Revealed: Lockerbie bomber defies doctors' prediction of death
"The health of the Lockerbie bomber has 'not deteriorated' since his release from prison three months ago – despite doctors' assessments that he would have died by now, a senior source has told The Sunday Telegraph."
If my family member had died on that plane, I'd find and get the "doctor" who provided the go-free card.
Saturday, October 31, 2009
Dearborn Shoot-Out Opens a Window into Homegrown Terror
Dearborn Shoot-Out Opens a Window into Homegrown Terror
“We're not any fake terrorists, we're the real terrorists,” Abdullah (aka Christopher Thomas) once bragged to an undercover informant, according to an FBI affidavit."
“We're not any fake terrorists, we're the real terrorists,” Abdullah (aka Christopher Thomas) once bragged to an undercover informant, according to an FBI affidavit."
Multiculturalists diminish 'rough beast' ravaging IslamFree Press
Multiculturalists diminish 'rough beast' ravaging Islam
"Paraphrasing William Butler Yeats, Mansur contends that Islam is in the grips of a 'rough beast' that has let loose anarchy upon the world.
He traces the problem back to the earliest days of Islam, when perverse Muslim rulers renounced the peaceful teachings of the Qu'ran by slaughtering each other in a bloody struggle for political power following the death of the Prophet Muhammad in 632."
"Paraphrasing William Butler Yeats, Mansur contends that Islam is in the grips of a 'rough beast' that has let loose anarchy upon the world.
He traces the problem back to the earliest days of Islam, when perverse Muslim rulers renounced the peaceful teachings of the Qu'ran by slaughtering each other in a bloody struggle for political power following the death of the Prophet Muhammad in 632."
French Ideal of Bicycle-Sharing Meets Reality - NYTimes.com
French Ideal of Bicycle-Sharing Meets Reality
"Just as Le Corbusier’s white cruciform towers once excited visions of the industrial-age city of the future, so Vélib’, Paris’s bicycle rental system, inspired a new urban ethos for the era of climate change.
Renters of Vélib' bicycles in Paris say it can be a challenge to find functioning ones among those that have been vandalized.
In Paris 80 percent of Vélib' bicycles are stolen or damaged.
Residents here can rent a sturdy bicycle from hundreds of public stations and pedal to their destinations, an inexpensive, healthy and low-carbon alternative to hopping in a car or bus.
But this latest French utopia has met a prosaic reality: Many of the specially designed bikes, which cost $3,500 each, are showing up on black markets in Eastern Europe and northern Africa.
Many others are being spirited away for urban joy rides, then ditched by roadsides, their wheels bent and tires stripped.
With 80 percent of the initial 20,600 bicycles stolen or damaged, the program’s organizers have had to hire several hundred people just to fix them. And along with the dent in the city-subsidized budget has been a blow to the Parisian psyche."
What do you bet this "brilliant" idea is coming to a US city near you soon.....probably with "stimulus" dollars.
"Just as Le Corbusier’s white cruciform towers once excited visions of the industrial-age city of the future, so Vélib’, Paris’s bicycle rental system, inspired a new urban ethos for the era of climate change.
Renters of Vélib' bicycles in Paris say it can be a challenge to find functioning ones among those that have been vandalized.
In Paris 80 percent of Vélib' bicycles are stolen or damaged.
Residents here can rent a sturdy bicycle from hundreds of public stations and pedal to their destinations, an inexpensive, healthy and low-carbon alternative to hopping in a car or bus.
But this latest French utopia has met a prosaic reality: Many of the specially designed bikes, which cost $3,500 each, are showing up on black markets in Eastern Europe and northern Africa.
Many others are being spirited away for urban joy rides, then ditched by roadsides, their wheels bent and tires stripped.
With 80 percent of the initial 20,600 bicycles stolen or damaged, the program’s organizers have had to hire several hundred people just to fix them. And along with the dent in the city-subsidized budget has been a blow to the Parisian psyche."
What do you bet this "brilliant" idea is coming to a US city near you soon.....probably with "stimulus" dollars.
Friday, October 30, 2009
Slain mosque leader's followers deny FBI claims
Slain mosque leader's followers deny FBI claims
"A mosque on Friday dismissed as 'utterly preposterous' the FBI's allegations that its slain leader was part of a radical Islamic group."
"A mosque on Friday dismissed as 'utterly preposterous' the FBI's allegations that its slain leader was part of a radical Islamic group."
AMERICA IS ME - Anthem for "We the People" by Mack Hayes - Tea Party salute.
Listen to this and love our country!
Twenty Years Ago, One Hit Changed Two Lives Forever
Twenty Years Ago, One Hit Changed Two Lives Forever
"Brad Gaines will do it again early Wednesday morning. He'll grab some Clorox and glass cleaner, toss them in the trunk of his Buick and head to a little cemetery 175 miles away.
His long, strange trip actually began 20 years ago today.
'I'll be doing it until I die,' Gaines said"
Grab a hankie...
"Brad Gaines will do it again early Wednesday morning. He'll grab some Clorox and glass cleaner, toss them in the trunk of his Buick and head to a little cemetery 175 miles away.
His long, strange trip actually began 20 years ago today.
'I'll be doing it until I die,' Gaines said"
Grab a hankie...
Thursday, October 29, 2009
If we're going to cap those outrageous payments ...
If we're going to cap those outrageous payments
"The eighth annual study by National Taxpayers United of Illinois of the state's top 100 government pension payouts.
It reveals that scores of administrators or teachers in the state public education and higher education systems could receive larger retirement checks than the senior executives carrying the burden of repairing the nation's banking system.
Wow, indeed."
"The eighth annual study by National Taxpayers United of Illinois of the state's top 100 government pension payouts.
It reveals that scores of administrators or teachers in the state public education and higher education systems could receive larger retirement checks than the senior executives carrying the burden of repairing the nation's banking system.
Wow, indeed."
Cash for Clunkers costs taxpayers $24,000 per car
Cash for Clunkers costs taxpayers $24,000 per car
"A total of 690,000 new vehicles were sold under the Cash for Clunkers program last summer, but only 125,000 of those were vehicles that would not have been sold anyway, according to an analysis released Wednesday by the automotive Web site Edmunds.com.
Still, auto sales contributed heavily to the economy's expansion in the third quarter, adding 1.7 percentage points to the nation's gross domestic product growth.
Is the economy really getting better?
The Cash for Clunkers program gave car buyers rebates of up to $4,500 if they traded in less fuel-efficient vehicles for new vehicles that met certain fuel economy requirements. A total of $3 billion was allotted for those rebates.
The average rebate was $4,000. But the overwhelming majority of sales would have taken place anyway at some time in the last half of 2009, according to Edmunds.com. That means the government ended up spending about $24,000 each for those 125,000 additional vehicle sales."
"A total of 690,000 new vehicles were sold under the Cash for Clunkers program last summer, but only 125,000 of those were vehicles that would not have been sold anyway, according to an analysis released Wednesday by the automotive Web site Edmunds.com.
Still, auto sales contributed heavily to the economy's expansion in the third quarter, adding 1.7 percentage points to the nation's gross domestic product growth.
Is the economy really getting better?
The Cash for Clunkers program gave car buyers rebates of up to $4,500 if they traded in less fuel-efficient vehicles for new vehicles that met certain fuel economy requirements. A total of $3 billion was allotted for those rebates.
The average rebate was $4,000. But the overwhelming majority of sales would have taken place anyway at some time in the last half of 2009, according to Edmunds.com. That means the government ended up spending about $24,000 each for those 125,000 additional vehicle sales."
Mainstream Media Ignores Juicy ACORN Nuggets - Townhall.com
Hannah Giles : Mainstream Media Ignores Juicy ACORN Nuggets
"The “Pimp and Pro” story, exposing ACORN’s willingness to advise a prostitute on tax evasion and child sex trafficking, hit America a few weeks ago.
There were a myriad number of angles to report, yet the Mainstream Media's favorite approach seems to be the method in which James O’Keefe and I orchestrated and gathered the information."
"The “Pimp and Pro” story, exposing ACORN’s willingness to advise a prostitute on tax evasion and child sex trafficking, hit America a few weeks ago.
There were a myriad number of angles to report, yet the Mainstream Media's favorite approach seems to be the method in which James O’Keefe and I orchestrated and gathered the information."
Wednesday, October 28, 2009
Guantanamo prisoners to get swine flu vaccine
Guantanamo prisoners to get swine flu vaccine
"Even as some Americans await the arrival of their swine flu vaccines, the Pentagon has decided to vaccinate both soldiers and terror suspects at Guantanamo Bay, Cuba."
Kinda like Obama prefers terrorists to your grandma?
Yup!
"Even as some Americans await the arrival of their swine flu vaccines, the Pentagon has decided to vaccinate both soldiers and terror suspects at Guantanamo Bay, Cuba."
Kinda like Obama prefers terrorists to your grandma?
Yup!
“I will never rush the solemn decision of…hand me the 5-iron, would you?”
“I will never rush the solemn decision of…hand me the 5-iron, would you?”
"AN ADDRESS TO THE TROOPS, GOOD SPORTS THAT THEY ARE"
"AN ADDRESS TO THE TROOPS, GOOD SPORTS THAT THEY ARE"
Michigan's debt to federal government for unemployment claims: $2.8B and counting
Michigan's debt to federal government for unemployment claims: $2.8B and counting
"Michigan has been borrowing from the federal government to pay out unemployment insurance benefit claims since mid-2008, when its own trust fund became insolvent, and now owes the feds $2.8 billion.
The total is expected to grow higher.......There is no estimate for when the state might be able to fully repay the debt, Isotalo said."
"Michigan has been borrowing from the federal government to pay out unemployment insurance benefit claims since mid-2008, when its own trust fund became insolvent, and now owes the feds $2.8 billion.
The total is expected to grow higher.......There is no estimate for when the state might be able to fully repay the debt, Isotalo said."
When will it be paid?
NY23 Hits Its Tipping Point
NY23 Hits Its Tipping Point
"The official GOP nominee -- Dede Scozzafava, a very liberal New York Assemblywoman -- now trails her Democratic opponent, Bill Owens, and the Conservative Party nominee, Doug Hoffman, according to a survey released Monday by the Club for Growth.
The survey shows Hoffman surging into the lead with 31 percent, to 27 percent for Owens, with a fading Scozzafava drawing just 20 percent of the vote, and 22 percent of the voters still undecided."
