10 Things You Get Now That Obamacare Survived | Mother Jones
10 ways Obama's health care law will impact the healthy and sick, young and old, rich and poor. http://lnkd.in/3XeyS4
Saturday, June 30, 2012
Some States Reluctant Over Medicaid Expansion - NYTimes.com
Some States Reluctant Over Medicaid Expansion - NYTimes.com
Millions of poor people could be left without med insurance under health care law if states decide not to expand Medicaid programs. Republicans in more than a half-dozen states said they opposed expanding Medicaid, even though the federal government would pick up all the costs in the first few years & at least 90% of the expenses after that. http://www.nytimes.com/2012/06/30/us/politics/some-states-reluctant-over-medicaid-expansion.html?smid=fb-share
Millions of poor people could be left without med insurance under health care law if states decide not to expand Medicaid programs. Republicans in more than a half-dozen states said they opposed expanding Medicaid, even though the federal government would pick up all the costs in the first few years & at least 90% of the expenses after that. http://www.nytimes.com/2012/06/30/us/politics/some-states-reluctant-over-medicaid-expansion.html?smid=fb-share
Can Corporate Values Drive Shareholder Value? with Starbucks CEO Howard Schultz - Aspen Ideas Festival
Can Corporate Values Drive Shareholder Value? with Starbucks CEO Howard Schultz - Aspen Ideas Festival
Can Corporate Values Drive Shareholder Value? Balancing profit with a social conscience, featuring Starbucks CEO Howard Schultz.
Can Corporate Values Drive Shareholder Value? Balancing profit with a social conscience, featuring Starbucks CEO Howard Schultz.
Friday, June 29, 2012
Did Justice Roberts Set Booby-Traps in His Commerce Clause Ruling? | The Nation
Did Justice Roberts Set Booby-Traps in His Commerce Clause Ruling? | The Nation
The “tax, yes/Commerce Clause, no” decision [in Robert's health care ruling] is nothing to necessarily celebrate. Justice Ruth Bader Ginsberg, joined by Justices Stephen Breyer, Sonia Sotomayor and Elena Kagan, wrote separately, arguing against Chief Justice John Roberts’s opinion: “The Chief Justice’s crabbed reading of the Commerce Clause harks back to the era in which the Court routinely thwarted Congress’ efforts to regulate the national economy in the interest of those who labor to sustain it.” Did, in fact, Roberts lay the groundwork for “gutting the Commerce Clause,” as Tom Scocca writes in Slate? [http://www.slate.com/articles/news_and_politics/scocca/2012/06/roberts_health_care_opinion_commerce_clause_the_real_reason_the_chief_justice_upheld_obamacare_.html]
"But the health care law was, ultimately, a pretext. This was a test case for the long-standing—but previously fringe—campaign to rewrite Congress’ regulatory powers under the Commerce Clause…
"By ruling that the individual mandate was permissible as a tax, he joined the Democratic appointees to uphold the law—while joining the Republican wing to gut the Commerce Clause…"
The “tax, yes/Commerce Clause, no” decision [in Robert's health care ruling] is nothing to necessarily celebrate. Justice Ruth Bader Ginsberg, joined by Justices Stephen Breyer, Sonia Sotomayor and Elena Kagan, wrote separately, arguing against Chief Justice John Roberts’s opinion: “The Chief Justice’s crabbed reading of the Commerce Clause harks back to the era in which the Court routinely thwarted Congress’ efforts to regulate the national economy in the interest of those who labor to sustain it.” Did, in fact, Roberts lay the groundwork for “gutting the Commerce Clause,” as Tom Scocca writes in Slate? [http://www.slate.com/articles/news_and_politics/scocca/2012/06/roberts_health_care_opinion_commerce_clause_the_real_reason_the_chief_justice_upheld_obamacare_.html]
"But the health care law was, ultimately, a pretext. This was a test case for the long-standing—but previously fringe—campaign to rewrite Congress’ regulatory powers under the Commerce Clause…
"By ruling that the individual mandate was permissible as a tax, he joined the Democratic appointees to uphold the law—while joining the Republican wing to gut the Commerce Clause…"
Justice Roberts's Decision Is Not for Cheering | The Nation
Justice Roberts's Decision Is Not for Cheering | The Nation
The general jubilation among liberals over Justice Roberts’s ruling makes some progressives shudder. Justice Ruth Bader Ginsberg, writing in her lengthy dissent puts it this way:
THE CHIEF JUSTICE’s crabbed reading of the Commerce Clause harks back to the era in which the Court routinely thwarted Congress’ efforts to regulate the national economy in the interest of those who labor to sustain it.
There are booby traps in the Court’s Commerce Clause reading. Those traps are baited and ready for tripping in the Medicaid part of the ruling.
http://www.thenation.com/blog/168664/justice-robertss-decision-not-cheering#
The general jubilation among liberals over Justice Roberts’s ruling makes some progressives shudder. Justice Ruth Bader Ginsberg, writing in her lengthy dissent puts it this way:
THE CHIEF JUSTICE’s crabbed reading of the Commerce Clause harks back to the era in which the Court routinely thwarted Congress’ efforts to regulate the national economy in the interest of those who labor to sustain it.
There are booby traps in the Court’s Commerce Clause reading. Those traps are baited and ready for tripping in the Medicaid part of the ruling.
http://www.thenation.com/blog/168664/justice-robertss-decision-not-cheering#
Members of Congress launch anti-bullying caucus
Members of Congress launch anti-bullying caucus | Washington Blade - America's Leading Gay News Source
Members of Congress launch anti-bullying caucus
A bipartisan group of House lawmakers led by Rep. Mike Honda (D-Calif.) launched an anti-bullying caucus that aims to draw attention to LGBT youth & others who experience harassment.
http://www.washingtonblade.com/2012/06/29/members-of-congress-launch-anti-bullying-caucus/
Members of Congress launch anti-bullying caucus
A bipartisan group of House lawmakers led by Rep. Mike Honda (D-Calif.) launched an anti-bullying caucus that aims to draw attention to LGBT youth & others who experience harassment.
http://www.washingtonblade.com/2012/06/29/members-of-congress-launch-anti-bullying-caucus/
Dashboard ‹ What's new — WordPress
Dashboard ‹ What's new — WordPress
Health Care Dissent. Romney agrees with dissent. Dissent tosses out entire law.
http://huff.to/LTuYCe
Health Care Dissent. Romney agrees with dissent. Dissent tosses out entire law.
http://huff.to/LTuYCe
Sick of the Slant - A Fair Look at the News of the Day, ObamaCare
Sick of the Slant - A Fair Look at the News of the Day
Obama obviously did not push the Affordable Heath Act "because it was good politics." Look at what happened in the Congressional election in 2010. Obama acted on principles, not politics. I'm so happy that the Supreme Court upheld the law as being constitutional.
(Albert) No aircraft carrier, no flight suit, no throngs of sycophants cheering his every word.
The man used every cent of his political capital to help this country. He put his entire presidency on the line.
He was right.
His first words today weren't "I won", his first words were, "America won".
https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=495239320501755&set=a.163029403722750.42222.134525006573190&type=1&theater
Obama obviously did not push the Affordable Heath Act "because it was good politics." Look at what happened in the Congressional election in 2010. Obama acted on principles, not politics. I'm so happy that the Supreme Court upheld the law as being constitutional.
(Albert) No aircraft carrier, no flight suit, no throngs of sycophants cheering his every word.
The man used every cent of his political capital to help this country. He put his entire presidency on the line.
He was right.
