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| photosdepot.com |
Monday, 31 December 2012
Sunday, 30 December 2012
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| modernmom.com |
Sixteen days ago, a mass murderer shot and killed six women at Sandy Hook Elementary School in Newtown, Connecticut, as they tried to protect the children in their charge. Dawn Hochsprung, the school principal, and Mary Sherlach, the school psychologist rushed to stop the intruder when they realized he had breached the security system by shooting his way into the school using a weapon intended for battle. They were the first to lose their lives. Victoria Soto died trying to shield her students, but only six of them escaped execution. Lauren Rousseau, a sub who was waiting for a permanent position, also perished in an attempt to save her students. Rachel Davino, a behavioral therapist, used her body to protect students from the barrage of bullets fired, and Anne Marie Murphy, a special ed teacher, died holding a student in her arms.
Ham on Wry shares this post as a reaction to an opinion column written by Bill Maxwell in the Tampa Bay Times December 23. Why the delay? I spent part of the holidays with my family in another stated. An irate reader wrote letter to the local paper in Newtown as a response to a teacher who opposed cutting Sandy Hook's library and music programs. As a former teacher, the part of his letter that infuriated me the most stated, "You, as a public sector employee don't generate ANY revenue. Every penny of the budget of your public sector enterprise is TAKEN from producers. It's other people's money versus money your organization earned." Wow! What an enlightened individual this disgruntled man is and how woefully uninformed about how schools receive funding.
Obviously, this person doesn't understand the intrinsic value of educating children, which pays dividends after they graduate, get a job, and make contributions to the society. Perhaps he should take a refresher course in school funding. States use a variety of means to determine the amount of money allocated to education at all levels, but, at least part of that money usually comes from taxes based on real estate values. This idiot doesn't seem to realize that educators do contribute to their own salaries because they pay the same direct taxes that any homeowner does ,or they pay it indirectly if they rent.
I wonder how many times Mr. Big Stuff has been called upon to lay down his life for fellow employees. This man is the poster child for what is wrong with our culture today. More value is placed on how much money one earns than what lasting contributions one makes during a lifetime. This guy needs a lesson in humility and should spend a week each in an elementary school, a middle or junior high school, and a high school before he pontificates from his soap box. That should give him a dose of reality. He should honor those who choose to educate children rather than excoriating them. Maybe his last name is Scrooge.
Wednesday, 19 December 2012
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| hollywoodgossip.com |
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| hollywoodlife.com |
Any of the three finalists would have made all of the coaches proud, because they displayed recording-star talent. McDermott was the consummate rock star, while David had a soulful bent and a haunting voice. All three won a car for reaching the finals.
Ham and Wry took delight in the fact that a female won it all because so many of talented women and girls made it through the early phases of elimination, but only one remained in the Final Four. Pope chose Liz Davis, Melanie Martinez, and De'Borah to join her onstage for a rendition of "It's Time", which sent the audience into a frenzy of applause. Calling them "my girls", Pope revealed how much she supports the talent of the other three performers.
The coaches paid special tribute to Christina Aquilara in honor of her birthday and also to bid her farewel,l because she is taking a leave from the show, as is Cee lo Green. Along with Adam Levine and Blake Shelton, the four coaches have built a camaraderie that resembles a mutual admiration society. Usher and Shakira will join the show as replacements for Aguilara and Green next season. I hope that the magic continues at a level equal to Season Three.
Sunday, 16 December 2012
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| memorial to Sandy Hook victims/cnn.com |
More details about the murders of 20 Sandy Hook elementary students and 6 adults Friday paint an even grimmer picture of the scene than when the news first hit the media. Adam Lanzer, the 20-year-old killer, first shot his mother as she slept, before taking some of her guns and blasting his way into the school seeking victims. H. Wayne Carver, Connecticut's chief medical examiner said that all of the victims were shot multiple times, adding that it was the worst carnage he or any of his colleagues had seen.
Lanza used a Bushmaster .223 assault rifle in most of the murders and shot his victims at close range using ammunition designed to result in maximum damage. Ham on Wry chooses to use bold on part of the previous sentence, because herein lies the problem with gun ownership in America. Lanza had two handguns and two assault rifles, one of which he left in the car. Investigators believe his mother had legally purchased all of them, but are questioning local gun shops to corroborate that.
I can hear the fanatical fringe of the NRA stridently screaming, "See. They were legally purchased. What's the problem with our gun laws?" The answer is quite simple. What person with legitimate intentions needs assault rifles with bullets that rip through a body, even one with protective gear? The answer is simple. No one. In case that doesn't register, no person who purchases a gun should be allowed to have an assault rifle with bullets designed to do maximum damage. No one, that is, who doesn't work for a law enforcement agency of some type, and their employers issue them the guns that they use.
I call for a national debate and swift action in changing some of the laws that govern the sale of guns, so that we create a common sense approach to gun ownership. NBC's Today Show Sunday morning featured a criminologist who stated that most mass murderers don't have criminal records and could pass a background check. Okay. So what? We should still run background checks because we could stop some crazies from purchasing guns. More importantly, even if a person who is planning to use guns for a criminal purpose does pass a background check, no one needs an assault rifle, bulletproof vest, or bullets that penetrate protective gear that were originally designed for law enforecement officers.