"The official GOP nominee -- Dede Scozzafava, a very liberal New York Assemblywoman -- now trails her Democratic opponent, Bill Owens, and the Conservative Party nominee, Doug Hoffman, according to a survey released Monday by the Club for Growth.
The survey shows Hoffman surging into the lead with 31 percent, to 27 percent for Owens, with a fading Scozzafava drawing just 20 percent of the vote, and 22 percent of the voters still undecided."
Washington's Suicide Mission - WSJ.com
Holman Jenkins: Washington's Suicide Mission
"It's no exaggeration to say the Senate health-care bill taking shape is the equivalent of climbing aboard a train about to plunge into a canyon and deciding what it really needs is a bomb on board."
"It's no exaggeration to say the Senate health-care bill taking shape is the equivalent of climbing aboard a train about to plunge into a canyon and deciding what it really needs is a bomb on board."
The problem is that it's us in the suicide belts.
LSJ Blogs: Hey, Joe: MSU short two running backs
LSJ Blogs: Hey, Joe: MSU short two running backs
"MSU short two running backs
MSU announced Wednesday that Caulton Ray and Andre Anderson are no longer on the team's active roster. Here's the release from associate athletic director John Lewandowski:
'Michigan State head football coach Mark Dantonio confirmed Wednesday afternoon that running backs Andre Anderson and Caulton Ray have been removed from the active roster.'
That's it. Lewandowski also said this is not a legal issue. Looks to me like a playing time issue, and it's somewhat surprising that it took this long for someone to bolt (or be 'removed,' as the statement makes clear).
No word on possible destinations.
For the rest of the season, MSU is now down to its freshmen, Ashton Leggett and A.J. Jimmerson."
"MSU short two running backs
MSU announced Wednesday that Caulton Ray and Andre Anderson are no longer on the team's active roster. Here's the release from associate athletic director John Lewandowski:
'Michigan State head football coach Mark Dantonio confirmed Wednesday afternoon that running backs Andre Anderson and Caulton Ray have been removed from the active roster.'
That's it. Lewandowski also said this is not a legal issue. Looks to me like a playing time issue, and it's somewhat surprising that it took this long for someone to bolt (or be 'removed,' as the statement makes clear).
No word on possible destinations.
For the rest of the season, MSU is now down to its freshmen, Ashton Leggett and A.J. Jimmerson."
Federal perks enough to make you sick
Federal perks enough to make you sick
"Buried deep in the $680 billion military spending bill sitting on President Barack Obama's desk is a sweet morsel that lets federal workers count unused sick time in calculating their pension benefit.
The Congressional Budget Office estimates that change, over 10 years, will cost $343 million — and even more after that."
"Buried deep in the $680 billion military spending bill sitting on President Barack Obama's desk is a sweet morsel that lets federal workers count unused sick time in calculating their pension benefit.
The Congressional Budget Office estimates that change, over 10 years, will cost $343 million — and even more after that."
This theft by our elected leaders happens EVERY day!
When are we going to rise up?
Rocco's Modern Life
Rocco's Modern Life:
"It would be hard to pack so much ignorance into one short paragraph if one were really trying.
We can deduce that Landesman doesn't even have to try."
A MUST READ!
Very scary the people our president surrounds himself with.
"It would be hard to pack so much ignorance into one short paragraph if one were really trying.
We can deduce that Landesman doesn't even have to try."
A MUST READ!
Very scary the people our president surrounds himself with.
The ins and outs of Chapter 9 | Detroit
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The ins and outs of Chapter 9
"After watching a recent debate among candidates for Detroit City Council, it has become apparent that Detroiters need to be educated on the application of Chapter 9 of the U.S. Bankruptcy Code to Detroit's financial mess."
Detroit is going down..but who else will they bring with them?
"After watching a recent debate among candidates for Detroit City Council, it has become apparent that Detroiters need to be educated on the application of Chapter 9 of the U.S. Bankruptcy Code to Detroit's financial mess."
Detroit is going down..but who else will they bring with them?
Thomas Sowell On Economics Of Medical Care
Thomas Sowell On Economics Of Medical Care:
"Dr. Sowell has granted IBD permission to run one of the chapters of 'Applied Economics' — 'The Economics of Medical Care' — in its entirety.
We are doing so because of its relevance to the debate over health care reform.
The chapter will run in nine parts over the next week and a half.
The first part starts below and continues in the Issues & Insights section, where the other eight parts will appear"
Click the link and wrap yourself in brilliance.
http://www.investors.com/NewsAndAnalysis/Article.aspx?id=510506
"Dr. Sowell has granted IBD permission to run one of the chapters of 'Applied Economics' — 'The Economics of Medical Care' — in its entirety.
We are doing so because of its relevance to the debate over health care reform.
The chapter will run in nine parts over the next week and a half.
The first part starts below and continues in the Issues & Insights section, where the other eight parts will appear"
Click the link and wrap yourself in brilliance.
http://www.investors.com/NewsAndAnalysis/Article.aspx?id=510506
Efficient Market Theory and the Crisis
Jeremy J. Siegel: Efficient Market Theory and the Crisis
"in the 61 years from 1945 through 2006 the maximum cumulative decline in the average price of homes was 2.84% in 1991. If this low volatility of home prices persisted into the future, a mortgage security composed of a nationally diversified portfolio of loans comprising the first 80% of a home's value would have never come close to defaulting. The credit quality of home buyers was secondary because it was thought that underlying collateral—the home—could always cover the principal in the event the homeowner defaulted. These models led credit agencies to rate these subprime mortgages as 'investment grade.'
But this assessment was faulty. From 2000 through 2006, national home prices rose by 88.7%, far more than the 17.5% gain in the consumer price index or the paltry 1% rise in median household income. Never before have home prices jumped that far ahead of prices and incomes.
This should have sent up red flags and cast doubts on using models that looked only at historical declines to judge future risk. But these flags were ignored as Wall Street was reaping large profits bundling and selling the securities while Congress was happy that more Americans could enjoy the 'American Dream' of home ownershi"
"in the 61 years from 1945 through 2006 the maximum cumulative decline in the average price of homes was 2.84% in 1991. If this low volatility of home prices persisted into the future, a mortgage security composed of a nationally diversified portfolio of loans comprising the first 80% of a home's value would have never come close to defaulting. The credit quality of home buyers was secondary because it was thought that underlying collateral—the home—could always cover the principal in the event the homeowner defaulted. These models led credit agencies to rate these subprime mortgages as 'investment grade.'
But this assessment was faulty. From 2000 through 2006, national home prices rose by 88.7%, far more than the 17.5% gain in the consumer price index or the paltry 1% rise in median household income. Never before have home prices jumped that far ahead of prices and incomes.
This should have sent up red flags and cast doubts on using models that looked only at historical declines to judge future risk. But these flags were ignored as Wall Street was reaping large profits bundling and selling the securities while Congress was happy that more Americans could enjoy the 'American Dream' of home ownershi"
THE EVER-EXPANDING University of Phoenix.
THE EVER-EXPANDING University of Phoenix.
“In the world of for-profit higher education, and higher education in general, the University of Phoenix has historically been viewed as the 800-pound gorilla.
As of Tuesday, it may be more like a 1,000-pound gorilla.
As Phoenix’s parent company, the Apollo Group, reported its fourth quarter and annual earnings Tuesday, it announced that the university’s enrollment of degree-seeking students grew to 443,000 as of August 2009, up 22 percent from 362,000 in August 2008. . . . About two-thirds of the university’s new students as of August are female, 27.7 percent are African-American, and about half are 30 or over.”
“In the world of for-profit higher education, and higher education in general, the University of Phoenix has historically been viewed as the 800-pound gorilla.
As of Tuesday, it may be more like a 1,000-pound gorilla.
As Phoenix’s parent company, the Apollo Group, reported its fourth quarter and annual earnings Tuesday, it announced that the university’s enrollment of degree-seeking students grew to 443,000 as of August 2009, up 22 percent from 362,000 in August 2008. . . . About two-thirds of the university’s new students as of August are female, 27.7 percent are African-American, and about half are 30 or over.”
How Dems outmaneuvered GOP on ACORN
How Dems outmaneuvered GOP on ACORN
"Although the proposed Consumer Financial Protection Agency -- designed to deal with issues like mortgages and credit-card fees -- has nothing to do with community organizing, Democrats offered an amendment that could allow ACORN and groups like it to participate in the new agency."
Read it all. It's pretty disgusting.
"Although the proposed Consumer Financial Protection Agency -- designed to deal with issues like mortgages and credit-card fees -- has nothing to do with community organizing, Democrats offered an amendment that could allow ACORN and groups like it to participate in the new agency."
Read it all. It's pretty disgusting.
Tuesday, October 27, 2009
Tax refugees staging escape from New York
Tax refugees staging escape from New York: "New Yorkers are fleeing the state and city in alarming numbers -- and costing a fortune in lost tax dollars, a new study shows.
More than 1.5 million state residents left for other parts of the United States from 2000 to 2008, according to the report from the Empire Center for New York State Policy.
More than 1.5 million state residents left for other parts of the United States from 2000 to 2008, according to the report from the Empire Center for New York State Policy.
It was the biggest out-of-state migration in the country.
The vast majority of the migrants, 1.1 million, were former residents of New York City -- meaning one out of seven city taxpayers moved out."
The vast majority of the migrants, 1.1 million, were former residents of New York City -- meaning one out of seven city taxpayers moved out."
I'm sure the democrat governor is happy that millionaire Rush Limbaugh is already gone.....right?
DC sniper Muhammad set to die by lethal injection
DC sniper Muhammad set to die by lethal injection
"The mastermind of the 2002 Washington, DC-area sniper attacks will die by lethal injection next month, Virginia officials said Tuesday.
John Allen Muhammad declined to choose between lethal injection and electrocution, so under state law the method defaults to lethal injection, Virginia Department of Corrections spokesman Larry Traylor said.
Muhammad is scheduled to be executed Nov. 10 for the October 2002 slaying of Dean Harold Meyers at a Manassas gas station during a string of shootings."
It will be a great day in America!
"The mastermind of the 2002 Washington, DC-area sniper attacks will die by lethal injection next month, Virginia officials said Tuesday.