His first words today weren't "I won", his first words were, "America won".
https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=495239320501755&set=a.163029403722750.42222.134525006573190&type=1&theater
Reid calls Paul abortion measure 'ridiculous' - The Maddow Blog
Reid calls Paul abortion measure 'ridiculous' - The Maddow Blog
Harry Reid calls Rand Paul's abortion measure (for the District of Columbia) ’ridiculous’.
http:/http://maddowblog.msnbc.msn.com/_news/2012/06/26/12421792-reid-calls-paul-abortion-measure-ridiculous?lite#.T-3D4G1COSg.twitter
Harry Reid calls Rand Paul's abortion measure (for the District of Columbia) ’ridiculous’.
http:/http://maddowblog.msnbc.msn.com/_news/2012/06/26/12421792-reid-calls-paul-abortion-measure-ridiculous?lite#.T-3D4G1COSg.twitter
Sen. Rand Paul: ObamaCare Isn’t Constitutional ‘Just Because A Couple People On The Supreme Court’ Say So | Mediaite
Sen. Rand Paul: ObamaCare Isn’t Constitutional ‘Just Because A Couple People On The Supreme Court’ Say So
What?? Senator Rand Paul says a few men in black robes can't decide on the Constitution. Wonder if he was home-schooled, because he sure doesn't know about the three branches of Government.
http://www.mediaite.com/online/sen-rand-paul-obamacare-isnt-constitutional-just-because-a-couple-people-on-the-supreme-court-say-so/
What?? Senator Rand Paul says a few men in black robes can't decide on the Constitution. Wonder if he was home-schooled, because he sure doesn't know about the three branches of Government.
http://www.mediaite.com/online/sen-rand-paul-obamacare-isnt-constitutional-just-because-a-couple-people-on-the-supreme-court-say-so/
Thursday, June 28, 2012
40 Years of PFLAG: Thank You, Jeanne Manford! : Ms. Magazine Blog
40 Years of PFLAG: Thank You, Jeanne Manford!
40 Years of PFLAG: From my personal perspective, thank you Catherine Tuerk, former President, who helped me greatly in coming out to my dear parents many years ago.
http://bit.ly/LTI40S
40 Years of PFLAG: From my personal perspective, thank you Catherine Tuerk, former President, who helped me greatly in coming out to my dear parents many years ago.
http://bit.ly/LTI40S
RomneyCare Included "Tax" To Ensure Participation
RomneyCare Included "Tax" To Ensure Participation
In 2006, Romney described his Massachusetts health care law. It included a “tax” to compel the wealthy to buy insurance — much like President Barack Obama's Affordable Care Act.
http://www.buzzfeed.com/zekejmiller/romneycare-included-tax-to-ensure-participation
In 2006, Romney described his Massachusetts health care law. It included a “tax” to compel the wealthy to buy insurance — much like President Barack Obama's Affordable Care Act.
http://www.buzzfeed.com/zekejmiller/romneycare-included-tax-to-ensure-participation
Russ Feingold, Citizens United Foe, Blasts Supreme Court As 'Arm Of Corporate America'
Russ Feingold, Citizens United Foe, Blasts Supreme Court As 'Arm Of Corporate America'
We have to be very thankful that Chief Justice Roberts decided to support the constitutionality of the Affordable Care Act. ignoring Roberts' vote in that one case, I agree with Russ Feingold as described below.
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2012/06/27/russ-feingold-citizens-united-supreme-court-montana_n_1630948.html?1340822522
We have to be very thankful that Chief Justice Roberts decided to support the constitutionality of the Affordable Care Act. ignoring Roberts' vote in that one case, I agree with Russ Feingold as described below.
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2012/06/27/russ-feingold-citizens-united-supreme-court-montana_n_1630948.html?1340822522
The Internet vs. Hollywood
The Internet vs. Hollywood
Hollywood lawyers want to push SOPA through the backdoor using our Courts. FIGHT BACK: Sign a legal brief defending Internet users in the case of U.S. vs. Kim Dotcom:
http://www.theinternetvshollywood.com/?source=fb
Hollywood lawyers want to push SOPA through the backdoor using our Courts. FIGHT BACK: Sign a legal brief defending Internet users in the case of U.S. vs. Kim Dotcom:
http://www.theinternetvshollywood.com/?source=fb
U.S. Olympic swimming trials: Ryan Lochte beats Michael Phelps in 400 IM, and both make team - The Washington Post
U.S. Olympic swimming trials: Ryan Lochte beats Michael Phelps in 400 IM, and both make team - The Washington Post
In the end, Ryan Lochte, the reigning world champion in the event, held off Michael Phelps, the reigning Olympic champion, as both claimed Olympic team slots while fending off a powerful early push by Tyler Clary, who led at the race’s halfway point but faltered in the end.
Lochte, Phelps 1-2 in 400 IM. http://www.washingtonpost.com/sports/olympics/us-olympic-swimming-trials-ryan-lochte-beats-michael-phelps-in-400-im-and-both-make-team/2012/06/25/gJQAHhTt2V_story.html
In the end, Ryan Lochte, the reigning world champion in the event, held off Michael Phelps, the reigning Olympic champion, as both claimed Olympic team slots while fending off a powerful early push by Tyler Clary, who led at the race’s halfway point but faltered in the end.
Lochte, Phelps 1-2 in 400 IM. http://www.washingtonpost.com/sports/olympics/us-olympic-swimming-trials-ryan-lochte-beats-michael-phelps-in-400-im-and-both-make-team/2012/06/25/gJQAHhTt2V_story.html
Hebron: Now and then | Stephen R. Stern | Ops & Blogs | The Times of Israel
Hebron: Now and then | Stephen R. Stern | Ops & Blogs | The Times of Israel
"I believe that peaceful exchanges from the heart, between Palestinians & Israelis in the Palestinian Territories, are how battered souls with painful histories together open up possibility. It is a beneficial way to open pathways of sharing through listening, to provide that essential space where acknowledgement & empathy open profound directions toward a hoped-for future."
http://toi.sr/MABQng
"I believe that peaceful exchanges from the heart, between Palestinians & Israelis in the Palestinian Territories, are how battered souls with painful histories together open up possibility. It is a beneficial way to open pathways of sharing through listening, to provide that essential space where acknowledgement & empathy open profound directions toward a hoped-for future."
http://toi.sr/MABQng
"IT GETS BETTER" - Broadway Sings for Pride & TADA!'s Resident Youth Ensemble - YouTube
"IT GETS BETTER" - Broadway Sings for Pride & TADA!'s Resident Youth Ensemble - YouTube
"IT GETS BETTER" - Broadway Sings for Pride & TADA!'s Resident Youth Ensemble. http://youtu.be/rs5HHXrxidY via @youtube
"IT GETS BETTER" - Broadway Sings for Pride & TADA!'s Resident Youth Ensemble. http://youtu.be/rs5HHXrxidY via @youtube
Supreme Court upholds Obama health care plan
Supreme Court upholds Obama health care plan
The Supreme Court upheld the health care law today in a splintered, complex opinion that appears to give President Obama a major victory.
Basically. the justices said that while Congress did overreach in part with the individual mandate -- the requirement that most Americans buy health insurance or pay a fine -- the provision is held constitutional as a tax.
http://content.usatoday.com/communities/theoval/post/2012/06/Supreme-Court-rules-on-Obama-health-care-plan-718037/1?utm_source=dlvr.it&utm_medium=twitter&dlvrit=206567#.T-xnS3Ayx-B
The Supreme Court upheld the health care law today in a splintered, complex opinion that appears to give President Obama a major victory.
Basically. the justices said that while Congress did overreach in part with the individual mandate -- the requirement that most Americans buy health insurance or pay a fine -- the provision is held constitutional as a tax.
http://content.usatoday.com/communities/theoval/post/2012/06/Supreme-Court-rules-on-Obama-health-care-plan-718037/1?utm_source=dlvr.it&utm_medium=twitter&dlvrit=206567#.T-xnS3Ayx-B
Wednesday, June 27, 2012
Entertaining vids
Great entertainment. I love these vids.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B0Rau01wbeo&feature=player_embedded#!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B0Rau01wbeo&feature=player_embedded#!
The truth about the Fast and Furious scandal - Fortune Magazine Analysis
The truth about the Fast and Furious scandal - Fortune Features
Truth about the Fast and Furious scandal. ATF never intentionally allowed guns to get to cartels.
http://features.blogs.fortune.cnn.com/2012/06/27/fast-and-furious-truth/ via @FortuneMagazine
Truth about the Fast and Furious scandal. ATF never intentionally allowed guns to get to cartels.
http://features.blogs.fortune.cnn.com/2012/06/27/fast-and-furious-truth/ via @FortuneMagazine
R.I.P. Don Grady from MY THREE SONS. dead at 68.
R.I.P. Don Grady from MY THREE SONS. dead at 68. - VIEWS FROM A BROAD
Oh, how sad. He was my favorite on My Three Sons.
Oh, how sad. He was my favorite on My Three Sons.
