Could President Bush Do This?

Today is the anniversary of D-Day. This is a prayer originally entitled "Let Our Hearts Be Stout" written by President Franklin D. Roosevelt as Allied troops were invading German-occupied Europe during World War II. The prayer was read to the nation on the radio on the evening of D-Day, June 6, 1944, while American, British and Canadian troops were fighting to establish beach heads on the coast or Normandy in France.

The Previous night, January 5, the President had also been on the radio to announce that Allied troops had entered Rome. The spectacular news that Rome had been liberated was quickly surpassed by news of the gigantic D-Day invasion which began at 6:30 a.m. on June 6. By midnight about 57,000 American and 75,000 British and Canadian soldiers had gotten ashore. Allied losses on D-Day included 2,500 killed and 8,500 wounded.

My fellow Americans:

Last night, when I spoke with you about the fall of Rome, I knew at that moment that troops of the Untied States and our Allies were crossing the Channel in another and greater operation. It has come to pass with success thus far.

And so, in this poignant hour, I ask you to join with me in prayer:

Almighty God: Our sons, pride of our nation, this day we have set upon a mighty endeavor, a struggle to preserve our Republic, our religion, and our civilization and to set free a suffering humanity.

Lead them straight and true; give strength to their arms, stoutness to their hearts, steadfastness to their faith.

They will need Thy blessings. Their road will be long and hard. For the enemy is strong. He may hurl back our forces. Success may not come with rushing speed, but we shall return again and again; and we know that by Thy grace, and by the righteousness of our cause, our sons will triumph.

They will be sorely tried, by night and by day, without rest-- until the victory is won. The darkness will be rent by noise and flame. Men's souls will be shaken with the violences of war.

For these men are lately drawn from the ways of peace. They fight not for the lust of conquest. They fight to end conquest. They fight to liberate. They fight to let justice arise, and tolerance and goodwill among all Thy people. They yearn but for the end of battle, for their return to the haven of home.

Some will never return. Embrace these, Father, and receive them, Thy heroic servants into Thy kingdom.

And for us at home -- fathers, mothers, children, wives, sisters and brothers of brave men overseas, who thoughts and prayers are ever with them -- help us, Almighty God, to rededicate ourselves in renewed faith in Thee in this hour of great sacrifice.

Many people have urged that I call the nation into a single day of special prayer. But because the road is long and desire is great, I ask that our people devote themselves in a continuance of prayer. As we rise to each new day, and again when each day is spent, let words of prayer be on our lips, invoking Thy help to our efforts.

Give us strength, too -- strength in our daily tasks, to redouble the contributions we make in physical and material support of our armed forces.

And let our hearts be stout, to wait out the long travail, to bear sorrows that may come, to impart our courage unto our sons wheresoever they may be.

And, O Lord, give us faith. Give us faith in Thee; faith in our sons; faith in each other; faith in our united crusade. Let not the keenness of our spirit ever be dulled. Let not the impacts of temporary events, of temporal matters of but fleeting moment -- let not these deter us in our unconquerable purpose.

With Thy blessing, we shall prevail over the unholy forces of our enemy. Help us to conquer the apostles of greed and racial arrogances. Lead us to the saving of our country, and with our sister nations into a world unity that will spell a sure peace -- a peace invulnerable to the schemings of unworthy men. And a peace that will let all of men live in freedom, reaping the just rewards of their honest toil.

Thy will be done, Almighty God.

Amen.

I Want To Be The Boss Of Me!

Maybe I'm a radical. Or I have a wide streak of Libertarian running through my Republican heart. But this I know:

• On June 23, 2005 the U.S. Supreme Court decided the Kelo vs. New London case. That ruling says a government can steal (oops, I guess they called it "seize") private property for public use, even when it is a for-profit group building a strip mall. I guess one man's castle is another man's Costco.
• On July 1, 2006 the Colorado state government banned smoking inside restaurants and bars and all other commercial indoor properties. Colorado was the 13th state to enact such a ban, with more states to follow. Even New Hampshire, which peers out from behind the muzzle of a gun just long enough to scream its "Live Free or Die" motto has jumped on the smoking ban bandwagon.
• On August 10, 2007 the Louisiana state government banned the wearing of pants that don't fit tightly enough.
• On September 4, 2007 the Ellis County Commission (Kansas) rejected an application to build a wind farm outside of Hays, effectively denying local landowners the right to use their land to make money and creating a previously nonexistent right for residents to control their neighbors' activities.
• Louisiana (again it's Louisiana) is now considering a bill that would require restaurant owners to determine who is "obese" and refuse to serve those customers.
  
• And, of course, here in Michigan our State Senate (Republican controlled regrettably) last week passed a sweeping ban on smoking that includes bingo halls, bowling alleys and even casinos.

What has happened to our America? I don't have a "Don't Tread On Me" flag hanging in my house. But most of us were raised to believe in an America that respected Americans' rights to live their own lives. Their rights to do as they wish, to pursue profitable enterprises, to allow - or not allow - patrons in their bar to smoke, watch TV, throw darts and wear baggy pants.

In the last few years we've seen those rights repeatedly eroded by supposedly well-intentioned governments.

Who anointed our elected representatives to play nanny? Where in the constitution does it say that our elected officials have the duty and power to run our lives and businesses?

And why do we quietly take it?

Red Skelton's Pledge

Patriotism

Pledge of Allegiance
(As originally recited on his TV show)

I've been listening to you boys and girls recite the Pledge of Allegiance all semester and it seems as though it is becoming monotonous to you. If I may, may I recite it and try to explain to you the meaning of each word?"

I -- me, an individual, a committee of one.

Pledge -- dedicate all of my worldly goods to give without self pity.

Allegiance -- my love and my devotion.

To the flag -- our standard, Old Glory, a symbol of freedom. Wherever she waves, there's respect because your loyalty has given her a dignity that shouts freedom is everybody's job!

United -- that means that we have all come together.

States -- individual communities that have united into 48 great states. Forty-eight individual communities with pride and dignity and purpose; all divided with imaginary boundaries, yet united to a common purpose, and that's love for country.

And to the republic -- a state in which sovereign power is invested in representatives chosen by the people to govern. And government is the people and it's from the people to the leaders, not from the leaders to the people.

For which it stands, one nation -- one nation, meaning "so blessed by God"

Indivisible -- incapable of being divided.

With liberty -- which is freedom -- the right of power to live one's own life without threats, fear or some sort of retaliation.

And Justice -- the principle or quality of dealing fairly with others.

For all -- which means, boys and girls, it's as much your country as it is mine.

Since I was a small boy, two states have been added to our country

and two words have been added to the pledge of Allegiance...

UNDER GOD

Wouldn't it be a pity if someone said

that is a prayer

and that would be eliminated from schools too?


God Bless America!

