School board: We're satisfied superintendent accused of plagiarism 'understands her mistake' | NJ.com
"Koos told Bernardsville-Bedminster Patch that the seeming plagiarism of the Bettendorf message was actually a misunderstanding, and that she should have attributed Shutte's messages to him.
Koos called the incident "a mistake," and said she had an email from Shutte giving her permission to use the comments in her own letter, according to Patch.
However, Shutte told NJ.com he first heard from Koos sometime on Jan. 4, two days after the letter was already published on Bedminster's website with Koos' name signed to it.
On Jan. 11, Casella said the school board would investigate the possible plagiarism and, "as soon as we're able to get through everthing and get to the bottom of it, we will take appropriate steps from there."
But earlier that morning, the school district's website had been changed to edit another letter from the superintendent that appeared to be plagiarized from another school district."
Saturday, January 19, 2013
Pennsylvania girl, 5, suspended for threatening to shoot girl with pink toy gun that blows soapy bubbles
Pennsylvania girl, 5, suspended for threatening to shoot girl with pink toy gun that blows soapy bubbles | Fox News
"A 5-year-old Pennsylvania girl who told another girl she was going to shoot her with a pink Hello Kitty toy gun that blows soapy bubbles has been suspended from kindergarten.
Her family has hired an attorney to fight the punishment, which initially was 10 days for issuing a 'terroristic threat.'
But her punishment was reduced to two days after her mother met with school officials and had the incident dropped to 'threatening to harm another student,' which apparently carries a lesser punishment."
"A 5-year-old Pennsylvania girl who told another girl she was going to shoot her with a pink Hello Kitty toy gun that blows soapy bubbles has been suspended from kindergarten.
Her family has hired an attorney to fight the punishment, which initially was 10 days for issuing a 'terroristic threat.'
But her punishment was reduced to two days after her mother met with school officials and had the incident dropped to 'threatening to harm another student,' which apparently carries a lesser punishment."
12 Year Old Girl Shoots Home Intruder
12 Year Old Girl Shoots Home Intruder - KTEN.com - No One Gets You Closer
"A day off for fall break was anything but relaxing for a 12-year old Bryan County girl, when an intruder broke into her home on Michael Avenue.
Deputies say, the girl was home alone when a man she'd never seen before, rang the front doorbell.
They say when no one answered the door, the man went around to the back of the house and kicked a door open.
That's when authorities say, the girl grabbed a gun and hid in a bathroom closet.
"He had worked his way all the way through the house and into the bathroom.
And from what we understand, he was turning the doorknob when she fired through the door." Says Bryan County Under sheriff, Ken Golden."
"A day off for fall break was anything but relaxing for a 12-year old Bryan County girl, when an intruder broke into her home on Michael Avenue.
Deputies say, the girl was home alone when a man she'd never seen before, rang the front doorbell.
They say when no one answered the door, the man went around to the back of the house and kicked a door open.
That's when authorities say, the girl grabbed a gun and hid in a bathroom closet.
"He had worked his way all the way through the house and into the bathroom.
And from what we understand, he was turning the doorknob when she fired through the door." Says Bryan County Under sheriff, Ken Golden."
Non-Union Workers Excluded from Hurricane Sandy Cleanup
Non-Union Workers Excluded from Hurricane Sandy Cleanup - By Eliana Johnson - The Corner - National Review Online
"In New Jersey, where Governor Chris Christie has said that relief measures for Hurricane Sandy should be “above politics,” non-union workers are now excluded from participating in cleanup and rebuilding efforts.
That policy took effect when the New Jersey state senate voted on Monday to expand an existing labor-agreement law that has been on the books since 2002.
According to the Jersey Journal, highways, bridges, pumping stations, and water and sewage treatment plants were not covered under the existing law, but the new bill includes them:
Senate President Stephen Sweeney (D-Gloucester), who authored the legislation and fast tracked it, said the agreements are key to making sure work goes to New Jersey workers.
Above politics, just not regional politics, I guess.
The new measure also passed along party lines, 23 Democrats to 13 Republicans.
Above politics, just not party politics."
"In New Jersey, where Governor Chris Christie has said that relief measures for Hurricane Sandy should be “above politics,” non-union workers are now excluded from participating in cleanup and rebuilding efforts.
That policy took effect when the New Jersey state senate voted on Monday to expand an existing labor-agreement law that has been on the books since 2002.
According to the Jersey Journal, highways, bridges, pumping stations, and water and sewage treatment plants were not covered under the existing law, but the new bill includes them:
Senate President Stephen Sweeney (D-Gloucester), who authored the legislation and fast tracked it, said the agreements are key to making sure work goes to New Jersey workers.
Above politics, just not regional politics, I guess.
The new measure also passed along party lines, 23 Democrats to 13 Republicans.
Above politics, just not party politics."
A New Anti-Terror Front? Yes, the Government Thinks It’s ‘Right-Wing Extremists’
A New Anti-Terror Front? Yes, the Government Thinks It’s ‘Right-Wing Extremists’ - By John Fund - The Corner - National Review Online
The Combating Terrorism Center, which is based at the U.S. Military Academy at West Point, has issued a new report on its website entitled
“Challengers from the Sidelines: Understanding America’s Violent Far-Right.”
Normally, the center’s activities are focused on al-Qaeda and other violent Islamic groups seeking to topple governments around the world.
But the latest report looks inside America itself, and if the center is to be judged by the quality of its analysis in this report, it might be wise for all of us to be skeptical of its other work.
The Center’s report lumps together entirely legitimate tea-party-style activists with three groups it says represent “a racist/white supremacy movement, an anti-federalist movement and a fundamentalist movement.”
Together all these forces are said to have engaged in 350 “attacks initiated by far-right groups/individuals” in 2011, although the report never specifies what makes an attack a “far right” action.
The report’s author is Arie Perliger, who directs the Center’s terrorism studies and teaches social sciences at West Point.
I can only imagine what his classes are like as his report manages to lump together every known liberal stereotype about conservatives between its covers.
The Combating Terrorism Center, which is based at the U.S. Military Academy at West Point, has issued a new report on its website entitled
“Challengers from the Sidelines: Understanding America’s Violent Far-Right.”
Normally, the center’s activities are focused on al-Qaeda and other violent Islamic groups seeking to topple governments around the world.
But the latest report looks inside America itself, and if the center is to be judged by the quality of its analysis in this report, it might be wise for all of us to be skeptical of its other work.
The Center’s report lumps together entirely legitimate tea-party-style activists with three groups it says represent “a racist/white supremacy movement, an anti-federalist movement and a fundamentalist movement.”
Together all these forces are said to have engaged in 350 “attacks initiated by far-right groups/individuals” in 2011, although the report never specifies what makes an attack a “far right” action.
The report’s author is Arie Perliger, who directs the Center’s terrorism studies and teaches social sciences at West Point.
I can only imagine what his classes are like as his report manages to lump together every known liberal stereotype about conservatives between its covers.
Histrionics, Economics and Right-to-Work
Histrionics, Economics and Right-to-Work [Mackinac Center]
However, while the evidence on the economic effects of right-to-work laws is mixed, extensive empirical research generally shows neutral to very positive impacts.
Examples include:
However, while the evidence on the economic effects of right-to-work laws is mixed, extensive empirical research generally shows neutral to very positive impacts.
Examples include:
Editorial: New truancy program bolsters education in Muskegon area
Editorial: New truancy program bolsters education in Muskegon area | MLive.com
A collaborative effort, the truancy program is designed to help families get their children into the classroom through counseling and mediation services, including those offered by Mediation & Restorative Services and the Department of Human Services’ school-based Family Resource Centers. If the truancy is persistent then the punishment element will go into effect.
A collaborative effort, the truancy program is designed to help families get their children into the classroom through counseling and mediation services, including those offered by Mediation & Restorative Services and the Department of Human Services’ school-based Family Resource Centers. If the truancy is persistent then the punishment element will go into effect.
The End of the University as We Know It
The End of the University as We Know It - Nathan Harden - The American Interest Magazine
In fifty years, if not much sooner, half of the roughly 4,500 colleges and universities now operating in the United States will have ceased to exist.
The technology driving this change is already at work, and nothing can stop it.
The future looks like this: Access to college-level education will be free for everyone; the residential college campus will become largely obsolete; tens of thousands of professors will lose their jobs; the bachelor’s degree will become increasingly irrelevant; and ten years from now Harvard will enroll ten million students.
In fifty years, if not much sooner, half of the roughly 4,500 colleges and universities now operating in the United States will have ceased to exist.
The technology driving this change is already at work, and nothing can stop it.
The future looks like this: Access to college-level education will be free for everyone; the residential college campus will become largely obsolete; tens of thousands of professors will lose their jobs; the bachelor’s degree will become increasingly irrelevant; and ten years from now Harvard will enroll ten million students.
House Committee finds stimulus cash flowing to foreign companies
House Committee finds stimulus cash flowing to foreign companies | Washington Free Beacon
"The government made this change in Section 1603 of the 2009 American Recovery Act, better known as the stimulus bill.
“The stimulus’s purpose was to create jobs,” said Yeatman.
Each job created by the grant program cost $1.2 million, according to the report.
“That cost-per-jobs figure is eye-popping,” Yeatman said.
Iberdrola Renewables, the American wing of a Spanish renewable energy company, received $1.77 billion spread over 24 grants, over 10 percent of the total grants awarded."
"The government made this change in Section 1603 of the 2009 American Recovery Act, better known as the stimulus bill.
“The stimulus’s purpose was to create jobs,” said Yeatman.
Each job created by the grant program cost $1.2 million, according to the report.
“That cost-per-jobs figure is eye-popping,” Yeatman said.
Iberdrola Renewables, the American wing of a Spanish renewable energy company, received $1.77 billion spread over 24 grants, over 10 percent of the total grants awarded."
Cheesecake Factory pasta on list of caloric food porn
Cheesecake Factory pasta on list of caloric food porn | Reuters:
"- Chocolate Zuccotto Cake from Maggiano's Little Italy. One slice weighs nearly one pound and has 1,820 calories, 62 grams of saturated fat and 26 teaspoons of added sugar - or 15 Hostess Ho Hos, CSPI said."
"- Chocolate Zuccotto Cake from Maggiano's Little Italy. One slice weighs nearly one pound and has 1,820 calories, 62 grams of saturated fat and 26 teaspoons of added sugar - or 15 Hostess Ho Hos, CSPI said."
Re The Bigger Picture
Re The Bigger Picture - By Mark Steyn - The Corner - National Review Online
......you’re correct that the TSA is a prime example of the broader insanity of the precautionary principle applied without regard to cost-benefit analysis.
