Retail - Back to School? Bring Your Own Toilet Paper - CNBC
"State and local school financing, which make up almost all of public schools’ money, is falling because of budget-balancing efforts and lower property- and sales-tax revenue."
Sunday, August 15, 2010
Resolution Passed to Ban Lindsey Graham in the Greenville County GOP, SC 02AUG10
Hello Michigan: Resolution Passed to Ban Lindsey Graham in the Greenville County GOP, SC 02AUG10
"Please join 500,000 SC VOTERS WHO PLEDGE TO DUMP LINDSEY GRAHAM IN 2014"
This is a BIG beginning!
"Please join 500,000 SC VOTERS WHO PLEDGE TO DUMP LINDSEY GRAHAM IN 2014"
This is a BIG beginning!
It All Starts with Vote Fraud
It All Starts with Vote Fraud - WSJ.com
"The explosive scandal that saw officials in the lower-income city of Bell, California (population 40,000) purged last month due to outrageous salaries and pensions may have had its roots in voter fraud.
City Manager Robert Rizzo, who stood to collect a $600,000-a-year pension, and police chief Randy Adams, who was due a $411,300-a-year pension, were just two of the officials forced to resign after their platinum parachutes were uncovered.
Now it turns out that they had been hired and kept in their jobs by elected officials who allegedly took advantage of Bell's traditionally low voter turnout to commit ballot fraud.
In 2005, fewer than 400 voters cast ballots in a special election that cleared the way for City Council members to dramatically boost their own salaries.
In that election, more than half the votes cast were absentee ballots, the method of voting most susceptible to fraud."
"The explosive scandal that saw officials in the lower-income city of Bell, California (population 40,000) purged last month due to outrageous salaries and pensions may have had its roots in voter fraud.
City Manager Robert Rizzo, who stood to collect a $600,000-a-year pension, and police chief Randy Adams, who was due a $411,300-a-year pension, were just two of the officials forced to resign after their platinum parachutes were uncovered.
Now it turns out that they had been hired and kept in their jobs by elected officials who allegedly took advantage of Bell's traditionally low voter turnout to commit ballot fraud.
In 2005, fewer than 400 voters cast ballots in a special election that cleared the way for City Council members to dramatically boost their own salaries.
In that election, more than half the votes cast were absentee ballots, the method of voting most susceptible to fraud."
Are Michigan Voters Really Ready to Pay Higher Taxes?
Are Michigan Voters Really Ready to Pay Higher Taxes? [Mackinac Center]
"The Center for Michigan think tank did an evaluation of the local millages in the August primary.
Its conclusion: 'In the age of the Tea Party, a would-be tax revolt clearly does not extend to local communities across Michigan.
That's the obvious conclusion from a Center for Michigan analysis of more than 600 ballot proposals for police and fire, libraries, senior citizen services, and roads.'
'The world is run by those who show up.
Any group with a base had an opportunity to influence last week's elections,'"
"The Center for Michigan think tank did an evaluation of the local millages in the August primary.
Its conclusion: 'In the age of the Tea Party, a would-be tax revolt clearly does not extend to local communities across Michigan.
That's the obvious conclusion from a Center for Michigan analysis of more than 600 ballot proposals for police and fire, libraries, senior citizen services, and roads.'
'The world is run by those who show up.
Any group with a base had an opportunity to influence last week's elections,'"
U.S. judge bans planting of genetically engineered beets
U.S. judge bans planting of genetically engineered beets - Technology & science - Science - msnbc.com
"A federal judge on Friday banned the planting of genetically modified sugar beets engineered by Monsanto Co in a ruling that marks a major setback for the biotech giant.
U.S. District Judge Jeffrey White ruled in 2009 that the U.S. Department of Agriculture had approved Monsanto's genetically modified sugar beets without adequate environmental study.
Sugar beets account for over half of the nation's sugar supply."
"A federal judge on Friday banned the planting of genetically modified sugar beets engineered by Monsanto Co in a ruling that marks a major setback for the biotech giant.
U.S. District Judge Jeffrey White ruled in 2009 that the U.S. Department of Agriculture had approved Monsanto's genetically modified sugar beets without adequate environmental study.
Sugar beets account for over half of the nation's sugar supply."
Presidential Reading
Presidential Reading
"Karl Rove once claimed that President George W. Bush read 95 books in a year as part of a bet.
Apparently, President Obama is not as well read."
"Karl Rove once claimed that President George W. Bush read 95 books in a year as part of a bet.
Apparently, President Obama is not as well read."
Saturday, August 14, 2010
'Junk' Bonds Hit Record
'Junk' Bonds Hit Record - WSJ.com
"Corporate borrowers with less than investment-grade ratings sold $15.4 billion in junk bonds this week, a record total for a single week"
"Corporate borrowers with less than investment-grade ratings sold $15.4 billion in junk bonds this week, a record total for a single week"
Socialist Party of America reveals 70 Democrats as belonging to their caucus
American Thinker Blog: Socialist Party of America reveals 70 Democrats as belonging to their caucus
"Two things of note in this revelation.
The first is the astonishing number of Democratic House members who not only belong to the Socialist Party of America, but even more incredible, don't mind if people find out about it."
"Two things of note in this revelation.
The first is the astonishing number of Democratic House members who not only belong to the Socialist Party of America, but even more incredible, don't mind if people find out about it."
Government restores funding for zero-down home loan program
Government restores funding for zero-down home loan program MLive.com
"President Obama signed a bill at the end of July restoring funds to the program and increasing some fees as a means to make it more self-sufficient"
"President Obama signed a bill at the end of July restoring funds to the program and increasing some fees as a means to make it more self-sufficient"
Muskegon man charged with having sex with pit bull
Muskegon man charged with having sex with pit bull MLive.com
"A Muskegon man who was meeting with his parole officer for a previous crime, allegedly told the officer he had sexually assaulted his pet pit bull."
"A Muskegon man who was meeting with his parole officer for a previous crime, allegedly told the officer he had sexually assaulted his pet pit bull."
Friday, August 13, 2010
US 'Virtually Certain' to Fall Into a New Recession
US 'Virtually Certain' to Fall Into a New Recession: Rosenberg - CNBC
"The US economy is almost certainly headed back into a double dip recession, and economists aren't seeing it because they're using 'the old rules of thumb' that don't apply this time, well-known economist David Rosenberg told CNBC."
"The US economy is almost certainly headed back into a double dip recession, and economists aren't seeing it because they're using 'the old rules of thumb' that don't apply this time, well-known economist David Rosenberg told CNBC."
Obama closes curtain on transparency | Washington Examiner
Timothy P. Carney: Obama closes curtain on transparency Washington Examiner
"President Obama has abolished the position in his White House dedicated to transparency and shunted those duties into the portfolio of a partisan ex-lobbyist who is openly antagonistic to the notion of disclosure by government and politicians."
"President Obama has abolished the position in his White House dedicated to transparency and shunted those duties into the portfolio of a partisan ex-lobbyist who is openly antagonistic to the notion of disclosure by government and politicians."
Everyone a Bigot?
RealClearPolitics - Everyone a Bigot?
"Anti-Hispanic, anti-gay, anti-Muslim, anti-black -- it is hard to keep track of all the recent charges of alleged bigotry."
"Anti-Hispanic, anti-gay, anti-Muslim, anti-black -- it is hard to keep track of all the recent charges of alleged bigotry."
MSU's first day in pads
MSU's first day in pads - LSJ Blogs: Hey, Joe
"* No separation yet at kicker, where freshman Mike Sadler has joined Dan Conroy and Kevin Muma in the competition."
I hope this is not an issue...it could be BIG!
"* No separation yet at kicker, where freshman Mike Sadler has joined Dan Conroy and Kevin Muma in the competition."
I hope this is not an issue...it could be BIG!
US Corporate Tax Rate: Would Lower Corporate Taxes Help Jumpstart US Economy?
US Corporate Tax Rate: Would Lower Corporate Taxes Help Jumpstart US Economy? - CNBC
"As the battle in Congress continues over Bush-era tax cuts on personal income, a less-noticed debate is brewing over cutting the corporate tax rate, which at 35 percent is the second-highest in the world."
"As the battle in Congress continues over Bush-era tax cuts on personal income, a less-noticed debate is brewing over cutting the corporate tax rate, which at 35 percent is the second-highest in the world."
SC's Greene indicted on felony obscenity charge
SC's Greene indicted on felony obscenity charge - Yahoo! News
"Longshot U.S. Senate candidate Alvin Greene has been indicted on a felony charge of showing pornography to a South Carolina college student."
No mention of his party affiliation?
Gotta be a democrat!
This culture of corruption, student sex-abuse style, just doesn't seem to of much interest to the liberal MSM.
"Longshot U.S. Senate candidate Alvin Greene has been indicted on a felony charge of showing pornography to a South Carolina college student."
No mention of his party affiliation?
Gotta be a democrat!
This culture of corruption, student sex-abuse style, just doesn't seem to of much interest to the liberal MSM.
I Want Your Money
"It begins…
A new film, I Want Your Money, is due out this fall.
The movie lampoons Obama and the democrat’s socialist economic agenda.
Here’s the trailer, via Weasel Zippers:"
A "MUST SEE"!
Click to see the trailer
http://www.iwantyourmoney.net/
A new film, I Want Your Money, is due out this fall.
The movie lampoons Obama and the democrat’s socialist economic agenda.
Here’s the trailer, via Weasel Zippers:"
A "MUST SEE"!
