Thomas Sowell @ Townhall.
Amnesty just doesn't mean that illegals get the rights of American citizens. They get special treatment due to their minority status. I wonder if white people will get special rights after they are in the minority, which at the rate we are going, will be in about 20 years. I doubt it, somehow.
Maybe I should start a group for the advocacy of the rights of Vikings now, and in 20 years I can sue for reparations for not allowing me my cultural rights. Rape, murder and pillaging being cultural traits of Vikings, don'cha know. The man is holding me down! Power to the People!
Thursday, May 25, 2006
Bush on the environment
From TCS Daily.
Despite no conclusive evidence of global warming, the US gov't is taking actions to reduce greenhouse gases -- unlike what you may have heard. While the Kyoto agreement has properly been rejected, the Bush administration has made progress with its Methane to Markets initiative and the Asian Pacific Partnership on Clean Development and Climate Change. Methane is 25 times more powerful as a greenhouse gas than carbon dioxide. The cool thing about this program is that US businesses can make money selling stuff to the developing nations to help them with their emissions.
"One of the fruits of the methane to markets program came last week. China, a chief emitter of methane from its coal mines, has signed an agreement to buy 60 methane generators from Caterpillar Inc. for $58 million. The generators will take in the methane from its largest coal mine, reducing explosions and improving safety and health in the mines while providing 120 megawatts of electricity with reduced greenhouse gas emissions."
Win-win.
Despite no conclusive evidence of global warming, the US gov't is taking actions to reduce greenhouse gases -- unlike what you may have heard. While the Kyoto agreement has properly been rejected, the Bush administration has made progress with its Methane to Markets initiative and the Asian Pacific Partnership on Clean Development and Climate Change. Methane is 25 times more powerful as a greenhouse gas than carbon dioxide. The cool thing about this program is that US businesses can make money selling stuff to the developing nations to help them with their emissions.
"One of the fruits of the methane to markets program came last week. China, a chief emitter of methane from its coal mines, has signed an agreement to buy 60 methane generators from Caterpillar Inc. for $58 million. The generators will take in the methane from its largest coal mine, reducing explosions and improving safety and health in the mines while providing 120 megawatts of electricity with reduced greenhouse gas emissions."
Win-win.
Tuesday, May 23, 2006
American Environment
Great article on the American environment in the WSJ by Peter du Pont.
Despite what you might think, the environment is actually IMPROVING.
"Since 1970, the year of the first Earth Day, America's population has increased by 42%, the country's inflation-adjusted gross domestic product has grown 195%, the number of cars and trucks in the United States has more than doubled, and the total number of miles driven has increased by 178%.
But during these 35 years of growing population, employment, and industrial production, the Environmental Protection Agency reports, the environment has substantially improved. Emissions of the six principal air pollutants have decreased by 53%. Carbon monoxide emissions have dropped from 197 million tons per year to 89 million; nitrogen oxides from 27 million tons to 19 million, and sulfur dioxide from 31 million to 15 million. Particulates are down 80%, and lead emissions have declined by more than 98%. "
Forest acres - up over 9 million acres. So are bald eagles populations & acres of wetlands.
Of course, the scare tactics of the enironmental crowd (not to say that there are not problems at all) are focused on the evil of carbon dioxide -- supposed culprit of "global warming". But much of what warming there is can actually be attributed to that great big ball of fire in the sky the planet orbits.
"Climate Science study concludes that "computer models consistently project a rise in temperatures over the past century that is more than twice as high as the measured increase." The National Center for Atmospheric Research's prediction of 1.8 degrees Fahrenheit warming is more accurate. In short, the world is not warming as much as environmentalists think it is.
What warming there is turns out to be caused by solar radiation rather than human pollution. The Climate Change study concluded "half the observed 20th century warming occurred before 1940 and cannot be attributed to human causes," and changes in solar radiation can "account for 71 percent of the variation in global surface air temperature from 1880 to 1993."
Aha! There is some warming, and that will cause the sea levels to rise and cause a widespread flooding catasrophe, right? Millions will be flooded out of coastal areas and famine will result! Wrong.
"The U.N.'s IPCC Third Assessment Report concluded that the rate of sea level rise has not accelerated during the last century, which is supported by U.S. coastal sea level experience. In California sea levels have risen between zero and seven millimeters a year and between 2.1 and 2.8 millimeters a year in North and South Carolina. "
Oops. So if the sea levels aren't rising, and the CO2 level isn't causing warming, WHERE WILL MY NEXT RESEARCH GRANT COME FROM?
Despite what you might think, the environment is actually IMPROVING.
"Since 1970, the year of the first Earth Day, America's population has increased by 42%, the country's inflation-adjusted gross domestic product has grown 195%, the number of cars and trucks in the United States has more than doubled, and the total number of miles driven has increased by 178%.
But during these 35 years of growing population, employment, and industrial production, the Environmental Protection Agency reports, the environment has substantially improved. Emissions of the six principal air pollutants have decreased by 53%. Carbon monoxide emissions have dropped from 197 million tons per year to 89 million; nitrogen oxides from 27 million tons to 19 million, and sulfur dioxide from 31 million to 15 million. Particulates are down 80%, and lead emissions have declined by more than 98%. "
Forest acres - up over 9 million acres. So are bald eagles populations & acres of wetlands.
Of course, the scare tactics of the enironmental crowd (not to say that there are not problems at all) are focused on the evil of carbon dioxide -- supposed culprit of "global warming". But much of what warming there is can actually be attributed to that great big ball of fire in the sky the planet orbits.
"Climate Science study concludes that "computer models consistently project a rise in temperatures over the past century that is more than twice as high as the measured increase." The National Center for Atmospheric Research's prediction of 1.8 degrees Fahrenheit warming is more accurate. In short, the world is not warming as much as environmentalists think it is.
What warming there is turns out to be caused by solar radiation rather than human pollution. The Climate Change study concluded "half the observed 20th century warming occurred before 1940 and cannot be attributed to human causes," and changes in solar radiation can "account for 71 percent of the variation in global surface air temperature from 1880 to 1993."
Aha! There is some warming, and that will cause the sea levels to rise and cause a widespread flooding catasrophe, right? Millions will be flooded out of coastal areas and famine will result! Wrong.
"The U.N.'s IPCC Third Assessment Report concluded that the rate of sea level rise has not accelerated during the last century, which is supported by U.S. coastal sea level experience. In California sea levels have risen between zero and seven millimeters a year and between 2.1 and 2.8 millimeters a year in North and South Carolina. "
Oops. So if the sea levels aren't rising, and the CO2 level isn't causing warming, WHERE WILL MY NEXT RESEARCH GRANT COME FROM?
Friday, May 19, 2006
Rare American Chestnut trees discovered
This is spectacular news. Chestnut trees were probably the most widespread type of tree east of the Mississippi for thousands of years until blight nearly caused their extinction.
"American chestnuts once made up about 25 percent of the forests in the eastern United States, with an estimated 4 billion trees from Maine to Mississippi and Florida.
The trees helped satisfy demand for roasted chestnuts, and their rot-resistant wood was used to make fence posts, utility poles, barns, homes, furniture and musical instruments.
Then these magnificent hardwoods, which could grow to a height of 100 feet and a diameter of 8 feet or more, were almost entirely wiped out by a fast-spreading fungus discovered in 1904."
If these trees can resist the blight, then the re-introduction of the chestnut could take place. Arbor Day could have a new meaning for me if this proves to be the case. I would certainly love to plant one.
"American chestnuts once made up about 25 percent of the forests in the eastern United States, with an estimated 4 billion trees from Maine to Mississippi and Florida.
The trees helped satisfy demand for roasted chestnuts, and their rot-resistant wood was used to make fence posts, utility poles, barns, homes, furniture and musical instruments.
Then these magnificent hardwoods, which could grow to a height of 100 feet and a diameter of 8 feet or more, were almost entirely wiped out by a fast-spreading fungus discovered in 1904."
If these trees can resist the blight, then the re-introduction of the chestnut could take place. Arbor Day could have a new meaning for me if this proves to be the case. I would certainly love to plant one.
Great Baseball Story
TCS Daily.
Story of journeyman 1B Dale Long, who established the 8 consecutive games with a HR record, which has since been twice tied (by my main man Donny "Baseball" Mattingly, and Junior Griffey). While I never remember hearing of Long, I do remember Mattingly tying the record, but don't recall Griff doing so -- of course being a Yank fan, I have never paid much attention to the West coast clubs, with the exception of Oakland for some reason. Anyhow, I nice story of Long, the author's childhood and, more importantly, the feel of those times.
Story of journeyman 1B Dale Long, who established the 8 consecutive games with a HR record, which has since been twice tied (by my main man Donny "Baseball" Mattingly, and Junior Griffey). While I never remember hearing of Long, I do remember Mattingly tying the record, but don't recall Griff doing so -- of course being a Yank fan, I have never paid much attention to the West coast clubs, with the exception of Oakland for some reason. Anyhow, I nice story of Long, the author's childhood and, more importantly, the feel of those times.
Wednesday, May 17, 2006
Planet found in habitable zone
From Natl Geographic.
HD 69830, a Sun-like star system 41 light years away, has at least 3 planets (the 3 smallest discovered so far) and an asteroid belt (the only system other than ours known to have one) and the outermost known planet, at about 18 earth masses, could have liquid water.
See also, Space.com here.
HD 69830, a Sun-like star system 41 light years away, has at least 3 planets (the 3 smallest discovered so far) and an asteroid belt (the only system other than ours known to have one) and the outermost known planet, at about 18 earth masses, could have liquid water.
See also, Space.com here.
Tuesday, May 16, 2006
American Ingenuity
Make your own ethanol! And if gas prices go back down, you can still make your own whiskey. For private consumption only, of course. I saw somthing else a while back about a guy going around and collecting fryer grease from restaurants to use in his modified diesel truck. Wherever there is a high-cost solution, there will be a few individuals brave enough to try anything to get around it. And it's one of those things that makes America great.
Thursday, May 11, 2006
Solar Activity
From Space.com
Very interesting in that a very intense period of solar activity is likely to be followed by a very weak one. Even more interesting in that the high activity period has climate repercussions here on the third planet, being linked to the little global warming that has been actually measured, as opposed to predicted. If solar activity drops to historic lows, might global climate start to cool?
I can see it now -- the global ice age people of 15-20 years ago will come out of the woodwork and make a comeback, and Al Gore will pontificate about it endlessly. Fear the ice age! And Al!
Very interesting in that a very intense period of solar activity is likely to be followed by a very weak one. Even more interesting in that the high activity period has climate repercussions here on the third planet, being linked to the little global warming that has been actually measured, as opposed to predicted. If solar activity drops to historic lows, might global climate start to cool?
I can see it now -- the global ice age people of 15-20 years ago will come out of the woodwork and make a comeback, and Al Gore will pontificate about it endlessly. Fear the ice age! And Al!
Wednesday, May 10, 2006
Election Returns
All the candidates I favored and/or voted for lost, which figures. :) But I did call the 3rd District win for Smith, in addition to the obvious Ricketts domination of the Senate race. I saw Kramer address his supporters on TV and he appeared pretty emotional in thanking his supporters; he made a surprisingly big gain in the last weeks to finish in double digits, but was obviously handicapped by lack of funding and name recognition.
Hanson (somewhat surprisingly) finished above Vavricek by tenths of a percentage point in the 3rd, but second isn't good enough. Smith faces Kleebs and Ricketts faces Nelson in the granddaddy of them all in the fall. Fortenberry and Moul will likely have a tight race in the 2nd District, while Terry is likely, but not guaranteed, to defeat Esch here at home in the 1st.
The one that eluded me was the Governor's race, where I assumed Osbourne's House district and rural interests would support him -- but this turned out not to be the case everywhere. TO actually WON Douglass and Lancaster counties, which frankly shocked me, but lost in many of the outstate rural counties. Never would have guessed it. Gov. Dave faces Lincoln businessman David Hahn in the fall.
One Osborn that did win was Shane for Treasurer -- against incumbent Ross no less. Facing no one in the fall, the job is his.
Hanson (somewhat surprisingly) finished above Vavricek by tenths of a percentage point in the 3rd, but second isn't good enough. Smith faces Kleebs and Ricketts faces Nelson in the granddaddy of them all in the fall. Fortenberry and Moul will likely have a tight race in the 2nd District, while Terry is likely, but not guaranteed, to defeat Esch here at home in the 1st.
The one that eluded me was the Governor's race, where I assumed Osbourne's House district and rural interests would support him -- but this turned out not to be the case everywhere. TO actually WON Douglass and Lancaster counties, which frankly shocked me, but lost in many of the outstate rural counties. Never would have guessed it. Gov. Dave faces Lincoln businessman David Hahn in the fall.
One Osborn that did win was Shane for Treasurer -- against incumbent Ross no less. Facing no one in the fall, the job is his.
Tuesday, May 09, 2006
More from Victor Davis Hanson
On Real Clear Politics.
The man makes an important point -- that the lack of historical knowledge in the current citizenry contributes (sometimes mightily) to the sometimes crazed reaction to the conflict in Iraq. Most people don't seem to understand that wars are messy, bloody affairs. They want a clean cancer surgery rather than a democratic childbirth, I guess.
"Ours is the first generation of Americans that thinks it can demand perfection in war. Our present leisure, wealth, and high technology fool us into thinking that we are demi-gods always be able to trump both human and natural disasters. Accordingly, we become frustrated that we cannot master every wartime obstacle, as we seem otherwise to be able to do with computers or cosmetic surgery. Then, without any benchmarks of comparison from the past, we despair that our actions are failed because they are not perfect.
But why did a poorer, less educated, and more illiberal United States in far bloodier and more error-ridden wars of the past still have greater confidence in itself? Was it that our ancestors, who died younger and far more tragically, did not expect their homeland to be without flaws, only to be considerably better than the enemy's?
Perhaps we have forgotten such modesty because we have ignored the study of history that alone offers us guidance from our forbearers. It now competes as an orphan discipline with social science, -ologies and -isms that entice us into thinking that the more money and education of the present can at last perfect the human condition and thus consign our flawed past to irrelevance.
The result is that while sensitive young Americans seem to know what correct words and ideas they must embrace, they derive neither direction nor solace from past events. After all, very few could identify Vicksburg or Verdun, much less have any idea where or what Iwo Jima was. In such a lonely prison of the present what are historically ignorant Americans to make of a Fallujah or an Iranian madman's threat of annihilation other than such things can't or shouldn't or must not happen to us?
So, of this present war, I think our war-torn forefathers would say to us that both messy Afghanistan and Iraq are better places without their dictators even if they never will resemble Carmel or Austin. "
Here, here, VDH. Hell, most 18-24 year olds can't even indentify Iraq or even LOUISIANA on a map today, much less places like Bunker Hill, San Jacinto, Vera Cruz, Ft. Sumpter, Gettysburg, Manilla Bay, San Juan Hill, the Argonne Forest, Kasserine Pass, Malmedy, Chosen Reservoir, Khe Sahn or even Medina Ridge.
The thin, bloody lines that defends this nation are, and have always been, an inspirational story that needs to be told. Repeatedly. Like Medal of Honor winner, SFC Paul Smith. But in today's media, these heroes are too often forgotten, far too soon. Audie Murphy is probably spinning in his grave right now. I doubt anyone is going to make a movie about Smith, and the country is diminished by the oversight.
The man makes an important point -- that the lack of historical knowledge in the current citizenry contributes (sometimes mightily) to the sometimes crazed reaction to the conflict in Iraq. Most people don't seem to understand that wars are messy, bloody affairs. They want a clean cancer surgery rather than a democratic childbirth, I guess.
"Ours is the first generation of Americans that thinks it can demand perfection in war. Our present leisure, wealth, and high technology fool us into thinking that we are demi-gods always be able to trump both human and natural disasters. Accordingly, we become frustrated that we cannot master every wartime obstacle, as we seem otherwise to be able to do with computers or cosmetic surgery. Then, without any benchmarks of comparison from the past, we despair that our actions are failed because they are not perfect.
But why did a poorer, less educated, and more illiberal United States in far bloodier and more error-ridden wars of the past still have greater confidence in itself? Was it that our ancestors, who died younger and far more tragically, did not expect their homeland to be without flaws, only to be considerably better than the enemy's?
Perhaps we have forgotten such modesty because we have ignored the study of history that alone offers us guidance from our forbearers. It now competes as an orphan discipline with social science, -ologies and -isms that entice us into thinking that the more money and education of the present can at last perfect the human condition and thus consign our flawed past to irrelevance.
The result is that while sensitive young Americans seem to know what correct words and ideas they must embrace, they derive neither direction nor solace from past events. After all, very few could identify Vicksburg or Verdun, much less have any idea where or what Iwo Jima was. In such a lonely prison of the present what are historically ignorant Americans to make of a Fallujah or an Iranian madman's threat of annihilation other than such things can't or shouldn't or must not happen to us?
