Big Brother may flick the switch on household appliances: "The use of household appliances including dishwashers and washing machines could soon be under the control of power companies under plans designed to curb peak period energy consumption.
Queensland distributor Energex has revealed plans for wider use of 'controlled-load tariffs'"
Monday, July 27, 2009
American Thinker Blog: What to Ask Your Congressperson about Obamacare (first in a series)
American Thinker Blog: What to Ask Your Congressperson about Obamacare (first in a series): "Here's the first installment in a series of questions you might ask your member of the House of Representatives concerning H.R. 3200 - also known as Obamacare.
The two-thousand, five-hundred and forty-one (2,541) sections of the bill can be found here. The emailed version my congressman's office sent me covers 1,026 pages and is written in the typical legislative labyrinth of gobbledygook, replete with multi-layered, mind-numbing, cross references."
The two-thousand, five-hundred and forty-one (2,541) sections of the bill can be found here. The emailed version my congressman's office sent me covers 1,026 pages and is written in the typical legislative labyrinth of gobbledygook, replete with multi-layered, mind-numbing, cross references."
FuturePundit: Germans To Pay Much For Offshore Wind Power
FuturePundit: Germans To Pay Much For Offshore Wind Power: "Germany is phasing out nuclear power plants before the end of their useful lives, building more coal electric plants, and will make Germans pay thru the nose for expensive offshore wind electric power."
Looking for Light in the Middle of the Tunnel
Looking for Light in the Middle of the Tunnel
"Liabilities to the police and fire pension funds have increased over the past year from $145 million to about a $158 million, Mr. Lyons said, and next year's contributions will increase from $12.7 million to about $14 million.
That figure does not represent the full make-up amount, Mr. Lyons said, because 'the actuary [Gabriel Roeder Smith] is smoothing it out for us [over more than one year].' Both pension funds are about 40 percent funded, he said, and that percentage [of the amount funded] will 'continue to drop because of the actuarial smoothing process.'"
It's the spending stupid!
"Liabilities to the police and fire pension funds have increased over the past year from $145 million to about a $158 million, Mr. Lyons said, and next year's contributions will increase from $12.7 million to about $14 million.
That figure does not represent the full make-up amount, Mr. Lyons said, because 'the actuary [Gabriel Roeder Smith] is smoothing it out for us [over more than one year].' Both pension funds are about 40 percent funded, he said, and that percentage [of the amount funded] will 'continue to drop because of the actuarial smoothing process.'"
It's the spending stupid!
Ban testing while driving
As Others See It: Ban testing while driving
"According to the Michigan State Medical Society, statistics show that drivers are six times more likely to become distracted and cause an accident if they are text messaging."
Maybe our underworked "lawmakers" ought to ban texting while writing headlines too.
"According to the Michigan State Medical Society, statistics show that drivers are six times more likely to become distracted and cause an accident if they are text messaging."
Maybe our underworked "lawmakers" ought to ban texting while writing headlines too.
Michigan not among states wanting to jam cell phone signals at prison facilities
Michigan not among states wanting to jam cell phone signals at prison facilities
"An influx in contraband cell phones in prisons has led some state corrections departments across the country to consider jamming telecommunications signals within prison facilities.
Last week officials from two dozen states signed a petition asking the Federal Communications Commission to allow the blocking, which is currently a criminal act. Michigan was not among them, because officials say smuggled cell phones aren't a big problem here."
"An influx in contraband cell phones in prisons has led some state corrections departments across the country to consider jamming telecommunications signals within prison facilities.
Last week officials from two dozen states signed a petition asking the Federal Communications Commission to allow the blocking, which is currently a criminal act. Michigan was not among them, because officials say smuggled cell phones aren't a big problem here."
THINGS YOU MIGHT HAVE MISSED THIS WEEKEND:
THINGS YOU MIGHT HAVE MISSED THIS WEEKEND
Planet-killing climate-changers brag.
Chris Dodd snubs lobbyists, but not their cash.
ACORN holds pro-Obamacare rally, Tea Party breaks out. Similar event here. Also, how to ruin a professional agitation group’s day.
Energy-wasting bureaucrats at the Department of Energy.
Robert Byrd is down on cap-and-trade. But can he withstand the giant-puppet assault?
News reports on the Richmond and Asheville tea parties.
Latest polling not looking good for Obama. Plus the CBO rains on the Obamacare parade again.
And, finally, this. Preacher: InstaPundit needs more sex. I respond with this post.
Posted at by Glenn Reynolds at 8:54 am
Planet-killing climate-changers brag.
Chris Dodd snubs lobbyists, but not their cash.
ACORN holds pro-Obamacare rally, Tea Party breaks out. Similar event here. Also, how to ruin a professional agitation group’s day.
Energy-wasting bureaucrats at the Department of Energy.
Robert Byrd is down on cap-and-trade. But can he withstand the giant-puppet assault?
News reports on the Richmond and Asheville tea parties.
Latest polling not looking good for Obama. Plus the CBO rains on the Obamacare parade again.
And, finally, this. Preacher: InstaPundit needs more sex. I respond with this post.
Posted at by Glenn Reynolds at 8:54 am
Detroit Metro Airport memo: Many shops could close without assistance
Detroit Metro Airport memo
"A memo obtained by the Detroit Free Press shows the operator of Detroit Metropolitan Airport warns many of the 120 businesses in the facility's terminals could close if they don't receive some assistance.
The newspaper reports Monday the Wayne County Airport Authority has developed a hardship plan that would defer payment of a portion of the fees the airport charges businesses."
So, the bankrupt Wayne County will direct its bankrupt airport authority to subsidize private businesses that are dying in Obama's socialistic paradise?
Maybe a few more $$trillion$$ of porkulus shifted to Detroit will bring relief!
"A memo obtained by the Detroit Free Press shows the operator of Detroit Metropolitan Airport warns many of the 120 businesses in the facility's terminals could close if they don't receive some assistance.
The newspaper reports Monday the Wayne County Airport Authority has developed a hardship plan that would defer payment of a portion of the fees the airport charges businesses."
So, the bankrupt Wayne County will direct its bankrupt airport authority to subsidize private businesses that are dying in Obama's socialistic paradise?
Maybe a few more $$trillion$$ of porkulus shifted to Detroit will bring relief!
Sunday, July 26, 2009
Yankee Lady -Tora! Tora! Tora! (1970) - Trivia
Tora! Tora! Tora! (1970) - Trivia
"One of the B-17's shown in the film has been fully restored and (as of 2000) is on display at the Yankee Air Force museum in Ypsilanti, MI"
That's the Yankee Lady that was in Muskegon yesterday.
"One of the B-17's shown in the film has been fully restored and (as of 2000) is on display at the Yankee Air Force museum in Ypsilanti, MI"
That's the Yankee Lady that was in Muskegon yesterday.
Saturday, July 25, 2009
THE RELIGIOUS QUALITY OF ENVIRONMENTAL EXTREMISM
THE RELIGIOUS QUALITY OF ENVIRONMENTAL EXTREMISM
"I think that people start with a desire to be extremists — or, at least, to feel good about themselves and condemn others — and then look around for an ideology that gives them what they want. The actual merits are far less important, as is demonstrated by the transparent idiocy of most ideologies."
"I think that people start with a desire to be extremists — or, at least, to feel good about themselves and condemn others — and then look around for an ideology that gives them what they want. The actual merits are far less important, as is demonstrated by the transparent idiocy of most ideologies."
Twenty-four Trillion
Twenty-four Trillion
"US Special Inspector General Neil Barofsky, who job it is to oversee the Troubled Asset Relief Program ('TARP'), has opined in his new quarterly report to Congress and testified before the House Oversight and Government Reform Committee that the real, total cost of all the BailOuts since last Fall could well exceed $24 Trillion, spread across some 50 different efforts at relief -
that's Trillion, with a 'T.'
Now go clean up the coffee that you just spilled all over your computer;
I'll wait."
"US Special Inspector General Neil Barofsky, who job it is to oversee the Troubled Asset Relief Program ('TARP'), has opined in his new quarterly report to Congress and testified before the House Oversight and Government Reform Committee that the real, total cost of all the BailOuts since last Fall could well exceed $24 Trillion, spread across some 50 different efforts at relief -
that's Trillion, with a 'T.'
Now go clean up the coffee that you just spilled all over your computer;
I'll wait."
Friday, July 24, 2009
Politicians, Heal Thyselves!
Politicians, Heal Thyselves!
"During ABC's June 24 infomercial for government-run health care broadcast from the White House, President Obama was asked if he and his family would abide by the restrictions and limitations that came with his proposed reforms.
In what Ed Morrissey at HotAir.com called 'Obama's Michael Dukakis moment,' President Obama refused to make such a pledge and confessed that if 'it's my family member, if it's my wife, if it's my children, if it's my grandmother, I always want them to get the very best care.'"
And that ain't what the democrats are trying to sell to us voters!
"During ABC's June 24 infomercial for government-run health care broadcast from the White House, President Obama was asked if he and his family would abide by the restrictions and limitations that came with his proposed reforms.
In what Ed Morrissey at HotAir.com called 'Obama's Michael Dukakis moment,' President Obama refused to make such a pledge and confessed that if 'it's my family member, if it's my wife, if it's my children, if it's my grandmother, I always want them to get the very best care.'"
And that ain't what the democrats are trying to sell to us voters!
