"Back in the thirties we were told we must collectivize the nation because the people were so poor. Now we are told we must collectivize the nation because the people are so rich." --William F. Buckley Jr. (1925-2008)
*From the Patriot Post this morning
Wednesday, November 9, 2011
Monday, November 7, 2011
Rush Hour Musings
Traffic ebbs and flows; four lanes of cars move in and out, slow down and speed up all at the discretion of the driver. Isn’t it amazing that this unchoreographed dance frenzy takes place all across the U.S. with only the barest of rules and laws set down by government, yet the large majority of these people arrive safely at their destination?
I see a similarity between driving styles and people’s approach to their personal finances.
Some pay close attention to traffic conditions ahead. They see a slow down and smoothly change lanes in plenty of time to avoid coming to a stand-still or abrupt stop. Others are not watching carefully and hit the brakes just in time to avoid a crash. Still other drivers, not in any hurry at all, see the traffic slow down but don’t worry about trying to avoid it - they figure they will get to their destination in due time. They just pick a lane and stick to it. Of course on the opposite end, there will always be the guy who is in such a hurry that he’s willing to break the law, risk a monetary fine, and endanger everyone’s safety by driving on the shoulder, swerving erratically, and changing lanes at fast speeds.
There are all types of styles but people choose for themselves how to handle the road ahead. People might choose to take large risks, calculated risks, or no risks at all. Most follow the rules and hope for the best. Many will make bad decisions and have a close call. Others break laws and hurt others by their crazy rush to get ahead but these paths are chosen without the expectation that government will be riding shotgun preventing all risks and consequences of decisions made by individuals.
So stay alert, keep your eyes on the road ahead, choose your course wisely, and buckle up. I’m afraid it’s going to be a bumpy road for some miles to come.
I see a similarity between driving styles and people’s approach to their personal finances.
Some pay close attention to traffic conditions ahead. They see a slow down and smoothly change lanes in plenty of time to avoid coming to a stand-still or abrupt stop. Others are not watching carefully and hit the brakes just in time to avoid a crash. Still other drivers, not in any hurry at all, see the traffic slow down but don’t worry about trying to avoid it - they figure they will get to their destination in due time. They just pick a lane and stick to it. Of course on the opposite end, there will always be the guy who is in such a hurry that he’s willing to break the law, risk a monetary fine, and endanger everyone’s safety by driving on the shoulder, swerving erratically, and changing lanes at fast speeds.
There are all types of styles but people choose for themselves how to handle the road ahead. People might choose to take large risks, calculated risks, or no risks at all. Most follow the rules and hope for the best. Many will make bad decisions and have a close call. Others break laws and hurt others by their crazy rush to get ahead but these paths are chosen without the expectation that government will be riding shotgun preventing all risks and consequences of decisions made by individuals.
So stay alert, keep your eyes on the road ahead, choose your course wisely, and buckle up. I’m afraid it’s going to be a bumpy road for some miles to come.
Sunday, September 18, 2011
How to Spot a Scam (The Obama Jobs Bill, for example)
Listening to the radio today, an expert on consumer scams listed several red flags that we should be watchful for in avoiding scam artists. He suggests we walk away if:
- The salesmen pushes you to buy or sign right now. He uses words like, "hurry" and "last chance" and conveys a sense of urgency by saying "It's a great deal, buy today!"
- The offer is too complicated to be easily understood.
- The offer sounds too good to be true; there is a promise of great reward for little risk.
Unintended Consequences
When we make decisions, we should always keep in mind the unintended consequences of those actions. Thomas Sowell, author of the book Basic Economics, makes the point, "..consequences matter more than intentions." This is true in our personal lives as well as laws, rules, and regulations (or the lack thereof) set in place by our government.
It's not enough that we want to help people, but we must always ensure that what we do to "help" isn't hurting the very people we intended to benefit.
The lack of border enforcement allows illegal immigrants to come to America, ostensibly for work and a better life. Many kind-hearted people and church groups support an open border. They feel bad for poor people across the border. They want to help them. But the reality is that these immigrant's undocumented status hurts them in ways far beyond what most people realize.
