Muskegon County officials to be sworn in Thursday; Organizational meeting to follow | MLive.com
The reciting of the oath of office for several county officials, including newcomers such as Prosecutor-elect D.J. Hilson and two members of the County Board of Commissioners, is scheduled for 3 p.m. Thursday in Circuit Court Judge William C. Marietti’s courtroom on the fourth floor of the Michael E. Kobza Hall of Justice, 990 Terrace St.
The event, basically a kickoff to the new terms of those selected by voters in November, also features the organizational meeting for the County Board of Commissioners and a community open house for all of those elected officials.
The organizational meeting is scheduled for 3:30 p.m. in the County Board of Commissioners meeting room on the fourth floor of the Hall of Justice.
The community open house is set to follow from 4 to 5:30 p.m. in the board room.
Monday, December 31, 2012
If aliens exist, they probably want to destroy us
Study: If aliens exist, they probably want to destroy us - CSMonitor.com
When considering the prospect of alien life, humankind should prepare for the worst, according to a new study:
Either we're alone, or any aliens out there are acquisitive and resource-hungry, just like us.
When considering the prospect of alien life, humankind should prepare for the worst, according to a new study:
Either we're alone, or any aliens out there are acquisitive and resource-hungry, just like us.
Brace For an Avalanche of Unfunded Debt
Mort Zuckerman: Brace For an Avalanche of Unfunded Debt - US News and World Report
The greatest fiscal challenge to the U.S. government is not just its annual deficit but its total liabilities. Our federal balance sheet does not include the unfunded social insurance obligations of Medicare, Social Security, and the future retirement benefits of federal employees.
Only in the small print of the financial statements do you get some idea of the enormous size of the unfunded commitments.
Today the estimated unfunded total is more than $87 trillion, or 550 percent of our GDP.
And the debt per household is more than 10 times the median family income.
The greatest fiscal challenge to the U.S. government is not just its annual deficit but its total liabilities. Our federal balance sheet does not include the unfunded social insurance obligations of Medicare, Social Security, and the future retirement benefits of federal employees.
Only in the small print of the financial statements do you get some idea of the enormous size of the unfunded commitments.
Today the estimated unfunded total is more than $87 trillion, or 550 percent of our GDP.
And the debt per household is more than 10 times the median family income.
The USS Scorpion Buried at Sea
The USS Scorpion Buried at Sea
Despite official denials, several informed sources allege the top-secret Sound Surveillance System (SOSUS) had indeed recorded an underwater duel between Scorpion and a Soviet submarine that ended when the Soviet launched a torpedo that struck and sank the American submarine.
One former SOSUS operator, Vince Collier, came forward decades later to tell in chilling detail how he and other sailors in SOSUS School were shown a bootleg copy of the tape that graphically depicted the death of Scorpion.
Despite official denials, several informed sources allege the top-secret Sound Surveillance System (SOSUS) had indeed recorded an underwater duel between Scorpion and a Soviet submarine that ended when the Soviet launched a torpedo that struck and sank the American submarine.
One former SOSUS operator, Vince Collier, came forward decades later to tell in chilling detail how he and other sailors in SOSUS School were shown a bootleg copy of the tape that graphically depicted the death of Scorpion.
Northern Michigan commissioner blocks Planned Parenthood grant request, says they 'kill babies'
Northern Michigan commissioner blocks Planned Parenthood grant request, says they 'kill babies' | MLive.com
A county commissioner successfully blocked a casino profit sharing request by Planned Parenthood for sex education money this week in northern Michigan, saying the organization exists to “kill babies.”
The Traverse City Record-Eagle reported that Grand Traverse County Commissioner Jason Gillman, a Tea Party adherent who publishes the blog Right Michigan, convinced fellow commissioners to spike a $12,500 grant application for abstinence-based sex education in area schools.
"The organization is designed to kill babies," Gillman reportedly said.
The nicer side of it is only there to mask its evil intent.
is to kill babies."
A county commissioner successfully blocked a casino profit sharing request by Planned Parenthood for sex education money this week in northern Michigan, saying the organization exists to “kill babies.”
The Traverse City Record-Eagle reported that Grand Traverse County Commissioner Jason Gillman, a Tea Party adherent who publishes the blog Right Michigan, convinced fellow commissioners to spike a $12,500 grant application for abstinence-based sex education in area schools.
"The organization is designed to kill babies," Gillman reportedly said.
The nicer side of it is only there to mask its evil intent.
is to kill babies."
Thanks to Congress's Incompetence, Milk Prices Are About to Double
Thanks to Congress's Incompetence, Milk Prices Are About to Double - Jordan Weissmann - The Atlantic
To give you a sense of how farcical this situation is, it's not even clear that the government has enough storage space to stow away all the dry milk, cheese blocks, and butter tubs it will have to purchase for absolutely no reason.
To give you a sense of how farcical this situation is, it's not even clear that the government has enough storage space to stow away all the dry milk, cheese blocks, and butter tubs it will have to purchase for absolutely no reason.
8 College Degrees with the Worst Return on Investment
8 College Degrees with the Worst Return on Investment - Salary.com
These Careers Might Make You Happy, But Fail the Tuition ROI Test
By Dawn Dugan, Salary.com contributing writer.
1. Communications
You'd think the ink-stained newsrooms and TV studios are full of wealthy and famous journalists.
Not quite.
Although these skills require lots of education and training, they buried the lead regarding the lack of payoff.
These Careers Might Make You Happy, But Fail the Tuition ROI Test
By Dawn Dugan, Salary.com contributing writer.
1. Communications
You'd think the ink-stained newsrooms and TV studios are full of wealthy and famous journalists.
Not quite.
Although these skills require lots of education and training, they buried the lead regarding the lack of payoff.
Let's create a Michigan debate commission and pressure candidates to come face-to-face
Tim Skubick: Let's create a Michigan debate commission and pressure candidates to come face-to-face | MLive.com
First it must be a bipartisan panel of souls whom the political parties, the candidates and the public will trust.
The candidates must pledge to buy into whatever decisions are made.
First it must be a bipartisan panel of souls whom the political parties, the candidates and the public will trust.
The candidates must pledge to buy into whatever decisions are made.
Sunday, December 30, 2012
Uncle Sam’s sorry day of reckoning
Uncle Sam’s sorry day of reckoning - NYPOST.com
Monday is Debt Ceiling Day! According to the best guesstimate by Treasury Secretary Timothy Geithner, the federal government on Monday will reach its statutory borrowing limit of $16.4 trillion — or roughly 104 percent of America’s total economic output.
A legal limit on federal debt was first enacted during World War I and has been increased 13 times since 1995.
The most recent increase came after a major political battle in the summer of 2011 — a conflict that also led Standard & Poor’s to strip the United States of its AAA credit rating.
Now we’re back up against it again, thanks to a year when Uncle Sam spent more than $1.3 trillion more than he took in.
Monday is Debt Ceiling Day! According to the best guesstimate by Treasury Secretary Timothy Geithner, the federal government on Monday will reach its statutory borrowing limit of $16.4 trillion — or roughly 104 percent of America’s total economic output.
A legal limit on federal debt was first enacted during World War I and has been increased 13 times since 1995.
The most recent increase came after a major political battle in the summer of 2011 — a conflict that also led Standard & Poor’s to strip the United States of its AAA credit rating.
Now we’re back up against it again, thanks to a year when Uncle Sam spent more than $1.3 trillion more than he took in.
Saturday, December 29, 2012
The Auto Bailout Failure Is Now Complete
Harsanyi: The Auto Bailout Failure Is Now Complete - Conservative News
But the more immediate problem is that we will never get our money back, anyway.
GM’s labor costs, estimated at $56 an hour, still are higher than any of its competitors.
Since the Obama administration cajoled the normal bankruptcy hearings and eradicated the pensions of nonunion workers to ensure union success, employees, like the ones at Delphi, the auto parts manufacturer and one-time GM subsidiary, took it on the chin while $26 billion of taxpayer funds were used to keep United Auto Workers in a secure position.
The Treasury Department has just revised its estimate upward to $25 billion in losses, and it will probably be more than that when it’s all said and done.
Taxpayers also suffered a $2.9 billion loss in Chrysler (the carmaker had received $12.5 billion through TARP programs) in 2011.
But the more immediate problem is that we will never get our money back, anyway.
GM’s labor costs, estimated at $56 an hour, still are higher than any of its competitors.
Since the Obama administration cajoled the normal bankruptcy hearings and eradicated the pensions of nonunion workers to ensure union success, employees, like the ones at Delphi, the auto parts manufacturer and one-time GM subsidiary, took it on the chin while $26 billion of taxpayer funds were used to keep United Auto Workers in a secure position.
The Treasury Department has just revised its estimate upward to $25 billion in losses, and it will probably be more than that when it’s all said and done.
Taxpayers also suffered a $2.9 billion loss in Chrysler (the carmaker had received $12.5 billion through TARP programs) in 2011.
EyeOnMuskegon: Call 'em! They work for YOU!
EyeOnMuskegon: Call 'em! They work for YOU!
County commissioner contact info (Call them! They work for YOU!):
KENNETH MAHONEY (231) 894-8608
TERRY SABO (231) 740-2724
JAMES DEREZINSKI (H) (231) 788-4849
MARVIN ENGLE (H) (231) 865-6116
SUSIE HUGHES (H) (231) 343-4092
CHARLES NASH (H) (231) 767-2345
RILLASTINE R. WILKINS (H) (231) 733-1581
BENJAMIN E. CROSS (H) (231) 670-6047
ROBERT SCOLNIK (H) (231) 798-2828
County commissioner contact info (Call them! They work for YOU!):
KENNETH MAHONEY (231) 894-8608
TERRY SABO (231) 740-2724
JAMES DEREZINSKI (H) (231) 788-4849
MARVIN ENGLE (H) (231) 865-6116
SUSIE HUGHES (H) (231) 343-4092
CHARLES NASH (H) (231) 767-2345
RILLASTINE R. WILKINS (H) (231) 733-1581
BENJAMIN E. CROSS (H) (231) 670-6047
ROBERT SCOLNIK (H) (231) 798-2828
Connecticut attorney asks to sue state after elementary school shooting
Connecticut attorney asks to sue state after elementary school shooting | Fox News
A New Haven attorney is asking permission to sue the state for $100 million on behalf of a student who survived the mass shooting at Sandy Hook Elementary School in Newtown, Connecticut.
A New Haven attorney is asking permission to sue the state for $100 million on behalf of a student who survived the mass shooting at Sandy Hook Elementary School in Newtown, Connecticut.
Muskegon County Republican Party elects 'Tea Party, Ron Paul-types' as executive officers, goes more conservative
Muskegon County Republican Party elects 'Tea Party, Ron Paul-types' as executive officers, goes more conservative | MLive.com
The election of officers marks a change for the Muskegon County Republican Party.
County Commissioner Bob Scolnik, the senior elected Republican in the county, called it a “direction I’m not 100 percent in favor with."
“It’s pretty much taken over by the Tea Party, Ron Paul-types and Libertarians,” Scolnik said. “I’m more of a moderate, Ronald Reagan-type Republican.
I do not believe they represent the mainstream Republican thought.”
Fink previously served as vice chairman of the party, but the others are new to formal leadership in the party.
Rothoff, who actively follows Muskegon County government activities, ran unsuccessfully for county treasurer, losing in the general election.
The Republicans fared poorly in the election, losing races for clerk, treasurer and several County Board of Commissioners seats.
The election of officers marks a change for the Muskegon County Republican Party.
County Commissioner Bob Scolnik, the senior elected Republican in the county, called it a “direction I’m not 100 percent in favor with."
“It’s pretty much taken over by the Tea Party, Ron Paul-types and Libertarians,” Scolnik said. “I’m more of a moderate, Ronald Reagan-type Republican.
I do not believe they represent the mainstream Republican thought.”
Fink previously served as vice chairman of the party, but the others are new to formal leadership in the party.
Rothoff, who actively follows Muskegon County government activities, ran unsuccessfully for county treasurer, losing in the general election.
The Republicans fared poorly in the election, losing races for clerk, treasurer and several County Board of Commissioners seats.
Black judge commutes four killers’ sentences based on race
Black judge commutes four killers’ sentences based on race
Commuting a black man’s death sentence to life in prison, the judge cited “the persistent, distorting role of race in jury selection in North Carolina.”
He never argued the man – found guilty of kidnapping and robbing a teenager before shooting him in the face – might be innocent.
Since the Racial Justice Act gave him the discretion, he simply declared prosecutors were racist and gave a murderer a get-out-of-death-row-free card.
Commuting a black man’s death sentence to life in prison, the judge cited “the persistent, distorting role of race in jury selection in North Carolina.”
He never argued the man – found guilty of kidnapping and robbing a teenager before shooting him in the face – might be innocent.
Since the Racial Justice Act gave him the discretion, he simply declared prosecutors were racist and gave a murderer a get-out-of-death-row-free card.
Numbers Game
Numbers Game [Michigan Capitol Confidential]
And yet, if the lower estimates are the correct ones, this would be the second indication in the past two months that the political appeal and power of unions here is much less than imagined.
And yet, if the lower estimates are the correct ones, this would be the second indication in the past two months that the political appeal and power of unions here is much less than imagined.
Here's One Reason Why Someone Would Need To Own An 'Assault' Rifle
Here's One Reason Why Someone Would Need To Own An 'Assault' Rifle - Investors.com
Consider that, according to FBI data, in 2007, there were 453 homicides by rifle in the U.S.
Yes, that's too many. But compare that number to a few other methods of homicide employed that year.
In 2007, there were 1,817 homicides committed with "knives or cutting instruments"; "blunt objects (clubs, hammers, etc.)" killed 674; while "personal weapons (hands, fists, feet, etc.)" were the choices in 869 homicides.
The number of rifle homicides has fallen steadily since then to 323 last year, as have the other three weapon classes, though each still remains a more common choice than the rifle.
In fact, when added together, knives, blunt instruments and the human body were responsible for more than nine times as many homicides as rifles in 2011.
Consider that, according to FBI data, in 2007, there were 453 homicides by rifle in the U.S.
Yes, that's too many. But compare that number to a few other methods of homicide employed that year.
In 2007, there were 1,817 homicides committed with "knives or cutting instruments"; "blunt objects (clubs, hammers, etc.)" killed 674; while "personal weapons (hands, fists, feet, etc.)" were the choices in 869 homicides.
