Are Michigan film incentives too lucrative? Some lawmakers call for reduction or killing tax breaks for movie makers
"But the incentives will cost the state an estimated $100 million this year and about $150 million in 2010, according to the Senate Fiscal Agency. While that amount has a few calling for a repeal, most opponents want a lesser tax credit or an annual cap. A proposal this spring called for reducing the credit to 35 percent and capping the annual amount to $50 million. The credit for infrastructure -- building a production facility or sound stage, for example -- would increase from 25 percent to 30 percent but raise the minimum investment required.
'It (tax credits program) cannot continue as it is,' said Sen. Mark Jansen, R-Gaines Township. 'What we have right now cannot be sustained.'"
This is an insane waste of money!
Though not much more insane than most of the democrat proposals.
Thursday, September 17, 2009
GOP rivals in governor's race say Mike Bouchard's announcement of Terri Lynn Land as running mate indicates campaign is 'struggling'
GOP rivals in governor's race say Mike Bouchard's announcement of Terri Lynn Land as running mate indicates campaign is 'struggling'
"In a move that strikes GOP rivals as either gimmick or desperation, Oakland County Sheriff Michael Bouchard insists to the contrary: Secretary of State Terri Lynn Land is the perfect teammate for the 2010 gubernatorial race.
'I realized I don't have a short list,' Bouchard said Wednesday in Grand Rapids, speaking of prospective candidates for lieutenant governor. 'I have one person on the list.'"
Interesting fact is Bouchard is on Hoekstra's short list for running mate... after Pete wins the primary.
"In a move that strikes GOP rivals as either gimmick or desperation, Oakland County Sheriff Michael Bouchard insists to the contrary: Secretary of State Terri Lynn Land is the perfect teammate for the 2010 gubernatorial race.
'I realized I don't have a short list,' Bouchard said Wednesday in Grand Rapids, speaking of prospective candidates for lieutenant governor. 'I have one person on the list.'"
Interesting fact is Bouchard is on Hoekstra's short list for running mate... after Pete wins the primary.
The American Spectator : The Absurdity Meter Blow Up
The American Spectator : The Absurdity Meter Blow Up
"Moreover, Jimmy is no paragon on the question of race baiting. At least two of his biographers -- Betty Glad, three decades ago, and Steven F. Hayward, four years ago -- record that Jimmy played the race card in his early days in Georgia politics. His 1970 campaign for governor went so far as to distribute racially charged literature to the Ku Klux Klan. One could argue that Jimmy is playing the race card again, this time playing to the sense of black grievance. In both instances, he has encouraged ugly passions."
"Moreover, Jimmy is no paragon on the question of race baiting. At least two of his biographers -- Betty Glad, three decades ago, and Steven F. Hayward, four years ago -- record that Jimmy played the race card in his early days in Georgia politics. His 1970 campaign for governor went so far as to distribute racially charged literature to the Ku Klux Klan. One could argue that Jimmy is playing the race card again, this time playing to the sense of black grievance. In both instances, he has encouraged ugly passions."
Wednesday, September 16, 2009
Liberal Lies About National Health Care: Bonus Joe Wilson Edition
Liberal Lies About National Health Care: Bonus Joe Wilson Edition
"There are a number of theories about why America's greatest living statesman shouted 'You lie!' at that juncture, but mine is that Wilson said it because Obama told a big, fat stinking lie.
Every single American knows it's a lie. But liberals take pleasure in repeating it -- and then condescendingly accusing anyone who doesn't accept their lie of being a toothless, illiterate racist."
"There are a number of theories about why America's greatest living statesman shouted 'You lie!' at that juncture, but mine is that Wilson said it because Obama told a big, fat stinking lie.
Every single American knows it's a lie. But liberals take pleasure in repeating it -- and then condescendingly accusing anyone who doesn't accept their lie of being a toothless, illiterate racist."
Implanted tooth helps blind US woman recover sight
Implanted tooth helps blind US woman recover sigh
"A 60-year-old US grandmother, blind for nearly a decade, has recovered her sight after surgeons implanted a tooth in her eye as a base to hold a tiny plastic lens, her doctors said Wednesday."
"A 60-year-old US grandmother, blind for nearly a decade, has recovered her sight after surgeons implanted a tooth in her eye as a base to hold a tiny plastic lens, her doctors said Wednesday."
Act From Which An Acorn Grew, And An Economy Died, Lives On
Act From Which An Acorn Grew, And An Economy Died, Lives On
"Acorn found its way into the mortgage business through the Community Reinvestment Act, the 1977 legislation that community groups have used as a cudgel to force lenders to lower their mortgage underwriting standards in order to make more loans in low-income communities.
Often the groups, after making protests under CRA, were then rewarded by banks with contracts to act as mortgage counselors in low-income areas in return for dropping their protests against the banks.
In one particularly lucrative deal, 14 major banks eager to put CRA protests behind them in 1993 signed an agreement to have Acorn administer a $55 million, 11-city lending program. It was precisely such agreements that helped turn Acorn from a network of small local groups into a national player."
"Acorn found its way into the mortgage business through the Community Reinvestment Act, the 1977 legislation that community groups have used as a cudgel to force lenders to lower their mortgage underwriting standards in order to make more loans in low-income communities.
Often the groups, after making protests under CRA, were then rewarded by banks with contracts to act as mortgage counselors in low-income areas in return for dropping their protests against the banks.
In one particularly lucrative deal, 14 major banks eager to put CRA protests behind them in 1993 signed an agreement to have Acorn administer a $55 million, 11-city lending program. It was precisely such agreements that helped turn Acorn from a network of small local groups into a national player."
Steelcase plans to open third plant in Mexico
Steelcase plans to open third plant in Mexico
Steelcase Inc. said Wednesday it will open a new chair-manufacturing plant in Reynosa, Mexico, by early next year, just weeks after announcing plans to shut down its big Pyramid office building in Gaines Township.
Hasn't the education-political complex promised us that our gillions of "education" tax dollars would deliver jobs...here in Michigan?
Maybe we might ask what EMPLOYERS are looking for if we're looking for EMPLOYEES?
Rather than the political-educational lobbiests?
Steelcase Inc. said Wednesday it will open a new chair-manufacturing plant in Reynosa, Mexico, by early next year, just weeks after announcing plans to shut down its big Pyramid office building in Gaines Township.
Hasn't the education-political complex promised us that our gillions of "education" tax dollars would deliver jobs...here in Michigan?
Maybe we might ask what EMPLOYERS are looking for if we're looking for EMPLOYEES?
Rather than the political-educational lobbiests?
Subway sandwich shop opens downtown
Subway sandwich shop opens downtown
"However, difficulties in completing the first-level Hines Building space for the 89-seat restaurant kept it from opening for the summer festival season. Gawkowski had planned to have the Subway open prior to Muskegon Bike Time in mid-July.
However, his opening comes just prior to Baker College of Muskegon's unveiling of the Culinary Institute of Michigan, one block south on Third Street. By the end of the month, Baker's professional food school will have up to 400 students and staff -- all of which are new, potential downtown customers for a shop like Subway."
However.....
"However, difficulties in completing the first-level Hines Building space for the 89-seat restaurant kept it from opening for the summer festival season. Gawkowski had planned to have the Subway open prior to Muskegon Bike Time in mid-July.
However, his opening comes just prior to Baker College of Muskegon's unveiling of the Culinary Institute of Michigan, one block south on Third Street. By the end of the month, Baker's professional food school will have up to 400 students and staff -- all of which are new, potential downtown customers for a shop like Subway."
However.....
Jimmy Carter: Wilson comments 'based on racism'
Jimmy Carter: Wilson comments 'based on racism'
"Former President Jimmy Carter said Tuesday that U.S. Rep. Joe Wilson's outburst to President Barack Obama during a speech to Congress last week was an act 'based on racism' and rooted in fears of a black president."
"Former President Jimmy Carter said Tuesday that U.S. Rep. Joe Wilson's outburst to President Barack Obama during a speech to Congress last week was an act 'based on racism' and rooted in fears of a black president."
Oakland Sheriff Mike Bouchard names Kent County's Terri Lynn Land as running mate for governor's race in 2010 - MLive.com
Oakland Sheriff Mike Bouchard names Kent County's Terri Lynn Land as running mate for governor's race in 2010
"Land endorsed him June 25 after deciding not to enter the gubernatorial contest. Bouchard said there was no deal to offer her the spot in exchange for the support."
The "surprise" is that the poor MSM mokes reporting this "surprise" took so long to figure out the obvious......
"Land endorsed him June 25 after deciding not to enter the gubernatorial contest. Bouchard said there was no deal to offer her the spot in exchange for the support."
The "surprise" is that the poor MSM mokes reporting this "surprise" took so long to figure out the obvious......
Waters: Probe 'birthers and the teabaggers' at rallies for racist views
Waters: Probe 'birthers and the teabaggers' at rallies for racist views
"The media should investigate the racial views of conservative activists like the ones who descended on Washington last weekend, one liberal congresswoman said Wednesday.
Rep. Maxine Waters (D-Calif.) said that it's not enough for African-Americans to levy allegations of racism against the right-leaning protesters, and that the media must look into their views.
'I want those people talked to; I want them interviewed,' Waters told the liberal Bill Press Radio show in a podcast. 'I want journalists to be all over those rallies and the marches with the birthers and the teabaggers.'"
"The media should investigate the racial views of conservative activists like the ones who descended on Washington last weekend, one liberal congresswoman said Wednesday.
Rep. Maxine Waters (D-Calif.) said that it's not enough for African-Americans to levy allegations of racism against the right-leaning protesters, and that the media must look into their views.
'I want those people talked to; I want them interviewed,' Waters told the liberal Bill Press Radio show in a podcast. 'I want journalists to be all over those rallies and the marches with the birthers and the teabaggers.'"
Township supervisors in Muskegon County unhappy over downgrading of hard-surface roads
Township supervisors in Muskegon County unhappy over downgrading of hard-surface roads
The supervisors' frustrations came to a head recently when the road commission considered a proposal to crush four miles of hard-surface roads in Holton and Cedar Creek townships. The matter was tabled, and it remains unclear whether it will return at the road commission's Sept. 23 meeting.
Fruitland Township Supervisor Sam St. Amour said the problem is a lack of funding from the state, not the road commission.
Laurie Peterson, the road commission's maintenance supervisor, agreed. She said the road commission would rather repave roads, but a lack of state funding makes crushing some roads more feasible.
"There's just not enough money," Peterson said. "We can't keep patching the roads. All we'd be doing is throwing money into bad roads that are too far gone.
"We understand their frustrations. The ideal solution costs much more than crushing."
Holton Township Supervisor Mickey Noble said a two-mile stretch of Brunswick Road was crushed last year -- unbeknownst to him. He said he knew the project was under consideration, but found out from a resident that the crushing had already started.
"It's not acceptable to find out a project is already in gear," he said. "Why the township is honored to have their roads pulverized is beyond me. Give us a break."
The supervisors' frustrations came to a head recently when the road commission considered a proposal to crush four miles of hard-surface roads in Holton and Cedar Creek townships. The matter was tabled, and it remains unclear whether it will return at the road commission's Sept. 23 meeting.
Fruitland Township Supervisor Sam St. Amour said the problem is a lack of funding from the state, not the road commission.
Laurie Peterson, the road commission's maintenance supervisor, agreed. She said the road commission would rather repave roads, but a lack of state funding makes crushing some roads more feasible.
"There's just not enough money," Peterson said. "We can't keep patching the roads. All we'd be doing is throwing money into bad roads that are too far gone.
"We understand their frustrations. The ideal solution costs much more than crushing."
Holton Township Supervisor Mickey Noble said a two-mile stretch of Brunswick Road was crushed last year -- unbeknownst to him. He said he knew the project was under consideration, but found out from a resident that the crushing had already started.