Recent cases of farm slave labor have been tried in Florida. Yes, you read that right. Slave labor. Here in America. Right now. Illegal immigrants from Mexico, Guatemala, El Salvador, etc...were smuggled into the U.S., stuffed into vans driven to Florida, and sold to crew bosses to work in tomato fields. They were locked in un-airconditioned trailers at night, some were even chained to prevent escape, and forced to work in the fields daily. Beaten if they tried to escape, some were captive for years. The gangs of thugs that sold them into slavery warned that their families back home would be in danger if they escaped or told authorities.
Distrustful of police, afraid of being caught for their illegal status, lack of English or education all contributed to these captives being held against their will, but it was their undocumented status that made them vulnerable in the first place.
Unscrupulous employers can abuse illegal immigrant workers knowing they won't be reported to authorities. Basic work and safety conditions are not met; wages are far below the legal limit; exposure to dangerous chemicals is common. The list goes on and is not limited to the tomato industry in Florida; sex-slave rings, child pornography, sexual abuse, drug trafficking, and kidnapping all under the radar in communities with large undocumented worker populations. These people are not living the American dream. We're not "helping" them by allowing them to enter the U.S. illegally.
Doesn't it make sense to expand our worker-visa program to accommodate enough farm workers? Doesn't it make sense to control who comes into our country? Doesn't it make sense to create immigration policies based on reality and not just good intentions?
It's not enough that we want to help people, but we must always ensure that what we do to "help" isn't hurting the very people we intended to benefit.
The lack of border enforcement allows illegal immigrants to come to America, ostensibly for work and a better life. Many kind-hearted people and church groups support an open border. They feel bad for poor people across the border. They want to help them. But the reality is that these immigrant's undocumented status hurts them in ways far beyond what most people realize.
Recent cases of farm slave labor have been tried in Florida. Yes, you read that right. Slave labor. Here in America. Right now. Illegal immigrants from Mexico, Guatemala, El Salvador, etc...were smuggled into the U.S., stuffed into vans driven to Florida, and sold to crew bosses to work in tomato fields. They were locked in un-airconditioned trailers at night, some were even chained to prevent escape, and forced to work in the fields daily. Beaten if they tried to escape, some were captive for years. The gangs of thugs that sold them into slavery warned that their families back home would be in danger if they escaped or told authorities.
Distrustful of police, afraid of being caught for their illegal status, lack of English or education all contributed to these captives being held against their will, but it was their undocumented status that made them vulnerable in the first place.
Unscrupulous employers can abuse illegal immigrant workers knowing they won't be reported to authorities. Basic work and safety conditions are not met; wages are far below the legal limit; exposure to dangerous chemicals is common. The list goes on and is not limited to the tomato industry in Florida; sex-slave rings, child pornography, sexual abuse, drug trafficking, and kidnapping all under the radar in communities with large undocumented worker populations. These people are not living the American dream. We're not "helping" them by allowing them to enter the U.S. illegally.
Doesn't it make sense to expand our worker-visa program to accommodate enough farm workers? Doesn't it make sense to control who comes into our country? Doesn't it make sense to create immigration policies based on reality and not just good intentions?
Wednesday, March 23, 2011
What Goes Around, Comes Around
The recent United Nations-undeclared war on Libya, with the U.S. a willing, and motivated co-conspirator to overthrow yet another Middle East dictator, makes me …..well, it makes me several things. First and foremost, it makes me want to throw up. Why, and by what right do we bomb a sovereign country that has not attacked us or posed imminent danger?
Secondly, and the point of this post, it makes me wonder what would happen if there were an insurrection here in the U.S. I always like to follow an idea to its absurd end. Not only does it help clarify the unintended consequences and dangers of proposed actions, policies, or laws but it also keeps me amused. So bear with me for a few sentences.
What if a revolutionary force surfaces here in the U.S. and demands an overthrow of the federal government? Imagine if they assassinate government officials, capture control of some vital industry or cities? The U.S. military is called out to stop them, protect the homeland and such. The rebels have weapons, guns, & tanks and fire on the military. This is sedition, rebellion, revolution. The military fires back – this is war.