School Daze

What do these schools have in common:

ACADEMY OF FLINT
ARTS ACADEMY IN THE WOODS
ATHENS HIGH SCHOOL
BATH HIGH SCHOOL
BERKLEY HIGH SCHOOL
BLACK RIVER HIGH SCHOOL
BLOOMFIELD HILLS ANDOVER HIGH SCHOOL
CANTON HIGH SCHOOL
CESAR CHAVEZ ACADEMY
CITY MIDDLE/HIGH SCHOOL
CLARE HIGH SCHOOL
COLDWATER HIGH SCHOOL
COMMUNITY HIGH SCHOOL
CRANBROOK KINGSWOOD SCHOOL
CRESTON HIGH SCHOOL
DEARBORN HIGH SCHOOL
DEWITT HIGH SCHOOL
DEXTER HIGH SCHOOL
EAST GRAND RAPIDS HIGH SCHOOL
EAST KENTWOOD HIGH SCHOOL
EAST LANSING HIGH SCHOOL
EASTERN HIGH SCHOOL
EVERETT HIGH SCHOOL
FARMINGTON HIGH SCHOOL
FRASER HIGH SCHOOL
FREMONT HIGH SCHOOL
FRUITPORT HIGH SCHOOL
GODWIN HEIGHTS SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL
GRAND HAVEN HIGH SCHOOL
GREENHILLS SCHOOL
GREENVILLE SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL
GROSSE POINTE SOUTH HIGH SCHOOL
GULL LAKE HIGH SCHOOL
WYLIE E.GROVES HIGH SCHOOL
HASLETT HIGH SCHOOL
HAZEL PARK HIGH SCHOOL
HOLLAND HIGH SCHOOL
HOWELL HIGH SCHOOL
HURON HIGH SCHOOL --Ann Arbor
INTERNATIONAL ACADEMY
JACKSON HIGH SCHOOL
KALAMAZOO CENTRAL HIGH SCHOOL
KENOWA HILLS HIGH SCHOOL
KELLOGGSVILLE HIGH SCHOOL
LAKEVIEW HIGH SCHOOL
L'ANSE CREUSE HIGH SCHOOL
LANSING SEXTON HIGH SCHOOL
LAPEER WEST SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL
LOY NORRIX HIGH SCHOOL
MATTAWAN HIGH SCHOOL
MILFORD HIGH SCHOOL
MONA SHORES HIGH SCHOOL
NORTH FARMINGTON HIGH SCHOOL
OAK PARK HIGH SCHOOL
OKEMOS HIGH SCHOOL
PINCKNEY COMMUNITY HIGH SCHOOL
PIONEER HIGH SCHOOL
PLAINWELL HIGH SCHOOL
PLYMOUTH HIGH SCHOOL
PORTAGE CENTRAL HIGH SCHOOL
PORTAGE NORTHERN HIGH SCHOOL
RIVER ROUGE HIGH SCHOOL
THE ROEPER CITY AND cOUNTRY UPPER SCHOOL
ROGERS HIGH SCHOOL
ROSCOMMON HIGH SCHOOL
ROYAL OAK HIGH SCHOOL
SALEM HIGH SCHOOL
SALINE HIGH SCHOOL
TAWAS AREA HIGH SCHOOL
WEST OTTAWA HIGH SCHOOL
WYOMING PARK HIGH SCHOOL

They are participating in a "Day of Silence" promoted by a gay and lesbian activist group.

On, Friday, April 25, several dozen schools in Michigan observed "Day of Silence (DOS)." DOS is a nationwide push to promote the homosexual lifestyle in public schools.

When AFA alerted parents of this public school classroom disruption by homosexual student activists, many Michigan citizens took action immediately! As a result, 20 schools had their name removed from the participating list. If you haven't gotten involved, it's critical that you do so!

Although this year's Day of Silence has already happened, this is an issue that parents of children in the public school system need to alerted to. More information by the organizers can be found here.

PS - I just want to note that I do not approve of any form of hate speech or actions, but in my opinion the school system is not the appropriate place for this type of action. My children are grown and out of the school system, but I would definitely have kept them home if this kind of wackiness happened when they were students.

Are the penguins confused? Or is it MSNBC?

So, how can a British student skiing on the North Pole manage to encounter penguins? Penguins are only found in the southern hemisphere.

Is confused about which pole she is visiting? Or have the penguins become confused and made a major migration? Or did MSNBC get caught jazzing up their story.

I really wish we could have a fair and honest discussion about global warming. It's just too important to play games instead of reporting honest facts.

See the penguins here. . . . .

143 Days. . . .

One hundred and forty three days is the length of gestation for a goat. Or a sheep. The one hundred and forty third day of the year is May 22. In one hundred and forty three days white grape juice will ferment, but the wine is not yet ready. And cheese has not yet begun to age.

One hundred and forty three days is how long Barack Obama served in the United States Senate before he announced his candidacy for United States President. With that amount of experience, a kindergardener is not considered ready for the first grade - it takes at least 180 days. An unborn baby is not yet viable after one hundred and forty three days.

And I have food in my refrigerator older than that.

Is Barack ready?

Do You Remember This?

I do. I was nine months pregnant with my first child in late April, 1976 and confined in the hospital. Our nation was looking forward to our Bicentennial. And Rick Monday became a national hero. Here's why.

Thank you Mr. Monday. You made us proud that day.

From the Mouths of Babes. . . .

How refreshing! With all of the negative news coming out of Detroit these days, one little girl gives me hope. Watch the video here and you can decide who's the adult and who's the childish one.

McCain's Right RX

Are you ready for Universal Health Care? I'm not either. Trust me, if Hillary or Barack are elected Universal Health Care with all it's problems are just around the corner. Yes, there are problems with the current health care situation, but we need common sense solutions - not a government intervention!

John McCain has a good handle on some of the steps we need to take. If we don't follow through and fix what isn't working properly we can kiss healthcare as we know it good-bye.

Common Sense can be found here

I Couldn't Say It Better. . . . .

Quote:

Like some pagan culture whose members starve in the streets while worshipping the abundant livestock living in their midst, western civilization has amazingly opted to burn its own food supplies in order to produce fuel, though abundant oil supplies lie within its soil and just off its shores.

Meanwhile, the elites who have squandered a disproportionate share of those resources, traveling on their private jets to "environmental conferences," will continue to do so while the common citizen must endure greater and greater hardship in order to merely stay warm and get to work. Yet does the "Earth goddess" rejoice at this? Or is it merely those demigods of liberalism laughing at their extensive ranks of useful idiots? Social "Justice" indeed.

Chalk one up for "environmentalism" that will neither clean the planet nor make life better for its inhabitants. Yet the easily deceived are made to swell with sanctimony while those spearheading the movement gain in power and stature.

Read more here. . . . .

Eliminating "The Other White Meat"

"I cannot undertake to lay my finger on that article of the Constitution which granted a right to Congress of expending, on objects of benevolence, the money of their constituents."

