I am deeply troubled. The Cash for Clunkers program is nothing less than invasive, illegal, and totalitarian. I give what has been discovered about the Cash for Clunkers program 24 hours to become a national news sensation. If not, I am going to do two things:
1. Scream.
2. Post a blog.
Friday, July 31, 2009
My Race Begins
I am hoping that by the end of the week I will have accomplished two things:
1. Have a campaign website up.
2. Have the petition forms needed to get me on the ballot.
By the end of August I am hoping to have the following accomplished:
1. Have the minimum 150 signatures to be on the Bangor ballot in November.
2. Spoken publicly with other candidates on at least two occassions.
3. Have my college preparations complete.
My daily plan this week is to prepare my walk through Bangor. Now, I will post on twitter when I can, which will be before and after I go on my door-to-door campaign. This will allow people to know when I am out walking so they can come talk with me and we can discuss issues in a more in depth manner.
You have no idea how weird this is for me. Most of my life I have critisized politicians for saying the things I am saying but once your in that position it comes like a genuine instict. I am writing this part of things down so I remember this feeling and make certain it stays genuine. I really mean what I am saying.
1. Have a campaign website up.
2. Have the petition forms needed to get me on the ballot.
By the end of August I am hoping to have the following accomplished:
1. Have the minimum 150 signatures to be on the Bangor ballot in November.
2. Spoken publicly with other candidates on at least two occassions.
3. Have my college preparations complete.
My daily plan this week is to prepare my walk through Bangor. Now, I will post on twitter when I can, which will be before and after I go on my door-to-door campaign. This will allow people to know when I am out walking so they can come talk with me and we can discuss issues in a more in depth manner.
You have no idea how weird this is for me. Most of my life I have critisized politicians for saying the things I am saying but once your in that position it comes like a genuine instict. I am writing this part of things down so I remember this feeling and make certain it stays genuine. I really mean what I am saying.
The Races - Oh Forget It
Paul LePage is going to run for governor. Or not, we will find out in a month.
Running To City Hall
You all know I'm running for Bangor City Council, well soon I will have a campaign website up and running. I will have the link when it is finished, but here is where you come in. I have reviewed other candidates websites, and although my attempt is through a free website and some knowledge of coding, I'd like to have you compare its quality to others. Yes, I will bring you into the fold and allow you a guest appearance (the random guest appearance approach isn't working, so I'll give you a target) and you can review my campaign website. Post a comment below if your going to be involved, or send me an e-mail.
Twitter - The New Frontier
Twitter. This simple website had created a frenzy, helped stage an attempted political revolution in Iran, and has mired the communication of humanity into 140 characters. The White House has breached the defenses of twitter and now has other famous political identities like Jay-Z speaking on their behalf. Its immense quality of net speak combined with the shortness of a night with Stan from the Golden Girls, twitter truly leaves speedy yet catchy number of phrases in the minds of those reading the tweets of millions.
Slogans of politicians, advertisements by businesses, updates by health authorities along with the rally cries of millions of video gaming addicted 13 year olds expressing themselves the only way they know how (virtually) display the immense knowledge and creativity of the global populace. With messages like "wut b ur pbm mn, go tok a reef" to "Maine is boring" a buffet of exposure to new and wonderful things in the world is now within grasp of anyone with a two hundred dollar electric bill, a five hundred dollar computer, with a twenty dollar internet access, and an evolved mind capable of comprehending the messages.
Twitter is truly the newest frontier of humanity. The internet has been taken to a universal jump with twitter. A jump which, when entered, is frightening. The millions of users sending messages at lightspeed communicate in a global highway you are suddenly standing in the middle of. Moving from a universe where thousands of chirps moved by at stunningly slow email speeds to this new million-message-collaboration of humanity can be an experience that will leave you staggering like a victim of Bubba. Yet no amount of Presidential "Sud" Summits one may enter, the initial shock lasts not for long. Soon you are hitch-hiking for a way home, and once picked up, you are on the highway forever.
Your initial screams are no more than tweets. The importance of pain is lost in the beauty of instantly heard, and instantly forgotten communication. You know everyone is watching, and at the same time you know that everyone is twittering themselves into the universe. The focus constantly shifting may leave some ignored, but they continue to tweet addicted to the chance of something they lack outside of the inescapable highway: social interaction.
Being here is a wonderous moment and also a curse. Yet twitter makes that curse disappear and leaves only the friendship of acronyms and a keyboard as necessary. It provides a new voice in a new universe. This is why I have crossed into the world of twitter. I entered, got on a bus, and have yet to see reason to pull the brake line. However, I was faced with a massive mountainous obstacle. There were many titles and positions of power that were removed entirely by this new universe. We all were equal. Our value determined by the number of our tweets. Names meant nothing, and yet they distiguished us from our fellow insta-socialites. What would I call myself?
What would a name mean if it was not valued by anything other than a passing judgement in a highway of millions? Why call myself anything at all? The message said it was required. So a new approach had to be taken.
Could this be a chance to bring something from the old world into the new? I was losing hold of my former memories as the new information was taking the place of my worthless real life knowledge. I had already prepared the information of breathing and liver function to the recycling bin of my CPU. Shipments of friends and family were on their way. Was my name among that? It certainly had to be. Who you were was defined by your former human self by who you seperated yourself from. My thoughts raced the dump trucks to the incinerator that was my heart. They arrived too late. In fact the trucks had made two other trips before my army of reduced thoughts arrived (they got bottle-necked in a pile up at the cereberal cortex). The only thing left coming was the remaining knowledge of the internet. Something had to be saved.
Preserving the knowledge of the internet served two purposes. One, find some manner of identifying myself. Second, in the event of a maintainence roadblock on the tweeting highway there would be some escape possible. Withdrawal could be starved with distractions on youtube or the ignoring of messages on myspace and facebook from friends you knew no more. Arriving, the title of a blog was one of the sole virtual creations of my former self. A name was chosen. A name was found. A name, for twitter, to be communicated with, was determined. The world could now tweet me as well as hear my equal yet different tweet. That name was: @rhkinc
--My Twitter-Addicted Future Approach To Blogging (should I get addicted)--
I am now on twitter. I'm confused as to why only 140. I suppose it will challenge me to ramble less and say more. Luckily, more in depth approaches will still be here, but my rambling (see http://rhkinc.blogspot.com/2009/07/donna-dion-running-with-three-pdf-pages.html ) faces the risk of forming a more adjective-less form.
If you wish to follow the shortened version of me with some extras of humor and piontless displays of distraction thrown in, you can tweet away at me @rhkinc .
Slogans of politicians, advertisements by businesses, updates by health authorities along with the rally cries of millions of video gaming addicted 13 year olds expressing themselves the only way they know how (virtually) display the immense knowledge and creativity of the global populace. With messages like "wut b ur pbm mn, go tok a reef" to "Maine is boring" a buffet of exposure to new and wonderful things in the world is now within grasp of anyone with a two hundred dollar electric bill, a five hundred dollar computer, with a twenty dollar internet access, and an evolved mind capable of comprehending the messages.
Twitter is truly the newest frontier of humanity. The internet has been taken to a universal jump with twitter. A jump which, when entered, is frightening. The millions of users sending messages at lightspeed communicate in a global highway you are suddenly standing in the middle of. Moving from a universe where thousands of chirps moved by at stunningly slow email speeds to this new million-message-collaboration of humanity can be an experience that will leave you staggering like a victim of Bubba. Yet no amount of Presidential "Sud" Summits one may enter, the initial shock lasts not for long. Soon you are hitch-hiking for a way home, and once picked up, you are on the highway forever.
Your initial screams are no more than tweets. The importance of pain is lost in the beauty of instantly heard, and instantly forgotten communication. You know everyone is watching, and at the same time you know that everyone is twittering themselves into the universe. The focus constantly shifting may leave some ignored, but they continue to tweet addicted to the chance of something they lack outside of the inescapable highway: social interaction.
Being here is a wonderous moment and also a curse. Yet twitter makes that curse disappear and leaves only the friendship of acronyms and a keyboard as necessary. It provides a new voice in a new universe. This is why I have crossed into the world of twitter. I entered, got on a bus, and have yet to see reason to pull the brake line. However, I was faced with a massive mountainous obstacle. There were many titles and positions of power that were removed entirely by this new universe. We all were equal. Our value determined by the number of our tweets. Names meant nothing, and yet they distiguished us from our fellow insta-socialites. What would I call myself?
What would a name mean if it was not valued by anything other than a passing judgement in a highway of millions? Why call myself anything at all? The message said it was required. So a new approach had to be taken.
Could this be a chance to bring something from the old world into the new? I was losing hold of my former memories as the new information was taking the place of my worthless real life knowledge. I had already prepared the information of breathing and liver function to the recycling bin of my CPU. Shipments of friends and family were on their way. Was my name among that? It certainly had to be. Who you were was defined by your former human self by who you seperated yourself from. My thoughts raced the dump trucks to the incinerator that was my heart. They arrived too late. In fact the trucks had made two other trips before my army of reduced thoughts arrived (they got bottle-necked in a pile up at the cereberal cortex). The only thing left coming was the remaining knowledge of the internet. Something had to be saved.
Preserving the knowledge of the internet served two purposes. One, find some manner of identifying myself. Second, in the event of a maintainence roadblock on the tweeting highway there would be some escape possible. Withdrawal could be starved with distractions on youtube or the ignoring of messages on myspace and facebook from friends you knew no more. Arriving, the title of a blog was one of the sole virtual creations of my former self. A name was chosen. A name was found. A name, for twitter, to be communicated with, was determined. The world could now tweet me as well as hear my equal yet different tweet. That name was: @rhkinc
--My Twitter-Addicted Future Approach To Blogging (should I get addicted)--
I am now on twitter. I'm confused as to why only 140. I suppose it will challenge me to ramble less and say more. Luckily, more in depth approaches will still be here, but my rambling (see http://rhkinc.blogspot.com/2009/07/donna-dion-running-with-three-pdf-pages.html ) faces the risk of forming a more adjective-less form.
If you wish to follow the shortened version of me with some extras of humor and piontless displays of distraction thrown in, you can tweet away at me @rhkinc .
Just Cruel And Creepy
I was looking on how to get this blog more following, and I went to a site with a list of ideas. One was to see what was popular on several other websites, one being reddit.com, and I went there. I clicked on the number one post, and got sent to this page about a pharmaceutical drug dealer being arrested and how my IP address had been logged and I would be subpeona'd by the FBI.
My heart is racing. I want to get out there, but not by being in the press for an FBI investigation. I hope the FBI will look at my record, read my blog, and understand.
Why that would be there is just - urg. Its annoying and cruel. Its not a good feeling to just be informed your being watched. (I'd rather they not inform the criminals, and catch them when they come to that drug store for the drug they so eagerly desire.) It is just so- I can't even describe it. I will never go to reddit.com thats for sure.
My heart is racing. I want to get out there, but not by being in the press for an FBI investigation. I hope the FBI will look at my record, read my blog, and understand.
Why that would be there is just - urg. Its annoying and cruel. Its not a good feeling to just be informed your being watched. (I'd rather they not inform the criminals, and catch them when they come to that drug store for the drug they so eagerly desire.) It is just so- I can't even describe it. I will never go to reddit.com thats for sure.
New Tax Code
I was going to present here the whole issue over the newly passed tax law in Maine. I read through probably 1/20 of the bill, and it took me an hour. I give up on that mess of BS. Just when one part makes sense, they follow it up with "alternative method" sections that are as confusing as an eternal question.
So I decided to write my own tax code. I hope common sense is turned on when you read it. Then you will understand why there are no deductions (otherwise translated as incentives). Common sense also tells you that fines for crimes and fees to register pets and so forth are not covered here.
A. Tax Code
1. Code
a.The only alterable section of this code is "c" subsection of sections "2" and "3". The alteration is only allowed by citizen referendum.
b. These taxes are to take effect at the time of currency exchange.
1. Sales Tax
a. Sales is defined as an exchange of currency for anything other than labor.
b. Labor is defined as the efforts of a person.
c. Sales Tax: 5%
2. Income Tax
a. Income is defined as the exchange of currency for labor.
b. Labor is defined as the efforts of a person.
c. Income Tax: 5%
B. Tax Code Exemption
1. Government
a. Any exchange of currency with the government as a party or observer will not be taxed.
So I decided to write my own tax code. I hope common sense is turned on when you read it. Then you will understand why there are no deductions (otherwise translated as incentives). Common sense also tells you that fines for crimes and fees to register pets and so forth are not covered here.
A. Tax Code
1. Code
a.The only alterable section of this code is "c" subsection of sections "2" and "3". The alteration is only allowed by citizen referendum.
b. These taxes are to take effect at the time of currency exchange.
1. Sales Tax
a. Sales is defined as an exchange of currency for anything other than labor.
b. Labor is defined as the efforts of a person.
c. Sales Tax: 5%
2. Income Tax
a. Income is defined as the exchange of currency for labor.
b. Labor is defined as the efforts of a person.
c. Income Tax: 5%
B. Tax Code Exemption
1. Government
a. Any exchange of currency with the government as a party or observer will not be taxed.
Cash For Confusion
The cash for clunkers program is, or isn't on its deathbed. It is, or isn't, out of money. It will, or won't, have an emergency expansion of funds for a program that may, or may not, be running on fumes. The news reports are numerous, and all of them contradictory of the one that came before it.
Good to know used car sales have the same effect on the government as it does on us.
Just think, soon we could have this level of confusion about our health care too!
Good to know used car sales have the same effect on the government as it does on us.
Just think, soon we could have this level of confusion about our health care too!
Cash For Clunkers
My initial opposition to this program has faded because indeed it has been getting car sales going. Now, to the situation at hand.
6 days, a billion dollars, and 200,000 cars at least by my figures, and the cash for clunkers program is broke. Out of cash that it, not broken. The response? Lets find more cash to throw at the program:
Stabenow, a Michigan Democrat, and other lawmakers called for an infusion of taxpayer money to subsidize more new-vehicle purchases in the effort to revive dealerships and automakers while getting older, less fuel-efficient vehicles off the road.
Excerpt over. Why am I paying for someone's new car? I demand this program be halted immediately. It is not the government's place to buy people new cars. The billion dollars isn't used up though:
The administration’s reports on clunkers applications from dealers didn’t indicate that the funds were near exhaustion. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, which is running the program, said yesterday that 22,782 vehicles worth $95.9 million had been sold.
Excerpt over. Still, why should I be the one to pay for this? Until that question is answered it should not go forward.
http://www.bloomberg.com/apps/news?pid=20601087&sid=aWKYBKED5EKI
6 days, a billion dollars, and 200,000 cars at least by my figures, and the cash for clunkers program is broke. Out of cash that it, not broken. The response? Lets find more cash to throw at the program:
Stabenow, a Michigan Democrat, and other lawmakers called for an infusion of taxpayer money to subsidize more new-vehicle purchases in the effort to revive dealerships and automakers while getting older, less fuel-efficient vehicles off the road.
Excerpt over. Why am I paying for someone's new car? I demand this program be halted immediately. It is not the government's place to buy people new cars. The billion dollars isn't used up though:
The administration’s reports on clunkers applications from dealers didn’t indicate that the funds were near exhaustion. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, which is running the program, said yesterday that 22,782 vehicles worth $95.9 million had been sold.
Excerpt over. Still, why should I be the one to pay for this? Until that question is answered it should not go forward.
http://www.bloomberg.com/apps/news?pid=20601087&sid=aWKYBKED5EKI
Human Rights Advocates
I support human rights. I was proud of the way Saddam got such excellent treatment despite his ruthless regime. Saddam did not try to escape.
In Nigeria human rights groups are calling the death of the leader of Boko Haram unlawful. This man was responsible for over three hundred deaths in a week and I am glad that he died instead of escaping to be recaptured. Human rights groups should sigh in relief that a radical was stopped before being unleashed for more mayhem.
Now, I will admit that if he was not trying to escape this was illegal and should be investigated. However, the public denouncement and almost support of Boko Haram coming from the human rights groups is appalling. BBC the following:
Several days of gun battles between militants and Nigerian security forces ensued, culminating in the assault on the militant's stronghold. Human rights groups have accused the military of excessive violence in quelling the militants.
Excerpt over. My common sense defenses are on high alert. They were in a WARZONE!!!!!!! WHAT LEVEL OF VIOLENCE IS NOT GOING TO BE REACHED IN A WARZONE?!?!?! Yes, war is bad, but WAR HAS DEATH AND VIOLENCE. When it happens, it is not excessive, it is war. The forces they were fighting wanted the overthrow of the Nigerian government. The human rights groups should be glad the overthrow failed because I doubt they would be allowed to report of any human rights abuses under Sharia.
They want to investigate the wrongful holding and possibly torture of people when it shouldn't happen? How about they head over to Greece and help release 200 Somalis herded into minibuses by the police without being told why.
