RealClearMarkets - If I Wanted America to Fail: Free Market Agitprop With a Lesson
Finally, I'd like to ask my liberal friends:
If failure is not your objective then why are you demanding that failed policies be continued, and even expanded?
I recommend you invest the four minutes and 39 seconds it takes to watch this video, even if you are a radical environmentalist.
Especially if you are a radical environmentalist.
Because this guy is your worst nightmare.
Ignore him at your peril.
Monday, April 30, 2012
Feds eye retirement-fund tax to cut $16 trillion-plus deficit
Feds eye retirement-fund tax to cut $16 trillion-plus deficit - NYPOST.com
Uncle Sam, in a desperate attempt to fix its $16 trillion-plus deficit, is leering over Americans’ retirement nest egg as its new bailout fund.
Capitol Hill politicians are assessing tax changes that could let the Internal Revenue Service lay claim to a portion of the $18 trillion sitting in 401(k) accounts and other tax breaks used by middle-class workers, including cutting the mortgage tax deduction.
Uncle Sam, in a desperate attempt to fix its $16 trillion-plus deficit, is leering over Americans’ retirement nest egg as its new bailout fund.
Capitol Hill politicians are assessing tax changes that could let the Internal Revenue Service lay claim to a portion of the $18 trillion sitting in 401(k) accounts and other tax breaks used by middle-class workers, including cutting the mortgage tax deduction.
BRITAIN BATTLES NEW BRUSSELS ORDER TO FLY EU FLAG EVERY DAY
Express.co.uk - Home of the Daily and Sunday Express | UK News :: Britain battles new Brussels order to fly EU flag every day
The regulations would require any organisation managing European funds to display permanently the EU’s blue and yellow pennant.
This is a dramatic scaling up of rules which already force the Communities and Local Government Department in Whitehall to fly the flag for a week a year from Europe Day on May 9.
The regulations would require any organisation managing European funds to display permanently the EU’s blue and yellow pennant.
This is a dramatic scaling up of rules which already force the Communities and Local Government Department in Whitehall to fly the flag for a week a year from Europe Day on May 9.
SmartMeters cost more, could save money
SmartMeters cost more, could save money | WOOD TV8
The meters automatically report usage six times a day to Consumers Energy and can allow the company to control power to customers.
The new SmartMeters are more expensive than traditional meters -- Consumers will spend about $300 each, and that cost will get passed on to customers.
What a concept!
We pay more to give them (and the government!) more control over our lives!
The meters automatically report usage six times a day to Consumers Energy and can allow the company to control power to customers.
The new SmartMeters are more expensive than traditional meters -- Consumers will spend about $300 each, and that cost will get passed on to customers.
What a concept!
We pay more to give them (and the government!) more control over our lives!
GVSU pays 5x market value for Admiral
GVSU pays 5x market value for Admiral | WOOD TV8
GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (WOOD) - Grand Valley State University paid $1 million for a gas station near their downtown Grand Rapids campus and will tear it down in the summer to expand their footprint in the area.
But the Admiral Gas Station at 346 West Fulton is worth approximately $200,000, according to city records.
The assessed value of the property is $94,400, meaning the actual value is $188,800.
Huh?
GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (WOOD) - Grand Valley State University paid $1 million for a gas station near their downtown Grand Rapids campus and will tear it down in the summer to expand their footprint in the area.
But the Admiral Gas Station at 346 West Fulton is worth approximately $200,000, according to city records.
The assessed value of the property is $94,400, meaning the actual value is $188,800.
Huh?
Anything The Government Gives You, The Government Can Take Away
Guest Post: Anything The Government Gives You, The Government Can Take Away | ZeroHedge
A majority of doctors support measures to deny treatment to smokers and the obese, according to a survey that has sparked a row over the NHS‘s growing use of “lifestyle rationing”.
A majority of doctors support measures to deny treatment to smokers and the obese, according to a survey that has sparked a row over the NHS‘s growing use of “lifestyle rationing”.
Kids Count report looks at infant, maternal health
Kids Count report looks at infant, maternal health | mlive.com
A report on Michigan maternal and infant health says the number of low-birth-weight babies and babies born to unmarried women statewide is increasing.
The Michigan League for Human Services' Kids Count in Michigan report released Monday also says the state saw lower rates of teenage births and fewer premature births between 2000 and 2010.
The report calls for more funding to implement suggestions from a state infant mortality summit.
Follow the money!
A report on Michigan maternal and infant health says the number of low-birth-weight babies and babies born to unmarried women statewide is increasing.
The Michigan League for Human Services' Kids Count in Michigan report released Monday also says the state saw lower rates of teenage births and fewer premature births between 2000 and 2010.
The report calls for more funding to implement suggestions from a state infant mortality summit.
Follow the money!
Sunday, April 29, 2012
Wind Farms Warming Texas
Wind Farms Warming Texas : Discovery News
New research finds that wind farms actually warm up the surface of the land underneath them during the night, a phenomena that could put a damper on efforts to expand wind energy as a green energy solution.
New research finds that wind farms actually warm up the surface of the land underneath them during the night, a phenomena that could put a damper on efforts to expand wind energy as a green energy solution.
Parts of Port Austin harbor to close this year
Parts of Port Austin harbor to close this year | mlive.com
PORT AUSTIN, Mich. (AP) — Renovations will close portions of Port Austin State Harbor this boating season.
Boat ramps, East Dock slips, some slips along the West Dock at the harbor in Huron County will be closed for the duration of the project.
Some West Dock slips will be available for transient boaters.
The three-phase project started in 2010.
PORT AUSTIN, Mich. (AP) — Renovations will close portions of Port Austin State Harbor this boating season.
Boat ramps, East Dock slips, some slips along the West Dock at the harbor in Huron County will be closed for the duration of the project.
Some West Dock slips will be available for transient boaters.
The three-phase project started in 2010.
Steven Malanga: How Retirement Benefits May Sink the States
Steven Malanga: How Retirement Benefits May Sink the States - WSJ.com
Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel recently offered a stark assessment of the threat to his state's future that is posed by mounting pension and retiree health-care bills for government workers. Unless Illinois enacts reform quickly, he said, the costs of these programs will force taxes so high that,
"You won't recruit a business, you won't recruit a family to live here."
Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel recently offered a stark assessment of the threat to his state's future that is posed by mounting pension and retiree health-care bills for government workers. Unless Illinois enacts reform quickly, he said, the costs of these programs will force taxes so high that,
"You won't recruit a business, you won't recruit a family to live here."
Feds eye retirement-fund tax to cut $16 trillion-plus deficit
Feds eye retirement-fund tax to cut $16 trillion-plus deficit - NYPOST.com
Uncle Sam, in a desperate attempt to fix its $16 trillion-plus deficit, is leering over Americans’ retirement nest egg as its new bailout fund.
Uncle Sam, in a desperate attempt to fix its $16 trillion-plus deficit, is leering over Americans’ retirement nest egg as its new bailout fund.
Fruitport school board makes nearly $1 million in cuts, ends principal contract
Fruitport school board makes nearly $1 million in cuts, ends principal contract | MLive.com
The school board’s budget reductions Monday cut the district’s anticipated shortfall for next year from $2.5 million to $1.56 million.
Superintendent Bob Szymoniak said other anticipated cuts will reduce the deficit to $700,000, which will be taken from the district’s estimated $2.5 million fund balance.
The school board’s budget reductions Monday cut the district’s anticipated shortfall for next year from $2.5 million to $1.56 million.
Superintendent Bob Szymoniak said other anticipated cuts will reduce the deficit to $700,000, which will be taken from the district’s estimated $2.5 million fund balance.
Departing Muskegon Heights High principal had mixed results as 'turnaround specialist'
Departing Muskegon Heights High principal had mixed results as 'turnaround specialist' | MLive.com
Hired to “turn around" academic performance at Muskegon Heights High School, Kathryn Curry had mixed results in her two years with the district.
Hired to “turn around" academic performance at Muskegon Heights High School, Kathryn Curry had mixed results in her two years with the district.
Muskegon County plans to re-enact closed session after lawsuit filed
Muskegon County plans to re-enact closed session after lawsuit filed | MLive.com
Muskegon County commissioners are planning to re-enact part of a meeting next month in response to a lawsuit.
Muskegon County commissioners are planning to re-enact part of a meeting next month in response to a lawsuit.
Norton Shores to hold taxes, services at current levels in 2013
Norton Shores to hold taxes, services at current levels in 2013 | MLive.com
City Council members, however, questioned whether that money could be better spent toward reducing the city’s pension liability for future retirees.
Council member A. Scott Rood said the city’s pensions are only 60 percent funded, and the city’s “road map” for funding has the $13 million only 80 percent funded by 2030.
“This is the elephant in the room and I think we can do better,” he said.
The council members agreed to transfer 2 percent of the city’s budget to pension liabilities, lowering the fund balance to 15 percent.
The 2 percent transfer would be about $174,000, on top of roughly $40,000 the city was already planning to put toward pensions, Huston said.
Rood said chipping away at the pension liability over time would be in the city’s long-term interest.
“We’ve learned tonight that there is no major bullet that we can throw $1 million or $1.5 million at the pension liability,” he said.
City Council members, however, questioned whether that money could be better spent toward reducing the city’s pension liability for future retirees.
Council member A. Scott Rood said the city’s pensions are only 60 percent funded, and the city’s “road map” for funding has the $13 million only 80 percent funded by 2030.
“This is the elephant in the room and I think we can do better,” he said.
The council members agreed to transfer 2 percent of the city’s budget to pension liabilities, lowering the fund balance to 15 percent.
The 2 percent transfer would be about $174,000, on top of roughly $40,000 the city was already planning to put toward pensions, Huston said.
Rood said chipping away at the pension liability over time would be in the city’s long-term interest.
“We’ve learned tonight that there is no major bullet that we can throw $1 million or $1.5 million at the pension liability,” he said.
Spanish unemployment hits record 5.64 million
BBC News - Spanish unemployment hits record 5.64 million
The number of unemployed people reached 5,639,500 at the end of March, with the unemployment rate hitting 24.4%, the national statistics agency said.
The number of unemployed people reached 5,639,500 at the end of March, with the unemployment rate hitting 24.4%, the national statistics agency said.
U.S. ban sought on cell phone use while driving
U.S. ban sought on cell phone use while driving | Reuters
U.S. TransportationSecretary Ray LaHood called on Thursday for a federal law to bantalking on a cell phone or texting while driving any type ofvehicle on any road in the country.
Tough federal legislation is the only way to deal with whathe called a "national epidemic," he said at a distracted-drivingsummit in San Antonio, Texas
U.S. TransportationSecretary Ray LaHood called on Thursday for a federal law to bantalking on a cell phone or texting while driving any type ofvehicle on any road in the country.
Tough federal legislation is the only way to deal with whathe called a "national epidemic," he said at a distracted-drivingsummit in San Antonio, Texas
Incredible Shrinking Country
Incredible Shrinking Country - NYTimes.com
But one developed nation is making “Children of Men” look particularly prophetic.
In Japan, birthrates are now so low and life expectancy so great that the nation will soon have a demographic profile that matches that of the American retirement community of Palm Springs.
But one developed nation is making “Children of Men” look particularly prophetic.
In Japan, birthrates are now so low and life expectancy so great that the nation will soon have a demographic profile that matches that of the American retirement community of Palm Springs.
Saturday, April 28, 2012
Chaperones among new Secret Service conduct rules
My Way News - Chaperones among new Secret Service conduct rules
Embarrassed by a prostitution scandal, the Secret Service will assign chaperones on some trips to enforce new rules of conduct that make clear that excessive drinking, entertaining foreigners in their hotel rooms and cavorting in disreputable establishments are no longer tolerated.
Embarrassed by a prostitution scandal, the Secret Service will assign chaperones on some trips to enforce new rules of conduct that make clear that excessive drinking, entertaining foreigners in their hotel rooms and cavorting in disreputable establishments are no longer tolerated.
In apparent first, a public pension plan files for bankruptcy
In apparent first, a public pension plan files for bankruptcy - Pensions & Investments
In what's believed to be a first by a public pension plan, the Northern Mariana Islands Retirement Fund, Saipan, filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection on Tuesday.
In what's believed to be a first by a public pension plan, the Northern Mariana Islands Retirement Fund, Saipan, filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection on Tuesday.
Record Subpar Economic Growth Streak Now 6 Years
Record Subpar Economic Growth Streak Now 6 Years
The U.S. economy expanded at a 2.2% annual rate in the first quarter, somewhat below expectations.
But it also marked a new milestone for economic futility.
U.S. GDP hasn’t risen 4% or more in any quarter since the first quarter of 2006.
That’s the longest such stretch on record going back to 1950
The U.S. economy expanded at a 2.2% annual rate in the first quarter, somewhat below expectations.
But it also marked a new milestone for economic futility.
U.S. GDP hasn’t risen 4% or more in any quarter since the first quarter of 2006.
That’s the longest such stretch on record going back to 1950
Friday, April 27, 2012
8 Reasons Why Today’s Occupiers Are Tomorrow’s Tea Partiers
PJ Media » 8 Reasons Why Today’s Occupiers Are Tomorrow’s Tea Partiers
Something creepy is happening in Minnesota.
A dialogue has begun between the Tea Party and Occupy movements.
Stranger still, it may be leading somewhere.
Something creepy is happening in Minnesota.
