Why blog? In my case it was one of anger, frustration and exclusion. I felt the entire story needed to be told and I felt I accomplished that. But why continue? I consider mine more like a diary - not as intrusive as a blunt personal diary but one none the less. I just put out random thoughts and things that have caught the attention of my itty bitty attention span. Being an idiot I can recognize idiocy and just love to pounce on it. Politics certainly provide a wealth of opportunity as do other ideological stationary bloggers and some of the comments they make. That became an inspiration for the idiot comments on the sidebar. My own comments could probably provide a mother load for someone doing the same thing. What I really enjoy about reading other blogs is that these folks are actually serious. They really take everything they say as a spot on accurate assessment.
A professor in graduate school once told me that reading my papers was like driving over a bumpy road with no shock absorbers. Construction is certainly not my strong point in writing and although I have an extensive vocabulary I try to write as simple as possible. I am not impressed by the way the Times or The Economist can turn a phrase so I have no one to attempt to impress. Besides it is too much work and just doesn’t feel comfortable.
With my own blog I really don’t care about having ads on it or dedicating it to one or two issues or even beating the drums of rigid thought for a political, religious or some other issue. The blog is designed to be open to any who wish to comment on anything.
I have received some emails where some have requested that I write on a specific topic. I had one recently that wanted one on Social Security since I was involved in that discussion on the 5,672 best blog in Middleboro. Another wanted me to tell the real truth of what goes on in schools and another had something about writing my impressions of MCAS. I might explore some of those topics in greater detail. Just my thoughts which is nothing more than a personal opinion. Usually much of it is just centered on observation and experience with some links where necessary. I have always tried to provide links that will show a differing of opinions since I have recently seen the absurdity of rigid thought in say a discussion on global warming.
The National Bureau Of Economic Research has made the proclamation that the recession is over and has been for months. No doubt this non profit research group in Cambridge has no horse in this political race. Yep…sure…no doubt. I guess it was just a convenient coincidence that this “report” surfaced as the Democrats and Obama are reeling with nasty economic data a mere six weeks from the election.
The Democrats continue to be befuddled by the growing legions of Tea Party recruits. They are just puzzled about how this latest “hate group” - according to the drifters in the far left - can even be taken seriously. Well, moonbats, it comes down to having unpopular legislation shoved down the throat of the electorate. Toss in a failed stimulus, the comical ranting of Reid, Pelosi and Frank, an unemployment rate nearly 10%, a convoluted tax policy and a president who is lost without his teleprompter. That about sums up some of it and moderates - like myself - can certainly find a bundle more in their anger than we can in the failures of a pathetic president and congress.
The Boston Herald has been running some stories of late showing how profitable it can be to be a state legislator. The total compensation package is usually in the $90,000 - $100,000 range. Virtually all have full time gigs outside messing up our lives from their perch on Beacon Hill. The list is littered with the usual collection of lawyers, small businessmen and insurance agents. A comparison to other states show just how well off our under performing collection is. Then you can easily migrate into what that means for friends and family by having a relative in the House. Wonder how many wives, children, cousins and so on are on the state payroll? A few years ago I believe the Bulger family had a total of twenty-nine planted in various agencies of local and state government.
Columnist Dale McFeatters had an interesting take on the fact that the TARP program ballyhooed by Bush and Paulsen was actually a success. The government is making money of it. This was 700B of our money tossed the way of financial institutions. I hated it but the story did do some limited eye opening. The Stimulus has by all accounts - including sympathetic to the administration economists - been a bust. I guess the Democrat version of trickle down doesn’t work.
Someone from the Fed passes gas and the markets go up or down a 100 points. I can’t imagine a more knee jerk group than the Gordon Gekko crowd.
Larry Summers is another in the list of Obama economic advisers to jump ship. Summers will return to the crime scene - Harvard. The economic team - the Pittsburgh Pirates of economic teams - is having some deserters. Wonder why?
I recently saw that the unemployment rate in New Hampshire was 3% less than Massachusetts. NH also has a favorable business climate where lower taxes are attractive to bringing in a new business and for capital investment for those operating. Less in taxes just make it easier. The lower tax structure in the state also assures that it will be attractive for those wishing to relocate. Massachusetts is in competition with its neighboring states and is losing the race with NH.
Student loans amaze me. How many with virtually no credit can actually get a five and even six figure loan based on the fact that your eventual degree in Art History or Music of 16th Century France will allow you to pay it off. The default is around 20% and climbing and that loan never goes away. How many degrees are really cost effective? I’ve had student teachers from places like BC, PC and Wheaton over the years who were education majors. Now what they are paying could buy a decent house. What many pay in a year they could go to an excellent alternative in the state college system for four years. The ROI (Return On Investment) takes a lot longer at 150K versus 40K.
College isn’t for everyone. I often counsel students that are on the borderline to dabble in a course or two in community college and to find a job that few want to do. Those jobs usually pay some significant money. One student of several years ago learned to operate a backhoe. Eventually bought his own and a truck to haul a backhoe he purchased. Now has a home and a nice car and plenty of business. Tagged on several other certificates to operate heavy equipment. A rare success story from the students I have had.
I’ve often felt that a job is a potential gateway to do the things you really want to do. I have a son who was an electrician. He used that as a base to do what he really wanted to do - fly. He had a pilot’s license before a driver’s license. Now he parlayed that into flying for a commercial airline. Jobs can be important to earn the money to do the things you really want to do and those things can often be another job.
I often USE to tease my daughter about her going to UMASS - Amherst. The party school run by the Corrupt Midget during her tenure as a student. She often uses that as an excuse to squeeze monetary sympathy out of me as in “I could have gone to BC” and that translates to big bucks. Well according to a recent study from England UMASS is ranked 56th and above local stalwarts BC and BU. From my own comparison I attended graduate school at both BU and BC and also the long departed Boston State College that was absorbed by UMASS - Boston. IMO BSC was on a par with both the privates. I had two very aged and non doctorate professors at BSC who were among the best I have every seen.
