You have got to click this one!
And that doesn't include bennees.....
And they want MORE of our money?!!!!!
The top teacher makes $191.000+.
Monday, February 28, 2011
Top 100 Teacher Salaries 2010
You have got to click this one!
And that doesn't include bennees.....
And they want MORE of our money?!!!!!
Obama Gets a Smackdown from Gov. Walker
Obama Gets a Smackdown from Gov. Walker - Gov. Scott Walker - Fox Nation
"Gov. Scott Walker on Monday afternoon responded to comments President Barack Obama made earlier in the day about the protests in Madison:
Walker's office issued this statement:
'I'm sure the President knows that most federal employees do not have collective bargaining for wages and benefits while our plan allows it for base pay.
And I'm sure the President knows that the average federal worker pays twice as much for health insurance as what we are asking for in Wisconsin.
At least I would hope he knows these facts.
'Furthermore, I'm sure the President knows that we have repeatedly praised the more than 300,000 government workers who come to work every day in Wisconsin.
'I'm sure that President Obama simply misunderstands the issues in Wisconsin, and isn't acting like the union bosses in saying one thing and doing another.'"
"Gov. Scott Walker on Monday afternoon responded to comments President Barack Obama made earlier in the day about the protests in Madison:
Walker's office issued this statement:
'I'm sure the President knows that most federal employees do not have collective bargaining for wages and benefits while our plan allows it for base pay.
And I'm sure the President knows that the average federal worker pays twice as much for health insurance as what we are asking for in Wisconsin.
At least I would hope he knows these facts.
'Furthermore, I'm sure the President knows that we have repeatedly praised the more than 300,000 government workers who come to work every day in Wisconsin.
'I'm sure that President Obama simply misunderstands the issues in Wisconsin, and isn't acting like the union bosses in saying one thing and doing another.'"
John Edwards Is Out of Sight, but Not for Long
John Edwards Is Out of Sight, but Not for Long - NYTimes.com
"That “more” is the possibility that a federal grand jury in Raleigh could soon hand up an indictment against him in a case centering on campaign finance practices."
"That “more” is the possibility that a federal grand jury in Raleigh could soon hand up an indictment against him in a case centering on campaign finance practices."
Media Hides Real Reason for Rise in Gas Prices
Media Hides Real Reason for Rise in Gas Prices
"Oh, the media has finally started covering “Pain at the Pump” but they are not giving us the real reasons for the jump.
Unrest in the middle east has given the cabal of President Obama and the media, “cover” to blame others for the spike to the stratosphere.
The real reasons are three-fold, with unrest in the middle east being the least of the three.
1) Devaluation of the dollar.
The incessant printing of money by this administration began the rise of gas prices months long before the middle east blew up.
I’m no Alan Greenspan, but I can figure out that if oil prices are tied to the dollar, and you print more dollars, the oil price will go up, up, up.
2) An energy policy that calls for less drilling for oil at home, not more.
3) Unrest in the middle east."
"Oh, the media has finally started covering “Pain at the Pump” but they are not giving us the real reasons for the jump.
Unrest in the middle east has given the cabal of President Obama and the media, “cover” to blame others for the spike to the stratosphere.
The real reasons are three-fold, with unrest in the middle east being the least of the three.
1) Devaluation of the dollar.
The incessant printing of money by this administration began the rise of gas prices months long before the middle east blew up.
I’m no Alan Greenspan, but I can figure out that if oil prices are tied to the dollar, and you print more dollars, the oil price will go up, up, up.
2) An energy policy that calls for less drilling for oil at home, not more.
3) Unrest in the middle east."
The real cost of 'global warming'
The real cost of 'global warming' – Telegraph Blogs
"The renewable energy industry is helping to destroy the UK economy and drive up unemployment says a new report.
For every one of David Cameron’s “green jobs” created in the renewable energy sector (mainly solar and wind), another 3.7 jobs are being lost in the real economy, says the independent study by Verso Economics."
"The renewable energy industry is helping to destroy the UK economy and drive up unemployment says a new report.
For every one of David Cameron’s “green jobs” created in the renewable energy sector (mainly solar and wind), another 3.7 jobs are being lost in the real economy, says the independent study by Verso Economics."
Recession Ushers in Widest Income Inequality Gap on Record
Recession Ushers in Widest Income Inequality Gap on Record PBS NewsHour Sept. 28, 2010 PBS
"The U.S. now has the greatest disparity between the rich and the poor within Western industrialized countries, new Census data show.
Timothy Noah of Slate magazine and Howard University professor Roderick Harrison looks at the growing income gap in America."
How's that hope and change working for ya?
"The U.S. now has the greatest disparity between the rich and the poor within Western industrialized countries, new Census data show.
Timothy Noah of Slate magazine and Howard University professor Roderick Harrison looks at the growing income gap in America."
How's that hope and change working for ya?
Is Obama prepping the left for bad news on EPA?
Is Obama prepping the left for bad news on EPA? « Green Hell Blog
"The coincidence of:
Sen. Sherrod Brown’s letter to Obama about EPA regs;
Pew Center chief Eileen Claussen’s “prediction” in today’s Guardian about Obama;
and Grist.org’s howling about the Brown letter,
may be signs that Obama is preparing his base for the impending news that the EPA will be delaying implementation of its greenhouse gas regulations by two years.
And, no, a two year delay is most certainly not good enough — it’s just a ploy to help Obama skate through the 2012 election."
"The coincidence of:
Sen. Sherrod Brown’s letter to Obama about EPA regs;
Pew Center chief Eileen Claussen’s “prediction” in today’s Guardian about Obama;
and Grist.org’s howling about the Brown letter,
may be signs that Obama is preparing his base for the impending news that the EPA will be delaying implementation of its greenhouse gas regulations by two years.
And, no, a two year delay is most certainly not good enough — it’s just a ploy to help Obama skate through the 2012 election."
Charles G. Koch: Why Koch Industries Is Speaking Out
Charles G. Koch: Why Koch Industries Is Speaking Out - WSJ.com
"For many years, I, my family and our company have contributed to a variety of intellectual and political causes working to solve these problems.
Because of our activism, we've been vilified by various groups.
Despite this criticism, we're determined to keep contributing and standing up for those politicians, like Wisconsin Gov. Scott Walker, who are taking these challenges seriously.
Both Democrats and Republicans have done a poor job of managing our finances.
They've raised debt ceilings, floated bond issues, and delayed tough decisions."
Please read this in full!
"For many years, I, my family and our company have contributed to a variety of intellectual and political causes working to solve these problems.
Because of our activism, we've been vilified by various groups.
Despite this criticism, we're determined to keep contributing and standing up for those politicians, like Wisconsin Gov. Scott Walker, who are taking these challenges seriously.
Both Democrats and Republicans have done a poor job of managing our finances.
They've raised debt ceilings, floated bond issues, and delayed tough decisions."
Please read this in full!
Firefighters or Mitch Albom's Movie Subsidy?
Firefighters or Mitch Albom's Movie Subsidy? [Michigan Capitol Confidential]
"Taxpayers in Allen Park may not share Albom’s confidence in the program after the city voted to lay off all 27 firefighters.
As reported in the Detroit Free Press, a failed film studio project is the reason.
“The decision to issue the layoff notices was attributed to financial problems caused by the decision announced last year by Unity Studios to leave the city for Detroit.”
The city and state offered a sweet subsidy deal of its own to lure the promoter of a supposedly $146 million project called “Unity Studios.”
A Nov. 2010 Mackinac Center blog post summarizes what followed:
“It’s taken less than two years for the entire project to implode.
The (ceremonial) groundbreaking in August 2009 was followed by a tumultuous period which saw Unity Studios founder Jimmy Lifton go from promising thousands of jobs at his privately owned utopian 104-acre film studio and “retraining program,” to a scaled down studio and film school on city-owned property, to near eviction and eventually hightailing it out of Allen Park to set up shop in Detroit.”"
"Taxpayers in Allen Park may not share Albom’s confidence in the program after the city voted to lay off all 27 firefighters.
As reported in the Detroit Free Press, a failed film studio project is the reason.
“The decision to issue the layoff notices was attributed to financial problems caused by the decision announced last year by Unity Studios to leave the city for Detroit.”
The city and state offered a sweet subsidy deal of its own to lure the promoter of a supposedly $146 million project called “Unity Studios.”
A Nov. 2010 Mackinac Center blog post summarizes what followed:
“It’s taken less than two years for the entire project to implode.
The (ceremonial) groundbreaking in August 2009 was followed by a tumultuous period which saw Unity Studios founder Jimmy Lifton go from promising thousands of jobs at his privately owned utopian 104-acre film studio and “retraining program,” to a scaled down studio and film school on city-owned property, to near eviction and eventually hightailing it out of Allen Park to set up shop in Detroit.”"
Taxpayers' gain, public workers' pain
Taxpayers' gain, public workers' pain - CNN.com
"Manitowoc County operates a juvenile detention center at a cost of about $350,000 a year.
That center currently holds a single inmate.
The county executive has proposed closing the center and paying another county to hold the single inmate.
Seems sensible, right?
So why has it not happened?
The local paper has the details:
The relevant labor contract forbids Manitowoc County to do any subcontracting if unionized workers have been laid off."
"Manitowoc County operates a juvenile detention center at a cost of about $350,000 a year.
That center currently holds a single inmate.
The county executive has proposed closing the center and paying another county to hold the single inmate.
Seems sensible, right?
So why has it not happened?
The local paper has the details:
The relevant labor contract forbids Manitowoc County to do any subcontracting if unionized workers have been laid off."
Low-flow toilets cause a stink in SF
Low-flow toilets cause a stink in SF
"San Francisco's big push for low-flow toilets has turned into a multimillion-dollar plumbing stink.
Skimping on toilet water has resulted in more sludge backing up inside the sewer pipes, said Tyrone Jue, spokesman for the city Public Utilities Commission.
That has created a rotten-egg stench near AT&T Park and elsewhere, especially during the dry summer months."
"San Francisco's big push for low-flow toilets has turned into a multimillion-dollar plumbing stink.
Skimping on toilet water has resulted in more sludge backing up inside the sewer pipes, said Tyrone Jue, spokesman for the city Public Utilities Commission.
That has created a rotten-egg stench near AT&T Park and elsewhere, especially during the dry summer months."
YOU CAN SEE WHY TEA PARTY PROTESTERS WORRY THE COPS MIGHT TAKE SIDES
Instapundit » Blog Archive » YOU CAN SEE WHY TEA PARTY PROTESTERS WORRY THE COPS MIGHT TAKE SIDES
L.A. Police Union Urges Members to ‘Stand in Solidarity’ with SEIU and MoveOn.Org.
The folks at BoingBoing seem to like it that the Wisconsin cops are siding with protesters, but where’s the reason for trust from those who feel otherwise?
Do we want police to take sides in political disputes?
Apparently some do.
This is why (1) you should always bring a camera; and (2) public employee unions should be illegal.
If union protesters turn violent — as they increasingly have — can you trust pro-union police to intervene?"
L.A. Police Union Urges Members to ‘Stand in Solidarity’ with SEIU and MoveOn.Org.
The folks at BoingBoing seem to like it that the Wisconsin cops are siding with protesters, but where’s the reason for trust from those who feel otherwise?
Do we want police to take sides in political disputes?
Apparently some do.
This is why (1) you should always bring a camera; and (2) public employee unions should be illegal.
If union protesters turn violent — as they increasingly have — can you trust pro-union police to intervene?"
Single-Payer Hell: British NHS denies cancer patients life-extending drugs to save $$$
theblogprof: Single-Payer Hell: British NHS denies cancer patients life-extending drugs to save $$$
"From the UK Telegraph: Cancer sufferers refused life-extending drugs despite Government pledge.
And the subline: 'Dying cancer patients have been refused costly life-extending drugs on cost grounds despite a Government promise to end the 'scandal' forever.'
If you want to know what ObamaCare will be like, check out how this story starts out:
Their requests have been rejected by regional health authorities who were accused of operating covert “blacklists” to restrict dozens of treatments to save money.
Blacklists.
Coming soon, your liver transplant is going to be decided based on your politics."
"From the UK Telegraph: Cancer sufferers refused life-extending drugs despite Government pledge.
And the subline: 'Dying cancer patients have been refused costly life-extending drugs on cost grounds despite a Government promise to end the 'scandal' forever.'
If you want to know what ObamaCare will be like, check out how this story starts out:
Their requests have been rejected by regional health authorities who were accused of operating covert “blacklists” to restrict dozens of treatments to save money.
Blacklists.
Coming soon, your liver transplant is going to be decided based on your politics."
Chances for Local Government Union Pay Reform Good in House; Questionable in GOP Senate
Chances for Local Government Union Pay Reform Good in House; Questionable in GOP Senate [Michigan Capitol Confidential]
"Among the features that upset its critics most, the law governing binding arbitration with local police and fire unions does not allow arbitrators to first consider the ability of a local government to afford the pay raises that are being demanded by unions.
Local officials say this creates a situation where union salaries can only go up, even if the local government can’t afford it.
“There is never a ‘win’ where concessions are made in arbitration,” said Samantha Harkins, legislative associate for the Michigan Municipal League, a lobbying organization for municipalities across the state.
“It’s never a cost-going-down situation.”
Public Act 312, the law that requires binding arbitration for police and firefighter unions when they cannot agree to a contract with their municipalities, has been considered a problem for years by municipal officials and many in the GOP.