Tuesday, June 26, 2012
Facebook Just Changed Your Email Without Asking—Here's How to Fix It (Updated)
Facebook Just Changed Your Email Without Asking—Here's How to Fix It (Updated)
Luckily, it's easy to reverse Facebook's foolish move (described below). Go to your Timeline. Click about, under your contact info. Scroll down to "Contact Info" and hit edit. Switch all of the crossed out circle symbols to a full circle for each inbox you want visible on your profile. If you don't want @facebook.com to show up, switch it from a full circle ("Shown on Timeline") to crossed out ("Hidden from Timeline"). This is also a good opportunity to check your privacy settings and make sure your various inboxes are visible only to friendlies. Hit save.
http://gizmodo.com/5921085/facebook-just-changed-your-email-without-asking++heres-how-to-fix-it
Luckily, it's easy to reverse Facebook's foolish move (described below). Go to your Timeline. Click about, under your contact info. Scroll down to "Contact Info" and hit edit. Switch all of the crossed out circle symbols to a full circle for each inbox you want visible on your profile. If you don't want @facebook.com to show up, switch it from a full circle ("Shown on Timeline") to crossed out ("Hidden from Timeline"). This is also a good opportunity to check your privacy settings and make sure your various inboxes are visible only to friendlies. Hit save.
http://gizmodo.com/5921085/facebook-just-changed-your-email-without-asking++heres-how-to-fix-it
Truth Wins Out - LGBT Oganizations to Hold Press Conference to Denounce ‘Ex-Gay’ Gathering in Minnesota
Truth Wins Out - LGBT Oganizations to Hold Press Conference to Denounce ‘Ex-Gay’ Gathering in Minnesota
Truth Wins Out, the national LGBT rights group fighting the dangerous “ex-gay” industry, will hold a press conference June 28 to counter the “pray away the gay” propaganda of Exodus International.
Exodus, the country’s largest “ex-gay” umbrella group, is holding its annual Freedom Conference in St. Paul from June 27-30.
“Exodus’s decision to hold its annual conference in St. Paul is no mere coincidence, but part of a concerted effort to spread misinformation about LGBT people in Minnesota ahead of November’s vote on the marriage amendment,” said John Becker, TWO’s Director of Communications. “Truth Wins Out is teaming up with equality-minded Minnesotans to fight ‘ex-gay’ fiction with the facts.”
Truth Wins Out, the national LGBT rights group fighting the dangerous “ex-gay” industry, will hold a press conference June 28 to counter the “pray away the gay” propaganda of Exodus International.
Exodus, the country’s largest “ex-gay” umbrella group, is holding its annual Freedom Conference in St. Paul from June 27-30.
“Exodus’s decision to hold its annual conference in St. Paul is no mere coincidence, but part of a concerted effort to spread misinformation about LGBT people in Minnesota ahead of November’s vote on the marriage amendment,” said John Becker, TWO’s Director of Communications. “Truth Wins Out is teaming up with equality-minded Minnesotans to fight ‘ex-gay’ fiction with the facts.”
Authors of Disreputable Anti-Gay Studies Triggered Growing Numbers of Critics, Rapidly Widening Scandal | The New Civil Rights Movement
Authors of Disreputable Anti-Gay Studies Triggered Growing Numbers of Critics; Rapidly Widening Scandal
Authors of Disreputable Anti-Gay Studies Triggered Growing Numbers of Critics; It's a Rapidly Widening Scandal.
http://thenewcivilrightsmovement.com/authors-of-disreputable-anti-gay-rights-studies-triggered-growing-numbers-of-critics-rapidly-widening-scandal/politics/2012/06/25/42133
Authors of Disreputable Anti-Gay Studies Triggered Growing Numbers of Critics; It's a Rapidly Widening Scandal.
http://thenewcivilrightsmovement.com/authors-of-disreputable-anti-gay-rights-studies-triggered-growing-numbers-of-critics-rapidly-widening-scandal/politics/2012/06/25/42133
Monday, June 25, 2012
High court strikes down key parts of Arizona immigration law
High court strikes down key parts of Arizona immigration law
Prior to Supreme Court ruling, Romney had said repeatedly he would drop lawsuits against Arizona and other states with similar legislation "on day one" of his presidency. But, the Obama Administration's challenges to key provisions of the Arizona law were successful, because the Court said that the state cannot take "federal" immigration enforcement actions.
http://nbcpolitics.msnbc.msn.com/_news/2012/06/25/12398271-high-court-strikes-down-key-parts-of-arizona-immigration-law?lite
Prior to Supreme Court ruling, Romney had said repeatedly he would drop lawsuits against Arizona and other states with similar legislation "on day one" of his presidency. But, the Obama Administration's challenges to key provisions of the Arizona law were successful, because the Court said that the state cannot take "federal" immigration enforcement actions.
http://nbcpolitics.msnbc.msn.com/_news/2012/06/25/12398271-high-court-strikes-down-key-parts-of-arizona-immigration-law?lite
Ten Things I wish the Church Knew About Homosexuality
Ten Things I wish the Church Knew About Homosexuality
Here are certain facts for those who say homosexuality violates Christian values.
Bill Clinton warns about backlash if Supreme Court rules against “Obamacare”
Bill Clinton warns about backlash if Supreme Court rules against “Obamacare”
If Supreme Court rules against the individual mandate, Bill Clinton says it will mean a backlash against the GOP when voters realize what they once had. He pointed out the parts of the law that benefit Americans, and that would be missed if repealed.
http://thepoliticalcarnival.net/2012/06/25/bill-clinton-warns-about-backlash-if-supreme-court-rules-against-obamacare/
If Supreme Court rules against the individual mandate, Bill Clinton says it will mean a backlash against the GOP when voters realize what they once had. He pointed out the parts of the law that benefit Americans, and that would be missed if repealed.
http://thepoliticalcarnival.net/2012/06/25/bill-clinton-warns-about-backlash-if-supreme-court-rules-against-obamacare/
The Amazing Spider-Man (2012) | UpMovie.net | Digg Topnews
The Amazing Spider-Man (2012) | UpMovie.net | Digg Topnews
I can't wait for the new Spider-Man movie, which opens on July 3 (or June 29 in some places). Here's trailer No. 1.
http://digg.com/newsbar/topnews/the_amazing_spider_man_2012_upmovie_net
I can't wait for the new Spider-Man movie, which opens on July 3 (or June 29 in some places). Here's trailer No. 1.
http://digg.com/newsbar/topnews/the_amazing_spider_man_2012_upmovie_net
Antonin Scalia, ranting old man - Salon.com
Antonin Scalia, ranting old man - Salon.com
Scalia railed against the Obama administration’s immigration law policy – in a passage written by a man who obviously no longer cares that he sounds increasingly like a right-wing talk radio host rather than a justice of the Supreme Court. Scalia's dissents are starting to read more like hastily drafted blog posts than sober judicial opinions.
http://www.salon.com/2012/06/25/antonin_scalia_ranting_old_man/singleton/
Scalia railed against the Obama administration’s immigration law policy – in a passage written by a man who obviously no longer cares that he sounds increasingly like a right-wing talk radio host rather than a justice of the Supreme Court. Scalia's dissents are starting to read more like hastily drafted blog posts than sober judicial opinions.
http://www.salon.com/2012/06/25/antonin_scalia_ranting_old_man/singleton/
Boycott Koch Brothers' products
Blogger BlogThis! - Saved
Boycott Koch Brothers' products: Consider boycotting these Koch Brothers' products:
“Angel Soft” & “Quilted Northern” & “Soft’n Gentle” toilet paper,
“Brawny” & “Mardi Gras” paper towels,
“Dixie” cups & plates,
“Sparkle” & “Vanity Fair” & “Zee” & “Mardi Gras” napkins.
Boycott Koch Brothers' products: Consider boycotting these Koch Brothers' products:
“Angel Soft” & “Quilted Northern” & “Soft’n Gentle” toilet paper,
“Brawny” & “Mardi Gras” paper towels,
“Dixie” cups & plates,
“Sparkle” & “Vanity Fair” & “Zee” & “Mardi Gras” napkins.
Supreme Court Blocks Key Provisions of Arizona Immigration Law - The Blog of Legal Times
Supreme Court Blocks Key Provisions of Arizona Immigration Law - The Blog of Legal Times
The U.S. Supreme Court on Monday rejected key provisions in Arizona's tough anti-immigration law, but let stand controversial police checks of immigration status.
