Right-to-Work in Michigan: A Visual Time Line [Michigan Capitol Confidential]
Thursday, February 28, 2013
Illinois teachers go on strike because district won’t fund a 30 percent raise
Illinois teachers go on strike because district won’t fund a 30 percent raise - EAGnews.org :: Education Research, Reporting, Analysis and Commentary
"DIXON, Ill. – The education of nearly 3,000 Illinois students came to an abrupt halt Thursday morning when Dixon teachers went on strike to protest the school board’s refusal to meet their demands for a 30 percent pay raise over a five-year span.
The strike could last awhile, as the district and union remain far apart on the issue of a pay raise, along with a host of other matters."
"DIXON, Ill. – The education of nearly 3,000 Illinois students came to an abrupt halt Thursday morning when Dixon teachers went on strike to protest the school board’s refusal to meet their demands for a 30 percent pay raise over a five-year span.
The strike could last awhile, as the district and union remain far apart on the issue of a pay raise, along with a host of other matters."
Secret money funds gun ads
The Durango Herald 02/27/2013 | Secret money funds gun ads
"Experienced Republican campaigners have entered the fight against Rep. Mike McLachlan, D-Durango, although it remains to be seen how much they will assist in an effort to recall him.
A new nonprofit group called Colorado Citizens Protecting Our Constitution took out Web ads and a full-page print ad in the Feb. 17 Durango Herald to criticize McLachlan’s votes on four gun bills.
The Web ads link to a one-page website that duplicates the print advertisement, attempting to link McLachlan to New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg, a gun-control advocate.
Three other Democrats were targeted with nearly identical full-page ads in their hometown newspapers.
....The group’s funding and leadership remains a mystery."
"Experienced Republican campaigners have entered the fight against Rep. Mike McLachlan, D-Durango, although it remains to be seen how much they will assist in an effort to recall him.
A new nonprofit group called Colorado Citizens Protecting Our Constitution took out Web ads and a full-page print ad in the Feb. 17 Durango Herald to criticize McLachlan’s votes on four gun bills.
The Web ads link to a one-page website that duplicates the print advertisement, attempting to link McLachlan to New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg, a gun-control advocate.
Three other Democrats were targeted with nearly identical full-page ads in their hometown newspapers.
....The group’s funding and leadership remains a mystery."
What Housework Has to Do With Waistlines
What Housework Has to Do With Waistlines - NYTimes.com:
"One reason so many American women are overweight may be that we are vacuuming and doing laundry less often, according to a new study that, while scrupulously even-handed, is likely to stir controversy and emotions."
"One reason so many American women are overweight may be that we are vacuuming and doing laundry less often, according to a new study that, while scrupulously even-handed, is likely to stir controversy and emotions."
Muskegon County Port Advisory Committee starts development work while region watches
Muskegon County Port Advisory Committee starts development work while region watches | MLive.com
"Muskegon County Administrator Bonnie Hammersley will bring in a facilitator to collect ideas and help distill them down to a few goals at a March 26 meeting, the group recently decided."
"Muskegon County Administrator Bonnie Hammersley will bring in a facilitator to collect ideas and help distill them down to a few goals at a March 26 meeting, the group recently decided."
Philadelphia-area businesses fight back against union intimidation
Philadelphia-area businesses fight back against union intimidation | Washington Free Beacon
"Several Philadelphia labor groups allegedly used feces, urine, spit, and fire to persuade businesses to hire union labor and area businesses are fighting back.
The National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) on Monday ordered members of the International Board of Teamsters Local 107, Pennsylvania’s self-described “most powerful labor organization,” to stop assaulting and spitting on employees, vandalizing vehicles, and obstructing business operations at the Eureka Stone Quarry, Inc."
"Several Philadelphia labor groups allegedly used feces, urine, spit, and fire to persuade businesses to hire union labor and area businesses are fighting back.
The National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) on Monday ordered members of the International Board of Teamsters Local 107, Pennsylvania’s self-described “most powerful labor organization,” to stop assaulting and spitting on employees, vandalizing vehicles, and obstructing business operations at the Eureka Stone Quarry, Inc."
Defying Courts And Congress, EPA Ups Mandate For Nonexistent Fuels
Defying Courts And Congress, EPA Ups Mandate For Nonexistent Fuels - Investors.com
"As Rep. Jim Sensenbrenner points out in Politico, 2010, the first year of the mandate, the EPA projected 5 million gallons of cellulosic biofuels would be available.
In fact, there were none.
In 2011, the EPA increased the mandate to 6.5 million gallons.
Again, the actual amount available was zero.
Undeterred, in 2012, the EPA increased the required amount to 8.5 million gallons.
The actual available amount was 25,000 gallons."
"As Rep. Jim Sensenbrenner points out in Politico, 2010, the first year of the mandate, the EPA projected 5 million gallons of cellulosic biofuels would be available.
In fact, there were none.
In 2011, the EPA increased the mandate to 6.5 million gallons.
Again, the actual amount available was zero.
Undeterred, in 2012, the EPA increased the required amount to 8.5 million gallons.
The actual available amount was 25,000 gallons."
5 frugal habits of the rich
5 frugal habits of the rich- MSN Money:
"Michelle Obama often opts to shop at Target or H&M rather than high-end department stores."
Seriously!
Gimme a break!
"Michelle Obama often opts to shop at Target or H&M rather than high-end department stores."
Seriously!
Gimme a break!
Only 6% Rate News Media As Very Trustworthy
Only 6% Rate News Media As Very Trustworthy - Rasmussen Reports™
"Most voters still get their news from television and consider the news reported by the media generally trustworthy.
Fifty-six percent (56%) of Likely U.S. Voters say they get most of their news from TV, including 32% who get it from cable news networks and 24% who get it from traditional network news.
A new Rasmussen Reports national telephone survey finds that another 25% use the Internet as their main source of news, while only 10% still rely on print newspapers.
Seven percent (7%) get most of their news from radio. "
"Most voters still get their news from television and consider the news reported by the media generally trustworthy.
Fifty-six percent (56%) of Likely U.S. Voters say they get most of their news from TV, including 32% who get it from cable news networks and 24% who get it from traditional network news.
A new Rasmussen Reports national telephone survey finds that another 25% use the Internet as their main source of news, while only 10% still rely on print newspapers.
Seven percent (7%) get most of their news from radio. "
Michigan lawmaker proposes smart meter opt out
Michigan lawmaker proposes smart meter opt out | wzzm13.com
"A Republican lawmaker wants Michigan residents to be able to opt out of so-called smart meter installations.
Rep. Tom McMillin of Rochester Hills introduced a bill Tuesday that would prohibit utilities from giving discounts to customers who install the meters.
It would also limit the number of times the utility can read data from the smart meter each month.
Smart meters allow utilities to monitor electricity use without sending a reader to each house. Proponents say smart meters can alert utilities of outages and cut costs.
But McMillin says some residents have "legitimate" privacy and health concerns and should not have to pay fees for opting out.
Some have raised concerns that electric signals used in smart meters may contribute to health problems."
"A Republican lawmaker wants Michigan residents to be able to opt out of so-called smart meter installations.
Rep. Tom McMillin of Rochester Hills introduced a bill Tuesday that would prohibit utilities from giving discounts to customers who install the meters.
It would also limit the number of times the utility can read data from the smart meter each month.
Smart meters allow utilities to monitor electricity use without sending a reader to each house. Proponents say smart meters can alert utilities of outages and cut costs.
But McMillin says some residents have "legitimate" privacy and health concerns and should not have to pay fees for opting out.
Some have raised concerns that electric signals used in smart meters may contribute to health problems."
Wednesday, February 27, 2013
Michigan Strategic Fund provides $1.95 million loan for HighPoint Flats, Muskegon apartment construction to begin
Michigan Strategic Fund provides $1.95 million loan for HighPoint Flats, Muskegon apartment construction to begin | MLive.com
"The redevelopment district allows for new property taxes for the apartment building to be captured in support of the project. Rooks’ Parkland Muskegon Inc. would receive up to $750,000 from the brownfield tax increment fund by 2030 to pay back the state loan, city officials have said.
“My hope is that this will spur additional development in downtown Muskegon,” Rooks said after the state approval. “And I hope that we are able to show demand for market-rate housing that we know exists in downtown Muskegon.”
The Parkland state loan for HighPoint Flats was part of a $6 million outlay approved by the Michigan Strategic Fund Board on Wednesday afternoon in Lansing. The HighPoint Flats loan came from the Michigan Community Revitalization program.