The number of rifle homicides has fallen steadily since then to 323 last year, as have the other three weapon classes, though each still remains a more common choice than the rifle.
In fact, when added together, knives, blunt instruments and the human body were responsible for more than nine times as many homicides as rifles in 2011.
Stigmatizing Gun Owners Makes Civil Debate Impossible
Stigmatizing Gun Owners Makes Civil Debate Impossible « Commentary Magazine
Rather, this was about the desire on the part of some in the liberal mainstream media to stigmatize legal gun ownership and to whip up sentiment for not just tighter controls but an eventual ban.
This makes it easier to understand why the National Rifle Association fiercely resists even the most reasonable gun control measures.
If even those who have jumped through the not inconsiderable hoops erected by the authorities to gain a legal gun permit in New York are now to be treated as if they were the moral equivalent of sex offenders, it’s clear the goal of the anti-gun media is not just to focus discussion on assault weapons and large ammunition clips but to ban individual gun ownership altogether.
Rather, this was about the desire on the part of some in the liberal mainstream media to stigmatize legal gun ownership and to whip up sentiment for not just tighter controls but an eventual ban.
This makes it easier to understand why the National Rifle Association fiercely resists even the most reasonable gun control measures.
If even those who have jumped through the not inconsiderable hoops erected by the authorities to gain a legal gun permit in New York are now to be treated as if they were the moral equivalent of sex offenders, it’s clear the goal of the anti-gun media is not just to focus discussion on assault weapons and large ammunition clips but to ban individual gun ownership altogether.
No heir to run the company? Why adult ‘adoption’ is big business in Japan
No heir to run the company? Why adult ‘adoption’ is big business in Japan - Asia - World - The Independent
The practice of adopting men in their 20s and 30s is used to rescue biologically ill-fated families and ensure a business heir,
....... "We haven't come across this custom in any other part of the world," he says.
The practice of adopting men in their 20s and 30s is used to rescue biologically ill-fated families and ensure a business heir,
....... "We haven't come across this custom in any other part of the world," he says.
COMMENT OF THE DAY
Instapundit » Blog Archive » COMMENT OF THE DAY
"For ten years we have been told that the Bush tax cuts applied mostly to the rich.
Now it is imperative that we extend them further or the middle class is going to take a big hit.”
"For ten years we have been told that the Bush tax cuts applied mostly to the rich.
Now it is imperative that we extend them further or the middle class is going to take a big hit.”
Friday, December 28, 2012
101 of the Best Gun Quotes Ever
101 of the Best Gun Quotes Ever
"54.”The right of self-defense never ceases. It is among the most sacred, and alike necessary to nations and to individuals.”
~James Monroe"
"54.”The right of self-defense never ceases. It is among the most sacred, and alike necessary to nations and to individuals.”
~James Monroe"
Senate Approves Warrantless Phone Tapping for Next Five Years
Senate Approves Warrantless Phone Tapping for Next Five Years
"The FISA Amendments Act continues to be controversial; key portions of it were challenged in a case before the U.S. Supreme Court this term.
In brief, the law allows the government to get secret FISA court orders-orders that do not require probable cause like regular warrants-for any emails or phone calls going to and from overseas.
The communications only have to deal with "foreign intelligence information," a broad term that can mean virtually anything.
And one secret FISA order can be issued against groups or categories of people-potentially affecting hundreds of thousands of Americans at once."
"The FISA Amendments Act continues to be controversial; key portions of it were challenged in a case before the U.S. Supreme Court this term.
In brief, the law allows the government to get secret FISA court orders-orders that do not require probable cause like regular warrants-for any emails or phone calls going to and from overseas.
The communications only have to deal with "foreign intelligence information," a broad term that can mean virtually anything.
And one secret FISA order can be issued against groups or categories of people-potentially affecting hundreds of thousands of Americans at once."
Taxpayer-Funded Stadiums a Lose-Lose Proposition
Taxpayer-Funded Stadiums a Lose-Lose Proposition [Michigan Capitol Confidential]
Flashy projects have not helped the city in the past. Remember the Renaissance Center, which was supposed to “anchor Detroit’s revival”?
How about the money taxpayers put up for the stadiums for the Detroit Lions and Detroit Tigers?
State and local citizens are still subsidizing the local teams.
Flashy projects have not helped the city in the past. Remember the Renaissance Center, which was supposed to “anchor Detroit’s revival”?
How about the money taxpayers put up for the stadiums for the Detroit Lions and Detroit Tigers?
State and local citizens are still subsidizing the local teams.
Michigan Makes It Illegal To Ask For Employees' Facebook Logins
Michigan Makes It Illegal To Ask For Employees' Facebook Logins - Slashdot:
""Michigan joins Maryland as a state where employers may not ask employees or job applicants to divulge login information for Facebook and other social media sites.
From the article: 'Under the law, employers cannot discipline employees or decline to hire job applicants because they do not give them access information, including user names, passwords, login information, or "other security information that protects access to a personal internet account," according to the bill.
Universities and schools cannot discipline or fail to admit students if they do not give similar information.'
There is one exception, however: 'However, accounts owned by a company or educational institution, such as e-mail, can be requested.'""
""Michigan joins Maryland as a state where employers may not ask employees or job applicants to divulge login information for Facebook and other social media sites.
From the article: 'Under the law, employers cannot discipline employees or decline to hire job applicants because they do not give them access information, including user names, passwords, login information, or "other security information that protects access to a personal internet account," according to the bill.
Universities and schools cannot discipline or fail to admit students if they do not give similar information.'
There is one exception, however: 'However, accounts owned by a company or educational institution, such as e-mail, can be requested.'""
Citizens claims about cold, unheated Muskegon County Jail are false, sheriff says
Citizens claims about cold, unheated Muskegon County Jail are false, sheriff says | MLive.com
“It isn’t like we have a thermostat and can just dial it up. We run on a boiler and it takes a while for the boiler to increase its temperature,” he said.
“It has to circulate through the whole facility and it's against the law to use space heaters.”
“It isn’t like we have a thermostat and can just dial it up. We run on a boiler and it takes a while for the boiler to increase its temperature,” he said.
“It has to circulate through the whole facility and it's against the law to use space heaters.”
Chicago reaches 500 homicides with fatal shooting
Chicago reaches 500 homicides with fatal shooting - Yahoo! News
Chicago has logged its 500th homicide of 2012.
The last time the city reached the 500-homicide mark was in 2008, when the year ended with 512 killings.
Last year, city records show Chicago had 435 homicides.
Chicago has logged its 500th homicide of 2012.
The last time the city reached the 500-homicide mark was in 2008, when the year ended with 512 killings.
Last year, city records show Chicago had 435 homicides.
Bob Hope Christmas
Bob Hope Christmas
Bob Hope was without a doubt one of the greatest entertainers of all time.
A wonderful look at some special moments Bob spent with the troops during his many Christmas performances.
Thank You to all the Veterans that ever spent a Christmas away from their family and to Bob Hope for spending his with them.
Grab a hankie and love this great patriot.
Bob Hope was without a doubt one of the greatest entertainers of all time.
A wonderful look at some special moments Bob spent with the troops during his many Christmas performances.
Thank You to all the Veterans that ever spent a Christmas away from their family and to Bob Hope for spending his with them.
Grab a hankie and love this great patriot.
Obama Claus Gives You 90 More Days To Collect Your $50,000 Reparations Check
Obama Claus Gives You 90 More Days To Collect Your $50,000 Reparations Check
Circle March 25, 2013 on your calendar.
That's the last day you can submit your claim form from this official U.S. government website to collect fifty thousand tax-free American dollars, courtesy of the Obama administration in its current multi-billion giveaway scheme.
No, you don't need a potted plant and you don't even to be black or even Hispanic; as long as you are a woman (or related to one) and you fill out the forms correctly, you can collect the money because nobody will verify your information.
Circle March 25, 2013 on your calendar.
That's the last day you can submit your claim form from this official U.S. government website to collect fifty thousand tax-free American dollars, courtesy of the Obama administration in its current multi-billion giveaway scheme.
No, you don't need a potted plant and you don't even to be black or even Hispanic; as long as you are a woman (or related to one) and you fill out the forms correctly, you can collect the money because nobody will verify your information.
URGENT UPDATE on Connecticut Shooting
URGENT UPDATE on Connecticut Shooting « Short Little Rebel
I looked at my husband and said, “Cal, this thing is starting to stink.
By now, there should be many eye-witness accounts of the actual gunman.
There should be breathless survivors talking about how this guy walked by their room, etc.
About how they narrowly escaped.
But so far, it looks like every single eye-witness is dead.
That is IMPOSSIBLE!”
I looked at my husband and said, “Cal, this thing is starting to stink.
By now, there should be many eye-witness accounts of the actual gunman.
There should be breathless survivors talking about how this guy walked by their room, etc.
About how they narrowly escaped.
But so far, it looks like every single eye-witness is dead.
That is IMPOSSIBLE!”
HOW’S THAT “SMART DIPLOMACY” WORKIN’ OUT FOR YA?
Instapundit » Blog Archive » HOW’S THAT “SMART DIPLOMACY” WORKIN’ OUT FOR YA?
AFRICA IN CRISIS: U.S. Abandons Embassy, France Won’t Intervene.
“The last time the U.S. abandoned an embassy?
Syria.”
According to a State Department spokesperson, Secretary of State Hillary Clinton was unable to comment, because “she fell and twisted her cankle.”
UPDATE: Related: NPR Covering For Hillary on Benghazi.
In a story by Michelle Kelemen, with an assist from Aaron David Miller, vice president of the of the Woodrow Wilson International Center for Scholars.
AFRICA IN CRISIS: U.S. Abandons Embassy, France Won’t Intervene.
“The last time the U.S. abandoned an embassy?
Syria.”
According to a State Department spokesperson, Secretary of State Hillary Clinton was unable to comment, because “she fell and twisted her cankle.”
UPDATE: Related: NPR Covering For Hillary on Benghazi.
In a story by Michelle Kelemen, with an assist from Aaron David Miller, vice president of the of the Woodrow Wilson International Center for Scholars.
Union, fired teachers sue Chicago for racial discrimination
Union, fired teachers sue Chicago for racial discrimination | The Daily Caller
Robin Potter, an attorney for CTU, said in a statement that the city’s policies run afoul of those laws by primarily impacting black faculty and staff.
“We’re now at a crossroads in Chicago. …
The racial impact of the policies and practices of this Board of Education have devastated the African-American teaching force in that community,” she said in the statement.
The suit, which seeks class-action status, was filed on behalf of all black teachers who lost their jobs in June 2010 because of turnaround restructuring.
Robin Potter, an attorney for CTU, said in a statement that the city’s policies run afoul of those laws by primarily impacting black faculty and staff.
“We’re now at a crossroads in Chicago. …
The racial impact of the policies and practices of this Board of Education have devastated the African-American teaching force in that community,” she said in the statement.
The suit, which seeks class-action status, was filed on behalf of all black teachers who lost their jobs in June 2010 because of turnaround restructuring.
Kenyan economics expert: Development aid is one reason for Africa’s problems, so for ‘God’s sake, please just stop’
Kenyan economics expert: Development aid is one reason for Africa’s problems, so for ‘God’s sake, please just stop’ | AEIdeas
Shikwati: Such intentions have been damaging our continent for the past 40 years. I
f the industrial nations really want to help the Africans, they should finally terminate this awful aid.
The countries that have collected the most development aid are also the ones that are in the worst shape.
Despite the billions that have poured in to Africa, the continent remains poor.
SPIEGEL: Do you have an explanation for this paradox?
Shikwati: Huge bureaucracies are financed (with the aid money), corruption and complacency are promoted, Africans are taught to be beggars and not to be independent.
In addition, development aid weakens the local markets everywhere and dampens the spirit of entrepreneurship that we so desperately need.
As absurd as it may sound: Development aid is one of the reasons for Africa’s problems.
If the West were to cancel these payments, normal Africans wouldn’t even notice.
Only the functionaries would be hard hit.
Which is why they maintain that the world would stop turning without this development aid.
Shikwati: Such intentions have been damaging our continent for the past 40 years. I
f the industrial nations really want to help the Africans, they should finally terminate this awful aid.
The countries that have collected the most development aid are also the ones that are in the worst shape.
Despite the billions that have poured in to Africa, the continent remains poor.
SPIEGEL: Do you have an explanation for this paradox?
Shikwati: Huge bureaucracies are financed (with the aid money), corruption and complacency are promoted, Africans are taught to be beggars and not to be independent.
In addition, development aid weakens the local markets everywhere and dampens the spirit of entrepreneurship that we so desperately need.
As absurd as it may sound: Development aid is one of the reasons for Africa’s problems.
If the West were to cancel these payments, normal Africans wouldn’t even notice.
Only the functionaries would be hard hit.
Which is why they maintain that the world would stop turning without this development aid.
Thursday, December 27, 2012
Wednesday, December 26, 2012
Molon labe
Molon labe - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
The phrase was reportedly the defiant response of King Leonidas I of Sparta to Xerxes I of Persia when asked to lay down their arms and surrender, at the onset of the Battle of Thermopylae (480 BC).
....The motto ΜΟΛΩΝ ΛΑΒΕ is on the emblem of the Greek First Army Corps,[4] and is also the motto of United States Special Operations Command Central (SOCCENT).[5]
The expression "Come and take it" was a slogan in the Texas Revolution
The phrase was reportedly the defiant response of King Leonidas I of Sparta to Xerxes I of Persia when asked to lay down their arms and surrender, at the onset of the Battle of Thermopylae (480 BC).
....The motto ΜΟΛΩΝ ΛΑΒΕ is on the emblem of the Greek First Army Corps,[4] and is also the motto of United States Special Operations Command Central (SOCCENT).[5]
The expression "Come and take it" was a slogan in the Texas Revolution
Tuesday, December 25, 2012
Lookback: Businessman appeals to President Harry S. Truman on Christmas to relieve Mona Lake flooding
Lookback: Businessman appeals to President Harry S. Truman on Christmas to relieve Mona Lake flooding | MLive.com
Worse was yet to come as the area suffered through one of its 20 coldest winters since 1895.
Proof of global warming!
Worse was yet to come as the area suffered through one of its 20 coldest winters since 1895.
Proof of global warming!
