Four excellent candidates and that was reflected in the vote totals. A win-win situation for the voters. I can see that the two that supported the override lost and I’ll leave that connection alone. Not sure of the impact. Suo has already posted the impact of BB.
Tea Party (TP). How they have so flustered and enraged the Looney left (LL - not Limo) The TP has a message that resonates with many or at least part of the message does - expansion of government, taxation, entitlements, immigration, bailouts, excessive union influence - especially public unions and some others. You get the picture. There is something for everyone. Even someone highlighted on my sidebar expresses some economic policies that quite comfortable fit into the framework of the TP. I certainly find things I agree with and disagree with on the smorgasbord of talking points the TP has adopted. What happens is the LL crowd can’t separate the message from the messenger since the TP has managed to attract an element that have viewed themselves as being “disenfranchised.” This is quite a collection of religious extremist, isolations, assorted bigots, survivalist and others who have been cut from the herd or should be. What happens is the back door approach as they attempt to gain credibility and legitimacy by “joining” the TP movement that has some high profile members and has - or attempted to - take credit for certain political successes. The TP is inexperienced. They are a young group. They have an appeal that just may go across the board. That appeal will evaporate if they fail to deal with the far right loonies. They will end up like ACORN.
How to win points in a marriage. My wife has limited computer skills and the whole internet thing leaves her confused. I can at least navigate to web sites and do searches. Now my wife - The Lovely Cynthia - happens to be Polish. Not a mixed breed person like myself but a full scale Polish person. So what I have done is find Sunday morning Polish radio shows so she can listen to Polkas.
I was and still am a TV trivia expert except my base of knowledge stopped around 1980. I use to breeze through the TV puzzles that appear in the paper. Now? Can’t get a third of them done as I don’t recognize the shows or the “stars.” How can someone on a reality show be a star? They just film folks being idiots. I could read my blog and fit that category. Ship me the money and let’s do it!
Carney is pumping 100 Mil or so into the local economy dependant upon slots approval. His gin mill is in for 750 of the flashy noise makers. Now slots - that is putting something out front and center for the legislature to consider. His plans seem - at first glance - substantial. This is real jobs, new jobs, retention of old jobs and some more added to the tax rolls. One - If not my biggest complaints against slot enhanced gin mills is the fact that it is really just Income distribution. That philosophy seems awful close to the mindset of entitlement that seems to permeate the current administration by taking more and more from the responsible.
The top 20% in our country earn over eight times more money than the lowest 20%. Actually saw that in an article in The Herald when I managed to read something other than sports and The Track. This is the highest figure by far in any industrialized nation. Does that justify placing more of a financial burden on that upper 20%?
Obama made two great moves last week. One was granting off shore drilling and the other was the 68 Billion federal student loan program. The middleman banks are gone for loans that were virtually all guaranteed by the government anyways. More Pell Grant dough tossed in.
Jessie Powell (D-CL) had a great piece on the Greening of the Empire State Building. Later this month my wife - The Lovely Cynthia - and I will take our annual trek to NYC for Broadway shows and I am planning on a visit to the ESB and Skyscraper Museum.
Maybe it was at the BOS meeting? Not sure since I am old and association with BB has diminished my mental capacities but I heard the term “free money.” Is this something I can get? It turns out this money is either Federal or State and available for the proper amount of begging. I wonder where the government gets this money? Gee…this is just a wild guess but somehow it is connected to tax dollars. “Free?” LMBAO!
I understand that adding 32 million newly insured to the health care rolls will overtax the system. I really don’t buy that - yet. Many of those 32 million either use the ER, clinics or pay out of pocket. Many of the rest of us - held hostage by the 32 million - don’t necessarily use the system that much.
Will the remains of Jimmy Hoffa be discovered when they demolish Giants Stadium? As a ‘Jints fan I might just recommend they replace him with the roster of the 2010 NY Football Giants (via New Jersey).
I’ve never watched the TV show “Survivor.” My daughter does and from what I could gather the idea behind it is to lie, cheat and manipulate until you win. I thought CSPAN already did that covering Congress.
Sunday, April 4, 2010
Friday, April 2, 2010
Red Sox Review
Time to talk about the important stuff in life - The Boston Red Sox. What does 2010 hold besides increased ticket, food and parking prices? A few more seats have been added to Fenway along with much touch up to attempt to make a near 100 year old ballpark presentable. Just make the seats larger and get rid of the poles. Anyway the important thing is the team.
Woe is Red Sox nation over the loss of one Jason Bay who represents the ideal for multi generations of Boston fans - a right handed power hitter. The mentality in Boston has been ingrained for decades and that is to think hitting first. Sigh…you win with defense and the number one component of defense is pitching and that is where I will start.