Click to see the trailer
http://www.iwantyourmoney.net/
Oceana board rejects offshore wind proposal
Oceana board rejects offshore wind proposal, with some disagreement MLive.com
"HART -- The elected officials representing the northern portion of a proposed large-scale offshore wind development continue to say 'no' to the plan."
A breath of really "FRESH" air!
"HART -- The elected officials representing the northern portion of a proposed large-scale offshore wind development continue to say 'no' to the plan."
A breath of really "FRESH" air!
Getting along: Muskegon and Muskegon Heights high schools to hold combined class reunion
Getting along: Muskegon and Muskegon Heights high schools to hold combined class reunion MLive.com
"Graduates of Muskegon and Muskegon Heights high schools want to show they can be rivals on the sports field and friends anywhere else.
This weekend, the classes of 2000 will hold their first combined reunion.
Organizers hope to spread a message of unity in opposing violence."
What do the two school's alums have in common?
Another idiotic idea that makes me wonder who will provide the insurance coverage....
"Graduates of Muskegon and Muskegon Heights high schools want to show they can be rivals on the sports field and friends anywhere else.
This weekend, the classes of 2000 will hold their first combined reunion.
Organizers hope to spread a message of unity in opposing violence."
What do the two school's alums have in common?
Another idiotic idea that makes me wonder who will provide the insurance coverage....
Passenger: Slater Gave Impression He Was Drinking
Passenger: Slater Gave Impression He Was Drinking « CBS New York
"But, as CBS 2′s Pablo Guzman reports, where he has told ”one” story, passengers are saying there was a whole other side of him that’s quite different from the folk hero and victim he’s been made out to be."
American "hero" or just another TV induced "reality"-narcissist?
"But, as CBS 2′s Pablo Guzman reports, where he has told ”one” story, passengers are saying there was a whole other side of him that’s quite different from the folk hero and victim he’s been made out to be."
American "hero" or just another TV induced "reality"-narcissist?
Memorial service for crew of World War II submarine U.S.S. Flier might bring closure for families
Memorial service for crew of World War II submarine U.S.S. Flier might bring closure for families MLive.com
"The submarine in the film, discovered in 330 feet of water, was confirmed as the U.S.S. Flier in February 2010, Herzhaft said.
Alvin Jacobson was one of 14 crew members on the submarine’s top deck, who were thrown into the sea when a mine blew a hole in the side of the submarine.
The U.S.S. Flier sank in about one minute, drowning 72 crew members.
Six of the 14 initial survivors died in the 18-hour swim to Mantangula Island, which had no fresh water.
The eight remaining survivors then swam to another island, where sympathetic Filipinos assisted them until they were picked up by the U.S.S. Redfin, another submarine."
"The submarine in the film, discovered in 330 feet of water, was confirmed as the U.S.S. Flier in February 2010, Herzhaft said.
Alvin Jacobson was one of 14 crew members on the submarine’s top deck, who were thrown into the sea when a mine blew a hole in the side of the submarine.
The U.S.S. Flier sank in about one minute, drowning 72 crew members.
Six of the 14 initial survivors died in the 18-hour swim to Mantangula Island, which had no fresh water.
The eight remaining survivors then swam to another island, where sympathetic Filipinos assisted them until they were picked up by the U.S.S. Redfin, another submarine."
Thursday, August 12, 2010
Civil servants paid more like masters
Editorial: Civil servants paid more like masters federal, workers, pay - Opinion - The Orange County Register
"Workers in the federal government now earn, on average, double what private-sector workers make, according to a USA Today study released Aug. 10.
'Federal civil servants earned average pay and benefits of $123,049 in 2009 while private workers made $61,051 in total compensation,' the paper said.
'Public employee unions say the compensation gap reflects the increasingly high level of skill and education required for most federal jobs and the government contracting out lower-paid jobs to the private sector in recent years.'
The report was based on numbers from the federal Bureau of Economic Analysis.
The federal pay and benefits also were much higher than the $69,912 average for state and local government workers."
"Workers in the federal government now earn, on average, double what private-sector workers make, according to a USA Today study released Aug. 10.
'Federal civil servants earned average pay and benefits of $123,049 in 2009 while private workers made $61,051 in total compensation,' the paper said.
'Public employee unions say the compensation gap reflects the increasingly high level of skill and education required for most federal jobs and the government contracting out lower-paid jobs to the private sector in recent years.'
The report was based on numbers from the federal Bureau of Economic Analysis.
The federal pay and benefits also were much higher than the $69,912 average for state and local government workers."
Tom Izzo's recruiting explosion
Tom Izzo's recruiting explosion - College Basketball Nation Blog - ESPN
"In the past year or so, we've seen some truly remarkable recruiting efforts.
The most notable, of course, have come from Kentucky coach John Calipari, whose back-to-back No. 1 overall recruiting classes are likely to be followed by a third in 2011, which could be his best class ever.
Since he brought his talents to Lexington, Ky., Calipari is dominating the national talent scene in a way few -- if any -- of his peers can match.
But Tom Izzo sure is going to try.
Over the past 12 days, Izzo has landed five verbal commitments, filling out his rosters for the 2011 and 2012 seasons in less than two weeks.
Lansing State Journal beat reporter Joe Rexrode says he's never seen so many commitments flock to Michigan State in such a short span of time."
"In the past year or so, we've seen some truly remarkable recruiting efforts.
The most notable, of course, have come from Kentucky coach John Calipari, whose back-to-back No. 1 overall recruiting classes are likely to be followed by a third in 2011, which could be his best class ever.
Since he brought his talents to Lexington, Ky., Calipari is dominating the national talent scene in a way few -- if any -- of his peers can match.
But Tom Izzo sure is going to try.
Over the past 12 days, Izzo has landed five verbal commitments, filling out his rosters for the 2011 and 2012 seasons in less than two weeks.
Lansing State Journal beat reporter Joe Rexrode says he's never seen so many commitments flock to Michigan State in such a short span of time."
Wednesday, August 11, 2010
Great hockey comment!
You've got to love this Guy!! DON CHERRY of hockey night in Canada , was asked on a local live radio talk show, just what he thought about the allegations of torture of suspected terrorists.
His reply prompted his ejection from the studio, but to thunderous applause from the audience.
HIS STATEMENT:
"If hooking up one rag head terrorist prisoner's testicles to a car battery to get the truth out of the lying little camel shagger will save just one Canadian life, then I have only three things to say:
'Red is positive, black is negative, and make sure his nuts are wet."
His reply prompted his ejection from the studio, but to thunderous applause from the audience.
HIS STATEMENT:
"If hooking up one rag head terrorist prisoner's testicles to a car battery to get the truth out of the lying little camel shagger will save just one Canadian life, then I have only three things to say:
'Red is positive, black is negative, and make sure his nuts are wet."
Grand Rapids urban market to be non-profit
Grand Rapids urban market to be non-profit, operate on land owned by for-profit corporation MLive.com
"A new downtown urban market would be run by a new non-profit organization with the property owned by a for-profit corporation, according to a deal approved this morning."
"Non-profit".......well...duh...
"A new downtown urban market would be run by a new non-profit organization with the property owned by a for-profit corporation, according to a deal approved this morning."
"Non-profit".......well...duh...
“Shut up! You Can’t Sing the National Anthem Here!”
“Shut up! You Can’t Sing the National Anthem Here!” The Foundry: Conservative Policy News
"Take heed, America.
The next time you visit Washington, D.C., feel free to stand in awe of the monuments to our greatest leaders, but do not — DO NOT — sing the National Anthem at the Lincoln Memorial.
It turns out that doing so is a violation of federal law.
A group of high school students from around the country learned that lesson the hard way on June 25 when they sang the “Star Spangled Banner” at the Lincoln Memorial.
A United States Park Police officer told them to pipe down because their singing was considered an illegal demonstration, as Fox News reports. The students, who are members of the Young America’s Foundation, were visiting the city for a conservative leadership conference.
What law, exactly, was being violated?
According to Fox News:
U.S. Park Police confirmed that the students were in violation of federal law and their impromptu performance constituted a demonstration in an area that must remain ‘completely content neutral.’”"
"Take heed, America.
The next time you visit Washington, D.C., feel free to stand in awe of the monuments to our greatest leaders, but do not — DO NOT — sing the National Anthem at the Lincoln Memorial.
It turns out that doing so is a violation of federal law.
A group of high school students from around the country learned that lesson the hard way on June 25 when they sang the “Star Spangled Banner” at the Lincoln Memorial.
A United States Park Police officer told them to pipe down because their singing was considered an illegal demonstration, as Fox News reports. The students, who are members of the Young America’s Foundation, were visiting the city for a conservative leadership conference.
What law, exactly, was being violated?
According to Fox News:
U.S. Park Police confirmed that the students were in violation of federal law and their impromptu performance constituted a demonstration in an area that must remain ‘completely content neutral.’”"
Tuesday, August 10, 2010
Are federal workers overpaid?
Are federal workers overpaid? - wtop.com
"WASHINGTON - When it comes to pay, federal workers receive benefits that averaged about $41,791 in 2009.
When you factor in salaries and those benefits, which include pensions, federal civil servants earned about $123,049 in 2009.
By comparison, private workers made $61,051 in total compensation, according to the Bureau of Economic Analysis."
"WASHINGTON - When it comes to pay, federal workers receive benefits that averaged about $41,791 in 2009.