"It's not acceptable to find out a project is already in gear," he said. "Why the township is honored to have their roads pulverized is beyond me. Give us a break."
Tuesday, September 15, 2009
The Muskegon Patriots hosting event to celebrate U.S. Constitution
The Muskegon Patriots hosting event to celebrate U.S. Constitution
"A 'We the People' celebration of the 222nd anniversary of the signing of the U.S. Constitution will be noon to 8 p.m. Thursday.
A group calling itself The Muskegon Patriots is hosting the event in the parking lot in front of the Mart Dock and next to the LST 393 in downtown Muskegon. The event will be inside the LST in case of rain.
Booths representing various organizations will be set up from noon to 6:30 p.m. From 6:30 to 7:30 p.m., speakers will talk about the history of the U.S. Constitution and protection of rights"
"A 'We the People' celebration of the 222nd anniversary of the signing of the U.S. Constitution will be noon to 8 p.m. Thursday.
A group calling itself The Muskegon Patriots is hosting the event in the parking lot in front of the Mart Dock and next to the LST 393 in downtown Muskegon. The event will be inside the LST in case of rain.
Booths representing various organizations will be set up from noon to 6:30 p.m. From 6:30 to 7:30 p.m., speakers will talk about the history of the U.S. Constitution and protection of rights"
Public, officials invited to tour Muskegon Lake waterfront
Public, officials invited to tour Muskegon Lake waterfront
"The tour is driven by the recent $10 million grant from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration to improve the plant and wildlife habitat of the southern shore of Muskegon Lake"
no places to cut?
"The tour is driven by the recent $10 million grant from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration to improve the plant and wildlife habitat of the southern shore of Muskegon Lake"
no places to cut?
ACORN wants another $6 million despite scandals
ACORN wants another $6 million despite scandals
"An ACORN affiliate has just submitted applications for over $6 million in government funding, despite the controversial videos of the organization’s workers aiding a child prostitution “promoter.”"
"An ACORN affiliate has just submitted applications for over $6 million in government funding, despite the controversial videos of the organization’s workers aiding a child prostitution “promoter.”"
Liberal group protests Beck's Lansing speech
Liberal group protests Beck's Lansing speech
"LANSING — A liberal group says the Michigan Chamber of Commerce is glorifying hate by having Fox News commentator Glenn Beck speak at its annual meeting.
Progress Michigan issued a statement Monday saying the visit “brings shame” to the state.
Michigan State University College Democrats and other groups say they’ll protest at the East Lansing event tonight.
Chamber President Rich Studley says his group has a tradition of inviting speakers from across the political and ideological spectrum.
State Democratic Chairman Mark Brewer spoke last year, and Democratic strategist James Carville has spoken in the past.
Studley says the dinner is all about “ideas and healthy debate.”
About 500 people have signed up to attend."
Given the disgusting crimes that Glenn and Breitbart have just uncovered (ACORN), wouldn't it be worth investigating "Progress Michigan" a group involved with shouting down the investigators of ACORN?
I'll be there tonight!
"LANSING — A liberal group says the Michigan Chamber of Commerce is glorifying hate by having Fox News commentator Glenn Beck speak at its annual meeting.
Progress Michigan issued a statement Monday saying the visit “brings shame” to the state.
Michigan State University College Democrats and other groups say they’ll protest at the East Lansing event tonight.
Chamber President Rich Studley says his group has a tradition of inviting speakers from across the political and ideological spectrum.
State Democratic Chairman Mark Brewer spoke last year, and Democratic strategist James Carville has spoken in the past.
Studley says the dinner is all about “ideas and healthy debate.”
About 500 people have signed up to attend."
Given the disgusting crimes that Glenn and Breitbart have just uncovered (ACORN), wouldn't it be worth investigating "Progress Michigan" a group involved with shouting down the investigators of ACORN?
I'll be there tonight!
Monday, September 14, 2009
Don't Blame Us, Blame the Newspaper We Copied It Out Of
Don't Blame Us, Blame the Newspaper We Copied It Out Of
"This follows the Irish Times' recent retraction of a story it cut-and-pasted from the New York Times.
Of course, neither the Sydney Morning Herald nor the Irish Times are 'unwitting victims' of the Washington Post and New York Times.
It's their choice to copy blindly any slab of hooey appearing in the Post and Times that happens to suit their prejudices without checking it for themselves.
As the Neverdock points out, if you can't do as well as some blogger using Google, maybe you shouldn't be in the news business."
"This follows the Irish Times' recent retraction of a story it cut-and-pasted from the New York Times.
Of course, neither the Sydney Morning Herald nor the Irish Times are 'unwitting victims' of the Washington Post and New York Times.
It's their choice to copy blindly any slab of hooey appearing in the Post and Times that happens to suit their prejudices without checking it for themselves.
As the Neverdock points out, if you can't do as well as some blogger using Google, maybe you shouldn't be in the news business."
ACORN Story Grows But Mainstream Media Refuse to Cover It - FOXNews.com
ACORN Story Grows But Mainstream Media Refuse to Cover It
"This story has everything you could ever want – corruption, sleazy actions at tax-funded organizations, firings, government ties, sex, hookers.
It is a network news director’s dream.
Imagine the ratings.
But almost no one is covering it."
"This story has everything you could ever want – corruption, sleazy actions at tax-funded organizations, firings, government ties, sex, hookers.
It is a network news director’s dream.
Imagine the ratings.
But almost no one is covering it."
‘Call Fox’ - WSJ.com
‘Call Fox’ - WSJ.com
By JAMES TARANTO
Last week we noted that Jill Abramson, managing editor of the New York Times, had acknowledged her paper was "a beat behind" on the story of Van Jones, the Obama administration's so-called green-jobs czar, who among other things once signed a 9/11 "truther" conspiracy petition. Times readers did not learn about Jones until he had already become the Obama administration's former so-called green-jobs czar. Abramson pointed out that long before the Times reported the story, "it had been discussed on talk radio, Fox News and other venues."
Our conclusion: "If you want to get the news ahead of the Times, watch Fox News Channel."
On Friday, Fox delivered on Abramson's promise by scooping the Times again. Early that evening, the network sent an email alert: "Census Bureau severs all ties with ACORN after hidden-camera videos expose 4 of group's workers advising 'pimp,' 'prostitute' on subverting the law." (Here's the full story.) The Obama administration had invited Acorn (the Association of Community Organizations for Reform Now) to "partner" with the bureau as "advocates for census cooperation and participation," as the bureau described it in its Dear John letter.
Readers of Saturday's Times got only a short (225-word) report from the Associated Press, which began: "The Census Bureau on Friday severed its ties with Acorn, a community organization that Republicans have accused of voter-registration fraud." It made no mention of the hidden-camera sting--although that was because of the Times's editing. The original AP dispatch, filed contemporaneously with the Fox alert, was twice as long. Among the material the Times cut was this:
ACORN fired two employees who were seen on hidden-camera video giving tax advice to a man posing as a pimp and a woman who pretended to be a prostitute. Fox News Channel broadcast excerpts from the video on Thursday. On the video, a man and woman visiting ACORN's Baltimore office asked about buying a house and how to account on tax forms for the woman's income. An ACORN employee advised the woman to list her occupation as "performance artist."
By JAMES TARANTO
Last week we noted that Jill Abramson, managing editor of the New York Times, had acknowledged her paper was "a beat behind" on the story of Van Jones, the Obama administration's so-called green-jobs czar, who among other things once signed a 9/11 "truther" conspiracy petition. Times readers did not learn about Jones until he had already become the Obama administration's former so-called green-jobs czar. Abramson pointed out that long before the Times reported the story, "it had been discussed on talk radio, Fox News and other venues."
Our conclusion: "If you want to get the news ahead of the Times, watch Fox News Channel."
On Friday, Fox delivered on Abramson's promise by scooping the Times again. Early that evening, the network sent an email alert: "Census Bureau severs all ties with ACORN after hidden-camera videos expose 4 of group's workers advising 'pimp,' 'prostitute' on subverting the law." (Here's the full story.) The Obama administration had invited Acorn (the Association of Community Organizations for Reform Now) to "partner" with the bureau as "advocates for census cooperation and participation," as the bureau described it in its Dear John letter.
Readers of Saturday's Times got only a short (225-word) report from the Associated Press, which began: "The Census Bureau on Friday severed its ties with Acorn, a community organization that Republicans have accused of voter-registration fraud." It made no mention of the hidden-camera sting--although that was because of the Times's editing. The original AP dispatch, filed contemporaneously with the Fox alert, was twice as long. Among the material the Times cut was this:
ACORN fired two employees who were seen on hidden-camera video giving tax advice to a man posing as a pimp and a woman who pretended to be a prostitute. Fox News Channel broadcast excerpts from the video on Thursday. On the video, a man and woman visiting ACORN's Baltimore office asked about buying a house and how to account on tax forms for the woman's income. An ACORN employee advised the woman to list her occupation as "performance artist."
CARPE DIEM: Greatest Human Being You Never Heard Of
Greatest Human Being You Never Heard Of
"Penn and Teller profile Norman Borlaug and his contributions to genetically engineered food (some strong language).
New York Times article today -- Norman E. Borlaug, the plant scientist who did more than anyone else in the 20th century to teach the world to feed itself and whose work was credited with saving hundreds of millions of lives, died Saturday night. He was 95 and lived in Dallas."
Surf a bit and marvel at how the MSM non-reports this giant of a man's life.
The only links/TV I saw were from FOX/right wing radio and the conservative internet.
Why do liberals hate those who would feed poor, starving people?
"Penn and Teller profile Norman Borlaug and his contributions to genetically engineered food (some strong language).
New York Times article today -- Norman E. Borlaug, the plant scientist who did more than anyone else in the 20th century to teach the world to feed itself and whose work was credited with saving hundreds of millions of lives, died Saturday night. He was 95 and lived in Dallas."
Surf a bit and marvel at how the MSM non-reports this giant of a man's life.
The only links/TV I saw were from FOX/right wing radio and the conservative internet.
Why do liberals hate those who would feed poor, starving people?
Subprime Commission
Subprime Commission
Financial Crisis: Congress has impaneled a "bipartisan" commission to get to the bottom of the subprime scandal.
Will it?
Only if it listens to a panelist who predicted the disaster.
Financial Crisis: Congress has impaneled a "bipartisan" commission to get to the bottom of the subprime scandal.
Will it?
Only if it listens to a panelist who predicted the disaster.
The next meltdown
The next meltdown
In economic circles, the problem is known as “moral hazard.” Average Americans will call it common sense.
And common sense tells me that, given the nature of the last year’s bailout, moral hazard has been created on an unprecedented scale — setting the system up for a bigger demise somewhere down the road, when the memory of the horrible weeks following Lehman’s bankruptcy is forgotten.........
If we don’t impose such hard rules, expect a repeat of what happened last year.
If history is any guide, that implosion will be bigger and more dangerous than ever before.
In economic circles, the problem is known as “moral hazard.” Average Americans will call it common sense.
And common sense tells me that, given the nature of the last year’s bailout, moral hazard has been created on an unprecedented scale — setting the system up for a bigger demise somewhere down the road, when the memory of the horrible weeks following Lehman’s bankruptcy is forgotten.........
If we don’t impose such hard rules, expect a repeat of what happened last year.
If history is any guide, that implosion will be bigger and more dangerous than ever before.
Sunday, September 13, 2009
Police: Shooting suspect offended by anti-abortion material
Police: Shooting suspect offended by anti-abortion material
"Authorities say the suspect, Harlan James Drake, was offended by anti-abortion material that the activist had displayed across from the school all week.
