Obama Health Care: President's Health Care Plan the Chicago Way
"Obama will be in his element, talking and lecturing, the law professor framing the debate.
He'll spend hours being seen as reasonable.
The Republicans will balk and the president will shrug.
He'll sigh and say he tried to reason with them but they refused.
Then once the cameras are turned off, he'll take out the baseball bat and explain how things get done The Chicago Way"
read it all!
Thursday, February 25, 2010
Gov. Jennifer Granholm says she will shut down government to preserve school funding
Gov. Jennifer Granholm says she will shut down government to preserve school funding
"Gov. Jennifer Granholm drew an early line in the sand with state legislators Wednesday, saying she is willing to shut down the state government this fall before agreeing to cuts in education."
Make no mistake about what "school funding" really is.
It is more of your money (or more potholes in our roads) that continues to pour into the pockets of the teacher's unions and their overpaid members.
It's real simple.
We tighten our belts so teachers and college employees can buy bigger belts.
Jenny is little more than a publically paid union boss.
"Gov. Jennifer Granholm drew an early line in the sand with state legislators Wednesday, saying she is willing to shut down the state government this fall before agreeing to cuts in education."
Make no mistake about what "school funding" really is.
It is more of your money (or more potholes in our roads) that continues to pour into the pockets of the teacher's unions and their overpaid members.
It's real simple.
We tighten our belts so teachers and college employees can buy bigger belts.
Jenny is little more than a publically paid union boss.
Weatherization program helps eldery battle winter's chill
Weatherization program helps eldery battle winter's chill
"But senior citizens, who often are on fixed incomes, don't always have the resources to keep up with weatherization projects.
The good news is there are programs to help. And some are free."
It is articles like this that caused the Chronicle to disappear.
And highlights just how out of touch with our state and country's impending bankruptcy they really are.
"Free" is always nice and cozy to those getting the "free".
And the government employees giving out the "free" while they keep their jobs and benefits.
But, in the end, someone's gotta pay for "free" stuff.
And our cities are broke.
Muskegon county is broke.
Jenny has bankrupted our state.
Barry O has destroyed our economy and our children's future.
And The Chronicle just sails right along, marveling at how folks like 'free" stuff.
Gimme a break!
"But senior citizens, who often are on fixed incomes, don't always have the resources to keep up with weatherization projects.
The good news is there are programs to help. And some are free."
It is articles like this that caused the Chronicle to disappear.
And highlights just how out of touch with our state and country's impending bankruptcy they really are.
"Free" is always nice and cozy to those getting the "free".
And the government employees giving out the "free" while they keep their jobs and benefits.
But, in the end, someone's gotta pay for "free" stuff.
And our cities are broke.
Muskegon county is broke.
Jenny has bankrupted our state.
Barry O has destroyed our economy and our children's future.
And The Chronicle just sails right along, marveling at how folks like 'free" stuff.
Gimme a break!
E-Verify Misses Half of Illegal Workers, Report Finds
E-Verify Misses Half of Illegal Workers, Report Finds
"The system Congress and the Obama administration want employers to use to help curb illegal immigration is failing to catch more than half the number of unauthorized workers it checks"
So if this is OK with our government, why wouldn't it the same okey dokey if Obama Care missed half of the illnesses we get?
"The system Congress and the Obama administration want employers to use to help curb illegal immigration is failing to catch more than half the number of unauthorized workers it checks"
So if this is OK with our government, why wouldn't it the same okey dokey if Obama Care missed half of the illnesses we get?
Wednesday, February 24, 2010
Government Beer?
CARPE DIEM: Quote of the Day: Government Beer?
"What might have established the so-called monopoly and oligopoly?
Why, government, of course.
New York State has an impressive government regulatory structure that specifies what must be covered by your insurance policy.
By law, you are restricted from shopping elsewhere for coverage."
"What might have established the so-called monopoly and oligopoly?
Why, government, of course.
New York State has an impressive government regulatory structure that specifies what must be covered by your insurance policy.
By law, you are restricted from shopping elsewhere for coverage."
Stafford Hospital caused ‘unimaginable suffering’ - Times Online
Stafford Hospital caused ‘unimaginable suffering’
"Patients were routinely neglected or left “sobbing and humiliated” by staff at an NHS trust where at least 400 deaths have been linked to appalling care."
"Patients were routinely neglected or left “sobbing and humiliated” by staff at an NHS trust where at least 400 deaths have been linked to appalling care."
Governor candidates Mike Cox, Pete Hoekstra say unionized state workers should take pay cut
Governor candidates Mike Cox, Pete Hoekstra say unionized state workers should take pay cut
"Two Republican candidates for governor -- state Attorney General Mike Cox and U.S. Rep. Pete Hoekstra -- said today that unionized state workers, rather than getting raises, should take pay cuts like many have in the private sector.
'There ought to be a sense of shared sacrifice,' Cox said.
The candidates also said the state's tax structures should be revised to attract businesses and jobs. Hoekstra said taxes and government policies 'stifle investment, stifle entrepreneurs.'
They spoke at a conference of Michigan Association of Insurance Agents at the Amway Grand Plaza Hotel.
Hoekstra also criticized federal education reforms -- former President George Bush's 'No Child Left Behind and President Barack Obama's 'Race to the Top' -- as too costly, with local school districts essentially ceding control to Washington, D.C.
Cox said he disagreed with Hoekstra and other lawmakers who agreed to a federal bailout of financial institutions.
But Hoekstra said: 'Bottom line, we don't know what would've happened if we had not put that money into the financial sector.'"
"Two Republican candidates for governor -- state Attorney General Mike Cox and U.S. Rep. Pete Hoekstra -- said today that unionized state workers, rather than getting raises, should take pay cuts like many have in the private sector.
'There ought to be a sense of shared sacrifice,' Cox said.
The candidates also said the state's tax structures should be revised to attract businesses and jobs. Hoekstra said taxes and government policies 'stifle investment, stifle entrepreneurs.'
They spoke at a conference of Michigan Association of Insurance Agents at the Amway Grand Plaza Hotel.
Hoekstra also criticized federal education reforms -- former President George Bush's 'No Child Left Behind and President Barack Obama's 'Race to the Top' -- as too costly, with local school districts essentially ceding control to Washington, D.C.
Cox said he disagreed with Hoekstra and other lawmakers who agreed to a federal bailout of financial institutions.
But Hoekstra said: 'Bottom line, we don't know what would've happened if we had not put that money into the financial sector.'"
GM’s Hummer China deal collapses
GM’s Hummer China deal collapses
"General Motors on Wednesday night gave up on efforts to sell its Hummer operations to a Chinese buyer and said it would now wind down production of the heavy SUV."
"General Motors on Wednesday night gave up on efforts to sell its Hummer operations to a Chinese buyer and said it would now wind down production of the heavy SUV."
Nationwide Strike Paralyzes Greece
Nationwide Strike Paralyzes Greece
"Public- and private-sector unions called the strike to protest a range of measures aimed at reducing Greece's budget deficit.
The government has announced a freeze on civil-service wages, cuts in public-sector entitlements and the closing of tax loopholes for certain professions, including some civil servants.
It has also announced a fuel-tax increase."
Americans, watch this!
We are on the same path!
The public sector unions are demanding the "rest of us" pay for their life of poor performance, out of line pay (with automatic increases not related to performance) and early retirement with golden pay and medical packages.
If bend over ...they will win.
"Public- and private-sector unions called the strike to protest a range of measures aimed at reducing Greece's budget deficit.
The government has announced a freeze on civil-service wages, cuts in public-sector entitlements and the closing of tax loopholes for certain professions, including some civil servants.
It has also announced a fuel-tax increase."
Americans, watch this!
We are on the same path!
The public sector unions are demanding the "rest of us" pay for their life of poor performance, out of line pay (with automatic increases not related to performance) and early retirement with golden pay and medical packages.
If bend over ...they will win.
Illegal Immigrants or Public Employees: Who’s the Bigger Problem?
Illegal Immigrants or Public Employees: Who’s the Bigger Problem?
"He stated that he felt it was the nation’s most critical issue, and wondered why the subject seems to have been put on the backburner by many Republicans.
I replied with sympathy for his position, but ultimately I’ve come to the conclusion that the most critical issue facing America – and the one driving our budget problems at the local, state and federal level – is public employee unions and their related costs."
"He stated that he felt it was the nation’s most critical issue, and wondered why the subject seems to have been put on the backburner by many Republicans.
I replied with sympathy for his position, but ultimately I’ve come to the conclusion that the most critical issue facing America – and the one driving our budget problems at the local, state and federal level – is public employee unions and their related costs."
Pensions push state to insolvency
Pensions push state to insolvency
"As the $17 billion annual taxpayer tab for government employees’ pensions and retiree health care increases at a rate of “several billion dollars” a year, Orange County Supervisor John Moorlach says California is heading for an “economic meltdown.”"
"As the $17 billion annual taxpayer tab for government employees’ pensions and retiree health care increases at a rate of “several billion dollars” a year, Orange County Supervisor John Moorlach says California is heading for an “economic meltdown.”"
» ACORN Official: Gangster Group Will Be Bankrupt Soon But Fake Spinoff Groups Will Carry On The Corruption
ACORN Official: Gangster Group Will Be Bankrupt Soon But Fake Spinoff Groups Will Carry On The Corruption
"The ACORN crime syndicate is not going away anytime soon, but it’s going to look different.
ACORN will probably run out of money and fold by year’s end but a dozen ACORN state chapters reincorporated to seem like new, independent organizations will spring up in the next week to carry on ACORN’s business, a leaked email from ACORN’s online director suggests."
"The ACORN crime syndicate is not going away anytime soon, but it’s going to look different.
ACORN will probably run out of money and fold by year’s end but a dozen ACORN state chapters reincorporated to seem like new, independent organizations will spring up in the next week to carry on ACORN’s business, a leaked email from ACORN’s online director suggests."
Nearly 25% of all mortgages are underwater
Nearly 25% of all mortgages are underwater
"Nevada was the state with the worst record at 70% of all mortgaged properties underwater.
That was followed by Arizona (51%), Florida (48%), Michigan (39%) and California (35%)."
"Nevada was the state with the worst record at 70% of all mortgaged properties underwater.
That was followed by Arizona (51%), Florida (48%), Michigan (39%) and California (35%)."