A sovereign nation has a right to restore order and enforce its laws, doesn’t it? But then......but then,(here comes the good part and possibly a made-for-TV-movie), along comes the United Nation and orders the U.S. to stop firing on its own citizens. The world community is outraged and demands that the U.S. stop killing its own citizens. The U.N. orders the United Sates to bring the rebels to the table to discuss concessions and hear their grievances and integrate them into the government. Or maybe they enforce a no fly zone or covertly provide weapons and supplies to the rebels. Wow. We wouldn’t like that very much would we?
Oh Americans, be careful how you embrace those “one world” organizations because what goes around comes around and the U.S. could soon find itself on the other side of the table with the UN dictating to us.
Secondly, and the point of this post, it makes me wonder what would happen if there were an insurrection here in the U.S. I always like to follow an idea to its absurd end. Not only does it help clarify the unintended consequences and dangers of proposed actions, policies, or laws but it also keeps me amused. So bear with me for a few sentences.
What if a revolutionary force surfaces here in the U.S. and demands an overthrow of the federal government? Imagine if they assassinate government officials, capture control of some vital industry or cities? The U.S. military is called out to stop them, protect the homeland and such. The rebels have weapons, guns, & tanks and fire on the military. This is sedition, rebellion, revolution. The military fires back – this is war.
A sovereign nation has a right to restore order and enforce its laws, doesn’t it? But then......but then,(here comes the good part and possibly a made-for-TV-movie), along comes the United Nation and orders the U.S. to stop firing on its own citizens. The world community is outraged and demands that the U.S. stop killing its own citizens. The U.N. orders the United Sates to bring the rebels to the table to discuss concessions and hear their grievances and integrate them into the government. Or maybe they enforce a no fly zone or covertly provide weapons and supplies to the rebels. Wow. We wouldn’t like that very much would we?
Oh Americans, be careful how you embrace those “one world” organizations because what goes around comes around and the U.S. could soon find itself on the other side of the table with the UN dictating to us.
Forget about Terrorists, save us from Teen-Age Drivers
Rather than dealing with the multitude of crisis situations confronting the U.S., some Senators would rather save us from teen-age drivers.
According to the Orange County Register, a group of Senators & Representatives have introduced legislation establishing FEDERAL driver's licensing standards for beginning drivers. Wait, isn't that what the states' Departments of Motor Vehicles do? Not if these misguided lawmakers get their way.
If the bill is passed, states "would face gradual reductions in federal highway funding"* if they don't comply. Another power grab by the feds,(disguised as protecting us) and at the expense of state and individual rights.
Better buckle your seat belts, boys and girls, it's going to be a rough ride.
*OC Register, Sunday March 20, 2011
According to the Orange County Register, a group of Senators & Representatives have introduced legislation establishing FEDERAL driver's licensing standards for beginning drivers. Wait, isn't that what the states' Departments of Motor Vehicles do? Not if these misguided lawmakers get their way.
If the bill is passed, states "would face gradual reductions in federal highway funding"* if they don't comply. Another power grab by the feds,(disguised as protecting us) and at the expense of state and individual rights.
Better buckle your seat belts, boys and girls, it's going to be a rough ride.
*OC Register, Sunday March 20, 2011
Friday, March 18, 2011
Concerned Citizen or Busybody?
As I was leaving my house to go walking with a friend, I ran into a solicitor walking up my sidewalk about to deposit a wad of advertisement litter on my front porch. (Now, door to door solicitors are a BIG pet peeve of mine, especially after I caught one peering through the glass and then attempting to open my front door apparently because he thought I wasn’t home.)
So, I sprang into action. “No way,” I said. “Don’t leave those papers on my property. In fact, these are private streets with no soliciting signs clearly posted. You need to leave.” I whipped out my trusty cell phone, dialed up the association and reported this guy. My friend, obviously impressed, said she was glad I did that because she’s tired of all the solicitors as well. I felt good. A few minutes later we passed by some gang graffiti on a wall and cable box, and immediately I called the city’s graffiti hot line to report it. My friend said she didn’t realize I was such an involved neighbor and good citizen. Someone has to pay attention to what’s happening in our neighborhoods she said. I felt good.
