Hoffman 'unconcedes' in N.Y.-23 House race
"Conservative Party candidate Doug Hoffman has 'unconceded' in New York's special House election after reports that the vote margin between him and Rep. Bill Owens (D) has narrowed."
Hmmm....
Monday, November 16, 2009
Barney Frank floats loan plan for unemployed homeowners
Frank floats loan plan for unemployed homeowners:
"Rep. Barney Frank said Monday he is pushing a proposal to use some of the interest the government collects from the financial industry bailout to give loans to unemployed homeowners struggling to pay the mortgage."
"Rep. Barney Frank said Monday he is pushing a proposal to use some of the interest the government collects from the financial industry bailout to give loans to unemployed homeowners struggling to pay the mortgage."
What a great country.....but didn't we just do this a few years ago?
And didn't it NOT work?
Barney Butt strikes again!
Timothy P. White: Where Are the Doctors to Implement ObamaCare? - WSJ.com
Timothy P. White: Where Are the Doctors to Implement ObamaCare?
"A comprehensive strategy for growing the physician workforce – as well as other allied health professionals such as nurses and physicians' assistants – should be developed and supported with a federal investment at the same time health insurance is expanded to cover millions of additional people.
Without this, gaining access to prompt medical care for all patients will become even more difficult. There will be longer wait times for appointments, less face time with a physician and, in all likelihood, delayed diagnoses leading to more expensive treatment and increased risk of complications. One need only look at the experience of Massachusetts, where the adoption of universal health coverage has intensified the physician shortage."
"A comprehensive strategy for growing the physician workforce – as well as other allied health professionals such as nurses and physicians' assistants – should be developed and supported with a federal investment at the same time health insurance is expanded to cover millions of additional people.
Without this, gaining access to prompt medical care for all patients will become even more difficult. There will be longer wait times for appointments, less face time with a physician and, in all likelihood, delayed diagnoses leading to more expensive treatment and increased risk of complications. One need only look at the experience of Massachusetts, where the adoption of universal health coverage has intensified the physician shortage."
Navy Tests 32-Megajoule Railgun
Navy Tests 32-Megajoule Railgun
"The Navy’s eventual goal is a ship-mounted railgun that can fire a projectile more than 200 miles at speeds of more than 8,000 feet per second.
Context: The Navy’s current MK 45 five-inch gun has a range of just 20 miles.
The Navy hopes to have a prototype ready sometime between 2016 and 2018."
"The Navy’s eventual goal is a ship-mounted railgun that can fire a projectile more than 200 miles at speeds of more than 8,000 feet per second.
Context: The Navy’s current MK 45 five-inch gun has a range of just 20 miles.
The Navy hopes to have a prototype ready sometime between 2016 and 2018."
This is interesting!
Read about this "rail" gun.
Very nifty for us to have it and not the bad guys..... don't tell BarryO......
Investors.com - The Most Sinister Of Motives
Investors.com - The Most Sinister Of Motives: "The Most Sinister Of Motives
Posted 11/13/2009 07:54 PM ET
Geopolitics: Why would China give uranium to Pakistan? Why would Russia help Iran build an A-bomb? Regional balance of power plays a role, but a nuclear 9/11 could restore Moscow and Beijing as superpowers.
Think of the destabilizing effects of the 9/11 terrorist attacks. The country's fastest form of transportation was paralyzed as we picked up the pieces. Financial markets had to be closed, and when they reopened, private industry was dealt an immediate body blow.
Recession was a foregone conclusion. Business decisions had to be reconsidered, massive investments re-evaluated, new hirings postponed and layoffs expanded. Many firms folded.
Meanwhile, a nervous public wondered if the Golden Age of American dominance and prosperity was over. Was this the first of a series of attacks? Were we now so vulnerable within our own homeland that terrorism would become routine, part of the new fabric of the lives of those residing in free countries?
All of that came from the destruction of three buildings (the Twin Towers and 7 World Trade Center) and the severe damage to a fourth (the Pentagon). Several thousand died.
A nuclear version of the 9/11 attacks would destroy dozens of buildings, kill hundreds of thousands, and poison maybe millions with radiation. The Ground Zero of such an attack would not be a meeting place for prayer and remembrance, the site of a memorial monument, or a place where a new tower would rise to the skies.
The entire region would, instead, be uninhabitable, bathed in deadly cancer-causing emissions.
Would the U.S. be able to bounce back from such a catastrophe, as we did after 9/11, simply by mobilizing our forces against terrorist havens?
Perhaps. But maybe not."
Posted 11/13/2009 07:54 PM ET
Geopolitics: Why would China give uranium to Pakistan? Why would Russia help Iran build an A-bomb? Regional balance of power plays a role, but a nuclear 9/11 could restore Moscow and Beijing as superpowers.
Think of the destabilizing effects of the 9/11 terrorist attacks. The country's fastest form of transportation was paralyzed as we picked up the pieces. Financial markets had to be closed, and when they reopened, private industry was dealt an immediate body blow.
Recession was a foregone conclusion. Business decisions had to be reconsidered, massive investments re-evaluated, new hirings postponed and layoffs expanded. Many firms folded.
Meanwhile, a nervous public wondered if the Golden Age of American dominance and prosperity was over. Was this the first of a series of attacks? Were we now so vulnerable within our own homeland that terrorism would become routine, part of the new fabric of the lives of those residing in free countries?
All of that came from the destruction of three buildings (the Twin Towers and 7 World Trade Center) and the severe damage to a fourth (the Pentagon). Several thousand died.
A nuclear version of the 9/11 attacks would destroy dozens of buildings, kill hundreds of thousands, and poison maybe millions with radiation. The Ground Zero of such an attack would not be a meeting place for prayer and remembrance, the site of a memorial monument, or a place where a new tower would rise to the skies.
The entire region would, instead, be uninhabitable, bathed in deadly cancer-causing emissions.
Would the U.S. be able to bounce back from such a catastrophe, as we did after 9/11, simply by mobilizing our forces against terrorist havens?
Perhaps. But maybe not."
Editorial: Share the pain
Editorial: Share the pain
"Isn’t there any other way?
The best way to save jobs is not the tax hike ideas floated by Mayor George Heartwell and a local police union leader.
At least not yet.
Before putting that option to a skeptical public, city employees should look at sharing the pain.
Everyone, from the rank and file to those at the top, should consider modest, reasonable pay cuts to save many jobs, especially police and firefighters.
This suggestion is not made lightly or without regard to personal sacrifice.
If the state’s economy were roaring and pay rising, this wouldn’t be on the table.
But a much different — and more difficult — reality of life in Michigan now is that private-sector salaries are trending down.
Many residents have had significant pay cuts.
Many others are out of work.
In dire times, it is reasonable that these same taxpayers seek pay adjustments among government workers in the name of saving jobs. Before deep layoffs occur. And before a tax hike is pursued.
Salary cuts can bring the savings needed to save jobs."
Amazing that this is from Paul Keep's GR Press.
"Isn’t there any other way?
The best way to save jobs is not the tax hike ideas floated by Mayor George Heartwell and a local police union leader.
At least not yet.
Before putting that option to a skeptical public, city employees should look at sharing the pain.
Everyone, from the rank and file to those at the top, should consider modest, reasonable pay cuts to save many jobs, especially police and firefighters.
This suggestion is not made lightly or without regard to personal sacrifice.
If the state’s economy were roaring and pay rising, this wouldn’t be on the table.
But a much different — and more difficult — reality of life in Michigan now is that private-sector salaries are trending down.
Many residents have had significant pay cuts.
Many others are out of work.
In dire times, it is reasonable that these same taxpayers seek pay adjustments among government workers in the name of saving jobs. Before deep layoffs occur. And before a tax hike is pursued.
Salary cuts can bring the savings needed to save jobs."
Amazing that this is from Paul Keep's GR Press.
Health insurance customers face big premium increases
Health insurance customers face big premium increases
"With open enrollment season in full swing, seniors and privately insured workers should expect to shell out more next year for their health coverage, as many employers face double-digit increases in their insurance costs.
To offset this rising expense, some employers will pass all or part of the cost increases onto workers through larger paycheck deductions. For some workers, that could mean as much as a 50 percent increase in their monthly payroll deductions for health care, insurance experts say."
"With open enrollment season in full swing, seniors and privately insured workers should expect to shell out more next year for their health coverage, as many employers face double-digit increases in their insurance costs.
To offset this rising expense, some employers will pass all or part of the cost increases onto workers through larger paycheck deductions. For some workers, that could mean as much as a 50 percent increase in their monthly payroll deductions for health care, insurance experts say."
10 Strangest Obituaries
10 Strangest Obituaries
"Jim Adams, didn't die the way he wanted: which was to be run over by a beer truck on the way to the liquor store to buy booze for a date… (Link)"
"Jim Adams, didn't die the way he wanted: which was to be run over by a beer truck on the way to the liquor store to buy booze for a date… (Link)"
Billions for state, but where are jobs? deux
Billions for state, but where are jobs?
