US cities may have to be bulldozed in order to survive - Telegraph: "The government looking at expanding a pioneering scheme in Flint, one of the poorest US cities, which involves razing entire districts and returning the land to nature.
Local politicians believe the city must contract by as much as 40 per cent, concentrating the dwindling population and local services into a more viable area.
The radical experiment is the brainchild of Dan Kildee, treasurer of Genesee County, which includes Flint.
Having outlined his strategy to Barack Obama during the election campaign, Mr Kildee has now been approached by the US government and a group of charities who want him to apply what he has learnt to the rest of the country.
Mr Kildee said he will concentrate on 50 cities, identified in a recent study by the Brookings Institution, an influential Washington think-tank, as potentially needing to shrink substantially to cope with their declining fortunes.
Most are former industrial cities in the "rust belt" of America's Mid-West and North East. They include Detroit, Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, Baltimore and Memphis."
---------------------
Now imagine for one second that any Republican had proposed this. We would be hearing cries of "urban cleansing."
Saturday, June 13, 2009
Friday, June 12, 2009
Village to take control of private road from residents :: Plainfield Sun :: News
Village to take control of private road from residents :: Plainfield Sun :: News: "PLAINFIELD--The village will take over a private road for a group of residents who did not know it was their responsibility until about a year ago. After 13 years, the Cambridge Circle residents learned their road was private when they discovered their original annexation agreement in June 2008. The Cambridge at the Reserve Homeowners Association notified the village, which apparently also was not aware the road was private. Recently the residents and village agreed that the road would become the village's responsibility. Before that happens, the residents will upgrade the road, sidewalk, curb and gutter."
------------
Morals of the story: first, villages don't take over substandard private roads, which is why the residents have to pay to upgrade it; second, it is amazing how many documents go unread.
Thanks to Fred Pilot for this tale.
------------
Morals of the story: first, villages don't take over substandard private roads, which is why the residents have to pay to upgrade it; second, it is amazing how many documents go unread.
Thanks to Fred Pilot for this tale.
Fiddling while Rome burns
Blueberry board more pressing than state budget? | MyDesert.com | The Desert Sun: "As California faces what one official this week called a complete meltdown of state government, some lawmakers have their minds on other matters.
Like creating a blueberry commission. Or standing up for pomegranate juice. And, instead of health reform in the nation's most populous state, ensuring that the name tags of medical workers are in 18-point font.
Those are among the hundreds of bills being debated in the California Legislature as the state faces a $24.3 billion deficit and the prospect of running out of cash by late July...
[other bills would:]
Ensure that juice sold as “pomegranate” is 100 percent pomegranate.
Instruct ninth- and 10th-graders about the value of organ donation.
Ban toy cigarette lighters.
Require day cares to serve only healthy food to children."
-----------------
As Annie Hall would say, "La de dah, la de dah!"
Thanks to Fred Pilot for this link.
Like creating a blueberry commission. Or standing up for pomegranate juice. And, instead of health reform in the nation's most populous state, ensuring that the name tags of medical workers are in 18-point font.
Those are among the hundreds of bills being debated in the California Legislature as the state faces a $24.3 billion deficit and the prospect of running out of cash by late July...
[other bills would:]
Ensure that juice sold as “pomegranate” is 100 percent pomegranate.
Instruct ninth- and 10th-graders about the value of organ donation.
Ban toy cigarette lighters.
Require day cares to serve only healthy food to children."
-----------------
As Annie Hall would say, "La de dah, la de dah!"
Thanks to Fred Pilot for this link.
Thursday, June 11, 2009
Is privatization all about the money? - School Zone
Is privatization all about the money? - School Zone: "But it really is about the money. A Lexus drives much better than a Focus, but if you can only afford Focus, than all the arguments in the world about the superiority of the Lexus are moot. You have to live with the Focus.
So it is with custodians. School districts would prefer to have them on staff, but if they don't have the money, they don't have the money and thus they end up with contractors."
------------
The writer is talking about privatizing custodial services for schools, but the principle is the same.
So it is with custodians. School districts would prefer to have them on staff, but if they don't have the money, they don't have the money and thus they end up with contractors."
------------
The writer is talking about privatizing custodial services for schools, but the principle is the same.
Neighbors are forcing neighbors into foreclosure
Neighbors are forcing neighbors into foreclosure: "IRVING, Texas (AP) - Thousands of Americans who have generally kept up with their mortgages are still in danger of losing their homes because they made a fateful trade-off in this shaky economy—they let their homeowner association dues slide... Gauging the number of foreclosures nationwide by homeowner association is difficult. But in Texas, foreclosure attempts initiated by homeowner associations in 19 counties are up 30 percent from two years ago, according to Dallas-based Foreclosure Listing Services.
In the San Antonio area alone, foreclosure actions by homeowner associations jumped to 170 in April from 21 in April 2008, according to RexReport.com.
In Florida, attorney Bob Tankel, who represents hundreds of homeowner and condo associations, said he has increased his staff from three to 16 in the past 18 months to handle a mounting caseload of 3,500 open collections. About one-fifth of those cases have reached foreclosure, he said.
In California, Schlegel said more than 6 percent of the homes that his company manages are in some stage of delinquency with regard to membership dues, up from around 1 percent in previous years. "
---------------------
There are some numbers for you.
In the San Antonio area alone, foreclosure actions by homeowner associations jumped to 170 in April from 21 in April 2008, according to RexReport.com.
In Florida, attorney Bob Tankel, who represents hundreds of homeowner and condo associations, said he has increased his staff from three to 16 in the past 18 months to handle a mounting caseload of 3,500 open collections. About one-fifth of those cases have reached foreclosure, he said.
In California, Schlegel said more than 6 percent of the homes that his company manages are in some stage of delinquency with regard to membership dues, up from around 1 percent in previous years. "
---------------------
There are some numbers for you.
Housing slump claims another victim
Elle Macpherson&squo;s home hit by slump | The Courier-Mail: "A PROPERTY slump has forced supermodel and businesswoman Elle Macpherson to cut $4 million from the asking price for her London home.
British reports say she has been trying to sell her Notting Hill mansion for more than a year as she considers a move back to Australia.
The seven-storey, six-bedroom home was originally put on the market for 9.5 million ($19.3 million) in the middle of last year."
--------------
Perhaps we can take up a collection for her to make up that last $4 million.
British reports say she has been trying to sell her Notting Hill mansion for more than a year as she considers a move back to Australia.
The seven-storey, six-bedroom home was originally put on the market for 9.5 million ($19.3 million) in the middle of last year."
--------------
Perhaps we can take up a collection for her to make up that last $4 million.
Begun, the swine flu wars have
knoxnews.com: News stories by the Associated Press: "GENEVA (AP) -- The World Health Organization declared a swine flu pandemic Thursday - the first global flu epidemic in 41 years - as infections in the United States, Europe, Australia, South America and elsewhere climbed to nearly 30,000 cases."
Real life Arthur Dent: Homeowner Says Crews Demolished Wrong House - News Story - WSB Atlanta
Homeowner Says Crews Demolished Wrong House - News Story - WSB Atlanta
The demolition company says they have paperwork. "“I said, ‘Paperwork for what?’ and he said, ‘For the house, to demolish the house.’ I said, ‘I’m the owner of the house, I haven’t given anybody any authority to demolish this house,’” said Byrd. Where is Ford Prefect when you need him?
Payment made to Bay Towers delinquent water bills | floridatoday.com | FLORIDA TODAY
Payment made to Bay Towers delinquent water bills | floridatoday.com | FLORIDA TODAY: One of Titusville’s ritziest housing complexes during the Apollo era, the 182-unit South Washington Avenue property has fallen into structural disarray.
The south tower remains condemned and uninhabitable after a May 2008 fire.
And, two weeks ago, tenants in the north tower received city-issued doorknob notices warning that water service could be cut off.
Bay Towers Development LLC, the landowner, attempted an apartment-to-condominium conversion during the real estate boom that never reached fruition."
----------
The water bill was almost $35,000.
The south tower remains condemned and uninhabitable after a May 2008 fire.
And, two weeks ago, tenants in the north tower received city-issued doorknob notices warning that water service could be cut off.
Bay Towers Development LLC, the landowner, attempted an apartment-to-condominium conversion during the real estate boom that never reached fruition."
----------
The water bill was almost $35,000.
Coaches make more than professors
Top-notch professors, coaches don't come cheap :: CHICAGO SUN-TIMES :: Education: "There are 69,000 people who work for public universities in Illinois, and none of them is paid as much as Ron Zook, the University of Illinois' football coach, a Chicago Sun-Times analysis shows.
Zook was paid nearly $1 million to coach the Illini last year."
----------------
This comes on the heels of the Chicago Tribune's expose of the "clout list" for getting into the U of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign.
Zook was paid nearly $1 million to coach the Illini last year."
----------------
This comes on the heels of the Chicago Tribune's expose of the "clout list" for getting into the U of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign.
What are the most dangerous search terms on the Internet? - CNN.com
What are the most dangerous search terms on the Internet? - CNN.com: "Categories that had the highest risk of run-ins with malware: screen savers, free games, work from home, Olympics, videos, celebrities, music and news.Riskiest terms: word unscrambler, lyrics, myspace, free music downloads, phelps, game cheats, printable fill-in puzzles, free ringtones and solitaire."
-------------
Thank goodness "privatopia" isn't on the list.
-------------
Thank goodness "privatopia" isn't on the list.
Gated communities facing impending wave of foreclosures
gated communities, conservative strongholds are facing a foreclosure tidal wave: “The next wave of foreclosures will be in gated communities, not on the ‘wrong side of the tracks.: "While the tsunami of subprime foreclosures has
eased, upscale homeowners with adjustable-rate mortgages now risk
losing their homes, according to Zacks Investment Research and Credit
Suisse Group AG.
The CHART OF THE DAY shows the changes in interest rates or payments
growing later this year in two classes of loans known as Alt-A and
Option ARMs.
“Unlike subprime mortgages, these were for the most part targeted at
more upscale homeowners” Dirk van Dijk, research director at Zacks in
Chicago, said in a May 20 report, citing Credit Suisse data. “The next
wave of foreclosures will be in gated communities, not on the ‘wrong
side of the tracks.’”"
------------
I've been saying this for a long time. Unfortunately this Bloomberg story isn't coming up on their site so I linked to a google group.
eased, upscale homeowners with adjustable-rate mortgages now risk
losing their homes, according to Zacks Investment Research and Credit
Suisse Group AG.
The CHART OF THE DAY shows the changes in interest rates or payments
growing later this year in two classes of loans known as Alt-A and
Option ARMs.
“Unlike subprime mortgages, these were for the most part targeted at
more upscale homeowners” Dirk van Dijk, research director at Zacks in
Chicago, said in a May 20 report, citing Credit Suisse data. “The next
wave of foreclosures will be in gated communities, not on the ‘wrong
side of the tracks.’”"
------------
I've been saying this for a long time. Unfortunately this Bloomberg story isn't coming up on their site so I linked to a google group.