Greece: http://allafrica.com/stories/200907300896.html
Based on: http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/africa/8177681.stm
In Nigeria human rights groups are calling the death of the leader of Boko Haram unlawful. This man was responsible for over three hundred deaths in a week and I am glad that he died instead of escaping to be recaptured. Human rights groups should sigh in relief that a radical was stopped before being unleashed for more mayhem.
Now, I will admit that if he was not trying to escape this was illegal and should be investigated. However, the public denouncement and almost support of Boko Haram coming from the human rights groups is appalling. BBC the following:
Several days of gun battles between militants and Nigerian security forces ensued, culminating in the assault on the militant's stronghold. Human rights groups have accused the military of excessive violence in quelling the militants.
Excerpt over. My common sense defenses are on high alert. They were in a WARZONE!!!!!!! WHAT LEVEL OF VIOLENCE IS NOT GOING TO BE REACHED IN A WARZONE?!?!?! Yes, war is bad, but WAR HAS DEATH AND VIOLENCE. When it happens, it is not excessive, it is war. The forces they were fighting wanted the overthrow of the Nigerian government. The human rights groups should be glad the overthrow failed because I doubt they would be allowed to report of any human rights abuses under Sharia.
They want to investigate the wrongful holding and possibly torture of people when it shouldn't happen? How about they head over to Greece and help release 200 Somalis herded into minibuses by the police without being told why.
Greece: http://allafrica.com/stories/200907300896.html
Based on: http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/africa/8177681.stm
Slow News Day?
Considering the often covered topic of yesterday, my ability to report was severely limited due to a lack of ethical journalism, leadership, and overall common sense.(I like to report on the short stories given three seconds and an eyebrow raise before never being heard of again on tv to get a feel of still being slightly mainstream on this blog.) So, the story they covered involved alcohol. You know what I am refering to. If you have followed this blog you know I would vote for prohibition at the ballot. Such a decision, however, I would never decide in office. Lets clarify:
I support prohibition.
I support voting.
I support voting on prohibition.
I believe that should clear up any confusion in the future. Sure, many groups will hate me for having a personal view I vow not to force on anyone else; but such is life I suppose.
I support prohibition.
I support voting.
I support voting on prohibition.
I believe that should clear up any confusion in the future. Sure, many groups will hate me for having a personal view I vow not to force on anyone else; but such is life I suppose.
My Favorite Democrat
Rosa Scarcelli is my favorite Democrat for the following reason: the first sentence on her issues page was as follows:
State government can’t create jobs, but we can create a climate for businesses to grow and expand
Excerpt over. This is why she is my favorite Democrat. Compare this to Donna Dion:
We can build from the blueprint to form a strong State structure that will carry all citizens forward to a better tomorrow.
Excerpt over. Lets clear this statement up a little:
We can build a strong State structure that will carry all citizens.
Clearing over. I'd quote other Democrats, but they have been ridiculously slow in making websites that prove they are serious about running. As a Republican it is painful to hear anyone believe the solutions to our lives problems are going to come from the government.
Sure, if I need some invading enemy nation taken care of, the government can have at it. It is the only thing the government does well.
If I need a job I want to go to a business, not a government office.
If I need to be treated for something I want to go to a hospital, not a government clinic.
If I need food I want to buy what appeals to me at a grocery store, not a government stocked bunker where what I get is determined by a rations card.
If I want clothing I want to go to a business, not a government supply center where I will be turned away if I purchased clothes already regardless of the value of my money.
If I need money I want to earn it, not be given a check in the mail for being a citizen.
Rosa Scarcelli website: http://rosaformaine.com/splash
Donna Dion: http://donnajdionforgovernor2010.com/
Steve Rowe (Note-this will be rennovated soon to be a fully operational campaign website) http://www.roweforgovernor.com/
State government can’t create jobs, but we can create a climate for businesses to grow and expand
Excerpt over. This is why she is my favorite Democrat. Compare this to Donna Dion:
We can build from the blueprint to form a strong State structure that will carry all citizens forward to a better tomorrow.
Excerpt over. Lets clear this statement up a little:
We can build a strong State structure that will carry all citizens.
Clearing over. I'd quote other Democrats, but they have been ridiculously slow in making websites that prove they are serious about running. As a Republican it is painful to hear anyone believe the solutions to our lives problems are going to come from the government.
Sure, if I need some invading enemy nation taken care of, the government can have at it. It is the only thing the government does well.
If I need a job I want to go to a business, not a government office.
If I need to be treated for something I want to go to a hospital, not a government clinic.
If I need food I want to buy what appeals to me at a grocery store, not a government stocked bunker where what I get is determined by a rations card.
If I want clothing I want to go to a business, not a government supply center where I will be turned away if I purchased clothes already regardless of the value of my money.
If I need money I want to earn it, not be given a check in the mail for being a citizen.
Rosa Scarcelli website: http://rosaformaine.com/splash
Donna Dion: http://donnajdionforgovernor2010.com/
Steve Rowe (Note-this will be rennovated soon to be a fully operational campaign website) http://www.roweforgovernor.com/
Thursday, July 30, 2009
Zelaya Intent On Violence
With his previous two week "will arrive in Honduras at any hour" situation being a failure with no massive outpouring of support and no march to the Honduran capital, a new decree has come from Zelaya. He made certain, even if it was comical, that he fulfil the previous promise that this one may have the same determination behind it. A news article quotes him:
Ousted Honduran President Manuel Zelaya says disgruntled military officers could rebel "at any moment" against the government installed in a coup.
Zelaya says he has information that some soldiers and officers are "repudiating the way in which the military leadership is directing the armed forces."
He warns young officers could rebel "at any moment" and force military chief Gen. Romeo Vasquez to restore the deposed president to power.
Excerpt over. If he makes true on this "at any moment" promise it gaurantees bloodshed. If it doesn't happen, how many more of these provokations towards a bloody resultion does the world need to stand by and watch before they realize he not the legitimate president nor is he of sound mind to be president.
From: http://www.google.com/hostednews/ap/article/ALeqM5jAkMGKIUDg_ngUiZboxQbYj5_DPwD99OQDUO0
Ousted Honduran President Manuel Zelaya says disgruntled military officers could rebel "at any moment" against the government installed in a coup.
Zelaya says he has information that some soldiers and officers are "repudiating the way in which the military leadership is directing the armed forces."
He warns young officers could rebel "at any moment" and force military chief Gen. Romeo Vasquez to restore the deposed president to power.
Excerpt over. If he makes true on this "at any moment" promise it gaurantees bloodshed. If it doesn't happen, how many more of these provokations towards a bloody resultion does the world need to stand by and watch before they realize he not the legitimate president nor is he of sound mind to be president.
From: http://www.google.com/hostednews/ap/article/ALeqM5jAkMGKIUDg_ngUiZboxQbYj5_DPwD99OQDUO0
"You Can Keep What You Have"
That was a lie. Take a look at this statement from a Democrat from Montana about the compromise bill of 900 Billion:
“C.B.O. has reviewed a draft of the health care reform bill we are currently negotiating,” he said. “Keep in mind the current draft does not include resolution of several key issues. Nevertheless, the report is encouraging. The current draft of the bill scores below $900 billion over 10 years, covers 95 percent of all Americans by 2015 and is fully offset.”
Excerpt over. So, in five and a half years, only 5% of Americans will be allowed to choose their health insurance. I wish I were joking you, but yes, Obama lied when he said the following:
First of all, no one is talking about a government takeover of the health care plan. As I was driving up, I saw some signs. You know, some folks -- folks were all riled up. You know, they're listening to certain radio programs or watching certain cable shows, and so somehow I guess they think we're just going to take over health care.
Excerpt over. Nope, I am actually annoyed by Limbaugh, and why you keep insulting the highest rated news network on tv I will never know, anyhow. I am actually, see first quote again, listening to the people who are writing the bill. In business when it gets over 50% in ownership, its a takeover. 95%? Its a monopoly.
So onward we go to Obama's lie:
If you like your health care plan, you will keep your plan.
Now, if you're one of 46 million Americans who don't have health care coverage, you'll finally be able to get quality, affordable coverage.
Lie over. Let me rephrase his statement for you:
If you like your healthcare plan, you will keep your plan until 2015.
Now, if your one of the 254 million American's who do have health care coverage, you'll finally be able to get government provided coverage.
Interpretation over. Lets compare Obama's statement to reality:
Obama: you will keep your plan.
Reality: covers 95 percent of all Americans by 2015
Comparison over. Verdict: guilty.
Do I need to say it again? I've been saying this for a while now. Obama keeps his message the same and people keep telling me they will keep their choice. I keep giving the facts, the reality. I may be going a little over the top by repeating it all the time but the truth should never be silenced.
Senator quote: http://thecaucus.blogs.nytimes.com/2009/07/29/senator-sees-good-news-in-cost-estimate-on-compromise-health-bill/?nl=pol&emc=pola1
Obama quotes: http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/07/29/AR2009072902644.html
“C.B.O. has reviewed a draft of the health care reform bill we are currently negotiating,” he said. “Keep in mind the current draft does not include resolution of several key issues. Nevertheless, the report is encouraging. The current draft of the bill scores below $900 billion over 10 years, covers 95 percent of all Americans by 2015 and is fully offset.”
Excerpt over. So, in five and a half years, only 5% of Americans will be allowed to choose their health insurance. I wish I were joking you, but yes, Obama lied when he said the following:
First of all, no one is talking about a government takeover of the health care plan. As I was driving up, I saw some signs. You know, some folks -- folks were all riled up. You know, they're listening to certain radio programs or watching certain cable shows, and so somehow I guess they think we're just going to take over health care.
Excerpt over. Nope, I am actually annoyed by Limbaugh, and why you keep insulting the highest rated news network on tv I will never know, anyhow. I am actually, see first quote again, listening to the people who are writing the bill. In business when it gets over 50% in ownership, its a takeover. 95%? Its a monopoly.
So onward we go to Obama's lie:
If you like your health care plan, you will keep your plan.
Now, if you're one of 46 million Americans who don't have health care coverage, you'll finally be able to get quality, affordable coverage.
Lie over. Let me rephrase his statement for you:
If you like your healthcare plan, you will keep your plan until 2015.
Now, if your one of the 254 million American's who do have health care coverage, you'll finally be able to get government provided coverage.
Interpretation over. Lets compare Obama's statement to reality:
Obama: you will keep your plan.
Reality: covers 95 percent of all Americans by 2015
Comparison over. Verdict: guilty.
Do I need to say it again? I've been saying this for a while now. Obama keeps his message the same and people keep telling me they will keep their choice. I keep giving the facts, the reality. I may be going a little over the top by repeating it all the time but the truth should never be silenced.
Senator quote: http://thecaucus.blogs.nytimes.com/2009/07/29/senator-sees-good-news-in-cost-estimate-on-compromise-health-bill/?nl=pol&emc=pola1
Obama quotes: http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/07/29/AR2009072902644.html
40% Unemployment - I'm Serious
I went to the government website with the numbers for our unemployment. I looked at it and the numbers they use for workers is only those seeking jobs. Here is the link:
http://www.bls.gov/news.release/empsit.nr0.htm
Now, I looked at the numbers and decided, what about all the people like myself who want a job, but know there is no chance at all of getting on? Including people like myself, unemployment is 40%. Almost half of America is not working. However, interesting side statistic, 40% of Americans don't pay taxes. I always saw that statistic as something that was true, but had to be a fluke of some sort. Now, I confirmed it. 40% of the nation isn't working, and thus doesn't pay taxes.
What does this mean? If you work, you are supporting 120 million Americans. Your a majority of people, you represent 180 million Americans.
Consider the following proposals:
Free College (Native-Americans Included) 26 Billion Annually
Universal Health Care (We Already Have It) 18 Trillion Annually
Universal Health Insurance (The Real Deal Being Proposed) See Above
Second Army (As Large And Funded As The Current Military) 500 Billion Annually
Should-be-headlines in ()
Result: 18.5 trillion more spending on a budget that is only (only, HA) 3.9 trillion.
Think about those, and think how long until your taxes, and taxes overall go up and your job is actually safe. Think about how it would feel to be among the 120 million paying the keep of 180 million Americans. Now the next time you vote, please vote responsibly.
http://www.bls.gov/news.release/empsit.nr0.htm
Now, I looked at the numbers and decided, what about all the people like myself who want a job, but know there is no chance at all of getting on? Including people like myself, unemployment is 40%. Almost half of America is not working. However, interesting side statistic, 40% of Americans don't pay taxes. I always saw that statistic as something that was true, but had to be a fluke of some sort. Now, I confirmed it. 40% of the nation isn't working, and thus doesn't pay taxes.
What does this mean? If you work, you are supporting 120 million Americans. Your a majority of people, you represent 180 million Americans.
Consider the following proposals:
Free College (Native-Americans Included) 26 Billion Annually
Universal Health Care (We Already Have It) 18 Trillion Annually
Universal Health Insurance (The Real Deal Being Proposed) See Above
Second Army (As Large And Funded As The Current Military) 500 Billion Annually
Should-be-headlines in ()
Result: 18.5 trillion more spending on a budget that is only (only, HA) 3.9 trillion.
Think about those, and think how long until your taxes, and taxes overall go up and your job is actually safe. Think about how it would feel to be among the 120 million paying the keep of 180 million Americans. Now the next time you vote, please vote responsibly.
Wednesday, July 29, 2009
The Most Partisan Blog
I've found it, and it isn't Republican or Democrat, its ..... Libertarian? Who would have thought it, although the fringe usually are passionate... anyhow back to the link.
http://delawarelibertarian.blogspot.com
This is the first part of one of their posts:
The Democrat nannies are on the loose, run amok, busting out the time-worn federal funds withholding extortion to hammer the states into compliance with their latest federal fetish to control our daily habits and activities.
There is no end to the mass control freak mentality of this ilk. What's next? Mandating cars have ignition shutoff sensors triggered by use of a mobile device inside the vehicle? Hell, why not...it all makes sense in service to sating nanny's whims so nanny can make use all feel safe and happy (and nanny's helpers bloated with traffic fine revenues, btw).
Lawmakers want ban on texting while driving
Rant over. Choose your battles wisely young Libertarian (yes, I know your older than me physically.)
http://delawarelibertarian.blogspot.com
This is the first part of one of their posts:
The Democrat nannies are on the loose, run amok, busting out the time-worn federal funds withholding extortion to hammer the states into compliance with their latest federal fetish to control our daily habits and activities.
There is no end to the mass control freak mentality of this ilk. What's next? Mandating cars have ignition shutoff sensors triggered by use of a mobile device inside the vehicle? Hell, why not...it all makes sense in service to sating nanny's whims so nanny can make use all feel safe and happy (and nanny's helpers bloated with traffic fine revenues, btw).
Lawmakers want ban on texting while driving
Rant over. Choose your battles wisely young Libertarian (yes, I know your older than me physically.)
Donna Dion Running (with three PDF pages, why?)
This 2010 Democratic candidate for governor has a website started here: http://donnajdionforgovernor2010.com/
I would link to her "Blueprint for Success Page" but it is in .pdf format and I don't wish to burden those of you without adobe readers (to the majority who do, sorry, click it on her front page). She vows to follow the Clean Elections Act that way she can have moral high ground at the end of the day. This gives me a perfect opportunity to discuss something about the morals of the "clean elections". However, thats for a later blog. Now, back to her site. She states:
Empower the communities to evaluate new businesses and make the process simpler and quicker but not at the expense of the environment or increasing the tax expenses already being carried by our citizens.
Excerpt over. So, ease business beaurocracy, but protect the environment (good)and make certain citizens have priority over businesses when discussing tax hikes (bad). She leaves the door open to tax increases on businesses. Alright, I won't have to pay new taxes. However, when the Governors down the street has to lay off someone because the taxes went up, I can still applaud them. (It is still a small, perhaps medium sized business, it employs fewer than 5 thousand people which qualifies a large business. Now you know.)
As for education after high school, she makes this statement:
They [students] should first say “where can I go?” and not “can I afford to go?”
Excerpt over. So, this alludes to cheap or free college. I know the college we currently have is not cheap. (I know because I'm going.) Somewhere over the shattering rainbow of hope I read Maine was having a budget crisis. We can call that statement an ambiguously failed statement of short sighted thoughtfulness about colleges in Maine. She goes on and mentions workers joining the workforce with the skills needed (very good). She then says this:
Work within each county to evaluate and prioritize their assets and work with them to develop a new economy specific to their needs.
Excerpt over. If only counties had Constitutions.... It sounds like funding may be determined by county and not by state program. Or, it could mean the state would want to overlook county funds and have the "government come to help". So what if it is government "helping" government, it can't work out well. Remember the former Shah of Iran? Either way it sounds like the way the federal government has been intruding on the states rights.
