Wednesday, February 20, 2013
Chris Christie’s project labor no-brainer
Chris Christie’s project labor no-brainer | NetRight Daily
"A conservative estimate by the Beacon Hill Institute at Suffolk University has found that “PLAs increase the cost of construction by 12 percent to 18 percent,” comparing the period when PLAs were prohibited under federal law to when they were not."
We've got the same, self imposed, scam here in Muskegon called "prevailing wage".
Great deal for the union insiders who contribute to county commission races.
Not so great a deal for us poor folks without clout.
"A conservative estimate by the Beacon Hill Institute at Suffolk University has found that “PLAs increase the cost of construction by 12 percent to 18 percent,” comparing the period when PLAs were prohibited under federal law to when they were not."
We've got the same, self imposed, scam here in Muskegon called "prevailing wage".
Great deal for the union insiders who contribute to county commission races.
Not so great a deal for us poor folks without clout.
Police: Muskegon man claims 'one of the largest porn collections' in Michigan stolen from home
Police: Muskegon man claims 'one of the largest porn collections' in Michigan stolen from home | MLive.com
"The owner of the missing pornography told police it was allegedly “one of the largest porn collections” in the state and valued it at $6,500. "
"The owner of the missing pornography told police it was allegedly “one of the largest porn collections” in the state and valued it at $6,500. "
Debate Commission Co-Chair: Yeah, Candy Crowley Was a 'Mistake'
Debate Commission Co-Chair: Yeah, Candy Crowley Was a 'Mistake'
"Fahrenkopf, a stalwart Republican, co-chairs the Commission on Presidential Debates with Mike McCurry, who served as press secretary in the White House under President Bill Clinton. "
"Fahrenkopf, a stalwart Republican, co-chairs the Commission on Presidential Debates with Mike McCurry, who served as press secretary in the White House under President Bill Clinton. "
Detroit's financial crisis now in governor's hands
Detroit's financial crisis now in governor's hands - Yahoo! News:
" The city's long-term liabilities, including underfunded pensions, are more than $14 billion."
" The city's long-term liabilities, including underfunded pensions, are more than $14 billion."
The Wages of Sin Taxes
The Wages of Sin Taxes | Competitive Enterprise Institute:
"In his study, The Wages of Sin Taxes, Chris Snowdon reveals that these taxes not only do little to limit the use of “bad” products, they do nothing to reduce societal costs.
Most remarkably, Snowdon demonstrates that those shockingly large estimates of the costs that the consumption of alcohol, tobacco, sugar, and fat supposedly impose on society have little basis in reality.
"In his study, The Wages of Sin Taxes, Chris Snowdon reveals that these taxes not only do little to limit the use of “bad” products, they do nothing to reduce societal costs.
Most remarkably, Snowdon demonstrates that those shockingly large estimates of the costs that the consumption of alcohol, tobacco, sugar, and fat supposedly impose on society have little basis in reality.
LIBERTY REVIEW-Runaway President
LIBERTY REVIEW:
"Shortly after listening to Dr. Carson’s speech, I listened to the State of the Union Address.
Where Dr. Carson filled me with pride, the dictator and chief was suffocating.
Maybe it’s because I no longer listen to the mainstream media but all I could think of after his first couple minutes of mind numbing dialog was, what comic book is he reading?
He states fiction as if it were fact.
The state of our union is not stronger."
"Shortly after listening to Dr. Carson’s speech, I listened to the State of the Union Address.
Where Dr. Carson filled me with pride, the dictator and chief was suffocating.
Maybe it’s because I no longer listen to the mainstream media but all I could think of after his first couple minutes of mind numbing dialog was, what comic book is he reading?
He states fiction as if it were fact.
The state of our union is not stronger."
Obama's Economic Growth Record Is The Worst In 60 Years
Obama's Economic Growth Record Is The Worst In 60 Years - Investors.com
"To put Obama's mind-bogglingly low number in perspective, consider this: It was less than half the tally achieved during Bush's second term.
It was barely a quarter of the tally achieved under President Carter.
It was the worst tally achieved during any presidential term in the past 60 years.
And here's the kicker: If it had been doubled (to 1.6%), it still would have been the worst tally in the past 60 years."
"To put Obama's mind-bogglingly low number in perspective, consider this: It was less than half the tally achieved during Bush's second term.
It was barely a quarter of the tally achieved under President Carter.
It was the worst tally achieved during any presidential term in the past 60 years.
And here's the kicker: If it had been doubled (to 1.6%), it still would have been the worst tally in the past 60 years."
US tyre boss mocks ‘crazy’ French unions
US tyre boss mocks ‘crazy’ French unions - FRANCE - FRANCE 24
"The head of US tyre manufacturer Titan International told the French government Wednesday that his firm will not take over a loss-making Goodyear factory because the unions there are “crazy” and its employees “only work three hours a day”.
"The head of US tyre manufacturer Titan International told the French government Wednesday that his firm will not take over a loss-making Goodyear factory because the unions there are “crazy” and its employees “only work three hours a day”.
“How stupid do you think we are?” Titan Chief Executive Maurice Taylor asked French Minister for Industrial Renewal Arnaud Montebourg in a letter published by French business daily Les Echos [in French and English].
“I have visited that factory a couple of times. T
he French workforce gets paid high wages but only works for three hours.
EMILY MILLER ON OBAMA AND GUN CONTROL
Instapundit » Blog Archive » EMILY MILLER ON OBAMA AND GUN CONTROL
Doubling down on failure while pointing fingers at others has become a hallmark. Posted by Glenn Reynolds at 8:47 am
Chicago is a dangerous town, but gun control hasn’t made it better. The city forbids the law-abiding from having guns, leaving the bad guys to rule the streets. The result is one of the highest murder rates in the country. President Obama’s plan isn’t to reverse from a failed course, but to apply federal gun registration and confiscation of certain weapons nationwide.
Addressing students at Hyde Park Academy last week, Mr. Obama recalled the recent murder of Hadiya Pendleton, a teenager. “It’s not unique to Chicago,” he said. “It’s not unique to this country. Too many of our children are being taken away from us.”
The rising homicide rate actually is unique to the president’s hometown. The 506 murders last year reflected a 16 percent increase over the previous year. According to the Federal Bureau of Investigation, this happened while the rest of the country saw a 2 percent decrease in homicides; the national rate is at its lowest point since 1963.
Doubling down on failure while pointing fingers at others has become a hallmark. Posted by Glenn Reynolds at 8:47 am
Al Sharpton's National Action Network to rally over no-black-nurses lawsuit claims at Hurley Medical Center today
Al Sharpton's National Action Network to rally over no-black-nurses lawsuit claims at Hurley Medical Center today | MLive.com:
"FLINT, MI -- The state director of the Rev. Al Sharpton's National Action Network plans to speak outside Hurley Medical Center today, Feb. 19, demanding hospital officials answer charges that they granted a father's request that only white nurses care for his infant child."
"FLINT, MI -- The state director of the Rev. Al Sharpton's National Action Network plans to speak outside Hurley Medical Center today, Feb. 19, demanding hospital officials answer charges that they granted a father's request that only white nurses care for his infant child."
Fraternity suspends University of Michigan chapter over semi-nude photos
Fraternity suspends University of Michigan chapter over semi-nude photos:
"The national Pi Kappa Alpha office has indefinitely suspended its University of Michigan chapter after semi-nude photos of fraternity members were leaked online, gaining national attention."