In Arizona v. U.S., a 5-3 majority, led by Justice Anthony Kennedy, held that three of four provisions in the law challenged by the Obama Administration were preempted—or blocked—by federal immigration law. Justice Elena Kagan did not participate in the case.
http://legaltimes.typepad.com/blt/2012/06/supreme-court-narrows-arizona-immigration-law.html
The U.S. Supreme Court on Monday rejected key provisions in Arizona's tough anti-immigration law, but let stand controversial police checks of immigration status.
In Arizona v. U.S., a 5-3 majority, led by Justice Anthony Kennedy, held that three of four provisions in the law challenged by the Obama Administration were preempted—or blocked—by federal immigration law. Justice Elena Kagan did not participate in the case.
http://legaltimes.typepad.com/blt/2012/06/supreme-court-narrows-arizona-immigration-law.html
Sunday, June 24, 2012
Surviving Progress (Full Film) - YouTube
Surviving Progress (Full Film) - YouTube
Film about the risks we pose to our own survival in the name of progress; connecting financial collapse, growing inequality and global oligarchy with the sustainability of mankind.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LeEPfiaeRA0&feature=player_embedded#!
Film about the risks we pose to our own survival in the name of progress; connecting financial collapse, growing inequality and global oligarchy with the sustainability of mankind.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LeEPfiaeRA0&feature=player_embedded#!
The "Real" Mitt Romney AD - HD - YouTube
The "Real" Mitt Romney AD - HD - YouTube
It will be a disaster for the US if Romney is elected to the presidency. Here's why:
It will be a disaster for the US if Romney is elected to the presidency. Here's why:
Mohamed Morsi of Muslim Brotherhood Declared as Egypt’s President - NYTimes.com
Mohamed Morsi of Muslim Brotherhood Declared as Egypt’s President - NYTimes.com
Egypt’s military rulers on Sunday officially recognized Mohamed Morsi of the Muslim Brotherhood as the winner of Egypt’s first competitive presidential election, handing the Islamists both a symbolic triumph and a potent weapon in their struggle for power against the country’s senior generals.
Egypt’s military rulers on Sunday officially recognized Mohamed Morsi of the Muslim Brotherhood as the winner of Egypt’s first competitive presidential election, handing the Islamists both a symbolic triumph and a potent weapon in their struggle for power against the country’s senior generals.
Penn State’s potential damage from civil suits
Sandusky’s conviction clears a hurdle for potentially big-ticket civil suits
Sandusky’s conviction clears a hurdle for potentially big-ticket civil suits since abuse victims suing the school now can point to a crime that was committed. At least two civil suits have been filed already against the school. The university wants to provide a forum where it can privately, expeditiously and fairly address the victims’ concerns and compensate them for claims relating to the university.Penn State’s potential damage from civil suits could become clearer with a criminal case against the school’s former athletic director, Tim Curley, and Gary Schultz, the former vice president for finance and business. A former assistant coach, Mike McQueary, testified he told late head coach Joe Paterno, Curley and Schultz about a 2001 incident in which Sandusky abused a boy in a Penn State locker room. Curley and Schultz face charges of perjury and failure to report suspected abuse in an alleged coverup of the incident.
http://www.reuters.com/article/2012/06/23/usa-crime-sandusky-civil-idUSL2E8HN2NL20120623
Penn State moves swiftly on Sandusky sex abuse civil suits | Reuters
UPDATE 1-Penn State moves swiftly on Sandusky sex abuse civil suits | Reuters
Sandusky's conviction clears a hurdle for potentially big-ticket civil suits since abuse victims suing the school now can point to a crime that was committed. At least two civil suits have been filed already against the school. The university wants to provide a forum where it can privately, expeditiously and fairly address the victims' concerns and compensate them for claims relating to the university.
Penn State's potential damage from civil suits could become clearer with a criminal case against the school's former athletic director, Tim Curley, and Gary Schultz, the former vice president for finance and business. A former assistant coach, Mike McQueary, testified he told late head coach Joe Paterno, Curley and Schultz about a 2001 incident in which Sandusky abused a boy in a Penn State locker room. Curley and Schultz face charges of perjury and failure to report suspected abuse in an alleged coverup of the incident.
Sandusky's conviction clears a hurdle for potentially big-ticket civil suits since abuse victims suing the school now can point to a crime that was committed. At least two civil suits have been filed already against the school. The university wants to provide a forum where it can privately, expeditiously and fairly address the victims' concerns and compensate them for claims relating to the university.
Penn State's potential damage from civil suits could become clearer with a criminal case against the school's former athletic director, Tim Curley, and Gary Schultz, the former vice president for finance and business. A former assistant coach, Mike McQueary, testified he told late head coach Joe Paterno, Curley and Schultz about a 2001 incident in which Sandusky abused a boy in a Penn State locker room. Curley and Schultz face charges of perjury and failure to report suspected abuse in an alleged coverup of the incident.
Saturday, June 23, 2012
For Wealthy Romney Donors, Up Close and Personal Access - NYTimes.com
For Wealthy Romney Donors, Up Close and Personal Access - NYTimes.com
Romney campaign offered extraordinary access to Romney at 3-day retreat that dwarfed previous similar powwows. http://nyti.ms/LqDeNv
Romney campaign offered extraordinary access to Romney at 3-day retreat that dwarfed previous similar powwows. http://nyti.ms/LqDeNv
Pelosi vowed to drop congressional defense of Defense of Marriage Act in court, if Democrats retake control of House
Pelosi vowed to drop congressional defense of Defense of Marriage Act in court, if Democrats retake control of House. http://goo.gl/Yndwl
Why is Mitt Romney's time at Bain Capital such a target?
Why is Mitt Romney's time at Bain Capital such a target
“During the nearly 15 years that Romney was actively involved in running Bain, a private equity firm that he founded, it owned companies that were pioneers in the practice of shipping work from the United States to overseas call centers and factories making computer components, according to filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission,” the Post reported. “While Bain was not the largest player in the outsourcing field, the private equity firm was involved early on, at a time when the departure of jobs from the United States was beginning to accelerate and new companies were emerging as handmaidens to this outflow of employment.”
“During the nearly 15 years that Romney was actively involved in running Bain, a private equity firm that he founded, it owned companies that were pioneers in the practice of shipping work from the United States to overseas call centers and factories making computer components, according to filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission,” the Post reported. “While Bain was not the largest player in the outsourcing field, the private equity firm was involved early on, at a time when the departure of jobs from the United States was beginning to accelerate and new companies were emerging as handmaidens to this outflow of employment.”
Drowning Doesn’t Look Like Drowning
Drowning Doesn’t Look Like Drowning »
This enlightening article on what drowning looks like may change the way you watch your children the next time they go swimming.
http://mariovittone.com/2010/05/154/
ill increase defense spending by $2 trillion over 10 years
Romney wants to increase defense spending by maybe as much as $2 trillion in additional military spending over 10 years.http://www.latimes.com/news/opinion/commentary/la-oe-mcmanus-column-romney-defense-spending-20120624,0,6596765.column
Lets Give Karen -The bus monitor- H Klein A Vacation! -- Indiegogo
Lets Give Karen -The bus monitor- H Klein A Vacation! -- Indiegogo
Watch video & read about campaign to solicit donations to "give Karen Klein a vacation" from the bullying kids on the bus.
http://www.indiegogo.com/loveforkarenhklein
Watch video & read about campaign to solicit donations to "give Karen Klein a vacation" from the bullying kids on the bus.
http://www.indiegogo.com/loveforkarenhklein
Mitt Romney Could Benefit From GOP Engagement, Pew Research Poll Says
Mitt Romney Could Benefit From GOP Engagement, Pew Research Poll Says
The most consequential finding from the recent Pew survey is: "Republicans hold the edge on several turnout measures."
The survey suggests Republicans will enjoy a turnout advantage in November that would improve Romney's standing.
The most consequential finding from the recent Pew survey is: "Republicans hold the edge on several turnout measures."
The survey suggests Republicans will enjoy a turnout advantage in November that would improve Romney's standing.