Yet, back to topic. She gives guidelines:
Must maintain sensitivity to:
Environment
Tax burden on Mainers
Education for the future
Training for the current and new job market
Development of new business throughout the State
Assistance to the more vulnerable population of our State, elderly and developmental disabled and our children in crisis.
Equal opportunity for all people.
Affordable health care
Excerpt over. Environment gets a thumbs up from me. Tax burden on Mainers should include businesses. Education for the future is ambiguous and a nice phrase without meaning much. Job market is thumbs up. New business, no clear plan, and will be difficult if their taxes go up. The vulnerable Democratic punchline. The elderly need care from DHS, not the governor. Look up Stillwater Healthcare in Bangor, visit it sometime. Why the police haven't stormed that place despite all the complaints to Augusta is beyond me. Ahem. Moving on. Developmental disabled? gaff. A good mentioning, I hear politicians promise us a lot, I rarely see them give any. I think it has to do with so few of us vote. Ranking below the living dead and Mickey Mouse, children with severe autism are some of the least likely voters in America. This is one who will be voting, and certainly not for - ahem, composure. Equal opportunity, I think she should run for Mayor of Lewiston instead of Governor. She would be closer to that issue. Affordable health care? I hope she means to shut down Dirigo health. Did you know it has costed 100 million dollars but only covers ten thousand people? Did you know its original goal was 5 million dollars and 100,000 people?
Finally:
We can build from the blueprint to form a strong State structure that will carry all citizens forward to a better tomorrow.
Quote from Marx, I mean excerpt over. "Strong State structure" "will carry all citizens". Only a Democrat (of the two main parties, hopefully).
This humorous, yet sadly real, blog posting brought to you by Randy Hughes-King, author of RHKINC.blogspot.com, also running for city, um, council- but remember I'm an author.
P.S. This is real, commentary is real, but I am not this stupid. Trust me. I have aspergers and one of the symptoms is I can't, or am not very good at lying(as in I've never successfully pulled one off).
I would link to her "Blueprint for Success Page" but it is in .pdf format and I don't wish to burden those of you without adobe readers (to the majority who do, sorry, click it on her front page). She vows to follow the Clean Elections Act that way she can have moral high ground at the end of the day. This gives me a perfect opportunity to discuss something about the morals of the "clean elections". However, thats for a later blog. Now, back to her site. She states:
Empower the communities to evaluate new businesses and make the process simpler and quicker but not at the expense of the environment or increasing the tax expenses already being carried by our citizens.
Excerpt over. So, ease business beaurocracy, but protect the environment (good)and make certain citizens have priority over businesses when discussing tax hikes (bad). She leaves the door open to tax increases on businesses. Alright, I won't have to pay new taxes. However, when the Governors down the street has to lay off someone because the taxes went up, I can still applaud them. (It is still a small, perhaps medium sized business, it employs fewer than 5 thousand people which qualifies a large business. Now you know.)
As for education after high school, she makes this statement:
They [students] should first say “where can I go?” and not “can I afford to go?”
Excerpt over. So, this alludes to cheap or free college. I know the college we currently have is not cheap. (I know because I'm going.) Somewhere over the shattering rainbow of hope I read Maine was having a budget crisis. We can call that statement an ambiguously failed statement of short sighted thoughtfulness about colleges in Maine. She goes on and mentions workers joining the workforce with the skills needed (very good). She then says this:
Work within each county to evaluate and prioritize their assets and work with them to develop a new economy specific to their needs.
Excerpt over. If only counties had Constitutions.... It sounds like funding may be determined by county and not by state program. Or, it could mean the state would want to overlook county funds and have the "government come to help". So what if it is government "helping" government, it can't work out well. Remember the former Shah of Iran? Either way it sounds like the way the federal government has been intruding on the states rights.
Yet, back to topic. She gives guidelines:
Must maintain sensitivity to:
Environment
Tax burden on Mainers
Education for the future
Training for the current and new job market
Development of new business throughout the State
Assistance to the more vulnerable population of our State, elderly and developmental disabled and our children in crisis.
Equal opportunity for all people.
Affordable health care
Excerpt over. Environment gets a thumbs up from me. Tax burden on Mainers should include businesses. Education for the future is ambiguous and a nice phrase without meaning much. Job market is thumbs up. New business, no clear plan, and will be difficult if their taxes go up. The vulnerable Democratic punchline. The elderly need care from DHS, not the governor. Look up Stillwater Healthcare in Bangor, visit it sometime. Why the police haven't stormed that place despite all the complaints to Augusta is beyond me. Ahem. Moving on. Developmental disabled? gaff. A good mentioning, I hear politicians promise us a lot, I rarely see them give any. I think it has to do with so few of us vote. Ranking below the living dead and Mickey Mouse, children with severe autism are some of the least likely voters in America. This is one who will be voting, and certainly not for - ahem, composure. Equal opportunity, I think she should run for Mayor of Lewiston instead of Governor. She would be closer to that issue. Affordable health care? I hope she means to shut down Dirigo health. Did you know it has costed 100 million dollars but only covers ten thousand people? Did you know its original goal was 5 million dollars and 100,000 people?
Finally:
We can build from the blueprint to form a strong State structure that will carry all citizens forward to a better tomorrow.
Quote from Marx, I mean excerpt over. "Strong State structure" "will carry all citizens". Only a Democrat (of the two main parties, hopefully).
This humorous, yet sadly real, blog posting brought to you by Randy Hughes-King, author of RHKINC.blogspot.com, also running for city, um, council- but remember I'm an author.
P.S. This is real, commentary is real, but I am not this stupid. Trust me. I have aspergers and one of the symptoms is I can't, or am not very good at lying(as in I've never successfully pulled one off).
Gubernatorial Candidate/Book Seller
These two websites were brought to my attention by the good will of Derek from "The Maine View" blog here:
http://maineview.blogspot.com/
Now, Samme Bailey has his campaign website here:
http://www.joinsamme.com/Join_Samme/Campaign.html
His slogan: Economic Revival for Maine
The slogan is only political thing on his website. (Aside from the usual sob of a life story they all present, nothing against him, just the sob life stories of most politicians. (Note to self: always cut the heaping piles of pointlessness into as little a pile as possible and get to the point when I run for offices.)) Aside from that, it looks like a promotion of his book. There is absolutely no mention of issues in Maine nor any relevence to his campaign page which lists cities in Maine but doesn't say when or where. He does say likely places will be:
Perhaps you will encounter Sam at one of the numerous places he will be while visiting your town. He may be in the local book shop autographing his book. You may see him talking with your neighbor on main street, or at the local county fair enjoying the festivities.
Excerpt over. I believe I know why he is running as an independant: None of the three parties in Maine want to be affiliated in a clear misuse of a run for political office to sell a book. One headlining section of his page is a link titled "Book" which sends you to a page where you can buy his book. It is listed before "Campaign" or "Contribute". This man's book sales driven campaign will no longer be covered by this blog. I report politics, not book sales.
Update: Bailey was on a radio show this morning and continuously said he was unqualified. I do believe not having to cover his campaign will be easy. See, Alex Hammer and Samme Bailey would make it difficult to not cover if they became front runners but since its official neither one will be, I'm not concerned.
http://maineview.blogspot.com/
Now, Samme Bailey has his campaign website here:
http://www.joinsamme.com/Join_Samme/Campaign.html
His slogan: Economic Revival for Maine
The slogan is only political thing on his website. (Aside from the usual sob of a life story they all present, nothing against him, just the sob life stories of most politicians. (Note to self: always cut the heaping piles of pointlessness into as little a pile as possible and get to the point when I run for offices.)) Aside from that, it looks like a promotion of his book. There is absolutely no mention of issues in Maine nor any relevence to his campaign page which lists cities in Maine but doesn't say when or where. He does say likely places will be:
Perhaps you will encounter Sam at one of the numerous places he will be while visiting your town. He may be in the local book shop autographing his book. You may see him talking with your neighbor on main street, or at the local county fair enjoying the festivities.
Excerpt over. I believe I know why he is running as an independant: None of the three parties in Maine want to be affiliated in a clear misuse of a run for political office to sell a book. One headlining section of his page is a link titled "Book" which sends you to a page where you can buy his book. It is listed before "Campaign" or "Contribute". This man's book sales driven campaign will no longer be covered by this blog. I report politics, not book sales.
Update: Bailey was on a radio show this morning and continuously said he was unqualified. I do believe not having to cover his campaign will be easy. See, Alex Hammer and Samme Bailey would make it difficult to not cover if they became front runners but since its official neither one will be, I'm not concerned.
Ecuador's Double Standard/ Rule Of LAW
Right now Ecuador is in a dispute with an oil company over some issue that has gone to the World Bank. They say that if the World Bank rules against them, they won't follow the ruling.
This is despite Ecuador urging Honduras to follow the OAS STATEMENTS against Honduras. There has been no judicial ruling against Honduras, but international organizations were against Honduras. Ecuador wanted Honduras to comply with those demands. However, now that an international body could rule against them, there are no signs either way, they say they will not follow it.
The rule of law is the rule of law. Laws are not meant to be broken. When the law tells you to do something, you do it no matter what (unless it violates human rights.) Honduras followed its law, its Constitution, and removed Zelaya and has followed the law regardless of what the world demands.
Ecuador, now facing a legal ruling, will defy the ruling if it is against them.
A lawless world is a dangerous world. Lawless groups are currently trying to take over countries and invent new laws to suit them. When existing laws don't go their way, they either alter their Constitutions or, as Ecuador proves, defy international rulings. This is applicable in Burma's trade with North Korea, or Venezuela's arming of FARC, or Russia's aiding of Iran with its nuclear program.
The nations have sway in global bodies such as the OAS and UN. When they get their majority, such as with the OAS, they can have international groups founded to have worldwide recognition of the law represent the next level of destroying laws. They had the OAS make demands of Honduras regardless of the laws within Honduras.
This is why Obama's statements on changing our U.S. Constitution concerns me. The Constitution does not give him what he wants, and he thinks that is enough to have it changed. (In length, he wants it changed because it doesn't allow the government to give him what he wants: more government control to provide us with things (which the government would have to supply through the taking of other things)).
We must stand with the rule of law. Currently, neither the Republican or Democratic platforms state that the Constitution is the highest law of the land. They should because it is. This explains the Obama and Bush presidency having such Constitutional line crossings without the political parties condemning them harshly.
The Constitution is the highest law of the land.
This is despite Ecuador urging Honduras to follow the OAS STATEMENTS against Honduras. There has been no judicial ruling against Honduras, but international organizations were against Honduras. Ecuador wanted Honduras to comply with those demands. However, now that an international body could rule against them, there are no signs either way, they say they will not follow it.
The rule of law is the rule of law. Laws are not meant to be broken. When the law tells you to do something, you do it no matter what (unless it violates human rights.) Honduras followed its law, its Constitution, and removed Zelaya and has followed the law regardless of what the world demands.
Ecuador, now facing a legal ruling, will defy the ruling if it is against them.
A lawless world is a dangerous world. Lawless groups are currently trying to take over countries and invent new laws to suit them. When existing laws don't go their way, they either alter their Constitutions or, as Ecuador proves, defy international rulings. This is applicable in Burma's trade with North Korea, or Venezuela's arming of FARC, or Russia's aiding of Iran with its nuclear program.
The nations have sway in global bodies such as the OAS and UN. When they get their majority, such as with the OAS, they can have international groups founded to have worldwide recognition of the law represent the next level of destroying laws. They had the OAS make demands of Honduras regardless of the laws within Honduras.
This is why Obama's statements on changing our U.S. Constitution concerns me. The Constitution does not give him what he wants, and he thinks that is enough to have it changed. (In length, he wants it changed because it doesn't allow the government to give him what he wants: more government control to provide us with things (which the government would have to supply through the taking of other things)).
We must stand with the rule of law. Currently, neither the Republican or Democratic platforms state that the Constitution is the highest law of the land. They should because it is. This explains the Obama and Bush presidency having such Constitutional line crossings without the political parties condemning them harshly.
The Constitution is the highest law of the land.
Stimulus In Maine
Alright, some details about police funding in Maine came from Susan Collins recently. It can be seen here:
http://senatorcollins.blogspot.com/2009/07/more-than-5-million-in-police-funding.html
So, here is a quick rundown of the 5 million dollar funding (each city gets 1 officer unless otherwise stated, details of officer employment after the list) :
City of Auburn (2 officers) - $374,120
• Baileyville Police Department - $209,336
• City of Bangor (4 officers) - $704,880
• Town of Boothbay Harbor - $185,180
• Caribou Police Department - $177,206
• Dexter-Foxcroft Police Department - $180,085
• Fryeburg Police Department - $143,199
• Lewiston Police Department (2 officers) - $350,412
• Mexico Police Department - $180,017
• Milo Police Department - $135,492
• Newport Police Department - $168,490
• Norway Police Department - $149, 314
• Penobscot Nation Police Department - $149,314
• City of Portland (6 officers) - $882,528
• Sanford Police Department (2 officers) - $411,362
• Town of Skowhegan - $147,308
• Westbrook Police Department (2 officers) - $375,074
• Winthrop Police Department - $175,101
The grants will provide 100 percent of the approved salary and benefits for entry level officer positions over a three-year period. Police departments receiving the grants will then be required to retain the grant-funded positions for a fourth year.
Excerpt over. So, why does one officer for three years cost Baileyville $65,000 more than an officer with the same deal in Milo?
Also, requiring the officers for a fourth year without funding is a terrible idea. What if the funds can't be raised? It means that position is saved, but an older officer will be rushed out, or a younger one with fewer benefits. That added requirement will burden those cities in four years and there will be very tough decisions. Now, the budget in my term on the council will be nearing a close, but the budget for the next year will be part of my term and this burden will have to be dealt with.
So I've decided to come up with a plan to make certain no officers are required to be laid off when that fourth year burden comes to the Bangor budget. However, the first thing I must do is see if there is a plan already in place. So I have contacted the Bangor city council and when I get a response this will have a part 2.
http://senatorcollins.blogspot.com/2009/07/more-than-5-million-in-police-funding.html
So, here is a quick rundown of the 5 million dollar funding (each city gets 1 officer unless otherwise stated, details of officer employment after the list) :
City of Auburn (2 officers) - $374,120
• Baileyville Police Department - $209,336
• City of Bangor (4 officers) - $704,880
• Town of Boothbay Harbor - $185,180
• Caribou Police Department - $177,206
• Dexter-Foxcroft Police Department - $180,085
• Fryeburg Police Department - $143,199
• Lewiston Police Department (2 officers) - $350,412
• Mexico Police Department - $180,017
• Milo Police Department - $135,492
• Newport Police Department - $168,490
• Norway Police Department - $149, 314
• Penobscot Nation Police Department - $149,314
• City of Portland (6 officers) - $882,528
• Sanford Police Department (2 officers) - $411,362
• Town of Skowhegan - $147,308
• Westbrook Police Department (2 officers) - $375,074
• Winthrop Police Department - $175,101
The grants will provide 100 percent of the approved salary and benefits for entry level officer positions over a three-year period. Police departments receiving the grants will then be required to retain the grant-funded positions for a fourth year.
Excerpt over. So, why does one officer for three years cost Baileyville $65,000 more than an officer with the same deal in Milo?
Also, requiring the officers for a fourth year without funding is a terrible idea. What if the funds can't be raised? It means that position is saved, but an older officer will be rushed out, or a younger one with fewer benefits. That added requirement will burden those cities in four years and there will be very tough decisions. Now, the budget in my term on the council will be nearing a close, but the budget for the next year will be part of my term and this burden will have to be dealt with.
So I've decided to come up with a plan to make certain no officers are required to be laid off when that fourth year burden comes to the Bangor budget. However, the first thing I must do is see if there is a plan already in place. So I have contacted the Bangor city council and when I get a response this will have a part 2.
Tuesday, July 28, 2009
Our Rights Cost Nothing
I'm making a spin off of an idea talked about here: http://think3institute.blogspot.com/2009/07/right-to-get-isnt-right-to-have.html
Our Constitution grants us opportunity. It never grants us the final result: achieving that is our responsibility.
Freedom of speech means we can not have the opportunity to speak taken away, but it does not mean everyone else has to listen by government mandate. The right to bear arms means I have the opportunity to own a gun, but it is not the government's responsibility to buy and distribute guns to everyone.
To those who say healthcare is a right show me where it is in the Constitution. To those who are still not deterred, considering the fact that by law no person can be turned away in an emergency room, how is the opportunity to be treated, to have health care, not here already? Using the Constitution's philosophy of rights without mandate (right to speak, not forced to speak, not forced to listen to others speak) why do you support the government providing health care insurance and mandating it?
I would like an answer.
Our Constitution grants us opportunity. It never grants us the final result: achieving that is our responsibility.