Drake, 33, is accused of shooting anti-abortion activist Jim Pouillon, 63, and Michael Fuoss, 61, who were killed in separate locations Friday morning, the prosecutor's office in Shiawassee County said."
"Authorities say the suspect, Harlan James Drake, was offended by anti-abortion material that the activist had displayed across from the school all week.
Drake, 33, is accused of shooting anti-abortion activist Jim Pouillon, 63, and Michael Fuoss, 61, who were killed in separate locations Friday morning, the prosecutor's office in Shiawassee County said."
Officials: Lake Express surviving poor economy, bad weather
Officials: Lake Express surviving poor economy, bad weather
"The operators of the Lake Express high-speed ferry between Muskegon and Milwaukee have faced down the current economy and challenging summer tourist season to survive the 2009 sailing year"
YES!
"The operators of the Lake Express high-speed ferry between Muskegon and Milwaukee have faced down the current economy and challenging summer tourist season to survive the 2009 sailing year"
YES!
Saturday, September 12, 2009
Why is ACORN giving tax advice? Started with shakedown of H & R Block
Why is ACORN giving tax advice? Started with shakedown of H & R Block
"Wondering why anybody would go to an ACORN office for tax advice, as Jamie O'Keefe and Hannah Giles did for their child prostitution sting operation? There is actually a very good reason to think of ACORN and tax advice in the same sentence and it was exposed by The Washington Examiner's Kevin Mooney several months ago in a Special Report:
'The program’s biggest score came against H&R Block, MonCrief said. The company was targeted beginning in January 2004 when ACORN promised demonstrations by its members in front of H&R Block offices protesting 'overpriced tax refund loans' in at least 30 cities.
'Eventually, H&R Block agreed to pay for the establishment of tax centers for the benefit of ACORN officials and members in exchange for stopping the protests, MonCrief said. H&R Block did not respond to an Examiner request for comment.'
So one might reasonably ask if ACORN offices around the country are routinely giving out advice on how to evade federal and state tax laws.
You can read the full report here."
"Wondering why anybody would go to an ACORN office for tax advice, as Jamie O'Keefe and Hannah Giles did for their child prostitution sting operation? There is actually a very good reason to think of ACORN and tax advice in the same sentence and it was exposed by The Washington Examiner's Kevin Mooney several months ago in a Special Report:
'The program’s biggest score came against H&R Block, MonCrief said. The company was targeted beginning in January 2004 when ACORN promised demonstrations by its members in front of H&R Block offices protesting 'overpriced tax refund loans' in at least 30 cities.
'Eventually, H&R Block agreed to pay for the establishment of tax centers for the benefit of ACORN officials and members in exchange for stopping the protests, MonCrief said. H&R Block did not respond to an Examiner request for comment.'
So one might reasonably ask if ACORN offices around the country are routinely giving out advice on how to evade federal and state tax laws.
You can read the full report here."
Read this!
BLACKFIVE
"Dear XXXXX:
Yes, you do deserve a response and I am willing to give you one.
I would like to say that I am sorry for the inconvenience we caused you during the funeral procession of Sergeant 1st Class William B. Woods, but I cannot do so.
I would ask instead that you take a moment of your time to take into consideration the scope of the event.
Your very right to complain was the reason Sgt. Woods fought for his country and ultimately gave his life; thus making the ultimate sacrifice for you and your family.
Let me introduce you to him."
And choke back the tears.....and be proud to share this great country with such heros.
"Dear XXXXX:
Yes, you do deserve a response and I am willing to give you one.
I would like to say that I am sorry for the inconvenience we caused you during the funeral procession of Sergeant 1st Class William B. Woods, but I cannot do so.
I would ask instead that you take a moment of your time to take into consideration the scope of the event.
Your very right to complain was the reason Sgt. Woods fought for his country and ultimately gave his life; thus making the ultimate sacrifice for you and your family.
Let me introduce you to him."
And choke back the tears.....and be proud to share this great country with such heros.
CARPE DIEM: UK Pensioner Stockpiles 1,000 Banned Lightbulbs
UK Pensioner Stockpiles 1,000 Banned Lightbulbs
"But Miss Hemsley-Flint said the light from them is not good enough for her to read by and the flickering sets off her epilepsy.
So she has bought 1,100 old-style bulbs and is calling on the Government to scrap the ban."
"But Miss Hemsley-Flint said the light from them is not good enough for her to read by and the flickering sets off her epilepsy.
So she has bought 1,100 old-style bulbs and is calling on the Government to scrap the ban."
Congressman Joe Wilson - rude but right
Congressman Joe Wilson - rude but right
"But what of the substance of this? Did Wilson, in fact, have a point? Well, he did. Check out this illuminating post from the Center for Immigration Studies.
Its director Steven Camarota estimates that 6.6 million illegal immigrants could be covered by the HR3200.
Even though HR 3200 states that illegal immigrants are not eligible for the proposed taxpayer-funded affordable premium credits, there is nothing in the bill to enforce this. An amendment was defeated in committee that would have required the use of the Systematic Alien Verification for Entitlements (SAVE) program, used by almost all other means-tested programs of this kind."
"But what of the substance of this? Did Wilson, in fact, have a point? Well, he did. Check out this illuminating post from the Center for Immigration Studies.
Its director Steven Camarota estimates that 6.6 million illegal immigrants could be covered by the HR3200.
Even though HR 3200 states that illegal immigrants are not eligible for the proposed taxpayer-funded affordable premium credits, there is nothing in the bill to enforce this. An amendment was defeated in committee that would have required the use of the Systematic Alien Verification for Entitlements (SAVE) program, used by almost all other means-tested programs of this kind."
Mark Dantonio, Tom Izzo get MSU contract extensions through 2016
Mark Dantonio, Tom Izzo get MSU contract extensions through 2016
"Michigan State football coach Mark Dantonio, basketball coach Tom Izzo and athletic director Mark Hollis all were given contract extensions through 2016, the school announced Friday.
Dantonio and Izzo received one-year extension; Hollis' was a three-year extension."
"Michigan State football coach Mark Dantonio, basketball coach Tom Izzo and athletic director Mark Hollis all were given contract extensions through 2016, the school announced Friday.
Dantonio and Izzo received one-year extension; Hollis' was a three-year extension."
SpartanTailgate.com becomes MSU’s ESPN affiliate
SpartanTailgate.com becomes MSU’s ESPN affiliate
In 1995 when I started what would become the Red Cedar Message Board, I had modest expectations but envisioned a place “where everybody knows your name”, an online version of a local MSU sports bar, or MSU tailgate. I was thrilled when we had our first 100 post month and started hearing from Spartans from various other states.
Several twists and turns later, we’re now up to 3500-4500 posts per day on average with hundreds of thousands of Spartans visiting from all 50 states and almost 200 different countries. The site was the first community of its kind in the Big Ten and is now one of the oldest of its kind in the nation.
After almost 15 years of running the site, I thought it was time to take another turn in a new direction. I’m excited to announce that SpartanTailgate.com is becoming the official MSU affiliate for ESPN’s online college sports network. Please see this post to read more about what that means for our very popular MSU forums
We’re making extensive behind the scenes changes and significant upgrades to our servers. Many of the visible changes though are actually going to be coming to this section of the site, the home page and news section. As part of those changes, I’m very happy to welcome Jack Ebling and Sean Scherer to our writing staff."
In 1995 when I started what would become the Red Cedar Message Board, I had modest expectations but envisioned a place “where everybody knows your name”, an online version of a local MSU sports bar, or MSU tailgate. I was thrilled when we had our first 100 post month and started hearing from Spartans from various other states.
Several twists and turns later, we’re now up to 3500-4500 posts per day on average with hundreds of thousands of Spartans visiting from all 50 states and almost 200 different countries. The site was the first community of its kind in the Big Ten and is now one of the oldest of its kind in the nation.
After almost 15 years of running the site, I thought it was time to take another turn in a new direction. I’m excited to announce that SpartanTailgate.com is becoming the official MSU affiliate for ESPN’s online college sports network. Please see this post to read more about what that means for our very popular MSU forums
We’re making extensive behind the scenes changes and significant upgrades to our servers. Many of the visible changes though are actually going to be coming to this section of the site, the home page and news section. As part of those changes, I’m very happy to welcome Jack Ebling and Sean Scherer to our writing staff."
Friday, September 11, 2009
WXMI-TV Fox 17 adds 6 p.m. newscast starting Sept. 21
WXMI-TV Fox 17 adds 6 p.m. newscast starting Sept. 21
"WXMI-TV (Channel 17) is expanding its news lineup.
On Sept. 21, the station is adding an early evening news broadcast, which will air from 6-7 p.m."
Good news...maybe...we'll see...won't we?
"WXMI-TV (Channel 17) is expanding its news lineup.
On Sept. 21, the station is adding an early evening news broadcast, which will air from 6-7 p.m."
Good news...maybe...we'll see...won't we?
Remembering 9/11
Remembering 9/11 -
"The September 11 Digital Archive is dedicated to preserving the history of Sept. 11. You'll find firsthand stories and photos.
Once you've explored the collection, leave your story. You can upload images or documents. Or, simply state your recollections and how the day changed you.
You'll also want to visit the National September 11 Memorial and Museum. You'll find professional and amateur video footage and photographs.
The site also places photos alongside current Google Street View photos. Of course, there are also memorials to victims of the attacks.
It is easy to focus on the terrorists who carried out these attacks. And they are certainly worthy of our anger.
But, for most of us, it isn't so easy to put faces to the victims. Project 2,996 will change that. It has asked bloggers to help remember the victims."
"The September 11 Digital Archive is dedicated to preserving the history of Sept. 11. You'll find firsthand stories and photos.
Once you've explored the collection, leave your story. You can upload images or documents. Or, simply state your recollections and how the day changed you.
You'll also want to visit the National September 11 Memorial and Museum. You'll find professional and amateur video footage and photographs.
The site also places photos alongside current Google Street View photos. Of course, there are also memorials to victims of the attacks.
It is easy to focus on the terrorists who carried out these attacks. And they are certainly worthy of our anger.
But, for most of us, it isn't so easy to put faces to the victims. Project 2,996 will change that. It has asked bloggers to help remember the victims."
The green-washing of Sept. 11
WasThe green-washing of Sept. 11
"This attempt to re-brand the horrors of Sept. 11 is part of the effort to ease America along in the radical transformation of the nation that the president promised on the campaign trail.
The vehicle for this push is the National Day of Service and Remembrance.
In April, the president signed a bill declaring Sept. 11 a day of government-sponsored community volunteerism. Since then, the Obama administration and its allies in the activist left have decided to transmogrify Sept. 11 into a celebration of recycling, solar panels and radical community organizing called Green the Block.
Using the language of markets, Green the Block tries to convince Americans that the utopian fantasy of an oil-free, so-called green economy is possible without turning the United States into a Third World country. Green the Block says it was created 'to educate and mobilize communities of color to ensure a voice and stake in the clean-energy economy.' It's a 'partnership' between the Hip Hop Caucus and Green for All, a nonprofit incorporated by Mr. Jones.
On Aug. 4, two White House media events promoting Green the Block took place."
"This attempt to re-brand the horrors of Sept. 11 is part of the effort to ease America along in the radical transformation of the nation that the president promised on the campaign trail.
The vehicle for this push is the National Day of Service and Remembrance.
In April, the president signed a bill declaring Sept. 11 a day of government-sponsored community volunteerism. Since then, the Obama administration and its allies in the activist left have decided to transmogrify Sept. 11 into a celebration of recycling, solar panels and radical community organizing called Green the Block.
Using the language of markets, Green the Block tries to convince Americans that the utopian fantasy of an oil-free, so-called green economy is possible without turning the United States into a Third World country. Green the Block says it was created 'to educate and mobilize communities of color to ensure a voice and stake in the clean-energy economy.' It's a 'partnership' between the Hip Hop Caucus and Green for All, a nonprofit incorporated by Mr. Jones.
