MegaCon 2013 - Saturday - part 1
Walking around at MegaCon 2013...
http://youtu.be/mX-ecDVERYI
Thursday, October 31, 2013
Commodore 128 Ad
Advertisement for the Commodore 128 from The Guide to Computer Living Volume 3, Number 1, April 1986
OBAMACARE WEBSITE COMPANY CONTRIBUTED TO OBAMA CAMPAIGN
OBAMACARE WEBSITE COMPANY CONTRIBUTED TO OBAMA CAMPAIGN
In addition to the $88 million contract awarded to CGI Federal for the health-insurance exchange website, the company has received a total of $422 million in contracts related to Obamacare since the legislation was signed into law, according to Bloomberg News.
Fox News reported a number of occasions in which the company had failed to meet deadlines or experienced botched launches similar to that seen with the launch of healthcare.gov.
“In projects stretching from Canada to Hawaii, parent company CGI Group and its subsidiaries ran into complaints about its performance,” Fox reported.
“The morning I heard CGI was behind [Healthcare.gov], I said, my God, no wonder that thing doesn’t work,” said James Bagnola, a Texas-based corporate consultant who was hired by the Hawaii Department of Taxation (DOTAX) in 2008, to Fox News.
In addition to the $88 million contract awarded to CGI Federal for the health-insurance exchange website, the company has received a total of $422 million in contracts related to Obamacare since the legislation was signed into law, according to Bloomberg News.
Fox News reported a number of occasions in which the company had failed to meet deadlines or experienced botched launches similar to that seen with the launch of healthcare.gov.
“In projects stretching from Canada to Hawaii, parent company CGI Group and its subsidiaries ran into complaints about its performance,” Fox reported.
“The morning I heard CGI was behind [Healthcare.gov], I said, my God, no wonder that thing doesn’t work,” said James Bagnola, a Texas-based corporate consultant who was hired by the Hawaii Department of Taxation (DOTAX) in 2008, to Fox News.
Ted Cruz criticizes DOJ for arguing international treaty can trump the Constitution
Ted Cruz criticizes DOJ for arguing international treaty can trump the Constitution
Justice Department attorneys are advancing an argument at the Supreme Court that could allow the government to invoke international treaties as a legal basis for policies such as gun control that conflict with the U.S. Constitution, according to Sen. Ted Cruz, R-Texas.
Their argument is that a law implementing an international treaty signed by the U.S. allows the federal government to prosecute a criminal case that would normally be handled by state or local authorities.
That is a dangerous argument, according to Cruz.
Justice Department attorneys are advancing an argument at the Supreme Court that could allow the government to invoke international treaties as a legal basis for policies such as gun control that conflict with the U.S. Constitution, according to Sen. Ted Cruz, R-Texas.
Their argument is that a law implementing an international treaty signed by the U.S. allows the federal government to prosecute a criminal case that would normally be handled by state or local authorities.
That is a dangerous argument, according to Cruz.
Rand Paul to place hold on Fed chair nominee
Rand Paul to place hold on Fed chair nominee
Sen. Rand Paul (R-KY) has informed Majority Leader Harry Reid (D-NV) of his intention to place a hold on Federal Reserve chair nominee, Dr. Janet Yellen, until the chamber votes on S. 209, the Federal Reserve Transparency Act.
“I am writing to convey my objection to floor consideration of the nomination of Dr. Janet Yellen to Chair the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve without also considering legislation to bring much-needed transparency to the Fed,” wrote Paul in a letter to Reid, delivering on a threat he made last week.
Sen. Rand Paul (R-KY) has informed Majority Leader Harry Reid (D-NV) of his intention to place a hold on Federal Reserve chair nominee, Dr. Janet Yellen, until the chamber votes on S. 209, the Federal Reserve Transparency Act.
“I am writing to convey my objection to floor consideration of the nomination of Dr. Janet Yellen to Chair the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve without also considering legislation to bring much-needed transparency to the Fed,” wrote Paul in a letter to Reid, delivering on a threat he made last week.
