Keepin' the Faith

A Picture is Truly Worth a Thousand Words

2009-03-05T09:34:00.004-05:00

Here's the picture (read more here)

Thank you to Bobby Eberle at GOPUSA!

Defining Conservatism

2009-03-04T16:52:00.002-05:00

What is a "Conservative"? I've asked a few people in the past few days and gotten quite a few answers, so I'm putting the question out here:

What is a conservative? Just add a comment and let me know. I'll post the answers within a week or so. I promise.

Investing 101: As taught by Professor Obama

2009-03-03T15:40:00.003-05:00

On Tuesday our Professor-in-Chief declared that now is a good time for investors to buy stocks.

Really? Last time I looked, the Dow is still dropping like a rock.

But his next words are meant to comfort (or should I say placate) us: "What you are now seeing is a profit and earnings ratios get to the point that buying stocks is a good thing if you have a long-term perspective on it." I guess by "long-term perspective" he really means "until the Republicans get back in control".

For further reassurance he's also told us "The stock market is sort of like a tracking poll in politics. It bobs up and down day-to-day and if you spend all your time worrying about that, they you're probably going to get the long-term strategy wrong." I'm sorry Mr. President, but the stock market has been plummeting since the day it became clear that you would be the Democratic nominee and it's decline only hastened when it was evident you would win the election.

This poor guy is living in fairy-tale land. Only it's the Brothers Grimm version.

Someone please take away his rose-colored glasses before he completely destroys our economy.

More Wisdom

2009-03-03T13:55:00.001-05:00

Democratic state Rep. Martin Walsh of Massachusetts told the New York Times: “Every state in the nation, including Massachusetts, needs to figure out a way of raising revenues. So we need to be creative.”

No. Wrong. A lie. You need to cut back. Quit spending. Budgeting is more than raising taxes. In fact, cut taxes because taxpayers could use a break.

Thanks to Don Surber for the above.

Wisdom

2009-03-03T10:06:00.001-05:00

Diplomacy is the art of saying, “Nice doggie,” until you can find a rock.

-Will Rogers

Has anyone told Obama this yet?

Here's Something for a Laugh & Some Perspective!

2009-03-02T14:03:00.002-05:00

OK - This is a comedian - and comedians are often a bit irreverent. But the guy makes a good point here!

Take Everything They Earn - It Still Won't Be Enough

2009-03-02T10:37:00.002-05:00

President Obama has laid out the most ambitious and expensive domestic agenda since LBJ, and now all he has to do is figure out how to pay for it. On Tuesday, he left the impression that we need merely end "tax breaks for the wealthiest 2% of Americans," and he promised that households earning less than $250,000 won't see their taxes increased by "one single dime."

This is going to be some trick. Even the most basic inspection of the IRS income tax statistics shows that raising taxes on the salaries, dividends and capital gains of those making more than $250,000 can't possibly raise enough revenue to fund Mr. Obama's new spending ambitions.

More here. . . . .

Driving Me Crazy!

2009-03-02T08:22:00.002-05:00

Big Brother that is - at least if some members of Congress and Obama's advisors get their way.

It's bad enough President Obama is spending our money that we don't have on programs that we don't need. . . . or want for that matter. And it doesn't stop there - under President Obama we will have government interference in far too many areas of our lives.

So, what's got me so upset? Despite trillions of dollars being spent we still don't have enough money for roads. The solution? Tax drivers by the mile driven through the use of mandatory tracking devices in our vehicles.

Now you may ask - doesn't the per-gallon-gas-tax accomplish the very same thing? Well, it does - sort of. The per gallon gas tax does vary by being dependent on your vehicle's gas mileage.

Here's what a special commission created by Congress has said in justifying more intrusion into our lives: "We will suffer grim consequences in the future: unimaginable levels of congestion, reduced safety, costlier goods and services, an eroded quality of life, and diminished economic competitiveness as a nation."

Is this what our great nation is coming to? The government's ability to monitor our travels?

What's next? The ability to monitor our grocery purchases to ensure we only purchase healthy food? Or maybe the ability to monitor all our purchases? Combine this ability with the health database that is already being set up and our citizens will have lost any semblance of privacy.

And yet Democrats are the ones who decried the government's ability to monitor communications with terrorists.

My Mind Is Now Completely Boggled!