Death of last surviving man to wear the Pink Triangle emblem of Nazi concentration camps
Death of Brazda, who is believed to be the last surviving man to wear
the emblem sewn onto the striped uniforms of the thousands of
homosexuals sent to Nazi concentration camps. http://www.nytimes.com/2011/08/06/world/europe/06brazda.html?_r=2
Bishops Declare 'Fortnight For Freedom'
Bishops Declare 'Fortnight For Freedom'
"As [American Roman Catholic] bishops argue that their religious freedom is "at risk" because of a federal government working to be just, I'm left wondering why the religious principles of a single faith tradition's leaders should define public policy for an entire nation," wrote Joseph Amodeo, a Catholic researcher who in April resigned in protest from the Executive Committee of the Junior Board of Catholic Charities.
Read more: http://www.towleroad.com/2012/06/bishops-declare-fortnight-for-freedom.html#ixzz1ydeMo4CB
"As [American Roman Catholic] bishops argue that their religious freedom is "at risk" because of a federal government working to be just, I'm left wondering why the religious principles of a single faith tradition's leaders should define public policy for an entire nation," wrote Joseph Amodeo, a Catholic researcher who in April resigned in protest from the Executive Committee of the Junior Board of Catholic Charities.
Read more: http://www.towleroad.com/2012/06/bishops-declare-fortnight-for-freedom.html#ixzz1ydeMo4CB
Friday, June 22, 2012
Ben Cohen and Prince Harry stand up against homophobic bullying | Gay Star News
Ben Cohen and Prince Harry stand up against homophobic bullying | Gay Star News
Britain’s Prince Harry has revealed his support for rugby legend Ben Cohen’s anti-bullying charity.
Britain’s Prince Harry has revealed his support for rugby legend Ben Cohen’s anti-bullying charity.
Star Witness in Prop 8 Trial Now Supports Marriage Equality
Truth Wins Out - Star Witness in Prop 8 Trial Now Supports Marriage Equality
Star trial witness for the proponents of California’s Proposition 8 revealed today, in a New York Times op-ed, that he is now a supporter of marriage equality.
Star trial witness for the proponents of California’s Proposition 8 revealed today, in a New York Times op-ed, that he is now a supporter of marriage equality.
Thursday, June 21, 2012
Minute of Silence at the 2012 London Olympics - Sign the Petition!
Minute of Silence at the 2012 London Olympics. - Sign the Petition!
Andrei Spitzer's husband was killed at the Olympic Games in 1972. We are asking for one minute of silence for the memory of the eleven Israeli athletes, coaches and referees murdered at the 1972 summer Olympics in Munich. Just one minute — at the 2012 London Summer Olympics and at every Olympic Game, to promote peace.
http://www.change.org/petitions/international-olympic-committee-minute-of-silence-at-the-2012-london-olympics?utm_campaign=friend_inviter_action_box-share_image_experiment-D&utm_medium=facebook&utm_source=share_petition
Andrei Spitzer's husband was killed at the Olympic Games in 1972. We are asking for one minute of silence for the memory of the eleven Israeli athletes, coaches and referees murdered at the 1972 summer Olympics in Munich. Just one minute — at the 2012 London Summer Olympics and at every Olympic Game, to promote peace.
http://www.change.org/petitions/international-olympic-committee-minute-of-silence-at-the-2012-london-olympics?utm_campaign=friend_inviter_action_box-share_image_experiment-D&utm_medium=facebook&utm_source=share_petition
The "Occupy" principles have not gone away.
The "Occupy" principles have not gone away.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tUFeC--d1Dw
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tUFeC--d1Dw
Young Turks' Cenk talks to co-founder of GOProud about GOProud's "enthusiastic" endorsement of Mitt Romney.
Young Turks' Cenk talks to co-founder of GOProud about GOProud's "enthusiastic" endorsement of Mitt Romney. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L6_mO8YTj1s&feature=player_embedded#!
Wednesday, June 20, 2012
Obama asserts executive privilege over Fast and Furious documents.
Obama asserts executive privilege over Fast and Furious documents. Similar program began under GW Bush administration. http://huff.to/KMygL7
The 'Voter Fraud' Myth Debunked - The Truth About Voter Fraud
The 'Voter Fraud' Myth Debunked Pictures - The Truth About Voter Fraud
Over the past few years Republicans in more than a dozen states have been knocking themselves out passing laws that make it harder for people to vote. It hasn't escaped notice that the voters most affected by these measures – from voter ID laws to restrictions on early voting – are Democrats. But no matter: Republicans deny they're waging a partisan "war on voting" – they say the new laws are needed to combat rampant voter fraud.
But here's the thing: Not only is voter fraud not rampant – it's virtually nonexistent.
Over the past few years Republicans in more than a dozen states have been knocking themselves out passing laws that make it harder for people to vote. It hasn't escaped notice that the voters most affected by these measures – from voter ID laws to restrictions on early voting – are Democrats. But no matter: Republicans deny they're waging a partisan "war on voting" – they say the new laws are needed to combat rampant voter fraud.
But here's the thing: Not only is voter fraud not rampant – it's virtually nonexistent.
Please consider signing this petition: Keep Religious Right PropagDo you think public television should give free airtime to anti-gay Religious Right propaganda?
Please consider signing this petition:
http://salsa.democracyinaction.org/o/2518/p/dia/action/public/?action_KEY=10894
Keep Religious Right Propaganda Off Alabama Public Television
Do you think public television should give free airtime to anti-gay Religious Right propaganda?
Neither did two senior employees of Alabama Public Television who objected to airing a TV series produced by right-wing pseudo-historian David Barton — a Religious Right activist who supports imprisoning gay people. But when they spoke up, they were fired by the Republican-controlled Alabama Educational Television Commission.
Public television is beloved for featuring entertaining, educational content, not hatred and lies. The Republicans on the AETC purging dissenting employees think they have the support of the religious community. They need to hear that people of faith reject their partisan agenda.
Tell the Alabama Educational Television Commission: Reinstate the fired staff and keep the hateful Religious Right propaganda off public television.
Neither did two senior employees of Alabama Public Television who objected to airing a TV series produced by right-wing pseudo-historian David Barton — a Religious Right activist who supports imprisoning gay people. But when they spoke up, they were fired by the Republican-controlled Alabama Educational Television Commission.
Public television is beloved for featuring entertaining, educational content, not hatred and lies. The Republicans on the AETC purging dissenting employees think they have the support of the religious community. They need to hear that people of faith reject their partisan agenda.
Tell the Alabama Educational Television Commission: Reinstate the fired staff and keep the hateful Religious Right propaganda off public television.
http://salsa.democracyinaction.org/o/2518/p/dia/action/public/?action_KEY=10894
Republicans don't always opposed the federal welfare state
"In 2003 when George W. Bush & the Republican congressional
leadership—including current tightwad-in-chief Paul Ryan—whipped votes
in favor of what was, at the time, the largest expansion of the welfare
state since Lyndon Johnson was in office. That was the creation of a
prescription drug benefit for Medicare.” http://www.washingtonpost.com/blogs/ezra-klein/post/republicans-dont-always-oppose-the-federal-welfare-state/2012/06/20/gJQAg1OLqV_blog.html
Tuesday, June 19, 2012
‘Beasts of the Southern Wild,’ ‘Amazing Spider-Man’: Best Movies of 2012 So Far (PHOTOS) - The Daily Beast
The Amazing Spider-Man (July 3 release). "Webb’s film boasts outstanding use of 3-D—you feel like you’re swinging through the city—and outstanding performances from its stars, in particular Garfield and Stone, whose chemistry is so magnetic it’s no wonder they’re rumored to be dating off screen as well."
‘Beasts of the Southern Wild,’ ‘Amazing Spider-Man’: Best Movies of 2012 So Far (PHOTOS) - The Daily Beast
‘Beasts of the Southern Wild,’ ‘Amazing Spider-Man’: Best Movies of 2012 So Far (PHOTOS) - The Daily Beast
Romney 's Immigration Policy - YouTube
Romney 's Immigration Policy, in his own words: "Of course we built a fence." "I would veto the Dream Act." When asked recently on Face the Nation: "Would you repeal Obama's recent immigration executive order?" Romney equivocated & gave no clear answer.
Romney 's Immigration Policy - YouTube
Romney 's Immigration Policy - YouTube
Monday, June 18, 2012
Microsoft just announced its brand new Surface tablet.