When you factor in salaries and those benefits, which include pensions, federal civil servants earned about $123,049 in 2009.
By comparison, private workers made $61,051 in total compensation, according to the Bureau of Economic Analysis."
Mexican President Calls on U.S. to Close the Border to Illegal Arms| AHN
Mexican President Calls on U.S. to Close the Border to Illegal Arms AHN
"Mexican President Felipe Calderon is renewing his call for the United States to stop the flow of illegal arms into Mexico that he says is making his country's drug war more deadly."
"Mexican President Felipe Calderon is renewing his call for the United States to stop the flow of illegal arms into Mexico that he says is making his country's drug war more deadly."
If You Tax Something, You Get Less of It
CARPE DIEM: If You Tax Something, You Get Less of It
"In this previous CD post, it was reported that world-class Jamaican sprinter Usain Bolt won't be competiting in this weekend's Aviva London Grand Prix because of a new U.K. tax rule that imposes a top rate of income tax of 50 percent on athletes, not just on the income earned in the U.K., but also on a proportion of their worldwide sponsorship and endorsement income.
Now it looks like some of the leading professional golfers aren't so sure they want to play in this year's Ryder Cup, scheduled to take place in Wales in October.
The European Tour's director of public relations said today taht the tax rule was 'seriously hampering our efforts.'"
"In this previous CD post, it was reported that world-class Jamaican sprinter Usain Bolt won't be competiting in this weekend's Aviva London Grand Prix because of a new U.K. tax rule that imposes a top rate of income tax of 50 percent on athletes, not just on the income earned in the U.K., but also on a proportion of their worldwide sponsorship and endorsement income.
Now it looks like some of the leading professional golfers aren't so sure they want to play in this year's Ryder Cup, scheduled to take place in Wales in October.
The European Tour's director of public relations said today taht the tax rule was 'seriously hampering our efforts.'"
Hillary for Vice President?
Hillary for Vice President? - WSJ.com
"Former Virginia Gov. Doug Wilder, his state's first African-American governor, touched off the controversy.
Writing at Politico.com last week, Mr. Wilder argued that Mr. Biden's tenure has been undistinguished and chock full of 'too many YouTube moments.'
He charged that Mr. Biden 'has continued to undermine what little confidence the public may have had in him.'
By way of contrast, Mr. Wilder says that Hillary Clinton has excelled in her role. 'Clinton has been nothing but a team player who has earned good marks since being asked to serve as secretary of state.'
Having Mrs. Clinton join the 2012 ticket, he said, would revive the Democratic Party and reestablish the party's working-class voters who found her appealing during the 2012 primaries against Mr. Obama."
"Former Virginia Gov. Doug Wilder, his state's first African-American governor, touched off the controversy.
Writing at Politico.com last week, Mr. Wilder argued that Mr. Biden's tenure has been undistinguished and chock full of 'too many YouTube moments.'
He charged that Mr. Biden 'has continued to undermine what little confidence the public may have had in him.'
By way of contrast, Mr. Wilder says that Hillary Clinton has excelled in her role. 'Clinton has been nothing but a team player who has earned good marks since being asked to serve as secretary of state.'
Having Mrs. Clinton join the 2012 ticket, he said, would revive the Democratic Party and reestablish the party's working-class voters who found her appealing during the 2012 primaries against Mr. Obama."
Those Racist Cops Are At It Again
American Thinker: Those Racist Cops Are At It Again
"there was a loud roar of criticism from civil rights groups recently when the NYPD released its data on Stop and Frisk interactions for 2009.
It seems that cops made 575,000 pedestrian stops last year, 55 percent involving blacks.
Critics quickly pointed out that blacks are only 23 percent of the population, while whites, who comprise 35 percent of the city's residents, were only involved in 10 percent of the stops.
So, as is typical with all these race-baiting groups, the implication is that the police are racists who enjoy harassing black people by asking them a few questions during circumstances that aroused the officers' suspicion."
"there was a loud roar of criticism from civil rights groups recently when the NYPD released its data on Stop and Frisk interactions for 2009.
It seems that cops made 575,000 pedestrian stops last year, 55 percent involving blacks.
Critics quickly pointed out that blacks are only 23 percent of the population, while whites, who comprise 35 percent of the city's residents, were only involved in 10 percent of the stops.
So, as is typical with all these race-baiting groups, the implication is that the police are racists who enjoy harassing black people by asking them a few questions during circumstances that aroused the officers' suspicion."
Did the Stimulus Stimulate?
Did the Stimulus Stimulate? The Weekly Standard
"This is the economic equivalent of assuming there are 1,000 angels on the head of a pin, observing that we have 10 pins, and therefore calculating that we must have 10,000 angels.
The math is fine.
But it sheds no light on the key policy issue—were the recently passed acts of government stimulus cost effective?
The degree of cost effectiveness was an assumed number, not one calculated using any version of the scientific method."
"This is the economic equivalent of assuming there are 1,000 angels on the head of a pin, observing that we have 10 pins, and therefore calculating that we must have 10,000 angels.
The math is fine.
But it sheds no light on the key policy issue—were the recently passed acts of government stimulus cost effective?
The degree of cost effectiveness was an assumed number, not one calculated using any version of the scientific method."
Free Speech Lawsuit: NYC Bans "911 Images"
American Thinker: Free Speech Lawsuit: NYC Bans "911 Images"
"The ad was refused. When I asked on what grounds, CBS Outdoor told me that the city said that 'images of 911 were not allowed.'
I was floored. I said, 'It is American history. How can it be banned? What about Pearl Harbor? Is that censored too? On what grounds are 911 images banned? It is unconscionable.'
The CBS Outdoor representative told me: 'You can't run the plane.'"
"The ad was refused. When I asked on what grounds, CBS Outdoor told me that the city said that 'images of 911 were not allowed.'
I was floored. I said, 'It is American history. How can it be banned? What about Pearl Harbor? Is that censored too? On what grounds are 911 images banned? It is unconscionable.'
The CBS Outdoor representative told me: 'You can't run the plane.'"
Monday, August 09, 2010
Flight Attendant Uses Emergency Slide to Escape Dispute
Flight Attendant Uses Emergency Slide to Escape Dispute - City Room Blog - NYTimes.com
"A JetBlue flight attendant apparently upset with an uncooperative passenger on a just-landed flight unleashed a profanity-laden tirade on the public-address system, pulled the emergency-exit chute, slid off the plane and fled Kennedy International Airport, a law enforcement official said."
"A JetBlue flight attendant apparently upset with an uncooperative passenger on a just-landed flight unleashed a profanity-laden tirade on the public-address system, pulled the emergency-exit chute, slid off the plane and fled Kennedy International Airport, a law enforcement official said."
The Obama presidency increasingly resembles a modern-day Ancien Régime: extravagant and out of touch with the American people
The Obama presidency increasingly resembles a modern-day Ancien R̩gime: extravagant and out of touch with the American people РTelegraph Blogs
"It is the kind of impunity that has been highlighted on the world stage this week by Michelle Obama’s hugely costly trip to Spain, which has prompted a New York Post columnist Andrea Tantaros to dub the First Lady a contemporary Marie Antoinette.
As The Telegraph reports, while the Obamas are covering their own vacation expenses such as accommodation, the trip may cost US taxpayers as much as $375,000 in terms of secret service security and flight costs on Air Force Two."
"It is the kind of impunity that has been highlighted on the world stage this week by Michelle Obama’s hugely costly trip to Spain, which has prompted a New York Post columnist Andrea Tantaros to dub the First Lady a contemporary Marie Antoinette.
As The Telegraph reports, while the Obamas are covering their own vacation expenses such as accommodation, the trip may cost US taxpayers as much as $375,000 in terms of secret service security and flight costs on Air Force Two."
U.S. electricity blackouts skyrocketing
U.S. electricity blackouts skyrocketing - CNN.com
"Experts on the nation's electricity system point to a frighteningly steep increase in non-disaster-related outages affecting at least 50,000 consumers."
"Experts on the nation's electricity system point to a frighteningly steep increase in non-disaster-related outages affecting at least 50,000 consumers."
Pelosi Economics
Pelosi Economics [Mackinac Center]
"Nancy Pelosi, the U.S. Speaker of the House, recently said that unemployment benefits are creating jobs faster than practically any other program.
'It injects demand into the economy,' Pelosi said. 'It creates jobs faster than almost any other initiative you can name.'
Some public policy experts and national media writers sound off on Pelosi's comments:"
"Nancy Pelosi, the U.S. Speaker of the House, recently said that unemployment benefits are creating jobs faster than practically any other program.
'It injects demand into the economy,' Pelosi said. 'It creates jobs faster than almost any other initiative you can name.'
Some public policy experts and national media writers sound off on Pelosi's comments:"
Auditor General Uncovers Numerous Troubles with Dept. of Community Health [Mackinac Center]
Auditor General Uncovers Numerous Troubles with Dept. of Community Health [Mackinac Center]
"A 94-year-old nursing home resident was held in a 'hammerlock' position so she could not move while a Medicaid provider forced her to give an impression for dentures. She had been without teeth for 50 years and didn't want them. When she left the exam room, her face, neck and dress were covered with impression plaster."
"A 94-year-old nursing home resident was held in a 'hammerlock' position so she could not move while a Medicaid provider forced her to give an impression for dentures. She had been without teeth for 50 years and didn't want them. When she left the exam room, her face, neck and dress were covered with impression plaster."