The $6 million in state assistance went to HighPoint Flats and seven other business expansions totaling $95.8 million in new capital investments that will create an estimated 789 new jobs. The Parkland development is expected to create two new jobs beyond the construction employment it will generate."
"The redevelopment district allows for new property taxes for the apartment building to be captured in support of the project. Rooks’ Parkland Muskegon Inc. would receive up to $750,000 from the brownfield tax increment fund by 2030 to pay back the state loan, city officials have said.
“My hope is that this will spur additional development in downtown Muskegon,” Rooks said after the state approval. “And I hope that we are able to show demand for market-rate housing that we know exists in downtown Muskegon.”
The Parkland state loan for HighPoint Flats was part of a $6 million outlay approved by the Michigan Strategic Fund Board on Wednesday afternoon in Lansing. The HighPoint Flats loan came from the Michigan Community Revitalization program.
The $6 million in state assistance went to HighPoint Flats and seven other business expansions totaling $95.8 million in new capital investments that will create an estimated 789 new jobs. The Parkland development is expected to create two new jobs beyond the construction employment it will generate."
The Michigan Legislature will vote TODAY on HB4111,a $30.6 million supplemental appropriation for federal funds to help implement a state-federal partnership health exchange.
Dear James,
The Michigan
Legislature will vote TODAY on HB4111,a $30.6
million supplemental appropriation for federal funds to help implement a
state-federal partnership health exchange.
Representative
Forlini (R-Harrison Township) said this morning that implementation of
exchanges is inevitable.
“The bottom line is, it’s
coming,” he stated “This at least brings some funding in, so we have some
control. This car is going down the road, so we’re either in the car driving it
(or not).”
Representative
Forlini is wrong: Implementation of this law is not inevitable and considering
more than half of the American people oppose the law, it is improbable. You and
I don’t want to be in the car when it goes off of the cliff, and that is exactly
where Obamacare is going to take us.
Health care
exchanges were created by the president’s flawed health care law and serve to
pile thousands of pages of rules and regulations while transferring control to
health care bureaucrats in Washington.These bloated bureaucracies drive up
the cost of insurance on hardworking families and raise taxes on
businesses.
Hypocrisy
on this issue in the Michigan Legislature is led by Governor Snyder who on one
hand says the feds need to get their budget under control, but then on the
other hand seizes every last dollar of federal money possible. Even worse,
the implementation of Obamacare in Michigan will hurt hardworking families.
Join us in
resisting a centralized government approach to health care reform and instead
focus on solutions that make health care more affordable and accessible for
every American.
Let’s work
to create a health care system of, for, and by the people, not government or
special interests.
In Liberty,
Scott
Hagerstrom
State
Director
AFP-Michigan
Subway 'Wouldn't Exist' If Started Today Due to Regulations: Founder Deluca
Subway 'Wouldn't Exist' If Started Today Due to Regulations: Founder Deluca
"Deluca said the environment for entrepreneurs in the U.S. has "continuously gotten worse because there are more and more regulations.
It's tough for people to get into business, especially a small business."
"Deluca said the environment for entrepreneurs in the U.S. has "continuously gotten worse because there are more and more regulations.
It's tough for people to get into business, especially a small business."
Earlie Johnson's Stolen Porn Collection Replenished By Porn Companies
Earlie Johnson's Stolen Porn Collection Replenished By Porn Companies
""He's the ultimate porn fan," Kulich told HuffPost.
"He seemed distraught by the theft.
This is a guy who bought porn DVDs a couple times a week.
He's a collector who put aside money from each paycheck to meet his financial obligation.""
""He's the ultimate porn fan," Kulich told HuffPost.
"He seemed distraught by the theft.
This is a guy who bought porn DVDs a couple times a week.
He's a collector who put aside money from each paycheck to meet his financial obligation.""
Brooming big-spending Republicans shouldn't be left to chance
Ken Braun: Brooming big-spending Republicans shouldn't be left to chance | MLive.com
"Instead, what DOES sell out the fiscal conservatives is a big SPENDING Republican. Tax hikes, Fiscal Cliffs, the sequester, and the re-election - let alone initial election - of President Obama probably doesn’t happen if the words and deeds of Republicans on the spending front had been consistent over the last 10-20 years.
That wasn’t the case, yet most people – and even most Republicans - believe what their GOP lawmaker tells them and rarely look at a politician’s votes before supporting him or her.
Thus … Welcome to the mess we’re in!"
"Instead, what DOES sell out the fiscal conservatives is a big SPENDING Republican. Tax hikes, Fiscal Cliffs, the sequester, and the re-election - let alone initial election - of President Obama probably doesn’t happen if the words and deeds of Republicans on the spending front had been consistent over the last 10-20 years.
That wasn’t the case, yet most people – and even most Republicans - believe what their GOP lawmaker tells them and rarely look at a politician’s votes before supporting him or her.
Thus … Welcome to the mess we’re in!"
Lengthy new school, university contracts latest lightning rod in Michigan right-to-work debate
Lengthy new school, university contracts latest lightning rod in Michigan right-to-work debate | MLive.com
""It's highly unusual, a ten-year deal for something like this that's clearly designed to get around a recent law," McMillin told reporters after both groups declined his invitation.
"What was the give and take? What did taxpayers get?"
""It's highly unusual, a ten-year deal for something like this that's clearly designed to get around a recent law," McMillin told reporters after both groups declined his invitation.
"What was the give and take? What did taxpayers get?"
Question of the Day: What would be a good use of the Yuba St. Farmers Market location?
Question of the Day: What would be a good use of the Yuba St. Farmers Market location? | MLive.com
"In his column, "Heard on the Street," MLive and Chronicle reporter Dave Alexander discussed the possible creation of a dog park on the current Farmers Market site in the Jackson Hill neighborhood. "
"In his column, "Heard on the Street," MLive and Chronicle reporter Dave Alexander discussed the possible creation of a dog park on the current Farmers Market site in the Jackson Hill neighborhood. "
S.S. Badger coal ash ruling expected soon as Muskegon, Ludington ferries feud
S.S. Badger coal ash ruling expected soon as Muskegon, Ludington ferries feud | MLive.com
"The EPA says it will make a tentative decision in March on whether to give the Badger a new permit. Either way, the company says it intends to sail this spring.
The rival diesel-powered Lake Express ferry says the Badger should have to follow the same pollution rules as other Great Lakes vessels."
"The EPA says it will make a tentative decision in March on whether to give the Badger a new permit. Either way, the company says it intends to sail this spring.
The rival diesel-powered Lake Express ferry says the Badger should have to follow the same pollution rules as other Great Lakes vessels."
Local officials: Closing Muskegon County Airport's control tower wouldn't stop flights
Local officials: Closing Muskegon County Airport's control tower wouldn't stop flights | MLive.com
"If the air control tower is shut down, pilots will have to coordinate landings and takeoffs themselves, via radio – the same operating procedure they currently use when the Muskegon tower shuts down for the night.
“Operationally, it won’t have an impact,” said Airport Manager Marty Piette.
“I don’t think it would hurt the airport.”"
"If the air control tower is shut down, pilots will have to coordinate landings and takeoffs themselves, via radio – the same operating procedure they currently use when the Muskegon tower shuts down for the night.
“Operationally, it won’t have an impact,” said Airport Manager Marty Piette.
“I don’t think it would hurt the airport.”"
Muskegon City Commission unanimously approves the $14 million, 70-lot Terrace Point Landing
Muskegon City Commission unanimously approves the $14 million, 70-lot Terrace Point Landing | MLive.com
"Work on putting in the public roadway and utilities could begin in the coming six months but it is unlikely that home will be under construction on the site until 2014, he indicated."
"Work on putting in the public roadway and utilities could begin in the coming six months but it is unlikely that home will be under construction on the site until 2014, he indicated."
Pigeon Hill Brewing Co. selects downtown Muskegon location with plans for the Noble Building
Pigeon Hill Brewing Co. selects downtown Muskegon location with plans for the Noble Building | MLive.com
"The owners of Pigeon Hill Brewing Co. have announced that they will lease space in the Noble Building, 500 W. Western Ave.
Construction on the first-level brew pub could begin within a month and the business could open yet in 2013, according to co-owner Joel Kamp.
Pigeon Hill Brewing Co. will join Unruly Brewing Co. on West Western Avenue in downtown Muskegon. Construction is under way in the Russell Block Market at 360 W. Western Ave., where Unruly plans to open in the spring."
