"This ad from Danny Tarkanian, candidate for Senate in Nevada, is hilarious, depicting X-Files' agents Fox Mulder and Dana Scully investigating Harry Reid's 'missing congressional districts.'
Go watch it right now, as it will also probably be pulled very quickly, unless Tarkanian obtained the rights to use clips from 'The X-Files.'"
Friday, November 20, 2009
My Way News - AP IMPACT: Some lawmakers send few to academies
My Way News - AP IMPACT: Some lawmakers send few to academies
But Rep. Nydia Velazquez of New York City, chairwoman of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus, nominated only four students, the lowest among House members who served the entire five-year period. Rep. Charles Rangel, whose New York City district includes Harlem, was second-lowest, with eight nominations. And House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, whose San Francisco district is 29 percent Asian, was also near the bottom, with 19.
In fact, the bottom 20 House members were all from districts where whites make up less than a majority.
"It's beyond my imagination how someone that has the ability to nominate doesn't do it," Craig Duchossois said last December at his final meeting as chairman of the Naval Academy's Board of Visitors.
He noted what an academy appointment means: a free four-year education and a guaranteed job as an officer for at least five years after graduation.
But Rep. Nydia Velazquez of New York City, chairwoman of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus, nominated only four students, the lowest among House members who served the entire five-year period. Rep. Charles Rangel, whose New York City district includes Harlem, was second-lowest, with eight nominations. And House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, whose San Francisco district is 29 percent Asian, was also near the bottom, with 19.
In fact, the bottom 20 House members were all from districts where whites make up less than a majority.
"It's beyond my imagination how someone that has the ability to nominate doesn't do it," Craig Duchossois said last December at his final meeting as chairman of the Naval Academy's Board of Visitors.
He noted what an academy appointment means: a free four-year education and a guaranteed job as an officer for at least five years after graduation.
American Thinker Blog: Scientific scandal appears to rock climate change promoters
American Thinker Blog: Scientific scandal appears to rock climate change promoters
"There's big news for climate change students.
A hacker has gotten into the computers at Hadley CRU, Britain's largest climate research institute and a proponent of global warming, and seems to have uncovered evidence of substantial fraud in reporting the 'evidence' on global warming; the unlawful destruction of records to cover up this fraud ,conspiracy,and deceit in the entire operation"
"There's big news for climate change students.
A hacker has gotten into the computers at Hadley CRU, Britain's largest climate research institute and a proponent of global warming, and seems to have uncovered evidence of substantial fraud in reporting the 'evidence' on global warming; the unlawful destruction of records to cover up this fraud ,conspiracy,and deceit in the entire operation"
Global Warming’s ‘Blue Dress’ Moment?
Global Warming’s ‘Blue Dress’ Moment?
"I am not able to fully digest all of the relevant material just this moment, but check out what Anthony Watts at “Watts Up With That” among others have posted.
Anthony is a meteorologist who blew the lid on the scandalous placement of official U.S. government thermometers – even movement to — asphalt pads, Arizona parking lots, next to hot air vents, above barbecue grills, and so on with the convenient result of a warming bias.
I will put all of this in full context as more analysis of the revelations and their meaning emerge, but just know this was described to me as “the closest thing you’re ever going to come to a ’smoking gun.’”
If you’re not a global warming geek, the point of the material is that we have apparent — and I only say apparent at this point — written admissions of cooking the books, among other nastiness, by the leading names in the global warming alarmist movement.
"I am not able to fully digest all of the relevant material just this moment, but check out what Anthony Watts at “Watts Up With That” among others have posted.
Anthony is a meteorologist who blew the lid on the scandalous placement of official U.S. government thermometers – even movement to — asphalt pads, Arizona parking lots, next to hot air vents, above barbecue grills, and so on with the convenient result of a warming bias.
I will put all of this in full context as more analysis of the revelations and their meaning emerge, but just know this was described to me as “the closest thing you’re ever going to come to a ’smoking gun.’”
If you’re not a global warming geek, the point of the material is that we have apparent — and I only say apparent at this point — written admissions of cooking the books, among other nastiness, by the leading names in the global warming alarmist movement.
Schools deliver 60 gift baskets to migrant families
Schools deliver 60 gift baskets to migrant families
"Rosa Becerra-Silva, the school district's migrant recruiter, plans to give holiday gift baskets to 60 migrant families. Donations of money, turkeys, or nonperishable items and toiletries are needed for the food basket program, in its sixth year.
The families are seasonal workers who live in migrant housing from mid-February to November and have chosen to stay, usually with family members, during the winter. The number of migrant families staying year-round in the district has increased since Becerra-Silva started the program.
'The count keeps going up,' she said. 'As kids get older, (families) are choosing to stay here until they finish high school and some of them can't afford to move with the economy being the way it is."
So do I get this right?
The taxpayers pay for a "school district migrant recruiter" whose job includes organizing the raising of money and delivering "gift baskets" to non-Americans.
And most, if not all of whom are here illegally?
So we pay to recruit illegals?
Isn't there a law against this?
Aren't there an American citizen families in the county?
The "change we can believe in" is change I'd prefer to CHANGE back.
"Rosa Becerra-Silva, the school district's migrant recruiter, plans to give holiday gift baskets to 60 migrant families. Donations of money, turkeys, or nonperishable items and toiletries are needed for the food basket program, in its sixth year.
The families are seasonal workers who live in migrant housing from mid-February to November and have chosen to stay, usually with family members, during the winter. The number of migrant families staying year-round in the district has increased since Becerra-Silva started the program.
'The count keeps going up,' she said. 'As kids get older, (families) are choosing to stay here until they finish high school and some of them can't afford to move with the economy being the way it is."
So do I get this right?
The taxpayers pay for a "school district migrant recruiter" whose job includes organizing the raising of money and delivering "gift baskets" to non-Americans.
And most, if not all of whom are here illegally?
So we pay to recruit illegals?
Isn't there a law against this?
Aren't there an American citizen families in the county?
The "change we can believe in" is change I'd prefer to CHANGE back.
New EU president confirms New World Order desire
New EU president confirms New World Order desire
AOL Video
This has always been the plan of the Al Gore worldwide eco-movement.
That so many Americans just don't get it scares the heck out of me.
AOL Video
This has always been the plan of the Al Gore worldwide eco-movement.
That so many Americans just don't get it scares the heck out of me.
Your congressman's padded retirement plan
Your congressman's padded retirement plan
"After serving 18 years in Congress, former Rep. William Jefferson of Louisiana, a Democrat, will continue his service in a different federal institution -- prison.
He was sentenced recently to serve 13 years for bribery.
But his fellow prisoners will have to forgive Jefferson if he grins and whistles as he stamps out license plates.
That's because he is still eligible for a guaranteed $50,000 pension in his first year of retirement, which will increase each year thereafter with the cost of living"
"After serving 18 years in Congress, former Rep. William Jefferson of Louisiana, a Democrat, will continue his service in a different federal institution -- prison.
He was sentenced recently to serve 13 years for bribery.
But his fellow prisoners will have to forgive Jefferson if he grins and whistles as he stamps out license plates.
That's because he is still eligible for a guaranteed $50,000 pension in his first year of retirement, which will increase each year thereafter with the cost of living"
Société Générale tells clients how to prepare for 'global collapse' - Telegraph
Société Générale tells clients how to prepare for 'global collapse'
"Société Générale has advised clients to be ready for a possible 'global economic collapse' over the next two years, mapping a strategy of defensive investments to avoid wealth destruction."
"Société Générale has advised clients to be ready for a possible 'global economic collapse' over the next two years, mapping a strategy of defensive investments to avoid wealth destruction."
As AARP’s Membership Declines Its Profits Soar on Obama-Care Insurance
As AARP’s Membership Declines Its Profits Soar on Obama-Care Insurance
"“An AARP card is proof of stupidity”."
"“An AARP card is proof of stupidity”."
Boeing Laser Systems Destroy Unmanned Aerial Vehicles in Tests
Boeing Laser Systems Destroy Unmanned Aerial Vehicles in Tests
"The Boeing Company [NYSE: BA] in May demonstrated the ability of mobile laser weapon systems to perform a unique mission: track and destroy small unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs)."
"The Boeing Company [NYSE: BA] in May demonstrated the ability of mobile laser weapon systems to perform a unique mission: track and destroy small unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs)."
Thursday, November 19, 2009
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The $100 Million Health Care Vote?
The $100 Million Health Care Vote?
"What does it take to get a wavering senator to vote for health care reform?
Here’s a case study.
On page 432 of the Reid bill, there is a section increasing federal Medicaid subsidies for “certain states recovering from a major disaster.”
The section spends two pages defining which “states” would qualify, saying, among other things, that it would be states that “during the preceding 7 fiscal years” have been declared a “major disaster area.”
I am told the section applies to exactly one state: Louisiana, the home of moderate Democrat Mary Landrieu, who has been playing hard to get on the health care bill.
In other words, the bill spends two pages describing would could be written with a single world: Louisiana. (This may also help explain why the bill is long.)
Senator Harry Reid, who drafted the bill, cannot pass it without the support of Louisiana’s Mary Landrieu.
How much does it cost? According to the Congressional Budget Office: $100 million."
"What does it take to get a wavering senator to vote for health care reform?
Here’s a case study.
On page 432 of the Reid bill, there is a section increasing federal Medicaid subsidies for “certain states recovering from a major disaster.”
The section spends two pages defining which “states” would qualify, saying, among other things, that it would be states that “during the preceding 7 fiscal years” have been declared a “major disaster area.”
I am told the section applies to exactly one state: Louisiana, the home of moderate Democrat Mary Landrieu, who has been playing hard to get on the health care bill.
In other words, the bill spends two pages describing would could be written with a single world: Louisiana. (This may also help explain why the bill is long.)
Senator Harry Reid, who drafted the bill, cannot pass it without the support of Louisiana’s Mary Landrieu.
How much does it cost? According to the Congressional Budget Office: $100 million."
DRUDGE REPORT 2010®
DRUDGE REPORT 2010®: "CABLE NEWS RACE
NOV. 18, 2009
FOXNEWS HANNITY/PALIN 4,200,000
FOXNEWS O'REILLY 3,868,000
FOXNEWS BECK 2,512,000
FOXNEWS GRETA 2,383,000
FOXNEWS BAIER 2,235,000
FOXNEWS SHEP 1,980,000
MSNBC OLBERMANN 1,041,000
CNNHN GRACE 1,036,000
MSNBC MADDOW 957,000
CNN KING 835,000
MSNBC HARDBALL 625,000
CNN COOPER 611,000"
NOV. 18, 2009
FOXNEWS HANNITY/PALIN 4,200,000
FOXNEWS O'REILLY 3,868,000
FOXNEWS BECK 2,512,000
FOXNEWS GRETA 2,383,000
FOXNEWS BAIER 2,235,000
FOXNEWS SHEP 1,980,000
MSNBC OLBERMANN 1,041,000
CNNHN GRACE 1,036,000
MSNBC MADDOW 957,000
CNN KING 835,000
MSNBC HARDBALL 625,000
CNN COOPER 611,000"
Climatologists Baffled by Global Warming Time-Out
Stagnating Temperatures: Climatologists Baffled by Global Warming Time-Out
They promised us a warmer climate!
Sup wit dat?
They promised us a warmer climate!
Sup wit dat?
Schiffauer out for the MSU women's basketball season
Schiffauer out for the MSU women's basketball season
"Michigan State's women's basketball team has created a new definition for ACL -- Another Cursed Leg.
The latest to suffer a torn knee ligament is sophomore Courtney Schiffauer, who will miss the rest of the 21st-ranked Spartans' season after injuring her right ACL in practice Tuesday"
Dang!
"Michigan State's women's basketball team has created a new definition for ACL -- Another Cursed Leg.
The latest to suffer a torn knee ligament is sophomore Courtney Schiffauer, who will miss the rest of the 21st-ranked Spartans' season after injuring her right ACL in practice Tuesday"
Dang!
and now Allyssa goes down!
... shoot, double dang!
... shoot, double dang!
old news?
click to see what should be a national disgrace:
Gross Jobs
Gross Jobs
"The truth about Obama’s much-ballyhooed job creation is that more than half of his alleged new jobs turn out to be government jobs.
Government jobs don’t count, Mr. President.
Remember, many things governments do actually drain us.
Jobs in the marketplace, on the other hand, serve real consumer demand, make us all better off.
They also help pay the taxes for those government jobs.
Employing more people in government means needing more real jobs to pay for the government ones."
"The truth about Obama’s much-ballyhooed job creation is that more than half of his alleged new jobs turn out to be government jobs.
Government jobs don’t count, Mr. President.
Remember, many things governments do actually drain us.
Jobs in the marketplace, on the other hand, serve real consumer demand, make us all better off.
They also help pay the taxes for those government jobs.
Employing more people in government means needing more real jobs to pay for the government ones."
AP Turns Heads for Devoting 11 Reporters to Palin Book 'Fact Check'
AP Turns Heads for Devoting 11 Reporters to Palin Book 'Fact Check'
"Reviewing books and holding public figures accountable is at the core of good journalism, but the treatment Palin's book received appears to be something new for the AP.
The organization did not review for accuracy recent books by the late Sen. Ted Kennedy, then-Sen. Joe Biden, either book by Barack Obama released before he was president or autobiographies by Bill or Hillary Clinton."
"Reviewing books and holding public figures accountable is at the core of good journalism, but the treatment Palin's book received appears to be something new for the AP.
The organization did not review for accuracy recent books by the late Sen. Ted Kennedy, then-Sen. Joe Biden, either book by Barack Obama released before he was president or autobiographies by Bill or Hillary Clinton."
The American Spectator : American Buffoon
The American Spectator : American Buffoon
Barack Obama was supposed to be America's answer to the suave, European head of state. A debonair gentleman of the world, he would charm even the most sophisticated foreign leaders and prove, finally, that the United States is developed culturally, not just economically.
Then he gave some DVDs.
Ian Drury of London's Daily Mail wrote on March 8, "As he headed back home from Washington, Gordon Brown must have rummaged through his party bag with disappointment.
"Because all he got was a set of DVDs. Barack Obama, a box set of 25 classic American films -- a gift about as exciting as a pair of socks."
Brown had given Obama a set of pens made from part of the HMS Gannet, a Victorian-era anti-slave ship. A desk that has sat in the Oval Office since 1880 was made from the timbers of the HMS Resolute, the Gannet's sister ship. It was a stunningly thoughtful and unique gift left unreciprocated.
But even worse, Obama refused to hold a joint press conference with Brown or invite him for an official White House dinner. And to top it all off, he sent back a bust of Churchill that was lent to the White House after the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks.
Russia Today wrote that week, "Despite Barack Obama's eloquent elocution, ivy school credentials and electric charisma, there is talk that he lacks the most crucial element of any great leader: judgment."
Since March, Obama's social gaffes have continued. In April he bowed to the Saudi king; in July he was photographed staring at the rear end of a 16-year-old girl and suggested that Cambridge Police Officer James Crowley was stupid; in October he refused to meet with the Dalai Lama; in September he refused five requests from Gordon Brown for a one-on-one meeting but found time to fly to Copenhagen to promote Chicago's Olympic bid; and this month he sent Hillary Clinton to attend the 20th anniversary of the fall of the Berlin Wall, then topped it all with an obsequious bow to the emperor of Japan.
Obama cannot even blame the Japan bow on proper protocol. It was anything but proper. It was so inappropriate that it even offended the Japanese.
Barack Obama was supposed to be America's answer to the suave, European head of state. A debonair gentleman of the world, he would charm even the most sophisticated foreign leaders and prove, finally, that the United States is developed culturally, not just economically.
Then he gave some DVDs.
Ian Drury of London's Daily Mail wrote on March 8, "As he headed back home from Washington, Gordon Brown must have rummaged through his party bag with disappointment.
"Because all he got was a set of DVDs. Barack Obama, a box set of 25 classic American films -- a gift about as exciting as a pair of socks."
Brown had given Obama a set of pens made from part of the HMS Gannet, a Victorian-era anti-slave ship. A desk that has sat in the Oval Office since 1880 was made from the timbers of the HMS Resolute, the Gannet's sister ship. It was a stunningly thoughtful and unique gift left unreciprocated.
But even worse, Obama refused to hold a joint press conference with Brown or invite him for an official White House dinner. And to top it all off, he sent back a bust of Churchill that was lent to the White House after the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks.
Russia Today wrote that week, "Despite Barack Obama's eloquent elocution, ivy school credentials and electric charisma, there is talk that he lacks the most crucial element of any great leader: judgment."