Tuesday, February 23, 2010
US diplomats add a moat to their expenses at $1bn London embassy
US diplomats add a moat to their expenses at $1bn London embassy
"The United States has unveiled plans for its new $1 billion high-security embassy in London — the most expensive it has ever built.
.....The new embassy, on a former industrial site behind Battersea power station known for its gay clubs, will be designed by Kieran Timberlake, the Philadelphia architect."
Recession!
We don't got no stinkin' recession!
"The United States has unveiled plans for its new $1 billion high-security embassy in London — the most expensive it has ever built.
.....The new embassy, on a former industrial site behind Battersea power station known for its gay clubs, will be designed by Kieran Timberlake, the Philadelphia architect."
Recession!
We don't got no stinkin' recession!
Election 2010: Iowa Governor
Election 2010: Iowa Governor - Rasmussen Reports™:
"The latest Rasmussen Reports Election 2010 telephone survey of the Iowa governor’s race shows incumbent Democrat Chet Culver trailing badly in a match-up with one of his Republican predecessors and also running behind a lesser-known GOP challenger."
More cracks in the MoveOn.org/George Soros crumbling dike.
How cool is this to watch!
"The latest Rasmussen Reports Election 2010 telephone survey of the Iowa governor’s race shows incumbent Democrat Chet Culver trailing badly in a match-up with one of his Republican predecessors and also running behind a lesser-known GOP challenger."
More cracks in the MoveOn.org/George Soros crumbling dike.
How cool is this to watch!
Navy to End Ban on Women Serving Aboard Submarines
Navy to End Ban on Women Serving Aboard Submarines; Congress Is Last Potential Roadblock
"Women are a big step closer to serving on U.S. Navy submarines. ABC News has learned that the Navy has decided to lift the ban on female submarine crew members.
Subs are one of the last places in the military from which women are excluded."
"Women are a big step closer to serving on U.S. Navy submarines. ABC News has learned that the Navy has decided to lift the ban on female submarine crew members.
Subs are one of the last places in the military from which women are excluded."
List of Troubled Banks at 16-Year Peak, F.D.I.C. Says
List of Troubled Banks at 16-Year Peak, F.D.I.C. Says - NYTimes.com
"After weathering the nation’s worst run of bank failures in nearly two decades, the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation announced Tuesday that it had added 450 institutions to its list of challenged lenders in 2009 and warned that the industry was likely to remain under stress."
"After weathering the nation’s worst run of bank failures in nearly two decades, the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation announced Tuesday that it had added 450 institutions to its list of challenged lenders in 2009 and warned that the industry was likely to remain under stress."
And this is from the NYT!
Yikes!
Cruise line: 350 sick aboard ship in Caribbean
Cruise line: 350 sick aboard ship in Caribbean
"About 350 people who got sick a week into a Caribbean cruise were responding well to medicine, the cruise line said Tuesday.
Celebrity Cruise spokeswoman Cynthia Martinez said 326 of the more than 1,800 passengers on the Celebrity Mercury began complaining Sunday of upset stomachs, vomiting and diarrhea. Martinez says 27 of the nearly 850 crew members also reported symptoms."
We just returned from a fabulous cruise on the Celebrity Millennium and the crew was everywhere cleaning and making the ship free from bacteria and other maladies. There had been a norovirus outbreak on the cruise before ours.
"About 350 people who got sick a week into a Caribbean cruise were responding well to medicine, the cruise line said Tuesday.
Celebrity Cruise spokeswoman Cynthia Martinez said 326 of the more than 1,800 passengers on the Celebrity Mercury began complaining Sunday of upset stomachs, vomiting and diarrhea. Martinez says 27 of the nearly 850 crew members also reported symptoms."
We just returned from a fabulous cruise on the Celebrity Millennium and the crew was everywhere cleaning and making the ship free from bacteria and other maladies. There had been a norovirus outbreak on the cruise before ours.
We had a wonderful 10 days.
Bummer for the folks on the Mercury and the stockholders of RCL.
Boomtime for the class action scum-lawyer friends of Obama and the rest of the democrats.
Planned Parenthood sweeps child rape under the pro-abortion rug
Planned Parenthood sweeps child rape under the pro-abortion rug: "In case you think this was an isolated incident, think again:
Last month, Students for Life of America released a video of another college student posing as a 15-year-old girl asking about emergency contraception because of sex with her mother's 30-something live-in boyfriend. The staffers acknowledge this as statutory rape, but a Public Records Request filed by the student organization revealed that no report had been filed by Planned Parenthood, even though the law requires a report.
Last year, Live Action Films had students pose as racists to tape phone calls in which several Planned Parenthood chapters accepted donations on the condition that the money be used to abort black babies only. No chapter turned down the money.
Also last year, Rose videotaped a California PP staffer telling her to lie about her age so that the staffer wouldn't have to report anything under the statutory rape laws here. She was posing as a 15-year-old pregnant by her 23-year-old boyfriend. 'You could say 16', the worker suggests. 'And I don't know anything.' Planned Parenthood responded by threatening a lawsuit against Rose."
Last month, Students for Life of America released a video of another college student posing as a 15-year-old girl asking about emergency contraception because of sex with her mother's 30-something live-in boyfriend. The staffers acknowledge this as statutory rape, but a Public Records Request filed by the student organization revealed that no report had been filed by Planned Parenthood, even though the law requires a report.
Last year, Live Action Films had students pose as racists to tape phone calls in which several Planned Parenthood chapters accepted donations on the condition that the money be used to abort black babies only. No chapter turned down the money.
Also last year, Rose videotaped a California PP staffer telling her to lie about her age so that the staffer wouldn't have to report anything under the statutory rape laws here. She was posing as a 15-year-old pregnant by her 23-year-old boyfriend. 'You could say 16', the worker suggests. 'And I don't know anything.' Planned Parenthood responded by threatening a lawsuit against Rose."
Voters go to polls Tuesday in Fruitport school district, Holton Township
Voters go to polls Tuesday in Fruitport school district, Holton Township
"Voters in the Fruitport school district and Holton Township are headed to the polls today to decide on a school bond proposal and a township road tax."
The money suckers are at work 24/7 locally.
They never sleep because they know that when we doze off, our money is theirs!
We need to be ever alert!
"Voters in the Fruitport school district and Holton Township are headed to the polls today to decide on a school bond proposal and a township road tax."
The money suckers are at work 24/7 locally.
They never sleep because they know that when we doze off, our money is theirs!
We need to be ever alert!
Global warming advocates ignore the boulders
Global warming advocates ignore the boulders
"Last week, Todd Stern, America's special envoy for climate change -- yes, there is one; and people wonder where to begin cutting government -- warned that those interested in 'undermining action on climate change' will seize on 'whatever tidbit they can find.'
Tidbits like specious science, and the absence of warming?
It is tempting to say, only half in jest, that Stern's portfolio violates the First Amendment, which forbids government from undertaking the establishment of religion.
A religion is what the faith in catastrophic man-made global warming has become.
It is now a tissue of assertions impervious to evidence, assertions that everything, including a historic blizzard, supposedly confirms and nothing, not even the absence of warming, can falsify"
"Last week, Todd Stern, America's special envoy for climate change -- yes, there is one; and people wonder where to begin cutting government -- warned that those interested in 'undermining action on climate change' will seize on 'whatever tidbit they can find.'
Tidbits like specious science, and the absence of warming?
It is tempting to say, only half in jest, that Stern's portfolio violates the First Amendment, which forbids government from undertaking the establishment of religion.
A religion is what the faith in catastrophic man-made global warming has become.
It is now a tissue of assertions impervious to evidence, assertions that everything, including a historic blizzard, supposedly confirms and nothing, not even the absence of warming, can falsify"
MILWAUKEE ABORTION CLINIC EXPOSED
MILWAUKEE ABORTION CLINIC EXPOSED
more info.
It appears if you support Planned Parenthood, you are supporting felony child rape.
And this is NOT an isolated event.
The woman posing as a 14 year old has found similar "advice" at EVERY PP clinic she's busted.
This is Obama care at its worst.
more info.
It appears if you support Planned Parenthood, you are supporting felony child rape.
And this is NOT an isolated event.
The woman posing as a 14 year old has found similar "advice" at EVERY PP clinic she's busted.
This is Obama care at its worst.
Candice Miller Says She Will Be Pork-Free in 2010
Candice Miller Says She Will Be Pork-Free in 2010 [Mackinac Center]
"The Club for Growth tracked 68 amendments to strip pork from bills and found that Candice Miller, R-Harrison Township, voted for them only 31 percent of the time in its 2009 RePORK Card"
promises, promises.......
"The Club for Growth tracked 68 amendments to strip pork from bills and found that Candice Miller, R-Harrison Township, voted for them only 31 percent of the time in its 2009 RePORK Card"
promises, promises.......
Michael Steele's spending spree angers donors
Michael Steele's spending spree angers donors
"Republican National Chairman Michael Steele is spending twice as much as his recent predecessors on private planes and paying more for limousines, catering and flowers – expenses that are infuriating the party's major donors who say Republicans need every penny they can get for the fight to win back Congress.
Most recently, donors grumbled when Steele hired renowned chef Wolfgang Puck's local crew to cater the RNC's Christmas party inside the trendy Newseum on Pennsylvania Avenue, and then moved its annual winter meeting from Washington to Hawaii."
Good god!
They've learned NOTHING!
"Republican National Chairman Michael Steele is spending twice as much as his recent predecessors on private planes and paying more for limousines, catering and flowers – expenses that are infuriating the party's major donors who say Republicans need every penny they can get for the fight to win back Congress.
Most recently, donors grumbled when Steele hired renowned chef Wolfgang Puck's local crew to cater the RNC's Christmas party inside the trendy Newseum on Pennsylvania Avenue, and then moved its annual winter meeting from Washington to Hawaii."
Good god!
They've learned NOTHING!
Youth-led, pro-life movement for human rights!
Live Action Youth-led, pro-life movement for human rights!
"New undercover footage shows staff at a Milwaukee, WI Planned Parenthood abortion clinic counseling a purportedly 14-year-old statutory rape victim not to tell anyone about her 31-year-old boyfriend and coaching her how to obtain an abortion without her parents' consent.