Saturday, September 25, 2010
Saturday, September 18, 2010
Mostly Political Stuff
Earl Sholley made me pick up a Republican ballot this time around in the primary. Sholley in the ultimate campaign bad taste moment placed campaign literature on cars while folks were participating in services at church. This is certainly not illegal but is rarely if ever done. Sholley excused his behavior with his “First Amendment rights” and I fully concur and I exercised my rights by voting for his opponent. He’s running against Barney Frank - what a choice that will present. Enough to convince me to continue my vow to nor vote for national candidates in the finals. Fortunately Sholley is now a footnote.
Rachel Brown and her supporters have been around town for several months getting signatures and attempting to drum up support for her run against Barney Frank. Brown is right from the LaRouche school of nut jobs but I signed her nomination papers. I’ll sign anybody who wants to run. Heck….I once voted for Jessie Powell! Brown got 19% against Frank. Now the former Philanderer - In - Chief, Bill Clinton, is making a campaign stop in picturesque Taunton to help lend some support for Frank. No doubt the message is clear - let’s not make this a Scott Brown replay. I’m an Indy so to me this screams out as P-A-N-I-C.
Tea Party did exceptionally well in the primaries and that has made Democrats ecstatic with the idea the TP is an isolated group of Neanderthals with homophobic and racist tendencies with no agenda other than to tear down the current administration. Easy pickings in the fall. Be careful of what you wish for. The TP has shown strength across the country and they attract a considerable cross section of America. May prove far more formidable than expected since the “Great Middle” is who will decide this upcoming election. Posted that on the BB site so I’ll put it here.
One thing the TP has done - and I have not really seen it in the TV sound bites - and it comes right out of political science 101 and that is the influence the TP has had on all candidates. Many will now tread rather softly realizing the potential results of voter anger.
Speaking of the TP as a division in the Republican ranks just might not be a viable way for Democrats to look at it. A recent non TP commentator from the GOP stated that in the end our common goal within the party is not to place another Democrat in Washington. Have to wait until November to see if conservatives are fed up enough with the party direction to desert candidates. Democrat liberal wing has long done that.
Panic stricken Democrats love to point out Christine O’Donnell as what is representative of the TP and, of course, Republicans. Even Rove and moderates within the Republican Party have tossed her aside. Well - do a search on Alvin Greene who is running for the Senate in South Carolina - as a Democrat. He makes O’Donnell look like a political Mother Theresa. Point being both parties are littered with some rather questionable characters - where is Leo Kahian when you really need him. Is this the best we can do?
A pundit finally realize what the brilliant Bogo has been saying for months - the TP would not exist without the failures of the current administration and Congress - both parties.
9.6% unemployment. That unemployment has hovered around that figure for a long, long time and the blame Bush no longer works. As Carvell said many years ago :”It’s the economy, stupid!” That will be the key issue and all the promises of the administration will be tossed out front by the Republicans. They will minimize their own compliance in this mess and get away with it. Anger voters vote. Republican strategist probably gleefully hope the dismal failures continue until at least January when the new Congress takes over.
I read that a certain confirmed liar spoke before the city council in Fall River regarding the proposed gin mill for that city. A confirmed liar speaking before a group of politicians? Lot of potential there.
Locally I have watched the BOS meetings on TV on a regular basis. I watch MiMi (what is with those two M’s?) and wonder what in the world the voters of Middleboro were thinking? No doubt she is kind to animals, looks both ways crossing the street, does not litter and certainly makes attempts to beautify our simple town but does that translate into being a good Selectman or Selectperson? I really had an open mind - no lobotomy jokes - when she arrived on the Board. Give her six months to get an idea of blending in and getting comfortable. The old learning curve. IMO the learning part has not taken place nor will it ever. Being a nice person just does not translate into being a competent member of the BOS.
What should be front page headlines in every paper in the country instead found itself buried in the inside. A cartoonist in Seattle, Washington - as in Seattle located in the U.S.A. - ran a cartoon about drawing Mohammed for a day. So now the “Religion of Peace” has issued a Fatwa on Molly Norris who has - under advice of the FBI - gone into hiding. The FBI recommended she change her identity and all associated information. As Ms. Norris explained she is effectively in the witness protection program without the government paying. Oh…she also had to quit her job. This is a freaking American being threatened in her own country? I hope there is more to this story since on face value it speaks volumes.
Say, LBJ, how has that War On Poverty worked out? Looks like one out of seven Americans are at poverty level. Maybe excessive taxes and lousy economic policy has something to do with It? Oh…and don’t forget social engineering. AKA - handouts.
The bill continues to spiral for Cape Wind and I have clearly changed my position on it. Now the have estimated the tear down costs. Every time I read about this project the bill goes up and up. This is become the “Green” answer to The Big Dig.
Cuba has decided to cut 500,000 from government jobs. That represents about 10% of the total work force in Cuba. Castro has already acknowledged the failures within the Cuban system and this sort of settles that. Wonder if we are viewing the future here now taking place there?
According to the latest Census Bureau data the state with the highest median income is - surprise - New Hampshire! I know a bundle of businesses have relocated to NH but it probably goes much deeper as in an influx of escapee’s from Massachusetts. In our state we approach every fiscal issue as how can the taxpayer be squeezed a bit more with escalating taxes and fees? Southern NH has now become an interesting snapshot of political breakdown. Many more Democrats have floated in but they seem to be those of the Blue Dog type that have a great connection with many Republicans and Independents on fiscal issues, immigration and foreign policy.
Rachel Brown and her supporters have been around town for several months getting signatures and attempting to drum up support for her run against Barney Frank. Brown is right from the LaRouche school of nut jobs but I signed her nomination papers. I’ll sign anybody who wants to run. Heck….I once voted for Jessie Powell! Brown got 19% against Frank. Now the former Philanderer - In - Chief, Bill Clinton, is making a campaign stop in picturesque Taunton to help lend some support for Frank. No doubt the message is clear - let’s not make this a Scott Brown replay. I’m an Indy so to me this screams out as P-A-N-I-C.
