Friday, October 07, 2011
Herman Cain Leads Mitt Romney by 20 Points: Will the Tortoise or Hare Win?
Herman Cain Leads Mitt Romney by 20 Points: Will the Tortoise or Hare Win? - International Business Times
Herman Cain holds an astounding 20-point lead over Mitt Romney in a poll of Republican primary voters released Thursday, and he is in a statistical tie with President Obama.
The Zogby Poll, which was conducted from Oct. 3-5, found that 38 percent of Republicans would vote for Cain, a Georgia businessman, if the primary elections were held today.
Mitt Romney had 18 percent support, and Rick Perry and Ron Paul were tied with 12 percent support each.
Herman Cain holds an astounding 20-point lead over Mitt Romney in a poll of Republican primary voters released Thursday, and he is in a statistical tie with President Obama.
The Zogby Poll, which was conducted from Oct. 3-5, found that 38 percent of Republicans would vote for Cain, a Georgia businessman, if the primary elections were held today.
Mitt Romney had 18 percent support, and Rick Perry and Ron Paul were tied with 12 percent support each.
Cain 46%, Obama 44%
Cain 46%, Obama 44% « Don Surber
Herman Cain has a 2-point lead over President Obama in a head-to-head match-up, the Zogby online poll found.
Herman Cain has a 2-point lead over President Obama in a head-to-head match-up, the Zogby online poll found.
So, what’s the point of these Occupy Wall Street demonstrators?
So, what’s the point of these Occupy Wall Street demonstrators? - NYPOST.com
Like the guy who marched with a sign announcing that he was the “Fart Smeller.’’ Say what?
“It’s not a joke,’’ he said, as serious as open-heart surgery, showing me a photograph of his important work.
“I go up to women and ask to smell their ...’’
At the stinky end of the park, I met a smart man, Phillip Belpasso, 64, in a filthy Army-style jacket, who said he’s been in Zuccotti Park “pretty much since the Towers came down.’’ A decade?
“This all happened around me, sort of,’’ he said. “Say, have you figured out what’s going on here yet?
I don’t even know if they know what they’re for. ’’
Like the guy who marched with a sign announcing that he was the “Fart Smeller.’’ Say what?
“It’s not a joke,’’ he said, as serious as open-heart surgery, showing me a photograph of his important work.
“I go up to women and ask to smell their ...’’
At the stinky end of the park, I met a smart man, Phillip Belpasso, 64, in a filthy Army-style jacket, who said he’s been in Zuccotti Park “pretty much since the Towers came down.’’ A decade?
“This all happened around me, sort of,’’ he said. “Say, have you figured out what’s going on here yet?
I don’t even know if they know what they’re for. ’’
Occupy DC Organizer
Occupy DC Organizer Washington Hispanics The Daily Caller
A liberal organizer told the Daily Caller on Thursday afternoon that he paid some Hispanics to attend “Occupy DC” protests happening in the nation’s capital
A liberal organizer told the Daily Caller on Thursday afternoon that he paid some Hispanics to attend “Occupy DC” protests happening in the nation’s capital
World facing worst financial crisis in history, Bank of England Governor says
World facing worst financial crisis in history, Bank of England Governor says - Telegraph
The world is facing the worst financial crisis since at least the 1930s “if not ever”, the Governor of the Bank of England said last night.
The world is facing the worst financial crisis since at least the 1930s “if not ever”, the Governor of the Bank of England said last night.
Thursday, October 06, 2011
Shortfall for State and Local Pension Systems Today: Over $4 Trillion
Shortfall for State and Local Pension Systems Today: Over $4 Trillion « Everything Finance
Together with the estimates of assets, these calculations imply an unfunded liability in October 2011 of $4.0 trillion.
Together with the estimates of assets, these calculations imply an unfunded liability in October 2011 of $4.0 trillion.
Democrats vs. Republicans: Stars they Won’t Pay to See; Movies They Hate and Love (Poll)
Democrats vs. Republicans: Stars they Won’t Pay to See; Movies They Hate and Love (Poll) - The Hollywood Reporter
overall, 35 percent of Republicans and 45 percent of Tea Partiers consider a celebrity's political position before paying to see their films, compared with 20 percent of Democrats.
overall, 35 percent of Republicans and 45 percent of Tea Partiers consider a celebrity's political position before paying to see their films, compared with 20 percent of Democrats.
Occupy Wall Street protesters post manifesto of 'demands'
PICKET: Occupy Wall Street protesters post manifesto of 'demands' - Washington Times
The "Occupy Wall Street" protesters have listed 13 proposed demands from their website.
The "Occupy Wall Street" protesters have listed 13 proposed demands from their website.
The Granholm World Fantasy Tour
Letters: The Granholm World Fantasy Tour MLive.com
So with all this as a backdrop, watching Granholm discuss job creation is tantamount to listening to eight-time married Mickey Rooney consult on the sanctity of marriage.
This is a GREAT LTE!
Read it all.
So with all this as a backdrop, watching Granholm discuss job creation is tantamount to listening to eight-time married Mickey Rooney consult on the sanctity of marriage.
This is a GREAT LTE!
Read it all.
Stanford Hospital Patient Data Breach Is Detailed
Stanford Hospital Patient Data Breach Is Detailed - NYTimes.com
Private medical data for nearly 20,000 emergency room patients at California’s prestigious Stanford Hospital were exposed to public view for nearly a year because a billing contractor’s marketing agent sent the electronic spreadsheet to a job prospect as part of a skills test, the hospital and contractors confirmed this week.
The applicant then sought help by unwittingly posting the confidential data on a tutoring Web site.
Private medical data for nearly 20,000 emergency room patients at California’s prestigious Stanford Hospital were exposed to public view for nearly a year because a billing contractor’s marketing agent sent the electronic spreadsheet to a job prospect as part of a skills test, the hospital and contractors confirmed this week.
The applicant then sought help by unwittingly posting the confidential data on a tutoring Web site.
Warren Buffett Act
Warren Buffett Act Steve Scalise Class Warfare The Daily Caller
Louisiana Republican Rep. Steve Scalise will introduce his own Warren Buffett-inspired legislation tonight, but this one has the support of conservatives like Grover Norquist.
Scalise’s “Warren Buffett Act of 2011” will instruct the IRS to provide a checkbox on Americans’ income tax forms so that those who feel they are not paying enough in taxes can easily and conveniently do so — without forcing an entire change in the tax code.
Louisiana Republican Rep. Steve Scalise will introduce his own Warren Buffett-inspired legislation tonight, but this one has the support of conservatives like Grover Norquist.
Scalise’s “Warren Buffett Act of 2011” will instruct the IRS to provide a checkbox on Americans’ income tax forms so that those who feel they are not paying enough in taxes can easily and conveniently do so — without forcing an entire change in the tax code.
Alabama official says tough immigration law leading to ‘self-deportation’
Alabama Immigration Law Self-Deportation Illegal Immigration The Daily Caller
Alabama official says tough immigration law leading to ‘self-deportation’
Alabama official says tough immigration law leading to ‘self-deportation’
U.S. stocks' massive "melt-up" fans investor fears
U.S. stocks' massive "melt-up" fans investor fears - Yahoo! News
"Program trading and algorithmic trading was the cause," said Donohue.
"We're seeing moves in a half hour that used to take weeks.
Obviously we were very oversold technically before, and essentially we had a 'melt-up' that was helped by the algo trading that just went off buying."
"Program trading and algorithmic trading was the cause," said Donohue.
"We're seeing moves in a half hour that used to take weeks.
Obviously we were very oversold technically before, and essentially we had a 'melt-up' that was helped by the algo trading that just went off buying."
Trimming TSA
Trimming TSA
Except with 67,000 employees, there's nothing little about it.
As does every federal bureaucracy, TSA has morphed into a large, entrenched agency that is, in some ways, worse than any other because it pretends to be answerable to no one.
Except with 67,000 employees, there's nothing little about it.
As does every federal bureaucracy, TSA has morphed into a large, entrenched agency that is, in some ways, worse than any other because it pretends to be answerable to no one.
Wednesday, October 05, 2011
Smith, Alvarez among highest-paid ADs - Big Ten Blog
Smith, Alvarez among highest-paid ADs - Big Ten Blog - ESPN
Here is how the Big Ten athletic directors whose salaries are known stack up against one another.
And this:
http://www.usatoday.com/sports/college/story/2011-10-18/athletic-director-salaries-cover/50671214/1
Here is how the Big Ten athletic directors whose salaries are known stack up against one another.