The father of our Constitution, James Madison, firmly believed that our republic needed checks and balances to limit the influence of special interests. And yes, he clearly intended to include government benevolence in his objection.

Who wants to risk being called cold hearted or stingy? And that is the problem. It is too easy to assuage guilt with government benevolence. However, taxes should not be collected for discretionary purposes. The agreement between citizens and our government is to provide protection, promote commerce, educate the population and provide important protection from sanitary and public health threats.

Before public funds are spent, we should ask what is the purpose, list your goals, how is "success" measured, what is the application process for receiving the funds, and there should be a fair opportunity for all who wish to benefit from the expenditure of public funds? There should also be a way to ensure accountability and efficiency for the fruits of the taxpayer's labor.

Unfortunately, many government leaders are content to do nice things with other people's money, especially if it creates good will (or votes) from the recipients.

A quote attributed to Alexis de Tocqueville sums up the dangers of loose fiscal policy:

"A democracy cannot exist as a permanent form of government. It can only exist until the voters discover they can vote themselves largess out of the public treasury."

It's time conservatives start protecting our democracy and demand fundamental changes in the way all levels of government spend our money.

Good Cop, Bad Cop

Good Cop: Barack Obama
Bad Cop: Rev. Jeremiah Wright

I could be wrong. Or maybe I've become a conspiracy theorist. It just seems to me that the interplay between Barack Obama and his pastor (excuse me - make that former pastor) could possibly be one of the smartest and riskiest political ploys ever.

While the commentators I've heard on the radio and television are busy talking about Reverend Wright's treacherous undermining of Obama's campaign, I'm thinking to myself that this may be a devious and clever plot between the two of them. You know, the "wink, wink, nod, nod" type of plot.

Think about it a minute. Reverend Wright gets to continue his outrageous anti-American rhetoric, enjoying every minute of his brush with fame. Meanwhile, Barack Obama gets to simultaneously condemn and excuse his old friend. While Obama is reaping the benefits of taking the conciliatory middle road, Obama's core message (and life's work) is still given more media attention than money can buy.

OK, I could be wrong about this. Or maybe I've watched too many episodes of Law and Order, but this is a scenario that makes a lot of sense to me.

An Idiot's Guide to Overcoming Poverty

"One doesn't tackle poverty, like a football player. One shows the way of escape and provides sufficient role models along with capital and moral land educational structures that serve as ladders so people who want to climb out of the hole can do so."

Maybe this isn't the most polite title for a blog, but it does get attention. Cal Thomas wrote a great article outlining a plan that John McCain can use. Read about project HOPEFUL here. (Gotta love the acronym).

The Great Ethanol Hoax

If you're like me you are angry about rising gas prices. And if you're really like me you aren't sure exactly who to be angry with. I listen to people talk about the rising price of fuel, food and a general sticker shock at everything they want to purchase. The price of gas is up at the gas station and the price of milk is up at the grocery store. Mainly they blame politicians for inaction, along with greedy farmers and Big Oil for high prices. And many of them are asking for more corn-based ethanol to help lower prices at the pump.

We have allowed the environmental activists (mainly in the Democratic Party) to essentially block any moves our nation wants to make while looking for a path to energy independence. We know how to get oil from places like Alaska, Wyoming and the Dakotas, but legislation to allow drilling has been blocked. We know oil is available offshore, but we are not allowed to drill due to potential environmental impact even though other nations are drilling for the same oil just a few short miles away. We have even allowed these activists to stop the building of new oil refineries.

Nuclear power could help reduce our energy demands, but again environmentalist activists have blocked the building of new nuclear plants. They've also slowed the building of wind farms through environmental impact studies to see if the wind farms will kill migrating bird. Or maybe even block Ted Kennedy's oceanfront view.

And although we have enough coal to handle our energy needs for decades, the same roadblocks slow the development of coal-based technology.

So that leaves ethanol (also known as "bio-fuel"). Ethanol may well be the biggest con game of them all. Ethanol is 20% less efficient than gasoline. It takes 450 pounds of corn to produce enough ethanol to fill the average gas tank. It also takes 450 pounds of corn to feed one person for a year. Ethanol is too corrosive to be shipped by pipeline so it must be trucked to distribution points. Worse yet, it takes more than one gallon of fossil fuel., coal, oil or natural gas to produce one gallon of ethanol.

To produce enough ethanol to replace the gas we currently consume it would take approximately 482 million acres of cropland. The total cropland in the United States is 434 and that includes cropland used for all food and fiber.

Ethanol would not survive in a free market. Instead we subsidize the production with our hard earned tax dollars.

So, next time you're upset with the skyrocketing price of nearly everything, take a look in a mirror. It's voters. . . . you and I. . . . who need to elect the people who will stop this nonsense and make the decisions that need to be made.

Mitt's Humor

Three months after suspending his Republican Presidential bid, Mitt Romney, not particularly known for his sense of humor, made a surprise appearance at the recent Radio and Television Correspondents' Association dinner. Mitt delivered a Top Ten list poking fun at himself and his image. . . and threw a few barbs at Hillary Clinton and Al Gore.

Here, in reverse order, are Mitt's reasons for dropping out of the race:

No. 10 There weren't as many Osmonds as I thought.
No. 9 I got tired of the corkscrew landings of my campaign plane while under fire.
No. 8 As a lifelong hunter, I didn't want to miss the start of varmint season.
No. 7 There wasn't room for two Christian leaders in the Presidential race.
No. 6 I was upset that no one had bothered to check my passport files.
No. 5 I'd rather get fat, grow a beard and try for the Nobel prize.
No. 4 I got tired of wearing a dark suit and tie and I wanted to kick back in a light colored suit and tie.
No. 3 When my wife realized I couldn't win the GOP nomination my fundraising dried up.
No. 2 I took a bad fall at a campaign rally and broke my hair.
No. 1 My campaign relied on a flawed campaign strategy that as Utah goes, so goes the Nation.

Good Luck Sir!

He Should Have Stopped At 20. . . . . .

Democratic North Carolinians vote in one week and CBS News planned to host a debate last Sunday between the two front runners. It didn't happen. According to a press release from the North Carolina Democratic Party "We regret to inform you that the proposed Democratic Presidential Debate. . . . has been cancelled due to time constraints and logistical issues associated with such a large national event. There were also growing concerns about what another debate would do to party unity."

The "real" story is probably CBS News' take on things:

"Hillary Clinton had accepted the invitation but Barack Obama's campaign had not. In an interview with the Charlotte Observer earlier this month, Obama voiced skepticism about participating in too many debates. "I will tell you, after the 21st debate." Obama told the paper (in advance of the 21st debate). . . . . North Carolinians have had ample 0pportunity to watch these debates. . . . I don't know that they are ending up being more informative than the kind of town hall meetings we've scheduled."

