Report: Child playing with matches may have started Manistee house fire | MLive.com
"playing with matches"?
Saturday, January 12, 2013
How Michigan Supreme Court opening will be filled in wake of Diane Hathaway departure
#incart_river
Hathaway’s attorney said the justice served notice in late December she would retire.
But news of her plan didn’t become public until Monday -- shortly after the Michigan Judicial Tenure Commission filed a formal complaint and called for her interim suspension in light of a federal lawsuit alleging bank fraud and money laundering.
Hathaway’s attorney said the justice served notice in late December she would retire.
But news of her plan didn’t become public until Monday -- shortly after the Michigan Judicial Tenure Commission filed a formal complaint and called for her interim suspension in light of a federal lawsuit alleging bank fraud and money laundering.
Mike Lee pushes for changes to union exemption from Hobbs Act
Mike Lee pushes for changes to union exemption from Hobbs Act | Washington Free Beacon
"Labor groups are immune from prosecution under the Hobbs Act, a 1946 provision that criminalized extortion and robbery using the threat or fear of force.
Sen. Mike Lee (R., Utah) attempted to close that loophole last year with the Freedom from Union Violence Act (FUVA)."
"Labor groups are immune from prosecution under the Hobbs Act, a 1946 provision that criminalized extortion and robbery using the threat or fear of force.
Sen. Mike Lee (R., Utah) attempted to close that loophole last year with the Freedom from Union Violence Act (FUVA)."
White House Considers Funding for Cops in Schools
White House Considers Funding for Cops in Schools
"In what seems like a surprise move, the White House working group on gun control is considering expanding federal funding for cops in schools."
"In what seems like a surprise move, the White House working group on gun control is considering expanding federal funding for cops in schools."
Report: Americans Die Younger, Contract More STDs Than Any Other High-Income Country Worldwide
Report: Americans Die Younger, Contract More STDs Than Any Other High-Income Country Worldwide « CBS DC
“Research is important, but we should not wait for more data before taking action, because we already know what to do,” Woolf said.
“If we fail to act, the disadvantage will continue to worsen and our children will face shorter lives and greater rates of illness than their peers in other rich nations.”
“Research is important, but we should not wait for more data before taking action, because we already know what to do,” Woolf said.
“If we fail to act, the disadvantage will continue to worsen and our children will face shorter lives and greater rates of illness than their peers in other rich nations.”
State, Melrose mayor target violent video games
State, Melrose mayor target violent video games - Metro - The Boston Globe
Mayor Robert Dolan of Melrose said Thursday that the city is launching an initiative aimed at persuading families to get rid of their violent video games, movies, and toys by offering coupons to residents who turn in those items at the city yard.
“If a family has this discussion and maybe tries to get rid of some of this stuff, they are going to get one of these coupons,” Dolan said.
“The child may be getting rid of something they like, but they are getting some value for it.”
Mayor Robert Dolan of Melrose said Thursday that the city is launching an initiative aimed at persuading families to get rid of their violent video games, movies, and toys by offering coupons to residents who turn in those items at the city yard.
“If a family has this discussion and maybe tries to get rid of some of this stuff, they are going to get one of these coupons,” Dolan said.
“The child may be getting rid of something they like, but they are getting some value for it.”
Third candidate for Muskegon mayor Demario Phillips withdraws hours after entering the race
Third candidate for Muskegon mayor Demario Phillips withdraws hours after entering the race | MLive.com
"Demario Phillips, 23, of 1394 Ransom publicly declared his candidacy for mayor of Muskegon at the end of Tuesday’s city commission meeting.
But early Thursday morning, he called MLive and The Muskegon Chronicle to withdraw from the race.
“I will be back again to run for mayor in following years,” Phillips said, adding that his decision was partially “financial.”
He said he will support Gawron’s candidacy because the current mayor is someone he knows and likes.
Phillips said he has never met Abiade.
“Steve Gawron is a cool person and a friend,” Phillips said. “He deserves my blessing.”
"Demario Phillips, 23, of 1394 Ransom publicly declared his candidacy for mayor of Muskegon at the end of Tuesday’s city commission meeting.
But early Thursday morning, he called MLive and The Muskegon Chronicle to withdraw from the race.
“I will be back again to run for mayor in following years,” Phillips said, adding that his decision was partially “financial.”
He said he will support Gawron’s candidacy because the current mayor is someone he knows and likes.
Phillips said he has never met Abiade.
“Steve Gawron is a cool person and a friend,” Phillips said. “He deserves my blessing.”
Phillips is a 2009 Muskegon High School graduate.
He was recently employed in December by Kandu Inc. in Holland working in production of bandages, mirrors and home supplies.
Kandu is a non-profit agency that teaches life-skills and job training to people with barriers to employment, according to its website.
Besides mayor, city voters also will select two at-large city commissioners in seats now held by Commissioners Sue Wierengo and Lea Markowski.
...Wierengo and Markowski said they are both considering running again for the city commission but have not made a final decision.
The candidate filing deadline is in May.
He was recently employed in December by Kandu Inc. in Holland working in production of bandages, mirrors and home supplies.
Kandu is a non-profit agency that teaches life-skills and job training to people with barriers to employment, according to its website.
Besides mayor, city voters also will select two at-large city commissioners in seats now held by Commissioners Sue Wierengo and Lea Markowski.
...Wierengo and Markowski said they are both considering running again for the city commission but have not made a final decision.
The candidate filing deadline is in May.
Obama Opposed Gun Ban Exception to Defend One’s Home
Obama Opposed Gun Ban Exception to Defend One’s Home | The Blog on Obama: White House Dossier
As a state senator in Illinois, President Obama opposed legislation providing an exception to handgun restrictions if the weapon was used in the defense of one’s home.
As a state senator in Illinois, President Obama opposed legislation providing an exception to handgun restrictions if the weapon was used in the defense of one’s home.
Drought Still Plagues US: Food Prices 'Going Up'
Drought Still Plagues US: Food Prices 'Going Up'
"Forecasts are for a four percent (price) increase in food this year, but I think that's on the low side if the drought continues," Gross said. "Food prices will likely be going up much more than the forecast."
Lack of rain and extremely warm temperatures—thought to be from global warming as well as natural climate changes— are blamed for the drought.
......And some 40 percent of the nation's corn crop goes to ethanol producers—and into the gas tanks of the nation's automobiles—putting more strain on food supplies."
"Forecasts are for a four percent (price) increase in food this year, but I think that's on the low side if the drought continues," Gross said. "Food prices will likely be going up much more than the forecast."
Lack of rain and extremely warm temperatures—thought to be from global warming as well as natural climate changes— are blamed for the drought.
......And some 40 percent of the nation's corn crop goes to ethanol producers—and into the gas tanks of the nation's automobiles—putting more strain on food supplies."
Friday, January 11, 2013
Commentary: It's Time to Repeal Prevailing Wage Law
Commentary: It's Time to Repeal Prevailing Wage Law [Michigan Capitol Confidential]
This "prevailing" wage is actually a premium wage that applies only to about a fifth of Michigan's construction workforce, according to the Union Membership and Coverage Database.
We conservatively estimate that the prevailing wage law adds $200 million annually to the cost of government construction projects in Michigan.
This "prevailing" wage is actually a premium wage that applies only to about a fifth of Michigan's construction workforce, according to the Union Membership and Coverage Database.
We conservatively estimate that the prevailing wage law adds $200 million annually to the cost of government construction projects in Michigan.
Bay City Repeals Prevailing Wage Ordinance
Bay City Repeals Prevailing Wage Ordinance [Michigan Capitol Confidential]
Late last night on a 5-4 vote, Bay City commissioners chose to repeal that city’s prevailing wage ordinance, something no city in Michigan may have ever done, to our knowledge.
A prevailing wage law mandates union scale wages on government funded construction projects, regardless of who wins the bid.
Late last night on a 5-4 vote, Bay City commissioners chose to repeal that city’s prevailing wage ordinance, something no city in Michigan may have ever done, to our knowledge.
A prevailing wage law mandates union scale wages on government funded construction projects, regardless of who wins the bid.
Davison woman wins national Sallie Mae sweepstakes to pay off student loans
Davison woman wins national Sallie Mae sweepstakes to pay off student loans | MLive.com
This was the first time Sallie Mae has done a sweepstakes to reward customers for paying loans on time.