"The national Pi Kappa Alpha office has indefinitely suspended its University of Michigan chapter after semi-nude photos of fraternity members were leaked online, gaining national attention."
Government admits misplacing more money than the sequester will cut
Ken Braun: Government admits misplacing more money than the sequester will cut | MLive.com:
"But perhaps the best comparison is against the pile of cash that the Federal government ADMITS to squandering every year.
According to the Office of Management and Budget’s “Payment Accuracy” website, more than $100 billion in “improper payments” are now being misdirected EVERY YEAR.
How does this happen, you might ask the “Payment Accuracy” people?"
"But perhaps the best comparison is against the pile of cash that the Federal government ADMITS to squandering every year.
According to the Office of Management and Budget’s “Payment Accuracy” website, more than $100 billion in “improper payments” are now being misdirected EVERY YEAR.
How does this happen, you might ask the “Payment Accuracy” people?"
Michigan farmers may face migrant worker shortage after last year's devastating weather
Michigan farmers may face migrant worker shortage after last year's devastating weather | MLive.com
"Even with thousands of Michiganders looking for work, Clover Adams doesn't see them taking the jobs.
"That's an issue.
It's why we have migrant labor to begin with," she said.
"They're not willing to take the work and I don't know that anything's changed."
"Even with thousands of Michiganders looking for work, Clover Adams doesn't see them taking the jobs.
"That's an issue.
It's why we have migrant labor to begin with," she said.
"They're not willing to take the work and I don't know that anything's changed."
Pot tourism in Colo.? Marijuana regulators OK idea
The Associated Press: Pot tourism in Colo.? Marijuana regulators OK idea
"Marijuana purchased in Colorado must stay in Colorado," Pabon warned.
"We could attract greater federal scrutiny and displeasure of our neighbors," if marijuana flows across state lines, he said."
"Marijuana purchased in Colorado must stay in Colorado," Pabon warned.
"We could attract greater federal scrutiny and displeasure of our neighbors," if marijuana flows across state lines, he said."
World Day of Social Justice, 20 February
World Day of Social Justice, 20 February
"For the United Nations, the pursuit of social justice for all is at the core of our global mission to promote development and human dignity.
The adoption by the International Labour Organization of the Declaration on Social Justice for a Fair Globalization is just one recent example of the UN system’s commitment to social justice.
The Declaration focuses on guaranteeing fair outcomes for all through employment, social protection, social dialogue, and fundamental principles and rights at work."
"For the United Nations, the pursuit of social justice for all is at the core of our global mission to promote development and human dignity.
The adoption by the International Labour Organization of the Declaration on Social Justice for a Fair Globalization is just one recent example of the UN system’s commitment to social justice.
The Declaration focuses on guaranteeing fair outcomes for all through employment, social protection, social dialogue, and fundamental principles and rights at work."
Tuesday, February 19, 2013
Ohio Officials: Poll Worker May Have Voted Six Times
Ohio Officials: Poll Worker May Have Voted Six Times - By Eliana Johnson - The Corner - National Review Online
"Richardson is currently facing charges of voter fraud but maintains her innocence.
“I can’t understand these charges against me of voter fraud,” she told Cincinnati’s Channel 9 News.
“Have they never heard of . . . overlooking mailing in a ballot or registering to vote at a precinct after you’ve forgotten that you’ve mailed in a ballot or you’ve been told that the ballot may be too late?”"
"Richardson is currently facing charges of voter fraud but maintains her innocence.
“I can’t understand these charges against me of voter fraud,” she told Cincinnati’s Channel 9 News.
“Have they never heard of . . . overlooking mailing in a ballot or registering to vote at a precinct after you’ve forgotten that you’ve mailed in a ballot or you’ve been told that the ballot may be too late?”"
ANOTHER EPA OFFICIAL RESIGNS over use of improper “secret” email accounts.
Instapundit » Blog Archive » ANOTHER EPA OFFICIAL RESIGNS over use of improper “secret” email accounts.
“EPA Region 8 administrator James Martin is resigning this week, according to a press release from Sen. David Vitter (R., La.). Martin faces a congressional probe for allegedly using a private email account to circumvent disclosure requirements.
Bob Perciasepe, the current acting EPA administrator, also used a private account to send emails to other EPA officials, Vitter said his office has discovered.”
Transparency!
Posted by Glenn Reynolds at 3:55 pm"
“EPA Region 8 administrator James Martin is resigning this week, according to a press release from Sen. David Vitter (R., La.). Martin faces a congressional probe for allegedly using a private email account to circumvent disclosure requirements.
Bob Perciasepe, the current acting EPA administrator, also used a private account to send emails to other EPA officials, Vitter said his office has discovered.”
Transparency!
Posted by Glenn Reynolds at 3:55 pm"
House Rep Wants To Force Homeschool Parents to Report Attendance to The State
House Rep Wants To Force Homeschool Parents to Report Attendance to The State [Michigan Capitol Confidential]:
"With no evidence of a problem, Rep. Woodrow Stanley,D-Flint, wants to track homeschooled students for truancy"
"With no evidence of a problem, Rep. Woodrow Stanley,D-Flint, wants to track homeschooled students for truancy"
Gedney Foods agrees to drop 'midget' from small pickle label
Gedney Foods agrees to drop 'midget' from small pickle label - UPI.com:
"Little People of America, which represents people who are under 4 feet, 10 inches, in height, considers the word midget offensive."
"Little People of America, which represents people who are under 4 feet, 10 inches, in height, considers the word midget offensive."
Review team: Detroit is in financial emergency
Review team: Detroit is in financial emergency - Houston Chronicle:
"The team released its findings Tuesday, saying in a report to Snyder that "no satisfactory plan exists to resolve a serious financial problem."
"The team released its findings Tuesday, saying in a report to Snyder that "no satisfactory plan exists to resolve a serious financial problem."
Arts-Focused Colleges Rack Up Most Student Debt
Arts-Focused Colleges Rack Up Most Student Debt - WSJ.com
"Graduates of Arts-Focused Schools Are Shown to Rack Up the Most Student Debt"
Excellent interactive chart-go there!
"Graduates of Arts-Focused Schools Are Shown to Rack Up the Most Student Debt"
Excellent interactive chart-go there!
Chuck Todd: It's 'Mythology' That MSM Hostile To Conservatives
Chuck Todd: It's 'Mythology' That MSM Hostile To Conservatives | NewsBusters:
"TODD: I think that it's, I think that the mythology of the big, bad non-conservative media has gotten into some offices, and so that there's this fear of, oh we can't do, we can't do anything that's not--it's sort of this--and I feel like it's a mythology that now younger staffers believe and then it infuses, and then these guys, they actually believe the spin that's out there, oh, my God, that's what the mainstream media does, they do anything to disrupt the conservative agenda.
And so literally, you only--Lindsey, John McCain, you know, that's been my, I just fear that it's sort of like this whole, there's this whole sort of this, the mythology of this, the media's out to get conservatives is believed among more and more actual staffers."
"TODD: I think that it's, I think that the mythology of the big, bad non-conservative media has gotten into some offices, and so that there's this fear of, oh we can't do, we can't do anything that's not--it's sort of this--and I feel like it's a mythology that now younger staffers believe and then it infuses, and then these guys, they actually believe the spin that's out there, oh, my God, that's what the mainstream media does, they do anything to disrupt the conservative agenda.
And so literally, you only--Lindsey, John McCain, you know, that's been my, I just fear that it's sort of like this whole, there's this whole sort of this, the mythology of this, the media's out to get conservatives is believed among more and more actual staffers."