Since March, Obama's social gaffes have continued. In April he bowed to the Saudi king; in July he was photographed staring at the rear end of a 16-year-old girl and suggested that Cambridge Police Officer James Crowley was stupid; in October he refused to meet with the Dalai Lama; in September he refused five requests from Gordon Brown for a one-on-one meeting but found time to fly to Copenhagen to promote Chicago's Olympic bid; and this month he sent Hillary Clinton to attend the 20th anniversary of the fall of the Berlin Wall, then topped it all with an obsequious bow to the emperor of Japan.
Obama cannot even blame the Japan bow on proper protocol. It was anything but proper. It was so inappropriate that it even offended the Japanese.
Wednesday, November 18, 2009
Harry Reid Wants to Vote on a Phantom Bill (Dem Dirty Tricks Edition)
Harry Reid Wants to Vote on a Phantom Bill
"What Reid wants is for the Senate to vote to proceed on a bill that has not been seen, not read, not studied by the very Senators from whom he wants to force a vote.
If this bill is so important, why isn’t it imperative that our Senators actually get to see the thing they are expected to vote on?
And that isn’t the worst of the unconscionable dirty tricks that Reid is playing with this “important” legislation. He’s also planning on a bait and switch tactic once he gets his vote to proceed.
News is that Reid wants to use a Senate procedure where a bill can be swapped out with another on the floor.
He wants to bring an unassociated bill to the floor and once it gets there he wants to swap that bill out with the healthcare bill. In other words, he wants to bring a fake bill to the floor and pull a bait-and-switch act to suddenly plop before the Senate the heretofore unseen healthcare bill.
Then he wants to force a quick vote."
"What Reid wants is for the Senate to vote to proceed on a bill that has not been seen, not read, not studied by the very Senators from whom he wants to force a vote.
If this bill is so important, why isn’t it imperative that our Senators actually get to see the thing they are expected to vote on?
And that isn’t the worst of the unconscionable dirty tricks that Reid is playing with this “important” legislation. He’s also planning on a bait and switch tactic once he gets his vote to proceed.
News is that Reid wants to use a Senate procedure where a bill can be swapped out with another on the floor.
He wants to bring an unassociated bill to the floor and once it gets there he wants to swap that bill out with the healthcare bill. In other words, he wants to bring a fake bill to the floor and pull a bait-and-switch act to suddenly plop before the Senate the heretofore unseen healthcare bill.
Then he wants to force a quick vote."
Poor women 'bear climate burden'
Poor women 'bear climate burden'
"Women in developing countries will be the most vulnerable to climate change, a report from the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) has warned.
The agency said there was a disproportionate burden on those women and called for greater equality.
They do most of the agricultural work, and are therefore affected by weather-related natural disasters impacting on food, energy and water, it said.
Slower population growth would help cut greenhouse gas emissions, it added."
These are the enemies our government has funded to destroy our way of life.
Do not ignore their power!
"Women in developing countries will be the most vulnerable to climate change, a report from the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) has warned.
The agency said there was a disproportionate burden on those women and called for greater equality.
They do most of the agricultural work, and are therefore affected by weather-related natural disasters impacting on food, energy and water, it said.
Slower population growth would help cut greenhouse gas emissions, it added."
These are the enemies our government has funded to destroy our way of life.
Do not ignore their power!
Finally, A Congressman With a Solution: Stop Complaining So Much
Finally, A Congressman With a Solution: Stop Complaining So Much
"Muchby Capitol Confidential
Sure, the economy sucks. Unemployment is at least 10.2% and, yes, if you include part-time workers who would rather have full-time jobs it may be over 17%. The government is showering our cash on Wall Street and burning through piles of our children and grandchildren’s money “saving” phantom jobs in Congressional Districts that don’t exist.
Oh yeah, and Congress is planning for a government take-over of our health care system, legislating higher energy prices and raising taxes. Sheesh, no wonder we’re feeling blue.
Well, not to worry, three-term Congressman Emanuel Cleaver (D-MO) has found a solution: Stop Complaining So Much. Rep. Cleaver is currently circulating a “Dear Colleague” letter, seeking co-sponsors for House Concurrent Resolution 155, designating the day before Thanksgiving as the official “Complaint Free Wednesday.”
You see, as the Congressman explains:
From time to time, we all experience anxiety, frustration, stress, and regret. And often, we respond to these feelings with a criticism or a complaint. Regrettably, complaining keeps people stuck on current problems, inhibiting them from thinking constructively to find solutions. Research has also shown that complaining can be harmful to one’s emotional and physical health; relationships; and can limit professional career success."
These our our "leaders".... as long as we continue to elect and support them....
"Muchby Capitol Confidential
Sure, the economy sucks. Unemployment is at least 10.2% and, yes, if you include part-time workers who would rather have full-time jobs it may be over 17%. The government is showering our cash on Wall Street and burning through piles of our children and grandchildren’s money “saving” phantom jobs in Congressional Districts that don’t exist.
Oh yeah, and Congress is planning for a government take-over of our health care system, legislating higher energy prices and raising taxes. Sheesh, no wonder we’re feeling blue.
Well, not to worry, three-term Congressman Emanuel Cleaver (D-MO) has found a solution: Stop Complaining So Much. Rep. Cleaver is currently circulating a “Dear Colleague” letter, seeking co-sponsors for House Concurrent Resolution 155, designating the day before Thanksgiving as the official “Complaint Free Wednesday.”
You see, as the Congressman explains:
From time to time, we all experience anxiety, frustration, stress, and regret. And often, we respond to these feelings with a criticism or a complaint. Regrettably, complaining keeps people stuck on current problems, inhibiting them from thinking constructively to find solutions. Research has also shown that complaining can be harmful to one’s emotional and physical health; relationships; and can limit professional career success."
These our our "leaders".... as long as we continue to elect and support them....
Obama choice for Treasury post, fifth nominee to run into tax problems
Obama choice for Treasury post, fifth nominee to run into tax problems
"President Barack Obama's choice for a top job in the Treasury Department did not disclose all of her late tax payments until she was repeatedly prodded by Senate investigators, a congressional report issued Wednesday said.
Obama's nominee for undersecretary of the Treasury for international affairs, Lael Brainard, is the fifth presidential nominee to reveal tax issues during the congressional vetting process"
Well, crooks kinda only know crooks....right?
"President Barack Obama's choice for a top job in the Treasury Department did not disclose all of her late tax payments until she was repeatedly prodded by Senate investigators, a congressional report issued Wednesday said.
Obama's nominee for undersecretary of the Treasury for international affairs, Lael Brainard, is the fifth presidential nominee to reveal tax issues during the congressional vetting process"
Well, crooks kinda only know crooks....right?
Jesse Jackson: 'You can't vote against healthcare and call yourself a black man'
Jesse Jackson: 'You can't vote against healthcare and call yourself a black man'
"The Rev. Jesse Jackson on Wednesday night criticized Rep. Artur Davis (D-Ala.) for voting against the Democrats’ signature healthcare bill.
“We even have blacks voting against the healthcare bill,” Jackson said at a reception Wednesday night.
“You can’t vote against healthcare and call yourself a black man.”"
So Jesse is sayin' it ain't about the content of your character......
"The Rev. Jesse Jackson on Wednesday night criticized Rep. Artur Davis (D-Ala.) for voting against the Democrats’ signature healthcare bill.
“We even have blacks voting against the healthcare bill,” Jackson said at a reception Wednesday night.
“You can’t vote against healthcare and call yourself a black man.”"
So Jesse is sayin' it ain't about the content of your character......
Obama Promotes Louis Butler Despite WI Voters Rejecting Him
Obama Promotes Louis Butler Despite WI Voters Rejecting Him
"As consolation prizes go, Louis Butler can't complain.
After being twice rejected by Wisconsin voters for a place on the state Supreme Court, the former judge has instead been nominated by President Obama to a lifetime seat on the federal district court.
If he is confirmed, Wisconsin voters will have years to contend with the decisions of a judge they made clear they would rather live without."
"As consolation prizes go, Louis Butler can't complain.
After being twice rejected by Wisconsin voters for a place on the state Supreme Court, the former judge has instead been nominated by President Obama to a lifetime seat on the federal district court.
If he is confirmed, Wisconsin voters will have years to contend with the decisions of a judge they made clear they would rather live without."
IN RESPONSE TO THE EARLIER POST ON FEMALE VIAGRA
IN RESPONSE TO THE EARLIER POST ON FEMALE VIAGRA
......several readers noted this passage on the drug and Britain’s NHS:
It is not known yet how much it will cost, but is unlikely to be widely prescribed by a health service struggling to find cash to fund treatment of life-threatening illnesses.
Okay, not death panels, but . . . “booty panels?”"
......several readers noted this passage on the drug and Britain’s NHS:
It is not known yet how much it will cost, but is unlikely to be widely prescribed by a health service struggling to find cash to fund treatment of life-threatening illnesses.
Okay, not death panels, but . . . “booty panels?”"
Ford Airport officials say they can pay off $117 million parking ramp opening Wednesday despite drop in passenger traffic
Ford Airport officials say they can pay off $117 million parking ramp opening Wednesday despite drop in passenger traffic
"The new $130 million parking ramp at Gerald R. Ford International Airport opening Wednesday is no doubt an impressive looking structure that will provide welcome protection from the elements to visitors.
But as drivers begin pulling into the four-story, garage that features a wave-like glass and steel canopy, some may wonder how airport leaders plan to pay off the project's debt amid a struggling economy and a yearlong drop in passenger traffic"
Let's see the real figures next year.
"The new $130 million parking ramp at Gerald R. Ford International Airport opening Wednesday is no doubt an impressive looking structure that will provide welcome protection from the elements to visitors.
But as drivers begin pulling into the four-story, garage that features a wave-like glass and steel canopy, some may wonder how airport leaders plan to pay off the project's debt amid a struggling economy and a yearlong drop in passenger traffic"
Let's see the real figures next year.
Calif. requires TVs to be more energy efficient
Calif. requires TVs to be more energy efficient
"Power-hungry TVs will be banned from store shelves in California after state regulators adopted a first-in-the nation mandate to lower electricity demand."
Great move...after all, there's nothing else going on in California.
Right?
"Power-hungry TVs will be banned from store shelves in California after state regulators adopted a first-in-the nation mandate to lower electricity demand."
Great move...after all, there's nothing else going on in California.
Right?
Worse Than Taxes: The Spending
Worse Than Taxes: The Spending
"Last week on 'The O'Reilly Factor', we talked about California's and New York's enormous budget deficits and planned tax increases. Those states would have big surpluses had they just grown their governments in pace with inflation.
But of course they didn't.
Now the politicians act like their current deficits are something imposed on them by the recession.
But that's nonsense.
They created the problem with their reckless spending.
Let's look at the particulars.
Had the government of New York state grown at the rate of population and inflation over the past 10 years, it would have a $14 billion surplus today.
Instead, spending grew at twice the rate of inflation. So New York has a $3 billion deficit."
"Last week on 'The O'Reilly Factor', we talked about California's and New York's enormous budget deficits and planned tax increases. Those states would have big surpluses had they just grown their governments in pace with inflation.
But of course they didn't.
Now the politicians act like their current deficits are something imposed on them by the recession.
But that's nonsense.
They created the problem with their reckless spending.
Let's look at the particulars.
Had the government of New York state grown at the rate of population and inflation over the past 10 years, it would have a $14 billion surplus today.
Instead, spending grew at twice the rate of inflation. So New York has a $3 billion deficit."
Stimulus Fraud
Stimulus Fraud
"Not only have 640,000 new jobs not been created from the stimulus — an absurd claim, given the economy's loss of nearly 4 million payroll positions this year — but it now seems that even the jobs themselves are fictional.
Thanks to the digging of a number of data sleuths, it turns out that many of the jobs reported by states come from made-up congressional districts.
This would be funny if it weren't a criminal waste of public funds.
And yet, G. Edward DeSeve, who runs the government's economic recovery program, says the errors are 'relatively few' and 'don't change the fundamental conclusions one can draw from the data.'
Excuse us?
The 'relatively few' errors are in fact thousands in number.
But that's the pernicious place we find ourselves today — a public official defending shoddy accounting that looks an awful lot like fraud to the tune of billions of dollars."
"Not only have 640,000 new jobs not been created from the stimulus — an absurd claim, given the economy's loss of nearly 4 million payroll positions this year — but it now seems that even the jobs themselves are fictional.
Thanks to the digging of a number of data sleuths, it turns out that many of the jobs reported by states come from made-up congressional districts.
This would be funny if it weren't a criminal waste of public funds.
And yet, G. Edward DeSeve, who runs the government's economic recovery program, says the errors are 'relatively few' and 'don't change the fundamental conclusions one can draw from the data.'
Excuse us?
The 'relatively few' errors are in fact thousands in number.
But that's the pernicious place we find ourselves today — a public official defending shoddy accounting that looks an awful lot like fraud to the tune of billions of dollars."
State law requires breast exam coverage
State law requires breast exam coverage
There's a law that REQUIRES breast exams?
I thought it was....ya know....kinda.....gonna happen anyway.....
There's a law that REQUIRES breast exams?
I thought it was....ya know....kinda.....gonna happen anyway.....
Babe Theory of Revolution and 2010
Babe Theory of Revolution and 2010
From WILLisms, we have this passage from P.J. O’Rourke from “A Parliament Of Whores”:
“Best of all, there were hardly any beautiful women at the [Housing Now!] rally.
I saw a journalist friend of mine in the Mall, and he and I purused this line of inquiry as assiduously as our happy private lives allow.
Practically every female at the march was a bowser.
“We’re not being sexist here,” my friend insisted.
“It’s not that looks matter per se.
It’s just that beautiful women are always on the cutting edge of social trends.
Remember how many beautiful women were in the anti-war movement twenty years ago?
In the yoga classes fifteen years ago?
At the discos ten years ago?
On Wall Street five years ago?
Where the beautiful women are is where the country is headed,” said my friend.
“And this,” he looked around him, “isn’t it.”
So let us review.
The French Revolution:"
From WILLisms, we have this passage from P.J. O’Rourke from “A Parliament Of Whores”:
“Best of all, there were hardly any beautiful women at the [Housing Now!] rally.
I saw a journalist friend of mine in the Mall, and he and I purused this line of inquiry as assiduously as our happy private lives allow.
Practically every female at the march was a bowser.
“We’re not being sexist here,” my friend insisted.
“It’s not that looks matter per se.
It’s just that beautiful women are always on the cutting edge of social trends.
Remember how many beautiful women were in the anti-war movement twenty years ago?
In the yoga classes fifteen years ago?
At the discos ten years ago?
On Wall Street five years ago?
Where the beautiful women are is where the country is headed,” said my friend.
“And this,” he looked around him, “isn’t it.”
So let us review.
The French Revolution:"
Woman in Wal-Mart incident faces new charge | Muskegon News
Woman in Wal-Mart incident faces new charge
A 35-year-old Muskegon woman accused of stealing goods from a local Wal-Mart store and then head-butting and urinating on a security guard now faces a third criminal charge — unlawful imprisonment.
Marilyn Cole’s preliminary examination has been rescheduled for Dec. 1, pending review of charges including one count each of unarmed robbery, interfering with a crime report and unlawful imprisonment.
Cole’s alleged accomplice, Rashieka Stewart, 23, of Muskegon, faces one charge of unarmed robbery. Stewart on Tuesday waived her preliminary examination and a judge set her bond at $15,000 cash or surety.
According to Roosevelt Park Police Chief Bill Regan, the women attempted to steal merchandise, including make-up and curtains, from the Henry Street Wal-Mart on Halloween night.
Regan said the women broke away from a security guard who attempted to detain them at the front door. The security guard ran after the women and attempted to block Cole from getting into the passenger’s seat of the car in which she and Stewart were preparing to flee.
Regan said Cole “head-butted” the security guard, who fell backwards into the vehicle.
The chief said Cole then sat on the man.
“He grabbed his phone and called 911, but she fought for the phone and then urinated on him,” Regan said."
Wow... there's a whole lot of goin' on goin' on here in Norton Shores.....make-up, curtains, pee, butt-on-the-head, butt-on-the-guard, pee, surety......
A 35-year-old Muskegon woman accused of stealing goods from a local Wal-Mart store and then head-butting and urinating on a security guard now faces a third criminal charge — unlawful imprisonment.
Marilyn Cole’s preliminary examination has been rescheduled for Dec. 1, pending review of charges including one count each of unarmed robbery, interfering with a crime report and unlawful imprisonment.
Cole’s alleged accomplice, Rashieka Stewart, 23, of Muskegon, faces one charge of unarmed robbery. Stewart on Tuesday waived her preliminary examination and a judge set her bond at $15,000 cash or surety.