Today, with Republicans in firm control of the entire Legislature and the governor’s office, there is a serious effort brewing in the Michigan House to eliminate PA 312 altogether.
But the major obstacle may come from within the Republican Party’s own ranks.
Last week, speaking to the MIRS newsletter (www.MIRSnews.com), GOP Senate Majority Leader Randy Richardville said a repeal of PA 312 was not on his agenda."
"Among the features that upset its critics most, the law governing binding arbitration with local police and fire unions does not allow arbitrators to first consider the ability of a local government to afford the pay raises that are being demanded by unions.
Local officials say this creates a situation where union salaries can only go up, even if the local government can’t afford it.
“There is never a ‘win’ where concessions are made in arbitration,” said Samantha Harkins, legislative associate for the Michigan Municipal League, a lobbying organization for municipalities across the state.
“It’s never a cost-going-down situation.”
Public Act 312, the law that requires binding arbitration for police and firefighter unions when they cannot agree to a contract with their municipalities, has been considered a problem for years by municipal officials and many in the GOP.
Today, with Republicans in firm control of the entire Legislature and the governor’s office, there is a serious effort brewing in the Michigan House to eliminate PA 312 altogether.
But the major obstacle may come from within the Republican Party’s own ranks.
Last week, speaking to the MIRS newsletter (www.MIRSnews.com), GOP Senate Majority Leader Randy Richardville said a repeal of PA 312 was not on his agenda."
Video - FOX News Reporter Gets Hit During Live Broadcast From Wisconsin
RealClearPolitics - Video - FOX News Reporter Gets Hit During Live Broadcast From Wisconsin
"While reporting outside the Wisconsin state capital, FOX News correspondent Mike Tobin is struck by a pro-union protester.
The demonstrators were chanting 'FOX News lies.'"
"While reporting outside the Wisconsin state capital, FOX News correspondent Mike Tobin is struck by a pro-union protester.
The demonstrators were chanting 'FOX News lies.'"
Grand Haven Blockbuster kaput
West Michigan News from the Grand Haven Tribune a Michigan Newspaper
"There will soon be one less choice in the area to get the latest movie releases.
The Blockbuster store at 520 N. Beacon Blvd. is closing its doors."
"There will soon be one less choice in the area to get the latest movie releases.
The Blockbuster store at 520 N. Beacon Blvd. is closing its doors."
President, Hillary Clinton flub Mideast
President, Hillary Clinton flub Mideast--Michael A. Walsh - NYPOST.com
"'It's 3 a.m. and your children are safe and asleep,' it began.
'But there's a phone in the White House and it's ringing.
Something's happening in the world.
'Your vote will decide who answers that call.
Whether it's someone who already knows the world's leaders, knows the military, someone tested and ready to lead in a dangerous world . . . Who do you want answering the phone?'
Now we know the answer: neither of the above."
"'It's 3 a.m. and your children are safe and asleep,' it began.
'But there's a phone in the White House and it's ringing.
Something's happening in the world.
'Your vote will decide who answers that call.
Whether it's someone who already knows the world's leaders, knows the military, someone tested and ready to lead in a dangerous world . . . Who do you want answering the phone?'
Now we know the answer: neither of the above."
Sunday, February 27, 2011
Tea Party rally Arizona |
Tea Party rally Arizona Tea Party Patriots Republicans The Daily Caller - Breaking News, Opinion, Research, and Entertainment
"Antsy for results, tea party supporters gathered for a weekend strategy summit say they’re intent on making sure the Republicans they helped return to power last fall live up to promises to dramatically change course in Washington."
My goal is to hold them accountable here in Muskegon too!
"Antsy for results, tea party supporters gathered for a weekend strategy summit say they’re intent on making sure the Republicans they helped return to power last fall live up to promises to dramatically change course in Washington."
My goal is to hold them accountable here in Muskegon too!
Articles & Commentary
Articles & Commentary
"A crucial distinction has been lost in the debate over Walker's proposals:
Government unions are not the same thing as private sector unions.
Traditional, private sector unions were born out of an often bloody adversarial relationship between labor and management.
It's been said that during World War I, U.S. soldiers had better odds of surviving on the front lines than miners did in West Virginia coal mines. Mine disasters were frequent; hazardous conditions were the norm.
In 1907, the Monongah mine explosion claimed the lives of 362 West Virginia miners.
Day-to-day life often resembled serfdom, with management controlling vast swaths of the miners' lives.
And before unionization and many New Deal-era reforms, Washington had little power to reform conditions by legislation.
The labor-politician negotiations can't be fair when the unions can put so much money into campaign spending.
Meanwhile, government unions have no such narrative on their side.
Do you recall the Great DMV cave-in of 1959?
How about the travails of second-grade teachers recounted in Upton Sinclair's famous schoolhouse sequel to 'The Jungle'?
No?
Don't feel bad, because no such horror stories exist.
Government workers were making good salaries in 1962 when President Kennedy lifted, by executive order (so much for democracy), the federal ban on government unions.
Civil service regulations and similar laws had guaranteed good working conditions for generations.
The argument for public unionization wasn't moral, economic or intellectual.
It was rankly political."
"A crucial distinction has been lost in the debate over Walker's proposals:
Government unions are not the same thing as private sector unions.
Traditional, private sector unions were born out of an often bloody adversarial relationship between labor and management.
It's been said that during World War I, U.S. soldiers had better odds of surviving on the front lines than miners did in West Virginia coal mines. Mine disasters were frequent; hazardous conditions were the norm.
In 1907, the Monongah mine explosion claimed the lives of 362 West Virginia miners.
Day-to-day life often resembled serfdom, with management controlling vast swaths of the miners' lives.
And before unionization and many New Deal-era reforms, Washington had little power to reform conditions by legislation.
The labor-politician negotiations can't be fair when the unions can put so much money into campaign spending.
Meanwhile, government unions have no such narrative on their side.
Do you recall the Great DMV cave-in of 1959?
How about the travails of second-grade teachers recounted in Upton Sinclair's famous schoolhouse sequel to 'The Jungle'?
No?
Don't feel bad, because no such horror stories exist.
Government workers were making good salaries in 1962 when President Kennedy lifted, by executive order (so much for democracy), the federal ban on government unions.
Civil service regulations and similar laws had guaranteed good working conditions for generations.
The argument for public unionization wasn't moral, economic or intellectual.
It was rankly political."
Union Chief Doesn't Condemn Comparisons of Wisconsin's Walker to Hitler
Union Chief Doesn't Condemn Comparisons of Wisconsin's Walker to Hitler - FoxNews.com
"On several occasions over the past two weeks of demonstrations in the Wisconsin capital of Madison news media have zeroed in on signs that liken Republican Wisconsin Gov. Scott Walker to Nazi leader Adolf Hitler and recently ousted Egyptian President Hosni Mubarak.
Appearing Sunday on NBC's 'Meet the Press,' AFL-CIO President Richard Trumka was twice asked whether he found the tone at the nearly two-week long demonstrations 'wrong' or 'inappropriate.'
Trumka did not answer,"
Another Obama supporter who embraces "liberal love".
"On several occasions over the past two weeks of demonstrations in the Wisconsin capital of Madison news media have zeroed in on signs that liken Republican Wisconsin Gov. Scott Walker to Nazi leader Adolf Hitler and recently ousted Egyptian President Hosni Mubarak.
Appearing Sunday on NBC's 'Meet the Press,' AFL-CIO President Richard Trumka was twice asked whether he found the tone at the nearly two-week long demonstrations 'wrong' or 'inappropriate.'
Trumka did not answer,"
Another Obama supporter who embraces "liberal love".
Governor Sean Parnell: "Let Alaska help put America back to work"
Governor Sean Parnell: "Let Alaska help put America back to work" - The Note
"“More domestic oil production, not less, better secures our nation and grows our jobs at home.”"
We need oil and jobs.
And American oil is here, cheap and creates jobs.
Why does our president keep our energy and new jobs from our country's citizens?
"“More domestic oil production, not less, better secures our nation and grows our jobs at home.”"
We need oil and jobs.
And American oil is here, cheap and creates jobs.
Why does our president keep our energy and new jobs from our country's citizens?
Union Bile Runneth Over
FoxNews.com - MICHAEL GOODWIN: Union Bile Runneth Over
"Wherever you look, the bile runneth over.
Beyond making fools of themselves with juvenile comparisons, the 'social justice' crowd is inadvertently proving that public-sector unions are a privileged class.
Touch them and you die from a thousand insults.
One Democratic congressman wanted the real thing. Rep. Michael Capuano of Boston said Wisconsin protesters should 'get a little bloody' to protect bargaining rights.
He later apologized, but too late to rescue the era of civility President Obama urged after the Tucson shooting.
Civility doesn't stand a chance against the entitlement culture of unions and their political puppets."
"Wherever you look, the bile runneth over.
Beyond making fools of themselves with juvenile comparisons, the 'social justice' crowd is inadvertently proving that public-sector unions are a privileged class.
Touch them and you die from a thousand insults.
One Democratic congressman wanted the real thing. Rep. Michael Capuano of Boston said Wisconsin protesters should 'get a little bloody' to protect bargaining rights.
He later apologized, but too late to rescue the era of civility President Obama urged after the Tucson shooting.
Civility doesn't stand a chance against the entitlement culture of unions and their political puppets."
Michigan state rep's. health benefits
This is from a letter sent by Ludington TPer InfoRod.
The cost for these benefits is likely similar to those of other state, city and county union employees.
And, of course, they do not include pension benefit costs.
I agree with InfoRod, big time!
The attached letter from State Representative Tom McMillin provides an insight into what benefits we as taxpayers provide.
I mentioned this at our last LATP meeting but really didn’t give it a good look until today.
For instance, how do you feel about paying the following approximate premiums for each and every one of our Representatives?
Medical: $ 998.28
Vision: 11.33
Prescription: 241.20
Dental: 149.78
Total monthly premium: $1,400.59
($16,807 per year)
Rep. McMillin is one of a number of Republicans who are attempting to pass legislation that will require full transparency in Michigan government.
As you look through the attached I believe you will find many reasons why it is so important for an elected official to remain in office for six years so as to retain these benefits for life. (They do have to pay 10% of the cost of the plan to remain insured).
How many other public officials receive similar perks for holding office?
As we are seeing a tremendous burden reported by our schools to support retirees, how can we also support the many elected state officials for life?
How many others we don’t know about are receiving something similar from the taxpayers?
Isn’t it time to provide true financial transparency from our schools all the way to the upper levels of state government?
Don’t we as employers have a right to be able to monitor how our money is spent?
The old argument of additional labor to report financial information should now be invalid now that nearly everything is reported in electronic form.
Since Rep. Ray Franz is also supportive of transparency in government then please let him know how you feel.
Once the Republicans lose control, there is little likelihood the Democrats will support this type of legislation.
It seems the party of big business labor treats us as taxpayers just too stupid to understand how best we should be spending our money.
Fiscal responsibility has been a mandate provided by the electorate to the GOP. Isn’t it time we make sure they enforce it?
InfoRod
Ludington Tea Party - group coordinator
The cost for these benefits is likely similar to those of other state, city and county union employees.
And, of course, they do not include pension benefit costs.
I agree with InfoRod, big time!
The attached letter from State Representative Tom McMillin provides an insight into what benefits we as taxpayers provide.
I mentioned this at our last LATP meeting but really didn’t give it a good look until today.
For instance, how do you feel about paying the following approximate premiums for each and every one of our Representatives?
Medical: $ 998.28
Vision: 11.33
Prescription: 241.20
Dental: 149.78
Total monthly premium: $1,400.59
($16,807 per year)
Rep. McMillin is one of a number of Republicans who are attempting to pass legislation that will require full transparency in Michigan government.
As you look through the attached I believe you will find many reasons why it is so important for an elected official to remain in office for six years so as to retain these benefits for life. (They do have to pay 10% of the cost of the plan to remain insured).
How many other public officials receive similar perks for holding office?
As we are seeing a tremendous burden reported by our schools to support retirees, how can we also support the many elected state officials for life?
How many others we don’t know about are receiving something similar from the taxpayers?
Isn’t it time to provide true financial transparency from our schools all the way to the upper levels of state government?
Don’t we as employers have a right to be able to monitor how our money is spent?
The old argument of additional labor to report financial information should now be invalid now that nearly everything is reported in electronic form.
Since Rep. Ray Franz is also supportive of transparency in government then please let him know how you feel.
Once the Republicans lose control, there is little likelihood the Democrats will support this type of legislation.
It seems the party of big business labor treats us as taxpayers just too stupid to understand how best we should be spending our money.
Fiscal responsibility has been a mandate provided by the electorate to the GOP. Isn’t it time we make sure they enforce it?
InfoRod
Ludington Tea Party - group coordinator
Feeling the Love
RightMichigan.com Feeling the Love
"Look at this guy's face.
Just before he reaches out to grab the camera.
Pure.. hate?
I really dislike having to ascribe emotion to others without knowing them, but I just thought I would guess.
Anyhow, I have yet to see any tea party activist behave this way.
And I am proud to say so.
I will tell you, this was typical of the disrespect these people offer those who oppose their entitlement mentality."
(click the link above for the disgusting behaviour demonstrated on the video)
"Look at this guy's face.
Just before he reaches out to grab the camera.
Pure.. hate?
I really dislike having to ascribe emotion to others without knowing them, but I just thought I would guess.
Anyhow, I have yet to see any tea party activist behave this way.
And I am proud to say so.
I will tell you, this was typical of the disrespect these people offer those who oppose their entitlement mentality."