"The analysis also found:
• Three of every four stimulus grants, contracts and loans approved in Michigan created or retained one job or less.
• Fewer than 700 awards had received some money, and nearly half of those -- 327 -- had created one job or less, at a cost per job of $2.7 million.
• Some job estimates were wrong: General Motors Co., for instance, reported 105 jobs saved or created for a government purchase of 5,000 vehicles but later said no jobs were saved or created.
The City of Detroit reported 342 jobs it now says were projections -- not jobs already created or retained.
Peter Morici, a University of Maryland economist, said the results suggest the stimulus won't deliver promised results.'
All those claims,' he said, 'are ridiculous.'"
"The analysis also found:
• Three of every four stimulus grants, contracts and loans approved in Michigan created or retained one job or less.
• Fewer than 700 awards had received some money, and nearly half of those -- 327 -- had created one job or less, at a cost per job of $2.7 million.
• Some job estimates were wrong: General Motors Co., for instance, reported 105 jobs saved or created for a government purchase of 5,000 vehicles but later said no jobs were saved or created.
The City of Detroit reported 342 jobs it now says were projections -- not jobs already created or retained.
Peter Morici, a University of Maryland economist, said the results suggest the stimulus won't deliver promised results.'
All those claims,' he said, 'are ridiculous.'"
Billions for state, but where are jobs?
Billions for state, but where are jobs?
"Seven months into the massive federal stimulus program, the vast majority of government grants, contracts and loans in Michigan so far have created or retained virtually no jobs, a Free Press analysis shows"
"Seven months into the massive federal stimulus program, the vast majority of government grants, contracts and loans in Michigan so far have created or retained virtually no jobs, a Free Press analysis shows"
Sunday, November 15, 2009
Pittsburgh eyes students' wallets
Pittsburgh eyes students' wallets
"Pittsburgh wants to tax one of its most abundant resources: students.
The city is home to seven colleges and universities, and though their real estate is tax-exempt, their tuition isn't, says Mayor Luke Ravenstahl, who plans to impose a 1% tax on tuition as part of his budget for 2010."
..... "they're not paying a dime for any city services they might receive," Ravenstahl says.....
"He calls it a fair share tax....
If Pittsburgh succeeds in becoming the first city to tax its students, other cities will follow, says Terry Hartle of the American Council on Education, a lobbying group for universities. "It's a new and untapped potential source of revenue," he says.
This just might bring the college crowd into the tea party mode.
"Pittsburgh wants to tax one of its most abundant resources: students.
The city is home to seven colleges and universities, and though their real estate is tax-exempt, their tuition isn't, says Mayor Luke Ravenstahl, who plans to impose a 1% tax on tuition as part of his budget for 2010."
..... "they're not paying a dime for any city services they might receive," Ravenstahl says.....
"He calls it a fair share tax....
If Pittsburgh succeeds in becoming the first city to tax its students, other cities will follow, says Terry Hartle of the American Council on Education, a lobbying group for universities. "It's a new and untapped potential source of revenue," he says.
This just might bring the college crowd into the tea party mode.
Feds ignored Medicare scam warnings for years
Feds ignored Medicare scam warnings for years
"For three years, the federal agency in charge of preventing Medicare fraud repeatedly ignored internal watchdog warnings about swindlers stealing millions of dollars by scamming several programs, documents show.
The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services received roughly 30 warnings from inspectors over three years - mostly under the Bush administration"
"For three years, the federal agency in charge of preventing Medicare fraud repeatedly ignored internal watchdog warnings about swindlers stealing millions of dollars by scamming several programs, documents show.
The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services received roughly 30 warnings from inspectors over three years - mostly under the Bush administration"
Govt: Medicare paid $47 billion in suspect claims
Govt: Medicare paid $47 billion in suspect claims
"The government paid more than $47 billion in questionable Medicare claims including medical treatment showing little relation to a patient's condition, wasting taxpayer dollars at a rate nearly three times the previous year."
"The government paid more than $47 billion in questionable Medicare claims including medical treatment showing little relation to a patient's condition, wasting taxpayer dollars at a rate nearly three times the previous year."
USGS Release: 3 to 4.3 Billion Barrels of Technically Recoverable Oil Assessed in North Dakota and Montana’s Bakken Formation—25 Times More Than 1995 Estimate— (4/10/2008 2:25:36 PM)
USGS Release: 3 to 4.3 Billion Barrels of Technically Recoverable Oil Assessed in North Dakota and Montana’s Bakken Formation—25 Times More Than 1995 Estimate
North Dakota and Montana have an estimated 3.0 to 4.3 billion barrels of undiscovered, technically recoverable oil in an area known as the Bakken Formation.A U.S. Geological Survey assessment, released April 10, shows a 25-fold increase in the amount of oil that can be recovered compared to the agency's 1995 estimate of 151 million barrels of oil."
But the Obama administration has declared fossil fuels, and nuclear, off limits.
So this is a big "never mind".
Is that OK with you?!!!!!!
North Dakota and Montana have an estimated 3.0 to 4.3 billion barrels of undiscovered, technically recoverable oil in an area known as the Bakken Formation.A U.S. Geological Survey assessment, released April 10, shows a 25-fold increase in the amount of oil that can be recovered compared to the agency's 1995 estimate of 151 million barrels of oil."
But the Obama administration has declared fossil fuels, and nuclear, off limits.
So this is a big "never mind".
Is that OK with you?!!!!!!
Judge Napolitano: Is Government-Run Health Care Constitutional?
Judge Napolitano: Is Government-Run Health Care Constitutional?
"Nope. I've laid out Article 1, Section 8 along with the 10th amendment many times on this blog.
Here is Napolitano discussing exactly those:"
click to see the video
"Nope. I've laid out Article 1, Section 8 along with the 10th amendment many times on this blog.
Here is Napolitano discussing exactly those:"
click to see the video
All your auto shows are belong to us
All your auto shows are belong to us: Federal officials clamor for passes to auto show
"Federal officals are now pawing to get tickets to the North American International Auto Show in Detroit."
"Federal officals are now pawing to get tickets to the North American International Auto Show in Detroit."
oregon sandcastles competition
What stops mass murderers? A gun
What stops mass murderers? A gun
"On Nov. 6, America found reason to honor another brave civilian police officer, as Maj. Nidal Malik Hasan, a U.S. army psychiatrist about to be deployed to Afghanistan, reportedly shouted 'Allahu Akbar!' and opened fire at a soldier readiness facility in Fort Hood, Texas, killing 13 people and wounding 28.
.......Hasan reportedly had fired more than 100 rounds, requiring him to change handgun magazines several times -- Sgt. Todd said Hasan was reloading again when he shot the suspect.
Why didn't any of the hundreds of Army personnel in the room shoot back, ending his killing spree far sooner?
Because they couldn't.
Among President Bill Clinton's first acts upon taking office in 1993 'was to disarm U.S. soldiers on military bases..
"On Nov. 6, America found reason to honor another brave civilian police officer, as Maj. Nidal Malik Hasan, a U.S. army psychiatrist about to be deployed to Afghanistan, reportedly shouted 'Allahu Akbar!' and opened fire at a soldier readiness facility in Fort Hood, Texas, killing 13 people and wounding 28.
.......Hasan reportedly had fired more than 100 rounds, requiring him to change handgun magazines several times -- Sgt. Todd said Hasan was reloading again when he shot the suspect.
Why didn't any of the hundreds of Army personnel in the room shoot back, ending his killing spree far sooner?
Because they couldn't.
Among President Bill Clinton's first acts upon taking office in 1993 'was to disarm U.S. soldiers on military bases..
Obamanomics does the impossible
Obamanomics does the impossible
"The upside of a falling dollar is that it makes our exports cheaper to foreigners — so we sell more stuff — and a falling dollar makes their products more expensive, so we buy less stuff.
This helps the trade deficit, right?
Not this time.
“Instead, the nation’s trade deficit rose in September by the largest percentage in a decade as U.S. exports grew for the fifth straight month, but imports rose faster, a government report showed Friday.
That trend is likely to continue until the middle of next year, economists said,” the Associated Press reported.
Obamanomics.
It’s as if it were designed by someone who cannot figure out Turbo Tax"
"The upside of a falling dollar is that it makes our exports cheaper to foreigners — so we sell more stuff — and a falling dollar makes their products more expensive, so we buy less stuff.
This helps the trade deficit, right?
Not this time.
“Instead, the nation’s trade deficit rose in September by the largest percentage in a decade as U.S. exports grew for the fifth straight month, but imports rose faster, a government report showed Friday.
That trend is likely to continue until the middle of next year, economists said,” the Associated Press reported.
Obamanomics.
It’s as if it were designed by someone who cannot figure out Turbo Tax"
Saturday, November 14, 2009
Seth Lipsky: Our 'Constitutional Moment'
Seth Lipsky: Our 'Constitutional Moment'
"Right now, we're at a moment where we're not going to be able to turn to either the Congress or the executive branch for help on this.' He believes 'the only defense now, the only tool we have now, is the Constitution.
