Some of the comments (below) by Harry Reid are extremely interesting.
when Wall Street collapsed, we fell further than anyone else. - At that time, didn't the President vilify companies and CEOs for holding conventions in Las Vegas. I'm sure those, small businesses, waiters, casino workers, hotel workers, etc that were effected by the decline in conventions were not happy with the President's comments. Couldn't Mr. Reid have asked him to tone down the rhetoric?
"I've done the best I can, doing everything I can to help the state of Nevada, - When someone says they've "done" the best that they can; then what's left? If, with a all the power he should have, a very accommodating Congress and a friend in the White House, he could not do better for Nevada, why would the future be brighter?
Whether or not Sharon Angle would be better than Harry Reid is not the point. Mr. Reid should be able to run on what HE has done for Nevada and not why he thinks Sharon Angle is not qualified. The voters will make that decision.
Reid Defends Record
Such resentment, says University of Nevada political scientist David Damore, is precisely why Reid, for all his power in Washington, could well be toppled by his fellow Nevadans.
"What we've seen in Nevada, I think, is [what] you've seen in a lot of other states ... just this sort of anger, this inchoate anger lashing out at the establishment; that if you're establishment, you are part of the problem," Damore said.
At a recent get-out-the-vote rally in Henderson, Nev., Reid seemed to feel he had to defend his record even to supporters.
"We've been going through a lot in Nevada," he said. "For 20 years, we were at the top of the economic food chain, and when Wall Street collapsed, we fell further than anyone else.
"But I want everyone to know here it isn't a secret, I didn't cause the financial collapse."
The one determining factor for who's going to win is going to be about who has effectively made the election about the other person.
- University of Nevada political communications expert Joseph Valenzano
Later, Reid explained why many voters believed he hadn't done enough for Nevada.
"I've done the best I can, doing everything I can to help the state of Nevada, but whoever is concerned about my not doing enough should understand that Sharron Angle has committed to doing nothing," Reid said. "She wants to throw sand in the gears, she wants to slow things down, she wants to get rid of Social Security, Medicare."
Essays From a Fed-Up Middle Aged, Middle Class American" By: Andy Strum
Sample chapters on Amazon at:
http://www.amazon.com/Essays-Fed-Up-Middle-Class-American/dp/1453640460/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1288365393&sr=1-1
Friday, October 29, 2010
Thursday, October 28, 2010
The Rising Cost of College, Who's Fueling the Increase?
Below is a link to an article in the October 28, 2010 Wall Street Journal
"Tuition, Pell Grants Rise in Tandem"
http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424052702303443904575578651983962836.html?mod=googlenews_wsj
Tuition at public colleges up about 8%
Here's my take on the rising cost of college, who pays and why?
College education in our country is an objective by many. College, unlike kindergarten through 12th grades, is not a right but a privilege. (The Government seems to be leaning towards a college education becoming a right and not a privilege.) College has become a financial burden to the American family. College costs have gone up approximately 5% per year over the past ten years; higher than the inflation rate over the same time period. The Government doesn’t criticize the increase in cost. The Government’s answer to solving the increasing cost is to throw more money at the problem. Not more competition, not accountability by the schools, students or parents; but spending more with little or no accountability. The Government feels they must find a way to help students afford this increase. The Government often chastises other industries when their prices exceed inflation. They put pressure on those industries to reduce prices. Colleges seem to be immune from this rhetoric. Economics, taught at these same colleges, teaches that if more money is available to purchase a good or service the price of that good or service will increase. By making more money available to students to pay for a college education, the Government is fueling the fire, not creating a solution. By all economic teachings, more available money drives cost up.
The money used for these programs is tax payer money. Many of these taxpayers do not intend for their children to go to college. Their children are interested in other venues. They plan to go into a trade (carpentry, plumbing, construction, etc.) or into the military or some other vocation. They question why their money is funding another child’s potential livelihood and not their child’s.
Those who do attend college are finding themselves with more debt than they imagined. Parents also can be saddled with debt. Although college education has become the standard in education, just as a high school education was a couple of generations ago, the value of the education compared to the cost is being questioned. Although many companies require a college education, is the cost of a college education worth the potential job? Colleges need to find ways to make their tuition and fees more affordable to students. The schools need to enhance their efficiency, cut their costs, facilities and services to meet the students’ ability to pay without subsidies from the government. Education is the product they offer. Fancy dormitories, health club facilities and other non-educational amenities should be examined to see if they are worth the cost. Professors getting published, staffs employed to get grants, high salaried athletic coaches and other non-school related items, should not be at the cost of student’s tuition. It is argued that these facilities and positions bring money and prestige to the institution. If they are bringing in money, why does the tuition continue to rise? What is being done with the money?
If colleges want to pursue activities that do not directly benefit the student body, it should be financed by some other means than tuition.
The Government admonishes many industries, health care for example, when their rates increase higher than inflation; why do they give a free ride to colleges?
Endowments at some colleges are in the Billions. At $100,000 for a 4 year college education, $5 Billion would allow 50,000 students to go for free. Is tuition being used by the schools so they can keep a substantial war chest? Why does a college need $5 Billion in an endowment fund? If a college feels the need to keep such a large amount on hand, maybe they would be willing to part with the annual investment return on their endowment fund. Average annual returns of 8% on $5 Billion would yield $400 Million per year. This would be enough to fund the annual tuition for 16,000 students at $25,000 per year. Wouldn’t that be a great return on investment by giving an education to 16,000 students while maintaining a $5 Billion fund? It’s time colleges are held accountable. It’s time the Government stops answering the education problem by throwing more tax payer money at it. That cure (Government lending programs) continues to be worse than the disease.
See more information like this in my book:
Essays From a Fed-Up Middle Aged, Middle Class American" By: Andy Strum
Read sample chapters on Amazon at:
http://www.amazon.com/Essays-Fed-Up-Middle-Class-American/dp/1453640460/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1288285582&sr=1-1
"Tuition, Pell Grants Rise in Tandem"
http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424052702303443904575578651983962836.html?mod=googlenews_wsj
Tuition at public colleges up about 8%
Here's my take on the rising cost of college, who pays and why?