(click the link above for the disgusting behaviour demonstrated on the video)
California pension costs: Facing up to the funding gap
California pension costs: Facing up to the funding gap - latimes.com
"Many state and local government employees have been promised pensions that the public couldn't have afforded even had there been no crash."
"Many state and local government employees have been promised pensions that the public couldn't have afforded even had there been no crash."
Lucianne.com News Forum - Thread
Lucianne.com News Forum - Thread
"Let's see. We have an America-hating Entitlement Junkie, Queen Grievance I, jet-setting around the world during the quasi-depression her husband both exacerbated and prolonged, joined by a few hundred close friends and her pampered brood, feeding their faces and living quite large on our dime, while lecturing us about sacrifice and reminding us of what Barack will and will not 'let us do' with our lives.
What's not to love?"
"Let's see. We have an America-hating Entitlement Junkie, Queen Grievance I, jet-setting around the world during the quasi-depression her husband both exacerbated and prolonged, joined by a few hundred close friends and her pampered brood, feeding their faces and living quite large on our dime, while lecturing us about sacrifice and reminding us of what Barack will and will not 'let us do' with our lives.
What's not to love?"
A Warning Regarding Michigan's $10 Annual "Recreation Passport"
A Warning Regarding Michigan's $10 Annual "Recreation Passport"
"If you're a Michigan driver renewing your license plate, you'll notice a new choice on your renewal form this year:
__YES! I want my Recreation Passport for an additional $10!
__No. This vehicle will not be used to enter state parks and recreation areas.
As a Michigan state Representative, I opposed legislation creating the 'Recreation Passport' because I knew the state intended to use the misleading language above.
Let me be clear, because the state is not:
You can select 'No' and still enter your vehicle into a state park or recreation area.
That is the law.
You will, of course, have to pay a (non-annual) gate fee, but your vehicle is not irrevocably banned for one year as the language above implies."
Isn't it refreshing that we have a US rep. who actually informs his constituents?
"If you're a Michigan driver renewing your license plate, you'll notice a new choice on your renewal form this year:
__YES! I want my Recreation Passport for an additional $10!
__No. This vehicle will not be used to enter state parks and recreation areas.
As a Michigan state Representative, I opposed legislation creating the 'Recreation Passport' because I knew the state intended to use the misleading language above.
Let me be clear, because the state is not:
You can select 'No' and still enter your vehicle into a state park or recreation area.
That is the law.
You will, of course, have to pay a (non-annual) gate fee, but your vehicle is not irrevocably banned for one year as the language above implies."
Isn't it refreshing that we have a US rep. who actually informs his constituents?
| Kathleen Parker | Doomed At CNN
John Ziegler Kathleen Parker Doomed At CNN Mediaite
"There is also an interesting secondary element to Parker’s demise which might make media pundits a little more hesitant to attack Sarah Palin.
Since the 2008 election, many of her biggest media critics have found themselves out of a job.
Keith Olbermann, Rick Sanchez, David Shuster, Alan Colmes, Campbell Brown, John Roberts, Larry King, Harry Smith and Parker are all prominently mentioned in my documentary and all of them have been let go from TV jobs since Obama got elected.
Coincidence?
Perhaps, though I have no doubt that if the media wanted to create a narrative here there would be more than enough data to justify it. Regardless, if Chris Matthews is smart, he might want to be careful."
"There is also an interesting secondary element to Parker’s demise which might make media pundits a little more hesitant to attack Sarah Palin.
Since the 2008 election, many of her biggest media critics have found themselves out of a job.
Keith Olbermann, Rick Sanchez, David Shuster, Alan Colmes, Campbell Brown, John Roberts, Larry King, Harry Smith and Parker are all prominently mentioned in my documentary and all of them have been let go from TV jobs since Obama got elected.
Coincidence?
Perhaps, though I have no doubt that if the media wanted to create a narrative here there would be more than enough data to justify it. Regardless, if Chris Matthews is smart, he might want to be careful."
Peek Inside Red Bull’s Toy Box
"SALZBURG, Austria — This city is well known as the birthplace of Mozart, the backdrop for the Sound of Music and simply for being a beautiful place.
But thanks to worldwide interest in caffeinated energy drinks and Dietrich Mateschitz's desire to share his love of aircraft and race cars, one of this city's newest places to visit is known as Hangar 7.
Located at the Salzburg Airport, Hangar 7 could be called the Red Bull toy box.
It is where Mateschitz, who co-founded Red Bull in 1987, stores all his coolest toys.
It is a massive glass-enclosed hangar complete with a changing collection of airplanes belonging to the Flying Bulls.
It's also got an assortment of Formula 1 cars sponsored by Red Bull, along with a handful of racing motorcycles as well."
Yankees' Slugger Rodriguez To Pay 50 Times Less Than Going Rate In Taxes On Lavish West Side Penthouse
Yankees' Slugger Rodriguez To Pay 50 Times Less Than Going Rate In Taxes On Lavish West Side PenthouseCBS New York
"When Rodriguez’s moves into his $6 million, five-bedroom penthouse his tax bill will be $1,150.
In contrast, Stephen and Phyllis Franciosa pay $3,100 in taxes one their one-family home in the Pelham Bay section of the Bronx."
"When Rodriguez’s moves into his $6 million, five-bedroom penthouse his tax bill will be $1,150.
In contrast, Stephen and Phyllis Franciosa pay $3,100 in taxes one their one-family home in the Pelham Bay section of the Bronx."
School food: What do Chicago students think of healthier school food?
School food: What do Chicago students think of healthier school food? - chicagotribune.com
"During visits to several CPS schools over the last few months, the Tribune heard many accounts of students throwing away their lunches.
Others say they opt for 'cookies and slushies' from the canteen or wait to eat until they get home.
And while some kids said they still like their school meals, the vast majority used the same word to describe the food: nasty."
"During visits to several CPS schools over the last few months, the Tribune heard many accounts of students throwing away their lunches.
Others say they opt for 'cookies and slushies' from the canteen or wait to eat until they get home.
And while some kids said they still like their school meals, the vast majority used the same word to describe the food: nasty."
Saturday, February 26, 2011
Tea Party Bloggers To Monitor Every Memeber Of Congress
Tea Party Bloggers To Monitor Every Memeber Of Congress - ABC News
"Tea Party Bloggers Aim To Monitor Every Member of Congress
Organizer Describes Effort As 'Citizen Journalism Meets Adopt-a-Congressman'
After playing such a pivotal role in the November elections, Tea Party activists vowed they would keep a close eye on Congress.
They weren't kidding.
The Tea Party Patriots, one of the largest organizing groups of the movement, want to assign personal bloggers to track every member of Congress, not just the ones they supported."
"Tea Party Bloggers Aim To Monitor Every Member of Congress
Organizer Describes Effort As 'Citizen Journalism Meets Adopt-a-Congressman'
After playing such a pivotal role in the November elections, Tea Party activists vowed they would keep a close eye on Congress.
They weren't kidding.
The Tea Party Patriots, one of the largest organizing groups of the movement, want to assign personal bloggers to track every member of Congress, not just the ones they supported."
The Lady Doth Too Much
The Lady Doth Too Much Opinion The Harvard Crimson
"Given her unelected status, it is inexplicable that the president’s wife needs her own press secretary, her own chief of staff, or her own staff at all, let alone an agenda for them to implement.
While the First Lady wields no formally-mandated power, the institutionalization of her office confers upon her a degree of influence that no unelected or unappointed citizen ought to have.
A candidate’s spouse does not “run” for First Lady.
In fact, we are frequently urged to keep a presidential candidate’s family off limits and collectively tut whenever anyone is so boorish as to violate this unwritten compact."
This brilliant kid must already have a job in place.....
"Given her unelected status, it is inexplicable that the president’s wife needs her own press secretary, her own chief of staff, or her own staff at all, let alone an agenda for them to implement.
While the First Lady wields no formally-mandated power, the institutionalization of her office confers upon her a degree of influence that no unelected or unappointed citizen ought to have.
A candidate’s spouse does not “run” for First Lady.
In fact, we are frequently urged to keep a presidential candidate’s family off limits and collectively tut whenever anyone is so boorish as to violate this unwritten compact."
This brilliant kid must already have a job in place.....
Detroit Pistons' Boycott to Remove Coach Highlights Team's Struggles
Detroit Pistons' Boycott to Remove Coach Highlights Team's Struggles - NBA - NESN.com
"ESPN writer Marc Stein reveals there could be a coaching change in Detroit soon, but the players' actions on Friday, who laughed as their coach was ejected, were 'hideous.'
'Pistons gonna get their new coach. HAVE to.
But benched guys laughing after Kue ejection?
After skipping shootaround?
Unforgettably hideous' Stein tweeted.
Last year, the Pistons missed the playoffs for the first time in nine years.
With the current team's record and immaturity, they won't be making it this year either.
See the Pistons laugh after Kuester's ejection in Philadelphia on Friday below."
I've never been a pro-basketball fan but I now have a team to root against.......
"ESPN writer Marc Stein reveals there could be a coaching change in Detroit soon, but the players' actions on Friday, who laughed as their coach was ejected, were 'hideous.'
'Pistons gonna get their new coach. HAVE to.
But benched guys laughing after Kue ejection?
After skipping shootaround?
Unforgettably hideous' Stein tweeted.
Last year, the Pistons missed the playoffs for the first time in nine years.
With the current team's record and immaturity, they won't be making it this year either.
See the Pistons laugh after Kuester's ejection in Philadelphia on Friday below."
I've never been a pro-basketball fan but I now have a team to root against.......
Even FDR Understood: No Collective Bargaining for Public Servants
Pjamas Media » Even FDR Understood: No Collective Bargaining for Public Servants
"These are the reasons why even an ultimate liberal like Franklin Delano Roosevelt agreed with me that there should be no collective bargaining for public servants.
As quoted by Michael Walsh in yesterday’s New York Post, Roosevelt said:
All government employees should realize that the process of collective bargaining, as usually understood, cannot be transplanted into public service.
It has its distinct and insurmountable limitations when applied to public-personnel management.
The very nature and purposes of government make it impossible for administrative officials to represent fully or to bind the employer in mutual discussions with government employee organizations.
The employer is the whole people."
"These are the reasons why even an ultimate liberal like Franklin Delano Roosevelt agreed with me that there should be no collective bargaining for public servants.
As quoted by Michael Walsh in yesterday’s New York Post, Roosevelt said:
All government employees should realize that the process of collective bargaining, as usually understood, cannot be transplanted into public service.
It has its distinct and insurmountable limitations when applied to public-personnel management.
The very nature and purposes of government make it impossible for administrative officials to represent fully or to bind the employer in mutual discussions with government employee organizations.
The employer is the whole people."
Does Obama Want $8 Gasoline?
Does Obama Want $8 Gasoline? - Investors.com
"A virtual regulatory ban continues today.
At least 103 drilling permits await approval by a federal government that has not approved a single new permit since the moratorium was allegedly lifted last October.
The administration has announced that the eastern Gulf and the Atlantic and Pacific coasts will be off-limits for the next seven years.
The Interior Department has canceled four pending lease sales in Alaska."
"A virtual regulatory ban continues today.
At least 103 drilling permits await approval by a federal government that has not approved a single new permit since the moratorium was allegedly lifted last October.
The administration has announced that the eastern Gulf and the Atlantic and Pacific coasts will be off-limits for the next seven years.
The Interior Department has canceled four pending lease sales in Alaska."
We're being lied to: GDP economic growth revised sharply lower
theblogprof: We're being lied to: GDP economic growth revised sharply lower
"...Gross domestic product, the broadest measure of economic activity, was revised lower to an annual growth rate of 2.8% in the three months ending in December. The initial reading had been for a 3.2% growth rate in the period.
That's a surprising dip, given that economists were expecting the rate to be revised upward to 3.3%."
"...Gross domestic product, the broadest measure of economic activity, was revised lower to an annual growth rate of 2.8% in the three months ending in December. The initial reading had been for a 3.2% growth rate in the period.
That's a surprising dip, given that economists were expecting the rate to be revised upward to 3.3%."
While you were watching Wisconsin
While you were watching Wisconsin Michigan Taxes Too Much
"Americans for Limited Government (ALG) President Bill Wilson today issued the following statement praising committee passage of HR 1593 in Oklahoma that would bring an end to a state mandate that municipalities that have more than a 35,000 population must engage in collective bargaining with public employees:"
"Americans for Limited Government (ALG) President Bill Wilson today issued the following statement praising committee passage of HR 1593 in Oklahoma that would bring an end to a state mandate that municipalities that have more than a 35,000 population must engage in collective bargaining with public employees:"
Michigan retirees: Raise your hands if you want your pensions taxed
Daily Grit by Wes Thorp: Michigan retirees: Raise your hands if you want your pensions taxed
"For the record, I consider myself to be a conservative of the Barry Goldwater variety.
My ties to the Republican party are becoming a memory."
"For the record, I consider myself to be a conservative of the Barry Goldwater variety.
My ties to the Republican party are becoming a memory."
Better Pay Your Parking Tickets!
CORE PRINCIPLES: Better Pay Your Parking Tickets!
"Legislation has been introduced in the House and the Senate to prohibit the Secretary of State from renewing your driver's license if you have three or more unpaind parking tickets."
"Legislation has been introduced in the House and the Senate to prohibit the Secretary of State from renewing your driver's license if you have three or more unpaind parking tickets."