People are Buying Guns and Ammunition for a Reason
Blog: People are Buying Guns and Ammunition for a Reason
Police response time to a 911 call is roughly 8 minutes, but making that call may attract the intruder's attention.
There are other sounds that are sure to get his attention as well.
For instance, there's the sound that a 12 gauge pump shotgun makes when you chamber a round
Police response time to a 911 call is roughly 8 minutes, but making that call may attract the intruder's attention.
There are other sounds that are sure to get his attention as well.
For instance, there's the sound that a 12 gauge pump shotgun makes when you chamber a round
Half the Facts You Know Are Probably Wrong
Half the Facts You Know Are Probably Wrong - Reason.com
Since knowledge is still growing at an impressively rapid pace, it should not be surprising that many facts people learned in school have been overturned and are now out of date.
But at what rate do former facts disappear?
Since knowledge is still growing at an impressively rapid pace, it should not be surprising that many facts people learned in school have been overturned and are now out of date.
But at what rate do former facts disappear?
Monday, December 24, 2012
Study: Women with large breasts are smarter
Study: Women with large breasts are smarter - by Terrence Aym - Helium
A study by a Chicago university sociologist of 1,200 women found that large-breasted women tend to have higher intelligence.
The study divided the women into five groups ranging from virtually flat-chested to extra-large breasts.
The results revealed that the big-breasted women had an overall higher I.Q.—about 10 points—than the lesser endowed members of the study.
Women with average-sized breasts also beat out those that were in the smallest size group.
A study by a Chicago university sociologist of 1,200 women found that large-breasted women tend to have higher intelligence.
The study divided the women into five groups ranging from virtually flat-chested to extra-large breasts.
The results revealed that the big-breasted women had an overall higher I.Q.—about 10 points—than the lesser endowed members of the study.
Women with average-sized breasts also beat out those that were in the smallest size group.
Homage to Catalonia
Homage to Catalonia - The Daily Beast
Europe's fiscal crisis keeps developing in completely unexpected ways.
The only thing that's really predictible is that the solutions will cost more, and work less well, then even the pessimists project.
Europe's fiscal crisis keeps developing in completely unexpected ways.
The only thing that's really predictible is that the solutions will cost more, and work less well, then even the pessimists project.
171 pounds, a pear-shaped body and a taste for beefsteak: Meet Elsie Scheel, the Cornell student declared 1912's perfect woman
171 pounds, a pear-shaped body and a taste for beefsteak: Meet Elsie Scheel, the Cornell student declared 1912's perfect woman | Mail Online
A series of articles in 1912 and early 1913 saw Brooklyn-born Cornell student Elsie Scheel, 24, hailed 'the most nearly perfect physical specimen of womanhood'.
The 24-year-old, who was selected by university medical examiner Dr Esther Parker from a group of over 400 women, was described by the New York Times as 'a light-haired, blue-eyed girl whose very presence bespeaks perfect health.'
'I have eaten only what I wanted and when I wanted it'
A series of articles in 1912 and early 1913 saw Brooklyn-born Cornell student Elsie Scheel, 24, hailed 'the most nearly perfect physical specimen of womanhood'.
The 24-year-old, who was selected by university medical examiner Dr Esther Parker from a group of over 400 women, was described by the New York Times as 'a light-haired, blue-eyed girl whose very presence bespeaks perfect health.'
'I have eaten only what I wanted and when I wanted it'
A Failure to Communicate: The GOP’s Public Relations Debacle
Roger L. Simon » A Failure to Communicate: The GOP’s Public Relations Debacle
What is the cause of this debacle? Largely this: Republicans, conservatives… the whole list above… do not know how to talk to the broad spectrum of the American people outside their choir.
Republicans are not just bad at public relations.
They’re disastrous at it.
What is the cause of this debacle? Largely this: Republicans, conservatives… the whole list above… do not know how to talk to the broad spectrum of the American people outside their choir.
Republicans are not just bad at public relations.
They’re disastrous at it.
How The Welfare State Stole Christmas
How The Welfare State Stole Christmas - Forbes
Now pause for a second on what that money buys you.
For many of us, that $75 buys us a lifetime of joyful memories.
Aren’t some of your happiest recollections decorating the Christmas tree with your family?
Yeah, ours too.
With that in mind, let’s restate Peck’s proposition: Let’s have the government seize $75 of the income you worked for and would use to create lasting memories for you and your family, and transfer it (minus transaction costs) to people you don’t know, and might not approve of if you knew.
Now pause for a second on what that money buys you.
For many of us, that $75 buys us a lifetime of joyful memories.
Aren’t some of your happiest recollections decorating the Christmas tree with your family?
Yeah, ours too.
With that in mind, let’s restate Peck’s proposition: Let’s have the government seize $75 of the income you worked for and would use to create lasting memories for you and your family, and transfer it (minus transaction costs) to people you don’t know, and might not approve of if you knew.
Christmas message written in sky above Lakemba Mosque in response to fatwa claims
Christmas message written in sky above Lakemba Mosque in response to fatwa claims | adelaidenow
The sky message comes after an Imam at Australia's biggest mosque reportedly issued a fatwa against Christmas, warning followers it is a ''sin'' to even wish people a Merry Christmas.
The sky message comes after an Imam at Australia's biggest mosque reportedly issued a fatwa against Christmas, warning followers it is a ''sin'' to even wish people a Merry Christmas.
Former Edison police officer accused of racism landed TSA job at Newark airport
Former Edison police officer accused of racism landed TSA job at Newark airport | NJ.com
"Where the hell is the federal government?" asked Joseph Stenukinis, the former internal affairs commander who submitted the sworn statement about Glinsky in connection with a civil suit.
"This guy has been all over the newspapers for a long time.
It’s appalling.
They’re remiss in their responsibilities."
"Where the hell is the federal government?" asked Joseph Stenukinis, the former internal affairs commander who submitted the sworn statement about Glinsky in connection with a civil suit.
"This guy has been all over the newspapers for a long time.
It’s appalling.
They’re remiss in their responsibilities."
Manufacturing Racism: Academic Hiring and the Diversity Mandate
PJ Media » Manufacturing Racism: Academic Hiring and the Diversity Mandate
"Moreover, once the desire to fill a quota becomes part of the hiring process, it operates to curtail the open-minded weighing of qualities and achievements necessary for a fair and thorough search.
Even more importantly, the idea that diversity of ideas could be promoted by gender and race quotas is clearly a social engineer’s article of faith,"
"Moreover, once the desire to fill a quota becomes part of the hiring process, it operates to curtail the open-minded weighing of qualities and achievements necessary for a fair and thorough search.
Even more importantly, the idea that diversity of ideas could be promoted by gender and race quotas is clearly a social engineer’s article of faith,"
Nurse’s suicide history
Lucianne.com News Forum - Thread
"What got lost in the initial hype is that this woman answered the phone call was on for 6 short seconds.....simply saying she would connect with her administrator.----That´s all....that´s it.----It was the 2nd woman who gave out all the info....and she did not kill herself."
"What got lost in the initial hype is that this woman answered the phone call was on for 6 short seconds.....simply saying she would connect with her administrator.----That´s all....that´s it.----It was the 2nd woman who gave out all the info....and she did not kill herself."
The truth is that politicians are telling lies
The truth is that politicians are telling lies - Telegraph
"Was 2012 the year when the democratic world lost its grip on reality?
Must we assume now that no party that speaks the truth about the economic future has a chance of winning power in a national election?
With the results of presidential contests in the United States and France as evidence, this would seem to be the only possible conclusion.
Any political leader prepared to deceive the electorate into believing that government spending, and the vast system of services that it provides, can go on as before – or that they will be able to resume as soon as this momentary emergency is over – was propelled into office virtually by acclamation."
"Was 2012 the year when the democratic world lost its grip on reality?
Must we assume now that no party that speaks the truth about the economic future has a chance of winning power in a national election?
With the results of presidential contests in the United States and France as evidence, this would seem to be the only possible conclusion.
Any political leader prepared to deceive the electorate into believing that government spending, and the vast system of services that it provides, can go on as before – or that they will be able to resume as soon as this momentary emergency is over – was propelled into office virtually by acclamation."
Politicians Playing Games and Fooling Their Constituents
Politicians Playing Games and Fooling Their Constituents [Michigan Capitol Confidential]
"All this isn’t (just) a snark, it’s also a warning:
Watch what they do (in CapCon and MichiganVotes.org), not what they say.
In almost every case, when a politician boasts about a bill he has introduced, he’s just serving-up “candy,” knowing full well the measure isn’t going anywhere. "
"All this isn’t (just) a snark, it’s also a warning:
Watch what they do (in CapCon and MichiganVotes.org), not what they say.
In almost every case, when a politician boasts about a bill he has introduced, he’s just serving-up “candy,” knowing full well the measure isn’t going anywhere. "
Rick Haglund: Decreasing college dropout rate is crucial to Michigan's economic future
Rick Haglund: Decreasing college dropout rate is crucial to Michigan's economic future | MLive.com
"Just about everyone in Michigan thinks a college education is important for a successful career. That’s the good news."
"just about everyone"?
Classic groupthink from an uberlib who thinks personal debt is as unimportant as government debt.
"Just about everyone in Michigan thinks a college education is important for a successful career. That’s the good news."
"just about everyone"?
Classic groupthink from an uberlib who thinks personal debt is as unimportant as government debt.
Condoms for free at 22 city schools
Condoms for free at 22 city schools - Philly.com
"Coming over the holiday break to about a third of Philadelphia high schools: clear plastic dispensers chock-full of free condoms.
The dispensers will be placed in the 22 high schools whose students had the highest rates of sexually transmitted diseases, and condoms will be available to any student - so long as their parents did not sign a form opting them out of the program.
It's a pilot designed to address "an epidemic of sexually transmitted disease in adolescents in Philadelphia," said Donald F. Schwarz, the deputy mayor for health and opportunity. Since April 2011, the city has given away about four million condoms, and now, STD rates are falling."
"Coming over the holiday break to about a third of Philadelphia high schools: clear plastic dispensers chock-full of free condoms.
The dispensers will be placed in the 22 high schools whose students had the highest rates of sexually transmitted diseases, and condoms will be available to any student - so long as their parents did not sign a form opting them out of the program.
It's a pilot designed to address "an epidemic of sexually transmitted disease in adolescents in Philadelphia," said Donald F. Schwarz, the deputy mayor for health and opportunity. Since April 2011, the city has given away about four million condoms, and now, STD rates are falling."
Sunday, December 23, 2012
The roots of mass murder
Charles Krauthammer: The roots of mass murder - The Washington Post
The irony is that over the last 30 years, the U.S. homicide rate has declined by 50 percent.
Gun murders as well.
We’re living not through an epidemic of gun violence but through a historic decline.
Except for these unfathomable mass murders.
But these are infinitely more difficult to prevent.
While law deters the rational, it has far less effect on the psychotic.
The best we can do is to try to detain them, disarm them and discourage “entertainment” that can intensify already murderous impulses.
But there’s a cost. Gun control impinges upon the Second Amendment; involuntary commitment impinges upon the liberty clause of the Fifth Amendment; curbing “entertainment” violence impinges upon First Amendment free speech.
The irony is that over the last 30 years, the U.S. homicide rate has declined by 50 percent.
Gun murders as well.
We’re living not through an epidemic of gun violence but through a historic decline.
Except for these unfathomable mass murders.
But these are infinitely more difficult to prevent.
While law deters the rational, it has far less effect on the psychotic.
The best we can do is to try to detain them, disarm them and discourage “entertainment” that can intensify already murderous impulses.
But there’s a cost. Gun control impinges upon the Second Amendment; involuntary commitment impinges upon the liberty clause of the Fifth Amendment; curbing “entertainment” violence impinges upon First Amendment free speech.
Saturday, December 22, 2012
Michigan considers new deal for Detroit
Michigan considers new deal for Detroit | The Detroit News | detroitnews.com
The state still could decide to appoint an emergency financial manager under the current law, Public Act 72, given the city's precarious financial state.
The city estimates it is burning through approximately $10 million a month.
The state still could decide to appoint an emergency financial manager under the current law, Public Act 72, given the city's precarious financial state.
The city estimates it is burning through approximately $10 million a month.
Oil-rich UAE backs Matt Damon anti-fracking film Promised Lan
Oil-rich UAE backs Matt Damon anti-fracking film Promised Lan - Investors.com
'Promised Land," a film that does nothing to alter Hollywood's stereotype of businessmen, particularly energy industry executives, as greedy plunderers of the planet, opens this week in selected theatres.
The anti-fracking film is based on a not-true story about well contamination in a small Pennsylvania town with a healthy dose of junk science.
As documentary filmmaker Phelim McAleer, who is working on his own documentary, "FrackNation", has pointed out, the inspiration for the film was a spate of news reports about alleged ground water contamination from fracking wells in Dimock, Pa. "Promised Land" is set in rural Pennsylvania.
At one point, Hollywood celebrities even brought water to 11 families who claimed fracking had destroyed their water and their lives.
The only problem, notes McAleer, is the claims were debunked by both the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection and the Environmental Protection Agency, both of which found no evidence of contamination.
But why spoil a good story with the facts?
'Promised Land," a film that does nothing to alter Hollywood's stereotype of businessmen, particularly energy industry executives, as greedy plunderers of the planet, opens this week in selected theatres.
The anti-fracking film is based on a not-true story about well contamination in a small Pennsylvania town with a healthy dose of junk science.
As documentary filmmaker Phelim McAleer, who is working on his own documentary, "FrackNation", has pointed out, the inspiration for the film was a spate of news reports about alleged ground water contamination from fracking wells in Dimock, Pa. "Promised Land" is set in rural Pennsylvania.
At one point, Hollywood celebrities even brought water to 11 families who claimed fracking had destroyed their water and their lives.
The only problem, notes McAleer, is the claims were debunked by both the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection and the Environmental Protection Agency, both of which found no evidence of contamination.
But why spoil a good story with the facts?
Workers at GM, Ford to Score Nice Bonuses This Year
Workers at GM, Ford to Score Nice Bonuses This Year - 24/7 Wall St.
"GM workers can expect bonuses of between $5,500 and $7,000, and Ford’s employees could receive a payment of more than $8,000 each, according to a report in The Wall Street Journal.
The payments are based on a formula that gives workers a $1 bonus for every $1 million in North American operating profit at the two companies."