Tea Party did exceptionally well in the primaries and that has made Democrats ecstatic with the idea the TP is an isolated group of Neanderthals with homophobic and racist tendencies with no agenda other than to tear down the current administration. Easy pickings in the fall. Be careful of what you wish for. The TP has shown strength across the country and they attract a considerable cross section of America. May prove far more formidable than expected since the “Great Middle” is who will decide this upcoming election. Posted that on the BB site so I’ll put it here.
One thing the TP has done - and I have not really seen it in the TV sound bites - and it comes right out of political science 101 and that is the influence the TP has had on all candidates. Many will now tread rather softly realizing the potential results of voter anger.
Speaking of the TP as a division in the Republican ranks just might not be a viable way for Democrats to look at it. A recent non TP commentator from the GOP stated that in the end our common goal within the party is not to place another Democrat in Washington. Have to wait until November to see if conservatives are fed up enough with the party direction to desert candidates. Democrat liberal wing has long done that.
Panic stricken Democrats love to point out Christine O’Donnell as what is representative of the TP and, of course, Republicans. Even Rove and moderates within the Republican Party have tossed her aside. Well - do a search on Alvin Greene who is running for the Senate in South Carolina - as a Democrat. He makes O’Donnell look like a political Mother Theresa. Point being both parties are littered with some rather questionable characters - where is Leo Kahian when you really need him. Is this the best we can do?
A pundit finally realize what the brilliant Bogo has been saying for months - the TP would not exist without the failures of the current administration and Congress - both parties.
9.6% unemployment. That unemployment has hovered around that figure for a long, long time and the blame Bush no longer works. As Carvell said many years ago :”It’s the economy, stupid!” That will be the key issue and all the promises of the administration will be tossed out front by the Republicans. They will minimize their own compliance in this mess and get away with it. Anger voters vote. Republican strategist probably gleefully hope the dismal failures continue until at least January when the new Congress takes over.
I read that a certain confirmed liar spoke before the city council in Fall River regarding the proposed gin mill for that city. A confirmed liar speaking before a group of politicians? Lot of potential there.
Locally I have watched the BOS meetings on TV on a regular basis. I watch MiMi (what is with those two M’s?) and wonder what in the world the voters of Middleboro were thinking? No doubt she is kind to animals, looks both ways crossing the street, does not litter and certainly makes attempts to beautify our simple town but does that translate into being a good Selectman or Selectperson? I really had an open mind - no lobotomy jokes - when she arrived on the Board. Give her six months to get an idea of blending in and getting comfortable. The old learning curve. IMO the learning part has not taken place nor will it ever. Being a nice person just does not translate into being a competent member of the BOS.
What should be front page headlines in every paper in the country instead found itself buried in the inside. A cartoonist in Seattle, Washington - as in Seattle located in the U.S.A. - ran a cartoon about drawing Mohammed for a day. So now the “Religion of Peace” has issued a Fatwa on Molly Norris who has - under advice of the FBI - gone into hiding. The FBI recommended she change her identity and all associated information. As Ms. Norris explained she is effectively in the witness protection program without the government paying. Oh…she also had to quit her job. This is a freaking American being threatened in her own country? I hope there is more to this story since on face value it speaks volumes.
Say, LBJ, how has that War On Poverty worked out? Looks like one out of seven Americans are at poverty level. Maybe excessive taxes and lousy economic policy has something to do with It? Oh…and don’t forget social engineering. AKA - handouts.
The bill continues to spiral for Cape Wind and I have clearly changed my position on it. Now the have estimated the tear down costs. Every time I read about this project the bill goes up and up. This is become the “Green” answer to The Big Dig.
Cuba has decided to cut 500,000 from government jobs. That represents about 10% of the total work force in Cuba. Castro has already acknowledged the failures within the Cuban system and this sort of settles that. Wonder if we are viewing the future here now taking place there?
According to the latest Census Bureau data the state with the highest median income is - surprise - New Hampshire! I know a bundle of businesses have relocated to NH but it probably goes much deeper as in an influx of escapee’s from Massachusetts. In our state we approach every fiscal issue as how can the taxpayer be squeezed a bit more with escalating taxes and fees? Southern NH has now become an interesting snapshot of political breakdown. Many more Democrats have floated in but they seem to be those of the Blue Dog type that have a great connection with many Republicans and Independents on fiscal issues, immigration and foreign policy.
Saturday, September 11, 2010
9/11 Post
Governor “One And Out” Patrick has finally and quite reluctantly agreed to support any roll back on the sales tax. This finally came about after a series of evasive maneuvers showed where he really stood. Cornered with shrinking poll numbers and the excellent chance he’ll be canned he gave his approval. The only reason, Dear “One And Out”, that the measure is on the ballot is that your administration and the legislature approved a 6.25% sales tax. Wonder why the Tea Party exists? Ain’t a group of racist thugs but a grass roots movement that has had enough of government excesses on the local, state and national level.
Illegal immigration is being an issue front and center - in Europe. The EU is devising plans to attempt to deal with the same onslaught we face here. This is not your grand dad or great-great grand dad’s immigration but one that seems to focus more on separation rather than assimilation.
President WOW (Walk On Water) is starting his campaign moves to help floundering Democrats. Exactly how is he doing this? By blaming Republicans and Bush. Where have I heard that before? I listened to a mouthpiece for the administration the other day touting the various “successes” in the last two years and those were health care, stimulus and financial reform. That is success? Majority disapprove of health care and the stimulus has failed. Financial reform has be laughing. Think cagey banks and investment houses will find a way around that? The bottom line is the November elections will be a referendum on the performance of this administration and Congress. The only good think for WOW is with the distinct possibility of a Republican controlled Congress he’ll have someone to blame in 2012.
Old friend Mitt Romney is now the front runner for the Republican nomination in 2012. Even in Alaska he is polling better than Sarah Palin (R- Clueless).