A dialogue has begun between the Tea Party and Occupy movements.
Stranger still, it may be leading somewhere.
House Votes To Raise Cyber School Cap
House Votes To Raise Cyber School Cap [Michigan Capitol Confidential]
One House Democrat, Rep. Shanelle Jackson, D-Detroit, voted for the legislation.
In December, Rep. Jackson was the only House Democrat to vote in favor of lifting the cap on the number of charter schools in Michigan.
“What this legislation does for me; is give people - working class people – more choices,” she said during the House floor debate.
One House Democrat, Rep. Shanelle Jackson, D-Detroit, voted for the legislation.
In December, Rep. Jackson was the only House Democrat to vote in favor of lifting the cap on the number of charter schools in Michigan.
“What this legislation does for me; is give people - working class people – more choices,” she said during the House floor debate.
LST 393 museum in Muskegon opens for seventh season on Saturday
LST 393 museum in Muskegon opens for seventh season on Saturday | MLive.com
LST 393 was built in 1942 to help America defeat the Axis powers in World War II.
She has three battle stars and made 30 round trips to Omaha Beach during the invasion of Normandy, delivering weapons of war.
Sold as surplus in 1948 to Sand Products Inc., owners of West Michigan Dock and Market in Muskegon, she was converted to a cross-lake ferry called Highway 16 and was a fixture on Lake Michigan for three decades.
She was retired from service in 1979.
LST 393 is located at the Mart Dock adjacent to Heritage Landing county park on the downtown Muskegon waterfront. Hours are 10 a.m.-5 p.m. seven days a week.
LST 393 was built in 1942 to help America defeat the Axis powers in World War II.
She has three battle stars and made 30 round trips to Omaha Beach during the invasion of Normandy, delivering weapons of war.
Sold as surplus in 1948 to Sand Products Inc., owners of West Michigan Dock and Market in Muskegon, she was converted to a cross-lake ferry called Highway 16 and was a fixture on Lake Michigan for three decades.
She was retired from service in 1979.
LST 393 is located at the Mart Dock adjacent to Heritage Landing county park on the downtown Muskegon waterfront. Hours are 10 a.m.-5 p.m. seven days a week.
'It makes everything fun': Ravenna fourth-graders embrace new iPads
'It makes everything fun': Ravenna fourth-graders embrace new iPads | MLive.com
He and the other 80-some fourth-graders at his school each were given their own iPad this week as part of Ravenna Public Schools’ “One Step Ahead” initiative to put a laptop, iPad, Netbook or other digital device in the hands of every fourth- through 12th-grader.
He and the other 80-some fourth-graders at his school each were given their own iPad this week as part of Ravenna Public Schools’ “One Step Ahead” initiative to put a laptop, iPad, Netbook or other digital device in the hands of every fourth- through 12th-grader.
Milwaukee County DA investigating voter fraud claims
Milwaukee County DA investigating voter fraud claims - 620 WTMJ - Milwaukee's Source for Local News and Weather
The three including Austin Thompson, who was arrested last year during an occupy protest, are accused of voter fraud by registering and voting even though they lived in a hotel.
The three including Austin Thompson, who was arrested last year during an occupy protest, are accused of voter fraud by registering and voting even though they lived in a hotel.
Thursday, April 26, 2012
Obama administration scraps child labor restrictions for farms
Obama administration scraps child labor restrictions for farms - TheHill.com
The new regulations would have forbidden children younger than 16 years of age from completing “agricultural work with animals and in pesticide handling, timber operations, manure pits and storage bins.”
It would also have barred farm workers under 16 from handling most “power-driven equipment” and from contributing to the “cultivation, harvesting and curing of tobacco.”
The new regulations would have forbidden children younger than 16 years of age from completing “agricultural work with animals and in pesticide handling, timber operations, manure pits and storage bins.”
It would also have barred farm workers under 16 from handling most “power-driven equipment” and from contributing to the “cultivation, harvesting and curing of tobacco.”
Frankenmuth man clutching sub sandwich chases down hit-and-run culprit on foot in Saginaw
Frankenmuth man clutching sub sandwich chases down hit-and-run culprit on foot in Saginaw | MLive.com
Scott K. Hall, 44, of Frankenmuth, while clutching a Jimmy John's submarine sandwich bag in one hand — a No. 9 Italian Night Club inside —
Scott K. Hall, 44, of Frankenmuth, while clutching a Jimmy John's submarine sandwich bag in one hand — a No. 9 Italian Night Club inside —
Wisconsin's New Aristocracy Is On The Ballot
Wisconsin's New Aristocracy Is On The Ballot - Forbes
Indeed, the Manhattan Institute’s E.J. McMahon reports that for public school teachers in Milwaukee, the annual cost of family health coverage is $26,844, for which the teachers were paying nothing.
Indeed, the Manhattan Institute’s E.J. McMahon reports that for public school teachers in Milwaukee, the annual cost of family health coverage is $26,844, for which the teachers were paying nothing.
Muskegon County Jail committee moves forward with research, tours
Muskegon County Jail committee moves forward with research, tours | MLive.com
He said the conditions of the current jail need to be addressed, whether that means a retrofit into an existing building, a renovation/expansion of the current facility or a newly constructed jail.
He pointed out that the current jail does not meet the philosophical change in jail operations and does not have room for most rehabilitation programs.
He said the conditions of the current jail need to be addressed, whether that means a retrofit into an existing building, a renovation/expansion of the current facility or a newly constructed jail.
He pointed out that the current jail does not meet the philosophical change in jail operations and does not have room for most rehabilitation programs.
Michigan House members: Making state universities post spending 'not an assault on their autonomy'
Michigan House members: Making state universities post spending 'not an assault on their autonomy' | MLive.com
McMillin, who chairs the House Oversight, Reform and Ethics Committee, said Tuesday the amendment would require the universities to submit an annual accounting of their expenditures to the Legislature.
McMillin, who chairs the House Oversight, Reform and Ethics Committee, said Tuesday the amendment would require the universities to submit an annual accounting of their expenditures to the Legislature.
Public has a right to know how government officials make their decisions
In the margins: Public has a right to know how government officials make their decisions | MLive.com
Muskegon Chronicle Editorial Board: Government meetings need to be conducted as transparently as possible. Citizens deserve -- and are allowed under law -- access to government actions either through attending meetings or reviewing public documents.
Voters need this information in order to make informed decisions during elections and any other time of the year.
With the current economic conditions and declining government revenues, it is even more important that citizens know how tax dollars are being spent and why they are being spent the way they are.
Excellent comments!
The Chronicle gets it.
Our Muskegon county leaders still don't.
And we all pay for their hubris.
Muskegon Chronicle Editorial Board: Government meetings need to be conducted as transparently as possible. Citizens deserve -- and are allowed under law -- access to government actions either through attending meetings or reviewing public documents.
Voters need this information in order to make informed decisions during elections and any other time of the year.
With the current economic conditions and declining government revenues, it is even more important that citizens know how tax dollars are being spent and why they are being spent the way they are.
Excellent comments!
The Chronicle gets it.
Our Muskegon county leaders still don't.
And we all pay for their hubris.
Lie, Cheat, Steal: Save the Planet!
Lie, Cheat, Steal: Save the Planet! - John Ransom - Townhall Finance Conservative Columnists and Financial Commentary
Gleick, who was chairman of the ethics committee at the American Geophysical Union, admitted that he recently stole some documents- and he may have forged others- from the conservative think-tank.
But that’s all in a day’s work for a work-a-day climate warrior.
Gleick, who was chairman of the ethics committee at the American Geophysical Union, admitted that he recently stole some documents- and he may have forged others- from the conservative think-tank.
But that’s all in a day’s work for a work-a-day climate warrior.
Muskegon state representative wants referendum on emergency financial manager law
Muskegon state representative wants referendum on emergency financial manager law | MLive.com
State Rep. Marcia Hovey-Wright, D-Muskegon, introduced a state House resolution Tuesday with a hoped-for result of allowing Michigan voters to decide the fate of the controversial emergency financial manager law.
State Rep. Marcia Hovey-Wright, D-Muskegon, introduced a state House resolution Tuesday with a hoped-for result of allowing Michigan voters to decide the fate of the controversial emergency financial manager law.
A sit-down with Muskegon's sheriff: Why is the county looking for a larger facility to replace the current jail?
A sit-down with Muskegon's sheriff: Why is the county looking for a larger facility to replace the current jail? | MLive.com
Commenter realoldlady asked the sheriff this:
“How is a jail with more people in it NOT going to cost more? Really 200 to 300 EXTRA prisoners is adding to the heat, cooling, water, food, health care, guards, gyms, cable, and laundry bills. I don't care how 'green' they build it you still have INCREASED the amount of services and goods needed to run it.”
Absolutly NO mention of ANY increase in costs.
It helps if the interviewer is on the PR team.
Commenter realoldlady asked the sheriff this:
“How is a jail with more people in it NOT going to cost more? Really 200 to 300 EXTRA prisoners is adding to the heat, cooling, water, food, health care, guards, gyms, cable, and laundry bills. I don't care how 'green' they build it you still have INCREASED the amount of services and goods needed to run it.”
Absolutly NO mention of ANY increase in costs.
It helps if the interviewer is on the PR team.
Wednesday, April 25, 2012
Senate Dem: Save the US Postal Service with Wind Farms
Senate Dem: Save the US Postal Service with Wind Farms - United States Postal Service - Fox Nation: As the potential collapse of the United States Postal Service looms on the horizon, one Senate Democrat has proposed an unusual plan to solve the crisis.
Senator Tom Carper (D-DE) looks to harvest the electricity that windmill farms produce in order to power a new fleet of battery-operated postal delivery vehicles, replacing the previous '25 to 30 years old' 'dilapidated' vehicles.
The Senator admits the idea is “out there” but concludes that "we need to be thinking boldly, and the postal service needs to do that"
Moronic thinking is not bold thinking.
Senator Tom Carper (D-DE) looks to harvest the electricity that windmill farms produce in order to power a new fleet of battery-operated postal delivery vehicles, replacing the previous '25 to 30 years old' 'dilapidated' vehicles.
The Senator admits the idea is “out there” but concludes that "we need to be thinking boldly, and the postal service needs to do that"
Moronic thinking is not bold thinking.
Tuesday, April 24, 2012
Muskegon County plans to re-enact closed session after lawsuit filed
Muskegon County plans to re-enact closed session after lawsuit filed | MLive.com
County Board Chairman Ken Mahoney said the re-enactment option is a way “to avoid confusion,” while County Commissioner Scott Plummer added the re-enactment is being held “so the public can be present.”
When Jager suggested that the Brookhaven discussion or re-enactment be delayed until after the audit is presented, County Board Vice-Chairman John Snider countered that the re-enactment is only about what was said at that closed session, not additional debate about the topic.
“It’s not to justify what we did,” Snider said. “It was not done in secret.”
Jager disagreed, contending the issue was conducted in secret.
Williams said he takes any blame regarding the closed session issue, pointing out it is his job to protect the board. He said the case law on the Open Meetings Act’s allowance for closed sessions can be interpreted in different ways.
“If any mistakes were made, they were mine,” Williams said.
County Board Chairman Ken Mahoney said the re-enactment option is a way “to avoid confusion,” while County Commissioner Scott Plummer added the re-enactment is being held “so the public can be present.”
When Jager suggested that the Brookhaven discussion or re-enactment be delayed until after the audit is presented, County Board Vice-Chairman John Snider countered that the re-enactment is only about what was said at that closed session, not additional debate about the topic.
“It’s not to justify what we did,” Snider said. “It was not done in secret.”
Jager disagreed, contending the issue was conducted in secret.
Williams said he takes any blame regarding the closed session issue, pointing out it is his job to protect the board. He said the case law on the Open Meetings Act’s allowance for closed sessions can be interpreted in different ways.
“If any mistakes were made, they were mine,” Williams said.
Indoctrination 101: Teaching Chicago Students to Protest
Exclusive - Indoctrination 101: Teaching Chicago Students to Protest
Jones College Prep, a Chicago Public Schools “selective enrollment” school, held “Social Justice Week” in March, a collection of events geared towards turning students into activists. See the schedule of events here.
According to a flyer on the school’s website:
Social Justice Week was created to promote community advancement through dialogue and community service based activism. Moreover, we hope to unify the voice of various JCP and community organizations in which to facilitate collaboration for the betterment of the community at large and promote a unified human rights advancement initiative.”
The school is, according to U.S. News & World Report, a Top 100 high school in the country.
It’s one of the best of the best--the cream of the crop.
Jones College Prep, a Chicago Public Schools “selective enrollment” school, held “Social Justice Week” in March, a collection of events geared towards turning students into activists. See the schedule of events here.
According to a flyer on the school’s website:
Social Justice Week was created to promote community advancement through dialogue and community service based activism. Moreover, we hope to unify the voice of various JCP and community organizations in which to facilitate collaboration for the betterment of the community at large and promote a unified human rights advancement initiative.”
The school is, according to U.S. News & World Report, a Top 100 high school in the country.
It’s one of the best of the best--the cream of the crop.
Weeping four-year-old girl accused of carrying a GUN by TSA officers after she hugged her grandmother while passing through security
Weeping four-year-old girl accused of carrying a GUN by TSA officers after she hugged her grandmother while passing through security | Mail Online
But their nightmare was not yet over, as on a connecting flight in Denver, an airport employee demanded to know which of the family was Isabella - and 'looked really confused' when the girl was pointed out to her.