We continued our walk and re-entering our neighborhood we happened upon the same solicitor, still leaving wads of advertisements on people’s property. This time, I asked him for the flyers and rang up the companies directly, told them they were illegally distributing advertisements on private streets. But this time, did I detect a note of disapproval from my walking buddy for my vigilante actions? And that got me to thinking. Where is the line between concerned citizen and busybody? Where is the delineation in trying to make the world a better place or just getting on your high horse and sticking your nose where it doesn’t belong? Righteous anger or ill-advised intervention? I felt bad.
Of course, being a Sensible Woman, I began to wonder how I could write a blog about this, uh, I mean, I wondered about the busybody stance of the UN and the U.S. involvement in Libya. Yes, Ghadaffi is a ruthless, insane dictator. BUT, is it the world’s job to side with the rebels against an established, albeit merciless, cruel government of a sovereign country? The media keeps repeating the phrase, "Ghadaffi is killing his own people". Yes, that's what happens in a civil war or revolt. Each side tries to kill each other. Civilized, isn't it? That’s what happened in the American Revolution. We, as revolutionaries, forced the British to fire on us – it’s own citizens.
We in the United States want so desperately to believe that this civil war is about the oppressed finally rising up to fight for their freedom and democracy. Maybe. Maybe they are the majority or maybe they are the minority. Who knows? Are we to say who should win control of Libya? The West has proven time and time again that we don’t understand the Middle East and we don’t always support the “good guys”. If there are freedom fighters in Libya, this is their fight to win or lose. As proven time and time again, the U.S. can’t “give” a country freedom and democracy. It has to come from the courage and sacrifice of the people themselves and it must be paid for with the blood of patriots.
And by the way, if killing one’s own citizens is the litmus test for UN or US intervention, then I’m pretty sure North Korea’s Kim Jung-Il has starved to death more of his citizens than Ghadaffi has killed in the last few weeks, but where's the UN on that one?
So, I sprang into action. “No way,” I said. “Don’t leave those papers on my property. In fact, these are private streets with no soliciting signs clearly posted. You need to leave.” I whipped out my trusty cell phone, dialed up the association and reported this guy. My friend, obviously impressed, said she was glad I did that because she’s tired of all the solicitors as well. I felt good. A few minutes later we passed by some gang graffiti on a wall and cable box, and immediately I called the city’s graffiti hot line to report it. My friend said she didn’t realize I was such an involved neighbor and good citizen. Someone has to pay attention to what’s happening in our neighborhoods she said. I felt good.
We continued our walk and re-entering our neighborhood we happened upon the same solicitor, still leaving wads of advertisements on people’s property. This time, I asked him for the flyers and rang up the companies directly, told them they were illegally distributing advertisements on private streets. But this time, did I detect a note of disapproval from my walking buddy for my vigilante actions? And that got me to thinking. Where is the line between concerned citizen and busybody? Where is the delineation in trying to make the world a better place or just getting on your high horse and sticking your nose where it doesn’t belong? Righteous anger or ill-advised intervention? I felt bad.
Of course, being a Sensible Woman, I began to wonder how I could write a blog about this, uh, I mean, I wondered about the busybody stance of the UN and the U.S. involvement in Libya. Yes, Ghadaffi is a ruthless, insane dictator. BUT, is it the world’s job to side with the rebels against an established, albeit merciless, cruel government of a sovereign country? The media keeps repeating the phrase, "Ghadaffi is killing his own people". Yes, that's what happens in a civil war or revolt. Each side tries to kill each other. Civilized, isn't it? That’s what happened in the American Revolution. We, as revolutionaries, forced the British to fire on us – it’s own citizens.
We in the United States want so desperately to believe that this civil war is about the oppressed finally rising up to fight for their freedom and democracy. Maybe. Maybe they are the majority or maybe they are the minority. Who knows? Are we to say who should win control of Libya? The West has proven time and time again that we don’t understand the Middle East and we don’t always support the “good guys”. If there are freedom fighters in Libya, this is their fight to win or lose. As proven time and time again, the U.S. can’t “give” a country freedom and democracy. It has to come from the courage and sacrifice of the people themselves and it must be paid for with the blood of patriots.