That's why I call it a constitutional moment, as opposed to a political moment.'"
"Right now, we're at a moment where we're not going to be able to turn to either the Congress or the executive branch for help on this.' He believes 'the only defense now, the only tool we have now, is the Constitution.
That's why I call it a constitutional moment, as opposed to a political moment.'"
Thomas Hudner and Jesse Brown
Thomas Hudner and Jesse Brown
'I think I may have been hit.
I've lost my oil pressure and I'm going to have to go in.'"
“Where do we get such men?
They leave this ship and they do their job.
Then they must find this speck lost somewhere on the sea. When they find it, they have to land on its pitching deck. Where do we get such men?"
Rear Admiral George Tarrant in “The Bridges at Toko-Ri”
Holder's Hidden Agenda
Holder's Hidden Agenda
Let's take stock of where we are at this point. KSM and his confederates wanted to plead guilty and have their martyrs' execution last December, when they were being handled by military commission.
As I said at the time, we could and should have accommodated them.
The Obama administration could still accommodate them.
After all, the president has not pulled the plug on all military commissions: Holder is going to announce at least one commission trial (for Nashiri, the Cole bomber) today.
Moreover, KSM has no defense.
He was under American indictment for terrorism for years before there ever was a 9/11, and he can't help himself but brag about the atrocities he and his fellow barbarians have carried out.
So: We are now going to have a trial that never had to happen for defendants who have no defense.
And when defendants have no defense for their own actions, there is only one thing for their lawyers to do: put the government on trial in hopes of getting the jury (and the media) spun up over government errors, abuses and incompetence.
That is what is going to happen in the trial of KSM et al.
It will be a soapbox for al-Qaeda's case against America.
Since that will be their "defense," the defendants will demand every bit of information they can get about interrogations, renditions, secret prisons, undercover operations targeting Muslims and mosques, etc., and — depending on what judge catches the case — they are likely to be given a lot of it.
The administration will be able to claim that the judge, not the administration, is responsible for the exposure of our defense secrets.
And the circus will be played out for all to see — in the middle of the war.
It will provide endless fodder for the transnational Left to press its case that actions taken in America's defense are violations of international law that must be addressed by foreign courts.
And the intelligence bounty will make our enemies more efficient at killing us.
This "president" and his anti-American comrades might be more effective in destroying our country than al-Qaeda itself.
Let's take stock of where we are at this point. KSM and his confederates wanted to plead guilty and have their martyrs' execution last December, when they were being handled by military commission.
As I said at the time, we could and should have accommodated them.
The Obama administration could still accommodate them.
After all, the president has not pulled the plug on all military commissions: Holder is going to announce at least one commission trial (for Nashiri, the Cole bomber) today.
Moreover, KSM has no defense.
He was under American indictment for terrorism for years before there ever was a 9/11, and he can't help himself but brag about the atrocities he and his fellow barbarians have carried out.
So: We are now going to have a trial that never had to happen for defendants who have no defense.
And when defendants have no defense for their own actions, there is only one thing for their lawyers to do: put the government on trial in hopes of getting the jury (and the media) spun up over government errors, abuses and incompetence.
That is what is going to happen in the trial of KSM et al.
It will be a soapbox for al-Qaeda's case against America.
Since that will be their "defense," the defendants will demand every bit of information they can get about interrogations, renditions, secret prisons, undercover operations targeting Muslims and mosques, etc., and — depending on what judge catches the case — they are likely to be given a lot of it.
The administration will be able to claim that the judge, not the administration, is responsible for the exposure of our defense secrets.
And the circus will be played out for all to see — in the middle of the war.
It will provide endless fodder for the transnational Left to press its case that actions taken in America's defense are violations of international law that must be addressed by foreign courts.
And the intelligence bounty will make our enemies more efficient at killing us.
This "president" and his anti-American comrades might be more effective in destroying our country than al-Qaeda itself.
Why is this man bowing?
Why is this man bowing?
"Obama has now done it again. Andrew Malcolm asks (and reports):
('How low will he go? Obama gives Japan's Emperor Akihito a wow bow.')
Obama's breach of protocol is of a piece with the substance of his foreign policy.
He means to teach Americans to bow before monarchs and tyrants."
"Obama has now done it again. Andrew Malcolm asks (and reports):
('How low will he go? Obama gives Japan's Emperor Akihito a wow bow.')
Obama's breach of protocol is of a piece with the substance of his foreign policy.
He means to teach Americans to bow before monarchs and tyrants."
Don’t-Miss Video: Incredible Look at U.S. Airways Flight 1549
Don’t-Miss Video: Incredible Look at U.S. Airways Flight 1549
"We’ve seen a lot of simulations of U.S. Airways Flight 1549 going into the Hudson River, but a new video painstakingly compiled by an engineer offers the most comprehensive and compelling look yet at the airliner’s short but incredible flight"
"We’ve seen a lot of simulations of U.S. Airways Flight 1549 going into the Hudson River, but a new video painstakingly compiled by an engineer offers the most comprehensive and compelling look yet at the airliner’s short but incredible flight"
Friday, November 13, 2009
WHO IS JOHN GALT?
WHO IS JOHN GALT?
"October deficit bigger than expected; revenues down 18%.
“What better way to kick off Barack Obama’s first full budget year as President than with a deficit that exceeded the White House’s own projections as well as analysts’ expectations?
The federal government busted the budget worse than last October by $20 billion with a deficit of $176.36 billion for the month.
That used to be considered a decent deficit target … for an entire year.”"
"October deficit bigger than expected; revenues down 18%.
“What better way to kick off Barack Obama’s first full budget year as President than with a deficit that exceeded the White House’s own projections as well as analysts’ expectations?
The federal government busted the budget worse than last October by $20 billion with a deficit of $176.36 billion for the month.
That used to be considered a decent deficit target … for an entire year.”"
Navy Wins Diversity Award Topping Leading Companies
Navy Wins Diversity Award Topping Leading Companies
"Navy Region Southwest was awarded the President's Award for Diversity in the large business category from the league during an awards luncheon Oct. 29.
The award honors businesses for maximizing opportunities for minorities in San Diego County.
Chief of Naval Operations Adm. Gary Roughead has pointed out his goal to see the Navy designated a top 50 employer.
Ray King, president and chief executive officer of the San Diego Urban League, said the Navy in San Diego is helping the CNO realize this goal."
Diversity is our strength....right?
Is that what the US Navy is all about?
Do we have enough Islamists yet?
"Navy Region Southwest was awarded the President's Award for Diversity in the large business category from the league during an awards luncheon Oct. 29.
The award honors businesses for maximizing opportunities for minorities in San Diego County.
Chief of Naval Operations Adm. Gary Roughead has pointed out his goal to see the Navy designated a top 50 employer.
Ray King, president and chief executive officer of the San Diego Urban League, said the Navy in San Diego is helping the CNO realize this goal."
Diversity is our strength....right?
Is that what the US Navy is all about?
Do we have enough Islamists yet?
Muslims Bombing Muslims
Muslims Bombing Muslims
"In this case the rich nation doing the shelling and bombing and building the fence is Saudi Arabia.
The poor side of the fence would be Yemen, and the rebels are insurgents in the Yemeni civil war that have moved into Saudi territory.
According to AP, 175,000 have been displaced, and rebels are claiming the Saudis are randomly bombing, including residential areas."
No frowny faced Perky Katie or her MSM comrades to be seen anywhere........what a surprise!
"In this case the rich nation doing the shelling and bombing and building the fence is Saudi Arabia.
The poor side of the fence would be Yemen, and the rebels are insurgents in the Yemeni civil war that have moved into Saudi territory.
According to AP, 175,000 have been displaced, and rebels are claiming the Saudis are randomly bombing, including residential areas."
No frowny faced Perky Katie or her MSM comrades to be seen anywhere........what a surprise!
N.C. principal leaves after cash-for-grades flap
N.C. principal leaves after cash-for-grades flap
"A North Carolina principal is retiring after school district leaders halted a cash-for-grades fundraiser she approved."
A follow up and a rare nibblet of good news on the government controlled education front.
"A North Carolina principal is retiring after school district leaders halted a cash-for-grades fundraiser she approved."
A follow up and a rare nibblet of good news on the government controlled education front.
How Comparative Effectiveness Can Cost You Your Life
How Comparative Effectiveness Can Cost You Your Life
"The phrase “Comparative Effectiveness” is becoming increasingly in vogue among Obama health care advocates. So, it’s important to note that it actually amounts to little more than a euphemism for health care rationing."
So the English majors have taken over the country and "euphemism" is the new national narcotic.
Great.....
"The phrase “Comparative Effectiveness” is becoming increasingly in vogue among Obama health care advocates. So, it’s important to note that it actually amounts to little more than a euphemism for health care rationing."
So the English majors have taken over the country and "euphemism" is the new national narcotic.
Great.....