According to Roosevelt Park Police Chief Bill Regan, the women attempted to steal merchandise, including make-up and curtains, from the Henry Street Wal-Mart on Halloween night.
Regan said the women broke away from a security guard who attempted to detain them at the front door. The security guard ran after the women and attempted to block Cole from getting into the passenger’s seat of the car in which she and Stewart were preparing to flee.
Regan said Cole “head-butted” the security guard, who fell backwards into the vehicle.
The chief said Cole then sat on the man.
“He grabbed his phone and called 911, but she fought for the phone and then urinated on him,” Regan said."
Wow... there's a whole lot of goin' on goin' on here in Norton Shores.....make-up, curtains, pee, butt-on-the-head, butt-on-the-guard, pee, surety......
Hey, who’s up for six minutes of “teabagger” jokes on MSNBC?
VIDEO: Hey, who’s up for six minutes of “teabagger” jokes on MSNBC?
No, just kidding.
There’s only two minutes or so of actual jokes.
The other four-plus minutes are devoted to Olby taking credit for mainstreaming a sexual euphemism to degrade his political opponents.
Good work; it’s important to have goals, especially when you’re the Edward R. Murrow of your generation.”"
No, just kidding.
There’s only two minutes or so of actual jokes.
The other four-plus minutes are devoted to Olby taking credit for mainstreaming a sexual euphemism to degrade his political opponents.
Good work; it’s important to have goals, especially when you’re the Edward R. Murrow of your generation.”"
Tuesday, November 17, 2009
AP source: NYC papers' circulation offices raided
AP source: NYC papers' circulation offices raided: "Investigators in New York City raided circulation offices at some of the nation's largest newspapers Tuesday as part of a union corruption probe, a law enforcement official said.
Police officers working with the Manhattan district attorney's office searched circulation offices of The New York Times in Queens, the New York Post and the Daily News in Manhattan, and El Diario in Brooklyn, the official said, speaking to The Associated Press on the condition of anonymity because the investigation is ongoing.
Investigators were seeking paperwork related to the Newspaper and Mail Deliverers Union, which packages and delivers newspapers across the region. Calls to the union's headquarters were not answered Tuesday."
Police officers working with the Manhattan district attorney's office searched circulation offices of The New York Times in Queens, the New York Post and the Daily News in Manhattan, and El Diario in Brooklyn, the official said, speaking to The Associated Press on the condition of anonymity because the investigation is ongoing.
Investigators were seeking paperwork related to the Newspaper and Mail Deliverers Union, which packages and delivers newspapers across the region. Calls to the union's headquarters were not answered Tuesday."
Doctor Shot Outside Grocery Store - Houston News Story - KPRC Houston
Doctor Shot Outside Grocery Store
"Houston police said Anthony J. Bell, 40, shot Dr. Stephanie Wuest, 28, in the parking lot of a Kroger store on Old Spanish Trail and Cambridge Street at about 6:30 p.m. Thursday."
This is Jim and Lois' daughter in law.
She's gonn be OK hopefully.
"Houston police said Anthony J. Bell, 40, shot Dr. Stephanie Wuest, 28, in the parking lot of a Kroger store on Old Spanish Trail and Cambridge Street at about 6:30 p.m. Thursday."
This is Jim and Lois' daughter in law.
She's gonn be OK hopefully.
Police Push On With Probe Of Chicago School Board President Michael Scott's Death
Police Push On With Probe Of Chicago School Board President Michael Scott's Death
"Police usually close a death investigation when the Medical Examiner's office comes down with a suicide ruling, but in the case of Chicago School Board President Michael Scott, that is not happening."
Bummer dude, you live ...lived.. in ObamaLand.......
"Police usually close a death investigation when the Medical Examiner's office comes down with a suicide ruling, but in the case of Chicago School Board President Michael Scott, that is not happening."
Bummer dude, you live ...lived.. in ObamaLand.......
Hunger a growing problem in America, USDA reports
Hunger a growing problem in America, USDA reports
"In the survey used to measure food shortages, people were considered to have food insecurity if they answered 'yes' to several of a series of questions.
Among the questions were whether, in the past year, their food sometimes ran out before they had money to buy more, whether they could not afford to eat nutritionally balanced meals, and whether adults in the family sometimes cut the size of their meals -- or skipped them -- because they lacked money for food.
The report defined the degree of their food insecurity by the number of the questions to which they answered yes."
Good golly, is this nation nuts!
The USDA, a government department, uses the junkyist of junk surveys to "prove" a non-problem and every media in the world picks it up and touts the disaster that is "starving America".
Gimme a break!
"In the survey used to measure food shortages, people were considered to have food insecurity if they answered 'yes' to several of a series of questions.
Among the questions were whether, in the past year, their food sometimes ran out before they had money to buy more, whether they could not afford to eat nutritionally balanced meals, and whether adults in the family sometimes cut the size of their meals -- or skipped them -- because they lacked money for food.
The report defined the degree of their food insecurity by the number of the questions to which they answered yes."
Good golly, is this nation nuts!
The USDA, a government department, uses the junkyist of junk surveys to "prove" a non-problem and every media in the world picks it up and touts the disaster that is "starving America".
Gimme a break!
Monday, November 16, 2009
Wood making comeback as power source
Wood making comeback as power source
"One of the world's oldest energy sources is making a comeback.
Across the USA, power plants are turning to wood to make electricity. The move is spurred by state mandates to encourage renewable power and by bills moving through Congress that require more renewable electricity nationwide."
Atlanta Lou:
"Our nation has lost its mind -- on matters technical and financial."
The reporter's ignorance or ....what else could explain this idiotic article, is stunning.
"One of the world's oldest energy sources is making a comeback.
Across the USA, power plants are turning to wood to make electricity. The move is spurred by state mandates to encourage renewable power and by bills moving through Congress that require more renewable electricity nationwide."
Atlanta Lou:
"Our nation has lost its mind -- on matters technical and financial."
The reporter's ignorance or ....what else could explain this idiotic article, is stunning.
U.S. troop funds diverted to pet projects
U.S. troop funds diverted to pet projects
"Senators diverted $2.6 billion in funds in a defense spending bill to pet projects largely at the expense of accounts that pay for fuel, ammunition and training for U.S. troops, including those fighting wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, according to an analysis.
Among the 778 such projects, known as earmarks, packed into the bill: $25 million for a new World War II museum at the University of New Orleans and $20 million to launch an educational institute named after the late Sen. Edward M. Kennedy, Massachusetts Democrat.
While earmarks are hardly new in Washington, 'in 30 years on Capitol Hill, I never saw Congress mangle the defense budget as badly as this year,' said Winslow Wheeler, a former Senate staffer who worked on defense funding and oversight for both Republicans and Democrats. He is now a senior fellow at the Center for Defense Information, an independent research organization."
My friend Atlanta Lou comments:
"Years ago, during the Cold War, I remember reading a piece written by a Russian, who claimed that he loved his country but hated his government.
At the time, I did not understand his attitude.
I do now."
"Senators diverted $2.6 billion in funds in a defense spending bill to pet projects largely at the expense of accounts that pay for fuel, ammunition and training for U.S. troops, including those fighting wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, according to an analysis.
Among the 778 such projects, known as earmarks, packed into the bill: $25 million for a new World War II museum at the University of New Orleans and $20 million to launch an educational institute named after the late Sen. Edward M. Kennedy, Massachusetts Democrat.
While earmarks are hardly new in Washington, 'in 30 years on Capitol Hill, I never saw Congress mangle the defense budget as badly as this year,' said Winslow Wheeler, a former Senate staffer who worked on defense funding and oversight for both Republicans and Democrats. He is now a senior fellow at the Center for Defense Information, an independent research organization."
My friend Atlanta Lou comments:
"Years ago, during the Cold War, I remember reading a piece written by a Russian, who claimed that he loved his country but hated his government.
At the time, I did not understand his attitude.
I do now."
The Unravelling of the Real 3D Mandelbrot Fractal
The Unravelling of the Real 3D Mandelbrot Fractal
"The original Mandelbrot is an amazing object that has captured the public's imagination for 30 years with its cascading patterns and hypnotically colourful detail.
It's known as a 'fractal' - a type of shape that yields (sometimes elaborate) detail forever, no matter how far you 'zoom' into it (think of the trunk of a tree sprouting branches, which in turn split off into smaller branches, which themselves yield twigs etc.).
It's found by following a relatively simple math formula.
"The original Mandelbrot is an amazing object that has captured the public's imagination for 30 years with its cascading patterns and hypnotically colourful detail.
It's known as a 'fractal' - a type of shape that yields (sometimes elaborate) detail forever, no matter how far you 'zoom' into it (think of the trunk of a tree sprouting branches, which in turn split off into smaller branches, which themselves yield twigs etc.).
It's found by following a relatively simple math formula.
But in the end, it's still only 2D and flat - there's no depth, shadows, perspective, or light sourcing.
What we have featured in this article is a potential 3D version of the same fractal.
For the impatient, you can skip to the nice pics, but the below makes an interesting read (with a little math as well for the curious)."
Hoffman 'unconcedes' in N.Y.-23 House race
Hoffman 'unconcedes' in N.Y.-23 House race
"Conservative Party candidate Doug Hoffman has 'unconceded' in New York's special House election after reports that the vote margin between him and Rep. Bill Owens (D) has narrowed."
Hmmm....
"Conservative Party candidate Doug Hoffman has 'unconceded' in New York's special House election after reports that the vote margin between him and Rep. Bill Owens (D) has narrowed."
Hmmm....
Barney Frank floats loan plan for unemployed homeowners
Frank floats loan plan for unemployed homeowners:
"Rep. Barney Frank said Monday he is pushing a proposal to use some of the interest the government collects from the financial industry bailout to give loans to unemployed homeowners struggling to pay the mortgage."
"Rep. Barney Frank said Monday he is pushing a proposal to use some of the interest the government collects from the financial industry bailout to give loans to unemployed homeowners struggling to pay the mortgage."
What a great country.....but didn't we just do this a few years ago?
And didn't it NOT work?
Barney Butt strikes again!
Timothy P. White: Where Are the Doctors to Implement ObamaCare? - WSJ.com
Timothy P. White: Where Are the Doctors to Implement ObamaCare?
"A comprehensive strategy for growing the physician workforce – as well as other allied health professionals such as nurses and physicians' assistants – should be developed and supported with a federal investment at the same time health insurance is expanded to cover millions of additional people.
Without this, gaining access to prompt medical care for all patients will become even more difficult. There will be longer wait times for appointments, less face time with a physician and, in all likelihood, delayed diagnoses leading to more expensive treatment and increased risk of complications. One need only look at the experience of Massachusetts, where the adoption of universal health coverage has intensified the physician shortage."
"A comprehensive strategy for growing the physician workforce – as well as other allied health professionals such as nurses and physicians' assistants – should be developed and supported with a federal investment at the same time health insurance is expanded to cover millions of additional people.
Without this, gaining access to prompt medical care for all patients will become even more difficult. There will be longer wait times for appointments, less face time with a physician and, in all likelihood, delayed diagnoses leading to more expensive treatment and increased risk of complications. One need only look at the experience of Massachusetts, where the adoption of universal health coverage has intensified the physician shortage."
Navy Tests 32-Megajoule Railgun
Navy Tests 32-Megajoule Railgun
"The Navy’s eventual goal is a ship-mounted railgun that can fire a projectile more than 200 miles at speeds of more than 8,000 feet per second.
Context: The Navy’s current MK 45 five-inch gun has a range of just 20 miles.
The Navy hopes to have a prototype ready sometime between 2016 and 2018."
"The Navy’s eventual goal is a ship-mounted railgun that can fire a projectile more than 200 miles at speeds of more than 8,000 feet per second.
Context: The Navy’s current MK 45 five-inch gun has a range of just 20 miles.
The Navy hopes to have a prototype ready sometime between 2016 and 2018."
This is interesting!
Read about this "rail" gun.
Very nifty for us to have it and not the bad guys..... don't tell BarryO......
Investors.com - The Most Sinister Of Motives
Investors.com - The Most Sinister Of Motives: "The Most Sinister Of Motives
Posted 11/13/2009 07:54 PM ET
Geopolitics: Why would China give uranium to Pakistan? Why would Russia help Iran build an A-bomb? Regional balance of power plays a role, but a nuclear 9/11 could restore Moscow and Beijing as superpowers.
Think of the destabilizing effects of the 9/11 terrorist attacks. The country's fastest form of transportation was paralyzed as we picked up the pieces. Financial markets had to be closed, and when they reopened, private industry was dealt an immediate body blow.
Recession was a foregone conclusion. Business decisions had to be reconsidered, massive investments re-evaluated, new hirings postponed and layoffs expanded. Many firms folded.
Meanwhile, a nervous public wondered if the Golden Age of American dominance and prosperity was over. Was this the first of a series of attacks? Were we now so vulnerable within our own homeland that terrorism would become routine, part of the new fabric of the lives of those residing in free countries?
All of that came from the destruction of three buildings (the Twin Towers and 7 World Trade Center) and the severe damage to a fourth (the Pentagon). Several thousand died.
A nuclear version of the 9/11 attacks would destroy dozens of buildings, kill hundreds of thousands, and poison maybe millions with radiation. The Ground Zero of such an attack would not be a meeting place for prayer and remembrance, the site of a memorial monument, or a place where a new tower would rise to the skies.
The entire region would, instead, be uninhabitable, bathed in deadly cancer-causing emissions.
Would the U.S. be able to bounce back from such a catastrophe, as we did after 9/11, simply by mobilizing our forces against terrorist havens?
Perhaps. But maybe not."
Posted 11/13/2009 07:54 PM ET
Geopolitics: Why would China give uranium to Pakistan? Why would Russia help Iran build an A-bomb? Regional balance of power plays a role, but a nuclear 9/11 could restore Moscow and Beijing as superpowers.
Think of the destabilizing effects of the 9/11 terrorist attacks. The country's fastest form of transportation was paralyzed as we picked up the pieces. Financial markets had to be closed, and when they reopened, private industry was dealt an immediate body blow.
Recession was a foregone conclusion. Business decisions had to be reconsidered, massive investments re-evaluated, new hirings postponed and layoffs expanded. Many firms folded.
Meanwhile, a nervous public wondered if the Golden Age of American dominance and prosperity was over. Was this the first of a series of attacks? Were we now so vulnerable within our own homeland that terrorism would become routine, part of the new fabric of the lives of those residing in free countries?
All of that came from the destruction of three buildings (the Twin Towers and 7 World Trade Center) and the severe damage to a fourth (the Pentagon). Several thousand died.
A nuclear version of the 9/11 attacks would destroy dozens of buildings, kill hundreds of thousands, and poison maybe millions with radiation. The Ground Zero of such an attack would not be a meeting place for prayer and remembrance, the site of a memorial monument, or a place where a new tower would rise to the skies.
The entire region would, instead, be uninhabitable, bathed in deadly cancer-causing emissions.
Would the U.S. be able to bounce back from such a catastrophe, as we did after 9/11, simply by mobilizing our forces against terrorist havens?
Perhaps. But maybe not."
Editorial: Share the pain
Editorial: Share the pain
"Isn’t there any other way?
The best way to save jobs is not the tax hike ideas floated by Mayor George Heartwell and a local police union leader.
At least not yet.
Before putting that option to a skeptical public, city employees should look at sharing the pain.
Everyone, from the rank and file to those at the top, should consider modest, reasonable pay cuts to save many jobs, especially police and firefighters.
This suggestion is not made lightly or without regard to personal sacrifice.
If the state’s economy were roaring and pay rising, this wouldn’t be on the table.
But a much different — and more difficult — reality of life in Michigan now is that private-sector salaries are trending down.
Many residents have had significant pay cuts.
Many others are out of work.
In dire times, it is reasonable that these same taxpayers seek pay adjustments among government workers in the name of saving jobs. Before deep layoffs occur. And before a tax hike is pursued.
Salary cuts can bring the savings needed to save jobs."
Amazing that this is from Paul Keep's GR Press.
"Isn’t there any other way?
The best way to save jobs is not the tax hike ideas floated by Mayor George Heartwell and a local police union leader.
At least not yet.
Before putting that option to a skeptical public, city employees should look at sharing the pain.
Everyone, from the rank and file to those at the top, should consider modest, reasonable pay cuts to save many jobs, especially police and firefighters.
This suggestion is not made lightly or without regard to personal sacrifice.
If the state’s economy were roaring and pay rising, this wouldn’t be on the table.
But a much different — and more difficult — reality of life in Michigan now is that private-sector salaries are trending down.
Many residents have had significant pay cuts.
Many others are out of work.
In dire times, it is reasonable that these same taxpayers seek pay adjustments among government workers in the name of saving jobs. Before deep layoffs occur. And before a tax hike is pursued.