"The owners of Pigeon Hill Brewing Co. have announced that they will lease space in the Noble Building, 500 W. Western Ave.
Construction on the first-level brew pub could begin within a month and the business could open yet in 2013, according to co-owner Joel Kamp.
Pigeon Hill Brewing Co. will join Unruly Brewing Co. on West Western Avenue in downtown Muskegon. Construction is under way in the Russell Block Market at 360 W. Western Ave., where Unruly plans to open in the spring."
City Wants Power to “Disarm Individuals” During Crisis
» City Wants Power to “Disarm Individuals” During Crisis Alex Jones' Infowars: There's a war on for your mind!
"The new rule would allow authorities to confiscate guns of “unruly” people during an extreme weather event such as the April 2011 tornadoes or any other emergency.
“The ordinance states officers could disarm individuals, if necessary, reports ABC 31.
“Dollar says the proposal is just way to give officers more authority to protect themselves.”
"The new rule would allow authorities to confiscate guns of “unruly” people during an extreme weather event such as the April 2011 tornadoes or any other emergency.
“The ordinance states officers could disarm individuals, if necessary, reports ABC 31.
“Dollar says the proposal is just way to give officers more authority to protect themselves.”
Civil Rights and the Collapse of Birmingham, Ala.
Articles: Civil Rights and the Collapse of Birmingham, Ala.
"Much more important was a program through which Mayor Langford provided laptops to children, in all government schools, in first through fifth grade.
An MIT study found that the results of this social policy were "disappointing." Ownership of the free government laptops "did not increase use of computers for academic or content-creation purposes."
The MIT study further found that school-related laptop use somehow unbelievably actually decreased after students were given the free laptops:
"The frequency with which students used a computer to create or listen to podcasts, do research, or do homework all decreased slightly from the pretest survey (before [free laptop] ownership) to the posttest survey (after [free laptop] ownership)."
An army of sociology professors and community leaders could start a cottage industry simply trying to come to grips with the causes of this social engineering farce, and the subculture underlying it."
"Much more important was a program through which Mayor Langford provided laptops to children, in all government schools, in first through fifth grade.
An MIT study found that the results of this social policy were "disappointing." Ownership of the free government laptops "did not increase use of computers for academic or content-creation purposes."
The MIT study further found that school-related laptop use somehow unbelievably actually decreased after students were given the free laptops:
"The frequency with which students used a computer to create or listen to podcasts, do research, or do homework all decreased slightly from the pretest survey (before [free laptop] ownership) to the posttest survey (after [free laptop] ownership)."
An army of sociology professors and community leaders could start a cottage industry simply trying to come to grips with the causes of this social engineering farce, and the subculture underlying it."
Father wants school dress code changed after son asked to remove Marines T-shirt
Father wants school dress code changed after son asked to remove Marines T-shirt | Fox News:
"An Illinois father wants a school district to reconsider its dress code after his son was asked to remove a U.S. Marines T-shirt or be suspended, FoxNews.com has learned.
Daniel McIntyre, 44, of Genoa, told FoxNews.com that his 14-year-old son, Michael, was asked to remove the T-shirt by eighth-grade teacher Karen Deverell during reading class at Genoa-Kingston Middle School on Monday.
Deverell, citing the school’s dress code, said the garment’s interlocking rifles was problematic and had to be removed from sight, McIntyre said."
"An Illinois father wants a school district to reconsider its dress code after his son was asked to remove a U.S. Marines T-shirt or be suspended, FoxNews.com has learned.
Daniel McIntyre, 44, of Genoa, told FoxNews.com that his 14-year-old son, Michael, was asked to remove the T-shirt by eighth-grade teacher Karen Deverell during reading class at Genoa-Kingston Middle School on Monday.
Deverell, citing the school’s dress code, said the garment’s interlocking rifles was problematic and had to be removed from sight, McIntyre said."
Tuesday, February 26, 2013
Monday, February 25, 2013
The ‘Footloose’ Fix
The ‘Footloose’ Fix - NYPOST.com
"Finally, young people suffer under the burden of student loans, often incurred in the process of getting degrees that turn out to be worthless.
Republicans should press hard for limits on this indebtedness and on universities’ ability to raise tuition without limit.
More, they should investigate and regulate higher education’s often-dishonest representations made to prospective students.
There are a lot of opportunities along these lines, and a smart, young, libertarian-leaning Republican in the Senate — like, say, Rand Paul, Ted Cruz or Marco Rubio — could get a lot of mileage out of seizing them, both personally and in terms of brightening the GOP image.
Will the Republicans be smart enough to seize this opportunity?
Sadly, history suggests not."
"Finally, young people suffer under the burden of student loans, often incurred in the process of getting degrees that turn out to be worthless.
Republicans should press hard for limits on this indebtedness and on universities’ ability to raise tuition without limit.
More, they should investigate and regulate higher education’s often-dishonest representations made to prospective students.
There are a lot of opportunities along these lines, and a smart, young, libertarian-leaning Republican in the Senate — like, say, Rand Paul, Ted Cruz or Marco Rubio — could get a lot of mileage out of seizing them, both personally and in terms of brightening the GOP image.
Will the Republicans be smart enough to seize this opportunity?
Sadly, history suggests not."
Keeping Britain's lights on will come at a price
Keeping Britain's lights on will come at a price - Telegraph
"On Wednesday January 16, due to unplanned outages and cold weather, National Grid had to find power to supply roughly a million homes to keep the lights on.
Fawley, an oil-fired plant in Hampshire, was one of the power stations that responded.
Next winter Fawley will not be there. Indeed, about 10pc of our current generation stock goes next month as coal and oil-fired power stations close earlier than expected to meet environmental targets."
"On Wednesday January 16, due to unplanned outages and cold weather, National Grid had to find power to supply roughly a million homes to keep the lights on.
Fawley, an oil-fired plant in Hampshire, was one of the power stations that responded.
Next winter Fawley will not be there. Indeed, about 10pc of our current generation stock goes next month as coal and oil-fired power stations close earlier than expected to meet environmental targets."
ObamaCare and the '29ers'
Review & Outlook: ObamaCare and the '29ers' - WSJ.com
"Here's a trend you'll be reading more about: part-time "job sharing," not only within firms but across different businesses.
It's already happening across the country at fast-food restaurants, as employers try to avoid being punished by the Affordable Care Act.
In some cases we've heard about, a local McDonalds has hired employees to operate the cash register or flip burgers for 20 hours a week and then the workers head to the nearby Burger King or Wendy's to log another 20 hours.
Other employees take the opposite shifts."
"Here's a trend you'll be reading more about: part-time "job sharing," not only within firms but across different businesses.
It's already happening across the country at fast-food restaurants, as employers try to avoid being punished by the Affordable Care Act.
In some cases we've heard about, a local McDonalds has hired employees to operate the cash register or flip burgers for 20 hours a week and then the workers head to the nearby Burger King or Wendy's to log another 20 hours.
Other employees take the opposite shifts."
I was Adolf Hitler's food taster
I was Adolf Hitler's food taster | World | News | Daily Express
"THE last survivor of 15 women forced to sample the German dictator’s meals for poisoning, Margot Woelk reveals in an exclusive interview the terror of risking her life every day for the Führer."
"THE last survivor of 15 women forced to sample the German dictator’s meals for poisoning, Margot Woelk reveals in an exclusive interview the terror of risking her life every day for the Führer."
Trade protectionism looms next as central banks exhaust QE
Trade protectionism looms next as central banks exhaust QE - Telegraph
"A mere whiff of inflation or more likely stagflation would cause a bond market rout, leaving the Fed nursing escalating losses on its $2.9 trillion holdings.
This portfolio is rising by $85bn each month under QE3.
The longer it goes on, the greater the risk.
Exit will become much harder by 2014."
"A mere whiff of inflation or more likely stagflation would cause a bond market rout, leaving the Fed nursing escalating losses on its $2.9 trillion holdings.
This portfolio is rising by $85bn each month under QE3.
The longer it goes on, the greater the risk.
Exit will become much harder by 2014."
LOOKING INTO JACK LEW’S TENURE AT NEW YORK UNIVERSITY
Instapundit » Blog Archive »
"FEBRUARY 25, 2013
LOOKING INTO JACK LEW’S TENURE AT NEW YORK UNIVERSITY, “where he pulled down an enormous salary, including sweetheart loans, while the students were footing enormous tuition bills.