I wasn’t joking, by the way, about the federal bureaucracy policing pumpkin pie consistency.
It’s now part of a grand holiday tradition reflected in headlines that ought to be deeply embarrassing to a supposedly free people:
A Thanksgiving Meal, With The TSA’s Blessing"
......you’re correct that the TSA is a prime example of the broader insanity of the precautionary principle applied without regard to cost-benefit analysis.
I wasn’t joking, by the way, about the federal bureaucracy policing pumpkin pie consistency.
It’s now part of a grand holiday tradition reflected in headlines that ought to be deeply embarrassing to a supposedly free people:
A Thanksgiving Meal, With The TSA’s Blessing"
Man-on-the-street interviews: So, what’d you think of Obama’s inauguration?
MUST SEE VIDEO!
Man-on-the-street interviews: So, what’d you think of Obama’s inauguration? « The Greenroom
Jimmy Kimmel’s done a bunch of these on different subjects but the gag will never get old.
It’s basically a psychological experiment in serial form, and a case study in why polls can never fully be trusted.
Remember that Pew survey the other day showing how, even though most young adults don’t know what issue Roe v. Wade dealt with, nearly 100 percent of them had an opinion on whether or not the decision should be overturned?
If you were confused about how that result is possible, let late-night comedy be your beacon towards the truth.
Man-on-the-street interviews: So, what’d you think of Obama’s inauguration? « The Greenroom
Jimmy Kimmel’s done a bunch of these on different subjects but the gag will never get old.
It’s basically a psychological experiment in serial form, and a case study in why polls can never fully be trusted.
Remember that Pew survey the other day showing how, even though most young adults don’t know what issue Roe v. Wade dealt with, nearly 100 percent of them had an opinion on whether or not the decision should be overturned?
If you were confused about how that result is possible, let late-night comedy be your beacon towards the truth.
Treasury can start selling remaining GM shares
http://tinyurl.com/a4lff2g
At current prices, the Treasury would lose more than $12 billion on its GM bailout.
Before you file your income tax form: 6 things to know about Michigan's changes | MLive.com
Before you file your income tax form: 6 things to know about Michigan's changes | MLive.com
Homestead Property Tax Credit:
The maximum $1,200 credit is no longer available to homes with a taxable value greater than $135,000.
That cap does not apply to rented homesteads.
Previously, taxpayers could claim a credit if their household income was $82,650 or less.
Now, taxpayers with household resources (which includes more than just income) totaling more than $50,000 will no longer receive the credit.
Credits are reduced for households with resources ranging from $41,001-$50,000.
Seniors can receive the full credit if their household resources are no more than $21,000.
The credit would be reduced by 4 percent for each additional $1,000 in household resources up to $30,000.
Senior claimants can receive 60 percent of the credit if they have resources of $30,000 to $41,000. After that, the phase out applies.
A full explanation can be found here.
Homestead Property Tax Credit:
The maximum $1,200 credit is no longer available to homes with a taxable value greater than $135,000.
That cap does not apply to rented homesteads.
Previously, taxpayers could claim a credit if their household income was $82,650 or less.
Now, taxpayers with household resources (which includes more than just income) totaling more than $50,000 will no longer receive the credit.
Credits are reduced for households with resources ranging from $41,001-$50,000.
Seniors can receive the full credit if their household resources are no more than $21,000.
The credit would be reduced by 4 percent for each additional $1,000 in household resources up to $30,000.
Senior claimants can receive 60 percent of the credit if they have resources of $30,000 to $41,000. After that, the phase out applies.
A full explanation can be found here.
Remember the good ol' days, with lots of state income tax deductions?
Tim Skubick: Remember the good ol' days, with lots of state income tax deductions? | MLive.com
But get a load of the tax deductions or exemptions that you use to get that ain’t no more.
If you made a contribution to charities last year, the credit you got in 2011, you will not get in 2012.
If you paid a city income tax, that credit is caput.
You use to get credit for college and tuition fees. Adios to that boys and girls.
And other credits are hit: renewable energy surcharge, home heating credit for seniors, an exemption for unemployment compensation, earned income tax credit, homestead property tax credit, and for kids at home under 18, the $600 deduction is out the window.
Tell junior to get a job to make up the lost credit.
But get a load of the tax deductions or exemptions that you use to get that ain’t no more.
If you made a contribution to charities last year, the credit you got in 2011, you will not get in 2012.
If you paid a city income tax, that credit is caput.
You use to get credit for college and tuition fees. Adios to that boys and girls.
And other credits are hit: renewable energy surcharge, home heating credit for seniors, an exemption for unemployment compensation, earned income tax credit, homestead property tax credit, and for kids at home under 18, the $600 deduction is out the window.
Tell junior to get a job to make up the lost credit.
Government Scientist Gets Fired for Telling the Truth
Government Scientist Gets Fired for Telling the Truth - David Spady
The purpose of fictional environmental science is to sway public opinion through what amounts to propaganda. Intransigent purveyors of “green” propaganda know their greatest enemy is truth.
One of the most famous propaganda experts was Germany’s Joseph Goebbels, who taught that if a lie is repeated often enough it will eventually be accepted as truth.
Goebbels also knew that truth has to be suppressed if it contradicts the objectives of the propaganda.
Goebbels wrote, “It thus becomes vitally important for the State to use all of its powers to repress dissent, for the truth is the mortal enemy of the lie, and thus by extension, the truth is the greatest enemy of the State.”
The purpose of fictional environmental science is to sway public opinion through what amounts to propaganda. Intransigent purveyors of “green” propaganda know their greatest enemy is truth.
One of the most famous propaganda experts was Germany’s Joseph Goebbels, who taught that if a lie is repeated often enough it will eventually be accepted as truth.
Goebbels also knew that truth has to be suppressed if it contradicts the objectives of the propaganda.
Goebbels wrote, “It thus becomes vitally important for the State to use all of its powers to repress dissent, for the truth is the mortal enemy of the lie, and thus by extension, the truth is the greatest enemy of the State.”
Friday, January 18, 2013
Mark Steyn: Fake dead girlfriends and fake debt limits
Mark Steyn: Fake dead girlfriends and fake debt limits | dollar, trillion, debt - Opinion - The Orange County Register:
Forty-four nations voted at Bretton Woods to make the dollar the world's reserve currency.
If they were meeting today, I doubt they'd give that status to a nation piling on over a trillion in federal debt per year, 70 percent of which its left hand (the U.S. Treasury) borrows from its right hand (the Federal Reserve) through the Nigerian email equivalent of Paul Krugman's trillion-dollar groat.
Meanwhile, I see the Bundesbank has decided to move 300 tons of German gold from the Federal Reserve in New York back to Frankfurt. It's probably nothing.
And what's to stop the Fed replacing it with 300 tons of Boston Cream donuts and declaring them of equivalent value? Or maybe 300 imaginary dead football girlfriends, all platinum blondes.
If they were meeting today, I doubt they'd give that status to a nation piling on over a trillion in federal debt per year, 70 percent of which its left hand (the U.S. Treasury) borrows from its right hand (the Federal Reserve) through the Nigerian email equivalent of Paul Krugman's trillion-dollar groat.
Meanwhile, I see the Bundesbank has decided to move 300 tons of German gold from the Federal Reserve in New York back to Frankfurt. It's probably nothing.
And what's to stop the Fed replacing it with 300 tons of Boston Cream donuts and declaring them of equivalent value? Or maybe 300 imaginary dead football girlfriends, all platinum blondes.
Reader panel members react to using Craig School as a juvenile transition center
Flash views: Reader panel members react to using Craig School as a juvenile transition center | MLive.com
Agreeing with Griffin was Jim Riley of Norton Shores, who doesn't think the county has made a case for moving the transition center.
If county commissioners and administrator Bonnie Hammersley have a compelling reason to move the facility, they have yet to clearly present their rationale to the public.
In that vacuum of clarity, I say detach the juvenile transition center issue from the new jail discussion and keep the JTC in its current location.
Agreeing with Griffin was Jim Riley of Norton Shores, who doesn't think the county has made a case for moving the transition center.
If county commissioners and administrator Bonnie Hammersley have a compelling reason to move the facility, they have yet to clearly present their rationale to the public.
In that vacuum of clarity, I say detach the juvenile transition center issue from the new jail discussion and keep the JTC in its current location.
Michigan Senators Introduce Firearms Freedom Act
Michigan Senators Introduce Firearms Freedom Act – Tenth Amendment Center Blog
"Senators Pavlov, Jones, Green, Casperson, Meekhof, Proos, Jansen, Brandenderg, Hildenbrand, Nofs, Colbeck, Emmons and Marleau introduced SB0063, which would protect firearms made and remaining in Michigan from unconstitutional federal regulation. SB0063 was referred to the Committee on Judiciary, chaired by Senator Jones."
"Senators Pavlov, Jones, Green, Casperson, Meekhof, Proos, Jansen, Brandenderg, Hildenbrand, Nofs, Colbeck, Emmons and Marleau introduced SB0063, which would protect firearms made and remaining in Michigan from unconstitutional federal regulation. SB0063 was referred to the Committee on Judiciary, chaired by Senator Jones."
Food service vulnerable to food allergy lawsuits
WASHINGTON: Food service vulnerable to food allergy lawsuits | Health | Macon.com
A settlement stemming from a lack of gluten-free foods available to students at a Massachusetts university could serve as a precedent for people with other allergies or conditions, including peanut sensitivities or diabetes.
Institutions and businesses subject to the Americans With Disabilities Act could be open to lawsuits if they fail to honor requests for accommodations by people with food allergies.
A settlement stemming from a lack of gluten-free foods available to students at a Massachusetts university could serve as a precedent for people with other allergies or conditions, including peanut sensitivities or diabetes.
Institutions and businesses subject to the Americans With Disabilities Act could be open to lawsuits if they fail to honor requests for accommodations by people with food allergies.
Coast West Music Festival to bring country stars LeAnn Rimes, Josh Turner to Muskegon 4th of July
Coast West Music Festival to bring country stars LeAnn Rimes, Josh Turner to Muskegon 4th of July | MLive.com: "It has a name: The Coast West Music Festival. It will take place from July 1 to 6, and its first two confirmed acts are country music stars Josh Turner and LeAnn Rimes, who will perform on July 4."