College education in our country is an objective by many. College, unlike kindergarten through 12th grades, is not a right but a privilege. (The Government seems to be leaning towards a college education becoming a right and not a privilege.) College has become a financial burden to the American family. College costs have gone up approximately 5% per year over the past ten years; higher than the inflation rate over the same time period. The Government doesn’t criticize the increase in cost. The Government’s answer to solving the increasing cost is to throw more money at the problem. Not more competition, not accountability by the schools, students or parents; but spending more with little or no accountability. The Government feels they must find a way to help students afford this increase. The Government often chastises other industries when their prices exceed inflation. They put pressure on those industries to reduce prices. Colleges seem to be immune from this rhetoric. Economics, taught at these same colleges, teaches that if more money is available to purchase a good or service the price of that good or service will increase. By making more money available to students to pay for a college education, the Government is fueling the fire, not creating a solution. By all economic teachings, more available money drives cost up.
The money used for these programs is tax payer money. Many of these taxpayers do not intend for their children to go to college. Their children are interested in other venues. They plan to go into a trade (carpentry, plumbing, construction, etc.) or into the military or some other vocation. They question why their money is funding another child’s potential livelihood and not their child’s.
Those who do attend college are finding themselves with more debt than they imagined. Parents also can be saddled with debt. Although college education has become the standard in education, just as a high school education was a couple of generations ago, the value of the education compared to the cost is being questioned. Although many companies require a college education, is the cost of a college education worth the potential job? Colleges need to find ways to make their tuition and fees more affordable to students. The schools need to enhance their efficiency, cut their costs, facilities and services to meet the students’ ability to pay without subsidies from the government. Education is the product they offer. Fancy dormitories, health club facilities and other non-educational amenities should be examined to see if they are worth the cost. Professors getting published, staffs employed to get grants, high salaried athletic coaches and other non-school related items, should not be at the cost of student’s tuition. It is argued that these facilities and positions bring money and prestige to the institution. If they are bringing in money, why does the tuition continue to rise? What is being done with the money?
If colleges want to pursue activities that do not directly benefit the student body, it should be financed by some other means than tuition.
The Government admonishes many industries, health care for example, when their rates increase higher than inflation; why do they give a free ride to colleges?
Endowments at some colleges are in the Billions. At $100,000 for a 4 year college education, $5 Billion would allow 50,000 students to go for free. Is tuition being used by the schools so they can keep a substantial war chest? Why does a college need $5 Billion in an endowment fund? If a college feels the need to keep such a large amount on hand, maybe they would be willing to part with the annual investment return on their endowment fund. Average annual returns of 8% on $5 Billion would yield $400 Million per year. This would be enough to fund the annual tuition for 16,000 students at $25,000 per year. Wouldn’t that be a great return on investment by giving an education to 16,000 students while maintaining a $5 Billion fund? It’s time colleges are held accountable. It’s time the Government stops answering the education problem by throwing more tax payer money at it. That cure (Government lending programs) continues to be worse than the disease.
See more information like this in my book:
Essays From a Fed-Up Middle Aged, Middle Class American" By: Andy Strum
Read sample chapters on Amazon at:
http://www.amazon.com/Essays-Fed-Up-Middle-Class-American/dp/1453640460/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1288285582&sr=1-1
Read sample chapters on Amazon at:
http://www.amazon.com/Essays-Fed-Up-Middle-Class-American/dp/1453640460/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1288274630&sr=1-1
Read Sample Chapters on Amazon at:
http://www.amazon.com/Essays-Fed-Up-Middle-Class-American/dp/1453640460/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1288274630&sr=1-1
Wednesday, October 27, 2010
What about those exported jobs?
What about those exported jobs? Doesn't the US Government have a stake in GM?
We can force them to close dealerships owned and manned by Americans but we can't stop them from manufacturing overseas? Sounds easy to complain but hard to stop.
The government required the some car manufacturers to close their dealerships. That would mean a loss of jobs for many. It might also send revenue out of a local economy.
It certainly lessened competition. What does Economics 101 teach? The more competition the lower the price, the greater the selection, more inovation and the natural process of the strong surviving. Maybe the Economic's books need rewriting. OR, maybe they just need to be reread by those in power.
Anyway, take a look at the link. How is this being explained?Buick Lacrosse May Be Produced in Ukraine, now produced in China
Also see previews of my book: (inside the book) "Essays From a Fed-Up Middle Aged, Middle Class American" By: Andy Strum on Amazon at:
http://www.amazon.com/Essays-Fed-Up-Middle-Class-American/dp/1453640460/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1288204357&sr=1-1
We can force them to close dealerships owned and manned by Americans but we can't stop them from manufacturing overseas? Sounds easy to complain but hard to stop.
The government required the some car manufacturers to close their dealerships. That would mean a loss of jobs for many. It might also send revenue out of a local economy.
It certainly lessened competition. What does Economics 101 teach? The more competition the lower the price, the greater the selection, more inovation and the natural process of the strong surviving. Maybe the Economic's books need rewriting. OR, maybe they just need to be reread by those in power.
Anyway, take a look at the link. How is this being explained?Buick Lacrosse May Be Produced in Ukraine, now produced in China
Also see previews of my book: (inside the book) "Essays From a Fed-Up Middle Aged, Middle Class American" By: Andy Strum on Amazon at:
http://www.amazon.com/Essays-Fed-Up-Middle-Class-American/dp/1453640460/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1288204357&sr=1-1
Monday, October 25, 2010
Subject: "I'm 63 and Tired", By Robert A. Hall. Worth Reading
> I'm 63. Except for one semester in college when jobs were scarce and a
> six-month period when I was between jobs, but job-hunting every day, I've
> worked, hard, since I was 18. Despite some health challenges, I still put in
> 50-hour weeks, and haven't called in sick in seven or eight years. I make a
> good salary, but I didn't inherit my job or my income, and I worked to get
> where I am. Given the economy, there's no retirement in sight, and I'm
> tired. Very tired.
> I'm tired of being told that I have to "spread the wealth" to people who
> don't have my work ethic. I'm tired of being told the government will take
> the money I earned, by force if necessary, and give it to people too lazy to
earn it.
> I'm tired of being told that I have to pay more taxes to "keep people in
> their homes." Sure, if they lost their jobs or got sick, I'm willing to
> help. But if they bought McMansions at three times the price of our
> paid-off, $250,000 condo, on one-third of my salary, then let the left-wing
> Congress-critters who passed Fannie and Freddie and the Community
> Reinvestment Act that created the bubble help them with their own money.
> I'm tired of being told how bad America is by left-wing millionaires like
> Michael Moore, George Soros and Hollywood Entertainers who live in luxury
> because of the opportunities America offers. In thirty years, if they get
> their way, the United States will have the economy of Zimbabwe, the freedom
> of the press of China, the crime and violence of Mexico, the tolerance for
> Christian people of Iran, and the freedom of speech of Venezuela.