Salary cuts can bring the savings needed to save jobs."
Amazing that this is from Paul Keep's GR Press.
Health insurance customers face big premium increases
Health insurance customers face big premium increases
"With open enrollment season in full swing, seniors and privately insured workers should expect to shell out more next year for their health coverage, as many employers face double-digit increases in their insurance costs.
To offset this rising expense, some employers will pass all or part of the cost increases onto workers through larger paycheck deductions. For some workers, that could mean as much as a 50 percent increase in their monthly payroll deductions for health care, insurance experts say."
"With open enrollment season in full swing, seniors and privately insured workers should expect to shell out more next year for their health coverage, as many employers face double-digit increases in their insurance costs.
To offset this rising expense, some employers will pass all or part of the cost increases onto workers through larger paycheck deductions. For some workers, that could mean as much as a 50 percent increase in their monthly payroll deductions for health care, insurance experts say."
10 Strangest Obituaries
10 Strangest Obituaries
"Jim Adams, didn't die the way he wanted: which was to be run over by a beer truck on the way to the liquor store to buy booze for a date… (Link)"
"Jim Adams, didn't die the way he wanted: which was to be run over by a beer truck on the way to the liquor store to buy booze for a date… (Link)"
Billions for state, but where are jobs? deux
Billions for state, but where are jobs?
"The analysis also found:
• Three of every four stimulus grants, contracts and loans approved in Michigan created or retained one job or less.
• Fewer than 700 awards had received some money, and nearly half of those -- 327 -- had created one job or less, at a cost per job of $2.7 million.
• Some job estimates were wrong: General Motors Co., for instance, reported 105 jobs saved or created for a government purchase of 5,000 vehicles but later said no jobs were saved or created.
The City of Detroit reported 342 jobs it now says were projections -- not jobs already created or retained.
Peter Morici, a University of Maryland economist, said the results suggest the stimulus won't deliver promised results.'
All those claims,' he said, 'are ridiculous.'"
"The analysis also found:
• Three of every four stimulus grants, contracts and loans approved in Michigan created or retained one job or less.
• Fewer than 700 awards had received some money, and nearly half of those -- 327 -- had created one job or less, at a cost per job of $2.7 million.
• Some job estimates were wrong: General Motors Co., for instance, reported 105 jobs saved or created for a government purchase of 5,000 vehicles but later said no jobs were saved or created.
The City of Detroit reported 342 jobs it now says were projections -- not jobs already created or retained.
Peter Morici, a University of Maryland economist, said the results suggest the stimulus won't deliver promised results.'
All those claims,' he said, 'are ridiculous.'"
Billions for state, but where are jobs?
Billions for state, but where are jobs?
"Seven months into the massive federal stimulus program, the vast majority of government grants, contracts and loans in Michigan so far have created or retained virtually no jobs, a Free Press analysis shows"
"Seven months into the massive federal stimulus program, the vast majority of government grants, contracts and loans in Michigan so far have created or retained virtually no jobs, a Free Press analysis shows"
Sunday, November 15, 2009
Pittsburgh eyes students' wallets
Pittsburgh eyes students' wallets
"Pittsburgh wants to tax one of its most abundant resources: students.
The city is home to seven colleges and universities, and though their real estate is tax-exempt, their tuition isn't, says Mayor Luke Ravenstahl, who plans to impose a 1% tax on tuition as part of his budget for 2010."
..... "they're not paying a dime for any city services they might receive," Ravenstahl says.....
"He calls it a fair share tax....
If Pittsburgh succeeds in becoming the first city to tax its students, other cities will follow, says Terry Hartle of the American Council on Education, a lobbying group for universities. "It's a new and untapped potential source of revenue," he says.
This just might bring the college crowd into the tea party mode.
"Pittsburgh wants to tax one of its most abundant resources: students.
The city is home to seven colleges and universities, and though their real estate is tax-exempt, their tuition isn't, says Mayor Luke Ravenstahl, who plans to impose a 1% tax on tuition as part of his budget for 2010."
..... "they're not paying a dime for any city services they might receive," Ravenstahl says.....
"He calls it a fair share tax....
If Pittsburgh succeeds in becoming the first city to tax its students, other cities will follow, says Terry Hartle of the American Council on Education, a lobbying group for universities. "It's a new and untapped potential source of revenue," he says.
This just might bring the college crowd into the tea party mode.
Feds ignored Medicare scam warnings for years
Feds ignored Medicare scam warnings for years
"For three years, the federal agency in charge of preventing Medicare fraud repeatedly ignored internal watchdog warnings about swindlers stealing millions of dollars by scamming several programs, documents show.
The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services received roughly 30 warnings from inspectors over three years - mostly under the Bush administration"
"For three years, the federal agency in charge of preventing Medicare fraud repeatedly ignored internal watchdog warnings about swindlers stealing millions of dollars by scamming several programs, documents show.
The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services received roughly 30 warnings from inspectors over three years - mostly under the Bush administration"
Govt: Medicare paid $47 billion in suspect claims
Govt: Medicare paid $47 billion in suspect claims
"The government paid more than $47 billion in questionable Medicare claims including medical treatment showing little relation to a patient's condition, wasting taxpayer dollars at a rate nearly three times the previous year."
"The government paid more than $47 billion in questionable Medicare claims including medical treatment showing little relation to a patient's condition, wasting taxpayer dollars at a rate nearly three times the previous year."
USGS Release: 3 to 4.3 Billion Barrels of Technically Recoverable Oil Assessed in North Dakota and Montana’s Bakken Formation—25 Times More Than 1995 Estimate— (4/10/2008 2:25:36 PM)
USGS Release: 3 to 4.3 Billion Barrels of Technically Recoverable Oil Assessed in North Dakota and Montana’s Bakken Formation—25 Times More Than 1995 Estimate
North Dakota and Montana have an estimated 3.0 to 4.3 billion barrels of undiscovered, technically recoverable oil in an area known as the Bakken Formation.A U.S. Geological Survey assessment, released April 10, shows a 25-fold increase in the amount of oil that can be recovered compared to the agency's 1995 estimate of 151 million barrels of oil."
But the Obama administration has declared fossil fuels, and nuclear, off limits.
So this is a big "never mind".
Is that OK with you?!!!!!!
North Dakota and Montana have an estimated 3.0 to 4.3 billion barrels of undiscovered, technically recoverable oil in an area known as the Bakken Formation.A U.S. Geological Survey assessment, released April 10, shows a 25-fold increase in the amount of oil that can be recovered compared to the agency's 1995 estimate of 151 million barrels of oil."
But the Obama administration has declared fossil fuels, and nuclear, off limits.
So this is a big "never mind".
Is that OK with you?!!!!!!
Judge Napolitano: Is Government-Run Health Care Constitutional?
Judge Napolitano: Is Government-Run Health Care Constitutional?
"Nope. I've laid out Article 1, Section 8 along with the 10th amendment many times on this blog.
Here is Napolitano discussing exactly those:"
click to see the video
"Nope. I've laid out Article 1, Section 8 along with the 10th amendment many times on this blog.
Here is Napolitano discussing exactly those:"
click to see the video
All your auto shows are belong to us
All your auto shows are belong to us: Federal officials clamor for passes to auto show
"Federal officals are now pawing to get tickets to the North American International Auto Show in Detroit."
"Federal officals are now pawing to get tickets to the North American International Auto Show in Detroit."
oregon sandcastles competition
What stops mass murderers? A gun
What stops mass murderers? A gun
"On Nov. 6, America found reason to honor another brave civilian police officer, as Maj. Nidal Malik Hasan, a U.S. army psychiatrist about to be deployed to Afghanistan, reportedly shouted 'Allahu Akbar!' and opened fire at a soldier readiness facility in Fort Hood, Texas, killing 13 people and wounding 28.
.......Hasan reportedly had fired more than 100 rounds, requiring him to change handgun magazines several times -- Sgt. Todd said Hasan was reloading again when he shot the suspect.
Why didn't any of the hundreds of Army personnel in the room shoot back, ending his killing spree far sooner?
Because they couldn't.
Among President Bill Clinton's first acts upon taking office in 1993 'was to disarm U.S. soldiers on military bases..
"On Nov. 6, America found reason to honor another brave civilian police officer, as Maj. Nidal Malik Hasan, a U.S. army psychiatrist about to be deployed to Afghanistan, reportedly shouted 'Allahu Akbar!' and opened fire at a soldier readiness facility in Fort Hood, Texas, killing 13 people and wounding 28.
.......Hasan reportedly had fired more than 100 rounds, requiring him to change handgun magazines several times -- Sgt. Todd said Hasan was reloading again when he shot the suspect.
Why didn't any of the hundreds of Army personnel in the room shoot back, ending his killing spree far sooner?
Because they couldn't.
Among President Bill Clinton's first acts upon taking office in 1993 'was to disarm U.S. soldiers on military bases..
Obamanomics does the impossible
Obamanomics does the impossible
"The upside of a falling dollar is that it makes our exports cheaper to foreigners — so we sell more stuff — and a falling dollar makes their products more expensive, so we buy less stuff.
This helps the trade deficit, right?
Not this time.
“Instead, the nation’s trade deficit rose in September by the largest percentage in a decade as U.S. exports grew for the fifth straight month, but imports rose faster, a government report showed Friday.
That trend is likely to continue until the middle of next year, economists said,” the Associated Press reported.
Obamanomics.
It’s as if it were designed by someone who cannot figure out Turbo Tax"
"The upside of a falling dollar is that it makes our exports cheaper to foreigners — so we sell more stuff — and a falling dollar makes their products more expensive, so we buy less stuff.
This helps the trade deficit, right?
Not this time.
“Instead, the nation’s trade deficit rose in September by the largest percentage in a decade as U.S. exports grew for the fifth straight month, but imports rose faster, a government report showed Friday.
That trend is likely to continue until the middle of next year, economists said,” the Associated Press reported.
Obamanomics.
It’s as if it were designed by someone who cannot figure out Turbo Tax"
President Obama vs. The Rest of the World Greeting The Emperor of Japan (Photos)
President Obama vs. The Rest of the World Greeting The Emperor of Japan (Photos)
A national disgrace!
A national disgrace!
Saturday, November 14, 2009
Seth Lipsky: Our 'Constitutional Moment'
Seth Lipsky: Our 'Constitutional Moment'
"Right now, we're at a moment where we're not going to be able to turn to either the Congress or the executive branch for help on this.' He believes 'the only defense now, the only tool we have now, is the Constitution.
That's why I call it a constitutional moment, as opposed to a political moment.'"
"Right now, we're at a moment where we're not going to be able to turn to either the Congress or the executive branch for help on this.' He believes 'the only defense now, the only tool we have now, is the Constitution.
That's why I call it a constitutional moment, as opposed to a political moment.'"
Thomas Hudner and Jesse Brown
Thomas Hudner and Jesse Brown
'I think I may have been hit.
I've lost my oil pressure and I'm going to have to go in.'"
“Where do we get such men?
They leave this ship and they do their job.
Then they must find this speck lost somewhere on the sea. When they find it, they have to land on its pitching deck. Where do we get such men?"
Rear Admiral George Tarrant in “The Bridges at Toko-Ri”
Holder's Hidden Agenda
Holder's Hidden Agenda
Let's take stock of where we are at this point. KSM and his confederates wanted to plead guilty and have their martyrs' execution last December, when they were being handled by military commission.
As I said at the time, we could and should have accommodated them.
The Obama administration could still accommodate them.
After all, the president has not pulled the plug on all military commissions: Holder is going to announce at least one commission trial (for Nashiri, the Cole bomber) today.
Moreover, KSM has no defense.
He was under American indictment for terrorism for years before there ever was a 9/11, and he can't help himself but brag about the atrocities he and his fellow barbarians have carried out.
So: We are now going to have a trial that never had to happen for defendants who have no defense.
And when defendants have no defense for their own actions, there is only one thing for their lawyers to do: put the government on trial in hopes of getting the jury (and the media) spun up over government errors, abuses and incompetence.
That is what is going to happen in the trial of KSM et al.
It will be a soapbox for al-Qaeda's case against America.
Since that will be their "defense," the defendants will demand every bit of information they can get about interrogations, renditions, secret prisons, undercover operations targeting Muslims and mosques, etc., and — depending on what judge catches the case — they are likely to be given a lot of it.
The administration will be able to claim that the judge, not the administration, is responsible for the exposure of our defense secrets.
And the circus will be played out for all to see — in the middle of the war.
It will provide endless fodder for the transnational Left to press its case that actions taken in America's defense are violations of international law that must be addressed by foreign courts.
And the intelligence bounty will make our enemies more efficient at killing us.
This "president" and his anti-American comrades might be more effective in destroying our country than al-Qaeda itself.
Let's take stock of where we are at this point. KSM and his confederates wanted to plead guilty and have their martyrs' execution last December, when they were being handled by military commission.
As I said at the time, we could and should have accommodated them.
The Obama administration could still accommodate them.
After all, the president has not pulled the plug on all military commissions: Holder is going to announce at least one commission trial (for Nashiri, the Cole bomber) today.
Moreover, KSM has no defense.
He was under American indictment for terrorism for years before there ever was a 9/11, and he can't help himself but brag about the atrocities he and his fellow barbarians have carried out.
So: We are now going to have a trial that never had to happen for defendants who have no defense.
And when defendants have no defense for their own actions, there is only one thing for their lawyers to do: put the government on trial in hopes of getting the jury (and the media) spun up over government errors, abuses and incompetence.
That is what is going to happen in the trial of KSM et al.
It will be a soapbox for al-Qaeda's case against America.
Since that will be their "defense," the defendants will demand every bit of information they can get about interrogations, renditions, secret prisons, undercover operations targeting Muslims and mosques, etc., and — depending on what judge catches the case — they are likely to be given a lot of it.
The administration will be able to claim that the judge, not the administration, is responsible for the exposure of our defense secrets.
And the circus will be played out for all to see — in the middle of the war.
It will provide endless fodder for the transnational Left to press its case that actions taken in America's defense are violations of international law that must be addressed by foreign courts.
And the intelligence bounty will make our enemies more efficient at killing us.
This "president" and his anti-American comrades might be more effective in destroying our country than al-Qaeda itself.
Why is this man bowing?
Why is this man bowing?
"Obama has now done it again. Andrew Malcolm asks (and reports):
('How low will he go? Obama gives Japan's Emperor Akihito a wow bow.')
Obama's breach of protocol is of a piece with the substance of his foreign policy.
He means to teach Americans to bow before monarchs and tyrants."
"Obama has now done it again. Andrew Malcolm asks (and reports):
('How low will he go? Obama gives Japan's Emperor Akihito a wow bow.')
Obama's breach of protocol is of a piece with the substance of his foreign policy.
He means to teach Americans to bow before monarchs and tyrants."
Don’t-Miss Video: Incredible Look at U.S. Airways Flight 1549
Don’t-Miss Video: Incredible Look at U.S. Airways Flight 1549
"We’ve seen a lot of simulations of U.S. Airways Flight 1549 going into the Hudson River, but a new video painstakingly compiled by an engineer offers the most comprehensive and compelling look yet at the airliner’s short but incredible flight"
"We’ve seen a lot of simulations of U.S. Airways Flight 1549 going into the Hudson River, but a new video painstakingly compiled by an engineer offers the most comprehensive and compelling look yet at the airliner’s short but incredible flight"
Friday, November 13, 2009
WHO IS JOHN GALT?
WHO IS JOHN GALT?
"October deficit bigger than expected; revenues down 18%.
“What better way to kick off Barack Obama’s first full budget year as President than with a deficit that exceeded the White House’s own projections as well as analysts’ expectations?
The federal government busted the budget worse than last October by $20 billion with a deficit of $176.36 billion for the month.
That used to be considered a decent deficit target … for an entire year.”"
"October deficit bigger than expected; revenues down 18%.
“What better way to kick off Barack Obama’s first full budget year as President than with a deficit that exceeded the White House’s own projections as well as analysts’ expectations?
The federal government busted the budget worse than last October by $20 billion with a deficit of $176.36 billion for the month.
That used to be considered a decent deficit target … for an entire year.”"
Navy Wins Diversity Award Topping Leading Companies
Navy Wins Diversity Award Topping Leading Companies
"Navy Region Southwest was awarded the President's Award for Diversity in the large business category from the league during an awards luncheon Oct. 29.
The award honors businesses for maximizing opportunities for minorities in San Diego County.
Chief of Naval Operations Adm. Gary Roughead has pointed out his goal to see the Navy designated a top 50 employer.
Ray King, president and chief executive officer of the San Diego Urban League, said the Navy in San Diego is helping the CNO realize this goal."