John Allen Muhammad declined to choose between lethal injection and electrocution, so under state law the method defaults to lethal injection, Virginia Department of Corrections spokesman Larry Traylor said.
Muhammad is scheduled to be executed Nov. 10 for the October 2002 slaying of Dean Harold Meyers at a Manassas gas station during a string of shootings."
It will be a great day in America!
Pardon Me, but Your Sycophancy Is Showing
Pardon Me, but Your Sycophancy Is Showing
"Take Rocco Landesman, the new head of the National Endowment of the Arts.
In a speech in Brooklyn last week, he said of Barack Obama,
“This is the first president that actually writes his own books since Teddy Roosevelt and arguably the first to write them really well since Lincoln.”
Oh, dear, where do I begin?
Well, let’s start with grammar. It’s “the first president who,” not “the first president that.”
Second, he implicitly accuses Presidents Clinton, Bush 41, Reagan, Carter, Ford, Nixon, Johnson, Kennedy, Eisenhower, Truman, Hoover, Coolidge, and Wilson of having had their memoirs, autobiographies, and other works ghosted."
Excellent article.
And why do we have a "head" of the NEA who is a ignorant political hack?!!!
"Take Rocco Landesman, the new head of the National Endowment of the Arts.
In a speech in Brooklyn last week, he said of Barack Obama,
“This is the first president that actually writes his own books since Teddy Roosevelt and arguably the first to write them really well since Lincoln.”
Oh, dear, where do I begin?
Well, let’s start with grammar. It’s “the first president who,” not “the first president that.”
Second, he implicitly accuses Presidents Clinton, Bush 41, Reagan, Carter, Ford, Nixon, Johnson, Kennedy, Eisenhower, Truman, Hoover, Coolidge, and Wilson of having had their memoirs, autobiographies, and other works ghosted."
Excellent article.
And why do we have a "head" of the NEA who is a ignorant political hack?!!!
Agencies see an increased need for warm clothing
Agencies see an increased need for warm clothing
Didn't AlGore promise things would be warmer?
Didn't Gov. Granholm promise things would be better?
Isn't President Obama promising the same things?
Shouldn't we all be weary of promises from politicians?
Didn't AlGore promise things would be warmer?
Didn't Gov. Granholm promise things would be better?
Isn't President Obama promising the same things?
Shouldn't we all be weary of promises from politicians?
Don’t bring a knife to a coffee fight
"I politely demurred by hurling a cup of hot Starbucks at him while fishing my Beretta Jetfire out of the stupid pocket holster it was riding in.
After taking a face full of Columbia’s most popular legal export and confronted with a counter offer of bullets to his previous barter exchange concept, the young gentlemen decided that discretion was the better part of valor and made all due haste in a westerly direction"
Our new national weapon of choice?
How soon should we expect a "Brady" bill to restrict macho males from indiscriminately splashing innocent children?
Granholm CELEBRATES 100,000 residents in job training
Granholm CELEBRATES 100,000 residents in job training
Read this and fear for Michigan's future.
A compliant MSM is all she needs....and she's got 'em!
Read this and fear for Michigan's future.
A compliant MSM is all she needs....and she's got 'em!
Canada Single Payer Health Care System Hurts People [Mackinac Center]
Canada Single Payer Health Care System Hurts People [Mackinac Center]
"What Canadians Want You To Know About Their Health Care System"
"What Canadians Want You To Know About Their Health Care System"
Detroit Free Press circulation down almost 10%
theblogprof: Detroit Free Press circulation down almost 10%
"No surprise here.
It's pretty uniform across the major print publications, except for the Wall Street Journal, which is actually up!
What's the difference?
The WSJ is center right, the others (including the freep) and rabid far-left.
A correlation?
Cause-effect?
Kind of the same thing happening in cable news where everyone, including liberals, are flocking to FoxNews and leaving CNN, MSNBC and the other alphabet soup networks.
Could it be that a liberal slant keeps the liberal MSM from reporting important news?
Van Jones?
Hello?"
"No surprise here.
It's pretty uniform across the major print publications, except for the Wall Street Journal, which is actually up!
What's the difference?
The WSJ is center right, the others (including the freep) and rabid far-left.
A correlation?
Cause-effect?
Kind of the same thing happening in cable news where everyone, including liberals, are flocking to FoxNews and leaving CNN, MSNBC and the other alphabet soup networks.
Could it be that a liberal slant keeps the liberal MSM from reporting important news?
Van Jones?
Hello?"
Monday, October 26, 2009
BACK TO THE FUTURE: 1978 all over again?
BACK TO THE FUTURE: 1978 all over again?
“Why did things go south for Carter so fast?
Because America’s enemies had taken measure of the man during his first, change-filled year in office.
They saw weaknesses they could exploit. In the second year, they made their move.”
I’d say that at this point, a Carter-rerun is a best-case scenario."
“Why did things go south for Carter so fast?
Because America’s enemies had taken measure of the man during his first, change-filled year in office.
They saw weaknesses they could exploit. In the second year, they made their move.”
I’d say that at this point, a Carter-rerun is a best-case scenario."
Flying Imams Victory
Flying Imams Victory
"A suspect Islamist group is gloating that a cash settlement in the so-called Flying Imams case is a 'victory for civil rights.'
If it's a victory, it's one for future hijackers."
"A suspect Islamist group is gloating that a cash settlement in the so-called Flying Imams case is a 'victory for civil rights.'
If it's a victory, it's one for future hijackers."
Obama wins world chess championship
Obama wins world chess championship
"The World Chess Federation today announced that Barack Obama had become the world chess champion, nudging aside former undisputed champion Viswanathan Anand of India.
The news surprised some in the chess world, because Obama has never participated in tournament play.
But FIDE officials said they felt certain Obama could become world champion if he ever decided to try"
If you work hard, anything is possible!
"The World Chess Federation today announced that Barack Obama had become the world chess champion, nudging aside former undisputed champion Viswanathan Anand of India.
The news surprised some in the chess world, because Obama has never participated in tournament play.
But FIDE officials said they felt certain Obama could become world champion if he ever decided to try"
If you work hard, anything is possible!
Excellent simplicity!
An e-mail from Paula V:
Probably just another exercise in futility but here's what I sent to our two senators:
"I do not support the current legislation being considered by congress as part of an effort to "reform" health care.
I am basing my decision to oppose the legislation based on my disinclination to involve the federal government in further regulating health care delivery.
Please "reform" Medicare and Medicaid before trying to interfere with anything else. Otherwise, why don't you just give all Americans the same health plan that you and all the other congressmen have?
Paula V"
If they could answer Paula's question they'd win? ...........yeah right!
But more powerful is her request that Medicare and Medicaid stop their hemorrhaging before we dump a tsunami of our children's credit on another new swindle.
Isn't anyone listening?
Probably just another exercise in futility but here's what I sent to our two senators:
"I do not support the current legislation being considered by congress as part of an effort to "reform" health care.
I am basing my decision to oppose the legislation based on my disinclination to involve the federal government in further regulating health care delivery.
Please "reform" Medicare and Medicaid before trying to interfere with anything else. Otherwise, why don't you just give all Americans the same health plan that you and all the other congressmen have?
Paula V"
If they could answer Paula's question they'd win? ...........yeah right!
But more powerful is her request that Medicare and Medicaid stop their hemorrhaging before we dump a tsunami of our children's credit on another new swindle.
Isn't anyone listening?
RightMichigan.com || An Auction in Detroit
RightMichigan.com An Auction in Detroit
"Of the 9,000 Detroit properties put up for auction by Wayne County officials, more than eight in ten went without a single bid, this despite a required low minimum bid of $500."
"Of the 9,000 Detroit properties put up for auction by Wayne County officials, more than eight in ten went without a single bid, this despite a required low minimum bid of $500."
Yes, we can!
Right?
Right?
Will U2 be able to fill MSU stadium for its June 30 concert?
Daily Grit by Wes Thorp: Will U2 be able to fill MSU stadium for its June 30 concert?
"Detroit Free Press says this morning that U2 and Bono are coming to Spartan Stadium on June 30.
That's really a big deal for mid-Michigan.
Did you know that this Irish band played a concert at Dooley's Bar in East Lansing in the early 80s?"
click the comment below...Doug brings truth to this link.....party pooper!
"Detroit Free Press says this morning that U2 and Bono are coming to Spartan Stadium on June 30.
That's really a big deal for mid-Michigan.
Did you know that this Irish band played a concert at Dooley's Bar in East Lansing in the early 80s?"
click the comment below...Doug brings truth to this link.....party pooper!
I'd get one of these signs 'cept my whole block is packin'.....
.....except the nice teacher, two doors down, with the electric mower and Obama sticker on her car.
(click photo to biggify)
(click photo to biggify)
This used to be BIG news!
President Obama ties George W. Bush on golf
"President Barack Obama has only been in office for just over nine months, but he's already hit the links as much as President Bush did in over two years."
"President Barack Obama has only been in office for just over nine months, but he's already hit the links as much as President Bush did in over two years."
Well the liberal (REDUNDANCY ALERT!) MSM certainly doesn't care any more.
Maybe Barry needs golf more than Georgie...... is it a cultural thang?
10 WAYS GOVERNMENT HURTS THE POOR
10 WAYS GOVERNMENT HURTS THE POOR
"From the Illnois Policy Institute.
1. Minimum Wage If you charge more for something, you sell less of it. Labor is no different than any other commodity for sale...."
click it to see the prescription for the destruction of an economy.....prescribed by the demo-crooks and rino-crooks we elect to govern us.
"From the Illnois Policy Institute.
1. Minimum Wage If you charge more for something, you sell less of it. Labor is no different than any other commodity for sale...."
click it to see the prescription for the destruction of an economy.....prescribed by the demo-crooks and rino-crooks we elect to govern us.
Report: Michigan workers who finished retraining get, keep jobs
Report: Michigan workers who finished retraining get, keep jobs
"Most of those who completed job retraining during the first 18 months of Michigan’s No Worker Left Behind program either kept their jobs or gained new employment, according to a state review.
Of the nearly 34,360 people who finished training between August 2007 and February 2009, about 24,700, or 72%, either retained work or got a new job, while about 9,660, or 28%, were still looking for a job, according to the report being released Monday. It found more than 16,840 kept their jobs and about 7,860 found new employment.