On Aug. 4, two White House media events promoting Green the Block took place."
Tracking Your Taxes: Tax Dollars Being Washed Out to Sea
Tracking Your Taxes: Tax Dollars Being Washed Out to Sea
"From New England to Florida, North Carolina to California, coastal communities lobby Congress for money to buff up their beaches, even though many of these coastal states have set aside state funds for these projects.
Congress dumps up to $100 million in federally subsidized sand onto American beaches every year -- only to have it washed away by waves."
"From New England to Florida, North Carolina to California, coastal communities lobby Congress for money to buff up their beaches, even though many of these coastal states have set aside state funds for these projects.
Congress dumps up to $100 million in federally subsidized sand onto American beaches every year -- only to have it washed away by waves."
Sarah Palin: Obama and the Bureaucratization of Health Care
Sarah Palin: Obama and the Bureaucratization of Health Care
"Writing in the New York Times last month, President Barack Obama asked that Americans 'talk with one another, and not over one another' as our health-care debate moves forward.
I couldn't agree more.
Let's engage the other side's arguments, and let's allow Americans to decide for themselves whether the Democrats' health-care proposals should become governing law.
Some 45 years ago Ronald Reagan said that 'no one in this country should be denied medical care because of a lack of funds.' Each of us knows that we have an obligation to care for the old, the young and the sick. We stand strongest when we stand with the weakest among us.
We also know that our current health-care system too often burdens individuals and businesses—particularly small businesses—with crippling expenses.
And we know that allowing government health-care spending to continue at current rates will only add to our ever-expanding deficit.
How can we ensure that those who need medical care receive it while also reducing health-care costs?
The answers offered by Democrats in Washington all rest on one principle: that increased government involvement can solve the problem.
I fundamentally disagree.
Common sense tells us that the government's attempts to solve large problems more often create new ones.
Common sense also tells us that a top-down, one-size-fits-all plan will not improve the workings of a nationwide health-care system that accounts for one-sixth of our economy.
And common sense tells us to be skeptical when President Obama promises that the Democrats' proposals "will provide more stability and security to every American."
With all due respect, Americans are used to this kind of sweeping promise from Washington. And we know from long experience that it's a promise Washington can't keep."
Read the entire column.
This woman may be our next President.
"Writing in the New York Times last month, President Barack Obama asked that Americans 'talk with one another, and not over one another' as our health-care debate moves forward.
I couldn't agree more.
Let's engage the other side's arguments, and let's allow Americans to decide for themselves whether the Democrats' health-care proposals should become governing law.
Some 45 years ago Ronald Reagan said that 'no one in this country should be denied medical care because of a lack of funds.' Each of us knows that we have an obligation to care for the old, the young and the sick. We stand strongest when we stand with the weakest among us.
We also know that our current health-care system too often burdens individuals and businesses—particularly small businesses—with crippling expenses.
And we know that allowing government health-care spending to continue at current rates will only add to our ever-expanding deficit.
How can we ensure that those who need medical care receive it while also reducing health-care costs?
The answers offered by Democrats in Washington all rest on one principle: that increased government involvement can solve the problem.
I fundamentally disagree.
Common sense tells us that the government's attempts to solve large problems more often create new ones.
Common sense also tells us that a top-down, one-size-fits-all plan will not improve the workings of a nationwide health-care system that accounts for one-sixth of our economy.
And common sense tells us to be skeptical when President Obama promises that the Democrats' proposals "will provide more stability and security to every American."
With all due respect, Americans are used to this kind of sweeping promise from Washington. And we know from long experience that it's a promise Washington can't keep."
Read the entire column.
This woman may be our next President.
Education Spending Doubled, Stagnant Test Scores
CARPE DIEM: Education Spending Doubled, Stagnant Test Scores
"Since 1970, inflation adjusted public school spending has more than doubled.
Over the same period, achievement of students at the end of high school has stagnated"
No sweat!
Health care is WAY easer......skool is hard....
"Since 1970, inflation adjusted public school spending has more than doubled.
Over the same period, achievement of students at the end of high school has stagnated"
No sweat!
Health care is WAY easer......skool is hard....
Muslims still struggle through the anniversary of the attacks.
The Galveston County Daily News
"There is the dread of leaving the house that morning.
People might stare, or worse, yell insults.
Prayers are more intense, visits with family longer.
Mosques become a refuge.
Eight years after 9/11, many U.S. Muslims still struggle through the anniversary of the attacks.
Yes, the sting has lessened.
For the younger generation of Muslims, the tragedy can even seem like a distant memory.
'Time marches on,' said Souha Azmeh Al-Samkari, a 22-year-old student at the University of Dayton in Ohio.
Yet, many American Muslims say Sept. 11 will never be routine, no matter how many anniversaries have passed."
Let's not forget who the "TRUE" victims (as declared by the Obama-loving media) of 9-11 really are!
American muslims!
Ain't life gre... well...different?
"There is the dread of leaving the house that morning.
People might stare, or worse, yell insults.
Prayers are more intense, visits with family longer.
Mosques become a refuge.
Eight years after 9/11, many U.S. Muslims still struggle through the anniversary of the attacks.
Yes, the sting has lessened.
For the younger generation of Muslims, the tragedy can even seem like a distant memory.
'Time marches on,' said Souha Azmeh Al-Samkari, a 22-year-old student at the University of Dayton in Ohio.
Yet, many American Muslims say Sept. 11 will never be routine, no matter how many anniversaries have passed."
Let's not forget who the "TRUE" victims (as declared by the Obama-loving media) of 9-11 really are!
American muslims!
Ain't life gre... well...different?
Thursday, September 10, 2009
Sure, he was a rude jerk. But Rep. Joe Wilson has a point.
Sure, he was a rude jerk. But Rep. Joe Wilson has a point.
“The president is right that his proposal specifically says the plan does not extend to illegal immigrants.
But one of the most undercovered stories in national politics is the fact that congressional Democrats have gutted the plan’s enforcement provisions.”"
"Undercovered" is the same as "NOT REPORTED AT ALL BY THE LIBERAL MEDIA"?
I'm thinking it is.
“The president is right that his proposal specifically says the plan does not extend to illegal immigrants.
But one of the most undercovered stories in national politics is the fact that congressional Democrats have gutted the plan’s enforcement provisions.”"
"Undercovered" is the same as "NOT REPORTED AT ALL BY THE LIBERAL MEDIA"?
I'm thinking it is.
My Mother the Car
My Mother the Car
"Most criticisms of ObamaCare have focused on its cost in terms of money and lives, but it's worth noting that in exchange for spending trillions of dollars in taxpayer money to set up a system that will inevitably ration care, President Obama proposes a fundamental curtailment of your individual freedom.
In his speech to a joint session of Congress last night, the president offered what presumably was meant to sound like an innocuous, or at least reasonable, analogy:
Unless everybody does their part, many of the insurance reforms we seek--especially requiring insurance companies to cover pre-existing conditions--just can't be achieved. And that's why under my plan, individuals will be required to carry basic health insurance--just as most states require you to carry auto insurance.
In fact, no state requires individuals to carry auto insurance.
The owner of a car, which may be either an individual or a corporate entity, is required to carry insurance as a condition for a government permit allowing the car to be driven on public roads.
Individual drivers, of course, are also required to obtain a government license, which requires fulfilling other conditions."
"Most criticisms of ObamaCare have focused on its cost in terms of money and lives, but it's worth noting that in exchange for spending trillions of dollars in taxpayer money to set up a system that will inevitably ration care, President Obama proposes a fundamental curtailment of your individual freedom.
In his speech to a joint session of Congress last night, the president offered what presumably was meant to sound like an innocuous, or at least reasonable, analogy:
Unless everybody does their part, many of the insurance reforms we seek--especially requiring insurance companies to cover pre-existing conditions--just can't be achieved. And that's why under my plan, individuals will be required to carry basic health insurance--just as most states require you to carry auto insurance.
In fact, no state requires individuals to carry auto insurance.
The owner of a car, which may be either an individual or a corporate entity, is required to carry insurance as a condition for a government permit allowing the car to be driven on public roads.
Individual drivers, of course, are also required to obtain a government license, which requires fulfilling other conditions."
Chaos for Glory: My Time With ACORN
My Time With ACORN
"A famous community organizer once said, “The only way to upset the power structure in your communities is to goad them, confuse them, irritate them and, most of all, make them live by their own rules.
If you make them live by their own rules, you destroy them.”
Impossible demands can irritate modern leftists in ways nothing else can, whether it’s by banning Lucky Charms cereal because it’s racist against Irish people, calling Planned Parenthood saying you want to donate money for black abortions in the name of Margaret Sanger, or making Sen. Snowe sign an oversized bailout check for a billion dollars to Amtrak, in her own office."
This is the ACORN story.
Read it.
Demand that ACORN be held accountable by our Senators and Reps.!
"A famous community organizer once said, “The only way to upset the power structure in your communities is to goad them, confuse them, irritate them and, most of all, make them live by their own rules.
If you make them live by their own rules, you destroy them.”
Impossible demands can irritate modern leftists in ways nothing else can, whether it’s by banning Lucky Charms cereal because it’s racist against Irish people, calling Planned Parenthood saying you want to donate money for black abortions in the name of Margaret Sanger, or making Sen. Snowe sign an oversized bailout check for a billion dollars to Amtrak, in her own office."
This is the ACORN story.
Read it.
Demand that ACORN be held accountable by our Senators and Reps.!
Video - Flashback: Democrats Boo Bush At 2005 State Of The Union
Video - Flashback: Democrats Boo Bush At 2005 State Of The Union
"President George W. Bush is booed and heckled by Democrats at his 2005 State of the Union address."
I'm thinkin' Matt, Perky or the ABC blond kinda forgot to mention this bit-o-history.
"President George W. Bush is booed and heckled by Democrats at his 2005 State of the Union address."
I'm thinkin' Matt, Perky or the ABC blond kinda forgot to mention this bit-o-history.
Charlie Sheen demands Obama meeting on 9/11 cover-up
Charlie Sheen demands Obama meeting on 9/11 cover-up
"A lot of rich, pretty people speak out on causes they support at times like that and the world goes, So what?
But when someone with the gravitas of a Charlie Sheen issues a statement, anyone is forced to listen.
In an exclusive contact with the PrisonPlanet.com website, Sheen reveals 1) that he voted for Barack Obama in November and 2) that he [Sheen] has become convinced that the 9/11 attacks were an inside government job perpetrated by people inside government for inside and no doubt nefarious reasons."
"A lot of rich, pretty people speak out on causes they support at times like that and the world goes, So what?
But when someone with the gravitas of a Charlie Sheen issues a statement, anyone is forced to listen.
In an exclusive contact with the PrisonPlanet.com website, Sheen reveals 1) that he voted for Barack Obama in November and 2) that he [Sheen] has become convinced that the 9/11 attacks were an inside government job perpetrated by people inside government for inside and no doubt nefarious reasons."
ACORN Officials Videotaped Telling 'Pimp,' 'Prostitute' How to Lie to IRS
ACORN Officials Videotaped Telling 'Pimp,' 'Prostitute' How to Lie to IRS
"Officials with the controversial community organizing group ACORN were secretly videotaped offering to assist two individuals posing as a pimp and a prostitute, encouraging them to lie to the Internal Revenue Service and providing guidance on how to claim underage girls from South America as dependents."
The most depraved, disgusting story you'll EVER read about our government!
"Officials with the controversial community organizing group ACORN were secretly videotaped offering to assist two individuals posing as a pimp and a prostitute, encouraging them to lie to the Internal Revenue Service and providing guidance on how to claim underage girls from South America as dependents."