Electric Lemon Aid
The American Spectator : Electric Lemon Aid
"One of the biggest functional/engineering obstacles to electric car viability is that batteries lose power in the cold — while gasoline doesn’t.
If you leave your car parked in the garage with half a tank, it’ll still have a half-tank tomorrow morning.
And range isn’t affected greatly by weather.
An electric car’s range is.
The colder it is, the shorter your range will be.
Not just because batteries are less efficient in the cold, but also because in the cold, you’ll be using electricity for other things besides moving the car.
Things like the heater — which in an electric car is powered by electricity — and if it’s dark out, you’ll be burning headlights longer — which also means burning juice.
Which you have a finite amount of."
"One of the biggest functional/engineering obstacles to electric car viability is that batteries lose power in the cold — while gasoline doesn’t.
If you leave your car parked in the garage with half a tank, it’ll still have a half-tank tomorrow morning.
And range isn’t affected greatly by weather.
An electric car’s range is.
The colder it is, the shorter your range will be.
Not just because batteries are less efficient in the cold, but also because in the cold, you’ll be using electricity for other things besides moving the car.
Things like the heater — which in an electric car is powered by electricity — and if it’s dark out, you’ll be burning headlights longer — which also means burning juice.
Which you have a finite amount of."
Press finally gets question to Obama after golf weekend: ‘Did you beat Tiger?’
Press finally gets question to Obama after golf weekend: ‘Did you beat Tiger?’ | The Daily Caller
"The probing question followed a weekend in which reporters “expressed extreme frustration,” in the words of White House Correspondents Association president and Fox News correspondent Ed Henry, over their lack of access to Obama during his golfing sojourn. (RELATED: Why didn’t Obama allow press to cover golf weekend?)
“Speaking on behalf of the White House Correspondents Association, I can say a broad cross section of our members from print, radio, online and TV have today expressed extreme frustration to me about having absolutely no access to the President of the United States this entire weekend,”
Henry said in a statement Sunday.
“There is a very simple but important principle we will continue to fight for today and in the days ahead: transparency.”"
"The probing question followed a weekend in which reporters “expressed extreme frustration,” in the words of White House Correspondents Association president and Fox News correspondent Ed Henry, over their lack of access to Obama during his golfing sojourn. (RELATED: Why didn’t Obama allow press to cover golf weekend?)
“Speaking on behalf of the White House Correspondents Association, I can say a broad cross section of our members from print, radio, online and TV have today expressed extreme frustration to me about having absolutely no access to the President of the United States this entire weekend,”
Henry said in a statement Sunday.
“There is a very simple but important principle we will continue to fight for today and in the days ahead: transparency.”"
Michelle Obama and daughters take on Aspen ski slopes with top instructors
Michelle Obama and daughters take on Aspen ski slopes with top instructors - NYPOST.com
"We’re told some wealthy Aspen visitors were annoyed when “air space was blocked because of [the Obamas’] plane, so others couldn’t get their private jets in.
Many people nearly didn’t land or had to be diverted.” "
"We’re told some wealthy Aspen visitors were annoyed when “air space was blocked because of [the Obamas’] plane, so others couldn’t get their private jets in.
Many people nearly didn’t land or had to be diverted.” "
Brave New World
Works and Days » Brave New World
"We shrug at all this.
A president who thunders to the nation that we must be on guard against the “well-off and well-connected” heads south to Palm Beach to meet his $1,000-an-hour golf pro, while Michelle and the family go west to hit the slopes at “downright mean” Aspen, where no one accepts that they’ve reached a point where they’ve made enough money, or that there was any time when it was not good to profit.
Something strange has insidiously happened to the old notion of hypocrisy.
Does it even exist any longer?
Or do we shrug and just accept it as rebranded medieval penance?
Obama gets to golf with zillionaires because in soaring cadences he attacks them — and all for us?"
"We shrug at all this.
A president who thunders to the nation that we must be on guard against the “well-off and well-connected” heads south to Palm Beach to meet his $1,000-an-hour golf pro, while Michelle and the family go west to hit the slopes at “downright mean” Aspen, where no one accepts that they’ve reached a point where they’ve made enough money, or that there was any time when it was not good to profit.
Something strange has insidiously happened to the old notion of hypocrisy.
Does it even exist any longer?
Or do we shrug and just accept it as rebranded medieval penance?
Obama gets to golf with zillionaires because in soaring cadences he attacks them — and all for us?"
Local Preferences in Public Contracting, Part 6
Local Preferences in Public Contracting, Part 6 | Coates' Canons: NC Local Government Law Blog
"“I’ll start by reminding you of the four goals of the proposed policy: reducing local unemployment, supporting local businesses, increasing the tax base, and reducing the city’s carbon footprint,” begins Scarecrow.
“As I said earlier, to reduce local unemployment, our policy would have to have the effect of creating more jobs for local workers in addition to retaining current jobs held by local workers.
Similarly, to support local businesses financially, our policy would have to have the effect of directing more money to local businesses.”
The Council members nod in agreement.
“But,” says Scarecrow, “as we’ve just heard from Mr. Apple, a local preference policy won’t necessarily achieve this goal because we don’t generate enough projects or purchases to keep our local workers employed. They have to be able to work with other towns and counties as well, and if other towns and counties follow our lead, this could result in a disadvantage to our local workers and businesses.”"
"“I’ll start by reminding you of the four goals of the proposed policy: reducing local unemployment, supporting local businesses, increasing the tax base, and reducing the city’s carbon footprint,” begins Scarecrow.
“As I said earlier, to reduce local unemployment, our policy would have to have the effect of creating more jobs for local workers in addition to retaining current jobs held by local workers.
Similarly, to support local businesses financially, our policy would have to have the effect of directing more money to local businesses.”
The Council members nod in agreement.
“But,” says Scarecrow, “as we’ve just heard from Mr. Apple, a local preference policy won’t necessarily achieve this goal because we don’t generate enough projects or purchases to keep our local workers employed. They have to be able to work with other towns and counties as well, and if other towns and counties follow our lead, this could result in a disadvantage to our local workers and businesses.”"
Two of Illinois’ five pension systems lost money in 2012
Illinois Policy Institute - Blog - Two of Illinois’ five pension systems lost money in 2012
"Not a single one of the state’s five public pension systems earned more than 1 percent returns on their investments last year.
In fact, two of the five funds actually lost money.
Although pension trustees predicted Illinois’ five pension funds would earn more than $5.1 billion in fiscal year 2012, the funds actually earned less than $239 million.
The systems posted a combined investment return of just 0.38 percent, far below the combined 8.18 percent expected."
"Not a single one of the state’s five public pension systems earned more than 1 percent returns on their investments last year.
In fact, two of the five funds actually lost money.
Although pension trustees predicted Illinois’ five pension funds would earn more than $5.1 billion in fiscal year 2012, the funds actually earned less than $239 million.
The systems posted a combined investment return of just 0.38 percent, far below the combined 8.18 percent expected."