So, of this present war, I think our war-torn forefathers would say to us that both messy Afghanistan and Iraq are better places without their dictators even if they never will resemble Carmel or Austin. "
Here, here, VDH. Hell, most 18-24 year olds can't even indentify Iraq or even LOUISIANA on a map today, much less places like Bunker Hill, San Jacinto, Vera Cruz, Ft. Sumpter, Gettysburg, Manilla Bay, San Juan Hill, the Argonne Forest, Kasserine Pass, Malmedy, Chosen Reservoir, Khe Sahn or even Medina Ridge.
The thin, bloody lines that defends this nation are, and have always been, an inspirational story that needs to be told. Repeatedly. Like Medal of Honor winner, SFC Paul Smith. But in today's media, these heroes are too often forgotten, far too soon. Audie Murphy is probably spinning in his grave right now. I doubt anyone is going to make a movie about Smith, and the country is diminished by the oversight.
California vs Iraq
From The American Enterprise.
Victor Davis Hanson compares the Golden state to Iraq, and Iraq comes out fairly favorably.
Victor Davis Hanson compares the Golden state to Iraq, and Iraq comes out fairly favorably.
A different kind of Muslim
From NRO.
This is the most refreshing news I've had in a while. Many people here in the US have been asking where the moderates Muslims are, why they don't speak out against the radicals. Apparently they've been hiding in plain sight in the Mahgreb. Unfortunately, the good Dr. Ahmed Abaddi is almost sure to get killed by some nutjob for the heresy of believing that Christians, Jews and Muslims can learn to live together. But I admire his bravery in trying, and the King of Moracco's for letting him. They have a lot of work to do. I wish them all the luck.
This is the most refreshing news I've had in a while. Many people here in the US have been asking where the moderates Muslims are, why they don't speak out against the radicals. Apparently they've been hiding in plain sight in the Mahgreb. Unfortunately, the good Dr. Ahmed Abaddi is almost sure to get killed by some nutjob for the heresy of believing that Christians, Jews and Muslims can learn to live together. But I admire his bravery in trying, and the King of Moracco's for letting him. They have a lot of work to do. I wish them all the luck.
I suspected as much
Another important new scientific discovery. At least the research was done is Sweden and not in California.
Monday, May 08, 2006
Star Wars Deployed!
From the Weekly Standard.
Aegis equipped naval ships (up to 15 vessels inside 2 years), 8 batteries of theater-ranged anti-missiles, a 747s with an air-borne lasers -- they are all a reality -- TODAY. This is the best news I've had for a long, long time.
" Missile Defense Agency spokesman Rick Lehner calls it "an integrated system of ground, sea and space-based sensors, ground and sea-based radars and an advanced command and control, battle management and communication system designed to detect and track a hostile ballistic missile, then launch and guide an interceptor to destroy the target.""
Even better, a nice list of our closest allies is helping to pay for, site, and deploy the systems. Japan, Australia, Poland, Great Britain, Denmark, India, Italy, even the Germans and, possibly the Canadians may get involved. Only question I have is where the Israelis are.
TOO COOL.
Aegis equipped naval ships (up to 15 vessels inside 2 years), 8 batteries of theater-ranged anti-missiles, a 747s with an air-borne lasers -- they are all a reality -- TODAY. This is the best news I've had for a long, long time.
" Missile Defense Agency spokesman Rick Lehner calls it "an integrated system of ground, sea and space-based sensors, ground and sea-based radars and an advanced command and control, battle management and communication system designed to detect and track a hostile ballistic missile, then launch and guide an interceptor to destroy the target.""
Even better, a nice list of our closest allies is helping to pay for, site, and deploy the systems. Japan, Australia, Poland, Great Britain, Denmark, India, Italy, even the Germans and, possibly the Canadians may get involved. Only question I have is where the Israelis are.
TOO COOL.
No growth lawn!
It's about time serious research was put into this field. Maybe they can expand the research to no growth hedges, too. I am certainly tired of wasting a perfectly good weekend afternoon doing either one.
Thursday, May 04, 2006
Energy Wars?
From Newsweek via MSNBC.
The title is a bit misleading; I understand the author's point, but not sure I agree that there's nothing to be done, and certainly don't agree with the things the author seems to favor -- higher milage requirements (making vehicles more expensive AND less safe) and higher gas taxes (already 5+ times the actual per gallon profit of the energy producer). Energy producing nations don't make any money if they don't sell to customers. Of course, they will try to influence those customers.
Energy supplies are currently tight, and may get tighter, driving up prices. Supply and demand have met with little or no spare production capacity today due to low prices in previous years leading to an exploration hiatus in the industry. No one read the tea leaves and foresaw the burgeoning demand from China and India in particular. It takes several years to bring new production facilities online. Higher prices will bring a contraction in demand, AND increase the potential supply as exploration budgets are increased, alternates and substitutes are developed, and higher cost fields become profitable -- like tar sands.
Politically, the vast majority ((75-80%) of the world's energy supplies are controlled by state-run organizations, many of whom are not exactly friendly to the US. And the uncertainty in some of these nations (Nigeria, Venezuela, Iraq, and Iran in particular) are driving prices even higher, with a premium of as much as $10-20 being added to each barrel of oil today. And all the US gov't has done in recent years is curtail even the exploration for energy domestically, Florida and Alaska most notably. Even if more energy were produced domestically, refining capacity is also at a ceiling as well, and new refineries haven't ben built in aroudn 30 years. In addition, no new nuclear power plants have been constructed in the country for over 30 years as well. This has got to change, but won't if we don't have the political will to do so. The good news is that we squeeze more and more economic output from each BTU as time goes on -- the economy is growing much faster than our increase in energy consumption.
The title is a bit misleading; I understand the author's point, but not sure I agree that there's nothing to be done, and certainly don't agree with the things the author seems to favor -- higher milage requirements (making vehicles more expensive AND less safe) and higher gas taxes (already 5+ times the actual per gallon profit of the energy producer). Energy producing nations don't make any money if they don't sell to customers. Of course, they will try to influence those customers.
Energy supplies are currently tight, and may get tighter, driving up prices. Supply and demand have met with little or no spare production capacity today due to low prices in previous years leading to an exploration hiatus in the industry. No one read the tea leaves and foresaw the burgeoning demand from China and India in particular. It takes several years to bring new production facilities online. Higher prices will bring a contraction in demand, AND increase the potential supply as exploration budgets are increased, alternates and substitutes are developed, and higher cost fields become profitable -- like tar sands.
Politically, the vast majority ((75-80%) of the world's energy supplies are controlled by state-run organizations, many of whom are not exactly friendly to the US. And the uncertainty in some of these nations (Nigeria, Venezuela, Iraq, and Iran in particular) are driving prices even higher, with a premium of as much as $10-20 being added to each barrel of oil today. And all the US gov't has done in recent years is curtail even the exploration for energy domestically, Florida and Alaska most notably. Even if more energy were produced domestically, refining capacity is also at a ceiling as well, and new refineries haven't ben built in aroudn 30 years. In addition, no new nuclear power plants have been constructed in the country for over 30 years as well. This has got to change, but won't if we don't have the political will to do so. The good news is that we squeeze more and more economic output from each BTU as time goes on -- the economy is growing much faster than our increase in energy consumption.
Wednesday, May 03, 2006
3rd district Race Endorsement
While a number of people are running, the 3 serious candidates are GI mayor Jay Vavricek, former State Senator Adrian Smith, and John Hanson, Sr. Ag advisor to Congressman Tom Osbourne.
This is probably the toughest one. All are very popular in their respective strongholds; they have only small differences in policy matters, although Vavricek draws the ire of anti-tax groups, he merely bumped a sales tax in order to cut property taxes from my understanding. While I think any of the three would be good reps, the man with the most experience with the farm issues (both farming itself and the banking/insurance side) critical to this district and with Washington is John Hanson. If elected, he could likely hit the ground running and be very effective. OWH again echoes my thinking on this group; LJS hasn't apparently (at least that I could discover) endorsed anyone in this race.
This is probably the toughest one. All are very popular in their respective strongholds; they have only small differences in policy matters, although Vavricek draws the ire of anti-tax groups, he merely bumped a sales tax in order to cut property taxes from my understanding. While I think any of the three would be good reps, the man with the most experience with the farm issues (both farming itself and the banking/insurance side) critical to this district and with Washington is John Hanson. If elected, he could likely hit the ground running and be very effective. OWH again echoes my thinking on this group; LJS hasn't apparently (at least that I could discover) endorsed anyone in this race.
US Senate Endorsement
I meant to do this earlier in the week, but many issues have been pressing. Quick rundown of the major (non-governor) races:
US Senate: Businessman Pete Ricketts vs. former state GOP chair Dave Kramer vs. former state AG Don Stenberg.
Advantage: Kramer -- For me, this was never about Stenberg, who lost narrowly to Ben Nelson in 2000., it was between the 2 relative unknown newcomers. For me, Kramer reflects my views a bit more closely than Ricketts, who is spending a ton of his own money trying to get the nomination. I believe Ricketts cash will get him the primary, but I think Kramer is the better candidate. OWH is on board with me on this one, LJS has hitched itself to the rich guy.
US Senate: Businessman Pete Ricketts vs. former state GOP chair Dave Kramer vs. former state AG Don Stenberg.
Advantage: Kramer -- For me, this was never about Stenberg, who lost narrowly to Ben Nelson in 2000., it was between the 2 relative unknown newcomers. For me, Kramer reflects my views a bit more closely than Ricketts, who is spending a ton of his own money trying to get the nomination. I believe Ricketts cash will get him the primary, but I think Kramer is the better candidate. OWH is on board with me on this one, LJS has hitched itself to the rich guy.
Washington Nationals have an owner!
From MLB.
Finally!
While applauding the move of the team to the nation's capital, it has been an embarassing travesty that MLB had not, until apparently today, found an owner for the team. One hopes that the new ownership group will focus on fans and field a competitive team built around some of the best young talent in all of baseball. I hope they keep Frank Robinson around as well. If the new ballpark goes as planned, the team is liable to take off.
Finally!
While applauding the move of the team to the nation's capital, it has been an embarassing travesty that MLB had not, until apparently today, found an owner for the team. One hopes that the new ownership group will focus on fans and field a competitive team built around some of the best young talent in all of baseball. I hope they keep Frank Robinson around as well. If the new ballpark goes as planned, the team is liable to take off.
The Blogfather Speaks
Don Luskin of NRO repeats a speech he made recently to the National Organization of Investment Professionals on his blog:
http://poorandstupid.com/chronicle.asp
An excerpt on the economy, and the tax cuts that are the reason behind the success:
"Let's start with the stock market. From the recession bottom to April 2003, the S&P 500 actually lost 18%. Since April 2003, the S&P 500 has gained 51%. Now that's a bull market -- but you just have to start at the right place.
From the recession bottom to April 2003, 1.03 million payroll jobs were lost, and the unemployment rate actually went up from 5.5% to 6.0%. Talk about a jobless recovery! But since April 2003, payroll jobs have increased by 5.11 million, and the unemployment rate has fallen to 4.7%.
From the recession bottom to April 2003, real GDP grew 3.2%. Since April 2003, it has grown 11.3%. From the recession bottom to April 2003, S&P 500 earnings increased only 7%. Since April 2003, earnings have grown 59%. From the recession bottom to April 2003, manufacturers' new orders fell 5%. Since April 2003, they have increased by 38%.
From the recession bottom to April 2003, non-residential fixed investment fell 1%. Since April 2003, it has increased by 35%. And here's the most remarkable of all. From the recession bottom to April 2003, federal income tax receipts fell by 11%. Since April 2003, they have increased by 26%, and now stand at all time record highs.
Think about that one for a second. We cut taxes on personal incomes, capital gains, and dividends -- and tax receipts went up.
Let's hear it for voodoo economics. It works."
He also appears to agree with this gentleman, who I've featured before:
"Our GDP is at all-time highs, too. As a fraction of GDP, our deficits and our debt are nothing special. They're about average for the last 30 years. We've seen higher in this country in the past, and in fact many nations today have far worse. "
Funny how facts can get in the way of a "bad" image of the economy. Very inconvenient, those pesky facts.
http://poorandstupid.com/chronicle.asp
An excerpt on the economy, and the tax cuts that are the reason behind the success:
"Let's start with the stock market. From the recession bottom to April 2003, the S&P 500 actually lost 18%. Since April 2003, the S&P 500 has gained 51%. Now that's a bull market -- but you just have to start at the right place.
From the recession bottom to April 2003, 1.03 million payroll jobs were lost, and the unemployment rate actually went up from 5.5% to 6.0%. Talk about a jobless recovery! But since April 2003, payroll jobs have increased by 5.11 million, and the unemployment rate has fallen to 4.7%.
From the recession bottom to April 2003, real GDP grew 3.2%. Since April 2003, it has grown 11.3%. From the recession bottom to April 2003, S&P 500 earnings increased only 7%. Since April 2003, earnings have grown 59%. From the recession bottom to April 2003, manufacturers' new orders fell 5%. Since April 2003, they have increased by 38%.
From the recession bottom to April 2003, non-residential fixed investment fell 1%. Since April 2003, it has increased by 35%. And here's the most remarkable of all. From the recession bottom to April 2003, federal income tax receipts fell by 11%. Since April 2003, they have increased by 26%, and now stand at all time record highs.
Think about that one for a second. We cut taxes on personal incomes, capital gains, and dividends -- and tax receipts went up.
Let's hear it for voodoo economics. It works."
He also appears to agree with this gentleman, who I've featured before:
"Our GDP is at all-time highs, too. As a fraction of GDP, our deficits and our debt are nothing special. They're about average for the last 30 years. We've seen higher in this country in the past, and in fact many nations today have far worse. "
Funny how facts can get in the way of a "bad" image of the economy. Very inconvenient, those pesky facts.
Skysails
Read about this outfit in Popular Science.
Tha age of sail has returned! With the increase in energy costs, it makes a great deal of sense. A 10-15% savings in fuel costs adds up to a lot of cash. Plus, it's cool.
I understand this outfit, along with some others, is already having an impact on private yachts, and the plan is to cater to large shipping outfits and oil tankers as well.
In a (somewhat) related note, I read that the President of Panama is hoping to expand the canal to accomadate larger container ships.
Tha age of sail has returned! With the increase in energy costs, it makes a great deal of sense. A 10-15% savings in fuel costs adds up to a lot of cash. Plus, it's cool.
I understand this outfit, along with some others, is already having an impact on private yachts, and the plan is to cater to large shipping outfits and oil tankers as well.
In a (somewhat) related note, I read that the President of Panama is hoping to expand the canal to accomadate larger container ships.
Monday, May 01, 2006
OWH Endorsement -- and mine.
TO gets the endorsement of the Omaha newspaper.
I have to believe that the paper is correct about one thing: the Coach will really not be beholden to any special interest; he will call them as he sees them, and will be the most independent of the possible candidates. That being said, the race will be tight between Gov. Dave and the Congressman. Fact of the matter is, while I like the incumbent's background, he has not particularly impressed me during his days in office. And while I have been impressed with the energy, new ideas and outspokeness of the Nabity campaign, I don't believe that he is the right candidate for today. It would help him immensely to serve the public in another capacity and run again for the governor's office in the future, not just for name recognition but for experience in government as well.
Personally, I agree with the paper on this one. While Tom's been the front-runner from day one, I haven't seen him pander to any group or special interest just for the sake of votes, unlike the incumbent has with the school fiasco.
As the paper says:
"He offers a blend of character, intelligence and political independence that makes him especially suited to lead the state. Nebraskans know Tom Osborne to be a man who faces problems head-on. Voters know his character and his values."
He has been a lot more than "just a football coach" as some have said. A number of people had their doubts when he ran for Congress; however, he's been an excellent representative for his district for the past six years, and impressed many with his intellect and work ethic. In addition, the experience in Washington can only have helped to prove to Osbourne that government needs an overhaul. This is a critical time for the state of Nebraska; if there was ever a time for calm, rational leadership, this is certainly it, and I believe Tom Osbourne embodies these qualities to a higher degree than any of the other candidates.
I have to believe that the paper is correct about one thing: the Coach will really not be beholden to any special interest; he will call them as he sees them, and will be the most independent of the possible candidates. That being said, the race will be tight between Gov. Dave and the Congressman. Fact of the matter is, while I like the incumbent's background, he has not particularly impressed me during his days in office. And while I have been impressed with the energy, new ideas and outspokeness of the Nabity campaign, I don't believe that he is the right candidate for today. It would help him immensely to serve the public in another capacity and run again for the governor's office in the future, not just for name recognition but for experience in government as well.