But their nightmare was not yet over, as on a connecting flight in Denver, an airport employee demanded to know which of the family was Isabella - and 'looked really confused' when the girl was pointed out to her.
Where Are the Rolling Heads from NOAA?
Articles: Where Are the Rolling Heads from NOAA?
NOAA law enforcement was running essentially unsupervised for years, inflicting huge fines on fishermen for small infractions and putting the collected monies in a slush fund used for lavish trips and booze-cruise luxury boats.
The GSA conference cost $822,751 according to the GSA IG Report.
To give this some context, Leon Panetta's trips home have totaled about $860,000.
..NOAA law enforcement collected close to $100,000,000 in fines and seized goods from fishermen over the past several years.
The Department of Commerce IG investigated and found that only about $60M could be accounted for, while some $40M is just plain gone.
This is not taxpayer money, but money taken in huge chunks from fishermen for infractions, some very minor.
Claims by the fishermen of coercion and extortion were validated by the IG. See the IG reports here, here, and here.
One single fisherman, Larry Yacobian, ended up paying $450,000 in fines and owing $250,000 in legal fees.
He was forced to sell his boats, his gear, and the farm that had been in his wife's family since the days of the Pilgrims.
A special master appointed by the IG found that Mr. Yacobian had been treated unfairly.
The government returned $400,000 to Mr. Yacobian, and the Secretary of Commerce, Gary Locke, apologized personally.
But nobody has ever been punished.
NOAA law enforcement was running essentially unsupervised for years, inflicting huge fines on fishermen for small infractions and putting the collected monies in a slush fund used for lavish trips and booze-cruise luxury boats.
The GSA conference cost $822,751 according to the GSA IG Report.
To give this some context, Leon Panetta's trips home have totaled about $860,000.
..NOAA law enforcement collected close to $100,000,000 in fines and seized goods from fishermen over the past several years.
The Department of Commerce IG investigated and found that only about $60M could be accounted for, while some $40M is just plain gone.
This is not taxpayer money, but money taken in huge chunks from fishermen for infractions, some very minor.
Claims by the fishermen of coercion and extortion were validated by the IG. See the IG reports here, here, and here.
One single fisherman, Larry Yacobian, ended up paying $450,000 in fines and owing $250,000 in legal fees.
He was forced to sell his boats, his gear, and the farm that had been in his wife's family since the days of the Pilgrims.
A special master appointed by the IG found that Mr. Yacobian had been treated unfairly.
The government returned $400,000 to Mr. Yacobian, and the Secretary of Commerce, Gary Locke, apologized personally.
But nobody has ever been punished.
Monday, April 23, 2012
The Generic Ballot Bomb
Articles: The Generic Ballot Bomb
Since March, however, the Republican advantage has been growing -- the practical end of the Republican fighting for the nomination is a logical explanation for the change -- and since the beginning of March, the Republican advantage per week has progressed thus: +3%, +6%, +4%, +5%, +6%, +5%, +10%.
Since March, however, the Republican advantage has been growing -- the practical end of the Republican fighting for the nomination is a logical explanation for the change -- and since the beginning of March, the Republican advantage per week has progressed thus: +3%, +6%, +4%, +5%, +6%, +5%, +10%.
Columnist says that global warming skeptics 'should have their houses burnt down'
Columnist says that global warming skeptics 'should have their houses burnt down' | Mail Online
'We know who the active denialists are... Let’s start keeping track of them now, and when the famines come, let’s make them pay.
Let’s let their houses burn until the innocent are rescued,' Mr Zwick wrote in Forbes on Friday.
'Let’s swap their safe land for submerged islands.
Let’s force them to bear the cost of rising food prices.'
'We know who the active denialists are... Let’s start keeping track of them now, and when the famines come, let’s make them pay.
Let’s let their houses burn until the innocent are rescued,' Mr Zwick wrote in Forbes on Friday.
'Let’s swap their safe land for submerged islands.
Let’s force them to bear the cost of rising food prices.'
Within A Month, Which Refinery Will Be The Largest In The US?
Within A Month, Which Refinery Will Be The Largest In The US? | Energy | Minyanville.com
The operation is owned by Motiva Enterprises, a joint venture of Saudi Refining, Inc. and Shell (RDS.A).
Each entity owns a 50% share of the JV. Saudi Refining is a subsidiary of the Saudi Arabian national oil company, Saudi Aramco.
The operation is owned by Motiva Enterprises, a joint venture of Saudi Refining, Inc. and Shell (RDS.A).
Each entity owns a 50% share of the JV. Saudi Refining is a subsidiary of the Saudi Arabian national oil company, Saudi Aramco.
Sunday, April 22, 2012
The Dirt On Earth Day
The Dirt On Earth Day - Forbes
Consider this quote from Edwards’ essay: “This implication that DDT is horribly deadly is completely false.
Human volunteers have ingested as much as 35 milligrams of it a day for nearly two years and suffered no adverse effects.
Millions of people have lived with DDT intimately during the mosquito spray programs and nobody even got sick as a result.
The National Academy of Sciences concluded in 1965 that ‘in a little more than two decades, DDT has prevented 500 million [human] deaths that would otherwise have been inevitable.’
The World Health Organization stated that DDT had ‘killed more insects and saved more people than any other substance.’”
Consider this quote from Edwards’ essay: “This implication that DDT is horribly deadly is completely false.
Human volunteers have ingested as much as 35 milligrams of it a day for nearly two years and suffered no adverse effects.
Millions of people have lived with DDT intimately during the mosquito spray programs and nobody even got sick as a result.
The National Academy of Sciences concluded in 1965 that ‘in a little more than two decades, DDT has prevented 500 million [human] deaths that would otherwise have been inevitable.’
The World Health Organization stated that DDT had ‘killed more insects and saved more people than any other substance.’”
The Food-Stamp Crime Wave
James Bovard: The Food-Stamp Crime Wave - WSJ.com
The USDA's Food and Nutrition Service now has only 40 inspectors to oversee almost 200,000 merchants that accept food stamps nationwide.
The USDA's Food and Nutrition Service now has only 40 inspectors to oversee almost 200,000 merchants that accept food stamps nationwide.
Food Stamp Spending Has More Than Doubled Since 2008
Food Stamp Spending Has More Than Doubled Since 2008
In 2008, taxpayers spent $38 billion on food stamps.
In 2013, that figure will be $82 billion.
In 2008, taxpayers spent $38 billion on food stamps.
In 2013, that figure will be $82 billion.
Yes, let’s all throw Bo Obama a bone, shall we?
Yes, let’s all throw Bo Obama a bone, shall we? | The Daily Caller
I certainly wouldn’t recommend going here and signing up as Etta Doberman or Doug Eater or anything of that nature.
That would be childish and unnecessary.
Let’s play fair, now.
I certainly wouldn’t recommend going here and signing up as Etta Doberman or Doug Eater or anything of that nature.
That would be childish and unnecessary.
Let’s play fair, now.
Mia Love pulled a major upset on Saturday, winning the Republican Party nomination in Utah’s 4th District
If elected to Congress, Love, the daughter of Haitian immigrants, would be the only black Republican woman in Congress.
Saturday, April 21, 2012
Should school employees wait until they're at least 60 before drawing state retirement benefits?
Should school employees wait until they're at least 60 before drawing state retirement benefits? (poll) | MLive.com
Should school employees be allowed to start taking their government pensions while still in their 50s?
Should school employees be allowed to start taking their government pensions while still in their 50s?
US Small-Scale Nuclear Reactor Industry Gains Traction In Missouri
US Small-Scale Nuclear Reactor Industry Gains Traction In Missouri - Slashdot
"Ameren Missouri is vying to be the first utility in the country to seek a construction and operating license for a small-scale nuclear reactor, a technology that's appealing to utilities because of the smaller upfront costs and shorter development lead times.
The small reactors, about a fourth or less the capacity of full-size nuclear units, are appealing to the nuclear industry because they could be manufactured at a central plant and shipped around the world.
By contrast, building nuclear reactors today is a more cumbersome process that must be done largely on site and takes years."
"Ameren Missouri is vying to be the first utility in the country to seek a construction and operating license for a small-scale nuclear reactor, a technology that's appealing to utilities because of the smaller upfront costs and shorter development lead times.
The small reactors, about a fourth or less the capacity of full-size nuclear units, are appealing to the nuclear industry because they could be manufactured at a central plant and shipped around the world.
By contrast, building nuclear reactors today is a more cumbersome process that must be done largely on site and takes years."
“Happy Earth Day” by Julian SimonterResource
“Happy Earth Day” by Julian Simon — MasterResource
During the first great Earth Week in 1970 there was panic.
The public’s outlook for the planet was unrelievedly gloomy.
The doomsaying environmentalists–of whom the dominant figure was Paul Ehrlich–raised the alarm: The oceans and the Great Lakes were dying;
impending great famines would be seen on television starting in 1975;
the death rate would quickly increase due to pollution;
and rising prices of increasingly-scarce raw materials would lead to a reversal in the past centuries’ progress in the standard of living.
During the first great Earth Week in 1970 there was panic.
The public’s outlook for the planet was unrelievedly gloomy.
The doomsaying environmentalists–of whom the dominant figure was Paul Ehrlich–raised the alarm: The oceans and the Great Lakes were dying;
impending great famines would be seen on television starting in 1975;
the death rate would quickly increase due to pollution;
and rising prices of increasingly-scarce raw materials would lead to a reversal in the past centuries’ progress in the standard of living.
Poll: Are Michigan civilians safer if they can carry Tasers?
Poll: Are Michigan civilians safer if they can carry Tasers? | MLive.com
Legislation that would permit civilians to useTasers gained bipartisan support in the Michigan House on Thursday, but MLivereaders aren't as unified in favor of the bills.
Legislation that would permit civilians to useTasers gained bipartisan support in the Michigan House on Thursday, but MLivereaders aren't as unified in favor of the bills.
Sen. Goeff Hansen awards Whitehall Middle School students environmental prize
Sen. Goeff Hansen awards Whitehall Middle School students environmental prize | MLive.com
The team's tap water campaign was part of theirparticipation in the Lexus Eco-Challenge, a national competition in which theywon a total of $25,000 in scholarships and grants.
The students also promoted eco-friendly practices by creating a checklist for teachers to help them conserve energy in theirclassrooms and encourage recycling in the school.
They also helped raise almost $500 for a UNICEF project tobring clean water to impoverished countries by selling red drinking cups forValentine's Day.
The team's tap water campaign was part of theirparticipation in the Lexus Eco-Challenge, a national competition in which theywon a total of $25,000 in scholarships and grants.
The students also promoted eco-friendly practices by creating a checklist for teachers to help them conserve energy in theirclassrooms and encourage recycling in the school.
They also helped raise almost $500 for a UNICEF project tobring clean water to impoverished countries by selling red drinking cups forValentine's Day.
Mitt Romney is also facing allegations of voter fraud in Massachusetts
LEAKED STRATFOR EMAILS: Democrats Tampered With 2008 Election - Business Insider: Interestingly, Mitt Romney is also facing allegations of voter fraud in Massachusetts as he cast a ballot for Republican Scott Brown in January 2010 in the special election to replace the late Sen. Ted Kennedy but didn’t own property in the state at the time.
Romney registered to vote listing his son’s unfinished basement as his residence, but the Romneys' former realtor told GOP consultant Fred Karger that they moved to California.
Anyone found guilty of committing voter fraud faces up to five years in prison and a $10,000 fine.
Romney registered to vote listing his son’s unfinished basement as his residence, but the Romneys' former realtor told GOP consultant Fred Karger that they moved to California.
Anyone found guilty of committing voter fraud faces up to five years in prison and a $10,000 fine.
LEAKED STRATFOR EMAILS: Democrats Tampered With 2008 Election
LEAKED STRATFOR EMAILS: Democrats Tampered With 2008 Election - Business Insider: Burton wrote:
3) The hunt is on for the sleezy Russian money into O-mans coffers.
A smoking gun has already been found.
Will get more on this when the time is right.
My source was too giddy to continue.
Can you say Clinton and ChiCom funny money?
This also becomes a matter of how and when to out.
If true the allegations prompt questions of how the fallout has affected the politics of Obama's current administration and how it will effect this year's presidential election.
Burton is a former Deputy Chief of the Department of State's counterterrorism division for the Diplomatic Security Service (DSS).
The DSS assists the Department of Defense in following leads and doing forensic analysis of hard drives seized by the U.S. government in ongoing criminal investigations
3) The hunt is on for the sleezy Russian money into O-mans coffers.
A smoking gun has already been found.
Will get more on this when the time is right.
My source was too giddy to continue.
Can you say Clinton and ChiCom funny money?
This also becomes a matter of how and when to out.
If true the allegations prompt questions of how the fallout has affected the politics of Obama's current administration and how it will effect this year's presidential election.
Burton is a former Deputy Chief of the Department of State's counterterrorism division for the Diplomatic Security Service (DSS).
The DSS assists the Department of Defense in following leads and doing forensic analysis of hard drives seized by the U.S. government in ongoing criminal investigations
Lakeshore Trail signs to tell the story of Muskegon Lake restoration
Lakeshore Trail signs to tell the story of Muskegon Lake restoration | MLive.com
One sign will try to convey the economic importance of the work as lakefront improvements will increase property values and draw more people to Muskegon for recreation.