Restored B-17 bomber 'Yankee Lady' coming to Muskegon County Airport
comments from Mlive:
Posted by Begotnot on 07/24/09 at 1:31PM
"Say what you may, but I wish they would not fly those old airplanes over my house."
Posted by mhev1970 on 07/24/09 at 3:50PM
"This plane is the reason you have a home and are not speaking German. Get over it."
Thanks to mhev1970 for this response and to my friend Cal for alerting me to this great response!
Posted by Begotnot on 07/24/09 at 1:31PM
"Say what you may, but I wish they would not fly those old airplanes over my house."
Posted by mhev1970 on 07/24/09 at 3:50PM
"This plane is the reason you have a home and are not speaking German. Get over it."
Thanks to mhev1970 for this response and to my friend Cal for alerting me to this great response!
High-speed hydrogen rail: From Grand Rapids to Detroit in 40 minutes?
High-speed hydrogen rail: From Grand Rapids to Detroit in 40 minutes?
"The public gets a chance next week to comment on a plan to build a futuristic high-speed rail system along Michigan's interstates, allowing people and cars to travel from Grand Rapids to Detroit in less than an hour.
The Michigan-meets-'The Jetsons' concept is being studied by a bipartisan state panel holding meetings around the state in an attempt to gauge public support."
Say what?
Who wants to travel on a train to Detroit?
And if there's lot's of folks who want to do so, and it's such a great idea it'll produce a profit, why have a panel to "guage public support"?
Grab the Vasoline folks, our elected "leaders" are spending our tax dollars to have a multi-visit-luncheon to propose an idea that could NEVER survive in a capitalistic world.
So, if you like the lunch.... imagine a "free" zippy ride to downtown Detroit!
It's gonna happen unless we stop it!
Go there!!!!!!
What: A public hearing on the environmental impact of a plan to build an elevated hydrogen-based high speed rail system to transport people and freight from Detroit to Grand Rapids along Michigan's interstate system.
When: Friday July 31
Where: 10 a.m. to 12 noon at the Eberhard Center, Grand Valley State University in downtown Grand Rapids, 301 W. Fulton St.
Who: A bipartisan state task force that is studying the potential of the project, which is proposed by a private company says it will share revenues with the state and local government.
"The public gets a chance next week to comment on a plan to build a futuristic high-speed rail system along Michigan's interstates, allowing people and cars to travel from Grand Rapids to Detroit in less than an hour.
The Michigan-meets-'The Jetsons' concept is being studied by a bipartisan state panel holding meetings around the state in an attempt to gauge public support."
Say what?
Who wants to travel on a train to Detroit?
And if there's lot's of folks who want to do so, and it's such a great idea it'll produce a profit, why have a panel to "guage public support"?
Grab the Vasoline folks, our elected "leaders" are spending our tax dollars to have a multi-visit-luncheon to propose an idea that could NEVER survive in a capitalistic world.
So, if you like the lunch.... imagine a "free" zippy ride to downtown Detroit!
It's gonna happen unless we stop it!
Go there!!!!!!
What: A public hearing on the environmental impact of a plan to build an elevated hydrogen-based high speed rail system to transport people and freight from Detroit to Grand Rapids along Michigan's interstate system.
When: Friday July 31
Where: 10 a.m. to 12 noon at the Eberhard Center, Grand Valley State University in downtown Grand Rapids, 301 W. Fulton St.
Who: A bipartisan state task force that is studying the potential of the project, which is proposed by a private company says it will share revenues with the state and local government.
Governments have to get real about retirement benefit costs - Newsday
Governments have to get real about retirement benefit costs
"General Motors may not be the only employer to go broke trying to pay for the health care benefits of its workers. New York's taxpayers could be next.
Nationwide, the liability for all the benefits promised retired state workers is $558 billion, according to a report released last week by the Center for State and Local Government Excellence."
"General Motors may not be the only employer to go broke trying to pay for the health care benefits of its workers. New York's taxpayers could be next.
Nationwide, the liability for all the benefits promised retired state workers is $558 billion, according to a report released last week by the Center for State and Local Government Excellence."
Goat Olympics noon today!
Obama poll numbers tank!
Rasmussen Reports™: Obama polls slip
"Overall, 49% of voters say they at least somewhat approve of the President's performance.
Today marks the first time his overall approval rating has ever fallen below 50% among Likely Voters nationwide. Fifty-one percent (51%) disapprove."
And this is before the president publically dissed the white policeman.
"Overall, 49% of voters say they at least somewhat approve of the President's performance.
Today marks the first time his overall approval rating has ever fallen below 50% among Likely Voters nationwide. Fifty-one percent (51%) disapprove."
And this is before the president publically dissed the white policeman.
The Muskegon Comical
The Muskegon Comical
"If he’d been pouring French dressing from a Kraft bottle onto iceberg I might have cut him a little slack but I felt like saying “Excuse me sir, I think I just saw your left testicle roll over by the bike rack.”
His wife was sitting next to him beaming like “Look, ladies, I’m eating salad in a park with my husband!” while he just looked at me like a beaten dog.
I think he may have blinked “Please kill me” in Morse code.
And somewhere between those two worlds, the world of dirty nails, Keystone Light and back hair and the world of company towels, crossover cars, and sun tea lays normalcy."
Tracy's still got it!
"If he’d been pouring French dressing from a Kraft bottle onto iceberg I might have cut him a little slack but I felt like saying “Excuse me sir, I think I just saw your left testicle roll over by the bike rack.”
His wife was sitting next to him beaming like “Look, ladies, I’m eating salad in a park with my husband!” while he just looked at me like a beaten dog.
I think he may have blinked “Please kill me” in Morse code.
And somewhere between those two worlds, the world of dirty nails, Keystone Light and back hair and the world of company towels, crossover cars, and sun tea lays normalcy."
Tracy's still got it!
Gordo's musings
My health insurance:
I pay $195/mo with a $2500 deductible and have many pre-existing health issues.
That's less than most "po folks" pay for cell phones, cable TV and beer.
Why should I pay for MY health insurance AND theirs?
That's less than most "po folks" pay for cell phones, cable TV and beer.
Why should I pay for MY health insurance AND theirs?
I am opposed to the forced taxpayer support of NPR/PBS so I try to avoid those companies that support them with advertising on their shows. I wonder if anyone else does the same. Do the NPR/PBS advertisers understand this backlash potential?
Are libs upset that keeping Guantanamo open is great news for that taxpaying enterprise "Club Gitmo Gear" owned by Rush Limbaugh?
Thursday, July 23, 2009
TheHill.com
TheHill.com: "President Obama's Wednesday night criticism of Cambridge, Mass., police has drawn a rebuke from the Fraternal Order of Police (FOP)."
43 weird things said in job interviews
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43 weird things said in job interviews
"I'm not wanted in this state.'
'How many young women work here?'
'I didn't steal it; I just borrowed it.'
'You touch somebody and they call it sexual harassment!'
'I've never heard such a stupid question.'
Believe it or not, the above statements weren't overhead in bars or random conversations -- they were said in job interviews."
"I'm not wanted in this state.'
'How many young women work here?'
'I didn't steal it; I just borrowed it.'
'You touch somebody and they call it sexual harassment!'
'I've never heard such a stupid question.'
Believe it or not, the above statements weren't overhead in bars or random conversations -- they were said in job interviews."
B-17 in Muskegon Saturday!
The B-17, Yankee Lady, will be in Muskegon this Saturday (July 25) at Muskegon Airport for everyone to greet and meet the crew!
She's expected to arrive about 9-9:30 AM and will be parked at Executive Air, right next to the main Muskegon Airport terminal.
Executive Air's Rex Vanderlinde has invited all to see her land and takeoff.
Coffee and donuts will be available.
Come on out and see an American legend and support the great Yankee Airforce crew who keeps her flying.
Oh, did I mention it's free?
Come on down!
Senate Backs Obama, Defunds Jet Engine Project - Political News - FOXNews.com
Senate Backs Obama, Defunds Jet Engine Project - Political News - FOXNews.com: "For the second time in three days, the U.S. Senate went along with the Obama administration's efforts to change the way the Pentagon funds its warfighting programs by stopping funding for an extra jet engine for a next-generation jet fighter.
The Senate voice-voted Thursday to remove $439 million that was set aside to develop an alternate engine for the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter from a $680 billion defense budget bill.
This comes two days after the Senate agreed to take out $1.75 billion for new production of the F-22 fighter, which is being phased out as the F-35 becomes the military's prime attack plane."
The Senate voice-voted Thursday to remove $439 million that was set aside to develop an alternate engine for the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter from a $680 billion defense budget bill.
This comes two days after the Senate agreed to take out $1.75 billion for new production of the F-22 fighter, which is being phased out as the F-35 becomes the military's prime attack plane."
Democrats Block GOP Health Care Mailing
Democrats Block GOP Health Care Mailing
"Democrats are preventing Republican House Members from sending their constituents a mailing that is critical of the majority’s health care reform plan, blocking the mailing by alleging that it is inaccurate.
House Republicans are crying foul and claiming that the Democrats are using their majority to prevent GOP Members from communicating with their constituents."
This is disturbing.
"Democrats are preventing Republican House Members from sending their constituents a mailing that is critical of the majority’s health care reform plan, blocking the mailing by alleging that it is inaccurate.
House Republicans are crying foul and claiming that the Democrats are using their majority to prevent GOP Members from communicating with their constituents."
This is disturbing.
Muskegon County Youth Fair-Go now!
This is a fabulous FREE event in our community.