This is a solid starting rotation with six pitchers capable of going into the 15+ range. Wakefield is restored to health, Lester was the best in the league from mid-May on, Beckett was 17-6 with an ERA under four and is pitching for a huge contract, Dice-K is in primo shape after looking like BB in 2009, Lackey is or was the ace of the Angels staff and Clay Buchholz is primed for a break out year. The starting staff has depth, experience and an excellent track record.
Papelbon remains a premier closer. One of the best and one of the soon to be wealthiest. To get to Papelbon the Sox will have holdovers Manny Delcarmen, Hideki Okajima, Daniel Bard and Ramon Ramirez once he returns from exile to the minors. That leaves two more slots and one appears to be firmly in the grip of Boof Bonzer and the other up for grabs among a plethora of vets looking for another payday, including old friend Alan Embree, who played for the 2004 and maybe the 1918 championship team. This is a very good relief corps that could be great or just average depending on who steps up or who steps down.
The projected starting nine for the Red Sox scored 789 runs and had 675 RBI last season. The entire team was 872/822 in 2009 and that run total was third best in the AL. That 789/675 represents a very favorable figure when coupled with anticipated pitching and an improved defense. So I am not all emotional about any anticipated offensive drop-off. Cameron will make up for some of the offensive loss as will a full season of Victor Martinez. The fill in players should boast that run/RBI total up to 2009 levels.
The infield is solid with Scuturo a new comer at SS, the pest of pest Dustin Pedroia at second, former Gold Glover Kevin Youklis at first and new comer Adrian Beltre at Third. Defensively this is an excellent infield. Maybe among the best in team history. Mike Lowell may stay around until he is traded or until Ortiz can prove his poor start in 2009 was an illusion. Bill Hall provides further infield and outfield support. Mr. Hall was once a dynamite power hitter just a few years back and could prove a valuable asset if key injuries surface.
My pick for surprise of the year is Jeremy Hermida. This former number one pick has languished in mediocrity in Florida but this is his big chance to get back on track. Hermida will get his games in since “Day to Day” Drew is a lock to miss a bundle and Mile Cameron is 37 which in baseball years translates to O-L-D. Both Cameron and Drew do have some punch so I feel, again, the slippage with the loss of Bay will be less than anticipated. Ellsbury has shifted to LF to make room for former Gold Glover Cameron to handle CF. Ellsbury has twice led the league in stolen bases and is a nightmare to opponents when he is on base. Ells is a legit .300 hitter who could and should score 100+ runs.
The catching has both Victor Martinez and team captain Jason Varitek. Varitek’s bat is now as weak as a BB post so he is there for giving a good 60 games while VMart will handle another 100 or so. VMart is also in a walk season and is a superior hitter who will get his .300/25/100. Neither is great at tossing out runners as the team had a MLB worse 13% nabbing attempted steals. Much of that is more a reflection of team philosophy rather than liabilities by the catchers.
Last is Papi. David Ortiz. The Designated Hitter. Oh the bitter disappointment of HGH use. Papi may be 36 or 34 or 38 or whatever years old. But despite a lousy 2009 he still had 29 homers and 99 RBI. Not bad. If he can be consistent the entire season he’ll be fine. If not Lowell is waiting. Papi is playing for a 12 million option for 2011 so the incentive is there. Greed motivates.
The Sox have added substantial payroll but also stand to shed substantial payroll after 2010 when Ortiz, Lowell, Beckett and dead money from past mistakes is off the books. That means that during the season the Sox can always negotiate with some baseball unfortunate wishing to dump a high end contract.
The Sox have the best manager possible for Boston. With hindsight I can point out plenty of failings but the reality is he keeps things cozy for the talent, racks up wins, handles the minor and major issues and is accessible to the media. Tito will take a bunch of hits to insulate his players from the media and as the saying goes “He’s a players manager.”
This team could probably take any other division in baseball but they reside in the AL East with the yankee$ and Rays. Look for 95+ wins and another playoff appearance. AL East finish is NY, Boston, Tampa, Baltimore and Toronto. Sox get the Wild Card and win the ALCS.
Woe is Red Sox nation over the loss of one Jason Bay who represents the ideal for multi generations of Boston fans - a right handed power hitter. The mentality in Boston has been ingrained for decades and that is to think hitting first. Sigh…you win with defense and the number one component of defense is pitching and that is where I will start.
This is a solid starting rotation with six pitchers capable of going into the 15+ range. Wakefield is restored to health, Lester was the best in the league from mid-May on, Beckett was 17-6 with an ERA under four and is pitching for a huge contract, Dice-K is in primo shape after looking like BB in 2009, Lackey is or was the ace of the Angels staff and Clay Buchholz is primed for a break out year. The starting staff has depth, experience and an excellent track record.