The NRA has long ignored the opinions of our local, state, and national law enforcement agencies and advocated for all guns, all the time, at all costs to human life without interference. The citizens of this country must band together and force action from our politicians, starting with President Obama, who can draft legislation and submit it to Congress for action. I'm certain many NRA members would support laws that reduce the chance of the horrific scenes we have witnessed all too often in this country.
A final note to Congress and the White House: Steel your courage and stand up to the NRA! Do something for all of this country's citizens and take action now!
Friday, 14 December 2012
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| Reuters |
Tragedy struck Sandy Hook Elementary School this morning, when Adam Lanza, the 20-year-old son of a teacher there, shot his mother in the face at her home, took her car and drove to the school where she taught with the intent to murder as many people as possible. At the end of the shooting rampage that left 20 students and 6 adults dead, the shooter committed suicide. This horror story marks the second deadliest shooting of its type, with 26 victims killed by Lanza. The Virginia Tech massacre left 33 dead.
President Obama, moved to tears in discussing the tragedy, stated, "“The majority of those who died today were children, beautiful little kids between the ages of 5 and 10 years old.” He called for meaningful action to address the problem of mass killings of Innocent victims as he concluded.
The gunman used two handguns and wore a bulletproof vest when he launched his assault. Police also found an M4 carbine that they believe belonged to the killer.
Ham on Wry calls on NRA to restore sanity to an organization that promotes unregulated purchase of guns of all types and sanctions carrying concealed weapons. In fact, the Florida Secretary of Agriculture, Adam Putnam, recently boasted that Florida would soon reach a milestone: one million concealed weapons permits. Now that is truly something to boast about. Perhaps the state should use that as part of its marketing campaign.
The NRA originally started as an organization for hunters and has morphed into a lunatic organization that believes guns should be available to anyone at all costs. This blogger fails to understand how the NRA can ignore the statistics which reveal the undeniable fact that more murders by gun occur here than all other industrialized nations combined. Shameful! Concerned citizens must express their outrage toward the NRA, which has encouraged laxity in oversight of gun ownership. What legitimate use does anyone have in owning bulletproof vests, or AK47's, or bullets that rip through protective gear? None!
President Obama is right. We must address this massive problem as a nation--now! Obama and Congress can no longer ignore the need for action on their part. The NRA should not control the actions of our government, nor should our elected officials pander to the demands of such an association. The United States Constitution emphasizes the welfare of the country's citizens as a top priority of government. Unfortunately, those in power have abdicated their responsibility, which leaves the responsibility in the hands of citizens. Demand better from our leaders!
Thursday, 13 December 2012
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| Yuri Gipas/Reuters |
Awaken from your hypnotic state, Mr. Boehner, and hear the drumbeat that sounds a message from ordinary citizens who support an increase in the tax rate for the wealthiest Americans. This blogger eagerly awaits an announcement that Republicans will do what a majority of citizens want: keep the current tax rates for those earning below $250k a year and raise them for those above that mark. Fixing our economy, balancing the budget, and reducing debt will require more time than the few days remaining to deal with the tax structure. Spending cuts must figure prominently in adopting a balanced approach to government expenditure, but that can be handled next year.
Tuesday, 11 December 2012
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| Luke Macgregor/Reuters |
After two years of trying to buy Singapore Airlines' share of ownership in Virgin Atlantic, Delta has finally struck an agreement of $360 million for 49% of Richard Branson's airline. Delta set its sights on Virgin Atlantic in order to expand its presence at London's Heathrow Airport and increase its offering to the lucrative New York/London corridor. The airlines would operate as a joint venture, if they gain the necessary anti-trust approvals from United States and European regulators. That would allow them to sell seats on one another's flights and offer a smoother flight experience for travelers who connect through New York to London.
Ham on Wry sincerely hopes that Delta won't nickel and dime overseas travelers to death as it does to passenger in the U.S. Given the competition and the stellar reputation Virgin Atlantic has earned, it should affect the collaboration positively. Branson uses a customer-centric approach in operating his airlines, and his Virgin America Airlines consistently appears as the number one airline operating in the U.S. based on customer satisfaction surveys. Not so for Delta.
London-bound travelers might have reason to cheer if the joint venture goes through. Delta states that it will consummate the purchase, regardless of whether regulators approve the request.
Wednesday, 5 December 2012
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| NBC.com |
Contrary to Ham on Wry's prediction in the December 4 post, Nicholas David made it to the final four contestants on The Voice instead of Amanda Brown, one of this blogger's picks yesterday. While both singers have consistently proven their talent, David has a special artistic flair and a unique, soulful voice that won him the support of fans. The duet he sang with Melanie Martinez, a rendition of Fiona Apple's "Criminal", allowed both of them to shine and better showcased their vocal style than their choices from the previous show, but Martinez was one of the two performers eliminated. Terry McDermott, Cassadee Pope, and Trevin Hunte round out the slate of singers who will continue.