A Grand Valley State University study showed that over the next decade the $10 million grant will generate at least $66 million in benefits to the community.
....
Isely’s GVSU economic benefit study looked at housing values, recreational values and the value placed on the improved shoreline.
As for house values, Isely looked at residences located 300 feet to 2,600 feet from the shoreline improvements.
The closer a house was to a natural shoreline and the further it was from hardened industrial shoreline, the higher the home’s value.
When considering all factors that determine the value of a house, the improved nearby shoreline added $3,000 to $5,000 in value to many houses over time, the economist concluded.
The study included a survey of those in the adjacent neighborhoods and of people throughout Muskegon County.
Isely found the annual home value increases — especially in the adjacent homes in the city’s Nims and Lakeside neighborhoods — was $11.9 million.
The recreational value of the lake in terms of fishing, swimming and aesthetics, and the increased visitors coming due to the improvements, was calculated to add $1 million of new tourism spending each year.
One sign will try to convey the economic importance of the work as lakefront improvements will increase property values and draw more people to Muskegon for recreation.
A Grand Valley State University study showed that over the next decade the $10 million grant will generate at least $66 million in benefits to the community.
....
Isely’s GVSU economic benefit study looked at housing values, recreational values and the value placed on the improved shoreline.
As for house values, Isely looked at residences located 300 feet to 2,600 feet from the shoreline improvements.
The closer a house was to a natural shoreline and the further it was from hardened industrial shoreline, the higher the home’s value.
When considering all factors that determine the value of a house, the improved nearby shoreline added $3,000 to $5,000 in value to many houses over time, the economist concluded.
The study included a survey of those in the adjacent neighborhoods and of people throughout Muskegon County.
Isely found the annual home value increases — especially in the adjacent homes in the city’s Nims and Lakeside neighborhoods — was $11.9 million.
The recreational value of the lake in terms of fishing, swimming and aesthetics, and the increased visitors coming due to the improvements, was calculated to add $1 million of new tourism spending each year.
Former senior assistant prosecutor Marc E. Curtis running for Muskegon County Prosecutor seat
Former senior assistant prosecutor Marc E. Curtis running for Muskegon County Prosecutor seat| MLive.com: Curtis is running as a Democrat and will be up against former colleague D.J. Hilson, a current senior assistant prosecutor who announced his candidacy on Wednesday.
Out of sight: Floating turbine technology could put offshore wind farms in middle of Great Lakes
Out of sight: Floating turbine technology could put offshore wind farms in middle of Great Lakes | MLive.com
MUSKEGON, MI – Out of sight is out of mind, offshore wind proponents hope.
Two Michigan universities have joined forces with a Seattle-based design company to pursue offshore wind technology that could be a “game-changer” on the Great Lakes.
Grand Valley State University and Michigan Technological University are in a group seeking federal funding for initial engineering and design of new floating-turbine technology.
The floating technology has the potential of moving turbines to the middle of the lakes.
The public-private partnership is seeking investors to cover the matching funds needed in a U.S. Department of Energy wind technology grant program, GVSU officials said.
..............“With offshore wind, 80 percent of the problem is visibility, which is a big issue,” said Arn Boezaart, MAREC director and member of the former Michigan Offshore Wind Council.
“This is technology that wants to be in deep water, not near shore.”
MUSKEGON, MI – Out of sight is out of mind, offshore wind proponents hope.
Two Michigan universities have joined forces with a Seattle-based design company to pursue offshore wind technology that could be a “game-changer” on the Great Lakes.
Grand Valley State University and Michigan Technological University are in a group seeking federal funding for initial engineering and design of new floating-turbine technology.
The floating technology has the potential of moving turbines to the middle of the lakes.
The public-private partnership is seeking investors to cover the matching funds needed in a U.S. Department of Energy wind technology grant program, GVSU officials said.
..............“With offshore wind, 80 percent of the problem is visibility, which is a big issue,” said Arn Boezaart, MAREC director and member of the former Michigan Offshore Wind Council.
“This is technology that wants to be in deep water, not near shore.”
Clean Up and Beautify Muskegon Heights Da
Clean Up and Beautify Muskegon Heights Day (photos) | MLive.com
Students of Edgewood Elementary and other Muskegon Heights residents participated in "Clean Up and Beautify Muskegon Heights Day" on Saturday April 21, 2012.
They spent the day picking up trash, mowing vacant lots and planting flowers with supplies provided by donors such as the city of Muskegon Heights
Students of Edgewood Elementary and other Muskegon Heights residents participated in "Clean Up and Beautify Muskegon Heights Day" on Saturday April 21, 2012.
They spent the day picking up trash, mowing vacant lots and planting flowers with supplies provided by donors such as the city of Muskegon Heights
Why Germany’s solar subsidies were bound to fail
News/TalkWhy Germany’s solar subsidies were bound to fail760 WJR:
Germany once prided itself on being the “photovoltaic world champion”, doling out generous subsidies – totaling more than $130 billion, according to research from Germany’s Ruhr University – to citizens to invest in solar energy.
But now the German government is vowing to cut the subsidies sooner than planned, and to phase out support over the next five years.
What went wrong
Germany once prided itself on being the “photovoltaic world champion”, doling out generous subsidies – totaling more than $130 billion, according to research from Germany’s Ruhr University – to citizens to invest in solar energy.
But now the German government is vowing to cut the subsidies sooner than planned, and to phase out support over the next five years.
What went wrong
Studies Suggest Massive Increase In Scientific Fraud
Studies Suggest Massive Increase In Scientific Fraud - Slashdot
"Scientific fraud has always been with us.
But as stated or suggested by some scientists, journal editors, and a few studies, the amount of scientific 'cheating' has far outpaced the expansion of science itself.
According to some, the financial incentives to 'cut corners' have never been greater, resulting in record numbers of retractions from prestigious journals.
From the article:
'For example, the journal Nature reported that published retractions had increased tenfold over the past decade, while the number of published papers had increased by just 44 percent.'"
"Scientific fraud has always been with us.
But as stated or suggested by some scientists, journal editors, and a few studies, the amount of scientific 'cheating' has far outpaced the expansion of science itself.
According to some, the financial incentives to 'cut corners' have never been greater, resulting in record numbers of retractions from prestigious journals.
From the article:
'For example, the journal Nature reported that published retractions had increased tenfold over the past decade, while the number of published papers had increased by just 44 percent.'"
Obamanomics in Action… Barack’s Latest Line: “We Cannot Just Cut Our Way to Prosperity”
Obamanomics in Action… Barack’s Latest Line: “We Cannot Just Cut Our Way to Prosperity” (Video) | The Gateway Pundit
And, Lord knows, we can’t spend out way to prosperity either.
Barack Obama added a record $5 trillion in new debt in just three years.
Obama tripled the national deficit above one trillion dollars.
(J. Hoft Chart)
And, because of the runaway spending, the economy was downgraded for the first time in history.
And today he tells us we cannot cut our way to prosperity.
It’s an Obama world.
And, Lord knows, we can’t spend out way to prosperity either.
Barack Obama added a record $5 trillion in new debt in just three years.
Obama tripled the national deficit above one trillion dollars.
(J. Hoft Chart)
And, because of the runaway spending, the economy was downgraded for the first time in history.
And today he tells us we cannot cut our way to prosperity.
It’s an Obama world.
Breaking: Utah Delegates Force Orrin Hatch Into Primary in Senate Race
Breaking: Utah Delegates Force Orrin Hatch Into Primary in Senate Race | The Gateway Pundit
This is huge.
Utah Republican delegates forced longtime Senator Orrin Hatch into a primary race today at the state convention.
Hatch will face Sen. Dan Liljenquist in a June 26 primary.
This is huge.
Utah Republican delegates forced longtime Senator Orrin Hatch into a primary race today at the state convention.
Hatch will face Sen. Dan Liljenquist in a June 26 primary.
Veet for Men Hair Removal Gel Creme 200ml: Amazon.co.uk: Health & Beauty
Veet for Men Hair Removal Gel Creme 200ml: Amazon.co.uk: Health & Beauty
10,459 of 10,507 people found the following review helpful
5.0 out of 5 stars DO NOT PUT ON KNOB AND BOLLOCKS, 24 Jan 2012
By Andrew - See all my reviews
This review is from: Veet for Men Hair Removal Gel Creme 200ml (Personal Care)
Being a loose cannon who does not play by the rules the first thing I did was ignore the warning and smear this all over my knob and bollocks.
The bollocks I knew and loved are gone now.
In their place is a maroon coloured bag of agony which sends stabs of pain up my body every time it grazes against my thigh or an article of clothing.
I am suffering so that you don't have to.
Heed my lesson. DO NOT PUT ON KNOB AND BOLLOCKS.
(I am giving this product a 5 because despite the fact that I think my bollocks might fall off, they are now completely hairless.)
10,459 of 10,507 people found the following review helpful
5.0 out of 5 stars DO NOT PUT ON KNOB AND BOLLOCKS, 24 Jan 2012
By Andrew - See all my reviews
This review is from: Veet for Men Hair Removal Gel Creme 200ml (Personal Care)
Being a loose cannon who does not play by the rules the first thing I did was ignore the warning and smear this all over my knob and bollocks.
The bollocks I knew and loved are gone now.
In their place is a maroon coloured bag of agony which sends stabs of pain up my body every time it grazes against my thigh or an article of clothing.
I am suffering so that you don't have to.
Heed my lesson. DO NOT PUT ON KNOB AND BOLLOCKS.
(I am giving this product a 5 because despite the fact that I think my bollocks might fall off, they are now completely hairless.)
One in 21: Health improvements are possible in Muskegon County, community leaders told
One in 21: Health improvements are possible in Muskegon County, community leaders told | MLive.com
One in 21 Co-Chairwoman Linda Juarez, head of Hackley Community Care, said the countywide health initiative was not launched just for individuals to lead healthier lives but for larger community goals.
A healthier community will be economically more prosperous and better educated, she said.
The health of a community is linked to businesses willingness to invest and create jobs as healthy workers cost less and are more productive, she said.
There also is a link to academic achievement as healthier students get better grades and higher test scores, she added.
One in 21 Co-Chairwoman Linda Juarez, head of Hackley Community Care, said the countywide health initiative was not launched just for individuals to lead healthier lives but for larger community goals.
A healthier community will be economically more prosperous and better educated, she said.
The health of a community is linked to businesses willingness to invest and create jobs as healthy workers cost less and are more productive, she said.
There also is a link to academic achievement as healthier students get better grades and higher test scores, she added.
Governor names emergency manager for Muskegon Heights Public Schools
Governor names emergency manager for Muskegon Heights Public Schools | MLive.com
Weatherspoon will take control of the district Monday, according to a press release.
He will have 45 days to develop a financial and operating plan for the district.
Weatherspoon will take control of the district Monday, according to a press release.
He will have 45 days to develop a financial and operating plan for the district.
Muskegon County proposes additional trolley route this summer for downtown
Muskegon County proposes additional trolley route this summer for downtown | MLive.com
Transit System Manager Jim Koens said the proposed second route is seen as an opportunity to help people get around downtown.
He said the county has operated multiple trolley routes previously, but it has operated just one route from the downtown to Lake Michigan over the last five years.
The cost is estimated at less than $8,000 for a seasonal bus operator.
Koens said the cost is expected to be paid for through rider fares and grant sources.
The county owns six trolleys, three for the route systems and three for rentals as the Muskegon Trolley Company.
The Beach/Towne trolley route garnered 4,294 passengers last year.
Transit System Manager Jim Koens said the proposed second route is seen as an opportunity to help people get around downtown.
He said the county has operated multiple trolley routes previously, but it has operated just one route from the downtown to Lake Michigan over the last five years.
The cost is estimated at less than $8,000 for a seasonal bus operator.
Koens said the cost is expected to be paid for through rider fares and grant sources.
The county owns six trolleys, three for the route systems and three for rentals as the Muskegon Trolley Company.
The Beach/Towne trolley route garnered 4,294 passengers last year.
Education Pays—Up to a Point
Education Pays—Up to a Point | The John William Pope Center for Higher Education Policy
Earnings also vary greatly depending on the student’s major. Data from the U.S. Census Bureau show that median earnings run from $29,000 for counseling-psychology majors to $120,000 for petroleum-engineering majors.
Is it “worth it” to spend the time and money for a degree in petroleum engineering?
If you can do it, probably “yes.”
But is it “worth it” to get a counseling degree?
That’s far from clear.
Earnings also vary greatly depending on the student’s major. Data from the U.S. Census Bureau show that median earnings run from $29,000 for counseling-psychology majors to $120,000 for petroleum-engineering majors.
Is it “worth it” to spend the time and money for a degree in petroleum engineering?
If you can do it, probably “yes.”
But is it “worth it” to get a counseling degree?
That’s far from clear.
LEAKED STRATFOR EMAILS: Democrats Tampered With 2008 Election
LEAKED STRATFOR EMAILS: Democrats Tampered With 2008 Election - Business Insider
John McCain's 2008 campaign staff allegedly had evidence that Democrats stuffed ballot boxes in Pennsylvania and Ohio on election night, but McCain chose not to pursue voter fraud, according to internal Stratfor emails published by WikiLeaks.
John McCain's 2008 campaign staff allegedly had evidence that Democrats stuffed ballot boxes in Pennsylvania and Ohio on election night, but McCain chose not to pursue voter fraud, according to internal Stratfor emails published by WikiLeaks.