The new video, seventh in a series from Live Action documenting similar behavior in 5 other states, comes amid recent controversy about Planned Parenthood's compliance with state laws regarding minors and abortion"
"New undercover footage shows staff at a Milwaukee, WI Planned Parenthood abortion clinic counseling a purportedly 14-year-old statutory rape victim not to tell anyone about her 31-year-old boyfriend and coaching her how to obtain an abortion without her parents' consent.
The new video, seventh in a series from Live Action documenting similar behavior in 5 other states, comes amid recent controversy about Planned Parenthood's compliance with state laws regarding minors and abortion"
The Canadian Press: 'My heart, my choice,' Williams says, defending decision for U.S. heart surgery
The Canadian Press: 'My heart, my choice,' Williams says, defending decision for U.S. heart surgery
"An unapologetic Danny Williams says he was aware his trip to the United States for heart surgery earlier this month would spark outcry, but he concluded his personal health trumped any public fallout over the controversial decision.
In an interview with The Canadian Press, Williams said he went to Miami to have a 'minimally invasive' surgery for an ailment first detected nearly a year ago, based on the advice of his doctors.
'This was my heart, my choice and my health,' Williams said late Monday from his condominium in Sarasota, Fla."
Canadian style "health care".
Where are the canucks gonna go when we get it here?
"An unapologetic Danny Williams says he was aware his trip to the United States for heart surgery earlier this month would spark outcry, but he concluded his personal health trumped any public fallout over the controversial decision.
In an interview with The Canadian Press, Williams said he went to Miami to have a 'minimally invasive' surgery for an ailment first detected nearly a year ago, based on the advice of his doctors.
'This was my heart, my choice and my health,' Williams said late Monday from his condominium in Sarasota, Fla."
Canadian style "health care".
Where are the canucks gonna go when we get it here?
Climategate Meets the Law
Climategate Meets the Law: Senator Inhofe To Ask for DOJ Investigation (Pajamas Media/PJTV Exclusive)
"Senator James Inhofe (R-OK) today asked the Obama administration to investigate what he called “the greatest scientific scandal of our generation” — the actions of climate scientists revealed by the Climategate Files, and the subsequent admissions by the editors of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) Fourth Assessment Report (AR4).
Senator Inhofe also called for former Vice President Al Gore to be called back to the Senate to testify.
“In [Gore's] science fiction movie, every assertion has been rebutted,” Inhofe said.
He believes Vice President Gore should defend himself and his movie before Congress."
Oh boy!
"Senator James Inhofe (R-OK) today asked the Obama administration to investigate what he called “the greatest scientific scandal of our generation” — the actions of climate scientists revealed by the Climategate Files, and the subsequent admissions by the editors of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) Fourth Assessment Report (AR4).
Senator Inhofe also called for former Vice President Al Gore to be called back to the Senate to testify.
“In [Gore's] science fiction movie, every assertion has been rebutted,” Inhofe said.
He believes Vice President Gore should defend himself and his movie before Congress."
Oh boy!
This is gonna be great!
Idaho Senate panel to debate pension boost
Idaho Senate panel to debate pension boost
"Idaho government retirees mounted the steps of the Capitol on Monday to urge lawmakers not to 'tamper' with a proposed 1 percent pension increase in March for 33,000 state and local government retirees.
House Republicans passed a resolution to block the increase last week."
GOPers standing tall against the overpaid, underworked teachers unionistas?
Who'd of guessed!
"Idaho government retirees mounted the steps of the Capitol on Monday to urge lawmakers not to 'tamper' with a proposed 1 percent pension increase in March for 33,000 state and local government retirees.
House Republicans passed a resolution to block the increase last week."
GOPers standing tall against the overpaid, underworked teachers unionistas?
Who'd of guessed!
Obama's surge in government jobs
Obama's surge in government jobs
"But some figures about the prosperous state of public employees explains this amazing disconnect between Obama and the rest of the country.
It turns out that while the public sector is still hemorrhaging jobs (7 million jobs lost since the recession started), government workers are flourishing like never before.
The Obama boom is essentially a government employee boom."
"But some figures about the prosperous state of public employees explains this amazing disconnect between Obama and the rest of the country.
It turns out that while the public sector is still hemorrhaging jobs (7 million jobs lost since the recession started), government workers are flourishing like never before.
The Obama boom is essentially a government employee boom."
Monday, February 22, 2010
"Fly Muskegon"?
Driving back from Indiana last weekend we saw 3 billboards imploring us to "Fly Muskegon".
The billboards are WORTHLESS.
Who made the contract and how much of our tax dollars were spent on this idiotic boondoggle.......again?
Price and convenience are the main reasons consumers make their flight decisions.
Everyone knows that there are at least some flights out of MKG so the "close to my home or business" factor only applies to those closer to MKG than to GRR.
The billboards are WORTHLESS.
Who made the contract and how much of our tax dollars were spent on this idiotic boondoggle.......again?
Price and convenience are the main reasons consumers make their flight decisions.
Everyone knows that there are at least some flights out of MKG so the "close to my home or business" factor only applies to those closer to MKG than to GRR.
A fairly small arc.
And the parking is a bit cheaper and MKG is FAR more customer friendly than GRR.
But the main reason most non-business and many business travelers would choose one airport over another is price.
And MKG is usually not price competitive.
Add in the smaller plane and limited number of airlines and flights and "voila", another few hundred thousand dollars (or more) down the drain to attract an unneeded airline to our airport.
So we waste more tax money to pay off a well connected billboard company and continue to make our community a laughing stock to the rest of west Michigan.
Is no one outraged?
And the parking is a bit cheaper and MKG is FAR more customer friendly than GRR.
But the main reason most non-business and many business travelers would choose one airport over another is price.
And MKG is usually not price competitive.
Add in the smaller plane and limited number of airlines and flights and "voila", another few hundred thousand dollars (or more) down the drain to attract an unneeded airline to our airport.
So we waste more tax money to pay off a well connected billboard company and continue to make our community a laughing stock to the rest of west Michigan.
Is no one outraged?
Shinseki: US will fix broken VA disability system
Shinseki: US will fix broken VA disability system
"Veterans Affairs Secretary Eric Shinseki said he's making it a top priority this year to tackle the backlog of disability claims that has veterans waiting months - even years - to get financial compensation for their injuries."
Remember, these are the folks who want to EXPAND their control over your health care.
Think about it, if they won't do right by our injured military.......our American heroes!
"Veterans Affairs Secretary Eric Shinseki said he's making it a top priority this year to tackle the backlog of disability claims that has veterans waiting months - even years - to get financial compensation for their injuries."
Remember, these are the folks who want to EXPAND their control over your health care.
Think about it, if they won't do right by our injured military.......our American heroes!
What do you think they're gonna do to you and your family?
Oh yeah.... and the VA is broke too.
Tea Party Nation: On the Movement's Rapid Rise, Protests - TIME
Tea Party Nation: On the Movement's Rapid Rise, Protests - TIME
"Small Is Beautiful
Now those people have a sort of political home.
Across the country, from Muskegon, Mich., to Wetumpka, Ala., Tea Party meetings are being convened in restaurants and living rooms and libraries and office buildings — and online."
"Small Is Beautiful
Now those people have a sort of political home.
Across the country, from Muskegon, Mich., to Wetumpka, Ala., Tea Party meetings are being convened in restaurants and living rooms and libraries and office buildings — and online."
And we meet tonight to get Muskegon Patriots revved up again!
Sunday, February 21, 2010
Works and Days » Where Did Our Real Wealth Go?
Works and Days » Where Did Our Real Wealth Go?
"(A citizen who believes by birthright that he is to be taken care of by the state always hates the state that can never do enough, in the fashion that the country who is taken care of militarily always hates its protector.)"
(HT AL)
"(A citizen who believes by birthright that he is to be taken care of by the state always hates the state that can never do enough, in the fashion that the country who is taken care of militarily always hates its protector.)"
(HT AL)
Thursday, February 18, 2010
BILL O’REILLY SUPPORTS GUN CONFISCATION DURING WEATHER EMERGENCIES? That’s funny. O’Reilly calls t…
BILL O’REILLY SUPPORTS GUN CONFISCATION DURING WEATHER EMERGENCIES?
That’s funny.
O’Reilly calls the opposing position “extreme,” but such gun confiscation is illegal under federal statute, and as a matter of constitutional law; in fact, the city of New Orleans lost a lawsuit over gun confiscation during Katrina.
But then, O’Reilly’s no libertarian, to put things mildly.
And he’s consistently weak on the law, also to put things mildly.
Still, he should have been better briefed for this show, as he came across looking like a fool, and making his “extreme” guest look sober and well-informed by comparison.
UPDATE:
How radically anti-gun is Bill O’Reilly here?
Even Barack Obama voted the other way. (Thanks to reader John Stober for the link).
Posted at by Glenn Reynolds at 9:47 pm"
That’s funny.
O’Reilly calls the opposing position “extreme,” but such gun confiscation is illegal under federal statute, and as a matter of constitutional law; in fact, the city of New Orleans lost a lawsuit over gun confiscation during Katrina.
But then, O’Reilly’s no libertarian, to put things mildly.
And he’s consistently weak on the law, also to put things mildly.
Still, he should have been better briefed for this show, as he came across looking like a fool, and making his “extreme” guest look sober and well-informed by comparison.
UPDATE:
How radically anti-gun is Bill O’Reilly here?
Even Barack Obama voted the other way. (Thanks to reader John Stober for the link).
Posted at by Glenn Reynolds at 9:47 pm"
Smelly Passenger Kicked Off Plane: Odor Disturbed Others on Flight
Smelly Passenger Kicked Off Plane: Odor Disturbed Others on Flight
"'People were just mumbling and staring at him,' Walsh told the Prince Edward Island Guardian, describing the man as unkempt.
'The guy next to me said, 'It's brutal.''"
"'People were just mumbling and staring at him,' Walsh told the Prince Edward Island Guardian, describing the man as unkempt.
'The guy next to me said, 'It's brutal.''"
State auditors report pension debt
State auditors report pension debt
"The state's five pension systems are collectively under funded by more than $62 billion, according to a new financial report released Tuesday by state auditors.
That liability was $8 billion more than the previous year, an increase of 14.7 percent."
"The state's five pension systems are collectively under funded by more than $62 billion, according to a new financial report released Tuesday by state auditors.