Why are you sittin' home watchin' TV?
Get on down to this really fun event!
NOW!
Main page:
Here's the schedule of events:
Gordo's Musings
President Obama said this yesterday:
"I'm rushed because I get letters every day from families that are being clobbered by health care costs."
Doesn't he get letters "everyday" from Americans who are afraid their children will be buried in debt from Obama and his comrades endlessly spending their country into bankruptcy?
Maybe "Government Provided Postal Delivery (Mail-Care)" simply lost those letters.......?
You know you've gotten old when:
I saw a young mother taking a photo of her Mom and child at the Muskegon County Youth Fair today and offered to take a shot of all of them. She said "sure, thanks".
I took a few photos and gave her back her camera....she thanked me very nicely..... "thank you sir"......
"I'm rushed because I get letters every day from families that are being clobbered by health care costs."
Doesn't he get letters "everyday" from Americans who are afraid their children will be buried in debt from Obama and his comrades endlessly spending their country into bankruptcy?
Maybe "Government Provided Postal Delivery (Mail-Care)" simply lost those letters.......?
You know you've gotten old when:
I saw a young mother taking a photo of her Mom and child at the Muskegon County Youth Fair today and offered to take a shot of all of them. She said "sure, thanks".
I took a few photos and gave her back her camera....she thanked me very nicely..... "thank you sir"......
Norton Shores will have a primary election next week.
I know 2 of the three candidates and yet have absolutely no information on how any of them would lead our city.
That's sad...... and bad!
Mayoral primary coming up in Norton Shores
Mayoral primary coming up in Norton Shores
"A sight that is usually reserved for November city elections is a sure sign that an unusual event is coming soon.
Political signs are dotting the yards of Norton Shores residences in preparation for the Aug. 4 primary election. A rare Norton Shores mayoral primary is the only race on that date in Muskegon County.
Three candidates -- incumbent Henry 'Hank' Waldo, 63; Gary Nelund, 39; and William Moulatsiotis, 28 -- are vying for the four-year term as mayor. Waldo has served as mayor since March, taking over after the death of Jerry L. Wiersma.
The top two vote-getters in the primary will square off in the Nov. 3 general election."
Isn't is sad that this tiny piece of drivel is the best our local newspaper can offer as "information" about a very important primary election in the most powerful city in our county?
Even sadder is that this void is the norm.....
"A sight that is usually reserved for November city elections is a sure sign that an unusual event is coming soon.
Political signs are dotting the yards of Norton Shores residences in preparation for the Aug. 4 primary election. A rare Norton Shores mayoral primary is the only race on that date in Muskegon County.
Three candidates -- incumbent Henry 'Hank' Waldo, 63; Gary Nelund, 39; and William Moulatsiotis, 28 -- are vying for the four-year term as mayor. Waldo has served as mayor since March, taking over after the death of Jerry L. Wiersma.
The top two vote-getters in the primary will square off in the Nov. 3 general election."
Isn't is sad that this tiny piece of drivel is the best our local newspaper can offer as "information" about a very important primary election in the most powerful city in our county?
Even sadder is that this void is the norm.....
Families remember fatal boat crash 50 years later
"Even after 50 years, a night-time collision between a cabin cruiser and the car ferry Highway 16 still stands as Muskegon's worst boating accident in living memory."
Interesting story and amazing vintage photo of LST 393
Public Pension Rip Off: Will It Hurt You?
Public Pension Rip Off: Will It Hurt You?
"The Wall Street Journal ran a great article yesterday on what I would consider a major problem for public pensions, and it’s called spiking.
Spiking occurs when a public employee substantially increases his or her pay in the year or two prior to retirement for the purpose of locking in a higher pension payment.
If you’re a public employee, particularly a younger employee, this practice may jeopardize the security of your pension.
How does spiking work?"
Read it all.... and call and write your congressman and newspaper.
This is nothing more than a criminal enterprise to steal from us taxpayers!
"The Wall Street Journal ran a great article yesterday on what I would consider a major problem for public pensions, and it’s called spiking.
Spiking occurs when a public employee substantially increases his or her pay in the year or two prior to retirement for the purpose of locking in a higher pension payment.
If you’re a public employee, particularly a younger employee, this practice may jeopardize the security of your pension.
How does spiking work?"
Read it all.... and call and write your congressman and newspaper.
This is nothing more than a criminal enterprise to steal from us taxpayers!
12 Strangest Promotions & Combos
12 Strangest Promotions & Combos
"Free machine gun with every truck purchased"
These promos are funny but this one shows, again, how the left has mis-educated too many Americans about the difference between an illegal machine gun (an automatic weapon) and a legal "semi-automatic" (one shot at a time) weapon.
"Free machine gun with every truck purchased"
These promos are funny but this one shows, again, how the left has mis-educated too many Americans about the difference between an illegal machine gun (an automatic weapon) and a legal "semi-automatic" (one shot at a time) weapon.
Having lifted an entire state with a thrilling run to the championship game...
Having lifted an entire state with a thrilling run to the championship game..
"The basement is filled with photographs of basketball players, but the picture that captures Izzo's attention is of a shopping mall."
"The basement is filled with photographs of basketball players, but the picture that captures Izzo's attention is of a shopping mall."
Great Spartan story!
Read it all!
Wednesday, July 22, 2009
GM global sales fall 22 pct in first half of 2009
GM global sales fall 22 pct in first half of 2009
"* Q2 sales fall 15.4 pct, first half sales fall 21.8 pct
* First half global market share 12 pct, down 0.3 pct pt"
"* Q2 sales fall 15.4 pct, first half sales fall 21.8 pct
* First half global market share 12 pct, down 0.3 pct pt"
New GM to launch fragrance line
New GM to launch fragrance line
Think of "Cadillac, the new fragrance for men."
Sputtering General Motors Co., just out of a quick drive through bankruptcy court, will soon be using its iconic Cadillac brand to sell a line of fragrance for men.
......"Cadillac, the new fragrance for men is part of the recent Cadillac renaissance: Hot new products and redesigns that capture the mantra of life, liberty and the pursuit," said Alwyn Stephen, a Beauty Contact director.
"Our fragrance is a relevant extension of the Cadillac lifestyle."
The line includes a spray, aftershave lotion, deodorant stick, hair and body wash. Some products will come in translucent glass bottles with sleek metal caps. The retail price for a 100 millilitre bottle of the eau de toilette fragrance will be $73.
"The design pays tribute to the opulence and extravagance of past eras, as well as the luxury and ease of today," the firm added.
Gotta love that gov'ment marketing expertise...doncha!
Think of "Cadillac, the new fragrance for men."
Sputtering General Motors Co., just out of a quick drive through bankruptcy court, will soon be using its iconic Cadillac brand to sell a line of fragrance for men.
......"Cadillac, the new fragrance for men is part of the recent Cadillac renaissance: Hot new products and redesigns that capture the mantra of life, liberty and the pursuit," said Alwyn Stephen, a Beauty Contact director.
"Our fragrance is a relevant extension of the Cadillac lifestyle."
The line includes a spray, aftershave lotion, deodorant stick, hair and body wash. Some products will come in translucent glass bottles with sleek metal caps. The retail price for a 100 millilitre bottle of the eau de toilette fragrance will be $73.
"The design pays tribute to the opulence and extravagance of past eras, as well as the luxury and ease of today," the firm added.
Gotta love that gov'ment marketing expertise...doncha!
Obama’s Sinking Approval Ratings Are Even Worse Than They Look
Obama’s Sinking Approval Ratings Are Even Worse Than They Look
"He is less popular than both Jimmy Carter and George H. W. Bush were at the same period—and they both lost their bids for a second term."
"He is less popular than both Jimmy Carter and George H. W. Bush were at the same period—and they both lost their bids for a second term."
Obama wins battle to halt F-22s
Obama wins battle to halt F-22s
"The F-22 is the Air Force's mainstay for air-to-air combat. The Pentagon has emphasized the need for the single-engine F-35s, which are primarily deployed to attack ground targets and would replace the F-16 and the A-10 aircraft."
"The F-22 is the Air Force's mainstay for air-to-air combat. The Pentagon has emphasized the need for the single-engine F-35s, which are primarily deployed to attack ground targets and would replace the F-16 and the A-10 aircraft."
Opposition to state budget deal mounts
Opposition to state budget deal mounts
"Republicans threatened to back out of the deal over a provision to cut the number of prison inmates by 27,000."
Buy a gun, lock your doors.
State employee automatic pay increases, uber-benefits and "retire-at-50 (or earlier!)" retirement plans are MUCH more important than the safety of California residents.
Bummer dudes!
"Republicans threatened to back out of the deal over a provision to cut the number of prison inmates by 27,000."
Buy a gun, lock your doors.
State employee automatic pay increases, uber-benefits and "retire-at-50 (or earlier!)" retirement plans are MUCH more important than the safety of California residents.
Bummer dudes!
Great Lakes Water Levels Increasing. Global Warming Alarmists Still Claim They Will Fall!
Great Lakes Water Levels Increasing. Global Warming Alarmists Still Claim They Will Fall!
"Unfortunately for the ignorant MSM, observable data contradicts their assertions and alarmism."
Who you gonna believe, the "unbiased" liberal media........ or your lying eyes?
"Unfortunately for the ignorant MSM, observable data contradicts their assertions and alarmism."
Who you gonna believe, the "unbiased" liberal media........ or your lying eyes?