After the last debate, I'm guessing Obama wished he had stopped at 20.

But does it make sense strategically? Obama may be setting himself up for a fall. Remember John Kerry in 2004 - He won the nomination easily with the media buying his "war hero" story. No tough questions, other than ABC's Charlie Gibson who did ask Kerry some tough questions. Once Kerry won the nomination, questions that should have been asked much earlier were finally asked. And the Swift Boat Veterans for Truth ultimately did the media's job for them. If Obama succeeds in avoiding the touch questions now, someone will end up asking them in fall.

And then the fun begins in earnest.

An Anxious Nation Exhales!

Michael Bloomberg (Mayor, New York City):

"I listened carefully to those who encouraged me to run, but I am not - and will not - be a candidate for President".

Phew! After holding our collective breath we can finally relax secure in the knowledge that our fun-filled three man race will carry on without additional candidates. Or should I say baggage?

Dave Barry's April 15th

A day like today requires a little bit of levity, so here's my contribution (via Dave Barry). . . . . .

Caution: Put your coffee down before reading. Definitely do not read while swallowing any liquids.

Operation Chaos

While accusing conservatives of convoluted conspiracies usually involving Vice-President Dick Cheney as the mastermind behind all sorts of hare-brained schemes it seems the Democrats are relying on Maxwell Smart as their campaign manager of choice.

Who could have predicted the chaos and weekly drama that has ensnarled the Democratic Presidential campaign process? Hillary under imaginary fire in Bosnia. Barack Obama showing his true elite brand of snobbery in San Francisco. Primary fights in Michigan and Florida. And who could forget the Rev. Jeremiah Wright.

Operation Chaos seems to be going off without a hitch.

Sorry Michelle - This is MY pie!

"someone is going to have to give up a piece of their pie so that someone else can have more." - Michelle Obama

Hey Michelle - I have a few questions for you:

Why can't I keep the pie I baked?
Do I get to choose who I share my pie with?
If I paid for the ingredients and put all the effort into it. . . . .
Why can't I donate (voluntarily) a pie if I feel I can afford it?
What if I don't have pie to spare?

And most importantly - how does your husband feel about pie-sharing?

Introducing the new Federal Dept. of Light Bulbs

How many congressmen does it take to change a light bulb? 400. That's right - 400 congressmen recently voted to outlaw incandescent light bulbs and require Americans to use "energy-efficient" light bulbs. The ban, which goes into effect in 2014 was included in the 2007 energy bill passed by 314 from the House of Representatives and 86 U.S. Senators.

Interesting - America has joined Cuba and Venezuela as the only countries on the planet outlawing traditional light bulbs. Would someone please show me where the Constitution authorizes such a move?

Arizona Congressman John Shadegg (a Republican of course) has introduced a bill every year since 1995 called the "Enumerated Powers Act". This Act would require that "each act of Congress...contain a concise and definite statement of the Constitutional authority relied upon for the enactment of each portion of that act." Unfortunately, the first year he introduced his "limited powers" bill it had 103 co-sponsors. The same bill this year? Only 38.

Does Congress really need to force a struggling family to give up their fifty-cent lightbulb in favor of a $3 version?

Do Something!

You hear it every night on the news. Somewhere in America there is a flood, hurricane or interest rates are rising or houses are being foreclosed. And someone asks, "what is the federal government going to do?" There is an expectation that our tax dollars should be used to bail out people who spent too much on a house or perhaps to stimulate an economy that naturally has ups and downs.

A new survey by Rasmussen Reports shows 63% of Americans feel that "the federal government is not doing enough to address the troubled U.S. economy." Only 19% hold the opposite opinion.

The media has fed citizens the idea that government should "do something" - and citizens (yes, that means voters!) believe it. Even though most have no clue what "something" should be. And fewer still appear to realize that doing "something" will cost money and that money comes from us, the taxpayers.

The media would do us all a favor by doing their share - educating their viewers. Educate them to understand that smaller government is more efficient and that wasteful spending is exactly what it says - "wasteful". Educate the viewers that individuals are better equipped to determine how their money should be spent than government.

Notes from the Trail

By Chairman Saulius “Saul” Anuzis

It’s only spring and it seems Democrats are in full campaign mode. Republicans in the Legislature have fought Governor Granholm’s proposed budget increases daily, while House Democrats are again looking to spend more than Michigan can afford. Democrats must think we are made of money, only setting budgets that demand more tax hikes—this year. Granholm and the Democrats who control the Michigan House refuse to enact sensible, Republican sponsored, reforms that will help eliminate state deficits without tax increases.

National Democrats continue to deprive Michigan voters of their place in the presidential nomination selection process by refusing to campaign in Michigan or agree on a plan for a “do-over” Democrat primary. Democrat state lawmakers could not unite on the issue while House and Senate Republicans waited for them to clean up the mess they made.

While the governor has demanded to raise our taxes, she failed to pay her own! The IRS says the Granholm-Cherry Inaugural committee of 2003 owes the government $19,535 in federal taxes and late charges that it failed to pay. How’s that for a double standard?

Michigan had the distinct honor of hosting Vice President Dick Cheney last month. It was a great event on behalf of 7^th District Congressman Tim Walberg.

The MRP is proud to announce that our Political, Candidate & Party Assistance team have been hitting the road with their "Unity Road Show." So far the team has been supported in: Saginaw, Alpena, Macomb, Grand Traverse, Ottawa, Oakland, Genesee, Kent, and Cass Counties. More dates and locations to be announced soon!

Remember to visit www.MIGOP.org for up-to-date-news and events.

Ah. . . . . Let's Salute Lt. Clinton

As if imagining being fired on by snipers in Bosnia isn't embarrassing enough, it appears Hillary also imagined trying to join the Army. . . . or was it the Marines? Well, of course to the best of anyone's knowledge it wasn't either one, but still. Come on Hillary - are you really that insecure? or is it desperate? deluded maybe?

Oh, that's right. The delusion was that she was named after Sir Edmund Hillary. Puzzling - apparently when Hillary was born in 1947 her parents couldn't settle on a name for their new baby. So they waited until May of 1953 (when Hillary's namesake scaled Mt. Everest) before they found the perfect name for their daughter. Wonder what they called her before they named her? And how did they manage to enroll her in kindergarten?

Sr. Edmund Hillary would be so proud.

Suspicious Minds

I confess. Sometimes I have a suspicious mind. Here's an excellent example: I recently read an article naming the five worst Presidents in American history. The article seemed very non-partisan to me - both Republican and Democrat Presidents were included in the list.

The worst President in American history was Jimmy Carter. . . . . . . . can't say that I find much to disagree with there! Fast forward to the present - in the past few days President Carter, although he declined to endorse either Barack Obama or Hillary Clinton, certainly with a wink, a nod, and careful parsing of his words clearly indicated that he would like Barack Obama as our next Presidents.