Jobless mother of 11 Heather Frost to get 6-bed eco-house after moaning her TWO council homes are cramped
Jobless mother of 11 Heather Frost to get 6-bed eco-house after moaning her TWO council homes are cramped | Mail Online
"Heather Frost, 36, lives in two houses which have been knocked together
Has seven children in one house, while the rest live with her in the other
Now Tewkesbury council has agreed to build her five-bed eco-home
TaxPayers' Alliance brands move a 'scandalous' use of public money
First fell pregnant at 14 to a 23-year-old boyfriend who ended up in prison
Furious neighbour: 'It's a disgrace. She treats her womb like a clown car'"
"Heather Frost, 36, lives in two houses which have been knocked together
Has seven children in one house, while the rest live with her in the other
Now Tewkesbury council has agreed to build her five-bed eco-home
TaxPayers' Alliance brands move a 'scandalous' use of public money
First fell pregnant at 14 to a 23-year-old boyfriend who ended up in prison
Furious neighbour: 'It's a disgrace. She treats her womb like a clown car'"
Comcast pulls gun shop ads from cable network
Comcast pulls gun shop ads from cable network - ABC 12 – WJRT – Flint, MI
"Consistent with long standing NBC policies, Comcast Spotlight has decided it will not accept new advertising for firearms or weapons moving forward. "
"Consistent with long standing NBC policies, Comcast Spotlight has decided it will not accept new advertising for firearms or weapons moving forward. "
Quotation of the day: Minimum wage law is compulsory unemployment; it provides no jobs, it only outlaws them
Quotation of the day: Minimum wage law is compulsory unemployment; it provides no jobs, it only outlaws them | AEIdeas
"“In truth, there is only one way to regard a minimum wage law: it is compulsory unemployment, period.
The law says: it is illegal, and therefore criminal, for anyone to hire anyone else below the level of X dollars an hour.
This means, plainly and simply, that a large number of free and voluntary wage contracts are now outlawed and hence that there will be a large amount of unemployment.
Remember that the minimum wage law provides no jobs; it only outlaws them; and outlawed jobs are the inevitable result."
"“In truth, there is only one way to regard a minimum wage law: it is compulsory unemployment, period.
The law says: it is illegal, and therefore criminal, for anyone to hire anyone else below the level of X dollars an hour.
This means, plainly and simply, that a large number of free and voluntary wage contracts are now outlawed and hence that there will be a large amount of unemployment.
Remember that the minimum wage law provides no jobs; it only outlaws them; and outlawed jobs are the inevitable result."
Monday, February 18, 2013
Where is the Money Going? - Economy Recovers for Richest 1%; Income Flat for the other 99%
Where is the Money Going? - Economy Recovers for Richest 1%; Income Flat for the other 99% - AllGov - News
"Despite the old saying, it seems a rising tide does not necessarily lift all boats.
According to newly released data, since the end of the Great Recession in 2009 the richest 1% have increased their income by 11.2% while incomes for the bottom 99% actually shrank by 0.4%. "
"Despite the old saying, it seems a rising tide does not necessarily lift all boats.
According to newly released data, since the end of the Great Recession in 2009 the richest 1% have increased their income by 11.2% while incomes for the bottom 99% actually shrank by 0.4%. "
A challenge to proponents of a minimum wage of $9 per hour – what theory or analysis justifies that specific wage?
A challenge to proponents of a minimum wage of $9 per hour – what theory or analysis justifies that specific wage? | AEIdeas
"Bottom Line: If there is no economic theory or logic or cost-benefit analysis that justifies $9.00 per hour as an optimal wage for unskilled, entry-level workers, which seems to be the case, then a $9.00 minimum wage is exposed as being totally arbitrary and random.
Unless and until Obama and other proponents of a $9 per hour minimum wage can provide some analysis to show that $9 is optimal and maximizes the net benefits to unskilled workers, then it’s a policy that really can’t be taken seriously.
Further, the minimum wage requires a costly regulatory mechanism that administers and enforces the government-mandated wage, which is a cost that needs to be considered."
"Bottom Line: If there is no economic theory or logic or cost-benefit analysis that justifies $9.00 per hour as an optimal wage for unskilled, entry-level workers, which seems to be the case, then a $9.00 minimum wage is exposed as being totally arbitrary and random.
Unless and until Obama and other proponents of a $9 per hour minimum wage can provide some analysis to show that $9 is optimal and maximizes the net benefits to unskilled workers, then it’s a policy that really can’t be taken seriously.
Further, the minimum wage requires a costly regulatory mechanism that administers and enforces the government-mandated wage, which is a cost that needs to be considered."
OBAMOPOLY - THE LATEST BOARD GAME!
OBAMOPOLY - THE LATEST BOARD GAME!
"The object of the game is to destroy American capitalism by having the government take over everything!
Want to play?
No?
Too bad, you're already playing and just don't know it!
By the way ... You're not winning!"
"The object of the game is to destroy American capitalism by having the government take over everything!
Want to play?
No?
Too bad, you're already playing and just don't know it!
By the way ... You're not winning!"
DHS buying billions of rounds? Not so fast . . .
Sense of Events: DHS buying billions of rounds? Not so fast . .
"So there you have it.
I retract the Feb. 7 post and affirm today that DHS is not buying billions of rounds of pistol ammo with one proviso: DHS is not buying billions of rounds as quickly as some of us bloggers say they are.
But they are still buying a heck of a lot of ammo that, if continued at the published pace, definitely will come to billions over a longer time.
Consider major ammo manufacturer ATK's announcement of 11 months ago:
ANOKA, Minn., March 12, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- ATK (NYSE: ATK) announced that it is being awarded an Indefinite Delivery/Indefinite Quantity (IDIQ) agreement from the Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (DHS, ICE) for .40 caliber ammunition. This contract features a base of 12 months, includes four option years, and will have a maximum volume of 450 million rounds.
PR Newswire (http://s.tt/1rCHc)
If DHS exercises all the options of this single contract, it will buy 90 million rounds per year of .40-caliber pistol ammo alone.
What are the contracts for 9mm and rifle ammo?
That would likely make some interesting totals."
"So there you have it.
I retract the Feb. 7 post and affirm today that DHS is not buying billions of rounds of pistol ammo with one proviso: DHS is not buying billions of rounds as quickly as some of us bloggers say they are.
But they are still buying a heck of a lot of ammo that, if continued at the published pace, definitely will come to billions over a longer time.
Consider major ammo manufacturer ATK's announcement of 11 months ago:
ANOKA, Minn., March 12, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- ATK (NYSE: ATK) announced that it is being awarded an Indefinite Delivery/Indefinite Quantity (IDIQ) agreement from the Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (DHS, ICE) for .40 caliber ammunition. This contract features a base of 12 months, includes four option years, and will have a maximum volume of 450 million rounds.
PR Newswire (http://s.tt/1rCHc)
If DHS exercises all the options of this single contract, it will buy 90 million rounds per year of .40-caliber pistol ammo alone.
What are the contracts for 9mm and rifle ammo?
That would likely make some interesting totals."
A Mayor unplugged from reality
A Mayor unplugged from reality - NYPOST.com
"Bottom line: Bloomberg wants to force the private sector to build charging stations for a fleet of cars that don’t exist and probably won’t exist for years to come, if ever.
New York City has plenty of infrastructure needs.
More charging stations for electric cars isn’t one of them."
"Bottom line: Bloomberg wants to force the private sector to build charging stations for a fleet of cars that don’t exist and probably won’t exist for years to come, if ever.
New York City has plenty of infrastructure needs.
More charging stations for electric cars isn’t one of them."
Muslim preacher urges followers to claim 'Jihad Seeker's Allowance'
Muslim preacher urges followers to claim 'Jihad Seeker's Allowance' - Telegraph
"“The rest of the year they were busy with jihad [holy war] and things like that,” he said.
“People will say, ‘Ah, but you are not working’.
“But the normal situation is for you to take money from the kuffar [non-believers].
“So we take Jihad Seeker’s Allowance.