Personally, I agree with the paper on this one. While Tom's been the front-runner from day one, I haven't seen him pander to any group or special interest just for the sake of votes, unlike the incumbent has with the school fiasco.
As the paper says:
"He offers a blend of character, intelligence and political independence that makes him especially suited to lead the state. Nebraskans know Tom Osborne to be a man who faces problems head-on. Voters know his character and his values."
He has been a lot more than "just a football coach" as some have said. A number of people had their doubts when he ran for Congress; however, he's been an excellent representative for his district for the past six years, and impressed many with his intellect and work ethic. In addition, the experience in Washington can only have helped to prove to Osbourne that government needs an overhaul. This is a critical time for the state of Nebraska; if there was ever a time for calm, rational leadership, this is certainly it, and I believe Tom Osbourne embodies these qualities to a higher degree than any of the other candidates.
Friday, April 28, 2006
Alternate Fuels
Great article (from Popular Mechanics) covering the various alt fuels, their pros and cons, and the likelihood of wide-scale development. While I'd like to see additional domestic production and refining capacity built, some of these ideas have had, and will continue to have, an impact on the nations' energy needs, particularly biodiesel and ethanol. I'd like to see a similiar articles on tar sand/oil shale developments and methane hydrate nodules. Of course, I'd like to see some new pebble-bed nuclear reactors built in this country, too, but I'm not holding my breath.
101st Keyboarders
Several bloggers (including the famous Frank J of IMAO) have started an informal organization/logo in reply to the oft-used left winger rant of "chicken-hawks" to describe those of us in favor of a strong foreign policy or the liberation of Iraq. As Ed Morrisey over at Captains' Quarter's puts it:
"Our friends on the port side of the blogosphere have had quite a time tossing around funny little nicknames for those of us who support the war on terror and use our blogs to express our convictions about it. We've seen the names here at CQ in the comments section -- the term "chickenhawk" has appeared more than once, and others in the blogosphere have assigned us to a unit called the 101st Fighting Keyboardists."
Of course, the wingnuts on the left don't seem to understand that to use the term Chickenhawk really shouldn't be derogatory. Chickenhawks are vicious predators, as has been pointed out by Ed:
"And why the chicken hawk? When we looked into it, it turns out that the chicken hawk is a pretty impressive predator. It's the largest of its family. This species vigorously defends its territory, getting even more aggressive when the conditions get harshest. It adapts to all climates. Most impressively, it feeds on chickens, mice, and rats."
Artwork courtesy of Chief (and short background story) here at Freedom Dogs.
I'll note for the record that I'm not sure I qualify, being a vet. Of course, I've been out of the service now far longer than I was ever in. But I really like the idea anyway, and this is my spot to sound off, so I am. I'll never be as eloquent as some people, particularly this fellow, who I wish would let us know he's alive, but I do the best I have with what little (especially time) I have.
Lincoln Paper's Endorsements
LJS endorses Osbourne over Gov. Dave and Nabity. I'm a little surprised, but I think the paper is trying to go with the winner. The comments left by readers are a bit amusing in spots. The argument that a football coach can't make a good governor ignores the fact the man is a 3 term Congressman, as well as a long term educator with a ton of experience in management, social issues with youth and dealing with journalists. It also flies in the face of common sense; being elected to political office doesn't, or shouldn't, require any particular expertise, or so those ignorant Founding Fathers thought. My perspective is that we shouldn't have a permanent political class.
The paper also goes with Mr. Ricketts here, touting his extensive business experience, and also taps military hero Shane Osborn (no relation) for State Treasurer. I have to admit I like the lineup for the most part. While I doubt Ricketts can beat Senator Nelson, he's probably the best equipped to make it a close fight. If Osborn wins the Treasurer primary, the job will be his as the Dems have no candidate.
The paper also goes with Mr. Ricketts here, touting his extensive business experience, and also taps military hero Shane Osborn (no relation) for State Treasurer. I have to admit I like the lineup for the most part. While I doubt Ricketts can beat Senator Nelson, he's probably the best equipped to make it a close fight. If Osborn wins the Treasurer primary, the job will be his as the Dems have no candidate.
Wednesday, April 26, 2006
Rick Monday's Greatest Play
From MLB.
It was the 30th anniversay of Rick Monday's rescue of the American flag from a pair of hippies trying to burn it in the Dodger's outfield yesterday.
While I've never been a big fan of the Dodgers, and don't remember the incident, I have to give a lot of credit to Monday (and Tommy Lasorda) for their actions that day. It's really too bad the bums didn't give Tommy a reason. Monday's stature, in my mind, has taken a great leap upward. Even if he did play for the Cubs.
If everyone had the courage to stand up when misguided individuals start trashing the good old USA, we'd be a lot better off. Freedom of speech/expression is one thing, but I have every right (as well) to tell you where to shove it if I don't agree with your "statement".
It was the 30th anniversay of Rick Monday's rescue of the American flag from a pair of hippies trying to burn it in the Dodger's outfield yesterday.
While I've never been a big fan of the Dodgers, and don't remember the incident, I have to give a lot of credit to Monday (and Tommy Lasorda) for their actions that day. It's really too bad the bums didn't give Tommy a reason. Monday's stature, in my mind, has taken a great leap upward. Even if he did play for the Cubs.
If everyone had the courage to stand up when misguided individuals start trashing the good old USA, we'd be a lot better off. Freedom of speech/expression is one thing, but I have every right (as well) to tell you where to shove it if I don't agree with your "statement".
Monday, April 24, 2006
Husker BB Takes Series @ TX, Reaches Top of Big 12
Huskerextra link above.
7 innings of scoreless work from Johnny Dorn extends his scoreless innings streak to 19, and NE wins its first series at Texas since 2002 to win its 11 straight Big 12 series and 7th on the road. NE goes to 12-3 in conference. and 32-6 overall, while Texas remains just percentage points behind at 13-4 in the Big 12 and drops to 28-15 overall.
3B Jake Mort provided the offense with 4 RBI, including a base clearing double in the 6th, to break the game open. Zach Herr shut the door on Texas with 1 2/3 innings in the eighth and ninth after Erik Bird struck out TX All-American CF Drew Stubbs.
OWH write-up here.
7 innings of scoreless work from Johnny Dorn extends his scoreless innings streak to 19, and NE wins its first series at Texas since 2002 to win its 11 straight Big 12 series and 7th on the road. NE goes to 12-3 in conference. and 32-6 overall, while Texas remains just percentage points behind at 13-4 in the Big 12 and drops to 28-15 overall.
3B Jake Mort provided the offense with 4 RBI, including a base clearing double in the 6th, to break the game open. Zach Herr shut the door on Texas with 1 2/3 innings in the eighth and ninth after Erik Bird struck out TX All-American CF Drew Stubbs.
OWH write-up here.
Friday, April 21, 2006
League of Women Voters of Omaha Questionaire
Ricketts never got back to them, an interesting oversight to be sure. Neither did Osbourne, even more shocking. I had no idea we had an independent running for Gov, have to find out more about that one. A lot of detail for the state & local races. Only the 2nd District race House candidates are covered, but it is more info from some of the candidates than I have seen elsewhere (Hahn & Eisch in particular) but when you aren't facing a primary fight, you can keep a low profile this early.
Poll on Gov Race
OWH.
"U.S. Rep. Tom Osborne received 44 percent support, while Gov. Dave Heineman received 43 percent in the telephone survey done on behalf of Republican Senate candidate Pete Ricketts.
The third candidate for governor, Dave Nabity, got 6 percent, and 7 percent of respondents said they were undecided."
Interesting that Heineman has been airing TV spots and apparently closed the race to neck and neck. Disappointing Nabity doesn't have the money to compete, although I have to give him credit for doing a good job of getting his message across on a shoestring budget.
The poll may not be very indicative however. The article indicates it was the same poll described here conducted by the Ricketts Senate campaign by telephone -- 501 "likely GOP" voters were surveyed. Error rate was 4%. Naturally, it showed Pete leading the Senate race. By 10 points over Stenberg, and Kramer a ton behind. I'm naturally a little cynical of pollsters given the way data can be "massaged" to show what you want to show.
"U.S. Rep. Tom Osborne received 44 percent support, while Gov. Dave Heineman received 43 percent in the telephone survey done on behalf of Republican Senate candidate Pete Ricketts.
The third candidate for governor, Dave Nabity, got 6 percent, and 7 percent of respondents said they were undecided."
Interesting that Heineman has been airing TV spots and apparently closed the race to neck and neck. Disappointing Nabity doesn't have the money to compete, although I have to give him credit for doing a good job of getting his message across on a shoestring budget.
The poll may not be very indicative however. The article indicates it was the same poll described here conducted by the Ricketts Senate campaign by telephone -- 501 "likely GOP" voters were surveyed. Error rate was 4%. Naturally, it showed Pete leading the Senate race. By 10 points over Stenberg, and Kramer a ton behind. I'm naturally a little cynical of pollsters given the way data can be "massaged" to show what you want to show.
3rd District Harris & Polk
OWH.
Neither of these guys has a snowballs chance of winnning, but apparently have some messages that they want to broadcast, i.e., bio weapons/terrorism and edcucation.
Neither of these guys has a snowballs chance of winnning, but apparently have some messages that they want to broadcast, i.e., bio weapons/terrorism and edcucation.
3rd District Candidate Vavricek
From OWH again.
The apparently very popular mayor of Grand Island is profiled. 2700 jobs in three years for a small city is pretty impressive. Substituting a sales tax increase for property tax relief is interesting, not sure I'd want to go along with that statewide. I do like the fact he managed to streamline the city government to help with the property tax relief. Not sure where the strong Club for Growth opposition is coming from unless it is the slight (1/2 of a cent) sales tax increase that he championed.
"After the City Council voted to put a half-cent city sales tax increase on the ballot in 2004, it was Vavricek's job to craft the ballot question.
He polled City Council members, sent questionnaires to residents and held public forums before drawing up a plan to use half the proceeds for property tax relief and half for projects such as a new fire station.
The measure, which had been soundly defeated two years earlier, won approval with 52 percent of the vote."
If you are going to ask the voters for a tax increase, this seems a pretty straightforward and justifiable way of doing it.
The apparently very popular mayor of Grand Island is profiled. 2700 jobs in three years for a small city is pretty impressive. Substituting a sales tax increase for property tax relief is interesting, not sure I'd want to go along with that statewide. I do like the fact he managed to streamline the city government to help with the property tax relief. Not sure where the strong Club for Growth opposition is coming from unless it is the slight (1/2 of a cent) sales tax increase that he championed.
"After the City Council voted to put a half-cent city sales tax increase on the ballot in 2004, it was Vavricek's job to craft the ballot question.
He polled City Council members, sent questionnaires to residents and held public forums before drawing up a plan to use half the proceeds for property tax relief and half for projects such as a new fire station.
The measure, which had been soundly defeated two years earlier, won approval with 52 percent of the vote."
If you are going to ask the voters for a tax increase, this seems a pretty straightforward and justifiable way of doing it.
Tuesday, April 18, 2006
Senate Immigration Bill
From NRO. Senator Jeff Sessions of AL makes a pretty convincing case that the Senate bill that at first appeared to be at least marginally acceptable is, in fact, completely unacceptable. The biggest hangup for me:
"Categories of aliens that should be removed from the United States would be allowed to qualify for the compromise mass amnesty program, including:
— Aliens with certain felony convictions or three misdemeanors;
— Aliens previously barred from receiving immigration benefits for life, because they filed a frivolous asylum application;
— Aliens who are under final orders of removal, or who signed voluntary departure agreements but have never been deported."
The idea that the Senate, of all bodies, would allow/encourage felons to become citizens is disturbing to say the least.
Another issue, among many others -- "The bill provides free legal counsel paid for by the American taxpayer to illegal-alien agricultural workers"
Zoinks, this thing stinks to high heaven. I was intially cautiously optimistic, but with no border enforcement mechanisms, I couldn't support it. Now I say, stick a fork in it and let's start from scratch. Perhaps start with a modified House bill to secure the border and then deal with the throngs of "undocumented" living among us. Uggh.
"Categories of aliens that should be removed from the United States would be allowed to qualify for the compromise mass amnesty program, including:
— Aliens with certain felony convictions or three misdemeanors;
— Aliens previously barred from receiving immigration benefits for life, because they filed a frivolous asylum application;
— Aliens who are under final orders of removal, or who signed voluntary departure agreements but have never been deported."
The idea that the Senate, of all bodies, would allow/encourage felons to become citizens is disturbing to say the least.
Another issue, among many others -- "The bill provides free legal counsel paid for by the American taxpayer to illegal-alien agricultural workers"
Zoinks, this thing stinks to high heaven. I was intially cautiously optimistic, but with no border enforcement mechanisms, I couldn't support it. Now I say, stick a fork in it and let's start from scratch. Perhaps start with a modified House bill to secure the border and then deal with the throngs of "undocumented" living among us. Uggh.
Monday, April 17, 2006
3rd District candidate Hanson
Nice article explaining Hanson's role on the Osbourne staff, his personal history and where he diagrees with his former boos on ag policy. I like his thinking regarding alternative crops, which I personally believe should be an important plank on the platform of anyone purporting to support the American farmer. We raise plenty of corn, beans, etc.; far too much in fact. A little innovative thinking on crops could go a long way to save the little guy/small farmer in my book, it's almost reprehensible that the bureaucrats and big ag don't think they need to make any changes. (hey, we're making money, so why change to help out the locals?) Hanson might be the most qualified candidate for the seat given his experience working in Congress, but I don't know if his fundraising will be adequate. Of course, Smith and Vavricek also have political experience, albeit at a more local level (Unicameral and GI Mayor).
State campaigns & fundraising
From the OWH. Interesting that Ricketts keeps pouring his own cash into the campaign in an effort to (I guess) buy the primary and attempt to get the other candidates to say uncle. His explanation that Stenberg has spent $3 million on his last 7 campaigns and that Ricketts needs to play "catch up" really doesn't add up in my book, particularly when Stenberg has only $34K in his chest. I'm pleasantly surprised Kramer seems to be both raising not only signifigant funds but also husbanding his resources with $163K remaining. I expect a big push in the last few weeks of the campaign. I am warming to the Kramer camp but will wait to make any endorsements until (probably) the last week in April.
The article also discusses the fund raising efforts of the 3rd District candidates, with Adrian Smith's campaign far outreaching (almost 3-1) his opposition, probably due to the Club for Growth endorsement. I'm intrigued that Democrat Kleebs has more money than either Hanson or Vavrisek, but would also note that he isn't running against anyone in the primary.
The article also discusses the fund raising efforts of the 3rd District candidates, with Adrian Smith's campaign far outreaching (almost 3-1) his opposition, probably due to the Club for Growth endorsement. I'm intrigued that Democrat Kleebs has more money than either Hanson or Vavrisek, but would also note that he isn't running against anyone in the primary.
Thursday, April 13, 2006
Space/Science News
Been alot lately -- 45th Anniversary of Yuri Gagarin's historic first manned spaceflight, the 25th Anniversary of the first Shuttle launch, ESA's Venus probe enters orbit of that planet, and Hubble checks "Xena" and finds it's not quite a big as thought -- though still bigger than Pluto.
From Space.com:
"The round world, officially catalogued as 2003 UB313, is about 1,490 miles wide with an uncertainty of 60 miles, according to new observations by the Hubble Space Telescope. Pluto is roughly 1,430 miles (2,300 kilometers) wide."
Previous estimates had it around 1800 miles in diameter.
From Space.com:
"The round world, officially catalogued as 2003 UB313, is about 1,490 miles wide with an uncertainty of 60 miles, according to new observations by the Hubble Space Telescope. Pluto is roughly 1,430 miles (2,300 kilometers) wide."
Previous estimates had it around 1800 miles in diameter.
Senate Debate
Stenberg still sits out & pouts; Kramer and Ricketts agree to support the other if they win the primary; Kramer's views on abortion are closer to my own (rape, incest, mother's life exceptions) than Ricketts, who sounds closer to Stenberg on at least that issue.
One troubling aspect to the discussion is everyone's (Gov. Dave touted his trip) support for Cuban trade; technically it is against Federal law to travel to or trade with that nation, or at least as I understand it. Of course, the Feds aren't enforcing immigration laws either, so I shouldn't be surprised I guess. I find it difficult to fathom promoting free trade with torturous, tyrannical Commie dictatorships with command economies.
One troubling aspect to the discussion is everyone's (Gov. Dave touted his trip) support for Cuban trade; technically it is against Federal law to travel to or trade with that nation, or at least as I understand it. Of course, the Feds aren't enforcing immigration laws either, so I shouldn't be surprised I guess. I find it difficult to fathom promoting free trade with torturous, tyrannical Commie dictatorships with command economies.