And this:
http://www.usatoday.com/sports/college/story/2011-10-18/athletic-director-salaries-cover/50671214/1
Watch this video!-National Right to Work Committee
National Right to Work Committee
A Citizen's Petition to: My U.S. Senators and Representative
Whereas: Every year militant union bosses deploy their thugs to target innocent men and women with threats, brass knuckles, knives and beatings in an attempt to send a simple message -- do what we want, or pay the price; and
Whereas: Because of the 1973 Enmons decision, union officials are exempt from federal prosecution -- as long as the campaign of violence they incite is in the name of "legitimate union objectives"; and
Whereas: Union violence is a crippling blow not only for innocent American workers targeted by union militants -- but for every American citizen; and
Whereas: Passage of the Freedom from Union Violence Act would close the loophole in federal law and finally allow authorities to prosecute union officials for inciting violence;
Therefore: I urge you to help hold union officials accountable for union violence by cosponsoring and seeking roll-call votes on the Freedom from Union Violence Act.
A Citizen's Petition to: My U.S. Senators and Representative
Whereas: Every year militant union bosses deploy their thugs to target innocent men and women with threats, brass knuckles, knives and beatings in an attempt to send a simple message -- do what we want, or pay the price; and
Whereas: Because of the 1973 Enmons decision, union officials are exempt from federal prosecution -- as long as the campaign of violence they incite is in the name of "legitimate union objectives"; and
Whereas: Union violence is a crippling blow not only for innocent American workers targeted by union militants -- but for every American citizen; and
Whereas: Passage of the Freedom from Union Violence Act would close the loophole in federal law and finally allow authorities to prosecute union officials for inciting violence;
Therefore: I urge you to help hold union officials accountable for union violence by cosponsoring and seeking roll-call votes on the Freedom from Union Violence Act.
ISD Denies Special Ed Services to Northern Michigan School District [Michigan Capitol Confidential]
ISD Denies Special Ed Services to Northern Michigan School District [Michigan Capitol Confidential]
ISD Denies Special Ed Services to Northern Michigan School DistrictDistrict tells federal court that it could provide special ed services for just 17 percent of what the intermediate school district is charging taxpayers
ISD Denies Special Ed Services to Northern Michigan School DistrictDistrict tells federal court that it could provide special ed services for just 17 percent of what the intermediate school district is charging taxpayers
How Generous Are Federal Employee Pensions?
How Generous Are Federal Employee Pensions? « The Enterprise Blog
USA Today reports that “retirement programs for former federal workers—civilian and military—are growing so fast they now face a multitrillion-dollar shortfall nearly as big as Social Security’s.”
USA Today’s figures include both pension and retiree health costs and are inclusive of military programs, so it is a broad figure.
Nevertheless, it raises an interesting question: how did retirement costs for a small segment of the population grow to rival Social Security, a program designed to cover nearly all Americans?
One big reason is that federal pension benefits are simply very generous relative to typical private sector plans.
USA Today reports that “retirement programs for former federal workers—civilian and military—are growing so fast they now face a multitrillion-dollar shortfall nearly as big as Social Security’s.”
USA Today’s figures include both pension and retiree health costs and are inclusive of military programs, so it is a broad figure.
Nevertheless, it raises an interesting question: how did retirement costs for a small segment of the population grow to rival Social Security, a program designed to cover nearly all Americans?
One big reason is that federal pension benefits are simply very generous relative to typical private sector plans.
Initiative at Muskegon Community College aims to boost student performance in developmental math
Initiative at Muskegon Community College aims to boost student performance in developmental math MLive.com
An experiment is unfolding inside J.B. Meeuwenberg's classroom at Muskegon Community College — and the result could drive how the college teaches developmental math for years to come.
Meeuwenberg is teaching a pilot class that combines two developmental math classes — Math 036 and Math 038 — which focus on topics ranging from decimals to pre-algebra — into one.
The class moves at an accelerated pace and carries a bigger workload, but he's confident the change will benefit students.
Instead of cheering, the media, parents and taxpayers should be screaming "what the heck happened during the 13 years of public paid, "free" education that allowed these young people to graduate without learning decimals and PRE-algebra!"
This ought to be an indictment of public education in Muskegon county.
Instead it will be used as a lever for more money from the taxpayers.
Will the madness EVER stop?!!!!
An experiment is unfolding inside J.B. Meeuwenberg's classroom at Muskegon Community College — and the result could drive how the college teaches developmental math for years to come.
Meeuwenberg is teaching a pilot class that combines two developmental math classes — Math 036 and Math 038 — which focus on topics ranging from decimals to pre-algebra — into one.
The class moves at an accelerated pace and carries a bigger workload, but he's confident the change will benefit students.
Instead of cheering, the media, parents and taxpayers should be screaming "what the heck happened during the 13 years of public paid, "free" education that allowed these young people to graduate without learning decimals and PRE-algebra!"
This ought to be an indictment of public education in Muskegon county.
Instead it will be used as a lever for more money from the taxpayers.
Will the madness EVER stop?!!!!
Univision Accused of Blackmailing Rubio
Univision Accused of Blackmailing Rubio « Commentary Magazine
Horrible. This has to be one of the worst ethical lapses someone could possibly commit in journalism.
If true, Univision will not – and should not – recover from this scandal without internal changes and a lot of contrition.
Based on the reports so far, the Republican candidates seem justified in skipping the debate.
And until Univision takes steps to investigate and deal with the accusations, other political figures and journalists might consider steering clear as well.
Remember, this is the #1 source of news for millions in our formerly English speaking country.
Horrible. This has to be one of the worst ethical lapses someone could possibly commit in journalism.
If true, Univision will not – and should not – recover from this scandal without internal changes and a lot of contrition.
Based on the reports so far, the Republican candidates seem justified in skipping the debate.
And until Univision takes steps to investigate and deal with the accusations, other political figures and journalists might consider steering clear as well.
Remember, this is the #1 source of news for millions in our formerly English speaking country.
Tuesday, October 04, 2011
Herman Cain rises, Rick Perry slides in new CBS News poll
Herman Cain rises, Rick Perry slides in new CBS News poll - Political Hotsheet - CBS News
Herman Cain has moved into a tie with Mitt Romney atop the field of Republican presidential candidates, according to a new CBS News poll, while Rick Perry has fallen 11 percentage points in just two weeks.
Herman Cain has moved into a tie with Mitt Romney atop the field of Republican presidential candidates, according to a new CBS News poll, while Rick Perry has fallen 11 percentage points in just two weeks.
Moore: The Rich Are Out Of Control, Kleptomaniacs, Sociopaths
Moore: The Rich Are Out Of Control, Kleptomaniacs, Sociopaths RealClearPolitics
Olbermann: "Kleptomania."
Moore: "They're kleptomaniacs, is what they are.
They're out of control.
I think there is some sort of sociopathic illness and they know what us to life in a kleptocracy.
Where the kleptomaniacs run the show.
But, oops!
There is this gem:
http://www.deadline.com/2011/02/he-redefines-the-term-greedy-michael-moore-sues-for-more-money-from-911-movie-when-he-already-received-19-8-million/
Olbermann: "Kleptomania."
Moore: "They're kleptomaniacs, is what they are.
They're out of control.
I think there is some sort of sociopathic illness and they know what us to life in a kleptocracy.
Where the kleptomaniacs run the show.
But, oops!
There is this gem:
http://www.deadline.com/2011/02/he-redefines-the-term-greedy-michael-moore-sues-for-more-money-from-911-movie-when-he-already-received-19-8-million/
Michelle Obama's Africa Vacation Cost More Than $432,142
Michelle Obama's Africa Vacation Cost More Than $432,142 - Washington Whispers (usnews.com)
First lady Michelle Obama's family trip to South Africa and Botswana in June cost taxpayers well over $424,000, according to new accounting based on Air Force manifests obtained by Judicial Watch, a taxpayer watchdog group.
Barry and his wife are simply trash with an unlimited credit card payed for by .....essentially the grandchildren and unborn of America.
For anyone in elective office to spend the way this woman and her husband spend is despicable!
In a monster recession kept alive by his own policies it ought to be criminal!
First lady Michelle Obama's family trip to South Africa and Botswana in June cost taxpayers well over $424,000, according to new accounting based on Air Force manifests obtained by Judicial Watch, a taxpayer watchdog group.
Barry and his wife are simply trash with an unlimited credit card payed for by .....essentially the grandchildren and unborn of America.
For anyone in elective office to spend the way this woman and her husband spend is despicable!
In a monster recession kept alive by his own policies it ought to be criminal!