You need to get support.”
He went on to tell a 30-strong crowd: “We are going to take England — the Muslims are coming.”"
"“The rest of the year they were busy with jihad [holy war] and things like that,” he said.
“People will say, ‘Ah, but you are not working’.
“But the normal situation is for you to take money from the kuffar [non-believers].
“So we take Jihad Seeker’s Allowance.
You need to get support.”
He went on to tell a 30-strong crowd: “We are going to take England — the Muslims are coming.”"
Nanny state group compares sugary soda to “slow-acting but ruthlessly efficient bioweapon”
Nanny state group compares sugary soda to “slow-acting but ruthlessly efficient bioweapon” | WashingtonExaminer.com
"The alarmists at the the non-profit Center for Science in the Public Interest — a group with a long history of hysterical rhetoric regarding food ingredients — are at it again.
Their latest crusade is to push for stronger regulations on sugary sodas, like original Coke and Pepsi."
"The alarmists at the the non-profit Center for Science in the Public Interest — a group with a long history of hysterical rhetoric regarding food ingredients — are at it again.
Their latest crusade is to push for stronger regulations on sugary sodas, like original Coke and Pepsi."
"Vaguely Rude Place Names Of The World"
Maps | Vaguely Rude:
"Vaguely Rude Place Names Of The World"
Give the C of C in "Shit, Iran" a call for a fun weekend!
"Vaguely Rude Place Names Of The World"
Give the C of C in "Shit, Iran" a call for a fun weekend!
Should Michigan keep its drunken driving threshold at .08 percent BAC?
Should Michigan keep its drunken driving threshold at .08 percent BAC? (with poll) | MLive.com
"Another factor: Michigan could lose an estimated $50 million a year in federal highway funding if the state allows the threshold to bounce back up to .10.
All states have drunken driving thresholds set at .08 to be in compliance with federal standards and keep their federal highway money."
"Another factor: Michigan could lose an estimated $50 million a year in federal highway funding if the state allows the threshold to bounce back up to .10.
All states have drunken driving thresholds set at .08 to be in compliance with federal standards and keep their federal highway money."
Michigan's average gas price inches closer to $4 per gallon
Michigan's average gas price inches closer to $4 per gallon | MLive.com
"Michigan has the 7th highest average gas price in the nation "
"Michigan has the 7th highest average gas price in the nation "
Presidents Day: A look at the presidents who have visited the Muskegon area
Presidents Day: A look at the presidents who have visited the Muskegon area | MLive.com:
"Richard Nixon helped dedicate Walker Arena as part of a campaign stop when he was vice president in 1960. Nixon also visited the new Holiday Inn at Hoyt and Seaway in Muskegon Heights on June 8, 1964. "
"Richard Nixon helped dedicate Walker Arena as part of a campaign stop when he was vice president in 1960. Nixon also visited the new Holiday Inn at Hoyt and Seaway in Muskegon Heights on June 8, 1964. "
Sunday, February 17, 2013
Presidents Day:GM flounders
Presidents Day: Government vacations, Islamists flourish, GM flounders | Washington Times Communities:
Rescue Madness: GM Seems Headed Backwards to Bankruptcy
When I look through recent disclosures made by General Motors, I think of Monty Python’s John Cleese in the famous “dead parrot” sketch:
Looking at available “facts”, General Motors today is not technically “dead”—however, alarm bells are ringing off the hook.
In 2012, consolidated Automotive revenues grew by slightly less than 1 % from $ 148.9 billion to $ 150.3 billion. Automotive gross margin fell from a puny 12.4% in 2011 to 6.7%,
in 2012. Operating income before goodwill impairment charges fell from $ 6.9 billion to an operating loss of $ 3.2 billion.
Pretax income after all charges plummeted from $ 6.0 billion to a staggering loss of $ 30.3 billion.
Moreover, these consolidated results were produced while the largest unit, GM North America, increased its capacity utilization rate from 95.6% to 97.5%.
No manufacturing business is viable at such levels for long and few American businesses have already been as coddled by various governments.
In 2012, consolidated Automotive revenues grew by slightly less than 1 % from $ 148.9 billion to $ 150.3 billion. Automotive gross margin fell from a puny 12.4% in 2011 to 6.7%,
in 2012. Operating income before goodwill impairment charges fell from $ 6.9 billion to an operating loss of $ 3.2 billion.
Pretax income after all charges plummeted from $ 6.0 billion to a staggering loss of $ 30.3 billion.
Moreover, these consolidated results were produced while the largest unit, GM North America, increased its capacity utilization rate from 95.6% to 97.5%.
No manufacturing business is viable at such levels for long and few American businesses have already been as coddled by various governments.
If you cannot sell/lease vehicles when money is essentially free, how can you hope to do so as rates correct back up as they have started to do since July 2012?
Analysis that is more complete will have to wait until the first week of March when GM releases its Annual Report on Form 10-K.
Analysis that is more complete will have to wait until the first week of March when GM releases its Annual Report on Form 10-K.
Rest assured that informed investors will not be celebrating even if entrenched unions, managers and politicians dare to gloat.
Bailing out a structurally challenged vehicle producer using borrowed taxpayer funds, without fully addressing competitive weaknesses has not restored the fortunes of General Motors.
» DHS Purchases 21.6 Million More Rounds of Ammunition
» DHS Purchases 21.6 Million More Rounds of Ammunition Alex Jones' Infowars: There's a war on for your mind!:
"To put that in perspective, during the height of active battle operations in Iraq, US soldiers used 5.5 million rounds of ammunition a month.
Extrapolating the figures, the DHS has purchased enough bullets over the last 10 months to wage a full scale war for almost 30 years."
"To put that in perspective, during the height of active battle operations in Iraq, US soldiers used 5.5 million rounds of ammunition a month.
Extrapolating the figures, the DHS has purchased enough bullets over the last 10 months to wage a full scale war for almost 30 years."
Sale of personal gene data condemned as ‘unethical and dangerous’
Sale of personal gene data condemned as ‘unethical and dangerous’ | The Raw Story
"Private firms will soon be able to buy people’s medical and genetic data without their consent and, in certain cases, acquire personal information that might enable them to identify individuals.
The revelation, which contradicts government claims that such material would be completely anonymous, has raised fears that pharmaceutical firms and insurance companies will be able to determine the identities of people susceptible to particular diseases.
It has prompted claims that fundamental changes to the use of NHS patient data are being introduced without adequate public debate or regulatory oversight."
"Private firms will soon be able to buy people’s medical and genetic data without their consent and, in certain cases, acquire personal information that might enable them to identify individuals.
The revelation, which contradicts government claims that such material would be completely anonymous, has raised fears that pharmaceutical firms and insurance companies will be able to determine the identities of people susceptible to particular diseases.
It has prompted claims that fundamental changes to the use of NHS patient data are being introduced without adequate public debate or regulatory oversight."
Strange Facts about America’s ‘Poor’
Strange Facts about America’s ‘Poor’ - By Robert Rector - The Corner - National Review Online
"In a recent Rasmussen poll, adults agreed (by a ratio of six to one) that “a family that is adequately fed and living in a house or apartment that is in good repair” is not poor.
By that simple test, about 80 percent of the Census Bureau’s “poor” people would not be considered poor by their fellow Americans.
In the same Rasmussen poll, however, 73 percent said poverty was a severe problem.
Why the disconnect?