The sweepstakes, which more than 7,000 people entered, was created to reward customers who have been making continued payments and are in good standing, with a six-month history of making on-time payments.
"We launched the contest to celebrate customers who make on time student loan payments," Sallie Mae spokesperson Nikki Lavoie said. "We really wanted to bring attention to our millions of customers who make on-time student loan payments."
This was the first time Sallie Mae has done a sweepstakes to reward customers for paying loans on time.
The sweepstakes, which more than 7,000 people entered, was created to reward customers who have been making continued payments and are in good standing, with a six-month history of making on-time payments.
"We launched the contest to celebrate customers who make on time student loan payments," Sallie Mae spokesperson Nikki Lavoie said. "We really wanted to bring attention to our millions of customers who make on-time student loan payments."
Michigan a Cigarette Smuggling Haven
Michigan a Cigarette Smuggling Haven [Michigan Capitol Confidential]
"According to the Mackinac Center’s latest estimate of cigarette smuggling rates, Michigan is No. 10 nationally in the proportion of cigarettes being smoked here that are illegally smuggled in. "
"According to the Mackinac Center’s latest estimate of cigarette smuggling rates, Michigan is No. 10 nationally in the proportion of cigarettes being smoked here that are illegally smuggled in. "
Bloomberg Slaps Down Criticism of Painkiller Restriction Plan
Bloomberg Slaps Down Criticism of Painkiller Restriction Plan | Politicker: "Yesterday, Mayor Michael Bloomberg and city officials unveiled a new initiative to limit supplies of prescription painkillers in the city’s emergency rooms as a way to combat what they described as a growing addiction problem in the region. "
Obama Signs Bill Giving Him Armed Protection For Life
» Obama Signs Bill Giving Him Armed Protection For Life Alex Jones' Infowars: There's a war on for your mind!
"The irony of Obama seeking to surround himself with armed men for the rest of his life while simultaneously working to disarm the American people via a gun control agenda that is likely to be enforced via executive decree represents the height of hypocrisy.
But it’s not the first time that Obama has lauded the notion of responsible Americans using firearms to protect himself and his family while concurrently eviscerating that very same right for the American people.
During an ABC Nightline interview broadcast on December 26 yet recorded before the Sandy Hook shooting, Obama said one of the benefits of his re-election was the ability “to have men with guns around at all times,” in order to protect his daughters."
"The irony of Obama seeking to surround himself with armed men for the rest of his life while simultaneously working to disarm the American people via a gun control agenda that is likely to be enforced via executive decree represents the height of hypocrisy.
But it’s not the first time that Obama has lauded the notion of responsible Americans using firearms to protect himself and his family while concurrently eviscerating that very same right for the American people.
During an ABC Nightline interview broadcast on December 26 yet recorded before the Sandy Hook shooting, Obama said one of the benefits of his re-election was the ability “to have men with guns around at all times,” in order to protect his daughters."
Muskegon city planners unwilling to close Pine Street for new county jail; ask for meetings to resolve dispute
Muskegon city planners unwilling to close Pine Street for new county jail; ask for meetings to resolve dispute | MLive.com#incart_river
Planning commissioners Thursday afternoon unanimously voted to table a county request of the city to close off Pine Street from Myrtle Avenue to Walton Avenue.
The street closure would allow the county to build a jail extension on to the current facility stretching across Pine Street and into an adjacent county parking lot, county officials said.
The county’s jail consultant said the street closure would allow for the cheapest construction alternative and provide the safest and most efficient operation of the new jail.
Planning commissioners Thursday afternoon unanimously voted to table a county request of the city to close off Pine Street from Myrtle Avenue to Walton Avenue.
The street closure would allow the county to build a jail extension on to the current facility stretching across Pine Street and into an adjacent county parking lot, county officials said.
The county’s jail consultant said the street closure would allow for the cheapest construction alternative and provide the safest and most efficient operation of the new jail.
Muskegon County courthouse $3 million renovation of first, second floors nearly done
Muskegon County courthouse $3 million renovation of first, second floors nearly done | MLive.com
More than three years and roughly $3 million later, a renovation of the first and second floors of Muskegon County’s Michael E. Kobza Hall of Justice is nearly complete.
More than three years and roughly $3 million later, a renovation of the first and second floors of Muskegon County’s Michael E. Kobza Hall of Justice is nearly complete.
Wednesday, January 09, 2013
Zawdie Abiade launches mayoral campaign unlike any seen in the city of Muskegon
Zawdie Abiade launches mayoral campaign unlike any seen in the city of Muskegon | MLive.com
"There is no doubt that Abiade’s campaign is going to shake up the political landscape in the city and throughout the county.
But it will be the city voters in November who will decide whether the 59-year-old Muskegon political newcomer will, in the candidate’s words, “make history” and “change” Michigan."
"There is no doubt that Abiade’s campaign is going to shake up the political landscape in the city and throughout the county.
But it will be the city voters in November who will decide whether the 59-year-old Muskegon political newcomer will, in the candidate’s words, “make history” and “change” Michigan."
ELIMINATIONIST RHETORIC: Teachers union leader jokes about killing the rich.
Instapundit » Blog Archive » ELIMINATIONIST RHETORIC: Teachers union leader jokes about killing the rich.
"JANUARY 9, 2013
ELIMINATIONIST RHETORIC: Teachers union leader jokes about killing the rich.
But this is my favorite part:
“The thing is, [the rich] think nothing about killing us,” she said. “They think nothing about putting our people in harm’s way. They think nothing about lethal working conditions.”
She cited the fact that not all Chicago schools have air conditioning as evidence that the union’s opponents want teachers to work in dangerous conditions.
Well, that is dangerous when you’re morbidly obese, I guess. (See photo).
Plus this:
Lewis is no stranger to controversial comments. In the wake of the Sandy Hook shooting, she charged Teach for America with helping to “kill and disenfranchise children from schools across the nation.”
Nice to know that someone like this is playing a major role in America’s public education system."
"JANUARY 9, 2013
ELIMINATIONIST RHETORIC: Teachers union leader jokes about killing the rich.
But this is my favorite part:
“The thing is, [the rich] think nothing about killing us,” she said. “They think nothing about putting our people in harm’s way. They think nothing about lethal working conditions.”
She cited the fact that not all Chicago schools have air conditioning as evidence that the union’s opponents want teachers to work in dangerous conditions.
Well, that is dangerous when you’re morbidly obese, I guess. (See photo).
Plus this:
Lewis is no stranger to controversial comments. In the wake of the Sandy Hook shooting, she charged Teach for America with helping to “kill and disenfranchise children from schools across the nation.”
Nice to know that someone like this is playing a major role in America’s public education system."
Tuesday, January 08, 2013
Breast Cancer Screenings Cost Medicare $1 Billion Annually
Breast Cancer Screenings Cost Medicare $1 Billion Annually - ABC News
"Medicare spends almost as much money screening for breast cancer as it does treating it, according to a new study published in JAMA Internal Medicine.
Breast cancer screenings cost Medicare $1.08 billion annually, lead researcher Dr. Cary Gross and his team at the Yale School of Medicine found.
Given that Medicare spends $1.36 billion a year on breast cancer treatment, Gross said he expected the screenings costs to be much lower."
"Medicare spends almost as much money screening for breast cancer as it does treating it, according to a new study published in JAMA Internal Medicine.
Breast cancer screenings cost Medicare $1.08 billion annually, lead researcher Dr. Cary Gross and his team at the Yale School of Medicine found.
Given that Medicare spends $1.36 billion a year on breast cancer treatment, Gross said he expected the screenings costs to be much lower."
Monday, January 07, 2013
Fiscal Cliffhanger Ends Likes Always: Spending Goes Up, Revenue Gap Grows
Fiscal Cliffhanger Ends Likes Always: Spending Goes Up, Revenue Gap Grows - Investors.com
"The prevailing political realities of the United States do not allow for any meaningful course correction. And, without meaningful course correction, America is doomed."
Washington keeps proving the point.
The political class has just spent two months on a down-to-the-wire nail-biting white-knuckle thrill-ride negotiation the result of which is more business as usual
"The prevailing political realities of the United States do not allow for any meaningful course correction. And, without meaningful course correction, America is doomed."