2009-02-25T12:52:00.009-05:00

I found this spreadsheet on the internet yesterday - a list of the stimulus proposals submitted by various agencies and governments in Michigan. Keep in mind these are just proposals. But it still boggles the mind!

Just one example: $18,000,000.00 to refurbish the Holland Civic Center. After years of studying, talking, voting, etc. there was a concensus that we, the taxpayers, were not willing to pony up money for this project. Meanwihle, Hope College took the initiative to build their own arena that is available for rent.

If we weren't willing to pay for this a few years ago, why on earth are we now being asked to pay for it without even the opportunity to vote on it?

And this is just one small example. These are projects that rightfully should be funded on a local level.

Enough Said. . . . . .

2009-02-24T13:34:00.000-05:00

Thanks to Chris Wicker!

Ergonomics?

2009-02-23T12:00:00.002-05:00

From the Michigan Retailers monthly newsletter (article is titled "Top 10 Legislative Issues to Watch in 2009:

"This is a regulatory issue rather than a legislative one and in Michigan that further complicates efforts to kill it. MIOSHA has put together guidelines for a state-specific ergonomics rule, but has yet to put in a request for rule making authority. The business community has opposed such a request, as it would put a process into motion that would be almost impossible to stop and would result in increased costs to business."

I've written about this before because it makes Michigan employers even less competitive - not exactly what we need given Michigan's dismal economy. Please contact your state legislators if you agree. And it wouldn't hurt to contact the Governor and MIOSHA too.

The Wisdom of Cicero

2009-02-23T09:51:00.002-05:00

"The budget should be balanced, the Treasury should be refilled, public debt should be reduced, the arrogance of officialdom should be tempered and controlled, and the assistance to foreign lands should be curtailed, lest Rome becomes bankrupt. People must again learn to work, instead of living on public assistance." ~ Cicero , 55 BC

Can't improve on the wisdom of the ages.

We Live In An Upside-Down Country

2009-02-19T16:30:00.002-05:00

OK - So let me get this straight. It's OK to abort a baby. Got it. Don't agree with it, but I got it. But if you carry a sign that says "Abort Obama" it's considered a terroristic threat. Don't get it.

Unbelievable isn't it? Read what happens when you have a sign that says exactly that: "Abort Obama" in your car here.

With All Due Respect Mr. President. . . . . .

2009-02-19T09:51:00.002-05:00

Interesting full-page ad in the New York Post. No additional comment needed!

The Audacity of Hope - Oops! I Mean Obama.

2009-02-16T14:22:00.003-05:00

Obama (during his prime time press conference):

"It (the stimulus bill) also contains an unprecedented level of transparency and accountability so that every American will be able to go online and see where and how we're spending every dime. What it does not contain, however, is a single pet project, not a single earmark, and it has been stripped of the projects members of both parties found most objectionable."

Oh really? Obama spoke about audacity a lot during his campaign. And now we know why. He's just brimming with it.

Go here so see just how much "non-pork" there really is.

This Is Job Creation?

2009-02-12T14:48:00.003-05:00

There's money for global warming. There's money for sex education. There's money for ACORN. There's money for golf course renovations. There's money for Amtrak. There's even money for unions (no big surprise here).

Sounds more like a Make-A-Wish Foundation for liberals than a job-creating stimulus package.

But there is a dangerous provision that is much much worse. It's called "Comparative Effectiveness Research." Sounds pretty innocent doesn't it?

But read this from the House Appropriations Committee's report: "Those items, procedures and interventions that are found to be less effective and in some cases more expensive will no longer be prescribed."

Sounds more like a prescription for rationing to me.

Freedom can be lost in small increments. So small that too many of us don't notice until it's too late. For generations that follow us, we need to stand firm and vigilant to ensure they do not lose their freedom while we were standing watch.

Democrat Style Stimulus

2009-02-11T14:41:00.002-05:00

Three contractors are bidding to fix a broken fence at the White House. One is from Chicago, another is from Tennessee, and the third is from Minnesota.

All three go with a White House official to examine the fence. The Minnesota contractor takes out a tape measure and does some measuring, then works some figures with a pencil. "Well," he says, "I figure the job will run about $900: $400 for materials, $400 for my crew and $100 profit for me."

The Tennessee contractor also does some measuring and figuring, then says, "I can do this job for $700: $300 for materials, $300 for my crew and $100 profit for m3."