"GM workers can expect bonuses of between $5,500 and $7,000, and Ford’s employees could receive a payment of more than $8,000 each, according to a report in The Wall Street Journal.
The payments are based on a formula that gives workers a $1 bonus for every $1 million in North American operating profit at the two companies."
Let's take a step toward peace on earth by turning in our assault rifles
Letters: Let's take a step toward peace on earth by turning in our assault rifles | MLive.com
An open letter to America:
Jesus was called the Prince of Peace.
That's why I consider myself a follower of Jesus.
And that's why I invite all owners of assault rifles to voluntarily turn in your assault rifles at the nearest police department, sheriff's office or any other law enforcement agency.
At this time of the year, when Christians celebrate the birth of Jesus, let's get rid of these weapons of war.
Then we just might come a little closer to having peace on earth, goodwill to all.
REV. BILL FREEMAN/Harbor Unitarian Universalist Congregation, Muskegon
An open letter to America:
Jesus was called the Prince of Peace.
That's why I consider myself a follower of Jesus.
And that's why I invite all owners of assault rifles to voluntarily turn in your assault rifles at the nearest police department, sheriff's office or any other law enforcement agency.
At this time of the year, when Christians celebrate the birth of Jesus, let's get rid of these weapons of war.
Then we just might come a little closer to having peace on earth, goodwill to all.
REV. BILL FREEMAN/Harbor Unitarian Universalist Congregation, Muskegon
After Newtown, Modest Change in Opinion about Gun Control | Pew Research Center for the People and the Press
After Newtown, Modest Change in Opinion about Gun Control | Pew Research Center for the People and the Press
"The public’s attitudes toward gun control have shown only modest change in the wake of last week’s deadly shooting at an elementary school in Newtown, Connecticut.
Currently, 49% say it is more important to control gun ownership, while 42% say it is more important to protect the right of Americans to own guns.
This marks the first time since Barack Obama took office that more Americans prioritize gun control than the right to own guns. "
"The public’s attitudes toward gun control have shown only modest change in the wake of last week’s deadly shooting at an elementary school in Newtown, Connecticut.
Currently, 49% say it is more important to control gun ownership, while 42% say it is more important to protect the right of Americans to own guns.
This marks the first time since Barack Obama took office that more Americans prioritize gun control than the right to own guns. "
‘Travesty of Justice’: Limits on President’s Detention Powers Stripped from Final Defense Bill
The PJ Tatler » ‘Travesty of Justice’: Limits on President’s Detention Powers Stripped from Final Defense Bill
“Proponents of indefinite detention will argue that we are a good people and that we will never unjustly detain people.
I don’t dispute their intentions or impute bad motives to them, but what I will say is remember what Madison said.
Madison said that if a government were comprised of angels, we wouldn’t need the chains of the constitution.”
“Proponents of indefinite detention will argue that we are a good people and that we will never unjustly detain people.
I don’t dispute their intentions or impute bad motives to them, but what I will say is remember what Madison said.
Madison said that if a government were comprised of angels, we wouldn’t need the chains of the constitution.”
Union Leaders: 'There Is Going To Be Retribution'
Union Leaders: 'There Is Going To Be Retribution' [Michigan Capitol Confidential]:
Al Garrett, president of Michigan AFSCME Council 25, and Larry Roehrig, secretary treasurer, laid out their plans about how to “attack” the law.
The conference call was recorded and Michigan Capitol Confidential obtained the audio file.
"There is going to be retribution," Garrett said.
Al Garrett, president of Michigan AFSCME Council 25, and Larry Roehrig, secretary treasurer, laid out their plans about how to “attack” the law.
The conference call was recorded and Michigan Capitol Confidential obtained the audio file.
"There is going to be retribution," Garrett said.
Editorial: We all hold the key to stopping violence
Editorial: We all hold the key to stopping violence | MLive.com
Tell us what you're doing to end violence in our community in the comments below.
Tell us what you're doing to end violence in our community in the comments below.
Prosecutors say Southeastside Indy explosion was set to collect insurance money
Prosecutors say Southeastside Indy explosion was set to collect insurance money | Indianapolis Star | indystar.com
"The devastating explosion that killed two people and destroyed dozens of homes in the Richmond Hill neighborhood last month was the culmination of a tangled tale of greed, debt, desperation and deceit.
....He also told detectives Mark Leonard would surf online dating sites — including one called “Plenty of Fish” to seek out older, heavyset women.
Ridenour told detectives that Leonard would wine and dine them and then persuade them to give him money that he would never pay back.
Ridenour told detectives that Leonard would win the women’s confidence by dressing nicely and driving a nice car — he wanted to make the women think he had money.
After gaining their confidence, he would set the alarm on his phone and have it go off while he was talking to them.
He would pretend to hold a conversation that described him needing money to repair equipment so he could finish a good-paying job.
The women, Ridenour said, would give him money.
He’d never pay it back."
"The devastating explosion that killed two people and destroyed dozens of homes in the Richmond Hill neighborhood last month was the culmination of a tangled tale of greed, debt, desperation and deceit.
....He also told detectives Mark Leonard would surf online dating sites — including one called “Plenty of Fish” to seek out older, heavyset women.
Ridenour told detectives that Leonard would wine and dine them and then persuade them to give him money that he would never pay back.
Ridenour told detectives that Leonard would win the women’s confidence by dressing nicely and driving a nice car — he wanted to make the women think he had money.
After gaining their confidence, he would set the alarm on his phone and have it go off while he was talking to them.
He would pretend to hold a conversation that described him needing money to repair equipment so he could finish a good-paying job.
The women, Ridenour said, would give him money.
He’d never pay it back."
Friday, December 21, 2012
LIBERTY REVIEW-Never Waste A Good Crisis
LIBERTY REVIEW
Never Waste A Good Crisis
"You may be in favor of stricter gun laws or maybe even banning firearms all together.
What happens when the government targets something that is important to you?
Do you enjoy speaking your mind?
Do you enjoy reading books, periodicals or newspapers?
How about the internet?
Do you enjoy the ability to look up anything of interest?
Do you enjoy traveling?
How about eating and drinking what you enjoy?
Our freedoms are in danger.
If the government successfully ends one of our rights, the others will soon fall.
“The strongest reason for the people to retain the right to keep and bear arms is, as a last resort, to protect themselves against tyranny in government.”
Thomas Jefferson"
Never Waste A Good Crisis
"You may be in favor of stricter gun laws or maybe even banning firearms all together.
What happens when the government targets something that is important to you?
Do you enjoy speaking your mind?
Do you enjoy reading books, periodicals or newspapers?
How about the internet?
Do you enjoy the ability to look up anything of interest?
Do you enjoy traveling?
How about eating and drinking what you enjoy?
Our freedoms are in danger.
If the government successfully ends one of our rights, the others will soon fall.
“The strongest reason for the people to retain the right to keep and bear arms is, as a last resort, to protect themselves against tyranny in government.”
Thomas Jefferson"
LIBERTY REVIEW
LIBERTY REVIEW: Our nation dodged a debilitating bullet this past week. Our Senators came dangerously close to handing over the rights of Americans with disabilities to the United Nations. Once again, where was the press?
Why More States May Adopt Right-to-Work Laws
Why More States May Adopt Right-to-Work Laws
The Economic Policy Institute, a non-profit, non-partisan think tank, says the laws and other anti-union measures lower wages—for both union and non-union workers alike—by an average of $1,500 per year, after accounting for the cost of living in each state.
And EDI says the laws have had no significant impact on attracting employers to a particular state.
"The freedom to choose (that) right-to-work supporters talk about so often is the freedom to treat employees however they please and to pay them as little as possible," said Ross Eiseberry, vice president of the Economic Policy Institute,
The Economic Policy Institute, a non-profit, non-partisan think tank, says the laws and other anti-union measures lower wages—for both union and non-union workers alike—by an average of $1,500 per year, after accounting for the cost of living in each state.
And EDI says the laws have had no significant impact on attracting employers to a particular state.
"The freedom to choose (that) right-to-work supporters talk about so often is the freedom to treat employees however they please and to pay them as little as possible," said Ross Eiseberry, vice president of the Economic Policy Institute,
Genesee County schools closed rest of week as rumors of violence swirl r
Genesee County schools closed rest of week as rumors of violence swirl | MLive.com
Johnson added the decision to cancel classes was a unanimous decision by Genesee County's school superintendents.
Schools across the area are taking precautions against rumors that some students plan to bring weapons to school Friday in conjunction with the end of the Mayan calender, Johnson said previously.
Johnson added the decision to cancel classes was a unanimous decision by Genesee County's school superintendents.
Schools across the area are taking precautions against rumors that some students plan to bring weapons to school Friday in conjunction with the end of the Mayan calender, Johnson said previously.
Texas school district sees value in having armed teachers on staff
Texas school district sees value in having armed teachers on staff - EAGnews.org :: Education Research, Reporting, Analysis and Commentary
Superintendent David Thweatt, who designed the plan, is happy to explain the logic behind it.
He says that the schools in his district are a half hour away from the nearest police department.
He says the security program is designed to allow willing staff members to protect students from “a lot of anger in society.”
“When you make schools gun-free zones, it’s like inviting people to come in and take advantage,” Thweatt told the Huffington Post.
Superintendent David Thweatt, who designed the plan, is happy to explain the logic behind it.
He says that the schools in his district are a half hour away from the nearest police department.
He says the security program is designed to allow willing staff members to protect students from “a lot of anger in society.”
“When you make schools gun-free zones, it’s like inviting people to come in and take advantage,” Thweatt told the Huffington Post.
Anatomy of the school-closing decision: Rumors of violence led to all Genesee County schools shutting for two days
Anatomy of the school-closing decision: Rumors of violence led to all Genesee County schools shutting for two days | MLive.com
GENESEE COUNTY, MI -- It was an unusual meeting for an unusual day.
Swirling rumors that started earlier in the week at county schools had everyone on edge Wednesday, Dec. 19.
According to the rumor being passed around, largely on Facebook, some students were planning a "revolt" on Friday, Dec. 21, the day some believe ancient Mayan calendars predict the world will end.
Earlier in the day, police swarmed Grand Blanc High School after a 911 call reported shots fired in the building.
The report turned out to be false, a text message prank, but for a few terrifying minutes, Grand Blanc and other area schools went on lockdown.
GENESEE COUNTY, MI -- It was an unusual meeting for an unusual day.
Swirling rumors that started earlier in the week at county schools had everyone on edge Wednesday, Dec. 19.
According to the rumor being passed around, largely on Facebook, some students were planning a "revolt" on Friday, Dec. 21, the day some believe ancient Mayan calendars predict the world will end.
Earlier in the day, police swarmed Grand Blanc High School after a 911 call reported shots fired in the building.
The report turned out to be false, a text message prank, but for a few terrifying minutes, Grand Blanc and other area schools went on lockdown.
Vernuccio and Lehman: An Inspiration and a Warning From Michigan
Vernuccio and Lehman: An Inspiration and a Warning From Michigan - WSJ.com
Neighboring Indiana became a right-to-work state on Feb. 1.
Since the start of the year, the Hoosier State has welcomed many new employers and added 43,300 jobs, while Michigan has lost 7,300.
Neighboring Indiana became a right-to-work state on Feb. 1.
Since the start of the year, the Hoosier State has welcomed many new employers and added 43,300 jobs, while Michigan has lost 7,300.
Applauding Michigan Legislators Who Supported Workplace Freedom and Liberty
Applauding Michigan Legislators Who Supported Workplace Freedom and Liberty [Michigan Capitol Confidential]
The governor and the following legislators voted for freedom and liberty in the workplace and should be commended for their efforts.
Congratulations Sen. Hansen and Rep. Holly Hughes!
The governor and the following legislators voted for freedom and liberty in the workplace and should be commended for their efforts.
Congratulations Sen. Hansen and Rep. Holly Hughes!
Mindblowing Accounts of Milwaukee Voting Fraud In 2012 Election
Mindblowing Accounts of Milwaukee Voting Fraud In 2012 Election
When the Wisconsin Government Accountability Board met for its December meeting, it heard countless testimony from election day observers about irregularities they had seen.
These two accounts stand out as particularly troubling.
When the Wisconsin Government Accountability Board met for its December meeting, it heard countless testimony from election day observers about irregularities they had seen.
These two accounts stand out as particularly troubling.
Thursday, December 20, 2012
UNEDITED UNION ASSAULT FOOTAGE!
UNEDITED UNION ASSAULT FOOTAGE!
Published on Dec 20, 2012
This is further documentation of the violent acts committed on behalf of union members in Lansing, MI. A police report has been filed. Please follow @scrowder on twitter for up-to-minute updates on the story.
House Scorecard 2012 - Michigan Votes
House Scorecard 2012 - Michigan Votes:
Wow, Holly Hughes was tied for least conservative republican.
Maybe a lesson for other candidates?
Wow, Holly Hughes was tied for least conservative republican.
Maybe a lesson for other candidates?
How Right to Work Works
How Right to Work Works | Washington Free Beacon
Gradual implementation is a major component of the GOP strategy.
When the law is implemented in April 2013, it will apply only to new businesses or workers who are not bound by contracts. While new job creators will be able to open up shop without worry of onerous union contracts, United Auto Workers (UAW) members at Ford will maintain paying union dues until their contract expires in 2015.
“We purposefully set this up to not break any contracts,” Meekhof said. “Once a contract is completed, then the workers would have the choice.”
.....The right-to-work law exempts cops and firemen, powerful uniformed labor forces that garner a great deal of respect from voters.
The law’s authors also avoided the prospect of repeal-by-referendum by tacking on a $1 million appropriation to “educate” workers about their new rights.
Appropriations bills are exempt from referendum.
Gradual implementation is a major component of the GOP strategy.
When the law is implemented in April 2013, it will apply only to new businesses or workers who are not bound by contracts. While new job creators will be able to open up shop without worry of onerous union contracts, United Auto Workers (UAW) members at Ford will maintain paying union dues until their contract expires in 2015.
“We purposefully set this up to not break any contracts,” Meekhof said. “Once a contract is completed, then the workers would have the choice.”
.....The right-to-work law exempts cops and firemen, powerful uniformed labor forces that garner a great deal of respect from voters.
The law’s authors also avoided the prospect of repeal-by-referendum by tacking on a $1 million appropriation to “educate” workers about their new rights.