Eat This, Not That - The No-Diet Weight Loss Solution From Men's Health
Eat This, Not That - The No-Diet Weight Loss Solution From Men's Health
"Click through to see the 30 worst foods in America – if you can stomach it."
"Click through to see the 30 worst foods in America – if you can stomach it."
Tuesday, July 21, 2009
Czar 54, Who Are You?
Czar 54, Who Are You?
"Our new science czar, John Holdren, once backed compulsory sterilization and forced abortion as part of a government population-control program."
"Our new science czar, John Holdren, once backed compulsory sterilization and forced abortion as part of a government population-control program."
A different take on moon landing
A different take on moon landing
"I, too, remember where I was and what I was doing on that day, However, I did not hear the news of the moon landing for several more years.
I was a prisoner of war in North Vietnam and on July 20, 1969, I was in a small box that sat out in the sun"
"I, too, remember where I was and what I was doing on that day, However, I did not hear the news of the moon landing for several more years.
I was a prisoner of war in North Vietnam and on July 20, 1969, I was in a small box that sat out in the sun"
Monday, July 20, 2009
SOARING SALES for Hayek’s The Road To Serfdom. Maybe because that’s what we’re becoming?
SOARING SALES for Hayek’s The Road To Serfdom. Maybe because that’s what we’re becoming?
Maybe because that’s what we’re becoming?
Other books doing well were described here."
I've got my copy..... thanks Cal!
Maybe because that’s what we’re becoming?
Other books doing well were described here."
I've got my copy..... thanks Cal!
Only ABC Cites 'Devastating' CBO Judgment and 50%+ Tax Rates to Pay for Health Care
Only ABC Cites 'Devastating' CBO Judgment and 50%+ Tax Rates to Pay for Health Care
"Neither the CBS Evening News nor NBC Nightly News ran a health care story on Thursday night."
"Neither the CBS Evening News nor NBC Nightly News ran a health care story on Thursday night."
Not so stimulating
Not so stimulating
"According to the state office responsible for tracking the money, New Hampshire has received so far $413.6 million in stimulus funds, which have resulted in the creation of 50 jobs, all in government, most of them temporary and only 34 of them full time. That comes to a cost of $8.32 million per job, or nearly $10 million per full time job, if we assume that two of the part-time jobs equal one full-time job."
"According to the state office responsible for tracking the money, New Hampshire has received so far $413.6 million in stimulus funds, which have resulted in the creation of 50 jobs, all in government, most of them temporary and only 34 of them full time. That comes to a cost of $8.32 million per job, or nearly $10 million per full time job, if we assume that two of the part-time jobs equal one full-time job."
Muskegon residents asked to sound off on state's future for think tank
Muskegon residents asked to sound off on state's future for think tank
"A free, two-hour group conversation July 28 on issues facing the state will be offered by The Center for Michigan, a nonpartisan Ann Arbor think tank.
The 7:30 a.m.-9:30 a.m. 'community conversation' will be at the Holiday Inn Muskegon Harbor, 939 Third."
"A free, two-hour group conversation July 28 on issues facing the state will be offered by The Center for Michigan, a nonpartisan Ann Arbor think tank.
The 7:30 a.m.-9:30 a.m. 'community conversation' will be at the Holiday Inn Muskegon Harbor, 939 Third."
SAN FRANCISCO OFFICIALS PERMIT POLICE AND FIREFIGHTER ‘PENSION SPIKING’
SAN FRANCISCO OFFICIALS PERMIT POLICE AND FIREFIGHTER ‘PENSION SPIKING’ - GRAND JURY ALLEGATION
"55 percent of safety officers who retired between 1998 and 2008 receive a pension that was more than their annual compensation [or salary] at retirement.”
All obtained by fraud?
"55 percent of safety officers who retired between 1998 and 2008 receive a pension that was more than their annual compensation [or salary] at retirement.”
All obtained by fraud?
Rexrode: Spartans aren't No. 1, but they'll be in top 5
Rexrode: Spartans aren't No. 1, but they'll be in top 5
"4. MSU: Seven of the top nine are back.
If everyone takes a step forward, Delvon Roe keeps getting healthier and Raymar Morgan plays like he did before mononucleosis nailed him in January, this will be an excellent team.
If Tom Herzog and incoming freshmen Garrick Sherman and Derrick Nix do something with the center position, it can be another great team."
"4. MSU: Seven of the top nine are back.
If everyone takes a step forward, Delvon Roe keeps getting healthier and Raymar Morgan plays like he did before mononucleosis nailed him in January, this will be an excellent team.
If Tom Herzog and incoming freshmen Garrick Sherman and Derrick Nix do something with the center position, it can be another great team."
July 17th Nationalized Healthcare Protest « Asheville “Tea Party” Protest
July 17th Nationalized Healthcare Protest « Asheville “Tea Party” Protest
"All of which prompts the question: If 250 people gather in the name of health freedom and AC-T, MtnXpress, and Tribune reporters aren’t there to cover it, are the Asheville Citizen-Times, the Mountain Xpress, and the Tribune Papers still fishwrap?"
"All of which prompts the question: If 250 people gather in the name of health freedom and AC-T, MtnXpress, and Tribune reporters aren’t there to cover it, are the Asheville Citizen-Times, the Mountain Xpress, and the Tribune Papers still fishwrap?"
Poor in Colorado may get free phones
Poor in Colorado may get free phones
"Thousands of low-income Coloradans reliant on public assistance could get a free cellphone under a plan before the state Public Utilities Commission."
"Thousands of low-income Coloradans reliant on public assistance could get a free cellphone under a plan before the state Public Utilities Commission."
God, Guns, Guts, and CNN's Idiot Reporters
God, Guns, Guts, and CNN's Idiot Reporters
"You don't have a problem with God, do ya?'
This is a question posed to CNN reporter Carol Costello during a recent interview with Mark Muller, a Missouri car dealer whose company is offering an unusual incentive: a free AK-47 with the purchase of a vehicle.
Thanks to Muller, we now know Costello doesn't have a problem with God. (She answered in the negative).
We also know she's, for lack of a more dignified term--not because I can't think of one but because she doesn't deserve it--just plain dumb."
"You don't have a problem with God, do ya?'
This is a question posed to CNN reporter Carol Costello during a recent interview with Mark Muller, a Missouri car dealer whose company is offering an unusual incentive: a free AK-47 with the purchase of a vehicle.
Thanks to Muller, we now know Costello doesn't have a problem with God. (She answered in the negative).
We also know she's, for lack of a more dignified term--not because I can't think of one but because she doesn't deserve it--just plain dumb."
INTELLIGENCE GAMES
INTELLIGENCE GAMES
"These new allegations, letters and calls for investigations are part of a strategy by Democrats to attack intelligence personnel and agencies. Why? To protect House Speaker Nancy Pelosi -- who is in hot water over her May 14 comments that the CIA 'lies all the time' and misled her about enhanced interrogation of terrorist suspects."
"These new allegations, letters and calls for investigations are part of a strategy by Democrats to attack intelligence personnel and agencies. Why? To protect House Speaker Nancy Pelosi -- who is in hot water over her May 14 comments that the CIA 'lies all the time' and misled her about enhanced interrogation of terrorist suspects."
The great public-sector pension rip-off: Dodging the bill
The great public-sector pension rip-off: Dodging the bill
"There is a lot of debate about the right discount rate to use, but the conservative approach is to take the cost of government borrowing.
Use that rate, and the liability of American state and municipal pension schemes may be $3 trillion—three times the value of all the authorities’ existing debts.
In Britain the liability adds up to 85% of GDP."
"There is a lot of debate about the right discount rate to use, but the conservative approach is to take the cost of government borrowing.
Use that rate, and the liability of American state and municipal pension schemes may be $3 trillion—three times the value of all the authorities’ existing debts.
In Britain the liability adds up to 85% of GDP."
Sunday, July 19, 2009
Sergeant John Beale, RIP
Sergeant John Beale, RIP
"Reader John Throckmorton served in Iraq in 2006-2007. He sends us this video and comments: 'This is a moving video of a community's response to the death of a U.S. Army sergeant in Afghanistan.
The tape runs 12 minutes and is a must see.' He adds:
Killed in action the week before, John C. Beale was returned to Falcon Field in Peachtree City, Georgia, just south of Atlanta, on June 11, 2009.
The Henry County Police Department escorted the procession to the funeral home in McDonough, Georgia.
A simple notice in local papers indicated the road route to be taken and the approximate time.
This was filmed during the procession by a State Trooper.
I was tempted to offer additional commentary, but I think the video stands by itself. I don't know the views of John Beale, or his neighbors who turned out to support him, so I can't purport to speak for them by attempting to connect this video to a larger statement on the current state of American politics or culture -- I'll save it for another time.
I am, however, immeasurably proud of them."
"Reader John Throckmorton served in Iraq in 2006-2007. He sends us this video and comments: 'This is a moving video of a community's response to the death of a U.S. Army sergeant in Afghanistan.
The tape runs 12 minutes and is a must see.' He adds:
Killed in action the week before, John C. Beale was returned to Falcon Field in Peachtree City, Georgia, just south of Atlanta, on June 11, 2009.
The Henry County Police Department escorted the procession to the funeral home in McDonough, Georgia.
A simple notice in local papers indicated the road route to be taken and the approximate time.
This was filmed during the procession by a State Trooper.
I was tempted to offer additional commentary, but I think the video stands by itself. I don't know the views of John Beale, or his neighbors who turned out to support him, so I can't purport to speak for them by attempting to connect this video to a larger statement on the current state of American politics or culture -- I'll save it for another time.