That liability was $8 billion more than the previous year, an increase of 14.7 percent."
Sarah Palin and the Politics of Grievance - WSJ.com
Dorothy Rabinowitz: Sarah Palin and the Politics of Grievance
"Though it hasn't attracted wide attention, nothing Mrs. Palin has done recently has been worthier of notice than her endorsement of Rand Paul, now running in Kentucky's GOP senate primary.
Dr. Paul, an opthamologist and radical libertarian, holds views on national security and defense that have much in common with those of the far left.
Not to mention those of the considerable body of conspiracy theorists, antigovernment zealots, 9/11 truthers, and assorted other cadres of the obsessed and deranged who flocked to the presidential candidacy of his father Ron Paul, the congressman from Texas."
"Though it hasn't attracted wide attention, nothing Mrs. Palin has done recently has been worthier of notice than her endorsement of Rand Paul, now running in Kentucky's GOP senate primary.
Dr. Paul, an opthamologist and radical libertarian, holds views on national security and defense that have much in common with those of the far left.
Not to mention those of the considerable body of conspiracy theorists, antigovernment zealots, 9/11 truthers, and assorted other cadres of the obsessed and deranged who flocked to the presidential candidacy of his father Ron Paul, the congressman from Texas."
Napolitano Meets with Muslim Brotherhood Leaders
Napolitano Meets with Muslim Brotherhood Leaders
"Last month, U.S. Homeland Security Secretary Janet Napolitano and her senior staff privately met in Washington, D.C., with a select group of Muslim, Arab, and Sikh organizations.
Among the mix were three organizations directly associated with an outlawed terrorist entity — the Muslim Brotherhood."
"Last month, U.S. Homeland Security Secretary Janet Napolitano and her senior staff privately met in Washington, D.C., with a select group of Muslim, Arab, and Sikh organizations.
Among the mix were three organizations directly associated with an outlawed terrorist entity — the Muslim Brotherhood."
Report: Barry violated city contract law - Washington Times
Report: Barry violated city contract law
"In addition, the report says Mr. Barry, 73, on several occasions delivered checks to Ms. Brighthaupt, accompanied her to the bank to cash the checks and then made her give him some of the money.
Ms. Brighthaupt said she gave Mr. Barry several hundred to thousands of dollars, according to the report.
Mr. Barry has said he insisted on being repaid for money he gave Ms. Brighthaupt to help her with a mortgage, car repairs and other bills."
"In addition, the report says Mr. Barry, 73, on several occasions delivered checks to Ms. Brighthaupt, accompanied her to the bank to cash the checks and then made her give him some of the money.
Ms. Brighthaupt said she gave Mr. Barry several hundred to thousands of dollars, according to the report.
Mr. Barry has said he insisted on being repaid for money he gave Ms. Brighthaupt to help her with a mortgage, car repairs and other bills."
Class Warfare's Next Target: 401(k) Savings
Class Warfare's Next Target: 401(k) Savings
"You did the responsible thing. You saved in your IRA or 401(k) to support your retirement, when you could have spent that money on another vacation, or an upscale car, or fancier clothes and jewelry.
But now Washington is developing plans for your retirement savings.
BusinessWeek reports that the Treasury and Labor departments are asking for public comment on 'the conversion of 401(k) savings and Individual Retirement Accounts into annuities or other steady payment streams.'
In plain English, the idea is for the government to take your retirement savings in return for a promise to pay you some monthly benefit in your retirement years."
"You did the responsible thing. You saved in your IRA or 401(k) to support your retirement, when you could have spent that money on another vacation, or an upscale car, or fancier clothes and jewelry.
But now Washington is developing plans for your retirement savings.
BusinessWeek reports that the Treasury and Labor departments are asking for public comment on 'the conversion of 401(k) savings and Individual Retirement Accounts into annuities or other steady payment streams.'
In plain English, the idea is for the government to take your retirement savings in return for a promise to pay you some monthly benefit in your retirement years."
Michael Moore in Muskegon
I despise Mike Moore's anti-American rhetoric and fervently believe his movies are offensive distortions of the truth. His damage to our country's reputation and our system of capitalism will be long lasting.
But I was at the $75 gig last night at Hagar's and it was pretty cool.
And Mike was almost humble and very down to earth. And very likeable.
There were about 40 people, more if you count the volunteers providing food and a band.
And his short talk to the adoring crowd was strong on "support the arts" and wonder at the "big empty building down the road" (Sappi) and the Frauenthal. "Is that really your downtown?" he said almost hoping it wasn't.
He prattled on about the mess that Flint/Muskegon is today but threw no big stones.
He seemed to think a "non-profit" theatre was somehow better than a for-profit theatre.
But on the whole I came away with the feeling he was kind of a good guy.
I even got a photo of my man Mike and me!
I imagine I'd have felt the same way after a fun night with Bernie Maddoff.
His movies are Goebbels style propaganda but if he helps The Harbor, why not?
I love going into the belly of the beast.
But I was at the $75 gig last night at Hagar's and it was pretty cool.
And Mike was almost humble and very down to earth. And very likeable.
There were about 40 people, more if you count the volunteers providing food and a band.
And his short talk to the adoring crowd was strong on "support the arts" and wonder at the "big empty building down the road" (Sappi) and the Frauenthal. "Is that really your downtown?" he said almost hoping it wasn't.
He prattled on about the mess that Flint/Muskegon is today but threw no big stones.
He seemed to think a "non-profit" theatre was somehow better than a for-profit theatre.
But on the whole I came away with the feeling he was kind of a good guy.
I even got a photo of my man Mike and me!
I imagine I'd have felt the same way after a fun night with Bernie Maddoff.
His movies are Goebbels style propaganda but if he helps The Harbor, why not?
I love going into the belly of the beast.
Wednesday, February 17, 2010
CNN Celebrates Obama Stimulus With a Birthday Cake
CNN Celebrates Obama Stimulus With a Birthday Cake
"Over at the most trusted name in news, they sure know how to party when it's called for.
That was evident this afternoon on CNN Newsroom when anchor Ali Velshi gushed:
Happy birthday, dear stimulus.
Our producer Ben Tinker (ph) baked this cake.
It is a stimulus happy birthday -- first birthday cake, which is also a pie chart.
It is the birthday of the stimulus. It is actually very --"
This... is ....CNN.. how pathetic!
"Over at the most trusted name in news, they sure know how to party when it's called for.
That was evident this afternoon on CNN Newsroom when anchor Ali Velshi gushed:
Happy birthday, dear stimulus.
Our producer Ben Tinker (ph) baked this cake.
It is a stimulus happy birthday -- first birthday cake, which is also a pie chart.
It is the birthday of the stimulus. It is actually very --"
This... is ....CNN.. how pathetic!
Michigan Home-Care Providers File Class Action Suit Challenging Union Boss/Granholm Unionization Scheme
Michigan Home-Care Providers File Class Action Suit Challenging Union Boss/Granholm Unionization Scheme
"With free legal aid from National Right to Work Legal Defense Foundation attorneys, a group of Michigan home-based day-care providers have filed a class action federal lawsuit against government union officials and Governor Granholm's Administration for illegally forcing them to pay union dues."
The good guys are fighting back!
(HT to Paula)
"With free legal aid from National Right to Work Legal Defense Foundation attorneys, a group of Michigan home-based day-care providers have filed a class action federal lawsuit against government union officials and Governor Granholm's Administration for illegally forcing them to pay union dues."
The good guys are fighting back!
(HT to Paula)
John Stossel on Forced Unionization : Whose Business is It Anyways 2/10/10
John Stossel on Forced Unionization : Whose Business is It Anyways 2/10/10
These scumbags will be in Muskegon at the Holiday Inn today at 6:00PM
These scumbags will be in Muskegon at the Holiday Inn today at 6:00PM
Obama Envoy Vouched for Convicted Terrorist?
Obama Envoy Vouched for Convicted Terrorist?
Fox News – doing what the Obama-approved outlets won’t — takes a look at the newest Obama envoy. The report tells us:
President Obama’s new envoy to the Organization of Islamic Conference, Rashad Hussain, is at the center of a controversy over remarks attributed to him defending a man who later pleaded guilty to conspiring to aid a terrorist group.
.......Well, this seems like it’s worth looking into.
A helpful profile on Al-Arian is here.
But let’s not be coy here.
Hussain is the designated man to continue the suck-uppery to the “Muslim World,” which Obama was personally conducting in Cairo and via his televised addressed to the Iranian Supreme Leader at the start of his presidency."
Thank God for FoxNews and the internet!
Fox News – doing what the Obama-approved outlets won’t — takes a look at the newest Obama envoy. The report tells us:
President Obama’s new envoy to the Organization of Islamic Conference, Rashad Hussain, is at the center of a controversy over remarks attributed to him defending a man who later pleaded guilty to conspiring to aid a terrorist group.
.......Well, this seems like it’s worth looking into.
A helpful profile on Al-Arian is here.
But let’s not be coy here.
Hussain is the designated man to continue the suck-uppery to the “Muslim World,” which Obama was personally conducting in Cairo and via his televised addressed to the Iranian Supreme Leader at the start of his presidency."
Thank God for FoxNews and the internet!
Cell phone ban in school speed zones in effect, under radar
Cell phone ban in school speed zones in effect, under radar
"School districts and police officials are using e-mails, letters and warnings to publicize a new state law that has taken many parents by surprise because it prohibits the use of a hand-held cell phone while driving in a school zone.
Since the law took effect Jan. 1, officials have scrambled to inform parents who dial away while performing the daily rite of dropping off or picking up their children amid a thicket of cars, buses and darting pedestrians.
Many find the law confusing, and even some police officials complain that it will be difficult to enforce.
'Personally, I think the police have better things to do than sit in the parking lot of schools and watch for people talking on the phone,'"
"School districts and police officials are using e-mails, letters and warnings to publicize a new state law that has taken many parents by surprise because it prohibits the use of a hand-held cell phone while driving in a school zone.
Since the law took effect Jan. 1, officials have scrambled to inform parents who dial away while performing the daily rite of dropping off or picking up their children amid a thicket of cars, buses and darting pedestrians.
Many find the law confusing, and even some police officials complain that it will be difficult to enforce.