And this is where my suspicious mind gets kicked into gear. Could it be that Jimmy Carter realizes that the only way to get his name off the top of the worst-president-in-American-history list is to be replaced by a future President? Can't say I disagree with him on this one. Barack Obama would have a great chance of knocking Jimmy off the top of the list.

Could be Jimmy's smarter than I thought!

Tough Decisions

One of our county commissioners, Ed Berghorst wrote this guest editorial in the Holland Sentinel explaining the fiscal challenges Ottawa County faces in the future. Personally, I appreciate Ed's easily understood explanation. Thank you Ed!

One Call I Hope I Get!

Pete Hoekstra plans to do another series of "telephone townhall meetings". From the feedback we've received in our office I can say that they were very popular and well received! For more information read this article.

Destroying Detroit

I can't possibly add anything to this article!

Can You Feel the Love?

I don't. Neither does Nick DeLeeuw over at RightMichigan.

Talk about voter disenfranchisement. And to think the Dems would have us believe its only Republicans who are guilty.

Please feel free to comment below!

The Power to Tax...and the Power to Destroy

"Conservatives realize that politics (and the preservation of our liberties) ain't beanbag. They don't invest their future in the platitudes of "hope," "bipartisanship," or "kumbaya." In the end, these are just recklessly naive expressions of confidence in the power of government to deliver us from all hardship.

Instead, conservatives believe that government is a necessary evil to establish order and promote the common defense and the like but otherwise must be restrained in order to unleash the power and freedom of the individual."

So, how do you define a conservative? All Republicans are not conservatives. Are all conservatives Republican?

We encourage you to post your comments below!

Why Being #1 Is A Bad Thing. . . . .

Michigan again is the national leader in job loss and unemployment rate. From 2006 to 2007 Michigan lost 1.5 percent of its jobs. And 2008 isn't looking any better. We've already lost 3,900 nonfarm jobs in the first two months of 2008.

If you are an auto worker your wages have been growing - enormously. Wages have increased 27% between 2001 and 2006. Of course, your jobs are disappearing fast. But hey - if you're one of the lucky few to still have a job your average compensation is over $88,000 annually. Plus benefits! Of course your long-term job security doesn't look too good but you can just naively blame NAFTA and nasty big business for that.

Kudos though to Dave Agema for introducing a bill that would prevent the DEQ from enacting environmental rules that are more stringent than federal law. At least Republicans understand that business only grows in a friendly environment.

More information is available here from the Mackinac Center for Public Policy.

Calling all "Bracketheads"

March Madness is here! No, I'm not talking about Obama's pastor or Hillary's astonishing fall in the Democratic primary.

If you're a brackethead (and if you need to ask what a brackethead is, you definitely are not one) here is your chance to combine March Madness with your support for McCain. Personally, I'm going for the McCain fleece. Even though hubby wants me to win the McCain hat for him!

Sorry, he's on his own. Join in the fun here!

Arlan Meekhof on Environmental Responsibility

From the Grand Haven Tribune. . . . . .

Obama's Inconvenient Truth

There is an inconvenient truth about Senator Obama's proposed spend-and-tax proposals that his naive supporters need to face. No matter how you parse the numbers taxes will have to be raised on a whole lot of taxpayers - and we're not just talking about the uber-wealthy here. At the very least, taxes will have to be raised on everyone earning over $31,000 AGI (adjusted gross income) per year. I don't think too many folks think an annual income of $31,000 puts that taxpayer in the ranks of the wealthy.

Americans, and particularly Obama supporters, need to face the fact that America can not tax itself into prosperity for all. Nor should we. America is the land of opportunity. All Americans have the freedom to take advantage of education, work hard and strive for the American dream. That's it. No guarantee of actually achieving it. Especially through the taking of hard-earned money from those who have earned it.

There's more here. . . . .

All Politics Are Tribal

This is a a great article in defense of Geraldine Ferraro. I never thought I would be defending Geraldine and Hillary, but here goes!

Gambling on Gambling

Some of Michigan's legislators are looking into selling the state lottery to a private concern. The theory here is that the money would be put into an endowment which would earn more money in interest than the lottery brings in. Sounds good on paper, but the devil may be in the details.

Like so many of the laws that are enacted, there are usually unintended consequences. This idea certainly needs to be explored thoroughly before any votes are taken. And the wording needs to be looked at "six ways from Sunday" to make sure that all the consequences are intended.

This may fall into the same category as the states that have been looking at selling their toll roads. Sure, the initial windfall looks good - but inflation will eventually take its toll (no pun intended).

Or maybe we should just sell the Mackinac Bridge instead.

More information is available here and I'll post more as I find it.

Even ABC Is Weighing In. . . . .

I've started a new thread because yesterday's revelations on Obama's pastor are just so amazing.

This is not something new for Obama. He has attended this church, with this pastor, for 20 years. He was married in this church, by this pastor, his children were baptized in this church, by this pastor.

This was all over talk radio and Fox News last night but got no mention in the MSM. Amazingly enough, ABC did do this story on their website. The NY Times is covering it, as well as the Washington Times. Others may be too but that's where I've seen it so far today.

And Another Thing. . . . .

Bear with me - one more thought:

Why was Mitt Romney's faith put under a microscope, endlessly examined and questioned. But not Barack Obama?

Another mainstream media double standard.

Getting it Wright

Consider this a Public Service Announcement. With Barack Obama the presumptive Democratic candidate it's time we take a closer look at the man, his policies, his history and his religion. Here are a few links to articles describing his relationship to his church. . . . and more importantly, to his pastor:

Obama's Church - Investor's Business Daily

A Candidate, His Minister and the Search for Faith - New York Times

A Sermon's Echoes Threaten Obama - New York Times

Who Is Jeremiah Wright? - Free Republic Website

Don't Hang Up!

Please, take a few minutes and answer your telephone. As the 2008 election campaign fires up, you may receive a telephone call from a pollster.

I realize these calls may seem inconvenient and they often call at the most inconvenient times. But if you want your voice to be heard you should listen and give the person calling your honest opinion. You may ask why. Most polls are conducted using a very small sampling of the population. Many national polls rely on the responses of as few as 1,000 voters.

So even if you are only one voice, your responses will have a nationwide impact. Polls, particularly during election seasons, are heeded by candidates and are used by the news media to sway opinions.

So the next time you get a phone call (usually during dinner) please take a minute or two of your time to give your opinion on a candidate or issue. This is your chance to stand up and make a difference!

A World Without America

I read this article a few days ago. . . . . There's a lot of truth to it, but we need to work to keep America in a position of strength. Or America will begin to look like some of the world's most desolate desperate places.

Hurray for Hollandwood!

It looks like Hollywood is coming to Holland. Congratulations to Hopwood DePree and his TicToc Studios. Maybe we'll being seeing stars on Eighth Street!