Feds can't deport illegal immigrant arrested 35 times in Alabama
Feds can't deport illegal immigrant arrested 35 times in Alabama - WSFA.com: News Weather and Sports for Montgomery, AL
Officers in Hueytown arrested an illegal immigrant on drug charges recently.
When they ran his name through the system, they learned he had previously been arrested 34 times in Alabama.
Officers in Hueytown arrested an illegal immigrant on drug charges recently.
When they ran his name through the system, they learned he had previously been arrested 34 times in Alabama.
Fifth Republic in France Teeters in Spectacle of an Astonishing Election
Fifth Republic in France Teeters in Spectacle of an Astonishing Election - The New York Sun
From de Gaulle, an objectively great statesman, to the solid and wise Georges Pompidou, to the intelligent but erratic Valery Giscard d’Estaing, to the cunning hyper-cynic Francois Mitterrand (at one time a collaborator of both Nazis and Communists, who once faked an assassination attempt on himself), to the bumbling and sticky-fingered Jacques Chirac, the pattern was a precise step downwards with each succession.
No other important country has followed such a straight trajectory over 50 years.
From de Gaulle, an objectively great statesman, to the solid and wise Georges Pompidou, to the intelligent but erratic Valery Giscard d’Estaing, to the cunning hyper-cynic Francois Mitterrand (at one time a collaborator of both Nazis and Communists, who once faked an assassination attempt on himself), to the bumbling and sticky-fingered Jacques Chirac, the pattern was a precise step downwards with each succession.
No other important country has followed such a straight trajectory over 50 years.
The Great California Exodus
The Weekend Interview with Joel Kotkin: The Great California Exodus - WSJ.com
And things will only get worse in the coming years as Democratic Gov. Jerry Brown and his green cadre implement their "smart growth" plans to cram the proletariat into high-density housing.
"What I find reprehensible beyond belief is that the people pushing [high-density housing] themselves live in single-family homes and often drive very fancy cars, but want everyone else to live like my grandmother did in Brownsville in Brooklyn in the 1920s," Mr. Kotkin declares.
And things will only get worse in the coming years as Democratic Gov. Jerry Brown and his green cadre implement their "smart growth" plans to cram the proletariat into high-density housing.
"What I find reprehensible beyond belief is that the people pushing [high-density housing] themselves live in single-family homes and often drive very fancy cars, but want everyone else to live like my grandmother did in Brownsville in Brooklyn in the 1920s," Mr. Kotkin declares.
Illegal Aliens Caught Voting and Stealing Elections In Florida In Vast Numbers - YouTube
Illegal Aliens Caught Voting and Stealing Elections In Florida In Vast Numbers - YouTube
Illegal Immigrant voters along with immigrants that are prohibited from voting have been detected voting in Florida.
This joins confirmed reports of sizable numbers of non citizens voting in Georgia and Colorado!
Illegal Immigrant voters along with immigrants that are prohibited from voting have been detected voting in Florida.
This joins confirmed reports of sizable numbers of non citizens voting in Georgia and Colorado!
Herman Cain: Liberals Don't Want Voter ID Laws Because 'It Makes It Easier For Them To Cheat At The Polls'
Herman Cain: Liberals Don't Want Voter ID Laws Because 'It Makes It Easier For Them To Cheat At The Polls' | MRCTV
"That's a big fat lie. They are not taking us back to Jim Crow.
The only reason that the Liberals don't want photo ID in order for people to vote, is because it makes it easier for them to cheat at the polls.
I grew up in the South and during the Civil Rights Movement.
We have to have a photo ID for everything we do, but yet they want to frame it as taking us back to Jim Crow.
"That's a big fat lie. They are not taking us back to Jim Crow.
The only reason that the Liberals don't want photo ID in order for people to vote, is because it makes it easier for them to cheat at the polls.
I grew up in the South and during the Civil Rights Movement.
We have to have a photo ID for everything we do, but yet they want to frame it as taking us back to Jim Crow.
Muskegon Community College sets cap on health insurance contributions
Muskegon Community College sets cap on health insurance contributions | MLive.com
Under state law, public employers have to adopt one of two plans to limit the costs of insuring their employees:
They can either require employees to pay 20 percent of their insurance costs, or set a “hard cap” for the dollar amount employer contributions.
MCC opted for the hard cap, meaning it will pay no more than $5,500 to insure an employee, $11,000 for an employee and one dependent or $15,000 for an employee and his or her family, MCC Director of Human Resources Aaron Hilliard said.
Under state law, public employers have to adopt one of two plans to limit the costs of insuring their employees:
They can either require employees to pay 20 percent of their insurance costs, or set a “hard cap” for the dollar amount employer contributions.
MCC opted for the hard cap, meaning it will pay no more than $5,500 to insure an employee, $11,000 for an employee and one dependent or $15,000 for an employee and his or her family, MCC Director of Human Resources Aaron Hilliard said.
Friday, April 20, 2012
If they quack like hacks
If they quack like hacks ... - BostonHerald.com
The difference between nonprofits and the hackerama is that nobody at a nonprofit ever has to run for reelection.
You can’t vote out their boards of directors.
You have to wait for them to resign in humiliation.....
The difference between nonprofits and the hackerama is that nobody at a nonprofit ever has to run for reelection.
You can’t vote out their boards of directors.
You have to wait for them to resign in humiliation.....
News/Talk 760 WJR
News/Talk 760 WJR
Lomborg: Why Germany’s solar subsidies were bound to fail
Germany’s Sunshine Daydream
By Bjorn Lomborg, 2012-02-16, Copenhagen.
One of the world’s biggest green-energy public-policy experiments is coming to a bitter end in Germany, with important lessons for policymakers elsewhere.
Lomborg: Why Germany’s solar subsidies were bound to fail
Germany’s Sunshine Daydream
By Bjorn Lomborg, 2012-02-16, Copenhagen.
One of the world’s biggest green-energy public-policy experiments is coming to a bitter end in Germany, with important lessons for policymakers elsewhere.
GSA waste, abuse more common than indicated
GSA waste, abuse more common than indicated | Campaign 2012 | Washington Examiner
Just last year, seven GSA employees were found guilty of accepting bribes and defrauding the government in a scheme that cost taxpayers $750,000. Other GSA scandals date back to the Carter administration in the 1970s.
"It really shakes you up," said Sen. Barbara Boxer, D-Calif., who chaired a Senate inquiry Wednesday. "The expression is fool me once, but again and again?"
Just last year, seven GSA employees were found guilty of accepting bribes and defrauding the government in a scheme that cost taxpayers $750,000. Other GSA scandals date back to the Carter administration in the 1970s.
"It really shakes you up," said Sen. Barbara Boxer, D-Calif., who chaired a Senate inquiry Wednesday. "The expression is fool me once, but again and again?"
Voting rights activists say GOP bills are intended to keep poor, elderly and minority voters from the polls
Voting rights activists say GOP bills are intended to keep poor, elderly and minority voters from the polls | MLive.com
LANSING, MI – State Republicans are trying to keep poor, elderly and minority voters from heading to the polls this November with a series requiring voters to show identification and training for people who register voters, voting rights activists said.
LANSING, MI – State Republicans are trying to keep poor, elderly and minority voters from heading to the polls this November with a series requiring voters to show identification and training for people who register voters, voting rights activists said.
Earth Day Special: The Media's Top 25 Worst Environmental Quotes
Earth Day Special: The Media's Top 25 Worst Environmental Quotes | Media Research Center
CNN’s environmental editor Barbara Pyle, as quoted in the July 1990 issue of American Spectator, actually bragged:
“I do have an axe to grind...I want to be the little subversive person in television.”
Time magazine’s science editor Charles Alexander, at a September 16, 1989 global warming conference, confessed:
“I would freely admit on this issue we have crossed the boundary from news reporting to advocacy.”
CNN’s environmental editor Barbara Pyle, as quoted in the July 1990 issue of American Spectator, actually bragged:
“I do have an axe to grind...I want to be the little subversive person in television.”
Time magazine’s science editor Charles Alexander, at a September 16, 1989 global warming conference, confessed:
“I would freely admit on this issue we have crossed the boundary from news reporting to advocacy.”
Palin To Secret Service Agent: "Check This Out, Bodyguard -- You're Fired"
Palin To Secret Service Agent: "Check This Out, Bodyguard -- You're Fired" | RealClearPolitics
"The president, the CEO of this operation called our federal government, has got to start cracking down on these agencies.
He is the head of the administrative branch and all of these different departments in the administration that now people are seeing things that are so amiss within these departments.
The buck stops with the president.
"The president, the CEO of this operation called our federal government, has got to start cracking down on these agencies.
He is the head of the administrative branch and all of these different departments in the administration that now people are seeing things that are so amiss within these departments.
The buck stops with the president.
Good pic of my son Jimmy's bulldog, Apollo - I'm sorry Mr. President, he's not on the menu!
John McCain@SenJohnMcCain
Good pic of my son Jimmy's bulldog, Apollo - I'm sorry Mr. President, he's not on the menu! http://politi.co/HVhK9ZJohn McCain@SenJohnMcCain
Follow
Governor joked with supervisors about violating open-meeting law
Governor joked with supervisors about violating open-meeting law - latimes.com
According to a transcript obtained by The Times, the governor said at one point during the meeting, "Let's get our Brown Act cover story."
He was referring to the state's open-meetings law, the Ralph M. Brown Act.
Moments later, then-County Counsel Andrea Sheridan Ordin noted that reporters who questioned the legality of the meeting — which indeed was later ruled illegal — were waiting outside.
"You may have folks out there who want to ask questions," she said.
California learning from Muskegon?
According to a transcript obtained by The Times, the governor said at one point during the meeting, "Let's get our Brown Act cover story."
He was referring to the state's open-meetings law, the Ralph M. Brown Act.
Moments later, then-County Counsel Andrea Sheridan Ordin noted that reporters who questioned the legality of the meeting — which indeed was later ruled illegal — were waiting outside.
"You may have folks out there who want to ask questions," she said.
California learning from Muskegon?
Thursday, April 19, 2012
Pathetic!
Friend --
Want to meet George Clooney and Barack Obama -- at Clooney's house?
He's hosting supporters at his home next month to help build support for this campaign and elect President Obama in November. And he's saving seats for two grassroots supporters like you and their guests. It's just not a chance most people get -- well, ever.
For a chance to hang out with President Obama at George Clooney's house, donate $3 or whatever you can to be automatically entered to win.
George Clooney is doing his part to help re-elect the President, but he also knows that it's folks like you who will decide this election. That's why we're reserving a few spots for grassroots supporters.
If you donate $3 or whatever you can today, you'll be doing your part to support the campaign, and be automatically entered to join them in Los Angeles.
If you ask me, this is far too good to pass up:
https://donate.barackobama.com/Obama-Clooney-and-You
Thanks,
Julianna
Julianna Smoot
Deputy Campaign Manager
Obama for America
Want to meet George Clooney and Barack Obama -- at Clooney's house?
He's hosting supporters at his home next month to help build support for this campaign and elect President Obama in November. And he's saving seats for two grassroots supporters like you and their guests. It's just not a chance most people get -- well, ever.
For a chance to hang out with President Obama at George Clooney's house, donate $3 or whatever you can to be automatically entered to win.
George Clooney is doing his part to help re-elect the President, but he also knows that it's folks like you who will decide this election. That's why we're reserving a few spots for grassroots supporters.
If you donate $3 or whatever you can today, you'll be doing your part to support the campaign, and be automatically entered to join them in Los Angeles.
If you ask me, this is far too good to pass up:
https://donate.barackobama.com/Obama-Clooney-and-You
Thanks,
Julianna
Julianna Smoot
Deputy Campaign Manager
Obama for America
Rita Crundwell Fraud Charges: What Did Dixon, Illinois, CFO Buy After Allegedly Looting City Coffers?
Rita Crundwell Fraud Charges: What Did Dixon, Illinois, CFO Buy After Allegedly Looting City Coffers? - International Business Times
Rita Crundwell doesn't just handle the finances of a small Illinois city -- she's allegedly a big-time thief who raided the city of Dixon's coffers to the tune of $33.2 million, the U.S. attorney's office for the Northern District of Illinois announced.
Rita Crundwell doesn't just handle the finances of a small Illinois city -- she's allegedly a big-time thief who raided the city of Dixon's coffers to the tune of $33.2 million, the U.S. attorney's office for the Northern District of Illinois announced.
There are known knowns
There are known knowns - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia: “
[T]here are known knowns; there are things we know we know.
We also know there are known unknowns; that is to say we know there are some things we do not know.
But there are also unknown unknowns – there are things we do not know we don't know.
—United States Secretary of Defense Donald Rumsfeld
In case you forgot what a brilliant man we had....and ain't got no more.....
[T]here are known knowns; there are things we know we know.
We also know there are known unknowns; that is to say we know there are some things we do not know.
But there are also unknown unknowns – there are things we do not know we don't know.
—United States Secretary of Defense Donald Rumsfeld
In case you forgot what a brilliant man we had....and ain't got no more.....
A request from a constituent-me!
E-mail sent to my Muskegon county commissioner:
Dear commissioner Scolnik,
About a month ago, I hand delivered my application to Heath Kaplan, director of Finance and Management Services in hopes of being appointed to the "Citizens Review Committee/Jail and Juvenile Transition Center - 11 slots, public".