No Worker Left Behind offers up to $10,000 over two years to workers who attend community colleges or other training programs. It’s overseen by the Michigan Department of Energy, Labor and Economic Growth, which compiled the review."
A few questions from a Michigan citizen and taxpayer:
1. This has been pretty big news today on local radio, NPR, newspapers and media web sites.
But the Michigan Department of Energy, Labor and Economic Growth hasn't made the full report public.
I just spent an hour searching their site and the web.
Shouldn't they be SO proud that they'd publish all the magic economic wizardry that confirms the brilliance of the "No Worker Left Behind" program?
And the original report is "disappeared" as far as us citizens/taxpayers are concerned.
Why?
2. The "report" tells us that more than 16,840 graduates (out of more than 102,000 who got the money and "training") from this state funded program "kept their jobs".
Was there any control group to compare non-grads keeping their jobs?
What jobs did they "keep"?
3. 7860 nice workers were able to enter the workforce. How nice!
But that is less than 8% success in job creation (even if we don't know what jobs were created).
Is 8% the success rate we should expect from the Democrats and Jennifer Granholm?
6. Are today's "journalists" so dull and uninterested in asking tough (any!) questions that they simply repeat every state generated synopsis and go home?
7. Does ANYONE really believe this garbage?
"Most of those who completed job retraining during the first 18 months of Michigan’s No Worker Left Behind program either kept their jobs or gained new employment, according to a state review.
Of the nearly 34,360 people who finished training between August 2007 and February 2009, about 24,700, or 72%, either retained work or got a new job, while about 9,660, or 28%, were still looking for a job, according to the report being released Monday. It found more than 16,840 kept their jobs and about 7,860 found new employment.
No Worker Left Behind offers up to $10,000 over two years to workers who attend community colleges or other training programs. It’s overseen by the Michigan Department of Energy, Labor and Economic Growth, which compiled the review."
A few questions from a Michigan citizen and taxpayer:
1. This has been pretty big news today on local radio, NPR, newspapers and media web sites.
But the Michigan Department of Energy, Labor and Economic Growth hasn't made the full report public.
I just spent an hour searching their site and the web.
Shouldn't they be SO proud that they'd publish all the magic economic wizardry that confirms the brilliance of the "No Worker Left Behind" program?
And the original report is "disappeared" as far as us citizens/taxpayers are concerned.
Why?
2. The "report" tells us that more than 16,840 graduates (out of more than 102,000 who got the money and "training") from this state funded program "kept their jobs".
Was there any control group to compare non-grads keeping their jobs?
What jobs did they "keep"?
3. 7860 nice workers were able to enter the workforce. How nice!
But that is less than 8% success in job creation (even if we don't know what jobs were created).
Is 8% the success rate we should expect from the Democrats and Jennifer Granholm?
4. What is the cost of providing this nifty $10,000/per worker edu-plunder and the state employees who administer it?
5. If this program is SO successful, wouldn't our Dear Leaders in Lansing put up bill boards (just like the cool highway billboards) touting their successes? With a nifty web-link for proof?
6. Are today's "journalists" so dull and uninterested in asking tough (any!) questions that they simply repeat every state generated synopsis and go home?
7. Does ANYONE really believe this garbage?
Newt mulls 2012 run
POLITICO CLICK: Newt mulls 2012 run
"Former House Speaker Newt Gingrich said Sunday that he hasn't ruled out a 2012 run."
"Former House Speaker Newt Gingrich said Sunday that he hasn't ruled out a 2012 run."
Are the GOPers that dumb?
Minors may no longer be required to submit to breath tests in the city of Kalamazoo
Minors may no longer be required to submit to breath tests in the city of Kalamazoo
"City officials said enforcement provisions of Kalamazoo’s current ordinance mirror laws in the cities of Troy and Bay City that failed recent court scrutiny.
In the Troy case, Robinson said the Michigan Court of Appeals ruled that a preliminary breath test constitutes a search under the Fourth Amendment, requiring either a search warrant or “unequivocal, specific, and freely and intelligently given” consent from the suspect.
In that case, the court dismissed the charges, ruling that the minors’ consents were not voluntary because Troy officers told them the breath tests were required by ordinance."
Great news! .......... for drunk kids and those who yearn for the destruction of "The American Way".
Do we really want our country to go down the drain this quickly?
"City officials said enforcement provisions of Kalamazoo’s current ordinance mirror laws in the cities of Troy and Bay City that failed recent court scrutiny.
In the Troy case, Robinson said the Michigan Court of Appeals ruled that a preliminary breath test constitutes a search under the Fourth Amendment, requiring either a search warrant or “unequivocal, specific, and freely and intelligently given” consent from the suspect.
In that case, the court dismissed the charges, ruling that the minors’ consents were not voluntary because Troy officers told them the breath tests were required by ordinance."
Great news! .......... for drunk kids and those who yearn for the destruction of "The American Way".
Do we really want our country to go down the drain this quickly?
Maybe we ought to spend more time on who we elect to our Michigan court of appeals?
Meebee.....
Chicago property tax: Bigger bills headed this way
Chicago property tax: Bigger bills headed this way
"In Chicago, the increase in the total property tax burden is even higher -- a little more than 6 percent."
And their sales tax is tops too!
http://taxprof.typepad.com/taxprof_blog/2008/03/chicago-gets-hi.html
"In Chicago, the increase in the total property tax burden is even higher -- a little more than 6 percent."
And their sales tax is tops too!
http://taxprof.typepad.com/taxprof_blog/2008/03/chicago-gets-hi.html
That money is washing away
That money is washing away
"The basic problem is that pension funds created to finance retirement benefits for thousands of public employees -- teachers, police officers, firefighters, and state, city and county workers of every description -- lack sufficient funds to meet their obligations.........
....Minneapolis Mayor R.T. Rybak brought the scale of the situation home in his budget address last summer.
He reported that nearly two-thirds of an 11.3 percent property tax hike next year would go to fund the city's pension obligations."
"The basic problem is that pension funds created to finance retirement benefits for thousands of public employees -- teachers, police officers, firefighters, and state, city and county workers of every description -- lack sufficient funds to meet their obligations.........
....Minneapolis Mayor R.T. Rybak brought the scale of the situation home in his budget address last summer.
He reported that nearly two-thirds of an 11.3 percent property tax hike next year would go to fund the city's pension obligations."
Wayne's Voodoo 2009 Wright Patterson USAF Museum
This is pretty cool.
I sent out the Wright Patterson USAF Musium invite last month and my friend Wayne replied below:
I sent out the Wright Patterson USAF Musium invite last month and my friend Wayne replied below:
"I won't be there, but place a reverent hand on the nose of the F-101 that resides there because I flew that mf.......placed the Red Hawk on the tail my own damn self.
"
I did rub reverently the nose of Wayne's bird.
Note the artistic talents of the geezer fly-"boy".
In downtown Muskegon Heights
Tear down a building and uncover a bit of history.
Ironic that the Heights is arguably the most segregated city in Michigan.
Another 12 Insanely Titled Books
Another 12 Insanely Titled Books
"How to Date a White Woman: A Practical Guide for Asian Men
'Written by an Asian with Asian men in mind within the context of a western society.
Provided inside are the knowledge, framework and tools necessary for an Asian man to understand, to plan and to put into action the steps to successfully date a white woman.'"
"How to Date a White Woman: A Practical Guide for Asian Men
'Written by an Asian with Asian men in mind within the context of a western society.
Provided inside are the knowledge, framework and tools necessary for an Asian man to understand, to plan and to put into action the steps to successfully date a white woman.'"
Sunday, October 25, 2009
family loses home, possessions in fire
family loses home, possessions in fire
"around 10:30 or 10:45 p.m. Saturday, the couple took the children, Christopher Smith, 15, Austin Van Avery, 11, and 9-year-old Jaydean Van Avery, to visit the landlord. “They said everything was OK when they left,” he said.
Apparently Daniel Van Avery was going to get a tattoo from the landlord,"
No money for insurance but lots for a new tattoo!
"around 10:30 or 10:45 p.m. Saturday, the couple took the children, Christopher Smith, 15, Austin Van Avery, 11, and 9-year-old Jaydean Van Avery, to visit the landlord. “They said everything was OK when they left,” he said.
Apparently Daniel Van Avery was going to get a tattoo from the landlord,"
No money for insurance but lots for a new tattoo!
First Daughters Not Vaccinated Against H1N1
» First Daughters Not Vaccinated Against H1N1
"President Obama's school age daughters have not been vaccinated against the H1N1 flu virus.
White House Press Secretary Robert Gibbs says the vaccine is not available to them based on their risk."
If we take the Obamas at their word (always a poor take) Barry and 'Chelle would love to protect their kids but..... the government directed vaccine program hasn't produced enough to be available to the Obama kids.
The world has been hyperventilating "pandemic" about this for a year!
"President Obama's school age daughters have not been vaccinated against the H1N1 flu virus.
White House Press Secretary Robert Gibbs says the vaccine is not available to them based on their risk."
If we take the Obamas at their word (always a poor take) Barry and 'Chelle would love to protect their kids but..... the government directed vaccine program hasn't produced enough to be available to the Obama kids.
The world has been hyperventilating "pandemic" about this for a year!
Omama has promised that his version of health care is WAAAAY better.
If government can't take care of the President's family....what do you think we're gonna get.....
This is Obama-care folks!
If government can't take care of the President's family....what do you think we're gonna get.....
This is Obama-care folks!
Kausfiles :So You Think You Have Swine Flu?
Kausfiles : So You Think You Have Swine Flu?
So You Think You Have Swine Flu?
Am I the only one--besides Michael Fumento--who finds reports like NBC's last night on the spread of swine flu ("galloping its way across the country") to be wildly unconvincing?
The NBC piece claims "90 dead" last week under the rubric "swine flu cases." [See about 1:10 in]
This is almost certainly BS.
As this CDC report makes clear, that figure includes both the swine flu and the regular annual flu. Indeed, NBC promiscuously conflates a) swine flu (H1N1); b) regular flu and c) "flu like symptoms" which may not be any kind of flu at all. ... That may be because the CDC itself has decided to conflate at least the first two categories, as noted in this seemingly damning CBS story and confirmed in the CDC report itself:
This new system was implemented on August 30, 2009, and replaces the weekly report of laboratory confirmed 2009 H1N1-related hospitalizations and deaths that began in April 2009. Jurisdictions can now report to CDC either laboratory confirmed or pneumonia and influenza syndromic-based counts of hospitalizations and deaths resulting from all types or subtypes of influenza, not just those from 2009 H1N1 influenza virus. [E.A.]