Washington keeps proving the point.
The political class has just spent two months on a down-to-the-wire nail-biting white-knuckle thrill-ride negotiation the result of which is more business as usual
Sunday, January 06, 2013
Stark Evidence of US, British Naval Decline
Blog: Stark Evidence of US, British Naval Decline
"The re-emergence of what used to called "privateers" (Sir Francis Drake is the most famous example from history) is the latest sign of outsourcing or abandonment of traditional military functions by Western nations whose militaries have contracted to pinpoint-size in the wake of the growth of the modern welfare state.
Private security and private armies -- again, once known to history as "mercenaries," are another aspect of this trend."
"The re-emergence of what used to called "privateers" (Sir Francis Drake is the most famous example from history) is the latest sign of outsourcing or abandonment of traditional military functions by Western nations whose militaries have contracted to pinpoint-size in the wake of the growth of the modern welfare state.
Private security and private armies -- again, once known to history as "mercenaries," are another aspect of this trend."
MichiganVotes.org Weekly Roll Call
December 27, 2012, MichiganVotes.org Weekly Roll Call [Michigan Capitol Confidential]
Individual legislators missed 2,234 votes in 2012, according to MichiganVotes.org 'Missed Votes Report'
Individual legislators missed 2,234 votes in 2012, according to MichiganVotes.org 'Missed Votes Report'
Peg West: Our reader panel is a special Muskegon-area sounding board
Peg West: Our reader panel is a special Muskegon-area sounding board | MLive.com
One way we are doing that is through a local reader panel.
We started it last year, and like to switch it up about every six months.
Weplan to start with a new group in coming weeks.
The brainchild of our community engagement specialist, PaulaHolmes-Greeley, this panel of citizens agrees to be a sounding board for theissues of our day, and to react quickly when necessary to whatever may crop up.
They also are asked to make a special effort to participatein our comments section, and will do so by name.
One way we are doing that is through a local reader panel.
We started it last year, and like to switch it up about every six months.
Weplan to start with a new group in coming weeks.
The brainchild of our community engagement specialist, PaulaHolmes-Greeley, this panel of citizens agrees to be a sounding board for theissues of our day, and to react quickly when necessary to whatever may crop up.
They also are asked to make a special effort to participatein our comments section, and will do so by name.
County Prevailing Wage Law Could Add Millions To Taxpayer Costs
County Prevailing Wage Law Could Add Millions To Taxpayer Costs [Michigan Capitol Confidential]
On Dec. 13, Muskegon County Administrator Bonnie Hammersley told Michigan Capitol Confidential that she'd prefer the prevailing wage ordinance not apply to the jail project.
"My understanding is that if we don't have federal dollars in it, we don't need to use prevailing wage," Hammersley said.
"We won't use it unless we have to, because it’s an administrative burden. It adds to the cost."
Heath Kaplan, Muskegon County finance and management services director said the county’s prevailing wage ordinance would apply to the jail project.
Kaplan was asked if the ordinance would add $2 million or more to the project.
"That seems somewhat high to me," Kaplan said.
However, he said he wasn't certain of a better estimate.
Saturday, January 05, 2013
New Year, New Nannies: Concord, MA Bans Water Bottles
Cost of Government Center :: New Year, New Nannies: Concord, MA Bans Water Bottles
"Concord, MA, has set a new record for pointless government overreach after a ban on sales of plastic water bottles went into effect with the onset of the new year.
After three years of attempts to prevent Concord residents from choosing to hydrate themselves with fresh, filtered, unflavored, uncarbonated water - unless it’s sold in container larger than one liter – the bylaw was passed on April 26 last year and came into effect January 1, 2013. "
"Concord, MA, has set a new record for pointless government overreach after a ban on sales of plastic water bottles went into effect with the onset of the new year.
After three years of attempts to prevent Concord residents from choosing to hydrate themselves with fresh, filtered, unflavored, uncarbonated water - unless it’s sold in container larger than one liter – the bylaw was passed on April 26 last year and came into effect January 1, 2013. "
Self-Destruct Mode
LIBERTY REVIEW
Obama doesn’t have a problem shipping guns and war planes to the enemies of the United States.
He does however want the American people to give up their right to bear arms.
Obama is arming our enemies while trying his very best to disarm American citizens.
Obama doesn’t have a problem shipping guns and war planes to the enemies of the United States.
He does however want the American people to give up their right to bear arms.
Obama is arming our enemies while trying his very best to disarm American citizens.
Brrr! China's coldest winter in decades at new low
News from The Associated Press
China Meteorological Administration on Friday said the national average was -3.8 degrees Celsius (25 degrees Fahrenheit) since late November, the coldest in nearly three decades.
China Meteorological Administration on Friday said the national average was -3.8 degrees Celsius (25 degrees Fahrenheit) since late November, the coldest in nearly three decades.
Longer expiration date, no inactivity fees add to gift card boom
Longer expiration date, no inactivity fees add to gift card boom | Business | Detroit City And Press
Prior to 2008, if a gift card went unclaimed past its expiration date, the retailer was required to report it as abandoned and the money
went to the state as unclaimed property, Hallan said.
After 2008, laws said the gift cards no longer can have expiration dates of less than five years.
In addition, the retailers can't change the terms and conditions during that time period and can't charge inactivity fees or service fees, although Hallan said there can still be an activation fee.
In addition, retailers — not the state — retains the money if cards go unused for longer than five years.
"It's kind of a win-win for consumers and retailers," Hallan said.
From The Detroit News: http://www.detroitnews.com/article/20130105/BIZ/301050328#ixzz2H8rRMhrW
Prior to 2008, if a gift card went unclaimed past its expiration date, the retailer was required to report it as abandoned and the money
went to the state as unclaimed property, Hallan said.After 2008, laws said the gift cards no longer can have expiration dates of less than five years.
In addition, the retailers can't change the terms and conditions during that time period and can't charge inactivity fees or service fees, although Hallan said there can still be an activation fee.
In addition, retailers — not the state — retains the money if cards go unused for longer than five years.
"It's kind of a win-win for consumers and retailers," Hallan said.
From The Detroit News: http://www.detroitnews.com/article/20130105/BIZ/301050328#ixzz2H8rRMhrW
At 27, David Flynn is youngest chair of Macomb County Board of Commissioners
At 27, David Flynn is youngest chair of Macomb County Board of Commissioners | Crain's Detroit Business
Flynn, a member of Crain's 2010 class of 20 in their 20s, was the executive director of "Charter = County Executive," which collected 35,000 signatures to establish a county executive form of government with a reduced number of commissioners.
The charter form of government, approved in 2009 by voters, cut the number of commissioners from 26 to 13.
Flynn, a member of Crain's 2010 class of 20 in their 20s, was the executive director of "Charter = County Executive," which collected 35,000 signatures to establish a county executive form of government with a reduced number of commissioners.
The charter form of government, approved in 2009 by voters, cut the number of commissioners from 26 to 13.
12 Detroit homes accidentally demolished
12 Detroit homes accidentally demolished | Crain's Detroit Business
The Detroit News reported that the structure had been demolished by the state's Land Bank Fast Track Authority as part of a program to eliminate blight near three schools.
City official Karla Henderson said at least 11 other properties also were demolished by mistake. They were purchased by a local investor.
City and state officials said mistakes like these are rare.
The Detroit News reported that the structure had been demolished by the state's Land Bank Fast Track Authority as part of a program to eliminate blight near three schools.
City official Karla Henderson said at least 11 other properties also were demolished by mistake. They were purchased by a local investor.
City and state officials said mistakes like these are rare.
Migration study: Despite population gain, Michigan still losing more residents in moves to other states
Migration study: Despite population gain, Michigan still losing more residents in moves to other states | MLive.com
The estimates, released last month, indicate that Michigan's population grew in 2012 for the first time since 2004, inching upwards from 9,876,801 in 2011 to 9,883,360.
Most of that growth was natural, as births outnumbered deaths.
But state demographer Ken Darga attributed some of the gains to shifting migration patterns, noting that increased international immigration is offsetting continued domestic losses.
Michigan was the only state to lose population between the 2000 and 2010 Census.