Wednesday, October 30, 2013
▶ MegaCon 2013 - Frenchy and the Punk - Hey Hey Cabaret (2013-03-16)
▶ MegaCon 2013 - Frenchy and the Punk - Hey Hey Cabaret (2013-03-16)
Frenchy and the Punk perform 'Hey Hey Cabaret' on Saturday at MegaCon 2013 in Orlando, Florida.
http://youtu.be/UEFS1nBpmoM
Frenchy and the Punk perform 'Hey Hey Cabaret' on Saturday at MegaCon 2013 in Orlando, Florida.
http://youtu.be/UEFS1nBpmoM
Jay Carney Berates Insurance Companies For Complying With Obamacare
Jay Carney Berates Insurance Companies For Complying With Obamacare
Millions of health insurance plans are no longer available because they do not meet Obamacare standards and regulations. Carney’s comments come less than 24 hours after information surfaced showing President Obama knew millions of Americans would be losing their health insurance plans under Obamacare despite promising, “If you like your health care plan, you will be able to keep your health care plan. Period. No one will take it away. No matter what.”
When pressed on the issue of millions losing individual insurance plans they wanted to keep, Carney said it is five percent of the population being affected by insurance loss. That five percent adds up to 14 million people.
Millions of health insurance plans are no longer available because they do not meet Obamacare standards and regulations. Carney’s comments come less than 24 hours after information surfaced showing President Obama knew millions of Americans would be losing their health insurance plans under Obamacare despite promising, “If you like your health care plan, you will be able to keep your health care plan. Period. No one will take it away. No matter what.”
When pressed on the issue of millions losing individual insurance plans they wanted to keep, Carney said it is five percent of the population being affected by insurance loss. That five percent adds up to 14 million people.
Tuesday, October 29, 2013
▶ MegaCon 2013 - Frenchy and the Punk - Those Were The Days (2013-03-16)
▶ MegaCon 2013 - Frenchy and the Punk - Those Were The Days (2013-03-16)
Frenchy and the Punk perform 'Those Were The Days' on Saturday at MegaCon 2013 in Orlando, Florida.
http://youtu.be/_GxAl8Hm3Ts
Frenchy and the Punk perform 'Those Were The Days' on Saturday at MegaCon 2013 in Orlando, Florida.
http://youtu.be/_GxAl8Hm3Ts
A black box in your car? Some see a source of tax revenue
A black box in your car? Some see a source of tax revenue
The usually dull arena of highway planning has suddenly spawned intense debate and colorful alliances. Libertarians have joined environmental groups in lobbying to allow government to use the little boxes to keep track of the miles you drive, and possibly where you drive them — then use the information to draw up a tax bill.
The usually dull arena of highway planning has suddenly spawned intense debate and colorful alliances. Libertarians have joined environmental groups in lobbying to allow government to use the little boxes to keep track of the miles you drive, and possibly where you drive them — then use the information to draw up a tax bill.
A Welcome US/Saudi ‘Reset’
A Welcome US/Saudi ‘Reset’
We have unwritten agreements to defend Saudi Arabia and Israel, which keeps us heavily involved militarily in the Middle East. But when the US becomes so involved, we are the real losers — especially the American taxpayers, who are forced to finance this global military empire. Plus, our security guarantee to Saudi Arabia and Israel creates a kind of moral hazard: there is little incentive for these two countries to push for more peaceful solutions in the region because the US military underwrites their reckless behavior. It is an unhealthy relationship that should come to an end.
If Saudi Arabia and Israel are so determined to extend their influence in the region and share such similar goals, why don’t they work together to stabilize the region without calling on the US for back-up? It might be healthy for them to cooperate and leave us out of it.
One of Osama bin Laden’s stated goals was to bankrupt the US by drawing it into endless battles in the Middle East and south Asia. Unfortunately, even from beyond the grave he continues to successfully implement his policy. But should we really be helping him do so? If Saudi Arabia wants to pull back from its deep and unhealthy relationship with the United States we should welcome such a move. Then we might return to peace and commerce rather than sink under entangling alliances.