April 12 Gov Debate
The threee Republican candidates spent some time taking potshots at each other in North Platte Wednesday. Nabity comes out swinging again, & I have to agree with him that the tax and spending cuts the governor claims credit for aren't terribly large -- the "tuna fish tax cut" was a great way to term it.
"Nabity noted that the biggest beneficiaries under the bill were families eligible for the earned income tax credit, people whose incomes are so low they already pay no income taxes. "I thought tax relief is for people who pay taxes," he said."
I still don't think he'll make it, but he sure is making it entertaining. Govnernor's response is pretty tepid, and sheeer baloney. Using the 3 year figure isn't relevant because the Unicameral could change the plan in the next session. Property tax relief is aimed squarely at ag interests only, and the school levy isn't being changed as promised.
"Heineman preferred to call his tax cut a $300 million package, using a three-year figure, and said it is meaningful. "When it comes to tax cuts, I take a back seat to no one."
Heineman also noted he had vetoed $25 million in state spending. He suggested Osborne had little room to criticize on budget issues, noting that federal spending is running 14 percent higher than a year ago."
Osbourne criticizes the business incentive plan the governor mentions as well.
"Osborne said Heineman has done little for the small businesses that can't hire the 10 employees or invest the $10 million needed to qualify under the new business incentives. He called for new tax incentives to lure investment capital that small entrepreneurs lack."
Nabity also hits both the other candidates on the water issue, stating that paying people not to farm is counter-productive and hurts small merchants in rural communities.
The closing statements were interesting. Osbourne touted his self-imposed contribution limits; Nabity pointed out there are ways around such limits, and Heineman brought up that Osbourne supported in-state immigrant tuition, which had not previously come up. Guess who the front-runner is?
Also noted an article from Tuesday regarding the amount of money each campaign had here.
Nabity ($5k)and Dem. candidate Hahn ($11K) are way behind on fundraising, TO and Gov. Dave are pretty close with a little over a half mil apiece.
"Nabity noted that the biggest beneficiaries under the bill were families eligible for the earned income tax credit, people whose incomes are so low they already pay no income taxes. "I thought tax relief is for people who pay taxes," he said."
I still don't think he'll make it, but he sure is making it entertaining. Govnernor's response is pretty tepid, and sheeer baloney. Using the 3 year figure isn't relevant because the Unicameral could change the plan in the next session. Property tax relief is aimed squarely at ag interests only, and the school levy isn't being changed as promised.
"Heineman preferred to call his tax cut a $300 million package, using a three-year figure, and said it is meaningful. "When it comes to tax cuts, I take a back seat to no one."
Heineman also noted he had vetoed $25 million in state spending. He suggested Osborne had little room to criticize on budget issues, noting that federal spending is running 14 percent higher than a year ago."
Osbourne criticizes the business incentive plan the governor mentions as well.
"Osborne said Heineman has done little for the small businesses that can't hire the 10 employees or invest the $10 million needed to qualify under the new business incentives. He called for new tax incentives to lure investment capital that small entrepreneurs lack."
Nabity also hits both the other candidates on the water issue, stating that paying people not to farm is counter-productive and hurts small merchants in rural communities.
The closing statements were interesting. Osbourne touted his self-imposed contribution limits; Nabity pointed out there are ways around such limits, and Heineman brought up that Osbourne supported in-state immigrant tuition, which had not previously come up. Guess who the front-runner is?
Also noted an article from Tuesday regarding the amount of money each campaign had here.
Nabity ($5k)and Dem. candidate Hahn ($11K) are way behind on fundraising, TO and Gov. Dave are pretty close with a little over a half mil apiece.
ST-like Weapons Being Developed
The search for a new non-lethal weapons continues. Unfortunately, a lot more development needs to occur. Sunstrike project sounds promising:
"For Peter Bitar, the future of directed energy boils down to money.
Bitar heads Indiana-based Xtreme Alternative Defense Systems Ltd., which makes small blinding lasers used in Iraq. But his real project is a nonlethal energy device called the StunStrike.
Basically, it fires a bolt of lightning. It can be tuned to blow up explosives, possibly to stop vehicles and certainly to buzz people. The strike can be made to feel as gentle as "broom bristles'' or cranked up to deliver a paralyzing jolt that "takes a few minutes to wear off.''
This is a apparently a working prototype. The issue is making it deployable by an individual soldier.
"At present, StunStrike is a 20-foot tower that can zap things up to 28 feet away. The next step is to shrink it so it could be wielded by troops and used in civilian locales like airplane cabins or building entrances."
And the ninnies in the Penatagon want to spend a bunch of money on new airplanes and junk like the Crusader when projects like this need money. Not to mention the idiots in Congress that want to spend tax money to build bridges to nowhere.
"
"For Peter Bitar, the future of directed energy boils down to money.
Bitar heads Indiana-based Xtreme Alternative Defense Systems Ltd., which makes small blinding lasers used in Iraq. But his real project is a nonlethal energy device called the StunStrike.
Basically, it fires a bolt of lightning. It can be tuned to blow up explosives, possibly to stop vehicles and certainly to buzz people. The strike can be made to feel as gentle as "broom bristles'' or cranked up to deliver a paralyzing jolt that "takes a few minutes to wear off.''
This is a apparently a working prototype. The issue is making it deployable by an individual soldier.
"At present, StunStrike is a 20-foot tower that can zap things up to 28 feet away. The next step is to shrink it so it could be wielded by troops and used in civilian locales like airplane cabins or building entrances."
And the ninnies in the Penatagon want to spend a bunch of money on new airplanes and junk like the Crusader when projects like this need money. Not to mention the idiots in Congress that want to spend tax money to build bridges to nowhere.
"
Totally Needed for Bowling Night
This should be added to the "How Star Trek Changed the World" show Shatner hosted a couple of weeks ago on the Sci-Fi channel.
"Synthehol is a science-fictional substitute for alcohol that appears on the Star Trek:The Next Generation television series. It allows drinkers to experience all of the enjoyable, intoxicating effects of alcohol without unpleasant side-effects like hangovers."
If it really is possible, as Mr. Egghead chemistry scientist thinks it is, I can see a bright future for the first company that can bring it to market. Spring break/Marti Gras/St. Patty's/New Year's without the hangover?! Sign me up!
"Synthehol is a science-fictional substitute for alcohol that appears on the Star Trek:The Next Generation television series. It allows drinkers to experience all of the enjoyable, intoxicating effects of alcohol without unpleasant side-effects like hangovers."
If it really is possible, as Mr. Egghead chemistry scientist thinks it is, I can see a bright future for the first company that can bring it to market. Spring break/Marti Gras/St. Patty's/New Year's without the hangover?! Sign me up!
Wednesday, April 12, 2006
Baseball Standings
While it's early yet, the evil Red Stockings are 6-1, while the Yanks are mired at 3-4, but they did win their home opener yesterday vs. KC with a dramatic HR from the captain, Derek Jeter.
And hold a 9-5 lead this afternoon after 6 frames, thanks primarily to a granny by the Sheff.
Almost as evil Cleveland is 6-1 as well, while Oak & LA/Anaheim/California are at 5-3. Detroit is an early surprise ar 5-2. Where did this Shelton kid come from, anyways? Defending champs have had a rough start, losing series to Cleveland and KC, but Thome has been a force. Hit #5 today against Det. which had the Shelton kid go for HR #6! Wow. White Stockings win 4-3.
Over in the Senior circuit, the stupid Metropolitans are 5-1, with the Rockies(!?) leading the West at 5-2. The Central has Cincy(?!), Houston and Milwaukee(!?) all at 5-2 as well. Brew Crew is lookin good in the early going, nice mix of kids with holdover vets like Jenkins and Lee. Cards being swept by the Cubbies is not likely to happen again anytime soon, but the Redbirds did win the home opener in the new ballpark, which is gorgeous.
And hold a 9-5 lead this afternoon after 6 frames, thanks primarily to a granny by the Sheff.
Almost as evil Cleveland is 6-1 as well, while Oak & LA/Anaheim/California are at 5-3. Detroit is an early surprise ar 5-2. Where did this Shelton kid come from, anyways? Defending champs have had a rough start, losing series to Cleveland and KC, but Thome has been a force. Hit #5 today against Det. which had the Shelton kid go for HR #6! Wow. White Stockings win 4-3.
Over in the Senior circuit, the stupid Metropolitans are 5-1, with the Rockies(!?) leading the West at 5-2. The Central has Cincy(?!), Houston and Milwaukee(!?) all at 5-2 as well. Brew Crew is lookin good in the early going, nice mix of kids with holdover vets like Jenkins and Lee. Cards being swept by the Cubbies is not likely to happen again anytime soon, but the Redbirds did win the home opener in the new ballpark, which is gorgeous.
Husker BB
From Husker Extra.
Huskers baseball team, now ranked #4 in the nation, escapes Iowa City with a win in 13 innings, 16-14. Closer Brett Jensen gave up a three run shot to force the extras, but sophmore southpaw hurler Jon Klausing saved the day with 4 innings of scoreless relief to earn the W. Huskers nearly wasted a season-high 24 hit effort, and blew a 9-2 early lead to improve to 25-5 for the year. Yikes.
Huskers baseball team, now ranked #4 in the nation, escapes Iowa City with a win in 13 innings, 16-14. Closer Brett Jensen gave up a three run shot to force the extras, but sophmore southpaw hurler Jon Klausing saved the day with 4 innings of scoreless relief to earn the W. Huskers nearly wasted a season-high 24 hit effort, and blew a 9-2 early lead to improve to 25-5 for the year. Yikes.
Military Recruiting, Retention, etc.
Great article on the military at Townhall here which refutes the Five Biggest Myths about the US Armed Forces. I have a bit of a bias here; I'm a veteran who proudly served and felt like I got a great deal (the military got me my college education) and I have a brother-in-law currently serving active Army.
In short, recruiting is good (all services have hit their targets except the Army in 2005, and the Army actually RAISED their target for that year by 7,000 -- they would have achieved it otherwise). The combat branch slots are getting filled, although the force structure is changing to meet new requirements, like bomb disposal and the creation of additional combat brigades; the recruits are of high quality (over 93% have HS diplomas, compared to approx. 75% of their peers), the highest proportion of casualties are actually Caucasian (74%), and female soldiers are NOT serving in combat capacities -- although in this type of conflict, they may come under fire.
There has been some misleading articles about junior officers leaving in droves recently, particularly West Pointers. But the facts are that just under 10% were leaving BEFORE 9/11, the number decreased slightly afterward, and while it is trending back up, still hasn't reached the pre-attack levels -- after 3 years of conflict and (most likely) multiple deployments by said individuals. Hardly reason to panic about the All-Volunteer force.
In short, recruiting is good (all services have hit their targets except the Army in 2005, and the Army actually RAISED their target for that year by 7,000 -- they would have achieved it otherwise). The combat branch slots are getting filled, although the force structure is changing to meet new requirements, like bomb disposal and the creation of additional combat brigades; the recruits are of high quality (over 93% have HS diplomas, compared to approx. 75% of their peers), the highest proportion of casualties are actually Caucasian (74%), and female soldiers are NOT serving in combat capacities -- although in this type of conflict, they may come under fire.
There has been some misleading articles about junior officers leaving in droves recently, particularly West Pointers. But the facts are that just under 10% were leaving BEFORE 9/11, the number decreased slightly afterward, and while it is trending back up, still hasn't reached the pre-attack levels -- after 3 years of conflict and (most likely) multiple deployments by said individuals. Hardly reason to panic about the All-Volunteer force.
Monday, April 10, 2006
Governor's Race
Good article on Nabity here from the OWH. While I like some of his ideas, I still don't think he stands a chance, and some of the ideas could stand a little more development. Particularly where he would cut the state budget.
Also, on the Democratic side, the "alternative" candidate, Glenn Booth, Jr. is apparently ineligible to run because of a 1980 felony conviction -- story here. The Democratic party apparatus (such as it is in NE) of course blames the Sec. of State for not checking into Booth's record, but there is no state law requiring such. And the deadline for filing eligibility challenges passed some time ago -- over a month ago in fact. Of course, they don't want their chosen candidate, Lincolnite David Hahn, to have to spend any money on a primary fight. Of course, the governor could pardon him and he would be eligible again. That would not only be funny, but a pretty astute move on the gov's part.
Also, on the Democratic side, the "alternative" candidate, Glenn Booth, Jr. is apparently ineligible to run because of a 1980 felony conviction -- story here. The Democratic party apparatus (such as it is in NE) of course blames the Sec. of State for not checking into Booth's record, but there is no state law requiring such. And the deadline for filing eligibility challenges passed some time ago -- over a month ago in fact. Of course, they don't want their chosen candidate, Lincolnite David Hahn, to have to spend any money on a primary fight. Of course, the governor could pardon him and he would be eligible again. That would not only be funny, but a pretty astute move on the gov's part.
Friday, April 07, 2006
American Conservative Union Ratings
ACU released its ratings the other day for 2005. 12 Senators and 38 House members rated a perfect 100% score, none from NE and only one (King) from IA. How they determine them:
"ACU tracks a wide variety of issues before Congress, ranging from taxes to spending and national security to abortion. Accordingly, our ratings encompass three general categories: (1) economic and budget matters; (2) social and cultural issues, and (3) defense and foreign policy. ACU endeavors to analyze votes from each category in order to obtain a balanced, comprehensive picture of an individual member's ideological predisposition based upon recorded records."
For NE, Fortenberry and Terry both scored a 92, Osbourne an 88. Terry's lifetime score is a 90, Osbourne's an 83. Being a freshman, Fortenberry's lifetime rating is the same. NE Rep. Senator Hagel scored a 96; his lifetime score is 86, perhaps indicating a rightward shift given his possible presidential aspirations. NE Dem. Senator Nelson scored a 60, and possesses a lifetime score of 53, again possibly indicating a rightward election-year shift. It might be interesting to go back and look at recently deceased Dem. Sen. Jim Exxon or former Dem. Sen. Bob Kerry might compare to Nelson's scores.
Over in IA, their Senators and House members are almost diametrically opposed, Sen. Grassly coming in at a 96 (83 lifetime) and Sen. Harkin a 4 (lifetime 9). House members Nussle (92/86) and Latham (84/86) join King (100/96) with highly conservative ratings while Leach and Boswell, representing Dsitricts 2 and 3, have scores of 33/29 and 32/9 respectively. I don't recall ever seeing an Iowa district map, although I know King represents western IA. Interesting how diverse IA's representation is in Congress, particularly compared to neighboring NE. Of course, IA has IL on its eastern border, and WI on the north, both the most likely areas of Dem. voters I'm would guess.
"ACU tracks a wide variety of issues before Congress, ranging from taxes to spending and national security to abortion. Accordingly, our ratings encompass three general categories: (1) economic and budget matters; (2) social and cultural issues, and (3) defense and foreign policy. ACU endeavors to analyze votes from each category in order to obtain a balanced, comprehensive picture of an individual member's ideological predisposition based upon recorded records."
For NE, Fortenberry and Terry both scored a 92, Osbourne an 88. Terry's lifetime score is a 90, Osbourne's an 83. Being a freshman, Fortenberry's lifetime rating is the same. NE Rep. Senator Hagel scored a 96; his lifetime score is 86, perhaps indicating a rightward shift given his possible presidential aspirations. NE Dem. Senator Nelson scored a 60, and possesses a lifetime score of 53, again possibly indicating a rightward election-year shift. It might be interesting to go back and look at recently deceased Dem. Sen. Jim Exxon or former Dem. Sen. Bob Kerry might compare to Nelson's scores.
Over in IA, their Senators and House members are almost diametrically opposed, Sen. Grassly coming in at a 96 (83 lifetime) and Sen. Harkin a 4 (lifetime 9). House members Nussle (92/86) and Latham (84/86) join King (100/96) with highly conservative ratings while Leach and Boswell, representing Dsitricts 2 and 3, have scores of 33/29 and 32/9 respectively. I don't recall ever seeing an Iowa district map, although I know King represents western IA. Interesting how diverse IA's representation is in Congress, particularly compared to neighboring NE. Of course, IA has IL on its eastern border, and WI on the north, both the most likely areas of Dem. voters I'm would guess.
Immigration Bill
It appears that the Senate Immigration bill has stalled, and for good reason. My earlier optimism in the fact that the border concerns would be addressed was unfounded. That being said, I think the compromise was well-crafted. Although I am against amnesty, I think you have to create a path to legal status/citizenship somehow, particularly if the immigrant has been in the country for a number of years, and there have to be restrictions that prevent criminals from gaining such status. But I have to also say that the most important function of any bill has got to be to limit the flow of new entrants. I also think we have to kick the Mexican government in the butt to get its economic house in order.
Morning Routine
Get up, get ready for work, put out the dog, drive to work, log in, get coffee, check email and calender, respond to email and do any work requiring immediate attention. Completed two things this morning, as a matter of fact.