Worse, under his nose NYU negotiated a deal with Citicorp (miraculously, Lew’s next employer!) to provide loans to students, a deal that then-state Attorney General Andrew Cuomo found to be illegal.”
Sounds like a perfect fit for the Obama cabinet. Posted by Glenn Reynolds at 7:37 am"
"FEBRUARY 25, 2013
LOOKING INTO JACK LEW’S TENURE AT NEW YORK UNIVERSITY, “where he pulled down an enormous salary, including sweetheart loans, while the students were footing enormous tuition bills.
Worse, under his nose NYU negotiated a deal with Citicorp (miraculously, Lew’s next employer!) to provide loans to students, a deal that then-state Attorney General Andrew Cuomo found to be illegal.”
Sounds like a perfect fit for the Obama cabinet. Posted by Glenn Reynolds at 7:37 am"
Many cancer deaths traced to alcohol
Many cancer deaths traced to alcohol | Fox News
"Researchers also found that alcohol is a leading contributor to premature death from any cause, and they estimated that each alcohol-related cancer death resulted in 18 years of potential life lost.
In other words, a woman who dies from alcohol-related breast cancer at age 60 likely would have lived until age 78 had cancer not cut her life short. "
"Researchers also found that alcohol is a leading contributor to premature death from any cause, and they estimated that each alcohol-related cancer death resulted in 18 years of potential life lost.
In other words, a woman who dies from alcohol-related breast cancer at age 60 likely would have lived until age 78 had cancer not cut her life short. "
Sunday, February 24, 2013
Marijuana munchies could have crabcakes selling like hotcakes under plan to legalize pot in Maryland
Marijuana munchies could have crabcakes selling like hotcakes under plan to legalize pot in Maryland - Washington Times
"The bill does not allow for marijuana smoking in public or while driving, according to the report.
Some of the marijuana tax money would be used to pay for those who receive alcohol, tobacco and drug treatment, the Gazette said."
"The bill does not allow for marijuana smoking in public or while driving, according to the report.
Some of the marijuana tax money would be used to pay for those who receive alcohol, tobacco and drug treatment, the Gazette said."
Robert Smith-Barry: The man who taught the world to fly
BBC News - Robert Smith-Barry: The man who taught the world to fly
"They've only seven hours flying, sir - and it's bloody murder."
It was the summer of 1916 - the early days of the Battle of the Somme - and squadron leader Major Robert Smith-Barry was venting his frustration at the commander of the Royal Flying Corps (RFC), in France.
"They have barely learned to fly, let alone fight," he told Major General Hugh Trenchard.
At one point during the ensuing battle, he refused point-blank to send replacement pilots over the frontline until they had more experience.
For Smith-Barry, the dream of powered flight pioneered by the Wright Brothers in 1903 had turned into a nightmare of bloodshed.
During the four-and-a-half months of the infamous battle, the corps lost 499 airmen and 782 aeroplanes - a third of its total force.
Bloomberg’s large-soda ban also prohibits 2-liter bottles with pizza orders and some bottle-service mixers at nightclubs
Bloomberg’s large-soda ban also prohibits 2-liter bottles with pizza orders and some bottle-service mixers at nightclubs - NYPOST.com
"Say goodbye to that 2-liter bottle of Coke with your pizza delivery, pitchers of soft drinks at your kid’s birthday party and some bottle-service mixers at your favorite nightclub.
They’d violate Mayor Bloomberg’s new rules, which prohibit eateries from serving or selling sugary drinks in containers larger than 16 ounces.
Bloomberg’s soda smackdown follows his attacks on salt, sugar, trans fat, smoking and even baby formula."
"Say goodbye to that 2-liter bottle of Coke with your pizza delivery, pitchers of soft drinks at your kid’s birthday party and some bottle-service mixers at your favorite nightclub.
They’d violate Mayor Bloomberg’s new rules, which prohibit eateries from serving or selling sugary drinks in containers larger than 16 ounces.
Bloomberg’s soda smackdown follows his attacks on salt, sugar, trans fat, smoking and even baby formula."
Obama’s Electoral Engine Harnessed by Group Collecting Corporate Donations
Obama’s Electoral Engine Harnessed by Group Collecting Corporate Donations - The Washington Post:
"The first of an expected wave of ads on gun control, for example, has targeted only Republicans. "
"The first of an expected wave of ads on gun control, for example, has targeted only Republicans. "
The Hollywood Tax Story They Won't Tell at the Oscars
Glenn Reynolds: The Hollywood Tax Story They Won't Tell at the Oscars - WSJ.com
George Mason University's Adam Thierer has called this "a growing cronyism fiasco" and noted that the number of states involved skyrocketed to 45 in 2009 from five in 2002.
In its 2012 study "State Film Studies: Not Much Bang For Too Many Bucks," the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities found that film-related jobs tend to go to out-of-staters who jet in, then leave. "The revenue generated by economic activity induced by film subsidies," the study notes, "falls far short of the subsidies' direct costs to the state. To balance its budget, the state must therefore cut spending or raise revenues elsewhere, dampening the subsidies' positive economic impact."
Sometimes it is even worse, as demonstrated by Michigan's effort, begun under former Gov. Jennifer Granholm, to woo the motion picture industry with an expensive state-of-the-art studio facility built on the site of a former General Motors GM +2.26%factory in Pontiac. State leaders ballyhooed the plan as a way of moving from old-style industry to new.
Michigan has drastically scaled back its subsidies under Gov. Rick Snyder, who said that he would rather spend the money on schools, police or the successful "Pure Michigan" ad campaign aimed at drawing tourists to the state.Despite tens of millions of dollars in state investment, the promised 3,000-plus jobs didn't appear. As the Detroit Free Press reported last year, the studio employed only 15-20 people. That isn't boffo. That's a bust. The studio has defaulted on interest payments on state-issued bonds, and the guarantors—the state's already stressed pension funds—may wind up holding the bag. "In retrospect, it was a mistake," conceded Robert Kleine, the former state treasurer who signed off on the plans in 2010.
Why the Euro Crisis Isn't Over
The Weekend Interview with Bernard Connolly: Why the Euro Crisis Isn't Over - WSJ.com:
"Yet unemployment is close to 27% in Spain and Greece.
The euro-zone economy shrank ever-faster throughout 2012.
And—most important in Mr. Connolly's view—the economic fundamentals in France are getting worse.
This week France announced it would miss its deficit-reduction target for the year because of dimming growth prospects.
It's one thing to bail out Greece or Ireland, Mr. Connolly says, but "if the Germans at some point think, 'We're going to have to bail out France, and on an ongoing, perpetual basis,' will they do it?"
"Yet unemployment is close to 27% in Spain and Greece.
The euro-zone economy shrank ever-faster throughout 2012.
And—most important in Mr. Connolly's view—the economic fundamentals in France are getting worse.
This week France announced it would miss its deficit-reduction target for the year because of dimming growth prospects.
It's one thing to bail out Greece or Ireland, Mr. Connolly says, but "if the Germans at some point think, 'We're going to have to bail out France, and on an ongoing, perpetual basis,' will they do it?"
Billionaire U: Why Harvard Mints Mega-Rich Alums
Billionaire U: Why Harvard Mints Mega-Rich Alums
""It shows the power of networks," said David Friedman, president of Wealth-X.
"Harvard has this entrenched, powerful network that extends across so many sectors and is incredibly pro-active about connecting its alumni. You get a great education, but you also get access."
Harvard's success, said Friedman, "validates what we all whisper and now we know:
It's not just what you know, it's who you know.""
""It shows the power of networks," said David Friedman, president of Wealth-X.
"Harvard has this entrenched, powerful network that extends across so many sectors and is incredibly pro-active about connecting its alumni. You get a great education, but you also get access."
Harvard's success, said Friedman, "validates what we all whisper and now we know:
It's not just what you know, it's who you know.""
What would the Muskegon County jail addition look like? Probably not much like a jail, consultant says
What would the Muskegon County jail addition look like? Probably not much like a jail, consultant says | MLive.com
"The Muskegon County Jail and Juvenile Transition Center Committee on Thursday, Feb. 21, decided to send county commissioners a formal proposal on where the buildings would be built and how the county could pay for their construction."
"The Muskegon County Jail and Juvenile Transition Center Committee on Thursday, Feb. 21, decided to send county commissioners a formal proposal on where the buildings would be built and how the county could pay for their construction."