Federal Deficit Hits October Record of $176 Billion
Federal Deficit Hits October Record of $176 Billion
"The rising deficit has caused some concerns in Asia, where President Obama is set to start a weeklong trip."
When communist China, bankrupt Japan and the rest of the mostly corrupt asian countries are worried about the economic stability of America... shouldn't that also worry us here in the USA?
"The rising deficit has caused some concerns in Asia, where President Obama is set to start a weeklong trip."
When communist China, bankrupt Japan and the rest of the mostly corrupt asian countries are worried about the economic stability of America... shouldn't that also worry us here in the USA?
Top Republican says White House hiding info on Fort Hood - The Hill's Blog Briefing Room
Top Republican says White House hiding info on Fort Hood
"Rep. Pete Hoekstra (Mich.) said administration officials delayed briefing members of Congress about the alleged gunman, raising 'red flags' about what the White House was hiding.
'When they withhold information, you always start asking questions,' Hoekstra told Fox News.
'That's what raises red flags.
What do they know that they don't want us to know?'"
Go get 'em Pete!
"Rep. Pete Hoekstra (Mich.) said administration officials delayed briefing members of Congress about the alleged gunman, raising 'red flags' about what the White House was hiding.
'When they withhold information, you always start asking questions,' Hoekstra told Fox News.
'That's what raises red flags.
What do they know that they don't want us to know?'"
Go get 'em Pete!
Army says morale down among troops in Afghanistan
Taken at Veterans Day ceremonies at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.
Imagine you're in the military, at war.......and your boss is Barry Hussein.....
Deficit doubles for government pension insurer
Deficit doubles for government pension insurer
"experts warn that the PBGC's mounting shortfall eventually could require a taxpayer bailout."
"experts warn that the PBGC's mounting shortfall eventually could require a taxpayer bailout."
Shooter advised Obama transition
Shooter advised Obama transition
"Maj. Nidal Malik Hasan, the alleged shooter in yesterday's massacre at Fort Hood, played a homeland security advisory role in President Barack Obama's transition into the White House, according to a key university policy institute document."
"Maj. Nidal Malik Hasan, the alleged shooter in yesterday's massacre at Fort Hood, played a homeland security advisory role in President Barack Obama's transition into the White House, according to a key university policy institute document."
Chavez's policies go from bad to worse
Chavez's policies go from bad to worse
"It's come to this in Hugo Chávez's Venezuela: The president is pleading with people to save water by limiting their daily cleansing routine to a 3-minute ``communist shower.''
Really. This is just the latest indication of how badly Mr. Chávez continues to mismanage the economy of energy-rich Venezuela, which should be one of the most prosperous nations in the world to judge from its vast hydrocarbon reserves.
Instead of offering Venezuela's 27 million people a better life, Mr. Chávez ``Bolivarian socialism'' has squandered the nation's wealth on military armament, populist schemes and the creation of a patronage state, a prescription for ruin and misery."
"It's come to this in Hugo Chávez's Venezuela: The president is pleading with people to save water by limiting their daily cleansing routine to a 3-minute ``communist shower.''
Really. This is just the latest indication of how badly Mr. Chávez continues to mismanage the economy of energy-rich Venezuela, which should be one of the most prosperous nations in the world to judge from its vast hydrocarbon reserves.
Instead of offering Venezuela's 27 million people a better life, Mr. Chávez ``Bolivarian socialism'' has squandered the nation's wealth on military armament, populist schemes and the creation of a patronage state, a prescription for ruin and misery."
Thursday, November 12, 2009
Tales Of Woe No Excuse For Mass Murder
Tales Of Woe No Excuse For Mass Murder
"It certainly was a surprise to the mainstream media, which spent the weekend after the Fort Hood massacre downplaying Nidal Hasan's religious beliefs.
'I cringe that he's a Muslim. ... I think he's probably just a nut case,' said Newsweek's Evan Thomas. Some were more adamant. Time's Joe Klein decried 'odious attempts by Jewish extremists . .. to argue that the massacre perpetrated by Nidal Hasan was somehow a direct consequence of his Islamic beliefs.'"
"It certainly was a surprise to the mainstream media, which spent the weekend after the Fort Hood massacre downplaying Nidal Hasan's religious beliefs.
'I cringe that he's a Muslim. ... I think he's probably just a nut case,' said Newsweek's Evan Thomas. Some were more adamant. Time's Joe Klein decried 'odious attempts by Jewish extremists . .. to argue that the massacre perpetrated by Nidal Hasan was somehow a direct consequence of his Islamic beliefs.'"
DADT Likely to Be Part of Defense Bill
DADT Likely to Be Part of Defense Bill
"Repealing “don’t ask, don’t tell” will likely be included as part of next year’s Department of Defense authorization bill in both chambers of Congress, Congressman Barney Frank, a Massachusetts Democrat, said Wednesday.
“Military issues are always done as part of the overall authorization bill,” Frank said, insisting that this has been the strategy for overturning the policy all along.
'Don’t ask, don’t tell' was always going to be part of the military"
"Repealing “don’t ask, don’t tell” will likely be included as part of next year’s Department of Defense authorization bill in both chambers of Congress, Congressman Barney Frank, a Massachusetts Democrat, said Wednesday.
“Military issues are always done as part of the overall authorization bill,” Frank said, insisting that this has been the strategy for overturning the policy all along.
'Don’t ask, don’t tell' was always going to be part of the military"
100+% Implicit Marginal Tax Rates Will Create Permanent Democratic Majority
100+% Implicit Marginal Tax Rates Will Create Permanent Democratic Majority
"A permanent, Democratic-voting majority living off government benefits with no way out.
It really is that bad, and this really is a once-in-a-lifetime chance for the Democrats to achieve a permanent, economically-enslaved majority."
A little complicated but this is a MUST read.
"A permanent, Democratic-voting majority living off government benefits with no way out.
It really is that bad, and this really is a once-in-a-lifetime chance for the Democrats to achieve a permanent, economically-enslaved majority."
A little complicated but this is a MUST read.
Report: 10 states face looming budget disasters
Report: 10 states face looming budget disasters
Michigan, where two of the Detroit Three automakers filed for bankruptcy protection this year, continues to offer tax incentives even as they take a toll on the state's pocketbook, leading to declining tax revenue.
According to the Pew study, Michigan offered $6.3 billion more in total tax exemptions, credits and deductions than it actually collected in taxes in 2008."
Michigan, where two of the Detroit Three automakers filed for bankruptcy protection this year, continues to offer tax incentives even as they take a toll on the state's pocketbook, leading to declining tax revenue.
According to the Pew study, Michigan offered $6.3 billion more in total tax exemptions, credits and deductions than it actually collected in taxes in 2008."
The Swine Flu Boogeyman
The Swine Flu Boogeyman
"What Schuchat didn't say is that, as tragic as any child's death always is, in this case they merely represent a disproportionately larger slice of a very small pie.
Very few people are dying of swine flu in any age category.
Put another way, it's not that younger people are being slammed but that older ones are catching a break."
"What Schuchat didn't say is that, as tragic as any child's death always is, in this case they merely represent a disproportionately larger slice of a very small pie.
Very few people are dying of swine flu in any age category.
Put another way, it's not that younger people are being slammed but that older ones are catching a break."
Not all happy with new road commissioner
Not all happy with new road commissioner
"Derezinski claims Mahoney favored DeWolf because of DeWolf’s ties to the United Auto Workers and the Democratic Party. He said DeWolf and the UAW played a key role in financing many Democratic candidates over the years, giving DeWolf an edge over other applicants for the road commission seat.
Even though he is a Democrat, Derezinski said he does not want to play politics with such appointments, especially at a time when township supervisors are demanding better communication with the road commission. Derezinski represents Egelston and Muskegon townships.
“This is party politics at its worst,” Derezinski said. “It’s the good-old-boys’ system, and I don’t want any part of it."
"Derezinski claims Mahoney favored DeWolf because of DeWolf’s ties to the United Auto Workers and the Democratic Party. He said DeWolf and the UAW played a key role in financing many Democratic candidates over the years, giving DeWolf an edge over other applicants for the road commission seat.
Even though he is a Democrat, Derezinski said he does not want to play politics with such appointments, especially at a time when township supervisors are demanding better communication with the road commission. Derezinski represents Egelston and Muskegon townships.
“This is party politics at its worst,” Derezinski said. “It’s the good-old-boys’ system, and I don’t want any part of it."
Cannibal who ate his mum jailed
Cannibal who ate his mum jailed
"A Russian man who killed and ate parts of his mother has been given a reduced sentence because he was starving and needed to eat.
Sergey Gavrilov, 27, was handed a lighter jail term of 14 years and three months after he confessed to eating his mother's body but said he did not enjoy it, the Daily Mail newspaper reports.
'I did not like the meat very much ... it was too fatty but I was so hungry I had to eat it,' the newspaper quoted him as telling a Russian court.
Gavrilov told the court he had no money to buy food after spending it all on alcohol and gambling machines.