Diversity is our strength....right?
Is that what the US Navy is all about?
Do we have enough Islamists yet?
"Navy Region Southwest was awarded the President's Award for Diversity in the large business category from the league during an awards luncheon Oct. 29.
The award honors businesses for maximizing opportunities for minorities in San Diego County.
Chief of Naval Operations Adm. Gary Roughead has pointed out his goal to see the Navy designated a top 50 employer.
Ray King, president and chief executive officer of the San Diego Urban League, said the Navy in San Diego is helping the CNO realize this goal."
Diversity is our strength....right?
Is that what the US Navy is all about?
Do we have enough Islamists yet?
Muslims Bombing Muslims
Muslims Bombing Muslims
"In this case the rich nation doing the shelling and bombing and building the fence is Saudi Arabia.
The poor side of the fence would be Yemen, and the rebels are insurgents in the Yemeni civil war that have moved into Saudi territory.
According to AP, 175,000 have been displaced, and rebels are claiming the Saudis are randomly bombing, including residential areas."
No frowny faced Perky Katie or her MSM comrades to be seen anywhere........what a surprise!
"In this case the rich nation doing the shelling and bombing and building the fence is Saudi Arabia.
The poor side of the fence would be Yemen, and the rebels are insurgents in the Yemeni civil war that have moved into Saudi territory.
According to AP, 175,000 have been displaced, and rebels are claiming the Saudis are randomly bombing, including residential areas."
No frowny faced Perky Katie or her MSM comrades to be seen anywhere........what a surprise!
N.C. principal leaves after cash-for-grades flap
N.C. principal leaves after cash-for-grades flap
"A North Carolina principal is retiring after school district leaders halted a cash-for-grades fundraiser she approved."
A follow up and a rare nibblet of good news on the government controlled education front.
"A North Carolina principal is retiring after school district leaders halted a cash-for-grades fundraiser she approved."
A follow up and a rare nibblet of good news on the government controlled education front.
How Comparative Effectiveness Can Cost You Your Life
How Comparative Effectiveness Can Cost You Your Life
"The phrase “Comparative Effectiveness” is becoming increasingly in vogue among Obama health care advocates. So, it’s important to note that it actually amounts to little more than a euphemism for health care rationing."
So the English majors have taken over the country and "euphemism" is the new national narcotic.
Great.....
"The phrase “Comparative Effectiveness” is becoming increasingly in vogue among Obama health care advocates. So, it’s important to note that it actually amounts to little more than a euphemism for health care rationing."
So the English majors have taken over the country and "euphemism" is the new national narcotic.
Great.....
Federal Deficit Hits October Record of $176 Billion
Federal Deficit Hits October Record of $176 Billion
"The rising deficit has caused some concerns in Asia, where President Obama is set to start a weeklong trip."
When communist China, bankrupt Japan and the rest of the mostly corrupt asian countries are worried about the economic stability of America... shouldn't that also worry us here in the USA?
"The rising deficit has caused some concerns in Asia, where President Obama is set to start a weeklong trip."
When communist China, bankrupt Japan and the rest of the mostly corrupt asian countries are worried about the economic stability of America... shouldn't that also worry us here in the USA?
Top Republican says White House hiding info on Fort Hood - The Hill's Blog Briefing Room
Top Republican says White House hiding info on Fort Hood
"Rep. Pete Hoekstra (Mich.) said administration officials delayed briefing members of Congress about the alleged gunman, raising 'red flags' about what the White House was hiding.
'When they withhold information, you always start asking questions,' Hoekstra told Fox News.
'That's what raises red flags.
What do they know that they don't want us to know?'"
Go get 'em Pete!
"Rep. Pete Hoekstra (Mich.) said administration officials delayed briefing members of Congress about the alleged gunman, raising 'red flags' about what the White House was hiding.
'When they withhold information, you always start asking questions,' Hoekstra told Fox News.
'That's what raises red flags.
What do they know that they don't want us to know?'"
Go get 'em Pete!
Army says morale down among troops in Afghanistan
Taken at Veterans Day ceremonies at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.
Imagine you're in the military, at war.......and your boss is Barry Hussein.....
Deficit doubles for government pension insurer
Deficit doubles for government pension insurer
"experts warn that the PBGC's mounting shortfall eventually could require a taxpayer bailout."
"experts warn that the PBGC's mounting shortfall eventually could require a taxpayer bailout."
Shooter advised Obama transition
Shooter advised Obama transition
"Maj. Nidal Malik Hasan, the alleged shooter in yesterday's massacre at Fort Hood, played a homeland security advisory role in President Barack Obama's transition into the White House, according to a key university policy institute document."
"Maj. Nidal Malik Hasan, the alleged shooter in yesterday's massacre at Fort Hood, played a homeland security advisory role in President Barack Obama's transition into the White House, according to a key university policy institute document."
Chavez's policies go from bad to worse
Chavez's policies go from bad to worse
"It's come to this in Hugo Chávez's Venezuela: The president is pleading with people to save water by limiting their daily cleansing routine to a 3-minute ``communist shower.''
Really. This is just the latest indication of how badly Mr. Chávez continues to mismanage the economy of energy-rich Venezuela, which should be one of the most prosperous nations in the world to judge from its vast hydrocarbon reserves.
Instead of offering Venezuela's 27 million people a better life, Mr. Chávez ``Bolivarian socialism'' has squandered the nation's wealth on military armament, populist schemes and the creation of a patronage state, a prescription for ruin and misery."
"It's come to this in Hugo Chávez's Venezuela: The president is pleading with people to save water by limiting their daily cleansing routine to a 3-minute ``communist shower.''
Really. This is just the latest indication of how badly Mr. Chávez continues to mismanage the economy of energy-rich Venezuela, which should be one of the most prosperous nations in the world to judge from its vast hydrocarbon reserves.
Instead of offering Venezuela's 27 million people a better life, Mr. Chávez ``Bolivarian socialism'' has squandered the nation's wealth on military armament, populist schemes and the creation of a patronage state, a prescription for ruin and misery."
Thursday, November 12, 2009
Tales Of Woe No Excuse For Mass Murder
Tales Of Woe No Excuse For Mass Murder
"It certainly was a surprise to the mainstream media, which spent the weekend after the Fort Hood massacre downplaying Nidal Hasan's religious beliefs.
'I cringe that he's a Muslim. ... I think he's probably just a nut case,' said Newsweek's Evan Thomas. Some were more adamant. Time's Joe Klein decried 'odious attempts by Jewish extremists . .. to argue that the massacre perpetrated by Nidal Hasan was somehow a direct consequence of his Islamic beliefs.'"
"It certainly was a surprise to the mainstream media, which spent the weekend after the Fort Hood massacre downplaying Nidal Hasan's religious beliefs.
'I cringe that he's a Muslim. ... I think he's probably just a nut case,' said Newsweek's Evan Thomas. Some were more adamant. Time's Joe Klein decried 'odious attempts by Jewish extremists . .. to argue that the massacre perpetrated by Nidal Hasan was somehow a direct consequence of his Islamic beliefs.'"
DADT Likely to Be Part of Defense Bill
DADT Likely to Be Part of Defense Bill
"Repealing “don’t ask, don’t tell” will likely be included as part of next year’s Department of Defense authorization bill in both chambers of Congress, Congressman Barney Frank, a Massachusetts Democrat, said Wednesday.
“Military issues are always done as part of the overall authorization bill,” Frank said, insisting that this has been the strategy for overturning the policy all along.
'Don’t ask, don’t tell' was always going to be part of the military"
"Repealing “don’t ask, don’t tell” will likely be included as part of next year’s Department of Defense authorization bill in both chambers of Congress, Congressman Barney Frank, a Massachusetts Democrat, said Wednesday.
“Military issues are always done as part of the overall authorization bill,” Frank said, insisting that this has been the strategy for overturning the policy all along.
'Don’t ask, don’t tell' was always going to be part of the military"
100+% Implicit Marginal Tax Rates Will Create Permanent Democratic Majority
100+% Implicit Marginal Tax Rates Will Create Permanent Democratic Majority
"A permanent, Democratic-voting majority living off government benefits with no way out.
It really is that bad, and this really is a once-in-a-lifetime chance for the Democrats to achieve a permanent, economically-enslaved majority."
A little complicated but this is a MUST read.
"A permanent, Democratic-voting majority living off government benefits with no way out.
It really is that bad, and this really is a once-in-a-lifetime chance for the Democrats to achieve a permanent, economically-enslaved majority."
A little complicated but this is a MUST read.
Report: 10 states face looming budget disasters
Report: 10 states face looming budget disasters
Michigan, where two of the Detroit Three automakers filed for bankruptcy protection this year, continues to offer tax incentives even as they take a toll on the state's pocketbook, leading to declining tax revenue.
According to the Pew study, Michigan offered $6.3 billion more in total tax exemptions, credits and deductions than it actually collected in taxes in 2008."
Michigan, where two of the Detroit Three automakers filed for bankruptcy protection this year, continues to offer tax incentives even as they take a toll on the state's pocketbook, leading to declining tax revenue.
According to the Pew study, Michigan offered $6.3 billion more in total tax exemptions, credits and deductions than it actually collected in taxes in 2008."
The Swine Flu Boogeyman
The Swine Flu Boogeyman
"What Schuchat didn't say is that, as tragic as any child's death always is, in this case they merely represent a disproportionately larger slice of a very small pie.
Very few people are dying of swine flu in any age category.
Put another way, it's not that younger people are being slammed but that older ones are catching a break."
"What Schuchat didn't say is that, as tragic as any child's death always is, in this case they merely represent a disproportionately larger slice of a very small pie.
Very few people are dying of swine flu in any age category.
Put another way, it's not that younger people are being slammed but that older ones are catching a break."
Not all happy with new road commissioner
Not all happy with new road commissioner
"Derezinski claims Mahoney favored DeWolf because of DeWolf’s ties to the United Auto Workers and the Democratic Party. He said DeWolf and the UAW played a key role in financing many Democratic candidates over the years, giving DeWolf an edge over other applicants for the road commission seat.
Even though he is a Democrat, Derezinski said he does not want to play politics with such appointments, especially at a time when township supervisors are demanding better communication with the road commission. Derezinski represents Egelston and Muskegon townships.
“This is party politics at its worst,” Derezinski said. “It’s the good-old-boys’ system, and I don’t want any part of it."
"Derezinski claims Mahoney favored DeWolf because of DeWolf’s ties to the United Auto Workers and the Democratic Party. He said DeWolf and the UAW played a key role in financing many Democratic candidates over the years, giving DeWolf an edge over other applicants for the road commission seat.
Even though he is a Democrat, Derezinski said he does not want to play politics with such appointments, especially at a time when township supervisors are demanding better communication with the road commission. Derezinski represents Egelston and Muskegon townships.
“This is party politics at its worst,” Derezinski said. “It’s the good-old-boys’ system, and I don’t want any part of it."
Cannibal who ate his mum jailed
Cannibal who ate his mum jailed
"A Russian man who killed and ate parts of his mother has been given a reduced sentence because he was starving and needed to eat.
Sergey Gavrilov, 27, was handed a lighter jail term of 14 years and three months after he confessed to eating his mother's body but said he did not enjoy it, the Daily Mail newspaper reports.
'I did not like the meat very much ... it was too fatty but I was so hungry I had to eat it,' the newspaper quoted him as telling a Russian court.
Gavrilov told the court he had no money to buy food after spending it all on alcohol and gambling machines.
When his 55-year-old mother Lyubov refused to lend him more money for alcohol he hit her over the head with a brick and strangled her with an electrical cable.
Gavrilov then put her body outside on the balcony of the family unit where it froze."
"A Russian man who killed and ate parts of his mother has been given a reduced sentence because he was starving and needed to eat.
Sergey Gavrilov, 27, was handed a lighter jail term of 14 years and three months after he confessed to eating his mother's body but said he did not enjoy it, the Daily Mail newspaper reports.
'I did not like the meat very much ... it was too fatty but I was so hungry I had to eat it,' the newspaper quoted him as telling a Russian court.
Gavrilov told the court he had no money to buy food after spending it all on alcohol and gambling machines.
When his 55-year-old mother Lyubov refused to lend him more money for alcohol he hit her over the head with a brick and strangled her with an electrical cable.
Gavrilov then put her body outside on the balcony of the family unit where it froze."
The Late Movies: Dogs Welcoming Home Soldiers
Dogs Welcoming Home Soldiers
These reunion videos—for me, at least—shed a tiny beam of light on how emotionally draining being a military family can be.
They’ll also make you want a dog.
To commemorate Veterans Day, here are some overjoyed dogs greeting returning soldiers.
See them all!
And make sure you see the last one.
Not doggie, but even better!
These reunion videos—for me, at least—shed a tiny beam of light on how emotionally draining being a military family can be.
They’ll also make you want a dog.
To commemorate Veterans Day, here are some overjoyed dogs greeting returning soldiers.
See them all!
And make sure you see the last one.
Not doggie, but even better!
What's wrong with this picture?
What's wrong with this picture?
"The First Lady, a woman widely acclaimed for her fashion sense in the courtier media, has no common sense at all when it comes to respecting a solemn occasion.
Apparently, nobody among her score of personal aides in the White House had the gumption to tell her she was about to make a fool of herself at the Veterans Day memorial."
"The First Lady, a woman widely acclaimed for her fashion sense in the courtier media, has no common sense at all when it comes to respecting a solemn occasion.
Apparently, nobody among her score of personal aides in the White House had the gumption to tell her she was about to make a fool of herself at the Veterans Day memorial."
Just send your $7,000
Just send your $7,000
"Fellow citizens of Illinois, Gov. Pat Quinn, legislators: Welcome to yet another public pension fiasco.
Yet another festival of denial.
Because in one obscure and maddening moment last week, every one of us slipped closer to burying our children and grandchildren -- unless they flee the state -- in still more debt by the billions."
"Fellow citizens of Illinois, Gov. Pat Quinn, legislators: Welcome to yet another public pension fiasco.
Yet another festival of denial.
Because in one obscure and maddening moment last week, every one of us slipped closer to burying our children and grandchildren -- unless they flee the state -- in still more debt by the billions."
CUNY's got math problem: Report shows many freshmen from city HS fail at basic algebra
CUNY's got math problem: Report shows many freshmen from city HS fail at basic algebra
"During their first math class at one of CUNY's four-year colleges, 90% of 200 students tested couldn't solve a simple algebra problem, the report by the CUNY Council of Math Chairs found.
Only a third could convert a fraction into a decimal."
"During their first math class at one of CUNY's four-year colleges, 90% of 200 students tested couldn't solve a simple algebra problem, the report by the CUNY Council of Math Chairs found.
Only a third could convert a fraction into a decimal."
Dressed to Kill
Dressed to Kill
Of Berets and Turbans The Blog home page Another Piece of Evidence in the Fort Hood Case »
Tarek Fatah writes in the Ottawa Citizen:
No one seemed to notice the significance of the attire that Maj. Nidal Hasan was wearing the morning of the killings. It was captured on a store surveillance video where he bought a coffee....
Hasan was wearing the 'shalwar-kameez,' the traditional attire worn by Pashtuns on both sides of the Pakistan-Afghan border....I have lived a decade in the Arab world and not once did I see an Arab wearing the shalwar-kameez.
There is one particular group of Arabs who did embrace the garb of the Pashtuns - those who went to Afghanistan to wage jihad alongside al-Qaeda and the Taliban.
This guy was walking around a U.S. military installation dressed like Osama bin Laden and nobody said anything, yet the Army is being accused of intolerance and anti-Muslim bias. To repeat, according to Tarek Fatah, Hasan was not merely dressed in traditional Arab garb--he dressed in the traditional garb of al Qaeda terrorists."
Of Berets and Turbans The Blog home page Another Piece of Evidence in the Fort Hood Case »
Tarek Fatah writes in the Ottawa Citizen:
No one seemed to notice the significance of the attire that Maj. Nidal Hasan was wearing the morning of the killings. It was captured on a store surveillance video where he bought a coffee....
Hasan was wearing the 'shalwar-kameez,' the traditional attire worn by Pashtuns on both sides of the Pakistan-Afghan border....I have lived a decade in the Arab world and not once did I see an Arab wearing the shalwar-kameez.
There is one particular group of Arabs who did embrace the garb of the Pashtuns - those who went to Afghanistan to wage jihad alongside al-Qaeda and the Taliban.
This guy was walking around a U.S. military installation dressed like Osama bin Laden and nobody said anything, yet the Army is being accused of intolerance and anti-Muslim bias. To repeat, according to Tarek Fatah, Hasan was not merely dressed in traditional Arab garb--he dressed in the traditional garb of al Qaeda terrorists."