California nears financial meltdown as revs tumble | Reuters
California nears financial meltdown as revs tumble | Reuters: "SAN FRANCISCO (Reuters) - California's government risks a financial 'meltdown' within 50 days in light of its weakening May revenues unless Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger and lawmakers quickly plug a $24.3 billion budget gap, the state's controller said on Wednesday."
----------
But the state has 50 days left before it goes China Syndrome. That's plenty of time for the state legislature to pass laws on skateboarding, ping pong, backyard barbecues, and preventing paper cuts. That way the Democrats who control the legislature can put off the task of cutting the budget and alienating the interest groups that support them--government employee unions being foremost on that list.
----------
But the state has 50 days left before it goes China Syndrome. That's plenty of time for the state legislature to pass laws on skateboarding, ping pong, backyard barbecues, and preventing paper cuts. That way the Democrats who control the legislature can put off the task of cutting the budget and alienating the interest groups that support them--government employee unions being foremost on that list.
Wednesday, June 10, 2009
Capitol Alert: State cash hole deepens
Capitol Alert: State cash hole deepens: "'Without immediate solutions from the governor and Legislature, we are less than 50 days away from a meltdown of state government,' Chiang said in a statement. 'A truly balanced budget is the only responsible way out of the worst cash crisis since the Great Depression.'
Chiang has said the state will run out of cash in July, projecting a $2.78 billion cash deficit on July 31."
-------------
So, is everybody in denial, or are these predictions accurate? Fred Pilot sent this link and the whole thing is his fault.
Chiang has said the state will run out of cash in July, projecting a $2.78 billion cash deficit on July 31."
-------------
So, is everybody in denial, or are these predictions accurate? Fred Pilot sent this link and the whole thing is his fault.
Vice Magazine - SLAB CITY - Life in the Pits of the California Badlands
Vice Magazine - SLAB CITY - Life in the Pits of the California Badlands: "Set beside the Imperial Valley in southeastern California, the Salton Sea area was supposed to be Hollywood’s answer to the Riviera back in the 50s. But its developers failed to anticipate the raw sewage that would run up the New River from Mexico and make survival impossible for many aquatic species. Rotting fish guts and toxic debris soon littered the shoreline. Construction projects were abandoned, and yet another impotent vision of luxury tourism was left flaccid."
----------------
Check out the slideshow.
----------------
Check out the slideshow.
Here is a man ahead of his time
Man turns closet into living space |West Palm Beach News, South Florida Breaking News, Forecast, Video from WPTV: "DELRAY BEACH, FL--Almost everybody has heard the phrase, 'Home Sweet Home', but what about 'Closet Sweet Closet'?
That's right, Sergio Santos' home is a closet. Five and a half feet wide, by 14 feet long, or 77 square feet, to be exact.
'I was really struggling to pay for the place I used to live. I decided to look for something cheap.' said Sergio.
The rent is $150 a month and to furnish his pad, a whopping $64."
----------
Soon we will all be living like this and driving little tiny electric death-trap cars. All hail the glorious future.
That's right, Sergio Santos' home is a closet. Five and a half feet wide, by 14 feet long, or 77 square feet, to be exact.
'I was really struggling to pay for the place I used to live. I decided to look for something cheap.' said Sergio.
The rent is $150 a month and to furnish his pad, a whopping $64."
----------
Soon we will all be living like this and driving little tiny electric death-trap cars. All hail the glorious future.
Treasure Island swimmers cut down on condo owner boating
: Beach Beacon - Tampa Bay Newspapers: "Ron Barcena, president of the condominium’s association, appeared before the board with a very organized, reasoned and professional detailed list of grievances over the swim zone regulations.
Barcena noted that both his fellow residents and renters of the condominiums have been discriminated against due to the new swim zone, which was implemented in part due to the boating traffic at Caddy’s on the Beach.
Previously, residents and renters at the Sunset Chateau were able to anchor their boats at the shore. Barcena claims this was taken away due to no fault of his fellow residents."
----------------
I like it when people do professional-quality grievances.
Barcena noted that both his fellow residents and renters of the condominiums have been discriminated against due to the new swim zone, which was implemented in part due to the boating traffic at Caddy’s on the Beach.
Previously, residents and renters at the Sunset Chateau were able to anchor their boats at the shore. Barcena claims this was taken away due to no fault of his fellow residents."
----------------
I like it when people do professional-quality grievances.
Residents upset after cars towed for street sweeping : News : KXRM FOX 21
Residents upset after cars towed for street sweeping : News : KXRM FOX 21: "COLORADO SPRINGS, COLO. -- A handful of residents in a northwest Colorado Springs neighborhood are upset after they said their cars were unnecessarily towed from outside their homes.
Collins Towing, who removed all the vehicles, said at least 40 cars were towed from the Smoke Tree Townhomes complex a week ago Friday.
The homeowners association said it needed to move the vehicles so the parking lot could be swept.
'I think it is crummy to live somewhere and pay the HOA dues and then they act like they do not care,' Dan Mejia said."
--------------
I lived in a condo complex in San Diego where the board president took visible delight in having people's cars towed. He got a big smirk on his face whenever he talked about it. I think it gave him a sense of power over people. One owner who had his car towed threatened to give him a facial massage with the spokes of his bicycle.
Not to say that sort of thing is going on in this Colorado Springs situation, you understand.
Collins Towing, who removed all the vehicles, said at least 40 cars were towed from the Smoke Tree Townhomes complex a week ago Friday.
The homeowners association said it needed to move the vehicles so the parking lot could be swept.
'I think it is crummy to live somewhere and pay the HOA dues and then they act like they do not care,' Dan Mejia said."
--------------
I lived in a condo complex in San Diego where the board president took visible delight in having people's cars towed. He got a big smirk on his face whenever he talked about it. I think it gave him a sense of power over people. One owner who had his car towed threatened to give him a facial massage with the spokes of his bicycle.
Not to say that sort of thing is going on in this Colorado Springs situation, you understand.
Three Sad Mayors
California Senate Democrats' budget plan relies on rainy-day fund - Los Angeles Times: "Senate Democrats unveiled a budget plan Tuesday that would stave off the deepest proposed cuts to California's health, welfare and student-aid programs by dipping heavily into the rainy-day fund that Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger wants set aside in case the economy continues to sour.
The governor declared the Democrats' approach to dealing with the state's projected $24-billion deficit 'hallucinatory.'"
----------
Submitted for your consideration (by Fred Pilot): The three very sad Democrat mayors of Los Angeles, Fresno, and Santa Ana, having just been told by Der Governator that local health, welfare, and education monies are indeed going to be radically cut by the state government.
Median home prices drop below 1989 levels in some parts of Southland - Los Angeles Times
Median home prices drop below 1989 levels in some parts of Southland - Los Angeles Times: "To return to the past, take a stroll down Mulberry Avenue in Lancaster. John A. Beatrice, 55, bought his spacious two-story Spanish-style house there brand-new for $120,000 in 1989. It was a price he could comfortably afford, and he planned on staying through retirement, so he wasn't worried about price swings.
'I always knew real estate goes like this,' said the aerospace engineer, moving his hand in an undulating motion like bell curves on a graph.
But he never imagined his neighborhood would drop off the charts. In April, a slightly larger home two doors away sold for $66,500. That's just over half the $130,000 it went for new in 1992. In 2005, that house sold for $330,000."
---------------
I hope that undulating thing happens before we all end up owning 20 year old homes that are worth less than when they were new.
'I always knew real estate goes like this,' said the aerospace engineer, moving his hand in an undulating motion like bell curves on a graph.
But he never imagined his neighborhood would drop off the charts. In April, a slightly larger home two doors away sold for $66,500. That's just over half the $130,000 it went for new in 1992. In 2005, that house sold for $330,000."
---------------
I hope that undulating thing happens before we all end up owning 20 year old homes that are worth less than when they were new.
Book this for Jerry Springer
Judge: Horn honking not free speech - UPI.com: "MONROE, Wash., June 9 (UPI) -- A Washington state appeals judge tossed a woman's claim that honking her horn for prolonged intervals in front of a neighbor's house is protected free speech.
The case began in 2006, when Helen Immelt, 52, received a letter from her neighborhood homeowners association in Monroe saying the chickens she had been keeping in her yard violated covenants and neighbor John Vorderbrueggen confessed to her that he had been the complaining party, The Seattle Times reported Tuesday.
The following morning just before 6 a.m., Immelt parked her car outside of Vorderbrueggen's house and honked her horn continuously for 10 minutes, authorities said."
---------------
This case has it all. HOA? Check. Chickens? Check. Horn honking? Check. Bitter enmity between neighbor? Check. Bogus free speech claim? Check.
I can see the chairs flying across the stage right now.
The case began in 2006, when Helen Immelt, 52, received a letter from her neighborhood homeowners association in Monroe saying the chickens she had been keeping in her yard violated covenants and neighbor John Vorderbrueggen confessed to her that he had been the complaining party, The Seattle Times reported Tuesday.
The following morning just before 6 a.m., Immelt parked her car outside of Vorderbrueggen's house and honked her horn continuously for 10 minutes, authorities said."
---------------
This case has it all. HOA? Check. Chickens? Check. Horn honking? Check. Bitter enmity between neighbor? Check. Bogus free speech claim? Check.
I can see the chairs flying across the stage right now.
California Assembly finds something to do
Assembly approves bill regulating food at child-care centers - Los Angeles Times: "If it becomes law, AB 627 would require low-fat or skim milk to be served to children 2 years old and older. It would limit sugar in cereals and eliminate deep frying and sweetened drinks. It also would establish an 18-month pilot project to evaluate stronger nutrition and physical activities standards."
------
Nice to see that they have solved all the more pressing problems, such as the state's impending bankruptcy.
------
Nice to see that they have solved all the more pressing problems, such as the state's impending bankruptcy.
Budget woes have Oakland mulling bankruptcy
Budget woes have Oakland mulling bankruptcy: "Even though city officials would prefer to avoid a public conversation, behind closed doors the Oakland City Council has discussed filing for bankruptcy protection in the midst of a $100 million budget deficit."
--------
That would be Oakland, California, population 400,000, eighth largest city in California and 44th largest city in the US.
--------
That would be Oakland, California, population 400,000, eighth largest city in California and 44th largest city in the US.
Tuesday, June 09, 2009
NorthJersey.com: Biden gaffe: New rail tunnel being built for cars?
NorthJersey.com: Biden gaffe: New rail tunnel being built for cars?: "“Look, this is designed, this totally new tunnel, is designed to provide for automobile traffic,” Biden said. “It’s something, as you know, up your way, that’s been in the works and people have been clamoring for for a long time.”
For the record, the tunnel is for trains, and its completion would allow for more NJ Transit trains during peak hours and “one-seat” rides into Midtown Manhattan on lines serving Bergen and Passaic counties. Currently riders on those lines must switch trains.
Biden's office did not immediately respond to a request to clarify his comments."
-------------
Why should his office respond? The national press will bury this, the way they buried the rest of his gaffes.