Heath assured me he would pass my application on to you.
Since that time, other citizens have told me they have been contacted by their county commissioners either by phone or by mailed questionnaires.
I have yet to hear from you and, as the final appointment date is approaching, I wanted to make sure you had received my application and ask if you need any more information from me about my qualifications for appointment.
As you are well aware, I attend (and video) most county commission meetings and most special meetings focusing on the "jail" issue.
I have studied how other counties have addressed jail and finance issues in great detail and my multiple decades of experience in municipal finance as a financial advisor and branch manager should add a solid financial element to the citizens committee.
I also believe that complete transparency and the interests of the citizenry should be paramount.
As I was not notified by you nor invited to last week's meeting that discussed the new jail location and am aware the date for final appointment to the committee is next week, I am disheartened not to have heard from you.
I look forward to hearing from you soon.
Jim Riley
Muskegon County floats $2 million loan to Brookhaven in accounting move
Muskegon County floats $2 million loan to Brookhaven in accounting move | MLive.com
County Commissioner John Snider, the board’s vice chairman, said the loan will “clean up our balance sheet,” voicing his support for the proposal.
“This is being more transparent than it’s ever been,” Hammersley said of the concerns raised about the loan.
Sadly, Hammersley is right.
Bummer for the taxpayers.
County Commissioner John Snider, the board’s vice chairman, said the loan will “clean up our balance sheet,” voicing his support for the proposal.
“This is being more transparent than it’s ever been,” Hammersley said of the concerns raised about the loan.
Sadly, Hammersley is right.
Bummer for the taxpayers.
Muskegon County sued by talk-radio host alleging Open Meetings Act violation
Muskegon County sued by talk-radio host alleging Open Meetings Act violation | MLive.com
Muskegon County government is being sued by one of its most ardent critics based on allegations that the County Board of Commissioners illegally had a closed session meeting to keep discussions about a controversial loan secret.
James Riley, a local talk-radio host who has criticized the Muskegon County Board of Commissioners on many occasions involving financial matters, filed a lawsuit against the board alleging violations of the Open Meetings Act and the Freedom of Information Act.
Muskegon County government is being sued by one of its most ardent critics based on allegations that the County Board of Commissioners illegally had a closed session meeting to keep discussions about a controversial loan secret.
James Riley, a local talk-radio host who has criticized the Muskegon County Board of Commissioners on many occasions involving financial matters, filed a lawsuit against the board alleging violations of the Open Meetings Act and the Freedom of Information Act.
Wednesday, April 18, 2012
Romney cites ‘vast left wing conspiracy’
Romney cites ‘vast left wing conspiracy’ – CNN Political Ticker - CNN.com Blogs
"There will be an effort by the quote vast left wing conspiracy to work together to put out their message and to attack me," Romney said in response.
"They're going to do everything they can to divert from the message people care about, which is a growing economy that creates more jobs and rising incomes.
That's what people care about."
"There will be an effort by the quote vast left wing conspiracy to work together to put out their message and to attack me," Romney said in response.
"They're going to do everything they can to divert from the message people care about, which is a growing economy that creates more jobs and rising incomes.
That's what people care about."
Fired GSA official: planned to pay for party
Fired GSA official: planned to pay for party - Yahoo! News
A fired General Services Administration official says he didn't know taxpayers would be billed $1,960 for a party in his luxury suite at a Las Vegas resort.
A fired General Services Administration official says he didn't know taxpayers would be billed $1,960 for a party in his luxury suite at a Las Vegas resort.
Tuesday, April 17, 2012
Food's Biggest Scam: The Great Kobe Beef Lie
Food's Biggest Scam: The Great Kobe Beef Lie - Forbes
This matters because the reason food lovers and expense account diners want Kobe beef, and are willing to pay a huge premium for it, is because of the real Kobe’s longstanding reputation for excellence.
The con the US food industry is running is leading you to believe that what you are paying huge dollars for – like the $40 NYC “Kobe” burger – is somehow linked to this heritage of excellence.
It’s not.
This matters because the reason food lovers and expense account diners want Kobe beef, and are willing to pay a huge premium for it, is because of the real Kobe’s longstanding reputation for excellence.
The con the US food industry is running is leading you to believe that what you are paying huge dollars for – like the $40 NYC “Kobe” burger – is somehow linked to this heritage of excellence.
It’s not.
Readers debate whether corporations are 'evil,' and whether they should pay more taxes to fund schools
Readers debate whether corporations are 'evil,' and whether they should pay more taxes to fund schools | MLive.com
Reader ableroone seems to lean to the left and is a thoughtful poster.
Addressing another reader, he said “Someday you will wake up and see just how evil those corporations truly are.”
That sparked my curiosity. I asked him to explain, and he kindly replied.
"seems to lean to the left and is a thoughtful poster"???????
Reader ableroone seems to lean to the left and is a thoughtful poster.
Addressing another reader, he said “Someday you will wake up and see just how evil those corporations truly are.”
That sparked my curiosity. I asked him to explain, and he kindly replied.
"seems to lean to the left and is a thoughtful poster"???????
Milledgeville Police Handcuff 6-Year-Old Girl for Misbehaving at School
Milledgeville Police Handcuff 6-Year-Old Girl for Misbehaving at School | 13wmaz.com
"Our policy is that any detainee transported to our station in a patrol vehicle is to be handcuffed in the back.
There is no age discrimination on that rule," said Milledgeville Chief of Police Dray Swicord.
They took the child to the police station where she was charged with simple assault and damage to property.
Because of her age, she will not have to go to court.
"Our policy is that any detainee transported to our station in a patrol vehicle is to be handcuffed in the back.
There is no age discrimination on that rule," said Milledgeville Chief of Police Dray Swicord.
They took the child to the police station where she was charged with simple assault and damage to property.
Because of her age, she will not have to go to court.
Monday, April 16, 2012
Rick Snyder signs law repealing motorcycle helmet requirement
Rick Snyder signs law repealing motorcycle helmet requirement | MLive.com
Michigan Gov. Rick Snyder has signed into law a bill that would allow motorcycle operators 21 or older to ride without a helmet, his office said today.
Michigan Gov. Rick Snyder has signed into law a bill that would allow motorcycle operators 21 or older to ride without a helmet, his office said today.
Michigan government unleashes armed raids on small pig farmers, forces farmer to shoot all his own pigs
NaturalNews exclusive: Michigan government unleashes armed raids on small pig farmers, forces farmer to shoot all his own pigs
Michigan Department of Natural Resources has, in total violation of the Fourth Amendment, conducted two armed raids on pig farmers in that state, one in Kalkaska County at Fife Lake and another in Cheboygan County.
Staging raids involving six vehicles and ten armed men, DNA conducted unconstitutional, illegal and arguably criminal armed raids on these two farms with the intent of shooting all the farmers' pigs under a bizarre new "Invasive Species Order" (ISO) that has suddenly declared traditional livestock to be an invasive species.
Michigan Department of Natural Resources has, in total violation of the Fourth Amendment, conducted two armed raids on pig farmers in that state, one in Kalkaska County at Fife Lake and another in Cheboygan County.
Staging raids involving six vehicles and ten armed men, DNA conducted unconstitutional, illegal and arguably criminal armed raids on these two farms with the intent of shooting all the farmers' pigs under a bizarre new "Invasive Species Order" (ISO) that has suddenly declared traditional livestock to be an invasive species.
Traffic to be rerouted near Frauenthal during symphony program
Traffic to be rerouted near Frauenthal during symphony program | MLive.com
MUSKEGON, MI -- Motorists are asked to avoid a central part of downtown Muskegon on Wednesday while a group of school children participate in a symphony program.
Muskegon Police officials are asking drivers to avoid the area of Third Street from Clay to Morris streets, and Western Avenue from Second to Fourth streets from 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Wednesday.
Over 4,000 area school children are expected to attend the symphony program that day.
The traffic circle will be closed as well.
MUSKEGON, MI -- Motorists are asked to avoid a central part of downtown Muskegon on Wednesday while a group of school children participate in a symphony program.
Muskegon Police officials are asking drivers to avoid the area of Third Street from Clay to Morris streets, and Western Avenue from Second to Fourth streets from 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Wednesday.
Over 4,000 area school children are expected to attend the symphony program that day.
The traffic circle will be closed as well.
Radio promo for this Sunday's show
Hi, This is Jim Riley, your host of Eye On Muskegon every Sunday morning from 8:30 10:00
Next Sunday is Earth Day.
We all love Mother Earth but some of us want others of us to love Mother Earth with more than just a big hug.
They want our money.
And they want government to collect it.
And spend it.
How's that working out?
This Sunday, Earth Day, EyeOnMuskegon will look at how your enviro dollars are being spent right here in Muskegon
Lake Express and GVSU water institute team up May 5 to celebrate Lake Michigan
Lake Express and GVSU water institute team up May 5 to celebrate Lake Michigan | MLive.com
The cost of the two special Lake Michigan excursions is $12 per person with those ages 4-11 $8 and those under 3 free.
All ticket proceeds go to the Annis Water Resources Institute.
The cost of the two special Lake Michigan excursions is $12 per person with those ages 4-11 $8 and those under 3 free.
All ticket proceeds go to the Annis Water Resources Institute.
Sunday, April 15, 2012
Snarl of tax code complicates fees preparers charge
Susan Tompor: Snarl of tax code complicates fees preparers charge | Detroit Free Press | freep.com
On average, Michigan taxpayers paid $215 last year for the preparation of a federal 1040 with itemized deductions on a Schedule A and a state return, according to the National Society of Accountants.
On average, Michigan taxpayers paid $215 last year for the preparation of a federal 1040 with itemized deductions on a Schedule A and a state return, according to the National Society of Accountants.
YOU HAVEN'T LIVED HERE UNTIL ... YOU PAY MICHIGAN INCOME TAXES
YOU HAVEN'T LIVED HERE UNTIL ... YOU PAY MICHIGAN INCOME TAXES | Detroit Free Press | freep.com
DON'T SOME MUNICIPALITIES LEVY INCOME TAXES, TOO?
Yes, 22 of them:
Detroit, Hamtramck, Highland Park, Pontiac, Port Huron, Flint, Lansing, Grand Rapids, Saginaw, Battle Creek, Albion, Jackson, Muskegon, Muskegon Heights, Grayling, Big Rapids, Ionia, Lapeer, Springfield (Calhoun County), Portland,(Ionia County), Walker (Kent County) and Hudson (Lenawee County). Living or working in one of these communities doesn't affect your state income tax rate.
DON'T SOME MUNICIPALITIES LEVY INCOME TAXES, TOO?
Yes, 22 of them:
Detroit, Hamtramck, Highland Park, Pontiac, Port Huron, Flint, Lansing, Grand Rapids, Saginaw, Battle Creek, Albion, Jackson, Muskegon, Muskegon Heights, Grayling, Big Rapids, Ionia, Lapeer, Springfield (Calhoun County), Portland,(Ionia County), Walker (Kent County) and Hudson (Lenawee County). Living or working in one of these communities doesn't affect your state income tax rate.
Statement on Tax Freedom Day
Wilson County News - Commentaries - Statement on Tax Freedom Day
Americans should also realize that federal government taxes aren’t enough to cover the federal budget. An additional $1.014 trillion is needed to pay for all of the obligations and that would put the real Tax Freedom Day at May 14.
That represents an additional 27 days of federal spending financed by borrowing.
Americans should also realize that federal government taxes aren’t enough to cover the federal budget. An additional $1.014 trillion is needed to pay for all of the obligations and that would put the real Tax Freedom Day at May 14.
That represents an additional 27 days of federal spending financed by borrowing.
Hidden debt extends true Tax Freedom Day through 2112
COMMENTARY: Hidden debt extends true Tax Freedom Day through 2112
This year Tax Freedom Day ironically is April 17, but the numbers crunchers at the foundation should be honest about which century.
This year Tax Freedom Day ironically is April 17, but the numbers crunchers at the foundation should be honest about which century.
Saturday, April 14, 2012
Teachers union leaders call for corporations to pay more taxes, sending money to schools
Teachers union leaders call for corporations to pay more taxes, sending money to schools | MLive.com
Businesses should pay $1.5 trillion more in taxes over the next 10 years, with a chunk of the money added to school budgets, national teachers union leaders say.
Businesses should pay $1.5 trillion more in taxes over the next 10 years, with a chunk of the money added to school budgets, national teachers union leaders say.
Tax refunds being used to pay for bankruptcy filings
Tax refunds being used to pay for bankruptcy filings – USATODAY.com
More than 200,000 money-strapped households will use their tax refunds this year to pay for bankruptcy filing and legal fees, says a new study by the National Bureau of Economic Research.
More than 200,000 money-strapped households will use their tax refunds this year to pay for bankruptcy filing and legal fees, says a new study by the National Bureau of Economic Research.
Bidens Donate 1.5 Percent of Income to Charity in 2011
Bidens Donate 1.5 Percent of Income to Charity in 2011 | The Weekly Standard
"Together, [the Bidens] reported adjusted gross income of $379,035.
The Bidens paid $87,900 in total federal tax for 2011.
They paid $13,843 in Delaware income tax and $3,614 in Virginia income tax.
The Bidens contributed $5,540 to charity in 2011."
"Together, [the Bidens] reported adjusted gross income of $379,035.
The Bidens paid $87,900 in total federal tax for 2011.