A2 Schools’ Union Prez and Board Member Add Up Wrong Costs for Teachers
A2 Schools’ Union Prez and Board Member Add Up Wrong Costs for Teachers [Michigan Capitol Confidential]
Glenn Nelson, a member of the school board, and Brit Satchwell, president of the Ann Arbor Education Association, wrote a guest column for Heritage Newspapers, in which they stated the average cost of a teacher including benefits was $65,000 in an article criticizing Gov. Rick Snyder’s budget cuts.
But the average cost of a Michigan school teacher is about $94,195 while the average cost of an Ann Arbor Public School teacher increases to $102,657
Morons (or liars) leading the teacher's union hand picked board.
Glenn Nelson, a member of the school board, and Brit Satchwell, president of the Ann Arbor Education Association, wrote a guest column for Heritage Newspapers, in which they stated the average cost of a teacher including benefits was $65,000 in an article criticizing Gov. Rick Snyder’s budget cuts.
But the average cost of a Michigan school teacher is about $94,195 while the average cost of an Ann Arbor Public School teacher increases to $102,657
Morons (or liars) leading the teacher's union hand picked board.
Regular aspirin users at higher risk of sight problems, research suggests
Regular aspirin users at higher risk of sight problems, research suggests - Telegraph
While the study provided no evidence of a causal link between aspirin and the condition, experts are now examining whether a regular dose somehow exacerbates the disease.
More junk science from the MSM front pages.
While the study provided no evidence of a causal link between aspirin and the condition, experts are now examining whether a regular dose somehow exacerbates the disease.
More junk science from the MSM front pages.
Lake Worth takes first step toward $60 home assessment to pay for firefighter pensions
Lake Worth takes first step toward $60 home assessment to pay for firefighter pensions: If the fire assessment is approved as proposed, the city plans to use most of the $1.4 million raised to cover part of the cost of firefighter pensions, which cost the city $1.8 million this year.
Spiking Solyndra: Big Three Networks Barely Mention Burgeoning Scandal
Spiking Solyndra: Big Three Networks Barely Mention Burgeoning Scandal NewsBusters.org
Yet, as a search of Nexis shows, the networks have glanced over the Solyndra story with the Big Three networks running a total of just 8 total full stories, two anchor briefs and a couple of mentions on their evening and morning news shows, since the company declared bankruptcy in August.
Yet, as a search of Nexis shows, the networks have glanced over the Solyndra story with the Big Three networks running a total of just 8 total full stories, two anchor briefs and a couple of mentions on their evening and morning news shows, since the company declared bankruptcy in August.
Real Steel or Reel Steal? New Film Costs $4.26 Per Michigan Taxpayer
Real Steel or Reel Steal? New Film Costs $4.26 Per Michigan Taxpayer [Michigan Capitol Confidential]
The Hollywood big budget adaptation of Rock’em Sock’em Robots, Real Steel, hits theaters this Friday.
This is one of the many movies filmed in Michigan and supported by Michigan tax dollars through the state film incentive program, which unfairly singles out films for special grants from the taxpayer.
If you disagree with this incentive, feel free to ask for a $4.26 discount on your ticket for this movie — it’s approximately what the state spent on it per taxpayer
The Hollywood big budget adaptation of Rock’em Sock’em Robots, Real Steel, hits theaters this Friday.
This is one of the many movies filmed in Michigan and supported by Michigan tax dollars through the state film incentive program, which unfairly singles out films for special grants from the taxpayer.
If you disagree with this incentive, feel free to ask for a $4.26 discount on your ticket for this movie — it’s approximately what the state spent on it per taxpayer
NYT redefines Astroturf
NYT redefines Astroturf « Don Surber
Comparing the Tea Party movement with the Occupy Wall Street protests is like comparing patriotism with communism.
Comparing the Tea Party movement with the Occupy Wall Street protests is like comparing patriotism with communism.
Monday, October 03, 2011
» Shock Photos: Candidate Obama Appeared And Marched With New Black Panther Party in 2007
» Shock Photos: Candidate Obama Appeared And Marched With New Black Panther Party in 2007 - Big Government
In addition, the new images raise questions about the possible motives of the Obama administration in its infamous decision to drop the prosecution of the Panthers for voter intimidation.
In addition, the new images raise questions about the possible motives of the Obama administration in its infamous decision to drop the prosecution of the Panthers for voter intimidation.
Wake Up Tweet of the Day
Wake Up Tweet of the Day - Le·gal In·sur·rec·tion
Wake Up Tweet of the Day
Posted by William A. Jacobson Monday, October 3, 2011 at 4:29pm
25 46 #
OccupyWallStreet is organized agitprop designed to deflect attention from the Obama administration’s failings onto “Wall Street,” although many of the participants don’t understand how they are being used.
The Washington Post now is fully aboard Team Obama, doing its best to take down Rick Perry this week, next week someone else.
AxelPlouffe messaging is all class warfare all the time, and will be for the next 13 months.
And what are we doing?
Silly antics like day-long sniping at others who are on our side.
America Airlines: AMR Shares Plunge on Bankruptcy Talk
America Airlines: AMR Shares Plunge on Bankruptcy Talk - CNBC
A major airline trade group, The International Air Transport Association, said Monday that the industry may be headed for a downturn.
American Airlines is considered to be in the most vulnerable financial position of major U.S. carriers.
A major airline trade group, The International Air Transport Association, said Monday that the industry may be headed for a downturn.
American Airlines is considered to be in the most vulnerable financial position of major U.S. carriers.
Sen. Inhofe: Obama's EPA Waging War on Fossil Fuels
Sen. Inhofe: Obama's EPA Waging War on Fossil Fuels - HUMAN EVENTS
According to Inhofe, the administration’s proposed CO2/greenhouse gas-emission regulations—due out in November—could chop $300 billion to $400 billion alone off the nation’s gross domestic product (GDP) each year.
Estimates from the Senate Energy and Public Works Committee's Republican staff estimates this regulation could cost in excess of the 2 million jobs that would have been lost as a result of Waxman-Markey Climate Change Bill.
Other estimates suggest that the EPA’s Utility MACT and Transport Rule could cost $184 billion and 1.4 million jobs.
Statistics Inhofe provided suggest the rule could shutter hundreds of coal-fired power plants around the country—equaling as much as 20% of the nation’s total energy output.
According to Inhofe, the administration’s proposed CO2/greenhouse gas-emission regulations—due out in November—could chop $300 billion to $400 billion alone off the nation’s gross domestic product (GDP) each year.
Estimates from the Senate Energy and Public Works Committee's Republican staff estimates this regulation could cost in excess of the 2 million jobs that would have been lost as a result of Waxman-Markey Climate Change Bill.
Other estimates suggest that the EPA’s Utility MACT and Transport Rule could cost $184 billion and 1.4 million jobs.
Statistics Inhofe provided suggest the rule could shutter hundreds of coal-fired power plants around the country—equaling as much as 20% of the nation’s total energy output.
How the Kindle Fire Could Make 7-Inch Tablets Huge
How the Kindle Fire Could Make 7-Inch Tablets Huge Gadget Lab Wired.com
Steve Jobs made it clear what he thought of 7-inch tablets in October 2010.
They’re “too small,” and as good as “dead on arrival.”
But the announcement of and anticipation surrounding Amazon’s Kindle Fire tablet may soon have Jobs eating his words.
Steve Jobs made it clear what he thought of 7-inch tablets in October 2010.
They’re “too small,” and as good as “dead on arrival.”
But the announcement of and anticipation surrounding Amazon’s Kindle Fire tablet may soon have Jobs eating his words.
Arbitrator rules against Illinois lay-offs, closures
Arbitrator rules against Illinois lay-offs, closures Reuters
Quinn blamed the Democrat-controlled Legislature for sending him a $33 billion fiscal 2012 general funds budget that locks in spending levels for state agencies but did not appropriate enough money to keep some state services operating.
from the comments:
Reply 10 - Posted by: DiamondBob, 10/3/2011 1:50:53 PM (No. 8035092)
IL is not the only state in this union/Democrat created mess.
The newly elected Democrat CT governor (working with a heavily Democrat legislature) recently agreed to no state union layoffs for FOUR YEARS!! in exchange for 2 years of wage freezes.
Then the union workers get a 10% increase spread over years 3 and 4.
This is on top of the $1.5B in tax increases this year to cover the increased spending, for example including cash donations for a brand new state earned income tax credit.
I dread what things will look like when the supposed savings don't materialize, expenses continue to rise (because they're addicted to spending), and they can't cut the largest state expenditure (union workers' wages and benefits) because they have guaranteed employment.
We used to call the state to our north "Taxachussetts" -- not any more.