We have unwritten agreements to defend Saudi Arabia and Israel, which keeps us heavily involved militarily in the Middle East. But when the US becomes so involved, we are the real losers — especially the American taxpayers, who are forced to finance this global military empire. Plus, our security guarantee to Saudi Arabia and Israel creates a kind of moral hazard: there is little incentive for these two countries to push for more peaceful solutions in the region because the US military underwrites their reckless behavior. It is an unhealthy relationship that should come to an end.
If Saudi Arabia and Israel are so determined to extend their influence in the region and share such similar goals, why don’t they work together to stabilize the region without calling on the US for back-up? It might be healthy for them to cooperate and leave us out of it.
One of Osama bin Laden’s stated goals was to bankrupt the US by drawing it into endless battles in the Middle East and south Asia. Unfortunately, even from beyond the grave he continues to successfully implement his policy. But should we really be helping him do so? If Saudi Arabia wants to pull back from its deep and unhealthy relationship with the United States we should welcome such a move. Then we might return to peace and commerce rather than sink under entangling alliances.
60 Minutes: Benghazi
60 Minutes: Benghazi
Morgan Jones said he’d never felt so angry in his life. Only hours earlier, Amb. Chris Stevens had sought him out, concerned about the security at the U.S. Special Mission Compound where Morgan was in charge of the Libyan guard force.
Now, the ambassador was dead and the U.S. compound was engulfed in flames and overrun by dozens of heavily armed fighters.
Although the attack began here, the more organized assault unfolded about a mile across the city at a top secret CIA facility known as the Annex. It lasted more than seven hours and took four American lives.
Contrary to the White House’s public statements, which were still being made a full week later, it’s now well established that the Americans were attacked by al Qaeda in a well-planned assault.
Morgan Jones said he’d never felt so angry in his life. Only hours earlier, Amb. Chris Stevens had sought him out, concerned about the security at the U.S. Special Mission Compound where Morgan was in charge of the Libyan guard force.
Now, the ambassador was dead and the U.S. compound was engulfed in flames and overrun by dozens of heavily armed fighters.
Although the attack began here, the more organized assault unfolded about a mile across the city at a top secret CIA facility known as the Annex. It lasted more than seven hours and took four American lives.
Contrary to the White House’s public statements, which were still being made a full week later, it’s now well established that the Americans were attacked by al Qaeda in a well-planned assault.
Here’s how Obamacare makes life hell for college profs
Here’s how Obamacare makes life hell for college profs
Universities are cutting back on adjunct professors’ work hours to comply with Obamacare–an unfortunate wake up call for some liberal academics who supported the law.
“I understand that colleges don’t have money to throw around and there’s a larger issue here, but it is frustrating to feel like, that in the face of this legislation designed to help people, that instead it’s hurting people,” said Amy Poff, an adjunct professor who teaches art classes at various Maryland colleges, in a statement to The Baltimore Sun.
Under the president’s health care law, employees who work 30 hours each week are eligible for health benefits. Since many adjunct professors teach enough classes to meet that bar, college administrators must choose between paying extra healthcare costs or cutting back adjunct work hours.
For many universities–both public and private–the decision is an easy one: punish the adjuncts.
Universities are cutting back on adjunct professors’ work hours to comply with Obamacare–an unfortunate wake up call for some liberal academics who supported the law.
“I understand that colleges don’t have money to throw around and there’s a larger issue here, but it is frustrating to feel like, that in the face of this legislation designed to help people, that instead it’s hurting people,” said Amy Poff, an adjunct professor who teaches art classes at various Maryland colleges, in a statement to The Baltimore Sun.
Under the president’s health care law, employees who work 30 hours each week are eligible for health benefits. Since many adjunct professors teach enough classes to meet that bar, college administrators must choose between paying extra healthcare costs or cutting back adjunct work hours.
For many universities–both public and private–the decision is an easy one: punish the adjuncts.
Police dog bites fifth grader when cops conduct mock classroom drug raid
Police dog bites fifth grader when cops conduct mock classroom drug raid
A classroom demonstration in Brazil, Indiana went awry last week when a police dog attacked a fifth grade boy. According to the Brazil Times, police officers visiting the school were conducting a mock drug raid on Oct. 17 when the dog bit the boy and left him with puncture wounds to the leg.