For the record, the tunnel is for trains, and its completion would allow for more NJ Transit trains during peak hours and “one-seat” rides into Midtown Manhattan on lines serving Bergen and Passaic counties. Currently riders on those lines must switch trains.
Biden's office did not immediately respond to a request to clarify his comments."
-------------
Why should his office respond? The national press will bury this, the way they buried the rest of his gaffes.
"For the love of God, Montresor!"
Minneapolis man accidentally boarded in his house
The city told him he had an hour to get out, and he didn't make it, so they boarded him up inside. How is that "accidental"?
The city inspector must be a descendant of Edgar Allen Poe.
New law expands ban on ‘squaw’ - Bangor Daily News
New law expands ban on ‘squaw’ - Bangor Daily News: "The legislation, which takes effect 90 days after the Legislature adjourns, is largely aimed at addressing a long-running dispute between a homeowners’ association and town officials in Stockton Springs.
Members of the association objected to Stockton Springs’ Board of Selectmen voting more than a year and a half ago to substitute the word “Defence” for all names on a peninsula formerly known as Squaw Point. The Defence was a privateer ship that was scuttled in the Penobscot River near Stockton Springs during the Revolutionary War.
The members responded by renaming their group the “Squapoint Association” and requesting that the town rename Defence Road as Squall Point Road. When the board rejected the request, the association submitted a petition that would block town officials from preventing the use of names on private roads as long as the name is consistent with state law."
------------
This is hilarious. The state banned use of the term "squaw," so the Squaw Point HOA went with "Squa" and "Squall." Now the law is being amended to ban any derivation of "Squaw" and "Squa." I wonder what the next iteration will be. Maybe the HOA will call itself the "Skwaw" association, and the state will ban anything that sounds like "Squaw," and the HOA will counter with "THKWAWWW" and the state will...
Doesn't the government of the State of Maine have anything better to do with its time and energy than this?
Members of the association objected to Stockton Springs’ Board of Selectmen voting more than a year and a half ago to substitute the word “Defence” for all names on a peninsula formerly known as Squaw Point. The Defence was a privateer ship that was scuttled in the Penobscot River near Stockton Springs during the Revolutionary War.
The members responded by renaming their group the “Squapoint Association” and requesting that the town rename Defence Road as Squall Point Road. When the board rejected the request, the association submitted a petition that would block town officials from preventing the use of names on private roads as long as the name is consistent with state law."
------------
This is hilarious. The state banned use of the term "squaw," so the Squaw Point HOA went with "Squa" and "Squall." Now the law is being amended to ban any derivation of "Squaw" and "Squa." I wonder what the next iteration will be. Maybe the HOA will call itself the "Skwaw" association, and the state will ban anything that sounds like "Squaw," and the HOA will counter with "THKWAWWW" and the state will...
Doesn't the government of the State of Maine have anything better to do with its time and energy than this?
Monday, June 08, 2009
A year without a summer?
AccuWeather.com - Weather News Headlines - Weather News: "According to Long Range Expert Joe Bastardi, areas from the northern Plains into the Northeast will have a 'year without a summer.'"
-----------------
The jet stream is far to the south this year. That means cooling, which in turn means fewer thunderstorms and tornadoes. Man, this global warming is tough.
-----------------
The jet stream is far to the south this year. That means cooling, which in turn means fewer thunderstorms and tornadoes. Man, this global warming is tough.
Municipal Bankruptcy Review Measure Passes Assembly
Municipal Bankruptcy Review Measure Passes Assembly: "Now a bill that municipalities say would add insult – and expensive time – to injury has passed the Assembly with 43 votes in favor and 16 opposed. The bill, which received no Republican support, next goes to the Senate.
Assembly Bill 155 by Assemblyman Tony Mendoza (D- Artesia) requires local governments to obtain approval from a state-level Local Agency Bankruptcy Committee before going to a judge. The committee would include the State Controller, the State Treasurer and the Director of the State Department of Finance."
---------
Begun, the municipal bankruptcy wars have.
Assembly Bill 155 by Assemblyman Tony Mendoza (D- Artesia) requires local governments to obtain approval from a state-level Local Agency Bankruptcy Committee before going to a judge. The committee would include the State Controller, the State Treasurer and the Director of the State Department of Finance."
---------
Begun, the municipal bankruptcy wars have.
VOA News - US Unemployment Rate Gallops Ahead of Expectations
VOA News - US Unemployment Rate Gallops Ahead of Expectations: "'The economy clearly has gotten substantially worse from the initial predictions that were being made, not just by the White House, but by all of the private sector,' said Austan Goolsbee."
--------
Goolsbee is on the President's Council of Economic Advisors. The point is that unemployment has gotten much worse than the President's people anticipated. The government has borrowed gazillions of dollars for the Democrat-backed, Republican-opposed, stimulus bill but so far there isn't any stimulation. Eventually we, the taxpayers, will have to pay it back in the form of higher taxes. We are already paying higher state and local taxes, which is eating up some of that non-stimulating stimulus.
This isn't looking good. Let's hope we see a turnaround soon.
--------
Goolsbee is on the President's Council of Economic Advisors. The point is that unemployment has gotten much worse than the President's people anticipated. The government has borrowed gazillions of dollars for the Democrat-backed, Republican-opposed, stimulus bill but so far there isn't any stimulation. Eventually we, the taxpayers, will have to pay it back in the form of higher taxes. We are already paying higher state and local taxes, which is eating up some of that non-stimulating stimulus.
This isn't looking good. Let's hope we see a turnaround soon.
Big law firms losing business, shrinking
White and Case Offers a Study in Why and How Major Law Firms Are Shrinking - NYTimes.com: "In the first quarter of 2009, demand for legal services in New York decreased by nearly 10 percent over 2008, according to the Hildebrandt International Peer Monitor Index. At least 10,000 employees at major firms across the country have lost their jobs so far this year, according to the macabre but wildly popular “Layoff Tracker” run by another blog, lawshucks.com."
----------
I'm sure I speak for everybody when I say that the nation is heartbroken over the plight of big law firms.
Sunday, June 07, 2009
Bank Accused of Pushing Mortgage Deals on Blacks - NYTimes.com
Bank Accused of Pushing Mortgage Deals on Blacks - NYTimes.com: "As she describes it, Beth Jacobson and her fellow loan officers at Wells Fargo Bank “rode the stagecoach from hell” for a decade, systematically singling out blacks in Baltimore and suburban Maryland for high-interest subprime mortgages."
---------
Thanks to Mystery Reader for tipping me off to this. It seems that a lawsuit has been filed against Wells Fargo alleging that they were steering black applicants into subprime loans, when they could have qualified for conventional loans. This is in litigation, so it is yet to be determined whether these charges are true.
---------
Thanks to Mystery Reader for tipping me off to this. It seems that a lawsuit has been filed against Wells Fargo alleging that they were steering black applicants into subprime loans, when they could have qualified for conventional loans. This is in litigation, so it is yet to be determined whether these charges are true.
Orlando Sentinel: Cities acting like HOAS?
From a letter to a columnist:: "Dear Greg: The city of Casselberry has passed and is enforcing a new code requiring anyone with a vehicle that has racks on it that can carry pipe, hoses, etc., to park their vehicles in a garage or under a carport. Many homes in Casselberry have neither. I'm a plumber. If I don't have my van, I won't have a job. My neighbor received a citation to remove his racks or pay a $250-a-day fine. Casselberry is full of working-class people who have the right to work to provide for their families.
Mark Long, Casselberry
Dear Mark: According to City Manager Barbara Lipscomb, Casselberry also has lots of people who are concerned about growing 'commercial intrusion' in residential areas, which are 'not supposed to be industrial parking lots,' she said. The new code, part of a complete revision of the city parking plan, is meant to eliminate the 'disproportionate' number of trucks such as yours from neighborhoods. That's a legitimate agenda, but here's the problem: The city has no provision for granting variances to the new code, or grandfathering residents who were there before it was adopted by the City Commission. I'm no lawyer, but I covered lots of planning and zoning, and a law with no possibility of appeal is asking for trouble from a judge. Also keep keep in mind that anything done by the City Commission can be undone with enough pressure from taxpayers. Convoy?"
----------
Thanks to Beth Young for this. I have been posting items like this for some time. In HOA-heavy areas of the nation, you see cities doing the same things HOAs have been doing. Is this because the culture has changed in these areas?
Mark Long, Casselberry
Dear Mark: According to City Manager Barbara Lipscomb, Casselberry also has lots of people who are concerned about growing 'commercial intrusion' in residential areas, which are 'not supposed to be industrial parking lots,' she said. The new code, part of a complete revision of the city parking plan, is meant to eliminate the 'disproportionate' number of trucks such as yours from neighborhoods. That's a legitimate agenda, but here's the problem: The city has no provision for granting variances to the new code, or grandfathering residents who were there before it was adopted by the City Commission. I'm no lawyer, but I covered lots of planning and zoning, and a law with no possibility of appeal is asking for trouble from a judge. Also keep keep in mind that anything done by the City Commission can be undone with enough pressure from taxpayers. Convoy?"
----------
Thanks to Beth Young for this. I have been posting items like this for some time. In HOA-heavy areas of the nation, you see cities doing the same things HOAs have been doing. Is this because the culture has changed in these areas?
Billing error costs Fort Myers Beach millions | news-press.com | The News-Press
Billing error costs Fort Myers Beach millions | news-press.com | The News-Press: "Fort Myers Beach might have lost millions because it has not charged condominium and duplex owners a water utility fee for the past seven years.
Advertisement
Beginning in 2002, the town has collected a $6.20 monthly base fee from every single-family home, but not from the more than 6,000 condos and duplexes on the island. It isn't clear how the mistake was made, but town leaders hope results from a rate study to be released this month will clarify the situation.
Scott Janke, the town's manager, said he had originally believed the amount lost was around $2.41 million, but it could be less."
-------------
Oops. If I read this correctly, it appears that the town is waiting for more information before deciding whether to go after the fee retroactively. They may be legally barred from doing so.
Advertisement
Beginning in 2002, the town has collected a $6.20 monthly base fee from every single-family home, but not from the more than 6,000 condos and duplexes on the island. It isn't clear how the mistake was made, but town leaders hope results from a rate study to be released this month will clarify the situation.
Scott Janke, the town's manager, said he had originally believed the amount lost was around $2.41 million, but it could be less."
-------------
Oops. If I read this correctly, it appears that the town is waiting for more information before deciding whether to go after the fee retroactively. They may be legally barred from doing so.
Miami Beach condos struggle to drain water from flooded garages - Breaking News - MiamiHerald.com
Miami Beach condos struggle to drain water from flooded garages - Breaking News - MiamiHerald.com: "At least four buildings on West Avenue -- Bayview Terrace and Mirador 1200, along with Mirador 1000 and the Mondrian -- were pumping water out of their garages, where cars were being towed while residents Saturday evening stand outside and watch.
The immediate culprit: flooding from Friday's severe thunderstorms that struck Miami Beach and inundated the city with more than 9 inches of rain.