They paid $13,843 in Delaware income tax and $3,614 in Virginia income tax.
The Bidens contributed $5,540 to charity in 2011."
Obama Family Tax Shelter
Obama Family Tax Shelter | Washington Free Beacon
The Obamas paid a total federal tax rate of 20.5 percent on a gross adjusted income $789,674, which would typically fall within the top federal rate of 35 percent.
According to an analysis of the president’s tax return, he may have paid a lower rate than his secretary despite making more than eight times as much money as she did.
The Obamas paid a total federal tax rate of 20.5 percent on a gross adjusted income $789,674, which would typically fall within the top federal rate of 35 percent.
According to an analysis of the president’s tax return, he may have paid a lower rate than his secretary despite making more than eight times as much money as she did.
Norton Avenue road work starts Monday between Henry Street, Davis Road
Norton Avenue road work starts Monday between Henry Street, Davis Road | MLive.com
The work is scheduled for completion by mid-July.
The work is scheduled for completion by mid-July.
Ponzi update: Lapeer County among investors returning funds in case that cost Mona Shores
Ponzi update: Lapeer County among investors returning funds in case that cost Mona Shores | MLive.com
Mona Shores is by far the largest victim in the case, losing $3.7 million in voter-approved bond funds.
Mona Shores is by far the largest victim in the case, losing $3.7 million in voter-approved bond funds.
Secret Service dismissals "biggest scandal" for agency
Secret Service dismissals "biggest scandal" for agency - CBS News
"They don't have enough agents, they don't even put people through metal detectors sometimes because there's pressure to let everybody in," Kessler said.
"It's like letting passengers in an airplane without putting them through metal detectors.
They don't keep up-to-date with the latest firearms.
They don't even do physical tests.
So, it's a culture that leads to this kind of problem."
"They don't have enough agents, they don't even put people through metal detectors sometimes because there's pressure to let everybody in," Kessler said.
"It's like letting passengers in an airplane without putting them through metal detectors.
They don't keep up-to-date with the latest firearms.
They don't even do physical tests.
So, it's a culture that leads to this kind of problem."
Environmental Protection Agency fines school bus contractor almost $500,000 for ‘excessive idling’
Michelle Malkin » Environmental Protection Agency fines school bus contractor almost $500,000 for ‘excessive idling’
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) enforced nearly $500,000 in fines and mandatory “environmental projects” on a school bus contractor for “excessive idling,” and as part of its anti-idling campaign to reduce the carbon footprint of school buses waiting to pick up children for their routes.
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) enforced nearly $500,000 in fines and mandatory “environmental projects” on a school bus contractor for “excessive idling,” and as part of its anti-idling campaign to reduce the carbon footprint of school buses waiting to pick up children for their routes.
Friday, April 13, 2012
Putting Nix to bed
Putting Nix to bed - LSJ Blogs: Hey, Joe
"My old, old, old football coach, Buck Nystrom, once made a statement at a spring practice to me, ‘Son you don’t understand, discipline is the greatest form of love you can show someone.’
So today, I’m gonna tell him I love him.
And I’m gonna tell him that these guys are gonna help, the staff … and I’m gonna teach him that the world can be cruel.
A lot of people throw stones that if the tables were turned, I’d just ask you to remember this before you ask me questions:
Do you want me to treat him like a 6-9, 275-pound human being that just kind of walks and goes by himself or do you want me to treat him like I treat your son?
"You better think before you answer that.
Because I know how I’d want my son treated.
And he’s gonna make mistakes.
And I’m gonna have to deal with him. I don’t think there is one person in this room that hits the road on their son.
And when we make a commitment to a kid, we tell mom, we tell dad, you know give us the baton for four years and see if we can continue the process or make it even better.
I'm thinking every parent can relate to this wonderful man's comments.
"My old, old, old football coach, Buck Nystrom, once made a statement at a spring practice to me, ‘Son you don’t understand, discipline is the greatest form of love you can show someone.’
So today, I’m gonna tell him I love him.
And I’m gonna tell him that these guys are gonna help, the staff … and I’m gonna teach him that the world can be cruel.
A lot of people throw stones that if the tables were turned, I’d just ask you to remember this before you ask me questions:
Do you want me to treat him like a 6-9, 275-pound human being that just kind of walks and goes by himself or do you want me to treat him like I treat your son?
"You better think before you answer that.
Because I know how I’d want my son treated.
And he’s gonna make mistakes.
And I’m gonna have to deal with him. I don’t think there is one person in this room that hits the road on their son.
And when we make a commitment to a kid, we tell mom, we tell dad, you know give us the baton for four years and see if we can continue the process or make it even better.
I'm thinking every parent can relate to this wonderful man's comments.
Thursday, April 12, 2012
Pension Reform Bigger School Fiscal Issue Than Education Budget
Commentary: Pension Reform Bigger School Fiscal Issue Than Education Budget [Michigan Capitol Confidential]
Take Rockford Public Schools, for instance. Its annual financial report indicates that the projected increase in pension rates will have a larger impact on district finances than the proposed change in state revenue.
Based on salaries for 2011, the upcoming increase in pension contributions will cost the district $1.1 million, and pensions already cost roughly one out of every eight dollars the district spends
Take Rockford Public Schools, for instance. Its annual financial report indicates that the projected increase in pension rates will have a larger impact on district finances than the proposed change in state revenue.
Based on salaries for 2011, the upcoming increase in pension contributions will cost the district $1.1 million, and pensions already cost roughly one out of every eight dollars the district spends
Potential Muskegon County Jail sites identified by real estate agency
Potential Muskegon County Jail sites identified by real estate agency | MLive.com
The committee, consisting of county officials, is charged with making recommendations to the County Board of Commissioners by July 30 as to the site, financing options and design for jail replacement.
The committee, consisting of county officials, is charged with making recommendations to the County Board of Commissioners by July 30 as to the site, financing options and design for jail replacement.
Teachers decry changes to pension, retirement health care plans
Teachers decry changes to pension, retirement health care plans | The Detroit News | detroitnews.com: To make up for those lost years in his teaching career, Goff bought 10 years of credit in the public school employee pension system with plans of retiring in summer 2014 at age 54.
But Goff said he might have to work another six years at the Meridian School District if state lawmakers approve legislation overhauling the retirement system and requiring school and community college employees to be 60 to qualify for retiree health care.
The father of five said the legislation disrupts his and his wife's retirement plans.
"It fundamentally alters our plans, our hopes and our dreams," Goff said
But Goff said he might have to work another six years at the Meridian School District if state lawmakers approve legislation overhauling the retirement system and requiring school and community college employees to be 60 to qualify for retiree health care.
The father of five said the legislation disrupts his and his wife's retirement plans.
"It fundamentally alters our plans, our hopes and our dreams," Goff said
Judge: DTE rate increase improper
Judge: DTE rate increase improper | The Detroit News | detroitnews.com
DTE Energy customers won't see refunds anytime soon despite a ruling Wednesday that the utility never should have been allowed to hike rates by $37 million for its controversial smart meter program.
The Michigan Court of Appeals ruled Wednesday that the Michigan Public Service Commission should not have permitted DTE Energy to raise rates to fund the program and that the utility failed to show the program provided any benefit to customers.
....The smart meters, already installed in more than 700,000 homes in more than 30 municipalities, allow the utility to remotely monitor and shut off electricity to customers.
DTE Energy customers won't see refunds anytime soon despite a ruling Wednesday that the utility never should have been allowed to hike rates by $37 million for its controversial smart meter program.
The Michigan Court of Appeals ruled Wednesday that the Michigan Public Service Commission should not have permitted DTE Energy to raise rates to fund the program and that the utility failed to show the program provided any benefit to customers.
....The smart meters, already installed in more than 700,000 homes in more than 30 municipalities, allow the utility to remotely monitor and shut off electricity to customers.
City workers suspended without pay in Warren
Fouts: City workers suspended without pay in Warren | The Detroit News | detroitnews.com
Warren— Three city workers accused of stealing thousands of dollars in city property, including a heavy-duty toilet seat, a dog run and a vinyl picket fence, have been suspended without pay
Warren— Three city workers accused of stealing thousands of dollars in city property, including a heavy-duty toilet seat, a dog run and a vinyl picket fence, have been suspended without pay
Mom walking baby shot as she fled sex assault attempt in Detroit
Mom walking baby shot as she fled sex assault attempt in Detroit | The Detroit News | detroitnews.com: Detroit — A woman is in critical condition after she was shot trying to escape with her 6-month-old baby from a man who tried to sexually assault her.
Still waiting for a call from president barry.....
Still waiting for a call from president barry.....
Aspargus picking jobs available
Aspargus picking jobs available | wzzm13.com
Migrant workers that usually do the work are still picking crops in Florida and Texas. They're not expected to return to Michigan until May.
The goal of the first ever asparagus job fair in Hart was to fill more than 200 positions.
Depending on the farm the jobs will start in the next week or two.
Pay starts at $7.40 per hour.
But employers also pay hourly bonuses based on the amount of asparagus a worker picks
Migrant workers that usually do the work are still picking crops in Florida and Texas. They're not expected to return to Michigan until May.
The goal of the first ever asparagus job fair in Hart was to fill more than 200 positions.
Depending on the farm the jobs will start in the next week or two.
Pay starts at $7.40 per hour.
But employers also pay hourly bonuses based on the amount of asparagus a worker picks
Meijer Gardens Announces Full Summer Concert Lineup
Meijer Gardens Announces Full Summer Concert Lineup - FOX 17
The popular venue has announced an ecletic 25 show lineup, Meijer's largest to date.
Presale tickets are available to members, starting April 28, 2012 at 5 p.m.
Members get the chance to save $5 a ticket.
Sales to the public begin at 9 a.m., May 12, 2012.
Members save $2 per ticket purchased
WOW!
The popular venue has announced an ecletic 25 show lineup, Meijer's largest to date.
Presale tickets are available to members, starting April 28, 2012 at 5 p.m.
Members get the chance to save $5 a ticket.
Sales to the public begin at 9 a.m., May 12, 2012.
Members save $2 per ticket purchased
WOW!
Study Says "Pure Michigan" Campaign Brought in $1 Billion
Study Says "Pure Michigan" Campaign Brought in $1 Billion - FOX 17
2011's summer campaign is said to have cost $14.3 million and generated nearly $5 million in taxes for each dollar spent on the campaign.
2011's summer campaign is said to have cost $14.3 million and generated nearly $5 million in taxes for each dollar spent on the campaign.
Mona Shores saves taxpayers nearly $700,000 with refinance plan
Mona Shores saves taxpayers nearly $700,000 with refinance plan | MLive.com
Mona Shores will save taxpayers nearly $683,000 with the refunding of bonds originally sold in 2002.
Mona Shores will save taxpayers nearly $683,000 with the refunding of bonds originally sold in 2002.
Gov. Rick Snyder signs laws restricting food stamps for Michigan lottery winners
Gov. Rick Snyder signs laws restricting food stamps for Michigan lottery winners | MLive.com
The Michigan League for Human Services contends the asset test hurts Michigan families and that it's unnecessary since the federal government does not require an asset test for food assistance.
The state operates the federally funded program and shares administrative costs with the federal government.
A Senate Fiscal Agency analysis estimates the regulations could save up to $1.4 million in food assistance and another $200,000 in family independence assistance this fiscal year.
The Michigan League for Human Services contends the asset test hurts Michigan families and that it's unnecessary since the federal government does not require an asset test for food assistance.
The state operates the federally funded program and shares administrative costs with the federal government.
A Senate Fiscal Agency analysis estimates the regulations could save up to $1.4 million in food assistance and another $200,000 in family independence assistance this fiscal year.
Muskegon County jail committee to learn about potential sites
Muskegon County jail committee to learn about potential sites | MLive.com
A Citizens Review Committee also is being formed to assist in the process and help with public outreach about the county’s contention about the need for a new jail facility.
The committee members are expected to be appointed this month by the County Board of Commissioners.
A Citizens Review Committee also is being formed to assist in the process and help with public outreach about the county’s contention about the need for a new jail facility.
The committee members are expected to be appointed this month by the County Board of Commissioners.
Muskegon County still has second-highest percentage receiving cash assistance, despite 3,000-person decline
Muskegon County still has second-highest percentage receiving cash assistance, despite 3,000-person decline | MLive.com
Muskegon County had the third-highest number of cases to hit the 60-month time limit when it was instituted in October, with 599 families removed then.
That number projected to reach 733 by May, DHS spokesman Dave Akerly said.
Muskegon County had the third-highest number of cases to hit the 60-month time limit when it was instituted in October, with 599 families removed then.
That number projected to reach 733 by May, DHS spokesman Dave Akerly said.
Muskegon County jail committee to learn about potential sites
Muskegon County jail committee to learn about potential sites | MLive.com
The tentative project schedule, submitted last month by County Administrator Bonnie Hammersley, calls for a new Muskegon County Jail and Juvenile Transition Center to open Jan. 2, 2015. Hammersley cautioned the planning committee overseeing the jail proposal that the project schedule is preliminary and some changes are expected.
Muskegon County Sheriff Dean Roesler, who is chairman of the committee, has said his indications are that a new jail, whether a retrofit into an existing building or a newly constructed facility, would require 500-600 beds in planning for the county’s future. The current jail is rated for 370 beds, although the sheriff has said the average daily population exceeds 400.
A Citizens Review Committee also is being formed to assist in the process and help with public outreach about the county’s contention about the need for a new jail facility.