Papelbon remains a premier closer. One of the best and one of the soon to be wealthiest. To get to Papelbon the Sox will have holdovers Manny Delcarmen, Hideki Okajima, Daniel Bard and Ramon Ramirez once he returns from exile to the minors. That leaves two more slots and one appears to be firmly in the grip of Boof Bonzer and the other up for grabs among a plethora of vets looking for another payday, including old friend Alan Embree, who played for the 2004 and maybe the 1918 championship team. This is a very good relief corps that could be great or just average depending on who steps up or who steps down.
The projected starting nine for the Red Sox scored 789 runs and had 675 RBI last season. The entire team was 872/822 in 2009 and that run total was third best in the AL. That 789/675 represents a very favorable figure when coupled with anticipated pitching and an improved defense. So I am not all emotional about any anticipated offensive drop-off. Cameron will make up for some of the offensive loss as will a full season of Victor Martinez. The fill in players should boast that run/RBI total up to 2009 levels.
The infield is solid with Scuturo a new comer at SS, the pest of pest Dustin Pedroia at second, former Gold Glover Kevin Youklis at first and new comer Adrian Beltre at Third. Defensively this is an excellent infield. Maybe among the best in team history. Mike Lowell may stay around until he is traded or until Ortiz can prove his poor start in 2009 was an illusion. Bill Hall provides further infield and outfield support. Mr. Hall was once a dynamite power hitter just a few years back and could prove a valuable asset if key injuries surface.
My pick for surprise of the year is Jeremy Hermida. This former number one pick has languished in mediocrity in Florida but this is his big chance to get back on track. Hermida will get his games in since “Day to Day” Drew is a lock to miss a bundle and Mile Cameron is 37 which in baseball years translates to O-L-D. Both Cameron and Drew do have some punch so I feel, again, the slippage with the loss of Bay will be less than anticipated. Ellsbury has shifted to LF to make room for former Gold Glover Cameron to handle CF. Ellsbury has twice led the league in stolen bases and is a nightmare to opponents when he is on base. Ells is a legit .300 hitter who could and should score 100+ runs.
The catching has both Victor Martinez and team captain Jason Varitek. Varitek’s bat is now as weak as a BB post so he is there for giving a good 60 games while VMart will handle another 100 or so. VMart is also in a walk season and is a superior hitter who will get his .300/25/100. Neither is great at tossing out runners as the team had a MLB worse 13% nabbing attempted steals. Much of that is more a reflection of team philosophy rather than liabilities by the catchers.
Last is Papi. David Ortiz. The Designated Hitter. Oh the bitter disappointment of HGH use. Papi may be 36 or 34 or 38 or whatever years old. But despite a lousy 2009 he still had 29 homers and 99 RBI. Not bad. If he can be consistent the entire season he’ll be fine. If not Lowell is waiting. Papi is playing for a 12 million option for 2011 so the incentive is there. Greed motivates.
The Sox have added substantial payroll but also stand to shed substantial payroll after 2010 when Ortiz, Lowell, Beckett and dead money from past mistakes is off the books. That means that during the season the Sox can always negotiate with some baseball unfortunate wishing to dump a high end contract.
The Sox have the best manager possible for Boston. With hindsight I can point out plenty of failings but the reality is he keeps things cozy for the talent, racks up wins, handles the minor and major issues and is accessible to the media. Tito will take a bunch of hits to insulate his players from the media and as the saying goes “He’s a players manager.”
This team could probably take any other division in baseball but they reside in the AL East with the yankee$ and Rays. Look for 95+ wins and another playoff appearance. AL East finish is NY, Boston, Tampa, Baltimore and Toronto. Sox get the Wild Card and win the ALCS.
Friday, March 26, 2010
Fat Ladies/Ice Tea/Labeling/SciFi/Financial/"1623"
I read about a woman who weighs 600 pounds and plans on bulking up to weigh a half ton! Where or where are the nutritional police on this one?
I have an addiction and it is ice tea. I may drink six glasses a day and when I say glasses I mean 44ounce type. I usually buy Lipton Diet with lemon. Then I’ll add my own lemon slice and a package of Sweet & Low. Plenty of crushed ice.
I just admire the code words that introduce some political diatribes. You know the ones - socialist….racist…trash the Constitution….homophobic…Rush…..Hollywood elitist……Beck…..and so on. This is just a snippet from what I see from the far left and far right and IMO the far left employs it considerably more extensive. You could make quite a collection of them - like trading cards. These represent a mantra that has to be learned and usually is the domain of folks who have not had an original thought in their entire lives.
Decades ago I was involved in the “Mock U.N.” No….not mocking the U.N. but having students actually run a model U.N. The first one I was involved with actually took place at Middleboro High School and there were students from a plethora of school systems. The person who was the real driving force behind our presentation was a Debate Club organized and judged competitions. I watched him prep students and he used a term to describe the above and it is called “labeling.” I remember him warning students never to employ that tactic since it directly shows a lack of substance, competence and intellect. I find myself - like most of us - falling into that trap on occasion. Some never do learn.