Appropriations bills are exempt from referendum.
Wednesday, December 19, 2012
Down to -50C: Russians freeze to death as strongest-in-decades winter hits (PHOTOS)
Down to -50C: Russians freeze to death as strongest-in-decades winter hits (PHOTOS) — RT
Russia is enduring its harshest winter in over 70 years, with temperatures plunging as low as -50 degrees Celsius.
Dozens of people have already died, and almost 150 have been hospitalized.
The country has not witnessed such a long cold spell since 1938, meteorologists said, with temperatures 10 to 15 degrees lower than the seasonal norm all over Russia.
Russia is enduring its harshest winter in over 70 years, with temperatures plunging as low as -50 degrees Celsius.
Dozens of people have already died, and almost 150 have been hospitalized.
The country has not witnessed such a long cold spell since 1938, meteorologists said, with temperatures 10 to 15 degrees lower than the seasonal norm all over Russia.
Robert Bork, 1927-2012
Robert Bork, 1927-2012 « Commentary Magazine
Bob’s sin was believing that the job of a constitutional jurist was to analyze constitutional cases in light of the specific language of the Constitution and the intent and ideas of those who wrote it.
For believing this—for believing in the classical notion, which defines the very act of interpretative scholarship, that a work of governing philosophy and practice has intrinsic meaning and not just the meaning we wish to assign to it—he was disgustingly slandered.
Bob’s sin was believing that the job of a constitutional jurist was to analyze constitutional cases in light of the specific language of the Constitution and the intent and ideas of those who wrote it.
For believing this—for believing in the classical notion, which defines the very act of interpretative scholarship, that a work of governing philosophy and practice has intrinsic meaning and not just the meaning we wish to assign to it—he was disgustingly slandered.
Robert H. Bork, 1927-2012
Roger’s Rules » Robert H. Bork, 1927-2012
Judge Robert H. Bork, one of the the greatest jurists this country has ever produced, died early this morning from heart complications in a Virginia hospital near his home.
He was 84.
The Bork behind "jambork".
RIP, brave patriot.
Judge Robert H. Bork, one of the the greatest jurists this country has ever produced, died early this morning from heart complications in a Virginia hospital near his home.
He was 84.
The Bork behind "jambork".
RIP, brave patriot.
Private fundraising for Muskegon senior transit program to await city decision on partnerships
Private fundraising for Muskegon senior transit program to await city decision on partnerships | MLive.com
In a meeting organized by Zawdie Abiade, pastor of Lakeside Wesleyan Church, the group concluded that to raise $70,000 each year would take not only individuals but corporate support and contributions.
The concerned citizens agreed to explore corporate support for senior transit services in the coming weeks and gather again Jan. 3.
The group is waiting for the city to investigate whether there can be a public-private partnership to continue the senior transit services before committing to a fundraising effort, Abiade said.
In a meeting organized by Zawdie Abiade, pastor of Lakeside Wesleyan Church, the group concluded that to raise $70,000 each year would take not only individuals but corporate support and contributions.
The concerned citizens agreed to explore corporate support for senior transit services in the coming weeks and gather again Jan. 3.
The group is waiting for the city to investigate whether there can be a public-private partnership to continue the senior transit services before committing to a fundraising effort, Abiade said.
Gov. Snyder will veto Michigan bill allowing concealed guns in schools
Gov. Snyder will veto Michigan bill allowing concealed guns in schools | MLive.com
Gov. Rick Snyder on Tuesday will veto legislation that would allow gun owners with extra training to carry concealed handguns into public schools, public arenas and other so-called gun-free zones now off limits, according to the sponsor of the bill.
Gov. Rick Snyder on Tuesday will veto legislation that would allow gun owners with extra training to carry concealed handguns into public schools, public arenas and other so-called gun-free zones now off limits, according to the sponsor of the bill.
Tuesday, December 18, 2012
How President Obama’s campaign used big data to rally individual voters, Part 2.
A More Perfect Union, Part 2 | MIT Technology Review
Why It Matters
The Obama 2012 campaign used data analytics and the experimental method to assemble a winning coalition vote by vote.
In doing so, it overturned the long dominance of TV advertising in U.S. politics and created something new in the world: a national campaign run like a local ward election, where the interests of individual voters were known and addressed.
This is the second installment in a three-part series:
Part 1: The Scores
Part 2: The Experiments
Part 3: The Community
Why It Matters
The Obama 2012 campaign used data analytics and the experimental method to assemble a winning coalition vote by vote.
In doing so, it overturned the long dominance of TV advertising in U.S. politics and created something new in the world: a national campaign run like a local ward election, where the interests of individual voters were known and addressed.
This is the second installment in a three-part series:
Part 1: The Scores
Part 2: The Experiments
Part 3: The Community
Solar power adds to nonusers' costs
Solar power adds to nonusers' costs - SFGate:
"Booming rooftop solar installations in California are bringing an unwelcome surprise to the homes and businesses that don't have the devices: an extra $1.3 billion added to their annual bills"
"Booming rooftop solar installations in California are bringing an unwelcome surprise to the homes and businesses that don't have the devices: an extra $1.3 billion added to their annual bills"
SEIU 'Dues Skim' Days Are Numbered
SEIU 'Dues Skim' Days Are Numbered [Michigan Capitol Confidential]
On Monday, the newly constituted Michigan Quality Community Care Council (MQC3) board affirmed that the contract upon which the SEIU "Dues Skim" is based will end Feb. 28, 2013.
The board further announced that the MQC3 would officially be dissolved as of April 14, 2013.
Free at last!
On Monday, the newly constituted Michigan Quality Community Care Council (MQC3) board affirmed that the contract upon which the SEIU "Dues Skim" is based will end Feb. 28, 2013.
The board further announced that the MQC3 would officially be dissolved as of April 14, 2013.
Free at last!
Plug-In Cars Don’t Resell – Because They Don’t Sell
The PJ Tatler » Plug-In Cars Don’t Resell – Because They Don’t Sell:
1. Chris Bolts Sr
The turbocharged Ford Focus ST is $24,000.
The Ford Focus all-electric is $40,000.
That should tell ye all ye need to know.
1. Chris Bolts Sr
The turbocharged Ford Focus ST is $24,000.
The Ford Focus all-electric is $40,000.
That should tell ye all ye need to know.
The End of Unions?
The End of Unions? | Hoover Institution
The gains from right-to-work laws are not just confined to Indiana.
As Venuccio and Lehman report, between 1980 and 2011, overall employment levels rose by 71 percent in right-to-work states.
In non-right-to-work states, they only rose by 32 percent.
That differential does not come at the expense of wages, which grew four times as fast in right-to-work states: 12 percent versus 3 percent elsewhere.
The explanation is clear enough.
The productivity gains from escaping union work rules are shared with employees as employers bid up wages.
The short-term monopoly gains to unionized workers eventually are, over time, more than offset by productivity losses.
The New Deal union model is an economic mistake of major proportions.
The gains from right-to-work laws are not just confined to Indiana.
As Venuccio and Lehman report, between 1980 and 2011, overall employment levels rose by 71 percent in right-to-work states.
In non-right-to-work states, they only rose by 32 percent.
That differential does not come at the expense of wages, which grew four times as fast in right-to-work states: 12 percent versus 3 percent elsewhere.
The explanation is clear enough.
The productivity gains from escaping union work rules are shared with employees as employers bid up wages.
The short-term monopoly gains to unionized workers eventually are, over time, more than offset by productivity losses.
The New Deal union model is an economic mistake of major proportions.
Before wringing your hands at the madness of American gun laws, read this
Before wringing your hands at the madness of American gun laws, read this – Telegraph Blogs
When one begins to dig into the figures, the matter becomes more complex.
It is true that Japan, whose strict weapons legislation is built upon an unequivocal 1958 act stating that "No person shall possess a firearm or firearms or sword or swords", has one of the lowest homicide rates in the world.
Britain is in a similar position. But there are other countries – Israel, Switzerland, Norway – which, according to a 2012 study by the UNODC into international rates of intentional homicides, have high levels of gun ownership but relatively low levels of murder.
Moreover, other countries, like Holland, Sweden, Denmark and Russia, have high homicide rates despite having very few firearms.
When one begins to dig into the figures, the matter becomes more complex.
It is true that Japan, whose strict weapons legislation is built upon an unequivocal 1958 act stating that "No person shall possess a firearm or firearms or sword or swords", has one of the lowest homicide rates in the world.
Britain is in a similar position. But there are other countries – Israel, Switzerland, Norway – which, according to a 2012 study by the UNODC into international rates of intentional homicides, have high levels of gun ownership but relatively low levels of murder.
Moreover, other countries, like Holland, Sweden, Denmark and Russia, have high homicide rates despite having very few firearms.
The God Complex
The God Complex
As Winston Churchill said, “Socialism is a philosophy of failure, the creed of ignorance, and the gospel of envy, its inherent virtue is the equal sharing of misery.”
As Winston Churchill said, “Socialism is a philosophy of failure, the creed of ignorance, and the gospel of envy, its inherent virtue is the equal sharing of misery.”
THE FACTS ABOUT MASS SHOOTINGS: Mass shootings are no more common than they have been in past dec…
Instapundit » Blog Archive » THE FACTS ABOUT MASS SHOOTINGS: Mass shootings are no more common than they have been in past dec…
Mass shootings are no more common than they have been in past decades, despite the impression given by the media.
In fact, the high point for mass killings in the U.S. was 1929, according to criminologist Grant Duwe of the Minnesota Department of Corrections. . . .
With just one single exception, the attack on congresswoman Gabrielle Giffords in Tucson in 2011, every public shooting since at least 1950 in the U.S. in which more than three people have been killed has taken place where citizens are not allowed to carry guns.
Read the whole thing.
Posted by Glenn Reynolds at 7:43 am
Mass shootings are no more common than they have been in past decades, despite the impression given by the media.
In fact, the high point for mass killings in the U.S. was 1929, according to criminologist Grant Duwe of the Minnesota Department of Corrections. . . .
With just one single exception, the attack on congresswoman Gabrielle Giffords in Tucson in 2011, every public shooting since at least 1950 in the U.S. in which more than three people have been killed has taken place where citizens are not allowed to carry guns.
Read the whole thing.
Posted by Glenn Reynolds at 7:43 am
Muskegon store owner displays shotgun, scares off would-be robber
Muskegon store owner displays shotgun, scares off would-be robber | MLive.com
The 48-year-old store owner was just getting ready to close the business for the evening when an unarmed suspect attempted to rob the place, police said.
The suspect did not have his face covered and didn't appear to have a weapon at the time, police said.
The store owner displayed a shotgun and the suspect fled from the store on foot, police said.
The 48-year-old store owner was just getting ready to close the business for the evening when an unarmed suspect attempted to rob the place, police said.
The suspect did not have his face covered and didn't appear to have a weapon at the time, police said.
The store owner displayed a shotgun and the suspect fled from the store on foot, police said.
Monday, December 17, 2012
Wind, solar could provide 99.9% of ALL POWER by 2030 • The Register
Wind, solar could provide 99.9% of ALL POWER by 2030 • The Register
Fossil-fuel sources wouldn't be abandoned entirely.
There would likely be times when neither wind nor solar could provide enough juice, and when storage had been depleted.
When that happens, they say, it'd be time to fire up the ol' CO2 spewers and spin their turbines.
Doing that, however, would be a last resort, and not the first, as is true in much of the US's power grid today.
While the idea of a large, geographically diverse renewable-energy grid might seem heinously expensive, the paper's authors contend that if current estimates are correct that by 2030 wind and solar capital costs will be about half of what they are today, by that date a renewable system would be as cost effective as a fossil fuel system, and all without government subsidies.
There is one cost sweetener in their calculations, however: their cost estimates for that comparison includes the costs related to the human health effects of fossil fuel–caused air polution.
Those are costs, of course, that are not borne by the electric power industry. Yet. ®
Fossil-fuel sources wouldn't be abandoned entirely.
There would likely be times when neither wind nor solar could provide enough juice, and when storage had been depleted.
When that happens, they say, it'd be time to fire up the ol' CO2 spewers and spin their turbines.
Doing that, however, would be a last resort, and not the first, as is true in much of the US's power grid today.
While the idea of a large, geographically diverse renewable-energy grid might seem heinously expensive, the paper's authors contend that if current estimates are correct that by 2030 wind and solar capital costs will be about half of what they are today, by that date a renewable system would be as cost effective as a fossil fuel system, and all without government subsidies.
There is one cost sweetener in their calculations, however: their cost estimates for that comparison includes the costs related to the human health effects of fossil fuel–caused air polution.
Those are costs, of course, that are not borne by the electric power industry. Yet. ®
SO IF WE’RE GOING TO HAVE A “NATIONAL CONVERSATION ON GUNS,” HERE ARE SOME OPENERS:
Instapundit » Blog Archive » SO IF WE’RE GOING TO HAVE A “NATIONAL CONVERSATION ON GUNS,” HERE ARE SOME OPENERS:
Why do people…: UPDATE: John Lucas emails:
Joe Scarborough, who claims to be a “proud NRA member” just said there is no reason to allow someone to have an “assault weapon” that shoots “30 rounds a second.”
The ignorance is appalling.
Well, yes. It’s MSNBC. But it is interesting that Scarborough — like Mark Shields and Rupert Murdoch — seems entirely ignorant of actual gun law.
But to be fair, the National Firearms Act has only been around since 1934.
Posted by Glenn Reynolds at 8:15 am
Why do people…: UPDATE: John Lucas emails:
Joe Scarborough, who claims to be a “proud NRA member” just said there is no reason to allow someone to have an “assault weapon” that shoots “30 rounds a second.”
The ignorance is appalling.
Well, yes. It’s MSNBC. But it is interesting that Scarborough — like Mark Shields and Rupert Murdoch — seems entirely ignorant of actual gun law.
But to be fair, the National Firearms Act has only been around since 1934.
Posted by Glenn Reynolds at 8:15 am
Question of the Day: Should Gov. Snyder veto new gun legislation in the wake of the Connecticut school shootings?
Question of the Day: Should Gov. Snyder veto new gun legislation in the wake of the Connecticut school shootings? | MLive.com:
Connecticut has a similar law, but the proposed Michigan bill goes even further.
Gov. Rick Snyder has not indicated if he supports the legislation.
Leaders of the MEA and Progress Michigan have urged Snyder to veto the bill.