Larry Wexler, vice president of the Mirador condominium association, said as of Saturday night, the garage of the Mirador 1200 was holding about 3 feet of water. Because of the flooding, electricity and water have shut down; emergency generators have also failed."
------------
Wexler says the city's storm water system doesn't drain properly, so even if the condo drainage systems work perfectly, their garages flood. But 9 inches of rain will overwhelm many a storm drain system, I'd say.
The immediate culprit: flooding from Friday's severe thunderstorms that struck Miami Beach and inundated the city with more than 9 inches of rain.
Larry Wexler, vice president of the Mirador condominium association, said as of Saturday night, the garage of the Mirador 1200 was holding about 3 feet of water. Because of the flooding, electricity and water have shut down; emergency generators have also failed."
------------
Wexler says the city's storm water system doesn't drain properly, so even if the condo drainage systems work perfectly, their garages flood. But 9 inches of rain will overwhelm many a storm drain system, I'd say.
Saturday, June 06, 2009
DailyTech - NASA Study Acknowledges Solar Cycle, Not Man, Responsible for Past Warming
DailyTech - NASA Study Acknowledges Solar Cycle, Not Man, Responsible for Past Warming: "Some researchers believe that the solar cycle influences global climate changes. They attribute recent warming trends to cyclic variation. Skeptics, though, argue that there's little hard evidence of a solar hand in recent climate changes.
Now, a new research report from a surprising source may help to lay this skepticism to rest. A study from NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center in Greenbelt, Maryland looking at climate data over the past century has concluded that solar variation has made a significant impact on the Earth's climate. The report concludes that evidence for climate changes based on solar radiation can be traced back as far as the Industrial Revolution."
-------------
Now, a new research report from a surprising source may help to lay this skepticism to rest. A study from NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center in Greenbelt, Maryland looking at climate data over the past century has concluded that solar variation has made a significant impact on the Earth's climate. The report concludes that evidence for climate changes based on solar radiation can be traced back as far as the Industrial Revolution."
-------------
Red meat from T-Paw - Ben Smith - POLITICO.com
Red meat from T-Paw - Ben Smith - POLITICO.com: "Minnesota Governor Tim Pawlenty offered up his own round of sharp-edged zingers in remarks to the College Republican National Committee Friday night, POLITICO's Zack Abrahamson reports.
“The only thing growing faster than the federal government’s deficit is Chris Matthews’ man-crush on Barack Obama,” he said."
-----------
It appears that Pawlenty is setting up a run for the presidency against The One in 2012. We will see if he has the chops for that gig. But the New Agers say the Mayan calendar predicts the end of the world then, so I don't know what to believe. Perhaps preparing a cave dwelling would be the wisest course of action.
“The only thing growing faster than the federal government’s deficit is Chris Matthews’ man-crush on Barack Obama,” he said."
-----------
It appears that Pawlenty is setting up a run for the presidency against The One in 2012. We will see if he has the chops for that gig. But the New Agers say the Mayan calendar predicts the end of the world then, so I don't know what to believe. Perhaps preparing a cave dwelling would be the wisest course of action.
Larger Populations Triggered Stone Age Learning : NPR
Larger Populations Triggered Stone Age Learning : NPR: "Anthropologists have come up with a theory about what kicked off a series of 'creative explosions' in human ingenuity during the Stone Age — from about 90,000 to 45,000 years ago — and it doesn't involve some sudden improvement in brain power.
Instead, the flowering of intelligence that brought sophisticated tools, better weapons and art came about because of population density: More people started living in bigger communities."
--------------
Smarts come from large numbers of people living together? Could have fooled me. But I guess my community is to small to sustain intelligent life.
Instead, the flowering of intelligence that brought sophisticated tools, better weapons and art came about because of population density: More people started living in bigger communities."
--------------
Smarts come from large numbers of people living together? Could have fooled me. But I guess my community is to small to sustain intelligent life.
How's that recovery of the financial sector going?
Illinois' Bank of Lincolnwood shuttered - UPI.com: "LINCOLNWOOD, Ill., June 6 (UPI) -- An Illinois bank has become the 37th such U.S. institution to fail so far this year, regulators say.
The Bank of Lincolnwood, located in suburban Chicago, was closed by regulators Friday and its $202 million in deposits assumed by Republic Bank of Chicago, Oak Brook, The Chicago Tribune reported."
The Bank of Lincolnwood, located in suburban Chicago, was closed by regulators Friday and its $202 million in deposits assumed by Republic Bank of Chicago, Oak Brook, The Chicago Tribune reported."
Tata's Nano Home: Company behind world's cheapest car to sell $7,800 apartments - BusinessWeek
Tata's Nano Home: Company behind world's cheapest car to sell $7,800 apartments - BusinessWeek: "Tata, the Indian company that made worldwide headlines with its $2,000 Nano car, now plans to build 1,000 tiny apartments outside Mumbai that will sell for $7,800 to $13,400 each. The company plans to roll out low-cost projects outside other major cities."
----------
Thanks to Mystery Reader for updating the story (see below) about the world's cheapest car, the Nano. The maker of the Nano is planning to bring it to the US. And now the plot thickens. They also plan to build eensy weensy apartments. Obvious question: how long before they decide to build those micro-apartments here in the US? And of course one would expect them to be...condominiums.
----------
Thanks to Mystery Reader for updating the story (see below) about the world's cheapest car, the Nano. The maker of the Nano is planning to bring it to the US. And now the plot thickens. They also plan to build eensy weensy apartments. Obvious question: how long before they decide to build those micro-apartments here in the US? And of course one would expect them to be...condominiums.
HOA trying to get road fixed
Road So Bad It Deployed Driver's Airbag - News Story - WFTV Orlando: "The sandy stretch through west Canaveral Groves is riddled with so many grooves and ruts, drivers find themselves fish-tailing down the road. People have been complaining about it for years, but recently they're demands for a fix have been growing louder. 'Now, not soon, now. We need to get the county to help us and do it,' Canaveral Groves resident Monte Wimberley said. It is a dirt road, so no one is expecting it to be smooth sailing, but the road is extremely rough. In some places, it's hard to control the steering wheel and residents say it's costing them thousands in auto repairs...The homeowner's association has obtained an attorney. They say they are trying, on their own, to find money for the work, but they want assurances from the county the money will be spent on the road and not somewhere else."
--------------------
Dirt roads, in 2009? This is happening in Florida, not Khazakhstan.
--------------------
Dirt roads, in 2009? This is happening in Florida, not Khazakhstan.
Interest rates soar on jobs data, putting housing at risk | Money & Company | Los Angeles Times
Interest rates soar on jobs data, putting housing at risk | Money & Company | Los Angeles Times: "The Treasury bond market is in cardiac arrest today over the May employment report: Yields are soaring, dealing another blow to investors who’ve been hiding out in government bonds -- and threatening another big jump in mortgage rates.
If rising home loan rates price more buyers out of the market, sellers will have to respond by cutting asking prices. Anyone have a better idea?"
---------------
Two weeks ago a house in my neighborhood finally sold after being on the market for months. It is on a lake that is full of fish, including muskies four feet long. The house has its own dock. There is another lake across the street. Selling price: $240,000. A year ago, you couldn't buy any house on that lake for less than $350,000.
If rising home loan rates price more buyers out of the market, sellers will have to respond by cutting asking prices. Anyone have a better idea?"
---------------
Two weeks ago a house in my neighborhood finally sold after being on the market for months. It is on a lake that is full of fish, including muskies four feet long. The house has its own dock. There is another lake across the street. Selling price: $240,000. A year ago, you couldn't buy any house on that lake for less than $350,000.
Daily Herald | One person's planter is another one's potty
Daily Herald | One person's planter is another one's potty: "Tina Asmus said the village of Lakemoor and some neighbors on Highland Drive are pushing her to remove the front yard 'art piece planters' she created using a couple of old toilets and a pedestal sink."
-----------------
You hear people say that we need HOAs because without them neighbors could do anything they want with their property. That is not the case, as illustrated by this situation. Submitted for your consideration: Tina Asmus puts two toilets in her front yard, plants flowers in them, paints a smiley face, and calls it art. The Village of Lakemoor, IL, says, get rid of that junk in your yard or we fill fine you up to $500.
By the way, the "God Bless My Neighbors" sign came along with the publicity. According to my newspaper this AM, it originally said, "Beware of Neighbors."
Friday, June 05, 2009
Train wreck on the horizon
Alabama County Set to Halt Services, Shut Buildings (Update1) - Bloomberg.com: "June 5 (Bloomberg) -- Alabama’s most populous county is preparing to stop road maintenance, close courthouses and shutter services for the elderly after a court struck down taxes that pay for about 35 percent of its budget.
Jefferson County, which includes Birmingham, released a plan to cut $52 million from its budget as it appeals the ruling against its business and occupational taxes to the Alabama Supreme Court. Without that revenue, the county has said it is at risk of running out of money as soon as this month.
The loss of the tax money was another blow to a county that has been struggling to avoid bankruptcy since last year, when Wall Street’s financial crisis caused its interest bills to soar on more than $3 billion of bonds."
------------
It looks as though the poster child for the fiscal crisis of local governments will be Jefferson county, Alabama. This has been looming for some time.
Jefferson County, which includes Birmingham, released a plan to cut $52 million from its budget as it appeals the ruling against its business and occupational taxes to the Alabama Supreme Court. Without that revenue, the county has said it is at risk of running out of money as soon as this month.
The loss of the tax money was another blow to a county that has been struggling to avoid bankruptcy since last year, when Wall Street’s financial crisis caused its interest bills to soar on more than $3 billion of bonds."
------------
It looks as though the poster child for the fiscal crisis of local governments will be Jefferson county, Alabama. This has been looming for some time.
Canyon Lake plans to use federal funds to refurbish condos | Riverside County | PE.com | Southern California News | News for Inland Southern California
Canyon Lake plans to use federal funds to refurbish condos | Riverside County | PE.com | Southern California News | News for Inland Southern California: "Canyon Lake is seeking up to $1.2 million in federal funds to purchase and refurbish up to eight condominiums now in foreclosure so they can be resold to first-time homebuyers.
Council members voted 4-0 Wednesday to apply for a portion of the $48 million in neighborhood stabilization funds made available by the Bush administration and offered through Riverside County."
--------
This works to the benefit of the other condo unit owners. I realize that could be said of fixing up any house in any neighborhood, but with a condo we are talking about improving a collectively owned property. The only individual interest is an airspace.
Council members voted 4-0 Wednesday to apply for a portion of the $48 million in neighborhood stabilization funds made available by the Bush administration and offered through Riverside County."
--------
This works to the benefit of the other condo unit owners. I realize that could be said of fixing up any house in any neighborhood, but with a condo we are talking about improving a collectively owned property. The only individual interest is an airspace.
CQ Politics | Legal Beat - Sotomayor Repeatedly Referenced 'Wise Woman' in Speeches
CQ Politics | Legal Beat - Sotomayor Repeatedly Referenced 'Wise Woman' in Speeches: "Supreme Court nominee Sonia Sotomayor delivered multiple speeches between 1994 and 2003 in which she suggested 'a wise Latina woman' or 'wise woman' judge might 'reach a better conclusion' than a male judge."