Officers intended to demonstrate that drug-sniffing dogs can detect even the smallest amounts of an illegal substance on an individual. They assembled a row of students, planting a small amount of illegal drugs on one boy.
A classroom demonstration in Brazil, Indiana went awry last week when a police dog attacked a fifth grade boy. According to the Brazil Times, police officers visiting the school were conducting a mock drug raid on Oct. 17 when the dog bit the boy and left him with puncture wounds to the leg.
Officers intended to demonstrate that drug-sniffing dogs can detect even the smallest amounts of an illegal substance on an individual. They assembled a row of students, planting a small amount of illegal drugs on one boy.
Obama administration knew millions could not keep their health insurance
Obama administration knew millions could not keep their health insurance
President Obama repeatedly assured Americans that after the Affordable Care Act became law, people who liked their health insurance would be able to keep it. But millions of Americans are getting or are about to get cancellation letters for their health insurance under Obamacare, say experts, and the Obama administration has known that for at least three years.
Four sources deeply involved in the Affordable Care Act tell NBC News that 50 to 75 percent of the 14 million consumers who buy their insurance individually can expect to receive a “cancellation” letter or the equivalent over the next year because their existing policies don’t meet the standards mandated by the new health care law. One expert predicts that number could reach as high as 80 percent. And all say that many of those forced to buy pricier new policies will experience “sticker shock.”
President Obama repeatedly assured Americans that after the Affordable Care Act became law, people who liked their health insurance would be able to keep it. But millions of Americans are getting or are about to get cancellation letters for their health insurance under Obamacare, say experts, and the Obama administration has known that for at least three years.
Four sources deeply involved in the Affordable Care Act tell NBC News that 50 to 75 percent of the 14 million consumers who buy their insurance individually can expect to receive a “cancellation” letter or the equivalent over the next year because their existing policies don’t meet the standards mandated by the new health care law. One expert predicts that number could reach as high as 80 percent. And all say that many of those forced to buy pricier new policies will experience “sticker shock.”
Monday, October 28, 2013
▶ MegaCon 2013 - Frenchy and the Punk - Dark Carnivale (2013-03-16)
▶ MegaCon 2013 - Frenchy and the Punk - Dark Carnivale (2013-03-16)
Frenchy and the Punk perform 'Dark Carnivale' on Saturday at MegaCon 2013 in Orlando, Florida.
Frenchy and the Punk perform 'Dark Carnivale' on Saturday at MegaCon 2013 in Orlando, Florida.
AP Photo: Checkpoint Cops Point Guns at Americans’ Heads
AP Photo: Checkpoint Cops Point Guns at Americans’ Heads
The photo, (credited to AP Photo/The Sacramento Bee, Randall Benton) is captioned, “A California Highway Patrol officer and another emergency responder stop a vehicle at a checkpoint near the neighborhood where a federal immigration officer was shot and three local police officers were wounded during a violent confrontation with a suspect in the Sacramento suburb of Roseville on Friday, Oct. 25, 2013.”
...
As we saw during the Boston bombings manhunt, in complete violation of law, police seem to believe that so long as they are hunting a potentially dangerous suspect, the Constitution is null and void, and that martial law is in effect.
The photo, (credited to AP Photo/The Sacramento Bee, Randall Benton) is captioned, “A California Highway Patrol officer and another emergency responder stop a vehicle at a checkpoint near the neighborhood where a federal immigration officer was shot and three local police officers were wounded during a violent confrontation with a suspect in the Sacramento suburb of Roseville on Friday, Oct. 25, 2013.”
...
As we saw during the Boston bombings manhunt, in complete violation of law, police seem to believe that so long as they are hunting a potentially dangerous suspect, the Constitution is null and void, and that martial law is in effect.
Some health insurance gets pricier as Obamacare rolls out
Some health insurance gets pricier as Obamacare rolls out
Thousands of Californians are discovering what Obamacare will cost them — and many don’t like what they see.
These middle-class consumers are staring at hefty increases on their insurance bills as the overhaul remakes the healthcare market. Their rates are rising in large part to help offset the higher costs of covering sicker, poorer people who have been shut out of the system for years.