How France Got So Lazy
How France Got So Lazy - The Daily Beast:
"But back at home, it’s increasingly clear that stifling union rules, high unemployment (and higher taxes), and a baffling lack of entrepreneurial spirit signal a country in crisis.
And the deepening sense of dread can be traced directly to the educational system."
"But back at home, it’s increasingly clear that stifling union rules, high unemployment (and higher taxes), and a baffling lack of entrepreneurial spirit signal a country in crisis.
And the deepening sense of dread can be traced directly to the educational system."
Athletes cash in on California's workers' comp
Athletes cash in on California's workers' comp - Los Angeles Times:
"So it may surprise Californians to find out that in 2011, Davis got a $199,000 injury settlement from a California workers' compensation court for injuries related to football.
This came despite the fact Davis was employed by a Colorado team and played just nine times in California during an 88-game career, according to the NFL."
"So it may surprise Californians to find out that in 2011, Davis got a $199,000 injury settlement from a California workers' compensation court for injuries related to football.
This came despite the fact Davis was employed by a Colorado team and played just nine times in California during an 88-game career, according to the NFL."
Muskegon County Commissioners to work on policy favoring local bids for county work
Muskegon County Commissioners to work on policy favoring local bids for county work | MLive.com
""Basically, what we're trying to do is help our local economy and keep dollars in the community," he said....
......"But whether all of the commissioners can agree on the details is uncertain.
For example, while Nash's proposal had focused on businesses in Muskegon County, District 5 Marvin R. Engle, for instance, would rather include businesses in the greater regional area, including Kent County.
""Basically, what we're trying to do is help our local economy and keep dollars in the community," he said....
......"But whether all of the commissioners can agree on the details is uncertain.
For example, while Nash's proposal had focused on businesses in Muskegon County, District 5 Marvin R. Engle, for instance, would rather include businesses in the greater regional area, including Kent County.
America Has Become A Crazy Control Freak Nation – Illegal Everything
America Has Become A Crazy Control Freak Nation – Illegal Everything | Consciousness TV
"Our lives are governed by millions of laws, rules and regulations and more are being piled on all the time.
In fact, 40,000 new laws just went into effect in January.
Every single new law restricts your freedom just a little bit more.
The truth is that America has become a crazy control freak nation where virtually everything that we do is highly regulated.
You have probably broken multiple laws today that you don't even know exist.
We have all become criminals and lawbreakers because almost everything is illegal at this point.
Our politicians are convinced that they are "making life better" by piling gigantic mountains of laws on to our backs, and law enforcement authorities are convinced that they are helping society by "cracking down on crime", but the reality is that our liberties and our freedoms are being strangled by all of this government oppression.
This is not the way that America is supposed to work."
"Our lives are governed by millions of laws, rules and regulations and more are being piled on all the time.
In fact, 40,000 new laws just went into effect in January.
Every single new law restricts your freedom just a little bit more.
The truth is that America has become a crazy control freak nation where virtually everything that we do is highly regulated.
You have probably broken multiple laws today that you don't even know exist.
We have all become criminals and lawbreakers because almost everything is illegal at this point.
Our politicians are convinced that they are "making life better" by piling gigantic mountains of laws on to our backs, and law enforcement authorities are convinced that they are helping society by "cracking down on crime", but the reality is that our liberties and our freedoms are being strangled by all of this government oppression.
This is not the way that America is supposed to work."
One day, turning off the lights won't be up to you
One day, turning off the lights won't be up to you - Telegraph
"If our government were not lost in a bubble of complete make-believe, it would keep open those coal-fired power stations the EU is forcing us to close next month (although it may be too late), it would stop subsidising grotesquely expensive wind farms, and it would go flat out to exploit Britain’s vast reserves of the shale gas that has more than halved US gas prices in four years.
But we do not have such a government.
Our lights will go out, our economy will suffer a catastrophe, our bills will double, and tens of thousands more people will die of cold in those freezing winters that our politicians were somehow fooled into believing would never come again."
"If our government were not lost in a bubble of complete make-believe, it would keep open those coal-fired power stations the EU is forcing us to close next month (although it may be too late), it would stop subsidising grotesquely expensive wind farms, and it would go flat out to exploit Britain’s vast reserves of the shale gas that has more than halved US gas prices in four years.
But we do not have such a government.
Our lights will go out, our economy will suffer a catastrophe, our bills will double, and tens of thousands more people will die of cold in those freezing winters that our politicians were somehow fooled into believing would never come again."
Saturday, February 23, 2013
Michigan Board Corruption Shielded Alexander from 2009 Botched Abortion Complaint
Michigan Board Corruption Shielded Alexander from 2009 Botched Abortion Complaint
"Muskegon, MI — A local Muskegon television news station is reporting that a former chairman of the Michigan Board of Medicine with ties to troubled abortionist Robert Alexander, improperly protected him from further discipline by ordering that there be no investigation of a 2009 complaint filed by the obstetrician of two patients that suffered botched abortions by Alexander."
"Muskegon, MI — A local Muskegon television news station is reporting that a former chairman of the Michigan Board of Medicine with ties to troubled abortionist Robert Alexander, improperly protected him from further discipline by ordering that there be no investigation of a 2009 complaint filed by the obstetrician of two patients that suffered botched abortions by Alexander."
Talent Mercantilists Running Amok In Michigan
Talent Mercantilists Running Amok In Michigan [Michigan Capitol Confidential]
"The basic theory of talent mercantilism is that adding college graduates leads to faster growth.
While it’s true that college graduates have higher incomes than those who are not, you can track the states that are successful at growing their college graduates and those that are successful at growing their economies.
It turns out that one has very little to do with the other, as I show here."
"The basic theory of talent mercantilism is that adding college graduates leads to faster growth.
While it’s true that college graduates have higher incomes than those who are not, you can track the states that are successful at growing their college graduates and those that are successful at growing their economies.
It turns out that one has very little to do with the other, as I show here."
Senate Roll Call 444 - Michigan Votes
Senate Roll Call 444 - Michigan Votes: "The amendment
IN FAVOR
SENATE DEMOCRATS
Anderson (D) Bieda (D) Gleason (D) Gregory (D) Hood (D)
Hopgood (D) Hunter (D) Johnson (D) Smith (D) Warren (D)
Whitmer (D) Young (D)
SENATE REPUBLICANS
Hansen (R)
Huh?!!!!!
IN FAVOR
SENATE DEMOCRATS
Anderson (D) Bieda (D) Gleason (D) Gregory (D) Hood (D)
Hopgood (D) Hunter (D) Johnson (D) Smith (D) Warren (D)
Whitmer (D) Young (D)
SENATE REPUBLICANS
Hansen (R)
Huh?!!!!!
Detroit Gave Unions Keys To The City, And Now Nothing Is Left
Detroit Gave Unions Keys To The City, And Now Nothing Is Left | Schoolcraft Republican Party:
"All you really need to know about Detroit, which is facing a $327 million budget gap, is that last year it was discovered to still be paying for a “horseshoer” (or farrier) on the Detroit Water & Sewer Department (DWSD) payroll.
This individual costs some $56,000 in pay and benefits, despite the city not having any horses to shoe in his department."
"All you really need to know about Detroit, which is facing a $327 million budget gap, is that last year it was discovered to still be paying for a “horseshoer” (or farrier) on the Detroit Water & Sewer Department (DWSD) payroll.
This individual costs some $56,000 in pay and benefits, despite the city not having any horses to shoe in his department."
The Non-Existent Spending Cuts Wrought By The 'Devastating' Sequester
The Non-Existent Spending Cuts Wrought By The 'Devastating' Sequester - Forbes
Meanwhile the legacy press goes into overdrive exaggerating the impact of these “cuts” – demonizing any politician who dares to support them as the equivalent of a puppy murderer. At this point Republicans invariably cave under the pressure – and the burden of both parties’ bad decisions gets shifted even further onto future generations of taxpayers.
Sound familiar?
This basic storyline – played out time and time again – is directly responsible for our nation’s $16.5 trillion debt, its soaring deficits, its unfunded liabilities and its inability to sustain anything resembling a real economic recovery.
In fact the $630 billion tax hike associated with the recent “fiscal cliff” deal is the latest example of our economy paying the price for politicians’ refusal to rein in spending.
“Members of Congress who would otherwise like to cut spending know they’re going to take a beating from the media and special interests,” concludesThe Cato Institute’s Tad DeHaven.
“Few politicians are willing to take that heat.
Fewer still can even articulate why spending cuts and smaller government are good.”