When his 55-year-old mother Lyubov refused to lend him more money for alcohol he hit her over the head with a brick and strangled her with an electrical cable.
Gavrilov then put her body outside on the balcony of the family unit where it froze."
"A Russian man who killed and ate parts of his mother has been given a reduced sentence because he was starving and needed to eat.
Sergey Gavrilov, 27, was handed a lighter jail term of 14 years and three months after he confessed to eating his mother's body but said he did not enjoy it, the Daily Mail newspaper reports.
'I did not like the meat very much ... it was too fatty but I was so hungry I had to eat it,' the newspaper quoted him as telling a Russian court.
Gavrilov told the court he had no money to buy food after spending it all on alcohol and gambling machines.
When his 55-year-old mother Lyubov refused to lend him more money for alcohol he hit her over the head with a brick and strangled her with an electrical cable.
Gavrilov then put her body outside on the balcony of the family unit where it froze."
The Late Movies: Dogs Welcoming Home Soldiers
Dogs Welcoming Home Soldiers
These reunion videos—for me, at least—shed a tiny beam of light on how emotionally draining being a military family can be.
They’ll also make you want a dog.
To commemorate Veterans Day, here are some overjoyed dogs greeting returning soldiers.
See them all!
And make sure you see the last one.
Not doggie, but even better!
These reunion videos—for me, at least—shed a tiny beam of light on how emotionally draining being a military family can be.
They’ll also make you want a dog.
To commemorate Veterans Day, here are some overjoyed dogs greeting returning soldiers.
See them all!
And make sure you see the last one.
Not doggie, but even better!
What's wrong with this picture?
What's wrong with this picture?
"The First Lady, a woman widely acclaimed for her fashion sense in the courtier media, has no common sense at all when it comes to respecting a solemn occasion.
Apparently, nobody among her score of personal aides in the White House had the gumption to tell her she was about to make a fool of herself at the Veterans Day memorial."
"The First Lady, a woman widely acclaimed for her fashion sense in the courtier media, has no common sense at all when it comes to respecting a solemn occasion.
Apparently, nobody among her score of personal aides in the White House had the gumption to tell her she was about to make a fool of herself at the Veterans Day memorial."
Just send your $7,000
Just send your $7,000
"Fellow citizens of Illinois, Gov. Pat Quinn, legislators: Welcome to yet another public pension fiasco.
Yet another festival of denial.
Because in one obscure and maddening moment last week, every one of us slipped closer to burying our children and grandchildren -- unless they flee the state -- in still more debt by the billions."
"Fellow citizens of Illinois, Gov. Pat Quinn, legislators: Welcome to yet another public pension fiasco.
Yet another festival of denial.
Because in one obscure and maddening moment last week, every one of us slipped closer to burying our children and grandchildren -- unless they flee the state -- in still more debt by the billions."
CUNY's got math problem: Report shows many freshmen from city HS fail at basic algebra
CUNY's got math problem: Report shows many freshmen from city HS fail at basic algebra
"During their first math class at one of CUNY's four-year colleges, 90% of 200 students tested couldn't solve a simple algebra problem, the report by the CUNY Council of Math Chairs found.
Only a third could convert a fraction into a decimal."
"During their first math class at one of CUNY's four-year colleges, 90% of 200 students tested couldn't solve a simple algebra problem, the report by the CUNY Council of Math Chairs found.
Only a third could convert a fraction into a decimal."
Dressed to Kill
Dressed to Kill
Of Berets and Turbans The Blog home page Another Piece of Evidence in the Fort Hood Case »
Tarek Fatah writes in the Ottawa Citizen:
No one seemed to notice the significance of the attire that Maj. Nidal Hasan was wearing the morning of the killings. It was captured on a store surveillance video where he bought a coffee....
Hasan was wearing the 'shalwar-kameez,' the traditional attire worn by Pashtuns on both sides of the Pakistan-Afghan border....I have lived a decade in the Arab world and not once did I see an Arab wearing the shalwar-kameez.
There is one particular group of Arabs who did embrace the garb of the Pashtuns - those who went to Afghanistan to wage jihad alongside al-Qaeda and the Taliban.
This guy was walking around a U.S. military installation dressed like Osama bin Laden and nobody said anything, yet the Army is being accused of intolerance and anti-Muslim bias. To repeat, according to Tarek Fatah, Hasan was not merely dressed in traditional Arab garb--he dressed in the traditional garb of al Qaeda terrorists."
Of Berets and Turbans The Blog home page Another Piece of Evidence in the Fort Hood Case »
Tarek Fatah writes in the Ottawa Citizen:
No one seemed to notice the significance of the attire that Maj. Nidal Hasan was wearing the morning of the killings. It was captured on a store surveillance video where he bought a coffee....
Hasan was wearing the 'shalwar-kameez,' the traditional attire worn by Pashtuns on both sides of the Pakistan-Afghan border....I have lived a decade in the Arab world and not once did I see an Arab wearing the shalwar-kameez.
There is one particular group of Arabs who did embrace the garb of the Pashtuns - those who went to Afghanistan to wage jihad alongside al-Qaeda and the Taliban.
This guy was walking around a U.S. military installation dressed like Osama bin Laden and nobody said anything, yet the Army is being accused of intolerance and anti-Muslim bias. To repeat, according to Tarek Fatah, Hasan was not merely dressed in traditional Arab garb--he dressed in the traditional garb of al Qaeda terrorists."
DeMint tries to ban 'permanent politicians'
DeMint tries to ban 'permanent politicians'
"Sen. Jim DeMint says Washington politicians are like fruit on the vine: the longer they hang around, the more rotten they get.
The South Carolina Republican - hearkening back to the days of the party's 'Contract with America' - on Tuesday offered a fix to the corrupting influence of 'permanent politicians,' introducing an amendment to the Constitution that would limit Senate members to three six-year terms and House members to three two-year terms."
"Sen. Jim DeMint says Washington politicians are like fruit on the vine: the longer they hang around, the more rotten they get.
The South Carolina Republican - hearkening back to the days of the party's 'Contract with America' - on Tuesday offered a fix to the corrupting influence of 'permanent politicians,' introducing an amendment to the Constitution that would limit Senate members to three six-year terms and House members to three two-year terms."
Detroit pension trustees take flight on funds' tab
Detroit pension trustees take flight on funds' tab
"The trustees who oversee Detroit's two public pensions, their lawyers and staff spent $380,000 over the past year circling the globe to attend conferences -- often traveling in packs, with virtually no limitation on where they went or how often they traveled."
"The trustees who oversee Detroit's two public pensions, their lawyers and staff spent $380,000 over the past year circling the globe to attend conferences -- often traveling in packs, with virtually no limitation on where they went or how often they traveled."
Wednesday, November 11, 2009
Daily Presidential Tracking Poll - Rasmussen Reports™
Daily Presidential Tracking Poll - Rasmussen Reports™
"Overall, 46% of voters say they at least somewhat approve of the President's performance.
Fifty-three percent (53%) disapprove."
"Overall, 46% of voters say they at least somewhat approve of the President's performance.
Fifty-three percent (53%) disapprove."
Meals on Wheels cuts may endanger elderly
Meals on Wheels cuts may endanger elderly
The woman’s son was pacing back and forth, looking at Lisa Roosien with helpless frustration.
His mother weighed just 87 pounds after dementia and a lack of nutritional resources had driven her into a dangerous spiral of weight loss in recent months.
He looked to Roosien, a registered dietitian at AgeWell Services, as a lifeline.
Times were tough and money was tight — his mother needed assistance.
“What do I do?” he asked.
At any other time, Roosien could have set the woman up with a Meals on Wheels plan where volunteers would check on her daily and bring warm food right to her home.
But recent state funding cuts have AgeWell Services in a tough place, she said.
Her hands were tied"
The woman’s son was pacing back and forth, looking at Lisa Roosien with helpless frustration.
His mother weighed just 87 pounds after dementia and a lack of nutritional resources had driven her into a dangerous spiral of weight loss in recent months.
He looked to Roosien, a registered dietitian at AgeWell Services, as a lifeline.
Times were tough and money was tight — his mother needed assistance.
“What do I do?” he asked.
At any other time, Roosien could have set the woman up with a Meals on Wheels plan where volunteers would check on her daily and bring warm food right to her home.
But recent state funding cuts have AgeWell Services in a tough place, she said.
Her hands were tied"
Time to raise taxes in Grand Rapids? With police, firefighter layoffs ahead, some say yes
Time to raise taxes in Grand Rapids? With police, firefighter layoffs ahead, some say yes
"City Manager Gregory Sundstrom’s announcement he will lay off 125 city employees — including 44 police officers and 25 firefighters — is giving birth to a push to raise city taxes not seen in 15 years"
"City Manager Gregory Sundstrom’s announcement he will lay off 125 city employees — including 44 police officers and 25 firefighters — is giving birth to a push to raise city taxes not seen in 15 years"
The Man Who Despises America
The Man Who Despises America: "Barack Obama despises America.