86 Days to Decide: Activists Say Tea Party Imposters Infiltrating Elections
FOXNews.com - 86 Days to Decide: Activists Say Tea Party Imposters Infiltrating Elections
"In New Jersey, a 'Tea Party' candidate surfaces but local activists haven't heard of him.
In Michigan, a Democratic operative appears closely tied to a slate of candidates running under the Tea Party banner."
"In New Jersey, a 'Tea Party' candidate surfaces but local activists haven't heard of him.
In Michigan, a Democratic operative appears closely tied to a slate of candidates running under the Tea Party banner."
Saturday, August 07, 2010
Obama owes Bush thanks for Iraq success
Obama owes Bush thanks for Iraq success--Editorial - NYPOST.com
"How's this for hubris: President Obama extolling his 'new strategy' in Iraq -- even though it never would have succeeded had his original vision prevailed?
The president struck a triumphal tone this week about the Iraq mission coming to an end -- but shunned the word 'success.'
He spoke of 'ending' the war, but took pains to avoid context.
Sen. John McCain rightly called the address 'small-minded' and 'bizarre.'"
"How's this for hubris: President Obama extolling his 'new strategy' in Iraq -- even though it never would have succeeded had his original vision prevailed?
The president struck a triumphal tone this week about the Iraq mission coming to an end -- but shunned the word 'success.'
He spoke of 'ending' the war, but took pains to avoid context.
Sen. John McCain rightly called the address 'small-minded' and 'bizarre.'"
The Six Figure Cops of Sterling Heights
The Six Figure Cops of Sterling Heights [Mackinac Center]
"In Sterling Heights, Police Chief Michael Reese made $132,310 in 2009.
He was only the third highest paid employee in his department.
Sgt. Paul Korell's $146,256 and Sgt. Guy Holmes' $138,322 were the two highest annual paychecks in a department where 50 of the 254 full and part-time employees made six figures."
"In Sterling Heights, Police Chief Michael Reese made $132,310 in 2009.
He was only the third highest paid employee in his department.
Sgt. Paul Korell's $146,256 and Sgt. Guy Holmes' $138,322 were the two highest annual paychecks in a department where 50 of the 254 full and part-time employees made six figures."
LET THEM EAT CAKE...
LET THEM EAT CAKE... Newsradio 620 Charlie Sykes
"*'Modern-Day Marie Antoinette' Andrea Tantaros at New York Daily News is the first to make the call.
The problem for her, though, is not so much the excess itself as the excess on the public dime, as well as the hypocrisy:
[Sacrifice] was a key theme in President Obama's inaugural address to the nation ...
But while most of the country is pinching pennies and downsizing summer sojourns--or forgoing them altogether--the Obamas don't seem to be heeding their own advice ...
To be clear, what the Obamas do with their money is one thing; what they do with ours is another.
Transporting and housing the estimated 70 Secret Service agents who will flank the material girl will cost the taxpayers a pretty penny ...
I don't begrudge anyone rest and relaxation when they work hard.
We all need downtime--the First Family included.
It's the extravagance of Michelle Obama's trip and glitzy destination contrasted with President Obama's demonization of the rich that smacks of hypocrisy"
"*'Modern-Day Marie Antoinette' Andrea Tantaros at New York Daily News is the first to make the call.
The problem for her, though, is not so much the excess itself as the excess on the public dime, as well as the hypocrisy:
[Sacrifice] was a key theme in President Obama's inaugural address to the nation ...
But while most of the country is pinching pennies and downsizing summer sojourns--or forgoing them altogether--the Obamas don't seem to be heeding their own advice ...
To be clear, what the Obamas do with their money is one thing; what they do with ours is another.
Transporting and housing the estimated 70 Secret Service agents who will flank the material girl will cost the taxpayers a pretty penny ...
I don't begrudge anyone rest and relaxation when they work hard.
We all need downtime--the First Family included.
It's the extravagance of Michelle Obama's trip and glitzy destination contrasted with President Obama's demonization of the rich that smacks of hypocrisy"
Lansing to ask voters for school sinking fund | lansingstatejournal.com | Lansing State Journal
Lansing to ask voters for school sinking fund lansingstatejournal.com
"The Lansing Board of Education on Thursday voted unanimously to ask voters in November to support a property tax increase for building repairs.
The move comes after three years of studying the issue.
Superintendent T.C. Wallace Jr. said the proposal, if approved, 'enhances the opportunities for teachers to teach and students to learn.'"
Bullshit!
The teachers took all the money and now there's none left to fix the buildings.
And aren't the MEAP scores just.......disgusting!
"The Lansing Board of Education on Thursday voted unanimously to ask voters in November to support a property tax increase for building repairs.
The move comes after three years of studying the issue.
Superintendent T.C. Wallace Jr. said the proposal, if approved, 'enhances the opportunities for teachers to teach and students to learn.'"
Bullshit!
The teachers took all the money and now there's none left to fix the buildings.
And aren't the MEAP scores just.......disgusting!
Catching our breath
Catching our breath - LSJ Blogs: Hey, Joe
"It's all happening too fast, isn't it?
MSU's getting a football or basketball recruit every 12 minutes, preseason polls are coming out, Barry Alvarez is giving strong hints again, Rich Rodriguez is making more unwanted headlines ... and it's not like this has been your typical slow summer anyway."
"It's all happening too fast, isn't it?
MSU's getting a football or basketball recruit every 12 minutes, preseason polls are coming out, Barry Alvarez is giving strong hints again, Rich Rodriguez is making more unwanted headlines ... and it's not like this has been your typical slow summer anyway."
Hamtramck-Detroit feud builds
Hamtramck-Detroit feud builds freep.com Detroit Free Press
"Hamtramck officials say the city is no longer paying its monthly Detroit Water and Sewerage bill in response to a feud with the City of Detroit over a tax agreement."
A template for NS and RP vs Muskegon Heights?
"Hamtramck officials say the city is no longer paying its monthly Detroit Water and Sewerage bill in response to a feud with the City of Detroit over a tax agreement."
A template for NS and RP vs Muskegon Heights?
Congress could hand Michigan schools $318 million, but plan may be less than ideal
Congress could hand Michigan schools $318 million, but plan may be less than ideal MLive.com
"And critics such as the Education Action Group argue the bill isn't about education, but is more of a bail-out for teachers unions, designed to spare members from making wage and benefit concessions."
"And critics such as the Education Action Group argue the bill isn't about education, but is more of a bail-out for teachers unions, designed to spare members from making wage and benefit concessions."
ROGER SIMON: Michelle’s “Excellent Adventure”: Another sign Obama doesn’t really want to be…
Instapundit » Blog Archive » ROGER SIMON: Michelle’s “Excellent Adventure”
Another sign Obama doesn’t really want to be President.
Michelle’s $375,000 Spanish vacation — with the Daily Mail dubbing her a “modern-day Marie Antoinette” — is further proof of my thesis.
What man who wanted to be re-elected (or see his party do well in November) would let his wife go off on such an “excellent adventure” in these economic times?
Of course no one denies the right of people to have vacations – I’m coming to the end of one myself on my beloved Bainbridge Island — but closing Mediterranean beaches while booking 60-plus rooms in a five star Marbella hotel for her entourage?
It is beyond tone deaf, perhaps to the level of subconscious (or even deliberate) self-sabotage.
At the very least, something most peculiar is going on.
The first lady goes off on a jaunt worthy of 18th Century aristocracy at the very moment of her husband’s birthday."
Another sign Obama doesn’t really want to be President.
Michelle’s $375,000 Spanish vacation — with the Daily Mail dubbing her a “modern-day Marie Antoinette” — is further proof of my thesis.
What man who wanted to be re-elected (or see his party do well in November) would let his wife go off on such an “excellent adventure” in these economic times?
Of course no one denies the right of people to have vacations – I’m coming to the end of one myself on my beloved Bainbridge Island — but closing Mediterranean beaches while booking 60-plus rooms in a five star Marbella hotel for her entourage?
It is beyond tone deaf, perhaps to the level of subconscious (or even deliberate) self-sabotage.
At the very least, something most peculiar is going on.
The first lady goes off on a jaunt worthy of 18th Century aristocracy at the very moment of her husband’s birthday."
Letter from Detroit: Where's the Urban President?
Letter from Detroit: Where's the Urban President? - Yahoo! News
"Detroit's official unemployment rate is 24%, the highest among major U.S. cities.
But officials here believe the actual jobless rate may be 50%, since the official statistics fail to include people who no longer qualify for unemployment benefits or have stopped looking for work.
To put this in historical context: a decade ago, Detroit's jobless rate was 6.7%
At the height of the Great Depression, in 1933, about one-quarter of Americans were unemployed."
"Detroit's official unemployment rate is 24%, the highest among major U.S. cities.
But officials here believe the actual jobless rate may be 50%, since the official statistics fail to include people who no longer qualify for unemployment benefits or have stopped looking for work.
To put this in historical context: a decade ago, Detroit's jobless rate was 6.7%
At the height of the Great Depression, in 1933, about one-quarter of Americans were unemployed."
Thursday, August 05, 2010
Man reacts to worldwide fame after dog bites off toe to save his life: 'I didn't think it would go this nuts'
Man reacts to worldwide fame after dog bites off toe to save his life: 'I didn't think it would go this nuts' MLive.com:
"He returned home after having several drinks only to fall asleep, and wake up with only a stump left of his big right toe.
Kiko, sleeping nearby, had blood on its face.