Next Monday, the contestants will vie for the remaining two slots and the others will leave the show on Tuesday. All four must choose a song that suits their style and vocal range, because no room for experimentation or error exists now. Ham on Wry will defer a prediction about who will win the Season Three title until after the show airs December 10, because that can make or break any of them. This blogger has turned into an ardent viewer of The Voice this time around because the level of talent exceeds the other seasons. Everyone who made it to the final four have what it takes to achieve success in the music industry, so, although one one can win it all, no one really loses. They have already been discovered.
Tuesday, 4 December 2012
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| NBC.com |
Trevin Hunte delivered two equally amazing performances December 3 on entirely different types of songs. "Walking on Sunshine" showcased a more upbeat, light-hearted Trevin as he created an atmosphere of fun that included a few dance moves. Later, he sang "I'm Telling You I'm Not Going", a song Jennifer Hudson made famous in Dream Girls, that evoked an emotional reaction in the audience equal to what it saw on stage. Hunte ruled the night, in this blogger's opinion.
Tonight, The Voice will reveal the two contestants viewers have voted off the show, so Ham on Wry will predict which of them will go. While Adam Levine saved Melanie Martinez, who has developed a solid fan base, she was off-pitch on both of last night's performances, as she has been several times before. The competition has reached a crucial point, so voters should consider quality rather than cuteness and bid her farewell. At 17, she has time to develop further. Her teammate Amanda Brown wowed the crowd during her two songs and should be saved. While Nicholas David has a unique and remarkable talent, his songs last night didn't reflect his abilities well. As a result, he will not make the final four. Cassadee Pope and Terry McDermott both delivered solid, audience-pleasing entertainment and will move on to the next round.
This season has offered eye-popping performances that equal anything an audience would witness at a sold-out performance of professional artists, so one slip has cost many of the original 16 a place in the finals. The four who continue must make careful selections in order to be the last person standing. This blogger will watch until the very end.
Sunday, 2 December 2012
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| Alex Wong/Getty Images |
Ham on Wry could have accurately predicted this stalemate before the negotiations began. Boehner and many of his fellow Republicans claim that raising taxes on the wealthy will cause another economic downturn and stymie job growth. This blogger has spent hours poring over statistics from past administrations where the highest tax rate far exceeded the current cap on taxes. None of those studies support Boehner's claim that raising taxes on the wealthy would "deal a crippling blow to the economy." Instead, the stastics showed that the economy still grew, and most Americans experienced job security and enough money to keep their families afloat. It seems that Boehner has far more interest in the top earners in the country than he does the middle class and those who fall below the poverty line. Could part of his motivation be self-serving?
Until Boehner provides data accumulated by objective sources--no thinly-veiled groups run by the Koch Brothers or Grover Norquist--citizens should pay little attention to his moaning and groaning and demand movement toward a compromise that doesn't involve preserving low tax rates for the rich. Those people already have various means of investment vehicles that shield money from taxes and don't need the help of those of us who don't have the same choices.
Either prove your statements or stifle yourself, Mr. Boehner. Hearing you speak about the negotiations reminds this blogger of watching Groundhog Day starring Bill Murray. Repetition doesn't make a statement true.
Wednesday, 28 November 2012
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| npr.org |
America's citizens should have grave concerns about a lobbyist who has such a stranglehold on so many members of Congress because he doesn't answer to the people. According to politico.com, Norquist dismissed statements made by Senator Lindsay Graham, Senator Saxbey Chambliss, and other Republican congressmen that they would consider tax hikes as “impure thoughts” and said he wasn’t concerned that any of them would actually vote to raise taxes.
To emphasize his stance, he stated, “I’m not planning on losing the tax debate we’re having right now. But the tax issue will be more powerful in 2014, 2016 than today.”
Ham on Wry finds his quote deeply disturbing. Note his use of the word I as he mentions not losing the tax debate. Norquist suffers from "delusions of grandeur" in his own assessment of his role in the tax debate and of himself. I wasn't aware that he was in a position to win or lose, since he's not a sitting member of Congress or a member of the administration.
Norquist wears an ever-present frown in most of his pictures, revealing a person who takes himself far too seriously. Unfortunately, Congressional Republicans have supported that notion. Voters must inform their representatives and senators to do what's best for the country and break the hold Norquist has on them. It's dangerous for anyone to wield that kind of power over elected officials. We can't afford to adopt Alfred E. Neumann's mantra, 'What, me worry?"
Monday, 26 November 2012
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| reuters.com |
He wrote, in part, "Between 1951 and 1954, when the capital gains rate was 25 percent and marginal rates on dividends reached 91 percent in extreme cases, I sold securities and did pretty well. In the years from 1956 to 1969, the top marginal rate fell modestly, but was still a lofty 70 percent — and the tax rate on capital gains inched up to 27.5 percent. I was managing funds for investors then. Never did anyone mention taxes as a reason to forgo an investment opportunity that I offered."
He added, "Under those burdensome rates, moreover, both employment and the gross domestic product (a measure of the nation’s economic output) increased at a rapid clip. The middle class and the rich alike gained ground."