I am, however, immeasurably proud of them."
Reformers' Claims Just Don't Add Up
Reformers' Claims Just Don't Add Up
"Many extravagant claims have been made on behalf of the various health care 'reforms' now emerging from Congress and the White House. But on closer inspection, virtually all prove to be false."
"Many extravagant claims have been made on behalf of the various health care 'reforms' now emerging from Congress and the White House. But on closer inspection, virtually all prove to be false."
ANOTHER FAILED SPENDING PROGRAM
ANOTHER FAILED SPENDING PROGRAM
"the program hasn’t stopped the rising tide of foreclosures: Experts predict that at least another 2 million homes will be lost this year, and the administration’s plan has so far reached only about 160,000 of the 3 million to 4 million homes it was supposed to protect over the next three years."
"the program hasn’t stopped the rising tide of foreclosures: Experts predict that at least another 2 million homes will be lost this year, and the administration’s plan has so far reached only about 160,000 of the 3 million to 4 million homes it was supposed to protect over the next three years."
The Faculty Lounge: An Orgasm A Day Keeps The Doctor Away. Is This Really NHS?
The Faculty Lounge: An Orgasm A Day Keeps The Doctor Away. Is This Really NHS?: "Sometimes the real news seems so good that you wonder whether The Onion is mere surplussage. Such is the state of affairs today, as leading British papers the Times of London , the Daily Mail, and the Telegraph notify us of a new leaflet, Pleasure, created and...disseminated (?!?)... to parents, teachers, and youth workers by the a branch of the NHS out of Sheffield, England.
From the Times story headlined 'NHS tells school children of their 'right' to 'an orgasm a day'':
Alongside the slogan “an orgasm a day keeps the doctor away”, it says: “Health promotion experts advocate five portions of fruit and veg a day and 30 minutes’ physical activity three times a week. What about sex or masturbation twice a week?”"
From the Times story headlined 'NHS tells school children of their 'right' to 'an orgasm a day'':
Alongside the slogan “an orgasm a day keeps the doctor away”, it says: “Health promotion experts advocate five portions of fruit and veg a day and 30 minutes’ physical activity three times a week. What about sex or masturbation twice a week?”"
States Hit Hardest by Recession Get Least Stimulus Money
States Hit Hardest by Recession Get Least Stimulus Money
"But FOXNews.com has analyzed data tracking how the stimulus money is being given out across the 50 states and the District of Columbia, and it has found a perverse pattern:
the states hardest hit by the recession received the least money.
States with higher bankruptcy, foreclosure and unemployment rates got less money."
"But FOXNews.com has analyzed data tracking how the stimulus money is being given out across the 50 states and the District of Columbia, and it has found a perverse pattern:
the states hardest hit by the recession received the least money.
States with higher bankruptcy, foreclosure and unemployment rates got less money."
Commerce Secretary: Americans ‘Need to Pay’ for Chinese Emissions
Commerce Secretary: Americans ‘Need to Pay’ for Chinese Emissions
"With the U.S. secretaries of energy and commerce in China this week, much of the attention focused on the standoff over emissions reductions or small breakthroughs in clean-tech cooperation.
But yesterday, Commerce Secretary Gary Locke said something amazing—U.S. consumers should pay for part of Chinese greenhouse-gas emissions.
From Reuters:
“It’s important that those who consume the products being made all around the world to the benefit of America — and it’s our own consumption activity that’s causing the emission of greenhouse gases, then quite frankly Americans need to pay for that,” Commerce Secretary Gary Locke told the American Chamber of Commerce in Shanghai."
What the f!!!!!!!!!
"With the U.S. secretaries of energy and commerce in China this week, much of the attention focused on the standoff over emissions reductions or small breakthroughs in clean-tech cooperation.
But yesterday, Commerce Secretary Gary Locke said something amazing—U.S. consumers should pay for part of Chinese greenhouse-gas emissions.
From Reuters:
“It’s important that those who consume the products being made all around the world to the benefit of America — and it’s our own consumption activity that’s causing the emission of greenhouse gases, then quite frankly Americans need to pay for that,” Commerce Secretary Gary Locke told the American Chamber of Commerce in Shanghai."
What the f!!!!!!!!!
Gov paying over a half million dollars a pound for sliced ham?
Gov paying over a half million dollars a pound for sliced ham?
"According to Recovery.gov, the new Obama website showing us how much the country is being stimulated by government spending, the taxpayers are buying sliced frozen ham at $550,000 per pound.
I wonder what they would pay for fresh ham?
And here I thought prosciutto was expensive. Is this going to be served to guests at one of the many parties the Obamas like to throw? Half million dollar a pound ham won't really impress the Saudis, if Obama offers it to them, no matter how low he bows.
This makes the $100/lb wagyu steaks used at White House parties look like a bargain.
You can find the details here:"
"According to Recovery.gov, the new Obama website showing us how much the country is being stimulated by government spending, the taxpayers are buying sliced frozen ham at $550,000 per pound.
I wonder what they would pay for fresh ham?
And here I thought prosciutto was expensive. Is this going to be served to guests at one of the many parties the Obamas like to throw? Half million dollar a pound ham won't really impress the Saudis, if Obama offers it to them, no matter how low he bows.
This makes the $100/lb wagyu steaks used at White House parties look like a bargain.
You can find the details here:"
Celebrating Cronkite while ignoring what he did - Glenn Greenwald - Salon.com
Celebrating Cronkite while ignoring what he did
Writing in Harper's a few weeks later, Lapham -- in the essay about Russert (entitled "An Elegy for a Rubber Stamp") where he said Russert's "on-air persona was that of an attentive and accommodating headwaiter, as helpless as Charlie Rose in his infatuation with A-list celebrity" -- echoed Halberstam by writing:
Long ago in the days before journalists became celebrities, their enterprise was reviled and poorly paid, and it was understood by working newspapermen that the presence of more than two people at their funeral could be taken as a sign that they had disgraced the profession.
That Lapham essay is full of piercing invective ("On Monday I thought I’d heard the end of the sales promotion. Tim presumably had ascended to the great studio camera in the sky to ask Thomas Jefferson if he intended to run for president in 1804"),
Writing in Harper's a few weeks later, Lapham -- in the essay about Russert (entitled "An Elegy for a Rubber Stamp") where he said Russert's "on-air persona was that of an attentive and accommodating headwaiter, as helpless as Charlie Rose in his infatuation with A-list celebrity" -- echoed Halberstam by writing:
Long ago in the days before journalists became celebrities, their enterprise was reviled and poorly paid, and it was understood by working newspapermen that the presence of more than two people at their funeral could be taken as a sign that they had disgraced the profession.
That Lapham essay is full of piercing invective ("On Monday I thought I’d heard the end of the sales promotion. Tim presumably had ascended to the great studio camera in the sky to ask Thomas Jefferson if he intended to run for president in 1804"),
Fetuses Proven to Retain Memories; Abortionists Will Forget This
Fetuses Proven to Retain Memories; Abortionists Will Forget This
"'In addition, results indicated that 34-week-old fetuses are able to store information and retrieve it four weeks later,' said the research, which was released Wednesday."
"'In addition, results indicated that 34-week-old fetuses are able to store information and retrieve it four weeks later,' said the research, which was released Wednesday."
$100 million ends prisoner sex-abuse suit
$100 million ends prisoner sex-abuse suit
"The State of Michigan has agreed to pay $100 million to settle a class-action by more than 500 female prisoners who said they were sexually assaulted by prison guards."
No problem.... heck it's only $100 million....
"The State of Michigan has agreed to pay $100 million to settle a class-action by more than 500 female prisoners who said they were sexually assaulted by prison guards."
No problem.... heck it's only $100 million....
Gov. Jennifer Granholm says 'dangerous' budget cuts must be avoided
Gov. Jennifer Granholm says 'dangerous' budget cuts must be avoided
"Michigan has overall projected budget shortfalls of roughly $2.7 billion for the fiscal year that starts Oct. 1.
'It's important to distinguish between painful cuts that will happen and dangerous cuts which I will not allow to happen,'"
Like the automatic COL AND the annual stepup in pay every state employee gets?
"Michigan has overall projected budget shortfalls of roughly $2.7 billion for the fiscal year that starts Oct. 1.
'It's important to distinguish between painful cuts that will happen and dangerous cuts which I will not allow to happen,'"
Like the automatic COL AND the annual stepup in pay every state employee gets?
The Republican-American Ethically bankrupt
The Republican-American Ethically bankrupt
"Democratic Sen. Christopher Dodd has been going around talking up KennedyDoddCare by claiming '62 percent of all personal bankruptcies were caused by medical problems.'
His source was so-called research by Physicians for a National Health Program (PNHP), hardly a disinterested bystander. To achieve that lofty number, it had to distort the definition of medical bankruptcy while failing to control for household overspending, the No. 1 cause of personal bankruptcies in the aftermath of illness or injury.
But when medical bankruptcies are more accurately defined as those attributable solely to medical-related costs beyond a household's control, the rate plummets to just 29 percent. Even then, U.S. Justice Department statistics show that in personal bankruptcies blamed at least in part on unpaid physician and hospital bills, medical costs comprised no more than 13 percent of all unsecured debts."
"Democratic Sen. Christopher Dodd has been going around talking up KennedyDoddCare by claiming '62 percent of all personal bankruptcies were caused by medical problems.'