At the hospital, where the infected toe was later amputated, Douthett learned the dog likely saved his life.
He indeed had Type 2 diabetes, and his blood-sugar levels were dangerously high.
He's now on the mend.
He's taking diabetes medication, and notes that Kiko was to be released today from the 'house quarantine' Kent County authorities had the terrier under in case of rabies.
Just to be safe, Douthett sleeps in his shoes."
"He returned home after having several drinks only to fall asleep, and wake up with only a stump left of his big right toe.
Kiko, sleeping nearby, had blood on its face.
At the hospital, where the infected toe was later amputated, Douthett learned the dog likely saved his life.
He indeed had Type 2 diabetes, and his blood-sugar levels were dangerously high.
He's now on the mend.
He's taking diabetes medication, and notes that Kiko was to be released today from the 'house quarantine' Kent County authorities had the terrier under in case of rabies.
Just to be safe, Douthett sleeps in his shoes."
Congresskook Gabrielle Giffords Wants to Use Green Energy to Fight Taliban
Moonbattery: Congresskook Gabrielle Giffords Wants to Use Green Energy to Fight Taliban
"If you were wondering why victory in the longest war in US history is nowhere in sight, Rep. Gabrielle Giffords (D-AZ) presents the answer — our country is run by moonbats.
Here Gabby demands that General David Petraeus explain why the military doesn't help save the planet by using hydropower in the Afghan deserts"
"If you were wondering why victory in the longest war in US history is nowhere in sight, Rep. Gabrielle Giffords (D-AZ) presents the answer — our country is run by moonbats.
Here Gabby demands that General David Petraeus explain why the military doesn't help save the planet by using hydropower in the Afghan deserts"
The Arizona experiment
NOVACK: The Arizona experiment - Washington Times
"It's also worth noting that former Arizona Gov. Janet Napolitano, now secretary of Homeland Security, already tried a health insurance exchange for individuals and small businesses, a replica of the Obamacare exchanges. 'Healthcare Group' was to be financially self-sustaining in just a couple of years, the governor assured the legislature and the state.
However, the program needed a huge taxpayer-funded bailout, benefits were reduced and eligibility was severely curtailed.
The only party who didn't seem to suffer inordinately?
The Arizona health care giants who in 2008 somehow found enough cash to mount an aggressive effort against a ballot measure written to protected health care rights for Arizonans and their families.
Outspending supporters 5 to 1 during campaign worked, as the measure (back in refined form on this year's Arizona ballot) failed by less than 9,000 votes out of 2.1 million cast."
We will suffer from the healthcare-government/corporate complex until it kills us.
"It's also worth noting that former Arizona Gov. Janet Napolitano, now secretary of Homeland Security, already tried a health insurance exchange for individuals and small businesses, a replica of the Obamacare exchanges. 'Healthcare Group' was to be financially self-sustaining in just a couple of years, the governor assured the legislature and the state.
However, the program needed a huge taxpayer-funded bailout, benefits were reduced and eligibility was severely curtailed.
The only party who didn't seem to suffer inordinately?
The Arizona health care giants who in 2008 somehow found enough cash to mount an aggressive effort against a ballot measure written to protected health care rights for Arizonans and their families.
Outspending supporters 5 to 1 during campaign worked, as the measure (back in refined form on this year's Arizona ballot) failed by less than 9,000 votes out of 2.1 million cast."
We will suffer from the healthcare-government/corporate complex until it kills us.
Senate OKs vote on cash to states
Senate OKs vote on cash to states - Washington Times
"Congress is poised to extend a taxpayer-funded lifeline to cash-strapped states after the Senate on Wednesday advanced another round of $26 billion in stimulus spending for teachers and health care,"
"Congress is poised to extend a taxpayer-funded lifeline to cash-strapped states after the Senate on Wednesday advanced another round of $26 billion in stimulus spending for teachers and health care,"
New Policy Allows Pledge of Allegiance at Massachusetts School District
FOXNews.com - New Policy Allows Pledge of Allegiance at Massachusetts School District
"No student, teacher or administrator will be required to participate in a recitation, an Arlington High School official confirmed to FoxNews.com."
"No student, teacher or administrator will be required to participate in a recitation, an Arlington High School official confirmed to FoxNews.com."
Democrats startlingly silent on "ground zero mosque" -
Democrats startlingly silent on "ground zero mosque" - War Room - Salon.com
"Yesterday President Obama's spokesman pointedly declined to take a position on the planned Muslim community center in Lower Manhattan, calling it a local issue."
Coward or islamist?
Or both.
"Yesterday President Obama's spokesman pointedly declined to take a position on the planned Muslim community center in Lower Manhattan, calling it a local issue."
Coward or islamist?
Or both.
Sheriff Taylor's health pitch sparks cardiac arrest
Sheriff Taylor's health pitch sparks cardiac arrest - NYPOST.com
"And the most shocking thing about the fantasy ad?
You paid for it.
That's right.
It is taxpayers who are coughing up the $700,000 to run the ad all over the country in a government campaign to sell its cockeyed health-care scheme"
"And the most shocking thing about the fantasy ad?
You paid for it.
That's right.
It is taxpayers who are coughing up the $700,000 to run the ad all over the country in a government campaign to sell its cockeyed health-care scheme"
Oceana County wind farm meeting turns ugly, former lawmaker forced off stage
Oceana County wind farm meeting turns ugly, former lawmaker forced off stage MLive.com
"Former Oceana elected official and state legislator Bill Bobier of Ferry was unable to complete his presentation at Hart Middle School on behalf of Scandia because of the audience uproar.
Bobier is a consultant and lobbyist for the U.S.-Norwegian offshore wind developers"
"Former Oceana elected official and state legislator Bill Bobier of Ferry was unable to complete his presentation at Hart Middle School on behalf of Scandia because of the audience uproar.
Bobier is a consultant and lobbyist for the U.S.-Norwegian offshore wind developers"
Primary surprise won't carry over to general election
Steve Gunn: Primary surprise won't carry over to general election MLive.com
"The Democratic primary results taught us two very clear lessons:
Bernero is for sale, and was willing to cede control of his operation to the highest bidder, which in this case was organized labor.
He would probably do the same thing as governor.
The other lesson is that the Michigan Democratic Party is still the sole domain of Big Labor, and there’s no room for free thought or fresh ideas within its ranks."
"The Democratic primary results taught us two very clear lessons:
Bernero is for sale, and was willing to cede control of his operation to the highest bidder, which in this case was organized labor.
He would probably do the same thing as governor.
The other lesson is that the Michigan Democratic Party is still the sole domain of Big Labor, and there’s no room for free thought or fresh ideas within its ranks."
Michigan's annual report cards for schools suggest charters are struggling, Muskegon Heights troubled
Michigan's annual report cards for schools suggest charters are struggling, Muskegon Heights troubled MLive.com
"Muskegon Heights was the only area school to miss AYP last year and this year, and has missed AYP for the last eight years.
Now it will have state monitors overseeing achievement at the school."
No marches by the black community?
No outrage?
Nope.....
"Muskegon Heights was the only area school to miss AYP last year and this year, and has missed AYP for the last eight years.
Now it will have state monitors overseeing achievement at the school."
No marches by the black community?
No outrage?
Nope.....
Tuesday, August 03, 2010
Light rail, commuter trains, high-speed buses envisioned for Detroit
Light rail, commuter trains, high-speed buses envisioned for Detroit Detroit Free Press
"The intent was to start small: Build a 3-mile light-rail line that would run from Hart Plaza to the New Center in Detroit.
From there, stakeholders would try to build upon the system, ultimately turning it into a $10-billion system of light rail, commuter trains and high-speed buses spanning metro Detroit.
That start-small idea got a big boost Monday when Detroit Mayor Dave Bing received a gleaming endorsement from U.S. Secretary of Transportation Ray LaHood"
"The intent was to start small: Build a 3-mile light-rail line that would run from Hart Plaza to the New Center in Detroit.
From there, stakeholders would try to build upon the system, ultimately turning it into a $10-billion system of light rail, commuter trains and high-speed buses spanning metro Detroit.
That start-small idea got a big boost Monday when Detroit Mayor Dave Bing received a gleaming endorsement from U.S. Secretary of Transportation Ray LaHood"
Michigan court sets new standard in injury lawsuits
Michigan court sets new standard in injury lawsuits Detroit Free Press
"Dissenting were Justices Maura Corrigan, Stephen Markman and Robert Young Jr., who criticized the majority for reversing course abruptly and potentially threatening the financial integrity of the no-fault system, which is premised on limiting lawsuits in exchange for more generous and efficiently administered benefits.
Peter Kuhnmeunch, of the Insurance Institute of Michigan, said it is too soon to know whether the new standard will result in a dramatic increase in lawsuits and higher premiums."
"Dissenting were Justices Maura Corrigan, Stephen Markman and Robert Young Jr., who criticized the majority for reversing course abruptly and potentially threatening the financial integrity of the no-fault system, which is premised on limiting lawsuits in exchange for more generous and efficiently administered benefits.
Peter Kuhnmeunch, of the Insurance Institute of Michigan, said it is too soon to know whether the new standard will result in a dramatic increase in lawsuits and higher premiums."
New State Data Shows Michigan Public Schools Spent Record Amount Per-Student
New State Data Shows Michigan Public Schools Spent Record Amount Per-Student [Mackinac Center]: "Combined taxes from local, state and federal sources pumped $19.59 billion in the public school system last year.