Although recent criticism of the healthcare law has focused on website glitches and early enrollment snags, experts say sharp price increases for individual policies have the greatest potential to erode public support for President Obama’s signature legislation.
Thousands of Californians are discovering what Obamacare will cost them — and many don’t like what they see.
These middle-class consumers are staring at hefty increases on their insurance bills as the overhaul remakes the healthcare market. Their rates are rising in large part to help offset the higher costs of covering sicker, poorer people who have been shut out of the system for years.
Although recent criticism of the healthcare law has focused on website glitches and early enrollment snags, experts say sharp price increases for individual policies have the greatest potential to erode public support for President Obama’s signature legislation.
Friday, October 25, 2013
▶ MegaCon 2013 - Frenchy and the Punk - Rock Paper Scissors (2013-03-16)
▶ MegaCon 2013 - Frenchy and the Punk - Rock Paper Scissors (2013-03-16)
Frenchy and the Punk perform 'Rock Paper Scissors' on Saturday at MegaCon 2013 in Orlando, Florida.
Frenchy and the Punk perform 'Rock Paper Scissors' on Saturday at MegaCon 2013 in Orlando, Florida.
Unleashing Police Gunmen On Students: America’s Hot New Educational Fad
Unleashing Police Gunmen On Students: America’s Hot New Educational Fad
It’s unclear exactly what good-citizenship lesson the kids were supposed to learn — “sphincter control,” perhaps — but it’s a lucky thing none of the kids tried anything heroic, like disarming the gunman, because any student who did that would surely be kicked out of school.
Again, seriously. Last March, that’s exactly what happened to a Florida high school boy after he disarmed a fellow student who was aiming a loaded weapon at a third classmate. School spokesmen justified the hero kid’s suspension because, “If there is a potentially dangerous situation, Florida law allows the principal to suspend a student immediately pending a hearing.”
See? The school was only trying to avoid harm from a potentially dangerous situation, and when you’re in charge of guiding impressionable youth, it makes perfect sense to teach them “Never stop a gunman from shooting his intended victim, lest you create a potentially dangerous situation.”
It’s unclear exactly what good-citizenship lesson the kids were supposed to learn — “sphincter control,” perhaps — but it’s a lucky thing none of the kids tried anything heroic, like disarming the gunman, because any student who did that would surely be kicked out of school.
Again, seriously. Last March, that’s exactly what happened to a Florida high school boy after he disarmed a fellow student who was aiming a loaded weapon at a third classmate. School spokesmen justified the hero kid’s suspension because, “If there is a potentially dangerous situation, Florida law allows the principal to suspend a student immediately pending a hearing.”
See? The school was only trying to avoid harm from a potentially dangerous situation, and when you’re in charge of guiding impressionable youth, it makes perfect sense to teach them “Never stop a gunman from shooting his intended victim, lest you create a potentially dangerous situation.”
A Government of Secrecy and Fear
A Government of Secrecy and Fear
When I saw Snowden’s initial revelation — a two-page order signed by a federal judge on the FISA court — I knew immediately that Snowden had a copy of a genuine top-secret document that even the judge who signed it did not have. The NSA reluctantly acknowledged that the document was genuine and claimed that all its snooping on the 113,000,000 Verizon customers covered by that order was lawful because it had been authorized by that federal judge. The NSA also claims that as a result of its spying, it has kept us safe.
I reject the argument that the government is empowered to take our liberties — here, the right to privacy — by majority vote or by secret fiat as part of an involuntary collective bargain that it needs to monitor us in private in order to protect us in public. The government’s job is to keep us free and safe. If it keeps us safe but not free, it is not doing its job.
When I saw Snowden’s initial revelation — a two-page order signed by a federal judge on the FISA court — I knew immediately that Snowden had a copy of a genuine top-secret document that even the judge who signed it did not have. The NSA reluctantly acknowledged that the document was genuine and claimed that all its snooping on the 113,000,000 Verizon customers covered by that order was lawful because it had been authorized by that federal judge. The NSA also claims that as a result of its spying, it has kept us safe.