Quinn blamed the Democrat-controlled Legislature for sending him a $33 billion fiscal 2012 general funds budget that locks in spending levels for state agencies but did not appropriate enough money to keep some state services operating.
from the comments:
Reply 10 - Posted by: DiamondBob, 10/3/2011 1:50:53 PM (No. 8035092)
IL is not the only state in this union/Democrat created mess.
The newly elected Democrat CT governor (working with a heavily Democrat legislature) recently agreed to no state union layoffs for FOUR YEARS!! in exchange for 2 years of wage freezes.
Then the union workers get a 10% increase spread over years 3 and 4.
This is on top of the $1.5B in tax increases this year to cover the increased spending, for example including cash donations for a brand new state earned income tax credit.
I dread what things will look like when the supposed savings don't materialize, expenses continue to rise (because they're addicted to spending), and they can't cut the largest state expenditure (union workers' wages and benefits) because they have guaranteed employment.
We used to call the state to our north "Taxachussetts" -- not any more.
Time for Some Truth: Bill Clinton NEVER Balanced A Budget And NEVER Ran A Surplus
» Time for Some Truth: Bill Clinton NEVER Balanced A Budget And NEVER Ran A Surplus - Big Government
Despite what you may hear from Democrats on the campaign trail, there were no giant surpluses that Bush squandered (Bush did overspend, but there was no surplus to squander).
The myth of Clinton balancing the budget and producing surpluses belongs with unicorns and and elves, in the realm of myths.
The last president to preside over a balanced budget/surplus was Dwight Eisenhower, whose government saw surpluses of approximately $2 billion dollars in 1956 and 57.
Neither Bill Clinton nor any Republicans deserve any credit for balancing the budget in the 1990s, because the budget was never balanced.
Despite what you may hear from Democrats on the campaign trail, there were no giant surpluses that Bush squandered (Bush did overspend, but there was no surplus to squander).
The myth of Clinton balancing the budget and producing surpluses belongs with unicorns and and elves, in the realm of myths.
The last president to preside over a balanced budget/surplus was Dwight Eisenhower, whose government saw surpluses of approximately $2 billion dollars in 1956 and 57.
Neither Bill Clinton nor any Republicans deserve any credit for balancing the budget in the 1990s, because the budget was never balanced.
Obama’s Polling Compared to Predecessors
Obama’s Polling Compared to Predecessors « Commentary Magazine
President Obama looks worse than any recent incumbent president when the public assesses the country’s direction, consumer confidence, personal financial appraisals, and job approval at this point in time.
Obama 11% satisfied with the way things are going; 20% country heading in the right direction
President Obama looks worse than any recent incumbent president when the public assesses the country’s direction, consumer confidence, personal financial appraisals, and job approval at this point in time.
Obama 11% satisfied with the way things are going; 20% country heading in the right direction
Health Care Workers Vote to Bolt from 'Corrupt' SEIU
Health Care Workers Vote to Bolt from 'Corrupt' SEIU [Michigan Capitol Confidential]
By a more than 2-to-1 margin, workers at Saginaw's Luther Manor Nursing Home voted themselves out of the SEIU Healthcare union last week
By a more than 2-to-1 margin, workers at Saginaw's Luther Manor Nursing Home voted themselves out of the SEIU Healthcare union last week
Is the Chevy Volt a sales flop?
Is the Chevy Volt a sales flop?
General Motors has repeatedly claimed a sales target for 2011 of 10,000 units for the plug-in hybrid Chevy Volt sedan.
But, nine months into the year, they've only shipped 3,895 off the lot.
General Motors has repeatedly claimed a sales target for 2011 of 10,000 units for the plug-in hybrid Chevy Volt sedan.
But, nine months into the year, they've only shipped 3,895 off the lot.
Sunday, October 02, 2011
Time to raise Cain to contender status | Campaign 2012
Barone: Time to raise Cain to contender status Campaign 2012
Is Herman Cain a serious contender for the Republican presidential nomination?
It's a question no one in the pundit world was asking until the past week.
Is Herman Cain a serious contender for the Republican presidential nomination?
It's a question no one in the pundit world was asking until the past week.
Pricing and framing: When are we likely to pay more for products?
Pricing and framing: When are we likely to pay more for products? Psychology Today
I want to write about one strategy firms use to increase the sale of a product.
This strategy involves framing: the product is presented in the context of other, related products.
We'll see that "relativity" is not a concept reserved for physics.
I want to write about one strategy firms use to increase the sale of a product.
This strategy involves framing: the product is presented in the context of other, related products.
We'll see that "relativity" is not a concept reserved for physics.
Obama Fried Chicken: Is the President giving Colonel Sanders a run for his money?
Obama Fried Chicken: Is the President giving Colonel Sanders a run for his money? Mail Online
Is Obama abandoning his bid for a second term in the White House and is giving Colonel Sanders a run for his money by opening a chain of fried chicken joints?
Now that's change you can't really believe in.
The problem is that BarryO's talents....profits?
Is Obama abandoning his bid for a second term in the White House and is giving Colonel Sanders a run for his money by opening a chain of fried chicken joints?
Now that's change you can't really believe in.
The problem is that BarryO's talents....profits?
Will Jeff Bezos Bring Feudal Security to the Net?
The Volokh Conspiracy » Will Jeff Bezos Bring Feudal Security to the Net?
Amazon’s cloud can handle even the most processor-intense pages instantaneously, far faster than your wheezing desktop machine.
In short, your Internet experience on the Fire ought to be lightning quick.
There’s another advantage to this new vision of what might be called the Bezosnet.
The Bezosnet ought to be a lot more secure.
One way that hackers compromise your machine is by getting you to go to malware infected sites.
Just visiting the site triggers routines that take over the visitor’s computer.
But if the routine runs, not on a visitor’s computer but in a virtual environment at Amazon’s data center, the attacker’s code isn’t likely to work.
Amazon’s cloud can handle even the most processor-intense pages instantaneously, far faster than your wheezing desktop machine.
In short, your Internet experience on the Fire ought to be lightning quick.
There’s another advantage to this new vision of what might be called the Bezosnet.
The Bezosnet ought to be a lot more secure.
One way that hackers compromise your machine is by getting you to go to malware infected sites.
Just visiting the site triggers routines that take over the visitor’s computer.
But if the routine runs, not on a visitor’s computer but in a virtual environment at Amazon’s data center, the attacker’s code isn’t likely to work.
I just ordered the Amazon Kindle Fire
This is what pushed me over the edge to make my decision:
So instead of downloading web pages one after the other and opening them on your computer, Amazon’s cloud stores and even opens them, sending you the end result.
This allows speedier downloads for a couple of reasons: Caching of popular pages (or even parts of pages) avoids download delays when the original source is overloaded; and Amazon’s cloud can handle even the most processor-intense pages instantaneously, far faster than your wheezing desktop machine.
In short, your Internet experience on the Fire ought to be lightning quick.
But I wonder if the higher price of the iPad has simply moved my frame.
This may be the real reason I made my purchase:
http://www.psychologytoday.com/blog/the-decision-lab/201109/pricing-and-framing-when-are-we-likely-pay-more-products
OBAMA SPREADS A LIE ABOUT GAY SOLDIER-BOOING, INCOHERENTLY
Instapundit » Blog Archive » OBAMA SPREADS A LIE ABOUT GAY SOLDIER-BOOING, INCOHERENTLY
Ann Althouse:
Obama must serve something to the assembled hungry masses, and this infected red meat is the best he’s got.
“There is a contagious lie and the President — he who often speaks of transcending divisiveness — is enthusiastically spreading it… while — ironically! — posing in the mantle of oneness, E pluribus unum.
The crowd goes wild, by the way.
Listen to the audio.
They find the infected http://althouse.blogspot.com/2011/09/i-have-listened-to-video-several-times.html red meat scrumptious!
And can you blame the poor man?
He must serve something to the assembled hungry masses, and this — this! — is the best he’s got.
And what does ‘We don’t believe in them being silent since’ mean?
It’s not a transcription error.
I’ve checked the audio (at the link).
Did he misread the TelePrompTer?
There’s no simple fix, like combining it with the next line, “You want to be Commander-in-Chief?”
The pronouns don’t match up.
But the crowd loves it.
This gibberish is quite delicious!”
Enthusiastically received gibberish.
That’s all they’ve got.
Resist we much!
Meanwhile, Prof. Jacobson notes when Obama thought it was okay to sit silently through slurshttp://legalinsurrection.com/2011/10/obama-silence-for-me-but-not-for-thee/ .
Posted by Glenn Reynolds at 2:52 pm
Ann Althouse:
Obama must serve something to the assembled hungry masses, and this infected red meat is the best he’s got.
“There is a contagious lie and the President — he who often speaks of transcending divisiveness — is enthusiastically spreading it… while — ironically! — posing in the mantle of oneness, E pluribus unum.