People like Karl Rove and John Boehner sound a note that plays out-of-tune with Buffett's comments, saying that if tax rates rise on the wealthy, the economy will shrink, and the country will return to an oppressive recession. Many wealthy citizens have a sense of entitlement about their money. Romney accused 47 % of Americans of feeling entitled, but he wasn't referring to the wealthy elite because that group doesn't comprise almost half of the country's population. The people to whom this post refers consists of only the 400 highest income earners in the country.
Take a deep breath before you continue. According to Buffett, that group had an average income of $202 million and half of them paid less than 20% in federal income taxes and payroll taxes combined in 2009. Readers might want to check the percentage they paid in the same year. This constitutes a national disgrace, and no justification can explain away the imbalance. The 400 wealthiest could pay a 90% income tax rate and still have more money than most taxpayers can imagine. It would still leave them with more that $20 million, a fact that blows away all the protests about how "damaged" this group would be if its members had a tax hike.
Americans will benefit from tax reform if properly applied, but both parties mucst approach such an undertaking with a commitment to negotiate a compromise. The uber-rich don't need protection. They already have tax shelters that most taxpayers can't access.
For more details on Buffett's plan, read his entire article on the nytimes.com website.
Saturday, 24 November 2012
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| marketwatch.com |
Walmart employees staged protests about working on Thanksgiving, but that didn't stop shoppers eager to grab bargains to place under the Christmas tree. They poured into the stores pushing, shoving, and grabbing everything in sight, including a total of 1.8 million towels. Towels? People will give up a relaxing day with people they live to shop for towels? That's something I can't fathom.
Black Friday, a commonly accepted term for the mad rush to Christmas shop the day after Thanksgiving, was coined in the early sixties and earned full recognition in the seventies. It simply means that retailers hope that it allows them to run in the black and show a profit for the year. Estimates state that 10% of seasonal sales occur on that day.
Ham on Wry sees a more ominous slant to the term, since retailers have commandeered part of Thanksgiving. It casts a dark shadow on a holiday that harks back to 1621 when Pilgrims shared a meal with Wampanoag Indians to give thanks for a bountiful harvest that autumn. The thankful part of Thanksgiving no longer exists in some households, since our nation largely bases its economy on consumer spending.
The Today Show aired a segment earlier this week about how kids prefer boxes to the toys or other gifts housed in them. It showed a day care center that had eliminated all the toys and replaced them with boxes, which resulted in kids learning cooperation, using their creativity, and enjoying themselves as they transformed boxes into all manner of things. Kids playing with boxes, pots and pans, and wooden spoons have offered some the funniest scenes I have observed. Maybe we're making something simple far too complex when we buy the latest toys and gadgets.
Ham on Wry loudly laments the early onset of Black Friday and calls for a return to the Thanksgiving Day that allows for a full day to eat with abandon and celebrate with those we choose. No more gulping down the meal and dashing out the door to shop. Please!
Wednesday, 21 November 2012
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| thehuffingtonpost.com/NBC |
Voters eliminated Sylvia Yacoub, fourth from left , and Bryan Keith, second from the right in above photo last night. To build suspense, Carson Daly announced the eight singers saved from elimination first, waiting until the end to inform Sylvia and Bryan that they didn't make it. In my view, Carson committed a grievous error in leading up to that announcement. It sounded as though he was going to make the announcement of which of the three remaining contestants would continue when he called Sylvia's name. However, he asked her what it would mean if she was saved, and she clearly misunderstood why he had said her name. She was so shaken that she couldn't articulate an answer. Daly should proceed with greater caution next time.
The eight contestants who will return have unique styles, so it is difficult to predict who will emerge as the winner. When someone asked me which singer shoudl win, I couldn't choose one. I'm not an industry mogul, but I recognize in all of them the level of talent that can take them to stardom. This season has an addictive lure that the previous ones didn't have for me. When the contestants perform, it feels like a Vegas production. It's the best free entertainment I've witnessed in a long time.
Tuesday, 20 November 2012
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| tvfanatic.com |
While hers was a memorable performance, all ten finalists prompted thundering applause from the audience and positive comments from the panel of experts Ceelo Green, Christina Aguilera, Adam Levine and Blake Shelton.
By far, the third season of The Voice has delivered more pure entertainment with eye-popping production numbers for the finalists. My personal favorites include Cassadee; Dez Duron, who smoothly crooned "Feelin' Good"; Amanda Brown, who belted "Stars", a song just one of the judges had heard; and Nicholas David's gospel version of "Lean on Me." Cody Belew, however, takes the prize as best showman and Terry McDermott is definitely rock start material. Bryan Keith never fails to deliver, which he did again last night in a song that suited him well, "New York State of Mind." Sylvia Yacoub had a few pitch problems at the beginning of her performance, but ended strong. Melanie Martinez and Trevin Hunte sang well, but both have many years in which to gain a little more sophistication. All ten have the kind of talent that will translate into attracting large audiences.