Connecticut has a similar law, but the proposed Michigan bill goes even further.
Gov. Rick Snyder has not indicated if he supports the legislation.
Leaders of the MEA and Progress Michigan have urged Snyder to veto the bill.
What If Nothing or Nobody is to Blame for Adam Lanza? Guns, Video Games, Autism or Authorities
What If Nothing or Nobody is to Blame for Adam Lanza? Guns, Video Games, Autism or Authorities - NationalJournal.com
What if there is nobody or nothing to blame?
Would that make this inexplicable horror unbearable?
What if we didn't rush to judgement?
What if we didn't waste our thoughts, prayers and actions on assigning blame for the sake of mere recrimination?
What if we calmly and ruthlessly learned whatever lessons we can from the massacre -- and prevented the next one?
A parting thought: What if it wasn't one thing, but everything, that set off Lanza?
What if there is nobody or nothing to blame?
Would that make this inexplicable horror unbearable?
What if we didn't rush to judgement?
What if we didn't waste our thoughts, prayers and actions on assigning blame for the sake of mere recrimination?
What if we calmly and ruthlessly learned whatever lessons we can from the massacre -- and prevented the next one?
A parting thought: What if it wasn't one thing, but everything, that set off Lanza?
2012 salary report: 20 University of Michigan deans collect $7.28M in base pay
2012 salary report: 20 University of Michigan deans collect $7.28M in base pay
Related article: 2012 salary report: University of Michigan's top 16 execs collect $7.19M in base pay
Two University of Michigan dean reappointments in 2012 came with 13 percent salary increases.
Overall, U-M's 20 deans earn a combined $7.28 million in base salaries, according to compensation figures released Friday by the school.
Last year U-M's deans earned $6.92 million.
Related article: 2012 salary report: University of Michigan's top 16 execs collect $7.19M in base pay
Two University of Michigan dean reappointments in 2012 came with 13 percent salary increases.
Overall, U-M's 20 deans earn a combined $7.28 million in base salaries, according to compensation figures released Friday by the school.
Last year U-M's deans earned $6.92 million.
Union Steward Paid $100K By Taxpayers Attends Rally Advocating Against Them
Union Steward Paid $100K By Taxpayers Attends Rally Advocating Against Them [Michigan Capitol Confidential]
Unlike most public and private-sector workers, being there was easy for Levine — she is paid by taxpayers to represent the union full-time.
As Michigan Capitol Confidential noted in a story in 2011, Levine is an elementary school teacher who is released from her duties as a teacher to work for the union.
That's the perk of being union president.
According to documents provided by the district via a Freedom of Information Act request, Levine makes $145,117 in total compensation (as of 2011).
The Chippewa Valley School District in Macomb County pays $103,807 of that. Another teacher in the district, Larry Schulte, is allowed to spend half his time involved in union business.
He receives $125,135 in total compensation of which taxpayers pick-up $104,480 (as of 2011).
Unlike most public and private-sector workers, being there was easy for Levine — she is paid by taxpayers to represent the union full-time.
As Michigan Capitol Confidential noted in a story in 2011, Levine is an elementary school teacher who is released from her duties as a teacher to work for the union.
That's the perk of being union president.
According to documents provided by the district via a Freedom of Information Act request, Levine makes $145,117 in total compensation (as of 2011).
The Chippewa Valley School District in Macomb County pays $103,807 of that. Another teacher in the district, Larry Schulte, is allowed to spend half his time involved in union business.
He receives $125,135 in total compensation of which taxpayers pick-up $104,480 (as of 2011).
Prosperity: US Drops Out of Top Ten
Prosperity: US Drops Out of Top Ten | Power Line
Consistent with this finding is the fact that for the first time in history, the average Canadian is wealthier than the average American.
Canada has a conservative government, and they have passed us like we are standing still.
Which we are, at best.
Consistent with this finding is the fact that for the first time in history, the average Canadian is wealthier than the average American.
Canada has a conservative government, and they have passed us like we are standing still.
Which we are, at best.
Sunday, December 16, 2012
ACLU Killed Connecticut Forcible Institutionalization Law That Might Have Prevented Killings
ACLU Killed Connecticut Forcible Institutionalization Law That Might Have Prevented Killings
But thankfully the ACLU won and over two dozen children were murdered.
And there will be of course no cries that the ACLU, rather than the NRA, should be held accountable for a dangerous lunatic being on the loose.
But thankfully the ACLU won and over two dozen children were murdered.
And there will be of course no cries that the ACLU, rather than the NRA, should be held accountable for a dangerous lunatic being on the loose.
The Anarchist Soccer Mom: Thinking the Unthinkable
The Anarchist Soccer Mom: Thinking the Unthinkable
I am sharing this story because I am Adam Lanza’s mother.
I am Dylan Klebold’s and Eric Harris’s mother.
I am James Holmes’s mother.
I am Jared Loughner’s mother.
I am Seung-Hui Cho’s mother.
And these boys—and their mothers—need help.
In the wake of another horrific national tragedy, it’s easy to talk about guns.
But it’s time to talk about mental illness.
I am sharing this story because I am Adam Lanza’s mother.
I am Dylan Klebold’s and Eric Harris’s mother.
I am James Holmes’s mother.
I am Jared Loughner’s mother.
I am Seung-Hui Cho’s mother.
And these boys—and their mothers—need help.
In the wake of another horrific national tragedy, it’s easy to talk about guns.
But it’s time to talk about mental illness.
Saturday, December 15, 2012
Obama: Pot users not a 'top priority'
Obama: Pot users not a 'top priority' | The Detroit News | detroitnews.com
Obama simply told Walters that going after "recreational users" would not be a "top priority."
Obama simply told Walters that going after "recreational users" would not be a "top priority."
Editorial: Muskegon city commissioners should follow voters' directive on senior citizen transit program
Editorial: Muskegon city commissioners should follow voters' directive on senior citizen transit program | MLive.com
The people of Muskegon clearly wanted the senior citizen transit program to receive funding, even if a technicality ended up in its defeat at the polls.
The people of Muskegon clearly wanted the senior citizen transit program to receive funding, even if a technicality ended up in its defeat at the polls.
Editorial: Politicizing job creation doesn't benefit Michigan business or labor
Editorial: Politicizing job creation doesn't benefit Michigan business or labor | MLive.com
We're not suggesting that everyone sit in a circle and sing "Kumbaya."
Michigan's strength is in its diversity, but there is a potential for weakness there, too.
Because the state did not have a proper debate over right to work, we will spend the next two years sorting the issue out in a political and legal battle that will cost us dearly.
But we should not let that distract us from the most important issue: jobs.
The MLive and Muskegon Chronicle Editorial Board members are Peg West, community news director; Clayton Hardiman, columnist; and Paula Holmes-Greeley, community engagement specialist.
We're not suggesting that everyone sit in a circle and sing "Kumbaya."
Michigan's strength is in its diversity, but there is a potential for weakness there, too.
Because the state did not have a proper debate over right to work, we will spend the next two years sorting the issue out in a political and legal battle that will cost us dearly.
But we should not let that distract us from the most important issue: jobs.
The MLive and Muskegon Chronicle Editorial Board members are Peg West, community news director; Clayton Hardiman, columnist; and Paula Holmes-Greeley, community engagement specialist.
ABC, NBC and CBS ignore union thugs' attack on Fox News contributor
ABC, NBC and CBS ignore union thugs' attack on Fox News contributor | Fox News
It’s a sad day for American TV journalism when The Huffington Post is a more honest news outlet than ABC, CBS or NBC.
On Tuesday, after Michigan union protests escalated into violence, HuffPo led with several stories, including one headlined: “Fox News Contributor Punched.”
That story was about how Fox News contributor Steven Crowder and others were attacked by union thugs during the protest against the new “right-to-work” law.
ABC, CBS and NBC covered the protests but only ABC made mention of police having to deal with protesters.
None of them mentioned the attack on Crowder or showed the videos of that attack and the thugs tearing down a tent with people in it, both widely available on the Internet hours before the evening news show broadcast.
No network quoted Teamsters head Jimmy Hoffa predicting “civil war” between lawmakers and union members.
NBC anchor Brian Williams referred to it all meekly as “a boisterous day in the state capital.”
It’s a sad day for American TV journalism when The Huffington Post is a more honest news outlet than ABC, CBS or NBC.
On Tuesday, after Michigan union protests escalated into violence, HuffPo led with several stories, including one headlined: “Fox News Contributor Punched.”
That story was about how Fox News contributor Steven Crowder and others were attacked by union thugs during the protest against the new “right-to-work” law.
ABC, CBS and NBC covered the protests but only ABC made mention of police having to deal with protesters.
None of them mentioned the attack on Crowder or showed the videos of that attack and the thugs tearing down a tent with people in it, both widely available on the Internet hours before the evening news show broadcast.
No network quoted Teamsters head Jimmy Hoffa predicting “civil war” between lawmakers and union members.
NBC anchor Brian Williams referred to it all meekly as “a boisterous day in the state capital.”
Study: Less Than 10% of Indian MBA Graduates Are ‘Employable’
Study: Less Than 10% of Indian MBA Graduates Are ‘Employable’ - India Real Time - WSJ
The study found that less than half of the students tested had some knowledge of key industry terms and concepts in their areas of specialty.
For instance, a third of the surveyed students who had majored in finance, did not know what IPO – short for initial public offering – stood for.
A third of all students tested lacked basic English grammar skills, a prerequisite for working in the corporate environment, particularly in client-facing roles like consulting, banking, marketing and sales.
The study found that less than half of the students tested had some knowledge of key industry terms and concepts in their areas of specialty.
For instance, a third of the surveyed students who had majored in finance, did not know what IPO – short for initial public offering – stood for.
A third of all students tested lacked basic English grammar skills, a prerequisite for working in the corporate environment, particularly in client-facing roles like consulting, banking, marketing and sales.
Obama administration, Congress quietly let school security funds lapse
Obama administration, Congress quietly let school security funds lapse | WashingtonGuardian
Beneath the expressions of grief, sorrow and disbelief over the Connecticut school massacre lies an uneasy truth in Washington: over the last few years the Obama administration and Congress quietly let federal funding for several key school security programs lapse in the name of budget savings.
Government officials told the Washington Guardian on Friday night that two Justice Department programs that had provided more than $200 million to schools for training, security equipment and police resources over the last decade weren't renewed in 2011 and 2012, and that a separate program that provided $800 million to put police officers inside the schools was ended a few years earlier.
Beneath the expressions of grief, sorrow and disbelief over the Connecticut school massacre lies an uneasy truth in Washington: over the last few years the Obama administration and Congress quietly let federal funding for several key school security programs lapse in the name of budget savings.
Government officials told the Washington Guardian on Friday night that two Justice Department programs that had provided more than $200 million to schools for training, security equipment and police resources over the last decade weren't renewed in 2011 and 2012, and that a separate program that provided $800 million to put police officers inside the schools was ended a few years earlier.
A Thought Experiment Related to School Shootings
The Volokh Conspiracy » A Thought Experiment Related to School Shootings
A Thought Experiment Related to School Shootings
Imagine that you ran a school district, and some rich foundation, worried about school shootings, gave you the following offer: We’ll hire armed security guards for you, who could try to do something about the school shooter. These aren’t going to be highly trained police officers, just typical security guards, given some modest training and subjected to basic background checks. It’s not like they’re highly skilled; security guards rarely are. But they have a basic understanding of how to shoot, and when to shoot.
They wouldn’t deal with ordinary trespassing, vandalism, and the like, nor would they be at all guaranteed to be effective in the event of a school shooting (who can offer such a guarantee?). But they’d provide someone on the ground who could try to interrupt a killing spree. And the foundation is paying, so it’s virtually no cost to the district. Would you say yes?
I imagine that you probably would. You probably wouldn’t much worry, for instance, that the guard would go crazy and himself start shooting — theoretically possible, to be sure, but unlikely. You’d figure that someone who can defend the school with a gun during an attack (as opposed to the police, who will come in many precious minutes after the attack begins) is better than no-one.
Nor would you object in principles about there being a gun in school, since it’s in the right hands. Just like people who have money often to pay for armed neighborhood-wide security patrols, and don’t insist on the unarmed kind or no patrol at all, you’d probably think that this free security guard would probably be helpful.
But wait! The foundation has just learned that its investment portfolio has done very badly, and the grant doesn’t go through. But someone else suggests: Instead of hiring special-purpose security guards, why not take some of your existing employees — teachers, administrators, and the like — and offer them a deal: They’d go through some modest training and subjected to basic background checks, and in exchange they’d be given the right to carry the same guns that the security guards would have had.
Indeed, this way you could have not just one security guard but several (if several staff members sign up). And you might get people to do this even without paying them, since they might value the ability to defend themselves and to not be sitting ducks should the worst happen. (If there’s some union contract or labor law that precludes that, that can of course be changed, if people think this is a good idea.) Maybe Assistant Principal Joel Myrick, who confronted the Pearl, Mississippi high school shooter with a gun, after Myrick went to the car to get it, might have participated in such a program if it had existed, and had let him keep the gun in school.
And no need to call the licenses given to those who participate in the program “concealed carry” licenses, just in case some parents and others don’t like the concept. Just call them “volunteer security guard” licenses, though you might expect that most people who sign up for this will also have licenses to concealed carry on the street. Of course, if a killer does show up, maybe some of these volunteer security guards will just cower in the corner rather than trying to defend the students, or attack the killer. But it seems more likely that someone will confront and try to stop the killer if that someone is armed then if that person is disarmed.
What’s your answer to that? Is there some reason why the armed security guard is safe and helpful, but the armed teacher, administrator, or staffer — er, the teacher with a volunteer security guard license — would be useless and a menace?
They wouldn’t deal with ordinary trespassing, vandalism, and the like, nor would they be at all guaranteed to be effective in the event of a school shooting (who can offer such a guarantee?). But they’d provide someone on the ground who could try to interrupt a killing spree. And the foundation is paying, so it’s virtually no cost to the district. Would you say yes?
I imagine that you probably would. You probably wouldn’t much worry, for instance, that the guard would go crazy and himself start shooting — theoretically possible, to be sure, but unlikely. You’d figure that someone who can defend the school with a gun during an attack (as opposed to the police, who will come in many precious minutes after the attack begins) is better than no-one.