DRUDGE REPORT 2013®
DRUDGE REPORT 2013®
CABLE NEWS RACE
WEDS JAN 16 2013
FOXNEWS O'REILLY 3,356,000
DISC AMISH MAFIA 3,200,000
FOXNEWS FIVE 2,323,000
FOXNEWS HANNITY 2,276,000
FOXNEWS BAIER 2,235,000
FOXNEWS SHEP 1,813,000
CMDY DAILY SHOW 1,790,000
FOXNEWS GRETA 1,637,000
CMDY COLBERT 1,360,000
MSNBC MADDOW 1,096,000
MSNBC SCHULTZ 1,020,000
MSNBC HARDBALL 875,000
MSNBC SHARPTON 839,000
MSNBC O'DONNELL 831,000
CNN COOPER 604,000
CNN PIERS 592,000
CABLE NEWS RACE
WEDS JAN 16 2013
FOXNEWS O'REILLY 3,356,000
DISC AMISH MAFIA 3,200,000
FOXNEWS FIVE 2,323,000
FOXNEWS HANNITY 2,276,000
FOXNEWS BAIER 2,235,000
FOXNEWS SHEP 1,813,000
CMDY DAILY SHOW 1,790,000
FOXNEWS GRETA 1,637,000
CMDY COLBERT 1,360,000
MSNBC MADDOW 1,096,000
MSNBC SCHULTZ 1,020,000
MSNBC HARDBALL 875,000
MSNBC SHARPTON 839,000
MSNBC O'DONNELL 831,000
CNN COOPER 604,000
CNN PIERS 592,000
The End of the University as We Know It
The End of the University as We Know It - Nathan Harden - The American Interest Magazine
In fifty years, if not much sooner, half of the roughly 4,500 colleges and universities now operating in the United States will have ceased to exist.
In fifty years, if not much sooner, half of the roughly 4,500 colleges and universities now operating in the United States will have ceased to exist.
Thursday, January 17, 2013
2013 State of the State, Gov. Rick Snyder
2013 State of the State, Gov. Rick Snyder [Michigan Capitol Confidential]
The biggest expansion included the call for a $1.2 billion increase in state-funded road and infrastructure spending. Revenue sources for that money could include increases in vehicle registration and fuel taxes.
The biggest expansion included the call for a $1.2 billion increase in state-funded road and infrastructure spending. Revenue sources for that money could include increases in vehicle registration and fuel taxes.
Wednesday, January 16, 2013
State of the State 2013: Gov. Rick Snyder proposes road funding, changes to voting, education
State of the State 2013: Gov. Rick Snyder proposes road funding, changes to voting, education | MLive.com
“The big deal is roads – road funding,” Snyder strategy director Bill Rustem told reporters prior to Snyder’s speech. “
Snyder wants it done early because he knows it is going to be a tough issue, Rustem said.
The road money plan could include raising vehicle registration fees.
It also would shift the tax system from the current 19-cent per gallon tax paid at the pump to a percentage of the wholesale cost of gasoline, which would rise with inflation and could bring in more money.
Snyder also would consider backing local options to raise more money at the county level, such as additional vehicle registration fees.
Both Republicans and Democrats have generally agreed Michigan needs more money for road repairs and transportation system improvements.
Other topics:
Elections and voting: Snyder is expected to back some form of online voter registration and no-reason absentee voting. It would require some steps aimed at security, such as entering Social Security numbers with registration and other features.
Jobs: Snyder is expected to push for ways to better help Michigan workers develop the skills needed for high-tech, health care and other high-demand job areas. It's not clear how much of that will come up in tonight's speech, however. One item that is expected to be mentioned is a special emphasis on military veterans for some types of jobs. Snyder also is expected to announce other steps, including accreditation of a veterans affairs agency, to help better deliver services to veterans.
Education: Great Start and other early childhood education programs could get more of an emphasis in the state budget, which will be proposed in early February. Snyder also is expected to renew his call to expand the state’s Education Achievement Authority. It now includes 15 schools in Detroit, but it could potentially expand to include many of the lowest-performing 5 percent of schools in the state. Proposals that could have put the EAA in state law and expanded that program fizzled in the state Legislature late last year, but likely will be resurrected.
Social services: Snyder is expected to address expanding a program that would put more Department of Human Services workers into elementary schools. The goal would be to help children and families get basic services, so educators can focus more on education. Much of the emphasis could be on Detroit, Flint, Saginaw and Pontiac.
“The big deal is roads – road funding,” Snyder strategy director Bill Rustem told reporters prior to Snyder’s speech. “
Snyder wants it done early because he knows it is going to be a tough issue, Rustem said.
The road money plan could include raising vehicle registration fees.
It also would shift the tax system from the current 19-cent per gallon tax paid at the pump to a percentage of the wholesale cost of gasoline, which would rise with inflation and could bring in more money.
Snyder also would consider backing local options to raise more money at the county level, such as additional vehicle registration fees.
Both Republicans and Democrats have generally agreed Michigan needs more money for road repairs and transportation system improvements.
Other topics:
Elections and voting: Snyder is expected to back some form of online voter registration and no-reason absentee voting. It would require some steps aimed at security, such as entering Social Security numbers with registration and other features.
Jobs: Snyder is expected to push for ways to better help Michigan workers develop the skills needed for high-tech, health care and other high-demand job areas. It's not clear how much of that will come up in tonight's speech, however. One item that is expected to be mentioned is a special emphasis on military veterans for some types of jobs. Snyder also is expected to announce other steps, including accreditation of a veterans affairs agency, to help better deliver services to veterans.
Education: Great Start and other early childhood education programs could get more of an emphasis in the state budget, which will be proposed in early February. Snyder also is expected to renew his call to expand the state’s Education Achievement Authority. It now includes 15 schools in Detroit, but it could potentially expand to include many of the lowest-performing 5 percent of schools in the state. Proposals that could have put the EAA in state law and expanded that program fizzled in the state Legislature late last year, but likely will be resurrected.
Social services: Snyder is expected to address expanding a program that would put more Department of Human Services workers into elementary schools. The goal would be to help children and families get basic services, so educators can focus more on education. Much of the emphasis could be on Detroit, Flint, Saginaw and Pontiac.
FAA grounds Boeing 787s, issues emergency AD to cover risk of battery fires
FAA grounds Boeing 787s, issues emergency AD to cover risk of battery fires | Airline Biz Blog
“As a result of an in-flight, Boeing 787 battery incident earlier today in Japan, the FAA will issue an emergency airworthiness directive (AD) to address a potential battery fire risk in the 787 and require operators to temporarily cease operations.
“As a result of an in-flight, Boeing 787 battery incident earlier today in Japan, the FAA will issue an emergency airworthiness directive (AD) to address a potential battery fire risk in the 787 and require operators to temporarily cease operations.
Muskegon County officials hear Nelson Neighborhood opposition to juvenile facility for Craig School
Muskegon County officials hear Nelson Neighborhood opposition to juvenile facility for Craig School | MLive.com
Hammersley told the neighborhood group that she will take the message back to the county and the process will continue as she promised to keep the neighborhood and all citizens in Muskegon County informed.
Hammersley told the neighborhood group that she will take the message back to the county and the process will continue as she promised to keep the neighborhood and all citizens in Muskegon County informed.
Michigan Steel in Muskegon and sister company Rothbury Steel showing signs of financial problems
Michigan Steel in Muskegon and sister company Rothbury Steel showing signs of financial problems | MLive.com
With the closure of the Kurdziel Iron Foundry in Rothbury in 2009, a Makary business purchased the facility at 2625 W. Winston Road and opened it to great fanfare with state and local officials in April of last year.
The state of Michigan contributed $2.56 million through Grant Township and the Oceana County Road Commission to improve Winston Road from the foundry to U.S. 31 to assist in launching the company with 50 employees.
At the time, the company projected 300 jobs at Rothbury Steel, because larger castings could be produced than with the equipment at Muskegon Steel.
Hardy said her agency visited with Rothbury Steel officials late in 2012 and found operations continuing with about 60 to 70 employees.
At the time of the Rothbury Steel opening, then company President Chris Moein told MLive and The Muskegon Chronicle that business was “booming” at Michigan Steel and the company was employing 200 people in Muskegon.
Historically, Michigan Steel has employed about 120 workers, according to information from Muskegon Area First.
With the closure of the Kurdziel Iron Foundry in Rothbury in 2009, a Makary business purchased the facility at 2625 W. Winston Road and opened it to great fanfare with state and local officials in April of last year.
The state of Michigan contributed $2.56 million through Grant Township and the Oceana County Road Commission to improve Winston Road from the foundry to U.S. 31 to assist in launching the company with 50 employees.
At the time, the company projected 300 jobs at Rothbury Steel, because larger castings could be produced than with the equipment at Muskegon Steel.
Hardy said her agency visited with Rothbury Steel officials late in 2012 and found operations continuing with about 60 to 70 employees.
At the time of the Rothbury Steel opening, then company President Chris Moein told MLive and The Muskegon Chronicle that business was “booming” at Michigan Steel and the company was employing 200 people in Muskegon.
Historically, Michigan Steel has employed about 120 workers, according to information from Muskegon Area First.
Blue Storm Ravages California City
Blue Storm Ravages California City | Via Meadia
This is what a blue death spiral looks like. Years and years of unsustainable pension promises, profligate spending and poor fiscal leadership slowly add up until the money runs out and there’s nothing left to pay for the services that keep the city running.
Bankruptcy can help get a city’s finances back on track, but it’s extremely difficult to run a city on a shoestring budget, as San Bernardino is now learning.
It is truly unfortunate that the good citizens of San Bernardino are caught up in this mess. In the meantime, this should serve as a warning to the rest of us.
This is what a blue death spiral looks like. Years and years of unsustainable pension promises, profligate spending and poor fiscal leadership slowly add up until the money runs out and there’s nothing left to pay for the services that keep the city running.
Bankruptcy can help get a city’s finances back on track, but it’s extremely difficult to run a city on a shoestring budget, as San Bernardino is now learning.
It is truly unfortunate that the good citizens of San Bernardino are caught up in this mess. In the meantime, this should serve as a warning to the rest of us.
Meese: Obama Could Be Impeached If He Uses Executive Order For Gun Control
Meese: Obama Could Be Impeached If He Uses Executive Order For Gun Control | RealClearPolitics
NEWSMAX: So, if the president unilaterally overrides the Second Amendment via an executive order, would this be Constitutional?
Would it be legal?
And how should Congress respond?
MEESE: Well it would not be legal, it would not be Constitutional and, indeed, if he tried to override the Second Amendment in any way, I believe it would be an impeachable offense.
MEESE: Then, it would be up to the Congress to take action, such as looking in to it to see if, in fact, he has really tried to override the Constitution itself.