The most depraved, disgusting story you'll EVER read about our government!
Wednesday, September 09, 2009
Cloture Passes on Cass Sunstein, 63-35
Cloture Passes on Cass Sunstein, 63-35
"Republicans voting for cloture: Sen. Robert Bennett (R-Utah), Sen. Judd Gregg (R-N.H.), Sen. Orrin Hatch (R-Utah), Sen. Richard Lugar (R-Ind.), Sen. Olympia Snowe (R-Maine)."
Remember their names in infamy!
"Republicans voting for cloture: Sen. Robert Bennett (R-Utah), Sen. Judd Gregg (R-N.H.), Sen. Orrin Hatch (R-Utah), Sen. Richard Lugar (R-Ind.), Sen. Olympia Snowe (R-Maine)."
Remember their names in infamy!
New Political Blog BigGovernment.com to Launch Thursday
New Political Blog BigGovernment.com to Launch Thursday
"A conservative blogger and publisher who took on Hollywood earlier this year is setting his sights on the nation's political establishment.
BigGovernment.com will launch Thursday as a 'one-stop shop' for commentary and other political information, according to Andrew Breitbart, the site’s founder."
Oh boy!
"A conservative blogger and publisher who took on Hollywood earlier this year is setting his sights on the nation's political establishment.
BigGovernment.com will launch Thursday as a 'one-stop shop' for commentary and other political information, according to Andrew Breitbart, the site’s founder."
Oh boy!
Tracking Your Taxes: The Earmark Kings
Tracking Your Taxes: The Earmark Kings
"in the House, just 4 percent of members took home 32 percent of all the bacon -- and all were members of the Defense Appropriations Committee"
Read this and remember!
It's them against us!
"in the House, just 4 percent of members took home 32 percent of all the bacon -- and all were members of the Defense Appropriations Committee"
Read this and remember!
It's them against us!
An American Anthem
9-11 is near.
Our country is stronger than some realize.
Watch this video and remember!
Granholm proposes more tax increases
Granholm proposes more tax increases
"It also would reduce an increase in a tax credit for the working poor, increase liquor license fees, expand the 6 percent sales tax to live entertainment, service contracts and vending machine sales, raise the cigarette tax rate to $2.25 a pack, among other changes.
.......“I’m not in favor of new taxes. We don’t need a tax increase. People in the state are having trouble paying their bills,” Granholm said to reporters during a visit to Compact Power."
"It also would reduce an increase in a tax credit for the working poor, increase liquor license fees, expand the 6 percent sales tax to live entertainment, service contracts and vending machine sales, raise the cigarette tax rate to $2.25 a pack, among other changes.
.......“I’m not in favor of new taxes. We don’t need a tax increase. People in the state are having trouble paying their bills,” Granholm said to reporters during a visit to Compact Power."
The convenient fantasies of President Obama
The convenient fantasies of President Obama
"Another interesting thing about Jones is that the administration seems enamored of his "green jobs" concept. There's an understandable political reason. Legislation to restrict carbon emissions that is supported by the administration would undoubtedly kill a large number of jobs by increasing the cost of energy, and so you can see why its advocates might want to argue that there will be a compensating number of "green jobs" created -- at least if the government spends a lot of money on them.
But this sounds like fantasy.
If there were money to be made in green jobs, private investors would be creating them already. In fact big corporations like General Electric are scrambling to position themselves as green companies, gaming legislation and regulations so they can make profits by doing so. Big business is ready to create green jobs -- if government subsidizes them. But the idea that green jobs will replace all the lost carbon-emitting jobs is magical thinking."
That so many Americans believe that "green jobs" are anything other than more government pork-jobs is a sad commentary on our educational system.
"Another interesting thing about Jones is that the administration seems enamored of his "green jobs" concept. There's an understandable political reason. Legislation to restrict carbon emissions that is supported by the administration would undoubtedly kill a large number of jobs by increasing the cost of energy, and so you can see why its advocates might want to argue that there will be a compensating number of "green jobs" created -- at least if the government spends a lot of money on them.
But this sounds like fantasy.
If there were money to be made in green jobs, private investors would be creating them already. In fact big corporations like General Electric are scrambling to position themselves as green companies, gaming legislation and regulations so they can make profits by doing so. Big business is ready to create green jobs -- if government subsidizes them. But the idea that green jobs will replace all the lost carbon-emitting jobs is magical thinking."
That so many Americans believe that "green jobs" are anything other than more government pork-jobs is a sad commentary on our educational system.
Times Reporter Is Freed in Afghan Raid That Kills Aide - NYTimes.com
Times Reporter Is Freed in Afghan Raid That Kills Aide
NYTimes.com:
"Stephen Farrell, a New York Times reporter held captive by militants in northern Afghanistan, was freed in a military commando raid early Wednesday, but his Afghan interpreter was killed during the rescue effort.
A British commando was also killed in the raid,"
A few of thoughts:
1. I don't think a single soldier should EVER be in harm's way because of a reporter's foolish decisions.
That a brave young man has died to rescue a fool is a travesty.
2. Note the NYT headline omits the death of the brave soldier. Note also the way the commando's death was merely a footnote in their article.
An inconvenience not worthy of detracting from their joyous glee. How sick!
3. And this: "Until now, the kidnapping had been kept quiet by The Times and most other news organizations out of concern for the men’s safety."
The media has no problem keeping "quiet" when one of their own is at risk.
Too bad the reality is the opposite when our troops are at risk.
NYTimes.com:
"Stephen Farrell, a New York Times reporter held captive by militants in northern Afghanistan, was freed in a military commando raid early Wednesday, but his Afghan interpreter was killed during the rescue effort.
A British commando was also killed in the raid,"
A few of thoughts:
1. I don't think a single soldier should EVER be in harm's way because of a reporter's foolish decisions.
That a brave young man has died to rescue a fool is a travesty.
2. Note the NYT headline omits the death of the brave soldier. Note also the way the commando's death was merely a footnote in their article.
An inconvenience not worthy of detracting from their joyous glee. How sick!
3. And this: "Until now, the kidnapping had been kept quiet by The Times and most other news organizations out of concern for the men’s safety."
The media has no problem keeping "quiet" when one of their own is at risk.
Too bad the reality is the opposite when our troops are at risk.
Protest over Wyoming's Cheney center -msnbc.com
Protest over Wyoming's Cheney center
"The center is funded in part with $3.2 million the Cheneys donated to the university in several installments while he was vice president.
The university's decision to name the center after Cheney, a former Wyoming congressman, prompted a petition that collected more than 150 signatures."
150 signatures?
And MSNBC considers that news?
Let's see the 24/7 coverage of "protest" dudes!
"The center is funded in part with $3.2 million the Cheneys donated to the university in several installments while he was vice president.
The university's decision to name the center after Cheney, a former Wyoming congressman, prompted a petition that collected more than 150 signatures."
150 signatures?
And MSNBC considers that news?
Let's see the 24/7 coverage of "protest" dudes!
Go ahead, make Dick's day!
School districts preparing to give swine flu vaccine
School districts preparing to give swine flu vaccine
"Administration of the vaccine in schools will be a challenge because the vaccine needs to be given to children in two doses at least three weeks apart.
That means records will have to be kept on who has received vaccinations and when. Schools also will need to keep track of parental permission forms."
A few dirty little secrets our great leaders won't tell us:
1. The vaccine isn't harmless. It has many, possibly deadly, side affects.
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-1206807/Swine-flu-jab-link-killer-nerve-disease-Leaked-letter-reveals-concern-neurologists-25-deaths-America.html
2. The CDC controls how much vaccine (and what type) is produced. Its past projections have been as accurate as those perky hurricane "experts" from .... oh yeah, the US government. http://www.forbes.com/feeds/reuters/2009/08/17/2009-08-17T173830Z_01_N17426251_RTRIDST_0_FLU-VACCINES-USA.html
3. Doesn't anyone remember Jerry Ford's swine flu disaster?
http://www.capitalcentury.com/1976.html
"Administration of the vaccine in schools will be a challenge because the vaccine needs to be given to children in two doses at least three weeks apart.
That means records will have to be kept on who has received vaccinations and when. Schools also will need to keep track of parental permission forms."
A few dirty little secrets our great leaders won't tell us:
1. The vaccine isn't harmless. It has many, possibly deadly, side affects.
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-1206807/Swine-flu-jab-link-killer-nerve-disease-Leaked-letter-reveals-concern-neurologists-25-deaths-America.html
2. The CDC controls how much vaccine (and what type) is produced. Its past projections have been as accurate as those perky hurricane "experts" from .... oh yeah, the US government. http://www.forbes.com/feeds/reuters/2009/08/17/2009-08-17T173830Z_01_N17426251_RTRIDST_0_FLU-VACCINES-USA.html
3. Doesn't anyone remember Jerry Ford's swine flu disaster?
http://www.capitalcentury.com/1976.html
1976: The swine flu scare
1976: The swine flu scare
"Thus was born what would become known to some medical historians as a fiasco and to others as perhaps the finest hour of America's public health bureaucracy.....
Only young Lewis died from the swine flu itself in 1976. But as the critics are quick to point out, hundreds of Americans were killed or seriously injured by the inoculation the government gave them to stave off the virus.
According to his sister-in-law, John Kent of President Avenue in Lawrence went to his grave in 1997 believing the shot from the government had killed his first wife, Mary, long before her time.
"One doc later told the authors of 'The Epidemic that Never Was' that he and others in on the meetings realized there was 'nothing in this for the CDC except trouble,' especially because a decision had to be made fast to get the immunizations manufactured by the fall."
"Fast decisions".
By politicians....... yeah right... and how did it work out for Jerry Ford's guinea pigs?
"Thus was born what would become known to some medical historians as a fiasco and to others as perhaps the finest hour of America's public health bureaucracy.....
Only young Lewis died from the swine flu itself in 1976. But as the critics are quick to point out, hundreds of Americans were killed or seriously injured by the inoculation the government gave them to stave off the virus.
According to his sister-in-law, John Kent of President Avenue in Lawrence went to his grave in 1997 believing the shot from the government had killed his first wife, Mary, long before her time.
"One doc later told the authors of 'The Epidemic that Never Was' that he and others in on the meetings realized there was 'nothing in this for the CDC except trouble,' especially because a decision had to be made fast to get the immunizations manufactured by the fall."
"Fast decisions".
By politicians....... yeah right... and how did it work out for Jerry Ford's guinea pigs?
U.S. slashes swine flu vaccine estimate
U.S. slashes swine flu vaccine estimate
"U.S. officials Monday said they had slashed their estimate of how many swine flu vaccine doses will be available for the start of a mass vaccination campaign in the fall.
Citing delays in manufacturing and packaging the vaccines, the Department of Health and Human Services said only 45 million doses of the new H1N1 vaccine would be on hand in mid-October, instead of the 120 million previously forecast."
This is government run health care, folks!
"U.S. officials Monday said they had slashed their estimate of how many swine flu vaccine doses will be available for the start of a mass vaccination campaign in the fall.
Citing delays in manufacturing and packaging the vaccines, the Department of Health and Human Services said only 45 million doses of the new H1N1 vaccine would be on hand in mid-October, instead of the 120 million previously forecast."
This is government run health care, folks!
Hoekstra criticizes Obama administration for rejecting request to investigate Guantanamo Bay
Hoekstra criticizes Obama administration for rejecting request to investigate Guantanamo Bay
"Rep. Pete Hoekstra, R-Holland, says President Obama's administration has 'slammed the door in the face of everyone who wants to know more' about plans to close down the detention facility in Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, and possibly send those detainees to a prison in Michigan."
No other country in the world is willing to take these monsters and Barry O is gonna force them on Michigan against our will?
At least BHussein is consistent in his obfuscation.