Michael Barone, a political analyst for the Washington Examiner, reports that five Democrats running for Congress have run ads highlighting their votes against Obamacare while no Democrat candidates have run ads showing their support.
A casino is in the works for a location about one-half mile from Gettysburg Battlefield. I guess that means no mosque - just a slot parlor.
BB finally created a decent column last week in the Gazette. Took him long enough. Easy to create such a fine work when you have an interesting, dynamic, virile, and just all around great person to focus on.
A book burning has been delayed or terminated by pastor Terry Jones who was going to toast up a few copies of the Quran. This is an apparent grab at his 15 minutes of fame and naturally it got a group of Muslims in a frenzy - not quite on the scale of Danish cartoonist frenzy but relatively close. Maybe the pastor should hook up with Australian Muslim cleric Feiz Muhammad who recently called for the beheading of a Danish politician. Give me that old time religion, a few book burnings and beheadings.
It is amazing when one pays a visit to a Muslim country. The rule is often a clerical dictatorships or their government’s tread carefully over possibly offending religious mandates. IMO the ultimate goal is to eventually have a world wide homogony. In many other countries our First Amendment is not understood and that is especially true in Muslim nations. I just have difficulties separating spiritual Islam from political Islam.
The per diem list has Calter at over $1,700 and our other two reps at zero.
I placed my football predictions on the sidebar but limited it to the Giants and the Patriots. The Patriots also managed to sign up their fast fading QB to a contract extension that will pay somewhere in the neighborhood of 72 million so that at least he can attempt to get close to the income his bride brings in.
A new ice cream shop has opened up downtown and they do have an extensive offering of hard ice cream and two varieties of soft serve. Have some cakes and beverage service and other ice cream treats.
Castro now claims that the “Cuban model doesn’t work for us anymore” but was “still worth exporting to other countries.” I wonder if that means the current administration?
Illegal immigration is being an issue front and center - in Europe. The EU is devising plans to attempt to deal with the same onslaught we face here. This is not your grand dad or great-great grand dad’s immigration but one that seems to focus more on separation rather than assimilation.
President WOW (Walk On Water) is starting his campaign moves to help floundering Democrats. Exactly how is he doing this? By blaming Republicans and Bush. Where have I heard that before? I listened to a mouthpiece for the administration the other day touting the various “successes” in the last two years and those were health care, stimulus and financial reform. That is success? Majority disapprove of health care and the stimulus has failed. Financial reform has be laughing. Think cagey banks and investment houses will find a way around that? The bottom line is the November elections will be a referendum on the performance of this administration and Congress. The only good think for WOW is with the distinct possibility of a Republican controlled Congress he’ll have someone to blame in 2012.
Old friend Mitt Romney is now the front runner for the Republican nomination in 2012. Even in Alaska he is polling better than Sarah Palin (R- Clueless).
Michael Barone, a political analyst for the Washington Examiner, reports that five Democrats running for Congress have run ads highlighting their votes against Obamacare while no Democrat candidates have run ads showing their support.
A casino is in the works for a location about one-half mile from Gettysburg Battlefield. I guess that means no mosque - just a slot parlor.
BB finally created a decent column last week in the Gazette. Took him long enough. Easy to create such a fine work when you have an interesting, dynamic, virile, and just all around great person to focus on.
A book burning has been delayed or terminated by pastor Terry Jones who was going to toast up a few copies of the Quran. This is an apparent grab at his 15 minutes of fame and naturally it got a group of Muslims in a frenzy - not quite on the scale of Danish cartoonist frenzy but relatively close. Maybe the pastor should hook up with Australian Muslim cleric Feiz Muhammad who recently called for the beheading of a Danish politician. Give me that old time religion, a few book burnings and beheadings.
It is amazing when one pays a visit to a Muslim country. The rule is often a clerical dictatorships or their government’s tread carefully over possibly offending religious mandates. IMO the ultimate goal is to eventually have a world wide homogony. In many other countries our First Amendment is not understood and that is especially true in Muslim nations. I just have difficulties separating spiritual Islam from political Islam.
The per diem list has Calter at over $1,700 and our other two reps at zero.
I placed my football predictions on the sidebar but limited it to the Giants and the Patriots. The Patriots also managed to sign up their fast fading QB to a contract extension that will pay somewhere in the neighborhood of 72 million so that at least he can attempt to get close to the income his bride brings in.
A new ice cream shop has opened up downtown and they do have an extensive offering of hard ice cream and two varieties of soft serve. Have some cakes and beverage service and other ice cream treats.
Castro now claims that the “Cuban model doesn’t work for us anymore” but was “still worth exporting to other countries.” I wonder if that means the current administration?
Saturday, September 4, 2010
Labor Day Post
Obama health care has seen Medicare Advantage leave 200,000 in the lurch in Massachusetts and now the estimates are over 3,000,000 will be looking elsewhere nationwide. I guess that is “change?”
Now that I am on Medicare I see managed care first hand as a recent procedure was rejected as being “too close” to when it was previously done. My secondary insurance managed to pick it up but with many that simply does not happen.
While on an insurance kick I am wondering why Medicare doesn’t have a dental program? I looked into private programs and they happen to be costly for the coverage provided. Say $40-50 a month for a single subscriber with deductibles and caps of $1,000 per calendar year. You know how much a root canal and crown cost? Doesn’t even come close. Now I like to negotiate prices on everything and dental care is one. I asked on my last visit if I could get the Mass Health or Medicaid rate and they said no. So the simple hygienist appointment will cost me twice as much. So today may be my last visit to this dentist to whom I have been going for thirty years. I’ll shop around for what the basic costs are - hygienist, full X-Rays, crowns and simple fillings.
“We expect a little bit of violence while we transition.” That was one of the remarks by Joe Biden regarding Iraq. The current failed administration also praised the previous failed administration for the success of the troop surge. Stories regarding how many billions were and continue to be wasted in Iraq are in the news with projects unused. Next stop Afghanistan.