Then the real work begins; catching up to the late afternoon/overnight news. Omaha paper, browse right-center magazine opinion sites Weekly Standard, American Spectator, National Review Online, then back to MSNBC, Fox, and the Lincoln paper for more news.
In a half to three-quarters of an hour, I'm caught up. Yes, I read fast, but am also very selective. Alot of times, I don't even read one thing at a site, just skim the headlines. I'm often amazed at how many "news" sites have the same damn feed from the AP or Reuters. For want of additional insight, you have to turn elsewhere.
Other sites I like and try to visit daily: TCS Daily, Townhall, and Real Clear Politics. If I have time and want more of a national news perspective, I go to the Washington Times or NY Post.
Then the real work begins; catching up to the late afternoon/overnight news. Omaha paper, browse right-center magazine opinion sites Weekly Standard, American Spectator, National Review Online, then back to MSNBC, Fox, and the Lincoln paper for more news.
In a half to three-quarters of an hour, I'm caught up. Yes, I read fast, but am also very selective. Alot of times, I don't even read one thing at a site, just skim the headlines. I'm often amazed at how many "news" sites have the same damn feed from the AP or Reuters. For want of additional insight, you have to turn elsewhere.
Other sites I like and try to visit daily: TCS Daily, Townhall, and Real Clear Politics. If I have time and want more of a national news perspective, I go to the Washington Times or NY Post.
Thursday, April 06, 2006
Immigration Bill
An apparent compromise bill on immigration is being discussed in the Senate, creating a 3 tier system for classifying illegals based on the length of time they have been in the country. Under 2 years have to leave immediately and will be charges with a felony if caught in the country more than once illegally.
The middle group are those who have been in the US between two and five years. They are required to go to one of 16 entry ports and declare themselves, then will be allowed to return to the residences with a possible 11 year path towards citizenship after paying fines and fulfilling other conditions.
Those in the US for more than 5 years will be immediately declared guest workers and allowed to stay with the possibility of applying for citizenship as the mid-tier. The bill appears likely to pass with some opposition, and of course would have to be reconciled with the House bill passed late last year, which is quite a bit more restrictive.
I have yet to see what the border enforcement provisions are, and will withhold judgement until I see them. I think I can live with this one IF the border enforcement and employer provisions are tightened and enforced.
The middle group are those who have been in the US between two and five years. They are required to go to one of 16 entry ports and declare themselves, then will be allowed to return to the residences with a possible 11 year path towards citizenship after paying fines and fulfilling other conditions.
Those in the US for more than 5 years will be immediately declared guest workers and allowed to stay with the possibility of applying for citizenship as the mid-tier. The bill appears likely to pass with some opposition, and of course would have to be reconciled with the House bill passed late last year, which is quite a bit more restrictive.
I have yet to see what the border enforcement provisions are, and will withhold judgement until I see them. I think I can live with this one IF the border enforcement and employer provisions are tightened and enforced.
Wednesday, April 05, 2006
Kramer Endorsements & 3rd District House Race
15 State Senators endorse Kramer in the primary. Of course, the Unicameral is officially non-partisan, and, just as obviously, Kramer is the former state chair of the Republican party. On another note, Stenberg is still pouting the 2 other candidates won't play by rules he set.
On the 3rd District race, OWH covers a Kearney ag forum held Monday here that gathered all six candidates (5 Rep and Dem. Scott Kleebs). The Club for Growth endorsement for Adrian Smith gets some mention by little known Dave Harris. Smith takes a swipe at Dave Hanson for being paid to travel on Osbourne's behalf. Hanson puts Dem. candidate Kleebs on notice that freshman Congressman don't make committee demands on arrival, a silly statement by young Kleebs to be certain. Jay Vavricek took a bit different approach on the water issue, saying the Feds should partner with the states while everyone else agreed it was a local issue.
On the 3rd District race, OWH covers a Kearney ag forum held Monday here that gathered all six candidates (5 Rep and Dem. Scott Kleebs). The Club for Growth endorsement for Adrian Smith gets some mention by little known Dave Harris. Smith takes a swipe at Dave Hanson for being paid to travel on Osbourne's behalf. Hanson puts Dem. candidate Kleebs on notice that freshman Congressman don't make committee demands on arrival, a silly statement by young Kleebs to be certain. Jay Vavricek took a bit different approach on the water issue, saying the Feds should partner with the states while everyone else agreed it was a local issue.
Tuesday, April 04, 2006
Baseball
Great start to the season - Yankees and Cardinals win big, Arod with a Granny for the Yanks and the Cards Pujols mashing 2 HRs, J. Rollins of Philly continues his (now 37 game) hitting streak, and Roy Oswalt of the Astros throws a shutout. A blown call at home (against former Yank and Ranger Alfonso Soriano) cost the Nationals a chance to tie the game against the evil Mets and possibly force extras.
The Schillinator dominated the Rangers for the even more evil Red Stockings (I really hate the fact they have one of my favorite players, but sometimes you must just grin and face facts.), so it looks like he is finally healthy. Cubbies also win large, with the rookie LF Murton having a big day with a a 3 run dinger and at least one nifty play in left. The bad news is Giants ace Jason Schmidt had a moderately shaky day, giving up 4 earned in 7 IP. Morris goes today for the SF club, as well as the Kalthalior Yahoo fantasy squad.
The Schillinator dominated the Rangers for the even more evil Red Stockings (I really hate the fact they have one of my favorite players, but sometimes you must just grin and face facts.), so it looks like he is finally healthy. Cubbies also win large, with the rookie LF Murton having a big day with a a 3 run dinger and at least one nifty play in left. The bad news is Giants ace Jason Schmidt had a moderately shaky day, giving up 4 earned in 7 IP. Morris goes today for the SF club, as well as the Kalthalior Yahoo fantasy squad.
Best Immigration Summary I've seen.
From Real Clear Politics:
"To ordinary Americans, the definition of "immigration" is very specific: You come here with absolutely nothing except a burning desire to be an American. You start off at some miserable, low-paying job that at least puts a roof over your family's head and food on the table. You put your kids in school, tell them how lucky they are to be here - and make darn sure they do well even if that means hiring a tutor and taking a second, or third, job to pay for it. You learn English, even if you've got to take classes at night when you're dead tired. You play by the rules--which means you pay your taxes, get a driver's license and insure your car so that if yours hits mine, I can recover the cost of the damages. And you file for citizenship the first day you're eligible."
Damn straight. In my grandparents' house, my Great-great-grandfather's (yes, I'm fifth generation minimum) citizenship papers are PROMINENTLY displayed on a wall. And the frame and the document is big. My grandmother's family came to the New World on the Duke of York's expedition -- against New Amsterdam, now known as New York. That man married a Dutch girl who was already here.
"But the millions of Hispanics who have come to our country in the last several decades - and it's the Hispanics we're talking about in this debate, not those from other cultures--are, in fact, two distinct groups. The first group is comprised of "immigrants" just like all the others, who have put the old country behind them and want only to be Americans."...........The problem is the second group of Hispanics. They aren't immigrants - which is what neither the Democratic or Republican leadership seems to understand, or wants to acknowledge. They have come here solely for jobs, which isn't the same thing at all. (And many of them have come here illegally.) Whether they remain in the U.S. for one year, or ten years - or for the rest of their lives - they don't conduct themselves like immigrants. Yes, they work hard to put roofs above their heads and food on their tables - and for this we respect them. But they have little interest in learning English themselves, and instead demand that we make it possible for them to function here in Spanish. They put their children in our schools, but don't always demand as much from them as previous groups demanded of their kids. They don't always pay their taxes - or insure their cars."
As I've said, rewarding bad behavior is not only counter-productive, it's damaging. To our communities. To our schools. To our healthcare facilities. And especially damaging to those people that just might take those low-paying jobs, if they paid a little more. It's also damaging to Mexico -- it prevents them from having to address the real issues of poverty and economic malaise there. Reform real substance in that country is being delayed by exporting its poor citizens here. And their government not only recognizes it, it encourages it. Our politicians have to put real pressure on theirs to get their house in order.
"To ordinary Americans, the definition of "immigration" is very specific: You come here with absolutely nothing except a burning desire to be an American. You start off at some miserable, low-paying job that at least puts a roof over your family's head and food on the table. You put your kids in school, tell them how lucky they are to be here - and make darn sure they do well even if that means hiring a tutor and taking a second, or third, job to pay for it. You learn English, even if you've got to take classes at night when you're dead tired. You play by the rules--which means you pay your taxes, get a driver's license and insure your car so that if yours hits mine, I can recover the cost of the damages. And you file for citizenship the first day you're eligible."
Damn straight. In my grandparents' house, my Great-great-grandfather's (yes, I'm fifth generation minimum) citizenship papers are PROMINENTLY displayed on a wall. And the frame and the document is big. My grandmother's family came to the New World on the Duke of York's expedition -- against New Amsterdam, now known as New York. That man married a Dutch girl who was already here.
"But the millions of Hispanics who have come to our country in the last several decades - and it's the Hispanics we're talking about in this debate, not those from other cultures--are, in fact, two distinct groups. The first group is comprised of "immigrants" just like all the others, who have put the old country behind them and want only to be Americans."...........The problem is the second group of Hispanics. They aren't immigrants - which is what neither the Democratic or Republican leadership seems to understand, or wants to acknowledge. They have come here solely for jobs, which isn't the same thing at all. (And many of them have come here illegally.) Whether they remain in the U.S. for one year, or ten years - or for the rest of their lives - they don't conduct themselves like immigrants. Yes, they work hard to put roofs above their heads and food on their tables - and for this we respect them. But they have little interest in learning English themselves, and instead demand that we make it possible for them to function here in Spanish. They put their children in our schools, but don't always demand as much from them as previous groups demanded of their kids. They don't always pay their taxes - or insure their cars."
As I've said, rewarding bad behavior is not only counter-productive, it's damaging. To our communities. To our schools. To our healthcare facilities. And especially damaging to those people that just might take those low-paying jobs, if they paid a little more. It's also damaging to Mexico -- it prevents them from having to address the real issues of poverty and economic malaise there. Reform real substance in that country is being delayed by exporting its poor citizens here. And their government not only recognizes it, it encourages it. Our politicians have to put real pressure on theirs to get their house in order.
Monday, April 03, 2006
Opening Day
Opening Day is a personal holiday for me, so I'm off to watch some baseball. Chisox started the season last night with a strong 10-4 triumph over Central Division rival Cleveland. Newly signed slugger Jim Thome homered (2 run shot) off the club he began his career with. A good start for my fantasy team DH, particularly considering I drafted him in the 14th round. Bloggin should re-commence tomorrow, possibly on local elections and most likely something on baseball.
Friday, March 31, 2006
Mexico
This hits the nail SQUARELY on the head. Home run. Grand slam. If the Mexican government would do productive things to foster growth and incorporate into the modern world economy, the export of its impoverished citizens to OUR nation would slow to a rate that would be far more acceptable.
I always suspected that things were bad in the lands of our southern neighbor, but I had no idea they were so bad. 100 million people, 40% in poverty, 25% underemployment (not an official figure) . No wonder they want to come here so badly. An estimated $ 19 billion is sent from "guests" here back home. 3% growth rate is pretty good for a mature economy like the US, but pretty poor in a developing nation. See India, China, etc. all growing 5-7% or better. Interested to see they hit a $1 trillion in GDP this year -- 14th in the world, right behind Canada, and they have 40% poverty! Of course, Canada's population is only 1/3 of Mexico's. Sad, but the incredible income disparity and corruption there have to be addressed, even if we DO build a wall.
Note: Figures from CIA Factbook.
I always suspected that things were bad in the lands of our southern neighbor, but I had no idea they were so bad. 100 million people, 40% in poverty, 25% underemployment (not an official figure) . No wonder they want to come here so badly. An estimated $ 19 billion is sent from "guests" here back home. 3% growth rate is pretty good for a mature economy like the US, but pretty poor in a developing nation. See India, China, etc. all growing 5-7% or better. Interested to see they hit a $1 trillion in GDP this year -- 14th in the world, right behind Canada, and they have 40% poverty! Of course, Canada's population is only 1/3 of Mexico's. Sad, but the incredible income disparity and corruption there have to be addressed, even if we DO build a wall.
Note: Figures from CIA Factbook.
Outside the Beltway
Don't usually snip from other bloggers, but in this case ..... WELL said!
Steve Verdon talks about paternalism, then concludes:
"If you are advocating things like life time employement, government provided health care, government provided retirement, government provided housing, and the such guess what; you no longer want freedom. You want to be a pet. And disturbingly the Republicans seem all too eager to head right down this road behind the Democrats. " (added the emphasis)
We're a long way from "Don't Tread On Me", and the nation suffers for it, IMHO.
This is one of my favorite group blogs, which seem to be getting more and more popular as blog fatigue sets in with solo efforts. I doubt I'll ever achieve enough popularity to have others join in, but ... you never say never.
Steve Verdon talks about paternalism, then concludes:
"If you are advocating things like life time employement, government provided health care, government provided retirement, government provided housing, and the such guess what; you no longer want freedom. You want to be a pet. And disturbingly the Republicans seem all too eager to head right down this road behind the Democrats. " (added the emphasis)
We're a long way from "Don't Tread On Me", and the nation suffers for it, IMHO.
This is one of my favorite group blogs, which seem to be getting more and more popular as blog fatigue sets in with solo efforts. I doubt I'll ever achieve enough popularity to have others join in, but ... you never say never.
Deployed Soldier
Wheee, Sarge was ON FIRE yesterday!
I'd be a little pissed with the media too if I was in country. I am anyway. Civil War my ass. If you added up all the things the media has gotten wrong about the Iraqi campaign and reconstruction efforts, you'd have a pile of paper stretching to the moon. Bro-in-law (ironically enough, also an E5) is scheduled to go to either Iraq or Kuwait with his new unit, probably in June. Dude wants to do his 20 -- regardless of where they send him and what is asked when he gets there. The only 2 journalists I really trust on war reports (other than boots on the ground bloggers) are Mike Yon and author/columnist Ralph Peters. Both vets; we may be on to something here. The tragically deceased Mike Kelly was also a damn fine journalist as well.
I'd be a little pissed with the media too if I was in country. I am anyway. Civil War my ass. If you added up all the things the media has gotten wrong about the Iraqi campaign and reconstruction efforts, you'd have a pile of paper stretching to the moon. Bro-in-law (ironically enough, also an E5) is scheduled to go to either Iraq or Kuwait with his new unit, probably in June. Dude wants to do his 20 -- regardless of where they send him and what is asked when he gets there. The only 2 journalists I really trust on war reports (other than boots on the ground bloggers) are Mike Yon and author/columnist Ralph Peters. Both vets; we may be on to something here. The tragically deceased Mike Kelly was also a damn fine journalist as well.
Baseball Gloves in History
TCS Daily
Being a baseball fanatic, pretty interesting stuff. I love seeing the old game films where the players would leave their gloves on the field while their team took its at-bat. The opposition simply played around the opponents' gloves. Had no idea Spaulding was actually a 19th century player. On a personal note, I have my recently departed grandfather's glove from the 40's, which I think is pretty cool.
Being a baseball fanatic, pretty interesting stuff. I love seeing the old game films where the players would leave their gloves on the field while their team took its at-bat. The opposition simply played around the opponents' gloves. Had no idea Spaulding was actually a 19th century player. On a personal note, I have my recently departed grandfather's glove from the 40's, which I think is pretty cool.
Palace of Ajax Found
MSNBC.
Interesting. Ajax was the name of 2 Greek warriors, I assume they believe these excavations are associated with Ajax the Greater, who was the Greeks second-best warrior to the better known (today) Achilles. I never put it together that the famous Battle of Salamis was the home kingdom of the much earlier (8-900 years) Ajax either.
The really interesting find is the copper piece with the name of Egyptian Pharoah Ramses on it. Trade in those days was actually a lot more wide-spread than you might believe. I saw a thing on the Queen of Sheba (contemporary in a general sense to Ajax, Bronze Age) on History channel's "Digging for the Truth" and her people, who populated present day Yemen and Ethiopia, traded as far away as China and India, as well as with the Med. civilizations.
Interesting. Ajax was the name of 2 Greek warriors, I assume they believe these excavations are associated with Ajax the Greater, who was the Greeks second-best warrior to the better known (today) Achilles. I never put it together that the famous Battle of Salamis was the home kingdom of the much earlier (8-900 years) Ajax either.
The really interesting find is the copper piece with the name of Egyptian Pharoah Ramses on it. Trade in those days was actually a lot more wide-spread than you might believe. I saw a thing on the Queen of Sheba (contemporary in a general sense to Ajax, Bronze Age) on History channel's "Digging for the Truth" and her people, who populated present day Yemen and Ethiopia, traded as far away as China and India, as well as with the Med. civilizations.