In which case, it would be up to them to determine what action they should take — and perhaps even to the point of impeachment.
NEWSMAX: So, if the president unilaterally overrides the Second Amendment via an executive order, would this be Constitutional?
Would it be legal?
And how should Congress respond?
MEESE: Well it would not be legal, it would not be Constitutional and, indeed, if he tried to override the Second Amendment in any way, I believe it would be an impeachable offense.
MEESE: Then, it would be up to the Congress to take action, such as looking in to it to see if, in fact, he has really tried to override the Constitution itself.
In which case, it would be up to them to determine what action they should take — and perhaps even to the point of impeachment.
What Closing the Gun-Show Loophole Won’t Do
What Closing the Gun-Show Loophole Won’t Do - By Clayton E. Cramer - The Corner - National Review Online:
It is an article of faith that closing the “gun-show loophole” would make America a safer place. But that is what it is: faith.
.....This might seem surprising, and at first glance, it is.
Except for one little detail: Criminals appear not to buy guns at gun shows, because guns are expensive. It is so much cheaper to steal guns instead.
It is an article of faith that closing the “gun-show loophole” would make America a safer place. But that is what it is: faith.
.....This might seem surprising, and at first glance, it is.
Except for one little detail: Criminals appear not to buy guns at gun shows, because guns are expensive. It is so much cheaper to steal guns instead.
The Legislature's Newest Members
The Legislature's Newest Members [Michigan Capitol Confidential]
Collene Lamonte, D-Montague, 91st District - N 1195 HOB -
(517) 373-3436 - ColleneLamonte@house.mi.gov
Personal Career: Having never run for political office before, Lamonte got in the race for the 91st House District and won in 2012, unseating Rep. Holly Hughes. Lamonte won by less than 400 votes.
Work Experience: She previously worked as a math and science teacher at Muskegon High School.
Education: Before becoming a teacher, Lamonte studied at Saginaw Valley State University.
Personal: She and her husband, Jeff, have two children.
Collene Lamonte, D-Montague, 91st District - N 1195 HOB -
(517) 373-3436 - ColleneLamonte@house.mi.gov
Personal Career: Having never run for political office before, Lamonte got in the race for the 91st House District and won in 2012, unseating Rep. Holly Hughes. Lamonte won by less than 400 votes.
Work Experience: She previously worked as a math and science teacher at Muskegon High School.
Education: Before becoming a teacher, Lamonte studied at Saginaw Valley State University.
Personal: She and her husband, Jeff, have two children.
Production of corn ethanol as an automotive fuel source should cease
Guest view of Mark J. Perry: Production of corn ethanol as an automotive fuel source should cease | MLive.com
The Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) case for E15, a fuel blend consisting of 15 percent ethanol and 85 percent gasoline, has completely fallen apart, as evidenced by the recent report from the American Automobile Association (AAA) that E15 can cause accelerated engine wear and failure, resulting in costly repairs for unsuspecting consumers.
The Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) case for E15, a fuel blend consisting of 15 percent ethanol and 85 percent gasoline, has completely fallen apart, as evidenced by the recent report from the American Automobile Association (AAA) that E15 can cause accelerated engine wear and failure, resulting in costly repairs for unsuspecting consumers.
Welfare Spending Increases Poverty Instead Easing People Out Of It
Welfare Spending Increases Poverty Instead Easing People Out Of It - Investors.com
All told, overall welfare spending for the decade will be $11 trillion — "roughly one-quarter of cumulative federal spending," the Budget Committee reports.
And that doesn't even include state spending on welfare, which, when added to federal benefits, was more than $1 trillion in fiscal 2011.
That's enough, the Budget Committee tells us, "to mail every household in poverty a check for $60,000 each year."
All told, overall welfare spending for the decade will be $11 trillion — "roughly one-quarter of cumulative federal spending," the Budget Committee reports.
And that doesn't even include state spending on welfare, which, when added to federal benefits, was more than $1 trillion in fiscal 2011.
That's enough, the Budget Committee tells us, "to mail every household in poverty a check for $60,000 each year."
Gun Control by Executive Order?
Gun Control by Executive Order? - Scott Coffina - National Review Online
Executive orders are not constitutionally sanctioned or prohibited, but once signed, they have the force of law.
Presidents have utilized them to drive policy within the executive branch since the dawn of the republic. In some cases, presidents have acted quite aggressively through executive orders.
President Lincoln suspended the writ of habeas corpus during the Civil War; President Roosevelt established internment camps during World War II; and President Truman mandated equal treatment of all members of the armed forces — all through executive orders.
Significantly, all three of these actions were rooted in the president’s constitutional authority as commander-in-chief of the armed forces, in the midst of national emergencies
Executive orders are not constitutionally sanctioned or prohibited, but once signed, they have the force of law.
Presidents have utilized them to drive policy within the executive branch since the dawn of the republic. In some cases, presidents have acted quite aggressively through executive orders.
President Lincoln suspended the writ of habeas corpus during the Civil War; President Roosevelt established internment camps during World War II; and President Truman mandated equal treatment of all members of the armed forces — all through executive orders.
Significantly, all three of these actions were rooted in the president’s constitutional authority as commander-in-chief of the armed forces, in the midst of national emergencies
Mentally challenged girl, 15, 'gang raped under her desk during class as teacher did NOTHING'
Mentally challenged girl, 15, 'gang raped under her desk during class as teacher did NOTHING' | Mail Online
A mentally challenged 15-year-old New York girl endured a brutal gang rape as she was trapped beneath her by two boys with her teacher only feet away, alleges a lawsuit filed Friday.
The special needs student, identified only by the initials K.J., was allegedly sexually assaulted for 10 minutes as another student 'hit her on the head whenever she tried to escape,' during a science class at Martin De Porres Academy in Elmont, N.Y.
A mentally challenged 15-year-old New York girl endured a brutal gang rape as she was trapped beneath her by two boys with her teacher only feet away, alleges a lawsuit filed Friday.
The special needs student, identified only by the initials K.J., was allegedly sexually assaulted for 10 minutes as another student 'hit her on the head whenever she tried to escape,' during a science class at Martin De Porres Academy in Elmont, N.Y.
As he was saying… | Hernando Today
As he was saying… | Hernando Today
"The fact that we are here today to debate raising America's debt limit is a sign of leadership failure. It is a sign that the U.S. government cannot pay its own bills.
It is a sign that we now depend on ongoing financial assistance from foreign countries to finance our government's reckless fiscal policies. Increasing America's debt weakens us domestically and internationally. Leadership means that, 'the buck stops here.'
"Instead, Washington is shifting the burden of bad choices today onto the backs of our children and grandchildren. America has a debt problem and a failure of leadership. Americans deserve better."
— Sen. Barack H. Obama, March 2006
What an incriminating and indicting statement uttered by the president, who has rung up more debt than the first 43 put together.
By his own words he is a colossal failure as a leader as he continues to have trillion-dollar deficits with no sign of addressing the issue in a realistic way.
"The fact that we are here today to debate raising America's debt limit is a sign of leadership failure. It is a sign that the U.S. government cannot pay its own bills.
It is a sign that we now depend on ongoing financial assistance from foreign countries to finance our government's reckless fiscal policies. Increasing America's debt weakens us domestically and internationally. Leadership means that, 'the buck stops here.'
"Instead, Washington is shifting the burden of bad choices today onto the backs of our children and grandchildren. America has a debt problem and a failure of leadership. Americans deserve better."
— Sen. Barack H. Obama, March 2006
What an incriminating and indicting statement uttered by the president, who has rung up more debt than the first 43 put together.
By his own words he is a colossal failure as a leader as he continues to have trillion-dollar deficits with no sign of addressing the issue in a realistic way.
Tuesday, January 15, 2013
70 years ago today, Strom Thurmond’s mistress was put to death
70 years ago today, Strom Thurmond’s mistress was put to death - Palmetto Public Record
On this day in 1943, a South Carolina woman named Sue Logue was executed along with her brother-in-law, George Logue, and a down-on-his-luck plasterer named Clarence Bagwell.
The Logues had hired Bagwell to kill their neighbor, who had previously killed Sue Logue’s husband over a feud concerning a dead calf.
What makes this story interesting is that before Sue Logue’s arrest, she had been having an affair with an Edgefield County school superintendent named Strom Thurmond.
Yes, that Strom Thurmond. Logue was a teacher in Thurmond’s district, and rumor has it that the two had once been “caught in the act” in the future senator’s own office.
When police surrounded Logue’s house to arrest her, Thurmond — by now a local judge — even intervened in the standoff to ensure that she came quietly (no pun intended).
What makes the story even more interesting is that before Logue was to be executed, Thurmond rode with her from the Columbia women’s penitentiary to the prison which housed Death Row, and even managed to “get it in” one last time before his mistress was executed.
On this day in 1943, a South Carolina woman named Sue Logue was executed along with her brother-in-law, George Logue, and a down-on-his-luck plasterer named Clarence Bagwell.
The Logues had hired Bagwell to kill their neighbor, who had previously killed Sue Logue’s husband over a feud concerning a dead calf.
What makes this story interesting is that before Sue Logue’s arrest, she had been having an affair with an Edgefield County school superintendent named Strom Thurmond.
Yes, that Strom Thurmond. Logue was a teacher in Thurmond’s district, and rumor has it that the two had once been “caught in the act” in the future senator’s own office.
When police surrounded Logue’s house to arrest her, Thurmond — by now a local judge — even intervened in the standoff to ensure that she came quietly (no pun intended).
What makes the story even more interesting is that before Logue was to be executed, Thurmond rode with her from the Columbia women’s penitentiary to the prison which housed Death Row, and even managed to “get it in” one last time before his mistress was executed.
Cheap energy today: The best friend and salvation of the poor
Cheap energy today: The best friend and salvation of the poor | AEIdeas
"”Somehow we have to figure out how to boost the US price of gasoline to the levels in Europe.” ~Stephen Chu, US Secretary of Energy
“Under my plan of a cap-and-trade system, electricity rates would necessarily skyrocket.” ~President Barack Hussein Obama
Willis Eschenbach responds (emphasis mine) on Watts Up With That (the world’s most viewed site on global warming and climate change):
Here’s my problem with these brilliant plans.
Regardless of whatever hypothetical possible future benefit they might or might not bring in fifty years, right here and now in the present they are absolutely devastating to the poor."
"”Somehow we have to figure out how to boost the US price of gasoline to the levels in Europe.” ~Stephen Chu, US Secretary of Energy
“Under my plan of a cap-and-trade system, electricity rates would necessarily skyrocket.” ~President Barack Hussein Obama
Willis Eschenbach responds (emphasis mine) on Watts Up With That (the world’s most viewed site on global warming and climate change):
Here’s my problem with these brilliant plans.