> I'm tired of being told that Islam is a "Religion of Peace," when every day
> I can read dozens of stories of Muslim men killing their sisters, wives and
> daughters for their family "honor"; of Muslims rioting over some slight
> offense; of Muslims murdering Christian and Jews because they aren't
> "believers"; of Muslims burning schools for girls; of Muslims stoning
> teenage rape victims to death for "adultery"; of Muslims mutilating the
> genitals of little girls; all in the name of Allah, because the Qur'an and
> Shari'a law tells them to.
> I'm tired of being told that "race doesn't matter" in the post-racial world
> of Obama, when it's all that matters in affirmative action jobs, lower
college admission and graduation standards for minorities (harming them the
> most), government contract set-asides, tolerance for the ghetto culture of
> violence and fatherless children that hurts minorities more than anyone, and
> in the appointment of U.S. Senators from Illinois.
> I'm tired of being told that out of "tolerance for other cultures" we must
> let Saudi Arabia use our oil money to fund mosques and mandrassa Islamic
> schools to preach hate in America, while no American group is allowed to
> fund a church, synagogue or religious school in Saudi Arabia to teach love
> and tolerance.
> I'm tired of being told I must lower my living standard to fight global
> warming, which no one is allowed to debate. My wife and I live in a
> two-bedroom apartment and carpool together five miles to our jobs. We also
> own a three-bedroom condo where our daughter and granddaughter live.
Our carbon footprint is about 5% of Al Gore's, and if you're greener than Gore,
> you're green enough.
> I'm tired of being told that drug addicts have a disease, and I must help
> support and treat them, and pay for the damage they do. Did a giant germ
> rush out of a dark alley, grab them, and stuff white powder up their noses
> while they tried to fight it off? I don't think Gay people choose to be Gay,
> but I damn sure think druggies chose to take drugs. And I'm tired of
> harassment from cool people treating me like a freak when I tell them I
> never tried marijuana.
> I'm tired of illegal aliens being called "undocumented workers," especially
> the ones who aren't working, but are living on welfare or crime. What's
> next? Calling drug dealers, "Undocumented Pharmacists"? And, no, I'm not
> against Hispanics. Most of them are Catholic, and it's been a few hundred
> years since Catholics wanted to kill me for my religion. I'm willing to
fast track for citizenship any Hispanic person, who can speak English,
> doesn't have a criminal record and who is self-supporting without family on
> welfare, or who serves honorably for three years in our military.... Those
> are the citizens we need.
> I'm tired of hearing wealthy athletes, entertainers and politicians of both
> parties talking about innocent mistakes, stupid mistakes or youthful
> mistakes, when we all know they think their only mistake was getting caught.
> I'm tired of people with a sense of entitlement, rich or poor.
> Speaking of poor, I'm tired of hearing people with air-conditioned homes,
> color TVs and two cars called poor. The majority of Americans didn't have
> that in 1970, but we didn't know we were "poor." The poverty pimps have to
> keep changing the definition of poor to keep the dollars flowing.
> I'm real tired of people who don't take responsibility for their lives and
> actions. I'm tired of hearing them blame the government, or discrimination
> or big-whatever for their problems.
> Yes, I'm d--- tired. But I'm also glad to be 63. Because, mostly, I'm not
> going to have to see the world these people are making. I'm just sorry for
> my granddaughter..
> Robert A. Hall is a Marine Vietnam veteran who served five terms in the> Massachusetts State Senate.
This hit home for me since I share many of these viewpoints in my book:
Essays From a Fed-Up Middle Aged, Middle ClassAmerican"
Excerpts on Amazon at:
http://www.amazon.com/Essays-Fed-Up-Middle-Class-American/dp/1453640460/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1288013011&sr=1-1
> six-month period when I was between jobs, but job-hunting every day, I've
> worked, hard, since I was 18. Despite some health challenges, I still put in
> 50-hour weeks, and haven't called in sick in seven or eight years. I make a
> good salary, but I didn't inherit my job or my income, and I worked to get
> where I am. Given the economy, there's no retirement in sight, and I'm
> tired. Very tired.
> I'm tired of being told that I have to "spread the wealth" to people who
> don't have my work ethic. I'm tired of being told the government will take
> the money I earned, by force if necessary, and give it to people too lazy to
earn it.
> I'm tired of being told that I have to pay more taxes to "keep people in
> their homes." Sure, if they lost their jobs or got sick, I'm willing to
> help. But if they bought McMansions at three times the price of our
> paid-off, $250,000 condo, on one-third of my salary, then let the left-wing
> Congress-critters who passed Fannie and Freddie and the Community
> Reinvestment Act that created the bubble help them with their own money.
> I'm tired of being told how bad America is by left-wing millionaires like
> Michael Moore, George Soros and Hollywood Entertainers who live in luxury
> because of the opportunities America offers. In thirty years, if they get
> their way, the United States will have the economy of Zimbabwe, the freedom
> of the press of China, the crime and violence of Mexico, the tolerance for
> Christian people of Iran, and the freedom of speech of Venezuela.
> I'm tired of being told that Islam is a "Religion of Peace," when every day
> I can read dozens of stories of Muslim men killing their sisters, wives and
> daughters for their family "honor"; of Muslims rioting over some slight
> offense; of Muslims murdering Christian and Jews because they aren't
> "believers"; of Muslims burning schools for girls; of Muslims stoning
> teenage rape victims to death for "adultery"; of Muslims mutilating the
> genitals of little girls; all in the name of Allah, because the Qur'an and
> Shari'a law tells them to.
> I'm tired of being told that "race doesn't matter" in the post-racial world
> of Obama, when it's all that matters in affirmative action jobs, lower
college admission and graduation standards for minorities (harming them the
> most), government contract set-asides, tolerance for the ghetto culture of
> violence and fatherless children that hurts minorities more than anyone, and
> in the appointment of U.S. Senators from Illinois.
> I'm tired of being told that out of "tolerance for other cultures" we must
> let Saudi Arabia use our oil money to fund mosques and mandrassa Islamic
> schools to preach hate in America, while no American group is allowed to
> fund a church, synagogue or religious school in Saudi Arabia to teach love
> and tolerance.
> I'm tired of being told I must lower my living standard to fight global
> warming, which no one is allowed to debate. My wife and I live in a
> two-bedroom apartment and carpool together five miles to our jobs. We also
> own a three-bedroom condo where our daughter and granddaughter live.
Our carbon footprint is about 5% of Al Gore's, and if you're greener than Gore,
> you're green enough.