Thursday, March 30, 2006
Mitt Romney
From MSNBC.
Mainly a fluff article, but I'm surprised it didn't mention the fact he's a Mormon. Like his education and immigration stances. A number of these type of pieces are floating around on potential Presidential candidates, particularly on the Republican side. Saw one on Hagel the other day, but I don't think he's really got any chance, but I could be surprised. McCain and Guliani appear to be the front-runners, although I think Romney and VA Sen. George Allen are also possible. I don't think Bill Frist excites too many people today either. KS Sen. Sam Brownback has also been mentioned.
Dems appear locked in on either Mrs. Clinton (who has a huge campaign chest, $17 milllion and counting), Al Gore, Kerry or Edwards. I'd like to see a dark horse emerge -- although NOT Howard Dean. Somebody with a least a little common sense. NM Gov. Bill Richardson for example, or Joe Lieberman. Heard VA Gov. Warner is exploring a run as well, not terribly familiar with him.
Mainly a fluff article, but I'm surprised it didn't mention the fact he's a Mormon. Like his education and immigration stances. A number of these type of pieces are floating around on potential Presidential candidates, particularly on the Republican side. Saw one on Hagel the other day, but I don't think he's really got any chance, but I could be surprised. McCain and Guliani appear to be the front-runners, although I think Romney and VA Sen. George Allen are also possible. I don't think Bill Frist excites too many people today either. KS Sen. Sam Brownback has also been mentioned.
Dems appear locked in on either Mrs. Clinton (who has a huge campaign chest, $17 milllion and counting), Al Gore, Kerry or Edwards. I'd like to see a dark horse emerge -- although NOT Howard Dean. Somebody with a least a little common sense. NM Gov. Bill Richardson for example, or Joe Lieberman. Heard VA Gov. Warner is exploring a run as well, not terribly familiar with him.
Chinese Harvesting Prisoner's Organs
From National Review.
Also see the Washignton Times article here.
While the idea that Communist governments routinely torture their own citizens may be a surprise to some, it is a fact. The Czechs know, and remember. So do the Poles, East Germans, and the Romanians. You would like to think that Amnesty and associated groups would raise an unholy ruckus over something like this, but you would be wrong -- they instead are screaming about Haliburton, Blood for Oil and the liberation of nearly 50 million Muslims.
The thing that disturbs me the most is the silence. We can't afford to make our Chinese or Cuban friends angry, can we? Business is business, there are markets to be untapped! Some, but very few, are paying attention. Of course, the Chinese don't just pick on Fulan Gong practitioners, but Tibetans, Muslim Uigurs and just about any other minority group. If this is true, and I think it likely that it is, it will be compared with Nazi Europe -- as well it should.
Also see the Washignton Times article here.
While the idea that Communist governments routinely torture their own citizens may be a surprise to some, it is a fact. The Czechs know, and remember. So do the Poles, East Germans, and the Romanians. You would like to think that Amnesty and associated groups would raise an unholy ruckus over something like this, but you would be wrong -- they instead are screaming about Haliburton, Blood for Oil and the liberation of nearly 50 million Muslims.
The thing that disturbs me the most is the silence. We can't afford to make our Chinese or Cuban friends angry, can we? Business is business, there are markets to be untapped! Some, but very few, are paying attention. Of course, the Chinese don't just pick on Fulan Gong practitioners, but Tibetans, Muslim Uigurs and just about any other minority group. If this is true, and I think it likely that it is, it will be compared with Nazi Europe -- as well it should.
Wednesday, March 29, 2006
Missing Link Found?
From Nat'l Geographic.
Skull found in Ethiopia apparently bridges some of the gap in the fossil record between modern h. sapiens and h. erectus. Interesting, to say the least. Apparently undiscovered until now, and the article states there are 3 ! different homind species that might have led to the evolution of modern humanity.
Also related: Early Humans Prey, not Predators.
Apparently great, great, etc grandpa was constantly on the run from those pesky saber tooths. The only thing that may have saved us is cooperative groupings. Current primate species behavior comes to mind -- a couple of young males serve as lookouts while the rest of the band feeds.
"Early humans survived while other primate species died out because our ancestors cooperated to alter their surroundings, the researchers say.
This cooperation deflected the risk of predation onto other nearby prey species, which became more vulnerable because early humans weren't as easy to catch. "
Being more difficult to catch, the big cats that preyed upon early humans shifted their diet to other species. Way to go, grandpa.
Skull found in Ethiopia apparently bridges some of the gap in the fossil record between modern h. sapiens and h. erectus. Interesting, to say the least. Apparently undiscovered until now, and the article states there are 3 ! different homind species that might have led to the evolution of modern humanity.
Also related: Early Humans Prey, not Predators.
Apparently great, great, etc grandpa was constantly on the run from those pesky saber tooths. The only thing that may have saved us is cooperative groupings. Current primate species behavior comes to mind -- a couple of young males serve as lookouts while the rest of the band feeds.
"Early humans survived while other primate species died out because our ancestors cooperated to alter their surroundings, the researchers say.
This cooperation deflected the risk of predation onto other nearby prey species, which became more vulnerable because early humans weren't as easy to catch. "
Being more difficult to catch, the big cats that preyed upon early humans shifted their diet to other species. Way to go, grandpa.
Political Posts/General thoughts
I am not intending this to be a purely political blog, but it does seem to be where I'm putting my time and energy for the most part. That being said, I should probably state where I stand on general principal. Economically speaking, I'm conservative. Anti-tax, anti-spending, pro-business (generally speaking). I tend to be sceptical of the environmental movement, but like groups (Nature Conservancy is one) that buy land from private landowners to accomplish their goals. I don't mind subsidizing ethanol producers when we also subsidize the gas & oil industry.
I do want to drill for oil off Florida and in Alaska if it is economically viable to do so, and can be done in a safe, responsible manner.
Socially, I'd say I'm pretty moderate. Philosophically against abortion, but not that adamant about it and I think you have to have some legalized abortion. I tend to favor things that discourage or limit it without making it illegal. School prayer, gay marriage/adoption, the whole family values thing doesn't really resonate with me much. I like school choice a great deal, however. If the local public school is hopeless, a parent has to do something to get their child a good education.
Foreign policy-wise, I am a veteran that supports the application of military force to accomplish strategic security aims when diplomacy fails. I am a patriot and I believe that the United States has historically been the greatest force for peace and good in the history of mankind. I would not, however, argue that we are perfect in every way, indeed, far from it. I will note for the record by brother-in-law is active duty Army and participated in the invasion of Iraq with 101st Airborne. I naturally prefer diplomacy and multi-lateral solutions but national security trumps. I prefer, if you will, to believe in peace through strength. Walk softly and carry a big stick, as TR would say. Walking softly can be a bit of a problem when your the world's sole remaining superpower, in current terms at least.
I think it is a horrible travesty of justice that people fleeing a brutal tyrant in Cuba get returned if they are picked up on the water but allowed to stay if the land on US soil when thousands, indeed millions of other people are allowed to (wink,wink you will, of course, come back for your deportation hearing, won't you?) stay illegally. The border must be controlled better, and employers should face severe penalties for hiring illegals. Can we stop everyone? Can we return everyone back to their home countires? Most likely not, but we can limit the inflow and provide more disincentives for people to come here in the first place.
I do want to drill for oil off Florida and in Alaska if it is economically viable to do so, and can be done in a safe, responsible manner.
Socially, I'd say I'm pretty moderate. Philosophically against abortion, but not that adamant about it and I think you have to have some legalized abortion. I tend to favor things that discourage or limit it without making it illegal. School prayer, gay marriage/adoption, the whole family values thing doesn't really resonate with me much. I like school choice a great deal, however. If the local public school is hopeless, a parent has to do something to get their child a good education.
Foreign policy-wise, I am a veteran that supports the application of military force to accomplish strategic security aims when diplomacy fails. I am a patriot and I believe that the United States has historically been the greatest force for peace and good in the history of mankind. I would not, however, argue that we are perfect in every way, indeed, far from it. I will note for the record by brother-in-law is active duty Army and participated in the invasion of Iraq with 101st Airborne. I naturally prefer diplomacy and multi-lateral solutions but national security trumps. I prefer, if you will, to believe in peace through strength. Walk softly and carry a big stick, as TR would say. Walking softly can be a bit of a problem when your the world's sole remaining superpower, in current terms at least.
I think it is a horrible travesty of justice that people fleeing a brutal tyrant in Cuba get returned if they are picked up on the water but allowed to stay if the land on US soil when thousands, indeed millions of other people are allowed to (wink,wink you will, of course, come back for your deportation hearing, won't you?) stay illegally. The border must be controlled better, and employers should face severe penalties for hiring illegals. Can we stop everyone? Can we return everyone back to their home countires? Most likely not, but we can limit the inflow and provide more disincentives for people to come here in the first place.
3rd District Race
Polk (see last post on 3rd District debate) is apparently a teacher, according to this site, and there is also a Dave Harris running as a Republican as well. Neither has a website. Vavricek's site has a poll with results showing him in the lead -- here. Understand the anti-tax Club for Growth has endorsed Smith, and has issues with Vavricek, who apparently has raised sales tax in the past. I need to talk to friends out west and see what they think about this.
US Senate Debate
Set for Thursday March 30. Stenberg has threatened to not show up unless the other two candidates sign his "Positive Campaign Pledge". What a moron. It hardly seems possible to believe this guy was elected to statewide office. If you can't stand the heat, get out of the kitchen, Don.
On another note, apparently Ricketts loaned his campaign another half a million dollars. Saw an ad the other day and he seems intent on courting Stenberg's social conservative base -- talked about judges, pro-life stance, emminent domain, etc. Kramer had a nice article in OWH here
but has been mostly invisible.
On another note, apparently Ricketts loaned his campaign another half a million dollars. Saw an ad the other day and he seems intent on courting Stenberg's social conservative base -- talked about judges, pro-life stance, emminent domain, etc. Kramer had a nice article in OWH here
but has been mostly invisible.
NE Citizen 2nd Debate Roundup
My thoughts are that the issues between the candidates tend to be technical in nature, not surprising given they all represent the same political party. This makes analysis difficult, but not impossible, so bear with me.
On higher education: everyone seems to agree that some incentives are needed to get graduates to stay in state, but Nabity correctly identifies the issue as an economic one -- we need better growth and jobs to get people to stay and reduce taxes to make the state a more attractive place to live. Both he and Osbourne hammer budget increases, which aren't sustainable without a better state climate for growth.
Economy/jobs: Governor responds with the incentive package recently passed, and the questionable idea that we can't reduce taxes and spending drastically because it took us a long time to become a high tax state. Nabity takes the Gov. to task, particularly that the tax cut is about $3-4 a month for the average tax payer. Both he and Osbourne appear to believe that Heineman should have done more last year to reduce spending and streamline govenrment.
Not sure I disagree. Osbourne also notes that the Gov's job creation numbers ignores job losses around the state -- net job increase should be the yardstick.
Abortion: all said they would have signed the Dakota bill. Not sure I would without provisions for at least rape and incest. SD bill is surely going to court.
Immigration: All agree a Federal issue, but I would argue that as chief executive, you are obligated with upholding the law. IMO, we need to go after the employers and dry up the incentive for people to come here in the first place. Question asks about children getting in-state tuition, and while the Gov. seems hesitant, I think all would agree that you can't blame the children for the sins of the parents. Osbourne qualifies it as 5 years in country, graduate from NE high school, and not over 21, which sound to me like important restrictions.
Water: Lots of technical talk here, and Osbourne and the Gov. seem to agree about the program Osboure sponsored in Congress which they think will do a lot to address the Republican River shortfall with Kansas. Nabity looks at it in more economic terms and believes that it will force farmers out of business. Particularly tough one to analyze.
Healthcare: everyone agrees we have to do something to control costs. Osbourne points to other states that have addressed the issue, FL as an example. Heineman apparently wants to study it and takes flack from both for saying so.
Government: all agree to large and talk about how to share services, reduce redundancy, etc.
Surprising to me that the state has as many employees as IA with half the population.
On higher education: everyone seems to agree that some incentives are needed to get graduates to stay in state, but Nabity correctly identifies the issue as an economic one -- we need better growth and jobs to get people to stay and reduce taxes to make the state a more attractive place to live. Both he and Osbourne hammer budget increases, which aren't sustainable without a better state climate for growth.
Economy/jobs: Governor responds with the incentive package recently passed, and the questionable idea that we can't reduce taxes and spending drastically because it took us a long time to become a high tax state. Nabity takes the Gov. to task, particularly that the tax cut is about $3-4 a month for the average tax payer. Both he and Osbourne appear to believe that Heineman should have done more last year to reduce spending and streamline govenrment.
Not sure I disagree. Osbourne also notes that the Gov's job creation numbers ignores job losses around the state -- net job increase should be the yardstick.
Abortion: all said they would have signed the Dakota bill. Not sure I would without provisions for at least rape and incest. SD bill is surely going to court.
Immigration: All agree a Federal issue, but I would argue that as chief executive, you are obligated with upholding the law. IMO, we need to go after the employers and dry up the incentive for people to come here in the first place. Question asks about children getting in-state tuition, and while the Gov. seems hesitant, I think all would agree that you can't blame the children for the sins of the parents. Osbourne qualifies it as 5 years in country, graduate from NE high school, and not over 21, which sound to me like important restrictions.
Water: Lots of technical talk here, and Osbourne and the Gov. seem to agree about the program Osboure sponsored in Congress which they think will do a lot to address the Republican River shortfall with Kansas. Nabity looks at it in more economic terms and believes that it will force farmers out of business. Particularly tough one to analyze.
Healthcare: everyone agrees we have to do something to control costs. Osbourne points to other states that have addressed the issue, FL as an example. Heineman apparently wants to study it and takes flack from both for saying so.
Government: all agree to large and talk about how to share services, reduce redundancy, etc.
Surprising to me that the state has as many employees as IA with half the population.
3rd District House Race
I'm assuming it's Monday April 3. I think it's actually Dave Hanson, not John. Not familiar with Polk, will have to do some research. I wonder if Dem. candidate Kleebs will show.
From OWH:
Third District rivals agree to forum
Four candidates seeking the 3rd Congressional District seat being vacated by U.S. Rep. Tom Osborne, R-Neb., have agreed to participate in a candidate forum scheduled for 2 p.m. Monday at the Kearney Holiday Inn.
The two-hour session is sponsored by nine agricultural organizations. It will include an hour of questioning by a panel of news reporters and a second hour of questions from audience members.
Four of the six candidates seeking the post - Adrian Smith, John Hanson, Jay Vavricek and Douglas Polk, all Republicans - had agreed to participate as of Tuesday.
From OWH:
Third District rivals agree to forum
Four candidates seeking the 3rd Congressional District seat being vacated by U.S. Rep. Tom Osborne, R-Neb., have agreed to participate in a candidate forum scheduled for 2 p.m. Monday at the Kearney Holiday Inn.
The two-hour session is sponsored by nine agricultural organizations. It will include an hour of questioning by a panel of news reporters and a second hour of questions from audience members.
Four of the six candidates seeking the post - Adrian Smith, John Hanson, Jay Vavricek and Douglas Polk, all Republicans - had agreed to participate as of Tuesday.
Tuesday, March 28, 2006
Arab Economic Model
From TCS Daily
Great article on how Arab governments have mismanaged their economies and the growth rate in liberated Iraq. If I recall correctly, I read somewhere that Iraq and Spain had either similiar GDP numbers or Per Capita income numbers when Saddam took power. Spain is now light years ahead of Iraq, and Iraq was one of the better Arab economies under Hussein. I also understand that electrical output is now greater than pre-liberation -- the primary problem today is that Iraqi citizens demand has far outstripped supply.
Great article on how Arab governments have mismanaged their economies and the growth rate in liberated Iraq. If I recall correctly, I read somewhere that Iraq and Spain had either similiar GDP numbers or Per Capita income numbers when Saddam took power. Spain is now light years ahead of Iraq, and Iraq was one of the better Arab economies under Hussein. I also understand that electrical output is now greater than pre-liberation -- the primary problem today is that Iraqi citizens demand has far outstripped supply.
Monday, March 27, 2006
2nd Gubernatorial Debate
From OWH.
Immigration issue has Osbourne and Nabity in favor of in-state tuition for the children of illegal immigrants, point being that we shouldn't punish the children for crimes committed by their parents. The Governor has serious reservations about the idea, but passes the buck saying that the Feds should enforce the law. Novel idea, but maybe the chief executive of the state should do something about it , too.