The estimates, released last month, indicate that Michigan's population grew in 2012 for the first time since 2004, inching upwards from 9,876,801 in 2011 to 9,883,360.
Most of that growth was natural, as births outnumbered deaths.
But state demographer Ken Darga attributed some of the gains to shifting migration patterns, noting that increased international immigration is offsetting continued domestic losses.
Michigan was the only state to lose population between the 2000 and 2010 Census.
Desperate Spain Raids Pension Fund
Desperate Spain Raids Pension Fund | Via Meadia
“Most of the [Spanish] fund is an accounting trick,” said Javier DÃaz-Giménez, an economics professor in Spain’s IESE business school.
“The government is lending money to another branch of government.” .
[S]ome analysts say Spain will have trouble finding buyers for the estimated €207 billion in debt it plans to issue in 2013, up from €186 billion in 2012, to cover central-government operations, debt maturities of 17 regional administrations, and overdue energy bills.
“Most of the [Spanish] fund is an accounting trick,” said Javier DÃaz-Giménez, an economics professor in Spain’s IESE business school.
“The government is lending money to another branch of government.” .
[S]ome analysts say Spain will have trouble finding buyers for the estimated €207 billion in debt it plans to issue in 2013, up from €186 billion in 2012, to cover central-government operations, debt maturities of 17 regional administrations, and overdue energy bills.
GUNS: Woman hiding with kids shoots intruder.
Instapundit » Blog Archive » GUNS: Woman hiding with kids shoots intruder.
A woman hiding in her attic with children shot an intruder multiple times before fleeing to safety Friday.
The incident happened at a home on Henderson Ridge Lane in Loganville around 1 p.m.
The woman was working in an upstairs office when she spotted a strange man outside a window, according to Walton County Sheriff Joe Chapman.
He said she took her 9-year-old twins to a crawlspace before the man broke in using a crowbar.
But the man eventually found the family.
“The perpetrator opens that door.
Of course, at that time he’s staring at her, her two children and a .38 revolver,” Chapman told Channel 2’s Kerry Kavanaugh.
The woman then shot him five times, but he survived, Chapman said.
He said the woman ran out of bullets but threatened to shoot the intruder if he moved.
“She’s standing over him, and she realizes she’s fired all six rounds.
And the guy’s telling her to quit shooting,” Chapman said.
The woman ran to a neighbor’s home with her children.
The intruder attempted to flee in his car but crashed into a wooded area and collapsed in a nearby driveway, Chapman said.
See, this is where one of those “assault weapons” might have come in handy.
UPDATE: A reader emails: “When some politician starts pontificating that no one needs more than a 10 round clip capacity (or 5, or 3) this is the story that should be shoved in their faces.
She fired 6 shots, put 5 in the attacker and he was still kicking.
What if there had been multiple attackers.
Then that 30 round clip suddenly seems appropriate.”
A woman hiding in her attic with children shot an intruder multiple times before fleeing to safety Friday.
The incident happened at a home on Henderson Ridge Lane in Loganville around 1 p.m.
The woman was working in an upstairs office when she spotted a strange man outside a window, according to Walton County Sheriff Joe Chapman.
He said she took her 9-year-old twins to a crawlspace before the man broke in using a crowbar.
But the man eventually found the family.
“The perpetrator opens that door.
Of course, at that time he’s staring at her, her two children and a .38 revolver,” Chapman told Channel 2’s Kerry Kavanaugh.
The woman then shot him five times, but he survived, Chapman said.
He said the woman ran out of bullets but threatened to shoot the intruder if he moved.
“She’s standing over him, and she realizes she’s fired all six rounds.
And the guy’s telling her to quit shooting,” Chapman said.
The woman ran to a neighbor’s home with her children.
The intruder attempted to flee in his car but crashed into a wooded area and collapsed in a nearby driveway, Chapman said.
See, this is where one of those “assault weapons” might have come in handy.
UPDATE: A reader emails: “When some politician starts pontificating that no one needs more than a 10 round clip capacity (or 5, or 3) this is the story that should be shoved in their faces.
She fired 6 shots, put 5 in the attacker and he was still kicking.
What if there had been multiple attackers.
Then that 30 round clip suddenly seems appropriate.”
Reality Comes To Low-Information Voters
SILVER LININGS: Reality Comes To Low-Information Voters
If you go on Twitter you’ll find lots of stuff like this.
The clueless-cool set who voted overwhelmingly for Obama are now wondering how come he said taxes weren’t going to go up on 98 percent of the American people when here’s their first paycheck and taxes went up.
If you go on Twitter you’ll find lots of stuff like this.
The clueless-cool set who voted overwhelmingly for Obama are now wondering how come he said taxes weren’t going to go up on 98 percent of the American people when here’s their first paycheck and taxes went up.
GOP's Camp: Obama's 'spending problem is getting worse, not better'
GOP's Camp: Obama's 'spending problem is getting worse, not better' by Andrew Malcolm - Investors.com
Unfortunately, the spending problem is getting worse, not better.
Under President Obama we've had four straight years of trillion dollar deficits.
Our national debt is now over $16 trillion.
We're crushing today's small businesses and the next generation of Americans under a mountain of debt. We're selling their future, and our country's financial independence, to China.
Unfortunately, the spending problem is getting worse, not better.
Under President Obama we've had four straight years of trillion dollar deficits.
Our national debt is now over $16 trillion.
We're crushing today's small businesses and the next generation of Americans under a mountain of debt. We're selling their future, and our country's financial independence, to China.
Nearly half of Kalamazoo-area public schools students participating in subsidized lunch program
Nearly half of Kalamazoo-area public schools students participating in subsidized lunch program | MLive.com
About 44 percent of the Kalamazoo County public school students are enrolled in the federal subsidized lunch program this year, according to data collected by MLive/Kalamazoo Gazette.
About 44 percent of the Kalamazoo County public school students are enrolled in the federal subsidized lunch program this year, according to data collected by MLive/Kalamazoo Gazette.
Cooling Down the Fears of Climate Change
Matt Ridley: Cooling Down the Fears of Climate Change - WSJ.com
Mr. Lewis tells me that the latest observational estimates of the effect of aerosols (such as sulfurous particles from coal smoke) find that they have much less cooling effect than thought when the last IPCC report was written.
The rate at which the ocean is absorbing greenhouse-gas-induced warming is also now known to be fairly modest.
In other words, the two excuses used to explain away the slow, mild warming we have actually experienced—culminating in a standstill in which global temperatures are no higher than they were 16 years ago—no longer work.
In short: We can now estimate, based on observations, how sensitive the temperature is to carbon dioxide.
We do not need to rely heavily on unproven models.
Comparing the trend in global temperature over the past 100-150 years with the change in "radiative forcing" (heating or cooling power) from carbon dioxide, aerosols and other sources, minus ocean heat uptake, can now give a good estimate of climate sensitivity.
The conclusion—taking the best observational estimates of the change in decadal-average global temperature between 1871-80 and 2002-11, and of the corresponding changes in forcing and ocean heat uptake—is this: A doubling of CO2 will lead to a warming of 1.6°-1.7°C (2.9°-3.1°F).
This is much lower than the IPCC's current best estimate, 3°C (5.4°F).
Mr. Lewis is an expert reviewer of the recently leaked draft of the IPCC's WG1 Scientific Report. The IPCC forbids him to quote from it, but he is privy to all the observational best estimates and uncertainty ranges the draft report gives.
What he has told me is dynamite.
Given what we know now, there is almost no way that the feared large temperature rise is going to happen.
Mr. Lewis tells me that the latest observational estimates of the effect of aerosols (such as sulfurous particles from coal smoke) find that they have much less cooling effect than thought when the last IPCC report was written.
The rate at which the ocean is absorbing greenhouse-gas-induced warming is also now known to be fairly modest.
In other words, the two excuses used to explain away the slow, mild warming we have actually experienced—culminating in a standstill in which global temperatures are no higher than they were 16 years ago—no longer work.
In short: We can now estimate, based on observations, how sensitive the temperature is to carbon dioxide.
We do not need to rely heavily on unproven models.
Comparing the trend in global temperature over the past 100-150 years with the change in "radiative forcing" (heating or cooling power) from carbon dioxide, aerosols and other sources, minus ocean heat uptake, can now give a good estimate of climate sensitivity.