'Personally, I think the police have better things to do than sit in the parking lot of schools and watch for people talking on the phone,'"
Hazelwood man dies after 10 calls to 911 over two days
Hazelwood man dies after 10 calls to 911 over two days
"In his first call to 911, Curtis Mitchell sounded calm, explaining to dispatchers that his 'entire stomach [was] in pain.'
By the time his longtime girlfriend made a 10th call nearly 30 hours later, she was frantic.
He wasn't breathing.
He was cold to the touch.
'Oh God, oh God,' Sharon Edge sobbed to dispatchers.
'I've been trying to get an ambulance over here for three days.'
Paramedics arrived at their Hazelwood home as Ms. Edge tried to resuscitate the 50-year-old, but it was too late.
'I sat up here with him, watching him die,' Ms. Edge said Tuesday, after city officials apologized to her and pledged immediate changes in emergency response after Mr. Mitchell's death on Feb. 7.
'They didn't do their jobs like they were supposed to.'"
But government run health care is way less complicated and would be run much better than this.
"In his first call to 911, Curtis Mitchell sounded calm, explaining to dispatchers that his 'entire stomach [was] in pain.'
By the time his longtime girlfriend made a 10th call nearly 30 hours later, she was frantic.
He wasn't breathing.
He was cold to the touch.
'Oh God, oh God,' Sharon Edge sobbed to dispatchers.
'I've been trying to get an ambulance over here for three days.'
Paramedics arrived at their Hazelwood home as Ms. Edge tried to resuscitate the 50-year-old, but it was too late.
'I sat up here with him, watching him die,' Ms. Edge said Tuesday, after city officials apologized to her and pledged immediate changes in emergency response after Mr. Mitchell's death on Feb. 7.
'They didn't do their jobs like they were supposed to.'"
But government run health care is way less complicated and would be run much better than this.
Tuesday, February 16, 2010
Foreigners cut Treasury stakes; rates could rise - Yahoo! Finance
Foreigners cut Treasury stakes; rates could rise - Yahoo! Finance: "A record drop in foreign holdings of U.S. Treasury bills in December sent a reminder that the government might have to pay higher interest rates on its debt to continue to attract investors.
China reduced its stake and lost the position it's held for more than a year as the largest foreign holder of Treasury debt. Japan retook the top spot as it boosted its Treasury holdings.
The Treasury Department said foreign holdings of U.S. Treasury bills fell by a record $53 billion in December. That topped the previous record drop of $44.5 billion in April 2009.
Private analysts, though, were split over the significance of the decline. Some doubted that the drop in foreign holdings of short-term Treasuries signified growing unease about holding U.S. debt. They noted that net purchases of longer-term Treasury debt rose in December by $70 billion.
But other economists saw the decline as a warning signal. They fear that foreigners, especially the Chinese, have begun to worry about record-high U.S. budget deficits and are looking to diversify their holdings."
China reduced its stake and lost the position it's held for more than a year as the largest foreign holder of Treasury debt. Japan retook the top spot as it boosted its Treasury holdings.
The Treasury Department said foreign holdings of U.S. Treasury bills fell by a record $53 billion in December. That topped the previous record drop of $44.5 billion in April 2009.
Private analysts, though, were split over the significance of the decline. Some doubted that the drop in foreign holdings of short-term Treasuries signified growing unease about holding U.S. debt. They noted that net purchases of longer-term Treasury debt rose in December by $70 billion.
But other economists saw the decline as a warning signal. They fear that foreigners, especially the Chinese, have begun to worry about record-high U.S. budget deficits and are looking to diversify their holdings."
American Thinker Blog: Tea Party truths
American Thinker Blog: Tea Party truths: "Tea Party truths
Russ Vaughn
Glenn Reynolds, better known to bloggers of our persuasion as Instapundit, absolutely nailed it in his WSJ article this past weekend entitled, What I Saw at the Tea Party Convention. What is so effective is the way Reynolds sets the stage with his lead paragraph and the two following:
There were promises of transparency and of a new kind of collaborative politics where establishment figures listened to ordinary Americans. We were going to see net spending cuts, tax cuts for nearly all Americans, an end to earmarks, legislation posted online for the public to review before it is signed into law, and a line-by-line review of the federal budget to remove wasteful programs.
These weren't the tea-party platforms I heard discussed in Nashville last weekend. They were the campaign promises of Barack Obama in 2008.
Mr. Obama made those promises because the ideas they represented were popular with average Americans. So popular, it turns out, that average Americans are organizing themselves in pursuit of the kind of good government Mr. Obama promised, but has not delivered. And that, in a nutshell, was the feel of the National Tea Party Convention. The political elites have failed, and citizens are stepping in to pick up the slack.
Well that's a nutshell that foaming-mouthed liberals like Olbermann, Matthews, Maddow and the Puffington Host will be gagging on."
Russ Vaughn
Glenn Reynolds, better known to bloggers of our persuasion as Instapundit, absolutely nailed it in his WSJ article this past weekend entitled, What I Saw at the Tea Party Convention. What is so effective is the way Reynolds sets the stage with his lead paragraph and the two following:
There were promises of transparency and of a new kind of collaborative politics where establishment figures listened to ordinary Americans. We were going to see net spending cuts, tax cuts for nearly all Americans, an end to earmarks, legislation posted online for the public to review before it is signed into law, and a line-by-line review of the federal budget to remove wasteful programs.
These weren't the tea-party platforms I heard discussed in Nashville last weekend. They were the campaign promises of Barack Obama in 2008.
Mr. Obama made those promises because the ideas they represented were popular with average Americans. So popular, it turns out, that average Americans are organizing themselves in pursuit of the kind of good government Mr. Obama promised, but has not delivered. And that, in a nutshell, was the feel of the National Tea Party Convention. The political elites have failed, and citizens are stepping in to pick up the slack.
Well that's a nutshell that foaming-mouthed liberals like Olbermann, Matthews, Maddow and the Puffington Host will be gagging on."
52% say Obama doesn't deserve reelection in 2012
CNN poll: 52% say Obama doesn't deserve reelection in 2012
"52 percent of Americans said President Barack Obama doesn't deserve reelection in 2012, according to a new poll."
"52 percent of Americans said President Barack Obama doesn't deserve reelection in 2012, according to a new poll."
Well, record setting unemployment isn't a great reelection strategery.
Lone voice warns of debt threat to Fed
Lone voice warns of debt threat to Fed
"The US must fix its growing debt problems or risk a new financial crisis, Thomas Hoenig, president of the Federal Reserve Bank of Kansas City, warned on Tuesday, adding a mounting deficit could spur inflation.
Mr Hoenig said that rising debt was infringing on the central bank’s ability to fulfil its goals of maintaining price stability and long-term economic growth.
“Stunning” deficit projections were putting political pressure on the Fed to keep interest rates low, infringing on its independence at the risk of inflation, he said.
“Without pre-emptive action, the US risks its next crisis,” Mr Hoenig said in a speech at the Pew-Peterson Commission on Budget Reform."
Seriously.
This is a major "DUH".
Spending like drunken Kennedys will lead to bankruptcy?
What a concept!
"The US must fix its growing debt problems or risk a new financial crisis, Thomas Hoenig, president of the Federal Reserve Bank of Kansas City, warned on Tuesday, adding a mounting deficit could spur inflation.
Mr Hoenig said that rising debt was infringing on the central bank’s ability to fulfil its goals of maintaining price stability and long-term economic growth.
“Stunning” deficit projections were putting political pressure on the Fed to keep interest rates low, infringing on its independence at the risk of inflation, he said.
“Without pre-emptive action, the US risks its next crisis,” Mr Hoenig said in a speech at the Pew-Peterson Commission on Budget Reform."
Seriously.
This is a major "DUH".
Spending like drunken Kennedys will lead to bankruptcy?
What a concept!
Bad Behavior Leaves Cox Open to Extortion
Bad Behavior Leaves Cox Open to Extortion
"That’s not the case here in Michigan, where one of our state’s most famous philanderers is still taken seriously.
In January, The Oakland Press named Michigan gubernatorial candidate Mike Cox one of their “Top 10 Cheaters” of the decade.
In 2005, Cox held a press conference to announce that he had taken part in an extramarital affair in 2003, while serving as the state’s Attorney General.
Cox only went public with the affair after trial lawyer Geoffrey Fieger allegedly threatened to expose it if Cox did not drop an investigation into Fieger’s alleged campaign finance violations.
One can only wonder what other secrets leave Mike Cox vulnerable to extortion"
This seems to be a hit-site set up by Cox opponents but it does ask legitimate, unanswered questions.
Last year, I asked the Cox campaign how he would handle the uncomfortable questions that surely would be asked by the media and his political opponents.
They dodged and tried to "shout" me down, even calling me at home and calling my political friends to shut me up.
Now it appears to be coming out again.
And Cox has yet to address the political problem.
How will he do in a statewide debate?
"That’s not the case here in Michigan, where one of our state’s most famous philanderers is still taken seriously.
In January, The Oakland Press named Michigan gubernatorial candidate Mike Cox one of their “Top 10 Cheaters” of the decade.
In 2005, Cox held a press conference to announce that he had taken part in an extramarital affair in 2003, while serving as the state’s Attorney General.
Cox only went public with the affair after trial lawyer Geoffrey Fieger allegedly threatened to expose it if Cox did not drop an investigation into Fieger’s alleged campaign finance violations.
One can only wonder what other secrets leave Mike Cox vulnerable to extortion"
This seems to be a hit-site set up by Cox opponents but it does ask legitimate, unanswered questions.
Last year, I asked the Cox campaign how he would handle the uncomfortable questions that surely would be asked by the media and his political opponents.
They dodged and tried to "shout" me down, even calling me at home and calling my political friends to shut me up.
Now it appears to be coming out again.
And Cox has yet to address the political problem.
How will he do in a statewide debate?
Will Michigan Business Taxpayers Be Subsidizing Batteries for 'Free' Golf Carts?
Will Michigan Business Taxpayers Be Subsidizing Batteries for 'Free' Golf Carts?
"While many Michigan taxpayers may be laughing or angry at the revelation by Fox News' John Stossel that he obtained a 'free' golf cart using special tax breaks and giveaways for electric cars [video], very few may realize that Michigan's lawmakers have been altering this state's business tax code to provide special credits and giveaways for the industry that creates these cars.