His source was so-called research by Physicians for a National Health Program (PNHP), hardly a disinterested bystander. To achieve that lofty number, it had to distort the definition of medical bankruptcy while failing to control for household overspending, the No. 1 cause of personal bankruptcies in the aftermath of illness or injury.
But when medical bankruptcies are more accurately defined as those attributable solely to medical-related costs beyond a household's control, the rate plummets to just 29 percent. Even then, U.S. Justice Department statistics show that in personal bankruptcies blamed at least in part on unpaid physician and hospital bills, medical costs comprised no more than 13 percent of all unsecured debts."
New PETA Crusade – Fish Are Sea Kittens | Sweetness & Light
New PETA Crusade – Fish Are Sea Kittens Sweetness & Light: "RADICAL international animal rights group PETA has launched its most bizarre campaign yet, demanding fish be renamed 'sea kittens'."
Saturday, July 18, 2009
Will Small Be Beautiful for GM?
Will Small Be Beautiful for GM?
"once it was clear that GM planned to build compacts somewhere in the U.S. a bidding war broke out between Michigan, Tennessee and Wisconsin -- all of which had GM plants slated to be closed.
Michigan won by giving away the store.
The Orion plant will get $1 billion in tax incentives and job training grants from the state, which will pay for the $800 million GM will spend on retooling."
"once it was clear that GM planned to build compacts somewhere in the U.S. a bidding war broke out between Michigan, Tennessee and Wisconsin -- all of which had GM plants slated to be closed.
Michigan won by giving away the store.
The Orion plant will get $1 billion in tax incentives and job training grants from the state, which will pay for the $800 million GM will spend on retooling."
Wasteful Defense Spending Is a Clear and Present Danger
Wasteful Defense Spending Is a Clear and Present Danger
"When John McCain was shot down over Hanoi in 1967, he was flying an A4 Skyhawk. That jet cost $860,000.
Inflation has risen by 700% since then. So Mr. McCain's A4 cost $6.1 million in 2008 dollars. Applying a generous factor of three for technological improvements, the price for a 2008 Navy F18 fighter should be about $18 million. Instead, we are paying about $90 million for each new fighter. As a result, the Navy cannot buy sufficient numbers. This is disarmament without a treaty.
The situation is worse in the Air Force. In 1983, I was in the Pentagon meeting that launched the F-22 Raptor. The plan was to buy 648 jets beginning in 1996 for $60 million each (in 1983 dollars). Now they cost $350 million apiece and the Obama budget caps the program at 187 jets. At least they are safe from cyberattack since no one in China knows how to program the '83 vintage IBM software that runs them.
There are other problems. Navy shipbuilding fiascoes like the staggering overruns on new surface combatants, the near total failure of the Army's Future Combat System that was meant to re-equip the entire army, the 400% cost overrun of the new Air Force weather satellite -- to name but a few -- all prove that we are currently unable to design, develop and deliver major weapons systems in anything approaching a cost-effective and timely manner. The Government Accountability Office recently reported that the cost overruns for the top 75% procurement programs were over $295 billion. We are rapidly disarming ourselves, even as defense spending grows.
On May 22, President Obama signed the Weapons System Acquisition Reform Act. Despite the grandiloquent name, it is in fact just an addition of 20,000 more bureaucrats who will only make matters worse.
Why is this happening? Wher"
"When John McCain was shot down over Hanoi in 1967, he was flying an A4 Skyhawk. That jet cost $860,000.
Inflation has risen by 700% since then. So Mr. McCain's A4 cost $6.1 million in 2008 dollars. Applying a generous factor of three for technological improvements, the price for a 2008 Navy F18 fighter should be about $18 million. Instead, we are paying about $90 million for each new fighter. As a result, the Navy cannot buy sufficient numbers. This is disarmament without a treaty.
The situation is worse in the Air Force. In 1983, I was in the Pentagon meeting that launched the F-22 Raptor. The plan was to buy 648 jets beginning in 1996 for $60 million each (in 1983 dollars). Now they cost $350 million apiece and the Obama budget caps the program at 187 jets. At least they are safe from cyberattack since no one in China knows how to program the '83 vintage IBM software that runs them.
There are other problems. Navy shipbuilding fiascoes like the staggering overruns on new surface combatants, the near total failure of the Army's Future Combat System that was meant to re-equip the entire army, the 400% cost overrun of the new Air Force weather satellite -- to name but a few -- all prove that we are currently unable to design, develop and deliver major weapons systems in anything approaching a cost-effective and timely manner. The Government Accountability Office recently reported that the cost overruns for the top 75% procurement programs were over $295 billion. We are rapidly disarming ourselves, even as defense spending grows.
On May 22, President Obama signed the Weapons System Acquisition Reform Act. Despite the grandiloquent name, it is in fact just an addition of 20,000 more bureaucrats who will only make matters worse.
Why is this happening? Wher"
Second City Ruse
Second City Ruse
"When President Obama chose Arne Duncan to lead the Education Department, he cited Mr. Duncan's success as head of Chicago's public school system from 2001 to 2008. But a new education study suggests that those academic gains aren't what they seemed. The study also helps explain why big-city education reform is unlikely to occur without school choice.
Mr. Obama noted in December that 'in just seven years, Arne's boosted elementary test scores here in Chicago from 38% of students meeting the standard to 67%' and that 'the dropout rate has gone down every year he's been in charge.' But according to 'Still Left Behind,' a report by the Civic Committee of the Commercial Club of Chicago, a majority of Chicago public school students still drop out or fail to graduate with their class. Moreover, 'recent dramatic gains in the reported number of CPS elementary students who meet standards on state assessments appear to be due to changes in the tests . . . rather than real improvements in student learning.'"
"When President Obama chose Arne Duncan to lead the Education Department, he cited Mr. Duncan's success as head of Chicago's public school system from 2001 to 2008. But a new education study suggests that those academic gains aren't what they seemed. The study also helps explain why big-city education reform is unlikely to occur without school choice.
Mr. Obama noted in December that 'in just seven years, Arne's boosted elementary test scores here in Chicago from 38% of students meeting the standard to 67%' and that 'the dropout rate has gone down every year he's been in charge.' But according to 'Still Left Behind,' a report by the Civic Committee of the Commercial Club of Chicago, a majority of Chicago public school students still drop out or fail to graduate with their class. Moreover, 'recent dramatic gains in the reported number of CPS elementary students who meet standards on state assessments appear to be due to changes in the tests . . . rather than real improvements in student learning.'"
Urban Meyer to Notre Dame rumors are magically delicious
Urban Meyer to Notre Dame rumors are magically delicious
"'I was contacted by one, but I'm not interested. I love it here. We have a lot of work to do. That's the bottom line.' — Bowling Green coach Urban Meyer, 2002. Six days later, he was coach at Utah.
'All I keep saying is I plan on being the coach here at Utah.' — Utah coach Urban Meyer, 2004. Five days later, he was coach at the University of Florida.
'I'm not going to Notre Dame. Ever.' — UF Coach Urban Meyer, 2009.
So UF Coach Urban Meyer says he is never coaching at Notre Dame. Ever. No way. Nu-uh. Never. Ever. Not in your dreams. Not in a billion years. Nope. Not me.
We've heard that one, oh, seemingly a million times."
"'I was contacted by one, but I'm not interested. I love it here. We have a lot of work to do. That's the bottom line.' — Bowling Green coach Urban Meyer, 2002. Six days later, he was coach at Utah.
'All I keep saying is I plan on being the coach here at Utah.' — Utah coach Urban Meyer, 2004. Five days later, he was coach at the University of Florida.
'I'm not going to Notre Dame. Ever.' — UF Coach Urban Meyer, 2009.
So UF Coach Urban Meyer says he is never coaching at Notre Dame. Ever. No way. Nu-uh. Never. Ever. Not in your dreams. Not in a billion years. Nope. Not me.
We've heard that one, oh, seemingly a million times."
Will Small Be Beautiful for GM?
Will Small Be Beautiful for GM?
"This time, the Orion plant is a symbol of government regulation run amok as Washington keeps GM on life support so that it will produce the cars Washington wants to build.
On June 1, GM Vice President for Global Manufacturing Gary Cowger announced as part of the company's bankruptcy filing that it would close the Orion facility in its drive to become a 'leaner, stronger and more flexible' company. Though still a relatively modern facility making midsize Chevy Malibu and Pontiac G6 sedans, Orion's once 5,000-strong labor force had shriveled to 1,200 as the recession ravaged sales and the company planned to eliminate its Pontiac brand and consolidate Malibu production at a Kansas City facility.
But a few weeks later, the company reversed course. GM now says it will retool Orion to make compact, gas-sipping cars. The change of heart says a lot about how GM's new owners -- the federal government owns 60% of the company and the United Auto Workers (UAW) owns 17% -- are making considerations other than profitability a top priority for the auto maker.
The Obama administration is increasing Corporate Average Fuel Economy (CAFE) mandates to 35.5 mpg for all vehicles in a company's fleet by 2016, up from 27.5 mpg for cars and 23 mpg for light trucks now. Not a single GM vehicle meets the new CAFE standard, so the company is scrambling to make new high-mileage cars.
It was planning to build a new compact car in China (it already works with Daewoo to make the tiny Chevy Aveo in South Korea). Most auto makers have similar arrangements -- profit margins are so low for compacts made in America that not a single auto company makes a compact inside the U.S. Not the Japanese. Not the Koreans. And not even Ford, which plans to make its new Fiesta in Mexico."