I reject the argument that the government is empowered to take our liberties — here, the right to privacy — by majority vote or by secret fiat as part of an involuntary collective bargain that it needs to monitor us in private in order to protect us in public. The government’s job is to keep us free and safe. If it keeps us safe but not free, it is not doing its job.
On Wiretaps and Drone Strikes, It's Time for Liberals to Accept That Obama Is Worse Than Bush
On Wiretaps and Drone Strikes, It's Time for Liberals to Accept That Obama Is Worse Than Bush
I guess we shouldn’t have taken it seriously when Senator Obama claimed in 2005 that President Bush’s Patriot Act “seriously jeopardises the rights of all Americans and the ideals America stands for”. We shouldn’t have listened when he pledged to end the “illegal wiretapping of American citizens” in August 2007. We should have put our hands over our ears in November that year when we heard Candidate Obama, on the campaign trail, outlining his plan to “lead by example” on human rights and civil liberties. “That’s easy,” he said. “Close down Guantanamo. Restore habeas corpus. Say no to renditions. Say no to wireless wiretaps.”
Nor should we have expected a professor of constitutional law to respect a constitutional right to privacy (or, for that matter, a winner of the Nobel Peace Prize to opt for diplomacy over drones).
These were unrealistic expectations. We should have assumed the worst. We should have predicted that Obama would not just continue where Bush left off but - astonishingly and shamelessly - go far beyond Dubya in several respects.
I guess we shouldn’t have taken it seriously when Senator Obama claimed in 2005 that President Bush’s Patriot Act “seriously jeopardises the rights of all Americans and the ideals America stands for”. We shouldn’t have listened when he pledged to end the “illegal wiretapping of American citizens” in August 2007. We should have put our hands over our ears in November that year when we heard Candidate Obama, on the campaign trail, outlining his plan to “lead by example” on human rights and civil liberties. “That’s easy,” he said. “Close down Guantanamo. Restore habeas corpus. Say no to renditions. Say no to wireless wiretaps.”
Nor should we have expected a professor of constitutional law to respect a constitutional right to privacy (or, for that matter, a winner of the Nobel Peace Prize to opt for diplomacy over drones).
These were unrealistic expectations. We should have assumed the worst. We should have predicted that Obama would not just continue where Bush left off but - astonishingly and shamelessly - go far beyond Dubya in several respects.
US Soldiers Allegedly Told That Christians & Tea Party Members Are “Radical” Threats
US Soldiers Allegedly Told That Christians & Tea Party Members Are “Radical” Threats
According to a Fort Hood soldier, Islamic terrorism was barely mentioned during an October 17 pre-deployment briefing on “radical” groups “tearing the country apart.”
Rather, the meeting allegedly focused on Christians and Tea Party supporters who were labeled as radical terrorists and American enemies. The soldiers were apparently told that individuals who support these groups may be punished under military regulations, and that pro-lifers are extremists who promote “radicalization.”
“They said that evangelical Christians protesting abortions are the mobilization stage and that leads to the bombing of abortion clinics,” said the soldier who spoke out.
According to a Fort Hood soldier, Islamic terrorism was barely mentioned during an October 17 pre-deployment briefing on “radical” groups “tearing the country apart.”
Rather, the meeting allegedly focused on Christians and Tea Party supporters who were labeled as radical terrorists and American enemies. The soldiers were apparently told that individuals who support these groups may be punished under military regulations, and that pro-lifers are extremists who promote “radicalization.”
“They said that evangelical Christians protesting abortions are the mobilization stage and that leads to the bombing of abortion clinics,” said the soldier who spoke out.
Health insurance cancellation notices soar above Obamacare enrollment rates
Health insurance cancellation notices soar above Obamacare enrollment rates
Hundreds of thousands of Americans who purchase their own health insurance have received cancellation notices since August because the plans do not meet Obamacare’s requirements.
The number of cancellation notices greatly exceed the number of Obamacare enrollees.