> I'm tired of being told that drug addicts have a disease, and I must help
> support and treat them, and pay for the damage they do. Did a giant germ
> rush out of a dark alley, grab them, and stuff white powder up their noses
> while they tried to fight it off? I don't think Gay people choose to be Gay,
> but I damn sure think druggies chose to take drugs. And I'm tired of
> harassment from cool people treating me like a freak when I tell them I
> never tried marijuana.
> I'm tired of illegal aliens being called "undocumented workers," especially
> the ones who aren't working, but are living on welfare or crime. What's
> next? Calling drug dealers, "Undocumented Pharmacists"? And, no, I'm not
> against Hispanics. Most of them are Catholic, and it's been a few hundred
> years since Catholics wanted to kill me for my religion. I'm willing to
fast track for citizenship any Hispanic person, who can speak English,
> doesn't have a criminal record and who is self-supporting without family on
> welfare, or who serves honorably for three years in our military.... Those
> are the citizens we need.
> I'm tired of hearing wealthy athletes, entertainers and politicians of both
> parties talking about innocent mistakes, stupid mistakes or youthful
> mistakes, when we all know they think their only mistake was getting caught.
> I'm tired of people with a sense of entitlement, rich or poor.
> Speaking of poor, I'm tired of hearing people with air-conditioned homes,
> color TVs and two cars called poor. The majority of Americans didn't have
> that in 1970, but we didn't know we were "poor." The poverty pimps have to
> keep changing the definition of poor to keep the dollars flowing.
> I'm real tired of people who don't take responsibility for their lives and
> actions. I'm tired of hearing them blame the government, or discrimination
> or big-whatever for their problems.
> Yes, I'm d--- tired. But I'm also glad to be 63. Because, mostly, I'm not
> going to have to see the world these people are making. I'm just sorry for
> my granddaughter..
> Robert A. Hall is a Marine Vietnam veteran who served five terms in the> Massachusetts State Senate.
This hit home for me since I share many of these viewpoints in my book:
Essays From a Fed-Up Middle Aged, Middle ClassAmerican"
Excerpts on Amazon at:
http://www.amazon.com/Essays-Fed-Up-Middle-Class-American/dp/1453640460/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1288013011&sr=1-1
Friday, October 22, 2010
EXPRESS YOUR VIEWPOINT WITH SHIRTS AND MORE
Are you looking for shirts and gifts that express your Patriotism and Ideals?
Then go to my on line store at Zazzle. The link is below.
It’s fun and there are over 200 selections. You’ll smile at the images and quotes.
There you can pick and customize the image and slogan you’re looking for.
Click on the Zazzle link below, then:
Click on “View all Products”
Double Click on the Item you’re interested in. (From the all products “pull down” you can quickly narrow your search)
Select “Customize It” – You can then edit the size and location of the image
Select the quantity and size (if you want a shirt)
Choose the Style and Color and add to cart. You’re Done!
My Zazzle Store Link:
http://www.zazzle.com/areufedup
Then go to my on line store at Zazzle. The link is below.
It’s fun and there are over 200 selections. You’ll smile at the images and quotes.
There you can pick and customize the image and slogan you’re looking for.
Click on the Zazzle link below, then:
Click on “View all Products”
Double Click on the Item you’re interested in. (From the all products “pull down” you can quickly narrow your search)
Select “Customize It” – You can then edit the size and location of the image
Select the quantity and size (if you want a shirt)
Choose the Style and Color and add to cart. You’re Done!
My Zazzle Store Link:
http://www.zazzle.com/areufedup
Thursday, October 21, 2010
Term Limits - Jefferson had the Right Idea
During the forming of our government, a committee was appointed to study proposals for the new union. Thomas Jefferson wanted a term limitation, saying it was “to prevent every danger which might arise to American Freedom by continuing too long in office the members of the Continental Congress.” (HE WANTED TERM LIMITATION, SINGULAR, NOT TERM LIMITATIONS, PLURAL)
The Articles of Confederation omitted mandatory term limits. Soon after the Revolutionary War and victory over the British, there was a continuous turnover in Congress and a strong tendency to mistrust anyone seeking too much power. King’s were on the throne for life; Americans did not want any one person to be in power for very long. Politicians also felt the same and did not continually seek re-election. The Constitution was ratified without term limits. Many statesmen thought it was a dangerous omission. President George Washington set a standard by having to be persuaded to run for his second term and refusing to run for a third. This two term practice was followed by every President, except Franklin Delano Roosevelt who served four terms. The twenty-second Amendment to the United States Constitution, ratified in 1951, limited the term of office for the President.
During the Civil War, The Confederate States Constitution limited the President to one single, six year term. They knew something we still haven’t learned, being an elected politician is not a career, it is short term service to your country. In the early 1990s, almost half the States put a Congressional Term Limit Referendum on their ballots. The referendums passed. However, in the mid 1990s, the U. S. Supreme Court ruled that States cannot impose term limits on Congressmen. If re-elected, Congressmen can stay in Congress for their lifetime. The longer someone stays in office, the more relationships they build, the more favors they owe and the larger their war chest becomes. Many end up staying in office until they wish to retire or family matters take precedent.
In 2008, an estimated $5 Billion was spent by various politicians seeking election including $2 Billion spent solely on Presidential campaigns. That’s a lot of money to find employment. Along with this money come obligations for the victors. These obligations might not be in the best interest of the entire country. Favors are granted, earmarks and entitlements are entered into legislation and special interest groups are rewarded. Unless our system is changed, we run the risk of future politicians being partners to their supporters, not impartial legislatures.
Although it sounds like an impossible task, our country needs to limit the term in office, for all elected officials, to ONE six year term.
Please see the rest of my writings in my new book:
Essays From a Fed-Up Middle Aged, Middle Class American" By: Andy Strum
Excerpts available on Amazon at:
http://www.amazon.com/Essays-Fed-Up-Middle-Class-American/dp/1453640460/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1287673134&sr=1-1
The Articles of Confederation omitted mandatory term limits. Soon after the Revolutionary War and victory over the British, there was a continuous turnover in Congress and a strong tendency to mistrust anyone seeking too much power. King’s were on the throne for life; Americans did not want any one person to be in power for very long. Politicians also felt the same and did not continually seek re-election. The Constitution was ratified without term limits. Many statesmen thought it was a dangerous omission. President George Washington set a standard by having to be persuaded to run for his second term and refusing to run for a third. This two term practice was followed by every President, except Franklin Delano Roosevelt who served four terms. The twenty-second Amendment to the United States Constitution, ratified in 1951, limited the term of office for the President.