I'm not a huge fan of reality TV, but this show consistently attracts my attention. The format places the emphasis on the wannabes and not the coaches. This year, The Voice introduced some rule changes, which ensure that talented performers can get a second chance with another judge. That has created the conditions which made for the kind of entertainment viewers witnessed last night. I'll keep watching until the last episode, because with the level of talent the final 10 have, it should prove a cliffhanger until the very end.
Friday, 16 November 2012
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| uh.edu |
The segment featured three immigrants' stories, and all shared one goal: go to America and find freedom. One man, serving in the military, came from Peru; a woman fled war-torn Somalia; and another man escaped Kosovo.
Several other immigrants weighed in briefly and expressed the reason they came here. All had the same answer. Freedom.
Each new citizen waved American flags proudly after Napolitano declared them citizens, while tears flowed from the newly-Americans as well as all the spectators. This blogger confesses to choking up also. In pondering my emotional reaction and that of others who watched, I wondered whether many of us born in the United States still appreciate the sacrifices made in previous generations to ensure our freedom. It seems that some no longer appreciate the gift we received by simply being born in this country.
Some Americans take freedom of speech for granted. Why shouldn't they? We consider it a basic human right, but many countries who grab headlines today murder those who speak against the ruling party. If that happened here, dead bodies would have been strewn across the land during the last election.
For all that is wrong, much is right here. The 30 people who proudly proclaimed themselves as citizens today can serve as a reminder to all. "Let freedom ring!"
Thursday, 15 November 2012
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| Senators John McCain, Lindsey Graham, Kelly Ayotte-Win McNamee/Getty Images |
When the framers of the United States Constitution created it, America was sparsely populated with most people living along the eastern seaboard. They couldn't have envisioned a time when candidates elected to Congress would consider it a career choice. In colonial times, people couldn't afford to serve in either the House or the Senate without having to work at another job. Not so in 2012. Now members of Congress can serve as long as they are re-elected, despite experiencing a slowdown caused by advanced age.
How can voters determine if someone has stayed too long and has run out of fresh ideas? The complex answer involves many factors, some of which are almost impossible to detect. If a member of Congress has dementia, it limits ability to reason logically. If readers think that could never happen, remember President Reagan showed signs of it when he was first elected and it progressed to Alzheimer's before he left office. Few voters spend hours watching Congress at work, and, therefore, can't see whether an official adopts an intransigent stance that blocks action from proceeding to conclusion. We saw that when the 112th Congress took us to the brink of fiscal disaster before an eleventh hour vote.
Now that the election is over, the time has arrived for a national dialogue about how to ensure Senators and Representative don't stay past their prime. Although this blogger favors term limits, which would serve that purpose, many other viable options must exist. Starting the discussion in various forums will at least identify workable solutions that can lead to a Constitutional amendment. We limit the President of the United States to eight years, and those who have served two terms leave office looking more haggard and with a head of gray hair. If citizens believe a president can execute on promises in a maximum of eight years, why do we allow members of Congress to remain for decades?
Senator Robert Byrd spent 51 years in Congress before he died, and Representative John Dingell has served since 1955. Dingell will be serving his 29th term. C'mon! Despite the fact that he has support, does anyone believe he still has the capacity to handle the job effectively?
Logic and reason tell me the answer is "no".
Wednesday, 14 November 2012
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| Photos from Marisa Urbano's FB page |
The family adopted the cat over the weekend at Gifford Cat Shelter in their hometown of Newton, Massachusetts.
Dan Urbano learned a valuable lesson in all this. Never underestimate the power of FB to make wishes come true.
Ham on Wry takes delight in writing about something other than politics in this post and hopes readers find it entertaining.
Tuesday, 13 November 2012
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| argothemoviewarnerbrothers.com |
This movie can engage almost anyone. It mesmerized me, and, apparently the entire audience, but that's not the point of this post.
Although treated as more of a backdrop in the movie, the Canadian Ambassador, Ken Taylor, his wife, and their Iranian housekeeper played instrumental roles in eventual success of the plan. They kept the Americans safe and hid their existence from the Iranian government. Taylor not only provided a haven for the Americans, he helped to scout the airport and bought the plane tickets that they used to escape. His wife supported him, and the housekeeper lied to investigators asking questions about the Americans at their home, who were supposedly scouting out locations for a sci-fi movie.
During the last election season, we heard ads spouting how we must regain our prominence as the leader of the free world. Argo clarified that this nation has always counted on our allies in times of trouble, and we must give credit to all of them. Canada has helped us many times before and stands as an example of what cooperation among nations can accomplish. We live in a complex time, and we must focus more on collaboration, not only within Congress, but with the world. American can't do it alone.
Those who trumpet a call to invade Iran or Syria or any other troubled nation have lost touch with reality. With a population of just under 315 million, the United States doesn't have enough people to fight wars everywhere a skirmish exists, which emphasizes the need for alliances with other world powers. China and India each have over four times the number of people than the United States.
The situation depicted in the movie occurred over thirty years ago, and, even then, we could not have accomplished the rescue without help. Any person who serves in government and calls for us to act alone in any aggressive action against another country should think again. We have lost far too many young men and women who have been killed in Iraq and Afghanistan in unnecessary wars, and we can't afford to do so again. Human losses are the most tragic reflection of that statement, but the outrageous monetary costs have done damage to our country as well.