I think this means the CDC does not really know how many cases are swine flu and how many aren't. (The regular flu kills many thousands of people every year.) ...12:43 A.M.
So You Think You Have Swine Flu?
Am I the only one--besides Michael Fumento--who finds reports like NBC's last night on the spread of swine flu ("galloping its way across the country") to be wildly unconvincing?
The NBC piece claims "90 dead" last week under the rubric "swine flu cases." [See about 1:10 in]
This is almost certainly BS.
As this CDC report makes clear, that figure includes both the swine flu and the regular annual flu. Indeed, NBC promiscuously conflates a) swine flu (H1N1); b) regular flu and c) "flu like symptoms" which may not be any kind of flu at all. ... That may be because the CDC itself has decided to conflate at least the first two categories, as noted in this seemingly damning CBS story and confirmed in the CDC report itself:
This new system was implemented on August 30, 2009, and replaces the weekly report of laboratory confirmed 2009 H1N1-related hospitalizations and deaths that began in April 2009. Jurisdictions can now report to CDC either laboratory confirmed or pneumonia and influenza syndromic-based counts of hospitalizations and deaths resulting from all types or subtypes of influenza, not just those from 2009 H1N1 influenza virus. [E.A.]
I think this means the CDC does not really know how many cases are swine flu and how many aren't. (The regular flu kills many thousands of people every year.) ...12:43 A.M.
Friday, October 23, 2009
LADIES AND GENTLEMEN, I BRING YOU GOVERNMENT HEALTH CARE
LADIES AND GENTLEMEN, I BRING YOU GOVERNMENT HEALTH CARE
"Shortages, delays, long lines, rationing.
Just a small preview of what the government has in store for you...."
"Shortages, delays, long lines, rationing.
Just a small preview of what the government has in store for you...."
Experts Puzzle Over How Flight Overshot Airport
Experts Puzzle Over How Flight Overshot Airport
"Federal investigators intensified their efforts on Friday to determine why a commercial jet carrying 144 passengers and five crew members over the northern plains of the United States on Wednesday night overshot its destination by 150 miles."
Like they fell asleep, duh....
We sure need more experts don't we!
Meebee we need some experts to tell us why so many experts are so dumb?
"Federal investigators intensified their efforts on Friday to determine why a commercial jet carrying 144 passengers and five crew members over the northern plains of the United States on Wednesday night overshot its destination by 150 miles."
Like they fell asleep, duh....
We sure need more experts don't we!
Meebee we need some experts to tell us why so many experts are so dumb?
GOP calls Granholm's move to increase Michigan student funding cut to $292 per student 'fear mongering'
GOP calls Granholm's move to increase Michigan student funding cut to $292 per student 'fear mongering'
'The Legislature put a balanced budget on the governor's desk,' said state Rep. Kevin Elsenheimer, R-Kewadin, the House Republican leader. .
'Clearly, she's using fear mongering to set the stage for her tax increases.'"
'The Legislature put a balanced budget on the governor's desk,' said state Rep. Kevin Elsenheimer, R-Kewadin, the House Republican leader. .
'Clearly, she's using fear mongering to set the stage for her tax increases.'"
S&P 500's PE Ratio of 139 Isn't Sustainable
S&P 500's PE Ratio of 139 Isn't Sustainable
"For investors a PE ratio in the 25 to 30 range means it will be difficult to find bargains, as you cannot expect an expansion of the PE ratio to contribute a higher level on the S&P 500 index.
"For investors a PE ratio in the 25 to 30 range means it will be difficult to find bargains, as you cannot expect an expansion of the PE ratio to contribute a higher level on the S&P 500 index.
Moreover, there is a risk the S&P PE ratio could contract, causing the level of the S&P 500 index to fall.
A drop to 20 on the S&P 500 PE ratio gives us a high of 917 on the S&P 500, assuming earnings does not change from its forecast.
Going forward investors need to keep in mind that the risk of a PE ratio contraction is a possibility.
A rise in the S&P 500 PE ratio is unlikely"
Romer: Impact of stimulus will level off
Romer: Impact of stimulus will level off:
"top White House economist says spending from the $787 billion economic stimulus has already had its biggest impact on economic growth and will likely not contribute to significant expansion next year."
Not a surprise to most. It never was a "stimulus", just an enormous pork dump on Barry's favored comrades.
The semi-bright side of this debacle might be that the world has seen just about every socialists economic-trick and they don't work.
Maybe some will start to get the message?
"top White House economist says spending from the $787 billion economic stimulus has already had its biggest impact on economic growth and will likely not contribute to significant expansion next year."
Not a surprise to most. It never was a "stimulus", just an enormous pork dump on Barry's favored comrades.
The semi-bright side of this debacle might be that the world has seen just about every socialists economic-trick and they don't work.
Maybe some will start to get the message?
California Treasurer Lockyer: pensions will ‘bankrupt’ state « Calpensions
California Treasurer Lockyer: pensions will ‘bankrupt’ state
"State Treasurer Bill Lockyer, who sits on both the CalPERS and CalSTRS public pension boards, got the attention of his listeners during a legislative hearing yesterday.
“It’s impossible for this Legislature to reform the pension system, and if we don’t it will bankrupt the state,” is the Lockyer quote jotted down by one observer.
“My general view of the pensions is that the current benefits that have been promised are probably hard to maintain and the (retiree) health benefits that have been promised are impossible to maintain,” he said."
What will a bankrupt California mean for the rest of our country?
"State Treasurer Bill Lockyer, who sits on both the CalPERS and CalSTRS public pension boards, got the attention of his listeners during a legislative hearing yesterday.
“It’s impossible for this Legislature to reform the pension system, and if we don’t it will bankrupt the state,” is the Lockyer quote jotted down by one observer.
“My general view of the pensions is that the current benefits that have been promised are probably hard to maintain and the (retiree) health benefits that have been promised are impossible to maintain,” he said."
What will a bankrupt California mean for the rest of our country?
Holiday travel on a budget
Holiday travel on a budget
"visit Airfare Watchdog http://www.airfarewatchdog.com/. It lists deals from all airlines.
Don’t stop with the airlines, though. You can often find better deals on aggregator sites and other travel sites. Here are a few of the best:"
Excellent list of travel sites.
"visit Airfare Watchdog http://www.airfarewatchdog.com/. It lists deals from all airlines.
Don’t stop with the airlines, though. You can often find better deals on aggregator sites and other travel sites. Here are a few of the best:"
Excellent list of travel sites.
Chart of the Day: S&P500 P/E Ratio
Chart of the Day: S&P500 P/E Ratio
"As a result of the recent plunge in earnings and recent stock market rally, the PE ratio spiked and just peaked at 144 – a record high.
Currently, with 97% of US corporations having reported for Q2 2009, the PE ratio now stands at a lofty 129."
"As a result of the recent plunge in earnings and recent stock market rally, the PE ratio spiked and just peaked at 144 – a record high.
Currently, with 97% of US corporations having reported for Q2 2009, the PE ratio now stands at a lofty 129."
Thursday, October 22, 2009
Audit of Home Tax Credit Shows Errors and Abuses
Audit of Home Tax Credit Shows Errors and Abuses
"Just as Congressional leaders are calling for an extension of a popular $8,000 tax credit for first-time homebuyers, or even an expansion to all home purchasers, government investigators reported Thursday that their audits suggest widespread abuse and errors in the program."
I'm shocked, shocked to see ...bla, bla, ad nausium....again...and again....
"Just as Congressional leaders are calling for an extension of a popular $8,000 tax credit for first-time homebuyers, or even an expansion to all home purchasers, government investigators reported Thursday that their audits suggest widespread abuse and errors in the program."
I'm shocked, shocked to see ...bla, bla, ad nausium....again...and again....
Former Phillips School building may house homeless
Former Phillips School building may house homeless
"Housing for the homeless, and not substance abuse treatment, now is the plan for the former Phillips School, according to officials with West Michigan Therapy, which is hoping to take ownership of the shuttered building."
Another government (non-tax paying) entity providing free housing in Muskegon!
Don't we have hundreds of empty appartments and houses already?
Why spend tax money for more housing when we've already got too many empty homes and appartments!
"Housing for the homeless, and not substance abuse treatment, now is the plan for the former Phillips School, according to officials with West Michigan Therapy, which is hoping to take ownership of the shuttered building."
Another government (non-tax paying) entity providing free housing in Muskegon!
Don't we have hundreds of empty appartments and houses already?
Why spend tax money for more housing when we've already got too many empty homes and appartments!
Some Coopersville parents question district providing laptops to middle-school students
Some Coopersville parents question district providing laptops to middle-school students
"A few parents are not thrilled with every Coopersville Middle School student getting a laptop computer this year.
At a Board of Education meeting this week, one parent said children who use the school’s resource room for challenged students, such as her eighth-grade son, should not have received a laptop.
“It’s a lazy way of learning,” she said, referring to the laptops’ spell check and other automatic services. “How educational are these for the kids?”
Two other parents complained about the $30 liability fee that families are charged for students who want to take their laptops home."
Good grief!
"A few parents are not thrilled with every Coopersville Middle School student getting a laptop computer this year.
At a Board of Education meeting this week, one parent said children who use the school’s resource room for challenged students, such as her eighth-grade son, should not have received a laptop.
“It’s a lazy way of learning,” she said, referring to the laptops’ spell check and other automatic services. “How educational are these for the kids?”
Two other parents complained about the $30 liability fee that families are charged for students who want to take their laptops home."
Good grief!
The elite world of public employees
The elite world of public employees
"It is hard to make a case for going to work in the private sector anymore because government employees just have it better.
Even now, when the private sector is facing major cutbacks and layoffs, government, at the state and federal levels, still offer unparalleled perks, benefits, and salaries – even in the face of seemingly insurmountable budget deficits.
There is something terribly wrong with this picture"
"It is hard to make a case for going to work in the private sector anymore because government employees just have it better.
Even now, when the private sector is facing major cutbacks and layoffs, government, at the state and federal levels, still offer unparalleled perks, benefits, and salaries – even in the face of seemingly insurmountable budget deficits.