The Chicago contractor doesn't measure or figure, but leans over to the White House official and whispers "$2,700."

The official, incredulous, says, "You didn't even measure like the other guys! How can you come up with such a high figure?"

The Chicago contractor whispers back, "$1,000 for me, $1,000 for you, and we hire the guy from Tennessee to fix the fence."

"Done!" replies the government official.

And that is how the new stimulus plan will work.

Unfortunately, I'm afraid the joke is closer to the truth than we think.

"The Worst Bill in Galactic History"

2009-02-05T16:29:00.003-05:00

That's right - according to Charles Krauthammer. The more you learn about the economic stimulus package the less you like it.

Democrats have merely taken their pie-in-the-sky wish list and added dollar amounts.

Even if you believe in Keynesian policy, this bill is not what's needed.

Here's what needs to be done: Rebuild our defenses. Cut the payroll tax. Help the unemployed breadwinner. Lay some pavement. Rebuild falling bridges. Remain steadfast.

Can There Be Cuts In Line? Please!?!

2009-02-05T15:34:00.002-05:00

Nancy Pelosi - Speaker of the House and third in the Presidential succession line. And she doesn't know basic math.

Speaking yesterday, Pelosi warned that if the economic stimulus package didn't pass immediately "500 million more American jobs would be lost."

Scare tactics for sure. But it's more scary to contemplate someone who doesn't know what she's talking about being in line for the Presidency.

Can You Stomach This?

2009-02-04T12:17:00.004-05:00

If you want more information about the insanity masquerading as stimulus check out this website!

Sound the Alarm. . . Oops I Mean Doorbells!

2009-02-04T11:49:00.002-05:00

The city of Laurel, Mississippi has requested their fair share of the federal stimulus package. They've included lots of "shovel ready" projects (I hope they ban the words "shovel ready" - I'm sick of hearing it already). Laurel has a population of roughly 48,000 people and they've proposed $61,443,369 in stimulus spending.

Most of the money is for infrastructure, updating schools, security officers at each school, sewer, heating (they didn't specify exactly what they want to heat, but how cold does it get in Mississippi?) and a mass transit system. Wow, that's a lot of projects and a lot of money.

Laurel has also requested $99,600 for doorbells. What? Doorbells? Can't people just knock? Or holler "Hey y'all. Are you home?"

Their justification? It will provide two jobs - temporary of course.

I hear bells ringing too. Only they're in my head while I contemplate the silliness that our government has sunk too.

I guess the patients are truly in charge of the asylum.

Really Green? We Report. You Decide.

2009-02-03T12:25:00.002-05:00

You've seen the new energy efficient fluorescent light bulbs. The ones that will be required in the near future (incandescent ones are going to be out-lawed). Just how good (i.e., green) are they?

Well, for one they certainly will cost you some green. They are far more expensive. Nice for the light bulb manufacturer's, but not so nice for your wallet.

And yes, they do use far less energy. That's good. Right? Well, just don't drop one of them. Here are the recommendations for proper handling of a dropped fluorescent household bulb (from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency no less):

1. Open a window and leave the room for at least fifteen minutes. Place fans in the windows and blow the air out of the room.

2. Remove all materials you can without using a vacuum cleaner.

3. Wear disposable rubber gloves and carefully scoop up the fragments and powder with stiff paper or cardboard (must be something disposable).

4. Wipe the area clean with a damp paper towel or disposable wet wipe.

5. Use duct tape to pick-up any remaining residue.

6. Place all clean-up materials in a plastic bag, seal it, and then place the bag in a second sealed bag.

7. Bring to a hazardous waste recycling center (if available).

8. Wash your hands thoroughly after disposing of the bags.

9. The first time you vacuum the area where the bulb was broken, remove the vacuum bag when finished and put the bag as well as any cleaning materials in two sealed plastic bags. Store outdoors - not indoors - until disposed of.

Wow. Sounds really green to me!

Take the Obama Test!

2009-01-24T06:50:00.001-05:00

I scored 14. Take the test here and let us know how you scored.

Desperate Times Part VII

2009-01-24T06:03:00.002-05:00

Other state and municipal reforms and privatizations:

63. Repeal the tax-exempt status of Blue Cross Blue Shield and the associated limitations on its ability to sell non-health insurance products.