U.S. Manufacturing: More Output, Fewer Workers
CARPE DIEM: U.S. Manufacturing: More Output, Fewer Workers
"I have featured the graphs above before on CD, and they were the basis for this op-ed in today's WSJ, 'The Truth About U.S. Manufacturing' (also available here)."
"I have featured the graphs above before on CD, and they were the basis for this op-ed in today's WSJ, 'The Truth About U.S. Manufacturing' (also available here)."
Top 10 Labor Union Outrages
Top 10 Labor Union Outrages - HUMAN EVENTS
"Here are the Top 10 Labor Union Outrages."
"Here are the Top 10 Labor Union Outrages."
Prosecutor discusses recall threats
Prosecutor discusses recall threats wzzm13.com
"A group on Facebook is calling for prosecutor Tony Tague's ouster.
The group formed after Tague charged Evan Emory with manufacturing child abusive material, which is a 20 year felony."
"A group on Facebook is calling for prosecutor Tony Tague's ouster.
The group formed after Tague charged Evan Emory with manufacturing child abusive material, which is a 20 year felony."
Bogus statistic from Wisconsin union backers spreads in media despite being debunked
Bogus statistic from Wisconsin union backers spreads in media despite being debunked Hans Bader Opinion Zone Washington Examiner
"On Wednesday, PolitiFact debunked the claim by Wisconsin union supporters that Virginia, which bans collective bargaining in state agencies, ranks 44th in the nation in ACT/SAT scores, compared to Wisconsin ranking 2nd.
For example, it noted that in 2009, Virginia ranked 22nd in ACT scores, while Wisconsin ranked 13th. As PolitiFact notes, this claim was originally disseminated by the Wisconsin Democratic Party, which has now retracted it."
"On Wednesday, PolitiFact debunked the claim by Wisconsin union supporters that Virginia, which bans collective bargaining in state agencies, ranks 44th in the nation in ACT/SAT scores, compared to Wisconsin ranking 2nd.
For example, it noted that in 2009, Virginia ranked 22nd in ACT scores, while Wisconsin ranked 13th. As PolitiFact notes, this claim was originally disseminated by the Wisconsin Democratic Party, which has now retracted it."
US ambassador goes AWOL at UN
US ambassador goes AWOL at UN --Editorial - NYPOST.com
"The UN Security Council convened an emergency session yesterday to draft sanctions against Libyan mad- dog Moammar Khadafy.
But as the UN struggled to put out the fires in the Mideast, America's top UN rep was nowhere to be found.
In fact, US Ambassador Susan Rice was 8,000 miles away from UN headquarters, taking tea in South Africa with fellow diplonuts.
South Africa?
What the hell?
Rice flew to sunny Cape Town this week for a 'global sustainability' conference to discuss carbon emissions and green economies in the Third World."
"The UN Security Council convened an emergency session yesterday to draft sanctions against Libyan mad- dog Moammar Khadafy.
But as the UN struggled to put out the fires in the Mideast, America's top UN rep was nowhere to be found.
In fact, US Ambassador Susan Rice was 8,000 miles away from UN headquarters, taking tea in South Africa with fellow diplonuts.
South Africa?
What the hell?
Rice flew to sunny Cape Town this week for a 'global sustainability' conference to discuss carbon emissions and green economies in the Third World."
FUN FACT
Instapundit » Blog Archive »
"FUN FACT:
Rep. Michael Capuano, recently seen calling for union protesters to “get a little bloody,” has a wife whose maiden name is “Teebagy.”"
"FUN FACT:
Rep. Michael Capuano, recently seen calling for union protesters to “get a little bloody,” has a wife whose maiden name is “Teebagy.”"
Friday, February 25, 2011
Old Coca Cola sign causes flap in San Francisco
My Way News - Old Coca Cola sign causes flap in San Francisco
"It's been this way for 20 years, so I guess it is part of the neighborhood,' the 64-year-old Modolo told the San Francisco Chronicle.
But city planners came out to inspect the sign after receiving a complaint last month and deemed it illegal. Modolo was told he could face a daily fine of $100 until it was removed.
The identity of the person who filed the complaint has been redacted from city records."
The tyranny of the minority!
"It's been this way for 20 years, so I guess it is part of the neighborhood,' the 64-year-old Modolo told the San Francisco Chronicle.
But city planners came out to inspect the sign after receiving a complaint last month and deemed it illegal. Modolo was told he could face a daily fine of $100 until it was removed.
The identity of the person who filed the complaint has been redacted from city records."
The tyranny of the minority!
Elephant has sex with a car
Elephant has sex with a car The Sun News:
"THIS horny Dumbo mounted a car he mistook for a mate leaving the passengers inside with a jumbo-sized problem."
"THIS horny Dumbo mounted a car he mistook for a mate leaving the passengers inside with a jumbo-sized problem."
Michigan Taxpayers Alliance
Michigan Taxpayers Alliance
"But one group is actually becoming richer in Michigan: government employees.
State and local government employee compensation increased by 5.5% during the same period, and federal employee compensation is up by 7.5%.
And the good times will keep rolling for state government bureaucrats who are scheduled to receive a nice 3% pay increase this year unless two-thirds of state lawmakers vote to halt the pay hike."
"But one group is actually becoming richer in Michigan: government employees.
State and local government employee compensation increased by 5.5% during the same period, and federal employee compensation is up by 7.5%.
And the good times will keep rolling for state government bureaucrats who are scheduled to receive a nice 3% pay increase this year unless two-thirds of state lawmakers vote to halt the pay hike."
Texas demographer: 'It's basically over for Anglos'
Texas demographer: 'It's basically over for Anglos' Texas Politics Chron.com - Houston Chronicle
"The state's future looks bleak assuming the current trend line does not change because education and income levels for Hispanics lag considerably behind Anglos, he said.
Unless the trend line changes, 30 percent of the state's labor force will not have even a high school diploma by 2040, he said.
And the average household income will be about $6,500 lower than it was in 2000.
That figure is not inflation adjusted so it will be worse than what it sounds.
'It's a terrible situation that you are in. I am worried,' Murdock said"
"The state's future looks bleak assuming the current trend line does not change because education and income levels for Hispanics lag considerably behind Anglos, he said.
Unless the trend line changes, 30 percent of the state's labor force will not have even a high school diploma by 2040, he said.
And the average household income will be about $6,500 lower than it was in 2000.
That figure is not inflation adjusted so it will be worse than what it sounds.
'It's a terrible situation that you are in. I am worried,' Murdock said"
Thursday, February 24, 2011
Evan Emory case sparks anonymous group to 'consider' recall campaign against Tony Tague
Evan Emory case sparks anonymous group to 'consider' recall campaign against Tony Tague MLive.com
"The anonymous news release said the group “may be on the verge of moving forward with a campaign” based on positive response to its Facebook page and “some e-mails sent out.”"
"The anonymous news release said the group “may be on the verge of moving forward with a campaign” based on positive response to its Facebook page and “some e-mails sent out.”"
Fleebaggers – The New Cut-and-Run Democrats Commentary
Malkin: Fleebaggers – The New Cut-and-Run Democrats Commentary
"Scores of Fleebagger Democrats are now in hiding in neighboring Illinois, the nation's sanctuary for political crooks and corruptocrats."
"Scores of Fleebagger Democrats are now in hiding in neighboring Illinois, the nation's sanctuary for political crooks and corruptocrats."
Wednesday, February 23, 2011
Mitch Daniels | declines support GOP right-to-work bill
Mitch Daniels declines support GOP right-to-work bill Wisconsin protests The Daily Caller - Breaking News, Opinion, Research, and Entertainment
"Indiana Republican Gov. Mitch Daniels declined Tuesday to support a GOP-pushed right-to-work bill that had led House Democrats to flee the state to avoid a possible vote on the bill.
“I don’t attempt to dictate the agenda.
I’m not in position to, really, of a separate and free-standing superior branch of government,”
Daniels told reporters in an afternoon press conference.
“For reasons I’ve explained more than once, I think there was a better time and place to have this very important and legitimate issue raised.”"
END OF PRESIDENTIAL HOPES!
"Indiana Republican Gov. Mitch Daniels declined Tuesday to support a GOP-pushed right-to-work bill that had led House Democrats to flee the state to avoid a possible vote on the bill.
“I don’t attempt to dictate the agenda.
I’m not in position to, really, of a separate and free-standing superior branch of government,”
Daniels told reporters in an afternoon press conference.
“For reasons I’ve explained more than once, I think there was a better time and place to have this very important and legitimate issue raised.”"
END OF PRESIDENTIAL HOPES!
We don't need fewer Muskegon County commissioners
Letters: We don't need fewer Muskegon County commissioners MLive.com
Redistricting, reapportionment, gerrymandering.
Whatever you call it, in Muskegon County, it really means that the Muskegon Democratic Party controls which county commission district you will live in for the next 10 years.
The commission consists of Democratic Treasurer Tony Moulatsiotis (chairman), County Clerk Nancy Waters, Prosecutor Tony Tague and Democratic Party boss Steve Keglovitz.
The lone Republican, GOP chair Christina Achterhoff makes it 4 to 1 Democrats over Republicans on the board.
The voters gave the Democrats the votes and the power to redraw district lines in any manner they choose.
But this commission isn’t only about gerrymandering your district for purely partisan purposes.
They will also consider reducing the number of commissioners from the current 11 down to 9 or even 7.
You might ask the Democrats why 7 or 9 is a better number than 11.
So far they haven’t offered a reason.
Although there is talk that the reduced number of commissioners would quietly split the current group’s total pay by the new, smaller number, thereby giving themselves a stealth pay increase.
I think that the reduction is a terrible idea for additional reasons. The most obvious reason is it would effectively disenfranchise every voter in the county. With fewer representatives, your vote and voice is worth less.
And their power increases.
County regions will lose a voice concerning issues specific to their areas.
Some commissioners currently have as many as five municipalities within their districts.
Fewer commissioners will mean an increase in the different cities and townships they must represent. It will make connecting with their residents more difficult.
And it will surely make it harder for those residents to communicate and connect with their commissioner.
Fewer commissioners will require increased workloads for the remaining commissioners. The increased workload of this part-time job would make it less attractive to new candidates.
Or the work would simply not get done.
It likely could eliminate full-time workers from the candidate pool with only the lazy, independently wealthy or retired able to find the time to adequately do what would become a far more challenging job.
Do we really want to put in place a policy that restricts the pool of possible candidates and effectively eliminates the citizen legislator?
Finally, as a friend in the restaurant business told me, “If I reduce the number of servers in my restaurant, my customers will have worse service.”
Well, duh!
We the people of Muskegon will suffer the same reduction in service if we allow the Democrat controlled board to shrink our representation.
Call your county commissioner and the redistricting board members and tell them we need greater representation, not less.
Before it’s too late!
Redistricting, reapportionment, gerrymandering.
Whatever you call it, in Muskegon County, it really means that the Muskegon Democratic Party controls which county commission district you will live in for the next 10 years.
The commission consists of Democratic Treasurer Tony Moulatsiotis (chairman), County Clerk Nancy Waters, Prosecutor Tony Tague and Democratic Party boss Steve Keglovitz.
The lone Republican, GOP chair Christina Achterhoff makes it 4 to 1 Democrats over Republicans on the board.
The voters gave the Democrats the votes and the power to redraw district lines in any manner they choose.
But this commission isn’t only about gerrymandering your district for purely partisan purposes.
They will also consider reducing the number of commissioners from the current 11 down to 9 or even 7.
You might ask the Democrats why 7 or 9 is a better number than 11.
So far they haven’t offered a reason.
Although there is talk that the reduced number of commissioners would quietly split the current group’s total pay by the new, smaller number, thereby giving themselves a stealth pay increase.
I think that the reduction is a terrible idea for additional reasons. The most obvious reason is it would effectively disenfranchise every voter in the county. With fewer representatives, your vote and voice is worth less.
And their power increases.
County regions will lose a voice concerning issues specific to their areas.
Some commissioners currently have as many as five municipalities within their districts.
Fewer commissioners will mean an increase in the different cities and townships they must represent. It will make connecting with their residents more difficult.
And it will surely make it harder for those residents to communicate and connect with their commissioner.
Fewer commissioners will require increased workloads for the remaining commissioners. The increased workload of this part-time job would make it less attractive to new candidates.
Or the work would simply not get done.
It likely could eliminate full-time workers from the candidate pool with only the lazy, independently wealthy or retired able to find the time to adequately do what would become a far more challenging job.
Do we really want to put in place a policy that restricts the pool of possible candidates and effectively eliminates the citizen legislator?
Finally, as a friend in the restaurant business told me, “If I reduce the number of servers in my restaurant, my customers will have worse service.”
Well, duh!
We the people of Muskegon will suffer the same reduction in service if we allow the Democrat controlled board to shrink our representation.
Call your county commissioner and the redistricting board members and tell them we need greater representation, not less.
Before it’s too late!
We don't need fewer Muskegon County commissioners | MLive.com
Letters: We don't need fewer Muskegon County commissioners
Finally, as a friend in the restaurant business told me, “If I reduce the number of servers in my restaurant, my customers will have worse service.”"
Finally, as a friend in the restaurant business told me, “If I reduce the number of servers in my restaurant, my customers will have worse service.”"
Shakeup in First Lady's fashion shop
American Thinker Blog: Shakeup in First Lady's fashion shop
"Nancy Reagan had a relationship with designers similar to Michele Obama's friendship with Goldman.
The payoff for the designer was not in getting a taxpayer funded paycheck, but in seeing their designs worn by a highly visible celebrity."