How to Commit Voter Fraud

I don't get it. What reasonable person would be against something as simple as requiring a photo identification at the polling places? Makes sense to most of us, but it certainly would make voter fraud more difficult.

Luckily, voter fraud is not a huge issue in West Michigan. But it does influence our state-wide contests.

This linked article discusses how the voter fraud game has been played like a pro in some areas of the country.

Stryker Strikes Out

An article in the Washington Times describes the problems faced by John Stryker - our not-so-favorite Democratic/liberal financer.

And here's more information and commentary on the matter. Democrat vs. Democrat? Interesting.

Private Plows = Good Stewardship in Ottawa County

Whenever government makes a decision that is wise and benefits the taxpayer they should be applauded. So, with that philosophy is mind - here is my contribution to recognizing smart government in Ottawa County!

Is There A Doctor In The House?

So, Dr. Jack Kervorkian (Dr. Death) is planning to run as an unaffiliated candidate against Joe Knollenberg for his House seat. At least, that's what ABC News is reporting here.

For obvious reasons (I hope) Dr. Kervorkian is totally unsuited to represent Michigan. But the question I have is "If a convicted felon can't vote, how on earth can he run for elected office?"

Any answers?

Honoring Those Who Served

The Holland Sentinel reports on Pete Hoekstra's efforts to make sure that every veteran who is entitled to a medal receives their medal.

Thank you Pete for your efforts in this very important cause. I know there are many veterans and their families who appreciate your efforts on our national heroes' behalf.

The Myth of America's Unpopularity

Is America really despised throughout the world? Certainly we are by some people (including unfortunately some of our own citizens). But the mainstream media, some far left celebrities and even many Democrats would have us believe America is hated throughout the world. That's a pretty strong statement. And it isn't true.

Our next President will surely face some decisions will affect the opinion of America by some factions and nations. But hopefully our new President will have the discernment to recognize the reality that tough and good decisions will always be viewed negatively by some. So pray for our next leader to have the courage to make the right decisions for America. Even when the decisions are unpopular.

Read more here . . . . .

Change You Can Believe In. . . . . .

Who needs speechwriters? Certainly not Barack Obama - here is the boilerplate for all of Mr. Obama's speeches. (You can fill in the blanks yourself)!

Do Over? I Don't Think So!

Republicans and Democrats in the Michigan Legislature approved legislation to move Michigan's Presidential Primary up to an earlier date. One hopes our legislators voted on this with their eyes wide open and aware of the potential consequences. Now, for the Democrats at least, the consequences have come home to roost and they want to change their minds. Too bad.

It's claimed that Democrat voters are being disenfranchised in Michigan (and Florida too for that matter). Maybe so, but who exactly disenfranchised them? Plenty is being said about the legislation that led to their "disenfranchisement". But the real blame should be placed squarely on the shoulders of Barack Obama, Bill Richardson, and John Edwards. They are the ones who willingly removed their names from Michigan's Democratic ballot. And now it is Barack Obama (as the only candidate left) who is paying the price. You have to give Hillary Clinton credit on this one. She chose to leave her name on the ballot, thus not joining her fellow candidates in Michigan's Democratic disenfranchisement. So, in my opinion Hillary should be awarded Michigan's delegates, each and every one of them, at the Democrat's national convention.

After all, she followed the law. The rest of them chose to ignore Michigan's legislation and bow down to the altar of the Democratic National Committee.

Persuadable Minds

I think this article resonates with anyone who cares deeply about politics, religion, economics, well. . . . . . about anything. We do live in a society where critical thinking skills are no longer taught - or even valued. Combined with information/technology overload, mainstream media that no longer gives us the facts - just opinions, an increasingly short attention span and an educational system in many areas that is broken it's small wonder that we are raising children who will as adults be unable to independently form a reasoned thought-out position.

It's up to us as parents and grandparents to make sure we give the children in our lives the ability to think, measure and research issues.

Rescuing the Rust Belt

This article by Thomas Sowell should be "must reading" for those of us who call ourselves "Michiganians". Maybe we could start with our Governor, then maybe some of the honchos at the UAW, throw in some required reading for all elected state representatives and senators with a "D" behind their names. . . . . . that would be a really good first step.

If Tennessee, Utah, Wyoming and Colorado get it (just to name a few) why can't Michigan?

Do You Speak Michigan?

I confess. I've been looking for a serious commentary on children's health insurance (thanks to a caller this morning who needed some help). So far no luck on the article, but I keep running across other "stuff" that makes me chuckle. And, of course, I want to share. So, in the spirit of fun and remembering that Michigan is still a pretty special place to live (in spite of the snow, our Governor, unemployment, snow, strikes, higher taxes, snow, etc. - did I mention snow?) here goes:

Speaking Michigan

Nick and the Leftie Awards

Kudos to Nick DeLeeuw over at RightMichigan.com. I especially like his commentary about Andy Dillon, school kids and iPods.

Is Michigan Ready for Medical Marijuana?

Although I have a pretty strong opinion on this one, I'm curious what the rest of West Michigan thinks.

There's An Exception To Every Rule

Generally I am opposed to any tax increases, but there are exceptions to every self-imposed rule. Take the proposed tax for the (Holland) airport authority. There are persuadable arguments on both sides of this issue and we can look forward to many editorials, letters to the editor, etc. outlining the pros and cons. But at the end of the day, this is a local tax with local control for a local project that benefits our local area. Jobs are not created out of nothing. . . . . . jobs require investment and that's what this tax does. It invests in our area's future and our jobs.

The Worst Economy Since the Great Depression? Think again. . . . . .

On the other hand, especially if Barack Obama is election, it could happen again. Read more here. . . . .

Liston vs. Clay - Remember?

Or is it Obama vs. McCain? Read here!

The Real McCain

Jack Holmes recommended this article. Thank you Jack!

Obama - All Hat, No Cattle

As they say in Texas when describing someone who is long on words and short on anything else - "he's all hat and no cattle". Pretty good description of Barack Obama and his rhetoric.

How to beat Obama here.

Lest We Forget. . . . . .

I recently discovered a blog on the Grand Haven Tribune website written by Paul Bendient (publisher of the Tribune). Pretty smart guy!

Here is an article Mr. Bendient wrote a while back, but it's worth being reminded of the budget mess the State of Michigan finds itself in.

Remember this when you vote in next November's elections. This is important stuff!

Another Vacation From History

No one can say it better than Pete! So, read on here. . . . . . .

Time To Go?

Let's face it - the New York Times no longer even pretends to be "fair and balanced". They are in a race against themselves to see whether they can lose credibility or money at a faster pace.

The New York Times is at the same level as "The Star" and "The National Enquirer". The only difference is those papers do not pretend to be serious news sources. The times is a joke - or better described as "fish wrap".