Continuing along the pattern established in the two previous paragraphs is another tactic which I have posted on and that is called “Deflection.” Somewhere in the past messes on this blog it can be located. Maybe Adam Bond will actually create a post or two on his blog on some of these maneuvers since this is an important component in law schools. I admittedly know little about it. My method of debate was always to name call and then excuse my insolent behaviors my claiming I have a caustic and arrogant personality. Sound familiar?
I was cruising the local blogs and noticed that Carl Pierce - otherwise affectionately known as “1623” is involved with the local Tea Party movement. I would very much welcome any input he may have regarding that organization since some others feel it is one step removed from Neo-Nazi’s. Maybe he can be one of those posters that BB has the welcome mat out for? I’ve seen some of the Tea Party folks on TV and they didn’t seem to be any skin heads among them. No doubt there is an element within the group that needs to be cut from the herd - much like some of the homophobic and racist comments I have heard at Democratic rallies.
When you think Science Fiction what writers come to your mind? (pause) Do you know who Connie Willis is? Ms. Willis has been honored with six Nebula Awards (more than any other science fiction writer) and six Hugo Awards. Doomsday Book and Lincoln’s Dreams are remarkable works.
Now that the health care debate is diminishing - Jessie James and Sandra Bullock got significantly more traffic two days after passage - the real sink or swim will return to what it always was - the economy, stupid. Housing is a disaster as starts continue to languish and that is with all sorts of incentives. Unemployment and underemployment have stabilized simply because there is little left to cut. The trickle down economics of the administrations various job programs have had little impact but to create more crushing debt. The administration has been dead wrong on the economy from the beginning by vastly under estimating the scope of recovery and the depths of despair. This coupled with residual anger over health care could easily translate into significant Congressional losses in the fall.
I enjoy investing in stocks which provides a far better gambling rush than a casino - I just wish I had an all you can eat buffet and E-Trade, Fidelity and TD would occasional comp me. I have been directing more resources (money) into ETF's since some frustration exists over purchasing the singular versus the broad based. Currently I just run comparisons between my own selected buys and the broad base of the indexes. I will also split similar groups in mutual funds. For example I may wish to buy a fund that specializes in large cap companies. After comparing costs and performance I will not buy one but divide among two or three. This is a strategy that financial advisors frown upon but I have noticed results can be sharply different between funds with similar targets
I have an addiction and it is ice tea. I may drink six glasses a day and when I say glasses I mean 44ounce type. I usually buy Lipton Diet with lemon. Then I’ll add my own lemon slice and a package of Sweet & Low. Plenty of crushed ice.
I just admire the code words that introduce some political diatribes. You know the ones - socialist….racist…trash the Constitution….homophobic…Rush…..Hollywood elitist……Beck…..and so on. This is just a snippet from what I see from the far left and far right and IMO the far left employs it considerably more extensive. You could make quite a collection of them - like trading cards. These represent a mantra that has to be learned and usually is the domain of folks who have not had an original thought in their entire lives.
Decades ago I was involved in the “Mock U.N.” No….not mocking the U.N. but having students actually run a model U.N. The first one I was involved with actually took place at Middleboro High School and there were students from a plethora of school systems. The person who was the real driving force behind our presentation was a Debate Club organized and judged competitions. I watched him prep students and he used a term to describe the above and it is called “labeling.” I remember him warning students never to employ that tactic since it directly shows a lack of substance, competence and intellect. I find myself - like most of us - falling into that trap on occasion. Some never do learn.
Continuing along the pattern established in the two previous paragraphs is another tactic which I have posted on and that is called “Deflection.” Somewhere in the past messes on this blog it can be located. Maybe Adam Bond will actually create a post or two on his blog on some of these maneuvers since this is an important component in law schools. I admittedly know little about it. My method of debate was always to name call and then excuse my insolent behaviors my claiming I have a caustic and arrogant personality. Sound familiar?
I was cruising the local blogs and noticed that Carl Pierce - otherwise affectionately known as “1623” is involved with the local Tea Party movement. I would very much welcome any input he may have regarding that organization since some others feel it is one step removed from Neo-Nazi’s. Maybe he can be one of those posters that BB has the welcome mat out for? I’ve seen some of the Tea Party folks on TV and they didn’t seem to be any skin heads among them. No doubt there is an element within the group that needs to be cut from the herd - much like some of the homophobic and racist comments I have heard at Democratic rallies.
When you think Science Fiction what writers come to your mind? (pause) Do you know who Connie Willis is? Ms. Willis has been honored with six Nebula Awards (more than any other science fiction writer) and six Hugo Awards. Doomsday Book and Lincoln’s Dreams are remarkable works.