During the Civil War, The Confederate States Constitution limited the President to one single, six year term. They knew something we still haven’t learned, being an elected politician is not a career, it is short term service to your country. In the early 1990s, almost half the States put a Congressional Term Limit Referendum on their ballots. The referendums passed. However, in the mid 1990s, the U. S. Supreme Court ruled that States cannot impose term limits on Congressmen. If re-elected, Congressmen can stay in Congress for their lifetime. The longer someone stays in office, the more relationships they build, the more favors they owe and the larger their war chest becomes. Many end up staying in office until they wish to retire or family matters take precedent.
In 2008, an estimated $5 Billion was spent by various politicians seeking election including $2 Billion spent solely on Presidential campaigns. That’s a lot of money to find employment. Along with this money come obligations for the victors. These obligations might not be in the best interest of the entire country. Favors are granted, earmarks and entitlements are entered into legislation and special interest groups are rewarded. Unless our system is changed, we run the risk of future politicians being partners to their supporters, not impartial legislatures.
Although it sounds like an impossible task, our country needs to limit the term in office, for all elected officials, to ONE six year term.
Please see the rest of my writings in my new book:
Essays From a Fed-Up Middle Aged, Middle Class American" By: Andy Strum
Excerpts available on Amazon at:
http://www.amazon.com/Essays-Fed-Up-Middle-Class-American/dp/1453640460/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1287673134&sr=1-1
Wednesday, October 20, 2010
Donkey - Elephant; It's Your Tax Dollars They're Spending
You must see where your tax dollars are being deposited!!!!.
Harry and Nancy Riding on a Donkey!!!
You Gotta' See This!
Click this YouTube video link
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pVnbFE-7dFE
After you've enjoyed the YouTube Video; please click on the link below to read excerpts frommy book:
Essays From a Fed-Up Middle Aged, Middle Class American" By: Andy Strum
Do you Wonder What Happened to the Good Old Days?
Man must cease attributing his problems to his environment, and learn again to exercise his will - his personal responsibility. -Albert Schweitzer
No matter what our kids and the new generation think about us, WE ARE AWESOME!!!! OUR LIFE IS LIVING PROOF!!!! To Those of Us Born 1930 – 1979. TO ALL THE KIDS WHO SURVIVED THE 1930s, 40's, 50's, 60's and 70's!! First, we survived being born to mothers who smoked and/or drank while they were pregnant. They took aspirin, ate blue cheese dressing, tuna from a can and didn't get tested for diabetes. Then after that trauma, we were put to sleep on our tummies in baby cribs covered with bright colored lead-base paints...We had no childproof lids on medicine bottles, locks on doors or cabinets and when we rode our bikes, we had baseball caps not helmets on our heads. As infants & children, we would ride in cars with no car seats, no booster seats, no seat belts, no air bags, bald tires and sometimes no brakes. Riding in the back of a pick-up truck on a warm day was always a special treat. We drank water from the garden hose and not from a bottle. We shared one soft drink with four friends, from one bottle and no one actually died from this. We ate cupcakes, white bread, real butter and bacon. We drank Kool-Aid made with real white sugar. And, we weren't overweight…WHY? Because we were always outside playing...that's why! We would leave home in the morning and play all day, as long as we were back when the streetlights came on…No one was able to reach us all day. And, we were OKAY. We would spend hours building our go-carts out of scraps and then ride them down the hill; only to find out we forgot the brakes. After running into the bushes a few times, we learned to solve the problem. We did not have Play stations, Nintendo's and X-boxes. There were no video games, no 150 channels on cable, no video movies or DVD's, no surround-sound or CD's, no cell phones, no personal computers, no Internet and no chat rooms. We had friends and we went outside and found them! We fell out of trees, got cut, broke bones and teeth and there were no lawsuits from these accidents. We would get spankings with wooden spoons, switches, ping pong paddles, or just a bare hand and no one would call child services to report abuse. We ate worms and mud pies made from dirt, and the worms did not live in us forever. We were given BB guns for our 10th birthdays, made up games with sticks and tennis balls and, although we were told it would happen, we did not put out very many eyes. We rode bikes or walked to a friend's house and knocked on the door or rang the bell, or just walked in and talked to them. Little League had tryouts and not everyone made the team. Those who didn't had to learn to deal with disappointment. Imagine that!! The idea of a parent bailing us out if we broke the law was unheard of. They actually sided with the law! These generations have produced some of the best risk-takers, problem solvers and inventors ever. The past 50 years have been an explosion of innovation and new ideas. We had freedom, failure, success and responsibility, and we learned how to deal with it all. If YOU are one of them, CONGRATULATIONS! You might want to share this with others who have had the luck to grow up as kids, before the lawyers and the government regulated so much of our lives for our own good. While you are at it, forward it to your kids so they will know how brave and lucky their parents were. Kind of makes you want to run through the house with scissors, doesn't it?
If you feel things have changed and wonder why; see excerpts from my book on Amazon:
Essays From a Fed-Up Middle Aged, Middle Class American" By: Andy Strum
http://www.amazon.com/Essays-Fed-Up-Middle-Class-American/dp/1453640460/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1287584372&sr=1-1
Tuesday, October 19, 2010
You must see where your tax dollars are being deposited!!!!.
Harry and Nancy Riding on a Donkey!!!
You Gotta' See This!
Click this YouTube video link
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pVnbFE-7dFE
Essays From a Fed-Up Middle Aged, Middle Class American" By: Andy Strum
See excerpts on Amazon at:
http://www.amazon.com/Essays-Fed-Up-Middle-Class-American/dp/1453640460/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1287504136&sr=1-1
You Gotta' See This!
Click this YouTube video link
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pVnbFE-7dFE
Essays From a Fed-Up Middle Aged, Middle Class American" By: Andy Strum
See excerpts on Amazon at:
http://www.amazon.com/Essays-Fed-Up-Middle-Class-American/dp/1453640460/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1287504136&sr=1-1
Monday, October 18, 2010
HANG ON, WE'RE WORKING ON IT !!!!!!
Preview my book on Amazon:
http://www.amazon.com/Essays-Fed-Up-Middle-Class-American/dp/1453640460/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1287418645&sr=1-1
Friday, October 15, 2010
Was that explosion a balloon bursting or our economy?????
For every Billion Dollars our government spends 100,000 families must pay $10,000 in taxes.
There is a straw out there and the camel's back is sagging!!!