The crowd goes wild, by the way.
Listen to the audio.
They find the infected http://althouse.blogspot.com/2011/09/i-have-listened-to-video-several-times.html red meat scrumptious!
And can you blame the poor man?
He must serve something to the assembled hungry masses, and this — this! — is the best he’s got.
And what does ‘We don’t believe in them being silent since’ mean?
It’s not a transcription error.
I’ve checked the audio (at the link).
Did he misread the TelePrompTer?
There’s no simple fix, like combining it with the next line, “You want to be Commander-in-Chief?”
The pronouns don’t match up.
But the crowd loves it.
This gibberish is quite delicious!”
Enthusiastically received gibberish.
That’s all they’ve got.
Resist we much!
Meanwhile, Prof. Jacobson notes when Obama thought it was okay to sit silently through slurshttp://legalinsurrection.com/2011/10/obama-silence-for-me-but-not-for-thee/ .
Posted by Glenn Reynolds at 2:52 pm
Saturday, October 01, 2011
The Weekend Interview with Harold Hamm: How North Dakota Became Saudi Arabia
The Weekend Interview with Harold Hamm: How North Dakota Became Saudi Arabia - WSJ.com
With the right set of national energy policies, the United States could be "completely energy independent by the end of the decade.
We can be the Saudi Arabia of oil and natural gas in the 21st century."
With the right set of national energy policies, the United States could be "completely energy independent by the end of the decade.
We can be the Saudi Arabia of oil and natural gas in the 21st century."
The strange case of Anwar al Awlaki
The strange case of Anwar al Awlaki
Why didn’t we have to kill this traitor to the United States?
Because we had him in custody on U.S. soil on felony charges in 2002.
And we could have detained him indefinitely.
Amazing article.
Read it all!
Why didn’t we have to kill this traitor to the United States?
Because we had him in custody on U.S. soil on felony charges in 2002.
And we could have detained him indefinitely.
Amazing article.
Read it all!
Transit Authority: $1 Million Deficit, Highest Paid Executives
Transit Authority: $1 Million Deficit, Highest Paid Executives [Michigan Capitol Confidential]
“If these were private-sector businesses operating on their own, employee pay would be none of our business,” said Jack McHugh, senior legislative analyst for the Mackinac Center for Public Policy.
“Transit agencies would dry up and blow away without massive taxpayer subsidies and that makes it the people’s business.”
“If these were private-sector businesses operating on their own, employee pay would be none of our business,” said Jack McHugh, senior legislative analyst for the Mackinac Center for Public Policy.
“Transit agencies would dry up and blow away without massive taxpayer subsidies and that makes it the people’s business.”
NYPD Warns Women About Skirts in Brooklyn Sex Attack Probe
NYPD Warns Women About Skirts in Brooklyn Sex Attack Probe NBC New York
Women in a Brooklyn neighborhood on edge over a spate of sex attacks are being told by police that wearing skirts and dresses might not be a good idea.
Women in a Brooklyn neighborhood on edge over a spate of sex attacks are being told by police that wearing skirts and dresses might not be a good idea.
Samir Khan, Killed by Drone, Spun Out of the American Middle Class
Samir Khan, Killed by Drone, Spun Out of the American Middle Class - NYTimes.com
At the Islamic Society of Greater Charlotte, few of the several hundred Muslims gathered for Friday Prayer wanted to talk about Mr. Khan.
“This is a very dangerous road when you go and kill someone like this,” said Ayeb Suleiman, 25, a medical resident.
“He was just an editor.
He was just writing.”
"A religion of peace...."
At the Islamic Society of Greater Charlotte, few of the several hundred Muslims gathered for Friday Prayer wanted to talk about Mr. Khan.
“This is a very dangerous road when you go and kill someone like this,” said Ayeb Suleiman, 25, a medical resident.
“He was just an editor.
He was just writing.”
"A religion of peace...."
Friday, September 30, 2011
'Moderate' Meets Maker
'Moderate' Meets Maker - WSJ.com
The Yemeni Air Force has attacked America, or so you might have thought if you'd read the Associated Press's technically true but misleading headline this morning: "2 US Citizens Dead in Yemen Airstrike."
It was actually a CIA airstrike in Yemen, and the targets, Anwar al-Awlaki and Samir Khan, were unlawful enemy combatants who happened to be U.S. citizens by accident of birth.
The Yemeni Air Force has attacked America, or so you might have thought if you'd read the Associated Press's technically true but misleading headline this morning: "2 US Citizens Dead in Yemen Airstrike."
It was actually a CIA airstrike in Yemen, and the targets, Anwar al-Awlaki and Samir Khan, were unlawful enemy combatants who happened to be U.S. citizens by accident of birth.
Youth league institutes TD limit to hold back 11-year-old
Y! SPORTS
11-year-old Demias Jimerson has emerged as such a dominant running back that the Wilson Intermediate Football League he plays in has reinstated a bylaw called the "Madre Hill rule," which bars him from scoring a touchdown if he has already scored three times and his team has a lead of 14 points or more .
The rule is named after former University of Arkansas star and Oakland Raider Madre Hill , who, like Jimerson, played youth football in the Malvern, Ark., area. Hill proved so adept at getting the ball into the end zone whenever he touched it that the WIFL came up with the rule to try and keep scores from getting too out of hand.
Now it has brought the same statute back for Jimerson, saying that the rule isn't meant to punish him, but rather to ensure that the other 21 players on the field stay involved .
"The other players on both teams, 21 are just left sort of, this is all Demias," WIFL commissioner Terri Bryant, who is also Jimerson's Intermediate School principal, told Fox 16. "So that's why the Madre Hill Rule has been implemented.
This lame-brained loser is a school principal?
No wonder our kids are such wimps!
11-year-old Demias Jimerson has emerged as such a dominant running back that the Wilson Intermediate Football League he plays in has reinstated a bylaw called the "Madre Hill rule," which bars him from scoring a touchdown if he has already scored three times and his team has a lead of 14 points or more .
The rule is named after former University of Arkansas star and Oakland Raider Madre Hill , who, like Jimerson, played youth football in the Malvern, Ark., area. Hill proved so adept at getting the ball into the end zone whenever he touched it that the WIFL came up with the rule to try and keep scores from getting too out of hand.
Now it has brought the same statute back for Jimerson, saying that the rule isn't meant to punish him, but rather to ensure that the other 21 players on the field stay involved .
"The other players on both teams, 21 are just left sort of, this is all Demias," WIFL commissioner Terri Bryant, who is also Jimerson's Intermediate School principal, told Fox 16. "So that's why the Madre Hill Rule has been implemented.
This lame-brained loser is a school principal?
No wonder our kids are such wimps!
Under new federal program, all Muskegon Heights students get free meals
Under new federal program, all Muskegon Heights students get free meals MLive.com
Every student in the Muskegon Heights school district can now eat nutritious breakfasts and lunches for free under a new federal program that won't cost the district anything.
Michigan is one of three states chosen to pilot the Community Eligibility Option that eliminates the need for students' parents to apply for free or reduced-price lunches.
Every student in the Muskegon Heights school district can now eat nutritious breakfasts and lunches for free under a new federal program that won't cost the district anything.
Michigan is one of three states chosen to pilot the Community Eligibility Option that eliminates the need for students' parents to apply for free or reduced-price lunches.
Employers hit by unemployment tax hikes
And this is only the first of two tax spikes employers are contending with, on both the state and federal level. Come January, companies in 24 states could have to shell out between $21 and $63 more per employee in federal unemployment taxes.
These hikes are the latest in a series of unemployment tax increases as states look to replenish their unemployment trust funds devastated by the Great Recession.
Last year, employers paid 27.8% more in state jobless taxes, said Doug Holmes, president, UWC Strategic Services on Unemployment & Workers' Compensation, a business trade association.
"Unemployment taxes, which were a relatively low bottom-line cost in 2008, are now becoming a significant cost," Holmes said.
"It discourages companies from electing to hire new employees."
Thursday, September 29, 2011
Useless teacher “professional development” classes cost California taxpayers billions in increased salaries and pensions.
Gaming the Los Angeles Teachers’ Contract « Union Watch
Useless teacher “professional development” classes cost California taxpayers billions in increased salaries and pensions.
“With California reeling fiscally and education eating up about half of its budget, the state’s taxpayers are being hoodwinked to the tune of billions of dollars by an outrageous contractual perk that pays teachers to take useless classes, ostensibly with the aim of improving their classroom work.”
Useless teacher “professional development” classes cost California taxpayers billions in increased salaries and pensions.