When people who voted for Obama in 2008 -- including registered Democrats -- start speaking in normal conversational voices at dinner parties, neighborhood gatherings and PTA meetings that the over-inflated ego from Chicago has it 'in for America,' then it's clear most reasonable people have reached the same conclusion.
The central conviction of Obama's ideology is that America is guilty of limitless moral failures and is the chief architect of the world's ills.
Obama has boundless enmity for America, its key institutions, and its longtime allies."
When people who voted for Obama in 2008 -- including registered Democrats -- start speaking in normal conversational voices at dinner parties, neighborhood gatherings and PTA meetings that the over-inflated ego from Chicago has it 'in for America,' then it's clear most reasonable people have reached the same conclusion.
The central conviction of Obama's ideology is that America is guilty of limitless moral failures and is the chief architect of the world's ills.
Obama has boundless enmity for America, its key institutions, and its longtime allies."
Is China headed toward collapse?
Is China headed toward collapse?
"But there’s a growing group of market professionals who see a different picture altogether.
These self-styled China bears take the less popular view: that the much-vaunted Chinese economic miracle is nothing but a paper dragon.
In fact, they argue that the Chinese have dangerously overheated their economy, building malls, luxury stores and infrastructure for which there is almost no demand, and that the entire system is teetering toward collapse"
"But there’s a growing group of market professionals who see a different picture altogether.
These self-styled China bears take the less popular view: that the much-vaunted Chinese economic miracle is nothing but a paper dragon.
In fact, they argue that the Chinese have dangerously overheated their economy, building malls, luxury stores and infrastructure for which there is almost no demand, and that the entire system is teetering toward collapse"
Muskegon may 'nudge' more students toward college
Muskegon may 'nudge' more students toward college
"Students at Muskegon High School would have to apply for college or other continuing education in order to graduate under a plan proposed by school administrators.
The proposed graduation policy, which would take effect with this year’s seniors, states that the requirement is the result of an economy that “demands highly skilled workers who have further education beyond high school.”
The district also would require that in order to graduate, students must take the Michigan Merit Exam, which includes the ACT college entrance exam. The MME is administered by school districts to high school juniors"
They're "graduating" kids who can't wright a sentence, add 3 numbers in their head and now those fools demand this.
Gimme a break!
"Students at Muskegon High School would have to apply for college or other continuing education in order to graduate under a plan proposed by school administrators.
The proposed graduation policy, which would take effect with this year’s seniors, states that the requirement is the result of an economy that “demands highly skilled workers who have further education beyond high school.”
The district also would require that in order to graduate, students must take the Michigan Merit Exam, which includes the ACT college entrance exam. The MME is administered by school districts to high school juniors"
They're "graduating" kids who can't wright a sentence, add 3 numbers in their head and now those fools demand this.
Gimme a break!
Thank you former President George W. Bush and former First Lady Laura Bush
Thank you former President George W. Bush and former First Lady Laura Bush
"As we will always be grateful for what George and Laura Bush did this week, with no media attention, when they very quietly went to Ft. Hood and met personally with the families of the victims of this terrorist attack.
FOR HOURS.
The Bushes went and met privately with these families for HOURS, hugging them, holding them, comforting them."
"As we will always be grateful for what George and Laura Bush did this week, with no media attention, when they very quietly went to Ft. Hood and met personally with the families of the victims of this terrorist attack.
FOR HOURS.
The Bushes went and met privately with these families for HOURS, hugging them, holding them, comforting them."
Why will the unemployment extension payments take so long to receive in Michigan?
Why will the unemployment extension payments take so long to receive in Michigan?
"But many are also asking:
Why the big delay in receiving extension payments?"
It's run by the feds and Jenny?
Serious "duh" here.
"But many are also asking:
Why the big delay in receiving extension payments?"
It's run by the feds and Jenny?
Serious "duh" here.
FORT HOOD’S GUN-FREE ZONE.
FORT HOOD’S GUN-FREE ZONE.
“Neither Smith nor the other victims of Hasan’s assault had guns because soldiers on military bases within the United States generally are not supposed to carry them.
Last week’s shootings, which killed 13 people and wounded more than 30, demonstrated once again the folly of ‘gun-free zones,’ which attract and assist people bent on mass murder instead of deterring them.”"
“Neither Smith nor the other victims of Hasan’s assault had guns because soldiers on military bases within the United States generally are not supposed to carry them.
Last week’s shootings, which killed 13 people and wounded more than 30, demonstrated once again the folly of ‘gun-free zones,’ which attract and assist people bent on mass murder instead of deterring them.”"
For $20, kids can buy a better grade
For $20, kids can buy a better grade
"Selling candy didn't raise much money last year, so a Goldsboro middle school is selling grades.
A $20 donation to Rosewood Middle School will get a student 20 test points - 10 extra points on two tests of the student's choosing.
That could raise a B to an A, or a failing grade to a D."
Alms for the teachers?
"Selling candy didn't raise much money last year, so a Goldsboro middle school is selling grades.
A $20 donation to Rosewood Middle School will get a student 20 test points - 10 extra points on two tests of the student's choosing.
That could raise a B to an A, or a failing grade to a D."
Alms for the teachers?
ObamaCare endorsements: What the bribe was
ObamaCare endorsements: What the bribe was
"· The AARP got a financial windfall in return for its support of the healthcare bill.
Over the past decade, the AARP has morphed from an advocacy group to an insurance company (through its subsidiary company).
It is one of the main suppliers of Medi-gap insurance, a high-cost, privately purchased coverage that picks up where Medicare leaves off.
But President Bush-43 passed the Medicare Advantage program, which offered a subsidized, lower-cost alternative to Medi-gap.
Under Medicare Advantage, the elderly get all the extra coverage they need plus coordinated, well-managed care, usually by the same physician.
So more than 10 million seniors went with Medicare Advantage, cutting into AARP Medi-gap revenues.
Presto!
Obama solved their problem.
He eliminates subsidies for Medicare Advantage.
The elderly will have to pay more for coverage under Medigap, but the AARP — which supposedly represents them — will make more money.
(If this galls you, join the American Seniors Association, the alternative group; contact sbarton@americanseniors.org)
When will the people see this "man" for what he really is?
"· The AARP got a financial windfall in return for its support of the healthcare bill.
Over the past decade, the AARP has morphed from an advocacy group to an insurance company (through its subsidiary company).
It is one of the main suppliers of Medi-gap insurance, a high-cost, privately purchased coverage that picks up where Medicare leaves off.
But President Bush-43 passed the Medicare Advantage program, which offered a subsidized, lower-cost alternative to Medi-gap.
Under Medicare Advantage, the elderly get all the extra coverage they need plus coordinated, well-managed care, usually by the same physician.
So more than 10 million seniors went with Medicare Advantage, cutting into AARP Medi-gap revenues.
Presto!
Obama solved their problem.
He eliminates subsidies for Medicare Advantage.
The elderly will have to pay more for coverage under Medigap, but the AARP — which supposedly represents them — will make more money.
(If this galls you, join the American Seniors Association, the alternative group; contact sbarton@americanseniors.org)
When will the people see this "man" for what he really is?
Employer-Provided Medicine Is Completely Illogical
Employer-Provided Medicine Is Completely Illogical
"Two simple observations are key to explaining both the high level of spending on medical care and the dissatisfaction with that spending.
The first is that most payments to physicians or hospitals or other caregivers for medical care are made not by the patient but by a third party—an insurance company or employer or governmental body.
The second is that nobody spends somebody else’s money as wisely or as frugally as he spends his own."
"Two simple observations are key to explaining both the high level of spending on medical care and the dissatisfaction with that spending.
The first is that most payments to physicians or hospitals or other caregivers for medical care are made not by the patient but by a third party—an insurance company or employer or governmental body.
The second is that nobody spends somebody else’s money as wisely or as frugally as he spends his own."
Sometimes, an extremist really is an extremist
Sometimes, an extremist really is an extremist
"If we act as if 'Islam is the problem,' we will guarantee that Islam will become the problem."
"If we act as if 'Islam is the problem,' we will guarantee that Islam will become the problem."
A Pittance of Time - Terry Kelly
Remember our living military veterans today.
Give thanks to those who we are so lucky to know and love!
"On November 11, 1999 Terry Kelly was in a Shoppers Drug Mart store in Dartmouth, Nova Scotia. At 10:55 AM an announcement came over the store's PA asking customers who would still be on the premises at 11:00 AM to give two minutes of silence in respect to the veterans who have sacrificed so much for us.
Terry was impressed with the store's leadership role in adopting the Legion's "two minutes of silence" initiative. He felt that the store's contribution of educating the public to the importance of remembering was commendable.
When eleven o'clock arrived on that day, an announcement was again made asking for the "two minutes of silence" to commence. All customers, with the exception of a man who was accompanied by his young child, showed their respect.
Terry's anger towards the father for trying to engage the store's clerk in conversation and for setting a bad example for his child was later channeled into a beautiful piece of work called, "A Pittance of Time". Terry later recorded "A Pittance of Time" and included it on his full-length music CD, "The Power of the Dream".