The answer: Public perception of poverty in the U.S. is governed by the mainstream media, which invariably depicts the Census Bureau’s tens of millions of poor people as chronically hungry and malnourished, homeless or barely hanging on in overcrowded, dilapidated housing. "
"In a recent Rasmussen poll, adults agreed (by a ratio of six to one) that “a family that is adequately fed and living in a house or apartment that is in good repair” is not poor.
By that simple test, about 80 percent of the Census Bureau’s “poor” people would not be considered poor by their fellow Americans.
In the same Rasmussen poll, however, 73 percent said poverty was a severe problem.
Why the disconnect?
The answer: Public perception of poverty in the U.S. is governed by the mainstream media, which invariably depicts the Census Bureau’s tens of millions of poor people as chronically hungry and malnourished, homeless or barely hanging on in overcrowded, dilapidated housing. "
Global-warming zealots to ban ice makers
Global-warming zealots to ban ice makers - Washington Times Ice makers are the latest target in the left’s ongoing war against the conveniences of modern life.
Earlier this month, the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) issued a report that may condemn this essential household item to the contraband list that already includes functional light bulbs, toilets, washing machines and showerheads.
Bumped from 2011
Earlier this month, the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) issued a report that may condemn this essential household item to the contraband list that already includes functional light bulbs, toilets, washing machines and showerheads.
Bumped from 2011
Saturday, February 16, 2013
YOU are invited!
Please let me know by Tuesday, February 19th if
you are still interested in serving on the Muskegon County Jail/Juvenile
Transition Center Citizens Review Committee. Thank you.
Lisa
Chalko
Board/EEO Liaison
990 Terrace
Hall of Justice, 4th Floor
Muskegon, MI 49442
Phone: 231.724.8883
Discussion of smart meters in Holland
Discussion of smart meters in Holland | wzzm13.com
""We think there are great benefits to our customers," says Consumers Energy spokesman Roger C. Morgenstern.
"We actually show over the 20 year life of the meter there will be a 40 million dollar benefit to our customers in terms of energy savings.""
""We think there are great benefits to our customers," says Consumers Energy spokesman Roger C. Morgenstern.
"We actually show over the 20 year life of the meter there will be a 40 million dollar benefit to our customers in terms of energy savings.""
Warning: This Will Get Your Blood Boiling
Warning: This Will Get Your Blood Boiling
"So, not only are taxpayers funding free cell phones, we're also paying for street teams to hawk them at hospitals, soup kitchens, carnivals and shelters. "
"So, not only are taxpayers funding free cell phones, we're also paying for street teams to hawk them at hospitals, soup kitchens, carnivals and shelters. "
Experts debate the benefits of a proposed minimum wage hike
Experts debate the benefits of a proposed minimum wage hike - The Hill's On The Money
""If you force employers to pay more than they want, they are less likely to hire teens and low-skilled folks and, instead, will cut workers hours and benefits," Hall said."
""If you force employers to pay more than they want, they are less likely to hire teens and low-skilled folks and, instead, will cut workers hours and benefits," Hall said."
How conservative are Michigan's representatives in Congress? Heritage Action for America ranks them
Ken Braun: How conservative are Michigan's representatives in Congress? Heritage Action for America ranks them | MLive.com:
"On the high side were U.S. Reps. Justin Amash (91 percent), Bill Huizenga (89 percent), Tim Walberg (83 percent) and Dan Benishek (73 percent).
These are also the four Republicans who have served the least amount of time in Washington."
"On the high side were U.S. Reps. Justin Amash (91 percent), Bill Huizenga (89 percent), Tim Walberg (83 percent) and Dan Benishek (73 percent).
These are also the four Republicans who have served the least amount of time in Washington."
Guns and Self Defense | Cato Institute
Guns and Self Defense | Cato Institute
"Two additional points are worth noting.
First, the map is not comprehensive.
Criminals will often flee the scene when they discover that their intended target has a gun.
With no shots fired, no injuries, and no suspect in custody, news organizations may report nothing at all.
Thus, it is important to remember that news reports can only provide us with an imperfect picture of defensive gun use in America.
Second, when a citizen is able to shoot an attacker or hold a rapist or robber until the police arrive, it is very likely that more than one crime has been prevented because if the culprit had not been stopped, he could have targeted other citizens as well.
The bottom line is that gun owners stop a lot of criminal mayhem every year."
"Two additional points are worth noting.
First, the map is not comprehensive.
Criminals will often flee the scene when they discover that their intended target has a gun.
With no shots fired, no injuries, and no suspect in custody, news organizations may report nothing at all.
Thus, it is important to remember that news reports can only provide us with an imperfect picture of defensive gun use in America.
Second, when a citizen is able to shoot an attacker or hold a rapist or robber until the police arrive, it is very likely that more than one crime has been prevented because if the culprit had not been stopped, he could have targeted other citizens as well.
The bottom line is that gun owners stop a lot of criminal mayhem every year."
How to browse the Kindle Lending Library on your PC
How to browse the Kindle Lending Library on your PC - Computerworld
"After all, the $79/year membership lets you check out one ebook per month from the Kindle Lending Library, which is rapidly approaching 300,000 titles."
"After all, the $79/year membership lets you check out one ebook per month from the Kindle Lending Library, which is rapidly approaching 300,000 titles."
This Isn't Hard, Mr. President: Do You Think You Can Kill Us on American Soil or Not?
This Isn't Hard, Mr. President: Do You Think You Can Kill Us on American Soil or Not? - Conor Friedersdorf - The Atlantic
"It's an easy question.
Answering it wouldn't jeopardize national security in any way.
So why do Obama Administration officials keep dodging it?
Asked the question in a Google Plus interview Thursday, Obama himself said, "Well first of all, there has never been a drone used on an American citizen on American soil."
Duh.
But will there ever be?
He went on to say that it's easier to capture accused terrorists in the United States than abroad.
But he still didn't give a straight answer. "
"It's an easy question.
Answering it wouldn't jeopardize national security in any way.
So why do Obama Administration officials keep dodging it?
Asked the question in a Google Plus interview Thursday, Obama himself said, "Well first of all, there has never been a drone used on an American citizen on American soil."
Duh.
But will there ever be?
He went on to say that it's easier to capture accused terrorists in the United States than abroad.
But he still didn't give a straight answer. "
House overrides Obama, votes to freeze federal pay for third year
House overrides Obama, votes to freeze federal pay for third year - The Hill's RegWatch
"On Thursday, however, House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.) argued that freezing the pay of members undermines the dignity of the job.
"I think it's necessary for us to have the dignity of the job that we have rewarded," she said."
"On Thursday, however, House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.) argued that freezing the pay of members undermines the dignity of the job.
"I think it's necessary for us to have the dignity of the job that we have rewarded," she said."
Of Carnival Triumph, Media, and Lawyers
Blog: Of Carnival Triumph, Media, and Lawyers
"I laughed so hard on day one of the coverage when the nitwit reporter dude on CNN said, in a breathless dramatic fashion, that on top of all the carnage and devastation wrought by the power outage on board, the ship could also expect "six foot seas!"
He said this as if the nine-hundred foot long, fourteen-story ship would be lurching about, with water breaching the uppermost decks and crew members battening down all the hatches.
Six foot seas, to anyone familiar with a cruise ship of that size, means very smooth sailing indeed.
The newsjerk was either a moron, or more likely, an alarmist looking to make his assignment the story of the day.
But as day one became day two I stopped laughing."
"I laughed so hard on day one of the coverage when the nitwit reporter dude on CNN said, in a breathless dramatic fashion, that on top of all the carnage and devastation wrought by the power outage on board, the ship could also expect "six foot seas!"