Regardless of whatever hypothetical possible future benefit they might or might not bring in fifty years, right here and now in the present they are absolutely devastating to the poor."
Muskegon doctor returns to closed abortion clinic, calls it a 'crime scene'
Muskegon doctor returns to closed abortion clinic, calls it a 'crime scene' | MLive.com
According to police reports released to MLive and The Muskegon Chronicle after a Freedom of Information Act request, police investigating the broken door reported unsanitary conditions throughout the clinic, including used hypodermic needles in unsecured containers, “blood on the floor and walls in multiple locations” as well as dripping from a sink trap in a patient room, and “uncovered buckets containing unknown fluids” in the operating room.
According to police reports released to MLive and The Muskegon Chronicle after a Freedom of Information Act request, police investigating the broken door reported unsanitary conditions throughout the clinic, including used hypodermic needles in unsecured containers, “blood on the floor and walls in multiple locations” as well as dripping from a sink trap in a patient room, and “uncovered buckets containing unknown fluids” in the operating room.
Collapse of Higher-Ed Bubble Draws Near
Collapse of Higher-Ed Bubble Draws Near [Mackinac Center]
Legislators had better start paying attention, because like the implosion of the housing bubble, the higher ed one is all but certain to have an impact on future budgets.
Legislators had better start paying attention, because like the implosion of the housing bubble, the higher ed one is all but certain to have an impact on future budgets.
Liberal tax leaves bitter taste in some smoothie drinkers' mouths
Liberal tax leaves bitter taste in some smoothie drinkers' mouths | ksl.com
Burnett said his goal isn't to offend. First, it's to provide people with a healthy product.
Second, it's to start a conversation about what he sees as the over-regulation of the energy industry and the continued financial problems facing the United States.
Burnett said his goal isn't to offend. First, it's to provide people with a healthy product.
Second, it's to start a conversation about what he sees as the over-regulation of the energy industry and the continued financial problems facing the United States.
New Study Shows Better Results For Public Charter School Students Compared To Students In Conventional ...
New Study Shows Better Results For Public Charter School Students Compared To Students In Conventional ... [Michigan Capitol Confidential]
The students who took advantage of school choice had academic growth 82 percent above the state average in reading and 72 percent above the state average in math.
The students who took advantage of school choice had academic growth 82 percent above the state average in reading and 72 percent above the state average in math.
Monday, January 14, 2013
Calling All Cauliflower
Calling All Cauliflower - NYTimes.com
At my house we eat cauliflower like popcorn.
Using a simple recipe from Alice Waters, we slice it thin, toss in olive oil and salt, and roast.
One head of cauliflower is never enough
At my house we eat cauliflower like popcorn.
Using a simple recipe from Alice Waters, we slice it thin, toss in olive oil and salt, and roast.
One head of cauliflower is never enough
New pay-per-mile scheme would boost taxes 250 percent
New pay-per-mile scheme would boost taxes 250 percent | WashingtonExaminer.com
An on-again, off-again move by the Obama administration to scrap the federal gas tax in favor of a pay-per-mile fee would boost the tab to Americans as high as 250 percent, raising their current tax of 18.4 cents a gallon to as high as 46 cents, according to a new government study.
An on-again, off-again move by the Obama administration to scrap the federal gas tax in favor of a pay-per-mile fee would boost the tab to Americans as high as 250 percent, raising their current tax of 18.4 cents a gallon to as high as 46 cents, according to a new government study.
Most of the Arrested Anti-Right-to-Work Protesters Have SEIU 'Dues Skim' Connections
Most of the Arrested Anti-Right-to-Work Protesters Have SEIU 'Dues Skim' Connections [Michigan Capitol Confidential]
"Seven of the eight people facing felony charges for their alleged actions on Dec.6 at the State Capitol are affiliated with the SEIU Healthcare Michigan union.
That's the union that has taken more than $33 million from home-based caregivers in Michigan."
"Seven of the eight people facing felony charges for their alleged actions on Dec.6 at the State Capitol are affiliated with the SEIU Healthcare Michigan union.
That's the union that has taken more than $33 million from home-based caregivers in Michigan."
Sunday, January 13, 2013
Obama faces 'limited' options on executive action on gun violence
Obama faces 'limited' options on executive action on gun violence - The Hill
"His options are limited," Adam Winkler, constitutional scholar at the UCLA School of Law, said by phone Friday.
"He can seek to better enforce existing federal law, but he can't act contrary to existing federal law."
Winkler and others say Obama can install changes like new importation limits on weapons, tougher law-enforcement policies and greater cooperation between federal agencies sharing criminal and mental-health records – all without Congress's blessing.
.....Much of the focus seems to be on efforts to strengthen the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS), an FBI database through which licensed gun dealers are required to screen potential buyers before selling weapons.
Under federal law, felons, illegal immigrants, drug abusers, spousal abusers and the severely mentally ill may not buy or own firearms.
But the system is riddled with holes, as many states – and even federal agencies – have declined to share records with NICS.
Indeed, an examination of 60 federal agencies in October 2011 revealed that only eight had shared mental-health records with NICS, while only three had submitted drug-abuse records, according to FBI data provided to Mayors Against Illegal Guns, an advocacy group.
Among the agencies that had not shared any records on substance abusers was the Drug Enforcement Administration.
"His options are limited," Adam Winkler, constitutional scholar at the UCLA School of Law, said by phone Friday.
"He can seek to better enforce existing federal law, but he can't act contrary to existing federal law."
Winkler and others say Obama can install changes like new importation limits on weapons, tougher law-enforcement policies and greater cooperation between federal agencies sharing criminal and mental-health records – all without Congress's blessing.
.....Much of the focus seems to be on efforts to strengthen the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS), an FBI database through which licensed gun dealers are required to screen potential buyers before selling weapons.
Under federal law, felons, illegal immigrants, drug abusers, spousal abusers and the severely mentally ill may not buy or own firearms.
But the system is riddled with holes, as many states – and even federal agencies – have declined to share records with NICS.
Indeed, an examination of 60 federal agencies in October 2011 revealed that only eight had shared mental-health records with NICS, while only three had submitted drug-abuse records, according to FBI data provided to Mayors Against Illegal Guns, an advocacy group.
Among the agencies that had not shared any records on substance abusers was the Drug Enforcement Administration.
James M. Buchanan | Fellows | Cato Institute
James M. Buchanan | Fellows | Cato Institute
Buchanan and Tullock’s 1962book, The Calculus of Consent, aggressively questionedthis scenario: why do we assume that because a government acts, itnecessarily solves a given problem?
Don’t public as well as privateactors pursue their self-interest?
For his work in Public Choice economics, Buchanan received theNobel Prize in 1986
Buchanan and Tullock’s 1962book, The Calculus of Consent, aggressively questionedthis scenario: why do we assume that because a government acts, itnecessarily solves a given problem?
Don’t public as well as privateactors pursue their self-interest?
For his work in Public Choice economics, Buchanan received theNobel Prize in 1986
Patient Prescription Drug Records May be Used to Deny Americans their Constitutional Rights
Patient Prescription Drug Records May be Used to Deny Americans their Constitutional Rights
All Americans who have been prescribed psychiatric medications could be denied their constitutional rights under gun control legislation expected to be introduced into the U.S. Senate on January 22nd.
Although the actual text of the bill is not yet available to the public, the heavy emphasis on “mental health” in recent gun control discussions echoes the present-day denial of Second Amendment rights to veterans diagnosed with PTSD (Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder).
In an effort to deny gun ownership “privileges” to as many Americans as possible, Sen. Feinstein and other proponents of total citizen disarmament could simply expand the definition of those deemed “mentally unfit” for gun purchases to include anyone who has ever been prescribed an antidepressant or a drug for ADHD.
I give credit for this realization to Jon Rappoport, editor of No More Fake News.
In a phone conversation yesterday evening, he brought this to my attention, even describing psychiatrists as “the new cops” who get to determine whether you have any rights at all.
Conducting further research on the subject, I found that a national database of prescription drug users already exists. It was created by the National All Schedules Prescription Electronic Reporting Act (NASPER) signed into law by President George W. Bush in 2005.
All Americans who have been prescribed psychiatric medications could be denied their constitutional rights under gun control legislation expected to be introduced into the U.S. Senate on January 22nd.
Although the actual text of the bill is not yet available to the public, the heavy emphasis on “mental health” in recent gun control discussions echoes the present-day denial of Second Amendment rights to veterans diagnosed with PTSD (Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder).
In an effort to deny gun ownership “privileges” to as many Americans as possible, Sen. Feinstein and other proponents of total citizen disarmament could simply expand the definition of those deemed “mentally unfit” for gun purchases to include anyone who has ever been prescribed an antidepressant or a drug for ADHD.
I give credit for this realization to Jon Rappoport, editor of No More Fake News.
In a phone conversation yesterday evening, he brought this to my attention, even describing psychiatrists as “the new cops” who get to determine whether you have any rights at all.
Conducting further research on the subject, I found that a national database of prescription drug users already exists. It was created by the National All Schedules Prescription Electronic Reporting Act (NASPER) signed into law by President George W. Bush in 2005.
Saturday, January 12, 2013
The Public Employee Union Problem
The Public Employee Union Problem [Michigan Capitol Confidential]
Politicians granting unsustainable government employee salaries, benefits and pensions is a problem everywhere, but the states with the strongest public-sector unions will have the hardest time correcting it. More broadly, as long as these incestuous relationships between government unions and the political class remain in place and unchallenged, the size and scope of government will continue to grow.
Politicians granting unsustainable government employee salaries, benefits and pensions is a problem everywhere, but the states with the strongest public-sector unions will have the hardest time correcting it. More broadly, as long as these incestuous relationships between government unions and the political class remain in place and unchallenged, the size and scope of government will continue to grow.
Eliminate armed guards for the President, Vice-President, and their families, and establish Gun Free Zones around them
Gun Free Zones are supposed to protect our children, and some politicians wish to strip us of our right to keep and bear arms.
Those same politicians and their families are currently under the protection of armed Secret Service agents.
If Gun Free Zones are sufficient protection for our children, then Gun Free Zones should be good enough for politicians.
Those same politicians and their families are currently under the protection of armed Secret Service agents.
If Gun Free Zones are sufficient protection for our children, then Gun Free Zones should be good enough for politicians.