Now that the health care debate is diminishing - Jessie James and Sandra Bullock got significantly more traffic two days after passage - the real sink or swim will return to what it always was - the economy, stupid. Housing is a disaster as starts continue to languish and that is with all sorts of incentives. Unemployment and underemployment have stabilized simply because there is little left to cut. The trickle down economics of the administrations various job programs have had little impact but to create more crushing debt. The administration has been dead wrong on the economy from the beginning by vastly under estimating the scope of recovery and the depths of despair. This coupled with residual anger over health care could easily translate into significant Congressional losses in the fall.
I enjoy investing in stocks which provides a far better gambling rush than a casino - I just wish I had an all you can eat buffet and E-Trade, Fidelity and TD would occasional comp me. I have been directing more resources (money) into ETF's since some frustration exists over purchasing the singular versus the broad based. Currently I just run comparisons between my own selected buys and the broad base of the indexes. I will also split similar groups in mutual funds. For example I may wish to buy a fund that specializes in large cap companies. After comparing costs and performance I will not buy one but divide among two or three. This is a strategy that financial advisors frown upon but I have noticed results can be sharply different between funds with similar targets
Sunday, March 21, 2010
Health Care/Woloski/Casino Poll/American Idol
The complexities of the health care provisions in local contracts cannot be dismissed on a whim or by some type of local executive fiat. Many of these provisions were negotiated for decades as more and more concessions were made to improve the benefit structure and now the wheel is spinning the other way and pressure is being applied to diminish the financial contributions of the town and conversely increase that of the employees. Can a viable argument be presented to justify increased employee contributions? Locally I think it is apparent that it has. The health premiums have become burdensome and that coupled with decreased revenues, less state aide and a general fiscal malaise has created the perfect storm for a serious examination of the issue. That means the issue is being squarely tossed into the lap of assorted unions who must face the reality of concessions or job elimination. Famed labor activist - Samuel Gompers - was once asked what unions wanted? His reply was one word: “More.” Now may be the time to say “Less.”
On the above the one item of real interest is concern for those retired. COLA is rare or limited on the pensions so a rapid increase in health premiums or inflation can erode rather quickly any income. A retired teacher of 20 years has a very limited income.
Bank Of America wrongly foreclosed on a house in Pennsylvania and while the home owner was out for the day had one of their contractors enter the premises and disconnect utilities and change the locks. The contractor also took the owners pet parrot. Despite numerous calls to BOA it took a week for her to retrieve the pet and she had to do it by driving to the contractors business. BOA was less than responsive during this whole ordeal and is now being sued for $50,000. Now if this was a pet dog I know just the firm that could have grabbed seven figures on this.
In Attleboro single stream recycling - implemented seven months ago - is being credited with a reduction in trash tonnage and a significant increase in recycling. Prior to the program recycle accounted for 5% of pickup and not it is 30%. When will single cycle start in Middleboro?
Brockton Enterprise Driving section profiled a Mercedes - Benz 300SLS Coupe that sells well north of $200,000. I’m sure there is a big market in the area for them. Do they come in yellow?
Latest poll results from Dartmouth show about a two to one support for DeLeo and his expanded gaming proposal. I’m sure some anti’s will jump all over the source regarding his “data” but this are the same folks who actually believe some of the manure dished out by Jessie Powell regarding “facts.”
What a great weekend! No…not the weather! I was at Hannaford’s and two folks were collecting signatures for a Republican to run against Barnet Frank (D- Lie upon lie). Not only a Republican but one from Brookline. I thought they were extinct.
Woloski Park has become the Middleboro Katrina without the drama. Eight homes flooded.
I have never watched American Idol except for a five minute segment here and there over the years. Exception was last week when I found out they were going to do Rolling Stones songs. Great presentation by all.
Decades ago I saw The Stones at the old Boston Garden in a show that was delayed for hours. I found it comical watching Mick Jagger at well under six feet and weighing 135 pounds strutting around the stage doing his rendition of “Street Fighting Man” with an attitude.
Looks like a certain blogger has hired on the editorial staff of
On the above the one item of real interest is concern for those retired. COLA is rare or limited on the pensions so a rapid increase in health premiums or inflation can erode rather quickly any income. A retired teacher of 20 years has a very limited income.
Bank Of America wrongly foreclosed on a house in Pennsylvania and while the home owner was out for the day had one of their contractors enter the premises and disconnect utilities and change the locks. The contractor also took the owners pet parrot. Despite numerous calls to BOA it took a week for her to retrieve the pet and she had to do it by driving to the contractors business. BOA was less than responsive during this whole ordeal and is now being sued for $50,000. Now if this was a pet dog I know just the firm that could have grabbed seven figures on this.
In Attleboro single stream recycling - implemented seven months ago - is being credited with a reduction in trash tonnage and a significant increase in recycling. Prior to the program recycle accounted for 5% of pickup and not it is 30%. When will single cycle start in Middleboro?
Brockton Enterprise Driving section profiled a Mercedes - Benz 300SLS Coupe that sells well north of $200,000. I’m sure there is a big market in the area for them. Do they come in yellow?