Remember watching a child pushing a pin into a balloon. One second the balloon is filled with air and then, in an instant, it has burst. The child cries and apologizes. He can’t understand what happened. He didn’t mean to break the balloon. Everything was going his way. Only after the balloon burst did he realize he went too far. While he was fooling with the pin, he felt in complete control. He had heard that bad things could happen, but he reasoned, bad things would not happen while he controlled the pin.
Our economy is the balloon and the administration is the child. No one knows when or if our national debt will bankrupt us. There are concerns; and intelligent people have warned of the consequences. Like the balloon we will only know after it happens. Of course, by then it is too late.
The balloon did not have to break. The child could have eased off with the pin. Our economy does not have to break, or be on the brink of financial disaster. The administration and Congress could ease off its spending rampage. This is not something that is comfortable for politicians, but it is a good idea. It needs to be done today.
The link, below, takes you to a chart that shows how Federal Spending Is Growing Faster Than Federal Revenue, it goes back to 1965. It is worth a look.
http://www.heritage.org/budgetchartbook/growth-federal-spending-revenue
Please visit Amazon Books to see excerpts from my new book:
"Essays from a Fed-Up Middle Aged, Middle Class American"
Amazon Link to Andy's Book
Essays From a Fed-Up Middle Aged, Middle Class American" By: Andy Strum https://www.createspace.com/3462397
Thursday, October 14, 2010
A NEW SHOPPING MECCA FROM A FED-UP AMERICAN
Please visit my new shopping site on Zazzle. There are hundreds of items and more will be added.You'll find the most creative T-Shirts and merchandise to express your thoughts. There are items for: You, Your Family, Your Grandchildren and Your Friends.
Just click the link:
Andy's Zazzle Shirts and More
Just click the link:
Andy's Zazzle Shirts and More
Federal Spending Is Growing Faster Than Federal Revenue
Federal Spending Is Growing Faster Than Federal Revenue
Since 1965, taxes and spending have been rising. Federal revenues have dropped recently due to the economic recession while spending has reached a record high.
We keep hearing taxes need to be raised to decrease the defecit. Until the spending side of the equation is addressed, the tax (revenue) side won't matter. Congress enjoys spending more than the tax revenue can support.
PLEASE SEE THE LINK FOR AN INTERESTING GRAPH.
http://www.heritage.org/budgetchartbook/growth-federal-spending-revenue
Since 1965, taxes and spending have been rising. Federal revenues have dropped recently due to the economic recession while spending has reached a record high.
We keep hearing taxes need to be raised to decrease the defecit. Until the spending side of the equation is addressed, the tax (revenue) side won't matter. Congress enjoys spending more than the tax revenue can support.
PLEASE SEE THE LINK FOR AN INTERESTING GRAPH.
http://www.heritage.org/budgetchartbook/growth-federal-spending-revenue
Tuesday, October 12, 2010
The Perpetual Ten Year Promise
Have you ever noticed that much of the legislation requires a ten year time frame to be fully enacted? Not that there is anything wrong with a long term plan. We often hear how too many think short term and not long term; and that is not good planning. Certainly, some legislation requires enough time for the public sector and corporate world to make changes. These changes can take time, they cannot be implemented overnight.
It does appear, however, that this long term horizon is motivated by politics not practicality.
Ten Years Allows:
1. The potential benefit being enacted immediately while the funding is back ended.
2. Can give special interest groups a longer time to comply than the general public.
3. The opportunity to make adjustments prior to elections. “The primary requisite for any new tax law is for it to exempt enough voters to win the next election”
4. Ten years is a “lifetime” in the political process. Multiple Presidential Elections, numerous Senate and House Elections and several budgets to be enacted. All of which can threaten the current law’s intent.
5. All of these, and more, give politicians the confidence to pass “long term” legislation.
6. Although, not researched, it is highly unlikely that any legislation passed with a ten year time frame; stayed within its budget, accomplished its goal or wasn’t changed due to political pressure.
We deserve better. We deserve legislation that has a real opportunity to come to fruition on budget. We have a right to know why any organization will play by different rules under the legislation. We have a right to know the factual positives and negatives; not spun by a politician; but in plain English. Elizabeth Warren of the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau wants documents to written in “plain English”, so the public can understand them. Shouldn’t we expect the same kind of reverence from Congress?
It’s no wonder the public has lost some respect for politicians. They don’t seem to treat us as intelligent adults. They tend to treat us as subjects lucky to have them making all the decisions.
To read more of my thoughts, read my new book: "Essays from a Fed-Up Middle Aged, Middle Class American"
You can preview my book on Amazon at:
Essay From a Fed-Up Middle Aged, Middle Class Ameican Preview
It does appear, however, that this long term horizon is motivated by politics not practicality.
Ten Years Allows:
1. The potential benefit being enacted immediately while the funding is back ended.
2. Can give special interest groups a longer time to comply than the general public.
3. The opportunity to make adjustments prior to elections. “The primary requisite for any new tax law is for it to exempt enough voters to win the next election”
4. Ten years is a “lifetime” in the political process. Multiple Presidential Elections, numerous Senate and House Elections and several budgets to be enacted. All of which can threaten the current law’s intent.
5. All of these, and more, give politicians the confidence to pass “long term” legislation.
6. Although, not researched, it is highly unlikely that any legislation passed with a ten year time frame; stayed within its budget, accomplished its goal or wasn’t changed due to political pressure.
We deserve better. We deserve legislation that has a real opportunity to come to fruition on budget. We have a right to know why any organization will play by different rules under the legislation. We have a right to know the factual positives and negatives; not spun by a politician; but in plain English. Elizabeth Warren of the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau wants documents to written in “plain English”, so the public can understand them. Shouldn’t we expect the same kind of reverence from Congress?
It’s no wonder the public has lost some respect for politicians. They don’t seem to treat us as intelligent adults. They tend to treat us as subjects lucky to have them making all the decisions.
To read more of my thoughts, read my new book: "Essays from a Fed-Up Middle Aged, Middle Class American"
You can preview my book on Amazon at:
Essay From a Fed-Up Middle Aged, Middle Class Ameican Preview
Monday, October 11, 2010
A Major Disconnect on How to Help the Economy
There seems to be a major disconnect between the business community and the administration on how to help our stagnant economy. The administration seems to believe we will only progress if they spend our tax dollars funding expanded unemployment compensation, keeping government and government related workers employed (and in some cases allowing them raises), and regulating the private sector. To add insult to injury, the administration would like to dramatically increase the taxes on many in the business community.