This gross receipts figure was actually down $200 million from the previous year, but since the number of students dropped by an unprecedented 31,000 from 2007-2008, the amount of money spent per student increased by $200, to just over $13,000."
This gross receipts figure was actually down $200 million from the previous year, but since the number of students dropped by an unprecedented 31,000 from 2007-2008, the amount of money spent per student increased by $200, to just over $13,000."
Dangers of Status Quo Budgeting in Higher Education
Analysis: Dangers of Status Quo Budgeting in Higher Education [Mackinac Center]
"One of the biggest changes in higher education lately has been the growth of overhead employment.
The number of administrators and service staff in Michigan's 15 state universities increased from 19,576 in 2005 to 22,472 in 2009.
And in addition to all the new employees, average compensation increased by 13 percent as well."
"One of the biggest changes in higher education lately has been the growth of overhead employment.
The number of administrators and service staff in Michigan's 15 state universities increased from 19,576 in 2005 to 22,472 in 2009.
And in addition to all the new employees, average compensation increased by 13 percent as well."
GVSU buys building hikes tuition
GVSU buys building hikes tuition
"The tuition hike of 5.3% -- about $229 per semester -- comes along with a one-year wage freeze for university employees."
"The tuition hike of 5.3% -- about $229 per semester -- comes along with a one-year wage freeze for university employees."
WMU raises tuition 7.4 percent
WMU raises tuition 7.4 percent
"The Western Michigan University Board of Trustees on Friday approved a 7.4 percent increase in tuition and required fees.
Officials said in a news release the increase will allow the 'university to make strategic investments in academic areas and boost academic resources available to students but still maintain its position as one of the nation's best values in higher education.'
The increases for the 2010-11 academic year will amount to $312 per semester or $624 per year for an in-state resident who is a full-time freshman or sophomore. The increased rates adopted by the board include fee increases that account for 0.5 percent of the total increase.
The fee changes include modest increases to existing technology and recreation fees of $25 and $15 per semester, respectively, and a new sustainability fee of $8 per semester approved by a vote of the WMU student body during the spring 2010 semester."
"The Western Michigan University Board of Trustees on Friday approved a 7.4 percent increase in tuition and required fees.
Officials said in a news release the increase will allow the 'university to make strategic investments in academic areas and boost academic resources available to students but still maintain its position as one of the nation's best values in higher education.'
The increases for the 2010-11 academic year will amount to $312 per semester or $624 per year for an in-state resident who is a full-time freshman or sophomore. The increased rates adopted by the board include fee increases that account for 0.5 percent of the total increase.
The fee changes include modest increases to existing technology and recreation fees of $25 and $15 per semester, respectively, and a new sustainability fee of $8 per semester approved by a vote of the WMU student body during the spring 2010 semester."
Newcomers will be plentiful in Michigan Legislature with all 148 seats on the line
Newcomers will be plentiful in Michigan Legislature with all 148 seats on the line
More than half the lawmakers now in the Legislature will be gone from their current seats next year, one of the largest turnovers in decades.
Only nine of 38 seats in the Senate are held by an incumbent seeking re-election, along with 58 of 110 seats in the House.
More than half the lawmakers now in the Legislature will be gone from their current seats next year, one of the largest turnovers in decades.
Only nine of 38 seats in the Senate are held by an incumbent seeking re-election, along with 58 of 110 seats in the House.
Norton Shores to ask for approval of ballot language for public safety millage
Norton Shores to ask for approval of ballot language for public safety millage MLive.com
"The Norton Shores City Council voted unanimously Monday to ask the state attorney general’s office to approve ballot language for a dedicated public safety millage, one of the last hurdles before the question may be put before voters.
The attorney general’s office will decide whether language for the proposed 10-year, 2-mill property tax increase — which only would be used for public safety-related expenses — is sufficient, city officials said."
"The Norton Shores City Council voted unanimously Monday to ask the state attorney general’s office to approve ballot language for a dedicated public safety millage, one of the last hurdles before the question may be put before voters.
The attorney general’s office will decide whether language for the proposed 10-year, 2-mill property tax increase — which only would be used for public safety-related expenses — is sufficient, city officials said."
Mau-Mauing the Free Press
The American Spectator : Mau-Mauing the Free Press
"Lee Bollinger, president of Columbia University, host to Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad, and newly appointed head of the New York Federal Reserve Bank, says government should get into the business of subsidizing journalism.
Like other Obama appointees, he says he is concerned that, with the changes in the financial structure of journalism, Americans might be deprived 'of the essential information they need as citizens.'
It's not difficult to imagine that one of those 'needs' would be a more 'balanced' view of President Obama.
Can anyone doubt that an administration that was willing to Madoff General Motors' bondholders in favor of its own union supporters would not exercise maximum bias in subsidizing the press?
Mr. Bollinger, practicing the glib and oily art to speak and purpose not, is a harbinger of Venezuelan-style gangster journalism."
"Lee Bollinger, president of Columbia University, host to Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad, and newly appointed head of the New York Federal Reserve Bank, says government should get into the business of subsidizing journalism.
Like other Obama appointees, he says he is concerned that, with the changes in the financial structure of journalism, Americans might be deprived 'of the essential information they need as citizens.'
It's not difficult to imagine that one of those 'needs' would be a more 'balanced' view of President Obama.
Can anyone doubt that an administration that was willing to Madoff General Motors' bondholders in favor of its own union supporters would not exercise maximum bias in subsidizing the press?
Mr. Bollinger, practicing the glib and oily art to speak and purpose not, is a harbinger of Venezuelan-style gangster journalism."
Monday, August 02, 2010
Heroism in ambush may yield top valor awards
Heroism in ambush may yield top valor awards - Navy News, news from Iraq - Navy Times
"With no air or artillery support, the Marines of Embedded Training Team 2-8 were trapped deep in a kill zone in eastern Afghanistan.
Their radios worked only sporadically, and dozens of insurgents fired on them repeatedly from three sides.
“We’re surrounded!” Gunnery Sgt. Edwin Johnson yelled into his radio in the early-morning hours of Sept. 8, 2009.
“They’re moving in on us!”"
"With no air or artillery support, the Marines of Embedded Training Team 2-8 were trapped deep in a kill zone in eastern Afghanistan.
Their radios worked only sporadically, and dozens of insurgents fired on them repeatedly from three sides.
“We’re surrounded!” Gunnery Sgt. Edwin Johnson yelled into his radio in the early-morning hours of Sept. 8, 2009.
“They’re moving in on us!”"
The Secret History of Climate Alarmism
The Secret History of Climate Alarmism The Weekly Standard
"Changes in the earth’s atmosphere, the additional greenhouse effect and the resultant changes in the climate . . . represent a global danger for humanity and the entire biosphere of the earth.
If no effective counteracting measures are taken, dramatic consequences are to be expected for all of the earth’s regions.
This warning will undoubtedly seem familiar, perhaps even mind-numbingly so.
But if the substance sounds like the same-old same-old, the date on which it was issued might seem surprising.
It was not in the run-up to the Copenhagen climate summit or indeed anytime in the last decade.
The above passage is nearly two decades old.
It comes from a resolution adopted by the German Bundestag in September 1991."
"Changes in the earth’s atmosphere, the additional greenhouse effect and the resultant changes in the climate . . . represent a global danger for humanity and the entire biosphere of the earth.
If no effective counteracting measures are taken, dramatic consequences are to be expected for all of the earth’s regions.
This warning will undoubtedly seem familiar, perhaps even mind-numbingly so.
But if the substance sounds like the same-old same-old, the date on which it was issued might seem surprising.
It was not in the run-up to the Copenhagen climate summit or indeed anytime in the last decade.
The above passage is nearly two decades old.
It comes from a resolution adopted by the German Bundestag in September 1991."
Obama's Immigration Power Play
The American Spectator : Obama's Immigration Power Play
"Last week, the Obama administration got Clinton-appointed Judge Susan Bolton to at least temporarily throw out key provisions of Arizona's immigration law.
Within 24 hours came more evidence that they weren't done eviscerating immigration enforcement yet.
That proof came in the form of an astonishing internal memo outlining ways the United States Citizen and Immigration Services (USCIS) could effectively legalize at least tens of thousands of illegal immigrants even if Congress fails to enact amnesty.
Some would be granted resident status with the USCIS simply giving them green cards.
Others would be allowed to evade deportation, possibly indefinitely."
"Last week, the Obama administration got Clinton-appointed Judge Susan Bolton to at least temporarily throw out key provisions of Arizona's immigration law.
Within 24 hours came more evidence that they weren't done eviscerating immigration enforcement yet.
That proof came in the form of an astonishing internal memo outlining ways the United States Citizen and Immigration Services (USCIS) could effectively legalize at least tens of thousands of illegal immigrants even if Congress fails to enact amnesty.
Some would be granted resident status with the USCIS simply giving them green cards.
Others would be allowed to evade deportation, possibly indefinitely."
Climate Profiteers
Climate Profiteers - IBD - Investors.com
"And what are those goals, and just what has GEPAC accomplished thus far? 'On climate change,' Rice wrote, 'we were able to work closely with key authors of the Waxman-Markey climate and energy bill, recently passed by the House of Representatives. If this bill is enacted into law, it will benefit many GE businesses.'"
"And what are those goals, and just what has GEPAC accomplished thus far? 'On climate change,' Rice wrote, 'we were able to work closely with key authors of the Waxman-Markey climate and energy bill, recently passed by the House of Representatives. If this bill is enacted into law, it will benefit many GE businesses.'"