Microsoft just announced its
brand new Surface tablet. The Surface package has been miniaturized into
a chassis that measures just 9.3mm thin. It will sport a USB 2.0 port.
The entire Surface tablet weighs 576 grams. Other hardware
specifications include a built-in stand in order to transform the
Surface into a digital photo frame of sorts when the need arises.
A magnetic connector enables a cover to snap on across the display. The cover itself is 3mm thin. The cover is actually a full MULTI-TOUCH KEYBOARD, making touch typing a possibility – no idea on the learning curve though. Built-in HDMI connectivity will be accompanied by front and rear cameras.
There will also be a Microsoft Surface Pro. It will share the same price range as that of Ultrabooks. The Windows 8 model, which runs a 3rd generation Core i5 (Ivy Bridge) is a cross between an ultrabook and a tablet. The Windows RT model uses an ARM processor. The RT tablet will come with 32 to 64GBs of storage, while the Windows 8 version will come in 64 and 128GB models.
Microsoft fans say the the new Surface units are like a combination MacBook Air and iPad. Some say it’s Microsoft desperately trying to pull attention away from Apple’s products. Availability for Windows RT will happen when Windows 8 is launched, while the Surface Pro will roll out to the masses 3 months later. You will be able to pick it up via the Windows Store. Read more about the pro version, the lowdown on both tablets’ system specifications, and a picture gallery at: http://www.ubergizmo.com/2012/06/microsoft-surface-tablet-announced/. More at: http://www.zdnet.com/blog/open-source/microflops-microsoft-surface-rt-and-8-tablets/11238
A magnetic connector enables a cover to snap on across the display. The cover itself is 3mm thin. The cover is actually a full MULTI-TOUCH KEYBOARD, making touch typing a possibility – no idea on the learning curve though. Built-in HDMI connectivity will be accompanied by front and rear cameras.
There will also be a Microsoft Surface Pro. It will share the same price range as that of Ultrabooks. The Windows 8 model, which runs a 3rd generation Core i5 (Ivy Bridge) is a cross between an ultrabook and a tablet. The Windows RT model uses an ARM processor. The RT tablet will come with 32 to 64GBs of storage, while the Windows 8 version will come in 64 and 128GB models.
Microsoft fans say the the new Surface units are like a combination MacBook Air and iPad. Some say it’s Microsoft desperately trying to pull attention away from Apple’s products. Availability for Windows RT will happen when Windows 8 is launched, while the Surface Pro will roll out to the masses 3 months later. You will be able to pick it up via the Windows Store. Read more about the pro version, the lowdown on both tablets’ system specifications, and a picture gallery at: http://www.ubergizmo.com/2012/06/microsoft-surface-tablet-announced/. More at: http://www.zdnet.com/blog/open-source/microflops-microsoft-surface-rt-and-8-tablets/11238
Egypt's stock market extends its decline after uncertain presidential election outcome
Egypt's
stock market extends its decline after uncertain presidential election
outcome. From "Egypt Independent".
Egypt's main share index drops 3.4 percent to its lowest since 26 January, extending a decline after a weekend presidential election brought the country no closer to the stable democracy promised by its interim military rulers.
Hours before the Muslim Brotherhood said its candidate had defeated Hosni Mubarak's last prime minister in the election, the generals issued a decree that set strict limits on the new president's powers.
The Supreme Council of the Armed Forces (SCAF), which has pledged to hand power to an elected civilian by 1 July, had already dissolved the Islamist-led Parliament. Its liberal and Islamist opponents denounced a "military coup.”
Economists said the deepening political standoff only makes it harder to drag the country out of an economic malaise and attract sorely needed aid from foreign donors. The International Monetary Fund wants to see a political consensus on economic reforms before releasing an emergency aid package.
"How can you possibly make these huge economic decisions in such circumstances?" says Exotix economist Gabriel Sterne. "Such events as these only serve to undermine confidence and accelerate capital flight."
http://is.gd/PY4k3D
Egypt's main share index drops 3.4 percent to its lowest since 26 January, extending a decline after a weekend presidential election brought the country no closer to the stable democracy promised by its interim military rulers.
Hours before the Muslim Brotherhood said its candidate had defeated Hosni Mubarak's last prime minister in the election, the generals issued a decree that set strict limits on the new president's powers.
The Supreme Council of the Armed Forces (SCAF), which has pledged to hand power to an elected civilian by 1 July, had already dissolved the Islamist-led Parliament. Its liberal and Islamist opponents denounced a "military coup.”
Economists said the deepening political standoff only makes it harder to drag the country out of an economic malaise and attract sorely needed aid from foreign donors. The International Monetary Fund wants to see a political consensus on economic reforms before releasing an emergency aid package.
"How can you possibly make these huge economic decisions in such circumstances?" says Exotix economist Gabriel Sterne. "Such events as these only serve to undermine confidence and accelerate capital flight."
http://is.gd/PY4k3D
Jewish lawmaker silenced in Michigan for saying the word "vagina" during discussion of religious beliefs
A Michigan state lawmaker cited her Jewish faith in a floor speech on abortion law that got her silenced for a day because she used the word “vagina.”
http://forward.com/articles/157903/jewish-lawmaker-silenced-in-michigan/
http://forward.com/articles/157903/jewish-lawmaker-silenced-in-michigan/
Sunday, June 17, 2012
Romney won’t support firefighters, cops, and teachers as President, and his record in Massachusetts proves it.
What Romney Economics meant for Massachusetts firefighters, cops, and teachers
President Obama’s jobs plan would put teachers back in classrooms
and first responders back on our streets— it’s part of his plan to
create up to a million new jobs that Congress left on the table last
year. But under Romney Economics, the priorities are clear: When it
comes to firefighters, cops, and teachers, Romney says “it’s time for us to cut back.”
Take a look at how Romney Economics didn’t work for these men and women in Massachusetts, and how it won’t work now. Romney recently criticized President Obama, saying he “wants to hire … more firemen, more policemen, more teachers”—but Romney thinks we should “cut back” on those jobs. Romney won’t support firefighters, cops, and teachers as President, and his record in Massachusetts proves it.
Take a look at how Romney Economics didn’t work for these men and women in Massachusetts, and how it won’t work now. Romney recently criticized President Obama, saying he “wants to hire … more firemen, more policemen, more teachers”—but Romney thinks we should “cut back” on those jobs. Romney won’t support firefighters, cops, and teachers as President, and his record in Massachusetts proves it.
http://www.keepinggophonest.com/what-romney-economics-meant-for-massachusetts-firefighters-cops-and-teacher?source=tt
Awe-inspiring anti-war speeches concerning Bush's war in Iraq & other wars (WARNING: GRAPHIC & Controversial)
Awe-inspiring anti-war speeches concerning Bush's war in Iraq & other wars (WARNING: GRAPHIC & Controversial) http://youtu.be/cxuLqow8CtY via @youtube
This video contains many compelling points, although I don't agree with everything said in the video. It's worth watching.
This video contains many compelling points, although I don't agree with everything said in the video. It's worth watching.
Latest vote count in the Egyptian presidential election
For the latest (to-the-minute) vote count in the Egyptian presidential election: http://english.ahram.org.eg/ui/front/TownVotes.aspx
In second book, Scalia & co-author Garner warn judicial decisions are leading to 'descent into Scalia accuses judges of tarnishing reputation of the judiciary
In second book, Scalia & co-author Garner warn judicial decisions are leading to 'descent into social rancor'.
How ironic !! Scalia accuses judges--including some on the Supreme
Court--of loose & unprincipled decision-making that has tarnished
the reputation of the judiciary. http://www.law.com/jsp/nlj/PubArticleNLJ.jsp?id=1202559646112&
R.I.P. Rodney King2011 CNN documentary about the Rodney King beating again
R.I.P. Rodney King. It’s time to watch this 2011 CNN documentary about the Rodney King beating again.http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tWhYmb1sANM&feature=player_embedded
Documentary on a gay Palestinian whose life is in danger if he remains in the Occupied Territories
A gay Palestinian from Nablus, his life is in danger, he says, if he remains in the Occupied Territories. But as a Palestinian without papers in Tel Aviv, he is constantly at risk of being picked up and summarily deported as a security risk. Tel Aviv is more sympathetic than the West Bank; but he has no home and no chance of making a home here. So he flits in the shadows, hoping for the best.