Patriotism means more than joining the military and going to war. It also means preserving the vision of our country's founders and the promise of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.
Sunday, 11 November 2012
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| Forbes.com |
Ham on Wry chose the picture at right, because any governor who oversaw such a disaster should express chagrin about the mess.
However, Governor Rick Scott proves an exception. He doesn't have the good sense to apologize. No, instead he offered excuses as to why it occurred. Readers should know that the final tabulations weren't announced until November 10, showing that Obama won the state. Citizens have come to expect such behavior from a governor who cares more about reducing business taxes and paying large incentives to attract business than he does in education and programs designed to help people with disabilities. It seems he missed the civics lesson that discussed constitutions and their purpose to protect the citizens that reside in the area they cover. That purpose doesn't alter from state to state, and most states model their constitution after the United States Constitution. Perhaps he should read the state constitution so he can better understand his role.
Scott might have pulled the wool over the eyes of uninformed voters when he was elected in 2010, but those voters didn't read the mountains of evidence linking him to the Columbia/HCA Medicare fraud that required the organization to pay a $1.7 billion dollar fine, the largest fine of its kind ever levied. Instead, they believe him when he said he took responsibility for it and had no knowledge it was occurring. Phooey! The board booted him three weeks before the investigation, and he emerged relatively unscathed. If a CEO accepts the compensation and benefits of the position, he must also accept accountability for illegal activities.
Unfortunately, he chose to move to Naples, Florida, and lives in an area of other uber-rich transplants. He doesn't care about Florida, its people, or its environment. He cares about Rick Scott. He even stooped to running an ad in which his mother said, "He's a good boy." Ha! What would anyone expect a mother to say. Perhaps he was a good boy, but he's not a good governor. The only hope for Floridians who consider this state their true home is that the Democratic Party offers a credible candidate in 2012. Florida can't afford Scott for a second term.
Wednesday, 7 November 2012
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| Yahoo/Carolyn Kaster/AP |
The 2012 election season seemed interminable and was fraught with far too many ads and excessive money spent by corporations and innocuous sounding organizations that shouldn't have been allowed to weigh in on who should be President of the the United States. That's fodder for a future blog, however. This post celebrates President Obama's re-election in a time of global upheaval that requires continuity of leadership.
No matter which candidate a person chose, the country must unite behind President Obama to accomplish some of the daunting tasks that face us as a nation. Rather than adopting implacable approaches along party lines, members of Congress must approach their work with an attitude of compromise. America can't afford the kind of situation that led us to the brink of financial disaster during the last session.
Most of all, the birthers must abandon the notion of proving that President Obama was not born in the US and place emphasis on moving toward a balanced budget and significantly reducing debt without destroying necessary programs that benefit this country's citizens. Most important of all, Donald Trump needs to shut up and concentrate on something other than politics. His opinion holds no more weight than any other citizen. In fact, this blogger would take delight in media silence when "The Donald" waxes political.
Voters can work on repealing Citizens United, which opened the door to the barrage of political messages heaped on us for most of the year. If all that money had gone to iimprove the economy, our lives would have improved drastically, and television viewing would have been more enjoyable.
Congratulations, President Obama. May you use your last term in office wisely.
Sunday, 4 November 2012
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| zephyrcove.com |
In the early days of his campaign, he advocated overturning Roe v. Wade, which would effectively end women's abortion choices, getting rid of Planned Parenthood, and abandoning the health care initiative set to begin next year. Bad news for the poor and women in general.
Whether a woman would make a personal choice to abort a fetus or a man objects to abortions should not affect a woman's ability to make that choice. Abortion does not belong in the political spectrum because no one can know all of the conditions that exist when someone makes that choice. For those who protest that pregnancy is God's will and no human should tamper with it, miscarriages or spontaneous abortions, as the medical community labels them, remain a conundrum. Most women who abort live with emotional turmoil surrounding that decision for the rest of their lives.
This blogger is old enough to remember when abortion was illegal, but that didn't stop women from seeking them. It meant that they often faced unsterile conditions during the procedure. The Bible that I studied never appointed humans to act in God's stead and pass judgment on fellow humans. That is a man-made creation. This country has more pressing issues than that of abortion. When American society can solve the problem of caring and nurturing children who exist outside the womb, we will have accomplished something noteworthy. That social problem looms large and must be solved by more than just more laws. It starts when the baby is born. America's murder rate exceeds that of all other first world nations, but we still have laws that don't properly vet gun buyers. The assasination attempt on Congresswoman Gifford and murder of several in the group listening to her speak and the massacre at a Colorado movie theater illustrate gun use gone wild.
Romney has also waffled on his campaign promise to cut taxes 20% for all taxpayers. Perhaps he succumbed to all the fact-checking organizations that called him out because it would be impossible to implement that change without huge cuts in important safety net programs, such as Social Security, Medicare, Health Care, and other programs designed to assist the most vulnerable in our society. Now he claims that he will raise the tax rate on the wealthiest Americans, something Obama has advocated throughout his term and still exists in his platform.