"Nancy Reagan had a relationship with designers similar to Michele Obama's friendship with Goldman.
The payoff for the designer was not in getting a taxpayer funded paycheck, but in seeing their designs worn by a highly visible celebrity."
Tuesday, February 22, 2011
Federal Improper Payments Continue to Increase
Federal Improper Payments Continue to Increase Mercatus
"According to the 2010 Financial Report of the United States Government, $ 2.3 billion in outlays were reviewed by federal executive branch entities for improper payments last year; 5.5% of these payments, or $125.4 billion were found to be improper.
This represents an increase of $16.2 billion from the fiscal year 2009 estimate of $109.2 billion."
"According to the 2010 Financial Report of the United States Government, $ 2.3 billion in outlays were reviewed by federal executive branch entities for improper payments last year; 5.5% of these payments, or $125.4 billion were found to be improper.
This represents an increase of $16.2 billion from the fiscal year 2009 estimate of $109.2 billion."
Chris Christie trimming down for 2012?
Chris Christie trimming down for 2012? - NATASHA LENNARD POLITICO CLICK
"'Slowly but surely I'm taking the weight off,' Christie told the AP late last week, explaining that in the past 10 months he has been working out with a trainer and watching what he eats."
"'Slowly but surely I'm taking the weight off,' Christie told the AP late last week, explaining that in the past 10 months he has been working out with a trainer and watching what he eats."
Arvada Police arrest 11-year-old over 'inappropriate' stick figure drawing
Arvada Police arrest 11-year-old over 'inappropriate' stick figure drawing - KDVR
"An 11-year-old Arvada boy was arrested and hauled away in handcuffs for drawing stick figures in school, something his therapist told him to do."
"An 11-year-old Arvada boy was arrested and hauled away in handcuffs for drawing stick figures in school, something his therapist told him to do."
Eleven cities hit new lows in home prices in December
Eleven cities hit new lows in home prices in December Money & Company Los Angeles Times
"Those cities were Atlanta; Charlotte, N.C.; Chicago; Detroit; Las Vegas; Miami; New York; Phoenix; Portland, Ore.; Seattle and Tampa, Fla.
Nine of those cities had posted lows with November's report as well -- New York and Phoenix are the new members of this group."
"Those cities were Atlanta; Charlotte, N.C.; Chicago; Detroit; Las Vegas; Miami; New York; Phoenix; Portland, Ore.; Seattle and Tampa, Fla.
Nine of those cities had posted lows with November's report as well -- New York and Phoenix are the new members of this group."
Two-Thirds of Wisconsin Public-School 8th Graders Can’t Read Proficiently—Despite Highest Per Pupil Spending in Midwest | CNSnews.com
Two-Thirds of Wisconsin Public-School 8th Graders Can’t Read Proficiently—Despite Highest Per Pupil Spending in Midwest
"only 32 percent of Wisconsin public-school eighth graders earned a “proficient” rating while another 2 percent earned an “advanced” rating.
The other 66 percent of Wisconsin public-school eighth graders earned ratings below “proficient,” including 44 percent who earned a rating of “basic” and 22 percent who earned a rating of “below basic"
"only 32 percent of Wisconsin public-school eighth graders earned a “proficient” rating while another 2 percent earned an “advanced” rating.
The other 66 percent of Wisconsin public-school eighth graders earned ratings below “proficient,” including 44 percent who earned a rating of “basic” and 22 percent who earned a rating of “below basic"
No Line Item: Obama's Budget Obscures Funding for Health Care Implementation
No Line Item: Obama's Budget Obscures Funding for Health Care Implementation CNSnews.com
"Republicans suspect a dodge to make it harder for them to track the money as they strategize over how to block the law by shutting off the spigot of federal funds."
"Republicans suspect a dodge to make it harder for them to track the money as they strategize over how to block the law by shutting off the spigot of federal funds."
4 Americans on hijacked yacht dead off Somalia
4 Americans on hijacked yacht dead off Somalia - CBS News
"Scott and Jane Adam documented their maritime missionary work on their website, S/V Quest Adventure Log." http://www.svquest.com/
"Scott and Jane Adam documented their maritime missionary work on their website, S/V Quest Adventure Log." http://www.svquest.com/
Michigan orders DPS to make huge cuts
Michigan orders DPS to make huge cuts detnews.com The Detroit News
"State education officials have ordered Robert Bobb to immediately implement a financial restructuring plan that balances the district's books by closing half of its schools, swelling high school class sizes to 60 students and consolidating operations"
"State education officials have ordered Robert Bobb to immediately implement a financial restructuring plan that balances the district's books by closing half of its schools, swelling high school class sizes to 60 students and consolidating operations"
Monday, February 21, 2011
Lake Shore Drive - Aliotta Haynes Jeremiah
Another Chicago anthem of old...enjoy!
(watch this one to the end)
Owner of car damaged in U.S. 131 pileup doesn't like towing bill, smashes up wrecker business with bat
Owner of car damaged in U.S. 131 pileup doesn't like towing bill, smashes up wrecker business with bat MLive.com
"She then grabbed a baseball bat mounted on a wall and started smashing items, including three windows, a computer, fax machine, coffee pot, and a video surveillance monitor, he said.
She threw a 30-pound auto part at an employee and twice knocked a phone from his hand as he tried to call 911, Weeks said.
'She went off on a nut,' said Weeks.
'After she got done smashing everything, they took off.'"
For us old Chicago parkers, the Lincoln Park Pirates:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=389Rk1jzPMk
"She then grabbed a baseball bat mounted on a wall and started smashing items, including three windows, a computer, fax machine, coffee pot, and a video surveillance monitor, he said.
She threw a 30-pound auto part at an employee and twice knocked a phone from his hand as he tried to call 911, Weeks said.
'She went off on a nut,' said Weeks.
'After she got done smashing everything, they took off.'"
For us old Chicago parkers, the Lincoln Park Pirates:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=389Rk1jzPMk
Compass shift means changes for pilots, boaters, campers
Compass shift means changes for pilots, boaters, campers - South Florida Sun-Sentinel.com
"Magnetic north, the point at the top of the Earth that determines compass headings, is shifting its position at a rate of about 40 miles per year.
In geologic terms, it's racing from the Arctic Ocean near Canada toward Russia."
More "proof" of global warming.......heh.....
"Magnetic north, the point at the top of the Earth that determines compass headings, is shifting its position at a rate of about 40 miles per year.
In geologic terms, it's racing from the Arctic Ocean near Canada toward Russia."
More "proof" of global warming.......heh.....
Binding arbitration means budget maladministration
NT TAKE — Binding arbitration means budget maladministration - Holland, MI - The Holland Sentinel
"Binding arbitration gives the arbitrator the power to restructure an entire city’s priorities or agenda.
The fund marked for a city park expansion?
Now that money will pay firefighter pensions.
The dollars the city was saving to add a children’s literacy program to the library?
Now that funds increased police vacation time.
If there isn’t a fund that can be reallocated or a budget item that can be redirected to pay for an arbitrator’s binding decision, city officials are left with only one decision to make:
Either lay off police and fire or raise taxes.
According to the State Fire Marshall, there are 2,315 fewer police officers and 2,000 fewer firefighters in Michigan than there were in 2001.
Yet costs to municipalities have risen significantly."
"Binding arbitration gives the arbitrator the power to restructure an entire city’s priorities or agenda.
The fund marked for a city park expansion?
Now that money will pay firefighter pensions.
The dollars the city was saving to add a children’s literacy program to the library?
Now that funds increased police vacation time.
If there isn’t a fund that can be reallocated or a budget item that can be redirected to pay for an arbitrator’s binding decision, city officials are left with only one decision to make:
Either lay off police and fire or raise taxes.
According to the State Fire Marshall, there are 2,315 fewer police officers and 2,000 fewer firefighters in Michigan than there were in 2001.
Yet costs to municipalities have risen significantly."
Government Worker Unions: The Long Good-bye
American Thinker: Government Worker Unions: The Long Good-bye
"The 'Madison Uprising' is the beginning of the end of the incestuous relationship between government and the unions."
"The 'Madison Uprising' is the beginning of the end of the incestuous relationship between government and the unions."
Decentralizing the Internet So Big Brother Can’t Find You
Eben Moglen Is Reshaping Internet With a Freedom Box - NYTimes.com
"putting together a shopping list to rebuild the Internet — this time, without governments and big companies able to watch every twitch of our fingers.
The list begins with “cheap, small, low-power plug servers,” Mr. Moglen said.
“A small device the size of a cellphone charger, running on a low-power chip.
You plug it into the wall and forget about it.”"
"putting together a shopping list to rebuild the Internet — this time, without governments and big companies able to watch every twitch of our fingers.
The list begins with “cheap, small, low-power plug servers,” Mr. Moglen said.
“A small device the size of a cellphone charger, running on a low-power chip.
You plug it into the wall and forget about it.”"
It's Time to Do the Big Things
AEI - It's Time to Do the Big Things
"It's Time to Do the Big Things
An Address by New Jersey Governor Chris Christie"
"It's Time to Do the Big Things
An Address by New Jersey Governor Chris Christie"
Sunday, February 20, 2011
MADISON CITY WORKERS supporting anti-Governor protests while on the job
Instapundit » Blog Archive » MADISON CITY WORKERS supporting anti-Governor protests while on the job
MADISON CITY WORKERS supporting anti-Governor protests while on the job:
“Obviously, we taxpayers pay for the salt trucks and the employees who drive them and we expect those trucks to be used to make the streets all over town safe, not to circle the Capitol Square for other purposes.”
Well, that’s what you think.
Actually, they take your money — to which they’re just entitled — and then they do whatever they want with it, and you’re not supposed to ask any stinkin’ questions.
This is D-Day.
Omaha Beach with the rangers climbing the cliffs.
We win or lose the war with this battle.
God speed Governor Walker!
MADISON CITY WORKERS supporting anti-Governor protests while on the job:
“Obviously, we taxpayers pay for the salt trucks and the employees who drive them and we expect those trucks to be used to make the streets all over town safe, not to circle the Capitol Square for other purposes.”
Well, that’s what you think.
Actually, they take your money — to which they’re just entitled — and then they do whatever they want with it, and you’re not supposed to ask any stinkin’ questions.
This is D-Day.
Omaha Beach with the rangers climbing the cliffs.
We win or lose the war with this battle.
God speed Governor Walker!
Saturday, February 19, 2011
"The process of collective bargaining, as usually understood, cannot be transplanted into the public service."
Althouse: "The process of collective bargaining, as usually understood, cannot be transplanted into the public service."
"'The process of collective bargaining, as usually understood, cannot be transplanted into the public service.'
FDR wrote in 1937, quoted by Real Clear Politics:
Yes, public workers may demand fair treatment, wrote Roosevelt.
But, he wrote,
'I want to emphasize my conviction that militant tactics have no place' in the public sector.
'A strike of public employees manifests nothing less than an intent on their part to prevent or obstruct the operations of Government.'"
"'The process of collective bargaining, as usually understood, cannot be transplanted into the public service.'
FDR wrote in 1937, quoted by Real Clear Politics:
Yes, public workers may demand fair treatment, wrote Roosevelt.
But, he wrote,
'I want to emphasize my conviction that militant tactics have no place' in the public sector.
'A strike of public employees manifests nothing less than an intent on their part to prevent or obstruct the operations of Government.'"
IRS Would Add 5,000 Employees Under Obama’s Budget Proposal
IRS Would Add 5,000 Employees Under Obama’s Budget Proposal - Bloomberg
"President Barack Obama proposed increasing the budget for the Internal Revenue Service by 9.4 percent to hire more than 5,000 new employees,"
"President Barack Obama proposed increasing the budget for the Internal Revenue Service by 9.4 percent to hire more than 5,000 new employees,"
Friday, February 18, 2011
Dallas Mavericks owner Mark Cuban creates company to challenge BCS system
Dallas Mavericks owner Mark Cuban creates company to challenge BCS system - ESPN Dallas
"Cuban's basic idea is to keep the bowl system but make it more profitable for programs to qualify for his playoffs than to participate in a bowl.
'Put $500 million in the bank and go to all the schools and pay them money as an option,' Cuban told ESPNDallas.com in December.
'Say, 'Look, I'm going to give you X amount every five years.
In exchange, you say if you're picked for the playoff system, you'll go.''"
"Cuban's basic idea is to keep the bowl system but make it more profitable for programs to qualify for his playoffs than to participate in a bowl.
'Put $500 million in the bank and go to all the schools and pay them money as an option,' Cuban told ESPNDallas.com in December.
'Say, 'Look, I'm going to give you X amount every five years.
In exchange, you say if you're picked for the playoff system, you'll go.''"
Lyrics from Evan Emory video include graphic adult content | MLive.com
Below are some of the "lyrics" from the viral video that may send this idiot to prison.
I don't know if he needs prison.
I do know he needs some help.
And we need some protection from this pre-monster.
Lyrics from Evan Emory video include graphic adult content MLive.com
“See how long it takes to make your panties mine”
(wide shot of the children)
“I'll add some foreplay in just to make it fun”
(close up of girl laughing)
“I want you to suck on my testes until I spurt in your face”
(close up of girl covering her mouth)
“I'll lick on your chewie”
(close up of two girls covering their mouths)
“I want to stick my index finger in your anus”
(close up of boy making a shocked face)
“I'll be the bus riding your ass up and down my town”
(close up of boy with grossed-out look on his face)
“I'm gonna use my sausage to make fettucine, then for dessert have a Harry Houdini”
(close up of girl laughing and rocking)
I don't know if he needs prison.