In the last few months I have had the opportunity to go to court on matters not related to me and have notice an eerie comparison to casinos. With both as long as you keep them coming back you will make money. Howie Carr likes to say “In the halls of justice the justice is in the halls” and that seems quite appropriate. I enjoyed listening to the bargaining back and forth between lawyers as they attempt to reach a mutually acceptable compromise rather than to risk it all before a judge. The judges I have seen certainly give credence to the very old statement that a judge is someone who knows (contributes) a governor.
Hurricane time which means I go to the store and but 20 gallons of milk and 20 loafs of bread. Maybe all the cases of bottled water? But the hurricane became more of a windstorm as the day and night progressed with the Outer Banks region giving it a big yawn.
Red Sox are not officially dead but to me the season is now over. Tampa and New York show no signs of a tailspin and Boston has too many players on the disabled list. I think $28,000,000 is on the DL.
Middleboro has some type of road improvement in the picture as politicians - both local and state - were falling all over themselves in self congratulatory mode. I understand there was a medical team available to treat all the strains from patting themselves on the back.
The latest poll to see who we’ll get stuck with for governor shows “One And Out” with a slight lead over Baker (R-HMO) with Tim Cahill a big money scratch ticket away. Sooner or later Cahill will have to back out.
The Tribe seems to have stirred some interest in those few hearty souls who actually care about the casino. Tribe has decided to invest what little money they have left to copy virtually every public document in existence. The speculation appears to be centered on the anti element who are fascinated by this. I think the Tribe may actually use all this paper to build an origami casino in Fall River. The mayor at that fast fading collection of abandoned warehouses sees the casino as a fiscal savior.
Now that I am on Medicare I see managed care first hand as a recent procedure was rejected as being “too close” to when it was previously done. My secondary insurance managed to pick it up but with many that simply does not happen.
While on an insurance kick I am wondering why Medicare doesn’t have a dental program? I looked into private programs and they happen to be costly for the coverage provided. Say $40-50 a month for a single subscriber with deductibles and caps of $1,000 per calendar year. You know how much a root canal and crown cost? Doesn’t even come close. Now I like to negotiate prices on everything and dental care is one. I asked on my last visit if I could get the Mass Health or Medicaid rate and they said no. So the simple hygienist appointment will cost me twice as much. So today may be my last visit to this dentist to whom I have been going for thirty years. I’ll shop around for what the basic costs are - hygienist, full X-Rays, crowns and simple fillings.
“We expect a little bit of violence while we transition.” That was one of the remarks by Joe Biden regarding Iraq. The current failed administration also praised the previous failed administration for the success of the troop surge. Stories regarding how many billions were and continue to be wasted in Iraq are in the news with projects unused. Next stop Afghanistan.
In the last few months I have had the opportunity to go to court on matters not related to me and have notice an eerie comparison to casinos. With both as long as you keep them coming back you will make money. Howie Carr likes to say “In the halls of justice the justice is in the halls” and that seems quite appropriate. I enjoyed listening to the bargaining back and forth between lawyers as they attempt to reach a mutually acceptable compromise rather than to risk it all before a judge. The judges I have seen certainly give credence to the very old statement that a judge is someone who knows (contributes) a governor.
Hurricane time which means I go to the store and but 20 gallons of milk and 20 loafs of bread. Maybe all the cases of bottled water? But the hurricane became more of a windstorm as the day and night progressed with the Outer Banks region giving it a big yawn.
Red Sox are not officially dead but to me the season is now over. Tampa and New York show no signs of a tailspin and Boston has too many players on the disabled list. I think $28,000,000 is on the DL.
Middleboro has some type of road improvement in the picture as politicians - both local and state - were falling all over themselves in self congratulatory mode. I understand there was a medical team available to treat all the strains from patting themselves on the back.
The latest poll to see who we’ll get stuck with for governor shows “One And Out” with a slight lead over Baker (R-HMO) with Tim Cahill a big money scratch ticket away. Sooner or later Cahill will have to back out.
The Tribe seems to have stirred some interest in those few hearty souls who actually care about the casino. Tribe has decided to invest what little money they have left to copy virtually every public document in existence. The speculation appears to be centered on the anti element who are fascinated by this. I think the Tribe may actually use all this paper to build an origami casino in Fall River. The mayor at that fast fading collection of abandoned warehouses sees the casino as a fiscal savior.
Saturday, August 28, 2010
More Marsha And Other Great Stuff
Housing foreclosures are on the rise now that the economy is getting into the real problems - those who lack a job and did not originally overextend on their original purchase. These are the solid citizens who didn’t buy a McMansion or get into some type of exotic mortgage. This economy continues to just spin with no promise of a sustained recovery. There is an apparent reluctance on businesses to make significant capital expenditures and couple that with the fact that stocks are not attractive unless you are a bargain hunter with money and things just stall. Meanwhile government appears to have not curtailed its insatiable appetite for revenues - taxes and fees.
Good economic news is when the bad news isn’t as bad as expected. Like saying your leg has a massive infection and you will never be able to walk correctly but we’ll save the leg.
Marsha apparently did not grovel enough for the local lynch mobs and I could not agree more. Marsha may be a nice person but being nice does not make one necessarily a competent Chair or even BOS member. Seemed on Monday night that Marsha was really not interested in placing this issue to bed by simply saying “I screwed up - forgive me - let’s move on.” Now this will be under the surface for months unless she decides to step down. At least she managed to make the editorial page of the Enterprise.
Hubris: Extreme haughtiness or arrogance. Hubris often indicates being out of touch with reality and overestimating one's own competence or capabilities, especially for people in positions of power.
President WOW is enjoying his respite on The Vineyard and I notice the usually suspects are not around or at least kept at a discrete distance. By that I mean the proliferation of far left Hollywood types - not exclusive to Hollywood - moonbats that infect the island. In the years of Clinton (D- Monica) administration and last year they were out in force basking in the limelight with a fellow traveler or enjoying the spoils of victory. Now? Obama has distanced himself as much as possible from the elitist. He may remain one but it will stay in the closet until something positive happens.