He said this as if the nine-hundred foot long, fourteen-story ship would be lurching about, with water breaching the uppermost decks and crew members battening down all the hatches.
Six foot seas, to anyone familiar with a cruise ship of that size, means very smooth sailing indeed.
The newsjerk was either a moron, or more likely, an alarmist looking to make his assignment the story of the day.
But as day one became day two I stopped laughing."
Michigan 'fracking' opponents plan to begin voter signature collection effort in April
Michigan 'fracking' opponents plan to begin voter signature collection effort in April | MLive.com
"The Board of State Canvassers on Friday also approved the form of a petition that could be used by a committee called Voters for Fair Use of Ballot Referendum.
That effort seeks to change the state constitution to widen the scope of state laws that Michigan voters can seek to overturn through the referendum process.
If the measure is successful, voters also would be allowed to challenge state laws that include appropriations or spending clauses.
That is now prohibited by the Michigan constitution.
Some of the more recent laws with appropriations – making them referendum-proof – are Michigan’s right-to-work law and the state’s revised emergency manager law from 2012.
Some critics have questioned whether lawmakers sometimes might include appropriations in controversial bills mainly so voters can't repeal them."
"The Board of State Canvassers on Friday also approved the form of a petition that could be used by a committee called Voters for Fair Use of Ballot Referendum.
That effort seeks to change the state constitution to widen the scope of state laws that Michigan voters can seek to overturn through the referendum process.
If the measure is successful, voters also would be allowed to challenge state laws that include appropriations or spending clauses.
That is now prohibited by the Michigan constitution.
Some of the more recent laws with appropriations – making them referendum-proof – are Michigan’s right-to-work law and the state’s revised emergency manager law from 2012.
Some critics have questioned whether lawmakers sometimes might include appropriations in controversial bills mainly so voters can't repeal them."
Does the Distinguished Warfare Medal degrade military honors?
Does the Distinguished Warfare Medal degrade military honors? | Fox News
"Sound far-fetched?
Look at how the combat action badge is handed out these days."
"Sound far-fetched?
Look at how the combat action badge is handed out these days."
Friday, February 15, 2013
Obama’s minimum wage proposal a stealth pay raise for unions
Obama’s minimum wage proposal a stealth pay raise for unions | WashingtonExaminer.com:
If President Obama succeeds in raising the minimum wage law, he’ll have given many unions an automatic pay increase, a new report shows.
“An analysis of union collective bargaining agreements available from the Department of Labor’s Office of Labor-Management Standards indicates that many service, retail and hospitality industry labor unions—such as UNITE-HERE or the Service Employees International Union (SEIU)—peg baseline wages to the federal minimum wage,” the Center for Union Facts (CUF) observes.
“Thus, in many cases, raising the federal minimum wage will either trigger wage renegotiations or automatic wage hikes for certain unionized employees.”"
If President Obama succeeds in raising the minimum wage law, he’ll have given many unions an automatic pay increase, a new report shows.
“An analysis of union collective bargaining agreements available from the Department of Labor’s Office of Labor-Management Standards indicates that many service, retail and hospitality industry labor unions—such as UNITE-HERE or the Service Employees International Union (SEIU)—peg baseline wages to the federal minimum wage,” the Center for Union Facts (CUF) observes.
“Thus, in many cases, raising the federal minimum wage will either trigger wage renegotiations or automatic wage hikes for certain unionized employees.”"
How To Overwrite Free Space Securely in Windows
How To Overwrite Free Space Securely in Windows
"When you delete a file from the recycle bin in Windows, rather than deleting the actual file, the space the file is occupying is simply marked as free so that another file can come and use those blocks on your hard drive.
One way of making sure that your data is not recoverable is to simply overwrite all the free space with random data. "
"When you delete a file from the recycle bin in Windows, rather than deleting the actual file, the space the file is occupying is simply marked as free so that another file can come and use those blocks on your hard drive.
One way of making sure that your data is not recoverable is to simply overwrite all the free space with random data. "
Central Banks Buy the Most Gold Since 1964
Central Banks Buy the Most Gold Since 1964 - 24/7 Wall St
"Central bank buying for 2012 rose by 17% over 2011 to some 534.6 tonnes.
As far as central bank gold buying, this was the highest level since 1964. "
"Central bank buying for 2012 rose by 17% over 2011 to some 534.6 tonnes.
As far as central bank gold buying, this was the highest level since 1964. "
Employment is down to 150 at controversial LG Chem plant in Holland, says company spokesman
Employment is down to 150 at controversial LG Chem plant in Holland, says company spokesman | MLive.com
"Although it has produced batteries while testing its new production facilities, the Holland facility has produced no batteries for the production models of the Volt and other electric vehicles. LG Chem has flown those batteries in from Korea."
"Although it has produced batteries while testing its new production facilities, the Holland facility has produced no batteries for the production models of the Volt and other electric vehicles. LG Chem has flown those batteries in from Korea."
'New urbanism' residential development proposed in downtown Muskegon by Jon Rooks
'New urbanism' residential development proposed in downtown Muskegon by Jon Rooks | MLive.com
"the residential development would feature small lots measuring 36 feet by 100 feet"
"the residential development would feature small lots measuring 36 feet by 100 feet"
Terrace Point Landing: Muskegon Lake $14 million residential development called 'game changing'
Terrace Point Landing: Muskegon Lake $14 million residential development called 'game changing' | MLive.com
"The lot prices will range from $125,000 for waterfront land to $50,000 for interior parcels. Home designs will have the final land and house packages in the $150,000 to $300,000."
"The lot prices will range from $125,000 for waterfront land to $50,000 for interior parcels. Home designs will have the final land and house packages in the $150,000 to $300,000."
Thursday, February 14, 2013
The Rules of Attraction
Best of the Web Today: The Rules of Attraction - WSJ.com
"The better-looking a man is, the more lifetime sexual partners he reports; the better-looking a woman, the fewer.
Good-looking men are more likely to have had sex soon after meeting a partner; good-looking women, less likely.
Good-looking women are likelier to describe their relationships as "committed"; good-looking men, less likely."
"The better-looking a man is, the more lifetime sexual partners he reports; the better-looking a woman, the fewer.
Good-looking men are more likely to have had sex soon after meeting a partner; good-looking women, less likely.
Good-looking women are likelier to describe their relationships as "committed"; good-looking men, less likely."
Sunk: The Incredible Truth About the 'Bounty,' a Ship That Never Should Have Sailed
Sunk: The Incredible Truth About the 'Bounty,' a Ship That Never Should Have Sailed | Outdoor Adventure | OutsideOnline.com
"But the full answer to why the Bounty sank was much more complex than a captain’s rash decision.
It was a story decades in the making, a veritable opera of near misses and fantastic schemes involving a dogged captain, a fiercely loyal crew, and an owner who was looking to sell.
And in the ship’s last act, an unlikely new character had emerged: a young woman with Down syndrome who, perhaps inconceivably, held the key to the Bounty’s future."
"But the full answer to why the Bounty sank was much more complex than a captain’s rash decision.
It was a story decades in the making, a veritable opera of near misses and fantastic schemes involving a dogged captain, a fiercely loyal crew, and an owner who was looking to sell.
And in the ship’s last act, an unlikely new character had emerged: a young woman with Down syndrome who, perhaps inconceivably, held the key to the Bounty’s future."