There is something terribly wrong with this picture"
Could Los Angeles Go Bankrupt?
Milken SOS: Could Los Angeles Go Bankrupt?
"Here’s a sobering thought: could the City of Angels go bankrupt?
Following up on recent comments by former LA Mayor Richard Riordan that Los Angeles was on the way to bankruptcy unless it got concessions from unions..."
So many dominoes, so many left to fall....
"Here’s a sobering thought: could the City of Angels go bankrupt?
Following up on recent comments by former LA Mayor Richard Riordan that Los Angeles was on the way to bankruptcy unless it got concessions from unions..."
So many dominoes, so many left to fall....
Cat 5 Hurricane Rick threatens Mexico resort city
Cat 5 Hurricane Rick threatens Mexico resort city
"Hurricane Rick, the strongest eastern North Pacific storm in more than a decade, raged across open seas on Sunday, but forecasters said it could veer into resorts at the tip of the Baja California Peninsula by midweek.
The track of the Category 5 hurricane threatened to disrupt a major sport fishing tournament scheduled to start Wednesday in Los Cabos, where hundreds of fishermen - mainly Americans - were gathering.
The hurricane's winds were still a howling 175 mph (280 kph) Sunday, down slightly from a peak of 180 mph (285 kph), according to the U.S. National Hurricane Center in Miami. But it was projected to move over cooler waters and weaken to around Category 2 status with winds of around 98 mph (156 kph) before hitting land."
I saved this from last week.
....never mind
"Hurricane Rick, the strongest eastern North Pacific storm in more than a decade, raged across open seas on Sunday, but forecasters said it could veer into resorts at the tip of the Baja California Peninsula by midweek.
The track of the Category 5 hurricane threatened to disrupt a major sport fishing tournament scheduled to start Wednesday in Los Cabos, where hundreds of fishermen - mainly Americans - were gathering.
The hurricane's winds were still a howling 175 mph (280 kph) Sunday, down slightly from a peak of 180 mph (285 kph), according to the U.S. National Hurricane Center in Miami. But it was projected to move over cooler waters and weaken to around Category 2 status with winds of around 98 mph (156 kph) before hitting land."
I saved this from last week.
....never mind
Tuesday, October 20, 2009
HMM: “Voters in this small city decided overwhelmingly last year to do away with the party affiliat…
HMM: “Voters in this small city decided overwhelmingly last year to do away with the party affiliat…
"HMM: “Voters in this small city decided overwhelmingly last year to do away with the party affiliation of candidates in local elections, but the Obama administration recently overruled the electorate and decided that equal rights for black voters cannot be achieved without the Democratic Party.
The Justice Department’s ruling, which affects races for City Council and mayor, went so far as to say partisan elections are needed so that black voters can elect their ‘candidates of choice’ – identified by the department as those who are Democrats and almost exclusively black.”
If this is an accurate report, it will only strengthen claims that the Department of Justice has been politicized under Eric Holder, particularly as the decision was “made by the same Justice official who ordered the dismissal of a voting rights case against members of the New Black Panther Party in Philadelphia.”"
Imagine the MSM response if this was a republican administration.
"HMM: “Voters in this small city decided overwhelmingly last year to do away with the party affiliation of candidates in local elections, but the Obama administration recently overruled the electorate and decided that equal rights for black voters cannot be achieved without the Democratic Party.
The Justice Department’s ruling, which affects races for City Council and mayor, went so far as to say partisan elections are needed so that black voters can elect their ‘candidates of choice’ – identified by the department as those who are Democrats and almost exclusively black.”
If this is an accurate report, it will only strengthen claims that the Department of Justice has been politicized under Eric Holder, particularly as the decision was “made by the same Justice official who ordered the dismissal of a voting rights case against members of the New Black Panther Party in Philadelphia.”"
Imagine the MSM response if this was a republican administration.
Muskegon, Shoreline Inn to give valuation dispute to referee
Muskegon, Shoreline Inn to give valuation dispute to referee
"The city and hotel owner will agree to accept the property value determined by the independent appraiser, avoiding a lengthy and costly property tax appeal, city staff said.
The city would have to pay for legal fees and appraisal services if the hotel property tax case were taken to the Michigan Tax Tribunal, they said."
Big surprise that an entrepreneur doesn't trust the city to accurately value their property....right
"The city and hotel owner will agree to accept the property value determined by the independent appraiser, avoiding a lengthy and costly property tax appeal, city staff said.
The city would have to pay for legal fees and appraisal services if the hotel property tax case were taken to the Michigan Tax Tribunal, they said."
Big surprise that an entrepreneur doesn't trust the city to accurately value their property....right
Monday, October 19, 2009
Persistent criminals could escape trial under new CPS guidelines
Persistent criminals could escape trial under new CPS guidelines
"Hundreds of offenders may escape charges because court action would not be deemed “proportionate” to their crimes, under guidelines that set out the most significant changes to prosecution principles in 90 years"
"Hundreds of offenders may escape charges because court action would not be deemed “proportionate” to their crimes, under guidelines that set out the most significant changes to prosecution principles in 90 years"
In Hawaii, school's out for recession
In Hawaii, school's out for recession
"At a time when President Barack Obama is pushing for more time in the classroom, his home state has created the nation's shortest school year under a new union contract that closes schools on most Fridays for the remainder of the academic calendar.
The deal whacks 17 days from the school year for budget-cutting reasons and has education advocates incensed that Hawaii is drastically cutting the academic calendar at a time when it already ranks near the bottom in national educational achievement."
"At a time when President Barack Obama is pushing for more time in the classroom, his home state has created the nation's shortest school year under a new union contract that closes schools on most Fridays for the remainder of the academic calendar.
The deal whacks 17 days from the school year for budget-cutting reasons and has education advocates incensed that Hawaii is drastically cutting the academic calendar at a time when it already ranks near the bottom in national educational achievement."
Michigan limits mercury from coal-fired plants
Michigan limits mercury from coal-fired plants
"Michigan's coal-fired power plants will be required to make drastic cuts in mercury emissions under regulations announced Monday.
The rules developed by the Department of Environmental Quality are designed to implement a policy Gov. Jennifer Granholm announced three years ago to slash the generators' mercury output 90 percent by 2015.
Coal-fired plants produce 60 percent of Michigan's electricity."
Imagine you're a company CEO thinking of expanding in Michigan ...... or moving out....
"Michigan's coal-fired power plants will be required to make drastic cuts in mercury emissions under regulations announced Monday.
The rules developed by the Department of Environmental Quality are designed to implement a policy Gov. Jennifer Granholm announced three years ago to slash the generators' mercury output 90 percent by 2015.
Coal-fired plants produce 60 percent of Michigan's electricity."
Imagine you're a company CEO thinking of expanding in Michigan ...... or moving out....
Times Says It Will Cut 100 Newsroom Jobs
Times Says It Will Cut 100 Newsroom Jobs
"The New York Times plans to eliminate 100 newsroom jobs — about 8 percent of the total — by year’s end, offering buyouts to union and non-union employees, and resorting to layoffs if it cannot get enough people to leave voluntarily, the paper announced on Monday"
Who would not cheer the soon demise of Pravda on the East River.
Take those few niblets of hope while the tsunami progressivism rolls over.....
"The New York Times plans to eliminate 100 newsroom jobs — about 8 percent of the total — by year’s end, offering buyouts to union and non-union employees, and resorting to layoffs if it cannot get enough people to leave voluntarily, the paper announced on Monday"
Who would not cheer the soon demise of Pravda on the East River.
Take those few niblets of hope while the tsunami progressivism rolls over.....
Black leaders getting restless for answers in Muskegon police shooting that killed one man | Muskegon News - - MLive.com
Black leaders getting restless for answers in Muskegon police shooting that killed one man
"Anger and frustration within the Muskegon community has continued over the lack of information released by law enforcement officials about the nearly month-old shooting of a Muskegon man.
It’s something Rev. William Anderson hopes to address during a community meeting on Tuesday.
Anderson, president of the Muskegon branch of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People, is hosting a townhall-style meeting at 6 p.m. at Angel Community Christian Church about the shooting of Julius Allen-Ray Johnson"
This "anger" from black leaders might just have some legitimacy 'cept their congenital silence at outrage from anyone other than a brotha..... and we wonder where our contry is going?
"Anger and frustration within the Muskegon community has continued over the lack of information released by law enforcement officials about the nearly month-old shooting of a Muskegon man.
It’s something Rev. William Anderson hopes to address during a community meeting on Tuesday.
Anderson, president of the Muskegon branch of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People, is hosting a townhall-style meeting at 6 p.m. at Angel Community Christian Church about the shooting of Julius Allen-Ray Johnson"
This "anger" from black leaders might just have some legitimacy 'cept their congenital silence at outrage from anyone other than a brotha..... and we wonder where our contry is going?
How cool is this! Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) from us to THEM!
Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT)
"As of Oct. 1, 2008, Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) is the new name for the federal Food Stamp Program.
"As of Oct. 1, 2008, Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) is the new name for the federal Food Stamp Program.
The new name reflects the changes we’ve made to meet the needs of our clients, including a focus on nutrition and an increase in benefit amounts.
SNAP is the federal name for the program.
State programs may have different names.
Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) is an electronic system that allows a recipient to authorize transfer of their government benefits from a Federal account to a retailer account to pay for products received.
SNAP is the federal name for the program.
State programs may have different names.
Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) is an electronic system that allows a recipient to authorize transfer of their government benefits from a Federal account to a retailer account to pay for products received.
EBT is used in all 50 States, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, the Virgin Islands, and Guam. BT has been implemented in all States since June of 2004."
I saw this "EBT" on a pizza flier.
So our tax dollars are supporting PIZZA as a "focus on nutrition"?
Don't ya just love government's love of "nutrition"?
And don't you love SNAP!
Residents of Missouri's Dancing Rabbit test the limits of green living
Residents of Missouri's Dancing Rabbit test the limits of green living
"Drawn by cheap land prices and a lack of repressive zoning restrictions, Missouri is home to more than 50 'intentional communities,' a broad term that includes communes, co-housing, and student co-ops."
The future of eco-loonie?
"Drawn by cheap land prices and a lack of repressive zoning restrictions, Missouri is home to more than 50 'intentional communities,' a broad term that includes communes, co-housing, and student co-ops."
The future of eco-loonie?