Extra! Extra! Read all about it here!

Obamamania. . . . and the end of the Clinton Dynasty

So what? We didn't need the writer's strike settled. . . . . we've got Obamamania and the seeming self-destruction of the Clintons to keep us occupied. And who could have predicted the real-life drama that's playing out every night on the 24-hour news cable channels.

I'll make it easy for you, here are a few links to some of the best articles describing the goings-on over on the "other" side:

It's Over!

Fainting for Obama

Obamamania Verges on Obssession

Hey folks! It's only February. . . . . . just wait until the campaigns really heat up!

Bring On The Potholes!

This guy has it right. When the economy is bad (and it is really really bad here in Michigan), everyone needs to suffer a little pain and inconvenience. So, let's rally for a government that performs basic, essential core services and whatever else it can manage to squeeze in given it's current budget and figure out a way to allow the private sector do the rest.

Read my lips: "No new taxes"!

A Shameless Plug

This is probably the first in a series of shameless plugs as we head into the campaign season. I'm providing a link to Jack Hoogendyk's Senate campaign website. When you get there, click on the link to Jack's blog, "Core Principles". This is what being a conservative is about folks.

More shameless plugs later!

Will The Campaign Ever End?

Nope! We're not even talking about Presidential races here folks. This is a blog from the Jackson (Michigan) Citizen Patriot website. Just thought I would share it with you for fun!

(PS - Check out the date it was written - I wonder how his case of "election fatigue" is doing?)

Michigan Democrats ~ Would-Be Kingmakers?

When Michigan moved their primary date up in the hopes of being a "player" in the game of politics I don't think anyone imagined the scenario that is playing out before us. Especially the Democrats.

Remember when Hillary Clinton's eventual nomination was a foregone conclusion? So what if the other candidates removed their names from Michigan's ballot - Michigan was just play-off game on the way to Hillary's appearance in the World Series of politics - the Presidential campaign. Hillary won Michigan's Democrat delegation because the other team(s) didn't bother to show up for the game. And no one really thought it mattered.

Oh, but it does matter now. Hillary is down one in a tight play-off series. Can Michigan delegates get her back in the game?

Tick Tick Tick. . . . .

I just received the following Press Release from Greg VanWoerkem who is Pete Hoekstra's communications guru (not his official title. . . . . just a good way to remember him):

----- Original Message -----

From: VanWoerkom, Greg
To: VanWoerkom, Greg
Sent: Wed Feb 20 15:52:39 2008
Subject: Hoekstra: Day Four

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
February 20, 2008
FOR MORE INFORMATION, contact:
Greg VanWoerkom, Deputy Press Secretary
(202) 225-4401 office
greg.vanwoerkom@mail.house.gov

DAY FOUR AFTER THE HOUSE FAILED TO APPROVE
THE BIPARTISAN SENATE FISA BILL:
THE CLOCK IS TICKING!

WASHINGTON, D.C. - On February 14, 2008, the Senate passed legislation to update the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act (FISA) by an overwhelming vote of 68-29. This bill provided a permanent fix to FISA that will allow U.S. intelligence agencies to monitor suspected foreign terrorists before a temporary fix, the Protect America Act, expired at midnight, February 16th.

However, House Nancy Speaker Nancy Pelosi refused to allow the House to vote on this bill and instead adjourned the House for a 12-day vacation on February 15th. Andrew McCarthy noted the folly of the decision of the House to leave town with such urgent legislation pending in a February 15th National Review online article:

"Democrats evidently had no time for national security, having exhausted themselves on such cosmic matters as a baseball pitcher’s alleged steroid use and unenforceable, unconstitutional contempt citations in a stale investigation into something that wasn’t a crime and that no one but MoveOn.org cares about any longer." http://article.nationalreview.com/?q=NWU3NmEwNzhmYjVkZDdlNzVmZDhhODVmMmViZTRlODM=

The U.S. became more vulnerable to terrorism when the Protect America Act expired since our intelligence agencies became less capable of tracking terrorists. The more time goes by, the more vulnerable we become. How long will the House Democrat leadership place our national security at risk?

How nice! Could Nancy Pelosi's priorities be any more skewed? While she's playing "Chicken" with our national security our enemies could (and probably are) busy plotting against us. Ms. Pelosi - this IS NOT a game. It's serious and we need you to start acting like an adult.

The Power to Tax. . . . . and the Power to Destroy

This article explains better than I ever could the reason conservatives cherish the Constitution and why "change" is not a direction we want America to take. Next time you hear Barak Obama talk about the power of change. . . . take a few minutes to ask yourself just what change he will bring and the impact of change on America as we know (and love) it.

If you believe in slippery slopes, as I do, then I'm afraid we have been sliding down one and are nearing a dangerous precipice.

A Tale of Two Americas. . . . and Two Michelles

This article speaks for itself

America's Worst Presidents

Pay particular attention to President Lyndon Baines Johnson. . . . . named in this article as our third worst President. While I agree with all three picks, something about President Johnson really really bothers me. I guess maybe it's that I've often felt that Jimmy Carter was oblivious (or not smart enough to be aware) of the damage he was doing, whereas Johnson gives me the impression he knew exactly what he was doing.

What A Difference A Party Makes!

I can't improve on what Nick DeLeeuw over at RightMichigan has already said, so. . . . . here's the link to his article.

That's Saul Folks!!!

Michigan Republicans are fortunate to have Saul Anuzis as our Chair. My personal experience with Saul has been surprisingly positive. In addition to what this article has to say about Saul, he is a stand-up guy who will go to bat for the counties that get the job done. And from where I'm sitting, that's the most important attribute of all.

Fight Night with the Super Delegates

Hmmmm. . . . . . think back to Election Night, 2000. Remember Florida? My how the times have changed. Remember "Let every vote count"? Well, seems like not all Democrat candidates want to repeat that mantra. Hillary Clinton will insist on including Michigan and Florida results (i.e., delegates) at the Democratic National Convention. Barak will argue what President Bush and his team argued: "You can't change the rules after the game's been played".

But, don't feel too sorry for Hillary yet. If her "count every vote" ploy doesn't work she'll just have another trick up her sleeve - the Super Delegates. It looks like the so-called Super Delegates will have the power (and inclination) to give the nomination to Hillary even if she loses.

I say let them have at it. The more the Democrats tear into each other the better off our party will be. Ding Ding Ding! Ladies and Gentlemen, in this corner. . . . . . .

Oh what a fight night it will be!

Read a little more here!

Just a Spoonful of Sugar. . . . .

It's the Monday morning after Michigan's Republican State Convention. . . . . and I'm concerned. It's time to face reality - Senator McCain is going to be our party's Presidential nominee for 2008 and if our grassroots activists don't hop on the bandwagon it's going to be a long uphill climb.