Massachusetts does have a budding race for governor and I know old “One And Out” is attempting to make in back to back wins. I find “One And Out” as about as enjoyable as an evening with Mike Dukakis (D- Tank Girl) reading a legislative bill at 11PM. I know there are some others running and I think two are named Cahill and Baker. I do believe Cahill is one who has jumped ship from the Democratic Party and Baker may be the Republican.
I am a supporter - reluctant - of Cape Wind. Now I am beginning to see some of the costs. I thought the idea was to provide fiscal relief for the populace along with feeling good about going green? The fiscal relief has all the stability of the Red Sox bullpen and as far as going green I now have to wonder about that. Only thing that seems green is the green disappearing from wallets.
Sysco is wandering into our area from Norton and the water issue has been replaced by the traffic issue. I’m sure those who are cautious of increased traffic would probably be concerned about bird strikes with the carcasses falling on their lawns if the trucks could magically levitate to I-495. This project seems fairly straight forward and has the potential for tapping out at a 1,000 jobs. Sysco is far from a fly-by-night outfit. I did get a laugh when it was mentioned that Sysco is a competitor of Cirelli’s. No offense to Cirelli’s but this is like comparing Microsoft to a local computer repair shop. Cirelli’s has their niche which is essentially SE Massachusetts and Sysco the rest of the country. Both are quality restaurant suppliers.
I hate places where I have to pay to shop. I get a pass yearly from BJ’s to wander around and pick up things like a 65 gallon drum of chocolate syrup. Usually the pass is good for thirty to sixty days. I really find few bargains and some judicious shopping can get you better buys at the local super markets especially with produce and meats. I’d probably go more often but as long as they charge I’ll stay away. I use BOGOFREE for a reason.
Justice department. I was at Hannaford’s and witnessed a car almost getting sideswiped by a SUV. Reason? Person on the cell phone and the shock of a near collision made the phone drop out the car. The driver backed up and promptly crushed the phone.
The Enterprise had an insert during the week that highlighted towns in Plymouth County. I paid special attention to the price of homes and condos over the last five years. Some real steep decreases. Then I examined median income and saw Lakeville had the highest (97K) in the entire insert and Middleboro one of the lowest (69K). Maybe we can set up toll booths on select roads?
From Allin Frawley on the Marsha flap responding to Town Counsel regarding his pronouncement that what was being implemented was legal. “Just because it’s legal doesn’t make it right.” I’m sure this is the type of lawyer speak that at one time justified slavery and the right to have women excluded from voting. I prefer to say there is the law and there is common sense and too bad they are often at opposite ends.
The recent rain and wind certainly offered us a garden version of Katrina and Ike. Tomato plants shed their crop rather easily and corn was tossed asunder by the wind. We have many sunflowers and these monsters are comparable to Sequoia trees in relationship to the rest of the garden. One managed to actually take out a section of fence when it went a crashing.
The Sarah Palin groupies and the charmer herself are taking some shots at Scott Brown for what amounts to an inconsistent voting record. To simplify it that means he does not vote lock step conservative nor does he genuflect to the Tea Party. Brown has done exactly what he said he would do and treats each issue independently and votes accordingly.
How ironic that former president Jimmy Carter (D-Bubba Beer) manages to extract an American from North Korea in a few days yet as a sitting president he let 52 languish for 444 days in Iran. What is even more of a condemnation of the four years of utter incompetence is that the hostages were released as Reagan was about to walk up the steps of the White House.
Good economic news is when the bad news isn’t as bad as expected. Like saying your leg has a massive infection and you will never be able to walk correctly but we’ll save the leg.
Marsha apparently did not grovel enough for the local lynch mobs and I could not agree more. Marsha may be a nice person but being nice does not make one necessarily a competent Chair or even BOS member. Seemed on Monday night that Marsha was really not interested in placing this issue to bed by simply saying “I screwed up - forgive me - let’s move on.” Now this will be under the surface for months unless she decides to step down. At least she managed to make the editorial page of the Enterprise.
Hubris: Extreme haughtiness or arrogance. Hubris often indicates being out of touch with reality and overestimating one's own competence or capabilities, especially for people in positions of power.
President WOW is enjoying his respite on The Vineyard and I notice the usually suspects are not around or at least kept at a discrete distance. By that I mean the proliferation of far left Hollywood types - not exclusive to Hollywood - moonbats that infect the island. In the years of Clinton (D- Monica) administration and last year they were out in force basking in the limelight with a fellow traveler or enjoying the spoils of victory. Now? Obama has distanced himself as much as possible from the elitist. He may remain one but it will stay in the closet until something positive happens.
Massachusetts does have a budding race for governor and I know old “One And Out” is attempting to make in back to back wins. I find “One And Out” as about as enjoyable as an evening with Mike Dukakis (D- Tank Girl) reading a legislative bill at 11PM. I know there are some others running and I think two are named Cahill and Baker. I do believe Cahill is one who has jumped ship from the Democratic Party and Baker may be the Republican.
I am a supporter - reluctant - of Cape Wind. Now I am beginning to see some of the costs. I thought the idea was to provide fiscal relief for the populace along with feeling good about going green? The fiscal relief has all the stability of the Red Sox bullpen and as far as going green I now have to wonder about that. Only thing that seems green is the green disappearing from wallets.
Sysco is wandering into our area from Norton and the water issue has been replaced by the traffic issue. I’m sure those who are cautious of increased traffic would probably be concerned about bird strikes with the carcasses falling on their lawns if the trucks could magically levitate to I-495. This project seems fairly straight forward and has the potential for tapping out at a 1,000 jobs. Sysco is far from a fly-by-night outfit. I did get a laugh when it was mentioned that Sysco is a competitor of Cirelli’s. No offense to Cirelli’s but this is like comparing Microsoft to a local computer repair shop. Cirelli’s has their niche which is essentially SE Massachusetts and Sysco the rest of the country. Both are quality restaurant suppliers.