Latest poll results from Dartmouth show about a two to one support for DeLeo and his expanded gaming proposal. I’m sure some anti’s will jump all over the source regarding his “data” but this are the same folks who actually believe some of the manure dished out by Jessie Powell regarding “facts.”
What a great weekend! No…not the weather! I was at Hannaford’s and two folks were collecting signatures for a Republican to run against Barnet Frank (D- Lie upon lie). Not only a Republican but one from Brookline. I thought they were extinct.
Woloski Park has become the Middleboro Katrina without the drama. Eight homes flooded.
I have never watched American Idol except for a five minute segment here and there over the years. Exception was last week when I found out they were going to do Rolling Stones songs. Great presentation by all.
Decades ago I saw The Stones at the old Boston Garden in a show that was delayed for hours. I found it comical watching Mick Jagger at well under six feet and weighing 135 pounds strutting around the stage doing his rendition of “Street Fighting Man” with an attitude.
Looks like a certain blogger has hired on the editorial staff of
Saturday, March 13, 2010
Ides Of March Or Close Enough
“It’s much more expensive to add an employee in Massachusetts than elsewhere in the world, and we have offices in more than 20 countries.” A quote via The Herald from Liberty Mutual CEO Ted Kelly.
Politicians seem very efficient at one thing in particular - getting more perks for themselves.
There may be ballot questions on lowering the state sales tax and slashing the state income tax. The sales tax was a temporary 3% instituted under the reign of John Volpe. The ballot initiative on the income tax was ignore as many others have been.
Plainville Race Track has added 800 parking spaces in anticipation of slots.
Scott Brown has a 70% approval rating. Didn’t President WOW have one like that 14 months ago?
I no longer accept solicitations over the phone. If it is a local charity I will go to their site and make a contribution.
Wall Street is improving which is great news for the unemployed and underemployed if it is translated to jobs. So far I am a bundle of skepticism on that.
For about the 30th year in a row or so I missed the Academy Awards. Saw a bit about ads for that are as expensive as for the Super Bowl.
The BOS race is shaping up as an interesting one. I think the turnout may actually top 20% with the override issue on the ballot.
Warren Buffett succinctly summarized health care: “ If it was a choice today between Plan A, which is what we’ve got, or Plan B, what is in front of the Senate bill, I would vote for the Senate bill. But I would much rather see a Plan C that really attacks costs.”
Several local communities were honored for their town web sites. The exclusion of Middleboro must have been an oversight.
I like the colors black and yellow. I was planning on an awards dinner for campaign signage but the scheduled date was the 27th of March so the BB concert will take prescidence. I mean it’ll be more hectic at the Flat Iron than when Scott Brown showed. Anyways, I commend Frawley as having the best sign. Black background and smaller print forces you to read it. See…these are the truly important things in my life.
An ongoing issue in Brockton is a business owner who has installed artificial grass rather than the real stuff. As a taxpayer in Brockton my sympathies were clearly with the business that provides jobs and is actually a spiffy clean place. Give the guy a variance.
On the above issue I contacted the City Council. Only two list an email address and I sent an email expressing my opinion. Both replied within a half hour. I may not be 100% satisfied with their response but both are certainly responsible.
Town Meeting will have several interesting items for discussion.
John Kerry has jointly sponsored an alternative to the Cap and Trade disaster that appears - at least to me - quite a moderation over the original legislation. As with most bills we are limited to summaries but if this gets support it appears less invasive.
Politicians seem very efficient at one thing in particular - getting more perks for themselves.
There may be ballot questions on lowering the state sales tax and slashing the state income tax. The sales tax was a temporary 3% instituted under the reign of John Volpe. The ballot initiative on the income tax was ignore as many others have been.
Plainville Race Track has added 800 parking spaces in anticipation of slots.
Scott Brown has a 70% approval rating. Didn’t President WOW have one like that 14 months ago?
I no longer accept solicitations over the phone. If it is a local charity I will go to their site and make a contribution.
Wall Street is improving which is great news for the unemployed and underemployed if it is translated to jobs. So far I am a bundle of skepticism on that.
For about the 30th year in a row or so I missed the Academy Awards. Saw a bit about ads for that are as expensive as for the Super Bowl.
The BOS race is shaping up as an interesting one. I think the turnout may actually top 20% with the override issue on the ballot.
Warren Buffett succinctly summarized health care: “ If it was a choice today between Plan A, which is what we’ve got, or Plan B, what is in front of the Senate bill, I would vote for the Senate bill. But I would much rather see a Plan C that really attacks costs.”
Several local communities were honored for their town web sites. The exclusion of Middleboro must have been an oversight.