Insurance carrier Florida Blue sent out 300,000 cancellation notices, or 80 percent of the entire state’s individual coverage policies, Kaiser Health News reports. California’s Kaiser Permanente canceled 160,000 plans — half of its insurance plans in the state — while Blue Shield of California sent 119,000 notices in mid-September alone.
Hundreds of thousands of Americans who purchase their own health insurance have received cancellation notices since August because the plans do not meet Obamacare’s requirements.
The number of cancellation notices greatly exceed the number of Obamacare enrollees.
Insurance carrier Florida Blue sent out 300,000 cancellation notices, or 80 percent of the entire state’s individual coverage policies, Kaiser Health News reports. California’s Kaiser Permanente canceled 160,000 plans — half of its insurance plans in the state — while Blue Shield of California sent 119,000 notices in mid-September alone.
Army halts training program that labeled Christians as extremists
Army halts training program that labeled Christians as extremists
“Men and women of faith – who have served the Army faithfully for centuries – have been likened to those who regularly threaten the peace and security of the United States,” said Ron Crews, executive director of the Chaplain Alliance. “It is dishonorable for any U.S. military entity to allow this type of improper characterization.”
The Camp Shelby incident led five congressmen to fire off a letter to the Pentagon expressing their grave concerns.
“This most recent mislabeling of a Christian organization reflects what appears to be a troubling trend of religious intolerance in the military,” Rep. Doug Lamborn wrote in a letter signed by Reps. Tim Huelskamp, Steve Scalise, John Fleming and Joseph Pitts. “We are very troubled.”
“Men and women of faith – who have served the Army faithfully for centuries – have been likened to those who regularly threaten the peace and security of the United States,” said Ron Crews, executive director of the Chaplain Alliance. “It is dishonorable for any U.S. military entity to allow this type of improper characterization.”
The Camp Shelby incident led five congressmen to fire off a letter to the Pentagon expressing their grave concerns.
“This most recent mislabeling of a Christian organization reflects what appears to be a troubling trend of religious intolerance in the military,” Rep. Doug Lamborn wrote in a letter signed by Reps. Tim Huelskamp, Steve Scalise, John Fleming and Joseph Pitts. “We are very troubled.”
Thursday, October 24, 2013
Frenchy and the Punk – Elephant Uproar Tour
Frenchy and the Punk – Elephant Uproar Tour
Frenchy and the Punk’s Elephant Uproar Tour is set for October 26th and runs through November 30th, 2013.
Frenchy is Samantha Stephenson, French-born Brit. who sings in both French and English, and the Punk is Scott Helland, who was a founding member of punk band Deep Wound with J Mascis and Lou Barlow.
The duo has toured yearly since 2005 across the US and in Europe. The tour is on the heels of this year’s CD release Elephant Uproar which highlights the duo’s Taiko meets Rio de Janeiro drumming instrumentals as well as the new music video for the track Rock Paper Scissors filmed in the deserts of Nevada. It is the follow-up to last year’s vocal and guitar based Hey Hey Cabaret CD. The tour will span the US from Seattle to Pennsylvania.
Frenchy and the Punk is one of the go-to bands on the steampunk cabaret circuit. The NY-based duo will be performing their high energy and eclectic Folk Punk Cabaret style at Steampunk conventions and music clubs.
Frenchy and the Punk’s Elephant Uproar Tour is set for October 26th and runs through November 30th, 2013.
Frenchy is Samantha Stephenson, French-born Brit. who sings in both French and English, and the Punk is Scott Helland, who was a founding member of punk band Deep Wound with J Mascis and Lou Barlow.
The duo has toured yearly since 2005 across the US and in Europe. The tour is on the heels of this year’s CD release Elephant Uproar which highlights the duo’s Taiko meets Rio de Janeiro drumming instrumentals as well as the new music video for the track Rock Paper Scissors filmed in the deserts of Nevada. It is the follow-up to last year’s vocal and guitar based Hey Hey Cabaret CD. The tour will span the US from Seattle to Pennsylvania.
Frenchy and the Punk is one of the go-to bands on the steampunk cabaret circuit. The NY-based duo will be performing their high energy and eclectic Folk Punk Cabaret style at Steampunk conventions and music clubs.