I hate places where I have to pay to shop. I get a pass yearly from BJ’s to wander around and pick up things like a 65 gallon drum of chocolate syrup. Usually the pass is good for thirty to sixty days. I really find few bargains and some judicious shopping can get you better buys at the local super markets especially with produce and meats. I’d probably go more often but as long as they charge I’ll stay away. I use BOGOFREE for a reason.
Justice department. I was at Hannaford’s and witnessed a car almost getting sideswiped by a SUV. Reason? Person on the cell phone and the shock of a near collision made the phone drop out the car. The driver backed up and promptly crushed the phone.
The Enterprise had an insert during the week that highlighted towns in Plymouth County. I paid special attention to the price of homes and condos over the last five years. Some real steep decreases. Then I examined median income and saw Lakeville had the highest (97K) in the entire insert and Middleboro one of the lowest (69K). Maybe we can set up toll booths on select roads?
From Allin Frawley on the Marsha flap responding to Town Counsel regarding his pronouncement that what was being implemented was legal. “Just because it’s legal doesn’t make it right.” I’m sure this is the type of lawyer speak that at one time justified slavery and the right to have women excluded from voting. I prefer to say there is the law and there is common sense and too bad they are often at opposite ends.
The recent rain and wind certainly offered us a garden version of Katrina and Ike. Tomato plants shed their crop rather easily and corn was tossed asunder by the wind. We have many sunflowers and these monsters are comparable to Sequoia trees in relationship to the rest of the garden. One managed to actually take out a section of fence when it went a crashing.
The Sarah Palin groupies and the charmer herself are taking some shots at Scott Brown for what amounts to an inconsistent voting record. To simplify it that means he does not vote lock step conservative nor does he genuflect to the Tea Party. Brown has done exactly what he said he would do and treats each issue independently and votes accordingly.
How ironic that former president Jimmy Carter (D-Bubba Beer) manages to extract an American from North Korea in a few days yet as a sitting president he let 52 languish for 444 days in Iran. What is even more of a condemnation of the four years of utter incompetence is that the hostages were released as Reagan was about to walk up the steps of the White House.
Tuesday, August 24, 2010
BOS Meeting
Marsha was quite disappointing in her presentation of Monday night. I expected some groveling and even an upfront apology - my bad - to avoid the long stream of dissidents that floated to the podium to chastise the Chair. The strategy appeared to be one of defiance rather than compliance and just couple that with the “hanging by her own petard” as presented so skillfully by several inquisitors made for good theater as one could watch the Hammer Of Thor (towns people) descend upon the woe begotten Chair. I did hear a lukewarm apology of sorts but her heart just didn’t seem in it. Just my impression.
Steve McKinnon made what appears to now be a monthly motion and that is that the Chair be removed and therefore muzzled. It didn’t appear to this observer that he had the backing of other board members but certainly had the backing of public support. Steve Spataro called him out when he attempted to delay the motion until a full board was present - not sure if that gives credence to Spartro being a party to the coup or merely putting McKinnon of the spot. Time will tell.
With apologies to Howie Carr it is now quite possible that Middleboro has its own “Hack Family” in Roger and Marsha Brunelle. Roger is apparently playing out the string as IT Director until retirement looms. IMO this translates - to paraphrase The Godfather “Make me an offer I can’t refuse” and I will step down and reorganization of the IT can move forward with a new director - hopefully one that is familiar with 21st century technology.
Adam Bond offered to help guide the Lost Tribe Of Middleboro (BOS) through the rules process. I am sure Marsha just loved having him go forth as one of the lead henchmen in this local drama. Adam actually does have a nice and rather straightforward outline of rules on his blog and since they even make sense to my simple mind they will no doubt be summarily rejected.
The audience at the BOS meeting represented a full house as this was to be some real local blood sport with the jackals - moi included - waiting to pounce on Ms. Brunelle. It really did not come to that and I did not see a police presence ready to remove any rabble that attempted to disrupt the proceedings. I scooted out when the real work of the board was starting with some presentations that just make my eyes glaze over. But I had more important duties at hand and that was to demonstrate my dwindling support for the Boston Nine in their quest to somehow get back into serious contention for the playoffs.
The meeting did represent a nice finish to the summer as the BOS at this time of the year usually is just playing out the schedule until the next dog complaint, earth removal permit, used car petition and billion dollar casino arrives to grab our attention.
Steve McKinnon made what appears to now be a monthly motion and that is that the Chair be removed and therefore muzzled. It didn’t appear to this observer that he had the backing of other board members but certainly had the backing of public support. Steve Spataro called him out when he attempted to delay the motion until a full board was present - not sure if that gives credence to Spartro being a party to the coup or merely putting McKinnon of the spot. Time will tell.
With apologies to Howie Carr it is now quite possible that Middleboro has its own “Hack Family” in Roger and Marsha Brunelle. Roger is apparently playing out the string as IT Director until retirement looms. IMO this translates - to paraphrase The Godfather “Make me an offer I can’t refuse” and I will step down and reorganization of the IT can move forward with a new director - hopefully one that is familiar with 21st century technology.
Adam Bond offered to help guide the Lost Tribe Of Middleboro (BOS) through the rules process. I am sure Marsha just loved having him go forth as one of the lead henchmen in this local drama. Adam actually does have a nice and rather straightforward outline of rules on his blog and since they even make sense to my simple mind they will no doubt be summarily rejected.
The audience at the BOS meeting represented a full house as this was to be some real local blood sport with the jackals - moi included - waiting to pounce on Ms. Brunelle. It really did not come to that and I did not see a police presence ready to remove any rabble that attempted to disrupt the proceedings. I scooted out when the real work of the board was starting with some presentations that just make my eyes glaze over. But I had more important duties at hand and that was to demonstrate my dwindling support for the Boston Nine in their quest to somehow get back into serious contention for the playoffs.
The meeting did represent a nice finish to the summer as the BOS at this time of the year usually is just playing out the schedule until the next dog complaint, earth removal permit, used car petition and billion dollar casino arrives to grab our attention.