Climate Profiteers
Climate Profiteers - IBD - Investors.com
"And what are those goals, and just what has GEPAC accomplished thus far? 'On climate change,' Rice wrote, 'we were able to work closely with key authors of the Waxman-Markey climate and energy bill, recently passed by the House of Representatives. If this bill is enacted into law, it will benefit many GE businesses.'"
"And what are those goals, and just what has GEPAC accomplished thus far? 'On climate change,' Rice wrote, 'we were able to work closely with key authors of the Waxman-Markey climate and energy bill, recently passed by the House of Representatives. If this bill is enacted into law, it will benefit many GE businesses.'"
Layoffs to gut East St. Louis police force
Layoffs to gut East St. Louis police force
"East St. Louis has been crippled by crime and poverty for decades. Police officials say the cuts will mean fewer officers for patrols, investigations and juvenile cases.
Fire officials said the region should be upset because the department will have fewer people at the ready to fight fires on some of the region’s major highways and bridges"
"East St. Louis has been crippled by crime and poverty for decades. Police officials say the cuts will mean fewer officers for patrols, investigations and juvenile cases.
Fire officials said the region should be upset because the department will have fewer people at the ready to fight fires on some of the region’s major highways and bridges"
Oops! Obama mama passport 'destroyed'
Oops! Obama mama passport 'destroyed'
"Last week, in response to a Freedom of Information Act request, the State Department released passport records of Stanley Ann Dunham, President Obama's mother – but those records for the years surrounding Obama's 1961 birth are missing.
The State Department claims that a 1980s General Services Administration directive had resulted in the destruction of many passport applications and other 'non-vital' passport records, including Dunham's 1965 passport application and any other passports she may have applied for or held prior to 1965.
Destroyed, then, would also be any records shedding light on whether Dunham did or did not travel out of the country around the time of Barack Obama's birth."
DOH...?
"Last week, in response to a Freedom of Information Act request, the State Department released passport records of Stanley Ann Dunham, President Obama's mother – but those records for the years surrounding Obama's 1961 birth are missing.
The State Department claims that a 1980s General Services Administration directive had resulted in the destruction of many passport applications and other 'non-vital' passport records, including Dunham's 1965 passport application and any other passports she may have applied for or held prior to 1965.
Destroyed, then, would also be any records shedding light on whether Dunham did or did not travel out of the country around the time of Barack Obama's birth."
DOH...?
Pastor sticks up for modern view of God
Pastor sticks up for modern view of God - Religion - NewsObserver.com
"As Duke's campus minister for the United Church of Christ, the Rev. Mark Rutledge helped lead weekly worship services - reading Scripture and reciting the creed. He counseled students about their faith and took part in interfaith activities on campus.
But Rutledge is the first to admit he does not believe in a supernatural God with supernatural powers.
'The cosmic guy in the sky is not a credible image of God,' he said."
"As Duke's campus minister for the United Church of Christ, the Rev. Mark Rutledge helped lead weekly worship services - reading Scripture and reciting the creed. He counseled students about their faith and took part in interfaith activities on campus.
But Rutledge is the first to admit he does not believe in a supernatural God with supernatural powers.
'The cosmic guy in the sky is not a credible image of God,' he said."
Chicago: Where Criminals No Longer Fear the Police
Pajamas Media » Chicago: Where Criminals No Longer Fear the Police
"(Chicagoans might find some comfort in the knowledge that the murder rate in Detroit is almost twice as high as theirs, and New Orleans’s is more than three times as high.)"
"(Chicagoans might find some comfort in the knowledge that the murder rate in Detroit is almost twice as high as theirs, and New Orleans’s is more than three times as high.)"
Sunday, August 01, 2010
The Auto Bailout Payback
The Auto Bailout Payback [Mackinac Center]
"President Barack Obama went on the TV show 'The View' and told the cast that all the taxpayer money his administration spent to bail out General Motors and Chrysler will be repaid.
The Mackinac Center for Public Policy experts talk about their take on the impact of the auto bailouts"
"President Barack Obama went on the TV show 'The View' and told the cast that all the taxpayer money his administration spent to bail out General Motors and Chrysler will be repaid.
The Mackinac Center for Public Policy experts talk about their take on the impact of the auto bailouts"
Saturday, July 31, 2010
Paperwork nightmare: A struggle to fix new law
Paperwork nightmare: A struggle to fix new law
"Tucked into the new health care law is a requirement that could become a paperwork nightmare for nearly 40 million businesses.
They must file tax forms for every vendor that sells them more than $600 in goods."
"Tucked into the new health care law is a requirement that could become a paperwork nightmare for nearly 40 million businesses.
They must file tax forms for every vendor that sells them more than $600 in goods."
Congress Passed an Arizona-Like Immigration Law in 1996
Congress Passed an Arizona-Like Immigration Law in 1996 - Chris Battle (usnews.com
"The federal law that has been on the books for more than decade … empowers state and local law enforcement to impose immigration law. According to U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, more than 60 jurisdictions in states across the country have taken advantage of this law."
"The federal law that has been on the books for more than decade … empowers state and local law enforcement to impose immigration law. According to U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, more than 60 jurisdictions in states across the country have taken advantage of this law."
NUGENT: It is us
NUGENT: It is us - Washington Times
"NUGENT: It is us
We're the ones who allowed anti-Americans to take over America"
"NUGENT: It is us
We're the ones who allowed anti-Americans to take over America"
Administration considers going around Congress to let illegal immigrants stay
Administration considers going around Congress to let illegal immigrants stay Washington Examiner
The Obama administration, unable to push an immigration overhaul through Congress, is considering ways it could go around lawmakers to let undocumented immigrants stay in the United States, according to an agency memo."
The Obama administration, unable to push an immigration overhaul through Congress, is considering ways it could go around lawmakers to let undocumented immigrants stay in the United States, according to an agency memo."
From the "You Just Can't Make This Stuff Up" File: ADA vs. Chipotle; Happy 20th Birthday ADA
CARPE DIEM: From the "You Just Can't Make This Stuff Up" File: ADA vs. Chipotle; Happy 20th Birthday ADA
"'The 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals ruled this week that customers in wheelchairs are being denied the full 'Chipotle experience' of watching their food being prepared because Chipotle's 45-inch counters are too high.'"
"'The 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals ruled this week that customers in wheelchairs are being denied the full 'Chipotle experience' of watching their food being prepared because Chipotle's 45-inch counters are too high.'"
Friday, July 30, 2010
California fiscal emergency declared by governor
California fiscal emergency declared by governor Reuters
"In the declaration, Schwarzenegger ordered three days off without pay per month beginning in August for thousands of state employees to preserve the state's cash to pay debt obligations, and for essential services."
We Michiganders are on our way there if we don't stop the spending NOW!
"In the declaration, Schwarzenegger ordered three days off without pay per month beginning in August for thousands of state employees to preserve the state's cash to pay debt obligations, and for essential services."
We Michiganders are on our way there if we don't stop the spending NOW!
The Volt - G.M.’s Electric Lemon
"For starters, G.M.’s vision turned into a car that costs $41,000 before relevant tax breaks ... but after billions of dollars of government loans and grants for the Volt’s development and production.
And instead of the sleek coupe of 2007, it looks suspiciously similar to a Toyota Prius.
It also requires premium gasoline, seats only four people (the battery runs down the center of the car, preventing a rear bench) and has less head and leg room than the $17,000 Chevrolet Cruze, which is more or less the non-electric version of the Volt.
In short, the Volt appears to be exactly the kind of green-at-all-costs car that some opponents of the bailout feared the government might order G.M. to build.
Unfortunately for this theory, G.M. was already committed to the Volt when it entered bankruptcy.
And though President Obama’s task force reported in 2009 that the Volt “will likely be too expensive to be commercially successful in the short term,” it didn’t cancel the project."
Not a Real News Network Anyway, MSNBC Announces Name and Format Change: Welcome to MPTV - Big Journalism#more-101193#more-101193
Watch for BIG changes in MSNBC in september!
"O boy, is this great!"
the Origins of the 'Acting White' Phenomenon
Author John McWhorter Dissects the Origins of the 'Acting White' Phenomenon
"a crucial reason for the gap in scholarly performance between even middle-class black students and white ones was that to be Young, Gifted and Black is often to also find oneself tarred as ''acting white'' by black peers"
There seems to not be an issue to the NAACP or it's personal political party, the democrats.
But Andrew Breitbart is a BIG deal!
Anyone sense a lack if seriousness here....
"a crucial reason for the gap in scholarly performance between even middle-class black students and white ones was that to be Young, Gifted and Black is often to also find oneself tarred as ''acting white'' by black peers"
There seems to not be an issue to the NAACP or it's personal political party, the democrats.
But Andrew Breitbart is a BIG deal!
Anyone sense a lack if seriousness here....
Three Unpaid Parking Tickets? No License!
Three Unpaid Parking Tickets? No License! [Mackinac Center]: "Three Unpaid Parking Tickets? No License!By Ken Braun July 27, 2010
Motorist with three or more unpaid parking tickets at one time should be looking warily over their shoulder at what state politicians are doing with legislation that has cleared the Michigan House but come to a stall in the Senate.
House Bill 4726, sponsored by Rep. Roy Schmidt, D-Grand Rapids, would have the Secretary of State deny a driver license renewal to any motorist with as few as three unpaid parking tickets. The bill cleared the Michigan House last October on a vote of 68-37."