“With California reeling fiscally and education eating up about half of its budget, the state’s taxpayers are being hoodwinked to the tune of billions of dollars by an outrageous contractual perk that pays teachers to take useless classes, ostensibly with the aim of improving their classroom work.”
Ethically Challenged Funds Push Diversity!
Ethically Challenged Funds Push Diversity! CalWatchDog
The nation’s two largest pension funds, the California Public Employees’ Retirement System (CalPERS) and the California State Teachers’ Retirement System (CalSTRS), have been plagued by problems and allegations of mismanagement and even corruption in the case of CalPERS, and yet these systems continue to lecture the private sector on ethical corporate governance.
The latest nonsense, released earlier this week, is a plan funded by the two systems to promote “diversity” in board rooms, by which they mean diverse ethnic and gender backgrounds rather than diverse viewpoints about the sanity of the current pension system.
The nation’s two largest pension funds, the California Public Employees’ Retirement System (CalPERS) and the California State Teachers’ Retirement System (CalSTRS), have been plagued by problems and allegations of mismanagement and even corruption in the case of CalPERS, and yet these systems continue to lecture the private sector on ethical corporate governance.
The latest nonsense, released earlier this week, is a plan funded by the two systems to promote “diversity” in board rooms, by which they mean diverse ethnic and gender backgrounds rather than diverse viewpoints about the sanity of the current pension system.
Chevy Volt sales don't have expected spark
Chevy Volt sales don't have expected spark - chicagotribune.com
By the end of August, the last time GM publicly announced its sales, about 3,500 Volts had been sold.
By the end of August, the last time GM publicly announced its sales, about 3,500 Volts had been sold.
What will happen when Michigan begins cutting off welfare next month?
What will happen when Michigan begins cutting off welfare next month? MLive.com
The tougher welfare rules come five years after then-Gov. Jennifer Granholm approved a 48-month time limit for cash welfare assistance.
The tougher welfare rules come five years after then-Gov. Jennifer Granholm approved a 48-month time limit for cash welfare assistance.
Effort to recall Michigan governor fizzles
Report: Effort to recall Michigan governor fizzles MLive.com
The Detroit Free Press on Wednesday cited an e-mail from campaign spokesman Tom Bryant saying "the recall effort will be coming to an end."
The Detroit Free Press on Wednesday cited an e-mail from campaign spokesman Tom Bryant saying "the recall effort will be coming to an end."
Wednesday, September 28, 2011
Progression
Read this 1st (remember the name of the letter writer):
http://www.mlive.com/opinion/muskegon/index.ssf/2011/06/letters_many_people_made_cance.html
Read this next!:
http://www.mlive.com/news/muskegon/index.ssf/2011/09/ready_to_edit_holland_woman_fa.html
http://www.mlive.com/opinion/muskegon/index.ssf/2011/06/letters_many_people_made_cance.html
Read this next!:
http://www.mlive.com/news/muskegon/index.ssf/2011/09/ready_to_edit_holland_woman_fa.html
Odds Favor GOP Gaining Senate Control in 2012
RealClearPolitics - Odds Favor GOP Gaining Senate Control in 2012
Tossup: Bill Nelson (Florida), Debbie Stabenow (Mich.), Claire McCaskill (Mo.), Jon Tester (Mont.), Virginia (open; Jim Webb is retiring), Wisconsin (open; Herb Kohl is retiring).
.....In 2006, Michigan looked like it would be competitive until September or so.
Stabenow pulled away against fairly weak competition and won handily.
This time, the environment is much worse for Democrats. Her opposition isn’t top-notch, but her approval ratings have been well below 50 percent in a state that swung heavily toward Republicans in 2010.
Tossup: Bill Nelson (Florida), Debbie Stabenow (Mich.), Claire McCaskill (Mo.), Jon Tester (Mont.), Virginia (open; Jim Webb is retiring), Wisconsin (open; Herb Kohl is retiring).
.....In 2006, Michigan looked like it would be competitive until September or so.
Stabenow pulled away against fairly weak competition and won handily.
This time, the environment is much worse for Democrats. Her opposition isn’t top-notch, but her approval ratings have been well below 50 percent in a state that swung heavily toward Republicans in 2010.
A Short History of the Income Tax
John Steele Gordon: A Short History of the Income Tax - WSJ.com
The new president, Woodrow Wilson, and the strongly Democratic Congress promptly passed a personal income tax.
It kicked in at 1% on incomes above $3,000 (a comfortable upper middle-class income at the time) and reached 7% on incomes over $500,000.
But there were many deductions, bringing the effective tax rates down sharply from the marginal ones—a feature of the tax system ever since.
The new president, Woodrow Wilson, and the strongly Democratic Congress promptly passed a personal income tax.
It kicked in at 1% on incomes above $3,000 (a comfortable upper middle-class income at the time) and reached 7% on incomes over $500,000.
But there were many deductions, bringing the effective tax rates down sharply from the marginal ones—a feature of the tax system ever since.
US Has More Serious Problems Than Europe
US Has More Serious Problems Than Europe: Jim Rogers - CNBC
"Europe has a few bad, bankrupt states, so does America.
We've got Illinois which is bigger than Greece, we've got California, we've got New York, you know those are pretty big states that have serious economic problems.
We have pension plans in America that are terribly under water," Rogers told CNBC on Tuesday.
According to Rogers, the U.S. has deeper structural problems than Europe as well as higher debt levels.
"Europe's got some bad problems but the entity as a whole is not nearly as deep in debt as the U.S.
They don't have a huge balance of trade deficit, like we do," Rogers said.
"Europe has a few bad, bankrupt states, so does America.
We've got Illinois which is bigger than Greece, we've got California, we've got New York, you know those are pretty big states that have serious economic problems.
We have pension plans in America that are terribly under water," Rogers told CNBC on Tuesday.
According to Rogers, the U.S. has deeper structural problems than Europe as well as higher debt levels.
"Europe's got some bad problems but the entity as a whole is not nearly as deep in debt as the U.S.
They don't have a huge balance of trade deficit, like we do," Rogers said.
UC Berkeley Republicans hold 'Diversity Bake Sale'
UC Berkeley Republicans hold 'Diversity Bake Sale' - Forbes.com
A satirical bake sale at the University of California, Berkeley, that was designed to protest affirmative action drew several dozen sweet-toothed supporters along with hundreds of critics Tuesday.
A satirical bake sale at the University of California, Berkeley, that was designed to protest affirmative action drew several dozen sweet-toothed supporters along with hundreds of critics Tuesday.
Tuesday, September 27, 2011
Tax hike not enough to solve state's fiscal woes | hike, woes, report
Tax hike not enough to solve state's fiscal woes hike, woes, report - Report - The Telegraph
"The entire 67 percent (personal) income tax hike went to fund the pensions and payroll here in Illinois,"
"The entire 67 percent (personal) income tax hike went to fund the pensions and payroll here in Illinois,"
Too Much Of A Good Thing
Too Much Of A Good Thing The New Republic
To solve the serious problems facing our country, we need to minimize the harm from legislative inertia by relying more on automatic policies and depoliticized commissions for certain policy decisions.
In other words, radical as it sounds, we need to counter the gridlock of our political institutions by making them a bit less democratic.
The "free speech for me but not for thee" crowd has come up with another nifty idea from the Politburo.
To solve the serious problems facing our country, we need to minimize the harm from legislative inertia by relying more on automatic policies and depoliticized commissions for certain policy decisions.
In other words, radical as it sounds, we need to counter the gridlock of our political institutions by making them a bit less democratic.
The "free speech for me but not for thee" crowd has come up with another nifty idea from the Politburo.
Beat the Clock: Government Union ‘Cadillac’ Health Plans Preserved Before Tighter Controls Take Effect
Beat the Clock: Government Union ‘Cadillac’ Health Plans Preserved Before Tighter Controls Take Effect [Michigan Capitol Confidential]
Two days before a mandated 20 percent contribution for health insurance from all public employees would be imposed by the pending creation of a new state law, Muskegon County approved seven union contracts that require only a 15 percent employee contribution.
According to research from the Kaiser Family Foundation, the average employee in Michigan with an employer-sponsored health insurance plan paid 22 percent of the cost for their own health insurance premiums in 2010, and the figure nationally was 27 percent.
Two days before a mandated 20 percent contribution for health insurance from all public employees would be imposed by the pending creation of a new state law, Muskegon County approved seven union contracts that require only a 15 percent employee contribution.
According to research from the Kaiser Family Foundation, the average employee in Michigan with an employer-sponsored health insurance plan paid 22 percent of the cost for their own health insurance premiums in 2010, and the figure nationally was 27 percent.