Prosecutors charge ex-DNR official in data breach
Prosecutors charge ex-DNR official in data breach - TwinCities.com
"A Department of Natural Resources middle manager illegally accessed driver's license data belonging to thousands of Minnesota women and kept encrypted pictures of 172 of them on a work computer before he was fired"
"I'm from the government, I'm here to help you......."
"A Department of Natural Resources middle manager illegally accessed driver's license data belonging to thousands of Minnesota women and kept encrypted pictures of 172 of them on a work computer before he was fired"
"I'm from the government, I'm here to help you......."
BOB WOODWARD: How Obama Has Moved The Goal Posts On The Sequester Deal
Instapundit » Blog Archive » BOB WOODWARD: How Obama Has Moved The Goal Posts On The Sequester Deal.
“There was an insistence on the part of Republicans in Congress for there to be some automatic trigger,” Lew said while campaigning in Florida. It “was very much rooted in the Republican congressional insistence that there be an automatic measure.”Read the whole thing. Including this: “So when the president asks that a substitute for the sequester include not just spending cuts but also new revenue, he is moving the goal posts. His call for a balanced approach is reasonable, and he makes a strong case that those in the top income brackets could and should pay more. But that was not the deal he made.”
The president and Lew had this wrong. My extensive reporting for my book “The Price of Politics” shows that the automatic spending cuts were initiated by the White House and were the brainchild of Lew and White House congressional relations chief Rob Nabors — probably the foremost experts on budget issues in the senior ranks of the federal government.
Obama personally approved of the plan for Lew and Nabors to propose the sequester to Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid (D-Nev.). They did so at 2:30 p.m. July 27, 2011, according to interviews with two senior White House aides who were directly involved.
Nabors has told others that they checked with the president before going to see Reid. A mandatory sequester was the only action-forcing mechanism they could devise. Nabors has said, “We didn’t actually think it would be that hard to convince them” — Reid and the Republicans — to adopt the sequester. “It really was the only thing we had. There was not a lot of other options left on the table.” . . .
But then Burr asked about the president’s statement during the presidential debate, that the Republicans originated it. Lew, being a good lawyer and a loyal presidential adviser, then shifted to denial mode: “Senator, the demand for an enforcement mechanism was not something that the administration was pushing at that moment.”
That statement was not accurate.
Friday, February 22, 2013
7TH CIRCUIT LETS POSNER RULING STAND; HUGE WIN FOR CCW, SAYS SAF
SAF Press Release :: 7TH CIRCUIT LETS POSNER RULING STAND; HUGE WIN FOR CCW, SAYS SAF:
"The Second Amendment Foundation today won a significant victory for concealed carry when the Seventh Circuit Court of Appeals let stand a December ruling by a three-judge panel of the court that forces Illinois to adopt a concealed carry law, thus affirming that the right to bear arms exists outside the home."
"The Second Amendment Foundation today won a significant victory for concealed carry when the Seventh Circuit Court of Appeals let stand a December ruling by a three-judge panel of the court that forces Illinois to adopt a concealed carry law, thus affirming that the right to bear arms exists outside the home."
*VIDEO* Where do criminals get their guns?
*VIDEO* Where do criminals get their guns? - The Libertarian Republic
" A survey of prison inmates found that 40% get them off the street, 40% from friends and family, 4% from Pawn shops and 1% from flea markets and gun shows."
" A survey of prison inmates found that 40% get them off the street, 40% from friends and family, 4% from Pawn shops and 1% from flea markets and gun shows."
New Jersey College Students Get Stung By ObamaCare
New Jersey College Students Get Stung By ObamaCare | Heartlander Magazine:
"Consider the situation in New Jersey, the only state that currently requires all college students to have healthcare coverage.
This has always been a bare-bones plan costing $100-$600 per year.
The new healthcare regulations will force these plans to be phased out, as the mandated coverage under ObamaCare will cause the premiums to rise from a few hundred dollars to $1,700 per year."
"Consider the situation in New Jersey, the only state that currently requires all college students to have healthcare coverage.
This has always been a bare-bones plan costing $100-$600 per year.
The new healthcare regulations will force these plans to be phased out, as the mandated coverage under ObamaCare will cause the premiums to rise from a few hundred dollars to $1,700 per year."
USDA employees recite past US discrimination in sensitivity class
USDA employees recite past US discrimination in sensitivity class | The Daily Caller
"In the additional clips, excerpted from the more than 3.5-hour “Cultural Sensitivity Training” session that was never intended to be publicized, diversity awareness trainer Samuel Betances of Souder, Betances and Associates advises further on the cultural sensitivity sins of America.
“I want you to say: ‘If we work for a federal agency.’ Say that. [Audience repeats] ‘We have discriminated in the past.’ [Audience repeats] Say: ‘Every federal agency,’ [Audience repeats] ‘has discriminated against African Americans,’ [Audience repeats] ‘Hispanics,’ [Audience repeats] ‘Native American Indians,’ [Audience repeats] ‘and other groups’ [Audience repeats],” Betances coaches.
“See, if you work for a federal agency, it doesn’t matter if it’s DOD, Commerce, Labor, Education, Housing, every agency has discriminated, because every agency reflects the values of the generation in charge,” he adds."
"In the additional clips, excerpted from the more than 3.5-hour “Cultural Sensitivity Training” session that was never intended to be publicized, diversity awareness trainer Samuel Betances of Souder, Betances and Associates advises further on the cultural sensitivity sins of America.
“I want you to say: ‘If we work for a federal agency.’ Say that. [Audience repeats] ‘We have discriminated in the past.’ [Audience repeats] Say: ‘Every federal agency,’ [Audience repeats] ‘has discriminated against African Americans,’ [Audience repeats] ‘Hispanics,’ [Audience repeats] ‘Native American Indians,’ [Audience repeats] ‘and other groups’ [Audience repeats],” Betances coaches.
“See, if you work for a federal agency, it doesn’t matter if it’s DOD, Commerce, Labor, Education, Housing, every agency has discriminated, because every agency reflects the values of the generation in charge,” he adds."
While We Argue Gun Statistics, OFA Is Tugging Heartstrings With A Video
The PJ Tatler » While We Argue Gun Statistics, OFA Is Tugging Heartstrings With A Video
"This is the thing that our side still doesn’t get. Pictures and video tell a more compelling story than just text and math.
The other thing many don’t understand is that Democrats are working this stuff 24/7.
OFA sent this video out today.
It’s a sad story about about a boy losing his father in a mass shooting.
It’s also being used to bolster support for an abrogation of the Constitutional rights of legal, sane gun owners who would never commit such a heinous crime.
I’ve read numerous stories in the past several months about people who have protected themselves and saved lives because they were armed.
Read.
Gun rights advocates should be making videos using the people telling those stories.
The money is there (NRA, Gun Owners of America, etc) and so is the distribution (conservative new media, politicians’ email lists, etc).
It’s time to take advantage of that.
Here is a link to the video, for those interested in watching:"
"This is the thing that our side still doesn’t get. Pictures and video tell a more compelling story than just text and math.
The other thing many don’t understand is that Democrats are working this stuff 24/7.
OFA sent this video out today.
It’s a sad story about about a boy losing his father in a mass shooting.
It’s also being used to bolster support for an abrogation of the Constitutional rights of legal, sane gun owners who would never commit such a heinous crime.
I’ve read numerous stories in the past several months about people who have protected themselves and saved lives because they were armed.
Read.
Gun rights advocates should be making videos using the people telling those stories.
The money is there (NRA, Gun Owners of America, etc) and so is the distribution (conservative new media, politicians’ email lists, etc).
It’s time to take advantage of that.
Here is a link to the video, for those interested in watching:"
Washington State Lawmakers Propose Bicycle Tax
Washington State Lawmakers Propose Bicycle Tax | News from the Field | OutsideOnline.com
"Washington State Democrats rolled out a new $10 billion transportation package Wednesday that could raise taxes on gas, cars, and even bicycles.
According to the Seattle Times, the package would place a $25 sales fee on bikes worth $500 or more, a move projected to raise $1 million over 10 years.
The state gas tax would also increase by 10 cents over five years and cars would be taxed 0.7 percent of their value."
"Washington State Democrats rolled out a new $10 billion transportation package Wednesday that could raise taxes on gas, cars, and even bicycles.
According to the Seattle Times, the package would place a $25 sales fee on bikes worth $500 or more, a move projected to raise $1 million over 10 years.
The state gas tax would also increase by 10 cents over five years and cars would be taxed 0.7 percent of their value."