----------
This is turning into an issue. Obama and his people dismissed the initial report of her saying this one time as a bad choice of words. But obviously that won't fly now, if as reported she has been saying it over and over for years. So that means she will have to defend these statements in her confirmation hearing. I doubt that it will derail her appointment, but it does lay the issue out for all to discuss: what if a white man had said that a "wise white man" or "wise man" would reach a better conclusion than a woman?
----------
This is turning into an issue. Obama and his people dismissed the initial report of her saying this one time as a bad choice of words. But obviously that won't fly now, if as reported she has been saying it over and over for years. So that means she will have to defend these statements in her confirmation hearing. I doubt that it will derail her appointment, but it does lay the issue out for all to discuss: what if a white man had said that a "wise white man" or "wise man" would reach a better conclusion than a woman?
Q.C. couple, HOA spar over gay pride flag | Arizona local news - Chandler, Gilbert, Mesa, Queen Creek, Phoenix, Scottsdale | eastvalleytribune.com | eastvalleytribune.com
Q.C. couple, HOA spar over gay pride flag | Arizona local news - Chandler, Gilbert, Mesa, Queen Creek, Phoenix, Scottsdale | eastvalleytribune.com | eastvalleytribune.com: "Steven and Zeniff Vanderran say homophobia and ongoing disputes with their homeowners association are behind an order to remove a gay pride flag from their Queen Creek home."
-------------
That is one colorful flag.
-------------
That is one colorful flag.
Lake County News | California - State investigates discrimination claim against homeowners association
Lake County News | California - State investigates discrimination claim against homeowners association: "HIDDEN VALLEY LAKE – The state Department of Fair Employment and Housing is investigating a complaint alleging that the Hidden Valley Lake Association has discriminatory rules and practices that especially affect children and families.
In December, Kent Arndt – a stay-at-home father of three and former Hidden Valley Lake Association (HVLA) employee – submitted a complaint to the US Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), alleging discrimination under the federal Fair Housing Act."
In December, Kent Arndt – a stay-at-home father of three and former Hidden Valley Lake Association (HVLA) employee – submitted a complaint to the US Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), alleging discrimination under the federal Fair Housing Act."
State Revenues Buffeted by Downturn - NYTimes.com
State Revenues Buffeted by Downturn - NYTimes.com: "The carnage in state budgets is getting worse, a report said Thursday, with places like Arizona being hurt by falling revenue on multiple fronts, like personal income and sales taxes."
----------------
It seems that on the whole state officials were too optimistic about the national economy, so they expected more sales and income taxes than they are receiving.
----------------
It seems that on the whole state officials were too optimistic about the national economy, so they expected more sales and income taxes than they are receiving.
How to set an example for your kids
Parents barred from graduation - Chicago Breaking News: "Officials at Evergreen Park Community High School said today that upset parents who were barred from graduation ceremonies Wednesday night were not allowed in because they arrived too late.
But some of the two dozen or so not allowed in the building insisted they were on time."
--------------
Riiiiiiiiight. Sure they were on time. Thanks to Dennis James for this link.
But some of the two dozen or so not allowed in the building insisted they were on time."
--------------
Riiiiiiiiight. Sure they were on time. Thanks to Dennis James for this link.
Thursday, June 04, 2009
Amid hard times, an influx in real superheroes - CNN.com
Amid hard times, an influx in real superheroes - CNN.com: "(CNN) -- Mr. Ravenblade, Mr. Xtreme, Dark Guardian and hundreds of others. Some with elaborate costumes, others with haphazardly stitched outfits, they are appearing on city streets worldwide watching over the populace like Superman watched over Metropolis and Batman over Gotham City."
-----------
This is the simplest form of private policing. Maybe some HOAs and condo buildings can save a few bucks by going this route and acquiring a superhero.
-----------
This is the simplest form of private policing. Maybe some HOAs and condo buildings can save a few bucks by going this route and acquiring a superhero.
Can I get two for $4000 so I will have one for each foot?
Tata hopes to sell Nano, 'world's cheapest car,' in US for $2300: "NEW YORK (Reuters) -- India's Tata Motors hopes to offer the Nano, dubbed the world's cheapest car, in the United States within two years, its chairman said."
-------------------
The downsizing of the American dream continues. From suburban ranch homes with big lawns to townhomes and condos, and now from the SUV to the motorized roller skate.
Say what?
The White House - Press Office - Remarks by the President at Cairo University, 6-04-09: "Resistance through violence and killing is wrong and it does not succeed. For centuries, black people in America suffered the lash of the whip as slaves and the humiliation of segregation. But it was not violence that won full and equal rights. It was a peaceful and determined insistence upon the ideals at the center of America's founding."
---------------
On the whole I thought President Obama's speech in Cairo was very good. But what he said about violence and resistance was quite a reinterpretation of US history. For example, there was that little matter of the Civil War, in which the death total was between 600,000 and 700,000. If not for the Civil War, slavery would have lasted in the South until slave rebellions ended it. And anybody who thinks the goals of the civil rights movement were not advanced by urban riots and by the militancy of Malcolm X, Stokely Carmichael, and others profoundly misreads the history of the 1960s.
Moving beyond civil rights, how could anybody claim that resistance through violence doesn't succeed? What about the American revolution, or the Irish war for independence, or any number of other revolutions that led to the establishment of existing nations?
President Obama knows all this. He was addressing himself to the Palestinian intifada. If he had said that slaughtering innocent civilians by strapping bombs to children is wrong and does not succeed, I could understand it. If he had said that the Palestinians can't be a nation until they stop acting like this, even better. But he didn't want to criticize the Palestinians for their particularly senseless and depraved approach to "resistance" against Israel, so he just avoided making that distinction.
---------------
On the whole I thought President Obama's speech in Cairo was very good. But what he said about violence and resistance was quite a reinterpretation of US history. For example, there was that little matter of the Civil War, in which the death total was between 600,000 and 700,000. If not for the Civil War, slavery would have lasted in the South until slave rebellions ended it. And anybody who thinks the goals of the civil rights movement were not advanced by urban riots and by the militancy of Malcolm X, Stokely Carmichael, and others profoundly misreads the history of the 1960s.
Moving beyond civil rights, how could anybody claim that resistance through violence doesn't succeed? What about the American revolution, or the Irish war for independence, or any number of other revolutions that led to the establishment of existing nations?
President Obama knows all this. He was addressing himself to the Palestinian intifada. If he had said that slaughtering innocent civilians by strapping bombs to children is wrong and does not succeed, I could understand it. If he had said that the Palestinians can't be a nation until they stop acting like this, even better. But he didn't want to criticize the Palestinians for their particularly senseless and depraved approach to "resistance" against Israel, so he just avoided making that distinction.
Man not guilty by insanity in attacks on TV anchor, others :: CHICAGO SUN-TIMES :: Chicago Crime
Man not guilty by insanity in attacks on TV anchor, others :: CHICAGO SUN-TIMES :: Chicago Crime: "Assistant State’s Attorney Clarissa Palermo argued that Perdue knew exactly what he was doing when he hit the victims, including senior citizens, as he snaked through the sidewalks. As evidence, Palermo pointed to the fact that Perdue was sane enough to graduate from the University of Illinois in Chicago several years ago."
-------------
No wonder he was found not guilty. Graduating from UIC doesn't mean you are sane--take it from me.
-------------
No wonder he was found not guilty. Graduating from UIC doesn't mean you are sane--take it from me.
Wednesday, June 03, 2009
Vallejo causing big fight in state - The Reporter
Vallejo causing big fight in state - The Reporter: "What started as a municipal bankruptcy in the city of Vallejo has morphed into an all-out fight between California's local governments and unions over the sanctity of labor contracts vs. the autonomy of cities and counties. Next battle zone: the floor of the state Assembly, where legislation requiring local governments to get state approval to file for bankruptcy protection is headed for a vote later this week... If the bill becomes law, California will join 16 other states that face some level of bankruptcy filing oversight. Another 22 states don't allow localities to file for bankruptcy protection, Wills said."
---------------
I haven't seen any head counts on this, but I am guessing that it will pass, because of the enormous power of California's public employee unions with the Democrat-dominated and very liberal legislature. If it passes, will some cities proceed with their disincorporation strategy, or is that an idle threat?
---------------
I haven't seen any head counts on this, but I am guessing that it will pass, because of the enormous power of California's public employee unions with the Democrat-dominated and very liberal legislature. If it passes, will some cities proceed with their disincorporation strategy, or is that an idle threat?
Preserving Freedom of Expression or Property Rights? For GOP, It Depends
Preserving Freedom of Expression or Property Rights? For GOP, It Depends: "When it comes to putting up a flag, Republican legislators are gung-ho about putting property rights on the back burner and supporting the right of residents to do what they wish. When it comes to putting up a clothesline, Republican legislators suddenly are very much interested in property rights and rather uninterested in the right of residents to do what they wish. That’s interesting."
----------
Post from a State of Maine blogger that highlights the GOP's apparent ambivalence over who to side with in HOA disputes.
----------
Post from a State of Maine blogger that highlights the GOP's apparent ambivalence over who to side with in HOA disputes.
FEMA Considers Placing Florida Storm Victims in Foreclosed Homes - Political News - FOXNews.com
FEMA Considers Placing Florida Storm Victims in Foreclosed Homes - Political News - FOXNews.com: "The federal government is making plans to put Florida hurricane evacuees in foreclosed homes if a Katrina-like storm devastates the region."
------------
Do the evacuees have to obey the CC&Rs?
------------
Do the evacuees have to obey the CC&Rs?
Tuesday, June 02, 2009
U.S. Releases Secret List of Nuclear Sites Accidentally - NYTimes.com
U.S. Releases Secret List of Nuclear Sites Accidentally - NYTimes.com: "The federal government mistakenly made public a 266-page report, its pages marked “highly confidential,” that gives detailed information about hundreds of the nation’s civilian nuclear sites and programs, including maps showing the precise locations of stockpiles of fuel for nuclear weapons."
------------
But things are going well on the nationalization front. Today GM, tomorrow the Chicago Cubs.
------------
But things are going well on the nationalization front. Today GM, tomorrow the Chicago Cubs.
Queen Creek HOA says no to gay pride flag
Queen Creek HOA says no to gay pride flag: "Zeniff Vanderran said the Cambria Ocotillo Homeowners Association crossed the line when they told him to remove a gay pride flag hanging from his home outside his garage."
---------------
But isn't this flag consistent with the name of the community?
---------------
But isn't this flag consistent with the name of the community?
Gated community drives prosecutor berserk
Miami-Dade Prosecutor Punches Pizza Delivery Lady | NBC Miami: "According to police reports, Ranck and the unidentified woman got into a shouting match when the delivery person couldn't get into the attorney's gated community. After a bit of shouting that woke the neighbors, the woman told Ranck to come downstairs if he wanted his pizza.