The conclusion—taking the best observational estimates of the change in decadal-average global temperature between 1871-80 and 2002-11, and of the corresponding changes in forcing and ocean heat uptake—is this: A doubling of CO2 will lead to a warming of 1.6°-1.7°C (2.9°-3.1°F).
This is much lower than the IPCC's current best estimate, 3°C (5.4°F).
Mr. Lewis is an expert reviewer of the recently leaked draft of the IPCC's WG1 Scientific Report. The IPCC forbids him to quote from it, but he is privy to all the observational best estimates and uncertainty ranges the draft report gives.
What he has told me is dynamite.
Given what we know now, there is almost no way that the feared large temperature rise is going to happen.
The EPA's Tainted Fracking Tests
Keith Mauck: The EPA's Tainted Fracking Tests - WSJ.com
Hydraulic fracturing, or "fracking," uses water and trace amounts of chemicals to create tiny fissures in deep-rock formations and coax energy-laden molecules to flow toward the surface. Fracking technology is driving America's oil and shale-gas boom, yet a White House executive order from April directs no fewer than 13 federal agencies to consider new regulations on fracking—even as it is already regulated by the states.
In recent years the federal Environmental Protection Agency has investigated fracking in three locations. In Texas and Pennsylvania, the EPA was unable to establish a link between fracking and groundwater contamination, the main ill effect that critics warn against. (Fracking contamination is the theme of "Promised Land," a movie starring Matt Damon that opened last week.)
But the agency claims to have found a smoking gun at its third test site, in Pavillion, Wyo. There, according to draft findings, EPA investigators found "compounds likely associated with gas production practices, including hydraulic fracturing" appearing at levels "below established health and safety standards."
The Pavillion study involves two water wells drilled by the agency in 2010 to test groundwater quality. Experts from the Wyoming Water Development Commission and elsewhere sharply criticized the EPA's results on several grounds, including that EPA investigators didn't follow their own guidelines on the timeliness of the testing and the purity of the water samples. The federal Bureau of Land Management said that "much more robust" testing would be needed to properly draw conclusions.
So the EPA agreed to test the wells again, in April and May of last year 2012. In October, it claimed again to have found contaminated water. But this time there was a new wrinkle: The U.S. Geological Survey had conducted tests alongside the EPA, and its investigators reported different results. Unlike the EPA, the USGS failed to find any traces of glycols or 2-butoxyethanol, fracking-related chemicals that could cause serious health issues if they entered the water supply at levels the EPA considers contamination.
Meanwhile, the USGS found significantly lower concentrations of other materials identified by the EPA—including phenol, potassium and diesel-range organics—which might not have resulted from the fracking at all. The phenols were likely introduced accidentally in the laboratory, for example, and potassium might be naturally occurring or the result of potash contained in the cement used to build the EPA wells.
The USGS also noted that in constructing the monitoring wells, the EPA used a "black painted/coated carbon steel casing," and EPA photographs show that investigators used a painted device to catch sand from the wells. The problem is that paint can contain a variety of compounds that distort test results—so it is poor scientific practice to use painted or coated materials in well-monitoring tests.
After initially neglecting to disclose this information, the EPA eventually acknowledged it, but only while attempting to deflect criticism by releasing more test results and claiming that its data are "generally consistent" with the USGS findings. These actions only muddied the matter and postponed the peer-review process until after Jan. 15.
As the Tulsa-based energy and water-management firm ALL Consulting concluded: "Close review of the EPA draft report and associated documents reveals a number of concerns about the methodology, sampling results, and study findings and conclusions. These concerns stem from apparent errors in sampling and laboratory analysis, incomplete information that makes it difficult to assess the validity of the results, and EPA's failure to seriously consider alternative explanations for the results of its investigation. . . . Taken together, these concerns call into question the validity of EPA's analytical results and their conclusions regarding the sources of the reported contamination."
With no clear connection between fracking and groundwater contamination, it is premature and counterproductive to propose new federal regulations on the practice. Shoddy science should not form the basis of federal policy.
The fracking-facilitated development of shale gas and oil could create two million new jobs and billions in tax revenue over the next two decades, according to the research firm IHS Global Insight. Rather than look for reasons to stand in its way, the federal government should embrace hydraulic fracturing and take full advantage of its economic and security benefits.
Mr. Mauck is publisher of GoMarcellusShale.com.
By KEITH MAUCK
It has been four decades since Richard Nixon launched "Project Independence" with the goal of making the United States energy independent. All presidents since then have said they shared that goal, yet never has it been within reach as it is today—thanks to domestic natural gas and especially to the extraction method known as hydraulic fracturing. The International Energy Agency estimates that such technologies could allow the U.S. to supplant Saudi Arabia as the world's largest oil producer by 2020. But, as ever, government regulation may stand in the way.Hydraulic fracturing, or "fracking," uses water and trace amounts of chemicals to create tiny fissures in deep-rock formations and coax energy-laden molecules to flow toward the surface. Fracking technology is driving America's oil and shale-gas boom, yet a White House executive order from April directs no fewer than 13 federal agencies to consider new regulations on fracking—even as it is already regulated by the states.
In recent years the federal Environmental Protection Agency has investigated fracking in three locations. In Texas and Pennsylvania, the EPA was unable to establish a link between fracking and groundwater contamination, the main ill effect that critics warn against. (Fracking contamination is the theme of "Promised Land," a movie starring Matt Damon that opened last week.)
But the agency claims to have found a smoking gun at its third test site, in Pavillion, Wyo. There, according to draft findings, EPA investigators found "compounds likely associated with gas production practices, including hydraulic fracturing" appearing at levels "below established health and safety standards."
The Pavillion study involves two water wells drilled by the agency in 2010 to test groundwater quality. Experts from the Wyoming Water Development Commission and elsewhere sharply criticized the EPA's results on several grounds, including that EPA investigators didn't follow their own guidelines on the timeliness of the testing and the purity of the water samples. The federal Bureau of Land Management said that "much more robust" testing would be needed to properly draw conclusions.
So the EPA agreed to test the wells again, in April and May of last year 2012. In October, it claimed again to have found contaminated water. But this time there was a new wrinkle: The U.S. Geological Survey had conducted tests alongside the EPA, and its investigators reported different results. Unlike the EPA, the USGS failed to find any traces of glycols or 2-butoxyethanol, fracking-related chemicals that could cause serious health issues if they entered the water supply at levels the EPA considers contamination.
Meanwhile, the USGS found significantly lower concentrations of other materials identified by the EPA—including phenol, potassium and diesel-range organics—which might not have resulted from the fracking at all. The phenols were likely introduced accidentally in the laboratory, for example, and potassium might be naturally occurring or the result of potash contained in the cement used to build the EPA wells.
The USGS also noted that in constructing the monitoring wells, the EPA used a "black painted/coated carbon steel casing," and EPA photographs show that investigators used a painted device to catch sand from the wells. The problem is that paint can contain a variety of compounds that distort test results—so it is poor scientific practice to use painted or coated materials in well-monitoring tests.
After initially neglecting to disclose this information, the EPA eventually acknowledged it, but only while attempting to deflect criticism by releasing more test results and claiming that its data are "generally consistent" with the USGS findings. These actions only muddied the matter and postponed the peer-review process until after Jan. 15.
As the Tulsa-based energy and water-management firm ALL Consulting concluded: "Close review of the EPA draft report and associated documents reveals a number of concerns about the methodology, sampling results, and study findings and conclusions. These concerns stem from apparent errors in sampling and laboratory analysis, incomplete information that makes it difficult to assess the validity of the results, and EPA's failure to seriously consider alternative explanations for the results of its investigation. . . . Taken together, these concerns call into question the validity of EPA's analytical results and their conclusions regarding the sources of the reported contamination."
With no clear connection between fracking and groundwater contamination, it is premature and counterproductive to propose new federal regulations on the practice. Shoddy science should not form the basis of federal policy.
The fracking-facilitated development of shale gas and oil could create two million new jobs and billions in tax revenue over the next two decades, according to the research firm IHS Global Insight. Rather than look for reasons to stand in its way, the federal government should embrace hydraulic fracturing and take full advantage of its economic and security benefits.
Mr. Mauck is publisher of GoMarcellusShale.com.