Freedom of speech means we can not have the opportunity to speak taken away, but it does not mean everyone else has to listen by government mandate. The right to bear arms means I have the opportunity to own a gun, but it is not the government's responsibility to buy and distribute guns to everyone.
To those who say healthcare is a right show me where it is in the Constitution. To those who are still not deterred, considering the fact that by law no person can be turned away in an emergency room, how is the opportunity to be treated, to have health care, not here already? Using the Constitution's philosophy of rights without mandate (right to speak, not forced to speak, not forced to listen to others speak) why do you support the government providing health care insurance and mandating it?
I would like an answer.
City Council Opposes Citizen's Voice
http://www.bangordailynews.com/detail/111627.html
The article refers to whether or not the city would support or oppose the TABOR bill along with a provision to reduce the exise tax on cars five years old or newer. The article states Gratwick's opposition:
Councilor Geoffrey Gratwick outlined the city’s resolve opposing TABOR II — largely on the basis that it sets a policy of budgeting by referendum and undercuts the authority of elected officials.
Excerpt over. A policy of budgeting by referendum has another interpretation: allowing the people to choose where their money is spent. As for the authority of elected officials, the less power the better.
Even if requested to do so, elected officials have a job to do. That job should not include using that job to make stances on the referendum. Opinions are fine, but in the city council referendums are up to the people, not the council. This lack of connection with the citizens of Bangor (most support TABOR) gives me another reason to run for office. We need people to stand up and take responsibility. For too long we have had people in office who make things worse.
Now, TABOR, the taxpayer bill of rights, would limit tax increases and spending to inflation plus population growth. Opponents say that because education and healthcare rise in cost faster than the things people pay for (which is what determines inflation) that it would cripple the state. I say, not if the government does its job.
There won't be a problem with increased costs if the government makes things more efficient and in so doing will cut costs despite any increase. There is always a way with our current governments on all levels, to cut something without doing harm.
Until we elect leaders who understand this, taxpayers will lack control over what their taxes are spent on and how much money is taken from them through taxes.
The article refers to whether or not the city would support or oppose the TABOR bill along with a provision to reduce the exise tax on cars five years old or newer. The article states Gratwick's opposition:
Councilor Geoffrey Gratwick outlined the city’s resolve opposing TABOR II — largely on the basis that it sets a policy of budgeting by referendum and undercuts the authority of elected officials.
Excerpt over. A policy of budgeting by referendum has another interpretation: allowing the people to choose where their money is spent. As for the authority of elected officials, the less power the better.
Even if requested to do so, elected officials have a job to do. That job should not include using that job to make stances on the referendum. Opinions are fine, but in the city council referendums are up to the people, not the council. This lack of connection with the citizens of Bangor (most support TABOR) gives me another reason to run for office. We need people to stand up and take responsibility. For too long we have had people in office who make things worse.
Now, TABOR, the taxpayer bill of rights, would limit tax increases and spending to inflation plus population growth. Opponents say that because education and healthcare rise in cost faster than the things people pay for (which is what determines inflation) that it would cripple the state. I say, not if the government does its job.
There won't be a problem with increased costs if the government makes things more efficient and in so doing will cut costs despite any increase. There is always a way with our current governments on all levels, to cut something without doing harm.
Until we elect leaders who understand this, taxpayers will lack control over what their taxes are spent on and how much money is taken from them through taxes.
The Candidates Websites
To give easy reference for those following, the following candidates for the 2010 gubernatorial election have websites:
Bruce Poliquin:
http://www.bruceforme.com
Les Otten:
http://www.lesotten.com/
Matt Jacobson:
http://www.jacobsonforgovernor.com/
Rosa Scarcelli:
http://rosaformaine.com/splash
Dawn Hill:
http://www.dawnhillforgovernor.com/
Steve Rowe:
http://www.roweforgovernor.com/
Lynne Williams:
http://www.lynnewilliams2010.org/
The candidates without websites so far:
Donna Dion
Peter Truman
Peter Mills
Patrick Quinlan
Samme Bailey
Augustus Edgerton
John Whitcomb
Candidates I refuse to aknowledge:
Alex Hammer
Bruce Poliquin:
http://www.bruceforme.com
Les Otten:
http://www.lesotten.com/
Matt Jacobson:
http://www.jacobsonforgovernor.com/
Rosa Scarcelli:
http://rosaformaine.com/splash
Dawn Hill:
http://www.dawnhillforgovernor.com/
Steve Rowe:
http://www.roweforgovernor.com/
Lynne Williams:
http://www.lynnewilliams2010.org/
The candidates without websites so far:
Donna Dion
Peter Truman
Peter Mills
Patrick Quinlan
Samme Bailey
Augustus Edgerton
John Whitcomb
Candidates I refuse to aknowledge:
Alex Hammer
This Evening's Entertainment - Maybe
In the second week of August the forms come in and I will begin getting the signatures to be on the ballot in November. Sadly, tonight is the GOP meeting and my recent surgery has left me unable to attend this evening. I was looking forward to it too, but, the doctor's orders are the doctor's orders. I will however plan to rest myself to be in condition when the time comes to be in shape to defy the doctor.
We Are Doomed
JOHN CONYERS: I love these members that get up and say, 'Read the bill.' What good is reading the bill if it's a thousand pages and you don't have two days and two lawyers to find out what it means after you read the bill?
Excerpt over. What good is it? How about the part where it is your job? Do your job, regardless of how pointless you may think it to be.
Excerpt over. What good is it? How about the part where it is your job? Do your job, regardless of how pointless you may think it to be.
Syria Hopes?
In a news article from a few days ago it seems Syria may be moving towards the West. The speedometer I read appears to show that it is moving at the speed of a parked car. No agreements have been made, and Syrian demands remain the same while their support for Hamas and Hezbolla have not been reduced.
http://www.google.com/hostednews/ap/article/ALeqM5hJ9xysPGw0DDewJBDQQ5yzEYDQ5AD99KUEUG0
http://www.google.com/hostednews/ap/article/ALeqM5hJ9xysPGw0DDewJBDQQ5yzEYDQ5AD99KUEUG0
Scientists Confirm U.S. Has World’s Biggest Oil Reserves
http://www.americanfreepress.net/html/biggest_oil_reserves_182.html
That reserve, combined with:
http://www.google.com/hostednews/ap/article/ALeqM5hwILkN6M43ElH1UydmDBmsNvMQhgD99EAOH01
And this:
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2006/09/05/AR2006090500275.html
To start, yes oil shale is very difficult to extract, I understand this.
One question, if we have, at least, 400 billion barrels of oil in this country, and if the second site matches Bakken, 800 billion, why isn't the technology being rushed like the space race? Oil shale technology should become top priority. Imagine being able to fuel ourselves and never import another barrel of oil? Think of 100 years of time to develop and adapt to alternative energies, and that's if we don't use any other oil fields in the country or find any new sources in our territory.
You have no idea how much I want to scream with hearing this news. On the one hand, I'm excited and happy about the prospects. In the other, to know that we have known about this since the 1950s and done almost nothing makes me want to hit someone upside the head. Common sense should tell you that even if the Army Corps of Engineers has to do it, this should have been done.
Considering we have the largest oil shale reserves in the world without question, there is no reason that Estonia should be the world's leading oil shale producer.
That reserve, combined with:
http://www.google.com/hostednews/ap/article/ALeqM5hwILkN6M43ElH1UydmDBmsNvMQhgD99EAOH01
And this:
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2006/09/05/AR2006090500275.html
To start, yes oil shale is very difficult to extract, I understand this.
One question, if we have, at least, 400 billion barrels of oil in this country, and if the second site matches Bakken, 800 billion, why isn't the technology being rushed like the space race? Oil shale technology should become top priority. Imagine being able to fuel ourselves and never import another barrel of oil? Think of 100 years of time to develop and adapt to alternative energies, and that's if we don't use any other oil fields in the country or find any new sources in our territory.
You have no idea how much I want to scream with hearing this news. On the one hand, I'm excited and happy about the prospects. In the other, to know that we have known about this since the 1950s and done almost nothing makes me want to hit someone upside the head. Common sense should tell you that even if the Army Corps of Engineers has to do it, this should have been done.
Considering we have the largest oil shale reserves in the world without question, there is no reason that Estonia should be the world's leading oil shale producer.
Monday, July 27, 2009
Raising Children
Many arguements against same sex marriage include this one: children should be raised by a man and woman for the best results.
So I began wondering what is the best environment to raise a child. What will produce the best member of society?
First, I looked at whether or not it was the man, woman, two and a half kids with a dog theory. I used myself as an example.
The results: active member of society who will be attending college with a basis of morals and manners despite not being exposed to religion.
I am the complete contradiction to the "ideal family" theory. So what makes a child's upbringing successful? Family values.
Before you attack, I said family values. I did not say family quota (man, woman, two and a half kids with a dog.)
A person will grow up with morals if they are taught them. It requires the parent to have values to teach. For me, these values did not come from religion, but my parents. I will pass them on to any child I should raise. Who teaches these values best? Those with values. So one requirement for a successful upbringing is being raised by a parent with values.
Is that all? Maybe. Being active in the community is a good quality to have. Does this come from a parent who is active in the community? In my case, no. I developed it on my own it seems. My parents even discourage me occassionally (they think I do too much). So the values must extend a sense of duty to community.
What else? Why didn't I end up repressed and anti-social? I admit I was close at some points. I could easily distrust the world around me and isolate myself from pain that so many others have done. Why didn't I? My parents loved and cared for me so that when I entered those moments of anti-social behavior the urges for isolation were countered. Family values make helping those you love a natural instinct. If they hadn't had those family values, I could have ended up the wreckage so many other kids become.
I could go on with example after example but I think the reality speaks for itself. We want family values in this country, not quotas. It is a moral code that makes our society great, not a stereotype utopia.
So I began wondering what is the best environment to raise a child. What will produce the best member of society?
First, I looked at whether or not it was the man, woman, two and a half kids with a dog theory. I used myself as an example.
The results: active member of society who will be attending college with a basis of morals and manners despite not being exposed to religion.
I am the complete contradiction to the "ideal family" theory. So what makes a child's upbringing successful? Family values.
Before you attack, I said family values. I did not say family quota (man, woman, two and a half kids with a dog.)
A person will grow up with morals if they are taught them. It requires the parent to have values to teach. For me, these values did not come from religion, but my parents. I will pass them on to any child I should raise. Who teaches these values best? Those with values. So one requirement for a successful upbringing is being raised by a parent with values.
Is that all? Maybe. Being active in the community is a good quality to have. Does this come from a parent who is active in the community? In my case, no. I developed it on my own it seems. My parents even discourage me occassionally (they think I do too much). So the values must extend a sense of duty to community.
What else? Why didn't I end up repressed and anti-social? I admit I was close at some points. I could easily distrust the world around me and isolate myself from pain that so many others have done. Why didn't I? My parents loved and cared for me so that when I entered those moments of anti-social behavior the urges for isolation were countered. Family values make helping those you love a natural instinct. If they hadn't had those family values, I could have ended up the wreckage so many other kids become.
I could go on with example after example but I think the reality speaks for itself. We want family values in this country, not quotas. It is a moral code that makes our society great, not a stereotype utopia.
Same-Sex Marriage - The Arguements Against
Simply any arguement on the basis of quotes from the Bible, or Qu'ran, or any religious text I will refute first: seperation of church and state.
If common sense doesn't give you the conclusion to that one, stop reading now and practice your abc's.
To those who say marriage is between a man and woman: not unless it isn't. Like in some European countries.
To those who say it is for procreation: what about the kids born outside of marriage? Marriage certainly wasn't required for them to procreate.
Gays are immoral: See first line.
It is an untried social experiment: Love between gays is nothing new. Giving them the same recognition for their love is the only new thing. No social experiment: only legal.
It will allow other forms of relationships (bestiality, polygamy, incest):
Bestiality: The animal can not speak and thus is unable to say "I do."
Polygamy: These relationships are often cult like in that it permits male dominance over many females. On such cultist basis, they can be refused.
Incest: The blood line boundary is a line that can not be crossed.
Pedophiles: Children are unable nor old enough to have the understanding an of age person does.
Giving gays marriage is a special right: Then if gays can't have it, why should straights? Special rights, if not givable to gays, shouldn't be granted to anyone else.
Churches would be forced to marry against their will: The law can be written so that religion has a choice. Seperation of church and state.
Homosexuality will be taught in schools: So is drug use. To say it would be promoted is simply ridiculous.
Undermine Western civilization: hasn't yet.
Lastly, same-sex couples are not the optimum environment to raise children: I was raised by two women. They are not lesbians, but still, I turned out just fine. This arguement is going to be the basis of my next post.
If common sense doesn't give you the conclusion to that one, stop reading now and practice your abc's.
To those who say marriage is between a man and woman: not unless it isn't. Like in some European countries.
To those who say it is for procreation: what about the kids born outside of marriage? Marriage certainly wasn't required for them to procreate.
Gays are immoral: See first line.
It is an untried social experiment: Love between gays is nothing new. Giving them the same recognition for their love is the only new thing. No social experiment: only legal.
It will allow other forms of relationships (bestiality, polygamy, incest):
Bestiality: The animal can not speak and thus is unable to say "I do."
Polygamy: These relationships are often cult like in that it permits male dominance over many females. On such cultist basis, they can be refused.
Incest: The blood line boundary is a line that can not be crossed.
Pedophiles: Children are unable nor old enough to have the understanding an of age person does.
Giving gays marriage is a special right: Then if gays can't have it, why should straights? Special rights, if not givable to gays, shouldn't be granted to anyone else.
Churches would be forced to marry against their will: The law can be written so that religion has a choice. Seperation of church and state.
Homosexuality will be taught in schools: So is drug use. To say it would be promoted is simply ridiculous.
Undermine Western civilization: hasn't yet.
Lastly, same-sex couples are not the optimum environment to raise children: I was raised by two women. They are not lesbians, but still, I turned out just fine. This arguement is going to be the basis of my next post.
Obama Fills The Template
I found a quote from Obama's campaign days. It is thus:
"We cannot continue to rely on our military in order to achieve the national security objectives we've set. We've got to have a civilian national security force that's just as powerful, just as strong, just as well-funded."
Excerpt over. Let us compare this to Hugo Chavez:
President Chavez has returned to speaking about the reserve or territorial force, proclaiming that the old model must end and revolutionary changes within the concept of integral defense deepened. The Bolivarian Militia, the President insists, must be the people-in-arms.
Everybody should be in the militia, Chavez continues, from commanders of the Bolivarian Armed Force (FAB) to leaders of community councils. "We must convert Venezuela into an impregnable country shielded on all sides, inside and outside ... it is necessary to give life and shape to the doctrine of the People’s War ... we are all soldiers." Outlining his policy, the President suggests that the militia should organized into combat units, logistical and intelligence units but he did indicate that not all were to have possession of weapons.
Excerpt over. What has Hugo Chavez used the forces under his command to do so far? Take a look:
National Guard troops in Curiepe, Venezuela, seized a police station controlled by a leading opponent of President Hugo Chavez on Wednesday, setting off clashes between troops and protesters that the police said left eight injured.
Excerpt over. Since such comparisons of Obama to Hitler would be completely out of line, lets compare Chavez' civilian military program to that of Hitler's instead. I refuse to quote Hitler on this blog, so I will simply let you know of the Waffen SS and the Hitler Youth. Secondary forces under control of Hitler, just like the National Gaurd is under the control of Chavez. In this country, our National Gaurd is controlled by states and the military jointly it seems.
So, since the states already have a force of their own that Obama can't control, he wants one of his own. I urge you to turn on the common sense sector of your brain and read everything except Obama's quote and then read Obama's quote.
Not only would this mean 500 billion for a new civilian army, but make a secondary force outside of control of the military. While this in premise is good if controlled by the states (like the National Gaurd is) it poses some problems. Obama said it would be the same as the military, in funding, size, and power. He didn't say who would control it. Americorps? ACORN? Obama? My money goes to Obama.
Those hard-liners will say "you support militias and gun rights." Yes, I do. When the states and the people have them with the purpose to defend their neighbors I support it. When it is used as a tool of competing power with the Armed Forces I oppose it.
Lastly, why does Obama doubt the ability of our forces? We have not been attacked since 9/11 so why does he believe our forces are failing to protect our security? If he didn't mean what he said, why did he say it?
Obama quote: http://www.wnd.com/index.php?pageId=69601
Chavez quote 1: http://www.pr-inside.com/venezuela-s-president-chavez-turns-r1384104.htm
Chavez quote 2:http://www.nytimes.com/2009/07/16/world/americas/16venez-floater.html
"We cannot continue to rely on our military in order to achieve the national security objectives we've set. We've got to have a civilian national security force that's just as powerful, just as strong, just as well-funded."