64. Sell Cobo Hall.

65. Get government out of the golf business.

66. Privatize underused state parts.

67. Privatize state fairs and the associated lands.

68. Reform, restructure and sell portions of the Michigan State Housing Development Authority.

69. Privatize a variety of state human resources operations.

70. Sell the Department of Natural Resources' Mac Mullen Conference Center.

71. Privatize municipal parking garages.

72. Privatize state highway rest areas.

73. Privatize management of the Mackinac State Historic Parks.

74. Eliminate Department of Agriculture "market development" programs.

75. If gambling is expanded through "racinos" or other formats, auction the licenses.

76. Repeal protectionist auto dealership laws that prohibit car buyers from negotiating directly with manufacturers or auto brokers.

77. Level the state's regulatory playing field between banks and credit unions.

78. Don't allow municipal governments to increase public, education and government channel fees (PEG fees) on cable television companies.

79. End the Michigan Civilian Conservation Corps.

80. Strengthen the law providing an emergency financial manager for insolvent municipalities and school districts by expanding the manager's powers and legal protections.

81. End state revenue-sharing to local governments wherever the money is not constitutionally mandated.

82. Let Detroit save itself by fundamentally reforming the city's government and business climate rather than pursuing further rounds of flashy government-subsidized projects.

83. Let Detroit save itself and better serve its residents through a comprehensive program of privatizing city services.

84. Let Detroit save itself by repealing the city's income tax, downsizing the city's bureaucracy and rolling back the regulatory burden on city businesses to a level similar to cities of comparable size.

85. Amend the state constitution as needed to privatize the University of Michigan.

Someone Else's Thoughts

2009-01-24T05:51:00.002-05:00

When someone else says it better than you can, sometimes it's best to just let them say it. I stumbled across this website early this morning.

Please read his "Inaugural Thoughts". I couldn't have said it better myself.

Do You Remember?

2009-01-23T10:30:00.002-05:00

Take a few minutes and read the names on this website.

We should never forget the victims and the fact that we still have enemies.

Desperate Times Part VI

2009-01-21T09:35:00.003-05:00

Education reform:

51. Adopt a constitutional amendment authorizing a universal tuition tax credit of up to half of the state's per-pupil spending allotment to support the education of a child attending the school of his or her family's choice.

52. Require school districts to contract school transportation, food and custodial services through open and competitive bidding.

53. Place new school employees under a defined-contribution, 401(k)-type pension plan, rather than a defined-benefit system.

54. Require districts to offer school employees health savings accounts along with conventional health insurance plans.

55. Remove obstacles to expanding charter schools and other school choice options for families in "first class school districts."

56. Other than those grants required by the courts or federal law, eliminate all "categorical grants" for state-specified school spending items, use that money to increase unencumbered per-pupil foundation allowances.

57. Eliminate intermediate school districts.

58. Expand public school choice programs to allow all students in all districts, not just those students within a certain proximity, to attend public schools outside their district.

59. Adopts a "Michigan Teachers' Bill of Rights" that frees individual teachers from standardized union contracts and gives them the choice to be judged and compensated based on their performance.

60. Repeal teacher certification requirements.

61. Revise the Michigan Teachers' Tenure Act to allow school districts to adopt a full-fledged teacher merit-pay system.

62. Eliminate the cap of 150 on the number of charters schools that can be authorized by state universities.

Desperate Times Part V

2009-01-20T10:27:00.002-05:00

Labor law reform:

43. Adopt a "right-to-work" law that prohibits collective bargaining agreements from requiring employees to support or belong to a union as a condition of employment.

44. Pending adopt of a right-to-work law for all employers, enact one that applies to school and/or government employees.

45. Prohibit unions from taking money from an employee's paycheck without the worker's explicit consent whenever the withdrawal is not directly related to the costs of collective bargaining or the associated overhead.

46. Outlaw the use of "project labor agreements" on any construction using state funds.

47. Require annual financial disclosure reports and independent audits of government employee unions and affiliates.

48. Ensure that internal union grievance procedures don't discourage members from attempting union reform.

49. Repeal wage laws that prevent hourly workers from trading overtime earnings for comparable time off ("comp time").

50. Suspend the collective bargaining privileges of school union units that engage in illegal strikes.

Desperate Times Part IV

2009-01-20T10:18:00.002-05:00

Other regulations:

36. Restore the governmental separation of powers by preventing the Legislature from delegating rule-making authority to regulatory agencies.