"Rep. Pete Hoekstra, R-Holland, says President Obama's administration has 'slammed the door in the face of everyone who wants to know more' about plans to close down the detention facility in Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, and possibly send those detainees to a prison in Michigan."
No other country in the world is willing to take these monsters and Barry O is gonna force them on Michigan against our will?
At least BHussein is consistent in his obfuscation.
Taxpayers face heavy losses on auto bailout
Taxpayers face heavy losses on auto bailout
"Taxpayers face losses on a significant portion of the $81 billion in government aid provided to the auto industry, an oversight panel said in a report to be released Wednesday.
The Congressional Oversight Panel did not provide an estimate of the projected loss in its latest monthly report on the $700 billion Troubled Asset Relief Program. But it said most of the $23 billion initially provided to General Motors Corp. and Chrysler LLC late last year is unlikely to be repaid."
That's cuz the unions took ALL the money!
"Taxpayers face losses on a significant portion of the $81 billion in government aid provided to the auto industry, an oversight panel said in a report to be released Wednesday.
The Congressional Oversight Panel did not provide an estimate of the projected loss in its latest monthly report on the $700 billion Troubled Asset Relief Program. But it said most of the $23 billion initially provided to General Motors Corp. and Chrysler LLC late last year is unlikely to be repaid."
That's cuz the unions took ALL the money!
Passengers face new tax to halt rise in air travel
Passengers face new tax to halt rise in air travel
"Tens of billions of pounds will have to be raised through flight taxes to compensate developing countries for the damage air travel does to the environment, according to the Government’s advisory body on climate change.
Ticket prices should rise steadily over time to deter air travel and ensure that carbon dioxide emissions from aviation fall back to 2005 levels"
And who will manage those $billions intended to compensate "developing countries"?
And just which "developing countries" will get this bonanza from the euro-weenies?
"Tens of billions of pounds will have to be raised through flight taxes to compensate developing countries for the damage air travel does to the environment, according to the Government’s advisory body on climate change.
Ticket prices should rise steadily over time to deter air travel and ensure that carbon dioxide emissions from aviation fall back to 2005 levels"
And who will manage those $billions intended to compensate "developing countries"?
And just which "developing countries" will get this bonanza from the euro-weenies?
Tuesday, September 08, 2009
Sun-Caused Warming
Sun-Caused Warming
"The Aug. 28 issue of the journal Science details how the scientific team led by the National Center for Atmospheric Research (NCAR), using a century's worth of data and three powerful computer models, figured out just how small changes in solar activity can trigger great changes in earth's climate"
"The Aug. 28 issue of the journal Science details how the scientific team led by the National Center for Atmospheric Research (NCAR), using a century's worth of data and three powerful computer models, figured out just how small changes in solar activity can trigger great changes in earth's climate"
The Sorry Tale of America’s Out-of-control Spending
Debt Be Not Proud: The Sorry Tale of America’s Out-of-control Spending
"At the end of fiscal 2008, which came on September 30 of last year, the American national debt stood at $9.6 trillion.
That sum is, perhaps, quite beyond the imagining of most people.
It is, after all, 250 million times the average per capita income.
Even the total fortunes of the entire Forbes 400 list add up to less than 15 percent of it.
To use a journalistic measure that dates back to the late 18th century—when the British national debt had become a major political issue in that country—if you laid 9.6 trillion silver dollars end to end, they would reach to the sun and back, with enough left over to wrap around the Earth more than 1,700 times."
"At the end of fiscal 2008, which came on September 30 of last year, the American national debt stood at $9.6 trillion.
That sum is, perhaps, quite beyond the imagining of most people.
It is, after all, 250 million times the average per capita income.
Even the total fortunes of the entire Forbes 400 list add up to less than 15 percent of it.
To use a journalistic measure that dates back to the late 18th century—when the British national debt had become a major political issue in that country—if you laid 9.6 trillion silver dollars end to end, they would reach to the sun and back, with enough left over to wrap around the Earth more than 1,700 times."
83% Say Proof of Citizenship Should Be Required to Get Government Health Aid - Rasmussen Reports™
83% Say Proof of Citizenship Should Be Required to Get Government Health Aid - Rasmussen Reports™: "The health care plan proposed by President Obama and congressional Democrats contains many controversial items that divide the general public. However, one area of consensus among the public is the desire to restrict government health care benefits to U.S. citizens only.
Eighty-three percent (83%) of voters nationwide say that people should be required to prove they are a citizen of the United States before receiving government health care subsidies. The latest Rasmussen Reports national telephone survey finds that just 12% disagree and five percent (5%) are not sure."
Eighty-three percent (83%) of voters nationwide say that people should be required to prove they are a citizen of the United States before receiving government health care subsidies. The latest Rasmussen Reports national telephone survey finds that just 12% disagree and five percent (5%) are not sure."
CARPE DIEM: College Tuition 2009-2010
CARPE DIEM:
College Tuition 2009-2010:
Brown Tuition, room and board, and all fees: $51,476
Cornell Tuition, and room and board (non-resident): $50,114
Yale Tuition, and room and board: $47,500
Pennsylvania: Tuition, room and board, books, personal: $53,250
Mott Community College: Tuition $2,743.50"
College Tuition 2009-2010:
Brown Tuition, room and board, and all fees: $51,476
Cornell Tuition, and room and board (non-resident): $50,114
Yale Tuition, and room and board: $47,500
Pennsylvania: Tuition, room and board, books, personal: $53,250
Mott Community College: Tuition $2,743.50"
Business groups argue against Mich. tax increases
Business groups argue against Mich. tax increases
"Organizations representing Michigan's business community are urging lawmakers to solve the state's budget crisis without raising taxes.
Michigan faces a projected budget shortfall of at least $2.7 billion for the fiscal year starting Oct. 1. Money from the federal stimulus package won't erase the entire deficit.
The Michigan Chamber of Commerce and affiliated groups scheduled press conferences across the state Tuesday to say government should cut spending and become more efficient rather than raise taxes.
A coalition of social service, education and labor groups wants the state to raise taxes to avoid cutting services. The coalition advocates expanding the sales tax to nonessential services, switching to a graduated income tax and ending some tax exemptions."
"Organizations representing Michigan's business community are urging lawmakers to solve the state's budget crisis without raising taxes.
Michigan faces a projected budget shortfall of at least $2.7 billion for the fiscal year starting Oct. 1. Money from the federal stimulus package won't erase the entire deficit.
The Michigan Chamber of Commerce and affiliated groups scheduled press conferences across the state Tuesday to say government should cut spending and become more efficient rather than raise taxes.
A coalition of social service, education and labor groups wants the state to raise taxes to avoid cutting services. The coalition advocates expanding the sales tax to nonessential services, switching to a graduated income tax and ending some tax exemptions."
Going down: Detroit isn't the only Michigan city on the fiscal skids - MLive.com
Going down: Detroit isn't the only Michigan city on the fiscal skids
"Below the radar of a lot of people, though, is another layer of trouble that is only now becoming apparent, and is only going to get worse, experts say.
We're talking about local units of government -- counties, cities, townships and school districts across the state that are facing the harsh reality of severe budget cuts as the result of the housing market collapse.
'People believe it can't get worse, but we haven't even seen the worse yet,' says Bob Daddow, deputy county executive for Oakland County.
His is just one voice among many sounding the alarm over the dark fiscal times ahead for many officials"
Here's his video from 2008!
http://muskegonpundit.blogspot.com/2008/10/perfect-storm-economic-presentation.html
The amazing fact is this isn't "new" news.
It's been out there for years.
Gotta love the MSM!
Will we NEVER learn?
"Below the radar of a lot of people, though, is another layer of trouble that is only now becoming apparent, and is only going to get worse, experts say.
We're talking about local units of government -- counties, cities, townships and school districts across the state that are facing the harsh reality of severe budget cuts as the result of the housing market collapse.
'People believe it can't get worse, but we haven't even seen the worse yet,' says Bob Daddow, deputy county executive for Oakland County.
His is just one voice among many sounding the alarm over the dark fiscal times ahead for many officials"
Here's his video from 2008!
http://muskegonpundit.blogspot.com/2008/10/perfect-storm-economic-presentation.html
The amazing fact is this isn't "new" news.
It's been out there for years.
Gotta love the MSM!
Will we NEVER learn?
Senate must raise debt ceiling above $12T
Senate must raise debt ceiling above $12T
“The Senate must move legislation to raise the federal debt limit beyond $12.1 trillion by mid-October, a move viewed as necessary despite protests about the record levels of red ink.
The move will highlight the nation’s record debt, which has been central to Republican attacks against Democratic congressional leaders and President Barack Obama. The year’s deficit is expected to hit a record $1.6 trillion.”
So what happens if they don’t? After all, Obama voted against raising the debt limit when he was in the Senate"
“The Senate must move legislation to raise the federal debt limit beyond $12.1 trillion by mid-October, a move viewed as necessary despite protests about the record levels of red ink.
The move will highlight the nation’s record debt, which has been central to Republican attacks against Democratic congressional leaders and President Barack Obama. The year’s deficit is expected to hit a record $1.6 trillion.”
So what happens if they don’t? After all, Obama voted against raising the debt limit when he was in the Senate"
When Bush spoke to students, Democrats investigated, held hearings
When Bush spoke to students, Democrats investigated, held hearings
"when President George H.W. Bush delivered a similar speech on October 1, 1991, from Alice Deal Junior High School in Washington DC, the controversy was just beginning. Democrats, then the majority party in Congress, not only denounced Bush's speech -- they also ordered the General Accounting Office to investigate its production and later summoned top Bush administration officials to Capitol Hill for an extensive hearing on the issue."
"when President George H.W. Bush delivered a similar speech on October 1, 1991, from Alice Deal Junior High School in Washington DC, the controversy was just beginning. Democrats, then the majority party in Congress, not only denounced Bush's speech -- they also ordered the General Accounting Office to investigate its production and later summoned top Bush administration officials to Capitol Hill for an extensive hearing on the issue."
Monday, September 07, 2009
So who is Ron Bloom
So who is Ron Bloom
"Former SEIU principal Ron Bloom becomes the Obama 'Manufacturing Czar.'
Jake Tapper reported this on Sunday:
In Cincinnati tomorrow, President Obama will announce that he's appointing Ron Bloom his Senior Counselor for Manufacturing Policy, White House sources tell ABC News.
Bloom is currently Senior Advisor to Secretary of the Treasury Tim Geithner as a member of the President’s Task Force on the Automotive Industry, named to that position in February. He will remain in that position even while he takes on his new task.
So who is Ron Bloom?
Jammie Wearing Fool has this:
The name Ron Bloom is one that we need to start paying attention to. He has a long history of being the negotiating face of unions in a suit. He is a Harvard Business School graduate who has worked for the unions beginning with SEIU for decades. The most recent union he represented was the United Steel Workers (USW) before becoming a part of the automotive team that Obama put together. You know the one that had the head Steven Rattner having to resign over some questions about his personal finances mixed in with a little fraudulent money gifts.Rattner was replaced by Ron Bloom, and voila the United Auto Workers (UAW), got a sweetheart deal backed up by the power of the federal government to try and stave off bankruptcy.
This is just further proof that Barack Obama knows nothing about economics but is an expert on radicalism."
"Former SEIU principal Ron Bloom becomes the Obama 'Manufacturing Czar.'
Jake Tapper reported this on Sunday:
In Cincinnati tomorrow, President Obama will announce that he's appointing Ron Bloom his Senior Counselor for Manufacturing Policy, White House sources tell ABC News.
Bloom is currently Senior Advisor to Secretary of the Treasury Tim Geithner as a member of the President’s Task Force on the Automotive Industry, named to that position in February. He will remain in that position even while he takes on his new task.