Excerpt over. Let us compare this to Hugo Chavez:
President Chavez has returned to speaking about the reserve or territorial force, proclaiming that the old model must end and revolutionary changes within the concept of integral defense deepened. The Bolivarian Militia, the President insists, must be the people-in-arms.
Everybody should be in the militia, Chavez continues, from commanders of the Bolivarian Armed Force (FAB) to leaders of community councils. "We must convert Venezuela into an impregnable country shielded on all sides, inside and outside ... it is necessary to give life and shape to the doctrine of the People’s War ... we are all soldiers." Outlining his policy, the President suggests that the militia should organized into combat units, logistical and intelligence units but he did indicate that not all were to have possession of weapons.
Excerpt over. What has Hugo Chavez used the forces under his command to do so far? Take a look:
National Guard troops in Curiepe, Venezuela, seized a police station controlled by a leading opponent of President Hugo Chavez on Wednesday, setting off clashes between troops and protesters that the police said left eight injured.
Excerpt over. Since such comparisons of Obama to Hitler would be completely out of line, lets compare Chavez' civilian military program to that of Hitler's instead. I refuse to quote Hitler on this blog, so I will simply let you know of the Waffen SS and the Hitler Youth. Secondary forces under control of Hitler, just like the National Gaurd is under the control of Chavez. In this country, our National Gaurd is controlled by states and the military jointly it seems.
So, since the states already have a force of their own that Obama can't control, he wants one of his own. I urge you to turn on the common sense sector of your brain and read everything except Obama's quote and then read Obama's quote.
Not only would this mean 500 billion for a new civilian army, but make a secondary force outside of control of the military. While this in premise is good if controlled by the states (like the National Gaurd is) it poses some problems. Obama said it would be the same as the military, in funding, size, and power. He didn't say who would control it. Americorps? ACORN? Obama? My money goes to Obama.
Those hard-liners will say "you support militias and gun rights." Yes, I do. When the states and the people have them with the purpose to defend their neighbors I support it. When it is used as a tool of competing power with the Armed Forces I oppose it.
Lastly, why does Obama doubt the ability of our forces? We have not been attacked since 9/11 so why does he believe our forces are failing to protect our security? If he didn't mean what he said, why did he say it?
Obama quote: http://www.wnd.com/index.php?pageId=69601
Chavez quote 1: http://www.pr-inside.com/venezuela-s-president-chavez-turns-r1384104.htm
Chavez quote 2:http://www.nytimes.com/2009/07/16/world/americas/16venez-floater.html
Truce With Taliban A Reality
http://www.reuters.com/article/latestCrisis/idUSSP509252
We will not attack the Taliban in one of Afghanistan's provinces. The Obama administration has not made a phone call that no truce with the Taliban is to be recognized. Al Qaeda was the radical wing of the Taliban and since our invasion merged into one entity. Regardless of the internal fractures of "moderates" in the Taliban to those who are hardline extremists, the Taliban should be recognized at all times as a terrorist organization and not be negotiated with unless it involves the laying down of arms.
This truce does not require the surrender, or even disbanding of the Taliban. It even allows them to vote in the upcoming election. Even when Pakistan agreed to allow the laws to be written by the Taliban the truces signed were broken every time. They used the truce to expand and support attacks in other areas. The truce has been tried, and they failed. Pakistan is now facing 8,000 more Taliban fighters than it would have at the time it signed the first truce.
This is a war of ideology. We need to talk to the people more, not the enemy. We get the support of the people, the enemy will lose. Iraq proved this, so why can't Afghanistan's leadership and Obama come to common sense? Letting these fighters vote in an election they want, vow, and fight to stop, destroy, and corrupt is the worst thing to do.
We will not attack the Taliban in one of Afghanistan's provinces. The Obama administration has not made a phone call that no truce with the Taliban is to be recognized. Al Qaeda was the radical wing of the Taliban and since our invasion merged into one entity. Regardless of the internal fractures of "moderates" in the Taliban to those who are hardline extremists, the Taliban should be recognized at all times as a terrorist organization and not be negotiated with unless it involves the laying down of arms.
This truce does not require the surrender, or even disbanding of the Taliban. It even allows them to vote in the upcoming election. Even when Pakistan agreed to allow the laws to be written by the Taliban the truces signed were broken every time. They used the truce to expand and support attacks in other areas. The truce has been tried, and they failed. Pakistan is now facing 8,000 more Taliban fighters than it would have at the time it signed the first truce.
This is a war of ideology. We need to talk to the people more, not the enemy. We get the support of the people, the enemy will lose. Iraq proved this, so why can't Afghanistan's leadership and Obama come to common sense? Letting these fighters vote in an election they want, vow, and fight to stop, destroy, and corrupt is the worst thing to do.
Sunday, July 26, 2009
NASCAR's Unluckiest Driver
Dale Earnhardt Junior, please, I know you sell a lot of t-shirts, but could you try to drive a bit better?
Every week I watch the race, and Gordon, Martin, Johnson do fairly well every week. Dale? Well, honestly, FAIL. He broke his car when he used the clutch incorrectly.
Side note: Is it me or was Montoya's rant the first time you've ever heard a driver threaten to kill NASCAR?
Every week I watch the race, and Gordon, Martin, Johnson do fairly well every week. Dale? Well, honestly, FAIL. He broke his car when he used the clutch incorrectly.
Side note: Is it me or was Montoya's rant the first time you've ever heard a driver threaten to kill NASCAR?
Coup In Venezuela?
The following article, although from a source I myself declare uncredible, has taken a full swing from its usual reporting to sound anti-Chavez, while still having Socialist leanings, in a difficult news situation in Venezuela. I can not confirm at this point, but it sounds like chaos is occuring in Venezuela right now:
http://www.vheadline.com/readnews.asp?id=82212
This is a very, well, the news/opinion piece falls apart about halfway through to anti-capitalism bantor with many adjectives of hate however, the pro-Chavez site rarely speaks of anything negative towards him (which is why for so long I discredited it) but this article goes against everything in the past. Either something broke in the capital, or this is big. I will continue to research this.
Update: From what I can confirm is little about the current situation. In the past week however, the judge ruling on a case against the owner of an anti-Chavez news outlet was fired after she claimed she was being pressured to rule against him in the case. The Chavez government is having 240 news outlets shut down and this created a major issue among the media groups as they said that it is clear what Chavez was doing now.
In the past two days the military was sent to a small down near Caracas and they took over the police station there. The reason was not given and the people have been peacefully protesting, but still an ominous sign. I can not figure out if the current media blackout is caused by a coup, or just no news happening. If there is something going on, it could go in two directions. This could either be a takeover by Chavez of the country, or a removal of Chavez. Either way, the sources I usually turn to for news on Venezuela were recently silenced (I followed three of the 240 shut down by the Chavez government recently). So, I'll continue trying, but it is odd to have no news out of a country for a whole day.
UPDATE: No coup. The source proved to be unreliable yet again. The previous events with the judge and the town are true however. So it looks like Chavez is solidifying his power, but a quick grab by anyone has yet to occur.
http://www.vheadline.com/readnews.asp?id=82212
This is a very, well, the news/opinion piece falls apart about halfway through to anti-capitalism bantor with many adjectives of hate however, the pro-Chavez site rarely speaks of anything negative towards him (which is why for so long I discredited it) but this article goes against everything in the past. Either something broke in the capital, or this is big. I will continue to research this.
Update: From what I can confirm is little about the current situation. In the past week however, the judge ruling on a case against the owner of an anti-Chavez news outlet was fired after she claimed she was being pressured to rule against him in the case. The Chavez government is having 240 news outlets shut down and this created a major issue among the media groups as they said that it is clear what Chavez was doing now.
In the past two days the military was sent to a small down near Caracas and they took over the police station there. The reason was not given and the people have been peacefully protesting, but still an ominous sign. I can not figure out if the current media blackout is caused by a coup, or just no news happening. If there is something going on, it could go in two directions. This could either be a takeover by Chavez of the country, or a removal of Chavez. Either way, the sources I usually turn to for news on Venezuela were recently silenced (I followed three of the 240 shut down by the Chavez government recently). So, I'll continue trying, but it is odd to have no news out of a country for a whole day.
UPDATE: No coup. The source proved to be unreliable yet again. The previous events with the judge and the town are true however. So it looks like Chavez is solidifying his power, but a quick grab by anyone has yet to occur.
Somalia
The situation in Somalia has for many years been one of shifting alliances and civil war. However, there may be hope for an end to the violence. It will certainly not be quick, nothing in Africa ever seems to be. However, with a major town in the north being taken without resistance by the government, following a tense stalemate in that town, the government has proven it has the forces to intimidate Al Shabaab.
Al Shabaab is seeking to merge with Hizbul radicals, showing they need backup. If their alliance goes through, I think it is too little too late. With battles consisting of twenty or so fighters on a regular basis, the victories are more about having the courage to hold territory and not retreat. Which is where I believe a new approach to international peacekeeping should be undertaken.
Peacekeepers should be deployed to areas held by nation's military forces with a vow to hold the territory for that country's government. However, if more territory is to come under the government control, that government will have to use its own forces to retake territory owned by the other factions. I speak in Somalia terms, as other situations (Palestine, Kosovo) require both sides to be defended. However, as Somalia fractures, the Islamic extremists would rather see the peacekeepers be hanged than on their side.
What this means is that defensive tactics, the ultimately best case scenario all militaries in the world could achieve to make peace on earth a reality, would be emphasized by this peacekeeping force.
-------------------------------------------------------
I believe the uproar about Obama's comments that the police who arrested Gates were acting stupidly places emphasis on the stereotypes against police in this country and the prejudice that police face from groups that wish to use race as a reason to resist cooperating with authorities. The reason most media talks about is how police racism is highlighted by this event, while I see it as racists using their own race as justification for their prejudices against the police. President Obama obviously ranks race above title in this incident. He said he didn't know the facts, yet decided to make a statement on it which sided with his race rather than the authorities.
Our country does not have as much issues of race as it does with those who are ignorant and ill tempered.
-----------------------------------------------
In other news (A glance at the headlines):
Russia opposes companies who sell weapons to Georgia.
Joe Biden says we support Ukraine and Georgia entering NATO.
Worldwide marches in support of the Iranian people took place today.
Venezuela will have to import coffee due to its government policies resulting in lower production (they have price controls and export caps). This is the first time the country has to import coffee (Venezuela grows a lot of coffee).
Hezbolla is claiming that there will be a war between the end of this year and next spring.
Ecuador will not follow a World Bank ruling if the ruling is not in favor of them.
North Korea executed a woman for distributing bibles.
WoW, next headline requires its own blog post.
Al Shabaab is seeking to merge with Hizbul radicals, showing they need backup. If their alliance goes through, I think it is too little too late. With battles consisting of twenty or so fighters on a regular basis, the victories are more about having the courage to hold territory and not retreat. Which is where I believe a new approach to international peacekeeping should be undertaken.
Peacekeepers should be deployed to areas held by nation's military forces with a vow to hold the territory for that country's government. However, if more territory is to come under the government control, that government will have to use its own forces to retake territory owned by the other factions. I speak in Somalia terms, as other situations (Palestine, Kosovo) require both sides to be defended. However, as Somalia fractures, the Islamic extremists would rather see the peacekeepers be hanged than on their side.
What this means is that defensive tactics, the ultimately best case scenario all militaries in the world could achieve to make peace on earth a reality, would be emphasized by this peacekeeping force.
-------------------------------------------------------
I believe the uproar about Obama's comments that the police who arrested Gates were acting stupidly places emphasis on the stereotypes against police in this country and the prejudice that police face from groups that wish to use race as a reason to resist cooperating with authorities. The reason most media talks about is how police racism is highlighted by this event, while I see it as racists using their own race as justification for their prejudices against the police. President Obama obviously ranks race above title in this incident. He said he didn't know the facts, yet decided to make a statement on it which sided with his race rather than the authorities.
Our country does not have as much issues of race as it does with those who are ignorant and ill tempered.
-----------------------------------------------
In other news (A glance at the headlines):
Russia opposes companies who sell weapons to Georgia.
Joe Biden says we support Ukraine and Georgia entering NATO.
Worldwide marches in support of the Iranian people took place today.
Venezuela will have to import coffee due to its government policies resulting in lower production (they have price controls and export caps). This is the first time the country has to import coffee (Venezuela grows a lot of coffee).
Hezbolla is claiming that there will be a war between the end of this year and next spring.
Ecuador will not follow a World Bank ruling if the ruling is not in favor of them.
North Korea executed a woman for distributing bibles.
WoW, next headline requires its own blog post.
Saturday, July 25, 2009
Alvaro Uribe
As an American and ally of your people, accept the two term limit on presidency and advocate for your people outside of office. You can serve your people, leave your constitution alone, and accept your term limits like a true leader of free people.
Friday, July 24, 2009
I wish I had money
I would sue SYFY for everything they have done. The bait-and-switch they did with Primeval happened again tonight. I was angry, but I was going to give them hell on their forums, to find a thread or two had started recently. I found the threads were short, and that one of them talked about how their complaints were being removed from the forums. I can take the bait-and-switch and walk away from SYFY. I will not accept them violating the Constitution. (I can't get Obama, so I'm on a mission with this one.)
I am going to boycott SYFY programs. My parents, who I convinced to watch Scifi shows years ago, and they ended up liking them, will have to deal with SYFY themselves. I will not watch the new Caprica series, or Stargate Universal, and Eureka is an afterthought.
I endured NBC cancelling Surface, and Scifi cancelling Tremors, Painkiller Jane, Flash Gordon, Stargate Atlantis, Dresden Files, and thats just off the top of my head. However, the talk of making an edgier U.S. version of a show that was making $1.2 million profit in Britain per episode, that was cancelled to keep a 9 pm time slot for a drama, is simply unacceptable. They lied about the reason for it being cancelled, and the reason was petty. The channel ITV took something profitable, and because they wanted a drama, instead of an already successful show, I wish them the worst ratings in the future.
However, boycott SYFY. I urge you to do so. I'm actually leaning towards only watching tv series when they come out on DVD now, that way I watch when I want, and no hassels of commercials, and I get the full show (SYFY cut out scenes from Primeval to make time for MORE commercials).
I am going to boycott SYFY programs. My parents, who I convinced to watch Scifi shows years ago, and they ended up liking them, will have to deal with SYFY themselves. I will not watch the new Caprica series, or Stargate Universal, and Eureka is an afterthought.
I endured NBC cancelling Surface, and Scifi cancelling Tremors, Painkiller Jane, Flash Gordon, Stargate Atlantis, Dresden Files, and thats just off the top of my head. However, the talk of making an edgier U.S. version of a show that was making $1.2 million profit in Britain per episode, that was cancelled to keep a 9 pm time slot for a drama, is simply unacceptable. They lied about the reason for it being cancelled, and the reason was petty. The channel ITV took something profitable, and because they wanted a drama, instead of an already successful show, I wish them the worst ratings in the future.
However, boycott SYFY. I urge you to do so. I'm actually leaning towards only watching tv series when they come out on DVD now, that way I watch when I want, and no hassels of commercials, and I get the full show (SYFY cut out scenes from Primeval to make time for MORE commercials).
Zelaya's Return - Finally
After the "return any hour now" headline was tossed around for over a week, Zelaya returned to Honduras today, for about thirty seconds before hopping back into Nicaragua.
This is going to be manipulated in many ways. He was not arrested by the forces present, but they probably did not want to act with the reporters, probably outnumbering them, watching closely. Zelaya can say he has control because he wasn't arrested. The Honduran government can call Zelaya a coward for not entering and doing the march to the capital as promised.
Despite this, the crowd in favor of Zelaya had to be dispersed in Honduras with tear gas when they became belligerent. Now, the quick return is described as follows:
LAS MANOS, Nicaragua (Reuters) - Ousted President Manuel Zelaya took a symbolic step inside Honduras on Friday but he paused at the border, backing away from a confrontation with Honduran troops waiting to arrest him.
Accompanied by a pack of international reporters and television cameras, the ousted leader in his trademark cowboy hat took a step or two inside Honduran territory in the small town of Las Manos on the border with Nicaragua.
Pausing to give live telephone interviews, he approached the chain dividing the two central American nations, stepping briefly over and holding the chain over his head in triumph for a moment and touching a sign saying "Welcome to Honduras."
With troops standing just yards away, he said he did not want to proceed further out of "respect for the principles" of the military.
Excerpt over. Zelaya paused out of fear of the arrest order those soldiers have, not respect for their principles. If he respected their principles he would not have fired the top general before being removed because that general refused to go forward with distributing ballots for a vote declared illegal by the supreme court and congress of Honduras. If he respected them he would not have stormed a military base with his supports trying to force the vote a day before his removal.
He has no respect for the Honduras military or the rule of law. He did not march to the capital because he has fear, not respect.