Public Schools Eat Too Much At Government Trough
Public Schools Eat Too Much At Government Trough Neal McCluskey Cato Institute: Commentary
Soon after his boss introduced the American Jobs Act, Vice President Joe Biden held a conference call to get teachers' unions behind it.
It was an easy task, with American Federation of Teachers honcho Randi Weingarten promising to "do whatever we can" to get the legislation passed. And why not?
It's teachers and other politically potent interests, not kids or the economy, that the Act is really about.
That teachers' unions are gung-ho about the proposal — which would furnish $30 billion for education jobs and another $25 billion for school buildings — doesn't necessarily mean it's a bad thing. Kids need teachers and classrooms, right?
Soon after his boss introduced the American Jobs Act, Vice President Joe Biden held a conference call to get teachers' unions behind it.
It was an easy task, with American Federation of Teachers honcho Randi Weingarten promising to "do whatever we can" to get the legislation passed. And why not?
It's teachers and other politically potent interests, not kids or the economy, that the Act is really about.
That teachers' unions are gung-ho about the proposal — which would furnish $30 billion for education jobs and another $25 billion for school buildings — doesn't necessarily mean it's a bad thing. Kids need teachers and classrooms, right?
Egypt: Assailants blow up Sinai gas pipeline
Egypt: Assailants blow up Sinai gas pipeli... JPost - Middle East
ISMAILIYA, Egypt - Unknown assailants blew up an Egyptian pipeline in Sinai on Tuesday that supplies Israel and Jordan with gas, security sources and witnesses said.
WW4 continues.
ISMAILIYA, Egypt - Unknown assailants blew up an Egyptian pipeline in Sinai on Tuesday that supplies Israel and Jordan with gas, security sources and witnesses said.
WW4 continues.
Monday, September 26, 2011
Coke chief criticises US tax rules
Coke chief criticises US tax rules - FT.com
Coca-Cola now sees the US becoming a less friendly business environment than China, its chief executive has revealed, citing political gridlock and an antiquated tax structure as reasons its home market has become less competitive
Coca-Cola now sees the US becoming a less friendly business environment than China, its chief executive has revealed, citing political gridlock and an antiquated tax structure as reasons its home market has become less competitive
Last Chance to Avoid Global Catastrophe?
The PJ Tatler » Last Chance to Avoid Global Catastrophe?
Last Chance to Avoid Global Catastrophe?
Treasury Secretary Geithner thinks so: “The threat of cascading default, bank runs, and catastrophic risk must be taken off the table.
Sovereign and banking stresses in Europe are the most serious risk now confronting the world economy.
Decisions cannot wait until the crisis gets more severe.”
From the same Telegraph write up:
The International Monetary Fund warned last week that emerging markets face the risk of “sharp reversals” or even a “sudden stop” if there is further spill-over from Europe.
This comes at a time when Asia and parts of Latin America are already in the topping phase of a credit boom, one of epic proportions in China where loans have doubled to almost 200pc of GDP over the last five years.
Warning signs have been flashing red for the last three weeks.
Shares of China’s top property developer Greentown have crashed by a third this month.
The currencies of Indonesia, Brazil, Korea, South Africa, and Hungary have all buckled, and central banks have begun intervening to stop the slide.
“A continued flight from risk raises the growing possibility of investor capitulation in emerging markets,” said Neil Mellor from BNY Mellon.
Feeling better now?
UPDATE: And now the IMF is broke.
Last Chance to Avoid Global Catastrophe?
Treasury Secretary Geithner thinks so: “The threat of cascading default, bank runs, and catastrophic risk must be taken off the table.
Sovereign and banking stresses in Europe are the most serious risk now confronting the world economy.
Decisions cannot wait until the crisis gets more severe.”
From the same Telegraph write up:
The International Monetary Fund warned last week that emerging markets face the risk of “sharp reversals” or even a “sudden stop” if there is further spill-over from Europe.
This comes at a time when Asia and parts of Latin America are already in the topping phase of a credit boom, one of epic proportions in China where loans have doubled to almost 200pc of GDP over the last five years.
Warning signs have been flashing red for the last three weeks.
Shares of China’s top property developer Greentown have crashed by a third this month.
The currencies of Indonesia, Brazil, Korea, South Africa, and Hungary have all buckled, and central banks have begun intervening to stop the slide.
“A continued flight from risk raises the growing possibility of investor capitulation in emerging markets,” said Neil Mellor from BNY Mellon.
Feeling better now?
UPDATE: And now the IMF is broke.
Why Saugatuck is losing S.S. Keewatin Steamship Museum to Canada
Why Saugatuck is losing S.S. Keewatin Steamship Museum to Canada MLive.com
I suspect the real reason is the value of the Keewatin's dock.
I suspect the real reason is the value of the Keewatin's dock.
Coffee reduces depression risk?
Coffee reduces depression risk? JunkScience.com
Though we love caffeine as much as the next awake person, Willet and Ascherio’s reported correlations (e.g., a relative risk of 0.82 for 4 or more cups of coffee per day) are too small to be credible.
As is standard with Nurses Health Study junk science, exposures, disease and confounding risk factors are all self-reported and, hence, not reliable. Simply put, bad data do not make for a credible statistical analysis.
No doubt Willet and Ascherio are relying on the intuitive nature of their claim to carry the day with the unsuspecting public and the ever-gullible media.
Coffee keeps you awake, but not from being sad about it.
Though we love caffeine as much as the next awake person, Willet and Ascherio’s reported correlations (e.g., a relative risk of 0.82 for 4 or more cups of coffee per day) are too small to be credible.
As is standard with Nurses Health Study junk science, exposures, disease and confounding risk factors are all self-reported and, hence, not reliable. Simply put, bad data do not make for a credible statistical analysis.
No doubt Willet and Ascherio are relying on the intuitive nature of their claim to carry the day with the unsuspecting public and the ever-gullible media.
Coffee keeps you awake, but not from being sad about it.
Obama gaffe: President says billionaires should pay ‘Jew’ tax rate
Obama gaffe: President says billionaires should pay ‘Jew’ tax rate The Daily Caller
“If asking a billionaire to pay the same tax rate as a Jew — as a janitor — makes me a warrior for the working class, I wear that as a badge of honor.”
“If asking a billionaire to pay the same tax rate as a Jew — as a janitor — makes me a warrior for the working class, I wear that as a badge of honor.”
Sunday, September 25, 2011
Illinois taxpayers repeat, "Please sir, may I have another?
Kass: Illinois taxpayers repeat, "Please sir, may I have another? - chicagotribune.com
Then you must be in Illinois.
That's the state where Chicago machine politicians and their union muscle boys slap taxpayers in the mouth, year after year after year, and all voters do is repeat that line from "Animal House,"
"Thank you, sir, may I have another?"
Then you must be in Illinois.
That's the state where Chicago machine politicians and their union muscle boys slap taxpayers in the mouth, year after year after year, and all voters do is repeat that line from "Animal House,"
"Thank you, sir, may I have another?"
Stabenow, White House official disagree over separation of waterways to prevent spread of Asian carp into the Great Lakes
Stabenow, White House official disagree over separation of waterways to prevent spread of Asian carp into the Great Lakes MLive.com
U.S. Sen. Debbie Stabenow renewed a call to close the Chicago shipping locks and create a permanent ecological separation of the Mississippi River basin and the Great Lakes to prevent an invasion of giant Asian carp.
But a White House official rebuffed the plea, saying more study must happen to prevent unintended consequences.
Debbie who?
She's been sittin' on the union bosses laps so long she doesn't even know where Michigan is.
It sure is great she's "on" the carp trail....right?
U.S. Sen. Debbie Stabenow renewed a call to close the Chicago shipping locks and create a permanent ecological separation of the Mississippi River basin and the Great Lakes to prevent an invasion of giant Asian carp.
But a White House official rebuffed the plea, saying more study must happen to prevent unintended consequences.
Debbie who?
She's been sittin' on the union bosses laps so long she doesn't even know where Michigan is.
It sure is great she's "on" the carp trail....right?
Federal Loans Fund Big-Ticket Energy Projects At Firms Outside Of U.S.
Federal Loans Fund Big-Ticket Energy Projects At Firms Outside Of U.S. Fox News
Among the biggest recipients on the Department of Energy's controversial list of loans to renewable energy companies like the failed Solyndra Inc. are a number of non-U.S. firms whose big-ticket energy projects will cost taxpayers billions of dollars -- but will generate no more than a few hundred permanent U.S. jobs.
Among the biggest recipients on the Department of Energy's controversial list of loans to renewable energy companies like the failed Solyndra Inc. are a number of non-U.S. firms whose big-ticket energy projects will cost taxpayers billions of dollars -- but will generate no more than a few hundred permanent U.S. jobs.