DeMint tries to ban 'permanent politicians'
DeMint tries to ban 'permanent politicians'
"Sen. Jim DeMint says Washington politicians are like fruit on the vine: the longer they hang around, the more rotten they get.
The South Carolina Republican - hearkening back to the days of the party's 'Contract with America' - on Tuesday offered a fix to the corrupting influence of 'permanent politicians,' introducing an amendment to the Constitution that would limit Senate members to three six-year terms and House members to three two-year terms."
"Sen. Jim DeMint says Washington politicians are like fruit on the vine: the longer they hang around, the more rotten they get.
The South Carolina Republican - hearkening back to the days of the party's 'Contract with America' - on Tuesday offered a fix to the corrupting influence of 'permanent politicians,' introducing an amendment to the Constitution that would limit Senate members to three six-year terms and House members to three two-year terms."
Detroit pension trustees take flight on funds' tab
Detroit pension trustees take flight on funds' tab
"The trustees who oversee Detroit's two public pensions, their lawyers and staff spent $380,000 over the past year circling the globe to attend conferences -- often traveling in packs, with virtually no limitation on where they went or how often they traveled."
"The trustees who oversee Detroit's two public pensions, their lawyers and staff spent $380,000 over the past year circling the globe to attend conferences -- often traveling in packs, with virtually no limitation on where they went or how often they traveled."
Wednesday, November 11, 2009
Daily Presidential Tracking Poll - Rasmussen Reports™
Daily Presidential Tracking Poll - Rasmussen Reports™
"Overall, 46% of voters say they at least somewhat approve of the President's performance.
Fifty-three percent (53%) disapprove."
"Overall, 46% of voters say they at least somewhat approve of the President's performance.
Fifty-three percent (53%) disapprove."
Meals on Wheels cuts may endanger elderly
Meals on Wheels cuts may endanger elderly
The woman’s son was pacing back and forth, looking at Lisa Roosien with helpless frustration.
His mother weighed just 87 pounds after dementia and a lack of nutritional resources had driven her into a dangerous spiral of weight loss in recent months.
He looked to Roosien, a registered dietitian at AgeWell Services, as a lifeline.
Times were tough and money was tight — his mother needed assistance.
“What do I do?” he asked.
At any other time, Roosien could have set the woman up with a Meals on Wheels plan where volunteers would check on her daily and bring warm food right to her home.
But recent state funding cuts have AgeWell Services in a tough place, she said.
Her hands were tied"
The woman’s son was pacing back and forth, looking at Lisa Roosien with helpless frustration.
His mother weighed just 87 pounds after dementia and a lack of nutritional resources had driven her into a dangerous spiral of weight loss in recent months.
He looked to Roosien, a registered dietitian at AgeWell Services, as a lifeline.
Times were tough and money was tight — his mother needed assistance.
“What do I do?” he asked.
At any other time, Roosien could have set the woman up with a Meals on Wheels plan where volunteers would check on her daily and bring warm food right to her home.
But recent state funding cuts have AgeWell Services in a tough place, she said.
Her hands were tied"
Time to raise taxes in Grand Rapids? With police, firefighter layoffs ahead, some say yes
Time to raise taxes in Grand Rapids? With police, firefighter layoffs ahead, some say yes
"City Manager Gregory Sundstrom’s announcement he will lay off 125 city employees — including 44 police officers and 25 firefighters — is giving birth to a push to raise city taxes not seen in 15 years"
"City Manager Gregory Sundstrom’s announcement he will lay off 125 city employees — including 44 police officers and 25 firefighters — is giving birth to a push to raise city taxes not seen in 15 years"
The Man Who Despises America
The Man Who Despises America: "Barack Obama despises America.
When people who voted for Obama in 2008 -- including registered Democrats -- start speaking in normal conversational voices at dinner parties, neighborhood gatherings and PTA meetings that the over-inflated ego from Chicago has it 'in for America,' then it's clear most reasonable people have reached the same conclusion.
The central conviction of Obama's ideology is that America is guilty of limitless moral failures and is the chief architect of the world's ills.
Obama has boundless enmity for America, its key institutions, and its longtime allies."
When people who voted for Obama in 2008 -- including registered Democrats -- start speaking in normal conversational voices at dinner parties, neighborhood gatherings and PTA meetings that the over-inflated ego from Chicago has it 'in for America,' then it's clear most reasonable people have reached the same conclusion.
The central conviction of Obama's ideology is that America is guilty of limitless moral failures and is the chief architect of the world's ills.
Obama has boundless enmity for America, its key institutions, and its longtime allies."
Is China headed toward collapse?
Is China headed toward collapse?
"But there’s a growing group of market professionals who see a different picture altogether.
These self-styled China bears take the less popular view: that the much-vaunted Chinese economic miracle is nothing but a paper dragon.
In fact, they argue that the Chinese have dangerously overheated their economy, building malls, luxury stores and infrastructure for which there is almost no demand, and that the entire system is teetering toward collapse"
"But there’s a growing group of market professionals who see a different picture altogether.
These self-styled China bears take the less popular view: that the much-vaunted Chinese economic miracle is nothing but a paper dragon.
In fact, they argue that the Chinese have dangerously overheated their economy, building malls, luxury stores and infrastructure for which there is almost no demand, and that the entire system is teetering toward collapse"
Muskegon may 'nudge' more students toward college
Muskegon may 'nudge' more students toward college
"Students at Muskegon High School would have to apply for college or other continuing education in order to graduate under a plan proposed by school administrators.
The proposed graduation policy, which would take effect with this year’s seniors, states that the requirement is the result of an economy that “demands highly skilled workers who have further education beyond high school.”
The district also would require that in order to graduate, students must take the Michigan Merit Exam, which includes the ACT college entrance exam. The MME is administered by school districts to high school juniors"
They're "graduating" kids who can't wright a sentence, add 3 numbers in their head and now those fools demand this.
Gimme a break!
"Students at Muskegon High School would have to apply for college or other continuing education in order to graduate under a plan proposed by school administrators.
The proposed graduation policy, which would take effect with this year’s seniors, states that the requirement is the result of an economy that “demands highly skilled workers who have further education beyond high school.”
The district also would require that in order to graduate, students must take the Michigan Merit Exam, which includes the ACT college entrance exam. The MME is administered by school districts to high school juniors"
They're "graduating" kids who can't wright a sentence, add 3 numbers in their head and now those fools demand this.
Gimme a break!
Thank you former President George W. Bush and former First Lady Laura Bush
Thank you former President George W. Bush and former First Lady Laura Bush
"As we will always be grateful for what George and Laura Bush did this week, with no media attention, when they very quietly went to Ft. Hood and met personally with the families of the victims of this terrorist attack.
FOR HOURS.
The Bushes went and met privately with these families for HOURS, hugging them, holding them, comforting them."
"As we will always be grateful for what George and Laura Bush did this week, with no media attention, when they very quietly went to Ft. Hood and met personally with the families of the victims of this terrorist attack.
FOR HOURS.
The Bushes went and met privately with these families for HOURS, hugging them, holding them, comforting them."
Why will the unemployment extension payments take so long to receive in Michigan?
Why will the unemployment extension payments take so long to receive in Michigan?
"But many are also asking:
Why the big delay in receiving extension payments?"
It's run by the feds and Jenny?
Serious "duh" here.
"But many are also asking:
Why the big delay in receiving extension payments?"
It's run by the feds and Jenny?
Serious "duh" here.
FORT HOOD’S GUN-FREE ZONE.
FORT HOOD’S GUN-FREE ZONE.
“Neither Smith nor the other victims of Hasan’s assault had guns because soldiers on military bases within the United States generally are not supposed to carry them.
Last week’s shootings, which killed 13 people and wounded more than 30, demonstrated once again the folly of ‘gun-free zones,’ which attract and assist people bent on mass murder instead of deterring them.”"
“Neither Smith nor the other victims of Hasan’s assault had guns because soldiers on military bases within the United States generally are not supposed to carry them.
Last week’s shootings, which killed 13 people and wounded more than 30, demonstrated once again the folly of ‘gun-free zones,’ which attract and assist people bent on mass murder instead of deterring them.”"
For $20, kids can buy a better grade
For $20, kids can buy a better grade
"Selling candy didn't raise much money last year, so a Goldsboro middle school is selling grades.
A $20 donation to Rosewood Middle School will get a student 20 test points - 10 extra points on two tests of the student's choosing.
That could raise a B to an A, or a failing grade to a D."
Alms for the teachers?
"Selling candy didn't raise much money last year, so a Goldsboro middle school is selling grades.
A $20 donation to Rosewood Middle School will get a student 20 test points - 10 extra points on two tests of the student's choosing.
That could raise a B to an A, or a failing grade to a D."
Alms for the teachers?
ObamaCare endorsements: What the bribe was
ObamaCare endorsements: What the bribe was
"· The AARP got a financial windfall in return for its support of the healthcare bill.
Over the past decade, the AARP has morphed from an advocacy group to an insurance company (through its subsidiary company).
It is one of the main suppliers of Medi-gap insurance, a high-cost, privately purchased coverage that picks up where Medicare leaves off.
But President Bush-43 passed the Medicare Advantage program, which offered a subsidized, lower-cost alternative to Medi-gap.
Under Medicare Advantage, the elderly get all the extra coverage they need plus coordinated, well-managed care, usually by the same physician.
So more than 10 million seniors went with Medicare Advantage, cutting into AARP Medi-gap revenues.
Presto!
Obama solved their problem.
He eliminates subsidies for Medicare Advantage.
The elderly will have to pay more for coverage under Medigap, but the AARP — which supposedly represents them — will make more money.
(If this galls you, join the American Seniors Association, the alternative group; contact sbarton@americanseniors.org)
When will the people see this "man" for what he really is?
"· The AARP got a financial windfall in return for its support of the healthcare bill.
Over the past decade, the AARP has morphed from an advocacy group to an insurance company (through its subsidiary company).
It is one of the main suppliers of Medi-gap insurance, a high-cost, privately purchased coverage that picks up where Medicare leaves off.
But President Bush-43 passed the Medicare Advantage program, which offered a subsidized, lower-cost alternative to Medi-gap.
Under Medicare Advantage, the elderly get all the extra coverage they need plus coordinated, well-managed care, usually by the same physician.
So more than 10 million seniors went with Medicare Advantage, cutting into AARP Medi-gap revenues.
Presto!
Obama solved their problem.
He eliminates subsidies for Medicare Advantage.
The elderly will have to pay more for coverage under Medigap, but the AARP — which supposedly represents them — will make more money.
(If this galls you, join the American Seniors Association, the alternative group; contact sbarton@americanseniors.org)
When will the people see this "man" for what he really is?
Employer-Provided Medicine Is Completely Illogical
Employer-Provided Medicine Is Completely Illogical
"Two simple observations are key to explaining both the high level of spending on medical care and the dissatisfaction with that spending.
The first is that most payments to physicians or hospitals or other caregivers for medical care are made not by the patient but by a third party—an insurance company or employer or governmental body.
The second is that nobody spends somebody else’s money as wisely or as frugally as he spends his own."
"Two simple observations are key to explaining both the high level of spending on medical care and the dissatisfaction with that spending.
The first is that most payments to physicians or hospitals or other caregivers for medical care are made not by the patient but by a third party—an insurance company or employer or governmental body.
The second is that nobody spends somebody else’s money as wisely or as frugally as he spends his own."
Sometimes, an extremist really is an extremist
Sometimes, an extremist really is an extremist
"If we act as if 'Islam is the problem,' we will guarantee that Islam will become the problem."
"If we act as if 'Islam is the problem,' we will guarantee that Islam will become the problem."
A Pittance of Time - Terry Kelly
Remember our living military veterans today.
Give thanks to those who we are so lucky to know and love!
"On November 11, 1999 Terry Kelly was in a Shoppers Drug Mart store in Dartmouth, Nova Scotia. At 10:55 AM an announcement came over the store's PA asking customers who would still be on the premises at 11:00 AM to give two minutes of silence in respect to the veterans who have sacrificed so much for us.
Terry was impressed with the store's leadership role in adopting the Legion's "two minutes of silence" initiative. He felt that the store's contribution of educating the public to the importance of remembering was commendable.
When eleven o'clock arrived on that day, an announcement was again made asking for the "two minutes of silence" to commence. All customers, with the exception of a man who was accompanied by his young child, showed their respect.
Terry's anger towards the father for trying to engage the store's clerk in conversation and for setting a bad example for his child was later channeled into a beautiful piece of work called, "A Pittance of Time". Terry later recorded "A Pittance of Time" and included it on his full-length music CD, "The Power of the Dream".
Tuesday, November 10, 2009
U.S. announces one-on-one talks with North Korea
U.S. announces one-on-one talks with North Korea
"U.S. officials will soon meet unilaterally with North Korean representatives to facilitate the resumption of talks on ending North Korea's nuclear program, State Department spokesman P.J. Crowley said Tuesday."
What perfect timing for pre-Veteran's Day!
"U.S. officials will soon meet unilaterally with North Korean representatives to facilitate the resumption of talks on ending North Korea's nuclear program, State Department spokesman P.J. Crowley said Tuesday."
What perfect timing for pre-Veteran's Day!
Happy 234th Birthday to the Marines
Happy 234th Birthday to the Marines
"Earlier this year as I was filling up at the gas station I noticed a faded bumper sticker- vintage Bush 43-on the car next to me: “Dissent is Patriotic.”
When I pointed to the bumper and asked the driver if she still believed that, she suggested I do something to myself which I am certain is physically impossible.
I just laughed and said, “I’ll take that as a no.”
At the time, our Marine son and his men were deployed to a remote Forward Operating Base in Afghanistan."
"Earlier this year as I was filling up at the gas station I noticed a faded bumper sticker- vintage Bush 43-on the car next to me: “Dissent is Patriotic.”
When I pointed to the bumper and asked the driver if she still believed that, she suggested I do something to myself which I am certain is physically impossible.
I just laughed and said, “I’ll take that as a no.”
At the time, our Marine son and his men were deployed to a remote Forward Operating Base in Afghanistan."
...In AMERICAN PATRIOT by Robert Coram, Medal of Honor recipient Colonel Bud Day is quoted as saying:
“It is not a widely known fact, but military people are weepers.
They weep when they watch a parade and the flag goes by.
They weep when they hear the National Anthem.
They weep at tales of valor and sacrifice.”
When I read that, a sense of relief washed over me.
If maybe the most valiant man I ever met can weep then I guess it’s okay for me to admit shedding a tear.
I’ve shot guys and never flinched but tales of valor and the sacrifices I have seen by my military heroes and their families choke me up every time.
I wonder if the woman at Shell ever cries and if so, for whom or for what?"
Please read this entire ....gift to all of us.
Please read this entire ....gift to all of us.
DC sniper Muhammad executed for 2002 attacks
DC sniper Muhammad executed for 2002 attacks
"John Allen Muhammad, the mastermind of the sniper attacks that terrorized the nation's capital region for three weeks in October 2002, was executed Tuesday. Muhammad died by injection at 9:11 p.m. at Greensville Correctional Center in Jarratt,"
Oh, happy day!
"John Allen Muhammad, the mastermind of the sniper attacks that terrorized the nation's capital region for three weeks in October 2002, was executed Tuesday. Muhammad died by injection at 9:11 p.m. at Greensville Correctional Center in Jarratt,"
Oh, happy day!
United announces Muskegon-Chicago flight schedule
United announces Muskegon-Chicago flight schedule
"Longtime air-service provider Delta Airlines will cease flights between Muskegon and Detroit on Feb. 10, the same day United takes over."
Doesn't that mean Delta will no longer service MKG?
"Longtime air-service provider Delta Airlines will cease flights between Muskegon and Detroit on Feb. 10, the same day United takes over."
Doesn't that mean Delta will no longer service MKG?
Fruitport Township wants to study water alternatives
Fruitport Township wants to study water alternatives
"Fruitport Township officials took the first step Monday night that could pave the way for the township to eventually leave the Muskegon Heights water system, amid a long-running dispute over operation of the system."
Is Norton Shores gonna leave too?
"Fruitport Township officials took the first step Monday night that could pave the way for the township to eventually leave the Muskegon Heights water system, amid a long-running dispute over operation of the system."
Is Norton Shores gonna leave too?
How do you mark the Berlin Wall coming down without including Reagan? “Well, NBC …
How do you mark the Berlin Wall coming down without including Reagan?
“Well, NBC News shows us how, and, as a bonus, manages to include Hillary Clinton in the report, twice.”
Related item here."
Another example of the joys of government controlled media.
This trend is really getting scary!
“Well, NBC News shows us how, and, as a bonus, manages to include Hillary Clinton in the report, twice.”
Related item here."