Most recently, on Dec. 31, 2009, Gov. Jennifer Granholm signed into law House Bill 5469, which expands a taxpayer subsidy for makers of electric car batteries.
Two weeks earlier, overwhelming majorities in the House and Senate voted to approve the bill — only nine lawmakers out of 148 voted 'no.'"
More "business as usual" for our Michigan legislators.
We will have a chance to see real change in the August primaries.
Do we have the cojones to stand up to the forces of fiscal evil?
"While many Michigan taxpayers may be laughing or angry at the revelation by Fox News' John Stossel that he obtained a 'free' golf cart using special tax breaks and giveaways for electric cars [video], very few may realize that Michigan's lawmakers have been altering this state's business tax code to provide special credits and giveaways for the industry that creates these cars.
Most recently, on Dec. 31, 2009, Gov. Jennifer Granholm signed into law House Bill 5469, which expands a taxpayer subsidy for makers of electric car batteries.
Two weeks earlier, overwhelming majorities in the House and Senate voted to approve the bill — only nine lawmakers out of 148 voted 'no.'"
More "business as usual" for our Michigan legislators.
We will have a chance to see real change in the August primaries.
Do we have the cojones to stand up to the forces of fiscal evil?
‘Oddball’ portrait of Amy Bishop emerges
‘Oddball’ portrait of Amy Bishop emerges
"A family source said Bishop, a mother of four children - the youngest a third-grade boy - was a far-left political extremist who was “obsessed” with President Obama to the point of being off-putting."
Too much of a good thing?
"A family source said Bishop, a mother of four children - the youngest a third-grade boy - was a far-left political extremist who was “obsessed” with President Obama to the point of being off-putting."
Too much of a good thing?
Monday, February 15, 2010
Optimal Waist-to-Hip Ratios in Women Activate Neural Reward Centers in Men
PLoS ONE: Optimal Waist-to-Hip Ratios in Women Activate Neural Reward Centers in Men
"Secondary sexual characteristics convey information about reproductive potential.
In the same way that facial symmetry and masculinity, and shoulder-to-hip ratio convey information about reproductive/genetic quality in males, waist-to-hip-ratio (WHR) is a phenotypic cue to fertility, fecundity, neurodevelopmental resources in offspring, and overall health, and is indicative of “good genes” in women."
"Fecundity"?
I always thought it was tits and ass...... hooters and hips.
Am I still single cuz I never understood fecundity?
"Secondary sexual characteristics convey information about reproductive potential.
In the same way that facial symmetry and masculinity, and shoulder-to-hip ratio convey information about reproductive/genetic quality in males, waist-to-hip-ratio (WHR) is a phenotypic cue to fertility, fecundity, neurodevelopmental resources in offspring, and overall health, and is indicative of “good genes” in women."
"Fecundity"?
I always thought it was tits and ass...... hooters and hips.
Am I still single cuz I never understood fecundity?
Vancouver’s quick descent from high ground
James Lawton: Vancouver’s quick descent from high ground
"Kumaritashvili had just 26 practice runs, as opposed to the 200 for the Canadians"
"Kumaritashvili had just 26 practice runs, as opposed to the 200 for the Canadians"
Great Olympic comebacks by Wescott, Miller & Vonn
Great Olympic comebacks by Wescott, Miller & Vonn
"The speedskating event was delayed because both Zambonis were busted, leaving the machines in need of repair and the ice in need of cleaning."
The Zambonis were "busted"?
Is this a drug thing?
Heh....
"The speedskating event was delayed because both Zambonis were busted, leaving the machines in need of repair and the ice in need of cleaning."
The Zambonis were "busted"?
Is this a drug thing?
Heh....
Gary Berdinski, Muskegon County sheriff's marine officer, retires after 37 years
Gary Berdinski, Muskegon County sheriff's marine officer, retires after 37 years
“I’m the guy with the cool job,” he likes to say.
“The coolest job ever.”"
“I’m the guy with the cool job,” he likes to say.
“The coolest job ever.”"
A great guy!
A skinny guy!
Enjoy your retirement Sheriff Gary!
Snow days deprive many kids of food
Snow days deprive many kids of food
"As back-to-back snowstorms shuttered schools for the week across the mid-Atlantic states, parents fretted about lost learning time, administrators scheduled makeup days and teachers posted assignments online.
But Marla Caplon worried about a more fundamental problem:
How would students eat?
The two snowstorms that pummeled the region, leaving more than 3 feet of snow in some areas, deprived tens of thousands of children from Virginia to Pennsylvania of the free or reduced-price school lunch that may be their only nutritious meal of the day.
The nonprofits that try to meet the need when school is not in session also closed their doors for much of the week, leaving many families looking at bare cupboards.
And many parents working hourly jobs were unable to earn any money during the week, as the snow forced businesses to close.
Caplon is a food services supervisor for Montgomery County Public Schools, where about 43,000 children are eligible for free or reduced-price lunches.
Some also get breakfast, dinner and bags of staple foods to take home for the weekend.
The snow days meant children would get none of that until Tuesday, because schools are closed Monday for Presidents Day."
"As back-to-back snowstorms shuttered schools for the week across the mid-Atlantic states, parents fretted about lost learning time, administrators scheduled makeup days and teachers posted assignments online.
But Marla Caplon worried about a more fundamental problem:
How would students eat?
The two snowstorms that pummeled the region, leaving more than 3 feet of snow in some areas, deprived tens of thousands of children from Virginia to Pennsylvania of the free or reduced-price school lunch that may be their only nutritious meal of the day.
The nonprofits that try to meet the need when school is not in session also closed their doors for much of the week, leaving many families looking at bare cupboards.
And many parents working hourly jobs were unable to earn any money during the week, as the snow forced businesses to close.
Caplon is a food services supervisor for Montgomery County Public Schools, where about 43,000 children are eligible for free or reduced-price lunches.
Some also get breakfast, dinner and bags of staple foods to take home for the weekend.
The snow days meant children would get none of that until Tuesday, because schools are closed Monday for Presidents Day."
Democratic Sen. Bayh Will Not Seek Re-Election This Year
Democratic Sen. Bayh Will Not Seek Re-Election This Year
"Indiana Sen. Evan Bayh will not seek re-election this November, an unexpected decision that hands Republicans an opportunity for a pick-up in a year when Democrats are already defending several open Senate seats."
This is BIG!
"Indiana Sen. Evan Bayh will not seek re-election this November, an unexpected decision that hands Republicans an opportunity for a pick-up in a year when Democrats are already defending several open Senate seats."
This is BIG!
"Hitler on Climate Change"
Last Man In « Neptunus Lex:
"It’s probably a sign that the whole “Hitler parody” thing has run its course when I jump in."
You must see this video!
Way too funny...and close to the truth!
"It’s probably a sign that the whole “Hitler parody” thing has run its course when I jump in."
You must see this video!
Way too funny...and close to the truth!
Sunday, February 14, 2010
Unemployment in the Great Recession
Power Line - Unemployment in the Great Recession
"In his most recent column, Cooley asks where job growth will come from.
Nor surprisingly, Cooley urges that 'policies designed to create new jobs in the economy should be directed at encouraging new firms.'
I see no evidence that such policies will be forthcoming from the federal government in the next year.
On the contrary, among other things, the tax increases built into Obama's budget will discourage new firms."
"In his most recent column, Cooley asks where job growth will come from.
Nor surprisingly, Cooley urges that 'policies designed to create new jobs in the economy should be directed at encouraging new firms.'
I see no evidence that such policies will be forthcoming from the federal government in the next year.
On the contrary, among other things, the tax increases built into Obama's budget will discourage new firms."
Spartan green to take on darker shade
Spartan green to take on darker shade
"Spartan fans, get ready to bleed a different shade of green.
This morning, Michigan State University’s Board of Trustees officially replaced the Spartan green that’s been used since 1997 with a new, darker Spartan green.
The new shade, Pantone Matching System Color 567, is supposed to be more consistent with the pre-1997 green used by the university."
http://www.spartantailgate.com/forums/msu-red-cedar-message-board/429856-tofficial-new-msu-green-pms-567-a.html#post6585233
"Spartan fans, get ready to bleed a different shade of green.
This morning, Michigan State University’s Board of Trustees officially replaced the Spartan green that’s been used since 1997 with a new, darker Spartan green.
The new shade, Pantone Matching System Color 567, is supposed to be more consistent with the pre-1997 green used by the university."
http://www.spartantailgate.com/forums/msu-red-cedar-message-board/429856-tofficial-new-msu-green-pms-567-a.html#post6585233
Gun owners in cross hairs
Gun owners in cross hairs
"The gun grabbers are at it again in Maryland. Next month, the state's House Judiciary Committee will initiate hearings on legislation forcing firearms enthusiasts to register with the state government before they can exercise their Second Amendment rights.
The bill would make it a crime on par with murder, kidnapping, rape and extortion for a private party to sell his own gun to someone who has no license. "
"The gun grabbers are at it again in Maryland. Next month, the state's House Judiciary Committee will initiate hearings on legislation forcing firearms enthusiasts to register with the state government before they can exercise their Second Amendment rights.
The bill would make it a crime on par with murder, kidnapping, rape and extortion for a private party to sell his own gun to someone who has no license. "
Climategate U-turn as scientist at centre of row admits: There has been no global warming since 1995
Professor Phil Jones admitted his record keeping is 'not as good as it should be
"Climategate U-turn as scientist at centre of row admits: There has been no global warming since 1995"
Data for vital 'hockey stick graph' has gone missing
There has been no global warming since 1995
Warming periods have happened before - but NOT due to man-made changes
Read more: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-1250872/Climategate-U-turn-Astonishment-scientist-centre-global-warming-email-row-admits-data-organised.html#ixzz0fX24s4Eh
"Climategate U-turn as scientist at centre of row admits: There has been no global warming since 1995"
Data for vital 'hockey stick graph' has gone missing
There has been no global warming since 1995
Warming periods have happened before - but NOT due to man-made changes
Read more: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-1250872/Climategate-U-turn-Astonishment-scientist-centre-global-warming-email-row-admits-data-organised.html#ixzz0fX24s4Eh
Saturday, February 13, 2010
Police: Wife of slain Olympian arrested in Calif.