Rush Limbaugh: The Race Card, Football and Me
Rush Limbaugh: The Race Card, Football and Me - WSJ.com
"David Checketts, an investor and owner of sports teams, approached me in late May about investing in the St. Louis Rams football franchise.
As a football fan, I was intrigued.
I invited him to my home where we discussed it further.
Even after informing him that some people might try to make an issue of my participation, Mr. Checketts said he didn't much care.
I accepted his offer."
READ THIS!
"David Checketts, an investor and owner of sports teams, approached me in late May about investing in the St. Louis Rams football franchise.
As a football fan, I was intrigued.
I invited him to my home where we discussed it further.
Even after informing him that some people might try to make an issue of my participation, Mr. Checketts said he didn't much care.
I accepted his offer."
READ THIS!
Spartan March Madness sets records!
My Way - Sports News
"It would be hard for Michigan State to be much better than it was last season, when it went 31-7, won the Big Ten by the second-largest margin in history and went 5-1 in the NCAA tournament, including upsets of overall top seed Louisville and semifinal opponent Connecticut in Ford Field, 92 miles from campus.
'When I recruited these guys, we talkd about the chance to play for a championship in our own state,' Izzo said.
'We put 73,000 fans in Detroit, had 30,000 for a public practice and had 9,000 in a mall for a pep rally, all records.
In fact, your program now has the number 1, 2 and 3 largest crowds ever to watch a basketball game.'
Izzo has always compared his program to the established powers and looked at crowd counts for Midnight Madness.
When told that people were turned away Friday night and there was a sellout crowd of 14,759, he flashed a satisfied smile.
'That's the most we've had here by a lot,' he said. '...
One of my personal dreams was to somehow fill this place for Midnight Madness.
Now, we've done that.'"
"It would be hard for Michigan State to be much better than it was last season, when it went 31-7, won the Big Ten by the second-largest margin in history and went 5-1 in the NCAA tournament, including upsets of overall top seed Louisville and semifinal opponent Connecticut in Ford Field, 92 miles from campus.
'When I recruited these guys, we talkd about the chance to play for a championship in our own state,' Izzo said.
'We put 73,000 fans in Detroit, had 30,000 for a public practice and had 9,000 in a mall for a pep rally, all records.
In fact, your program now has the number 1, 2 and 3 largest crowds ever to watch a basketball game.'
Izzo has always compared his program to the established powers and looked at crowd counts for Midnight Madness.
When told that people were turned away Friday night and there was a sellout crowd of 14,759, he flashed a satisfied smile.
'That's the most we've had here by a lot,' he said. '...
One of my personal dreams was to somehow fill this place for Midnight Madness.
Now, we've done that.'"
Tom rode in on an IndyCar replica.... gonna get back to Indy in March 2010!
Sunday, October 18, 2009
Ariz. sheriff launches immigration sweep
Ariz. sheriff launches immigration sweep
"'It doesn't bother me, because we are going to do the same thing,' said Arpaio, whose deputies had arrested 16 people by Friday evening on unspecified charges.
'I am the elected sheriff.
I don't take orders from the federal government.'"
"'It doesn't bother me, because we are going to do the same thing,' said Arpaio, whose deputies had arrested 16 people by Friday evening on unspecified charges.
'I am the elected sheriff.
I don't take orders from the federal government.'"
Destruction Of Healthcare Delivery System Underway
Destruction Of Healthcare Delivery System Underway
"If you want to understand why Aetna, Independence Blue Cross (Keystone), and other insurance companies are dropping some, though not all, of their Medicare Advantage policies, you have to understand the way these plans have been tainted by President Obama and the Democratic proposals for Obamacare in its various forms.
Their proposals, not yet enacted, will destroy the greatest health care delivery system in the world if enacted.
But what they have already done has started to do serious damage to our system, as exemplified by what is going on with Medicare Advantage.
Medicare Advantage plans are popular and have many advantages for senior citizens. So, naturally, Mr. Obama wants to kill them."
"If you want to understand why Aetna, Independence Blue Cross (Keystone), and other insurance companies are dropping some, though not all, of their Medicare Advantage policies, you have to understand the way these plans have been tainted by President Obama and the Democratic proposals for Obamacare in its various forms.
Their proposals, not yet enacted, will destroy the greatest health care delivery system in the world if enacted.
But what they have already done has started to do serious damage to our system, as exemplified by what is going on with Medicare Advantage.
Medicare Advantage plans are popular and have many advantages for senior citizens. So, naturally, Mr. Obama wants to kill them."
Saturday, October 17, 2009
Taking the National Debt Seriously
Taking the National Debt Seriously
"The OMB projects deficits of about $9 trillion over the next 10 years.
If that occurs, the national debt will be almost $21 trillion by 2019.
However, the actual amount could be much higher.
The OMB also optimistically projects $13.5 trillion of revenue increases over the next decade, while minimizing the inevitable rise in interest rates that will come with an expanding national debt.
During Jimmy Carter's years in the White House, Treasury yields reached 15%. The 2009 average interest rate on the debt was only 3.2%.
With our mounting national debt and budget deficits, it is reasonable to assume that in the near future interest rates on new and refinanced debt could double or triple."
"The OMB projects deficits of about $9 trillion over the next 10 years.
If that occurs, the national debt will be almost $21 trillion by 2019.
However, the actual amount could be much higher.
The OMB also optimistically projects $13.5 trillion of revenue increases over the next decade, while minimizing the inevitable rise in interest rates that will come with an expanding national debt.
During Jimmy Carter's years in the White House, Treasury yields reached 15%. The 2009 average interest rate on the debt was only 3.2%.
With our mounting national debt and budget deficits, it is reasonable to assume that in the near future interest rates on new and refinanced debt could double or triple."
Dow 10,000 isn't a green light for economy
Dow 10,000 isn't a green light for economy
"Several experts point out than many of the relatively strong earnings reports helping to lift the markets in recent days are being driven by cost cuts, rather than strong revenue growth that would be a better indicator of consumers and businesses being willing to spend again.
If businesses keep cutting costs to make the numbers that Wall Street wants to see, that can only put more downward pressure on jobs and wages, and result in weaker economic growth or another downturn.
'The companies are cutting fat, and in many cases cutting bone and muscle.
There's no organic economic growth there,' said Yamarone."
"Several experts point out than many of the relatively strong earnings reports helping to lift the markets in recent days are being driven by cost cuts, rather than strong revenue growth that would be a better indicator of consumers and businesses being willing to spend again.
If businesses keep cutting costs to make the numbers that Wall Street wants to see, that can only put more downward pressure on jobs and wages, and result in weaker economic growth or another downturn.
'The companies are cutting fat, and in many cases cutting bone and muscle.
There's no organic economic growth there,' said Yamarone."
California appears poised to be first to ban power-guzzling big-screen TVs
California appears poised to be first to ban power-guzzling big-screen TVs
'We would not propose TV efficiency standards if we thought there was any evidence in the record that they will hurt the economy,' said Commissioner Julia Levin, who has been in charge of the two-year rule-making procedure. 'This will actually save consumers money and help the California economy grow and create new clean, sustainable jobs.'"
'We would not propose TV efficiency standards if we thought there was any evidence in the record that they will hurt the economy,' said Commissioner Julia Levin, who has been in charge of the two-year rule-making procedure. 'This will actually save consumers money and help the California economy grow and create new clean, sustainable jobs.'"
Wednesday, October 14, 2009
S&P 500 P/E Ratio - Chart
S&P 500 P/E Ratio - Chart: "Chart Table CSV Subscribe
Current P/E: 19.50 +0.34 (1.75%)
P/Es are based on average inflation-adjusted earnings from the previous 10 years (P/E10)."
Current P/E: 19.50 +0.34 (1.75%)
P/Es are based on average inflation-adjusted earnings from the previous 10 years (P/E10)."
Some things are more entertaining than politics
Some things are more entertaining than politics
"Some things are more entertaining than politics
Former police officer Barry Cooper (author, 'Never Get Busted Again') is so disgusted with the War on Drugs that he came up with an idea for a reality TV show called 'Kop Busters.'
In a clever sting operation, police ended up raiding a house where nothing illegal was going on -- most likely because their illegal FLIR cameras detected indoor grow lights:"
"Some things are more entertaining than politics
Former police officer Barry Cooper (author, 'Never Get Busted Again') is so disgusted with the War on Drugs that he came up with an idea for a reality TV show called 'Kop Busters.'
In a clever sting operation, police ended up raiding a house where nothing illegal was going on -- most likely because their illegal FLIR cameras detected indoor grow lights:"
Let it Rip Apartment flag ban
Let it Rip Apartment flag ban: "Let it Rip: Apartment flag ban
People living in an Oregon apartment complex are up in arms after their landlord asked them to keep the American flag off their cars.
Renters were told if there is a flag anywhere on their car -- even on a sticker -- it must be removed or they could face eviction.
Managers say they made the move because the image is offensive to some people."
People living in an Oregon apartment complex are up in arms after their landlord asked them to keep the American flag off their cars.
Renters were told if there is a flag anywhere on their car -- even on a sticker -- it must be removed or they could face eviction.
Managers say they made the move because the image is offensive to some people."
Michigan State's Izzo driven to win another title
Michigan State's Izzo driven to win another title
"'I am concerned about the fact that we have no proven center,' Izzo said."
"'I am concerned about the fact that we have no proven center,' Izzo said."
Gateway Pundit: Top Quotes From This Year's Nobel Peace Prize Winner
Gateway Pundit: Top Quotes From This Year's Nobel Peace Prize Winner: "Obama to his supporters:
'Get in Their Faces!'
Obama on ACORN mobs:
'I don't want to quell anger. I think people are right to be angry! I'm angry!'
Obama to his mercenary army:
'Hit Back Twice As Hard'"
'Get in Their Faces!'
Obama on ACORN mobs:
'I don't want to quell anger. I think people are right to be angry! I'm angry!'
Obama to his mercenary army:
'Hit Back Twice As Hard'"
Wall Street Journal surpasses USA Today as No. 1
Wall Street Journal surpasses USA Today as No. 1
"The Wall Street Journal has surpassed USA Today as the top-selling daily newspaper in the United States."
"The Wall Street Journal has surpassed USA Today as the top-selling daily newspaper in the United States."