Loyalty to your personal pick is a wonderful thing. . . . . until that candidate is no longer a viable candidate. Either Barak or Hillary can be beaten, but only if we gather around our nominee and embrace his candidacy. Go ahead and take a little time to mourn for failed candidacy of your favorite. If you candidate is still in the race (and yes, I'm talking to you Mike Huckabee and Ron Paul fans out there), encourage your candidate to step down now for the sake of party unity.

If John McCain isn't "conservative" enough for you (and he isn't for a lot of people) then send him a letter, sign an on-line petition, or encourage Senator McCain to support your preference for Vice-President. This is not the time to dig in your heels or bury your head in the sand. Your party needs you now.

More here. . . . . .

Hoekstra to Shadegg: Please Don't Go!

I've always known that Pete holds Representative Shadegg in high regard. It's great to know that other members of Congress are beginning to value and appreciate their conservative members.

Great letter Pete!

You Just Can't Make This Stuff Up!

Or. . . . . . . real life trumps fiction.

Okay - I realize West Michigan isn't exactly a suburb of Detroit, but this is just too interesting to pass up.

Betty Boop and the Early Ages of Class Warfare

Think class warfare is a new phenomenon? Nope! Class warfare has been around since before John Edwards and Barack Obama were even born!

Check out this newly discovered but old Betty Boop cartoon from 1932. . . . . I guess it really is true. The more things change the more they stay the same. Even class warfare.

Julian Bond to DNC: Seat Michigan's Delegates

At first glance I thought this article would confirm what I've felt for a long time - do not punish Michigan and Florida voters for daring to want to have an influence in the selection of our Presidential candidates. Well, Julian Bond and I agree on one thing - seat our delegates.

Unfortunately, our reasons couldn't be further apart. Disenfranchisement of minority voters? Please. . . . . . . are minority voters being more disenfranchised than others? I don't think so.

Gambling on Muskegon

Muskegon city officials voted to give the casino pact to a tribe from the Upper Peninsula despite having what was described as a "larger" proposal in hand from the Little River Band of the Ottawa Indians. Do we need a casino in Muskegon? Or more importantly, do we want a casino in Muskegon?

There are clearly economic benefits to the City of Muskegon. Are they worth it?

Read more here and let us know how you feel.

Obama's Spend-O-Meter

Wow - and we thought Jennifer Granholm was a big spender. Obama makes Governor Granholm look like a Little Leaguer. If Obama gets his hands on the national treasury he'll make Jennifer Granholm look positively frugal. And, of course, Obama's spending won't be reined in by an inconvenient requirement for a balanced budget the way Granholm has.

Anyone want to take a guess where Obama plans to get all this money? Hang on to your wallets and pocketbooks. . . . .

Take a peek (if you dare) at Obama's spend-o-meter here. . . .

S'more Hot Picks

So, most pundits claim it is too early to speculate on a running mate for John McCain. I don't agree. Now is the time for all Republicans to pick up our toys and head for our shared sandbox. And it isn't too early to know who we are going to be playing with.

It seems to me that instead of wasting time speculating about what could have been or perhaps should have been is unproductive. Our time and energy is much better spent promoting our candidate. . . . . . . and that's much easier to do when we know who he's taking to the prom.

Let's stop looking back and start looking forward. We can (and must) shape the future - but it'll be easier if we know whose hands we're entrusting our future to.

Another link to another speculative and analytical Veep article!

24 Hot Picks

With John McCain as the presumptive Republican nominee for President it's time to start taking bets on who he'll choose as his running mate.

This isn't exactly science here folks. . . . . . so what does a Presidential nominee look for in his choice of running mate? Some say location is everything. . . . . and conventional wisdom holds that you need a candidate from the south. How about business experience? Or youth? Or gender? Or ethnicity? Or. . . . . . oh well, you get the gist of this.

Here's one guy's take on the 24 "Hot Picks" for VEEP!

A Long March for Conservatives

The Long March Begins For Conservatives

Rick Moran

If, as expected, John McCain wins a smashing victory and takes an insurmountable lead in delegates, most conservatives will have to face the fact that our influence in Republican party has diminished significantly and that a re-assessment of our relationship with the party is in order. I daresay the most immediate fallout – and most superficial – will be a reduction in donations to the party from conservatives as well as fewer volunteers to fill out the staffs of Republican campaigns.

Very interesting. . . . . . read more here

A "Mulligan" for Michigan?

Apparently, that's what some Democrats want. Come one folks - this is the big leagues, not a friendly afternoon on the golf course. Unlike a friendly pick-up game or an afternoon spent relaxing with friends or business acquaintances on the links, there is something fundamental at stake here.

There is no "do over" in political campaigns. And there shouldn't be. All of the players knew the rules of the game before it began. If some players don't like the outcome they need to suck it up and play better next time. The voters did their part - even if their "scorecard" was imperfect. Now it's time for the pros to deal with the final score.

For more information read this.

Relying on False Prosperity?

The false prosperity that Michigan enjoyed for many years has ended. High wage jobs that require low (or no) skills are disappearing and will soon be obsolete.

Is prosperity in Michigan's past? Will it come back? No one can polish the crystal ball and gaze into the future, but studies make it increasingly clear that education is the key to a vibrant economy. And we are not talking about a high school diploma here folks.

In the Grand Rapids/Holland area, 24.3% of adults have attained a bachelor's degree. That is simply not good enough. Michigan's rate if 24.5% - or .2% higher than West Michigan.

I don't know what the answer to this problem is, but I'm fairly certain that throwing more money into education isn't going to be a significant help. I'd also like to know how many local students obtain bachelor's degrees and then move out of the state?

In other words, is this an education problem? Or a job availability problem? By spending more and more money on education are we just educating future workers for the rest of the 49 states?

Makes you wonder doesn't it?

More statistics available here. . . . .

Those Who Will Fight

We ALL love peace - Code Pink, SanFranciscans and Berkleyites do not have an exclusive claim on loving, wanting and praying for peace. The difference, of course, is the reality that we live in a world inhabited by some who do not love peace and seek to do us harm. No one loves war, but most of us realize the necessity of war.

I read this article this week-end. We need to think about our freedom and those who defend our freedom more often - not just on The Fourth of July and Veteran's Day. Comments anyone?

Bringing Back Michigan's Jobs

It's time we take an honest look at what is happening to jobs in Michigan. Where have all the jobs gone? True - many of them have gone overseas and may never come back. But a large share of Michigan's jobs are still right here in the good ole USA. That's right - they haven't moved offshore to India - they're in Indiana. Or Tennessee or any one of the other 49 states that isn't governed by Governor Granholm.

Congressman Tim Walberg, in an interview with RightMichigan.com discusses Michigan's job(less) situation here.

How to Link

Hmm. . . . . let's see if I can do this!

Here's a link

Hi Jack

Jack - Here is an example of a blog you can set-up at blogspot.com.