Study: Eco-Friendly Light Bulbs May Put Health At Risk
Study: Eco-Friendly Light Bulbs May Put Health At Risk « CBS Miami
"Money saving, compact fluorescent light bulbs emit high levels of ultra violet radiation, according to a new study. Research at Long Island’s Stony Brook found that the bulbs emit rays so strong that they can actually burn skin and skin cells.
“The results were that you could actually initiate cell death,” said Marcia Simon, a Professor of Dermatology."
"Money saving, compact fluorescent light bulbs emit high levels of ultra violet radiation, according to a new study. Research at Long Island’s Stony Brook found that the bulbs emit rays so strong that they can actually burn skin and skin cells.
“The results were that you could actually initiate cell death,” said Marcia Simon, a Professor of Dermatology."
Crony Capitalist Blowout
Review & Outlook: Crony Capitalist Blowout - WSJ.com
"In praising Congress's huge new tax increase, President Obama said Tuesday that "millionaires and billionaires" will finally "pay their fair share."
That is, unless you are a Nascar track owner, a wind-energy company or the owners of StarKist Tuna, among many others who managed to get their taxes reduced in Congress's New Year celebration."
"In praising Congress's huge new tax increase, President Obama said Tuesday that "millionaires and billionaires" will finally "pay their fair share."
That is, unless you are a Nascar track owner, a wind-energy company or the owners of StarKist Tuna, among many others who managed to get their taxes reduced in Congress's New Year celebration."
The astonishing Aeroscraft - a new type of rigid airship that's set to revolutionise haulage, tourism... and warfare
The astonishing Aeroscraft - a new type of rigid airship that's set to revolutionise haulage, tourism... and warfare | Mail Online
The Aeroscraft can carry three times more than the biggest military cargo planes over thousands of miles
Heavily backed by the U.S. military, it is now at the prototype stage and is set for its first test flight
It is capable of vertical take off and landing and doesn't even need a landing strip
The Aeroscraft can carry three times more than the biggest military cargo planes over thousands of miles
Heavily backed by the U.S. military, it is now at the prototype stage and is set for its first test flight
It is capable of vertical take off and landing and doesn't even need a landing strip
City of Muskegon raises several fees for municipal services in 2013 to reflect rising costs
City of Muskegon raises several fees for municipal services in 2013 to reflect rising costs | MLive.com
• A reduction in slip rentals at Hartshorn Marina of 13 percent for 30-foot slips to $1,740 a season, 21 percent for 40-foot slips to $2,400 a season and 27 percent for 60-foot slips to $3,900 a season. The reductions are in hopes of increasing the number of marina rentals, city officials said.
• Seasonal beach catamaran dry storage rentals will go up 20 percent a season to $161 for residents and $239 for nonresidents.
• The stormwater “cross connection” with sewer lines violation fee has gone from $6.05 a day to $7.69 a day with no charges if the correction is made within 90 days of discovery.
• A new fee has been imposed on large water main taps of $200 each, plus the cost of the city’s time and materials.
• Planned Unit Development requests for the special zoning designation have gone from $500 to $600. The charges now will be $300 for preliminary approvals and $300 for final approvals.
• Requests to vacate a city street have gone from $300 to $400.
• Flat sewer rate fees (for those without water meters) are now $29.70 a month for residential customers and $36.15 a month for commercial customers.
• Requests for a zoning change have gone from $300 to $400.
• A reduction in slip rentals at Hartshorn Marina of 13 percent for 30-foot slips to $1,740 a season, 21 percent for 40-foot slips to $2,400 a season and 27 percent for 60-foot slips to $3,900 a season. The reductions are in hopes of increasing the number of marina rentals, city officials said.
• Seasonal beach catamaran dry storage rentals will go up 20 percent a season to $161 for residents and $239 for nonresidents.
• The stormwater “cross connection” with sewer lines violation fee has gone from $6.05 a day to $7.69 a day with no charges if the correction is made within 90 days of discovery.
• A new fee has been imposed on large water main taps of $200 each, plus the cost of the city’s time and materials.
• Planned Unit Development requests for the special zoning designation have gone from $500 to $600. The charges now will be $300 for preliminary approvals and $300 for final approvals.
• Requests to vacate a city street have gone from $300 to $400.
• Flat sewer rate fees (for those without water meters) are now $29.70 a month for residential customers and $36.15 a month for commercial customers.
• Requests for a zoning change have gone from $300 to $400.
Obama's High Taxes And The Myths Of The 1950s Tax Rates
Obama's High Taxes And The Myths Of The 1950s Tax Rates - Investors.com
A final reason that the 1950s were different from today was American primacy.
In those years the U.S. might set its taxes, nominal or real, at whatever level it liked.
The only competition it confronted, after all, was from Europe, still recovering from World War II, or Britain, whose tax regime was even more confiscatory than our own.
Now, however, the U.S. must compete.
And this is where the U.S., with some of the world's highest corporate taxes, flunks.
A final reason that the 1950s were different from today was American primacy.
In those years the U.S. might set its taxes, nominal or real, at whatever level it liked.
The only competition it confronted, after all, was from Europe, still recovering from World War II, or Britain, whose tax regime was even more confiscatory than our own.
Now, however, the U.S. must compete.
And this is where the U.S., with some of the world's highest corporate taxes, flunks.
Chevy Volt sales triple
Chevy Volt sales triple - Jan. 3, 2013
Sales there jumped thanks to a few engineering tweaks that made the Volt eligible for California's highly desirable carpool lane stickers for the first time.
"More than half of all Volt sales are in California," said Alec Guitierrez, an analyst with Kelley Blue Book.
The car has also been catching on in other markets, however, including Michigan and in the Chicago area, according to GM.
Besides the carpool lane stickers, the Volt has also been helped by aggressive leasing incentives offered in 2012.
Last year, GM was offering the car for $289 a month with a $2,800 down payment.
That was far less than a car with the Volt's nearly $40,000 purchase price would ordinarily lease for, even factoring in a $7,500 plug-in car tax credit
Sales there jumped thanks to a few engineering tweaks that made the Volt eligible for California's highly desirable carpool lane stickers for the first time.
"More than half of all Volt sales are in California," said Alec Guitierrez, an analyst with Kelley Blue Book.
The car has also been catching on in other markets, however, including Michigan and in the Chicago area, according to GM.
Besides the carpool lane stickers, the Volt has also been helped by aggressive leasing incentives offered in 2012.
Last year, GM was offering the car for $289 a month with a $2,800 down payment.
That was far less than a car with the Volt's nearly $40,000 purchase price would ordinarily lease for, even factoring in a $7,500 plug-in car tax credit
Woman hiding with kids shoots intruder
Woman hiding with kids shoots intruder | www.wsbtv.com
"The perpetrator opens that door.
Of course, at that time he's staring at her, her two children and a .38 revolver,"
"The perpetrator opens that door.
Of course, at that time he's staring at her, her two children and a .38 revolver,"
Barack Obama’s $7 million Hawaii vacation is an insult to America’s struggling middle class
Barack Obama’s $7 million Hawaii vacation is an insult to America’s struggling middle class – Telegraph Blogs
In a move that is rich in irony, President Obama agreed Tuesday night to sign an emergency deficit reduction bill that does almost nothing to rein in spending and then jetted out to Hawaii to resume his vacation at an extra cost of more than $3 million to taxpayers.
The price tag is in addition to more than $4 million that is already being spent on the Obamas’ Hawaii idyll, bringing the total cost of the excursion to well over $7 million.
In a move that is rich in irony, President Obama agreed Tuesday night to sign an emergency deficit reduction bill that does almost nothing to rein in spending and then jetted out to Hawaii to resume his vacation at an extra cost of more than $3 million to taxpayers.
The price tag is in addition to more than $4 million that is already being spent on the Obamas’ Hawaii idyll, bringing the total cost of the excursion to well over $7 million.
Friday, January 04, 2013
New Civil Rights Group Joins Affirmative Action Case
New Civil Rights Group Joins Affirmative Action Case [Michigan Capitol Confidential]
The XIV Foundation was founded shortly after the 6th Circuit Court decision.
It took the name XIV, in reference to the 14th Amendment of the U.S. Constitution.
The organization's motto is: "Equal Treatment is the Essence of Equal Rights."