Police: Wife of slain Olympian arrested in Calif
"The wife of an Olympic shot put medalist gunned down in his Southern California back yard last summer was arrested Saturday in the homicide case, authorities said.
Oxnard police said in a written statement that Jane Laut, 52, was arrested during a traffic stop Saturday morning.
Police said an arrest warrant had been issued earlier in the week.
Her husband David Laut, who won a bronze medal in the 1984 Olympics in Los Angeles, was shot several times in the head on the night of Aug. 28 in their yard in Oxnard, a coastal city 60 miles northwest of Los Angeles.
He was declared dead at the scene"
Nice timing!
"The wife of an Olympic shot put medalist gunned down in his Southern California back yard last summer was arrested Saturday in the homicide case, authorities said.
Oxnard police said in a written statement that Jane Laut, 52, was arrested during a traffic stop Saturday morning.
Police said an arrest warrant had been issued earlier in the week.
Her husband David Laut, who won a bronze medal in the 1984 Olympics in Los Angeles, was shot several times in the head on the night of Aug. 28 in their yard in Oxnard, a coastal city 60 miles northwest of Los Angeles.
He was declared dead at the scene"
Nice timing!
Changes on Luge Track Could Offset Canadian Team’s Advantage - NYTimes.com
Changes on Luge Track Could Offset Canadian Team’s Advantage
"Canada was criticized for granting foreign athletes only limited training access to the Olympic sliding center before the Winter Games. Now its luge team will have to quickly adjust to the course along with everyone else."
"Canada was criticized for granting foreign athletes only limited training access to the Olympic sliding center before the Winter Games. Now its luge team will have to quickly adjust to the course along with everyone else."
Moe Lane » Rep. Bill Delahunt (D, MA): why did you put Amy Bishop back on the street?
Moe Lane » Rep. Bill Delahunt (D, MA): why did you put Amy Bishop back on the street?
"Amy Bishop, of course, is the woman who murdered those people down at the University of Alabama… and, apparently, she was ‘taken into custody’ for the murder of her brother in 1986. And that’s where it gets interesting."
"Amy Bishop, of course, is the woman who murdered those people down at the University of Alabama… and, apparently, she was ‘taken into custody’ for the murder of her brother in 1986. And that’s where it gets interesting."
Greece turns on EU critics
Greece turns on EU critics
"Greece on Friday unleashed a fierce attack on its European Union partners, accusing them of creating a “psychology of looming collapse” a day after they pledged support for the country’s crisis-hit government.
George Papandreou, Greek prime minister, said that, in the eurozone’s first big test, Greece had become “a laboratory animal in the battle between Europe and the markets”."
"Greece on Friday unleashed a fierce attack on its European Union partners, accusing them of creating a “psychology of looming collapse” a day after they pledged support for the country’s crisis-hit government.
George Papandreou, Greek prime minister, said that, in the eurozone’s first big test, Greece had become “a laboratory animal in the battle between Europe and the markets”."
Woes include bankruptcy at Whistler, no snow at Cypress
Woes include bankruptcy at Whistler, no snow at Cypress
"The Whistler ski resort, home to next month's Olympic downhill, could be auctioned off Feb. 19, right in the middle of the games amid a bankruptcy."
"The Whistler ski resort, home to next month's Olympic downhill, could be auctioned off Feb. 19, right in the middle of the games amid a bankruptcy."
How Global Warming is causing blizzards in Washington--the Explanation
How Global Warming is causing blizzards in Washington--the Explanation
With the blizzards in the East Coast we are hearing from global warming fanatics that this simply is another manifestation of global warming. As counterintuitive as this may seem, I wrote this up to explain it.
This is the way science works for the supporters of AGW
Increased warming means higher temperatures and therefore less snow.
But increased warming means more water vapor in the atmosphere leading to more precipitation.
Therefore AGW can cause big blizzards. So too little snow or too much snow is an indication of global warming.
More warming can mean glaciers will shrink.
But more precipitation means glaciers can grow.
Therefore if glaciers are growing or shrinking it means global warming is happening.
More warming means more energy for hurricanes and therefore more and stronger hurricanes are in the future.
But more warming also means more wind sheer which cuts off hurricanes and can mean fewer hurricanes.
So more or fewer hurricanes is caused by global warming.
More water vapor means more clouds and more precipitation.
More clouds and precipitation causes cooling which could lead to global cooling. S
o if it is warming or cooling, it is proof of global warming.
No wonder Al Gore says the science is settled.
It predicts everything that has and can happen.
Although this looks like a parody, it isn't. I've seen these arguments by warmists on various sites to explain things that don't seem to compute with global warming."
With the blizzards in the East Coast we are hearing from global warming fanatics that this simply is another manifestation of global warming. As counterintuitive as this may seem, I wrote this up to explain it.
This is the way science works for the supporters of AGW
Increased warming means higher temperatures and therefore less snow.
But increased warming means more water vapor in the atmosphere leading to more precipitation.
Therefore AGW can cause big blizzards. So too little snow or too much snow is an indication of global warming.
More warming can mean glaciers will shrink.
But more precipitation means glaciers can grow.
Therefore if glaciers are growing or shrinking it means global warming is happening.
More warming means more energy for hurricanes and therefore more and stronger hurricanes are in the future.
But more warming also means more wind sheer which cuts off hurricanes and can mean fewer hurricanes.
So more or fewer hurricanes is caused by global warming.
More water vapor means more clouds and more precipitation.
More clouds and precipitation causes cooling which could lead to global cooling. S
o if it is warming or cooling, it is proof of global warming.
No wonder Al Gore says the science is settled.
It predicts everything that has and can happen.
Although this looks like a parody, it isn't. I've seen these arguments by warmists on various sites to explain things that don't seem to compute with global warming."
The Child Molester Scandal That Isn’t: What the MSM Doesn’t Report
The Child Molester Scandal That Isn’t: What the MSM Doesn’t Report
“…the physical sexual abuse of students in schools is likely more than 100 times the abuse by priests.”"
“…the physical sexual abuse of students in schools is likely more than 100 times the abuse by priests.”"
Acorn-ucopia
Acorn-ucopia
"Didn't Acorn, the corrupt community organizer, get its federal funding yanked after its last scandal?
Actually, no.
Through municipal middlemen, it's poised to rake in another $4 billion.
Where is the outrage?"
"Didn't Acorn, the corrupt community organizer, get its federal funding yanked after its last scandal?
Actually, no.
Through municipal middlemen, it's poised to rake in another $4 billion.
Where is the outrage?"
Using Lasers to Zap Mosquitoes
Using Lasers to Zap Mosquitoes
"Mr. Myhrvold said that normally the lasers could shoot down anywhere between 50 to 100 mosquitoes per second.
Mr. Myhrvold played a slow-motion recorded video that showed what happened to a representative mosquito.
As the insect flew, a sudden light beam struck it, disintegrating parts of its body into a plume of smoke.
It fell, even as its wings continued to beat.
In regions afflicted by malaria, the lasers could be used to create protective fences around clinics, homes, or even agricultural fields as a substitute for pesticides."
"Mr. Myhrvold said that normally the lasers could shoot down anywhere between 50 to 100 mosquitoes per second.
Mr. Myhrvold played a slow-motion recorded video that showed what happened to a representative mosquito.
As the insect flew, a sudden light beam struck it, disintegrating parts of its body into a plume of smoke.
It fell, even as its wings continued to beat.
In regions afflicted by malaria, the lasers could be used to create protective fences around clinics, homes, or even agricultural fields as a substitute for pesticides."
Friday, February 12, 2010
Expanded sales tax in Granholm's new budget
Expanded sales tax in Granholm's new budget
"Some mid-Michigan municipalities and state union officials are breathing a sigh of relief that state revenue sharing cuts and massive layoffs are not part of Gov. Jennifer Granholm's proposed budget.
But local business owners are bristling over her proposal to reduce the sales tax from 6 percent to 5.5 percent, expand it to include services and use that money to bridge a funding gap in K-12 education.
Her $47.1 billion budget plan unveiled Thursday - designed to close a $1.6 billion shortfall - included her previously announced early retirement proposals for state and school employees, which aim to save $400 million.
Capturing much attention is Granholm's proposal for expanding the sales tax to most services.........Affected businesses include beauty salons, tanning parlors, printers and financial consultants.
'It may cause us (to close),' said Pam Cottom, owner of Hair Shoppe & Tanning in Lansing, which has seen business drop by 50 percent in the past year due to the economy.
'We're tottering right now.
I feel like the little guy is getting ruined.'"
Granholm is little more than an uber-lobbyist for the big teachers unions and the state employees unions.
Their annual jumps in the already out of line pay and compensation will continue.
This "fix" will only result in a bigger shortfall soon.
"Some mid-Michigan municipalities and state union officials are breathing a sigh of relief that state revenue sharing cuts and massive layoffs are not part of Gov. Jennifer Granholm's proposed budget.
But local business owners are bristling over her proposal to reduce the sales tax from 6 percent to 5.5 percent, expand it to include services and use that money to bridge a funding gap in K-12 education.
Her $47.1 billion budget plan unveiled Thursday - designed to close a $1.6 billion shortfall - included her previously announced early retirement proposals for state and school employees, which aim to save $400 million.
Capturing much attention is Granholm's proposal for expanding the sales tax to most services.........Affected businesses include beauty salons, tanning parlors, printers and financial consultants.
'It may cause us (to close),' said Pam Cottom, owner of Hair Shoppe & Tanning in Lansing, which has seen business drop by 50 percent in the past year due to the economy.
'We're tottering right now.
I feel like the little guy is getting ruined.'"
Granholm is little more than an uber-lobbyist for the big teachers unions and the state employees unions.
Their annual jumps in the already out of line pay and compensation will continue.
This "fix" will only result in a bigger shortfall soon.
Muskegon Heights hardest hit as most area school lose students in latest count
Muskegon Heights hardest hit as most area school lose students in latest count
"Muskegon Heights schools lost nearly 10 percent of its student body over the past five months -- by far the biggest enrollment drop among school districts that are losing students to the dismal employment scene."
"Muskegon Heights schools lost nearly 10 percent of its student body over the past five months -- by far the biggest enrollment drop among school districts that are losing students to the dismal employment scene."