Update: The article this was based on is here:
http://uk.reuters.com/article/idUKTRE56N4YL20090724
This is going to be manipulated in many ways. He was not arrested by the forces present, but they probably did not want to act with the reporters, probably outnumbering them, watching closely. Zelaya can say he has control because he wasn't arrested. The Honduran government can call Zelaya a coward for not entering and doing the march to the capital as promised.
Despite this, the crowd in favor of Zelaya had to be dispersed in Honduras with tear gas when they became belligerent. Now, the quick return is described as follows:
LAS MANOS, Nicaragua (Reuters) - Ousted President Manuel Zelaya took a symbolic step inside Honduras on Friday but he paused at the border, backing away from a confrontation with Honduran troops waiting to arrest him.
Accompanied by a pack of international reporters and television cameras, the ousted leader in his trademark cowboy hat took a step or two inside Honduran territory in the small town of Las Manos on the border with Nicaragua.
Pausing to give live telephone interviews, he approached the chain dividing the two central American nations, stepping briefly over and holding the chain over his head in triumph for a moment and touching a sign saying "Welcome to Honduras."
With troops standing just yards away, he said he did not want to proceed further out of "respect for the principles" of the military.
Excerpt over. Zelaya paused out of fear of the arrest order those soldiers have, not respect for their principles. If he respected their principles he would not have fired the top general before being removed because that general refused to go forward with distributing ballots for a vote declared illegal by the supreme court and congress of Honduras. If he respected them he would not have stormed a military base with his supports trying to force the vote a day before his removal.
He has no respect for the Honduras military or the rule of law. He did not march to the capital because he has fear, not respect.
Update: The article this was based on is here:
http://uk.reuters.com/article/idUKTRE56N4YL20090724
Thursday, July 23, 2009
The Races - On Your Marks- Wait, New Entry For Governor
Peter Mills had decided to run for governor on the Republican ticket. He is the first GOP candidate to be a career politician. He does not yet have a website or a blog. However, if he represents your district you can read his congressional page here:
http://petermills.info/
Update: The Dawn Hill website is functional, but under development. Steve Rowe's website is uniquely designed, but is deceptively lacking in anything specific. It is basically an announcement speech with donate buttons.
Steve mentions the following:
Steve also knows that problems such as substance abuse, mental illness and domestic abuse are devastating to Maine people and to our state’s economy. Steve will work to eliminate these problems so that the true potential of Maine people and the state’s economy can be realized.
Excerpt over. Haven't seen that one often, and it is good to see. However, it lacks plans or facts or, well, basically anything substantial.
Dawn Hill's website:
http://www.dawnhillforgovernor.com/
Steve Rowe's website (I link to the more detailed page) :
http://www.roweforgovernor.com/about-steve
http://petermills.info/
Update: The Dawn Hill website is functional, but under development. Steve Rowe's website is uniquely designed, but is deceptively lacking in anything specific. It is basically an announcement speech with donate buttons.
Steve mentions the following:
Steve also knows that problems such as substance abuse, mental illness and domestic abuse are devastating to Maine people and to our state’s economy. Steve will work to eliminate these problems so that the true potential of Maine people and the state’s economy can be realized.
Excerpt over. Haven't seen that one often, and it is good to see. However, it lacks plans or facts or, well, basically anything substantial.
Dawn Hill's website:
http://www.dawnhillforgovernor.com/
Steve Rowe's website (I link to the more detailed page) :
http://www.roweforgovernor.com/about-steve
Zelaya's March
Manuel Zelaya is going to have a peaceful march to the border of Honduras from the Nicaraguan capital. It started earlier this day with him and his family. However, how peaceful it will be after that is questionable.
I urge non-violence in this entire situation. I recommend the Honduran border patrol or military or police (whoever monitors such things) to arrest Zelaya as the Supreme Court ordered them to do almost a month ago now.
I urge non-violence in this entire situation. I recommend the Honduran border patrol or military or police (whoever monitors such things) to arrest Zelaya as the Supreme Court ordered them to do almost a month ago now.
Surgery Today
I am going into surgery, oh, about thirty minutes from now to remove three very oddly impacted wisdom teeth. May not post for two days.
We Got bin Laden
Saad Bin Laden is dead. He is the son of Usama (Osama) bin Laden. He was killed by a U.S. airstrike in Pakistan. Next question: What are the odds Osama is also in Pakistan? I say 90% just on gut feeling.
Bad news is he wasn't very important. Also, we can't confirm if he was killed. Also, they say the strike occured earlier this year. Also, out of 50 airstrikes since our air campaign started, only 11 got their targets. Is this really the best that the world's undisputed best airforce can do? We have no enemies in the skies! Seriously, if we are being careful, we have the resources, lets try to make sure we have a 50% success rate. For the best armed forces in the world, I think that isn't asking too much.
Bad news is he wasn't very important. Also, we can't confirm if he was killed. Also, they say the strike occured earlier this year. Also, out of 50 airstrikes since our air campaign started, only 11 got their targets. Is this really the best that the world's undisputed best airforce can do? We have no enemies in the skies! Seriously, if we are being careful, we have the resources, lets try to make sure we have a 50% success rate. For the best armed forces in the world, I think that isn't asking too much.
Wednesday, July 22, 2009
The Races - Rosa Scarcelli
This Democratic candidate has made accessing her website easier than the other candidates not on the Republican ticket (Alex Hammer, I mean you!). Here is the link to her issues page: http://www.rosaformaine.com/splash/Issues
Now, some say the colors are bold, and indeed they are. However, who cares? On to the actual issues. Lets take an excerpt:
State government can’t create jobs, but we can create a climate for businesses to grow and expand – and support the businesses that are the backbone of Maine. We do that by continuing recent efforts to make our tax rates more attractive, and by making state government more cost effective and efficient in order to have the needed resources to make strategic investments in education, workforce development, health care, transportation and alternative energy to lower our heating costs for homes and businesses.
Excerpt over. That is the clarity I have been looking for in a candidate. Knowing the limits, but also giving a plan (tax rates lower, better government) and what to do with the gains made by that plan. All in one paragraph. However, the detail I've been looking for is lacking.
I want to be clear, this is not perfect. However, it condensed the big thinking and philosophy other candidates always have, into a single paragraph. She continues:
We can offer the world what no other state can. That means focusing on our natural resources. We can embrace and revive our great traditions in wood and wood products, boatbuilding, agriculture, seafood, and recreation – but do it smarter and better than in the past, with new technologies, new products and new techniques.
Excerpt ceased. We have plenty of trees, but I doubt we can revitalize our logging industry to compete with Brazil. Otherwise this is a good statement. If only it had details. Her website lacks even facts to support having knowledge of the current situation in Maine.
The education segment and healthcare segment lack details and make a good speech. It however only gives a philosophy to a solution that isn't complete.
She does urge energy independance through weatherization. Otherwise she has little plans other than proposing green energy solutions. This could be hamsters on a wheel or solar energy, she just doesn't say.
Then a twist. She urges the promotion of eating locally grown foods and increasing farm production (and thus jobs, while using less energy transporting it.) This is the first I've heard of making the growth of farming in Maine as an issue of its own. She finishes by giving the clean air, water, earth line of every politician since "The Jungle".
Note: Still searching for other candidates websites. I check once a week. If it doesn't exist with an issues page, I don't bother. To Alex Hammer: give up already. You are the Al Gore of Maine's governor elections.
Now, some say the colors are bold, and indeed they are. However, who cares? On to the actual issues. Lets take an excerpt:
State government can’t create jobs, but we can create a climate for businesses to grow and expand – and support the businesses that are the backbone of Maine. We do that by continuing recent efforts to make our tax rates more attractive, and by making state government more cost effective and efficient in order to have the needed resources to make strategic investments in education, workforce development, health care, transportation and alternative energy to lower our heating costs for homes and businesses.
Excerpt over. That is the clarity I have been looking for in a candidate. Knowing the limits, but also giving a plan (tax rates lower, better government) and what to do with the gains made by that plan. All in one paragraph. However, the detail I've been looking for is lacking.
I want to be clear, this is not perfect. However, it condensed the big thinking and philosophy other candidates always have, into a single paragraph. She continues:
We can offer the world what no other state can. That means focusing on our natural resources. We can embrace and revive our great traditions in wood and wood products, boatbuilding, agriculture, seafood, and recreation – but do it smarter and better than in the past, with new technologies, new products and new techniques.
Excerpt ceased. We have plenty of trees, but I doubt we can revitalize our logging industry to compete with Brazil. Otherwise this is a good statement. If only it had details. Her website lacks even facts to support having knowledge of the current situation in Maine.
The education segment and healthcare segment lack details and make a good speech. It however only gives a philosophy to a solution that isn't complete.
She does urge energy independance through weatherization. Otherwise she has little plans other than proposing green energy solutions. This could be hamsters on a wheel or solar energy, she just doesn't say.
Then a twist. She urges the promotion of eating locally grown foods and increasing farm production (and thus jobs, while using less energy transporting it.) This is the first I've heard of making the growth of farming in Maine as an issue of its own. She finishes by giving the clean air, water, earth line of every politician since "The Jungle".
Note: Still searching for other candidates websites. I check once a week. If it doesn't exist with an issues page, I don't bother. To Alex Hammer: give up already. You are the Al Gore of Maine's governor elections.
"Maine Human Rights Referendum"
In 2010 there is going to be a referendum on the ballot in Maine. Despite speaking for human rights, it proposes that the following occur:
1. Clarify marriage law limiting the institution of marriage to one man and one woman.
2. Forbid the establishment of civil unions.
3. Clarify adoption law to allow only one person, or a married couple, to adopt.
4. Remove the designation "sexual orientation" from the Maine Human Rights Act.
5. Eliminate funding for the Maine attorney general’s school civil rights team program.
From: http://ballotpedia.org/wiki/index.php/Maine_Human_Rights_Referendum_%282009%29
Seeing the efforts of a civil rights team this year address obesity, and homelessness (even having a successful fundraiser for the shelter) along with numerous other racial issues I know the importance they have in Maine. There is discrimination and hatred in Maine and this group brings awareness to such problems in our public schools by having students who see it first hand be the ones to move for a more civil society.
A teenager a few years ago was killed in downtown Bangor because he was gay. His sexual orientation was the reason he was killed. Crimes of hatred should have stronger punishments and the MHRA provides for that.
The new rules for adoption would have prevented me from growing up in the best family in the world. I was adopted by two women. (They are simply lifelong friends, not lesbians; it is like the Golden Girls.) Preventing such adoption would remove so many options kids need to have in order for the best chance to grow up in a loving, providing family.
Not only preventing equal marriage, they would take away the provisions that allow some recognition to the love that same-sex couples have in the law. This vote places a civil society on the line from one of respect and equal opportunity to one of discrimination that permits hatred. This referendum must fail. Every point it makes is an insult to the cause of human rights.
The name itself could be misleading to those who vote. Seeing the title one has the internal gut reaction to support human rights and could vote yes without knowing it will actually remove rights that citizens in a country where all men are equal deserve.
This is not to be confused with the referendum this year to repeal the law which allows same-sex marriage. My views on same-sex marriage are posted months ago, but I will clarify and refresh memories soon.
1. Clarify marriage law limiting the institution of marriage to one man and one woman.
2. Forbid the establishment of civil unions.
3. Clarify adoption law to allow only one person, or a married couple, to adopt.
4. Remove the designation "sexual orientation" from the Maine Human Rights Act.
5. Eliminate funding for the Maine attorney general’s school civil rights team program.
From: http://ballotpedia.org/wiki/index.php/Maine_Human_Rights_Referendum_%282009%29
Seeing the efforts of a civil rights team this year address obesity, and homelessness (even having a successful fundraiser for the shelter) along with numerous other racial issues I know the importance they have in Maine. There is discrimination and hatred in Maine and this group brings awareness to such problems in our public schools by having students who see it first hand be the ones to move for a more civil society.
A teenager a few years ago was killed in downtown Bangor because he was gay. His sexual orientation was the reason he was killed. Crimes of hatred should have stronger punishments and the MHRA provides for that.
The new rules for adoption would have prevented me from growing up in the best family in the world. I was adopted by two women. (They are simply lifelong friends, not lesbians; it is like the Golden Girls.) Preventing such adoption would remove so many options kids need to have in order for the best chance to grow up in a loving, providing family.
Not only preventing equal marriage, they would take away the provisions that allow some recognition to the love that same-sex couples have in the law. This vote places a civil society on the line from one of respect and equal opportunity to one of discrimination that permits hatred. This referendum must fail. Every point it makes is an insult to the cause of human rights.
The name itself could be misleading to those who vote. Seeing the title one has the internal gut reaction to support human rights and could vote yes without knowing it will actually remove rights that citizens in a country where all men are equal deserve.
This is not to be confused with the referendum this year to repeal the law which allows same-sex marriage. My views on same-sex marriage are posted months ago, but I will clarify and refresh memories soon.
Russia's Navy in Syria
Right now there is a naval base in Syria with 50 Russian's currently operating it. Now there are plans to expand it. The facility, fully operational, can have up to twelve ships, what kind the article did not specify.
From: http://www.upi.com/Emerging_Threats/2009/07/21/Russia-to-upgrade-its-naval-base-in-Syria/UPI-25841248210937/
Meanwhile Sudan and Southern Sudan are closer to civil war in 2011. An international court ruling that certain oil fields are in Southern Sudan give economic reason for Sudan to ensure that in 2011 Southern Sudan does not secede. The reason 2011 is important is because in 2005 the two sides signed a 6 year peace deal after which, in 2011, a referendum on independance in Southern Sudan would be held.
Southern Sudan's government has been purchasing military supplies in a slow, but steady build up. In the past few years. So beward the unrest in Sudan in 2011.
From: http://www.nytimes.com/2009/07/23/world/africa/23sudan.html?hpw
From: http://www.upi.com/Emerging_Threats/2009/07/21/Russia-to-upgrade-its-naval-base-in-Syria/UPI-25841248210937/
Meanwhile Sudan and Southern Sudan are closer to civil war in 2011. An international court ruling that certain oil fields are in Southern Sudan give economic reason for Sudan to ensure that in 2011 Southern Sudan does not secede. The reason 2011 is important is because in 2005 the two sides signed a 6 year peace deal after which, in 2011, a referendum on independance in Southern Sudan would be held.
Southern Sudan's government has been purchasing military supplies in a slow, but steady build up. In the past few years. So beward the unrest in Sudan in 2011.
From: http://www.nytimes.com/2009/07/23/world/africa/23sudan.html?hpw
ALBA A Gathering Of Conspiracy Nuts
The continuous statements about an American empire that come out of South America are obviously false. However, they continue to claim we are trying to control them. Anytime something does not go in their favor, we must be behind it. This goes against logic, and clearly the leaders in the ALBA nations have become sheep, and fallen for the Chavez flock.
It is difficult to fight a conspiracy. Anyone who truly believes is going to believe and just expand the scope whenever they are given evidence to the contrary. This means eventually, except for the few who believe with them, the entire world is in on the conspiracy. Eventually it becomes a road of isolation and there is the possibility that the people will one day snap and lash out against the world.
I have absolutely no clue how close any of the ALBA leaders are to that moment of radicalism. I hope it is far, far from it. I fear it may be closer than any of us think. I know that I do not know.
It is difficult to fight a conspiracy. Anyone who truly believes is going to believe and just expand the scope whenever they are given evidence to the contrary. This means eventually, except for the few who believe with them, the entire world is in on the conspiracy. Eventually it becomes a road of isolation and there is the possibility that the people will one day snap and lash out against the world.
I have absolutely no clue how close any of the ALBA leaders are to that moment of radicalism. I hope it is far, far from it. I fear it may be closer than any of us think. I know that I do not know.
Tuesday, July 21, 2009
North Korea / Myanmar (Burma) Alliance Highlighted By Clinton
http://www.bloomberg.com/apps/news?pid=20601080&sid=aIjeFm4oSsmo
Secretary of State Hillary Clinton spoke of the ties between Myanmar (Burma) and North Korea today. I am beginning to wonder if the State Department is relying on me as a sign of what to make public knowledge. They held back on declaring Honduras' government illegal, now they mention the Korea/Myanmar military cooperation. They even call it an alliance. Good to know they now know.
In other news, I will be keeping my posts short in the next week, a cutoff will not occur as scheduled. Even in a pained, slightly drug induced coma, I will post this blog.
Quick rundown of the news today:
Honduras sent Venezuela's ambassadors packing onward. When the world does something to them, it seems they have many diplomatic options on their side of the table as well.
The Ambassador to the United States from Ecuador called Marc Margolis a "white land owning era" revivalist for speaking out against the removal of term limits in Latin American nations (Ecuador among them.) The article the ambassador was speaking of is here:
http://www.newsweek.com/id/206680
And the ambassadors statements are here:
http://blog.newsweek.com/blogs/wealthofnations/archive/2009/07/21/the-embassy-strikes-back-ecuador-s-response-to-newsweek.aspx
All for now. Thank you for reading.