The Right-to-Freeload myth
Sherk: The Right-to-Freeload myth | www.michiganview.com | The Michigan View
"The trouble with our liberal friends is not that they are ignorant," President Reagan once quipped, "but that they know so much that isn't so."
He could have been talking about the opposition to right-to-work legislation proposed in Michigan.
The chief argument against right-to-work laws is factually incorrect.
Although most union members do not know it, the law does not require their union to negotiate on behalf of non-members.
"The trouble with our liberal friends is not that they are ignorant," President Reagan once quipped, "but that they know so much that isn't so."
He could have been talking about the opposition to right-to-work legislation proposed in Michigan.
The chief argument against right-to-work laws is factually incorrect.
Although most union members do not know it, the law does not require their union to negotiate on behalf of non-members.
Hostess sells Wonder bread and five other brands to Tastykakes baker for $390m with new Twinkies owner expected in a matter of weeks
Hostess sells Wonder bread and five other brands to Tastykakes baker for $390m with new Twinkies owner expected in a matter of weeks | Mail Online
The company's demise came after years of management turmoil and turnover, with workers saying the company failed to invest its brands.
Hostess filed for its second Chapter 11 bankruptcy in less than a decade this January, citing costs associated with its unionized workforce.
The company's demise came after years of management turmoil and turnover, with workers saying the company failed to invest its brands.
Hostess filed for its second Chapter 11 bankruptcy in less than a decade this January, citing costs associated with its unionized workforce.
It had about 18,500 employees when it announced that it was shutting down after it was unable to reach a deal on a new contract with striking workers.
SkyDaddy Bloomberg Takes a liking to Playing Deity UPDATED
SkyDaddy Bloomberg Takes a liking to Playing Deity UPDATED
Yesterday, Mayor Michael Bloomberg and city officials unveiled a new initiative to limit supplies of prescription painkillers in the city’s emergency rooms as a way to combat what they described as a growing addiction problem in the region.
Some critics, as documented by The New York Times, however, felt the move would unnecessarily hurt poor and uninsured patients who use emergency rooms as their primary care doctor.
Needless to say, Mr. Bloomberg was not swayed by this line of argument.
“The city hospitals we control, so … we’re going to do it and we’re urging all of the other hospitals to do it, voluntary guidelines.
Somebody said, oh, somebody wrote, ‘Oh then maybe there won’t be enough painkillers for the poor who use the emergency rooms as their primary care doctor,’” the mayor said on his weekly radio show with John Gambling.
“Number one, there’s no evidence of that.
Number two, supposing it is really true, so you didn’t get enough painkillers and you did have to suffer a little bit.
The other side of the coin is people are dying and there’s nothing perfect …
There’s nothing that you can possibly do where somebody isn’t going to suffer, and it’s always the same group [claiming], ‘Everybody is heartless.’ Come on, this is a very big problem.”
In the same interview, Mr. Bloomberg stressed the initiative’s simple rationale is to prevent extra pills from piling up in the cabinets of New Yorkers who no longer need them, where they can pose a health risk if they’re abused.
Yesterday, Mayor Michael Bloomberg and city officials unveiled a new initiative to limit supplies of prescription painkillers in the city’s emergency rooms as a way to combat what they described as a growing addiction problem in the region.
Some critics, as documented by The New York Times, however, felt the move would unnecessarily hurt poor and uninsured patients who use emergency rooms as their primary care doctor.
Needless to say, Mr. Bloomberg was not swayed by this line of argument.
“The city hospitals we control, so … we’re going to do it and we’re urging all of the other hospitals to do it, voluntary guidelines.
Somebody said, oh, somebody wrote, ‘Oh then maybe there won’t be enough painkillers for the poor who use the emergency rooms as their primary care doctor,’” the mayor said on his weekly radio show with John Gambling.
“Number one, there’s no evidence of that.
Number two, supposing it is really true, so you didn’t get enough painkillers and you did have to suffer a little bit.
The other side of the coin is people are dying and there’s nothing perfect …
There’s nothing that you can possibly do where somebody isn’t going to suffer, and it’s always the same group [claiming], ‘Everybody is heartless.’ Come on, this is a very big problem.”
In the same interview, Mr. Bloomberg stressed the initiative’s simple rationale is to prevent extra pills from piling up in the cabinets of New Yorkers who no longer need them, where they can pose a health risk if they’re abused.
Inside the new climate row as Mystic Met Office goes cool on warming
Inside the new climate row as Mystic Met Office goes cool on warming • The Register:
If it holds true, then global temperatures will have experienced a 20-year standstill, with no statistically significant warming.
The Met didn't predict, as the BBC erroneously reported, a 0.43C increase in global temperature over the next five years........
"By putting out the information on Christmas Eve they were just burying bad news – that they have got their climate change forecast wrong," said Stringer.
The Met didn't predict, as the BBC erroneously reported, a 0.43C increase in global temperature over the next five years........
"By putting out the information on Christmas Eve they were just burying bad news – that they have got their climate change forecast wrong," said Stringer.
A twenty year period without statistically significant warming doesn't falsify the theory that manmade industrial emissions are the key driver in climate change - the oceans may be storing energy that isn't yet manifest in higher atmospheric temperatures.
But it certainly wasn't in the script, which raises questions over the validity of the models on which policy decisions have been made, as the BBC's Paul Hudson points out here.
11 of the last 12 annual Met forecasts erred on the warm side - so new and better models should be widely welcomed.
But it certainly wasn't in the script, which raises questions over the validity of the models on which policy decisions have been made, as the BBC's Paul Hudson points out here.
11 of the last 12 annual Met forecasts erred on the warm side - so new and better models should be widely welcomed.
Another claim by the Met has also drawn fire - as the criticism directly addresses the validity of the Met's science, rather than its communications strategy.
Last week the Met made a widely-reported claim that Britain is experiencing more frequent extreme rainfall.
Statistical analysis of rainfall records by the Met Office claimed to show days of heavy rainfall had become more common in England since 1960.
"The apparent trend mirrors increases in extreme rain seen in other parts of the world," wrote the BBC's Roger Harrabin.
Last week the Met made a widely-reported claim that Britain is experiencing more frequent extreme rainfall.
Statistical analysis of rainfall records by the Met Office claimed to show days of heavy rainfall had become more common in England since 1960.
"The apparent trend mirrors increases in extreme rain seen in other parts of the world," wrote the BBC's Roger Harrabin.
For Channel 4 news, the Met's statistical press release was apocalyptic.
There were "clear signals of wetter weather emerging", apparently:
There were "clear signals of wetter weather emerging", apparently:
But the claim has puzzled some observers, not least because last March the Met was predicting a continuing drought for the UK, advising last March that:
"The probability that UK precipitation for April-May-June will fall into the driest of our five categories is 20-25% whilst the probability that it will fall into the wettest of our five categories is 10-15%".
.....Comment
.....Comment
And that seems to encapsulate the problem.
Forecasting is notoriously difficult, and every scientist working in the field deserves some understanding. It's the agency executives' desire to feed the news media with alarmist and politically-motivated "stories" that's the problem - and perhaps the fact that the Met Office is dependent on global warming being a clear and present danger for much of its funding nowadays.
It's hard to imagine the shoddy rainfall press release being issued were this not the case.
Time for new management at the Met? ®
Before you file your income tax form: 6 things to know about Michigan's changes
Before you file your income tax form: 6 things to know about Michigan's changes | MLive.com
The new income tax rules impact retirement income and many different credits, such as those for certain charitable donations or for low- and medium-income families.
The changes were meant to make the tax structure "fair and efficient and address structural budget deficit that plagued the state for a number of years,” said Terry Stanton, spokesman for the Michigan Department of Treasury.
One of the biggest adjustments will reduce or eliminate the Homestead Property Tax Credit for some homeowners and renters.
The state treasury sent out informational postcards to about a half million taxpayers who are most likely to be affected by the new rules, Stanton said.
Seniors age 65 and older, taxpayers with household resources of more than $50,000 and homeowners whose property has a taxable value of more than $135,000 are most likely to be impacted.
That includes North Muskegon resident Sharon Clark, 62, who says she’s unhappy with the increased tax burden.
“This follows a new taxation on retired people’s pensions, so it’s like the people who are retired and on fixed incomes are the ones who are being slammed by this,” she said.
She also noted that some people who received the postcard didn’t understand it, and said she’s concerned for seniors and others who don’t have computers or Internet access to seek more information.
The homestead credit used to be a small portion of the tax return, but now requires a few pages that need to be filled out, said Michael Bozimowski, director of state and local tax services for Rehmann, an accounting, tax and financial planning firm with 12 locations in Michigan.
Bozimowski recommended people talk to their tax preparers early in order to gain a better understanding.
“The law has changed. It’s now a fact of life we have to deal with,” he said. “Communication and preparation, not just of the return, but of the impact, is going to be key on an individual basis.”
Free volunteer-based tax preparation is available to low- and moderate-income taxpayers. Michigan State University offers free services, along with several West Michigan colleges and universities.
Information about free e-filing options is available at www.mifastfile.org.
Here are some of the key components of the tax changes with a short description. A full explanation can be found on at www.michigan.gov/taxes.
Tax rate:
Michigan reduced its income tax rate from 4.35 to 4.25 percent in October 2012. The annualized income tax rate for 2012 is 4.33 percent and applies to all income received last year.
Exemptions:
The personal exemption was increased from $3,700 to $3,763 for 2012. It will increase to $3,900 for the 2013 tax year. The following exemptions are no longer allowed: special exemption for seniors, $600 for children age 18 and younger, and unemployment compensation greater than half of adjusted gross income.
Homestead Property Tax Credit:
The maximum $1,200 credit is no longer available to homes with a taxable value greater than $135,000. That cap does not apply to rented homesteads.
Previously, taxpayers could claim a credit if their household income was $82,650 or less. Now, taxpayers with household resources (which includes more than just income) totaling more than $50,000 will no longer receive the credit. Credits are reduced for households with resources ranging from $41,001-$50,000.
Seniors can receive the full credit if their household resources are no more than $21,000. The credit would be reduced by 4 percent for each additional $1,000 in household resources up to $30,000. Senior claimants can receive 60 percent of the credit if they have resources of $30,000 to $41,000. After that, the phase out applies. A full explanation can be found here.
Retirement changes:
Pension income taxes are based on age, and joint filers go by the age of the older person.There is no change for taxpayers born before 1946. For filers born before 1946, public pensions will continue to be exempt from income taxes, and for private pensions they can subtract up to $47,309 for single filers and $94,618 for joint filers.
Taxpayers born between 1946 and 1952 receive a smaller pension tax exemption of $40,000 for joint filers and $20,000 for single filers. They can no longer exempt public pensions or subtract for interest, dividends and capital gains.