How an 18 Year Old Can Be Better Off Than Most 40 Year Olds Today
Captain Capitalism: How an 18 Year Old Can Be Better Off Than Most 40 Year Olds Today
"So how can an 18 year old avoid this fate?
Simple. You just don't go into debt."
"So how can an 18 year old avoid this fate?
Simple. You just don't go into debt."
'The Hugh Hefner of Muskegon' enjoys telling his story after $7,500 porn theft
'The Hugh Hefner of Muskegon' enjoys telling his story after $7,500 porn theft | MLive.com
“I’m the Hugh Hefner of Muskegon,” Johnson said proudly.
“I appreciate all beautiful women.
Ain’t no doubt.”
Like Hefner, the 43-year old Johnson considers himself to be a man of style who likes going out in fashionable clothes with a lady on his arm.
He enjoys the spotlight and said he likes to show off the expensive things he can afford when he goes out to the club.
“I’ve been a trendsetter in Muskegon since 1979.
That’s when I came into my own,” Johnson said.
“That’s when the girls started liking me and I started liking them.”
Johnson said he’s choosing to stay positive and not to let this setback get him down.
“Don’t give the haters of Muskegon no power,” Johnson said.
“Just live your life and have fun.
Do what you want to do.”"
No mention in the article of the aptly named Johnson's profession.......
“I’m the Hugh Hefner of Muskegon,” Johnson said proudly.
“I appreciate all beautiful women.
Ain’t no doubt.”
Like Hefner, the 43-year old Johnson considers himself to be a man of style who likes going out in fashionable clothes with a lady on his arm.
He enjoys the spotlight and said he likes to show off the expensive things he can afford when he goes out to the club.
“I’ve been a trendsetter in Muskegon since 1979.
That’s when I came into my own,” Johnson said.
“That’s when the girls started liking me and I started liking them.”
Johnson said he’s choosing to stay positive and not to let this setback get him down.
“Don’t give the haters of Muskegon no power,” Johnson said.
“Just live your life and have fun.
Do what you want to do.”"
No mention in the article of the aptly named Johnson's profession.......
Judge invalidates Muskegon's voters rezoning of the Sappi site which will remain industrially zoned
Judge invalidates Muskegon's voters rezoning of the Sappi site which will remain industrially zoned | MLive.com
"The property will remain industrially zoned as the judge based his decision on a 1972 Michigan Supreme Court case that did not allow voters to change zoning with a citizen petition."
"The property will remain industrially zoned as the judge based his decision on a 1972 Michigan Supreme Court case that did not allow voters to change zoning with a citizen petition."
$41 million proposal for new Muskegon County Jail and juvenile center heading to Board of Commissioners
$41 million proposal for new Muskegon County Jail and juvenile center heading to Board of Commissioners | MLive.com
"The county expects to save roughly the cost of the annual bond payments with efficiencies operating the new facility, which is expected to open in 2015.
The finished, improved jail would be operated with fewer staff, said Muskegon County Sheriff Dean Roesler"
"The county expects to save roughly the cost of the annual bond payments with efficiencies operating the new facility, which is expected to open in 2015.
The finished, improved jail would be operated with fewer staff, said Muskegon County Sheriff Dean Roesler"
Thursday, February 21, 2013
High-Priced Bus Drivers In Lansing
High-Priced Bus Drivers In Lansing [Michigan Capitol Confidential]
"The Lansing bus authority had 69 drivers who made $60,000 or more in 2012, including one who earned $104,411."
"The Lansing bus authority had 69 drivers who made $60,000 or more in 2012, including one who earned $104,411."
What is appropriate compensation for school superintendents?
Readers debate: What is appropriate compensation for school superintendents? | MLive.com
Clearly, if they were compensated like .... say an auto executive, on the quality of the service they provide (ie: educated students) the recall costs and lawsuits alone would send them to jail.
Clearly, if they were compensated like .... say an auto executive, on the quality of the service they provide (ie: educated students) the recall costs and lawsuits alone would send them to jail.
The Shaky Science Behind Obama’s Universal Pre-K
The Shaky Science Behind Obama’s Universal Pre-K - Bloomberg
"There are just two problems with his solution:
The evidence used to support the positive long-term effects of early childhood education is tenuous, even for the most intensive interventions.
And for the kind of intervention that can be implemented on a national scale, the evidence is zero."
"There are just two problems with his solution:
The evidence used to support the positive long-term effects of early childhood education is tenuous, even for the most intensive interventions.
And for the kind of intervention that can be implemented on a national scale, the evidence is zero."
Majority of U.S. citizens say illegal immigrants should be deported
Majority of U.S. citizens say illegal immigrants should be deported | Reuters
"More than half of U.S. citizens believe that most or all of the country's 11 million illegal immigrants should be deported, according to a Reuters/Ipsos poll released on Wednesday"
So that means "a majority" of Americans are wrong?
"More than half of U.S. citizens believe that most or all of the country's 11 million illegal immigrants should be deported, according to a Reuters/Ipsos poll released on Wednesday"
So that means "a majority" of Americans are wrong?
Former Tholstrup Cheese plant in Norton Shores closes, eliminating 20 jobs
Former Tholstrup Cheese plant in Norton Shores closes, eliminating 20 jobs | MLive.com
from the comments:
".....I was hired there in 1986 and worked there for 12 years, it was a great place to work, high pay, good benefits etc, its a shame to see it leave, had alot of great memories with alot of great people.
For Tholstrups 100 year anniversary they paid for every employee at the Muskegon plant to go to Denmark for a huge celebration, its a memory I will never forget."
Maybe that's why the company can't afford to remain in our town?
from the comments:
".....I was hired there in 1986 and worked there for 12 years, it was a great place to work, high pay, good benefits etc, its a shame to see it leave, had alot of great memories with alot of great people.
For Tholstrups 100 year anniversary they paid for every employee at the Muskegon plant to go to Denmark for a huge celebration, its a memory I will never forget."
Maybe that's why the company can't afford to remain in our town?
Michigan will spend for better state
Guest column: Michigan will spend for better state | MLive.com
"The report released today shares what we learned:
* Michigan Citizens believe ‘public good” investment matters.
Sixty-four percent of Michigan citizens believe the most important thing state government can do for job creation is not tax cuts, but “provide quality education, good roads and transportation, good public services like safety, water, fire, parks and libraries that create an environment in which people want to live, work and run a business."
We are screwed!
Hey kids, where do you think we're gonna get the moolah for all those nifty "environment" stuff?
"The report released today shares what we learned:
* Michigan Citizens believe ‘public good” investment matters.
Sixty-four percent of Michigan citizens believe the most important thing state government can do for job creation is not tax cuts, but “provide quality education, good roads and transportation, good public services like safety, water, fire, parks and libraries that create an environment in which people want to live, work and run a business."
We are screwed!
Hey kids, where do you think we're gonna get the moolah for all those nifty "environment" stuff?
California Bill Could Outlaw Driving for up to a Week After Smoking Pot
California Bill Could Outlaw Driving for up to a Week After Smoking Pot | Mother Jones
"If you smoke marijuana in California, there's a chance you may have to wait a week or more before you can drive legally.
A bill introduced last week by state Senator Lou Correa, a Democrat from Anaheim, would make it illegal to get behind the wheel if your blood contains "any detectable amount" of cannabis"
"If you smoke marijuana in California, there's a chance you may have to wait a week or more before you can drive legally.
A bill introduced last week by state Senator Lou Correa, a Democrat from Anaheim, would make it illegal to get behind the wheel if your blood contains "any detectable amount" of cannabis"
College Hosts Sex, Masturbation Tutorial – Inside A Church
College Hosts Sex, Masturbation Tutorial – Inside A Church
"Allegheny College’s Ford Memorial Chapel was transformed into a boudoir of sorts Wednesday night, as professional sex educators advised students in attendance how best to touch themselves and their partners to reach orgasm in what was billed as an educational seminar.
The chapel, built and dedicated in 1902, is where Catholic mass and non-denominational services are conducted every week at the private liberal arts college in northwestern Pennsylvania.
But all that took a back pew to Wednesday’s festivities, dubbed “I Heart the Female Orgasm” and hosted by a variety of student groups on campus.
The two sex educators, Marshall Miller and Kate Weinberg, talked students through a variety of masturbation techniques during the event."
"Allegheny College’s Ford Memorial Chapel was transformed into a boudoir of sorts Wednesday night, as professional sex educators advised students in attendance how best to touch themselves and their partners to reach orgasm in what was billed as an educational seminar.