MidnightEast » Blog Archive » Docaviv 2012: The Invisible Men
MidnightEast » Blog Archive » Docaviv 2012: The Invisible Men
Saturday, June 2, 2012
Take a look back at the Scott Walker memory book of systemic corruption.
Scott Walker’s History of Dirty Illegal Campaigning
Scott was found guilty of illegal campaigning while in college and the local paper, that had previously been neutral, finally declared Scotty “unfit for Presidency.”
And then there’s the Nixonian secrecy, paranoia and over sensitivity about his failure to compete in the free market of education. He refused to release his transcripts (so much for transparency). He had an uninspiring GPA. We don’t know whether it was his low grade point average or his illegal activities that drove him to drop out.
Wisconsin Senate Republicans Ignore Warning That They Are Breaking Law
Wisconsin senate Republicans rammed through Walker’s union busting bill 18-1 to strip Wisconsin public employees of their collective bargaining rights.
Republicans did so in spite of being warned by Democratic assemblyman Minority Leader Peter Barca that they were violating the state’s open meeting law.
BARCA: No, Mr. Chairman, this is a violation of the open meetings law. It requires 24 — at least 24 hours’ notice. Excuse me.
Naturally, the Republicans completely ignored Barca. The Republicans were warned and still rode rough shod over the Democratic assemblyman Minority Leader’s warnings.
Sadly, it turns out that meeting was just the beginning of the secret meetings and closed doors of the Walker Administration.
Scott Walker Rewards Wisconsin Tax Cheats While Homeowners Pay More
On his campaign website, Walker crows about how he kept property taxes from increasing from the year before, but what he carefully doesn’t say is that if the taxes didn’t increase, it’s because the taxpayers paid too much the year before, and the year before that…. To be precise, they paid around 20% more than they should have.
…hundreds of properties in Milwaukee alone (where Walker was the County Executive, a position much like a Governor but on a county level, or like a city manager) are allowed to fall off the tax rolls
– properties that claim they are churches, nonprofit hospitals and other organizations that state lawmakers feel shouldn’t have to pay taxes.
Of course, Walker has made higher taxes on the poor and middle class a signature of his governing style, joining his Republican brothers Paul Ryan and Mitt Romney. The justification they use for this rationale is that if the people are not made to suffer and pay for things, they’ll go crazy and demand all kinds of social freebies for themselves.
This has been a fear of the elite ever since ancient Athens, and is one reason why only certain folks were allowed to vote back then. As you can see, under Walker and other Republican governors, we are headed back to those times now due to massive voter disenfranchisement.
Governor Walker’s voter ID law was ruled unconstitutional but not before his administration managed to hide the fact that the voter IDs were supposed to be free, essentially enacting a poll tax on the poor.
Wisconsin DMV’s internal policy was to not tell voters that the voter ID was free unless they specifically requested the free version. The fee waiver is a requirement under the new Voter ID law passed by Republicans last May in Wisconsin, in order to ensure the ID requirement was not an illegal Poll Tax.
Scott Walker Gets Ridiculed For Highest Job Losses in the Nation
“Wisconsin job losses highest in nation for last 12 months, federal report says. The job losses weren’t all public sector. Oh, no. Walker can kill jobs everywhere. Public, private, you name it, Scott Walker can kill it.
To counter the bad jobs numbers, Walker didn’t reassess his policies like a normal person would, because this isn’t about doing what works; it’s about finding a way to justify huge corporate giveaways and giving control of government to corporations. So Walker fudged the numbers.
Koched Up Scott Walker Invents His Own Reality with Deceptive Jobs Numbers
And then there’s the John Doe investigation, which surrounds not all of Walker’s unconstitutional ways of governing, but rather the illegal campaign tactics employed by him while County Executive of Milwaukee and while campaigning for governor. One shudders to think what he’s doing right now that we don’t know about.
Suffice it to say, the investigation surrounding Scott Walker (that he denies is investigating him even though he lawyered up) may top the Nixon scandal in FBI raids of close aides and confidants. I erred the other day when I compared him to Blago. He is more Nixon speed, though certainly Nixon was more intelligent and conscientious than Walker. Nixon actually believed in his cause. Scott Walker is just a puppet.
Investigators Turn Up the Heat on Scott Walker with Bid Rigging Probe
Aside from campaigning on the taxpayer dime, secretive email systems, violations of Open Meeting Laws, using political power to destroy the other party, violations of campaign finance laws, destruction of digital data, and using taxpayer funded time to spread online favorable propaganda about the governor, Walker’s dealings with a land deal are also of issue.
Milwaukee prosecutors are looking into bid rigging that may have taken place around the county’s efforts to lease public or private office space for the Department of Aging.
And then, after a documentary filmmaker released footage of Walker admitting to a campaign donor that the first step in turning Wisconsin red was busting the unions up, it became clear that Scott Walker lied to Congress while answering questions surrounding the political intentions behind his union busting.
Why Scott Walker Must Go: the Endless Parade of Lies
In light of all of this demoralizing shock and awe meant to keep the people so busy surviving that they can’t respond with counter attacks, Wisconsinites manage to not only pull off amazing, inspiring protests, but keep them up.
Wisconsin Protesters Already Rallying Against Walker’s Union Bust
Reeling from the shock of last night’s suddenly convened Wisconsin state Republicans’ committee meeting and rushed passage of Governor Walker’s stripped down budget bill, to include only revoking collective bargaining rights for unions as well as reductions in pensions, Wisconsin protesters are already lining up outside of the Capitol in Madison in anticipation of early morning rallies.
A year later, and they were still going strong. 35,000 to 1: Protesters Mobilize To Take Down Scott Walker
It’s one year later, but Wisconsin has not forgiven or forgotten. Saturday’s rally was Wisconsin’s usual high energy turn out, but 35,000 people for a rally over an event that happened one year ago is incredible. This is a state that knows how to fight back. Protesters showed up in droves, replete with the Solidarity Singers, who still sing at the Capitol daily. They drummed and chanted, “This is what democracy looks like!” They carried signs reading, “Fire the Liar!”
No matter what happens on June 5, Wisconsinites and indeed all Americans who value the legislative process, checks and balances, transparency in government and fair negotiations have already won.
The day Scott Walker and Wisconsin Republicans passed a “law” in the dead of night without proper disclosure was a dark mark on our history. It turns out it was also warning sign of things to come.
Illegal use of state troopers to intimidate opposition, barring Democrats and the public from the Capitol during business, and campaigning on the taxpayer’s dime followed. From elections with no confidence to missing ballots to “passing” laws by violating open meeting laws, the Wisconsin Republicans have shown that they have little respect for the law.
June 5th might not be Walker’s downfall. But this is a man whose history tells the story. Way back in college, Walker thought he didn’t have to work hard like everyone else or play by the rules. As County Executive, he did what he pleased – leaving the office stripped bare of records and files his administration was supposed to leave behind.
Cut to his time as Governor, the FBI raids, the convictions of those closest to him, the land deal investigations and the destroyed digital files.
Republicans are backing Walker at their own peril, but this is what happens to a party devoid of values. They’ll do and say anything to justify their corporate agenda.
History won’t be kind to them and no doubt, it won’t be kind to Scott Walker.
In the history books (provided the Republicans don’t win the war on education), the workers, the teachers, the police, the artists, the farmers, and everyone who protested the reign of Scott Walker will be portrayed as heroes saving democracy, while Scott Walker and the Republicans will go down as the Nixons of Wisconsin.
Excerpted from:
http://www.politicususa.com/scott-walker-go-wisconsin-recall.html
Scott Walker’s History of Dirty Illegal Campaigning
Scott was found guilty of illegal campaigning while in college and the local paper, that had previously been neutral, finally declared Scotty “unfit for Presidency.”
And then there’s the Nixonian secrecy, paranoia and over sensitivity about his failure to compete in the free market of education. He refused to release his transcripts (so much for transparency). He had an uninspiring GPA. We don’t know whether it was his low grade point average or his illegal activities that drove him to drop out.
Wisconsin Senate Republicans Ignore Warning That They Are Breaking Law
Wisconsin senate Republicans rammed through Walker’s union busting bill 18-1 to strip Wisconsin public employees of their collective bargaining rights.
Republicans did so in spite of being warned by Democratic assemblyman Minority Leader Peter Barca that they were violating the state’s open meeting law.