I like the colors black and yellow. I was planning on an awards dinner for campaign signage but the scheduled date was the 27th of March so the BB concert will take prescidence. I mean it’ll be more hectic at the Flat Iron than when Scott Brown showed. Anyways, I commend Frawley as having the best sign. Black background and smaller print forces you to read it. See…these are the truly important things in my life.
An ongoing issue in Brockton is a business owner who has installed artificial grass rather than the real stuff. As a taxpayer in Brockton my sympathies were clearly with the business that provides jobs and is actually a spiffy clean place. Give the guy a variance.
On the above issue I contacted the City Council. Only two list an email address and I sent an email expressing my opinion. Both replied within a half hour. I may not be 100% satisfied with their response but both are certainly responsible.
Town Meeting will have several interesting items for discussion.
John Kerry has jointly sponsored an alternative to the Cap and Trade disaster that appears - at least to me - quite a moderation over the original legislation. As with most bills we are limited to summaries but if this gets support it appears less invasive.
Sunday, March 7, 2010
A Posting Spring Training
Full body scanners at Fortress Logan. Great. I can see me being held up in the scanner while the female TSA agents crowd around the screen and point and laugh.
Why doesn’t Middleboro have any hack holidays? Maybe the BOS can inaugurate one in honor of “Billy Fallon’s” great legal victory?
1001 Ways to Die is about as perverse as a TV show can get - yet I actually enjoy it. My wife - The Lovely Cynthia - thinks it is total trash but will often be mesmerized by some of the stories.
Spring training has begun and now the various reporters will file endless fluff pieces to justify their two weeks or so “vacation.”
My own spring training is to hone my rapier like wit, sharpen my harpoon and get a refill on my how to be obnoxious pills.
Local election is coming up in about a month and the interest level seems nil. Although some political signs has appeared on lawns.
Short term performance (less than a year) will soon be off the charts for stocks and mutual funds. Always check the three to five year performance.
Bank of America honcho Brian Moynihan is praising Barney Frank (D- YouTube) for his leadership in the financial crisis and “recovery.” Just another reason to bank local.
I am quickly starting to subscribe to the notion that optimism decreases and cynicism increases with age.
The IRS has always been to be the perfect example of an excessive and vindictive government agency but their online resources are excellent. Tax question inquiries are answered within a few days with many references given and the site is fairly easy to navigate.
The RMV has instituted a $5 fee for any personalized service. More of the same nickel and dime tactics that are so symptomatic of this state. Governor “One And Out” just doesn’t get it. At least they canned it but they just don’t get it.
“Billy Flynn” finally updated his online resume.
No Saturday mail delivery? I’d go for a Tuesday - Thursday - Saturday every other day schedule.
I love the irony that exists with Sal DiMasi being a “hero” of anti’s over his anti gaming stance and a portion of that is based in the ever present corruption that is associated with gambling. And Sal turns out to be a crook!
Barking dog surgery bans is on the legislative schedule. I wonder if Adam’s clients are involved?
Central Falls, R.I. Is a community that has a multitude of problems that run the usual gamut from excessive poverty to high unemployment. The one significant place where a change can be initiated is the school system. That has not happened. Drastic steps have been taken and the various teachers unions better get use to it - this will be the ultimate accountability.
Why doesn’t Middleboro have any hack holidays? Maybe the BOS can inaugurate one in honor of “Billy Fallon’s” great legal victory?
1001 Ways to Die is about as perverse as a TV show can get - yet I actually enjoy it. My wife - The Lovely Cynthia - thinks it is total trash but will often be mesmerized by some of the stories.
Spring training has begun and now the various reporters will file endless fluff pieces to justify their two weeks or so “vacation.”
My own spring training is to hone my rapier like wit, sharpen my harpoon and get a refill on my how to be obnoxious pills.
Local election is coming up in about a month and the interest level seems nil. Although some political signs has appeared on lawns.
Short term performance (less than a year) will soon be off the charts for stocks and mutual funds. Always check the three to five year performance.
Bank of America honcho Brian Moynihan is praising Barney Frank (D- YouTube) for his leadership in the financial crisis and “recovery.” Just another reason to bank local.
I am quickly starting to subscribe to the notion that optimism decreases and cynicism increases with age.
The IRS has always been to be the perfect example of an excessive and vindictive government agency but their online resources are excellent. Tax question inquiries are answered within a few days with many references given and the site is fairly easy to navigate.
The RMV has instituted a $5 fee for any personalized service. More of the same nickel and dime tactics that are so symptomatic of this state. Governor “One And Out” just doesn’t get it. At least they canned it but they just don’t get it.
“Billy Flynn” finally updated his online resume.
No Saturday mail delivery? I’d go for a Tuesday - Thursday - Saturday every other day schedule.
I love the irony that exists with Sal DiMasi being a “hero” of anti’s over his anti gaming stance and a portion of that is based in the ever present corruption that is associated with gambling. And Sal turns out to be a crook!
Barking dog surgery bans is on the legislative schedule. I wonder if Adam’s clients are involved?