The challengers also indirectly criticized the tax incentive bill and state budget. Osbourne pointed out the dramatic spending increases (14%) could constrain tax relief and Nabity said that the incentives don't do enough for small business. Osbourne also points out some large employers are (Tyson) are leavingg the state for greener pastures. Gov. defends his tax package with numbers of 26 businesses applied for incentives leading to an estimated 4000 jobs. He also repeated his refrain that it took us a long time to become a high tax state and that it will take us a long time to lower taxes, which I just don't understand myself. Claims to want to lower taxes, just not right now, apparently. Pointed out the last budget didn't raise taxes.
All three candidates stated they would support a bill outlawing abortion like that of South Dakota's.
Immigration issue has Osbourne and Nabity in favor of in-state tuition for the children of illegal immigrants, point being that we shouldn't punish the children for crimes committed by their parents. The Governor has serious reservations about the idea, but passes the buck saying that the Feds should enforce the law. Novel idea, but maybe the chief executive of the state should do something about it , too.
The challengers also indirectly criticized the tax incentive bill and state budget. Osbourne pointed out the dramatic spending increases (14%) could constrain tax relief and Nabity said that the incentives don't do enough for small business. Osbourne also points out some large employers are (Tyson) are leavingg the state for greener pastures. Gov. defends his tax package with numbers of 26 businesses applied for incentives leading to an estimated 4000 jobs. He also repeated his refrain that it took us a long time to become a high tax state and that it will take us a long time to lower taxes, which I just don't understand myself. Claims to want to lower taxes, just not right now, apparently. Pointed out the last budget didn't raise taxes.
All three candidates stated they would support a bill outlawing abortion like that of South Dakota's.
Friday, March 24, 2006
Gov Race Round Up -- 1st Debate
Thanks to NE Citizen for bulleting the candidates views in the First Gubanatorial Debate.
From reading the OWH Letters to the Editor, it would appear that Nabity may have picked up some support, while Osbourne still is probably leading the pack. The Governor is advertising his position on the OPS issue, I guess hoping to pick up suburban support.
http://www.omaha.com/index.php?u_pg=1673&u_sid=2138386
From reading the OWH Letters to the Editor, it would appear that Nabity may have picked up some support, while Osbourne still is probably leading the pack. The Governor is advertising his position on the OPS issue, I guess hoping to pick up suburban support.
http://www.omaha.com/index.php?u_pg=1673&u_sid=2138386
Monday, March 20, 2006
Pirates Fire on US Warships
You have to be eff'in kidding me! What were these clowns thinking?
Way to keep a low profile, criminal masterminds.
Rocket grenades against not one, but 2 US Navy warships -- a cruiser and a destroyer?
Simply brilliant. Makes stupid US criminals look positively Einsteinian.
hat tip: http://wizbangblog.com/
Way to keep a low profile, criminal masterminds.
Rocket grenades against not one, but 2 US Navy warships -- a cruiser and a destroyer?
Simply brilliant. Makes stupid US criminals look positively Einsteinian.
hat tip: http://wizbangblog.com/
Gubernatorial Debate in Omaha
Link to debate sponsor, Omaha ABC affiliate KETV web article.
Thoughts: All three are for some form of tax cuts, but only Osbourne is stating that the real problem is spending. He also wants to reform the tax code. I like Nabity's idea of a flat state income tax rate & the elimination of the estate tax. Heineman touts the recently passed spending cuts, but Nabity points out that this was only 1/10 of 1 percent of the state budget. The Governor seems to believe that it will take some time to reduce taxes -- mentions tax creep over the last 10 years and thinks it should take us about the same amount of time to reduce. ?!! He wants to focus on income, sales and property taxes this year (what's left?). All three appear to be in favor of some type of government streamlining, but Osbourne's ideas seem to more developed in this case (Believes up to $350 million could be saved). Not sure if Warren Buffet would be my first choice to head the efficiency commission though.
OPS/Schools issues -- Heineman is against the proposed merger, Nabity wants to turn it on its head (have the suburban districts take over 23 OPS schools), and Osbourne wants to get the parties together and find a solution without going to court. No mention of what the law actually is, or whether or not the merger is a good idea, although no one appears to think it is. All propose to revamp the state aid formula.
Crime: Everyone seems to agree that penalties should be stiffer and more money should be made available for treatment, counseling and monitoring for sex offender/meth addiction. Nabity comes out for Concealed permits. Osbourne mentions sentencing is particularly haphazard.
Jobs: Osbourne promotes education and technology, Heineman points to the incentive plan recently passed by the legislature and his trip to Cuba, and Nabity believes tax cuts will make the state more attractive for new business.
Immigration: All three say the Feds are failing in their job, but welcome hard working legal immmigrants to the state. Osbourne points to a proposal he has before the US House that would involve employers and a 3 year guest worker program.
Impressions: Heineman frequently touts his record, but seems a bit defensive overall. I don't think he's had the job long enough to make a big impression on most voters. Osbourne is still clearly the front runner on name recognition alone, has some good ideas but appears indecisive on some issues. Nabity is way behind but has a lot of serious proposals that could gain some traction if he could get his message out & people took the time to look at them seriously.
Unscientific OWH online poll on just over 2000 votes as of 10 am this morning has TO way ahead just over 3:1 over Heineman. Nabity is running behind TO 8:1 Looking good for the Coach.
l
Thoughts: All three are for some form of tax cuts, but only Osbourne is stating that the real problem is spending. He also wants to reform the tax code. I like Nabity's idea of a flat state income tax rate & the elimination of the estate tax. Heineman touts the recently passed spending cuts, but Nabity points out that this was only 1/10 of 1 percent of the state budget. The Governor seems to believe that it will take some time to reduce taxes -- mentions tax creep over the last 10 years and thinks it should take us about the same amount of time to reduce. ?!! He wants to focus on income, sales and property taxes this year (what's left?). All three appear to be in favor of some type of government streamlining, but Osbourne's ideas seem to more developed in this case (Believes up to $350 million could be saved). Not sure if Warren Buffet would be my first choice to head the efficiency commission though.
OPS/Schools issues -- Heineman is against the proposed merger, Nabity wants to turn it on its head (have the suburban districts take over 23 OPS schools), and Osbourne wants to get the parties together and find a solution without going to court. No mention of what the law actually is, or whether or not the merger is a good idea, although no one appears to think it is. All propose to revamp the state aid formula.
Crime: Everyone seems to agree that penalties should be stiffer and more money should be made available for treatment, counseling and monitoring for sex offender/meth addiction. Nabity comes out for Concealed permits. Osbourne mentions sentencing is particularly haphazard.
Jobs: Osbourne promotes education and technology, Heineman points to the incentive plan recently passed by the legislature and his trip to Cuba, and Nabity believes tax cuts will make the state more attractive for new business.
Immigration: All three say the Feds are failing in their job, but welcome hard working legal immmigrants to the state. Osbourne points to a proposal he has before the US House that would involve employers and a 3 year guest worker program.
Impressions: Heineman frequently touts his record, but seems a bit defensive overall. I don't think he's had the job long enough to make a big impression on most voters. Osbourne is still clearly the front runner on name recognition alone, has some good ideas but appears indecisive on some issues. Nabity is way behind but has a lot of serious proposals that could gain some traction if he could get his message out & people took the time to look at them seriously.
Unscientific OWH online poll on just over 2000 votes as of 10 am this morning has TO way ahead just over 3:1 over Heineman. Nabity is running behind TO 8:1 Looking good for the Coach.
l
Thursday, March 16, 2006
Former Husker Alex Gordon
It appears KC hasn't settled on a position yet, but they continue to work him at 3B for now with a potential move to 1B or the OF in his future. Sounds like he's having a good spring and impressing the scouts. AA Wichita appears to be where he'll start the season, and I hope he lands in Omaha before too long. It does seem the club isn't going to rush him up to the big club, which is good.
Oldest Ocean Going Vessels
Found in Egypt.
Apparently those Pharoahs were sending expeditions across the Red Sea as long as 4000 years ago.
Apparently those Pharoahs were sending expeditions across the Red Sea as long as 4000 years ago.
New Brit CV's
HMS Queen Elizabeth and HMS Prince of Wales are planned for completion in 2012 and 2015, (a delay of 2 yrs might be forthcoming) with contruction on QE starting later this year. No reactors, 2 islands, 3 runways, plan is to carry 30-40 aircraft of all types.
Expected service life of 50 years, and capable of being modified to accept conventional carrier aircraft after the expected service life of the F-35s. The French have come aboard this year and there is a likely third vessel for that nation again projected for around 2015. French vessel will likely fly their domestically developed Rafale fighter.
JSF (F-35)
Cool. You have a F-35A that takes off conventionally and will be used by the USAF, a F-35B that is a short takeoff version for the USMC and Royal Navy's CV program, and the carrier F-35C version for the US Navy and their CVAs.
Almost 1800 A version, 540 B version (150 UK is 60 RN and 90 RAF - not sure why the RAF wouldn't go for A models though) and another 480 C's for the USN, though the mix of types for each service is liable to change. It's also thought Australia may buy some as well.
A version expected to enter service in 2008 and B's & C's in 2012. Project has had issues with the B's development but it appears they've made more signifigant modifications for that version to hit their performance targets. Smaller payload being the biggest.
Next research proejct is on those Brit CV's.
Royal Navy
This is interesting. Not so much for the fighter issue, which is almost sure to get resolved, but that the RN is planning to build two 65,000 ton aircraft carriers.
150 fighters for $21 billion. Wonder if that means 2 x 75 complement on each CV or a smaller number and deployment of some of the aircraft on land.
More research is definetely needed, and I'm just the dude to do it.
Delving and be back in no time.
150 fighters for $21 billion. Wonder if that means 2 x 75 complement on each CV or a smaller number and deployment of some of the aircraft on land.
More research is definetely needed, and I'm just the dude to do it.
Delving and be back in no time.
US Withdrawal Announced
From Iceland. Not nearly the strategic spot it used to be given no more USSR.
A friend of mine at work actually served at Keflavik.
One of those places I've always wanted to get to, with the all the history of Vikings explorers
and (naturally) all the blonde women. Who undoubtedly like American guys. Of which I'm a prime (if slightly dented) example.
A friend of mine at work actually served at Keflavik.
One of those places I've always wanted to get to, with the all the history of Vikings explorers
and (naturally) all the blonde women. Who undoubtedly like American guys. Of which I'm a prime (if slightly dented) example.
Afghan Oil and Gas Supply
Link in subject header.
I'm waiting for someone to start raising the claim that we went there for the oil there too. Maybe once Haliburton gets the contracts.
"Undiscovered petroleum resources in the assessed region of northern Afghanistan range from 3.581 to 36.462 trillion cubic feet (TCF) of natural gas, with a mean of 15.687 TCF. Estimates of oil range from 0.391 to 3.559 billion barrels (BBO), with a mean of 1.596 BB0. Estimates for natural gas liquids range from 126 to 1,325 million barrels (MMB) with a mean of 562 MMB."
Developing these resources could be a key factor in stabilizing the country.
Currently, Afghanistan imports most of its energy resources.
I'm waiting for someone to start raising the claim that we went there for the oil there too. Maybe once Haliburton gets the contracts.
"Undiscovered petroleum resources in the assessed region of northern Afghanistan range from 3.581 to 36.462 trillion cubic feet (TCF) of natural gas, with a mean of 15.687 TCF. Estimates of oil range from 0.391 to 3.559 billion barrels (BBO), with a mean of 1.596 BB0. Estimates for natural gas liquids range from 126 to 1,325 million barrels (MMB) with a mean of 562 MMB."
Developing these resources could be a key factor in stabilizing the country.
Currently, Afghanistan imports most of its energy resources.
Favorite Chuck Norris Jokes
Chuck Norris Facts
The Great Wall of China was originally created to keep Chuck Norris out. It failed miserably.
Chuck Norris can win a game of Connect Four in only three moves.
There is no theory of evolution, just a list of creatures Chuck Norris allows to live.
Chuck Norris is the only man to ever defeat a brick wall in a game of tennis.
Chuck Norris once bet NASA he could survive re-entry without a spacesuit. On July 19th, 1999, a naked Chuck Norris re-entered the earth's atmosphere, streaking over 14 states and reaching a temperature of 3000 degrees. An embarrassed NASA publically claimed it was a meteor, and still owes him a beer.
Chuck Norris doesn't actually write books, the words assemble themselves out of fear.
Chuck Norris can divide by zero.
Wilt Chamberlain claims to have slept with more than 20,000 women in his lifetime. Chuck Norris calls this "a slow Tuesday."
Chuck Norris ordered a Big Mac at Burger King, and got one.
Some people wear Superman pajamas. Superman wears Chuck Norris pajamas.
When Chuck Norris does a pushup, he isn't lifting himself up, he's pushing the Earth down.
Chuck Norris invented the bolt-action rifle, liquor, sexual intercourse, and football-- in that order.
Chuck Norris can slam a revolving door.
Chuck Norris is the only person to ever win a staring contest against Ray Charles and Stevie Wonder at the same time.
Chuck Norris proved that we are alone in the universe. We weren't before his first space expedition.
Chuck Norris recently had the idea to sell his urine as a canned beverage. We know this beverage as Red Bull.
Chuck Norris once kicked a horse in the chin. Its decendants are known today as Giraffes.
There is no such thing as global warming. Chuck Norris was cold, so he turned the sun up.
And, finally, little known historical fact:
Chuck Norris did in fact, build Rome in a day.
The Great Wall of China was originally created to keep Chuck Norris out. It failed miserably.
Chuck Norris can win a game of Connect Four in only three moves.
There is no theory of evolution, just a list of creatures Chuck Norris allows to live.
Chuck Norris is the only man to ever defeat a brick wall in a game of tennis.
Chuck Norris once bet NASA he could survive re-entry without a spacesuit. On July 19th, 1999, a naked Chuck Norris re-entered the earth's atmosphere, streaking over 14 states and reaching a temperature of 3000 degrees. An embarrassed NASA publically claimed it was a meteor, and still owes him a beer.
Chuck Norris doesn't actually write books, the words assemble themselves out of fear.
Chuck Norris can divide by zero.
Wilt Chamberlain claims to have slept with more than 20,000 women in his lifetime. Chuck Norris calls this "a slow Tuesday."
Chuck Norris ordered a Big Mac at Burger King, and got one.
Some people wear Superman pajamas. Superman wears Chuck Norris pajamas.
When Chuck Norris does a pushup, he isn't lifting himself up, he's pushing the Earth down.
Chuck Norris invented the bolt-action rifle, liquor, sexual intercourse, and football-- in that order.
Chuck Norris can slam a revolving door.
Chuck Norris is the only person to ever win a staring contest against Ray Charles and Stevie Wonder at the same time.
Chuck Norris proved that we are alone in the universe. We weren't before his first space expedition.
Chuck Norris recently had the idea to sell his urine as a canned beverage. We know this beverage as Red Bull.
Chuck Norris once kicked a horse in the chin. Its decendants are known today as Giraffes.
There is no such thing as global warming. Chuck Norris was cold, so he turned the sun up.
And, finally, little known historical fact:
Chuck Norris did in fact, build Rome in a day.
Vin Diesel
Planning a movie trilogy -- spoken entirely in Punic!
Subject matter is what has me interested.
The life of Hannibal, the famous Carthaginian general.
Too cool.
Subject matter is what has me interested.
The life of Hannibal, the famous Carthaginian general.
Too cool.
Wednesday, March 15, 2006
Husker Baseball Rolls Again!
12-2 record, AND ranked #3 in the nation, baby!
After the awesome sweep of ranked SEC power Alabama, Huskers come back against Illinois St. Closer Brett Jensen shuts down the door with his 3rd save.
After the awesome sweep of ranked SEC power Alabama, Huskers come back against Illinois St. Closer Brett Jensen shuts down the door with his 3rd save.
Tuesday, March 14, 2006
Peak Oil
or maybe not. From TCS Daily.
http://www.tcsdaily.com/article.aspx?id=031306C
Main point of the article is that as technology advances, and price increases, more oil suddenly becomes available to exttract profitably. I'd say duh! but too many people don't get it already.
Again, basic economics. And I note that this doesn't even touch the abiogenesis theory. (The theory that oil doesn't come from the remains of dead organisms but that it simply leaches up from deep within the earth's interior).
Great quote about how proven reserves have increased over time.
"In 1970, experts believed the world had 612 billion barrels of proved reserves. Over the next three decades, more than 767 billion barrels would be pumped. Did we use up all the world's oil and then some? Hardly. Conservative estimates today place the world's provable oil reserves at 1.2 trillion barrels. New deposits of oil haven't been created. It's just that human ingenuity has come up with ways to get hard-to-reach deposits."
The bet between Paul Ehrlich and Julian Simon comes to mind.
Ehrlich said we would run out of several important minerals within our lifetime. Simon disagreed and bet that the price of these minerals would decline (in inflation adjusted terms, of course) over the period of the bet.