Ranck did and punched the woman in the arm, Miami-Dade police said. He also knocked off her snazzy pizza delivery visor."
--------------
Cold pizza: the price of residential security.
Ranck did and punched the woman in the arm, Miami-Dade police said. He also knocked off her snazzy pizza delivery visor."
--------------
Cold pizza: the price of residential security.
GM latest in string of US company takeovers - Yahoo! Finance
GM latest in string of US company takeovers - Yahoo! Finance: "WASHINGTON (AP) -- The U.S. assumption of a controlling interest in General Motors Corp. isn't the first time the government has nationalized a company or an industry. It has taken shares in banks, railways, steel mills, coal mines and foreclosed homes."
-----------
Good historical perspective on this. Most of these nationalizations were temporary and during wartime.
-----------
Good historical perspective on this. Most of these nationalizations were temporary and during wartime.
Gawker - Jogger Hits Tree While Tweeting, Hurtles Toward Global Infamy - James coleman
Gawker - Jogger Hits Tree While Tweeting, Hurtles Toward Global Infamy - James coleman: "'One minute I was running along posting a tweet, the next I was lying on my back on the pavement in agony.'The branch came out of nowhere and hit my face hard.'"
------------
They are calling this "twinjury."
------------
They are calling this "twinjury."
Restrictions stall Pegasus in mid-flight
.:: Aero-News Network: The Aviation and Aerospace World's Daily/Real-Time News and Information Service ::.: "Pegasus Airpark outside Phoenix, Arizona, is one of those places where people and airplanes co-exist... mostly.
The gated residential community is built around a runway, but homeowners there say development has stalled because of restrictions on helicopter and jet aircraft flights from the field. And while the foreclosure rate in the town of Queen Creek is just 2.4 percent, the rate in the subdivision is 11 percent, according to recent analysis.
Residents say the principal reason for the problem is a local ordinance prohibiting helicopters, very light jets, and jet fuel at the community, according to a report in the East Valley Tribune. Developers say those restrictions cause potential buyers to look at other aviation communities where they can actually use their aircraft. Since the airport is privately owned, the city council has broader latitude to regulate operations at the facility."
--------------
There's an issue you don't encounter every day. It shows how hard it can be for private and public regulations to co-exist. It looks like Pegasus might turn into Icarus.
The gated residential community is built around a runway, but homeowners there say development has stalled because of restrictions on helicopter and jet aircraft flights from the field. And while the foreclosure rate in the town of Queen Creek is just 2.4 percent, the rate in the subdivision is 11 percent, according to recent analysis.
Residents say the principal reason for the problem is a local ordinance prohibiting helicopters, very light jets, and jet fuel at the community, according to a report in the East Valley Tribune. Developers say those restrictions cause potential buyers to look at other aviation communities where they can actually use their aircraft. Since the airport is privately owned, the city council has broader latitude to regulate operations at the facility."
--------------
There's an issue you don't encounter every day. It shows how hard it can be for private and public regulations to co-exist. It looks like Pegasus might turn into Icarus.
Sonia Sotomayor - Law Library of Congress (Library of Congress)
Sonia Sotomayor - Law Library of Congress (Library of Congress)
Here is a link to material on Sonia Sotomayor, assembled by the Library of Congress and sent to me by John Shuler, UIC's government documents librarian.
Here is a link to material on Sonia Sotomayor, assembled by the Library of Congress and sent to me by John Shuler, UIC's government documents librarian.
Bay Area Housing Bubble: California is bankrupt
Bay Area Housing Bubble: California is bankrupt: "Welcome to reality, California. Either fix your structural problems or prepare your bankruptcy filing."
----------
Here's a pithy explanation of California's current fiscal situation.
----------
Here's a pithy explanation of California's current fiscal situation.
Unions, local governments split on bankruptcy bill - Sacramento Politics - California Politics | Sacramento Bee
Unions, local governments split on bankruptcy bill - Sacramento Politics - California Politics | Sacramento Bee: "What started as a municipal bankruptcy in the city of Vallejo has morphed into an all-out fight between California's local governments and unions over the sanctity of labor contracts vs. the autonomy of cities and counties.
Next battle zone: the floor of the state Assembly, where legislation requiring local governments to get state approval to file for bankruptcy protection is headed for a vote later this week."
-----------
Unions: pay us
Cities: we can't--we are going bankrupt
Unions: no, you aren't
Cities: OK--we will cease to exist (see below)
Next battle zone: the floor of the state Assembly, where legislation requiring local governments to get state approval to file for bankruptcy protection is headed for a vote later this week."
-----------
Unions: pay us
Cities: we can't--we are going bankrupt
Unions: no, you aren't
Cities: OK--we will cease to exist (see below)
Serious or Not: Disincorporation Talks Swirl Around California Municipalities
Serious or Not: Disincorporation Talks Swirl Around California Municipalities: "With the recession making its impact everywhere, local municipalities find themselves in an ever-increasing state of financial stress, and searching for new ways to cope.
Now some California municipalities are thinking the once un-thinkable, disincorporation.
Upon disincorporation, a city or town's powers as a municipality are surrendered to the state and county. The city or town ceases to have further duties and all of the city or town offices cease to exist.
This process could allow residents to avoid paying local taxes, escape the costs of local services and pensions, and get other services more cheaply by sharing the costs with the surrounding county."
-------------
There hasn't been a disincorporation in California since 1972, according to the article.
Now some California municipalities are thinking the once un-thinkable, disincorporation.
Upon disincorporation, a city or town's powers as a municipality are surrendered to the state and county. The city or town ceases to have further duties and all of the city or town offices cease to exist.
This process could allow residents to avoid paying local taxes, escape the costs of local services and pensions, and get other services more cheaply by sharing the costs with the surrounding county."
-------------
There hasn't been a disincorporation in California since 1972, according to the article.
Monday, June 01, 2009
Ten Vehicles That Bankrupted GM
Ten Vehicles That Bankrupted GM: "Reasons abound for GM's bankruptcy, including legacy costs, fuel prices and the conventional wisdom of East Coast media elite, but we mustn't forget in the end it's all about the cars. And frankly, some of them really sucked."
--------------
Strange concepts, ugly body designs, and bad luck seem to have conspired against GM. But I think their biggest problem is that there were always too many GM cars. How do you focus people on any model or make when you have multiple makes and zillions of models?
--------------
Strange concepts, ugly body designs, and bad luck seem to have conspired against GM. But I think their biggest problem is that there were always too many GM cars. How do you focus people on any model or make when you have multiple makes and zillions of models?
Aldermen move to slow down future asset sales :: CHICAGO SUN-TIMES :: City Hall
Aldermen move to slow down future asset sales :: CHICAGO SUN-TIMES :: City Hall: "Burned by the problem-plagued privatization of Chicago’s 36,000 parking meters, aldermen moved Monday to slow down and shine the light on future asset sales.
The City Council’s Finance Committee agreed to mandate at least 15 days of legislative review before the sale of any city assets valued at over $100 million.
A companion disclosure ordinance would require the city to post the lease on the internet prior to a Council vote to sell off another major asset and post quarterly reports detailing how funds generated by the sale are being spent."
-------------
Fifteen days for over $100 million? Does that seem like legislative self-assertion?
The City Council’s Finance Committee agreed to mandate at least 15 days of legislative review before the sale of any city assets valued at over $100 million.
A companion disclosure ordinance would require the city to post the lease on the internet prior to a Council vote to sell off another major asset and post quarterly reports detailing how funds generated by the sale are being spent."
-------------
Fifteen days for over $100 million? Does that seem like legislative self-assertion?
Stating the obvious
Robert J. Samuelson - The Media's Infatuation With President Obama - washingtonpost.com: "Obama has inspired a collective fawning. What started in the campaign (the chief victim was Hillary Clinton, not John McCain) has continued, as a study by the Pew Research Center's Project for Excellence in Journalism shows. It concludes: 'President Barack Obama has enjoyed substantially more positive media coverage than either Bill Clinton or George W. Bush during their first months in the White House.'"
-----------------
Talk about understatement.
-----------------
Talk about understatement.
Sunday, May 31, 2009
Obama's disappearing stimulus
Business Feed Article | Business | guardian.co.uk: "NEW YORK, May 29 (Reuters) - It's not just California that threatens to sabotage the Obama stimulus. State and local governments across the nation are gradually unraveling federal efforts to revive growth."
--------------
Indeed. State and local governments are undoing the federal stimulus package by raising taxes. Here in Illinois the legislature is poised to increase the state income tax by 50%, and they are jacking up taxes on many products and services as well.
--------------
Indeed. State and local governments are undoing the federal stimulus package by raising taxes. Here in Illinois the legislature is poised to increase the state income tax by 50%, and they are jacking up taxes on many products and services as well.
Highest Paid State Workers Outside UC System - Sacramento News - Local and Breaking Sacramento News | Sacramento Bee
Highest Paid State Workers Outside UC System - Sacramento News - Local and Breaking Sacramento News | Sacramento Bee
More disclosure of the mind-boggling salaries paid to California state employees.
More disclosure of the mind-boggling salaries paid to California state employees.
MyProps.org - "S.F. is going broke, whether you like it or not!" - Housing Bubble and Bear Links
MyProps.org - "S.F. is going broke, whether you like it or not!" - Housing Bubble and Bear Links: "Are you wondering why California state and local governments are so broke? The City of San Francisco Salaries above could have something to do with it."
-----------
Take a look at this list of salaries for some San Francisco government employees. Unbelievable.
-----------
Take a look at this list of salaries for some San Francisco government employees. Unbelievable.
Washington Post questions nationalization of GM
Congress Should Question the Need to Nationalize GM - washingtonpost.com: "'We cannot make the survival of our auto industry dependent on an unending flow of taxpayer dollars,' [President Obama] said. 'These companies -- and this industry -- must ultimately stand on their own, not as wards of the state.'
So how did we get from there to here? Here, according to media accounts this week, is an imminent transformation of General Motors into a government-owned company, infused with upward of $50 billion in federal money. The United States will accept stock in lieu of the cash the company owes, and Washington -- that is, you, the taxpayer -- will become the owner of 70 percent of the new GM. When might the company stand on its own, to paraphrase Mr. Obama?"
---------------------
The Post points out how little relationship there is between Obama's words and his deeds in this case, and then concisely explains why nationalization of General Motors is a bad idea. If the company continues to be unattractive to private investors, which seems likely, then what? Does the federal government decide to get out? If so, when, and how? It seems to me that everybody concerned would have been better off if the company had been left to its fate in the market, whatever that was. Obama has been doing what the UAW wanted, because GM was its biggest power base. But sooner or later, unless a miracle happens, the UAW-governed employees will need to find other jobs anyway--unless GM is going to remain a government-owned car company in perpetuity.
The larger issue is that Obama is astonishingly consistent in one important respect: he says one thing, and then does another, again and again and again. He claims that something is unacceptable, and then turns right around and does it.