And by the way, if killing one’s own citizens is the litmus test for UN or US intervention, then I’m pretty sure North Korea’s Kim Jung-Il has starved to death more of his citizens than Ghadaffi has killed in the last few weeks, but where's the UN on that one?
Libya and the Lost Lessons of Other Middle East Interventions
Whoa, whoa, whoa. Let's all slow down here. General Wesley Clark, Former NATO Supreme Commander said on Fox News this morning that it's not just about using force in Libya, it's about, "establishing a democracy in Libya".
Now, where have I heard that before?
Now, where have I heard that before?
Monday, February 21, 2011
The World's Largest Ponzi Scheme
If Ponzi schemes are illegal........then why do we have Social Security?
Friday, January 21, 2011
Ft. Hood vs Tucson: Same thing only different?
When Nidal Hasan opened fire at Ft. Hood, killing 13 and wounding many more of his fellow soldiers while shouting "Allah Akbar", the liberal media pronounced it was not Muslim extremism. No, they earnestly cautioned us,do not jump to conclusions that his recent online postings stating that the cause is "to help save Muslims by killing enemy soldiers" had anything to do with his shooting rampage. You silly right wing conservatives, they scolded. Nidal Hasan was just an unstable, psychotic gunman acting alone. Nothing what-so-ever to do with Islam.
But, now after Jared Loughner opened fire in Tucson last week killing 6 and wounding 13 others, they tell us that obviously he was incited by right wing extremists such as Sarah Palin, Glen Beck, Rush Limbaugh, Tea Party activists, and pretty much anyone else who believes in the Constitution. They shake their heads and wag their fingers and say, "See? We told you these conservatives are dangerous people."
But, now after Jared Loughner opened fire in Tucson last week killing 6 and wounding 13 others, they tell us that obviously he was incited by right wing extremists such as Sarah Palin, Glen Beck, Rush Limbaugh, Tea Party activists, and pretty much anyone else who believes in the Constitution. They shake their heads and wag their fingers and say, "See? We told you these conservatives are dangerous people."
Monday, April 5, 2010
Caught Between a Rock and a Hard Place
We are caught in a firestorm between 2 raging political machines, Democrats and Republicans - both out to enact their agendas over the protests of citizens.
Republicans try to take away our rights under the guise of protecting us and keeping us safe from the bad guys.
Democrats try to take away our rights under the guise of making everything fair for everybody, redistributing the wealth,and leveling the playing field.
Our Founding Fathers understood this well. In 1785 James Madison wrote, "It is proper to take alarm at the first experiment on our liberties."
I'm alarmed.
Republicans try to take away our rights under the guise of protecting us and keeping us safe from the bad guys.
Democrats try to take away our rights under the guise of making everything fair for everybody, redistributing the wealth,and leveling the playing field.
Our Founding Fathers understood this well. In 1785 James Madison wrote, "It is proper to take alarm at the first experiment on our liberties."
I'm alarmed.
Tuesday, March 23, 2010
Monday, March 15, 2010
Teachers, Eat Your Own Dog Food
Don't get me wrong. I love teachers. Most work really hard. I think they should get paid a good salary and everyone should appreciate what they do. Teachers unions? Not so much.
Follow me on this one. According to its website, the California Teachers' Association "exists to protect and promote the well-being of its members." And boy, do they. CTA is extremely powerful. In fact, the union is the top financial contributor to California political campaigns* and regularly weighs in on political issues. For example, it recently announced support for a ballot initiative which would remove certain tax breaks for business in California and another initiative that would make it more difficult for public corporations to make political contributions. Apparently they don't want any competition from corporations because in 2004, CTA outspent even oil companies in political contributions. These contributions were not evenly divided among parties either. That same year, 98.6% of the National Education Association's contributions went to Democrats.**
The union has flexed its big biceps and kicked sand in the face of puny administrators and politicians for years, thus gaining outrageous concessions. Did you know that some local school libraries are shut due to budget cuts, yet union rules command no parent volunteers are allowed. Why? Well, because that might take a job away from a paid teacher. When was the last time you heard of a teacher getting fired? Doesn't happen does it? My son's high school biology teachers tells her class she was abducted by aliens, but she's got a job for life. Don't even get me started on pensions.