I do know he needs some help.
And we need some protection from this pre-monster.
Lyrics from Evan Emory video include graphic adult content MLive.com
“See how long it takes to make your panties mine”
(wide shot of the children)
“I'll add some foreplay in just to make it fun”
(close up of girl laughing)
“I want you to suck on my testes until I spurt in your face”
(close up of girl covering her mouth)
“I'll lick on your chewie”
(close up of two girls covering their mouths)
“I want to stick my index finger in your anus”
(close up of boy making a shocked face)
“I'll be the bus riding your ass up and down my town”
(close up of boy with grossed-out look on his face)
“I'm gonna use my sausage to make fettucine, then for dessert have a Harry Houdini”
(close up of girl laughing and rocking)
8-Year-Old Suspended From School for Jesus Drawing
8-Year-Old Suspended From School for Jesus Drawing
"Taunton, Massachusetts, public school officials suspended a second grader for drawing a stick figure of Jesus on the cross after his teacher instructed the class to draw an image that reminded them of Christmas.
The eight-year-old special needs boy was then required to undergo violence counseling before officials allowed him to return to school."
"Taunton, Massachusetts, public school officials suspended a second grader for drawing a stick figure of Jesus on the cross after his teacher instructed the class to draw an image that reminded them of Christmas.
The eight-year-old special needs boy was then required to undergo violence counseling before officials allowed him to return to school."
Benefits in Balance
Benefits in Balance, James Hohman, Public-Sector Fringe Benefits [Michigan Capitol Confidential]
"...examine what happens when workers switch jobs from the private to the public sector.
Available data show that, on average, a worker who leaves a private-sector job on Tuesday finds himself making 8 to 28 percent more if he starts working for the government on Thursday, although it's unlikely his education and skill levels leapt that much on Wednesday.
Moreover, the extra pay premium probably increases the longer he remains on the public’s dime."
"...examine what happens when workers switch jobs from the private to the public sector.
Available data show that, on average, a worker who leaves a private-sector job on Tuesday finds himself making 8 to 28 percent more if he starts working for the government on Thursday, although it's unlikely his education and skill levels leapt that much on Wednesday.
Moreover, the extra pay premium probably increases the longer he remains on the public’s dime."
Thursday, February 17, 2011
$300K Combined Salaries for Granholm and Mulhern at Cal-Berkeley
$300K Combined Salaries for Granholm and Mulhern at Cal-Berkeley [Michigan Capitol Confidential]
"Former Michigan Gov. Jennifer Granholm and her husband will each teach two classes at the University of California-Berkeley in 2011 as part of a combined $300,000 deal, according to documents released by the school in response to a Michigan Capitol Confidential freedom of information request."
"Former Michigan Gov. Jennifer Granholm and her husband will each teach two classes at the University of California-Berkeley in 2011 as part of a combined $300,000 deal, according to documents released by the school in response to a Michigan Capitol Confidential freedom of information request."
Budget Battle: Democrats Who Left State are Located
Budget Battle: Democrats Who Left State are Located Today's TMJ4 - Milwaukee,
"Democratic State Senators who protested the budget repair bill by leaving the state have been found.
The lawmakers are in the Best Western Clock Tower Resort in Rockford Illinois."
"Democratic State Senators who protested the budget repair bill by leaving the state have been found.
The lawmakers are in the Best Western Clock Tower Resort in Rockford Illinois."
CBS complicit in news coverup
CBS complicit in news coverup - BostonHerald.com
"The sexual assault of a woman in the middle of a public square is a story . . . particularly because the crowd in Tahrir Square was almost invariably characterized as friendly and out for nothing but democracy,” Cohen wrote.
Watching the same complicit media we all saw, Cohen notes most journalists covered the mobs “as if they were reporting from Times Square on New Year’s Eve, stopping only at putting on a party hat.”"
"The sexual assault of a woman in the middle of a public square is a story . . . particularly because the crowd in Tahrir Square was almost invariably characterized as friendly and out for nothing but democracy,” Cohen wrote.
Watching the same complicit media we all saw, Cohen notes most journalists covered the mobs “as if they were reporting from Times Square on New Year’s Eve, stopping only at putting on a party hat.”"
Biggest Solar Flare In Years Headed For Earth
Biggest Solar Flare In Years Headed For Earth « CBS Los Angeles
"scientists have pointed out the sun is now ramping up ahead of an expected solar maximum around 2013"
"scientists have pointed out the sun is now ramping up ahead of an expected solar maximum around 2013"
Dude - where's my cut? Rick Snyder reinvents kicking the can down the road
theblogprof: Dude - where's my cut? Rick Snyder reinvents kicking the can down the road
"The $47 billion proposal includes $1.2 billion in permanent spending cuts...
How is the budget GETTING BIGGER?
It's like no matter who's in charge, it just grows and grows"
"The $47 billion proposal includes $1.2 billion in permanent spending cuts...
How is the budget GETTING BIGGER?
It's like no matter who's in charge, it just grows and grows"
Tuesday, February 15, 2011
‘Sheriff Joe’ Arpaio Leads in Arizona Poll for Senate Race
‘Sheriff Joe’ Arpaio Leads in Arizona Poll for Senate Race : Roll Call
"Maricopa County Sheriff Joe Arpaio led a field of potential Republican Senate candidates in Arizona with 21 percent in a poll of likely GOP primary voters last week"
My golly...who'd of guessed?
"Maricopa County Sheriff Joe Arpaio led a field of potential Republican Senate candidates in Arizona with 21 percent in a poll of likely GOP primary voters last week"
My golly...who'd of guessed?
New posts at MuskegonTaxpayersAlliance
Lots of new posts at MuskegonTaxpayers!
Laptop-mania.
Best-Buy or our county clerk's office
Nifty listing of county commissioner's phone numbers and home addresses
http://muskegontaxpayers.blogspot.com/
Laptop-mania.
Best-Buy or our county clerk's office
Nifty listing of county commissioner's phone numbers and home addresses
http://muskegontaxpayers.blogspot.com/
The Cesspool Obama and I Crawled Out Of
American Thinker: The Cesspool Obama and I Crawled Out Of
"Claire and I got out. I wish Michelle and Barack hadn't."
This is long but well worth the read.
WELL WORTH the read.
"Claire and I got out. I wish Michelle and Barack hadn't."
This is long but well worth the read.
WELL WORTH the read.
"'No more, you are killing us'
Barbara Bush: 'No more, you are killing us'
"Such low verbal and literacy scores makes it even more unbelievable that, just this past week, some of our state's educational administrators joined the feds in seeking to mandate Arabic classes for Texas children.
No joke!
The Arabic studies program, funded by a five-year, $1.3 million Foreign Language Assistance Program federal grant, was to begin this semester at Cross Timbers Intermediate School in Mansfield School District, then spread to neighboring Davis Elementary and Howard Middle schools in the fall and to Summit High School by fall 2012."
"Such low verbal and literacy scores makes it even more unbelievable that, just this past week, some of our state's educational administrators joined the feds in seeking to mandate Arabic classes for Texas children.
No joke!
The Arabic studies program, funded by a five-year, $1.3 million Foreign Language Assistance Program federal grant, was to begin this semester at Cross Timbers Intermediate School in Mansfield School District, then spread to neighboring Davis Elementary and Howard Middle schools in the fall and to Summit High School by fall 2012."
A Tipping Point Is Nearing
American Thinker: A Tipping Point Is Nearing
"We are facing a tipping point.
There will soon be a crisis affecting US citizens beyond any experienced since the Great Depression.
And it may happen within the year."
"We are facing a tipping point.
There will soon be a crisis affecting US citizens beyond any experienced since the Great Depression.
And it may happen within the year."
Public-Worker Unions Steel for Budget Fights
Public-Worker Unions Steel for Budget Fights - WSJ.com
"In the 2010 midterm elections, public-sector unions contributed $20.5 million to federal candidates, parties and outside groups, up from $19.1 million in the 2008 election cycle, according to the Center for Responsive Politics.
The share of contributions to Democrats rose to 92% in 2010 from 89% in 2008."
"In the 2010 midterm elections, public-sector unions contributed $20.5 million to federal candidates, parties and outside groups, up from $19.1 million in the 2008 election cycle, according to the Center for Responsive Politics.
The share of contributions to Democrats rose to 92% in 2010 from 89% in 2008."
Consumer Prices on Most Goods Expected to Rise in 2011
Consumer Prices on Most Goods Expected to Rise in 2011 - NYTimes.com
"For consumers, higher prices in stores means there will be a little less extra cash to spend.
For companies, profits may be squeezed, making them a little less likely to invest in equipment or to hire aggressively."
"For consumers, higher prices in stores means there will be a little less extra cash to spend.
For companies, profits may be squeezed, making them a little less likely to invest in equipment or to hire aggressively."
Monday, February 14, 2011
Snowshoe at Hoffmaster
Snowshoe at Hoffmaster MLive.com
"Guides will be conducting snowshoe hikes 10:30 a.m. this Saturday and next at Hoffmaster State Park, 6585 Lake Harbor.
There's also a special moonlight hike planned for 7 p.m. Friday.
Preregistration is required by calling 798-3573.
Those who don`t have snowshoes can reserve a pair for a small fee.
If there is less than 6 inches of snow, the guide will lead participants on a winter exploration of the park."
"Guides will be conducting snowshoe hikes 10:30 a.m. this Saturday and next at Hoffmaster State Park, 6585 Lake Harbor.
There's also a special moonlight hike planned for 7 p.m. Friday.
Preregistration is required by calling 798-3573.
Those who don`t have snowshoes can reserve a pair for a small fee.
If there is less than 6 inches of snow, the guide will lead participants on a winter exploration of the park."
GM hourly workers get as much as 50% bonuses
News from The Associated Press
"GM's 28,000 salaried workers, such as engineers and managers, will get bonuses equal to 4 to 16 percent of their base pay.
Fewer than 1 percent will get 50 percent or more;
another 3 percent will get from 16 percent to around 50 percent, the person said."
"GM's 28,000 salaried workers, such as engineers and managers, will get bonuses equal to 4 to 16 percent of their base pay.
Fewer than 1 percent will get 50 percent or more;
another 3 percent will get from 16 percent to around 50 percent, the person said."
West Bloomfield Tackles Costs With Aggressive Privatization Strategy
West Bloomfield Tackles Costs With Aggressive Privatization Strategy [Michigan Capitol Confidential]
"The township recently saw its annual janitorial bill go from $43,000 to $18,900 through a competitive bid process.
That 56 percent reduction came after dropping the private contractor that had been doing the service and hiring another one."
"The township recently saw its annual janitorial bill go from $43,000 to $18,900 through a competitive bid process.
That 56 percent reduction came after dropping the private contractor that had been doing the service and hiring another one."
Obama team's intel breakdown
Obama team's intel breakdown--Michael A. Walsh - NYPOST.com
"No matter how things shake out in Egypt, one thing has become depressingly clear:
Something is very wrong with the American intelligence services."
"No matter how things shake out in Egypt, one thing has become depressingly clear:
Something is very wrong with the American intelligence services."
Sunday, February 13, 2011
Shocker: Americans worry about unemployment
We're in Jimmy Carter's 2nd term.
You MUST click the photo!
Man lured by sex gets beaten, robbed
Not the story I expected.
I thought it was just a run of the mill story about marriage.....
"defriended"!
Wow!
My county commissioner "defriended" me on Facebook.
I openly criticized the entire commission for voting on spending items without reading them.
I guess that's offensive to my representative.
Isn't it kinda "13-year-old-girl-hissy-fit-ish"?
The skin is thin for those used to slavish adulation, isn't it.
House Republicans unveil new bill to ban resurrection of Fairness Doctrine
House Republicans unveil new bill to ban resurrection of Fairness Doctrine - The Hill's Hillicon Valley
"House Republicans have begun a new effort to make sure the Fairness Doctrine stays dead.
Rep. Mike Pence (R-Ind.) has introduced a bill to prevent the Federal Communications Commission from reviving the policy, a controversial and defunct standard that required broadcast licensees to offer 'balanced' coverage."
This is BIG!
"House Republicans have begun a new effort to make sure the Fairness Doctrine stays dead.
Rep. Mike Pence (R-Ind.) has introduced a bill to prevent the Federal Communications Commission from reviving the policy, a controversial and defunct standard that required broadcast licensees to offer 'balanced' coverage."
This is BIG!
Shame of Britain's Muslim schools: Secret filming shows pupils beaten
Shame of Britain's Muslim schools: Secret filming shows pupils beaten Mail Online
"‘You’re not like the non-Muslims out there,’ the teacher says, gesturing towards the window.
‘All that evil you see in the streets, people not wearing the hijab properly, people smoking . . . you should hate it, you should hate walking down that street.’
He refers to the ‘non-Muslims’ as the ‘Kuffar’, an often derogatory term that means disbeliever or infidel."
"‘You’re not like the non-Muslims out there,’ the teacher says, gesturing towards the window.
‘All that evil you see in the streets, people not wearing the hijab properly, people smoking . . . you should hate it, you should hate walking down that street.’
He refers to the ‘non-Muslims’ as the ‘Kuffar’, an often derogatory term that means disbeliever or infidel."
Michigan Government Ranks Top Ten for Federal Money Dependency
Michigan Government Ranks Top Ten for Federal Money Dependency [Michigan Capitol Confidential]
"Michigan’s total budget was $45.7 billion in 2009, of which $16.5 billion came from the federal government, or about 36 percent.