Another example of the joys of government controlled media.
This trend is really getting scary!
New Hampshire Will Bailout Failing Newspaper
New Hampshire Will Bailout Failing Newspaper
"The state of New Hampshire last week agreed to guarantee 75 percent of a $250,000 loan from an Upper Valley bank to the new owner of the Eagle Times, an unusual deal because it involves a daily newspaper and the government it covers."
Here it comes!
Government controlled AND guaranteed media.
Adolf, Joseph and Mao would be proud.......
"The state of New Hampshire last week agreed to guarantee 75 percent of a $250,000 loan from an Upper Valley bank to the new owner of the Eagle Times, an unusual deal because it involves a daily newspaper and the government it covers."
Here it comes!
Government controlled AND guaranteed media.
Adolf, Joseph and Mao would be proud.......
Is Social Security a savings account or a Ponzi scheme?
Is Social Security a savings account or a Ponzi scheme?
"Social Security works by transferring income of a younger generation to an older generation. So in that sense, it is a lot more like a Ponzi scheme in which earlier investors are paid returns off the investments of newer investors.
.....But, like a Ponzi scheme, Social Security does have a simple and fatal flaw: If there aren’t enough new participants in the system, there won’t be enough to support those receiving payoffs.
With the retirement of the baby-boom generation starting next year, the demographic structure of the U.S. population will slowly force Social Security to topple.
There simply won’t be enough workers to support those receiving benefits.
We will need to fix the system soon, or in 30 years Social Security will no longer be solvent."
This columnist suggests that even though it's a ponzi scheme, it's OK cause lot's of old folks made out like bandits.
gimme a break!
"Social Security works by transferring income of a younger generation to an older generation. So in that sense, it is a lot more like a Ponzi scheme in which earlier investors are paid returns off the investments of newer investors.
.....But, like a Ponzi scheme, Social Security does have a simple and fatal flaw: If there aren’t enough new participants in the system, there won’t be enough to support those receiving payoffs.
With the retirement of the baby-boom generation starting next year, the demographic structure of the U.S. population will slowly force Social Security to topple.
There simply won’t be enough workers to support those receiving benefits.
We will need to fix the system soon, or in 30 years Social Security will no longer be solvent."
This columnist suggests that even though it's a ponzi scheme, it's OK cause lot's of old folks made out like bandits.
gimme a break!
Interview with the President: Jail Time for Those without Health Care Insurance?
Interview with the President: Jail Time for Those without Health Care Insurance?
"During an exclusive interview with ABC News’ Jake Tapper today, President Obama said that penalties are appropriate for people who try to “free ride” the health care system but stopped short of endorsing the threat of jail time for those who refuse to pay a fine for not having insurance.
“What I think is appropriate is that in the same way that everybody has to get auto insurance and if you don't, you're subject to some penalty, that in this situation, if you have the ability to buy insurance, it's affordable and you choose not to do so, forcing you and me and everybody else to subsidize you, you know, there's a thousand dollar hidden tax that families all across America are -- are burdened by because of the fact that people don't have health insurance, you know, there's nothing wrong with a penalty.”"
What about the "free ride" 10s of millions of citizens and NON-CITIZENS already get?
What a dufuss.
"During an exclusive interview with ABC News’ Jake Tapper today, President Obama said that penalties are appropriate for people who try to “free ride” the health care system but stopped short of endorsing the threat of jail time for those who refuse to pay a fine for not having insurance.
“What I think is appropriate is that in the same way that everybody has to get auto insurance and if you don't, you're subject to some penalty, that in this situation, if you have the ability to buy insurance, it's affordable and you choose not to do so, forcing you and me and everybody else to subsidize you, you know, there's a thousand dollar hidden tax that families all across America are -- are burdened by because of the fact that people don't have health insurance, you know, there's nothing wrong with a penalty.”"
What about the "free ride" 10s of millions of citizens and NON-CITIZENS already get?
What a dufuss.
Golf balls: 'Humanity's signature litter'
Golf balls: 'Humanity's signature litter'
"Research teams at the Danish Golf Union have discovered it takes between 100 to 1,000 years for a golf ball to decompose naturally"
"Research teams at the Danish Golf Union have discovered it takes between 100 to 1,000 years for a golf ball to decompose naturally"
The New Tammany Hall
The New Tammany Hal
"A fantastic - and frankly scary - piece appeared in the Weekly Standard a month ago by Fred Siegel & Dan DiSalvo with this title and subtitle:
The New Tammany Hall
Public sector unions have become a labor aristocracy--and they are bankrupting states and municipalities.
The authors write that public sector employee unions have enjoyed a lot of political victories at the state and local level:
'Indeed, they are the one group, besides Goldman Sachs executives, that's done well during the current Great Recession.
Public sector unions have become political powerhouses in New York, New Jersey, Washington, California, and a host of other states.'"
"A fantastic - and frankly scary - piece appeared in the Weekly Standard a month ago by Fred Siegel & Dan DiSalvo with this title and subtitle:
The New Tammany Hall
Public sector unions have become a labor aristocracy--and they are bankrupting states and municipalities.
The authors write that public sector employee unions have enjoyed a lot of political victories at the state and local level:
'Indeed, they are the one group, besides Goldman Sachs executives, that's done well during the current Great Recession.
Public sector unions have become political powerhouses in New York, New Jersey, Washington, California, and a host of other states.'"
Paterson: NYS Will Be Broke In 4 1/2 Weeks If Cuts Aren't Made Immediately
Paterson: NYS Will Be Broke In 4 1/2 Weeks If Cuts Aren't Made Immediately
"Governor David Paterson called an unusual joint session of the Legislature Monday to implore recalcitrant lawmakers to close the state's huge budget gap before New York runs out of money."
"Governor David Paterson called an unusual joint session of the Legislature Monday to implore recalcitrant lawmakers to close the state's huge budget gap before New York runs out of money."
Monday, November 09, 2009
First-time-homebuyer credit draws fraudulent claims
First-time-homebuyer credit draws fraudulent claims
"U.S. Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration J. Russell George told a panel of the U.S. House of Representatives late last month that more than 19,000 people filed 2008 tax returns claiming the tax credit for homes they had not yet purchased."
This is a surprise?
"U.S. Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration J. Russell George told a panel of the U.S. House of Representatives late last month that more than 19,000 people filed 2008 tax returns claiming the tax credit for homes they had not yet purchased."
This is a surprise?
Government's bailout strategy driving up unemployment - says TARP oversight chair Elizabeth Warren
theblogprof: Government's bailout strategy driving up unemployment - says TARP oversight chair Elizabeth Warren
"And even more ironically, this was shown on MSNBC of all places:"
"And even more ironically, this was shown on MSNBC of all places:"
Montague moves playoff football game to Holton
Montague moves playoff football game to Holton
Montague has moved its Saturday 1 p.m. (last week) playoff game to the artificial field turf stadium at Holton.
Montague (10-0), which is hosting Sanford-Meridian in a Division 6 district championship game, moved the game because of poor field conditions at its stadium."
Kids played football for a century on muddy fields.
Is this new "sensitivity" really a ploy to get voters ready for a new artificial turf stadium.......yep!
Montague has moved its Saturday 1 p.m. (last week) playoff game to the artificial field turf stadium at Holton.
Montague (10-0), which is hosting Sanford-Meridian in a Division 6 district championship game, moved the game because of poor field conditions at its stadium."
Kids played football for a century on muddy fields.
Is this new "sensitivity" really a ploy to get voters ready for a new artificial turf stadium.......yep!
Why you can't get swine-flu vaccine
Why you can't get swine-flu vaccine
"the US government set out to have the H1N1 vaccine produced largely in single-dose syringes -- a demand that has set back production considerably, because multidose vials are far easier to make.
And the only reason to seek single-dose production was to please people needlessly worried about the preservative thimerasol, which is used to provide multiple doses of the vaccine. The fear -- utterly groundless and repeatedly debunked is that thimerasol can cause autism and other neurological disorders in infants and other young children.
If not for that decision, we'd have more than enough vaccine.
Instead, because the government yielded to pressure from antivaccine fringe groups, we're behind the curve on protecting millions of children from swine flu."
"the US government set out to have the H1N1 vaccine produced largely in single-dose syringes -- a demand that has set back production considerably, because multidose vials are far easier to make.
And the only reason to seek single-dose production was to please people needlessly worried about the preservative thimerasol, which is used to provide multiple doses of the vaccine. The fear -- utterly groundless and repeatedly debunked is that thimerasol can cause autism and other neurological disorders in infants and other young children.
If not for that decision, we'd have more than enough vaccine.
Instead, because the government yielded to pressure from antivaccine fringe groups, we're behind the curve on protecting millions of children from swine flu."
Will the United States Default on Its Debt?
Will the United States Default on Its Debt?
"I suggested that the unthinkable had become thinkable: some advanced society—say, the United States, Spain, Italy, Japan, or Great Britain—might someday default on its government debt.
It wouldn't pay its creditors all they were owed or wouldn't pay them on time.
Just a few days later, and completely coincidentally, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) issued a report that, without saying so, added credence to this unsettling hypothesis"
The table below shows government debt in relation to a country's gross domestic product (GDP), which is the output of its economy. The first column shows the debt-to-GDP ratio for 2007, the last pre-crisis year; the second column gives the IMF's projection for 2014. (Debt reflects government borrowing to cover annual budget deficits.) By this standard measure, many rapidly growing emerging-market countries are less indebted than wealthier nations.
General Government Debt to GDP
COUNTRY 2007 2014
BRAZIL 67% 59%
CANADA 64% 69%
CHINA 20% 20%
FRANCE 64% 96%
GERMANY 63% 89%
INDIA 81% 79%
ITALY 104% 129%
JAPAN 188% 246%
SOUTH KOREA 30% 35%
MEXICO 38% 44%
UNITED KINGDOM 44% 98%
UNITED STATES 62% 108%
"I suggested that the unthinkable had become thinkable: some advanced society—say, the United States, Spain, Italy, Japan, or Great Britain—might someday default on its government debt.
It wouldn't pay its creditors all they were owed or wouldn't pay them on time.
Just a few days later, and completely coincidentally, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) issued a report that, without saying so, added credence to this unsettling hypothesis"
The table below shows government debt in relation to a country's gross domestic product (GDP), which is the output of its economy. The first column shows the debt-to-GDP ratio for 2007, the last pre-crisis year; the second column gives the IMF's projection for 2014. (Debt reflects government borrowing to cover annual budget deficits.) By this standard measure, many rapidly growing emerging-market countries are less indebted than wealthier nations.
General Government Debt to GDP
COUNTRY 2007 2014
BRAZIL 67% 59%
CANADA 64% 69%
CHINA 20% 20%
FRANCE 64% 96%
GERMANY 63% 89%
INDIA 81% 79%
ITALY 104% 129%
JAPAN 188% 246%
SOUTH KOREA 30% 35%
MEXICO 38% 44%
UNITED KINGDOM 44% 98%
UNITED STATES 62% 108%
Fee increase from 21 cents a ton to $7.50 a ton proposed for trash dumping in Michigan
Fee increase from 21 cents a ton to $7.50 a ton proposed for trash dumping in Michigan to encourage recycling
"Some legislators in Michigan want to increase solid waste disposal fees from 21 cents to $7.50 a ton to encourage recycling."
oh...and it would also be a $145 MILLION tax increase on Michigan residents.....and oh, it's another ALL DEMOCRAT political scam.
"Some legislators in Michigan want to increase solid waste disposal fees from 21 cents to $7.50 a ton to encourage recycling."
oh...and it would also be a $145 MILLION tax increase on Michigan residents.....and oh, it's another ALL DEMOCRAT political scam.
Will the United States Default on Its Debt?
Will the United States Default on Its Debt?
"In my latest NEWSWEEK column, I suggested that the unthinkable had become thinkable: some advanced society—say, the United States, Spain, Italy, Japan, or Great Britain—might someday default on its government debt."
"In my latest NEWSWEEK column, I suggested that the unthinkable had become thinkable: some advanced society—say, the United States, Spain, Italy, Japan, or Great Britain—might someday default on its government debt."
Sunday, November 08, 2009
No new talks scheduled in Philly transit strike
No new talks scheduled in Philly transit strike
"Commuters in the City of Brotherly Love have been told to gear up to begin a second week of finding other ways to work following the collapse of a proposed deal to end a six-day-old strike by about 5,000 bus drivers, subway and trolley conductors and mechanics."
This is what you get with government mandated commuter-care.
"Commuters in the City of Brotherly Love have been told to gear up to begin a second week of finding other ways to work following the collapse of a proposed deal to end a six-day-old strike by about 5,000 bus drivers, subway and trolley conductors and mechanics."
This is what you get with government mandated commuter-care.
MSU fans, meet Ashton Legget
MSU fans, meet Ashton Leggett
"Two weeks ago, Michigan State running back Ashton Leggett was on the scout team, buried beneath a host of ballcarriers on the depth chart.
Flash forward to the Spartans' 49-14 win over Western Michigan, when Leggett emerged for 110 yards and four touchdowns on 14 rushing attempts - including a 71-yard scoring run the first time he touched the ball."
Muskegon HS grad!
"Two weeks ago, Michigan State running back Ashton Leggett was on the scout team, buried beneath a host of ballcarriers on the depth chart.
Flash forward to the Spartans' 49-14 win over Western Michigan, when Leggett emerged for 110 yards and four touchdowns on 14 rushing attempts - including a 71-yard scoring run the first time he touched the ball."
Muskegon HS grad!
Mercy H.E.A.R.T. Center
Mercy H.E.A.R.T. Center
"Lipid Profiles and Glucose Screenings
A blood draw to obtain Total Cholesterol, LDL, HDL, Triglycerides, and Glucose values.
Open to community.
Results sent to your home in about 1 week. 12 hour fast required prior to testing.
Second Tuesday of every month.
Walk-ins between 7:00 AM and 12:00 PM.
$15 for a Lipid Profile
$6 for a Glucose Test"
"Lipid Profiles and Glucose Screenings
A blood draw to obtain Total Cholesterol, LDL, HDL, Triglycerides, and Glucose values.
Open to community.
Results sent to your home in about 1 week. 12 hour fast required prior to testing.
Second Tuesday of every month.
Walk-ins between 7:00 AM and 12:00 PM.
$15 for a Lipid Profile
$6 for a Glucose Test"
Now that they passed it, will Dems survive 2010?
Now that they passed it, will Dems survive 2010?
"Sixteen Democrats, however, come from McCain districts, and still voted for the bill. They are listed below by district and last name as well as the percentage of their voters that went for McCain:"
"Sixteen Democrats, however, come from McCain districts, and still voted for the bill. They are listed below by district and last name as well as the percentage of their voters that went for McCain:"
Saturday, November 07, 2009
FuturePundit: Policy Decisions Slow H1N1 Vaccine Production
FuturePundit: Policy Decisions Slow H1N1 Vaccine Production: "Why is H1N1 influenza vaccine coming out so slowly in the United States? Dr. Scott Gottlieb, a former FDA deputy commissioner, says a few policy decisions slow the production of vaccine."
Friday, November 06, 2009
Report Says 75 Percent of Young Americans Unfit for Military Service
Report Says 75 Percent of Young Americans Unfit for Military Service
"About 75 percent of the country's 17- to 24-year-olds are ineligible for military service, largely because they are poorly educated, overweight and have physical ailments that make them unfit for the armed forces, according to a report issued Thursday.
Other factors, such as drug use, criminal records and mental problems"
"About 75 percent of the country's 17- to 24-year-olds are ineligible for military service, largely because they are poorly educated, overweight and have physical ailments that make them unfit for the armed forces, according to a report issued Thursday.
Other factors, such as drug use, criminal records and mental problems"
Thursday, November 05, 2009
Police: Security guard head-butted, sat on, driven away at Wal-Mart
Police: Security guard head-butted, sat on, driven away at Wal-Mart
"Two women trying to avoid arrest after allegedly stealing goods from a local Wal-Mart store head-butted, urinated on and drove off with a security guard in the getaway car on Halloween night, police said.
"Two women trying to avoid arrest after allegedly stealing goods from a local Wal-Mart store head-butted, urinated on and drove off with a security guard in the getaway car on Halloween night, police said.
Nice gals, right by my home.
And the libs want to disarm me and my family and neighbors?
Health-Care Bill Doesn't Index for Inflation; Hits Young and Rising Middle Class Hard - WSJ.com
Health-Care Bill Doesn't Index for Inflation; Hits Young and Rising Middle Class Hard - WSJ.com: "All of those twentysomethings who voted for Barack Obama last year are about to experience the change they haven't been waiting for: the return of income tax bracket creep. Buried in Nancy Pelosi's health-care bill is a provision that will partially repeal tax indexing for inflation, meaning that as their earnings rise over a lifetime these youngsters can look forward to paying higher rates even if their income gains aren't real."