Central Falls, R.I. Is a community that has a multitude of problems that run the usual gamut from excessive poverty to high unemployment. The one significant place where a change can be initiated is the school system. That has not happened. Drastic steps have been taken and the various teachers unions better get use to it - this will be the ultimate accountability.
Monday, March 1, 2010
March Madness
Repackaging is a gimmick employed by some businesses to make a product look new, fresh and up to date. You redesign the package and reword it but make now apparent change to the product accept downsizing it. Most consumers are readily aware of what has taken place and are savvy enough to realize what is going on. This is exactly what Obama is attempting to do with ObamaCare II. This type of repackaging is laughable.
On the above what is amazing is size shrinkage. Ice cream has gone from 64 ounces to 48 is an example of just one of thousands of products that have been downsized while the price has been increased. Some have even placed emphasis of labeling in metrics in large bold and minimizing Old English measurements in hopes of confusing consumers. Again, laughable.
What is going on with the local override? I see a few letters in the paper but little else. I see nothing on their web site (link on sidebar). There is one informational session scheduled for 3/9 according to the Gazette but little else. Effective override campaigns take months and sometimes multiple tries. This one right now is starting to take on all the images of the illustrious CPA campaign.
I recently booked a flight one way from Denver to San Francisco. After considerable research the lowest fare was $99 for a non stop on Mid West Airlines operated by Frontier Air. You go to the Frontier web site and the same flight has a fare of $129! This is not unusual especially with air fares.
Much is being made lately of flawed research especially in the area of medicine. Researchers tweaking data to allow grants not to dry up. Now the great global warming debate takes on an aura of suspicion with more and more information being released showing the scientific method was virtually non existent. Sounds a lot like some of the “research” that Jessie Powell instituted on behalf of the anti’s to promulgate the casino issue.
With Toyota it comes down to how much they knew and when they knew it. Maybe “Billy Fallon” can enlighten us all on those issues? Anyways, the company is starting to look almost American like in their evasiveness and denial. I saw one Congressman on TV jumping all over their executives and then they flashed his name and the following: D-Michigan! That explains a lot right there.
I have some mixed emotions about the recent changes to credit card laws as a good portion of all the misery is poor personal decision making and financial planning. There are some who have abused the system out of necessity but for most it is based on stupidity. Banks have long seen the cards as a potential cash cow with a variety of fees and escalating merchant charges. Bottom line is if you do not make the minimum payment any new laws have no impact on your situation.
Since I have never had an original thought in my life maybe I should copy Bumpkin and invite guest columnists?
I am still clueless about Facebook.
Those Canadian hockey gals know how to celebrate.
Rotary auction time is coming up. Big chance to clean out your cellar.
To Joshua and all of the 144th stay safe.
On the above what is amazing is size shrinkage. Ice cream has gone from 64 ounces to 48 is an example of just one of thousands of products that have been downsized while the price has been increased. Some have even placed emphasis of labeling in metrics in large bold and minimizing Old English measurements in hopes of confusing consumers. Again, laughable.
What is going on with the local override? I see a few letters in the paper but little else. I see nothing on their web site (link on sidebar). There is one informational session scheduled for 3/9 according to the Gazette but little else. Effective override campaigns take months and sometimes multiple tries. This one right now is starting to take on all the images of the illustrious CPA campaign.
I recently booked a flight one way from Denver to San Francisco. After considerable research the lowest fare was $99 for a non stop on Mid West Airlines operated by Frontier Air. You go to the Frontier web site and the same flight has a fare of $129! This is not unusual especially with air fares.
Much is being made lately of flawed research especially in the area of medicine. Researchers tweaking data to allow grants not to dry up. Now the great global warming debate takes on an aura of suspicion with more and more information being released showing the scientific method was virtually non existent. Sounds a lot like some of the “research” that Jessie Powell instituted on behalf of the anti’s to promulgate the casino issue.
With Toyota it comes down to how much they knew and when they knew it. Maybe “Billy Fallon” can enlighten us all on those issues? Anyways, the company is starting to look almost American like in their evasiveness and denial. I saw one Congressman on TV jumping all over their executives and then they flashed his name and the following: D-Michigan! That explains a lot right there.
I have some mixed emotions about the recent changes to credit card laws as a good portion of all the misery is poor personal decision making and financial planning. There are some who have abused the system out of necessity but for most it is based on stupidity. Banks have long seen the cards as a potential cash cow with a variety of fees and escalating merchant charges. Bottom line is if you do not make the minimum payment any new laws have no impact on your situation.
Since I have never had an original thought in my life maybe I should copy Bumpkin and invite guest columnists?
I am still clueless about Facebook.
Those Canadian hockey gals know how to celebrate.
Rotary auction time is coming up. Big chance to clean out your cellar.
To Joshua and all of the 144th stay safe.
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