37. Eliminate most of the 200 occupational licensure mandates, which are primarily protectionist in nature.

38. Repeal a recent law that essentially restores the monopoly of old-line electric utilities and imposes "renewable energy" mandates on electric companies.

39. Disband a state agency "workgroup" that is drafting "ergonomics" regulations to be imposed on businesses, and prohibit state agencies from enforcing any such mandates.

40. End all permitting and licensing functions in individual departments - including the Department of Environmental Quality - and reconstitute them in a new and separate department whose only function is to issue permits.

41. Repeal the "minimum wage" law, which makes it unlawful to pay a person less than $7.40 per hour, regardless of voluntary agreements between an employer and employees.

42. Pre-empt local governments from adopting so-called "living wage" ordinances, which typically raise the minimum wage that must be paid by businesses holding substantial city contracts.

Coming Soon. . . . . a Liberal Meltdown

2009-01-19T18:13:00.002-05:00

America has reached the point where there are more people trying to ride in the wagon than those who are struggling to pull it. Elections in America are becoming a race by Democrats to "buy" votes using the tax money of a decreasing number of productive people and businesses. In other words, America is quickly heading for unsustainability.

"The Tax Foundation estimates that under the Obama plan 73 million Americans, or 44% of all tax filers would have no income tax liability and of those would get a check from the IRS each year. The Heritage Foundation's Center for Data Analysis estimates that by 2011, under the Obama plan, an additional ten million tax filers would pay zero taxes while cashing checks from the IRS." - Wall Street Journal (October 13, 2008)

Conservatives can either fold or take advantage of this opportunity. If conservatives consistently resist all attempts to further the liberal agenda they be in a position to regain power and get the ship of state back on course.

It is critical for conservatives to stand firm, wait patiently, articulate our core principles and reap our reward.

As citizens and voters, it is our job to find the best conservative candidates, make sure they get elected and hold their feet to the fire once they are in office.

Our opportunity is coming. Let's not miss it.

Desperate Times Part III

2009-01-19T12:35:00.003-05:00

Environmental laws and regulations:

30. Adopt a constitutional amendment that requires state and local governments to compensate property owners for "regulatory takings," which lower a property's value by regulating the owner's use and enjoyment of the property.

31. Establish that "operational memorandums," guidelines and other guidance documents generated by any state agency do not bind a regulated entity unless they are promulgates as rules under the state Administrative Procedures Act.

32. Repeal the ban on directional drilling for oil and natural as under the Great Lakes.

33. Halt proposed state mercury-emission limits that are stricter than required under federal law.

34. Roll back a recently enacted regulatory regime that unnecessarily diminishes Michigan's comparative advantage in abundant, fresh water.

35. Prohibit the enforcement of state environmental regulations that are more stringent than those required by federal law unless the regulations are specifically adopted in legislation by the governor and the Michigan Legislature.

Desperate Times Part II

2009-01-16T14:18:00.002-05:00

Moving on to: TAXES

26. Eliminate the Michigan Business Tax and replace it with. . . . . nothing.

27. Pending repeal of the Michigan Business Tax, immediately end the 22 percent MBT surcharge.

28. Do not increase, and consider decreasing, the state's cigarette tax.

29. Constitutionally cap state spending and revenue at the rate of inflation plus population growth by adopting a "taxpayer's bill of rights" similar to the core components of the 2006 "Stop Overspending" proposal.

More to come. . . . . .

Ergonomics? Common Sense?

2009-01-16T14:03:00.004-05:00

Businesses in Michigan are struggling to stay open. I don't think anyone would argue with the me on that.

So, why is Michigan considering legislation that would add an additional regulatory burden on our already over-burdened businesses?

Last week two state commissions initiated formal rule-making to adopt regulations on ergonomics. In case you're wondering, ergonomics is the process of arranging workplace equipment to reduce back pain, frozen shoulders and carpal tunnel syndrome. California is the only state with their own layer of rules on top of those already laid out by OSHA.

Michigan will be even more costly and uncompetitive for businesses. Small business will be the hardest hit and small business is where most new jobs are created.

MIOSHA Inspectgor Doug Kalinowski says the state wants to have a "common sense" approach to ergonomics (rather than hard and fast rules). Where there is disagreement judges could wind up settling disputes. And therein lies the problem. Do we really need to burden our court system with this and do we really need another layer of regulations, uncertainty and costs for Michigan employers?