Romney and his family members won't be affected because of the vast wealth he has accumulated, but people in the middle class and below will. That group comprises a majority of the citizens in this country. So, when voting, consider which candidate would be attuned to what will benefit the majority of Americans.
Thursday, 1 November 2012
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| photobucket.com |
In fact, the only mention of adding jobs in China referred to Chrysler's mention increasing production in China for vehicles for use in China. Chrysler plans to add 1,100 jobs in Toledo, Ohio to build the new models of Jeep.
So, Mr. Romney, drop the pretense and scrap the ad. You failed to mention that Chrysler has added about 7000 American jobs, since it emerged from bankruptcy in 2009. Compare the strides made by both Chrysler and GM to the performance of the financial services firmed bailed out during the Bush administration. The facts about their continued missteps can't be denied.
Speaking of facts, isn't it time you revealed the specifics of your tax plan. Everything this blogger has read about your proposal to cut everyone's taxes by 20% state that it can't be done without massive cuts to crucial programs. Stop spouting generalities and provide voters with specifics. I know it's difficult, but you don't have much time left. "You can fool some of the people all of the time, and all of the people some of the time, but you can't fool all of the people all of the time."
Am I the only one that sees Romney's nose growing?
Tuesday, 30 October 2012
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| AP/ Coast Guard Photo |
Hurricane Sandy has smashed several records in her furious romp from Key West to Maine, leaving at least 18 people dead according to abc.go.com. At least 7.4 million people across the East lost electricity, while airlines canceled more than 12,000 flights, leaving hundreds of thousands stranded.
Weather experts have dubbed Sandy a hurricane that doesn't follow the rules. After pummeling the south with wind and rain, some experienced the first snow of the season as a backlash from the atmospheric changes that occurred as she traveled north. An AP photo below, provided by Cheryl Clay via Facebook, shows snow accumulating in West Virginia, a harsh mid-fall surprise.
New York City experienced heavy flooding, especially in Lower Manhattan around Battery Park City, and, for the first time in 108 years, subways flooded throughout the system. MTA Chairman Joseph J. Lhota released the following statement detailing the damage thus far.
"The New York City subway system is 108 years old, but it has never faced a disaster as devastating as what we experienced last night. Hurricane Sandy wreaked havoc on our entire transportation system, in every borough and county of the region. It has brought down trees, ripped out power and inundated tunnels, rail yards and bus depots."
"As of last night, seven subway tunnels under the East River flooded. Metro-North Railroad lost power from 59th Street to Croton-Harmon on the Hudson Line and to New Haven on the New Haven Line. The Long Island Rail Road evacuated its West Side Yards and suffered flooding in one East River tunnel. The Hugh L. Carey Tunnel is flooded from end to end and the Queens Midtown Tunnel also took on water and was closed. Six bus garages were disabled by high water. We are assessing the extent of the damage and beginning the process of recovery. Our employees have shown remarkable dedication over the past few days, and I thank them on behalf of every New Yorker. In 108 years, our employees have never faced a challenge like the one that confronts us now. All of us at the MTA are committed to restoring the system as quickly as we can to help bring New York back to normal."
"As of last night, seven subway tunnels under the East River flooded. Metro-North Railroad lost power from 59th Street to Croton-Harmon on the Hudson Line and to New Haven on the New Haven Line. The Long Island Rail Road evacuated its West Side Yards and suffered flooding in one East River tunnel. The Hugh L. Carey Tunnel is flooded from end to end and the Queens Midtown Tunnel also took on water and was closed. Six bus garages were disabled by high water. We are assessing the extent of the damage and beginning the process of recovery. Our employees have shown remarkable dedication over the past few days, and I thank them on behalf of every New Yorker. In 108 years, our employees have never faced a challenge like the one that confronts us now. All of us at the MTA are committed to restoring the system as quickly as we can to help bring New York back to normal."
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| washingtonpost.com |
The HMS Bounty ended its reign as a premier tall ship when it succumbed to the swirling seas Sandy conjured in her path of destruction. The Coast Guard rescued 14 crew members in treacherous waters yesterday. Crew person Claudene Christian could not be revived and Captain Robin Wallbridge is still missing. The Coast Guard holds hope that he could still be found alive.
In the aftermath of this storm, estimates for clean-up costs range between $10 and $20 billion, but, if the lessons from Irene apply, the dollar figure will probably exceed current projections.
Wednesday, 24 October 2012
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| Map of Massachusetts from State Website |
Ham on Wry wearies of Mitt Romney and pledges not to write further Romney posts unless something earth-shattering occurs. This blogger realizes that voters in Massachusetts elected him as governor, but how do they regard him now? Massachusetts has a diverse population with more independent voters than the two major parties combined. Readers will find the state motto revealing, It reads "ENSE PETIT PLACIDAM SUB LIBERTATE QUIETEM," meaning "By the sword we seek peace, but peace only under liberty." Digest that for a moment and reflect on its implications before continuing.