BARCA: No, Mr. Chairman, this is a violation of the open meetings law. It requires 24 — at least 24 hours’ notice. Excuse me.
Naturally, the Republicans completely ignored Barca. The Republicans were warned and still rode rough shod over the Democratic assemblyman Minority Leader’s warnings.
Sadly, it turns out that meeting was just the beginning of the secret meetings and closed doors of the Walker Administration.
Scott Walker Rewards Wisconsin Tax Cheats While Homeowners Pay More
On his campaign website, Walker crows about how he kept property taxes from increasing from the year before, but what he carefully doesn’t say is that if the taxes didn’t increase, it’s because the taxpayers paid too much the year before, and the year before that…. To be precise, they paid around 20% more than they should have.
…hundreds of properties in Milwaukee alone (where Walker was the County Executive, a position much like a Governor but on a county level, or like a city manager) are allowed to fall off the tax rolls
– properties that claim they are churches, nonprofit hospitals and other organizations that state lawmakers feel shouldn’t have to pay taxes.
Of course, Walker has made higher taxes on the poor and middle class a signature of his governing style, joining his Republican brothers Paul Ryan and Mitt Romney. The justification they use for this rationale is that if the people are not made to suffer and pay for things, they’ll go crazy and demand all kinds of social freebies for themselves.
This has been a fear of the elite ever since ancient Athens, and is one reason why only certain folks were allowed to vote back then. As you can see, under Walker and other Republican governors, we are headed back to those times now due to massive voter disenfranchisement.
Governor Walker’s voter ID law was ruled unconstitutional but not before his administration managed to hide the fact that the voter IDs were supposed to be free, essentially enacting a poll tax on the poor.
Wisconsin DMV’s internal policy was to not tell voters that the voter ID was free unless they specifically requested the free version. The fee waiver is a requirement under the new Voter ID law passed by Republicans last May in Wisconsin, in order to ensure the ID requirement was not an illegal Poll Tax.
Scott Walker Gets Ridiculed For Highest Job Losses in the Nation
“Wisconsin job losses highest in nation for last 12 months, federal report says. The job losses weren’t all public sector. Oh, no. Walker can kill jobs everywhere. Public, private, you name it, Scott Walker can kill it.
To counter the bad jobs numbers, Walker didn’t reassess his policies like a normal person would, because this isn’t about doing what works; it’s about finding a way to justify huge corporate giveaways and giving control of government to corporations. So Walker fudged the numbers.
Koched Up Scott Walker Invents His Own Reality with Deceptive Jobs Numbers
And then there’s the John Doe investigation, which surrounds not all of Walker’s unconstitutional ways of governing, but rather the illegal campaign tactics employed by him while County Executive of Milwaukee and while campaigning for governor. One shudders to think what he’s doing right now that we don’t know about.
Suffice it to say, the investigation surrounding Scott Walker (that he denies is investigating him even though he lawyered up) may top the Nixon scandal in FBI raids of close aides and confidants. I erred the other day when I compared him to Blago. He is more Nixon speed, though certainly Nixon was more intelligent and conscientious than Walker. Nixon actually believed in his cause. Scott Walker is just a puppet.
Investigators Turn Up the Heat on Scott Walker with Bid Rigging Probe
Aside from campaigning on the taxpayer dime, secretive email systems, violations of Open Meeting Laws, using political power to destroy the other party, violations of campaign finance laws, destruction of digital data, and using taxpayer funded time to spread online favorable propaganda about the governor, Walker’s dealings with a land deal are also of issue.
Milwaukee prosecutors are looking into bid rigging that may have taken place around the county’s efforts to lease public or private office space for the Department of Aging.
And then, after a documentary filmmaker released footage of Walker admitting to a campaign donor that the first step in turning Wisconsin red was busting the unions up, it became clear that Scott Walker lied to Congress while answering questions surrounding the political intentions behind his union busting.
Why Scott Walker Must Go: the Endless Parade of Lies
In light of all of this demoralizing shock and awe meant to keep the people so busy surviving that they can’t respond with counter attacks, Wisconsinites manage to not only pull off amazing, inspiring protests, but keep them up.
Wisconsin Protesters Already Rallying Against Walker’s Union Bust
Reeling from the shock of last night’s suddenly convened Wisconsin state Republicans’ committee meeting and rushed passage of Governor Walker’s stripped down budget bill, to include only revoking collective bargaining rights for unions as well as reductions in pensions, Wisconsin protesters are already lining up outside of the Capitol in Madison in anticipation of early morning rallies.
A year later, and they were still going strong. 35,000 to 1: Protesters Mobilize To Take Down Scott Walker
It’s one year later, but Wisconsin has not forgiven or forgotten. Saturday’s rally was Wisconsin’s usual high energy turn out, but 35,000 people for a rally over an event that happened one year ago is incredible. This is a state that knows how to fight back. Protesters showed up in droves, replete with the Solidarity Singers, who still sing at the Capitol daily. They drummed and chanted, “This is what democracy looks like!” They carried signs reading, “Fire the Liar!”
No matter what happens on June 5, Wisconsinites and indeed all Americans who value the legislative process, checks and balances, transparency in government and fair negotiations have already won.
The day Scott Walker and Wisconsin Republicans passed a “law” in the dead of night without proper disclosure was a dark mark on our history. It turns out it was also warning sign of things to come.
Illegal use of state troopers to intimidate opposition, barring Democrats and the public from the Capitol during business, and campaigning on the taxpayer’s dime followed. From elections with no confidence to missing ballots to “passing” laws by violating open meeting laws, the Wisconsin Republicans have shown that they have little respect for the law.
June 5th might not be Walker’s downfall. But this is a man whose history tells the story. Way back in college, Walker thought he didn’t have to work hard like everyone else or play by the rules. As County Executive, he did what he pleased – leaving the office stripped bare of records and files his administration was supposed to leave behind.
Cut to his time as Governor, the FBI raids, the convictions of those closest to him, the land deal investigations and the destroyed digital files.
Republicans are backing Walker at their own peril, but this is what happens to a party devoid of values. They’ll do and say anything to justify their corporate agenda.
History won’t be kind to them and no doubt, it won’t be kind to Scott Walker.
In the history books (provided the Republicans don’t win the war on education), the workers, the teachers, the police, the artists, the farmers, and everyone who protested the reign of Scott Walker will be portrayed as heroes saving democracy, while Scott Walker and the Republicans will go down as the Nixons of Wisconsin.
Excerpted from:
http://www.politicususa.com/scott-walker-go-wisconsin-recall.html
Viral Facebook post says Barack Obama has lowest spending record of any recent president
PolitiFact's conclusions: Using raw
dollars, Obama did oversee the lowest annual increases in spending of
any president in 60 years. Using inflation-adjusted dollars, Obama had
the second-lowest increase
-- in fact, he actually presided over a decrease once inflation is taken
into account.
Bottom line: Claim that gov't spending under Obama is slower than at any time in nearly 60 years is very close to accurate.
http://www.politifact.com/truth-o-meter/statements/2012/may/23/facebook-posts/viral-facebook-post-says-barack-obama-has-lowest-s/
Obama Is The Most Fiscally Responsible President In a Generation
http://www.politicususa.com/obama-fiscally-responsible-president-generation.htmlFriday, June 1, 2012
The Campaign Within - About Neil
The Campaign Within
Neil Giuliano, former mayor of Tempe, AZ, is releasing first book in mid-June, 2012: "The Campaign Within: A Mayor's Private Journey to Public Leadership." While serving as Mayor, Neil came out as a gay man and continued to serve Tempe with distinction, including winning re-election three times.
Neil’s book is part memoir and part inspirational autobiography. The book follows his personal and professional evolution through a life in politics, his civil rights activism, philanthropy, evolving LGBT issues, and the controversial principles behind being at the forefront of issues and action, the fortitude of our own private morality, diplomatic problem solving, and the stakes of leadership in the modern world. http://bit.ly/JXHX4cNeil
Neil’s book is part memoir and part inspirational autobiography. The book follows his personal and professional evolution through a life in politics, his civil rights activism, philanthropy, evolving LGBT issues, and the controversial principles behind being at the forefront of issues and action, the fortitude of our own private morality, diplomatic problem solving, and the stakes of leadership in the modern world. http://bit.ly/JXHX4cNeil
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