Tuesday, November 10, 2009
U.S. announces one-on-one talks with North Korea
U.S. announces one-on-one talks with North Korea
"U.S. officials will soon meet unilaterally with North Korean representatives to facilitate the resumption of talks on ending North Korea's nuclear program, State Department spokesman P.J. Crowley said Tuesday."
What perfect timing for pre-Veteran's Day!
"U.S. officials will soon meet unilaterally with North Korean representatives to facilitate the resumption of talks on ending North Korea's nuclear program, State Department spokesman P.J. Crowley said Tuesday."
What perfect timing for pre-Veteran's Day!
Happy 234th Birthday to the Marines
Happy 234th Birthday to the Marines
"Earlier this year as I was filling up at the gas station I noticed a faded bumper sticker- vintage Bush 43-on the car next to me: “Dissent is Patriotic.”
When I pointed to the bumper and asked the driver if she still believed that, she suggested I do something to myself which I am certain is physically impossible.
I just laughed and said, “I’ll take that as a no.”
At the time, our Marine son and his men were deployed to a remote Forward Operating Base in Afghanistan."
"Earlier this year as I was filling up at the gas station I noticed a faded bumper sticker- vintage Bush 43-on the car next to me: “Dissent is Patriotic.”
When I pointed to the bumper and asked the driver if she still believed that, she suggested I do something to myself which I am certain is physically impossible.
I just laughed and said, “I’ll take that as a no.”
At the time, our Marine son and his men were deployed to a remote Forward Operating Base in Afghanistan."
...In AMERICAN PATRIOT by Robert Coram, Medal of Honor recipient Colonel Bud Day is quoted as saying:
“It is not a widely known fact, but military people are weepers.
They weep when they watch a parade and the flag goes by.
They weep when they hear the National Anthem.
They weep at tales of valor and sacrifice.”
When I read that, a sense of relief washed over me.
If maybe the most valiant man I ever met can weep then I guess it’s okay for me to admit shedding a tear.
I’ve shot guys and never flinched but tales of valor and the sacrifices I have seen by my military heroes and their families choke me up every time.
I wonder if the woman at Shell ever cries and if so, for whom or for what?"
Please read this entire ....gift to all of us.
Please read this entire ....gift to all of us.
DC sniper Muhammad executed for 2002 attacks
DC sniper Muhammad executed for 2002 attacks
"John Allen Muhammad, the mastermind of the sniper attacks that terrorized the nation's capital region for three weeks in October 2002, was executed Tuesday. Muhammad died by injection at 9:11 p.m. at Greensville Correctional Center in Jarratt,"
Oh, happy day!
"John Allen Muhammad, the mastermind of the sniper attacks that terrorized the nation's capital region for three weeks in October 2002, was executed Tuesday. Muhammad died by injection at 9:11 p.m. at Greensville Correctional Center in Jarratt,"
Oh, happy day!
United announces Muskegon-Chicago flight schedule
United announces Muskegon-Chicago flight schedule
"Longtime air-service provider Delta Airlines will cease flights between Muskegon and Detroit on Feb. 10, the same day United takes over."
Doesn't that mean Delta will no longer service MKG?
"Longtime air-service provider Delta Airlines will cease flights between Muskegon and Detroit on Feb. 10, the same day United takes over."
Doesn't that mean Delta will no longer service MKG?
Fruitport Township wants to study water alternatives
Fruitport Township wants to study water alternatives
"Fruitport Township officials took the first step Monday night that could pave the way for the township to eventually leave the Muskegon Heights water system, amid a long-running dispute over operation of the system."
Is Norton Shores gonna leave too?
"Fruitport Township officials took the first step Monday night that could pave the way for the township to eventually leave the Muskegon Heights water system, amid a long-running dispute over operation of the system."
Is Norton Shores gonna leave too?
How do you mark the Berlin Wall coming down without including Reagan? “Well, NBC …
How do you mark the Berlin Wall coming down without including Reagan?
“Well, NBC News shows us how, and, as a bonus, manages to include Hillary Clinton in the report, twice.”
Related item here."
Another example of the joys of government controlled media.
This trend is really getting scary!
“Well, NBC News shows us how, and, as a bonus, manages to include Hillary Clinton in the report, twice.”
Related item here."
Another example of the joys of government controlled media.
This trend is really getting scary!
New Hampshire Will Bailout Failing Newspaper
New Hampshire Will Bailout Failing Newspaper
"The state of New Hampshire last week agreed to guarantee 75 percent of a $250,000 loan from an Upper Valley bank to the new owner of the Eagle Times, an unusual deal because it involves a daily newspaper and the government it covers."
Here it comes!
Government controlled AND guaranteed media.
Adolf, Joseph and Mao would be proud.......
"The state of New Hampshire last week agreed to guarantee 75 percent of a $250,000 loan from an Upper Valley bank to the new owner of the Eagle Times, an unusual deal because it involves a daily newspaper and the government it covers."
Here it comes!
Government controlled AND guaranteed media.
Adolf, Joseph and Mao would be proud.......
Is Social Security a savings account or a Ponzi scheme?
Is Social Security a savings account or a Ponzi scheme?
"Social Security works by transferring income of a younger generation to an older generation. So in that sense, it is a lot more like a Ponzi scheme in which earlier investors are paid returns off the investments of newer investors.
.....But, like a Ponzi scheme, Social Security does have a simple and fatal flaw: If there aren’t enough new participants in the system, there won’t be enough to support those receiving payoffs.
With the retirement of the baby-boom generation starting next year, the demographic structure of the U.S. population will slowly force Social Security to topple.
There simply won’t be enough workers to support those receiving benefits.
We will need to fix the system soon, or in 30 years Social Security will no longer be solvent."
This columnist suggests that even though it's a ponzi scheme, it's OK cause lot's of old folks made out like bandits.
gimme a break!
"Social Security works by transferring income of a younger generation to an older generation. So in that sense, it is a lot more like a Ponzi scheme in which earlier investors are paid returns off the investments of newer investors.
.....But, like a Ponzi scheme, Social Security does have a simple and fatal flaw: If there aren’t enough new participants in the system, there won’t be enough to support those receiving payoffs.
With the retirement of the baby-boom generation starting next year, the demographic structure of the U.S. population will slowly force Social Security to topple.
There simply won’t be enough workers to support those receiving benefits.
We will need to fix the system soon, or in 30 years Social Security will no longer be solvent."
This columnist suggests that even though it's a ponzi scheme, it's OK cause lot's of old folks made out like bandits.
gimme a break!
Interview with the President: Jail Time for Those without Health Care Insurance?
Interview with the President: Jail Time for Those without Health Care Insurance?
"During an exclusive interview with ABC News’ Jake Tapper today, President Obama said that penalties are appropriate for people who try to “free ride” the health care system but stopped short of endorsing the threat of jail time for those who refuse to pay a fine for not having insurance.
“What I think is appropriate is that in the same way that everybody has to get auto insurance and if you don't, you're subject to some penalty, that in this situation, if you have the ability to buy insurance, it's affordable and you choose not to do so, forcing you and me and everybody else to subsidize you, you know, there's a thousand dollar hidden tax that families all across America are -- are burdened by because of the fact that people don't have health insurance, you know, there's nothing wrong with a penalty.”"
What about the "free ride" 10s of millions of citizens and NON-CITIZENS already get?
What a dufuss.
"During an exclusive interview with ABC News’ Jake Tapper today, President Obama said that penalties are appropriate for people who try to “free ride” the health care system but stopped short of endorsing the threat of jail time for those who refuse to pay a fine for not having insurance.
“What I think is appropriate is that in the same way that everybody has to get auto insurance and if you don't, you're subject to some penalty, that in this situation, if you have the ability to buy insurance, it's affordable and you choose not to do so, forcing you and me and everybody else to subsidize you, you know, there's a thousand dollar hidden tax that families all across America are -- are burdened by because of the fact that people don't have health insurance, you know, there's nothing wrong with a penalty.”"
What about the "free ride" 10s of millions of citizens and NON-CITIZENS already get?
What a dufuss.
Golf balls: 'Humanity's signature litter'
Golf balls: 'Humanity's signature litter'
"Research teams at the Danish Golf Union have discovered it takes between 100 to 1,000 years for a golf ball to decompose naturally"
"Research teams at the Danish Golf Union have discovered it takes between 100 to 1,000 years for a golf ball to decompose naturally"
The New Tammany Hall
The New Tammany Hal
"A fantastic - and frankly scary - piece appeared in the Weekly Standard a month ago by Fred Siegel & Dan DiSalvo with this title and subtitle:
The New Tammany Hall
Public sector unions have become a labor aristocracy--and they are bankrupting states and municipalities.
The authors write that public sector employee unions have enjoyed a lot of political victories at the state and local level:
'Indeed, they are the one group, besides Goldman Sachs executives, that's done well during the current Great Recession.