Taxpayers born after 1952 will pay taxes on all pension income, except for Social Security and military pensions. There are certain exemptions or subtractions allowed once taxpayers turn 67. See a full explanation here.
Earned Income Tax Credit:
The Michigan Earned Income Tax Credit for low- and medium-income individuals and families is reduced from 20 percent of the federal credit to 6 percent. The average credit will drop 70 percent from $439 to $132, according to the Michigan League for Public Policy.
Other tax credits:
Non-refundable tax credits for the following expenses are no longer allowed: college tuition and fees, city income taxes, automobile donations, public contributions, donations to homeless shelters, food banks, community foundations and the Family Development Program, and contributions to medical savings accounts. Refundable credits are no longer allowed for excess adoption expenses or stillbirths.
The new income tax rules impact retirement income and many different credits, such as those for certain charitable donations or for low- and medium-income families.
The changes were meant to make the tax structure "fair and efficient and address structural budget deficit that plagued the state for a number of years,” said Terry Stanton, spokesman for the Michigan Department of Treasury.
One of the biggest adjustments will reduce or eliminate the Homestead Property Tax Credit for some homeowners and renters.
The state treasury sent out informational postcards to about a half million taxpayers who are most likely to be affected by the new rules, Stanton said.
Seniors age 65 and older, taxpayers with household resources of more than $50,000 and homeowners whose property has a taxable value of more than $135,000 are most likely to be impacted.
That includes North Muskegon resident Sharon Clark, 62, who says she’s unhappy with the increased tax burden.
“This follows a new taxation on retired people’s pensions, so it’s like the people who are retired and on fixed incomes are the ones who are being slammed by this,” she said.
She also noted that some people who received the postcard didn’t understand it, and said she’s concerned for seniors and others who don’t have computers or Internet access to seek more information.
The homestead credit used to be a small portion of the tax return, but now requires a few pages that need to be filled out, said Michael Bozimowski, director of state and local tax services for Rehmann, an accounting, tax and financial planning firm with 12 locations in Michigan.
Bozimowski recommended people talk to their tax preparers early in order to gain a better understanding.
“The law has changed. It’s now a fact of life we have to deal with,” he said. “Communication and preparation, not just of the return, but of the impact, is going to be key on an individual basis.”
Free volunteer-based tax preparation is available to low- and moderate-income taxpayers. Michigan State University offers free services, along with several West Michigan colleges and universities.
Information about free e-filing options is available at www.mifastfile.org.
Here are some of the key components of the tax changes with a short description. A full explanation can be found on at www.michigan.gov/taxes.
Tax rate:
Michigan reduced its income tax rate from 4.35 to 4.25 percent in October 2012. The annualized income tax rate for 2012 is 4.33 percent and applies to all income received last year.
Exemptions:
The personal exemption was increased from $3,700 to $3,763 for 2012. It will increase to $3,900 for the 2013 tax year. The following exemptions are no longer allowed: special exemption for seniors, $600 for children age 18 and younger, and unemployment compensation greater than half of adjusted gross income.
Homestead Property Tax Credit:
The maximum $1,200 credit is no longer available to homes with a taxable value greater than $135,000. That cap does not apply to rented homesteads.
Previously, taxpayers could claim a credit if their household income was $82,650 or less. Now, taxpayers with household resources (which includes more than just income) totaling more than $50,000 will no longer receive the credit. Credits are reduced for households with resources ranging from $41,001-$50,000.
Seniors can receive the full credit if their household resources are no more than $21,000. The credit would be reduced by 4 percent for each additional $1,000 in household resources up to $30,000. Senior claimants can receive 60 percent of the credit if they have resources of $30,000 to $41,000. After that, the phase out applies. A full explanation can be found here.
Retirement changes:
Pension income taxes are based on age, and joint filers go by the age of the older person.There is no change for taxpayers born before 1946. For filers born before 1946, public pensions will continue to be exempt from income taxes, and for private pensions they can subtract up to $47,309 for single filers and $94,618 for joint filers.
Taxpayers born between 1946 and 1952 receive a smaller pension tax exemption of $40,000 for joint filers and $20,000 for single filers. They can no longer exempt public pensions or subtract for interest, dividends and capital gains.
Taxpayers born after 1952 will pay taxes on all pension income, except for Social Security and military pensions. There are certain exemptions or subtractions allowed once taxpayers turn 67. See a full explanation here.
Earned Income Tax Credit:
The Michigan Earned Income Tax Credit for low- and medium-income individuals and families is reduced from 20 percent of the federal credit to 6 percent. The average credit will drop 70 percent from $439 to $132, according to the Michigan League for Public Policy.
Other tax credits:
Non-refundable tax credits for the following expenses are no longer allowed: college tuition and fees, city income taxes, automobile donations, public contributions, donations to homeless shelters, food banks, community foundations and the Family Development Program, and contributions to medical savings accounts. Refundable credits are no longer allowed for excess adoption expenses or stillbirths.
Moonlighting security official Barnett Jones will keep job at Detroit water department after resigning from Flint post
Moonlighting security official Barnett Jones will keep job at Detroit water department after resigning from Flint post | MLive.com
He'll keep the water department job, McCormick in a statement Friday afternoon.
"Barnett Jones is doing a finejob for us at DWSD," she said. "Jonescame to DWSD with extensive experience in security and emergency management,and a distinguished career in law enforcement that included internal affairswork."
The water department doesn't prohibit additional outside employment, McCormick said.
He'll keep the water department job, McCormick in a statement Friday afternoon.
"Barnett Jones is doing a finejob for us at DWSD," she said. "Jonescame to DWSD with extensive experience in security and emergency management,and a distinguished career in law enforcement that included internal affairswork."
The water department doesn't prohibit additional outside employment, McCormick said.
GM CEO 'cautiously optimistic' about 2013; continues to defy critics
GM CEO 'cautiously optimistic' about 2013; continues to defy critics | MLive.com
In 2012, GM accomplished a number of company milestones, including reacquiring Ally Financial Inc., which helps give the company more control over lending and leasing to potential customers; de-risking its pension plan by $29 billion for salaried employees and retirees; achieving at least 11 consecutive profitable quarters; and reacquiring 200 million shares of common stock from the U.S. Treasury Department, which plans to exit the automaker by March 2014.
In 2012, GM accomplished a number of company milestones, including reacquiring Ally Financial Inc., which helps give the company more control over lending and leasing to potential customers; de-risking its pension plan by $29 billion for salaried employees and retirees; achieving at least 11 consecutive profitable quarters; and reacquiring 200 million shares of common stock from the U.S. Treasury Department, which plans to exit the automaker by March 2014.
Is the Pure Michigan brand being misused? MEDC ad outrages right-to-work opponents
Is the Pure Michigan brand being misused? MEDC ad outrages right-to-work opponents | MLive.com
Right-to-work opponents are criticizing an advertisement in the Wall Street Journal that uses the Pure Michigan logo while touting the new right-to-work law as a reason to do business in the state.
The full-page print ad, titled, ‘What happens when Michigan makes history,’ contains the following text:
“It’s a new day for business in Michigan. Michigan is the newest Right-to-Work state.
This once-in a generation transformation has Michigan poised to become a preferred place to do business.
Michigan has also redesigned incentive programs, streamlined regulatory processes, approved legislation to eliminate personal property taxes and launched a new flat 6% business tax, giving the state its most competitive position in decades.
The perfect storm of opportunity, resources and passion is Pure Michigan.”
Right-to-work opponents are criticizing an advertisement in the Wall Street Journal that uses the Pure Michigan logo while touting the new right-to-work law as a reason to do business in the state.
The full-page print ad, titled, ‘What happens when Michigan makes history,’ contains the following text:
“It’s a new day for business in Michigan. Michigan is the newest Right-to-Work state.
This once-in a generation transformation has Michigan poised to become a preferred place to do business.
Michigan has also redesigned incentive programs, streamlined regulatory processes, approved legislation to eliminate personal property taxes and launched a new flat 6% business tax, giving the state its most competitive position in decades.
The perfect storm of opportunity, resources and passion is Pure Michigan.”
Judge baffled by support for Metro Detroit teacher convicted of sex crimes against students
Judge baffled by support for Metro Detroit teacher convicted of sex crimes against students | MLive.com
A judge sentenced a substitute music teacher to five years in prison for having sex with a 17-year-old student and exchanging lewd cellphone photos and video with two other girls, and she lambasted his many supporters, saying they apparently didn't know the extent of his misdeeds.
A judge sentenced a substitute music teacher to five years in prison for having sex with a 17-year-old student and exchanging lewd cellphone photos and video with two other girls, and she lambasted his many supporters, saying they apparently didn't know the extent of his misdeeds.
Muskegon County Republican Executive Committee to discuss prevailing wage at a free public event on Monday night
Muskegon County Republican Executive Committee to discuss prevailing wage at a free public event on Monday night | MLive.com
Comments:
alaskanwolverine
Comments:
alaskanwolverine
As a former member of the Muskegon County Republican Executive Committee, I'm glad to see them being active and reaching out publicly to address the pertinent issues of the day. I was not a popular member of the committee due to my true conservatism in economic and social issues. Sounds like the committee is on the right track now.
alaskanwolverine, Please join us Monday night. You will be welcomed now.
Editorial: Spirited mayor's race is just what Muskegon needs
Editorial: Spirited mayor's race is just what Muskegon needs | MLive.com#incart_river
With the election scheduled in November, Muskegon residents will have 10 months to take a hard look at who we say we are and what we want be as a community.
They will be able to dissect the visions presented by the candidates and chose a leader.
And they will have time to figure out how to join forces behind the new leader to turn this community into the city they see when they defend it against the bashers.
Let's begin the discussion today.
With the election scheduled in November, Muskegon residents will have 10 months to take a hard look at who we say we are and what we want be as a community.
They will be able to dissect the visions presented by the candidates and chose a leader.
And they will have time to figure out how to join forces behind the new leader to turn this community into the city they see when they defend it against the bashers.
Let's begin the discussion today.
Truancy plan will work with families, not against them, officials say in live chat
Truancy plan will work with families, not against them, officials say in live chat | MLive.com
The plan calls for schools to look at students once they have five absences, whether they are excused or not.
School personnel will decide whether the absences are cause for concern and those that are will continue to be monitored.
If a student being monitored is absent four more times, they will be referred to the prosecutor’s office, which will explain to the student’s family they could lose welfare benefits if the absences continue.
The plan calls for schools to look at students once they have five absences, whether they are excused or not.