So how did we get from there to here? Here, according to media accounts this week, is an imminent transformation of General Motors into a government-owned company, infused with upward of $50 billion in federal money. The United States will accept stock in lieu of the cash the company owes, and Washington -- that is, you, the taxpayer -- will become the owner of 70 percent of the new GM. When might the company stand on its own, to paraphrase Mr. Obama?"
---------------------
The Post points out how little relationship there is between Obama's words and his deeds in this case, and then concisely explains why nationalization of General Motors is a bad idea. If the company continues to be unattractive to private investors, which seems likely, then what? Does the federal government decide to get out? If so, when, and how? It seems to me that everybody concerned would have been better off if the company had been left to its fate in the market, whatever that was. Obama has been doing what the UAW wanted, because GM was its biggest power base. But sooner or later, unless a miracle happens, the UAW-governed employees will need to find other jobs anyway--unless GM is going to remain a government-owned car company in perpetuity.
The larger issue is that Obama is astonishingly consistent in one important respect: he says one thing, and then does another, again and again and again. He claims that something is unacceptable, and then turns right around and does it.
Clout at Rezko University--better known as U. of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
U. of I. admissions: How politicians pressured university to admit students -- chicagotribune.com: "The Tribune on Friday reported evidence that subpar applicants gained admission to the U. of I. with the sway of state lawmakers and university trustees. The investigation revealed that acceptance decisions at times occurred over the objections of admissions officers in deference to power brokers."
------------
This story documents a disgraceful practice at the University of Illinois. Slimeball Illinois legislators make thinly veiled threats to the U of I lobbyists, who then send emails to high-level officials at the University, who then cave in and admit the unqualified sons and daughters of the Chicago machine. Then young people who have worked hard and deserve admission are turned away, because their place is taken by some arrogant punk whose daddy has clout.
As a professor at the U of Illinois at Chicago, I hear a lot of high-minded talk from administrators, who impose all sorts of ethics requirements on us. But the higher you go, the more these people think they can do whatever is expedient.
------------
This story documents a disgraceful practice at the University of Illinois. Slimeball Illinois legislators make thinly veiled threats to the U of I lobbyists, who then send emails to high-level officials at the University, who then cave in and admit the unqualified sons and daughters of the Chicago machine. Then young people who have worked hard and deserve admission are turned away, because their place is taken by some arrogant punk whose daddy has clout.
As a professor at the U of Illinois at Chicago, I hear a lot of high-minded talk from administrators, who impose all sorts of ethics requirements on us. But the higher you go, the more these people think they can do whatever is expedient.
Saturday, May 30, 2009
US lab debuts super laser
US lab debuts super laser: "NIF is touted as the world's highest-energy laser system. It is located inside the Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory about an hour's drive from San Francisco. Equipment connected to a house-sized sphere can focus 192 laser beams on a small point, generating temperatures and pressures that exist at cores of stars or giant planets. NIF will be able to create conditions and conduct experiments never before possible on Earth, according to the laboratory. A fusion reaction triggered by the super laser hitting hydrogen atoms will produce more energy than was required to prompt 'ignition,' according to NIF director Edward Moses. 'This is the long-sought goal of 'energy gain' that has been the goal of fusion researchers for more than half a century,' Moses said."
------------
Sounds cool, but NIF stands for "National Ignition Facility," and the first two words of that name just kind of worry me a little bit.
------------
Sounds cool, but NIF stands for "National Ignition Facility," and the first two words of that name just kind of worry me a little bit.
Fred Pilot on whether suburbia is doomed
Eldo Telecom: How to acheive a true digital economy: "In a true digital economy, population and information-based work would be more evenly distributed, mitigating the need for people to concentrate in congested, high cost metro areas."
----------
Don't miss Fred Pilot's take on the Richard Florida "suburbia is doomed" futurist piece.
----------
Don't miss Fred Pilot's take on the Richard Florida "suburbia is doomed" futurist piece.
Grandstanding gubernatorial candidate launches meaningless investigation
Lisa Madigan jumps into parking meter fray :: CHICAGO SUN-TIMES :: Politics: "Illinois Attorney General Lisa Madigan has opened an investigation into the implementation of Chicago's parking meter privatization deal.
'Our goal is to determine if consumers have been defrauded,' said Madigan spokeswoman Robyn Ziegler, who stressed that the office is not investigating the City of Chicago.
Subpoenas were sent May 19 to Morgan Stanley Infrastructure, the winning bidder for the city's parking meter franchise; Chicago Parking Meters LLC, a consortium led by the infrastructure group, and LAZ Parking, which is operating the franchise for CPM."
--------------
Lisa Madigan has done nothing as Illinois Attorney General except run for governor. Her main credential is that her father is Mike Madigan, Speaker of the Illinois House of Representatives and Chairman of the Illinois Democratic Party. She claims she could do nothing about the rampant corruption now being prosecuted by the feds. But now the parking meter privatization contract has attracted her prosecutorial attention--now that everybody already knows it was a bad deal.
This will be good for some headlines and photo ops. All she has to do is get the Democratic nomination and she's home free, because the Republican Party in Illinois is in a white-hot meltdown that makes Chernobyl look like the North Pole.
'Our goal is to determine if consumers have been defrauded,' said Madigan spokeswoman Robyn Ziegler, who stressed that the office is not investigating the City of Chicago.
Subpoenas were sent May 19 to Morgan Stanley Infrastructure, the winning bidder for the city's parking meter franchise; Chicago Parking Meters LLC, a consortium led by the infrastructure group, and LAZ Parking, which is operating the franchise for CPM."
--------------
Lisa Madigan has done nothing as Illinois Attorney General except run for governor. Her main credential is that her father is Mike Madigan, Speaker of the Illinois House of Representatives and Chairman of the Illinois Democratic Party. She claims she could do nothing about the rampant corruption now being prosecuted by the feds. But now the parking meter privatization contract has attracted her prosecutorial attention--now that everybody already knows it was a bad deal.
This will be good for some headlines and photo ops. All she has to do is get the Democratic nomination and she's home free, because the Republican Party in Illinois is in a white-hot meltdown that makes Chernobyl look like the North Pole.
HB 1347 DOA
THUMBS DOWN: Lawmakers side against homeowners association on scofflaws : Editorials : TCPalm: "Among the worthwhile bills that went nowhere at the 2009 Legislature was a measure that would have helped homeowner associations collect dues from recalcitrant lenders."
----------
This was one of Rep. Julio Robaina's bills. Too bad it didn't pass.
----------
This was one of Rep. Julio Robaina's bills. Too bad it didn't pass.
The Chronicle | Appellate court fight brews against alpacas
The Chronicle | Appellate court fight brews against alpacas
See below--I told you I wasn't kidding about the alpacas. The lawsuit we won on summary judgment is described in this article.
See below--I told you I wasn't kidding about the alpacas. The lawsuit we won on summary judgment is described in this article.
The Chronicle | More seek to disconnect in Campton Hills
The Chronicle | More seek to disconnect in Campton Hills: "CAMPTON HILLS – Eleven neighbors of Campton Hills Village President Patsy Smith have filed a petition to disconnect from the village, court records show.
The petition, filed late Thursday in Kane County Circuit Court, covers 32 acres and 20 residents of the Homeward Glen subdivision where Smith lives, attorney Timothy Elliott said.
The disconnect area would rely on previously disconnected property that would form the new border for the village, Elliott said."
------------
I represent an owner in Homeward Glen in a lawsuit filed by the HOA that we won on summary judgment, and that is now on appeal. The Homeward Glen saga is a great example of what is wrong with the HOA as an institution. It has everything: HOA election craziness, bizarre covenant interpretation, expensive litigation that should have been avoided, municipal incorporation and disconnection, and even alpacas. That's right. I said alpacas.
HOA bill placed "on hold" in SC
HOA bill gets more time in oven - Business - The Sun News: "The bill, called the S.C. Homeowners' Association Act, would have required associations to make their financial records for the past three years available to members, limited annual increases on assessments and allowed the S.C. Department of Consumer Affairs to mediate disputes, among other things.
The biggest point of debate about the bill was the duties it set for the Department of Consumer
Affairs, said Sen. Shane Massey, a member of the Senate judiciary subcommittee where the bill stalled.
'The legislation so far is just overkill, and you want to fix the problem, but at the same time you don't want to go too far with it,' Massey said. 'When consumer affairs gets involved, many people see that as the heavy hand of government getting involved in private affairs.'"
------------
I see. And who were those "many people," I wonder?
The biggest point of debate about the bill was the duties it set for the Department of Consumer
Affairs, said Sen. Shane Massey, a member of the Senate judiciary subcommittee where the bill stalled.
'The legislation so far is just overkill, and you want to fix the problem, but at the same time you don't want to go too far with it,' Massey said. 'When consumer affairs gets involved, many people see that as the heavy hand of government getting involved in private affairs.'"
------------
I see. And who were those "many people," I wonder?
GOP Insiders: Don't fight Sotomayor - Glenn Thrush - POLITICO.com
GOP Insiders: Don't fight Sotomayor - Glenn Thrush - POLITICO.com: "Just 24 percent of Republican aides, consultants and pollsters said it would be 'smart' to fight the nomination, with 64 percent saying it would be wiser to dodge a battle with"
---------
So 64% of the operatives are living the real world, and 24% are occupying the alternate reality ruled by the AM radio spectrum.
I see no reason for any Senator to oppose Sotomayor. She will be approved overwhelmingly by Republican Senators, but not before a small number of loud voices on radio and TV make the GOP look like a bunch of yahoos.
---------
So 64% of the operatives are living the real world, and 24% are occupying the alternate reality ruled by the AM radio spectrum.
I see no reason for any Senator to oppose Sotomayor. She will be approved overwhelmingly by Republican Senators, but not before a small number of loud voices on radio and TV make the GOP look like a bunch of yahoos.
There's nothing like a good burger
In which the president discovers an American intelligence agency at Five Guys - Ben Smith - POLITICO.com: "On his trip to get a burger with Brian Williams at Five Guys this afternoon, the President appears to have learned of the existence of a Defense Department intelligence arm, the National Geospatial Intelligence Agency, from an agency employee also at the burger restaurant.
'So explain to me exactly what this National Geospatial...' Obama said, after the worker mentioned his employer, according to a video of the event.
'We work with, uh, satellite imagery,' the worker, Walter replied."
---------
No comment.
'So explain to me exactly what this National Geospatial...' Obama said, after the worker mentioned his employer, according to a video of the event.
'We work with, uh, satellite imagery,' the worker, Walter replied."
---------
No comment.
Worker's cooperative plans for future
With bankruptcy looming, a new GM begins to emerge: "DETROIT (AP) - With an almost certain bankruptcy filing days away, General Motors is beginning its reinvention, planning to retool one factory to make its smallest vehicles ever in the U.S. and rid itself of the biggest."
------------
And the Hummer is being dumped. It seems that the Obama administration has turned the world's largest auto company into its very own government sponsored, union run, workers' cooperative that will be tasked by the federal government with building dinky little green-mobiles to save the planet. Because few people want to buy such vehicles, I suppose the next step might be to impose huge tariffs and carbon taxes on the other manufacturers so that their prices will become prohibitive for most of us.