The XIV Foundation was founded shortly after the 6th Circuit Court decision.
It took the name XIV, in reference to the 14th Amendment of the U.S. Constitution.
The organization's motto is: "Equal Treatment is the Essence of Equal Rights."
2012 was Detroit's most violent in 20 years; shootings, bloodshed have 'become the norm'
http://tinyurl.com/aytkgkj
Already this week, a mother has been charged with fatally stabbing her 8-year-old daughter, and a cab driver was shot to death.
Already this week, a mother has been charged with fatally stabbing her 8-year-old daughter, and a cab driver was shot to death.
New Civil Rights Group Joins Affirmative Action Case
New Civil Rights Group Joins Affirmative Action Case [Michigan Capitol Confidential]
Voters in 2006 passed the constitutional amendment that prohibited the state from discriminating against, or granting preferential treatment to, any group or individual on the basis of race, sex, color, ethnicity or national origin by a 58 percent to 42 percent margin.
However, on Nov. 15, eight federal judges on the 6th Circuit Court of Appeals struck the initiative down.
Voters in 2006 passed the constitutional amendment that prohibited the state from discriminating against, or granting preferential treatment to, any group or individual on the basis of race, sex, color, ethnicity or national origin by a 58 percent to 42 percent margin.
However, on Nov. 15, eight federal judges on the 6th Circuit Court of Appeals struck the initiative down.
Bridge Card error affects 85,000 Michigan families receiving food assistance; state working to fix problem
Bridge Card error affects 85,000 Michigan families receiving food assistance; state working to fix problem | MLive.com
Thousands of Michigan families are temporarily unable to get their food assistance benefits because of a Bridge Card error that state officials are working to fix.
Thousands of Michigan families are temporarily unable to get their food assistance benefits because of a Bridge Card error that state officials are working to fix.
What was cost to protect right-to-work demonstrators, Capitol building last month?
Tim Skubick: What was cost to protect right-to-work demonstrators, Capitol building last month?
MLive.com
......so far nobody knows how many were spent to deploy 500 Michigan State Police officers to guard the state capitol and Right to Work demonstrators last month.
Five hundred is darn close close to half the entire force.
MLive.com
......so far nobody knows how many were spent to deploy 500 Michigan State Police officers to guard the state capitol and Right to Work demonstrators last month.
Five hundred is darn close close to half the entire force.
Armed guards at NY paper that reported gun info
Armed guards at NY paper that reported gun info
...publisher Janet Hasson said. “The safety of my staff is my top priority,” she told The New York Times
...publisher Janet Hasson said. “The safety of my staff is my top priority,” she told The New York Times
Review & Outlook: Crony Capitalist Blowout - WSJ.com
Review & Outlook: Crony Capitalist Blowout - WSJ.com
But a special award goes to Chris Dodd, the former Senator who now roams Gucci Gulch lobbying for Hollywood's movie studios.
The Senate summary of his tax victory is worth quoting in full: "The bill extends for two years, through 2013, the provision that allows film and television producers to expense the first $15 million of production costs incurred in the United States ($20 million if the costs are incurred in economically depressed areas in the United States)."
You gotta love that "depressed areas" bit.
The impoverished impresarios of Brentwood get an extra writeoff if they take their film crews into, say, deepest Flatbush.
Is that because they have to pay extra to the caterers from Dean & DeLuca to make the trip?
It sure can't be because they hire the jobless locals for the production crew.
Those are union jobs, mate, and don't you forget it.
But a special award goes to Chris Dodd, the former Senator who now roams Gucci Gulch lobbying for Hollywood's movie studios.
The Senate summary of his tax victory is worth quoting in full: "The bill extends for two years, through 2013, the provision that allows film and television producers to expense the first $15 million of production costs incurred in the United States ($20 million if the costs are incurred in economically depressed areas in the United States)."
You gotta love that "depressed areas" bit.
The impoverished impresarios of Brentwood get an extra writeoff if they take their film crews into, say, deepest Flatbush.
Is that because they have to pay extra to the caterers from Dean & DeLuca to make the trip?
It sure can't be because they hire the jobless locals for the production crew.
Those are union jobs, mate, and don't you forget it.
Muskegon official: Abortion clinic was 'a filthy mess,' won't reopen | MLive.com#incart_river
Muskegon official: Abortion clinic was 'a filthy mess,' won't reopen
It’s just ridiculous,” Alexander said Monday.
“At this point, they (anti-abortion activists) win.
this point, I’m not going to open back up.”
Lewis released a redacted list of what city Fire Marshal Major Metcalf called 11 “violations noted during my assessment,” performed after Muskegon police investigated a reported break-in at the clinic.
It’s just ridiculous,” Alexander said Monday.
“At this point, they (anti-abortion activists) win.
this point, I’m not going to open back up.”
Lewis released a redacted list of what city Fire Marshal Major Metcalf called 11 “violations noted during my assessment,” performed after Muskegon police investigated a reported break-in at the clinic.
Armed Woman Stops Shooter in TX
Armed Woman Stops Shooter in TX
“On Sunday, 2 days after the CT shooting, a man went to a restaurant in San Antonio to kill his X-girlfriend.
After he shot her, most of the people in the restaurant fled next door to a theater.
The gunman followed them and entered the theater so he could shoot more people. He started shooting and people in the theater started running and screaming.
It’s like the Aurora, CO theater story plus a restaurant!
Now aren’t you wondering why this isn’t a lead story in the national media along with the school shooting?
There was an off duty county deputy at the theater.
SHE pulled out her gun and shot the man 4 times before he had a chance to kill anyone. So since this story makes the point that the best thing to stop a bad person with a gun is a good person with a gun, the media is treating it like it never happened.
Only the local media covered it.
“On Sunday, 2 days after the CT shooting, a man went to a restaurant in San Antonio to kill his X-girlfriend.
After he shot her, most of the people in the restaurant fled next door to a theater.
The gunman followed them and entered the theater so he could shoot more people. He started shooting and people in the theater started running and screaming.
It’s like the Aurora, CO theater story plus a restaurant!
Now aren’t you wondering why this isn’t a lead story in the national media along with the school shooting?
There was an off duty county deputy at the theater.
SHE pulled out her gun and shot the man 4 times before he had a chance to kill anyone. So since this story makes the point that the best thing to stop a bad person with a gun is a good person with a gun, the media is treating it like it never happened.
Only the local media covered it.
Thursday, January 03, 2013
Your Favorites: Our Top 10 Stories of 2012
Your Favorites: Our Top 10 Stories of 2012 [Michigan Capitol Confidential]
A 'horseshoer' with no horses, drunk teachers and right-to-work coverage were some of the most popular articles
A 'horseshoer' with no horses, drunk teachers and right-to-work coverage were some of the most popular articles
FBI: More People Killed with Hammers, Clubs Each Year than Rifles
FBI: More People Killed with Hammers, Clubs Each Year than Rifles
According to the FBI annual crime statistics, the number of murders committed annually with hammers and clubs far outnumbers the number of murders committed with a rifle.
According to the FBI annual crime statistics, the number of murders committed annually with hammers and clubs far outnumbers the number of murders committed with a rifle.
Michelle Suggests Republicans are Liars
Michelle Suggests Republicans are Liars | The Blog on Obama: White House Dossier
First Lady Michelle Obama Thursday suggested Republicans are engaged in rampant lying as they debate the issues with President Obama.
“People have to stay focused on what’s going on, because it’s easy to get confused in all the back and forth that goes on, and there’s a whole lot of not-truth telling going on, if you know what I mean,” Michelle said during a radio appearance on the The Tom Joyner Show.
Mrs. Obama also charged that voter suppression during the 2012 election was widespread.
Michelle said Republicans sought to win the election by spending “unprecedented amounts of money,” running negative advertising, and committing voter suppression.
“Voter suppression was in full force in so many states all over this country,” Mrs. Obama said.
First Lady Michelle Obama Thursday suggested Republicans are engaged in rampant lying as they debate the issues with President Obama.
“People have to stay focused on what’s going on, because it’s easy to get confused in all the back and forth that goes on, and there’s a whole lot of not-truth telling going on, if you know what I mean,” Michelle said during a radio appearance on the The Tom Joyner Show.
Mrs. Obama also charged that voter suppression during the 2012 election was widespread.