Simon won, of course.
http://www.tcsdaily.com/article.aspx?id=031306C
Main point of the article is that as technology advances, and price increases, more oil suddenly becomes available to exttract profitably. I'd say duh! but too many people don't get it already.
Again, basic economics. And I note that this doesn't even touch the abiogenesis theory. (The theory that oil doesn't come from the remains of dead organisms but that it simply leaches up from deep within the earth's interior).
Great quote about how proven reserves have increased over time.
"In 1970, experts believed the world had 612 billion barrels of proved reserves. Over the next three decades, more than 767 billion barrels would be pumped. Did we use up all the world's oil and then some? Hardly. Conservative estimates today place the world's provable oil reserves at 1.2 trillion barrels. New deposits of oil haven't been created. It's just that human ingenuity has come up with ways to get hard-to-reach deposits."
The bet between Paul Ehrlich and Julian Simon comes to mind.
Ehrlich said we would run out of several important minerals within our lifetime. Simon disagreed and bet that the price of these minerals would decline (in inflation adjusted terms, of course) over the period of the bet.
Simon won, of course.
Chief Justice Roberts
Great article at The Weekly Standard on the Supreme Court.
http://www.weeklystandard.com/Utilities/printer_preview.asp?idArticle=11958&R=EB972782D
Apparently the new Chief has had an immediate impact on his colleagues.
"Over time, the Roberts effect may produce not only larger majorities and more stable rulings but also a Court that, thanks to conferences that really are conferences, pays more attention to working out the relevant law and less to mere politics"
Amen to that.
http://www.weeklystandard.com/Utilities/printer_preview.asp?idArticle=11958&R=EB972782D
Apparently the new Chief has had an immediate impact on his colleagues.
"Over time, the Roberts effect may produce not only larger majorities and more stable rulings but also a Court that, thanks to conferences that really are conferences, pays more attention to working out the relevant law and less to mere politics"
Amen to that.
Icy Exoplanets
http://www.space.com/scienceastronomy/060313_icy_superplanet.html
Too cool. Large, icy rock planet around a red dwarf star, which is the stellar type most prevalent in the galaxy. Planets and systems of this type may be far more common than was once thought. Our own system, with its gas giant planets, is apparently not a common one -- but we knew that already since we're here and aren't hearing anything from anyone else in the nieghborhood.
Too cool. Large, icy rock planet around a red dwarf star, which is the stellar type most prevalent in the galaxy. Planets and systems of this type may be far more common than was once thought. Our own system, with its gas giant planets, is apparently not a common one -- but we knew that already since we're here and aren't hearing anything from anyone else in the nieghborhood.
Monday, March 13, 2006
National Politics
http://www.realclearpolitics.com/articles/2006/03/last_weeks_myths_about_2006.html
Interesting article on national (Congressional) politics and the conventional wisdom that the 2006 mid-term elections could be seen as a shift towards a Democratic majority in at least one house.
The author disputes the notion using empirical evidence from the recent past -- poll numbers that have been generally inaccurate on election day and the power of incumbancy (namely, name recognition) trend strongly towards the staus quo.
Although I suspect that the Dems will pick up some seats, they will have a difficult time picking up enough for a majority in either house.
Interesting article on national (Congressional) politics and the conventional wisdom that the 2006 mid-term elections could be seen as a shift towards a Democratic majority in at least one house.
The author disputes the notion using empirical evidence from the recent past -- poll numbers that have been generally inaccurate on election day and the power of incumbancy (namely, name recognition) trend strongly towards the staus quo.
Although I suspect that the Dems will pick up some seats, they will have a difficult time picking up enough for a majority in either house.
Friday, March 10, 2006
3rd District House race
This is by far the most interesting House race, as it pits three locally prominent Republicans against one another to face a relatively inexperienced Democratic candidate.
Dave Hanson initially ran for this seat in 2000, but withdrew once Osbourne announced his candidacy and went to work for him. He served as the Sr. Ag Advisor for Osbourne and District Director. Probably the favorite in the race due to the popularity of Osbourne.
Adrian Smith has been the NE State Senator for District 48 and is currently serving out his second term there, running unopposed for re-election in 2002. He has also served on the Gering City Council.
Jay Vavricek is the mayor of Grand Island and owner of broadcasting group GI Family Radio.
He was elected with over 70% of the vote in 2002 and obviously has a built in platform to campaign with his radio operation.
Scott Kleebs is the lone Democratic candidate, comes from a ranching background in the Broken Bow area and owns a doctorate in International Relations from Yale.
Dave Hanson initially ran for this seat in 2000, but withdrew once Osbourne announced his candidacy and went to work for him. He served as the Sr. Ag Advisor for Osbourne and District Director. Probably the favorite in the race due to the popularity of Osbourne.
Adrian Smith has been the NE State Senator for District 48 and is currently serving out his second term there, running unopposed for re-election in 2002. He has also served on the Gering City Council.
Jay Vavricek is the mayor of Grand Island and owner of broadcasting group GI Family Radio.
He was elected with over 70% of the vote in 2002 and obviously has a built in platform to campaign with his radio operation.
Scott Kleebs is the lone Democratic candidate, comes from a ranching background in the Broken Bow area and owns a doctorate in International Relations from Yale.
NE House races
1st District: Incumbent Republican Jeff Fortenberry vs former Lt. Gov and former NE Director of Economic Development Maxine Moul. While Fortenberry is the incumbent, Moul has a long and distingished history of public service and strong ties to US Senator (and former Gov) Ben Nelson. Could be an interesting race. Fortenberry is apparently a former Lincoln City Councilman and serves and the House Agriculture, International Relations and Small Business Committees.
2nd District: My home district, Incumbent Republican Lee Terry is being challenged by attorney and former Omaha Chamber of Commerce Director Jim Esch. Terry is serving his fourth term, serves on the Energy and Commerce Committee and three of that body's subcommittees, most prominently Telecommunications. Esch was the Student Body President at both Creighton Prep and Creighton University.
3rd District: I'll examine this one later as the incumbent, Tom Osbourne, is retiring to run for Governor.
2nd District: My home district, Incumbent Republican Lee Terry is being challenged by attorney and former Omaha Chamber of Commerce Director Jim Esch. Terry is serving his fourth term, serves on the Energy and Commerce Committee and three of that body's subcommittees, most prominently Telecommunications. Esch was the Student Body President at both Creighton Prep and Creighton University.
3rd District: I'll examine this one later as the incumbent, Tom Osbourne, is retiring to run for Governor.
Wednesday, March 08, 2006
Debt
The dunderheads in the legislative branch are arguing about raising the debt ceiling again. The US is $8.2 trillion in debt -- only about half of that is actually publicly owned, the rest is IOUs from government agencies to another (Social Security) government agency. Those dastardly foreigners own around $2.2 billion worth.
I know, sounds like a lot of money. But in a $12 trillion economy, it's only around 65% of the yearly US economic output. Many other nations are in far worse shape (I note that Japan is at 170%!). The historical US peak was at the conclusion of WW2, when the US debt was 145% of GDP.
A far better measure of indebtedness is GDP to debt ratio, as noted above. It's far more acurate to look at the ability to service our debt than it is to look at the raw numbers. A number is jsut a number without the context. A family making $20k a year that is $5k in debt is in far more trouble than one making $90K. And unlike our typical family, the government can rollover its debt -- it can isssue a new bond when an old one comes due.
So while the raw number is dizzying, the ability of the economy to service the debt grows as the economy grows, at least so long as growth is faster than the rate of increase in the debt. Historically, the debt has grown 84% since WW2 in infaltion adjusted terms, but the economy has grown 5 times as fast -- 429%.
Even more importantly, as the economy grows, the tax reciepts required to service the debt grows as well. The ratio of tax receipt growth to debt growth currently is declining as well -- receipts are growing at nearly 15% and the debt is growing at around 8%. The percentage of tax revenues required to service the debt has thus declined from14% in 1998 to around 9% today and been essentially flat since 2002.
I know, sounds like a lot of money. But in a $12 trillion economy, it's only around 65% of the yearly US economic output. Many other nations are in far worse shape (I note that Japan is at 170%!). The historical US peak was at the conclusion of WW2, when the US debt was 145% of GDP.
A far better measure of indebtedness is GDP to debt ratio, as noted above. It's far more acurate to look at the ability to service our debt than it is to look at the raw numbers. A number is jsut a number without the context. A family making $20k a year that is $5k in debt is in far more trouble than one making $90K. And unlike our typical family, the government can rollover its debt -- it can isssue a new bond when an old one comes due.
So while the raw number is dizzying, the ability of the economy to service the debt grows as the economy grows, at least so long as growth is faster than the rate of increase in the debt. Historically, the debt has grown 84% since WW2 in infaltion adjusted terms, but the economy has grown 5 times as fast -- 429%.
Even more importantly, as the economy grows, the tax reciepts required to service the debt grows as well. The ratio of tax receipt growth to debt growth currently is declining as well -- receipts are growing at nearly 15% and the debt is growing at around 8%. The percentage of tax revenues required to service the debt has thus declined from14% in 1998 to around 9% today and been essentially flat since 2002.
Tuesday, March 07, 2006
Big Crater in Sahara
http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2006/03/060303204735.htm
31 km (Zoinks, almost 19 miles!) in diameter! Impact by a rock around 1.2 Km or about 3/4 of a mile.
Tens of millions of years old, must have been a real bad day for any critters nearby.
Undiscovered due to the size, large scale erosion and (probably) the remote location. Makes the crater in AZ look small -- the METEOR here was a big as the impact site in AZ, but it isn't nearly as large as the Yucatan dino-killer. Now THAT one was big-ass rock.
31 km (Zoinks, almost 19 miles!) in diameter! Impact by a rock around 1.2 Km or about 3/4 of a mile.
Tens of millions of years old, must have been a real bad day for any critters nearby.
Undiscovered due to the size, large scale erosion and (probably) the remote location. Makes the crater in AZ look small -- the METEOR here was a big as the impact site in AZ, but it isn't nearly as large as the Yucatan dino-killer. Now THAT one was big-ass rock.
NE Political Races
http://www.necitizen.com/weblog/
Found a pretty good blog on the NE political races run by a gentleman in Imperial. Good biographical info there on the big races that I am concentrating my attention on -- the Senate and House races and the Governor's race.
While necitizen.com is officially non-partisan, I will most likely (at some point) endorse someone in each race after careful examination. For the record, I am officially an Independent, but will likely file as Republican in order to vote in the primaries (far more choices there in the races I am interested in) and then change back.
I have tried to track down websites for each candidate (found some Democrats not named Nelson in particular) and will be commenting on the House races soon.
Found a pretty good blog on the NE political races run by a gentleman in Imperial. Good biographical info there on the big races that I am concentrating my attention on -- the Senate and House races and the Governor's race.
While necitizen.com is officially non-partisan, I will most likely (at some point) endorse someone in each race after careful examination. For the record, I am officially an Independent, but will likely file as Republican in order to vote in the primaries (far more choices there in the races I am interested in) and then change back.
I have tried to track down websites for each candidate (found some Democrats not named Nelson in particular) and will be commenting on the House races soon.
Monday, March 06, 2006
Govnernors race
In the governor's race, the three candidates have decided to hold six debates. March 19 in Omaha, the 26th in Lincoln, April 12 in North Platte, the 19th in Norfolk, the 24th in Scottsbluff, and finally April 30 in Grand Island. Recent news in the OWH has the candidates discussing tourism and how to attract it within the state.
Nabity has proposed a twenty mile "corridor" along both sides Interstate 80 as a potential area for developing tourist hotspots, as well as encouraging already existing areas in the "Wild West" and focusing on "hunter tourism" in the Northeast of the state.
Osbourne proposes focusing on both hunting and "agri-tourism". Both challengers criticize the adminstration for not doing enough to promote tourism and market the state.
Gov. Henneman points out that tourism is the third-largest industry in the state already despite spending far less than many neighbors on marketing programs. He does agree that more should be done to develop the industry further and devoted an additonal $850,000 to the current marketing programs in the budget last year.
Nabity has proposed a twenty mile "corridor" along both sides Interstate 80 as a potential area for developing tourist hotspots, as well as encouraging already existing areas in the "Wild West" and focusing on "hunter tourism" in the Northeast of the state.
Osbourne proposes focusing on both hunting and "agri-tourism". Both challengers criticize the adminstration for not doing enough to promote tourism and market the state.
Gov. Henneman points out that tourism is the third-largest industry in the state already despite spending far less than many neighbors on marketing programs. He does agree that more should be done to develop the industry further and devoted an additonal $850,000 to the current marketing programs in the budget last year.
NE Senate race
The other big political race here in NE is for the US Senate. Fromer governor & current Democratic incumbent Ben Nelson will face one of three Republican challengers. Former State Attorney General Don Stenberg is the self-annointed front runner, having lost narrowly to Nelson six years ago. Omaha businessmen Pete Ricketts of Ameritrade and Omaha lawyer Dave Kramer are challenging Stenberg for the right to face off against Nelson. The primary race probably boils down to Ricketts dollars against Stenberg's name recognition. Kramer is probably a long shot, but is traveling heavily throughout the state in an attempt to gaintraction with the electorate.
Friday, March 03, 2006
Biographical Movies
Saw Walk the Line weekend before last & was reminded of it by a co-worker. Great show, but like a lot of the recent biographical movies, it STOPS in 1968!? I was left hanging. What about the rest of this guy's life? We're missing out on 35+ years of Cash! I actually met JC in 1974, and have his autograph hangin on my wall. Ray was the same thing. Again great movie, but what about the rest? We get the beginning and the early to mid adulthood, and then the credits roll. Frustrating to say the least.
Thursday, March 02, 2006
Great website for Economic matters
Econhttp://www.optimist123.com/optimist/
This guy is quickly becoming one of the few heros I have in the field of economics. Gotta love that Debt Thermometer.
This guy is quickly becoming one of the few heros I have in the field of economics. Gotta love that Debt Thermometer.
Justice Ginsberg
Falls asleep at her post. On one of the most important cases being heard in years, the Texas Redistricting case. Note Scalia and Roberts comments to the plaintiff, who argues that redistricting somehow shouldn't depend on electoral outcomes. ??? How did this get so far up the court food chain? Oh yeah, some people are unhappy the voters haven't continued to elect their party, that's right.
http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20060302/ap_on_go_su_co/scotus_texas_redistricting_12
http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20060302/ap_on_go_su_co/scotus_texas_redistricting_12
Castro didn't expect this...
I have a new favorite Czech supermodel, Helena Houdova. Funny how people who've lived under totalitarian regimes value freedom. The emperor is not wearing any clothes.
Hat tip to Dean's World.
http://www.deanesmay.com/posts/1138664375.shtml
http://www.washtimes.com/world/20060228-100357-6473r.htm
photo from Reuters.
Iraq
Ralph Peters on the Iraqi "civil war" that isn't.
http://www.nypost.com/postopinion/opedcolumnists/64407.htm
http://www.nypost.com/postopinion/opedcolumnists/64407.htm
Dem. Gov Candidates
From the Omaha World Herald:
"Two Democrats filed for governor Wednesday. The first, Lincoln businessman David Hahn, had announced his candidacy several months ago. The second, Glenn Boot Jr., was a newcomer. He is a truck driver who lives in Ashland."
I think they ought to be a rule about 3 guys named Dave running for Governor. (Heineman, Nabity and now Hahn).
Not sure how long it'll be available, but.....
Article link: http://www.omaha.com/index.php?u_pg=1673&u_sid=2126263
"Two Democrats filed for governor Wednesday. The first, Lincoln businessman David Hahn, had announced his candidacy several months ago. The second, Glenn Boot Jr., was a newcomer. He is a truck driver who lives in Ashland."
I think they ought to be a rule about 3 guys named Dave running for Governor. (Heineman, Nabity and now Hahn).
Not sure how long it'll be available, but.....
Article link: http://www.omaha.com/index.php?u_pg=1673&u_sid=2126263
NE Gov's race
A friend asked me what I thought about the race for NE governor. There are 3 Republican candidates, including the current gov, Dave Heineman, and 3rd District Rep. Tom Osbourne. The other is Omaha area businessman Dave Nabity. I understand there is a Democratic candidate as well, but am not aware of his name today.
Osbourne, due his background as Husker FB coach, was thought to be pertty unstoppable early on, but the incumbent appears to have gained traction due to his policies. I don't think Nabity has much chance, but I've met the gentleman at a Heritage Foundation event in Omaha and he seemed pleasant. More to come on this later.
Osbourne, due his background as Husker FB coach, was thought to be pertty unstoppable early on, but the incumbent appears to have gained traction due to his policies. I don't think Nabity has much chance, but I've met the gentleman at a Heritage Foundation event in Omaha and he seemed pleasant. More to come on this later.
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