School personnel will decide whether the absences are cause for concern and those that are will continue to be monitored.
If a student being monitored is absent four more times, they will be referred to the prosecutor’s office, which will explain to the student’s family they could lose welfare benefits if the absences continue.
Muskegon County Republican Executive Committee to discuss prevailing wage at a free public event on Monday night
Muskegon County Republican Executive Committee to discuss prevailing wage at a free public event on Monday night | MLive.com#incart_river
The federal government has its own prevailing wage laws, butMonday night's meeting will likely focus on the Muskegon County's rules, whichare similar.
Vincent Vernuccio, director of labor policy at the MackinacCenter for Public Policy, will be a featured speaker.
The federal government has its own prevailing wage laws, butMonday night's meeting will likely focus on the Muskegon County's rules, whichare similar.
Vincent Vernuccio, director of labor policy at the MackinacCenter for Public Policy, will be a featured speaker.
GOP Establishment Standing in Way of Prevailing Wage Reform
GOP Establishment Standing in Way of Prevailing Wage Reform [Michigan Capitol Confidential]
“I absolutely won’t support increasing any fees or taxes (for road improvements) as long as we have prevailing wage in Michigan,” he said recently at an Independent Tea Party Patriots Meeting in Clarkston.
“I absolutely won’t support increasing any fees or taxes (for road improvements) as long as we have prevailing wage in Michigan,” he said recently at an Independent Tea Party Patriots Meeting in Clarkston.
60,000 patients put on death pathway without being told
60,000 patients put on death pathway without being told but minister still says controversial end-of-life plan is 'fantastic'
Pathway involves the sick being sedated and usually denied nutritionand fluids
Families kept in the dark when doctors withdraw lifesaving treatment
Health Secretary Jeremy Hunt said pathway was a 'fantastic step forward'
Anti-euthanasia group said: ‘The Pathway is designed to finish people off double quick'
Pathway involves the sick being sedated and usually denied nutritionand fluids
Families kept in the dark when doctors withdraw lifesaving treatment
Health Secretary Jeremy Hunt said pathway was a 'fantastic step forward'
Anti-euthanasia group said: ‘The Pathway is designed to finish people off double quick'
Sandy Relief Dwarfs Past Aid Packages
Sandy Relief Dwarfs Past Aid Packages
The measure bill includes $150 million for what the Commerce Department described as fisheries disasters in Alaska, Mississippi and the Northeast, and $50 million in subsidies for replanting trees on private land damaged by wildfires.
....Critics are taking the sharpest aim at $12.1 billion in the amendment for Department of Housing and Urban Development emergency block grants.
Any state struck by a federally declared major disaster in 2011, 2012 or this year would qualify for the grants, and that's just about all the states, said Stephen Ellis, vice president of Taxpayers for Common Sense, a budget watchdog group.
Only South Carolina, Arizona and Michigan would not qualify, he said.
The measure bill includes $150 million for what the Commerce Department described as fisheries disasters in Alaska, Mississippi and the Northeast, and $50 million in subsidies for replanting trees on private land damaged by wildfires.
....Critics are taking the sharpest aim at $12.1 billion in the amendment for Department of Housing and Urban Development emergency block grants.
Any state struck by a federally declared major disaster in 2011, 2012 or this year would qualify for the grants, and that's just about all the states, said Stephen Ellis, vice president of Taxpayers for Common Sense, a budget watchdog group.
Only South Carolina, Arizona and Michigan would not qualify, he said.
Detroit Water’s security chief Barnett Jones resigns 2nd job in Flint amid questions
Detroit Water’s security chief Barnett Jones resigns 2nd job in Flint amid questions | Michigan news | Detroit Free Press | freep.com
Flint’s administrator of public safety resigned this morning after the Free Press raised questions about how he could work there while also working as the head of security for the Detroit Water and Sewerage Department.
Barnett Jones, a longtime lawman in southeast Michigan, was earning $273,750 at the two jobs, which are almost 70 miles apart.
He had been working both since May.
Flint’s administrator of public safety resigned this morning after the Free Press raised questions about how he could work there while also working as the head of security for the Detroit Water and Sewerage Department.
Barnett Jones, a longtime lawman in southeast Michigan, was earning $273,750 at the two jobs, which are almost 70 miles apart.
He had been working both since May.
Revealed: Civil servant secretly working two full time public jobs, 70 miles apart - netting a salary higher than the Vice President's
Revealed: Civil servant secretly working two full time public jobs, 70 miles apart - netting a salary higher than the Vice President's | Mail Online
Flint City Administrator, Michael Brown, told the Press he wasn't aware of Jones' other role.
'We didn’t know that he was working at Detroit water and sewer,' Brown said. 'I was surprised and to be honest, disappointed'.
Jones' salary broke down as $135,000 a year from Flint and $138,750 from Detroit.
It gave him a total salary higher than a senator, Supreme Court judge or even Vice President Joe Biden.
Jones told the Free Press on Wednesday that he was doing justice to both jobs, when the newspaper asked him if he could juggle the two.
'Absolutely,' Jones said.
'There are some days I go to both, some days I go to one.
Sometimes I leave out at 8, 9, 10 o’clock at night, Saturdays.
I’m a workaholic.'
Flint City Administrator, Michael Brown, told the Press he wasn't aware of Jones' other role.
'We didn’t know that he was working at Detroit water and sewer,' Brown said. 'I was surprised and to be honest, disappointed'.
Jones' salary broke down as $135,000 a year from Flint and $138,750 from Detroit.
It gave him a total salary higher than a senator, Supreme Court judge or even Vice President Joe Biden.
Jones told the Free Press on Wednesday that he was doing justice to both jobs, when the newspaper asked him if he could juggle the two.
'Absolutely,' Jones said.
'There are some days I go to both, some days I go to one.
Sometimes I leave out at 8, 9, 10 o’clock at night, Saturdays.
I’m a workaholic.'
Sunspot unleashes intense solar flare
Sunspot unleashes intense solar flare - Technology & science - Space - Space.com | NBC News
"AR1654 is getting bigger as it turns toward Earth," the website reported.
"Not only is the chance of flares increasing, but also the chance of an Earth-directed eruption.
This could be the sunspot that breaks the recent lengthy spell of calm space weather around our planet."
The sun is in an active phase of its current 11-year weather cycle, which scientists call Solar Cycle 24. The sun's activity cycle is expected to reach its peak (or "solar maximum") in 2013, astronomers have said.
The most powerful solar flares, X-class flares, have the most significant effect on Earth.
They can cause long-lasting radiation storms in our planet's upper atmosphere and trigger radio blackouts.
Medium-size M-class flares can cause brief radio blackouts in the polar regions and occasional minor radiation storms.
C-class flares, the weakest in scientists' three-tiered classification system, have few noticeable consequences.
"AR1654 is getting bigger as it turns toward Earth," the website reported.
"Not only is the chance of flares increasing, but also the chance of an Earth-directed eruption.
This could be the sunspot that breaks the recent lengthy spell of calm space weather around our planet."
The sun is in an active phase of its current 11-year weather cycle, which scientists call Solar Cycle 24. The sun's activity cycle is expected to reach its peak (or "solar maximum") in 2013, astronomers have said.
The most powerful solar flares, X-class flares, have the most significant effect on Earth.
They can cause long-lasting radiation storms in our planet's upper atmosphere and trigger radio blackouts.
Medium-size M-class flares can cause brief radio blackouts in the polar regions and occasional minor radiation storms.
C-class flares, the weakest in scientists' three-tiered classification system, have few noticeable consequences.
Hillary Clinton Rescued By Iranians from Near Fatal Plane Crash
Hillary Clinton Rescued By Iranians from Near Fatal Plane Crash | Stuart Wilde | The Official Author Website
A new Foreign Military Intelligence (GRU) report circulating in the Kremlin today is saying that United States Secretary of State Hillary Clinton [photo 2nd left] was injured, and a top US Navy Seal Commander killed when their C-12 Huron military passenger and transport aircraft crash landed nearly 3 weeks ago in the Iranian city of Ahvaz near the Iraqi border.
Iranian intelligence agents quoted in this GRU report confirm that the C-12 Huron aircraft is still in their possession in Ahvaz, but will only admit that the plane was “forced to land because of technical problems.”
The US Navy Seal member reported killed in this bizarre incident, this report says, was indentified as Commander Job W. Price [photo 3rd left] who as a leader of this highly specialized American Special Forces unit protects high-ranking diplomats traveling in Middle Eastern and Asian combat zones.
Curiously, US media reports on Commander Price’s death say it being investigated as a possible suicide as he died from what the American Defense Department describes as “a non-combat related injury.”
A new Foreign Military Intelligence (GRU) report circulating in the Kremlin today is saying that United States Secretary of State Hillary Clinton [photo 2nd left] was injured, and a top US Navy Seal Commander killed when their C-12 Huron military passenger and transport aircraft crash landed nearly 3 weeks ago in the Iranian city of Ahvaz near the Iraqi border.
Iranian intelligence agents quoted in this GRU report confirm that the C-12 Huron aircraft is still in their possession in Ahvaz, but will only admit that the plane was “forced to land because of technical problems.”
The US Navy Seal member reported killed in this bizarre incident, this report says, was indentified as Commander Job W. Price [photo 3rd left] who as a leader of this highly specialized American Special Forces unit protects high-ranking diplomats traveling in Middle Eastern and Asian combat zones.
Curiously, US media reports on Commander Price’s death say it being investigated as a possible suicide as he died from what the American Defense Department describes as “a non-combat related injury.”
MILTON FRIEDMAN: Why we don’t need to throw the bums out. “It’s nice to elect the right people, bu…
Instapundit » Blog Archive » MILTON FRIEDMAN: Why we don’t need to throw the bums out.
MILTON FRIEDMAN:
Why we don’t need to throw the bums out.
“It’s nice to elect the right people, but that’s not the way you solve things.
They way you solve things is by making it politically profitable for the wrong people to do the right things.”
Politicians are at best semi-autonomous.
They mostly respond to external forces.
If you want them to behave differently, change the correlation of forces.
That can be done by taking over state parties, by primarying people, by changing the culture and all sorts of other ways.
MILTON FRIEDMAN:
Why we don’t need to throw the bums out.
“It’s nice to elect the right people, but that’s not the way you solve things.
They way you solve things is by making it politically profitable for the wrong people to do the right things.”
Politicians are at best semi-autonomous.
They mostly respond to external forces.
If you want them to behave differently, change the correlation of forces.
That can be done by taking over state parties, by primarying people, by changing the culture and all sorts of other ways.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)