And if that transpires, I think the next step will be gray Mao jackets for everybody.
Friday, May 29, 2009
Pravda: American capitalism gone with a whimper - Pravda.Ru
American capitalism gone with a whimper - Pravda.Ru: "It must be said, that like the breaking of a great dam, the American descent into Marxism is happening with breath taking speed, against the back drop of a passive, hapless sheeple, excuse me dear reader, I meant people."
-------------
Interesting commentary, especially considering the source.
-------------
Interesting commentary, especially considering the source.
$70 million down, only $24.23 billion to go
Schwarzenegger would close most California state parks | McClatchy: "Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger's plan to eliminate funding for the state parks system would close 220 locations, including Sutter's Fort and the State Capitol Museum in Sacramento, according to a list released by the administration.
Only parks that are self-sufficient or receive local government financial support would remain open, 59 in all.
The governor made the proposal this week to save $70 million in 2009-10 and help close a $24.3 billion budget deficit."
--------------
Somehow I fail to see how this particular cut makes sense.
Only parks that are self-sufficient or receive local government financial support would remain open, 59 in all.
The governor made the proposal this week to save $70 million in 2009-10 and help close a $24.3 billion budget deficit."
--------------
Somehow I fail to see how this particular cut makes sense.
Soon the President will have his own car company!
GM makes new bondholder offer ahead of bankruptcy - Yahoo! Finance: "The proposed sale process would see GM's profitable assets sold to a new company funded by the U.S. government in a fast-track bankruptcy process. The U.S. Treasury would own 72.5 percent of the new GM coming out of a bankruptcy sale process while a trust affiliated with the United Auto Workers union would own 17.5 percent, GM said in a filing with securities regulators."
---------------
And that's how Obama creates his very own socialist workers' cooperative out of what was once the world's largest automobile company.
---------------
And that's how Obama creates his very own socialist workers' cooperative out of what was once the world's largest automobile company.
Gawker - Did Erich "Mancow" Muller Fake His Waterboarding for Publicity? - mancow
Gawker - Did Erich "Mancow" Muller Fake His Waterboarding for Publicity? - mancow"It is going to have to look "real" but of course would be simulated with Mancow acting like he is drowning. It will be a hoax but have to look real."
-----------
That's what Mancow's publicist said in an email that she sent to the person who was locating the guy who was to do the "waterboarding." Now she claims the event was real.
Isn't the public relations profession grand? People always criticize lawyers for saying whatever they can get away with, but at least we have an obligation to be truthful to the court. Not so with publicists, who get paid for making things up.
By the way, Mancow Muller is not a "right-wing" anything. He is a shock jock who has labored in the shadow of Howard Stern for a long time. He is a consummate vulgarian and a shameless publicity hound. Chicago radio station WLS hired him recently and in my view shredded their credibility by doing so.
-----------
That's what Mancow's publicist said in an email that she sent to the person who was locating the guy who was to do the "waterboarding." Now she claims the event was real.
Isn't the public relations profession grand? People always criticize lawyers for saying whatever they can get away with, but at least we have an obligation to be truthful to the court. Not so with publicists, who get paid for making things up.
By the way, Mancow Muller is not a "right-wing" anything. He is a shock jock who has labored in the shadow of Howard Stern for a long time. He is a consummate vulgarian and a shameless publicity hound. Chicago radio station WLS hired him recently and in my view shredded their credibility by doing so.
Chicago alderman indicted: Carothers took money from developer to help get project launched, prosecutors say -- chicagotribune.com
Chicago alderman indicted: Carothers took money from developer to help get project launched, prosecutors say -- chicagotribune.com: "Ald. Isaac Carothers (29th), a longtime ally of Mayor Richard Daley, was indicted Thursday on charges he accepted $40,000 in home improvements in 2004, as well as meals and tickets to a White Sox playoff game for supporting the zoning changes. Also charged was developer Calvin Boender, who transformed a 50-acre former rail yard -- much of it in Carothers' West Side ward -- into a residential and commercial project known as Galewood Yards."
------------
Today's "dog bites man" story brought to you by the crooks of the Chicago city council.
------------
Today's "dog bites man" story brought to you by the crooks of the Chicago city council.
Thursday, May 28, 2009
Disgraced Governor's Condo
WBBM 780 - Chicago's #1 source for local news, traffic and weather - For sale: Blago's DC Condo: "CHICAGO (WBBM) -- For $570 thousand dollars, you can buy the vintage Washington, D.C., condominium in which ousted Gov. Rod Blagojevich lived as a congressman."
--------------
The agent says she doesn't know of any remaining wiretaps.
--------------
The agent says she doesn't know of any remaining wiretaps.
HOA Asks Vet to Remove Bumper Stickers
HOA Asks Vet to Remove Bumper Stickers: "DALLAS - Frank Larison is a disabled veteran with more than 14 years of service, including more than a year of combat duty in Vietnam.
The 58-year-old former Marine now finds himself under attack by his Dallas homeowners association for displaying seven decals on his vehicle supporting the Marine Corps.
'To me, it's being patriotic, and it shows that I served,' the veteran told FOX 4.
The board says the decals are advertisements that violate HOA rules, and must be covered or removed.
Otherwise, the homeowners association for The Woodlands II on The Creek --- where Larimore has lived for eight years --- says in a letter it will tow the car at Larimore's expense. The board also threatens to fine him $50 for any future incident."
------------
Thanks to Rick Black for this link. This HOA action seems supremely idiotic.
The 58-year-old former Marine now finds himself under attack by his Dallas homeowners association for displaying seven decals on his vehicle supporting the Marine Corps.
'To me, it's being patriotic, and it shows that I served,' the veteran told FOX 4.
The board says the decals are advertisements that violate HOA rules, and must be covered or removed.
Otherwise, the homeowners association for The Woodlands II on The Creek --- where Larimore has lived for eight years --- says in a letter it will tow the car at Larimore's expense. The board also threatens to fine him $50 for any future incident."
------------
Thanks to Rick Black for this link. This HOA action seems supremely idiotic.
Couple: County Trying To Stop Home Bible Studies - San Diego News Story - KGTV San Diego
Couple: County Trying To Stop Home Bible Studies - San Diego News Story - KGTV San Diego: "SAN DIEGO -- A local pastor and his wife claim they were interrogated by a San Diego County official, who then threatened them with escalating fines if they continued to hold Bible studies in their home, 10News reported."
----------
Looks like the HOA-N1 virus is spreading.
----------
Looks like the HOA-N1 virus is spreading.
About 12 percent of U.S. homeowners late paying or foreclosed | Reuters
About 12 percent of U.S. homeowners late paying or foreclosed | Reuters: "NEW YORK (Reuters) - One of eight U.S. households with a mortgage ended the first quarter late on loan payments or in the foreclosure process in a crisis that will persist for at least another year until unemployment peaks, the Mortgage Bankers Association said on Thursday."
--------------
Unemployment is at a 25 year high and rising.
--------------
Unemployment is at a 25 year high and rising.
Gated Community FAIL
Pa. police say a man trying to enter gated community was run over by his own vehicle -- OrlandoSentinel.com: "TOBYHANNA, Pa. (AP) — Police said a man trying to enter a gated community in Pennsylvania's Pocono Mountains fell out of his truck while trying to open the gate and was run over by his own vehicle on Monday. The 52-year-old Tobyhanna man wasn't injured but was taken to a hospital for a blood test when police found him to be under the influence of alcohol."
-----------------
Thanks to Beth Young for this entertaining gated community vignette. Too bad it isn't on video.
-----------------
Thanks to Beth Young for this entertaining gated community vignette. Too bad it isn't on video.
TheHill.com - New agency for 'prudential regulation' of all banks?
TheHill.com - New agency for 'prudential regulation' of all banks?: "Among the changes that the Obama administration is considering are the creation of a single government agency to conduct 'prudential regulation' over all state and federal banking institutions; a consumer protection agency over financial products, but possibly not securities; and an investor protection agency, the sources said."
-------------
I am still wondering if there is anything that this administration believes is off limits to government regulation. We have suffered from an excessively hands-off approach in the past, but it seems to me that this administration has far too much faith in the federal government's ability to make decisions about other people's money.
-------------
I am still wondering if there is anything that this administration believes is off limits to government regulation. We have suffered from an excessively hands-off approach in the past, but it seems to me that this administration has far too much faith in the federal government's ability to make decisions about other people's money.
Green homeowner hit with noise abatement order because 40ft wind turbine is driving his neighbours mad | Mail Online
Green homeowner hit with noise abatement order because 40ft wind turbine is driving his neighbours mad | Mail Online: "When Stephen Munday spent £20,000 on a wind turbine to generate electricity for his home, he was proud to be doing his bit for the environment.
He got planning permission and put up the 40ft device two years ago, making sure he stuck to strict noise level limits.
But neighbours still complained that the sound was annoying - and now the local council has ordered him to switch it off."
-----------
Not only that, but the birds are picketing his house.
He got planning permission and put up the 40ft device two years ago, making sure he stuck to strict noise level limits.
But neighbours still complained that the sound was annoying - and now the local council has ordered him to switch it off."
-----------
Not only that, but the birds are picketing his house.
California Cities Face Bankruptcy Curbs - WSJ.com
California Cities Face Bankruptcy Curbs - WSJ.com: "As California seeks more funds from its cash-strapped cities and counties to close a $21 billion budget deficit, some state legislators are pushing a plan that could compound municipalities' pain by making it tougher for them to file for bankruptcy.
The bill would require a California municipality seeking Chapter 9 bankruptcy protection to first obtain approval from a state commission. That contrasts with the state's current bankruptcy process, which allows municipalities to speedily declare bankruptcy without any state oversight so that they can quickly restructure their finances. The bill, introduced in January, has passed one committee vote and could reach a final vote by mid-July."
-----------
I blogged on this some time ago. The bill is being pushed by the public employee unions. It would make a union-friendly, Democrat-controlled, state commission the gatekeeper to the bankruptcy court for California's cities.
The bill would require a California municipality seeking Chapter 9 bankruptcy protection to first obtain approval from a state commission. That contrasts with the state's current bankruptcy process, which allows municipalities to speedily declare bankruptcy without any state oversight so that they can quickly restructure their finances. The bill, introduced in January, has passed one committee vote and could reach a final vote by mid-July."
-----------
I blogged on this some time ago. The bill is being pushed by the public employee unions. It would make a union-friendly, Democrat-controlled, state commission the gatekeeper to the bankruptcy court for California's cities.
Government without limits?
The Associated Press: Pelosi appeals for China's help on climate change: "'Every aspect of our lives must be subjected to an inventory ... of how we are taking responsibility.'"
------------
Her Majesty, Empress Pelosi, has decreed that a clean environment is a basic human right, and that entitles government to do some sort of lifestyle inventory. I wonder if that will include the private jets of her celebrity friends.
------------
Her Majesty, Empress Pelosi, has decreed that a clean environment is a basic human right, and that entitles government to do some sort of lifestyle inventory. I wonder if that will include the private jets of her celebrity friends.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)