Internet tax gains steam with GOP support
Internet tax gains steam with GOP support | WashingtonExaminer.com
"On Thursday, Wyoming Republican Sen. Michael Enzi and Tennessee's Lamar Alexander are joining Illinois Democratic Sen. Dick Durbin to unveil the "Marketplace Fairness Act" which would let states compel online and catalog merchants, no matter where they're located, to collect sales tax.
Their move follows demands from Republicans governors, struggling to balance budgets, that Washington end the practice of letting online retailers ignore collecting the tax which is required in most states--but not enforced."
"On Thursday, Wyoming Republican Sen. Michael Enzi and Tennessee's Lamar Alexander are joining Illinois Democratic Sen. Dick Durbin to unveil the "Marketplace Fairness Act" which would let states compel online and catalog merchants, no matter where they're located, to collect sales tax.
Their move follows demands from Republicans governors, struggling to balance budgets, that Washington end the practice of letting online retailers ignore collecting the tax which is required in most states--but not enforced."
Michigan's obesity straining more than waistlines
Michigan's obesity straining more than waistlines | MLive.com
News and Analysis from The Center for Michigan
Now ranked fifth in the nation in obesity, state residents are on track to rack up 1.4 million new cases of type 2 diabetes, 2.9 million cases of coronary heart disease and 2.6 million cases of high blood pressure over the next 20 years, a national study found.
According to the nonprofit Trust for America's Health, 31 percent of Michigan adults were obese in 2011. It projects that will climb to nearly 60 percent by 2030. An estimated 30 percent of children ages 10 to 17 are now overweight or obese.
In 2008, Michigan spent an estimated $3.1 billion on obesity-related medical costs. If trends continue, state officials estimate that will quadruple to $12.5 billion by 2018.
News and Analysis from The Center for Michigan They warn that trajectory -- if not reversed -- will eventually overwhelm the health-care system's ability to pay.
“People won't get services. The (insurance) premiums will be so high that companies will just stop paying,” said James Haveman, director of the Michigan Department of Community Health.
That prognosis only underscores the stakes for Michigan's health-care network, given the fact it already leads the nation in the number of people dropped from employer-based health care in the past decade.
On Jan. 23, the state launched a publicity campaign to encourage overweight residents to lose 10 percent of their body weight.
“People can’t wait. They need to start making decisions today,” Haveman said.
Called MI Healthier Tomorrow, it is an outgrowth of a 2011 Lansing summit convened by Gov. Rick Snyder to develop strategies for reducing obesity. Among its key findings was the need to drive up public awareness of the serious health costs of obesity.
American Indian mascots targeted by Michigan Department of Civil Rights complaint
American Indian mascots targeted by Michigan Department of Civil Rights complaint | MLive.com
"A complaint filed with the U.S. Department of Education cites 35 school districts in Michigan – from the Athens Indians to the White Pigeon Chiefs.
The filing relates to K-12 schools but doesn’t involve community colleges or universities."
"A complaint filed with the U.S. Department of Education cites 35 school districts in Michigan – from the Athens Indians to the White Pigeon Chiefs.
The filing relates to K-12 schools but doesn’t involve community colleges or universities."
Activists to rally against Keystone XL pipeline, while Michigan Senate supports controversial project
Activists to rally against Keystone XL pipeline, while Michigan Senate supports controversial project | MLive.com:
"Six buses from Battle Creek, Detroit, East Lansing, Traverse City and Ann Arbor will bring participants to the Sunday rally."
"Six buses from Battle Creek, Detroit, East Lansing, Traverse City and Ann Arbor will bring participants to the Sunday rally."
Muskegon County's Child Haven shelter shut down after building problem
Muskegon County's Child Haven shelter shut down after building problem | MLive.com
"Child Haven had been operated as a partnership between Muskegon County and the Michigan Department of Human Services, said Bonnie Hammersley, the county’s top administrator."
"Child Haven had been operated as a partnership between Muskegon County and the Michigan Department of Human Services, said Bonnie Hammersley, the county’s top administrator."
Pure Michigan advertising that mentions right to work is on hold after controversy
MEDC: Pure Michigan advertising that mentions right to work is on hold after controversy | MLive.com
"Democrats have criticized the MEDC and Gov. Rick Snyder, who later said the issue was divisive enough that it shouldn't have been front-and-center on the ad."
"Democrats have criticized the MEDC and Gov. Rick Snyder, who later said the issue was divisive enough that it shouldn't have been front-and-center on the ad."
Rubio Previews SOTU Response
Rubio Previews SOTU Response: Says He'll Push Contrast on Policy, Tone | The Weekly Standard
"They were certain that Rubio was so gifted an orator and possessed such a unique set of political skills that he would be able to make immediate and improbable leaps that most politicians could not execute."
BEFORE the "response"....
"They were certain that Rubio was so gifted an orator and possessed such a unique set of political skills that he would be able to make immediate and improbable leaps that most politicians could not execute."
BEFORE the "response"....
False Memories of Fabricated Political Events
False Memories of Fabricated Political Events by Steven Frenda, Eric Knowles, William Saletan, Elizabeth Loftus :: SSRN
"In the largest false memory study to date, 5,269 participants were asked about their memories for three true and one of five fabricated political events.
Each fabricated event was accompanied by a photographic image purportedly depicting that event. Approximately half the participants falsely remembered that the false event happened, with 27% remembering that they saw the events happen on the news.
Political orientation appeared to influence the formation of false memories, with conservatives more likely to falsely remember seeing Barack Obama shaking hands with the president of Iran, and liberals more likely to remember George W. Bush vacationing with a baseball celebrity during the Hurricane Katrina disaster.
A follow-up study supported the explanation that events are more easily implanted in memory when they are congruent with a person's preexisting attitudes and evaluations, in part because attitude-congruent false events promote feelings of recognition and familiarity, which in turn interfere with source attributions."
"In the largest false memory study to date, 5,269 participants were asked about their memories for three true and one of five fabricated political events.
Each fabricated event was accompanied by a photographic image purportedly depicting that event. Approximately half the participants falsely remembered that the false event happened, with 27% remembering that they saw the events happen on the news.
Political orientation appeared to influence the formation of false memories, with conservatives more likely to falsely remember seeing Barack Obama shaking hands with the president of Iran, and liberals more likely to remember George W. Bush vacationing with a baseball celebrity during the Hurricane Katrina disaster.
A follow-up study supported the explanation that events are more easily implanted in memory when they are congruent with a person's preexisting attitudes and evaluations, in part because attitude-congruent false events promote feelings of recognition and familiarity, which in turn interfere with source attributions."
American Airlines, US Airways to merge
My Way News - AP Sources: American Airlines, US Airways to merge
"The merger of American Airlines and US Airways, to be formally announced Thursday, caps a turbulent half-decade of bankruptcies and consolidation for the U.S. airline industry and leaves travelers four big carriers to choose from."
"The merger of American Airlines and US Airways, to be formally announced Thursday, caps a turbulent half-decade of bankruptcies and consolidation for the U.S. airline industry and leaves travelers four big carriers to choose from."
Wednesday, February 13, 2013
Michigan Senator proposes state minimum wage increase as Obama pushes for national raise
Michigan Senator proposes state minimum wage increase as Obama pushes for national raise | MLive.com
"Meanwhile, Sen. Bert Johnson, D-Detroit, introduced legislation to increase the state’s minimum wage from $7.40 to $10 per hour by 2016."
"Meanwhile, Sen. Bert Johnson, D-Detroit, introduced legislation to increase the state’s minimum wage from $7.40 to $10 per hour by 2016."
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