Secretary of State Hillary Clinton spoke of the ties between Myanmar (Burma) and North Korea today. I am beginning to wonder if the State Department is relying on me as a sign of what to make public knowledge. They held back on declaring Honduras' government illegal, now they mention the Korea/Myanmar military cooperation. They even call it an alliance. Good to know they now know.
In other news, I will be keeping my posts short in the next week, a cutoff will not occur as scheduled. Even in a pained, slightly drug induced coma, I will post this blog.
Quick rundown of the news today:
Honduras sent Venezuela's ambassadors packing onward. When the world does something to them, it seems they have many diplomatic options on their side of the table as well.
The Ambassador to the United States from Ecuador called Marc Margolis a "white land owning era" revivalist for speaking out against the removal of term limits in Latin American nations (Ecuador among them.) The article the ambassador was speaking of is here:
http://www.newsweek.com/id/206680
And the ambassadors statements are here:
http://blog.newsweek.com/blogs/wealthofnations/archive/2009/07/21/the-embassy-strikes-back-ecuador-s-response-to-newsweek.aspx
All for now. Thank you for reading.
Randnomics!
1+1=2
1x1=1
1x2=2
If you have one dollar it can equal two if you use it more than once. This is the basic principle of currency curculation. A dollar is as valuable as the number of times it is used. The more it is used, the more valuable it is. The exchanged may have varying value, but the dollar will still gain value from the transaction.
The faster the transactions occur the more efficient and valuable the economy it is in.
The total currency (in paper and coins worldwide) is 46.513 trillion dollars. The total world GDP is roughly 69.49 trillion dollars. This means more than half of all currency in the world is only used once a year. There is a vast amount of money in limited circulation.
The faster transactions take place, the faster the value of money grows. When it grows and moves faster, the global economy will improve in whatever form you wish to look at. Government policy for economic improvement should focus on increasing currency movement.
The policy of increasing the amount of currency in circulation is flawed in that it does not gaurantee circulation of the currency. Since the spending of government in debts requires the printing of money, in circulation currency is not used. It only increases the amount of currency in circulation.
Governments should not only try to move currency faster, but make certain their debt load is as low as possible. They should also cap their debt at the total value of their circulating currency to ensure, in event of default (countries do go "bankrupt" internationally) that a 100% will gain the needed revenue to pay off the debt. This is not a recommended policy, but a worst case scenario.
Governments should also place a cap level of the amount of currency per person they are allowed to have in circulation. The United States currency has about $2,000 dollars in circulation per person. This has been steadily rising in the past decades because of the need to print money to pay debts.
In combination the debt cap level and the currency per person cap will ensure that economic stability will be determined by the speed of circulation which should be a deciding factor in who gets elected to office.
When a government speeds up circulation, take sales tax, the revenue will increase regardless of amount of currency in circulation. A dollar spent twice will give more revenue to the government over a dollar spent only once.
With the increased revenue from an increase in the speed of circulation the government will be in a better position to provide for the needs of citizens unable to have currency circulate towards them.
I created this theory today. This blog post gaurantees in any lawsuit (should someone try to make currency flow in their direction) that I had creative license here. I allow this to be used in any discussion, as long as I am the one who is quoted. Keynesian Economics, Obamanomics, Reaganomics (see Keynesian), and now Randnomics.Monday, July 20, 2009
Zelaya's Referendum Passed - Without Election
http://www.thenewamerican.com/index.php/world-mainmenu-26/north-america-mainmenu-36/1471
The referendum that was declared unconstitutional and resulted in Zelaya's removal apparently had results counted before the vote took place.
The referendum that was declared unconstitutional and resulted in Zelaya's removal apparently had results counted before the vote took place.
So Much Happening, So Little Time
I can hardly follow along. From bombings and protest clashes in Honduras, to the militarization and possible inclusion of ACORN into the ALBA alliance, to Ortega having a referendum to remove his own term limitations the world is turning upside down in South America in favor of dictators.
I started writing on three specific articles but it expanded to include seven. They are all important, and from the double standard the UN has towards tyranny and democracies, to the lack of a boycott on Iranian shipping but the boycott on Honduran shipping, the world is going in the wrong direction. So as I approach a surgery in the next couple of days, I announce now that for 7 days I will not be posting.
So follow the news without me (I'm sure you already do). I also permit anyone to send me an email of posts they would like to have up here. You write it, make sure it is coherent and not written while intoxicated, and I'll post it. No profanity, but thats about the only rule. It is your chance to take center stage.
Back in a week. Do not let Honduras fade out of your minds. Keep looking for the signs of the worldwide alliances.
I started writing on three specific articles but it expanded to include seven. They are all important, and from the double standard the UN has towards tyranny and democracies, to the lack of a boycott on Iranian shipping but the boycott on Honduran shipping, the world is going in the wrong direction. So as I approach a surgery in the next couple of days, I announce now that for 7 days I will not be posting.
So follow the news without me (I'm sure you already do). I also permit anyone to send me an email of posts they would like to have up here. You write it, make sure it is coherent and not written while intoxicated, and I'll post it. No profanity, but thats about the only rule. It is your chance to take center stage.
Back in a week. Do not let Honduras fade out of your minds. Keep looking for the signs of the worldwide alliances.
Sunday, July 19, 2009
Honduras Begins Descent
The following excerpt is from the following website:
http://english.people.com.cn/90001/90777/90852/6704237.html
A bomb exploded at the Lawyers' College in Honduran capital Tegucigalpa, a local radio station reported Sunday. The bomb, which did not cause any serious damage, exploded at 11:30 p.m. local time on Saturday (0530 GMT) just as the nation was beginning a curfew, a resident told the station. The building is in a southern Tegucigalpa neighborhood close to busy restaurants and night clubs. Since June 28 coup that brought down President Manuel Zelaya, two bombs have exploded in the offices of broadcaster Canal 11 and those of the state's Migration Agency. Two more were found and defused. Honduras' civil conflict has been intensifying ahead of Zelaya's planned return within a few hours.
Excerpt over. With the talks in Costa Rica officially declared dead, with some chatter about a continued talk on Wednesday, this bombing shows the lengths Zelaya's supporters are willing to go.
Violence is not the answer. Protest without violence. If you use no violence there will be no curfew or media restriction. Your voices will be heard if you use them instead of weapons. No more violence. Bloodshed will not solve this crisis. A democracy is formed through discussion and writings of law; not the skulls of those you disagree with or the blood of the innocent.
http://english.people.com.cn/90001/90777/90852/6704237.html
A bomb exploded at the Lawyers' College in Honduran capital Tegucigalpa, a local radio station reported Sunday. The bomb, which did not cause any serious damage, exploded at 11:30 p.m. local time on Saturday (0530 GMT) just as the nation was beginning a curfew, a resident told the station. The building is in a southern Tegucigalpa neighborhood close to busy restaurants and night clubs. Since June 28 coup that brought down President Manuel Zelaya, two bombs have exploded in the offices of broadcaster Canal 11 and those of the state's Migration Agency. Two more were found and defused. Honduras' civil conflict has been intensifying ahead of Zelaya's planned return within a few hours.
Excerpt over. With the talks in Costa Rica officially declared dead, with some chatter about a continued talk on Wednesday, this bombing shows the lengths Zelaya's supporters are willing to go.
Violence is not the answer. Protest without violence. If you use no violence there will be no curfew or media restriction. Your voices will be heard if you use them instead of weapons. No more violence. Bloodshed will not solve this crisis. A democracy is formed through discussion and writings of law; not the skulls of those you disagree with or the blood of the innocent.
Nicaragua's Ortega Wastes Little Time
He has proposed that term limits be removed from the Nicaraguan Constitution. Nicaragua is an ALBA nation. Turn on the common sense portion of your brains and re-read the first two lines of this blog. Thank you for reading.
Update: Placing more thought into this I believe I know why. The world took Zelaya's side. Ortega believes that if he proposes it, should it go against him no matter how far he pushes it, he will have the support of the U.N., NAM, and OAS, and with them the world will follow their lead and support his move to hold onto power.
Zelaya pushed it so far as to raid a military base with his supporters a day before he was removed in an attempt to force distribution of the ballots for his referendum which the military refused to do (it is their assigned duty to distribute ballots for any election) on the basis of the Congress, Supreme Court, and human rights ombudsman declaring it unconstitutional. The world still supports Zelaya. Ortega sees this as the green light to push through his hold on power as far as he has to.
Update: Placing more thought into this I believe I know why. The world took Zelaya's side. Ortega believes that if he proposes it, should it go against him no matter how far he pushes it, he will have the support of the U.N., NAM, and OAS, and with them the world will follow their lead and support his move to hold onto power.
Zelaya pushed it so far as to raid a military base with his supporters a day before he was removed in an attempt to force distribution of the ballots for his referendum which the military refused to do (it is their assigned duty to distribute ballots for any election) on the basis of the Congress, Supreme Court, and human rights ombudsman declaring it unconstitutional. The world still supports Zelaya. Ortega sees this as the green light to push through his hold on power as far as he has to.
UN Ignores Venezuelan Belligerence / ALBA Goes Military and Political
The request that the UN speak out against the threats of war by Venezuela during the initial phase of the removal of Zelaya has been turned down. The world has lately been looking away from such actions believing the phrases "sticks and stone may break my bones, but words will never hurt me." Sarah Palin is proof that words do hurt even when false. Hitler wrote Mein Kampf years before he became Chancellor. In it he declared exactly what he was going to do.
In 1998 Osama Bin Laden gave an interview and declared war on the United States. The world, and us, looked away until 9/11. North Korea says we are in a state of war and the ceasefire is over. We have done little militarily in response. Now, Venezuela says they will invade Honduras and the world allows them to. Hitler and Osama proved looking away only gives them time to turn their words into actions.
Freedom of speech has its limitations. You can't shout fire when there isn't one because that would cause harm. I believe declaring war falls under this dangerous realm of speech that should not be allowed to go without scornful response.
Based on: http://www.dailynews.lk/2009/07/20/wld01.asp
-----------------------------------------------------------
The ALBA alliance is going to expand from just an economic organization. Bolivia's president wants to expand it to include military, political party, and social organization unity within the group. They are expected to create committees at the next ALBA meeting to discuss how to go forward with that. This comes a week after Morales said that Latin American nations should end military cooperation with the U.S.
Based on: http://www.etaiwannews.com/etn/news_content.php?id=1007963&lang=eng_news
This is like a bad historical parody. The worst part is it is real. The proposal of merging military efforts may stand out as the most dangerous element to this when combined with seperating from U.S. cooperation. Instead, the merging of political parties will be the major problem. Having the same political parties cross borders is how the Nazi party initially tried to take over Austria.
The merging of military forces followed the Anschluss and incorporated Czech Republic forces with Austrian forces and German forces before the invasion of Poland. The merging of the ALBA military forces would be strenuous to command and difficult to maintain without a purpose for a joint command. The nations Hitler conquered needed the war effort to maintain the propoganda and military cohesion that the "liberated" nations needed to have under a Nazi regime.
Will Honduras provide the war these nations need to unite their military forces? If so, they will obviously overwhelm Honduras unless we intervene. When Honduras is done, they must be expecting another war to be able to continue their efforts. If we don't intervene, with who will they go to war?
In 1998 Osama Bin Laden gave an interview and declared war on the United States. The world, and us, looked away until 9/11. North Korea says we are in a state of war and the ceasefire is over. We have done little militarily in response. Now, Venezuela says they will invade Honduras and the world allows them to. Hitler and Osama proved looking away only gives them time to turn their words into actions.
Freedom of speech has its limitations. You can't shout fire when there isn't one because that would cause harm. I believe declaring war falls under this dangerous realm of speech that should not be allowed to go without scornful response.
Based on: http://www.dailynews.lk/2009/07/20/wld01.asp
-----------------------------------------------------------
The ALBA alliance is going to expand from just an economic organization. Bolivia's president wants to expand it to include military, political party, and social organization unity within the group. They are expected to create committees at the next ALBA meeting to discuss how to go forward with that. This comes a week after Morales said that Latin American nations should end military cooperation with the U.S.
Based on: http://www.etaiwannews.com/etn/news_content.php?id=1007963&lang=eng_news
This is like a bad historical parody. The worst part is it is real. The proposal of merging military efforts may stand out as the most dangerous element to this when combined with seperating from U.S. cooperation. Instead, the merging of political parties will be the major problem. Having the same political parties cross borders is how the Nazi party initially tried to take over Austria.
The merging of military forces followed the Anschluss and incorporated Czech Republic forces with Austrian forces and German forces before the invasion of Poland. The merging of the ALBA military forces would be strenuous to command and difficult to maintain without a purpose for a joint command. The nations Hitler conquered needed the war effort to maintain the propoganda and military cohesion that the "liberated" nations needed to have under a Nazi regime.
Will Honduras provide the war these nations need to unite their military forces? If so, they will obviously overwhelm Honduras unless we intervene. When Honduras is done, they must be expecting another war to be able to continue their efforts. If we don't intervene, with who will they go to war?
Saturday, July 18, 2009
Contact Your Representative
I have written the following letter in response to our House of Representatives proposing a bill to recognize Zelaya as the legal president. I give permission to everyone who wishes to change the name of the representative and their name in the letter and send it to your respective Representative(s). I not only give you permission to do so, I recommend it. This is something you can do and it takes (if you don't live in Texas, New York, or California) less than five minutes. So here it is:
Dear Michael Michaud:
I am concerned about the situation in the Republic of Honduras, where, on June 28, the military removed the former president, Manuel Zelaya, on orders from the Honduran Supreme Court.
President Obama condemned the actions of the military of Honduras without reading the Honduran constitution. In reference to article 239 I make this plea to correct the United States position. I do not want to alter our support for Democracy and Constitutional law. I merely wish to alter who we endorse to help us in our cause.
Although clear statements are needed, at the end of the day standing with those who most closely resemble our level of society and process of legal orders should be who we stand shoulder to shoulder with.
Some of your colleagues in the House have introduced a resolution, H Res 630, that I believe expresses a very dangerous position toward the situation in Honduras. It calls, among other things, for a cutoff of military and other non-humanitarian aid to the government led by Roberto Micheletti until the he steps down and President Zelaya is returned to office.
As a Maine voter and taxpayer, I would like to ask you to oppose this resolution. The failure of this bill to pass will be enough to prove to the Honduran government that our seperation of powers, not a president alone, represents a nation's respect for Constitutional law and our aknowledgement of the risk they took in order to protect and follow their Constitution.
Sincerely
Randy Hughes-King
Maine
Dear Michael Michaud:
I am concerned about the situation in the Republic of Honduras, where, on June 28, the military removed the former president, Manuel Zelaya, on orders from the Honduran Supreme Court.
President Obama condemned the actions of the military of Honduras without reading the Honduran constitution. In reference to article 239 I make this plea to correct the United States position. I do not want to alter our support for Democracy and Constitutional law. I merely wish to alter who we endorse to help us in our cause.
Although clear statements are needed, at the end of the day standing with those who most closely resemble our level of society and process of legal orders should be who we stand shoulder to shoulder with.
Some of your colleagues in the House have introduced a resolution, H Res 630, that I believe expresses a very dangerous position toward the situation in Honduras. It calls, among other things, for a cutoff of military and other non-humanitarian aid to the government led by Roberto Micheletti until the he steps down and President Zelaya is returned to office.
As a Maine voter and taxpayer, I would like to ask you to oppose this resolution. The failure of this bill to pass will be enough to prove to the Honduran government that our seperation of powers, not a president alone, represents a nation's respect for Constitutional law and our aknowledgement of the risk they took in order to protect and follow their Constitution.
Sincerely
Randy Hughes-King
Maine
Why Honduras Matters
I know the average person might go "Honduras, what is that?" So, I am going to explain why Honduras matters so much right now (beside my explanation of the ALBA alliance in earlier posts.)
Honduras is a country of 7.5 million people, and is poor. The average person earns less than two dollars a day. The annual GDP is 14 billion dollars. Compare this to 14 trillion in the United States. It has a high level of wealth seperation (I.E. little to no middle class with a limited wealthy elite.) Its earliest days saw the Mayans build many, many temples. These temples provide one of the largest industries of Honduras: tourism.
1899 was the year in which the first shipment of bananas went from Honduras to the U.S. The company that shipped them would become Standard Fruit Company. This company became very powerful and controlled the government to a certain extent. This created the term "banana republic." Honduras was the first banana republic.
The companies began having their own towns to control with all the land grants from the Honduras government. As time passed the Monroe Doctrine brought the U.S. into Honduras often. We sent troops in 1903, 1907, 1911, 1912, 1919, 1924, and 1925. Following generally functioning democratic presidents they had a dictator for 16 years.
