies are being put at risk as births in locations ranging from lifts to toilets - even a caravan - went up 15 per cent last year to almost 4,000.
Health chiefs admit a lack of maternity beds is partly to blame for the crisis, with hundreds of women in labour being turned away from hospitals because they are full. "

This is EXACTLY what Obama/Pelosi/rev. Wright "care" will bring to our country.

What the President's Attack on the CIA Really Means

What the President's Attack on the CIA Really Means
"The best way to understand what President Obama has done is to put aside this week's headlines and, for just a moment, press the rewind button:
In the 1930s, the world was becoming unglued and unstable. Fascism was on the march and, as usual, we Americans wished only to stay out of the world's problems and to focus instead on our own domestic issues."

Read on and be VERY frightened!
Our children will pay dearly for this..... and weren't the libs always advocating for the children.....?

RI gov to shut down state government for 12 days


RI gov to shut down state government for 12 days
"Rhode Island will shut down its state government for 12 days and hopes to trim millions of dollars in funding for local governments"

To find lost time, Secretary of State offices to close late | Detroit Free Press | Freep.com

To find lost time, Secretary of State offices to close late Detroit Free Press Freep.com: "Secretary of State branch offices are to remain open two extra hours Monday and Sept. 8 to handle a crush of business that follows state worker furlough days.

The offices are to remain open those two days from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. instead of closing at 5 p.m., Secretary of State Terri Lynn Land said."

Anyone think there's gonna be whole lot o overtime goin' on.

And the net savings for all the "free friday's off" is......?

Tuesday, August 25, 2009

Woe, Canada!

Woe, Canada!
"Medical Care:
A leaked report shows that Vancouver's health authority is considering cutting thousands of surgeries to balance the budget.
However organized, government-run health care inevitably leads to rationing."

Picturing The Enemy

Picturing The Enemy
"Security: The ACLU sneakily photographing CIA officers near their homes, then showing the shots to the imprisoned planners of the 9/11 attacks.
A fruitcake fantasy?
The government is looking into exactly this."

Donations pay for Camp Pendalouan improvements

Donations pay for Camp Pendalouan improvements
"The YMCA's Camp Pendalouan has undergone a series of improvements made possible through individual donations"

What! No government money!!!!!
This just can't be true!

'Clunkers' program aims to get bowling ball sales rolling

'Clunkers' program aims to get bowling ball sales rolling
"A local business is running its own Cash for Clunkers program -- bowling ball style.
The federal government's car trade-in program is all the rage these days, and has spawned spinoffs in other industries"

What! No free government money?!!!!!!
What are these people thinking!!!!!!

Video: Is Obama’s loss Wall Street’s gain?

Video: Is Obama’s loss Wall Street’s gain?

Monday, August 24, 2009

NY Gov Paterson blames "Racism"!


"He suggested that Massachusetts Gov. Deval Patrick, the country's only other African-American governor, also is under fire because of his race.
'We're not in the post-racial period,' Paterson said.
'The reality is the next victim on the list - and you can see it coming - is President Barack Obama,
who did nothing more than trying to reform a health care system.'"


"Racism"! The cure all for everyone.... (well not EVERYONE) losing a political race.

10 Weirdest Theme Parks

10 Weirdest Theme Parks
"Love Land is a park about sex."

We could have a fat-sex version in Muskegon!
How cool would THAT be.......

THE REAL REASON AMERICANS ARE ANGRY

THE REAL REASON AMERICANS ARE ANGRY
"watching media supporters of President Obama's health care package puzzle over the obscure motivations of the noncompliant Americans rallying against it.
'Racial anxiety,' guessed New York Times columnist Paul Krugman.
'Nihilism,' theorized Time's Joe Klein.
'The crazy tree blooms in every moment of liberal ascendancy,' historian Rick Perlstein proclaimed in the Washington Post.
While the commentariat's condescension is almost comical, the whole evil-or-stupid explanation misses the elephant in Obama's room: Americans of all stripes, it turns out, aren't very keen about the government barging into their lives."

Justice Dept. Report Advises Pursuing C.I.A. Abuse Cases

Justice Dept. Report Advises Pursuing C.I.A. Abuse Cases
"The Justice Department’s ethics office has recommended reversing the Bush administration and reopening nearly a dozen prisoner-abuse cases, potentially exposing Central Intelligence Agency employees and contractors to prosecution for brutal treatment of terrorism suspects, according to a person officially briefed on the matter.
The recommendation by the Office of Professional Responsibility, presented to Attorney General Eric H. Holder Jr."

Obama Approves New Team to Question Key Terror Suspects

Obama Approves New Team to Question Key Terror Suspects
"President Obama has approved the creation of an elite team of interrogators to question key terrorism suspects, part of a broader effort to revamp U.S. policy on detention and interrogation, senior administration officials said Sunday.
Obama signed off late last week on the unit, named the High-Value Detainee Interrogation Group, or HIG.
Made up of experts from several intelligence and law enforcement agencies, the interrogation unit will be housed at the FBI but will be overseen by the National Security Council -- shifting the center of gravity away from the CIA and giving the White House direct oversight."

O'S INSURANCE SCAM

O'S INSURANCE SCAM
"PRESIDENT Obama and con gressional Democrats are now fixing their gun sights on health insurers, but their broader, underlying goals remain unchanged: socializing costs and extending Washington's control of the health-care sector.
This takes what Obama told Joe the Plumber about 'spreading the wealth' a step further. Because not only do the reforms redistribute wealth by shifting costs; they also put government in charge of spending even more of the nation's money.
And they can do it via a 'public option' or heavy insurance regulation and mandates."

Sunday, August 23, 2009

Mercury Marine: Fond du Lac union rejects changes, so we'll move south by 2012

"Following the union’s vote, the company will consolidate much of its Fond du Lac manufacturing operations with its existing operations in an expanded Stillwater, Okla., facility."