Nor would you object in principles about there being a gun in school, since it’s in the right hands. Just like people who have money often to pay for armed neighborhood-wide security patrols, and don’t insist on the unarmed kind or no patrol at all, you’d probably think that this free security guard would probably be helpful.
But wait! The foundation has just learned that its investment portfolio has done very badly, and the grant doesn’t go through. But someone else suggests: Instead of hiring special-purpose security guards, why not take some of your existing employees — teachers, administrators, and the like — and offer them a deal: They’d go through some modest training and subjected to basic background checks, and in exchange they’d be given the right to carry the same guns that the security guards would have had.
Indeed, this way you could have not just one security guard but several (if several staff members sign up). And you might get people to do this even without paying them, since they might value the ability to defend themselves and to not be sitting ducks should the worst happen. (If there’s some union contract or labor law that precludes that, that can of course be changed, if people think this is a good idea.) Maybe Assistant Principal Joel Myrick, who confronted the Pearl, Mississippi high school shooter with a gun, after Myrick went to the car to get it, might have participated in such a program if it had existed, and had let him keep the gun in school.
And no need to call the licenses given to those who participate in the program “concealed carry” licenses, just in case some parents and others don’t like the concept. Just call them “volunteer security guard” licenses, though you might expect that most people who sign up for this will also have licenses to concealed carry on the street. Of course, if a killer does show up, maybe some of these volunteer security guards will just cower in the corner rather than trying to defend the students, or attack the killer. But it seems more likely that someone will confront and try to stop the killer if that someone is armed then if that person is disarmed.
What’s your answer to that? Is there some reason why the armed security guard is safe and helpful, but the armed teacher, administrator, or staffer — er, the teacher with a volunteer security guard license — would be useless and a menace?
DETNEWS | Weblogs | The Watercooler
DETNEWS | Weblogs | The Watercooler
Guv Snyder death threats
After what I saw and heard Tuesday in person in Lansing... this surprises me not at all:
Examiner: Liberals on Twitter issue death threats against Gov. Snyder over right to work
Liberals and union supporters on Twitter issued a number of tweets calling for the death of Michigan Governor Rick Snyder over the right-to-work measure he signed into law, Twitchy reported Tuesday.
"I have signed the freedom to work bills into law," Gov. Snyder tweeted.
"F**k Snyder ill kill him (sic)," tweeted "TheWhitegirl."
"I Wanna Shoot Gov Snyder In His Eye. . .Bastard Been F**kin' Michigan Left & Right (sic)," one person said.
"[Y]ou are soooo going to die painfully for this b******t, it isn't even funny (sic)," said another person.
Union thugs assault Steven Crowder.
Some called for Gov. Snyder to kill himself, while others demanded Snyder's voters commit suicide.
Guv Snyder death threats
After what I saw and heard Tuesday in person in Lansing... this surprises me not at all:
Examiner: Liberals on Twitter issue death threats against Gov. Snyder over right to work
Liberals and union supporters on Twitter issued a number of tweets calling for the death of Michigan Governor Rick Snyder over the right-to-work measure he signed into law, Twitchy reported Tuesday.
"I have signed the freedom to work bills into law," Gov. Snyder tweeted.
"F**k Snyder ill kill him (sic)," tweeted "TheWhitegirl."
"I Wanna Shoot Gov Snyder In His Eye. . .Bastard Been F**kin' Michigan Left & Right (sic)," one person said.
"[Y]ou are soooo going to die painfully for this b******t, it isn't even funny (sic)," said another person.
Union thugs assault Steven Crowder.
Some called for Gov. Snyder to kill himself, while others demanded Snyder's voters commit suicide.
How many bowl games are too many? College football's devalued postseason
How many bowl games are too many? College football's devalued postseason | al.com
USA Today reported that the average salary for the 15 leaders of the non-profit bowls is about three times more than the average for a nonprofit chief executive of mid-to-large charities.
Five bowl directors make more than the CEO of the American National Red Cross, who last year made $561,000 while overseeing revenues of $3.5 billion.
By contrast, Outback Bowl President Jim McVay made $753,946 in 2010 with revenues of $10 million.
Ticket prices are $87 for the Capital One Bowl on the Georgia and Nebraska web sites -- even though Nebraska (which played in Orlando last year) has sold only about 4,000 tickets and they can be found for $14 in the secondary market.
According to The Orlando Sentinel, the Capital One Bowl wanted Texas A&M-Northwestern, but caved to pressure from the SEC and Big Ten to protect the conference runner-ups.
Florida State has sold 4,000 of its 17,000 tickets for the Orange Bowl against Northern Illinois, an unlikely BCS team.
Those tickets are going for as low as $10 elsewhere.
Virginia Tech is forced to sell tickets for the Russell Athletic Bowl against Rutgers at $72.
They're available for $2 online -- joining the Gator and Music City (Vanderbilt-N.C. State) as bowls with tickets going for as low as less than $10.
USA Today reported that the average salary for the 15 leaders of the non-profit bowls is about three times more than the average for a nonprofit chief executive of mid-to-large charities.
Five bowl directors make more than the CEO of the American National Red Cross, who last year made $561,000 while overseeing revenues of $3.5 billion.
By contrast, Outback Bowl President Jim McVay made $753,946 in 2010 with revenues of $10 million.
Ticket prices are $87 for the Capital One Bowl on the Georgia and Nebraska web sites -- even though Nebraska (which played in Orlando last year) has sold only about 4,000 tickets and they can be found for $14 in the secondary market.
According to The Orlando Sentinel, the Capital One Bowl wanted Texas A&M-Northwestern, but caved to pressure from the SEC and Big Ten to protect the conference runner-ups.
Florida State has sold 4,000 of its 17,000 tickets for the Orange Bowl against Northern Illinois, an unlikely BCS team.
Those tickets are going for as low as $10 elsewhere.
Virginia Tech is forced to sell tickets for the Russell Athletic Bowl against Rutgers at $72.
They're available for $2 online -- joining the Gator and Music City (Vanderbilt-N.C. State) as bowls with tickets going for as low as less than $10.
Lucianne.com News Forum - HomePage
Lucianne.com News Forum - HomePage: Late Breaking News!
Secretary Hillary Clinton, suffering from a stomach flu, has fainted and sustained a concussion (AP)
THIS JUST IN - FOX NEWS EXCLUSIVE: Secretary of State Hillary Clinton will be unable to testify on the Benghazi raid next week due to her recent concussion.
Secretary Hillary Clinton, suffering from a stomach flu, has fainted and sustained a concussion (AP)
THIS JUST IN - FOX NEWS EXCLUSIVE: Secretary of State Hillary Clinton will be unable to testify on the Benghazi raid next week due to her recent concussion.
Blog: It's Time to End Gun-Free Zones
Blog: It's Time to End Gun-Free Zones
Gun-free zones in schools are invitations to psychopaths to commit murder.
I remember my son recently showing me a satirical sign that said, "Attention Criminals, the people in this establishment have been disarmed for your convenience."
....Only Texas allows teachers to carry guns.
How many tragedies have to happen before we do the same?
How many children have to die before we finally allow the law-abiding citizens charged to educate and defend our students to do the latter as well as the former?
...I call the reader's attention to a few simple questions.
How many mass murders have been committed at a gun range or in a gun shop?
How many have been committed in a police station?
The answer is few, if any.
What is it that these locations have that our schools don't?
Simple: a plethora of armed law-abiding individuals.
If just one person had been armed in Newtown or Aurora, how many lives could have been saved?
Gun-free zones in schools are invitations to psychopaths to commit murder.
I remember my son recently showing me a satirical sign that said, "Attention Criminals, the people in this establishment have been disarmed for your convenience."
....Only Texas allows teachers to carry guns.
How many tragedies have to happen before we do the same?
How many children have to die before we finally allow the law-abiding citizens charged to educate and defend our students to do the latter as well as the former?
...I call the reader's attention to a few simple questions.
How many mass murders have been committed at a gun range or in a gun shop?
How many have been committed in a police station?
The answer is few, if any.
What is it that these locations have that our schools don't?
Simple: a plethora of armed law-abiding individuals.
If just one person had been armed in Newtown or Aurora, how many lives could have been saved?
'New urbanism' residential development proposed in downtown Muskegon by Jon Rooks
'New urbanism' residential development proposed in downtown Muskegon by Jon Rooks | MLive.com
Rooks, a Norton Shores resident, told the Muskegon Planning Commission that the residential development would feature small lots measuring 36 feet by 100 feet with small homes.
He said the goal is to have the residential lots priced at about $100,000 on the lakefront with $150,000 homes built on them.
Rooks, a Norton Shores resident, told the Muskegon Planning Commission that the residential development would feature small lots measuring 36 feet by 100 feet with small homes.
He said the goal is to have the residential lots priced at about $100,000 on the lakefront with $150,000 homes built on them.
Steven Crowder Files Criminal Complaint Against Pro-Union Protester
Steven Crowder Files Criminal Complaint Against Pro-Union Protester | NewsBusters.org
Earlier that day, union supporters turned violent as they attacked supporters of the new law, tearing down a tent with people in it and punching Crowder in the face. Both acts were caught on video.
Needless to say, if the clips had been reversed with workers' rights supporters attacking union members, you would not be able to watch television without seeing the footage.
Earlier that day, union supporters turned violent as they attacked supporters of the new law, tearing down a tent with people in it and punching Crowder in the face. Both acts were caught on video.
Needless to say, if the clips had been reversed with workers' rights supporters attacking union members, you would not be able to watch television without seeing the footage.
Michigan’s adoption of right-to-work legislation may spark chain reaction
Michigan’s adoption of right-to-work legislation may spark chain reaction | Washington Free Beacon
Michigan has not been so lucky.
The state ranked 13th for its business climate in 2006.
By 2012, it had fallen to 39th due in part to union power and the high deficits of the Jennifer Granholm administration.
“This could be the first year that Michigan starts to reverse its decline because [Snyder] has shown that he’s willing to take the state in a new direction,” Pollina said.
“Where it’s going to help out is in attracting out of state employers—it’s a great thing for the state of Michigan.”
Michigan has not been so lucky.
The state ranked 13th for its business climate in 2006.
By 2012, it had fallen to 39th due in part to union power and the high deficits of the Jennifer Granholm administration.
“This could be the first year that Michigan starts to reverse its decline because [Snyder] has shown that he’s willing to take the state in a new direction,” Pollina said.
“Where it’s going to help out is in attracting out of state employers—it’s a great thing for the state of Michigan.”
Brand USA found to have wasted even more money
Brand USA found to have wasted even more money | Washington Free Beacon
The Daily Caller first reported Thursday on new expense reports and business audits that paint a picture of Brand USA as a rudderless organization with a penchant for spending:
Some of the new organization’s recent expenses include $4,139 for 250 holiday cards, $3,592 for a holiday e-card and $2,449 for a ringtone version of the Rosanne Cash song “Land of Dreams,” which was created specifically for a sweeping Brand USA promotional campaign.
Also among the expenditures, according to the documents, are $2,700 for 26 sets of business cards and $50,252 for giveaway materials at the International Pow Wow trade show, which was held at the Los Angeles Convention Center earlier this year.
The agency spent nearly $35,000 on Chinese-made water bottles for the event.
And Brand USA spent close to $1 million on its posh launch party in London last year, including $69,300 on freebies for attendees.
Almost $50,000 went to neck wallets, and the organization dished out a grand total of $13,101 for umbrellas.
Brand USA has also paid out approximately $1 million in severance pay to eight terminated employees, the documents show.
Brand USA, formerly known as the Corporation for Travel Promotion, is a public-private partnership established by Congress to promote the United States abroad.
It receives $1 in federal funding for every $2 in private contributions from corporations.
The Daily Caller first reported Thursday on new expense reports and business audits that paint a picture of Brand USA as a rudderless organization with a penchant for spending:
Some of the new organization’s recent expenses include $4,139 for 250 holiday cards, $3,592 for a holiday e-card and $2,449 for a ringtone version of the Rosanne Cash song “Land of Dreams,” which was created specifically for a sweeping Brand USA promotional campaign.
Also among the expenditures, according to the documents, are $2,700 for 26 sets of business cards and $50,252 for giveaway materials at the International Pow Wow trade show, which was held at the Los Angeles Convention Center earlier this year.
The agency spent nearly $35,000 on Chinese-made water bottles for the event.
And Brand USA spent close to $1 million on its posh launch party in London last year, including $69,300 on freebies for attendees.
Almost $50,000 went to neck wallets, and the organization dished out a grand total of $13,101 for umbrellas.
Brand USA has also paid out approximately $1 million in severance pay to eight terminated employees, the documents show.
Brand USA, formerly known as the Corporation for Travel Promotion, is a public-private partnership established by Congress to promote the United States abroad.
It receives $1 in federal funding for every $2 in private contributions from corporations.
The Koch Brothers Should Buy MSNBC
The Koch Brothers Should Buy MSNBC « American Glob
The Koch Brothers should buy MSNBC and turn it over to conservative bloggers. That concludes today’s Live at Five Report with Stacy McCain and Smitty.
Coming up at 6, Bill Whittle followed by Jim Geraghty and William Jacobson at 7 and Glenn Reynolds at 8. Ratings at MSNBC would go up as FOX News found itself competing for viewers for the first time since launching.
Sheldon Adelson should buy CNN and turn it over to NewsBusters which could spend 24 hours a day pointing out the inaccuracies and lies of liberal media on TV and in print.
After all, the liberal media has no idea how biased it is.
Read more on this at Powerline and Legal Insurrection.
The Koch Brothers should buy MSNBC and turn it over to conservative bloggers. That concludes today’s Live at Five Report with Stacy McCain and Smitty.
Coming up at 6, Bill Whittle followed by Jim Geraghty and William Jacobson at 7 and Glenn Reynolds at 8. Ratings at MSNBC would go up as FOX News found itself competing for viewers for the first time since launching.
Sheldon Adelson should buy CNN and turn it over to NewsBusters which could spend 24 hours a day pointing out the inaccuracies and lies of liberal media on TV and in print.
After all, the liberal media has no idea how biased it is.
Read more on this at Powerline and Legal Insurrection.
Gun-free zones provide false sense of security
Column: Gun-free zones provide false sense of security
One of the interesting characteristics of mass shootings is that they generally occur in places where firearms are banned: malls, schools, etc.