Against that backdrop, Ham on Wry includes the John Kerry ad below for review. It details some of Romney's broken promises. It's just another example of how Romney misrepresents facts in a blatant manner. The biggest of all centers on Romney's claim that he left a budget surplus, when he actually left a huge deficit for the next governor, Deval Patrick.
Monday, 22 October 2012
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| Tommy Eliassen, Korgfjellet, Norway |
Thomas Eliassen, the photograhper who took the picture at left in Norway, wrote in an e-mail to SPACE.com, "An Orionid meteor streaking over the sky, the aurora borealis in the northern horizon and the Milky Way over my camp. A very cold but perfect night to photograph the Orionid meteor shower."
In October each year, the earth passes through Halley Comet's dust trail, allowing earth dwellers to view the meteor showers that seem to emanate from the Orion Constellations, hence the term Orionid. Traveling at close to 150,000 mph, the set the sky afire as they hurtle through our planet's atmosphere. This year, observers saw a more spectacular sight than usual. Venus and Jupiter moved into position with Sirius, the Dog Star, to form a bright triangle in the eastern pre-dawn sky.
Perhaps a sight such as the one below, inspired Don McLean to write "Starry, Starry Night" in tribute to Vincent Van Gogh. This blogger has vowed to stay up next year and experience the Orionid Meteor Show personally.
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| thetechherald.com |
Saturday, 20 October 2012
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| idesigntimes.com |
It annoys me that voters don't consider the importance of fact-finding and poring over the candidates' records when they servied in office. In order to make the task easier for those who can't find the time to read research or check sites that check the truth of candidates' comments, I have embedded a link below written by a citizen of Massachusetts.
Some readers might wonder, "Why would I care about a long video from a state in which I don't reside?" Well, it just might make some sense to understand whether Romney delivered on his promises to the citizens of that state. The investment of approximately 11 minutes of viewing time will provide statistics and quotes from some people who served under him during his term as governor there.
Women might find some of the information especially imporant to their lives, and, certainly, everyone can choose whether to consider the data provided in the voting booth. I promise not to draw the conclustions for those who take the time to watch it in full. More than enough rhetoric abounds on the political ads that scar the TV landscape, trying to convince voters to agree.
Get a snack, click the link, and settle in.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=snBM-aQlHpk
Thursday, 18 October 2012
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| AFP/Getty Images/Saul Loeb |
Unbelievable but true! Two billion dollars! That astronomical sum divides almost equally between Obama's and Romney's campaigns. As a resident of one of the battleground states, I witness literally hundreds of ads in the span of one day, although I don't listen to any of them, because that's why the mute button exists on the remote control. Digest that figure for a moment and reflect how that money could benefit the citizens of this country in better ways than ads that don't offer enough specifics to make informed decisions.
Collectively, I'm certain that the people of the United States could provide myriad suggestions for using that money wisely in ways that would benefit citizens in positive ways. Of course, that would require major reforms in campaign finance, and willingness on the part of candidates for every political office to adopt fair, reasonable practices when communicating their messages. Chances of candidates volunteering to do that are less than .spotting live dinosaurs in the back yard. It ain't gonna happen (trust me, I know ain't is grammatically incorrect, but it cogently expresses the concept).
America has a massive deficit, and we can't afford to ignore the fact that we must take action to rectify that problem. Sorry, Mr. Romney. You can't cut everyone's taxes by 20% and reduce the deficit without painful cuts to crucial programs. In an interview with a CBS reporter, you stated that it was fair that you paid 14% on earning so $20 million, while someone earning $50,000 paid a higher rate because it positively affects the economy. Really! Whose economy? It's time that billionaires and multi-millionaires face the truth. Your tax rate allows you to live lavish lifestyles, but it does little to help create large numbers of jobs. Your selfishness is costing this country more than money. It's shrinking the middle class and creating a sharp divide between those that have more than they can possibly use in generations to come and those that can't pay all the monthly bills.
We can do something. We can make our voices heard. Call and write the president, your senators and representatives. Express your displeasure in letters to the editors of newspapers and other print media. Join online groups and forums. Tell them you have had enough and want to stop the insanity that exists in our political process. Most importantly, make informed choices when you vote. You'll feel much better for it.
Monday, 15 October 2012
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| thinktownusa.ning.com |
While only a little over three weeks from now, that date seems agonizingly far away. Both parties evidently think that viewers can neither hear nor see well, because the same ads run twice in the same commercial break. Perhaps they're on to something, given the shameful lack of commitment voters show to fully informing themselves about the candidates.
I would personally like to kiss the inventor of the mute button on the remote because it has provided welcome respite from the onslaught. Readers who share my misery will most likely celebrate the end of the campaign season and the resulting absence of political advertising that accompanies it.
If voters put enough energy forth, perhaps the Supreme Court will overturn Citizens United. That decision turned a horrible situation into an abysmal torture. Ham on Wry supports eliminating ads from Political Actions Committees (PACs) and any other organization. Only ads endorsed by the candidates that come from the campaigns will be allowed in my altered universe.
The only relief under current law entails a move to a state that apparently doesn't matter much in the 2012 election, like Wyoming. Ah, well, too late now. The damage has occurred. Maybe it will change in 2016--------and maybe not.
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