Many in the business community want to know their future liabilities when it come to corporate and personal taxes, benefit costs for employees, and government regulations. It is felt that they cannot make decisions until these are known. The private sector is, currently, not excited about investing in plant and equipment, hiring employees, spending their cash reserves and expanding.
When the business community have these questions answered and are convinced the proposed policies would be something they could work with, our economy will expand. People will be hired - Less need for unemployment compensation; more local, state, federal and FICA taxes paid; more money in the consumer's hands, and a more confident public.
When the business community feels they are appreciated instead of vilified a better working relationship between the administration and business community will be realized. This will be a plus for everyone.
It is time to stop putting a band aid on the problem and cure the patient; Private Industry in America.
To read more of my thoughts, read my new book: "Essays from a Fed-Up Middle Aged, Middle Class American"
You can preview my book on Amazon at:
http://www.amazon.com/Essays-Fed-Up-Middle-Class-American/dp/1453640460/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1286806457&sr=1-1
Many in the business community want to know their future liabilities when it come to corporate and personal taxes, benefit costs for employees, and government regulations. It is felt that they cannot make decisions until these are known. The private sector is, currently, not excited about investing in plant and equipment, hiring employees, spending their cash reserves and expanding.
When the business community have these questions answered and are convinced the proposed policies would be something they could work with, our economy will expand. People will be hired - Less need for unemployment compensation; more local, state, federal and FICA taxes paid; more money in the consumer's hands, and a more confident public.
When the business community feels they are appreciated instead of vilified a better working relationship between the administration and business community will be realized. This will be a plus for everyone.
It is time to stop putting a band aid on the problem and cure the patient; Private Industry in America.
To read more of my thoughts, read my new book: "Essays from a Fed-Up Middle Aged, Middle Class American"
You can preview my book on Amazon at:
http://www.amazon.com/Essays-Fed-Up-Middle-Class-American/dp/1453640460/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1286806457&sr=1-1
Friday, October 8, 2010
Add a Choice on the Voting Ballot
I was looking at a sample voting ballot and wondered if they should add a box for each office:
____"NONE OF THE ABOVE"
____"NONE OF THE ABOVE"
The Golden Rule
"Do unto others as you would have others do unto you."
There are many principles that we should live by; but the Golden Rule should be high on the list.
Why has this rule been so easy to ignore? Why is it when people leave their place of worship, they often leave what they heard behind? It’s a question for the ages.
Two recent occurrences are good examples. One is building a Mosque near ground zero in New York City and the other is the right to protest near a Military Funeral. In both cases, our Constitution, Bill of Rights and Amendments seem to allow both of these activities to take place. Our Founding Fathers wanted us to be able to express ourselves without Government’s intervention. That’s a good thing. One must also believe that our Founding Fathers expected us to use those privileges with a sense of common decency.
It’s hard to imagine that disrupting the family and friends, burying a loved one who gave his life for our country, is how they expected their good intention to be used. Our Founding Fathers might have believed that a reasonable man, when given a choice as to where to build a Mosque, would choose a place so as not to offend local citizens.
Yes, we should be thankful that we live in a country that affords us rights that are not found throughout the world. But, yes, we should use common sense, common decency and restraint when exercising those rights. We should take into consideration those around us when we initiate an action. We should weigh our right versus the anguish that may be caused.
See excerpts form my book: Essays from a Fed-Up Middle Aged, Middle Class American on Amazon at:
http://www.amazon.com/Essays-Fed-Up-Middle-Class-American/dp/1453640460/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1286544082&sr=1-1
There are many principles that we should live by; but the Golden Rule should be high on the list.
Why has this rule been so easy to ignore? Why is it when people leave their place of worship, they often leave what they heard behind? It’s a question for the ages.
Two recent occurrences are good examples. One is building a Mosque near ground zero in New York City and the other is the right to protest near a Military Funeral. In both cases, our Constitution, Bill of Rights and Amendments seem to allow both of these activities to take place. Our Founding Fathers wanted us to be able to express ourselves without Government’s intervention. That’s a good thing. One must also believe that our Founding Fathers expected us to use those privileges with a sense of common decency.
It’s hard to imagine that disrupting the family and friends, burying a loved one who gave his life for our country, is how they expected their good intention to be used. Our Founding Fathers might have believed that a reasonable man, when given a choice as to where to build a Mosque, would choose a place so as not to offend local citizens.
Yes, we should be thankful that we live in a country that affords us rights that are not found throughout the world. But, yes, we should use common sense, common decency and restraint when exercising those rights. We should take into consideration those around us when we initiate an action. We should weigh our right versus the anguish that may be caused.
See excerpts form my book: Essays from a Fed-Up Middle Aged, Middle Class American on Amazon at:
http://www.amazon.com/Essays-Fed-Up-Middle-Class-American/dp/1453640460/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1286544082&sr=1-1
Wednesday, October 6, 2010
Discount on my book "Essays From a Fed-Up Middle Aged, Middle Class American"
I would like to offer my blog readers a 20% discount on the purchase of my book.
Click the link below and enter the code: HMNP5Q65
It is an easy to read, thought provoking view on the changing of America.
Here is the text from the back cover:
The constitution is not neutral. It was designed to take the government off the backs of people ~ William O. Douglas
Remember John F. Kennedy saying, “And so, my fellow Americans: Ask not what your country can do for you – ask what you can do for your country.” President Kennedy’s intent has clearly been forgotten. Many do not want to “do for their country”- they expect the “country to do for them.”
Generations ago, immigrants came to this great country for the opportunity to live and work hard. They wanted a better life for themselves and their children. Many now come to America for the social programs our government provides. They would prefer to be a beneficiary instead of a contributor.
Our parents and grandparents were appalled when the Government’s spending and debts were put in numbers as Billions and Tens of Billions. Now our government expects us to accept Trillions as the norm.
Children were sent to school to get an education. They felt safe walking to school, being in the classrooms and playing with their friends. Now we have guards and metal detectors at the school doors. We need special rules to keep weapons out of our schools. Parents are happy to have their children come home safe and sound, let alone get an education.
My Essays discuss why, how and when our Founding Fathers’ principles were ignored. They will evoke agreement and anger and most of all conversation.
I hope you enjoy them.
"Essays From a Fed-Up Middle Aged, Middle Class American" By: Andy Strum http://www.createspace.com/3462397
Click the link below and enter the code: HMNP5Q65
It is an easy to read, thought provoking view on the changing of America.
Here is the text from the back cover:
The constitution is not neutral. It was designed to take the government off the backs of people ~ William O. Douglas
Remember John F. Kennedy saying, “And so, my fellow Americans: Ask not what your country can do for you – ask what you can do for your country.” President Kennedy’s intent has clearly been forgotten. Many do not want to “do for their country”- they expect the “country to do for them.”