So who is Ron Bloom?
Jammie Wearing Fool has this:
The name Ron Bloom is one that we need to start paying attention to. He has a long history of being the negotiating face of unions in a suit. He is a Harvard Business School graduate who has worked for the unions beginning with SEIU for decades. The most recent union he represented was the United Steel Workers (USW) before becoming a part of the automotive team that Obama put together. You know the one that had the head Steven Rattner having to resign over some questions about his personal finances mixed in with a little fraudulent money gifts.Rattner was replaced by Ron Bloom, and voila the United Auto Workers (UAW), got a sweetheart deal backed up by the power of the federal government to try and stave off bankruptcy.
This is just further proof that Barack Obama knows nothing about economics but is an expert on radicalism."
EU warns on proposed US travel fees - Yahoo! News
EU warns on proposed US travel fees
The European Union is strongly criticizing a congressional proposal to charge a $10 fee to some visitors to the United States and suggesting it may carry a price for U.S. travelers.
If it passes, the EU says, some U.S. travelers to Europe could face retaliation.
The fee now under consideration in Congress would finance a new U.S. program to promote travel, a burden that the EU believes Americans should bear."
The European Union is strongly criticizing a congressional proposal to charge a $10 fee to some visitors to the United States and suggesting it may carry a price for U.S. travelers.
If it passes, the EU says, some U.S. travelers to Europe could face retaliation.
The fee now under consideration in Congress would finance a new U.S. program to promote travel, a burden that the EU believes Americans should bear."
Porker of the month
Porker of the month
"Rep. Abercrombie’s latest outrage is to slip a provision (Sec. 2833) into the House version of the 2010 Defense Authorization Act that would double the construction costs of relocating 11,600 U.S. troops from Japan to Guam.
The original cost estimate was $15 billion, $10 billion of which is associated with construction of living quarters for military personnel and their families.
However, Sec. 2833 requires that the wages paid to construction workers match the “prevailing” wages in Hawaii, which are 250 percent higher than those on Guam. The Congressional Budget Office estimates this “would increase the need for discretionary appropriations by about $10 billion over the 2010-2014 period.”"
"Rep. Abercrombie’s latest outrage is to slip a provision (Sec. 2833) into the House version of the 2010 Defense Authorization Act that would double the construction costs of relocating 11,600 U.S. troops from Japan to Guam.
The original cost estimate was $15 billion, $10 billion of which is associated with construction of living quarters for military personnel and their families.
However, Sec. 2833 requires that the wages paid to construction workers match the “prevailing” wages in Hawaii, which are 250 percent higher than those on Guam. The Congressional Budget Office estimates this “would increase the need for discretionary appropriations by about $10 billion over the 2010-2014 period.”"
French healthcare is 'badly run'
French healthcare is 'badly run'
"France must make big changes to its health system in order to cut waste and increase efficiency, a government-commissioned report is warning."
"France must make big changes to its health system in order to cut waste and increase efficiency, a government-commissioned report is warning."
A day—and a death—to remember
A day—and a death—to remember
"On June 25, Michael Jackson’s death dominated the headlines.
It was a sad day for his family, friends and fans.
But another death went nearly unnoticed.
Lt. Brian Bradshaw was killed by an explosive device in Afghanistan.
Bradshaw didn’t make headlines around the world.
But nearly everyone in his hometown came out to mourn.
Martha Gillis is Bradshaw’s aunt.
She’s worried that a soldier’s death is often invisible to the public.
She hopes his nation will remember him."
"On June 25, Michael Jackson’s death dominated the headlines.
It was a sad day for his family, friends and fans.
But another death went nearly unnoticed.
Lt. Brian Bradshaw was killed by an explosive device in Afghanistan.
Bradshaw didn’t make headlines around the world.
But nearly everyone in his hometown came out to mourn.
Martha Gillis is Bradshaw’s aunt.
She’s worried that a soldier’s death is often invisible to the public.
She hopes his nation will remember him."
The Founding Fathers Could Never Have Foreseen Obama
The Founding Fathers Could Never Have Foreseen Obama
"Now that the majority of Americans are finally realizing what kind of a Dufus they’ve elected to the Presidency, and those who know it but will NEVER admit they know it, what happens in the next three and a half years?
How can the world deal with a LAME DUCK Presidency just six months into office?
Everything this President has touched has turned into crap.
In less than 6 months he’s spent more money than ALL PREVIOUS PRESIDENTS COMBINED from the time of George W Washington, indebting the USA to the tune of TRILLIONS of dollars and still counting."
"Now that the majority of Americans are finally realizing what kind of a Dufus they’ve elected to the Presidency, and those who know it but will NEVER admit they know it, what happens in the next three and a half years?
How can the world deal with a LAME DUCK Presidency just six months into office?
Everything this President has touched has turned into crap.
In less than 6 months he’s spent more money than ALL PREVIOUS PRESIDENTS COMBINED from the time of George W Washington, indebting the USA to the tune of TRILLIONS of dollars and still counting."
David Sirota: Glenn Beck Is A 'Right-Wing Political Terrorist'; Van Jones Is 'A National Hero' | NewsBusters.org
David Sirota: Glenn Beck Is A 'Right-Wing Political Terrorist'; Van Jones Is 'A National Hero'
"what I think what's going on here is that the White House is listening to the right-wing's political terrorists, people like Glenn Beck, people like conservative activists who have targeted Van Jones because Van Jones is an African-American"
"what I think what's going on here is that the White House is listening to the right-wing's political terrorists, people like Glenn Beck, people like conservative activists who have targeted Van Jones because Van Jones is an African-American"
Whitehall wants $22 million bond issue
White Lake Beacon
"Whitehall District Schools is once again investigating the possibility of going to voters with a bond vote for facility improvements.
Last May voters decidedly defeated a $22 million bond issue. "
Be afraid...very afraid!
"Whitehall District Schools is once again investigating the possibility of going to voters with a bond vote for facility improvements.
Last May voters decidedly defeated a $22 million bond issue. "
Be afraid...very afraid!
Largest U.S. brewers say beer prices will take a hop up
Largest U.S. brewers say beer prices will take a hop up
"Drink up! Beer prices are going up.
The two largest U.S. beer sellers say they plan to raise prices,"
"Drink up! Beer prices are going up.
The two largest U.S. beer sellers say they plan to raise prices,"
Jobless press benefit extension
Jobless press benefit extension
"Since June 2008, Congress has extended jobless benefits three times.
Unemployed workers initially qualify for up to 26 weeks.
But with the extensions, Michiganians are eligible for 79 weeks of benefits -- or 1 1/2 years.
The proposed extension would boost the number of weeks to 92 -- a year and nine months."
Because of high unemployment, Michigan's unemployment insurance trust fund -- which is paid for by a tax on employers laying off workers -- is depleted, forcing the state to borrow $2 billion from the federal government
"Since June 2008, Congress has extended jobless benefits three times.
Unemployed workers initially qualify for up to 26 weeks.
But with the extensions, Michiganians are eligible for 79 weeks of benefits -- or 1 1/2 years.
The proposed extension would boost the number of weeks to 92 -- a year and nine months."
Because of high unemployment, Michigan's unemployment insurance trust fund -- which is paid for by a tax on employers laying off workers -- is depleted, forcing the state to borrow $2 billion from the federal government
Detroit takeover viewed as last resort
Detroit takeover viewed as last resort
"With increasing frequency, Mayor Dave Bing has raised the threat of receivership and warned the appointment of an emergency financial manager and even bankruptcy are possible for Detroit as he struggles to control the city's finances"
"With increasing frequency, Mayor Dave Bing has raised the threat of receivership and warned the appointment of an emergency financial manager and even bankruptcy are possible for Detroit as he struggles to control the city's finances"
Union bigs get the best deals: A sour Labor Day lesson on pensions
Union bigs get the best deals: A sour Labor Day lesson on pensions
"unions are once again seeking to recruit new members with promises of higher wages and generous pension benefits.
These promises are made despite pension funds' reports to the U.S. Labor Department showing that collectively bargained pension funds are underfunded when compared with other pensions.
In contrast, pension funds for unions' own staff and officers have been doing just fine."
"unions are once again seeking to recruit new members with promises of higher wages and generous pension benefits.
These promises are made despite pension funds' reports to the U.S. Labor Department showing that collectively bargained pension funds are underfunded when compared with other pensions.
In contrast, pension funds for unions' own staff and officers have been doing just fine."
Sunday, September 06, 2009
The hunt is on for more ammunition in Nevada, U.S.
The hunt is on for more ammunition in Nevada, U.S.
"The scarcity of ammunition is part of a trend that began immediately after the presidential election, retailers say."
"The scarcity of ammunition is part of a trend that began immediately after the presidential election, retailers say."
No.10 turns on Obama and Clinton for criticising decision to release Lockerbie bomber
No.10 turns on Obama and Clinton for criticising decision to release Lockerbie bomber
"The US was kept fully in touch about everything that was going on with regard to Britain’s discussions with Libya in recent years and about Megrahi,’ said the Whitehall aide.
‘We would never do anything about Lockerbie without discussing it with the US. It is disingenuous of them to act as though Megrahi’s return was out of the blue."
"The US was kept fully in touch about everything that was going on with regard to Britain’s discussions with Libya in recent years and about Megrahi,’ said the Whitehall aide.
‘We would never do anything about Lockerbie without discussing it with the US. It is disingenuous of them to act as though Megrahi’s return was out of the blue."
DARN THAT YOUTUBE
DARN THAT YOUTUBE
"Rep. Baron Hill, D-Indiana, cannot possibly be this big a jerk all the time.
At a recent town hall, a young woman raised her hand and identified herself as a journalism student working on a school project who was told she could not videotape the event.
Student: Why can't I film this, isn't this my right?
Baron Hill: This is my town hall meeting, and I set the rules, and I've had these rules... (jeering) Let me repeat that one more time.
This is my town hall meeting for you.
And you're not going to tell me how to run my Congressional office.
Now, the reason why I don't allow filming is that usually the films that are done end up on YouTube in a compromising position.
Hey, guess what? He ended up on YouTube anyway:"
"Rep. Baron Hill, D-Indiana, cannot possibly be this big a jerk all the time.
At a recent town hall, a young woman raised her hand and identified herself as a journalism student working on a school project who was told she could not videotape the event.
Student: Why can't I film this, isn't this my right?
Baron Hill: This is my town hall meeting, and I set the rules, and I've had these rules... (jeering) Let me repeat that one more time.
This is my town hall meeting for you.
And you're not going to tell me how to run my Congressional office.
Now, the reason why I don't allow filming is that usually the films that are done end up on YouTube in a compromising position.
Hey, guess what? He ended up on YouTube anyway:"
How to Insure Every American
Congressmen John Shadegg and Pete Hoekstra: How to Insure Every American
"•Costs and Control. The health-care reform debate centers on how to lower the cost of care, and who should ultimately control health-care decisions.
Under the current system, nobody is focused on controlling costs."
"•Costs and Control. The health-care reform debate centers on how to lower the cost of care, and who should ultimately control health-care decisions.
Under the current system, nobody is focused on controlling costs."
Rep. Rangel pushes the envelope of arrogance.
Rep. Rangel pushes the envelope of arrogance.
"Beyond that, it turns out Rep. Rangel failed to report assets totaling more than $1 million on legally required financial-disclosure forms going back to at least 2001.
The news comes on top of revelations last year that Rep. Rangel didn’t report — and didn’t pay taxes on — income from a villa in the Caribbean. In that matter, the IRS gave him a sweetheart deal; the congressman paid about $10,000 in back taxes but was not assessed any penalty or interest.
Can we have the guy who audited him?"
"Beyond that, it turns out Rep. Rangel failed to report assets totaling more than $1 million on legally required financial-disclosure forms going back to at least 2001.