"This time, the Orion plant is a symbol of government regulation run amok as Washington keeps GM on life support so that it will produce the cars Washington wants to build.
On June 1, GM Vice President for Global Manufacturing Gary Cowger announced as part of the company's bankruptcy filing that it would close the Orion facility in its drive to become a 'leaner, stronger and more flexible' company. Though still a relatively modern facility making midsize Chevy Malibu and Pontiac G6 sedans, Orion's once 5,000-strong labor force had shriveled to 1,200 as the recession ravaged sales and the company planned to eliminate its Pontiac brand and consolidate Malibu production at a Kansas City facility.
But a few weeks later, the company reversed course. GM now says it will retool Orion to make compact, gas-sipping cars. The change of heart says a lot about how GM's new owners -- the federal government owns 60% of the company and the United Auto Workers (UAW) owns 17% -- are making considerations other than profitability a top priority for the auto maker.
The Obama administration is increasing Corporate Average Fuel Economy (CAFE) mandates to 35.5 mpg for all vehicles in a company's fleet by 2016, up from 27.5 mpg for cars and 23 mpg for light trucks now. Not a single GM vehicle meets the new CAFE standard, so the company is scrambling to make new high-mileage cars.
It was planning to build a new compact car in China (it already works with Daewoo to make the tiny Chevy Aveo in South Korea). Most auto makers have similar arrangements -- profit margins are so low for compacts made in America that not a single auto company makes a compact inside the U.S. Not the Japanese. Not the Koreans. And not even Ford, which plans to make its new Fiesta in Mexico."
Unions Seem Determined to Kill Michigan Film Industry
Unions Seem Determined to Kill Michigan Film Industry
"A lot can be said about unions supporting wage earners and creating a middle class. However, a lot can also be said about unions ruining this country. Case in point: Michigan.
You would think that after the UAW destroyed the auto industry and the tax base in Michigan, the people of the state and the unions based there would have learned.
However, this is not the case.
In the latest union disaster for the state of Michigan, the IATSE has decided that the blooming film industry in the state must be stopped before it even gets started."
"A lot can be said about unions supporting wage earners and creating a middle class. However, a lot can also be said about unions ruining this country. Case in point: Michigan.
You would think that after the UAW destroyed the auto industry and the tax base in Michigan, the people of the state and the unions based there would have learned.
However, this is not the case.
In the latest union disaster for the state of Michigan, the IATSE has decided that the blooming film industry in the state must be stopped before it even gets started."
Room to roam: House votes to rescue wild horses
Room to roam: House votes to rescue wild horses
"The Congressional Budget Office estimated that enacting the Restore our American Mustangs Act would cost about $200 million over the next five years. Currently, the wild herds roam over about 33 million acres of Western land.
To To comply with the bill, the Bureau of Land Management would need to find an additional 20 million acres, primarily after 2013, at a cost of up to $500 million, according the CBO.
........ House Republican leader John Boehner of Ohio said even debating the bill was an insult to people looking for work and small businesses trying to keep their doors open.
"It doesn't make any sense that we're debating a welfare program about wild horses when the American people really want to know, 'where are the jobs?'"
This idiot bill passed????
"The Congressional Budget Office estimated that enacting the Restore our American Mustangs Act would cost about $200 million over the next five years. Currently, the wild herds roam over about 33 million acres of Western land.
To To comply with the bill, the Bureau of Land Management would need to find an additional 20 million acres, primarily after 2013, at a cost of up to $500 million, according the CBO.
........ House Republican leader John Boehner of Ohio said even debating the bill was an insult to people looking for work and small businesses trying to keep their doors open.
"It doesn't make any sense that we're debating a welfare program about wild horses when the American people really want to know, 'where are the jobs?'"
This idiot bill passed????
Government Employee Benefits
Government Employee Benefits
"Michigan’s private sector has shed 12.1 percent of its jobs since 2000. The number of jobs lost — 484,200 — is about the size of the total employment in Rhode Island. But the blows to Michigan’s public sector were much lighter. Local government employment dropped 6.1 percent, while the state government and state enterprises like universities actually expanded its workforce."
"Michigan’s private sector has shed 12.1 percent of its jobs since 2000. The number of jobs lost — 484,200 — is about the size of the total employment in Rhode Island. But the blows to Michigan’s public sector were much lighter. Local government employment dropped 6.1 percent, while the state government and state enterprises like universities actually expanded its workforce."
Larry Summers cites Google search as progress
Larry Summers cites Google search as progress
"Of all the statistics pouring into the White House every day, top economic adviser Larry Summers highlighted one Friday to make his case that the economic free-fall has ended.
The number of people searching for the term “economic depression” on Google is down to normal levels, Summers said."
True success, Obama style?
"Of all the statistics pouring into the White House every day, top economic adviser Larry Summers highlighted one Friday to make his case that the economic free-fall has ended.
The number of people searching for the term “economic depression” on Google is down to normal levels, Summers said."
True success, Obama style?
Obama’s Economy: 84.8% Of Jobs In Michigan “Created Or Saved”
Obama’s Economy: 84.8% Of Jobs In Michigan “Created Or Saved”
"That’s the positive spin. The bad news is that over 15% of the Michigan labor force is out of work. Oh, and by the way, 16 states passed 10% unemployment in June."
"That’s the positive spin. The bad news is that over 15% of the Michigan labor force is out of work. Oh, and by the way, 16 states passed 10% unemployment in June."
House OKs bill to let judges rewrite mortgages
House OKs bill to let judges rewrite mortgages
"The deal would require judges to consider whether homeowners were offered a “qualified” loan workout consistent with Obama’s plan. That program would let eligible homeowners rework their mortgages to bring their monthly payments down to no more than about one-third of their incomes."
"The deal would require judges to consider whether homeowners were offered a “qualified” loan workout consistent with Obama’s plan. That program would let eligible homeowners rework their mortgages to bring their monthly payments down to no more than about one-third of their incomes."
Friday, July 17, 2009
CBO Lowballs Waxman-Markey Cost
CBO Lowballs Waxman-Markey Cost
"Climate Change: Supporters of economy-killing cap-and-trade legislation not only misquote the Congressional Budget Office's report lowballing the costs.
They ignore how CBO cooked the books to get its numbers."
"Climate Change: Supporters of economy-killing cap-and-trade legislation not only misquote the Congressional Budget Office's report lowballing the costs.
They ignore how CBO cooked the books to get its numbers."
27-year-old who police say caused tanker explosion in Detroit offers no apology
27-year-old who police say caused tanker explosion in Detroit offers no apology
"Twenty-seven-year-old Saied Haidarian-Shari of Clawson was one of three drivers who escaped Wednesday night's fiery explosion along Interstate 75 with minor injuries.
When asked Thursday night by Fox 2 whether he felt he should apologize for the crash that also included a tractor-trailer, Haidarian-Shari said: 'No.'"
"Twenty-seven-year-old Saied Haidarian-Shari of Clawson was one of three drivers who escaped Wednesday night's fiery explosion along Interstate 75 with minor injuries.
When asked Thursday night by Fox 2 whether he felt he should apologize for the crash that also included a tractor-trailer, Haidarian-Shari said: 'No.'"
Grand Rapids Community College bookstore rentals may take sting out of high cost of college textbooks - Grand Rapids News - The Latest News, Blogs, Photos & Videos – MLive.com
Grand Rapids Community College bookstore rentals may take sting out of high cost of college textbooks - Grand Rapids News - The Latest News, Blogs, Photos & Videos – MLive.com: "Brad Ellison says he typically pays more than $100 for a college textbook and only sometimes is able to sell it back to the bookstore.
'There are times that you just get stuck with it, and it's a lot of money,' said Ellison, 37, of Spring Lake, before a Friday algebra class."
'There are times that you just get stuck with it, and it's a lot of money,' said Ellison, 37, of Spring Lake, before a Friday algebra class."
CNSNews.com - Pelosi Will Read Full Final Text of Health Care Bill Before House Vote and Give Public 'Ample' Time to Do Same, Says Spokesman
CNSNews.com - Pelosi Will Read Full Final Text of Health Care Bill Before House Vote and Give Public 'Ample' Time to Do Same, Says Spokesman: "House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.) will read the entirety of the final text of the health care reform bill before the House votes on it and will provide the public “ample time” to review the legislation, says Pelosi's spokesman.
However, the speaker’s office declined to specify what is meant by “ample time.”"
However, the speaker’s office declined to specify what is meant by “ample time.”"
Car convoy planned to raise awareness of dangers of road rage
Car convoy planned to raise awareness of dangers of road rage
"A car convoy is planned 9 a.m. Saturday at Mona Lake Park in Muskegon Heights to raise awareness of the dangers of road rage.
Two car convoys will leave Muskegon and Grand Rapids simultaneously Saturday as part of Road Rage Awareness Week activities scheduled in both communities."
They better not get in MY way!
"A car convoy is planned 9 a.m. Saturday at Mona Lake Park in Muskegon Heights to raise awareness of the dangers of road rage.
Two car convoys will leave Muskegon and Grand Rapids simultaneously Saturday as part of Road Rage Awareness Week activities scheduled in both communities."
They better not get in MY way!
And Now For Something Completely Crazy
And Now For Something Completely Crazy: "The news is coming so thick and fast these days that it's hard to keep up. The Supreme Court, socialized medicine, cap and trade, record deficits, foreign policy fecklessness--it's easy to lose track of smaller issues with all that is going on. Still, H.R. 1018 shouldn't be allowed to pass unnoticed.