"No other problems happenin' here folks....just workin' on the things that REALLY matter folks...."
This is your democrat party in Michigan folks!
Motorist with three or more unpaid parking tickets at one time should be looking warily over their shoulder at what state politicians are doing with legislation that has cleared the Michigan House but come to a stall in the Senate.
House Bill 4726, sponsored by Rep. Roy Schmidt, D-Grand Rapids, would have the Secretary of State deny a driver license renewal to any motorist with as few as three unpaid parking tickets. The bill cleared the Michigan House last October on a vote of 68-37."
"No other problems happenin' here folks....just workin' on the things that REALLY matter folks...."
This is your democrat party in Michigan folks!
Muskegon County Youth Fair keeps kids focused on rural living
• What: 83rd Annual Muskegon County Youth Fair
• When: Monday through Saturday.
Monday is entry day.
The fairgrounds will be open 8 a.m. to around 10 p.m."
This is a great time for young and old!
The complete schedule: http://www.muskegonfairgrounds.com/youthfair/2010_youthfairschedule.pdf
Phoney "Tea Party" candidates exposed!
Grand Haven Tribune a Michigan Newspaper 
"Two candidates nominated by The Tea Party to run for state Senate seats won't be on the ballot because they're too young.
"Two candidates nominated by The Tea Party to run for state Senate seats won't be on the ballot because they're too young.Thirteenth District Senate candidate Thomas Murdock of Troy and 15th District Senate candidate Heather Sartorius of New Hudson were both born in 1990 and won't be 21 by Jan. 1, 2011, the date they'd take office if they won.
That violates the state constitution.
A secretary of state spokeswoman says they're ineligible to appear on the Nov. 2 ballot.
Requests for comment left today with Murdock and Sartorius were not immediately returned.
The two were among 23 candidates nominated over the weekend by The Tea Party.
Unaffiliated tea partiers and Republicans are fighting to keep The Tea Party off the ballot."
The Michigan Tea Party movement has no affiliation with ANY political party.
This "Tea Party" is a phony scheme to disenfranchise voters by confusing them.
It is a creation of the democrat party and its progressive/union thugs in order to steal another election.
We real Muskegon Tea Party members and all Tea Party members statewide are working very hard to expose and decertify this politial abomination.
Faithless Lawmakers
Faithless Lawmakers - WSJ.com: "Since the NPVIC would be legally unenforceable, only political pressure could be brought to bear to ensure that state legislatures stand by their commitments to it. Would this be enough? Let's put the question in starkly partisan terms: If you're a Republican, do you trust Massachusetts lawmakers to keep their word, and to defy the will of the voters who elected them, if by doing so they would make Sarah Palin president?"
This an IMPORTANT issue.
It a scheme by the democrats to have it both ways.
This an IMPORTANT issue.
It a scheme by the democrats to have it both ways.
Pot Reviewer Gets Paid To Get High
Pot Reviewer Gets Paid To Get High - WBAL Baltimore
"DENVER -- A Denver man gets paid to smoke pot and write about it as one of the first medical marijuana critics in the country."
Our liberal MSM setting "higher" goals for America...again...
"DENVER -- A Denver man gets paid to smoke pot and write about it as one of the first medical marijuana critics in the country."
Our liberal MSM setting "higher" goals for America...again...
How the pitchforks almost killed the Ford Explorer
"De Lorenzo: How the pitchforks almost killed the Ford Explorer
In those dark days, when two of the Detroit Three were heading toward oblivion, and Ford was certain to follow, it was not unexpected that some within Ford would be vehemently against the idea of doing a new Explorer.
After all, the letters S-U-V had become the bane of Detroit’s existence.
Consumers were beginning to abandon the segment in droves as the political rhetoric generated by the virulent anti-car, anti-Detroit “intelligentsia” (and I use that term derisively as if you had to guess) in Washington and California and in the media (only thinly-disguised at that point and led, of course, by their Patron Saint, Thomas Friedman of the New York Times) was reaching a cacophonous crescendo."
Isn't it funny how quickly the rich liberals and their comrades in the MSM drop their hate for the SUV when they think it is now their "idea"?
Actually, it's not funny.
It's very sad.
Thursday, July 29, 2010
CARPE DIEM: Funding Electric Vehicles is a Battery-Dead Idea
CARPE DIEM: Funding Electric Vehicles is a Battery-Dead Idea
"Can a bunch of technocrats in Washington really make better decisions than free consumers in the marketplace?
No economic or scientific case exists for subsidizing the electric vehicle.
The government should remain technology-neutral.
Subsidies hinder the ability of free enterprise to innovate and develop other advanced auto technologies like the hydrogen fuel cell.
The right way to create a diverse market for advanced technologies is to limit government involvement and introduce real tax reforms.
Government subsidies serve only to tilt the playing field and constrain the market's ability to operate.
They are not in America's best interests.
Funding electric vehicles is a battery-dead idea."
"Can a bunch of technocrats in Washington really make better decisions than free consumers in the marketplace?
No economic or scientific case exists for subsidizing the electric vehicle.
The government should remain technology-neutral.
Subsidies hinder the ability of free enterprise to innovate and develop other advanced auto technologies like the hydrogen fuel cell.
The right way to create a diverse market for advanced technologies is to limit government involvement and introduce real tax reforms.
Government subsidies serve only to tilt the playing field and constrain the market's ability to operate.
They are not in America's best interests.
Funding electric vehicles is a battery-dead idea."
Fake Political Party Runs Mystery Candidates
Fake Political Party Runs Mystery Candidates [Mackinac Center]
"Snyder was part of a list of 23 candidates the newly formed Tea Party political group released Tuesday.
The Tea Party is suspected of being a Democrat front to skim unaware voters who may generally support the genuine grass roots tea party movement but be unaware that isn't supportive of a third party."
"Snyder was part of a list of 23 candidates the newly formed Tea Party political group released Tuesday.
The Tea Party is suspected of being a Democrat front to skim unaware voters who may generally support the genuine grass roots tea party movement but be unaware that isn't supportive of a third party."
Who Is Behind the 'Tea Party' Party?
Who Is Behind the 'Tea Party' Party? [Mackinac Center]
"A tea party organizer says he has found the smoking gun that links the Democratic Party to the controversial 'Tea Party' that is running candidates and seeking official ballot status in Michigan.
A 'Jason Bauer' is listed on recent federal election documents and state campaign donation documents as the 'political director' of the Oakland County Democratic Party.
A 'Jason H. Bauer' signed the affidavits as the notary on nine of the mysterious Tea Party Political candidates' paperwork turned in to the state of Michigan.
A 'Jason H. Bauer' has registered twice to run for office in Oakland County, once as a Democrat in May of this year.
Both times, the Auburn Hills home address given by 'Jason H. Bauer' is the same as the 'Jason Bauer' who is identified as the Oakland County Democratic Party political director on the state and federal campaign documents."
"A tea party organizer says he has found the smoking gun that links the Democratic Party to the controversial 'Tea Party' that is running candidates and seeking official ballot status in Michigan.
A 'Jason Bauer' is listed on recent federal election documents and state campaign donation documents as the 'political director' of the Oakland County Democratic Party.
A 'Jason H. Bauer' signed the affidavits as the notary on nine of the mysterious Tea Party Political candidates' paperwork turned in to the state of Michigan.
A 'Jason H. Bauer' has registered twice to run for office in Oakland County, once as a Democrat in May of this year.
Both times, the Auburn Hills home address given by 'Jason H. Bauer' is the same as the 'Jason Bauer' who is identified as the Oakland County Democratic Party political director on the state and federal campaign documents."
Beckmann: No BP in Kalamazoo
Beckmann: No BP in Kalamazoo themichiganview.com The Michigan View
"That hasn't stopped the Utopians though.
'The horrific pictures coming in of the oil spill in Calhoun County area underscore just how imperative it is for Michigan to move toward...wind and solar instead of relying on outdated fuels like oil,' said Clean Water Action Michigan Director Cyndi Roper in a typically exploitive, exaggerated response.
I'm not sure what 'horrific' pictures the environmentalists are viewing but the only potential 'disaster' here would be another misguided response like that of the Obama administration when it shut down oil exploration in the Gulf and immediately jeopardized 20,000 jobs.
Now, THAT is creating a 'crisis.'"
"That hasn't stopped the Utopians though.
'The horrific pictures coming in of the oil spill in Calhoun County area underscore just how imperative it is for Michigan to move toward...wind and solar instead of relying on outdated fuels like oil,' said Clean Water Action Michigan Director Cyndi Roper in a typically exploitive, exaggerated response.
I'm not sure what 'horrific' pictures the environmentalists are viewing but the only potential 'disaster' here would be another misguided response like that of the Obama administration when it shut down oil exploration in the Gulf and immediately jeopardized 20,000 jobs.
Now, THAT is creating a 'crisis.'"
Michigan Stimulus Recipients Failing to Report
Michigan Stimulus Recipients Failing to Report – Part 2 [Mackinac Center]
"more than two dozen Michigan companies, colleges and agencies which failed to tell the government how they used nearly $59 million over the past two reporting periods. (fourth quarter 2009 and first quarter 2010.)"
"more than two dozen Michigan companies, colleges and agencies which failed to tell the government how they used nearly $59 million over the past two reporting periods. (fourth quarter 2009 and first quarter 2010.)"
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