And now the bill for all these concessions and benefits has come due, but since Sacramento has cut school funding, guess what school districts are doing? That's right - the ultimate irony- laying off teachers. Of course there are the inevitable protests surrounding school board meetings: parents with signs proclaiming "Save our Teachers", children are crying, teachers are angry. But I say to teachers, you are complicit in this drama for it is YOUR union which has led us to this point. And it was done in your name, with the power of your dues, and you have allowed it.
But wait, I've got an idea. Since your union works for YOU, why not tell your union to renegotiate items like pensions, firings, volunteers, and all the other concessions won on your behalf? Renegotiate these to sensible and reasonable levels. State education costs can be reduced, and YOU can keep your job.
Instead of picketing outside school board meetings, picket your own union. How about that? Because eating your own dog food doesn't taste very good, does it?
*www.uwsa.com **Nat'l Institute on Money in State Politics
Follow me on this one. According to its website, the California Teachers' Association "exists to protect and promote the well-being of its members." And boy, do they. CTA is extremely powerful. In fact, the union is the top financial contributor to California political campaigns* and regularly weighs in on political issues. For example, it recently announced support for a ballot initiative which would remove certain tax breaks for business in California and another initiative that would make it more difficult for public corporations to make political contributions. Apparently they don't want any competition from corporations because in 2004, CTA outspent even oil companies in political contributions. These contributions were not evenly divided among parties either. That same year, 98.6% of the National Education Association's contributions went to Democrats.**
The union has flexed its big biceps and kicked sand in the face of puny administrators and politicians for years, thus gaining outrageous concessions. Did you know that some local school libraries are shut due to budget cuts, yet union rules command no parent volunteers are allowed. Why? Well, because that might take a job away from a paid teacher. When was the last time you heard of a teacher getting fired? Doesn't happen does it? My son's high school biology teachers tells her class she was abducted by aliens, but she's got a job for life. Don't even get me started on pensions.
And now the bill for all these concessions and benefits has come due, but since Sacramento has cut school funding, guess what school districts are doing? That's right - the ultimate irony- laying off teachers. Of course there are the inevitable protests surrounding school board meetings: parents with signs proclaiming "Save our Teachers", children are crying, teachers are angry. But I say to teachers, you are complicit in this drama for it is YOUR union which has led us to this point. And it was done in your name, with the power of your dues, and you have allowed it.
But wait, I've got an idea. Since your union works for YOU, why not tell your union to renegotiate items like pensions, firings, volunteers, and all the other concessions won on your behalf? Renegotiate these to sensible and reasonable levels. State education costs can be reduced, and YOU can keep your job.
Instead of picketing outside school board meetings, picket your own union. How about that? Because eating your own dog food doesn't taste very good, does it?
*www.uwsa.com **Nat'l Institute on Money in State Politics
Friday, March 12, 2010
Those Wacky Texas Education Board Members
The Associated Press reports, with this glaring headline "TX ED Board Vote Reflects Far-Right Influences", the outcome of a highly-debated textbook content standards summit. That certainly got my attention. Far-Right Influences. What could that mean? KKK? Nazis? Brotherhood of Aryan Nation? Imagine my shock as I read the article and found out exactly what those crazed Texans approved that so alarmed the AP. Are you sitting down? I warn you, it's pretty scary. They want public school textbooks in Texas to:
So that leaves me wondering, who gets to decide what is far-right? The reporter, who obviously has sympathies with the Democrat minority? The Associated Press itself, using its very powerful distribution network to twist public perception? Because if the above 4 items are now considered far-right extreme views, America, we've got bigger problems than I can cover here in this little blog.
- Cover the Judeo-Christian influences of our nation's Founding Fathers.
- Describe U.S. as a constitutional republic instead of democratic
- Applaud the U.S. free enterprise system
- Discuss the Bill of Rights including the 2nd Amendment
So that leaves me wondering, who gets to decide what is far-right? The reporter, who obviously has sympathies with the Democrat minority? The Associated Press itself, using its very powerful distribution network to twist public perception? Because if the above 4 items are now considered far-right extreme views, America, we've got bigger problems than I can cover here in this little blog.