The chapel, built and dedicated in 1902, is where Catholic mass and non-denominational services are conducted every week at the private liberal arts college in northwestern Pennsylvania.
But all that took a back pew to Wednesday’s festivities, dubbed “I Heart the Female Orgasm” and hosted by a variety of student groups on campus.
The two sex educators, Marshall Miller and Kate Weinberg, talked students through a variety of masturbation techniques during the event."
Just doesn't compute.....
Below, some posts on FB about a nifty looking bus shelter.
Initially seeming to invite "Thoughts":
Lea xxxxxx Wouldn't that be a great use of street art in Muskegon! Bus shelters?? We really dont have any. Hmmm. Thoughts?
Initially seeming to invite "Thoughts":
Lea xxxxxx Wouldn't that be a great use of street art in Muskegon! Bus shelters?? We really dont have any. Hmmm. Thoughts?
10 hours ago via mobile · Like · 1
Dylan xxxxx Fun stuff!
10 hours ago · Like
Jim Riley Well, the county just gave its 2nd $million bonus
to county employees in 13 months. Imagine what could have been done with $2
million.
10 hours ago · Like · 1
Lea xxxxxx I have no intention to start an argument here,
but I would contend that good employees deserve raises on occasion, and they
were given smaller lump sums in lieu thereof. No one got rich that I am aware
of.
10 hours ago via mobile · Like · 1
Jim Riley The $2million was in ADDITION to step, COL and
other raises.
10 hours ago · Like
Lea xxxxxxx Well sir, this discussion does not help me
work towards encouraging creative thinking and promoting transportation at this
time. I understand where you are coming from, and do not have information to
affirm or deny your accusations. Clearly we need another option than county
funding.
10 hours ago via mobile · Like
What we learned at the Sierra Club protest in Washington D.C.
What we learned at the Sierra Club protest in Washington D.C. | NetRight Daily
"Check out the things we learned at the Sierra Club protest against the Keystone XL pipeline in Washington D.C.
For instance, people should be allowed to have only 1 or maybe 2 children.
And the weather is being manipulated for advantages in war.
Watch the video to see who is arguing against the creation of 600,000 American jobs."
"Check out the things we learned at the Sierra Club protest against the Keystone XL pipeline in Washington D.C.
For instance, people should be allowed to have only 1 or maybe 2 children.
And the weather is being manipulated for advantages in war.
Watch the video to see who is arguing against the creation of 600,000 American jobs."
'Why not' grow hops near Beer City USA? | WOOD TV8
'Why not' grow hops near Beer City USA? | WOOD TV8
"The Right Place, a Grand Rapids economic development agency, was recently granted $20,000 from the State of Michigan to study the potential of growing more hops in Michigan.
One local brewery and local hop farmers say more hops could mean more money and jobs for the state.
Bonnie and Jeff Steinman grow hops at their Hickory Corners farm in Barry County.
The Steinmans put in a hop yard on a plot that used to grow soy beans.
They started selling the hops three years ago.
They said their farm -- Hop Head Farms -- is already growing.
In the last year, they have added about 30 acres of hops and doubled their workforce.
"We felt like it was worthwhile because everything we had was sold," Bonnie explained to 24 Hour News 8.
Hep me!
This reporter buys the concept that the state needs to give taxpayer's hard earned money to some no-nothing non-profit morons so they can study the potential of growing hops yet the same article glows as they report the current farmers are already selling all they can produce.
Just how dumb are these idiots?!!
"The Right Place, a Grand Rapids economic development agency, was recently granted $20,000 from the State of Michigan to study the potential of growing more hops in Michigan.
One local brewery and local hop farmers say more hops could mean more money and jobs for the state.
Bonnie and Jeff Steinman grow hops at their Hickory Corners farm in Barry County.
The Steinmans put in a hop yard on a plot that used to grow soy beans.
They started selling the hops three years ago.
They said their farm -- Hop Head Farms -- is already growing.
In the last year, they have added about 30 acres of hops and doubled their workforce.
"We felt like it was worthwhile because everything we had was sold," Bonnie explained to 24 Hour News 8.
Hep me!
This reporter buys the concept that the state needs to give taxpayer's hard earned money to some no-nothing non-profit morons so they can study the potential of growing hops yet the same article glows as they report the current farmers are already selling all they can produce.
Just how dumb are these idiots?!!
Half of Detroit property owners don't pay taxes
Half of Detroit property owners don't pay taxes | The Detroit News | detroitnews.com
"Nearly half of the owners of Detroit's 305,000 properties failed to pay their tax bills last year, exacerbating a punishing cycle of declining revenues and diminished services for a city in a financial crisis, according to a Detroit News analysis of government records."
"Nearly half of the owners of Detroit's 305,000 properties failed to pay their tax bills last year, exacerbating a punishing cycle of declining revenues and diminished services for a city in a financial crisis, according to a Detroit News analysis of government records."
Alleged smart meter dangers to be outlined at Feb. 21 presentation at Muskegon Community College
Alleged smart meter dangers to be outlined at Feb. 21 presentation at Muskegon Community College | MLive.com
"The advocacy group Michigan Stop Smart Meters has a free presentation entitled “Smart Meters – Are They Really All That Smart?”
Thursday, Feb. 21 at 7 p.m. in the Blue & Gold Room at MCC, 221 W. Quarterline Road."
(Right inside the main entrance)
Hey, come on down tonight, it's free.
And you might just learn something.
Or even meet someone interesting!
See ya there!
Jim Riley
"The advocacy group Michigan Stop Smart Meters has a free presentation entitled “Smart Meters – Are They Really All That Smart?”
Thursday, Feb. 21 at 7 p.m. in the Blue & Gold Room at MCC, 221 W. Quarterline Road."
(Right inside the main entrance)
Hey, come on down tonight, it's free.
And you might just learn something.
Or even meet someone interesting!
See ya there!
Jim Riley
GM boosting sales through failing subprime auto loans
GM boosting sales through failing subprime auto loans | Washington Free Beacon
“You have the government trying to sell the bailout and this recovery and they’ve allowed, encouraged GM to revive itself off the back of subprime lending,” said Ed Niedermeyer, auto industry consultant.
GM Financial (GMF), the company’s in-house financing arm, reported that delinquencies grew by about $200 million to $933 million in 2012, according to GM’s annual SEC filing.
Delinquent contracts at GM now represent 8.5 percent of all auto loans—higher than delinquencies at Ford, Toyota, and Honda combined."
“You have the government trying to sell the bailout and this recovery and they’ve allowed, encouraged GM to revive itself off the back of subprime lending,” said Ed Niedermeyer, auto industry consultant.
GM Financial (GMF), the company’s in-house financing arm, reported that delinquencies grew by about $200 million to $933 million in 2012, according to GM’s annual SEC filing.
Delinquent contracts at GM now represent 8.5 percent of all auto loans—higher than delinquencies at Ford, Toyota, and Honda combined."
Carbon tax hallucinations
Carbon tax hallucinations | NetRight Daily
"Average planetary temperatures haven’t budged in 16 years.
Hurricanes and strong tornadoes are at or near their lowest ebb in decades.
Global sea ice is back to normal, Arctic ice is nearly normal, and the Antarctic icepack continues to grow.
The rate of sea level rise remains what it was in 1900.
And yet, President Obama and many politicians, newscasters and alarmist scientists continue to insist that carbon dioxide emissions are changing Earth’s climate, and we need to take immediate action to prevent storms like Hurricane Sandy and avert catastrophes predicted by IPCC computer models and alleged “scientific consensus.”
Not surprisingly, polls show public support for controlling CO2 output and taxing hydrocarbon use — to “ensure climate security” and “save vital federal programs” from budgetary axes."
"Average planetary temperatures haven’t budged in 16 years.
Hurricanes and strong tornadoes are at or near their lowest ebb in decades.
Global sea ice is back to normal, Arctic ice is nearly normal, and the Antarctic icepack continues to grow.
The rate of sea level rise remains what it was in 1900.
And yet, President Obama and many politicians, newscasters and alarmist scientists continue to insist that carbon dioxide emissions are changing Earth’s climate, and we need to take immediate action to prevent storms like Hurricane Sandy and avert catastrophes predicted by IPCC computer models and alleged “scientific consensus.”
Not surprisingly, polls show public support for controlling CO2 output and taxing hydrocarbon use — to “ensure climate security” and “save vital federal programs” from budgetary axes."
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