Generations ago, immigrants came to this great country for the opportunity to live and work hard. They wanted a better life for themselves and their children. Many now come to America for the social programs our government provides. They would prefer to be a beneficiary instead of a contributor.
Our parents and grandparents were appalled when the Government’s spending and debts were put in numbers as Billions and Tens of Billions. Now our government expects us to accept Trillions as the norm.
Children were sent to school to get an education. They felt safe walking to school, being in the classrooms and playing with their friends. Now we have guards and metal detectors at the school doors. We need special rules to keep weapons out of our schools. Parents are happy to have their children come home safe and sound, let alone get an education.
My Essays discuss why, how and when our Founding Fathers’ principles were ignored. They will evoke agreement and anger and most of all conversation.
I hope you enjoy them.
"Essays From a Fed-Up Middle Aged, Middle Class American" By: Andy Strum http://www.createspace.com/3462397
Tuesday, October 5, 2010
Another Election of Negative Campaigning
This election is looking like all the others. Negative campaigning, very little policy information, and very shallow. The American people deserve better.
Let the candidates tell us what they will do and why we should vote for them. Why are they different then the person in office now? What is their track record on issues? What accomplishments are they proud of? Or why should the incumbent be re-elected. We don’t need, and frankly are tired of, the opposing candidate telling us about their challenger. Let them speak for themselves.
Just because a candidate has more money to spend, produces more ads than the opposition, has a great advertising team or speaks louder doesn’t make him or her a better choice.
We don’t need to hear what the opposing candidate did 10 years ago, who they slept with, what they did in college or who they associated with while growing up. Some of us have changed over the years and would like to be judged for whom we are now and what we represent.
If you’re tired of the same old campaigning, raise your hand (okay, put your hand down). It’s time (actually, past the time) to be treated like intelligent adults. We will make decisions on what a candidate has to offer, or, for or against what an incumbent has achieved. The negative campaigning needs to stop. Maybe we should not make donations to candidates that use our money to pursue this track.
Please take a moment and read excerpts from my book: "Essays from a Fed-Up Middle Aged, Middle Class American" Just click the link.
"Essays From a Fed-Up Middle Aged Middle ClassAmerican
Let the candidates tell us what they will do and why we should vote for them. Why are they different then the person in office now? What is their track record on issues? What accomplishments are they proud of? Or why should the incumbent be re-elected. We don’t need, and frankly are tired of, the opposing candidate telling us about their challenger. Let them speak for themselves.
Just because a candidate has more money to spend, produces more ads than the opposition, has a great advertising team or speaks louder doesn’t make him or her a better choice.
We don’t need to hear what the opposing candidate did 10 years ago, who they slept with, what they did in college or who they associated with while growing up. Some of us have changed over the years and would like to be judged for whom we are now and what we represent.
If you’re tired of the same old campaigning, raise your hand (okay, put your hand down). It’s time (actually, past the time) to be treated like intelligent adults. We will make decisions on what a candidate has to offer, or, for or against what an incumbent has achieved. The negative campaigning needs to stop. Maybe we should not make donations to candidates that use our money to pursue this track.
Please take a moment and read excerpts from my book: "Essays from a Fed-Up Middle Aged, Middle Class American" Just click the link.
"Essays From a Fed-Up Middle Aged Middle ClassAmerican
Monday, October 4, 2010
Definitions from "Essays From a Fed-Up Middle Aged, Middle Class American" glossary
Bail Out The Government giving (or lending) a company in danger of failing, money in an attempt to save it from bankruptcy. Usually associated with “Too big to fail,” not one of the better uses of tax payer money.
Balanced Budget Government spending equaling government revenue. Nice idea, but not realistic.
Budget Surplus Government income exceeds government spending. There isn’t a lottery large enough that the Government could win to have a surplus. The Government has a way of taking from one Government program and using it for another to make the budget look good. It’s creative accounting; Robbing Peter to pay Paul.
Common Sense Using reasonable judgment when faced with a decision. Warning labels would not be needed if common sense was practiced.
Debt Ceiling The amount of debt the Government may have at any time. Debt ceiling is set by Congress. Should not be considered a real number since Congress raises it at will. Not aware it has ever been lowered.
Endangered Species An animal species whose population is so small that the species is at risk of extinction. If politicians don’t change their “business as usual” ways, the public might want to see them on the list.
Franking Privilege The privilege of Senators and Representatives to send mail without paying postage. It is for “official business” mail only. It seems around election time, the public is inundated with “official business” mail.
Two Party System A system where two parties dominate elections. The United States has a two party system. In business this would be an oligopoly and very near a monopoly. Not good in business and not good in politics.
See excerpts from my book on Amazon at:
http://www.amazon.com/Essays-Fed-Up-Middle-Class-American/dp/1453640460/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1286208805&sr=1-1
Balanced Budget Government spending equaling government revenue. Nice idea, but not realistic.
Budget Surplus Government income exceeds government spending. There isn’t a lottery large enough that the Government could win to have a surplus. The Government has a way of taking from one Government program and using it for another to make the budget look good. It’s creative accounting; Robbing Peter to pay Paul.
Common Sense Using reasonable judgment when faced with a decision. Warning labels would not be needed if common sense was practiced.
Debt Ceiling The amount of debt the Government may have at any time. Debt ceiling is set by Congress. Should not be considered a real number since Congress raises it at will. Not aware it has ever been lowered.
Endangered Species An animal species whose population is so small that the species is at risk of extinction. If politicians don’t change their “business as usual” ways, the public might want to see them on the list.
Franking Privilege The privilege of Senators and Representatives to send mail without paying postage. It is for “official business” mail only. It seems around election time, the public is inundated with “official business” mail.
Two Party System A system where two parties dominate elections. The United States has a two party system. In business this would be an oligopoly and very near a monopoly. Not good in business and not good in politics.
See excerpts from my book on Amazon at:
http://www.amazon.com/Essays-Fed-Up-Middle-Class-American/dp/1453640460/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1286208805&sr=1-1
Friday, October 1, 2010
Reds Under Investigation For Celebratory Smoking
Is this what the law was supposed to accomplish? Is there a fine line between the letter of the law and the spirit of the law? Do we need to monitor weddings, births, graduations and other celebrations? When will common sense return?
Please click on link for the story
http://www.wlwt.com/r/25229494/detail.html
Please click on link for the story
http://www.wlwt.com/r/25229494/detail.html
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