Can you hear us now - Tea Party of West Michigan
Can you hear us now - Tea Party of West Michigan
"Holland walk by is a definite GO!!! Gather just west (down hill) of Sentinell office on 8th street.
Note this is not a rally.
No speakers, no program.
Just citizens out for Saturday stroll, exercising 1st amendment rights.
Do not give the paper the slightest opportunity to trash us.
In particular following are NOT appropriate:
No Anti-Obama, Anti-Pelosi, Anti-Reid, etc messages
No Obamacare / Healthcare messages
No 'Liar' related
No name calling (e.g. dumb, stupid, racial epithet, etc.)
No Glenn Beck or Rush Limbaugh for President"
Interesting that the "Tea Party" czars are so worried about offending the media.......and those who are destroying our country.
Sad.
Or is there something we don't know going on?
Just who are these "sensative" TP czars?
"Holland walk by is a definite GO!!! Gather just west (down hill) of Sentinell office on 8th street.
Note this is not a rally.
No speakers, no program.
Just citizens out for Saturday stroll, exercising 1st amendment rights.
Do not give the paper the slightest opportunity to trash us.
In particular following are NOT appropriate:
No Anti-Obama, Anti-Pelosi, Anti-Reid, etc messages
No Obamacare / Healthcare messages
No 'Liar' related
No name calling (e.g. dumb, stupid, racial epithet, etc.)
No Glenn Beck or Rush Limbaugh for President"
Interesting that the "Tea Party" czars are so worried about offending the media.......and those who are destroying our country.
Sad.
Or is there something we don't know going on?
Just who are these "sensative" TP czars?
Nation's Oldest Taxpayer Group Criticizes Committee Vote for Baucus Health Bill, Hidden Tax Increases
Nation's Oldest Taxpayer Group Criticizes Committee Vote for Baucus Health Bill, Hidden Tax Increases
"The 362,000-member National Taxpayers Union (NTU) today condemned the Senate Finance Committee's 14-9 vote to support the health care bill drafted by Senator Max Baucus (D-MT), pointing to hundreds of billions of dollars in damaging tax increases.
This so-called 'moderate' health care reform bill would grow the already bloated federal budget while saddling middle class families with billions in new taxes."
"The 362,000-member National Taxpayers Union (NTU) today condemned the Senate Finance Committee's 14-9 vote to support the health care bill drafted by Senator Max Baucus (D-MT), pointing to hundreds of billions of dollars in damaging tax increases.
This so-called 'moderate' health care reform bill would grow the already bloated federal budget while saddling middle class families with billions in new taxes."
The 2010 Senate Candidates
The 2010 Senate Candidates:
While the 2010 election is a long way off, one fact stands out right now:
the Democrats will be defending 18 seats and the Republicans will also be defending 18 seats.
However, more Republicans are retiring than Democrats, as listed on the Senate retirements page.
In races where there is only one serious competitor for his or her party's nomination, that person is shown below, even though the nominee is not certain until the primary is finished."
While the 2010 election is a long way off, one fact stands out right now:
the Democrats will be defending 18 seats and the Republicans will also be defending 18 seats.
However, more Republicans are retiring than Democrats, as listed on the Senate retirements page.
In races where there is only one serious competitor for his or her party's nomination, that person is shown below, even though the nominee is not certain until the primary is finished."
Taking the National Debt Seriously
Taking the National Debt Seriously
"As of Sept. 30, 2009, the national debt was almost $12 trillion and interest on that debt was $383 billion for the year, according to the Treasury Department's Bureau of the Public Debt.
The Congressional Budget Office on Oct. 7 estimated the 2009 budget deficit to be almost $1.4 trillion (about 10% of GDP). In August, the White House Office of Management and Budget (OMB) estimated total government revenues at about $2 trillion.
The revenue estimate included $904 billion from individual income taxes.
This means the cost of interest on the debt represented more than 40 cents of every dollar that came in from individual income taxes."
"As of Sept. 30, 2009, the national debt was almost $12 trillion and interest on that debt was $383 billion for the year, according to the Treasury Department's Bureau of the Public Debt.
The Congressional Budget Office on Oct. 7 estimated the 2009 budget deficit to be almost $1.4 trillion (about 10% of GDP). In August, the White House Office of Management and Budget (OMB) estimated total government revenues at about $2 trillion.
The revenue estimate included $904 billion from individual income taxes.
This means the cost of interest on the debt represented more than 40 cents of every dollar that came in from individual income taxes."
Court rules Duluth free to change city retiree benefits
Court rules Duluth free to change city retiree benefits
"A state court has sided with the City of Duluth in a long-standing dispute over the generous health benefits provided to hundreds of retired city workers.
The court ruled the city is free to change the retiree's benefits to match those of current workers.
State District Judge Kenneth Sandvik said Duluth can change the terms for retired workers' health care and that the city is not bound by whatever terms were in effect the day a particular worker retired."
This is BIG!
"A state court has sided with the City of Duluth in a long-standing dispute over the generous health benefits provided to hundreds of retired city workers.
The court ruled the city is free to change the retiree's benefits to match those of current workers.
State District Judge Kenneth Sandvik said Duluth can change the terms for retired workers' health care and that the city is not bound by whatever terms were in effect the day a particular worker retired."
This is BIG!
Tuesday, October 13, 2009
Teachers benefit from job-saving stimulus spending
Teachers benefit from job-saving stimulus spending
"In Michigan, where officials said 19,500 jobs have been saved or created, three out of four were in education."
We tighten our belts so they can buy bigger belts.
How long will the taxpayers continue their silence?
"In Michigan, where officials said 19,500 jobs have been saved or created, three out of four were in education."
We tighten our belts so they can buy bigger belts.
How long will the taxpayers continue their silence?
Day care next frontier in fighting kids' obesity
Day care next frontier in fighting kids' obesity
"Day care is the next frontier: New Harvard research shows few states require that child-care providers take specific nutrition and physical activity steps considered key to keeping the under-5 crowd fit.
And while years of work now have older kids starting to get healthier food in schools, more and more kindergarteners show up their first day already overweight or obese.
'We've got to start really early. Elementary school is too late,' Dr. Lynn Silver of the New York City Health Department — a leader in anti-obesity standards for day care — told a recent meeting that brought child-care specialists together with federal and state health authorities to start learning how."
Thank "god" the parents won't feel guilty.....
"Day care is the next frontier: New Harvard research shows few states require that child-care providers take specific nutrition and physical activity steps considered key to keeping the under-5 crowd fit.
And while years of work now have older kids starting to get healthier food in schools, more and more kindergarteners show up their first day already overweight or obese.
'We've got to start really early. Elementary school is too late,' Dr. Lynn Silver of the New York City Health Department — a leader in anti-obesity standards for day care — told a recent meeting that brought child-care specialists together with federal and state health authorities to start learning how."
Thank "god" the parents won't feel guilty.....
A Perfect Nobel Pick
A Perfect Nobel Pick
"Pop quiz: What do Bertha von Suttner, Henri La Fontaine, Ludwig Quidde, Norman Angell, Arthur Henderson, Eisaku Sato, Alva Myrdal and Joseph Rotblat have in common?
Answer: Barack Obama.
If you're drawing blanks on most of these names, don't be hard on yourself: They're just some of the worthies of yesteryear who were favored with a Nobel Peace Prize before disappearing into the footnotes of history."
Seriously, how pathetic are the 5 Norway idiots?
And the 1 "american" who accepted this dumbed down drivel?
"Pop quiz: What do Bertha von Suttner, Henri La Fontaine, Ludwig Quidde, Norman Angell, Arthur Henderson, Eisaku Sato, Alva Myrdal and Joseph Rotblat have in common?
Answer: Barack Obama.
If you're drawing blanks on most of these names, don't be hard on yourself: They're just some of the worthies of yesteryear who were favored with a Nobel Peace Prize before disappearing into the footnotes of history."
Seriously, how pathetic are the 5 Norway idiots?
And the 1 "american" who accepted this dumbed down drivel?
Some lawmakers frown on museum spending -- latimes.com
Some lawmakers frown on museum spending
"To New York officials, the $3 million in federal economic stimulus money they received to transform an old canal boat into a 259-foot-long floating museum was money well spent."
Is ANYONE listening?
"To New York officials, the $3 million in federal economic stimulus money they received to transform an old canal boat into a 259-foot-long floating museum was money well spent."
Is ANYONE listening?
Monday, October 12, 2009
R-P energy-savings program a success
R-P energy-savings program a success
"Reeths-Puffer Schools has saved more than $900,000 in energy costs the last four years by adjusting thermostats and turning off lights and computers........
The district contracted with an energy management firm, Energy Education Inc., four years ago, paying it $70,000 annually to help analyze energy use and implement savings strategies.
The four-year contract is up, so the district won't pay any more fees, but it will continue to pay $19,000 per year for its energy manager,"
OK, $900,000- $356,000 [$280,000($70,000x4)+$76,000($19,000x4)] = $544,000.
That's a great investment....... if there is no more to the story...like other costs......
The Chronicle continues its tradition of unabashed public cheer leading and its utter lack of curiosity.
"Reeths-Puffer Schools has saved more than $900,000 in energy costs the last four years by adjusting thermostats and turning off lights and computers........
The district contracted with an energy management firm, Energy Education Inc., four years ago, paying it $70,000 annually to help analyze energy use and implement savings strategies.
The four-year contract is up, so the district won't pay any more fees, but it will continue to pay $19,000 per year for its energy manager,"
OK, $900,000- $356,000 [$280,000($70,000x4)+$76,000($19,000x4)] = $544,000.
That's a great investment....... if there is no more to the story...like other costs......
The Chronicle continues its tradition of unabashed public cheer leading and its utter lack of curiosity.
Survey: Most economists see recovery beginning
Survey: Most economists see recovery beginning
"Forecasters now expect the economy, as measured by gross domestic product, to advance at a 2.9 percent pace in the second half of the year, after falling for four straight quarters for the first time on records dating to 1947....
The recession, the worst since the 1930s, has eliminated a net total of 7.2 million jobs"
So, how's that hope-thang workin' out for ya?
"Forecasters now expect the economy, as measured by gross domestic product, to advance at a 2.9 percent pace in the second half of the year, after falling for four straight quarters for the first time on records dating to 1947....
The recession, the worst since the 1930s, has eliminated a net total of 7.2 million jobs"
So, how's that hope-thang workin' out for ya?
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