H.R. 1018 is the 'Restore Our American Mustangs Act.' It can fairly be described as a welfare program for horses. Believe it or not--this isn't satire--here is what the bill will do:
[T]he 'Restore Our American Mustangs Act' ... would create a new $700 million welfare program for wild horses. The program:
* Conducts a horse census every two years
* Provides 'enhanced contraception' and birth control for horses
* Establishes an additional 19 million acres of public and private land for wild horses
* Covers $5 million tab to repair horse damage to land
* Mandates that government bureaucrats perform home inspections before Americans can adopt horses
'Enhanced contraception' for horses? Maybe I'm out of touch, but I didn't realize that wild horses use contraception at all. Maybe the measure would be worth voting for if Nancy Pelosi would commit that she will personally attempt to fit a wild stallion with an 'enhanced contraception' device at a critical moment. (Just kidding, liberals.)
Nineteen million acres, by the way, is around 28 times the area of Rhode Island. If you think Rhode Island is too small to worry about, it's also more than a third of the state of Minnesota.
The Democrats have scheduled a vote on H.R. 1018 tomorrow."
H.R. 1018 is the 'Restore Our American Mustangs Act.' It can fairly be described as a welfare program for horses. Believe it or not--this isn't satire--here is what the bill will do:
[T]he 'Restore Our American Mustangs Act' ... would create a new $700 million welfare program for wild horses. The program:
* Conducts a horse census every two years
* Provides 'enhanced contraception' and birth control for horses
* Establishes an additional 19 million acres of public and private land for wild horses
* Covers $5 million tab to repair horse damage to land
* Mandates that government bureaucrats perform home inspections before Americans can adopt horses
'Enhanced contraception' for horses? Maybe I'm out of touch, but I didn't realize that wild horses use contraception at all. Maybe the measure would be worth voting for if Nancy Pelosi would commit that she will personally attempt to fit a wild stallion with an 'enhanced contraception' device at a critical moment. (Just kidding, liberals.)
Nineteen million acres, by the way, is around 28 times the area of Rhode Island. If you think Rhode Island is too small to worry about, it's also more than a third of the state of Minnesota.
The Democrats have scheduled a vote on H.R. 1018 tomorrow."
Joe Biden: ‘We Have to Go Spend Money to Keep From Going Bankrupt’
Joe Biden: ‘We Have to Go Spend Money to Keep From Going Bankrupt’
“And folks look, AARP knows and the people with me here today know, the president knows, and I know, that the status quo is simply not acceptable,” Biden said at the event on Thursday in Alexandria, Va.
“It’s totally unacceptable.
And it’s completely unsustainable. Even if we wanted to keep it the way we have it now. It can’t do it financially.” “We’re going to go bankrupt as a nation,” Biden said.
“Now, people when I say that look at me and say, ‘What are you talking about, Joe? You’re telling me we have to go spend money to keep from going bankrupt?’” Biden said. “The answer is yes, that's what I’m telling you.”
“And folks look, AARP knows and the people with me here today know, the president knows, and I know, that the status quo is simply not acceptable,” Biden said at the event on Thursday in Alexandria, Va.
“It’s totally unacceptable.
And it’s completely unsustainable. Even if we wanted to keep it the way we have it now. It can’t do it financially.” “We’re going to go bankrupt as a nation,” Biden said.
“Now, people when I say that look at me and say, ‘What are you talking about, Joe? You’re telling me we have to go spend money to keep from going bankrupt?’” Biden said. “The answer is yes, that's what I’m telling you.”
Muskegon school district buys computers, school buses
Muskegon school district buys computers, school buses
"The school board during a special meeting Tuesday agreed to pay Entre Computers, 540 W. Hovey,
$171,210 for 390 Hewlett-Packard computers,
and $146,144 for 113 Hewlett-Packard printers."
"The school board during a special meeting Tuesday agreed to pay Entre Computers, 540 W. Hovey,
$171,210 for 390 Hewlett-Packard computers,
and $146,144 for 113 Hewlett-Packard printers."
Thursday, July 16, 2009
Michigan State Spartans get schedule deals with West Virginia Mountaineers, Alabama Crimson Tide
Mark your calendar: Michigan State Spartans get schedule deals with West Virginia Mountaineers, Alabama Crimson Tide
"Michigan State beefed up its future nonconference schedules Monday, announcing agreements with West Virginia and Alabama, and extending its series with longtime rival Notre Dame.
The school has signed contracts for a home-and-home series with West Virginia in 2014 and 2015, and a home-and-home series with Alabama in 2016 and 2017."
Let's get the motel reservations in NOW!
"Michigan State beefed up its future nonconference schedules Monday, announcing agreements with West Virginia and Alabama, and extending its series with longtime rival Notre Dame.
The school has signed contracts for a home-and-home series with West Virginia in 2014 and 2015, and a home-and-home series with Alabama in 2016 and 2017."
Let's get the motel reservations in NOW!
Baker College construction boom continues
Baker College construction boom continues
"In recent years, Baker has invested millions of dollars to improve its facilities, including a student fitness area and meeting rooms in the school's main campus building"
Your tax dollars at work folks!
Who needs potholes filled when student loans and government grants to Baker get us 20% graduation rates and 10% employment rates?
"In recent years, Baker has invested millions of dollars to improve its facilities, including a student fitness area and meeting rooms in the school's main campus building"
Your tax dollars at work folks!
Who needs potholes filled when student loans and government grants to Baker get us 20% graduation rates and 10% employment rates?
Albert -- the Not-So Great -- Gore
Albert -- the Not-So Great -- Gore
"Think what you want about George W. Bush, but he did do this: he saved us from a Gore Presidency. Is there a greater smelly stew of vanity, vacuity, ignorance, arrogance, and hubris in Washington than Albert Gore Jr.?"
"Think what you want about George W. Bush, but he did do this: he saved us from a Gore Presidency. Is there a greater smelly stew of vanity, vacuity, ignorance, arrogance, and hubris in Washington than Albert Gore Jr.?"
Indictment paints portrait of Sam Riddle as middle man for Monica Conyers
Indictment paints portrait of Sam Riddle as middle man for Monica Conyers
"'Defendant Riddle and Monica Conyers,' the Detroit corruption indictment reads. Over and over again.
Conyers resigned from the Detroit City Council last month after pleading guilty to conspiracy commit bribery."
"'Defendant Riddle and Monica Conyers,' the Detroit corruption indictment reads. Over and over again.
Conyers resigned from the Detroit City Council last month after pleading guilty to conspiracy commit bribery."
Michigan unemployment rate jumps again to 15.2 percent in June
Michigan unemployment rate jumps again to 15.2 percent in June
"Michigan's unemployment rate soared to 15.2 percent in June, the state's highest monthly rate since the spring of 1983."
"Michigan's unemployment rate soared to 15.2 percent in June, the state's highest monthly rate since the spring of 1983."
House Speaker Andy Dillon proposes Michigan's 400,000 public employees receive same health insurance coverage
House Speaker Andy Dillon proposes Michigan's 400,000 public employees receive same health insurance coverage
"State employees pay between 5 and 10 percent of the cost of their health care depending on coverage type, according to report compiled by Dillon's office.
Despite a trend toward more cost-sharing at the local school district level, the report said many school employees 'pay no premiums or very small premiums for their health care.'"
"State employees pay between 5 and 10 percent of the cost of their health care depending on coverage type, according to report compiled by Dillon's office.
Despite a trend toward more cost-sharing at the local school district level, the report said many school employees 'pay no premiums or very small premiums for their health care.'"
Train bound for nowhere? Amtrak too costly
Train bound for nowhere? Amtrak too costly
"Our issue here is twofold: Is the $7.3 million now spent on Amtrak the best use of dwindling financial resources for a state mired in a persistent fiscal crisis; and who is using the train to Chicago?"
"Our issue here is twofold: Is the $7.3 million now spent on Amtrak the best use of dwindling financial resources for a state mired in a persistent fiscal crisis; and who is using the train to Chicago?"
Mitch Ryder ready to roar into Bike Time festival
Mitch Ryder ready to roar into Bike Time festival
"The creator of such well-known hits as 'Devil With a Blue Dress On,' 'Jenny Take a Ride,' and ''Sock It To Me Baby,' Ryder plans to deliver his no-frills, high-energy classic-rock grooves to Muskegon's Bike Time festival 8:30 p.m. Saturday."
"The creator of such well-known hits as 'Devil With a Blue Dress On,' 'Jenny Take a Ride,' and ''Sock It To Me Baby,' Ryder plans to deliver his no-frills, high-energy classic-rock grooves to Muskegon's Bike Time festival 8:30 p.m. Saturday."
Wednesday, July 15, 2009
Michigan Budget Deficit Swells To Almost $2 Billion - CURRENT YEAR!
Michigan Budget Deficit Swells To Almost $2 Billion - CURRENT YEAR!
"But now, it appears that it will be closer to $2 billion. Boy was I way off.
With the growing deficit, it will be time once again for Granholm to kick the can, backfilling the shortfall with stimulus dollars that will evaporate in a year and a half, leaving a huge chasm for the next Governor."
"But now, it appears that it will be closer to $2 billion. Boy was I way off.
With the growing deficit, it will be time once again for Granholm to kick the can, backfilling the shortfall with stimulus dollars that will evaporate in a year and a half, leaving a huge chasm for the next Governor."
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