Senator DeMint Shakes Things Up a Bit
Politicio, an internet media site, published a rant against Senator Jim DeMint today. Politico accuses DeMint of a "flamboyant brand of politics" because he has taken his constitutional conservative position directly to the people of America through alternative media, blogs, Fox news interviews, and speeches aimed at Tea Party groups. He is charged with "Senatorial poor form because:
There is just so much juicy craziness in this article, that I hardly know where to begin! Let's break it down.
Part I:
If holding government accountable to the people it represents, attempting to restrain a federal take-over of state rights, pushing bills that disallow earmarks (The Wall St. Journal estimates DeMint saved Americans $17 billion by voting against wasteful pork projects), and if believing in the Constitution and his oath to uphold it is flamboyant, then I say "Flame on, Jimmy. Flame on."
Part II:
Politico, don't we want representatives who won't blindly follow party line or leaders, but instead use common sense for the greater good of our country? Isn't it a good thing that he isn't waiting patiently for the Whips and the VIPs to notice and reward him with a pat on the head for being a good boy and voting as they command?
Part III:
Do we really want our Senators to "patiently massage the legislative process"? Aren't Senators-for-life (Kennedy, Lugar, Byrd, Thurmond to name just a few) part of the problem? Does not the solution rest with newly elected upstarts who are not content with business as usual, and are willing to shake things up?
Part IV:
The fact that DeMint isn't invited to the weekly lunch bunch is EXACTLY the point! His goal isn't to advance a life long career in politics, but to take care of the people's business and adhere to our Constitution. If the established network of GOP leaders aren't interested in that agenda, then DeMint has found a way to circumvent them and get his message out to the American people. And I say God Bless him.
- He openly backs candidates opposed by his party leaders
- He isn't waiting "patiently to massage the legislative process" but instead cut in line ahead of older colleagues.
There is just so much juicy craziness in this article, that I hardly know where to begin! Let's break it down.
Part I:
If holding government accountable to the people it represents, attempting to restrain a federal take-over of state rights, pushing bills that disallow earmarks (The Wall St. Journal estimates DeMint saved Americans $17 billion by voting against wasteful pork projects), and if believing in the Constitution and his oath to uphold it is flamboyant, then I say "Flame on, Jimmy. Flame on."
Part II:
Politico, don't we want representatives who won't blindly follow party line or leaders, but instead use common sense for the greater good of our country? Isn't it a good thing that he isn't waiting patiently for the Whips and the VIPs to notice and reward him with a pat on the head for being a good boy and voting as they command?
Part III:
Do we really want our Senators to "patiently massage the legislative process"? Aren't Senators-for-life (Kennedy, Lugar, Byrd, Thurmond to name just a few) part of the problem? Does not the solution rest with newly elected upstarts who are not content with business as usual, and are willing to shake things up?
Part IV:
The fact that DeMint isn't invited to the weekly lunch bunch is EXACTLY the point! His goal isn't to advance a life long career in politics, but to take care of the people's business and adhere to our Constitution. If the established network of GOP leaders aren't interested in that agenda, then DeMint has found a way to circumvent them and get his message out to the American people. And I say God Bless him.
Get Back Ye Feds! (Or Hands Off our Textbooks)
The National Governors Association and the Council of Chief State School Officers have coordinated a new effort to induce schools nationwide to use the same math and English textbooks, as well as to give the same tests. Proponents believe such national standards will increase student achievement nationwide. Opponents worry it will lead to bureaucrats in Washington
Hurray (once again) for Texas Alaska Texas Texas John Cornyn goes as far as stating, “It is clear that the first step toward nationalization of our schools has been put into place.”**
The answer to local problems does not come from a “one size fits all” standard put into place from distant authorities. Education should remain under state and local control, with input from parents, taxpayers, teachers, administrators and school boards whose members are held accountable in public elections. Control should be not given to the federal government and behind the scenes czars and commissions which answer to no one.
This plan is another step on the road toward a federal government that controls everything in its path, including what our children will learn in school. We need to draw the line here and say, "No." And that’s the biggest lesson to be learned in education.