Saturday, August 21, 2010
Muslim's/Economy/BOS/Other Stuff
As a possible sign of things getting better is increased revenue at the Connecticut gin mills. The reality is this is money going into the coffers of another state rather than this state and programs in that state that will not be eliminated or gutted since they’ll be getting some bucks for the suckers.…I mean THE CUSTOMERS…who take that long lonesome ride.
The lowest number of work place deaths have been reported in almost 20 years. With the high unemployment this is a real shocker.
A poll shows that many Americans consider Obama a Muslim. I’ve listen to some of the Imam’s going full bore. Talk about hate speech that is laced with half truths, demagoguery, absurd conclusions and just plain old ranting (sounds like some anti’s) and you know president WOW could never listen to or subscribe to that. What’s that? Reverend Wright? Twenty years of listening to his ravings? OK…forget about the Imam’s.
My son emailed me from Iraq a day after it was announced that our combat troops have pulled out. He spoke of the motor attack, RPG attack and IED’s that hit his convoy. Yep…things are all quiet.
One hundred and four Democrats voted against the war funding bill - primarily for Afghanistan - and a few Republicans tagged along - too few - some Obama got his wish of amping up the fray. I would strongly urge that the administration seriously reconsider our continued involvement. Let them enjoy the attributes of 16th century life and if it becomes a Taliban stronghold - probably already is we know exactly where to find them. This is an endeavor we cannot win nor justify.
The economy continues to be in shambles but some places it is going strong such as in Germany. American companies are showing some reasonable good bottom lines and many are pointing to how foreign income has been responsible for that. So many large corporations are multi-national which usually means jobs overseas and the unemployment line over here. Manufacturing reports so continuous sluggish or non growth. Now reports are from Fidelity that folks are dipping into their 401(k) to stay afloat.
The great grocery give away continues at Hannaford’s Super Market. I wonder if the anti’s participate?
Nice picture of Roger in the paper helping out at the Burt Wood School. I will refrain from the obvious cheap shot opportunities this presents.
Interesting that Allin’s letter regarding Marsha’s my way or the highway approach appears in the paper in conjunction with Mike Maddigan’s piece on the “Gag Rule.”
Wonderland is gone and a tip of the hat to those who voted to eliminate dog racing. Somehow all the hand wringing on doggie abuse really could not be found at the local tracks. When this measure was first proposed my knee jerk reaction was to support it until I actually talked to some of the folks who worked at the Raynham track. One of the trails I occasional run goes behind the track and that gave me the opportunity to take a gander at the housing quarters for the pooches. Not bad. Wandered over for a peek. A little investigation on my part convinced me this was animal activists gone loony. Now Wonderland has fallen victim to the fact our government could not compromise on a gaming issue. Next will be Raynham.
The Republicans offer little in the way of an alternative to the failed president and the absolute totally failed Democrats. They just have to sit back and say no, watch voter anger increase, look at the idiocy of Pelosi et al, watch the jobs reports continue to flounder, the body counts from Afghanistan escalate and wait for November. I didn’t think they’d have a snowballs chance of gaining control of Congress but that has gone from a long shot to even money - that is betting talk for you anti’s. Then when things screw up they can blame Obama. When election time nears why does the song “Send In The Clowns” stick in my h
The lowest number of work place deaths have been reported in almost 20 years. With the high unemployment this is a real shocker.
A poll shows that many Americans consider Obama a Muslim. I’ve listen to some of the Imam’s going full bore. Talk about hate speech that is laced with half truths, demagoguery, absurd conclusions and just plain old ranting (sounds like some anti’s) and you know president WOW could never listen to or subscribe to that. What’s that? Reverend Wright? Twenty years of listening to his ravings? OK…forget about the Imam’s.
My son emailed me from Iraq a day after it was announced that our combat troops have pulled out. He spoke of the motor attack, RPG attack and IED’s that hit his convoy. Yep…things are all quiet.
One hundred and four Democrats voted against the war funding bill - primarily for Afghanistan - and a few Republicans tagged along - too few - some Obama got his wish of amping up the fray. I would strongly urge that the administration seriously reconsider our continued involvement. Let them enjoy the attributes of 16th century life and if it becomes a Taliban stronghold - probably already is we know exactly where to find them. This is an endeavor we cannot win nor justify.
The economy continues to be in shambles but some places it is going strong such as in Germany. American companies are showing some reasonable good bottom lines and many are pointing to how foreign income has been responsible for that. So many large corporations are multi-national which usually means jobs overseas and the unemployment line over here. Manufacturing reports so continuous sluggish or non growth. Now reports are from Fidelity that folks are dipping into their 401(k) to stay afloat.
The great grocery give away continues at Hannaford’s Super Market. I wonder if the anti’s participate?
Nice picture of Roger in the paper helping out at the Burt Wood School. I will refrain from the obvious cheap shot opportunities this presents.
Interesting that Allin’s letter regarding Marsha’s my way or the highway approach appears in the paper in conjunction with Mike Maddigan’s piece on the “Gag Rule.”
Wonderland is gone and a tip of the hat to those who voted to eliminate dog racing. Somehow all the hand wringing on doggie abuse really could not be found at the local tracks. When this measure was first proposed my knee jerk reaction was to support it until I actually talked to some of the folks who worked at the Raynham track. One of the trails I occasional run goes behind the track and that gave me the opportunity to take a gander at the housing quarters for the pooches. Not bad. Wandered over for a peek. A little investigation on my part convinced me this was animal activists gone loony. Now Wonderland has fallen victim to the fact our government could not compromise on a gaming issue. Next will be Raynham.
The Republicans offer little in the way of an alternative to the failed president and the absolute totally failed Democrats. They just have to sit back and say no, watch voter anger increase, look at the idiocy of Pelosi et al, watch the jobs reports continue to flounder, the body counts from Afghanistan escalate and wait for November. I didn’t think they’d have a snowballs chance of gaining control of Congress but that has gone from a long shot to even money - that is betting talk for you anti’s. Then when things screw up they can blame Obama. When election time nears why does the song “Send In The Clowns” stick in my h
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