The other question that needs to be answered is: Do we even need this?

Workers' compensation claims for injuries requiring seven days or more of lost work time declined 49 percent from 2000 to 2007.

So, my question to Mr. Kalinowski is: Can you really justify this? Really?

Desperate Times. . . . . . Desperate Measures Part I

2009-01-15T11:20:00.004-05:00

The following is from a brochure published by the Mackinac Center for Public Policy. They've broken it up into eight sections, which I'll post one section every few days.

101 RECOMMENDATIONS TO REVITALIZE MICHIGAN

Michigan is blessed with a wealth of the human and natural resources integral to building vibrant commerce and vigorous communities in the 21st century. At the moment, however, counter-productive public policies have made it harder for our industries to compete nationally and internationally and have reduced our state's attractiveness to investors and entrepreneurs.

In addition, Michigan is not immune to the gradual erosion of equity and basic human freedom that accompanies a steady growth in the power and scope of government. Our government's ability to properly perform many critical functions, including education, has been jeopardized by policymakers' attempts to do too many things. This lack of focus has even led to confusion among policymakers over whether government exists to serve the people or vice versa.

There is a lot of work to do to reverse this, but there's good news. Once growth - and freedom-friendly policies are in place, recovery is likely to occur much more quickly than most people imagine.

Government Spending and Operations:

End mandatory collective bargaining for government employees who already enjoy civil service protections.
Eliminate the Michigan Economic Development Corporation.
Privatize some state prisons.
Lower government employees' compensation to the average rate for private sector workers performing comparable work.
Eliminate state arts grants.
End the Michigan Economic Growth Authority.
Close down the 21st Century Jobs Fund, a business subsidy and government ownership program.
Replace conventional health insurance plans for government employees with health savings accounts.
Fund public universities primarily through a standard per-student grant or voucher, with a university's research financed in a separate line item.
Devolve State Police road patrols to county sheriff departments.
Eliminate state subsidies to the cooperative extension service to to Michigan State University's agriculture experiment station.
Eliminate state film production subsidies.
Stop paying Amtrak an annual state subsidy.
Eliminate Medicaid spending not mandated by federal regulations.
Pending the elimination of all nonmandated health-related spending, end Medicaid coverage for 19 and 20 year olds.
Eliminate - or cut in half - "Merit Awards," "Promise Grants," or other non-need-based college scholarships financed by tobacco lawsuit proceeds.
Require local bus systems subsidized by state road tax dollars to generate at least 20 percent of their operating expenses from fares paid by riders.
Enact smarter sentencing for nonviolent offenders.
Adopt a constitution amendment which would require setting aside 4 percent of projected revenue when adopting annual state budgets.
Repeal laws that mandate binding arbitration in labor disputes between local government and police or firefighter unions.
Require every state department and agency to post an expense register online that is at least equivalent to the one provided by the Michigan Department of State.
Repeal the state's "prevailing wage" law, which prohibits awarding government construction contracts to the lowest bidder unless it pays above-market wages.
Pending repeal of the state's prevailing wage law in total, repeal it for schools.
Pending repeal of the state's prevailing wage law, revise it into a "median wage" law focusing on low-wage, rather than high-wage workers.
Abolish special incentives to turn food or plants into fuel.

More to come. . . . . . .

Say It Ain't So Mr. O!

2009-01-15T09:32:00.003-05:00

Often and repeatedly during his campaign Barack Obama emphatically promised, "The first thing I'd do is sign the Freedom of Choice Act." Will he keep his word? Let's hope not.

FOCA would abolish all pro-life regulations across the nation from parental notification laws to bans on federal funding on abortions. And make no mistake - FOCA eliminates all state laws regarding abortion.

All this despite a new nationwide survey that shows 4 in 5 adults would limit abortion in some way. Only 9 percent said abortion should be legal at any time and for any reason.

Thomas Jefferson wrote, "The care of human life and happiness, and not their destruction, is the first and only legitimate object of good government."

If you're interested you can sign an online petition to fight FOCA. You can also contact your representatives and senators to tell them how you expect them to vote on this bill.

Panel-Packin' Pelosi

2009-01-14T15:05:00.002-05:00

Pete Hoekstra has sharply criticized House Speaker Nancy Pelosi's plan to take one of the seats on the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence away from Republicans and give it to a Democrat.