Muskegon Heights High School gets state's lowest academic ranking
Muskegon Heights High School gets state's lowest academic ranking
"When it comes to athletics and the marching band, the students of Muskegon Heights High School can be a force to be reckoned with"
"When it comes to athletics and the marching band, the students of Muskegon Heights High School can be a force to be reckoned with"
Golden Gate Bridge district approves suicide net, toll increase
Golden Gate Bridge district approves suicide net, toll increase
"The Golden Gate Bridge Highway and Transportation District's Board of Directors certified this morning a final environmental report on a proposed $50 million net system beneath the bridge that is intended to deter suicides"
"The Golden Gate Bridge Highway and Transportation District's Board of Directors certified this morning a final environmental report on a proposed $50 million net system beneath the bridge that is intended to deter suicides"
New tax bombshell: 20% VAT
New tax bombshell: 20% VAT - Times Online
"Alistair Darling and George Osborne, the Shadow Chancellor, are both considering raising VAT to as high as 20 per cent — the European average — from the current rate of 17.5 per cent, The Times has learnt."
This is the Europe the American left (and Obama) tells us is our economic model and goal.
"Alistair Darling and George Osborne, the Shadow Chancellor, are both considering raising VAT to as high as 20 per cent — the European average — from the current rate of 17.5 per cent, The Times has learnt."
This is the Europe the American left (and Obama) tells us is our economic model and goal.
Obama’s National Defence Review ignores Iran and Islam in favour of… climate change!
Obama’s National Defence Review ignores Iran and Islam in favour of… climate change!
"However, it’s not what is in the document that surprises the reader – it’s what was left out.
There presence of two elephants in their living room apparently escaped the notice of American’s top civilian and military leaders.
Islamic radicalism does not receive any mention whatsoever in the American Defence Review and the threat posed by a nuclear Iran is mentioned in only one general sentence at the end of a document (page 101).
To put this lack of discussion in proportion, contrast this non-discussion with other security issues mentioned in the document.
For example, the security effects of climate change are highlighted and discussed in depth in eight pages of the document."
"However, it’s not what is in the document that surprises the reader – it’s what was left out.
There presence of two elephants in their living room apparently escaped the notice of American’s top civilian and military leaders.
Islamic radicalism does not receive any mention whatsoever in the American Defence Review and the threat posed by a nuclear Iran is mentioned in only one general sentence at the end of a document (page 101).
To put this lack of discussion in proportion, contrast this non-discussion with other security issues mentioned in the document.
For example, the security effects of climate change are highlighted and discussed in depth in eight pages of the document."
Paul Ryan's Lonely Challenge
Paul Ryan's Lonely Challenge
"Paul Ryan, a six-term Republican congressman from Wisconsin who is the ranking minority member of the House Budget Committee, has yanked himself from obscurity by doing something no one else in Congress or apparently the White House has done: design a specific plan to control long-term government spending and budget deficits.
That he stands virtually alone is a damning commentary on our politics."
"Paul Ryan, a six-term Republican congressman from Wisconsin who is the ranking minority member of the House Budget Committee, has yanked himself from obscurity by doing something no one else in Congress or apparently the White House has done: design a specific plan to control long-term government spending and budget deficits.
That he stands virtually alone is a damning commentary on our politics."
Greece debt bailout: EU leaders split over euro crisis
Greece debt bailout: EU leaders split over euro crisis
"The European single currency is facing an 'inevitable break-up' a leading French bank claimed yesterday."
"The European single currency is facing an 'inevitable break-up' a leading French bank claimed yesterday."
Social Security coffers drying up
Social Security coffers drying up
"In all the angst about Sarah Palin writing notes on her palm and President Barack Obama pronouncing corpsman as 'corpse man,' the American commentariat has paid scant attention to a hugely significant report, the one about Social Security's funding scare in 2009 and the red ink it will likely be bathed in this year and next.
Here it is, fellow Americans, a forerunner of what we will have – big time – starting in 2016, a harbinger of what could be the single most threatening domestic issue we face as a people, and this is what I would like to ask all those who have continuously told us not to worry about Social Security: Where's your trust fund now?
That's been the big lie, you know...."
And social security disaster is NOTHING compared to the Medicare/Medicaid shortfall.
Demand accountability from congress and the president NOW!
"In all the angst about Sarah Palin writing notes on her palm and President Barack Obama pronouncing corpsman as 'corpse man,' the American commentariat has paid scant attention to a hugely significant report, the one about Social Security's funding scare in 2009 and the red ink it will likely be bathed in this year and next.
Here it is, fellow Americans, a forerunner of what we will have – big time – starting in 2016, a harbinger of what could be the single most threatening domestic issue we face as a people, and this is what I would like to ask all those who have continuously told us not to worry about Social Security: Where's your trust fund now?
That's been the big lie, you know...."
And social security disaster is NOTHING compared to the Medicare/Medicaid shortfall.
Demand accountability from congress and the president NOW!
Governor Christie Declares "New Jersey on Edge of Bankruptcy"
Mish's Global Economic Trend Analysis: Governor Christie Declares "New Jersey on Edge of Bankruptcy"
"Christie froze aid to more than 500 school districts and public colleges and universities, ordered the end to several state programs and the Office of Public Advocate, and seized unspent money across state government.
'Today, we come to terms with the fact that we cannot spend money on everything we want,'' Christie told a special joint session of the legislature.
'The days of Alice in Wonderland budgeting in Trenton are over.''"
THIS is what we need in Michigan.
Ask EVERY candidate for Michigan governor this question:
"What are you going to do about state spending on public worker and teacher compensation?"
"Christie froze aid to more than 500 school districts and public colleges and universities, ordered the end to several state programs and the Office of Public Advocate, and seized unspent money across state government.
'Today, we come to terms with the fact that we cannot spend money on everything we want,'' Christie told a special joint session of the legislature.
'The days of Alice in Wonderland budgeting in Trenton are over.''"
THIS is what we need in Michigan.
Ask EVERY candidate for Michigan governor this question:
"What are you going to do about state spending on public worker and teacher compensation?"
One Economist Predicts Taxpayer Revolt Over Public v. Private Sector Pay Differentials
One Economist Predicts Taxpayer Revolt Over Public v. Private Sector Pay Differentials
"According to an economist from the University of Michigan-Flint, public employees now make an average of 45% more than private sector employees."
"According to an economist from the University of Michigan-Flint, public employees now make an average of 45% more than private sector employees."
Thursday, February 11, 2010
Kennedy won't run for re-election in RI
Kennedy won't run for re-election in RI
"Rep. Patrick Kennedy has decided not to seek re-election to Congress, saying his life is 'taking a new direction' just months after the death of his father and mentor, Sen. Edward Kennedy."
The death of the inbred dynasty!
Our country is a better place.
Mary Jo K is smiling somewhere in heaven.....
"Rep. Patrick Kennedy has decided not to seek re-election to Congress, saying his life is 'taking a new direction' just months after the death of his father and mentor, Sen. Edward Kennedy."
The death of the inbred dynasty!
Our country is a better place.
Mary Jo K is smiling somewhere in heaven.....
Public-sector unions bleed taxpayers
Public-sector unions bleed taxpayers
"Public-sector unionism is a very different animal from private-sector unionism.
It is not adversarial but collusive.
Public-sector unions strive to elect their management, which in turn can extract money from taxpayers to increase wages and benefits -- and can promise pensions that future taxpayers will have to fund.
The results are plain to see.
States such as New York, New Jersey and California, where public-sector unions are strong, now face enormous budget deficits and pension liabilities.
In such states, the public sector has become a parasite sucking the life out of the private-sector economy.
Not surprisingly, Americans have been steadily migrating out of such states and into states like Texas, where public-sector unions are weak and taxes are much lower."
GOPers won't address this cancer.
Will the Tea Parties stand tall?
"Public-sector unionism is a very different animal from private-sector unionism.
It is not adversarial but collusive.
Public-sector unions strive to elect their management, which in turn can extract money from taxpayers to increase wages and benefits -- and can promise pensions that future taxpayers will have to fund.
The results are plain to see.
States such as New York, New Jersey and California, where public-sector unions are strong, now face enormous budget deficits and pension liabilities.
In such states, the public sector has become a parasite sucking the life out of the private-sector economy.
Not surprisingly, Americans have been steadily migrating out of such states and into states like Texas, where public-sector unions are weak and taxes are much lower."
GOPers won't address this cancer.
Will the Tea Parties stand tall?
Local reaction to Granholm's proposed budget
Local reaction to Granholm's proposed budget
"Rep. Mary Valentine, D-Norton Shores, candidate for the 34th State Senate District:
'I am pleased to see that the budget restores funding for education and the Promise Scholarships.
A strong education system is key to creating a world-class work force that will attract job providers and prepare our children for jobs in the 21st Century economy."
This retired teacher (on a VERY posh pension) is bonkers!
Our secondary "education" system is a disaster and our college graduates are leaving the state like ........well... like employers, jobs and investment!
The only "attraction" generated by the Granholm/Valentine big union give-away scheme is our graduates and jobs being attracted to other states.
This woman is a menace to anyone hoping for job in our state.
Or hoping to provide private sector jobs to our citizens.
"Rep. Mary Valentine, D-Norton Shores, candidate for the 34th State Senate District:
'I am pleased to see that the budget restores funding for education and the Promise Scholarships.
A strong education system is key to creating a world-class work force that will attract job providers and prepare our children for jobs in the 21st Century economy."
This retired teacher (on a VERY posh pension) is bonkers!
Our secondary "education" system is a disaster and our college graduates are leaving the state like ........well... like employers, jobs and investment!
The only "attraction" generated by the Granholm/Valentine big union give-away scheme is our graduates and jobs being attracted to other states.
This woman is a menace to anyone hoping for job in our state.
Or hoping to provide private sector jobs to our citizens.
Angela Merkel dashes Greek hopes of rescue bid
Angela Merkel dashes Greek hopes of rescue bid
"Angela Merkel, the German chancellor, mounted stiff resistance tonight to any swift bailout of Greece, as a rift opened up between European capitals over how best to tackle the risks posed to the euro."
This could be the tip of an iceberg.......with the EU as a big, stupid boat.
"Angela Merkel, the German chancellor, mounted stiff resistance tonight to any swift bailout of Greece, as a rift opened up between European capitals over how best to tackle the risks posed to the euro."
This could be the tip of an iceberg.......with the EU as a big, stupid boat.
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