A coup in 1955 but an election took place in 1957. However, in 1963 there was another coup. Then there was a war following a soccer match with El Salvador. The reasons for the war were complex and you can look it up on your own time.
The U.S. has a majority of businesses in Honduras. It is excellent for food growing and that is the basis of our relations with them. For the past 60 years we have not invaded Honduras. Our 600 troops in Honduras remained at their base during the turmoil.
We usually don't care who is in power as long as the business relations stayed open. That explains the seemingly hands-off approach we have taken this time. We have made big statements, but have actually done very little. The reason this crisis is important now more than the previous power shifts is because of Zelaya's alliance to Chavez. On Monday many of you will read in your local papers about the newest findings on the drug smuggling operations of the Chavez government.
If that isn't enough, I believe Chavez is forming an alliance against us which is intent on having a fourth world war in order to destroy America and will put in place fascist governments worldwide in coordination with Iran.
That is why not having Zelaya in power matters. Mitchelleti and the others in Honduras are fighting the ALBA dependance Honduras has formed under Zelaya. I hope that helps give some perspective.
TEGUCIGALPA, Honduras — Negotiator for ousted Honduran president accepts Arias plan in principle, say talks stalemated.
Excerpt over. From 9 P.M. Eastern Time, there are 4 hours until the talks, by Zelaya standards, are over. This report means anytime now Zelaya could say it is over. Unless there is a major breakthrough, the talks are essentially over. If Zelaya keeps the hard line, Honduras enters civil war. If he backs down, his legitimacy is finished and the Mitchelleti government has breathing space. This is only if Venezuela and Nicaragua maintain neutrality in the affairs of Honduras.
Should they get involved it becomes more than a civil war. It could be an invasion or a proxy war. The only way this is going to avoid conflict is if Zelaya admits, in a sense, defeat. All the bluster and talk so far has been pointless if he backs down. It diminishes his legitimacy and gives the new Honduran government recognition as they hold the country. It will be interesting to see how this goes.
Excerpt over. From 9 P.M. Eastern Time, there are 4 hours until the talks, by Zelaya standards, are over. This report means anytime now Zelaya could say it is over. Unless there is a major breakthrough, the talks are essentially over. If Zelaya keeps the hard line, Honduras enters civil war. If he backs down, his legitimacy is finished and the Mitchelleti government has breathing space. This is only if Venezuela and Nicaragua maintain neutrality in the affairs of Honduras.
Should they get involved it becomes more than a civil war. It could be an invasion or a proxy war. The only way this is going to avoid conflict is if Zelaya admits, in a sense, defeat. All the bluster and talk so far has been pointless if he backs down. It diminishes his legitimacy and gives the new Honduran government recognition as they hold the country. It will be interesting to see how this goes.
Legitimacy of Reports
Alright, anyone who uses Vheadline.com to get news on, well, anything, just a warning to you. Consider the source of the information. In one of the articles on Honduras the entire article is just a copy of a blog post from marxist.com. Ahem, the journalistic quality of an opion from a blog, copied into a news outlet seems like a pathetic way to have news without being able to afford journalists. At least they provided the source, which marxist.com does not. I would link to it in my blog, but I have standards.
Meanwhile a human rights lawyer has made a report detailing 155,000 human rights violations by the Mitchelleti government. It has only been twenty days. Two people at most are confirmed dead, only one confirmed to be by intentional actions. The reports say roughly three hundred people are generally the protest size, and they are still protesting peacefully (mostly) so illegal arrests are not massive. How one can reach 155,000 violations in the accused media blackout and human rights restriction on speech and everything else seems, well, contradictory.
Seriously, think about it. Turn on your common sense and turn off the "sheep mindset". If there is really such a crackdown on the media, restriction of freedom of speech and assembly, and all the other accusations would it be possible to access information on 155,000 incidents to make a report about it, and then release the report from WITHIN Honduras? The violations were invented to make a negative headline for the Mitchelleti presidency. They can't even find 155,000 things to say about Saddam, and he ruled for thirty years. I doubt Honduras has that many violations in twenty days.
Meanwhile a human rights lawyer has made a report detailing 155,000 human rights violations by the Mitchelleti government. It has only been twenty days. Two people at most are confirmed dead, only one confirmed to be by intentional actions. The reports say roughly three hundred people are generally the protest size, and they are still protesting peacefully (mostly) so illegal arrests are not massive. How one can reach 155,000 violations in the accused media blackout and human rights restriction on speech and everything else seems, well, contradictory.
Seriously, think about it. Turn on your common sense and turn off the "sheep mindset". If there is really such a crackdown on the media, restriction of freedom of speech and assembly, and all the other accusations would it be possible to access information on 155,000 incidents to make a report about it, and then release the report from WITHIN Honduras? The violations were invented to make a negative headline for the Mitchelleti presidency. They can't even find 155,000 things to say about Saddam, and he ruled for thirty years. I doubt Honduras has that many violations in twenty days.
Tacoa City - The First of Many?
Another tragedy has occured in Honduras. The bloodshed continues with newly termed "Zelayistas" causing violence once more. So far a pattern of violent protest results in tragedy for the Zelaya supporters. The attempted break through of the barricade at the airport in Tegucigalpa resulted in a supporter being shot. Today, in a coastal town Zelayistas attacked a march in support of the interim government.
In Tacoa City the report says the following:
Zelaya's sympathizers clashed with demonstrators in support of the interim government headed by former congressional leader Roberto Micheletti.
Witness said that during the conflict many people, including youngsters and children, were badly beaten, and the police had to intervene to bring the situation under control.
So far there has been no report of death, and the exact number of injuries remained unclear.
Iris Turcios, coordinator of the pro-interim-government demonstration, told radio channel HRN that the situation was sad, and that greater tragedy could have happened if the police hadn't taken action.
Excerpt over. I fear this is just a taste-test of what Honduras will be facing at midnight tonight if the talks in Costa Rica do not result in Zelaya accepting a life without presidential power.
In an almost eerie twist, I just closed the link to the website with the report. I've spent twenty minutes searching for it again using the same google search. Tacoa city returns absolutely nothing. Tacoa city, according to results, doesn't exist. A search of maps and wikipedia does not show it exists. A very confusing turn of events for me.
I am looking into HRN radio right now. I found it. Now I wonder how google determines what is related to searches, especially in the news searches. It was in the Honduras search one moment, and gone the next. Very interesting. Anyhow, here is the link:
http://english.cri.cn/6966/2009/07/19/1722s502423.htm
In Tacoa City the report says the following:
Zelaya's sympathizers clashed with demonstrators in support of the interim government headed by former congressional leader Roberto Micheletti.
Witness said that during the conflict many people, including youngsters and children, were badly beaten, and the police had to intervene to bring the situation under control.
So far there has been no report of death, and the exact number of injuries remained unclear.
Iris Turcios, coordinator of the pro-interim-government demonstration, told radio channel HRN that the situation was sad, and that greater tragedy could have happened if the police hadn't taken action.
Excerpt over. I fear this is just a taste-test of what Honduras will be facing at midnight tonight if the talks in Costa Rica do not result in Zelaya accepting a life without presidential power.
In an almost eerie twist, I just closed the link to the website with the report. I've spent twenty minutes searching for it again using the same google search. Tacoa city returns absolutely nothing. Tacoa city, according to results, doesn't exist. A search of maps and wikipedia does not show it exists. A very confusing turn of events for me.
I am looking into HRN radio right now. I found it. Now I wonder how google determines what is related to searches, especially in the news searches. It was in the Honduras search one moment, and gone the next. Very interesting. Anyhow, here is the link:
http://english.cri.cn/6966/2009/07/19/1722s502423.htm
Friday, July 17, 2009
SYFY DID IT AGAIN
Bait and switch is a crime. Just letting SYFY know that. Two weeks in a row they advertised Primeval at 10, and saw the advertisements in the show before, and they show Warehouse 13 instead. I've given them an ultimatum: air it as advertised and scheduled or face legal action. I plan to follow through with this too. I don't want money, I want what was advertised. Petty? Perhaps. However it has special meaning for my life that I could explain, but it would add a level of emotion to this blog that would really drag the element of surprise right out of it.
I've posted on their forums, sent them an email, and posted here. I'm sure two out of three will get through.
I've posted on their forums, sent them an email, and posted here. I'm sure two out of three will get through.
Obama and NAACP Speech
There have been three speeches that stand out to me in the post-awakening stage of my life. It is true I was not always involved in politics. Hillary Clinton's speech at the DNC, McCain's speech at the RNC, were inspiring and excellent speeches. Barack Obama's speech at the NAACP was absolutely astounding.
I am not speaking to the contents of these speeches, but the quality. The emotion within them and the way the crowd moved with the words in response are what make an excellent speech.
As I write this news came in that Obama will be on tv again next week in prime time on the 22nd. Anyhow, his speech ability is still one of the best in the political world. It should make Pelosi ashamed of her speeches.
I am not speaking to the contents of these speeches, but the quality. The emotion within them and the way the crowd moved with the words in response are what make an excellent speech.
As I write this news came in that Obama will be on tv again next week in prime time on the 22nd. Anyhow, his speech ability is still one of the best in the political world. It should make Pelosi ashamed of her speeches.
A Quality Of Leadership In Democracy
I have seen a lack of leaders who know what their job limits are lately. Most of those elected fail to realize their purpose is to operate the government; not our lives.
At www.bruceforme.com has a blog which Bruce Poliquin posts on. His July 16th post reads:
As the sides align supporting or opposing the recent law allowing gay marriage, I am glad to see this issue will be decided by the people of Maine.
Frankly, I am uncomfortable with the state legislature or the Governor being the last word on social issues. When it comes to an issue of conscience, it is best that the people of Maine have a vote.
I strongly believe that government should not involve itself in social issues like abortion and gay marriage. As Governor, I will do everything in my power to refer such issues to the ballot so that the people of Maine can ultimately make the decision.
Excerpt over. Bruce Poliquin recognizes the limits and understands the purpose of government. We need leaders who can do those two things now more than ever. Consider the following quote from Pat Blanchette of the Bangor City Council: "There are so many things the public doesn't know; nor should they. That's why they elect us."
The people people in office are not elected to keep secrets. They are elected to do a service to the citizens of this country. A government can't be working for the people if the people are not allowed to know what it is doing. I urge Bruce Poliquin (and all leaders anywhere) to cover their decisions weekly as much as they cover their campaigns. I should clarify this does not mean campaign while in office: replace slogans with facts.
I will use facts AS my slogans so that clarifying and back tracking that occurs so often during elections can be reduced to a minimum and keep the discussion focused on the solutions instead of the way a certain wording offends someone or confuses others.
At www.bruceforme.com has a blog which Bruce Poliquin posts on. His July 16th post reads:
As the sides align supporting or opposing the recent law allowing gay marriage, I am glad to see this issue will be decided by the people of Maine.
Frankly, I am uncomfortable with the state legislature or the Governor being the last word on social issues. When it comes to an issue of conscience, it is best that the people of Maine have a vote.
I strongly believe that government should not involve itself in social issues like abortion and gay marriage. As Governor, I will do everything in my power to refer such issues to the ballot so that the people of Maine can ultimately make the decision.
Excerpt over. Bruce Poliquin recognizes the limits and understands the purpose of government. We need leaders who can do those two things now more than ever. Consider the following quote from Pat Blanchette of the Bangor City Council: "There are so many things the public doesn't know; nor should they. That's why they elect us."
The people people in office are not elected to keep secrets. They are elected to do a service to the citizens of this country. A government can't be working for the people if the people are not allowed to know what it is doing. I urge Bruce Poliquin (and all leaders anywhere) to cover their decisions weekly as much as they cover their campaigns. I should clarify this does not mean campaign while in office: replace slogans with facts.
I will use facts AS my slogans so that clarifying and back tracking that occurs so often during elections can be reduced to a minimum and keep the discussion focused on the solutions instead of the way a certain wording offends someone or confuses others.
Honduras: An Expert Speaks
This article speaks for itself: http://www.humanevents.com/article.php?id=32748
Not a terribly long read, and explains most of the hanging questions I've had (like why it was the military that removed Zelaya, why the Obama administration made such a quick "uncautious" response....)
Not a terribly long read, and explains most of the hanging questions I've had (like why it was the military that removed Zelaya, why the Obama administration made such a quick "uncautious" response....)
Thursday, July 16, 2009
Healthcare Choice Taken Away
In the recent bill proposed by House Democrats, the long term effects was my reasoning for the limited choice result. However, they made having individual private insurance illegal in the bill itself. It wasn't deeply hidden in the over 1,000 page document. It was on page 16. Details from: http://www.ibdeditorials.com/IBDArticles.aspx?id=332548165656854
The article explains three things found in their short reading so far:
"Except as provided in this paragraph, the individual health insurance issuer offering such coverage does not enroll any individual in such coverage if the first effective date of coverage is on or after the first day" of the year the legislation becomes law.
So we can all keep our coverage, just as promised — with, of course, exceptions: Those who currently have private individual coverage won't be able to change it. Nor will those who leave a company to work for themselves be free to buy individual plans from private carriers.
What wasn't known until now is that the bill itself will kill the market for private individual coverage by not letting any new policies be written after the public option becomes law.
The legislation is also likely to finish off health savings accounts.
Excerpt over. So three big things in the first 16 pages of the health care bill. I knew it would have the long term effects of Socialism on this country, but I never thought the Democrats would mandate its progress to become law. Instead of simply easing us towards a Socialism model, through what I so far had hoped was a lack of understanding in basic economics, they are forcing it on us.
They say healthcare is a right. Apparently freedom of choice only applies to what they want. A good example is the strange divide on guns and abortion. Freedom of choice for an abortion but not for a gun. One gaurantees a death, the other is only meant for defense and hunting with no gaurantee of death. The whole ideology is contradictory. What they say and what they do are completely different. The lies need to end if our country is going to survive.
The article explains three things found in their short reading so far:
"Except as provided in this paragraph, the individual health insurance issuer offering such coverage does not enroll any individual in such coverage if the first effective date of coverage is on or after the first day" of the year the legislation becomes law.
So we can all keep our coverage, just as promised — with, of course, exceptions: Those who currently have private individual coverage won't be able to change it. Nor will those who leave a company to work for themselves be free to buy individual plans from private carriers.
What wasn't known until now is that the bill itself will kill the market for private individual coverage by not letting any new policies be written after the public option becomes law.
The legislation is also likely to finish off health savings accounts.
Excerpt over. So three big things in the first 16 pages of the health care bill. I knew it would have the long term effects of Socialism on this country, but I never thought the Democrats would mandate its progress to become law. Instead of simply easing us towards a Socialism model, through what I so far had hoped was a lack of understanding in basic economics, they are forcing it on us.
They say healthcare is a right. Apparently freedom of choice only applies to what they want. A good example is the strange divide on guns and abortion. Freedom of choice for an abortion but not for a gun. One gaurantees a death, the other is only meant for defense and hunting with no gaurantee of death. The whole ideology is contradictory. What they say and what they do are completely different. The lies need to end if our country is going to survive.
Protection From Tyranny
The founding fathers made the second amendment in order to make certain that the people could defend themselves from tyranny. If the social contract was broken the people would have the resources to make a new contract through force. This form of upholding the social contract can be implimented in two conditions: our primary method of ensuring the social contract is taken away (voting) or the second method (guns) are taken away. If the government attempts to ban guns the social contract allows for us to have a revolution and use those guns.
However, the primary, and thus far used in all cases except one (the civil war) method of ensuring the social contract is through the use of the vote. The civil war was an abuse of the social contract by those in the South because their right to vote was not taken away nor was their right to a firearm. Today, the right to own a firearm is under constant assault. Luckily, the bans so far have failed.
Should a ban on all non-hunting guns go through the social contract will have been violated and revolution is legitimate. However, unless a massive round up of weapons before it is placed to a vote occurs, the first method is a protection for civility to prevent chaos from occuring. Vote before you shoot. Vote again before you shoot. Never give up your guns, but make sure you hold on to them at the ballot box. Until it is actually taken away, no violence. When they try to take it away, you know tyranny will take away the vote once your ability to ensure the social contract through force is removed.
However, the primary, and thus far used in all cases except one (the civil war) method of ensuring the social contract is through the use of the vote. The civil war was an abuse of the social contract by those in the South because their right to vote was not taken away nor was their right to a firearm. Today, the right to own a firearm is under constant assault. Luckily, the bans so far have failed.
Should a ban on all non-hunting guns go through the social contract will have been violated and revolution is legitimate. However, unless a massive round up of weapons before it is placed to a vote occurs, the first method is a protection for civility to prevent chaos from occuring. Vote before you shoot. Vote again before you shoot. Never give up your guns, but make sure you hold on to them at the ballot box. Until it is actually taken away, no violence. When they try to take it away, you know tyranny will take away the vote once your ability to ensure the social contract through force is removed.
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