The 9/11 Commission recommended the Committee never have more than a one vote majority for the ruling party. In spite of this, the Dems already hold a three seat majority (12 Democrats vs. 9 Republicans). And yet Pelosi wants to increase the influence of Democrats on the Committee.

Hoekstra, who is the top ranking Republican and former chair of the Committee commented "This is a brazen move by Democrats to pack the Intelligence Committee and drive intelligence into a partisan realm."

So much for bi-partisan cooperation.

Not-So-Secret Ballots Coming Our Way

2009-01-14T14:05:00.003-05:00

It's payback time. Big Labor came through for the Democrats in November and now it's the Democrats turn to come through for the Dems.

Organized labor is going the way of typewriters and poodle skirts. Somewhat quaint, but no longer necessary or relevant. Sadly, the only growth in union membership has been in the government sector. (Side note: and we wonder why our taxes continue to rise?).

The trend in recent years has been workers nodding their heads in apparent agreement with union organizers, but voting against union membership in the privacy of the voting booth.

But wait! Union leadership has a new idea - just get rid of secret ballots. And so the outrageously misnamed "Employee Free Choice Act" was born.

Instead of workers casting secret ballots, the EFCA allows union organizers to find workers and encourage them to sign cards requesting union representation. I'm not saying the organizers would resort to baseball bats or brass knuckles, but there is nothing in this law that protects the worker from coercion.

While this is certainly "change", it don't think it's exactly the change we have been waiting for. What's next? No more secret ballots come election time?

On a Happier Note!

2009-01-13T15:43:00.002-05:00

I guess I've spread enough doom and gloom for one day. Take a minute to read this article in the Holland Sentinel.

Happiness is within our control and in reach.

Be Afraid. Be Very Very Afraid

2009-01-13T15:17:00.002-05:00

While I'm on the subject of the economy. . . . . . . . another thing I'm worried about is hyperinflation. You know, this is what's happening in Argentina and even more extremely in Zimbabwe. According to the Christian Science Monitor, inflation in Zimbabwe is at over 231 million percent and rising daily. Frightening isn't it?

Another example - Germany after World War One was crippled with by inflation. The reason? The newly formed German government kept pumping up the money supply. The process started relatively slowly, but it wasn't working so the pace accelerated until eventually all wealth in Germany was wiped out.

Could our government's panicked efforts to "stimulate" the economy and "save" financial institutions contribute to the same result? President-elect Obama's plans to spend more than an additional trillion dollars and probably even more in the next few years will soon cause inflation to grow. The simple truth is we cannot create money and borrow without limit.

I think many Americans instinctively know that what is going on is wrong. I'm more concerned about some of the ignorant politicians who simply don't get it. Or maybe they don't care.

Our Bipolar Economy

2009-01-13T15:02:00.002-05:00

Disclaimer: I am not an economist. This is just an observation from someone who reads (and thinks) too much. It seems to me we've gone from unbridled euphoria to despair - economically that is.

During the years of "mania" we were witness to carefree economic standards, boorish behaviour, over-optimism and just plain reckless acts with no regard for the consequences.

No more. The economy and the American people are now facing the inevitable "depressive" stage of this illness. Bleakness, pessimism (sometimes unwarranted, but sometimes warranted), feelings of worthlessness, and a feeling that our best times are all behind us.

I'm not a psychiatrist either, but it seems to me the American people need to know that any decisions our new President and Congress make will be made with cohesiveness, fairness and stability. They need to restore public confidence in our government and particularly in our Treasury.

And it shouldn't take billions or even trillions of dollars to accomplish this.

I'm on a roll. . . . . .

2009-01-08T12:34:00.002-05:00

A little more about Governor Paterson's plan to reduce the budget deficit - while, of course, never considering the radical idea that in most families we just reduce our spending to match our income.

The Governor has come up with 88 new taxes (or in some cases tax hikes). Although I haven't found a complete list anywhere on the 'net, here are a few: cigars, beer, wine, sports tickets, movies, books, cab fares, Kool-Aid, I tunes and other downloads, shoes, cable TV, gas, etc. etc. etc.

The nuttiest idea? A tax on any clothing that cost less than $110. That's right. So does that mean buying designer clothes is OK, but shopping for school clothes at Walmart will be penalized?

Maybe Michigan isn't so bad after all!

Cows and Soda Pop! What's next?