The news comes on top of revelations last year that Rep. Rangel didn’t report — and didn’t pay taxes on — income from a villa in the Caribbean. In that matter, the IRS gave him a sweetheart deal; the congressman paid about $10,000 in back taxes but was not assessed any penalty or interest.
Can we have the guy who audited him?"
Despite rip current safeguards, drownings have not diminished along Lake Michigan shore
Despite rip current safeguards, drownings have not diminished along Lake Michigan shore
"at least 46 others caught in rip currents have drowned in Lake Michigan since 2002,"
"at least 46 others caught in rip currents have drowned in Lake Michigan since 2002,"
Airlines rachet up prevention to target swine flu
Airlines rachet up prevention to target swine flu
"Airlines are stowing pillows and blankets, and rolling out the disinfectant wipes to discourage transmission of the swine flu virus, all the while stressing planes are as 'safe' as trains or schools."
"Airlines are stowing pillows and blankets, and rolling out the disinfectant wipes to discourage transmission of the swine flu virus, all the while stressing planes are as 'safe' as trains or schools."
Saturday, September 05, 2009
The Deficits Are Coming!
The Deficits Are Coming!
'Our off balance sheet obligations associated with Social Security and Medicare put us in a $56 trillion financial hole—and that's before the recession was officially declared last year.
America now owes more than Americans are worth—and the gap is growing!'"
'Our off balance sheet obligations associated with Social Security and Medicare put us in a $56 trillion financial hole—and that's before the recession was officially declared last year.
America now owes more than Americans are worth—and the gap is growing!'"
Wednesday, September 02, 2009
Questions and Answers to All Things Digital - The Kim Komando Radio Show
Questions and Answers to All Things Digital - The Kim Komando Radio Show
"I use multiple browsers, but each for a different reason:
1. IE8 - General web browsing. Very secure compared to previous versions. The only browser able to access Microsoft Update manually. Most web based add-ons work with IE (HP Smart Web Printing, RoboForm, TrendProtect, Google Toolbar, Adobe Acroboat, Skype, etc.). Easy to add custom search engines to the search bar. Works great with bookmarklets. Includes great features like Accelerators and InPrivate Filtering. Great zoom function (entire web page, not just text). Use it to test web sites under different resolution settings (around 90% of the market share in browsers). Many sites still rely on Active X Controls and will only work with IE.
2. Firefox - Extensions/Add-Ons, enough said. From tab and bookmark organization and navigation to download management, custom themes, FTP integration, capturing streaming media and more, there's an add-on or plug-in for just about anything you need. However, be selective in what you add as the browser's performance in hindered after a while. Faster than IE. Portable version available for running it off my thumb drive. Use it to test web sites under different resolution settings on both the Windows and Mac platforms (second highest market share in browsers).
3. Safari - Primary for RSS. When I want to browse a single source of news feeds, the clean presentation of an RSS feed in Safari is much more pleasant to the eyes than any other browser. For perusing through all my prefered feeds though, Google Reader or Thunderbird are still my primary choices. Use it to test web sites under different resolution settings on both the Windows and Mac platforms.
4. Opera - Mostly speed. Fast browser, on par with Firefox. M"
"I use multiple browsers, but each for a different reason:
1. IE8 - General web browsing. Very secure compared to previous versions. The only browser able to access Microsoft Update manually. Most web based add-ons work with IE (HP Smart Web Printing, RoboForm, TrendProtect, Google Toolbar, Adobe Acroboat, Skype, etc.). Easy to add custom search engines to the search bar. Works great with bookmarklets. Includes great features like Accelerators and InPrivate Filtering. Great zoom function (entire web page, not just text). Use it to test web sites under different resolution settings (around 90% of the market share in browsers). Many sites still rely on Active X Controls and will only work with IE.
2. Firefox - Extensions/Add-Ons, enough said. From tab and bookmark organization and navigation to download management, custom themes, FTP integration, capturing streaming media and more, there's an add-on or plug-in for just about anything you need. However, be selective in what you add as the browser's performance in hindered after a while. Faster than IE. Portable version available for running it off my thumb drive. Use it to test web sites under different resolution settings on both the Windows and Mac platforms (second highest market share in browsers).
3. Safari - Primary for RSS. When I want to browse a single source of news feeds, the clean presentation of an RSS feed in Safari is much more pleasant to the eyes than any other browser. For perusing through all my prefered feeds though, Google Reader or Thunderbird are still my primary choices. Use it to test web sites under different resolution settings on both the Windows and Mac platforms.
4. Opera - Mostly speed. Fast browser, on par with Firefox. M"
Flu Vaccinations
Flu Vaccinations
"At the health department, the cost for a flu shot is $27, a flu nasal spray is $35, and a pneumonia shot is $52. Payment by cash or check is due at the time of service.
Anyone can receive a flu vaccination at the health department, however, the health department is unable to bill Medicare or health insurance programs other than Medicaid.
Hours of service are Monday through Friday from Noon until 4:30 pm."
"At the health department, the cost for a flu shot is $27, a flu nasal spray is $35, and a pneumonia shot is $52. Payment by cash or check is due at the time of service.
Anyone can receive a flu vaccination at the health department, however, the health department is unable to bill Medicare or health insurance programs other than Medicaid.
Hours of service are Monday through Friday from Noon until 4:30 pm."
Music from '50s through '70s returns to the airways with WGVU-AM move to oldies format
Music from '50s through '70s returns to the airways with WGVU-AM move to oldies format
WGVU AM is answering more than a few West Michigan prayers with newly announced radio station, Real Oldies 1480/850.
The all-oldies NPR radio station, playing local to national hits from the mid-'50s to early '70s, will be hosted by former WFGR-FM (98.7) personality Len O'Kelly and Bill Bailey, formerly of WLHT.
......The format was abandoned in 2004 with WODJ and again recently with WFGR.
"Our hope is third time's a charm," O'Kelly said.
........."We want people to say, 'Wow, I haven't heard that in 40 years,'" O'Kelly said.
Also, the station will be the first NPR station in the country to adopt the oldies format, "which is kind of cool," O'Kelly said.
Find the fool that authorized this move and fire him/her/it NOW!
WGVU AM is answering more than a few West Michigan prayers with newly announced radio station, Real Oldies 1480/850.
The all-oldies NPR radio station, playing local to national hits from the mid-'50s to early '70s, will be hosted by former WFGR-FM (98.7) personality Len O'Kelly and Bill Bailey, formerly of WLHT.
......The format was abandoned in 2004 with WODJ and again recently with WFGR.
"Our hope is third time's a charm," O'Kelly said.
........."We want people to say, 'Wow, I haven't heard that in 40 years,'" O'Kelly said.
Also, the station will be the first NPR station in the country to adopt the oldies format, "which is kind of cool," O'Kelly said.
Find the fool that authorized this move and fire him/her/it NOW!
Tuesday, September 01, 2009
SETTING UP THE NEXT STRIKE - New York Post
SETTING UP THE NEXT STRIKE
"For the evidence is clear: They work.
The use of such techniques against Khalid Sheik Mohammed not only elicited significant information, it may well also have saved thousands of lives.
As Cheney pointedly noted, those who applied them -- and even those who exceeded their authority -- 'were directly responsible for the fact that for eight years we had no further mass-casualty attacks against the United States.'
Which raises the obvious question: How do those who decry such techniques as immoral propose to break other KSMs and obtain information from them -- by playing tapes of President Obama's 'outreach to the Muslim world' speech?
That may make the ACLU and Capitol Hill Democrats ecstatic.
But it's not likely to stop the next 9/11."
"For the evidence is clear: They work.
The use of such techniques against Khalid Sheik Mohammed not only elicited significant information, it may well also have saved thousands of lives.
As Cheney pointedly noted, those who applied them -- and even those who exceeded their authority -- 'were directly responsible for the fact that for eight years we had no further mass-casualty attacks against the United States.'
Which raises the obvious question: How do those who decry such techniques as immoral propose to break other KSMs and obtain information from them -- by playing tapes of President Obama's 'outreach to the Muslim world' speech?
That may make the ACLU and Capitol Hill Democrats ecstatic.
But it's not likely to stop the next 9/11."
Rock the Boat with red-hot fest band
Rock the Boat with red-hot fest band
"Named one of the top five up-and-coming festival jam bands by Billboard Magazine, Muskegon's own Four Finger Five will return to the deck of the LST-393 for an evening of music benefiting four groups.
IF YOU GO
• What: Rock the Boat featuring Four Finger Five and special guests Ultraviolet Hippopotamus, Garganta and DJ Eminent.
• Why: Proceeds benefit the LST-393, Muskegon Film Festival, Michigan Film Corps and The Harbor Theater.
• When: 7-11 p.m. Saturday.
• Where: Deck of the LST-393, at Mart Dock in downtown Muskegon.
• Cover: $10 at the door. Cash only. Ages 21 and up. Coolers and snacks allowed, beverages not furnished. Fricanos pizza will be for sale. Limited seating, so bring lawn chairs.
• Information: 727-0805 or e-mail sarahr@watermarkcenter.com
"Named one of the top five up-and-coming festival jam bands by Billboard Magazine, Muskegon's own Four Finger Five will return to the deck of the LST-393 for an evening of music benefiting four groups.
IF YOU GO
• What: Rock the Boat featuring Four Finger Five and special guests Ultraviolet Hippopotamus, Garganta and DJ Eminent.
• Why: Proceeds benefit the LST-393, Muskegon Film Festival, Michigan Film Corps and The Harbor Theater.
• When: 7-11 p.m. Saturday.
• Where: Deck of the LST-393, at Mart Dock in downtown Muskegon.
• Cover: $10 at the door. Cash only. Ages 21 and up. Coolers and snacks allowed, beverages not furnished. Fricanos pizza will be for sale. Limited seating, so bring lawn chairs.
• Information: 727-0805 or e-mail sarahr@watermarkcenter.com
Kirk Cousins named MSU starter, but Keith Nichol will play
Kirk Cousins named MSU starter, but Keith Nichol will play
Michigan State has a starting quarterback. Spartans coach Mark Dantonio on Tuesday named Kirk Cousins his starter for Saturday's season opener against Montana State at Spartan Stadium.
'We'll allow him to get into a rhythm,' said Dantonio of Cousins.
Keith Nichol, an Oklahoma transfer, is expected to see his first game experience in the first half, Dantonio added.
Dantonio said he will allow both players to grow into the MSU quarterback position during the season.
MSU's top three running backs for Saturday's game -- in no particular order -- are redshirt freshman Caulton Ray and true freshmen Larry Caper and Edwin Baker, Dantonio said."
Sounds like Muskegon's Leggett ain't in that group.
All frosh.
Michigan State has a starting quarterback. Spartans coach Mark Dantonio on Tuesday named Kirk Cousins his starter for Saturday's season opener against Montana State at Spartan Stadium.
'We'll allow him to get into a rhythm,' said Dantonio of Cousins.
Keith Nichol, an Oklahoma transfer, is expected to see his first game experience in the first half, Dantonio added.
Dantonio said he will allow both players to grow into the MSU quarterback position during the season.
MSU's top three running backs for Saturday's game -- in no particular order -- are redshirt freshman Caulton Ray and true freshmen Larry Caper and Edwin Baker, Dantonio said."
Sounds like Muskegon's Leggett ain't in that group.
All frosh.
Nothing new here, except the source of U-M allegations
Nothing new here, except the source of U-M allegations
"The bigger long-term problem for Rodriguez, and the clearest sign so far that his time in Ann Arbor could be limited, is that many of his recent players ratted him out about it."
"The bigger long-term problem for Rodriguez, and the clearest sign so far that his time in Ann Arbor could be limited, is that many of his recent players ratted him out about it."
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)