Public sector unions have become political powerhouses in New York, New Jersey, Washington, California, and a host of other states.'"
"A fantastic - and frankly scary - piece appeared in the Weekly Standard a month ago by Fred Siegel & Dan DiSalvo with this title and subtitle:
The New Tammany Hall
Public sector unions have become a labor aristocracy--and they are bankrupting states and municipalities.
The authors write that public sector employee unions have enjoyed a lot of political victories at the state and local level:
'Indeed, they are the one group, besides Goldman Sachs executives, that's done well during the current Great Recession.
Public sector unions have become political powerhouses in New York, New Jersey, Washington, California, and a host of other states.'"
Paterson: NYS Will Be Broke In 4 1/2 Weeks If Cuts Aren't Made Immediately
Paterson: NYS Will Be Broke In 4 1/2 Weeks If Cuts Aren't Made Immediately
"Governor David Paterson called an unusual joint session of the Legislature Monday to implore recalcitrant lawmakers to close the state's huge budget gap before New York runs out of money."
"Governor David Paterson called an unusual joint session of the Legislature Monday to implore recalcitrant lawmakers to close the state's huge budget gap before New York runs out of money."
Monday, November 09, 2009
First-time-homebuyer credit draws fraudulent claims
First-time-homebuyer credit draws fraudulent claims
"U.S. Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration J. Russell George told a panel of the U.S. House of Representatives late last month that more than 19,000 people filed 2008 tax returns claiming the tax credit for homes they had not yet purchased."
This is a surprise?
"U.S. Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration J. Russell George told a panel of the U.S. House of Representatives late last month that more than 19,000 people filed 2008 tax returns claiming the tax credit for homes they had not yet purchased."
This is a surprise?
Government's bailout strategy driving up unemployment - says TARP oversight chair Elizabeth Warren
theblogprof: Government's bailout strategy driving up unemployment - says TARP oversight chair Elizabeth Warren
"And even more ironically, this was shown on MSNBC of all places:"
"And even more ironically, this was shown on MSNBC of all places:"
Montague moves playoff football game to Holton
Montague moves playoff football game to Holton
Montague has moved its Saturday 1 p.m. (last week) playoff game to the artificial field turf stadium at Holton.
Montague (10-0), which is hosting Sanford-Meridian in a Division 6 district championship game, moved the game because of poor field conditions at its stadium."
Kids played football for a century on muddy fields.
Is this new "sensitivity" really a ploy to get voters ready for a new artificial turf stadium.......yep!
Montague has moved its Saturday 1 p.m. (last week) playoff game to the artificial field turf stadium at Holton.
Montague (10-0), which is hosting Sanford-Meridian in a Division 6 district championship game, moved the game because of poor field conditions at its stadium."
Kids played football for a century on muddy fields.
Is this new "sensitivity" really a ploy to get voters ready for a new artificial turf stadium.......yep!
Why you can't get swine-flu vaccine
Why you can't get swine-flu vaccine
"the US government set out to have the H1N1 vaccine produced largely in single-dose syringes -- a demand that has set back production considerably, because multidose vials are far easier to make.
And the only reason to seek single-dose production was to please people needlessly worried about the preservative thimerasol, which is used to provide multiple doses of the vaccine. The fear -- utterly groundless and repeatedly debunked is that thimerasol can cause autism and other neurological disorders in infants and other young children.
If not for that decision, we'd have more than enough vaccine.
Instead, because the government yielded to pressure from antivaccine fringe groups, we're behind the curve on protecting millions of children from swine flu."
"the US government set out to have the H1N1 vaccine produced largely in single-dose syringes -- a demand that has set back production considerably, because multidose vials are far easier to make.
And the only reason to seek single-dose production was to please people needlessly worried about the preservative thimerasol, which is used to provide multiple doses of the vaccine. The fear -- utterly groundless and repeatedly debunked is that thimerasol can cause autism and other neurological disorders in infants and other young children.
If not for that decision, we'd have more than enough vaccine.
Instead, because the government yielded to pressure from antivaccine fringe groups, we're behind the curve on protecting millions of children from swine flu."
Will the United States Default on Its Debt?
Will the United States Default on Its Debt?
"I suggested that the unthinkable had become thinkable: some advanced society—say, the United States, Spain, Italy, Japan, or Great Britain—might someday default on its government debt.
It wouldn't pay its creditors all they were owed or wouldn't pay them on time.
Just a few days later, and completely coincidentally, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) issued a report that, without saying so, added credence to this unsettling hypothesis"
The table below shows government debt in relation to a country's gross domestic product (GDP), which is the output of its economy. The first column shows the debt-to-GDP ratio for 2007, the last pre-crisis year; the second column gives the IMF's projection for 2014. (Debt reflects government borrowing to cover annual budget deficits.) By this standard measure, many rapidly growing emerging-market countries are less indebted than wealthier nations.
General Government Debt to GDP
COUNTRY 2007 2014
BRAZIL 67% 59%
CANADA 64% 69%
CHINA 20% 20%
FRANCE 64% 96%
GERMANY 63% 89%
INDIA 81% 79%
ITALY 104% 129%
JAPAN 188% 246%
SOUTH KOREA 30% 35%
MEXICO 38% 44%
UNITED KINGDOM 44% 98%
UNITED STATES 62% 108%
"I suggested that the unthinkable had become thinkable: some advanced society—say, the United States, Spain, Italy, Japan, or Great Britain—might someday default on its government debt.
It wouldn't pay its creditors all they were owed or wouldn't pay them on time.
Just a few days later, and completely coincidentally, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) issued a report that, without saying so, added credence to this unsettling hypothesis"
The table below shows government debt in relation to a country's gross domestic product (GDP), which is the output of its economy. The first column shows the debt-to-GDP ratio for 2007, the last pre-crisis year; the second column gives the IMF's projection for 2014. (Debt reflects government borrowing to cover annual budget deficits.) By this standard measure, many rapidly growing emerging-market countries are less indebted than wealthier nations.
General Government Debt to GDP
COUNTRY 2007 2014
BRAZIL 67% 59%
CANADA 64% 69%
CHINA 20% 20%
FRANCE 64% 96%
GERMANY 63% 89%
INDIA 81% 79%
ITALY 104% 129%
JAPAN 188% 246%
SOUTH KOREA 30% 35%
MEXICO 38% 44%
UNITED KINGDOM 44% 98%
UNITED STATES 62% 108%
Fee increase from 21 cents a ton to $7.50 a ton proposed for trash dumping in Michigan
Fee increase from 21 cents a ton to $7.50 a ton proposed for trash dumping in Michigan to encourage recycling
"Some legislators in Michigan want to increase solid waste disposal fees from 21 cents to $7.50 a ton to encourage recycling."
oh...and it would also be a $145 MILLION tax increase on Michigan residents.....and oh, it's another ALL DEMOCRAT political scam.
"Some legislators in Michigan want to increase solid waste disposal fees from 21 cents to $7.50 a ton to encourage recycling."
oh...and it would also be a $145 MILLION tax increase on Michigan residents.....and oh, it's another ALL DEMOCRAT political scam.
Will the United States Default on Its Debt?
Will the United States Default on Its Debt?
"In my latest NEWSWEEK column, I suggested that the unthinkable had become thinkable: some advanced society—say, the United States, Spain, Italy, Japan, or Great Britain—might someday default on its government debt."
"In my latest NEWSWEEK column, I suggested that the unthinkable had become thinkable: some advanced society—say, the United States, Spain, Italy, Japan, or Great Britain—might someday default on its government debt."
Sunday, November 08, 2009
No new talks scheduled in Philly transit strike
No new talks scheduled in Philly transit strike
"Commuters in the City of Brotherly Love have been told to gear up to begin a second week of finding other ways to work following the collapse of a proposed deal to end a six-day-old strike by about 5,000 bus drivers, subway and trolley conductors and mechanics."
This is what you get with government mandated commuter-care.
"Commuters in the City of Brotherly Love have been told to gear up to begin a second week of finding other ways to work following the collapse of a proposed deal to end a six-day-old strike by about 5,000 bus drivers, subway and trolley conductors and mechanics."
This is what you get with government mandated commuter-care.
MSU fans, meet Ashton Legget
MSU fans, meet Ashton Leggett
"Two weeks ago, Michigan State running back Ashton Leggett was on the scout team, buried beneath a host of ballcarriers on the depth chart.
Flash forward to the Spartans' 49-14 win over Western Michigan, when Leggett emerged for 110 yards and four touchdowns on 14 rushing attempts - including a 71-yard scoring run the first time he touched the ball."
Muskegon HS grad!
"Two weeks ago, Michigan State running back Ashton Leggett was on the scout team, buried beneath a host of ballcarriers on the depth chart.
Flash forward to the Spartans' 49-14 win over Western Michigan, when Leggett emerged for 110 yards and four touchdowns on 14 rushing attempts - including a 71-yard scoring run the first time he touched the ball."
Muskegon HS grad!
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