Rivals.com College Basketball - Preseason Countdown: No. 3 Michigan State
Rivals.com College Basketball - Preseason Countdown: No. 3 Michigan State
"OVERVIEW
The state of Michigan has received its share of bad news in the past year - but none of it came from Michigan State. The Spartans gave fans a feel-good story by reaching their sixth Final Four under coach Tom Izzo before losing in the national championship game to North Carolina. With limited accolades and hype, Michigan State marched to the Final Four on guile and hard work. Michigan State can't play the underdog card this season. Michigan State returns Big Ten Player of the Year Kalin Lucas to a team that won the conference by a commanding four games. But the Spartans do have some holes to fill. While every other Big Ten team that went to the NCAAs returns nearly intact, Izzo must replace two key players. Center Goran Suton was one of the most valuable players in the NCAA tournament, and guard Travis Walton was the league's defensive player of the year. If Michigan State can find capable replacements, the Spartans could write another inspirational story for their fans."
"OVERVIEW
The state of Michigan has received its share of bad news in the past year - but none of it came from Michigan State. The Spartans gave fans a feel-good story by reaching their sixth Final Four under coach Tom Izzo before losing in the national championship game to North Carolina. With limited accolades and hype, Michigan State marched to the Final Four on guile and hard work. Michigan State can't play the underdog card this season. Michigan State returns Big Ten Player of the Year Kalin Lucas to a team that won the conference by a commanding four games. But the Spartans do have some holes to fill. While every other Big Ten team that went to the NCAAs returns nearly intact, Izzo must replace two key players. Center Goran Suton was one of the most valuable players in the NCAA tournament, and guard Travis Walton was the league's defensive player of the year. If Michigan State can find capable replacements, the Spartans could write another inspirational story for their fans."
Senate blocks census US-citizenship question
Senate blocks census US-citizenship question
"Senate Democrats have blocked a GOP attempt to require next year's census forms to ask people whether they are a U.S. citizen."
"Senate Democrats have blocked a GOP attempt to require next year's census forms to ask people whether they are a U.S. citizen."
Yes, there is a difference between the democrat and republican party.
Tell your friends!
Prichard Alabama Files Bankruptcy Over Pensions
Prichard Alabama Files Bankruptcy Over Pensions;
"Inquiring minds are noting another city has been driven to bankruptcy because of pension promises that cannot possibly be met.
Please consider Prichard Alabama Files For Bankruptcy."
"Inquiring minds are noting another city has been driven to bankruptcy because of pension promises that cannot possibly be met.
Please consider Prichard Alabama Files For Bankruptcy."
Warren Buffett: Tax Hypocrite?
TaxProf Blog: Warren Buffett: Tax Hypocrite?
Warren Buffett's Tax Hypocrisy:
When Warren Buffett criticized President Bush's tax cuts while plumping for the presidential campaigns of Barack Obama and Hillary Clinton, he garnered prominent, adulatory headlines ... Consider that as the context for two pieces of information:
First, the observation, amid a column in today's Wall Street Journal, about Berkshire Hathaway's cash mountain: 'Mr. Buffett would rather not resort to the simplest way of solving this problem -- paying excess cash out to shareholders in the form of a dividend. Since he owns roughly 26% of Berkshire's shares, a cash dividend would saddle Mr. Buffett with one of the largest personal-income tax bills in American history. That's not the kind of thing at which he likes to excel. Mr. Buffett's reluctance to pay a dividend leaves him with little choice but to buy big companies outright.'
Second, the news (again, from the Wall Street Journal) that Mr. Buffett's Berkshire Hathaway is joining in a bid to buy $3 billion in tax credits from Fannie Mae. Reports the Journal: 'The credits are virtually worthless to Fannie Mae and require the company to take losses each quarter as their value declines. Companies such as Berkshire Hathaway and Goldman Sachs could use them to offset federal tax expenses.'
Neither Journal article places the news in the context of Mr. Buffett's stated support for higher taxes.
Prior TaxProf Blog coverage"
Warren Buffett's Tax Hypocrisy:
When Warren Buffett criticized President Bush's tax cuts while plumping for the presidential campaigns of Barack Obama and Hillary Clinton, he garnered prominent, adulatory headlines ... Consider that as the context for two pieces of information:
First, the observation, amid a column in today's Wall Street Journal, about Berkshire Hathaway's cash mountain: 'Mr. Buffett would rather not resort to the simplest way of solving this problem -- paying excess cash out to shareholders in the form of a dividend. Since he owns roughly 26% of Berkshire's shares, a cash dividend would saddle Mr. Buffett with one of the largest personal-income tax bills in American history. That's not the kind of thing at which he likes to excel. Mr. Buffett's reluctance to pay a dividend leaves him with little choice but to buy big companies outright.'
Second, the news (again, from the Wall Street Journal) that Mr. Buffett's Berkshire Hathaway is joining in a bid to buy $3 billion in tax credits from Fannie Mae. Reports the Journal: 'The credits are virtually worthless to Fannie Mae and require the company to take losses each quarter as their value declines. Companies such as Berkshire Hathaway and Goldman Sachs could use them to offset federal tax expenses.'
Neither Journal article places the news in the context of Mr. Buffett's stated support for higher taxes.
Prior TaxProf Blog coverage"
Clunker pickups traded for new pickups
Clunker pickups traded for new pickups
"The most common deals under the government's $3 billion Cash for Clunkers program, aimed at putting more fuel-efficient cars on the road, replaced old Ford or Chevrolet pickups with new ones that got only marginally better gas mileage, according to an analysis of new federal data by The Associated Press.
The single most common swap - which occurred more than 8,200 times - involved Ford F150 pickup owners who took advantage of a government rebate to trade their old trucks for new Ford F150s. They were 17 times more likely to buy a new F150 than, say, a Toyota Prius. The fuel economy for the new trucks ranged from 15 mpg to 17 mpg based on engine size and other factors, an improvement of just 1 mpg to 3 mpg over the clunkers."
"The most common deals under the government's $3 billion Cash for Clunkers program, aimed at putting more fuel-efficient cars on the road, replaced old Ford or Chevrolet pickups with new ones that got only marginally better gas mileage, according to an analysis of new federal data by The Associated Press.
The single most common swap - which occurred more than 8,200 times - involved Ford F150 pickup owners who took advantage of a government rebate to trade their old trucks for new Ford F150s. They were 17 times more likely to buy a new F150 than, say, a Toyota Prius. The fuel economy for the new trucks ranged from 15 mpg to 17 mpg based on engine size and other factors, an improvement of just 1 mpg to 3 mpg over the clunkers."
Wednesday, November 04, 2009
A deathblow to ObamaCare
A deathblow to ObamaCare
"But Virginia results are the most important.
More than 80 Democratic congressmen and 20 senators come from states that John McCain carried in 2008.
For them, the sudden switch in Virginia, a swing state that Obama actually carried, heralds tough political times ahead.
New Jersey is the quintessential blue state.
If it goes Republican, blue state congressmen needn't worry.
Their districts are likely still safe.
But when a Republican in Virginia wins by 20 points, it sends a message to red-state Democratic congressmen to take cover"
"But Virginia results are the most important.
More than 80 Democratic congressmen and 20 senators come from states that John McCain carried in 2008.
For them, the sudden switch in Virginia, a swing state that Obama actually carried, heralds tough political times ahead.
New Jersey is the quintessential blue state.
If it goes Republican, blue state congressmen needn't worry.
Their districts are likely still safe.
But when a Republican in Virginia wins by 20 points, it sends a message to red-state Democratic congressmen to take cover"
Persistent Errors in Stimulus Job Count
Persistent Errors in Stimulus Job Count
"President Barack Obama's economic recovery program saved 935 jobs at the Southwest Georgia Community Action Council, an impressive success story for the stimulus plan. Trouble is, only 508 people work there.
The Georgia nonprofit's inflated job count is among persisting errors in the government's latest effort to measure the effect of the $787 billion stimulus plan despite White House promises last week that the new data would undergo an 'extensive review' to root out errors discovered in an earlier report.
About two-thirds of the 14,506 jobs claimed to be saved under one federal office, the Administration for Children and Families at Health and Human Services, actually weren't saved at all, according to a review of the latest data by The Associated Press.
Instead, that figure includes more than 9,300 existing employees in hundreds of local agencies who received pay raises and benefits and whose jobs weren't saved.
That type of accounting was found in an earlier AP review of stimulus jobs"
"President Barack Obama's economic recovery program saved 935 jobs at the Southwest Georgia Community Action Council, an impressive success story for the stimulus plan. Trouble is, only 508 people work there.
The Georgia nonprofit's inflated job count is among persisting errors in the government's latest effort to measure the effect of the $787 billion stimulus plan despite White House promises last week that the new data would undergo an 'extensive review' to root out errors discovered in an earlier report.
About two-thirds of the 14,506 jobs claimed to be saved under one federal office, the Administration for Children and Families at Health and Human Services, actually weren't saved at all, according to a review of the latest data by The Associated Press.
Instead, that figure includes more than 9,300 existing employees in hundreds of local agencies who received pay raises and benefits and whose jobs weren't saved.
That type of accounting was found in an earlier AP review of stimulus jobs"
Philip Greenspun’s Weblog » The Coming Collapse of the Municipal Bond Market
Philip Greenspun’s Weblog » The Coming Collapse of the Municipal Bond Market: "Sheehan starts off by noting that a lack of panic by the ratings and government agencies does not indicate health for a financial market. He cites the fact that the Fed did not anticipate how bad the subprime collapse was likely to be and obviously the Moody’s and Standard and Poor’s ratings were ridiculous.
Sheehan notes that “spending is rising and revenue is collapsing” for all levels of government. Pension fund losses will require governments to double their contributions to pension plans (see my blog posting on public employee pensions). Spending is rising, e.g., in New York City from an average of $65,401 in compensation per public employee in 2000 to $106,743 in 2009."
Sheehan notes that “spending is rising and revenue is collapsing” for all levels of government. Pension fund losses will require governments to double their contributions to pension plans (see my blog posting on public employee pensions). Spending is rising, e.g., in New York City from an average of $65,401 in compensation per public employee in 2000 to $106,743 in 2009."
Family has impact on U.S. House bill tackling Huntington's disease
Family has impact on U.S. House bill tackling Huntington's disease
"A local family has influenced federal legislation.
After hearing from the Mikula family about the effects of Huntington's disease, Rep. Peter Hoekstra added his name as co-sponsor of a House bill that would revise medical criteria for it.
The Mikula family has lost five members to the disease, and two more have it."
This wonderful family runs a John Deere dealership and runs the lawnmower racing contest in Sparta.
They also own numerous lawnmower racing championships.
"A local family has influenced federal legislation.
After hearing from the Mikula family about the effects of Huntington's disease, Rep. Peter Hoekstra added his name as co-sponsor of a House bill that would revise medical criteria for it.
The Mikula family has lost five members to the disease, and two more have it."
This wonderful family runs a John Deere dealership and runs the lawnmower racing contest in Sparta.
They also own numerous lawnmower racing championships.
Tuesday, November 03, 2009
Molecular Sunglasses for Macular Degeneration
Molecular Sunglasses for Macular Degeneration
"Molecules designed to slow the production of toxic byproducts in the eye by making it less sensitive to light are now being tested in patients with macular degeneration, the leading cause of blindness in people age 50 and older.
If successful, the compounds would provide a much needed therapy for the disease, which affects more than 15 million people in the United States."
"Molecules designed to slow the production of toxic byproducts in the eye by making it less sensitive to light are now being tested in patients with macular degeneration, the leading cause of blindness in people age 50 and older.
If successful, the compounds would provide a much needed therapy for the disease, which affects more than 15 million people in the United States."
Proposed law would require pay for sick workers
Proposed law would require pay for sick workers
"U.S. employers who tell workers to stay home when they are sick will have to give them paid time off for up to five days under new federal legislation proposed on Tuesday.
The emergency law would cover pandemic H1N1 flu or any other infectious disease, said California Representative George Miller, a Democrat who chairs the House Education and Labor Committee and who introduced the bill."
"U.S. employers who tell workers to stay home when they are sick will have to give them paid time off for up to five days under new federal legislation proposed on Tuesday.
The emergency law would cover pandemic H1N1 flu or any other infectious disease, said California Representative George Miller, a Democrat who chairs the House Education and Labor Committee and who introduced the bill."
Outside the Wire - Free Speech on the Cheap
Outside the Wire - Free Speech on the Cheap
Written by JD Johannes
Tuesday, 03 November 2009
This line from a Washington Post story jumped out at me:
"The arrival of war dead at Dover has long pitted free speech advocates against the government, which had been accused of using the ban to hide the horror of war from the public--especially as casualty rates in Iraq and Afghanistan began to climb."
The article is by Christian Davenport.
I'm at a little outpost in northern Iraq, fresh back from a patrol where we met with a local Sheik. The previous day I had rode with US Soldiers to a logistics base on a resupply run and while there picked up a few back issues of Stars and Stripes where I read the story.
In the story, a previous graph has a quote from University of Delaware Journalism Professor Ralph Begleiter one of the above mentioned free speech advocates. Begeleiter said, "Taking pictures of the returning casualties to Dover is a measure of the human cost of war. Do you want the government ultimately to have control over what we see or not see? Or do you want independent observers, an independent press or media, relaying those images?"
Mr. Begleiter if you really want to understand the human cost of war, don't stand on a fucking tarmac, get embedded and see the human cost of war up close and personal where the price is actually paid.
But many of the free speech advocates have no desire to put themselves at risk to tell the stories of the women and men who have willingly put themselves in harms way.
They want to do it on the cheap, standing on concrete in the US at a scheduled time rather than face the capricious hazards of war standing on the sands of Iraq or rocks of Afghanistan.
Many of those free speech advocates are interested only in the Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen and Marines as props. As the story illustrates, very few of the arrivals at Dover are covered by the media.
When a reporter is embedded with US forces they at least have to share some of the risks and possibly themselves become another account in the human cost of war.
I have been ready to pay that price for the last five years and nearly had to pay it a few times. How many of the so-called speech advocates have been willing to pay that price?
Written by JD Johannes
Tuesday, 03 November 2009
This line from a Washington Post story jumped out at me:
"The arrival of war dead at Dover has long pitted free speech advocates against the government, which had been accused of using the ban to hide the horror of war from the public--especially as casualty rates in Iraq and Afghanistan began to climb."
The article is by Christian Davenport.
I'm at a little outpost in northern Iraq, fresh back from a patrol where we met with a local Sheik. The previous day I had rode with US Soldiers to a logistics base on a resupply run and while there picked up a few back issues of Stars and Stripes where I read the story.
In the story, a previous graph has a quote from University of Delaware Journalism Professor Ralph Begleiter one of the above mentioned free speech advocates. Begeleiter said, "Taking pictures of the returning casualties to Dover is a measure of the human cost of war. Do you want the government ultimately to have control over what we see or not see? Or do you want independent observers, an independent press or media, relaying those images?"
Mr. Begleiter if you really want to understand the human cost of war, don't stand on a fucking tarmac, get embedded and see the human cost of war up close and personal where the price is actually paid.
But many of the free speech advocates have no desire to put themselves at risk to tell the stories of the women and men who have willingly put themselves in harms way.
They want to do it on the cheap, standing on concrete in the US at a scheduled time rather than face the capricious hazards of war standing on the sands of Iraq or rocks of Afghanistan.
Many of those free speech advocates are interested only in the Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen and Marines as props. As the story illustrates, very few of the arrivals at Dover are covered by the media.
When a reporter is embedded with US forces they at least have to share some of the risks and possibly themselves become another account in the human cost of war.
I have been ready to pay that price for the last five years and nearly had to pay it a few times. How many of the so-called speech advocates have been willing to pay that price?
Large Hadron Collider ready to roll again ... unless God stops it first
Large Hadron Collider ready to roll again ... unless God stops it first
"What is even scarier about the Large Hadron Collider, however, is that one of the CERN physicists working on the project (his name has not been released) was arrested Oct. 12 on suspicion of having Al Qaeda connections."
"What is even scarier about the Large Hadron Collider, however, is that one of the CERN physicists working on the project (his name has not been released) was arrested Oct. 12 on suspicion of having Al Qaeda connections."
Muskegon crime rates and statistics
Muskegon crime rates and statistics
"3 (out of 100)
100 is safest
This city is safer than 3% of the cities in the US."
And we wonder why this city is dying?
"3 (out of 100)
100 is safest
This city is safer than 3% of the cities in the US."
And we wonder why this city is dying?