That was the finding of a famous 1999 study by John Lott of the University of Maryland and William Landes of the University of Chicago, and it appears to have been borne out by experience since then as well.
One of the interesting characteristics of mass shootings is that they generally occur in places where firearms are banned: malls, schools, etc.
That was the finding of a famous 1999 study by John Lott of the University of Maryland and William Landes of the University of Chicago, and it appears to have been borne out by experience since then as well.
Union Protesters' Attack Hits Local Employer With $35K Tent Destruction
Union Protesters' Attack Hits Local Employer With $35K Tent Destruction [Michigan Capitol Confidential]
“I understand that the protesters had a grudge," Gill said.
"But when they were tearing down the tents and cutting them up, they were taking their grudge out on a small local employer. I
t was like what they did to the hot dog guy (Tarver).
They just wanted to show force.
They really didn't care who they were hurting.
It apparently didn't matter to them."
Gill, who owns Rentals Unlimited in Traverse City, said he wondered what sort of news coverage the destruction would have received if the political dynamics had been reversed.
"If these had been conservative protesters, I think the news media would be making a lot bigger deal about it," he said.
“I understand that the protesters had a grudge," Gill said.
"But when they were tearing down the tents and cutting them up, they were taking their grudge out on a small local employer. I
t was like what they did to the hot dog guy (Tarver).
They just wanted to show force.
They really didn't care who they were hurting.
It apparently didn't matter to them."
Gill, who owns Rentals Unlimited in Traverse City, said he wondered what sort of news coverage the destruction would have received if the political dynamics had been reversed.
"If these had been conservative protesters, I think the news media would be making a lot bigger deal about it," he said.
Friday, December 14, 2012
Cycling vs. Golf: 100 Miles on the Bike? Might as Well Play Golf
Cycling vs. Golf: 100 Miles on the Bike? Might as Well Play Golf - WSJ.com
Any talk of golf as exercise could make cyclists choke on their energy bars.
But a new study suggests that a round of golf can confer longevity benefits just as robust as a 100-mile bike ride.
The study in the Christmas edition of BMJ—the peer-reviewed publication formerly known as the British Medical Journal—is based on the mortality records of 9,889 athletes who competed in the Olympic Games between 1896 and 1936.
"Engaging in cycling and rowing (high cardiovascular intensity) had no added survival benefit compared with playing golf or cricket (low cardiovascular intensity)."
Any talk of golf as exercise could make cyclists choke on their energy bars.
But a new study suggests that a round of golf can confer longevity benefits just as robust as a 100-mile bike ride.
The study in the Christmas edition of BMJ—the peer-reviewed publication formerly known as the British Medical Journal—is based on the mortality records of 9,889 athletes who competed in the Olympic Games between 1896 and 1936.
"Engaging in cycling and rowing (high cardiovascular intensity) had no added survival benefit compared with playing golf or cricket (low cardiovascular intensity)."
The Blog on Obama: White House Dossier
The Blog on Obama: White House Dossier
Michelle said Republicans sought to win the election by spending “unprecedented amounts of money,” running negative advertising, and committing voter suppression.
Michelle said Republicans sought to win the election by spending “unprecedented amounts of money,” running negative advertising, and committing voter suppression.
'We'll Be At Your Daughter's Soccer Game!'
'We'll Be At Your Daughter's Soccer Game!' [Michigan Capitol Confidential]
A speaker at a union protest against right-to-work legislation said if Gov. Rick Snyder signed the bill he would get "no rest" and that protesters would be at his "daughter's soccer game." (Video below).
A speaker at a union protest against right-to-work legislation said if Gov. Rick Snyder signed the bill he would get "no rest" and that protesters would be at his "daughter's soccer game." (Video below).
Greeks earning 42,000 Euros to be taxed at top rate under plan
Greeks earning 42,000 Euros to be taxed at top rate under plan - New York News | NYC Breaking News
Greeks earning more than €42,000 ($55,000) per year will now be taxed at a new top rate of 42 percent, under a major new tax reform bill submitted to the country's parliament late Thursday.
Greeks earning more than €42,000 ($55,000) per year will now be taxed at a new top rate of 42 percent, under a major new tax reform bill submitted to the country's parliament late Thursday.
Public Buses Across Country Quietly Adding Microphones to Record Passenger Conversations
Public Buses Across Country Quietly Adding Microphones to Record Passenger Conversations | Threat Level | Wired.com
Transit authorities in cities across the country are quietly installing microphone-enabled surveillance systems on public buses that would give them the ability to record and store private conversations, according to documents obtained by a news outlet.
The systems are being installed in San Francisco, Baltimore, and other cities with funding from the Department of Homeland Security in some cases, according to the Daily, which obtained copies of contracts, procurement requests, specs and other documents.
Transit authorities in cities across the country are quietly installing microphone-enabled surveillance systems on public buses that would give them the ability to record and store private conversations, according to documents obtained by a news outlet.
The systems are being installed in San Francisco, Baltimore, and other cities with funding from the Department of Homeland Security in some cases, according to the Daily, which obtained copies of contracts, procurement requests, specs and other documents.
Thursday, December 13, 2012
The Dumbing Down Of Americans
Lucianne.com News Forum - Thread
Bottomline...there are no Conservative Messiah´s to fix this...Conservatives will have to fix this ourselves...one brain at a time...also we will HAVE TO GO to the uncool places...Colbert, Letterman, Leno etc and make our case to the dumbdown viewers...Ronald Reagan could do this as a former actor...future Conservatives must do this too..
Bottomline...there are no Conservative Messiah´s to fix this...Conservatives will have to fix this ourselves...one brain at a time...also we will HAVE TO GO to the uncool places...Colbert, Letterman, Leno etc and make our case to the dumbdown viewers...Ronald Reagan could do this as a former actor...future Conservatives must do this too..
The racial slurs the MSM doesn’t want to cover
The racial slurs the MSM doesn’t want to cover - Le·gal In·sur·rec·tion
We ask this question time and again — What if the Tea Party had done this?
We ask this question time and again — What if the Tea Party had done this?
The Coming Fiscal Tsunami
The Coming Fiscal Tsunami | Hoover Institution
The United States will soon confront a major economic problem, perhaps one unparalleled in the nation’s history.
It won’t strike tomorrow, next week, or next month, but it is out there, its roots sown by the demographics of the past half-century and a body politic hesitant to tamper with aging institutions of government.
When it emerges, like a tsunami, the destructive consequences of amassing unprecedented federal indebtedness will be overwhelming, and though seemingly distant, when it rears its head it will rise suddenly in our consciousness as if coming without warning.
The United States will soon confront a major economic problem, perhaps one unparalleled in the nation’s history.
It won’t strike tomorrow, next week, or next month, but it is out there, its roots sown by the demographics of the past half-century and a body politic hesitant to tamper with aging institutions of government.
When it emerges, like a tsunami, the destructive consequences of amassing unprecedented federal indebtedness will be overwhelming, and though seemingly distant, when it rears its head it will rise suddenly in our consciousness as if coming without warning.
U.N. Conference Slyly Introduces Resolution to Gain Control of Internet—in Middle of Night
U.N. Conference Slyly Introduces Resolution to Gain Control of Internet—in Middle of Night | The Weekly Standard:
The proposed resolution resolves that the secretary general of the U.N. "continue to take the necessary steps for ITU to play an active and constructive role in the multi-stakeholder model of the Internet," according to a draft of the text.
The proposed resolution resolves that the secretary general of the U.N. "continue to take the necessary steps for ITU to play an active and constructive role in the multi-stakeholder model of the Internet," according to a draft of the text.
Committee to discuss next steps regarding Muskegon County jail, juvenile facilities
Committee to discuss next steps regarding Muskegon County jail, juvenile facilities | MLive.com
The financial proposal is for the county to spend $5.6 million in existing reserves and issue a $29.6 million general obligation bond to pay for the new jail and juvenile facilities.
Based on those projections, the county would not be seeking a special millage from county voters.
The financial proposal is for the county to spend $5.6 million in existing reserves and issue a $29.6 million general obligation bond to pay for the new jail and juvenile facilities.
Based on those projections, the county would not be seeking a special millage from county voters.
U.S. Terrorism Agency to Tap a Vast Database of Citizens
U.S. Terrorism Agency to Tap a Vast Database of Citizens - WSJ.com
Top U.S. intelligence officials gathered in the White House Situation Room in March to debate a controversial proposal.
Counterterrorism officials wanted to create a government dragnet, sweeping up millions of records about U.S. citizens—even people suspected of no crime.
Not everyone was on board.
"This is a sea change in the way that the government interacts with the general public," Mary Ellen Callahan, chief privacy officer of the Department of Homeland Security, argued in the meeting, according to people familiar with the discussions.
A week later, the attorney general signed the changes into effect.
....Now, NCTC can copy entire government databases—flight records, casino-employee lists, the names of Americans hosting foreign-exchange students and many others.
The agency has new authority to keep data about innocent U.S. citizens for up to five years, and to analyze it for suspicious patterns of behavior.
Previously, both were prohibited. Data about Americans "reasonably believed to constitute terrorism information" may be permanently retained.
READ IT ALL!
CHILLING!!
Top U.S. intelligence officials gathered in the White House Situation Room in March to debate a controversial proposal.
Counterterrorism officials wanted to create a government dragnet, sweeping up millions of records about U.S. citizens—even people suspected of no crime.
Not everyone was on board.
"This is a sea change in the way that the government interacts with the general public," Mary Ellen Callahan, chief privacy officer of the Department of Homeland Security, argued in the meeting, according to people familiar with the discussions.
A week later, the attorney general signed the changes into effect.
....Now, NCTC can copy entire government databases—flight records, casino-employee lists, the names of Americans hosting foreign-exchange students and many others.
The agency has new authority to keep data about innocent U.S. citizens for up to five years, and to analyze it for suspicious patterns of behavior.
Previously, both were prohibited. Data about Americans "reasonably believed to constitute terrorism information" may be permanently retained.
READ IT ALL!
CHILLING!!
Wednesday, December 12, 2012
Shhhh! A new law says TV ads can't blare anymore
My Way News - Shhhh! A new law says TV ads can't blare anymore:
TV viewing could soon sound a little calmer.
The CALM Act, which limits the volume of TV commercials, goes into effect on Thursday.
TV viewing could soon sound a little calmer.
The CALM Act, which limits the volume of TV commercials, goes into effect on Thursday.
Obama's Big Michigan Right-To-Work Lie: Lower Worker Wages
Obama's Big Michigan Right-To-Work Lie: Lower Worker Wages - Investors.comAccording to Michigan's Mackinac Center, using data taken from the Bureau of Economic Analysis and Bureau of Labor Statistics, private-sector, inflation-adjusted employee compensation in right-to-work states increased by 12% between 2001 and 2011 compared with just 3% over the same period in forced-unionization states.
These good wages came from good jobs.
Employment in right-to-work states expanded 2.4% over the same stretch vs. a 3.4% decline in non-right-to-work states.
Ironically, Obama is taking credit for jobs created in RTW states.
MI Union destroys hot dog cart, calls owner an ‘Uncle Tom’ over right-to-work
MI Union destroys hot dog cart, calls owner an ‘Uncle Tom’ over right-to-work | WashingtonExaminer.com
“Early today, Clint Tarver, known as “The Hot Dog Guy” here in Lansing had his business attacked by out of line and out of control protesters near the Capitol,” a blog post associated with a fundraiser to restore the hot dog cart explains. “
‘It was when he returned to gather his equipment that the taunts and racial slurs began.”
When attacking the cart, the people were “yelling N*gger & Uncle Tom,” according to Michigan Republican State Committee member Nick Hawatmeh. Hawatmeh took a photo of the attack that you can see here.
https://twitter.com/NicolaHawatmeh/status/278666596506013697
“Early today, Clint Tarver, known as “The Hot Dog Guy” here in Lansing had his business attacked by out of line and out of control protesters near the Capitol,” a blog post associated with a fundraiser to restore the hot dog cart explains. “
‘It was when he returned to gather his equipment that the taunts and racial slurs began.”
When attacking the cart, the people were “yelling N*gger & Uncle Tom,” according to Michigan Republican State Committee member Nick Hawatmeh. Hawatmeh took a photo of the attack that you can see here.
https://twitter.com/NicolaHawatmeh/status/278666596506013697
Fed ties stimulus to jobs, inflation in unprecedented steps to bolster economy
Fed ties stimulus to jobs, inflation in unprecedented steps to bolster economy - The Washington Post
The Fed says it will also begin buying $45 billion in Treasury bonds per month, on top of $40 billion per month it is already buying in mortgage bonds.
The Fed says it will also begin buying $45 billion in Treasury bonds per month, on top of $40 billion per month it is already buying in mortgage bonds.
Assault in Lansing: Leftist Blogs Go Into ‘False Flag’ Mode, Mainstream Media Goes Silent
The PJ Tatler » Assault in Lansing: Leftist Blogs Go Into ‘False Flag’ Mode, Mainstream Media Goes Silent
You can click on the link and scroll down past the point at which my screen shot cuts off, but you won’t see a single story about the IBEW union man’s assault on Steven Crowder.
You won’t see any stories about the union thugs’ intentional destruction of Americans for Prosperity’s tent, with people inside.
You won’t see any stories about the Michigan Democratic Party’s threat of “blood,” which came from a Democrat state rep and was tweeted out on the Michigan Democratic caucus’ official twitter feed.
You won’t see any of that. Jimmy Hoffa Jr.’s threat of civil war didn’t make the cut either.
The Obama White House’s refusal to condemn the violence also gets no mention.
Notice the photos, too.
The union folks look calm and reasonable.
The frame of the union man punching Steven Crowder ought to be there, but it isn’t.
You can click on the link and scroll down past the point at which my screen shot cuts off, but you won’t see a single story about the IBEW union man’s assault on Steven Crowder.
You won’t see any stories about the union thugs’ intentional destruction of Americans for Prosperity’s tent, with people inside.
You won’t see any stories about the Michigan Democratic Party’s threat of “blood,” which came from a Democrat state rep and was tweeted out on the Michigan Democratic caucus’ official twitter feed.
You won’t see any of that. Jimmy Hoffa Jr.’s threat of civil war didn’t make the cut either.
The Obama White House’s refusal to condemn the violence also gets no mention.
Notice the photos, too.
The union folks look calm and reasonable.
The frame of the union man punching Steven Crowder ought to be there, but it isn’t.
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