The tentative project schedule, submitted last month by County Administrator Bonnie Hammersley, calls for a new Muskegon County Jail and Juvenile Transition Center to open Jan. 2, 2015. Hammersley cautioned the planning committee overseeing the jail proposal that the project schedule is preliminary and some changes are expected.
Muskegon County Sheriff Dean Roesler, who is chairman of the committee, has said his indications are that a new jail, whether a retrofit into an existing building or a newly constructed facility, would require 500-600 beds in planning for the county’s future. The current jail is rated for 370 beds, although the sheriff has said the average daily population exceeds 400.
A Citizens Review Committee also is being formed to assist in the process and help with public outreach about the county’s contention about the need for a new jail facility.
Wednesday, April 11, 2012
Sukhoi T-50 Competes With The F-35
Sukhoi T-50 Competes With The F-35 - Business Insider
With its twin-engine design, the T-50 closely resembles the 20-year-old F-22 Raptor prototype
With its twin-engine design, the T-50 closely resembles the 20-year-old F-22 Raptor prototype
Editgate: a one-time thing that NBC News did over and over
Editgate: a one-time thing that NBC News did over and over | The Daily Caller
NBC News made that dishonest edit, then claimed it was an innocent mistake and the perpetrator had been fired, but wouldn’t say who and wouldn’t say how everybody else at NBC News somehow missed it.
They’re hoping that will suffice, which is kind of funny. Tom Maguire has been doing the yeoman’s work on this, and here’s his latest:
NBC News made that dishonest edit, then claimed it was an innocent mistake and the perpetrator had been fired, but wouldn’t say who and wouldn’t say how everybody else at NBC News somehow missed it.
They’re hoping that will suffice, which is kind of funny. Tom Maguire has been doing the yeoman’s work on this, and here’s his latest:
Michelle Williams responds to controversial audio recording concerning Trayvon Martin case
Michelle Williams responds to controversial audio recording concerning Trayvon Martin case
Williams can be heard saying,
"Let me tell you something, the things that is about to happen to these honkeys, these crackers, these pigs, these pink people, these (beep) people, it has been long over due."
Michelle Williams is the Chief of Staff with the local chapter of the New Black Panther Party.
Williams can be heard saying,
"Let me tell you something, the things that is about to happen to these honkeys, these crackers, these pigs, these pink people, these (beep) people, it has been long over due."
Michelle Williams is the Chief of Staff with the local chapter of the New Black Panther Party.
Strong men more likely to vote Conservative
Strong men more likely to vote Conservative - Telegraph
Physically strong men are more likely to hold right wing political views because they believe society should be geared to personal struggle and self-preservation, an academic study claims.
Physically strong men are more likely to hold right wing political views because they believe society should be geared to personal struggle and self-preservation, an academic study claims.
X-Rite Inc. to be sold in a $625 million takeover
X-Rite Inc. to be sold in a $625 million takeover | MLive.com
Color products maker X-Rite Inc. announced today it will be acquired by Danaher Corp., an industrial and healthcare conglomerate based in Washington, D.C. for $625 million.
Color products maker X-Rite Inc. announced today it will be acquired by Danaher Corp., an industrial and healthcare conglomerate based in Washington, D.C. for $625 million.
Experts: Ousting Gov. Snyder might not be true goal of recall effort
Experts: Ousting Gov. Snyder might not be true goal of recall effort | MLive.com
Politicos said Michigan Rising and its backers instead are likely using petitions to collect names and addresses of potential voters – and donors – as it targets state House races and even boosting President Obama’s re-election bid.
Politicos said Michigan Rising and its backers instead are likely using petitions to collect names and addresses of potential voters – and donors – as it targets state House races and even boosting President Obama’s re-election bid.
America's Debt Is Greater than Entire Eurozone's (and U.K.'s) Combined Debt
As the chart shows, America's debt is currently $15.1 trillion, while the Eurozone (which includes France, Germany, Greece, Italy, Spain, the U.K., and others) has a combined debt of $12.7 trillion. (All dollar amounts are in U.S. dollars, and the data refers to closing 2011 numbers.)
The Eurozone is larger than the United States, so America's debt per capita also exceeds the Eurozone's.
Illinois Is Pension Basket Case You Forgot About
Illinois Is Pension Basket Case You Forgot About - Bloomberg“If the General Assembly does not continue to provide allof the funding called for in state law, calculations done by TRSactuaries show that the System could become insolvent as soon as 2030....
Will state pension crisis be the tipping point?
Will state pension crisis be the tipping point? - The Hill's Congress Blog
This crisis that has been a long time coming and we are just beginning to grasp the magnitude of the state pension debt tsunami that’s going to hit us within the next decade.
Because virtually all states have some type of balanced budget requirement, it has been relatively easy to ignore the fact that unfunded pension obligations have been purposefully left off state balance sheets.
In truth, those obligations in most states far exceed the total of outstanding state debt, spending, and tax revenues combined.
This crisis that has been a long time coming and we are just beginning to grasp the magnitude of the state pension debt tsunami that’s going to hit us within the next decade.
Because virtually all states have some type of balanced budget requirement, it has been relatively easy to ignore the fact that unfunded pension obligations have been purposefully left off state balance sheets.
In truth, those obligations in most states far exceed the total of outstanding state debt, spending, and tax revenues combined.
Swedish Study Finds Laws Banning Texting, Talking On Phones While Driving Are Ineffective
Swedish Study Finds Laws Banning Texting, Talking On Phones While Driving Are Ineffective | Fox News:
...a VTI study found that there was no long-term traffic safety impact for countries that allowed cell phone use with hands-free equipment.
...a VTI study found that there was no long-term traffic safety impact for countries that allowed cell phone use with hands-free equipment.
Study: Road deaths up on Tax Day
Study: Road deaths up on Tax Day | The Detroit News | detroitnews.com
Drivers recklessly racing to the post office to meet the deadline might be one reason.
Or it could be that stressing over taxes distracts motorists and contributes to human error, researchers said.
"Researchers"?
Drivers recklessly racing to the post office to meet the deadline might be one reason.
Or it could be that stressing over taxes distracts motorists and contributes to human error, researchers said.
"Researchers"?
$28M Dearborn rail project moves ahead
$28M Dearborn rail project moves ahead | The Detroit News | detroitnews.com
The project is funded through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009.
Hope.....and change........
Maybe this Dearborn gal COULD use a choo choo train: http://www.detroitnews.com/article/20120410/METRO/204100427/1409/metro/Dearborn-s-former-Miss-USA-faces-drunken-driving-trial
The project is funded through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009.
Hope.....and change........
Maybe this Dearborn gal COULD use a choo choo train: http://www.detroitnews.com/article/20120410/METRO/204100427/1409/metro/Dearborn-s-former-Miss-USA-faces-drunken-driving-trial
Amendment to postal service law could guarantee the public a chance for appeal building closures
Amendment to postal service law could guarantee the public a chance for appeal building closures | MLive.com
The amendment “would prevent the closing of any postal facility unless there is an opportunity for the public to appeal the closing to the Postal Regulatory Commission and for that appeal to be considered,” Sen. Levin said in an email message today.
The amendment “would prevent the closing of any postal facility unless there is an opportunity for the public to appeal the closing to the Postal Regulatory Commission and for that appeal to be considered,” Sen. Levin said in an email message today.
Michigan's graduation rate dips slightly for 2011
Michigan's graduation rate dips slightly for 2011 | MLive.com
Some had predicted the class would struggle because it was the first to come under mandatory, tougher statewide graduation requirements that include more math, science and other courses than previously mandated.
But the dire predictions didn't come true,
Some had predicted the class would struggle because it was the first to come under mandatory, tougher statewide graduation requirements that include more math, science and other courses than previously mandated.
But the dire predictions didn't come true,
Muskegon County Prosecutor Tony Tague's decision not to run will have big political impact
Muskegon County Prosecutor Tony Tague's decision not to run will have big political impact | MLive.com
Scolnik said. “While I have a great deal of respect for Tony and the job he did as prosecutor, I think in some instances he was too tough. … We can’t afford to keep so many people in prison and jail.”
Scolnik said. “While I have a great deal of respect for Tony and the job he did as prosecutor, I think in some instances he was too tough. … We can’t afford to keep so many people in prison and jail.”
Rep. Cleaver faces Bank of America suit, but could be bailed out by taxpayers
Rep. Cleaver faces Bank of America suit, but could be bailed out by taxpayers - The Hill's Floor Action
Congressional Black Caucus Chairman Emanuel Cleaver (D-Mo.), who is facing a lawsuit for failing to pay down a 2002 Bank of America loan that he used to buy a car wash in Missouri, could have a good chunk of the $1.5 million he owes paid off by taxpayers.
Congressional Black Caucus Chairman Emanuel Cleaver (D-Mo.), who is facing a lawsuit for failing to pay down a 2002 Bank of America loan that he used to buy a car wash in Missouri, could have a good chunk of the $1.5 million he owes paid off by taxpayers.
Tuesday, April 10, 2012
American Universities Infected by Foreign Spies Detected by FBI
American Universities Infected by Foreign Spies Detected by FBI - Bloomberg
Michigan State University PresidentLou Anna K. Simon contacted the Central Intelligence Agency inlate 2009 with an urgent question.
The school’s campus in Dubai needed a bailout and anunlikely savior had stepped forward: a Dubai-based company thatoffered to provide money and students.
Simon was tempted.
She also worried that the company, which had investors from Iran and wanted to recruit students from there, might be a front for the Iranian government, she said.
If so, an agreement could violate federal trade sanctions and invite enemy spies.
The CIA couldn’t confirm that the company wasn’t an arm of Iran’s government.
Simon rejected the offer and shut down undergraduate programs in Dubai, at a loss of $3.7 million.
Michigan State University PresidentLou Anna K. Simon contacted the Central Intelligence Agency inlate 2009 with an urgent question.
The school’s campus in Dubai needed a bailout and anunlikely savior had stepped forward: a Dubai-based company thatoffered to provide money and students.
Simon was tempted.
She also worried that the company, which had investors from Iran and wanted to recruit students from there, might be a front for the Iranian government, she said.
If so, an agreement could violate federal trade sanctions and invite enemy spies.
The CIA couldn’t confirm that the company wasn’t an arm of Iran’s government.
Simon rejected the offer and shut down undergraduate programs in Dubai, at a loss of $3.7 million.
Muskegon blood donations remain on tentative schedule due to labor dispute
Muskegon blood donations remain on tentative schedule due to labor dispute | MLive.com
Local 459 alleges unfair labor practices by the American Red Cross, collective bargaining issues, concerns over health care negotiations and need for improvements in blood-safety practices.
Local 459 alleges unfair labor practices by the American Red Cross, collective bargaining issues, concerns over health care negotiations and need for improvements in blood-safety practices.
Muskegon blood donations remain on tentative schedule due to labor dispute
Muskegon blood donations remain on tentative schedule due to labor dispute | MLive.com
Local 459 alleges unfair labor practices by the American Red Cross, collective bargaining issues, concerns over health care negotiations and need for improvements in blood-safety practices.
Local 459 alleges unfair labor practices by the American Red Cross, collective bargaining issues, concerns over health care negotiations and need for improvements in blood-safety practices.
Governor's declaration in Muskegon Heights sets up process for emergency manager appointment
Governor's declaration in Muskegon Heights sets up process for emergency manager appointment | MLive.com
The next steps also are laid out by law:
The school board or its interim superintendent has until April 17 to request a hearing on the determination of a financial emergency.
That hearing will only consider arguments about whether the financial review team's findings "were supported by competent, material, and substantial evidence on the whole record," according to a letter Snyder sent to Muskegon Heights Interim Superintendent Dave Sipka.
If a hearing is requested, it will be held at 10 a.m. April 18 in Lansing before state Superintendent of Public Instruction Mike Flanagan.
The next steps also are laid out by law:
The school board or its interim superintendent has until April 17 to request a hearing on the determination of a financial emergency.
That hearing will only consider arguments about whether the financial review team's findings "were supported by competent, material, and substantial evidence on the whole record," according to a letter Snyder sent to Muskegon Heights Interim Superintendent Dave Sipka.
If a hearing is requested, it will be held at 10 a.m. April 18 in Lansing before state Superintendent of Public Instruction Mike Flanagan.
- Following the hearing, Snyder will decide whether to "confirm or revoke" his determination of a financial emergency.
- If he confirms the the financial emergency, Snyder must then declare the school district to be in receivership and appoint an emergency manager "to act for and in the place and stead of the governing body and the office of chief administrative officer." Among the manager's powers is the ability to modify collective bargaining agreements.
The school board has 10 business days to decide by at least a vote of two-thirds of its members to appeal Snyder's decision in Ingham County Circuit Court. The court can overturn his decision if it determines the decision was "not supported by competent, material, and substantial evidence on the whole record," or if it was "arbitrary, capricious, or clearly an abuse or unwarranted exercise of discretion." - Barring such a court ruling, the emergency manager has 45 days to submit to the state treasurer a financial and operating plan for the district. The plan will be "regularly reexamined" by the emergency manager and state treasurer, and can be modified by the manager.
- Within 30 days of submitting the financial and operating plan, the emergency manager must conduct a public informational meeting on the plan.
- The school district will remain in a financial emergency until the emergency manager declares, and the state treasurer and state superintendent agree, that the emergency has been rectified.
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