Michelle said Republicans sought to win the election by spending “unprecedented amounts of money,” running negative advertising, and committing voter suppression.
“Voter suppression was in full force in so many states all over this country,” Mrs. Obama said.
Michigan Congressional Republicans Split On 'Fiscal Cliff' Vote
Michigan Congressional Republicans Split On 'Fiscal Cliff' Vote [Michigan Capitol Confidential]
Republicans voting “yes“ were U.S. Representatives Dan Benishek, R-Crystal Falls; Dave Camp, R-Midland; Candice Miller, R-Harrison Township.; Mike Rogers, R-Howell; and Fred Upton, R-St Joseph
Republicans voting “yes“ were U.S. Representatives Dan Benishek, R-Crystal Falls; Dave Camp, R-Midland; Candice Miller, R-Harrison Township.; Mike Rogers, R-Howell; and Fred Upton, R-St Joseph
Wednesday, January 02, 2013
A Voyage to Laputa
A Voyage to Laputa - By Michael Walsh - The Corner - National Review Online
Conservatives understand, to their chagrin, that Obamaism cannot be defeated and rolled back until the GOP undergoes the same sort of ideological transformation that the Left effected upon the Democrats between 1968 and 1972.
Sure, the donkeys lost for a while, and lost bad — Nixon wiped out McGovern in ‘72 and Reagan destroyed Mondale in 1984.
But that was a price they were willing to pay for eventual victory
Conservatives understand, to their chagrin, that Obamaism cannot be defeated and rolled back until the GOP undergoes the same sort of ideological transformation that the Left effected upon the Democrats between 1968 and 1972.
Sure, the donkeys lost for a while, and lost bad — Nixon wiped out McGovern in ‘72 and Reagan destroyed Mondale in 1984.
But that was a price they were willing to pay for eventual victory
What global warming? Alaska is headed for an ice age as scientists report state's steady temperature decline
What global warming? Alaska is headed for an ice age as scientists report state's steady temperature decline | Mail Online
Since 2000, temperatures in Alaska have dropped by 2.4 degrees Fahrenheit
Scientists reviewed weather reports from 20 climate stations operated by the National Weather Service located across Alaska, 19 of the 20 weather stations reported falling temperatures
An ocean phenomenon has disrupted a storm regulating system thus allowing cold winter storms to linger longer and bring a deep chill
Local residents have noticed the colder temps but say its no big deal since they are already bundled up for 20-below zero temperatures
Since 2000, temperatures in Alaska have dropped by 2.4 degrees Fahrenheit
Scientists reviewed weather reports from 20 climate stations operated by the National Weather Service located across Alaska, 19 of the 20 weather stations reported falling temperatures
An ocean phenomenon has disrupted a storm regulating system thus allowing cold winter storms to linger longer and bring a deep chill
Local residents have noticed the colder temps but say its no big deal since they are already bundled up for 20-below zero temperatures
County Prevailing Wage Law Could Add Millions To Taxpayer Costs
County Prevailing Wage Law Could Add Millions To Taxpayer Costs [Michigan Capitol Confidential]
The Mackinac Center for Public Policy has researched the costs of prevailing wage laws in Michigan.
It has concluded that prevailing wage laws can add 10 percent to 15 percent to the cost of construction projects.
If Muskegon County's prevailing wage ordinance were to add 10 percent to the cost of the jail project, the ordinance would put local taxpayers on the hook for an additional $2.3 million to $4.7 million.
The Mackinac Center for Public Policy has researched the costs of prevailing wage laws in Michigan.
It has concluded that prevailing wage laws can add 10 percent to 15 percent to the cost of construction projects.
If Muskegon County's prevailing wage ordinance were to add 10 percent to the cost of the jail project, the ordinance would put local taxpayers on the hook for an additional $2.3 million to $4.7 million.
Hollywood: Cinema attendance plummets to 25-year low
Hollywood: Cinema attendance plummets to 25-year low | Mail Online
The golden age of the silver screen may be coming to a close.
Attendance at movie theatres is at a 25-year low, with young consumers – those who often see the most films – down 40 per cent since 2002.
The golden age of the silver screen may be coming to a close.
Attendance at movie theatres is at a 25-year low, with young consumers – those who often see the most films – down 40 per cent since 2002.
‘Cliff’ bill is a bitter pill for House’s tea party adherents to swallow
‘Cliff’ bill is a bitter pill for House’s tea party adherents to swallow - The Washington Post
The bill was 153 pages long. t was written only the day before, by Washington insiders working in the dark of night.
It was crammed with giveaways and legislative spare parts: tax breaks for wind farms and racetracks.
A change to nuclear-weapons policy.
Government payments for cheese.
And, most significantly, the bill will raise taxes but do relatively little to cut government spending or the massive federal deficit.
The bill was 153 pages long. t was written only the day before, by Washington insiders working in the dark of night.
It was crammed with giveaways and legislative spare parts: tax breaks for wind farms and racetracks.
A change to nuclear-weapons policy.
Government payments for cheese.
And, most significantly, the bill will raise taxes but do relatively little to cut government spending or the massive federal deficit.
Tuesday, January 01, 2013
Sperm donor ordered to pay child support to lesbian couple despite him giving up rights to the child
Sperm donor ordered to pay child support to lesbian couple despite him giving up rights to the child | Mail Online
The legal agreement that the three made in 2009 was deemed invalid by Kansas state because they did not use a certified doctor for the insemination.
The legal agreement that the three made in 2009 was deemed invalid by Kansas state because they did not use a certified doctor for the insemination.
"Stockton tries a Chrysler"
Fix Pacifica: Bakersfield bankruptcy in stalemate
Wall Street Journal/Review and Outlook/Top Stories in Opinion, 12/31/12. "Stockton tries a Chrysler"
The municipal bankruptcy unfolding in Stockton, California is giving investors a bad case of deja vu. Just as the Obama Administration bailed out the United Auto Workers in Chrysler's bankruptcy while hanging bondholders out to dry, the city of Stockton is subordinating its bond debt to worker pensions.
But what's really scary is that the Stockton case could be replayed in dozens of California cities.
The San Joaquin Valley's second largest city filed for Chapter 9 bankruptcy this summer after a three-month mediation with creditors and unions ended in stalemate.
Bond insurers that guarantee about $200 million in debt wouldn't submit to a haircut unless the rich pensions that helped drive the city to bankruptcy were also clipped.
Yet unions wouldn't countenance an even modest reduction to their pensions.
.... Ratings agencies downplay the "systemic risk" that the Stocktons of the United States pose to the $3.7 trillion municipal bond market.
But then they also said mortgage-backed securities were Triple-A.
While the market may not be in danger of blowing up soon, bondholders face a very real danger of being blown off to preserve worker pensions.
Wall Street Journal/Review and Outlook/Top Stories in Opinion, 12/31/12. "Stockton tries a Chrysler"
The municipal bankruptcy unfolding in Stockton, California is giving investors a bad case of deja vu. Just as the Obama Administration bailed out the United Auto Workers in Chrysler's bankruptcy while hanging bondholders out to dry, the city of Stockton is subordinating its bond debt to worker pensions.
But what's really scary is that the Stockton case could be replayed in dozens of California cities.
The San Joaquin Valley's second largest city filed for Chapter 9 bankruptcy this summer after a three-month mediation with creditors and unions ended in stalemate.
Bond insurers that guarantee about $200 million in debt wouldn't submit to a haircut unless the rich pensions that helped drive the city to bankruptcy were also clipped.
Yet unions wouldn't countenance an even modest reduction to their pensions.
.... Ratings agencies downplay the "systemic risk" that the Stocktons of the United States pose to the $3.7 trillion municipal bond market.
But then they also said mortgage-backed securities were Triple-A.
While the market may not be in danger of blowing up soon, bondholders face a very real danger of being blown off to preserve worker pensions.
Gunman shoots one outside San Antonio movie theater
Gunman shoots one outside San Antonio movie theater | The Desert Sun | mydesert.com:
The gunman entered the theater and fired a shot but struck no one, Antu said.
An off-duty sheriff’s deputy working security then shot the gunman.
The gunman entered the theater and fired a shot but struck no one, Antu said.
An off-duty sheriff’s deputy working security then shot the gunman.
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