By comparison, in 1996 federal funding accounted for $6.2 billion, or 22.6 percent of the $27.4 billion total budget."
"Michigan’s total budget was $45.7 billion in 2009, of which $16.5 billion came from the federal government, or about 36 percent.
By comparison, in 1996 federal funding accounted for $6.2 billion, or 22.6 percent of the $27.4 billion total budget."
Saturday, February 12, 2011
Wind Energy, Renewable Energy
Wind Energy, Renewable Energy [Michigan Capitol Confidential]
"A recent article in Slate by Robert Bryce describes how Texas has more wind generator capacity than any other state — around 9,700 megawatts.
But last August, when state electricity demand set a one-day record of 63,494 megawatts, all those windmills contributed just 500 megawatts, or about 5 percent of their rated capacity."
"A recent article in Slate by Robert Bryce describes how Texas has more wind generator capacity than any other state — around 9,700 megawatts.
But last August, when state electricity demand set a one-day record of 63,494 megawatts, all those windmills contributed just 500 megawatts, or about 5 percent of their rated capacity."
Unions and America’s Ills
Unions and America’s Ills « Union Watch
Here’s what’s really happening, Mr. Hoffa:
For over 20 years, with increasing influence and with worsening effect, public employee unions have used taxpayer’s money, confiscated from public worker paychecks, to buy our politicians and control our elections.
They have used this power to “negotiate” grossly over-market rates of compensation and benefits to unionized government workers, especially at the entry and mid-level jobs, and because employee compensation is by far the largest category of government expenditures, it is breaking budgets, leading to tax increases and service cuts.
Meanwhile, public employee unions, in their insatiable demand both for more revenues to pay their over-paid members, as well as to expand their memberships, are prevailing upon politicians to expand government and expand regulations – increasing the cost of living for everyone.
This translates into cost-of-living increases for the unionized government workers, and a lower standard of living for the rest of us whose taxes support the entire corrupt mess.
At the same time, Mr. Hoffa, your public sector union pension funds are the collection agent for the overbuilt Wall Street machine you claim to abho
Here’s what’s really happening, Mr. Hoffa:
For over 20 years, with increasing influence and with worsening effect, public employee unions have used taxpayer’s money, confiscated from public worker paychecks, to buy our politicians and control our elections.
They have used this power to “negotiate” grossly over-market rates of compensation and benefits to unionized government workers, especially at the entry and mid-level jobs, and because employee compensation is by far the largest category of government expenditures, it is breaking budgets, leading to tax increases and service cuts.
Meanwhile, public employee unions, in their insatiable demand both for more revenues to pay their over-paid members, as well as to expand their memberships, are prevailing upon politicians to expand government and expand regulations – increasing the cost of living for everyone.
This translates into cost-of-living increases for the unionized government workers, and a lower standard of living for the rest of us whose taxes support the entire corrupt mess.
At the same time, Mr. Hoffa, your public sector union pension funds are the collection agent for the overbuilt Wall Street machine you claim to abho
James Clapper-Egypt Idiot
Mark Steyn James Clapper Egypt Idiot The Daily Caller - Breaking News, Opinion, Research, and Entertainment
"This guy has one of the most bloated, lavishly funded intelligence bureaucracies on the planet – the most bloated and lavishly funded and he’s an idiot.
He can’t be allowed out in public.
I mean, this is embarrassing for the superpower.”"
"This guy has one of the most bloated, lavishly funded intelligence bureaucracies on the planet – the most bloated and lavishly funded and he’s an idiot.
He can’t be allowed out in public.
I mean, this is embarrassing for the superpower.”"
Walker calls for cuts or big layoffs
Walker calls for cuts or big layoffs - JSOnline
"Gov. Scott Walker said Friday that thousands of state workers would be laid off if the Legislature does not adopt his budget fix that cuts public worker benefits and takes away almost all union bargaining rights from public workers.
A Walker aide confirmed that the benefit reductions would cost the average state worker thousands of dollars a year, or roughly 8% of his or her salary.
Walker also signaled that in a larger budget plan coming later this month he would trim aid to municipalities and let local officials deal with those cuts at least in part through savings on public employee costs."
Speaking at a Capitol news conference, the governor also said the National Guard is ready to take control of state prisons if correctional officers illegally strike or obstruct work.
Union officials said they had no such plans.
But he said the state had no money or time to bargain with unions over the benefits changes.
"I don't have anything to negotiate," Walker said.
"We are broke in this state.
We have been broke for years.
People have ignored that for years, and it's about time somebody stood up and told the truth.
The truth is: We don't have money to offer.
We don't have finances to offer.
This is what we have to offer."
"Gov. Scott Walker said Friday that thousands of state workers would be laid off if the Legislature does not adopt his budget fix that cuts public worker benefits and takes away almost all union bargaining rights from public workers.
A Walker aide confirmed that the benefit reductions would cost the average state worker thousands of dollars a year, or roughly 8% of his or her salary.
Walker also signaled that in a larger budget plan coming later this month he would trim aid to municipalities and let local officials deal with those cuts at least in part through savings on public employee costs."
Speaking at a Capitol news conference, the governor also said the National Guard is ready to take control of state prisons if correctional officers illegally strike or obstruct work.
Union officials said they had no such plans.
But he said the state had no money or time to bargain with unions over the benefits changes.
"I don't have anything to negotiate," Walker said.
"We are broke in this state.
We have been broke for years.
People have ignored that for years, and it's about time somebody stood up and told the truth.
The truth is: We don't have money to offer.
We don't have finances to offer.
This is what we have to offer."
OUT OF CONTROL
OUT OF CONTROL Newsradio 620 - Milwaukee, Wisconsin News, Talk, Sports, Weather Charlie Sykes
"When wages and benefits are combined, an average teacher will make $101,091 next year, said Budget Manager Deborah Wegner."
"When wages and benefits are combined, an average teacher will make $101,091 next year, said Budget Manager Deborah Wegner."
Walmart fires Layton guards for disarming shoplifter
Walmart fires Layton guards for disarming shoplifter The Salt Lake Tribune
"Longton stood behind assistant manager Gabriel Stewart, holding his shoulder with one hand and the gun inside his pocket with the other.
Security workers Shawn Ray and Justin Richins each grabbed Longton by an arm and spun him around. Poulsen then took the gun away from the man.
'All of it takes places within about 23 seconds from the time we got him into the office from the time we put our hands on him to get control of the situation and removed the gun,' Poulsen said.
'It was absolutely terrifying.
We didn’t know what to do, but once he didn’t leave and felt that Gabe’s life was in danger and everybody else’s ...,' Ray said.
'We thought we had done the right thing.'"
"Longton stood behind assistant manager Gabriel Stewart, holding his shoulder with one hand and the gun inside his pocket with the other.
Security workers Shawn Ray and Justin Richins each grabbed Longton by an arm and spun him around. Poulsen then took the gun away from the man.
'All of it takes places within about 23 seconds from the time we got him into the office from the time we put our hands on him to get control of the situation and removed the gun,' Poulsen said.
'It was absolutely terrifying.
We didn’t know what to do, but once he didn’t leave and felt that Gabe’s life was in danger and everybody else’s ...,' Ray said.
'We thought we had done the right thing.'"
Why you should always encrypt your smartphone
Why you should always encrypt your smartphone
"What's more, the US Supreme Court has held that police may arrest you for simple misdemeanors, such as driving without a seatbelt or having unpaid parking tickets.
While police don't typically arrest individuals for such trivial infractions, all it takes is one unlucky police encounter and you could end up behind bars.
If that happens, and your mobile phone is on your person, it may be subject to a warrantless search.
If police dig up an incriminating text message, e-mail, or errant image file on your mobile device, it might be enough to convince a judge to issue a search warrant of your property—or, worse, lead to criminal charges being filed against you."
The future?
"What's more, the US Supreme Court has held that police may arrest you for simple misdemeanors, such as driving without a seatbelt or having unpaid parking tickets.
While police don't typically arrest individuals for such trivial infractions, all it takes is one unlucky police encounter and you could end up behind bars.
If that happens, and your mobile phone is on your person, it may be subject to a warrantless search.
If police dig up an incriminating text message, e-mail, or errant image file on your mobile device, it might be enough to convince a judge to issue a search warrant of your property—or, worse, lead to criminal charges being filed against you."
The future?
Friday, February 11, 2011
In a State of Sticker Shock, Stores Try to Sell Public on a Radical Idea
In a State of Sticker Shock, Stores Try to Sell Public on a Radical Idea - WSJ.com
"Mr. Hansen of Hansen Foods dismisses the 9% figure.
'That's stupid,' he says.
But he estimates he could save 80 hours a week in labor, or about $40,000 a year, if the law changed—money he'd reinvest elsewhere in the store."
"Mr. Hansen of Hansen Foods dismisses the 9% figure.
'That's stupid,' he says.
But he estimates he could save 80 hours a week in labor, or about $40,000 a year, if the law changed—money he'd reinvest elsewhere in the store."
emailSTRIPPER
emailSTRIPPER - Print management, quotas, control, monitoring and accounting - PaperCut
"emailSTRIPPER is a free program for cleaning the '>' and other formatting characters out of your emails.
It will restore 'forwarded' or 'replied' emails back to their original state so they're easier to read."
"emailSTRIPPER is a free program for cleaning the '>' and other formatting characters out of your emails.
It will restore 'forwarded' or 'replied' emails back to their original state so they're easier to read."
John Feinstein - Michigan State Coach Tom Izzo is learning how to lose, whether he likes it or not
John Feinstein - Michigan State Coach Tom Izzo is learning how to lose, whether he likes it or not
"I'm not saying I like losing on any level.
But it probably isn't a bad thing when you start to hear that you're God or you walk on water to be reminded that you're not and you don't."
What a great human being!
This excellent article explains most of how we got to where we currently are this season.
"I'm not saying I like losing on any level.
But it probably isn't a bad thing when you start to hear that you're God or you walk on water to be reminded that you're not and you don't."
What a great human being!
This excellent article explains most of how we got to where we currently are this season.
Wind Energy, Renewable Energy
Wind Energy, Renewable Energy [Michigan Capitol Confidential]
"all those spinning turbine blades are expected to contribute just 8.7 percent of their rated capacity.
Nevertheless, Texas families are now paying $4 more for electricity every month for a network of power lines connecting those distant rural wind turbines to where most people live."
"all those spinning turbine blades are expected to contribute just 8.7 percent of their rated capacity.
Nevertheless, Texas families are now paying $4 more for electricity every month for a network of power lines connecting those distant rural wind turbines to where most people live."
Thursday, February 10, 2011
CBO Director Says Obamacare Would Reduce Employment by 800,000 Workers
CBO Director Says Obamacare Would Reduce Employment by 800,000 Workers The Weekly Standard
"Testifying today before the House Budget Committee, Congressional Budget Office (CBO) Director Doug Elmendorf confirmed that Obamacare is expected to reduce the number of jobs in the labor market by an estimated 800,000."
"Testifying today before the House Budget Committee, Congressional Budget Office (CBO) Director Doug Elmendorf confirmed that Obamacare is expected to reduce the number of jobs in the labor market by an estimated 800,000."
Muskegon Heights DE has multiple offers
Muskegon Heights DE has multiple offers
"One of the top players in Michigan for the class of 2012 will be defensive end Evan Winston of Muskegon Heights High School.
The 6-foot-4, 230-pound prospect already has several scholarship offers on the table and more are sure to come.
SpartanMag.com has the latest."
"One of the top players in Michigan for the class of 2012 will be defensive end Evan Winston of Muskegon Heights High School.
The 6-foot-4, 230-pound prospect already has several scholarship offers on the table and more are sure to come.
SpartanMag.com has the latest."
Poll: Residents say they prefer to be called Michiganders, not Michiganians
Poll: Residents say they prefer to be called Michiganders, not Michiganians MLive.com
"The result: 58 percent said Michigander with only 12 percent answering Michiganian."
"The result: 58 percent said Michigander with only 12 percent answering Michiganian."
Right to work!
Michigan Capitol Confidential
"GOP state Sen. John Proos has opened the right-to-work “can” that Gov. Rick Snyder said he would sign but would not push for as part of his agenda."
"GOP state Sen. John Proos has opened the right-to-work “can” that Gov. Rick Snyder said he would sign but would not push for as part of his agenda."
Video: Detroit denies permit to film story of 50,000 stray dogs, so filmakers puts it on YouTube, raises $7,000
theblogprof: Video: Detroit denies permit to film story of 50,000 stray dogs, so filmakers puts it on YouTube, raises $7,000
"Detroit has a stray dog problem that, just as in the case with its violence, it doesn't want to admit to.
So a filmmaker set out to shed light on the problem, and was promptly given the open palm by the ruling class in the D.
But this filmmaker with a soft spot for man's best friend didn't give up.
He put the video on YouTube and in a week he collected $7,000 in donations (content warning):"
"Detroit has a stray dog problem that, just as in the case with its violence, it doesn't want to admit to.
So a filmmaker set out to shed light on the problem, and was promptly given the open palm by the ruling class in the D.
But this filmmaker with a soft spot for man's best friend didn't give up.
He put the video on YouTube and in a week he collected $7,000 in donations (content warning):"
Wednesday, February 09, 2011
Tennessee bill would require photo ID to vote
Tennessee bill would require photo ID to vote The Tennessean tennessean.com
"Voters would be required to show photo identification before they can cast ballots under a proposal passed on to the full Senate on Tuesday."