2009-01-08T11:31:00.004-05:00

Taxing cows. Call this one of the more innovative ways our government has come up with to increase revenues.

Of course, this isn't being billed (what an ironic word) as a tax. It's called a levy for the regulation of greenhouse gas emissions under the Clean Air Act. Still sounds like a tax to me.

How much is this tax? $175 per cow. But only $20 per hog. Sounds like "the other white meat" will be more attractive - expense wise at least.

And then there's New York's "Soda Pop" tax proposal. Weirdly, this is being heralded as a public health measure. That's right. Although this surcharge will increase revenues by over $500 million per year in New York alone, we shouldn't mistake this for a revenue enhancer. It's all about our government caring for our welfare. We'll just ignore the fact that New York, like most other states, are facing huge budget deficits. They're not concerned about that. . . . . . nope - it's all about keeping us healthy.

Could President Bush Do This?

2008-06-06T13:41:00.002-04:00

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!

2008-05-13T10:21:00.004-04:00

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

2008-05-09T10:03:00.000-04:00

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

2008-05-09T08:32:00.001-04:00

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?

2008-05-08T12:09:00.003-04:00

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. . . .

2008-05-07T12:03:00.003-04:00

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?

2008-05-03T16:32:00.003-04:00

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. . . .

2008-05-02T07:28:00.002-04:00

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

2008-05-01T17:55:00.000-04:00

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. . . . .

2008-05-01T13:30:00.001-04:00

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.

Eliminating "The Other White Meat"

2008-05-01T08:45:00.002-04:00

"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

2008-04-30T11:28:00.004-04:00

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

2008-04-30T11:16:00.003-04:00

"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

2008-04-29T15:46:00.003-04:00

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

2008-04-29T14:04:00.002-04:00

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. . . . . .

2008-04-29T14:00:00.000-04:00

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!

2008-04-29T13:07:00.002-04:00

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

2008-04-15T09:13:00.002-04:00

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

2008-04-14T10:25:00.002-04:00

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!

2008-04-11T10:20:00.002-04:00

"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

2008-04-11T09:01:00.003-04:00

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!

2008-04-09T13:11:00.002-04:00

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

2008-04-09T12:52:00.000-04:00

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

2008-04-04T13:53:00.003-04:00

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

2008-04-04T10:03:00.003-04:00

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

2008-04-04T10:01:00.003-04:00

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!

2008-04-01T14:28:00.001-04:00

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

2008-04-01T14:27:00.000-04:00

I can't possibly add anything to this article!

Can You Feel the Love?

2008-03-19T10:46:00.003-04:00

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

2008-03-18T16:01:00.003-04:00

"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. . . . .

2008-03-18T10:47:00.002-04:00

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"

2008-03-17T12:15:00.002-04:00

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

2008-03-17T11:55:00.000-04:00

From the Grand Haven Tribune. . . . . .

Obama's Inconvenient Truth

2008-03-16T10:49:00.005-04:00

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

2008-03-15T11:19:00.001-04:00

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

2008-03-15T10:20:00.003-04:00

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. . . . .

2008-03-14T16:40:00.001-04:00

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. . . . .

2008-03-14T11:26:00.002-04:00

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

2008-03-14T10:26:00.002-04:00

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!

2008-03-13T12:51:00.002-04:00

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

2008-03-13T08:22:00.002-04:00

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!

2008-03-13T07:42:00.002-04:00

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

2008-03-12T17:43:00.002-04:00

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

2008-03-12T17:34:00.003-04:00

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

2008-03-12T12:48:00.001-04:00

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?

2008-03-12T11:54:00.002-04:00

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

2008-03-08T09:10:00.003-05:00

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

2008-03-07T09:51:00.003-05:00

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. . . . . .

2008-03-07T08:52:00.001-05:00

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!

2008-03-07T07:53:00.003-05:00

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

2008-03-05T07:49:00.003-05:00

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

2008-03-04T15:13:00.003-05:00

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?

2008-03-04T11:06:00.003-05:00

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

2008-03-04T10:54:00.001-05:00

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?

2008-03-04T09:23:00.002-05:00

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

2008-03-04T08:29:00.002-05:00

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. . . . . .

2008-02-29T10:34:00.002-05:00

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

Liston vs. Clay - Remember?

2008-02-27T13:06:00.001-05:00

Or is it Obama vs. McCain? Read here!