The Latest Ugly Truth About Pakistan
The Latest Ugly Truth About Pakistan - NYTimes.com
Inter-Services Intelligence — played a direct role in supporting insurgents who attacked the American Embassy in Kabul last week, killing 16 people.
He also said that with ISI support, the Haqqani network of terrorists planned and conducted an earlier truck bombing on a NATO outpost that killed 5 people and wounded 77 coalition troops, and other recent attacks.
Inter-Services Intelligence — played a direct role in supporting insurgents who attacked the American Embassy in Kabul last week, killing 16 people.
He also said that with ISI support, the Haqqani network of terrorists planned and conducted an earlier truck bombing on a NATO outpost that killed 5 people and wounded 77 coalition troops, and other recent attacks.
Top 10 Green Job Fiascoes
Top 10 Green Job Fiascoes - HUMAN EVENTS
Of course, when the government tries to intrude in the marketplace, bad things happen.
Such as these: the Top 10 Green Job Fiascoes.
Of course, when the government tries to intrude in the marketplace, bad things happen.
Such as these: the Top 10 Green Job Fiascoes.
Teachers unions, school groups give mixed reviews to Obama No Child Left behind waivers | MLive.com
Teachers unions, school groups give mixed reviews to Obama No Child Left behind waivers MLive.com: The union approves of offering more options to improve failing schools and the move to college- and career-ready standards.
Kollege redi!
That sure beats teechin' reedin ritin ritmatik.
Don't it?
Kollege redi!
That sure beats teechin' reedin ritin ritmatik.
Don't it?
How Cain won Florida
York: How Cain won Florida Campaign 2012
Once the delegates got over the can't-get-elected hurdle, a close contest became a landslide for Herman Cain.
Once the delegates got over the can't-get-elected hurdle, a close contest became a landslide for Herman Cain.
Churchill, chance and the 'black dog'
BBC News - A Point of View: Churchill, chance and the 'black dog'
If Bracken hadn't left Australia to reinvent himself as an Englishman and appointed himself as Churchill's faithful protector;
if Beaverbrook and Bracken hadn't found Churchill brooding in his club;
if Bracken hadn't succeeded in persuading Churchill to remain silent;
and if Churchill hadn't been prepared for the desperate struggle that followed by the visits of the black dog, history would have been very different and the world darker than anything we can easily imagine.
If Bracken hadn't left Australia to reinvent himself as an Englishman and appointed himself as Churchill's faithful protector;
if Beaverbrook and Bracken hadn't found Churchill brooding in his club;
if Bracken hadn't succeeded in persuading Churchill to remain silent;
and if Churchill hadn't been prepared for the desperate struggle that followed by the visits of the black dog, history would have been very different and the world darker than anything we can easily imagine.
Stephen Colbert: 'Let's pray satellite lands in Detroit'
Stephen Colbert: 'Let's pray satellite lands in Detroit' MLive.com
"As we speak a defunct satellite is hurtling toward the Earth where it will destroy everything in it's path. Let's just pray it lands somewhere where it can't do any damage -- like Detroit," Colbert said.
You know, you can't even get angry at these type of sentiments anymore.
Can you imagine what Al Sharpton and the Detroit extorters would demand from US taxpayers if a chunk of space junk flattened a hovel in Dead Town?
"As we speak a defunct satellite is hurtling toward the Earth where it will destroy everything in it's path. Let's just pray it lands somewhere where it can't do any damage -- like Detroit," Colbert said.
You know, you can't even get angry at these type of sentiments anymore.
Can you imagine what Al Sharpton and the Detroit extorters would demand from US taxpayers if a chunk of space junk flattened a hovel in Dead Town?
Renewable Energy Subsidies Are a Waste of Money
Renewable Energy Subsidies Are a Waste of Money
Last month solar companies Spectra Watt in New York, Evergreen Solar in Massachusetts, and Solyndra Solar in California went bankrupt.
All companies had extensive subsidies from state and federal governments.
Taxpayer losses most likely exceeded $1 billion.
All three states have high electricity costs due to banning coal use and mandating renewable energy sources for electricity production.
Last month solar companies Spectra Watt in New York, Evergreen Solar in Massachusetts, and Solyndra Solar in California went bankrupt.
All companies had extensive subsidies from state and federal governments.
Taxpayer losses most likely exceeded $1 billion.
All three states have high electricity costs due to banning coal use and mandating renewable energy sources for electricity production.
Meet Olga Stefou, a Perfect Symbol of Greece’s Downfall
Meet Olga Stefou, a Perfect Symbol of Greece’s Downfall « International Liberty
The Los Angeles Times has a story that provides an inside look at the attitudes that have contributed to Greece’s fiscal collapse.
Let’s start with Olga Stefou, who is a good (or bad) symbol for her nation’s downfall.
She protests in favor of bigger government, naively asserting that the budget shortfall can be solved by pulling 122 troops out of Afghanistan and taxing the Orthodox Church.
Olga’s entitlement mentality is not unusual.
The story also notes that young Greek women think a government job is the most desirable thing in a potential mate. At the risk of being politically incorrect, the people of Greece (at least the ones in the moocher class) deserve a miserable future.
The Los Angeles Times has a story that provides an inside look at the attitudes that have contributed to Greece’s fiscal collapse.
Let’s start with Olga Stefou, who is a good (or bad) symbol for her nation’s downfall.
She protests in favor of bigger government, naively asserting that the budget shortfall can be solved by pulling 122 troops out of Afghanistan and taxing the Orthodox Church.
Olga’s entitlement mentality is not unusual.
The story also notes that young Greek women think a government job is the most desirable thing in a potential mate. At the risk of being politically incorrect, the people of Greece (at least the ones in the moocher class) deserve a miserable future.
Organizers raising money for 'Snurfer' statue expected to go in downtown Muskegon next spring
Organizers raising money for 'Snurfer' statue expected to go in downtown Muskegon next spring MLive.com: The piece has a price tag of about $50,000, with $35,000 already committed by local individuals, businesses and organizations.
Organizers hope to have the remaining $15,000 raised by mid-October.
That's enough to cover the cost of raw materials, contracting with the artist and mounting and shipping the sculpture.
Contributors giving $1,000 or more will get a commemorative plaque on the statue's platform.
Wow!
A nifty new statue from the deep pockets of our betters!
Waaay better for our city than ....say....a functioning school system.
Wait til the unwashed see the Snurfer........land rush to Muskegon!
Organizers hope to have the remaining $15,000 raised by mid-October.
That's enough to cover the cost of raw materials, contracting with the artist and mounting and shipping the sculpture.
Contributors giving $1,000 or more will get a commemorative plaque on the statue's platform.
Wow!
A nifty new statue from the deep pockets of our betters!
Waaay better for our city than ....say....a functioning school system.
Wait til the unwashed see the Snurfer........land rush to Muskegon!
EPA To Shut Down 20% of Coal Plants in 2012
EPA To Shut Down 20% of Coal Plants in 2012 - Helen Whalen Cohen
"Obama's EPA Cues 130 Billion Race to Cut Pollution By 2015", she reports that the EPA will shut down 20 percent of coal plants through the Cross-State Air Pollution Rule.
"Obama's EPA Cues 130 Billion Race to Cut Pollution By 2015", she reports that the EPA will shut down 20 percent of coal plants through the Cross-State Air Pollution Rule.
Problems For The President: Americans Give Him Lowest Approval Rating Ever
Problems For The President: Americans Give Him Lowest Approval Rating Ever YouGov US Opinion Center
57% believes most of what he says is what he wants people to hear, and not what he really believes.
That is one point short of the highest percentage recorded on this question in this poll.
57% believes most of what he says is what he wants people to hear, and not what he really believes.
That is one point short of the highest percentage recorded on this question in this poll.
Saturday, September 24, 2011
The Latest Ugly Truth About Pakistan
The Latest Ugly Truth About Pakistan - NYTimes.com
Pakistan’s spy agency — Inter-Services Intelligence — played a direct role in supporting insurgents who attacked the American Embassy in Kabul last week, killing 16 people.
He also said that with ISI support, the Haqqani network of terrorists planned and conducted an earlier truck bombing on a NATO outpost that killed 5 people and wounded 77 coalition troops, and other recent attacks.
Pakistan’s spy agency — Inter-Services Intelligence — played a direct role in supporting insurgents who attacked the American Embassy in Kabul last week, killing 16 people.
He also said that with ISI support, the Haqqani network of terrorists planned and conducted an earlier truck bombing on a NATO outpost that killed 5 people and wounded 77 coalition troops, and other recent attacks.
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