Why, in any sane world, would this be controversial?
And why don't we have the same requirement to vote in our state?
And our country?
"Voters would be required to show photo identification before they can cast ballots under a proposal passed on to the full Senate on Tuesday."
Why, in any sane world, would this be controversial?
And why don't we have the same requirement to vote in our state?
And our country?
Cruise Critic Readers Pick Another Fight -- and Win It - Celebrity Cruises
"In Celebrity's case, within 24 hours of the new ads launching, loyal Celebrity cruisers flocked to the boards to protest the campaign, saying it was sending the wrong message. Member PartyAllDaTyme summed up what hundreds of posters were articulating.
'I believe much of the consternation on the part of Cruise Critic members stems from the mistaken belief that Celebrity intends to relax or even eliminate many of the traditional 'rules,' such as the excellent smoking policy, any semblance of a dress code for formal nights, and worse, in favor of attracting a younger, more rebellious clientele,' he wrote.
One week later, Celebrity President and CEO Dan Hanrahan held a virtual Q&A in an effort to clarify the line's aim with 'X the Rules.'
And after some careful consideration, he returned a week later and posted the following:
'I want to thank you all again for the candid dialogue and questions on the boards last week about our new ad campaign. Your feedback encouraged us to do some additional research…[and] we have decided to move away from the 'X the rules' ads.'
Read the whole story of how Celebrity loyalists 'X'ed the marketing campaign."
This is only for cruise folks but coincidentally, our last cruise ended Jan. 17, the day before this new dictate was to be enforced.
If you cruise, you MUST get familiar with Cruise Critic.
You will save lots of moolah!
And learn other cool stuff.
60% Recognize That Government Spending Has Increased Every Year Since 1954
60% Recognize That Government Spending Has Increased Every Year Since 1954 - Rasmussen Reports™
The stark reality is that despite candidates who promised lower spending and taxes winning just about every election for the past half century, total government spending has kept going up every year since Bill Haley was topping the charts with Rock Around the Clock and a young singer named Elvis Presley made his first commercial recording.
That’s the same year the very first edition of Sports Illustrated was published, the Milwaukee Braves welcomed Hank Aaron as a rookie, and the shot clock was invented for the new National Basketball Association.
The stark reality is that despite candidates who promised lower spending and taxes winning just about every election for the past half century, total government spending has kept going up every year since Bill Haley was topping the charts with Rock Around the Clock and a young singer named Elvis Presley made his first commercial recording.
That’s the same year the very first edition of Sports Illustrated was published, the Milwaukee Braves welcomed Hank Aaron as a rookie, and the shot clock was invented for the new National Basketball Association.
New posts at MuskegonTaxpayersAlliance
http://muskegontaxpayers.blogspot.com/
Big union contract voted by commissioners
Searchable database: "waive hiring freeze"
City sidewalks not cleared-even near the Frauenthal!
and more!
Big union contract voted by commissioners
Searchable database: "waive hiring freeze"
City sidewalks not cleared-even near the Frauenthal!
and more!
Apple Is Most Valuable Company on Earth: Analysts - CNBC
CNBC's Fast Money: Apple Is Most Valuable Company on Earth: Analysts - CNBC
"at least five firms have raised their 12-month forecast on the stock to an average price of $467, or a 32 percent increase from here.
At that level, Apple’s market value would total $433.7 billion, flying past Exxon Mobil’s current market value of $423.2 billion."
AMAZING!
"at least five firms have raised their 12-month forecast on the stock to an average price of $467, or a 32 percent increase from here.
At that level, Apple’s market value would total $433.7 billion, flying past Exxon Mobil’s current market value of $423.2 billion."
AMAZING!
Robot Jet Fighter Takes First Flight – Aiming for Aircraft Carriers in 2013
Robot Jet Fighter Takes First Flight – Aiming for Aircraft Carriers in 2013 (video) Singularity Hub
"It’s not a spy, nor a single-target hunter-killer, it’s a complete jet fighter.
The 60 foot wingspan, 40,000 altitude, and 2100 nautical mile flight range, not to mention 4500 lb weapon bays, speak of an aircraft that would be a high end component of the military of the future.
It will have more range (though less firepower) than the F-18 Hornets"
"It’s not a spy, nor a single-target hunter-killer, it’s a complete jet fighter.
The 60 foot wingspan, 40,000 altitude, and 2100 nautical mile flight range, not to mention 4500 lb weapon bays, speak of an aircraft that would be a high end component of the military of the future.
It will have more range (though less firepower) than the F-18 Hornets"
Tuesday, February 08, 2011
Obama’s Claim That He Did Not Raise Taxes Is Rejected As ‘Blatantly False’ by Taxpayer Watchdog
Obama’s Claim That He Did Not Raise Taxes Is Rejected As ‘Blatantly False’ by Taxpayer Watchdog CNSnews.com
"President Obama’s assertion on Sunday that he “didn’t raise taxes once” is “blatantly false,” a taxpayer watchdog group says.
Obama made the claim in his pre-Super Bowl interview with Fox News host Bill O’Reilly.
According to Americans for Tax Reform (ATR), President Obama has signed into law at least two dozen tax increases.
The first one – a federal tobacco tax hike – came just 16 days into his presidency."
The problem is that a liar who lies ALL the time eventually stops becoming news when he lies again....and again....and again.....
"President Obama’s assertion on Sunday that he “didn’t raise taxes once” is “blatantly false,” a taxpayer watchdog group says.
Obama made the claim in his pre-Super Bowl interview with Fox News host Bill O’Reilly.
According to Americans for Tax Reform (ATR), President Obama has signed into law at least two dozen tax increases.
The first one – a federal tobacco tax hike – came just 16 days into his presidency."
The problem is that a liar who lies ALL the time eventually stops becoming news when he lies again....and again....and again.....
Stabenow Blowing More Taxpayers Coerced "Government Money"
RightMichigan.com Stabenow Blowing More Taxpayers Coerced "Government Money"
"In football lingo... Michigan's Senatorial Fullback of William 'Refrigerator' Perry proportions is running the alleged 'green jobs' ball up the middle for Team Obama and his Government Motors Volt."
Too funny...and real sad that Big Deb is our senator.
"In football lingo... Michigan's Senatorial Fullback of William 'Refrigerator' Perry proportions is running the alleged 'green jobs' ball up the middle for Team Obama and his Government Motors Volt."
Too funny...and real sad that Big Deb is our senator.
After being accused of 'lying' to parents, state board looks to raise the bar for MEAP tests
After being accused of 'lying' to parents, state board looks to raise the bar for MEAP tests MLive.com
"The truth is that Michigan has been lying to its residents about how well its students have been performing,” said Amber Arellano, executive director of the Midwest office of the Education Trust, who plans to voice concern at today's meeting..
“That's created a false sense of confidence about how our children have been doing and whether they are prepared for the next level.”"
What an indictment!
Only in government could this continue for as long as it has.
"The truth is that Michigan has been lying to its residents about how well its students have been performing,” said Amber Arellano, executive director of the Midwest office of the Education Trust, who plans to voice concern at today's meeting..
“That's created a false sense of confidence about how our children have been doing and whether they are prepared for the next level.”"
What an indictment!
Only in government could this continue for as long as it has.
Hamtramck: Giving Raises and Going Bankrupt
Hamtramck: Giving Raises and Going Bankrupt [Michigan Capitol Confidential]
"The city also had eight more people on payroll in 2010 compared to 2007 and saw total payroll climb from $7.3 million in 2007 to $7.9 million in 2010, not including benefits.
While Hamtramck considered bankruptcy, it gave its union workers annual raises of 2 to 3 percent, according to Cooper"
"The city also had eight more people on payroll in 2010 compared to 2007 and saw total payroll climb from $7.3 million in 2007 to $7.9 million in 2010, not including benefits.
While Hamtramck considered bankruptcy, it gave its union workers annual raises of 2 to 3 percent, according to Cooper"
Taxpayers Send Teachers To Vegas Resort
Taxpayers Send Teachers To Vegas Resort « CBS Chicago
"The Chicago Public Schools system is suffering from a $700 million budget shortfall.
So why did some educators travel to Las Vegas just days after a travel restriction was ordered?
CBS 2′s Dave Savini and the Better Government Association investigated questionable spending of school tax dollars and how children are impacted.
Former Scammon Elementary School teacher Laura Hoffman is angry that 14 of her Chicago Public School co-workers went on an all-expense paid trip to a Las Vegas resort and spa for a conference last year."
"The Chicago Public Schools system is suffering from a $700 million budget shortfall.
So why did some educators travel to Las Vegas just days after a travel restriction was ordered?
CBS 2′s Dave Savini and the Better Government Association investigated questionable spending of school tax dollars and how children are impacted.
Former Scammon Elementary School teacher Laura Hoffman is angry that 14 of her Chicago Public School co-workers went on an all-expense paid trip to a Las Vegas resort and spa for a conference last year."
Mandatory Arabic Classes Coming To Mansfield
Mandatory Arabic Classes Coming To Mansfield « CBS Dallas / Fort Worth
"Some Students at Mansfield ISD schools could soon be learning Arabic as a required language.
The school district wants students at select schools to take Arabic language and culture classes as part of a federally funded grant.
The Foreign Language Assistance Program (FLAP) grant was awarded to Mansfield ISD last summer by the U.S. Department of Education.
As part of the five-year $1.3 Million grant, Arabic classes would be mandatory at Cross Timbers Intermediate School and Kenneth Davis Elementary School"
"Some Students at Mansfield ISD schools could soon be learning Arabic as a required language.
The school district wants students at select schools to take Arabic language and culture classes as part of a federally funded grant.
The Foreign Language Assistance Program (FLAP) grant was awarded to Mansfield ISD last summer by the U.S. Department of Education.
As part of the five-year $1.3 Million grant, Arabic classes would be mandatory at Cross Timbers Intermediate School and Kenneth Davis Elementary School"
Big Government Bozo of the Week: Newt Gingrich
Big Government Bozo of the Week: Newt Gingrich NetRight Daily
"In the 1990s, Newt Gingrich was one of the top Republicans on the scene.
He’s a possible Presidential candidate in 2012, but one might think he’s running as a Democrat because he’s supporting the concept of ethanol!"
"In the 1990s, Newt Gingrich was one of the top Republicans on the scene.
He’s a possible Presidential candidate in 2012, but one might think he’s running as a Democrat because he’s supporting the concept of ethanol!"
South Dakota GOP takes aim at 'Obamacare' with a gun bill
South Dakota GOP takes aim at 'Obamacare' with a gun bill - Washington Times
"If the government can require Americans to buy health insurance, the reasoning goes, then why can’t the same government require them to purchase something a bit higher on the conservative wish list?
That is why five GOP state legislators have introduced a bill that would require every South Dakotan age 21 or older to purchase a gun"
"If the government can require Americans to buy health insurance, the reasoning goes, then why can’t the same government require them to purchase something a bit higher on the conservative wish list?
That is why five GOP state legislators have introduced a bill that would require every South Dakotan age 21 or older to purchase a gun"
Monday, February 07, 2011
A QUICKER WAY TO IDENTIFY SKIN CANCER.
Instapundit » Blog Archive » A QUICKER WAY TO IDENTIFY SKIN CANCER.
“The device, called the Verisante Aura, is held above a mole, and uses Raman spectroscopy, a technique that distinguishes molecules using their vibrational states, to scan for those whose relative concentrations are characteristic of melanoma.
The device returns a verdict within seconds.
Following a successful small clinical trial, Verisante is now analyzing the results of another trial with 1,000 moles.”"
Honeybunch and I have lost her dad to skin cancer last year.
And we have too many friends and family who we love who are fighting the same pernicious disease today.
This sounds like a vibration of hope at the end of the tunnel.
“The device, called the Verisante Aura, is held above a mole, and uses Raman spectroscopy, a technique that distinguishes molecules using their vibrational states, to scan for those whose relative concentrations are characteristic of melanoma.
The device returns a verdict within seconds.
Following a successful small clinical trial, Verisante is now analyzing the results of another trial with 1,000 moles.”"
Honeybunch and I have lost her dad to skin cancer last year.
And we have too many friends and family who we love who are fighting the same pernicious disease today.
This sounds like a vibration of hope at the end of the tunnel.
Yes, They’re Overpaid
Yes, They’re Overpaid The Weekly Standard
The truth about federal workers’ compensation
The truth about federal workers’ compensation
How To Reform Fannie And Freddie Now Without Raising Mortgage Costs
How To Reform Fannie And Freddie Now Without Raising Mortgage Costs
"But there is an alternative approach that wouldn’t raise monthly mortgage costs — it might even lower them — yet it would induce the private sector to take on mortgage market risk while minimizing taxpayer credit risk.
On top of that, it would preserve the ability of the government to run a countercyclical housing policy to combat downturns and it would go a long way toward rationalizing the foreclosure process."
This is very interesting.
Take a moment to read and understand it.
And send it to your rep. and senator if you agree.
I already did.
"But there is an alternative approach that wouldn’t raise monthly mortgage costs — it might even lower them — yet it would induce the private sector to take on mortgage market risk while minimizing taxpayer credit risk.
On top of that, it would preserve the ability of the government to run a countercyclical housing policy to combat downturns and it would go a long way toward rationalizing the foreclosure process."
This is very interesting.
Take a moment to read and understand it.
And send it to your rep. and senator if you agree.
I already did.
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