**The Orange County Register 3.11.2010
**The Orange County Register 3.11.2010
Sunday, February 7, 2010
Ron Reagan, Jr
My heart broke last week when I happened upon a liberal (oh I'm sorry, I meant "progressive") talk radio program. The host's voice sounded familiar, but I couldn't quite place it. Then I realized it the was same voice from the Eukanuba or AKC (can't quite remember which) dog shows - Ronald Reagan, Jr.
Apparently, he has a new gig now which must be causing Dad to turn over in his grave. Spouting ridiculous claims that capitalism is to blame for our country's current economic situation, he said, "We're captive to the capitalistic free market system."
What the heck? We're captive? Ronny, Ronny, Ronny. Is this some latent Oedipus complex? Were you neglected as a child? We need an intervention and quickly. No, not Dr. Drew, Dr. Phil, or even Dr. Laura. We need to call out the big guns. Calling Dr. Ron Paul......calling Dr. Paul.....
Apparently, he has a new gig now which must be causing Dad to turn over in his grave. Spouting ridiculous claims that capitalism is to blame for our country's current economic situation, he said, "We're captive to the capitalistic free market system."
What the heck? We're captive? Ronny, Ronny, Ronny. Is this some latent Oedipus complex? Were you neglected as a child? We need an intervention and quickly. No, not Dr. Drew, Dr. Phil, or even Dr. Laura. We need to call out the big guns. Calling Dr. Ron Paul......calling Dr. Paul.....
Tuesday, February 2, 2010
California AB810. Ever heard of it? Nope, me either - until today that is. Where the heck have I been?
AB810 is a bill just passed in the State Senate and now in the Assembly.It mandates universal health care in California. It was authored by some guy named Leno so I'm pretty sure he's a comedian. Or insane.
Maybe he didn't get the memo that taxpayers don't want universal health care. Where the heck has HE been? Didn't he read that Newfoundland's Premier is coming to the U.S. this week for his heart surgery? But hey, let's not let good sense get in the way of this awesome, super awesome bill.
Here's a little taste of what AB810 contains:
1. 140000.6. No health care service plan contract or health insurance policy except for the California Healthcare System plan may be sold in California for services provided by the system.
2. 140400. All California residents shall be eligible for the system. Residency shall be based on physical presence in the state with the intent to reside.
3. 140503. NOT COVERED: Health services determined to have no medical indication by the commissioner and chief medical officer.
So, no other insurance will be allowed, EVERYONE who happens to be standing on California soil is eligible,and a commissioner and medical officer will determine if your medical condition warrants treatment.
What could possibly go wrong?
AB810 is a bill just passed in the State Senate and now in the Assembly.It mandates universal health care in California. It was authored by some guy named Leno so I'm pretty sure he's a comedian. Or insane.
Maybe he didn't get the memo that taxpayers don't want universal health care. Where the heck has HE been? Didn't he read that Newfoundland's Premier is coming to the U.S. this week for his heart surgery? But hey, let's not let good sense get in the way of this awesome, super awesome bill.
Here's a little taste of what AB810 contains:
1. 140000.6. No health care service plan contract or health insurance policy except for the California Healthcare System plan may be sold in California for services provided by the system.
2. 140400. All California residents shall be eligible for the system. Residency shall be based on physical presence in the state with the intent to reside.
3. 140503. NOT COVERED: Health services determined to have no medical indication by the commissioner and chief medical officer.
So, no other insurance will be allowed, EVERYONE who happens to be standing on California soil is eligible,and a commissioner and medical officer will determine if your medical condition warrants treatment.
What could possibly go wrong?
Wednesday, January 20, 2010
Trying
Today, in response to Andrea Mitchell's (MSNBC) report that the majority of Americans don't want the 9/11 terrorists tried in the courts, David Axelrod, Sr. White House Advisor responded, "We are going to try and convict the terrorists." They are going to try. Well, that's good enough for me; I feel safer already, don't you?
Here's some advice from someone a bit wiser than David Axelrod:
"There is no try. Do or do not." -Yoda
Here's some advice from someone a bit wiser than David Axelrod:
"There is no try. Do or do not." -Yoda
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