▶ MegaCon 2013 - Frenchy and the Punk - Orient Express (2013-03-16)
▶ MegaCon 2013 - Frenchy and the Punk - Orient Express (2013-03-16)
Frenchy and the Punk perform 'Orient Express' on Saturday at MegaCon 2013 in Orlando, Florida.
Frenchy and the Punk perform 'Orient Express' on Saturday at MegaCon 2013 in Orlando, Florida.
Failed Canadian Company Spent $1 Million Lobbying Congress For Obamacare Website Contract
Failed Canadian Company Spent $1 Million Lobbying Congress For Obamacare Website Contract
In total, the group has spent $1 million since their federally sponsored healthcare lobbying efforts began in 2009. The firm has been pumping money in at an increased rate since President Obama took office. The firm has spent $2 million lobbying Congress since 2003- fifty percent of which was spent in the last 4 years.
The group has donated $1.5 million to congressional elections, Super PACs, and presidential campaigns since 2000. The majority of donations over the past few election cycles have gone to democrats.
The company’s initial $1 million “investment” paid off by way of a $94 million contract to build a broken website. Not a bad return when you consider the fact that the company uses 10-year-old technology.
In total, the group has spent $1 million since their federally sponsored healthcare lobbying efforts began in 2009. The firm has been pumping money in at an increased rate since President Obama took office. The firm has spent $2 million lobbying Congress since 2003- fifty percent of which was spent in the last 4 years.
The group has donated $1.5 million to congressional elections, Super PACs, and presidential campaigns since 2000. The majority of donations over the past few election cycles have gone to democrats.
The company’s initial $1 million “investment” paid off by way of a $94 million contract to build a broken website. Not a bad return when you consider the fact that the company uses 10-year-old technology.
Is Obamacare in a Death Spiral?
Is Obamacare in a Death Spiral?
As Yuval Levin has pointed out, what we’re experiencing now is the worst-case scenario for the insurance markets: It is not impossible to buy insurance, but merely very difficult. If it were impossible, then we could all just agree to move to Plan B. And if it were as easy as everyone expected, well, we’d see if the whole thing worked. But what we have now is a situation where only the extremely persistent can successfully complete an application. And who is likely to be extremely persistent?
Very sick people.
People between 55 and 65, the age band at which insurance is quite expensive. (I was surprised to find out that turning 40 doesn’t increase your premiums that much; the big boosts are in the 50s and 60s.)
Very poor people, who will be shunted to Medicaid (if their state has expanded it) or will probably go without insurance.
Insurance that is only sold to these groups is going to be very, very expensive. Not the first year — President Barack Obama was in the Rose Garden just this morning, touting the fantastic cost savings available to the old and sick people whom Obamacare was already helping. But if those are the only people who sign up, insurers will lose a bunch of money on these policies. And then next year, they’ll ask for a lot more money.
As Yuval Levin has pointed out, what we’re experiencing now is the worst-case scenario for the insurance markets: It is not impossible to buy insurance, but merely very difficult. If it were impossible, then we could all just agree to move to Plan B. And if it were as easy as everyone expected, well, we’d see if the whole thing worked. But what we have now is a situation where only the extremely persistent can successfully complete an application. And who is likely to be extremely persistent?
Very sick people.
People between 55 and 65, the age band at which insurance is quite expensive. (I was surprised to find out that turning 40 doesn’t increase your premiums that much; the big boosts are in the 50s and 60s.)
Very poor people, who will be shunted to Medicaid (if their state has expanded it) or will probably go without insurance.
Insurance that is only sold to these groups is going to be very, very expensive. Not the first year — President Barack Obama was in the Rose Garden just this morning, touting the fantastic cost savings available to the old and sick people whom Obamacare was already helping. But if those are the only people who sign up, insurers will lose a bunch of money on these policies. And then next year, they’ll ask for a lot more money.
Calls to Delay Obamacare Mandate Divide Democrats
Calls to Delay Obamacare Mandate Divide Democrats
Plenty of Republicans have piled on disapproval about the problems with the health insurance exchange website, but now many of President Obama’s own allies are joining the chorus of criticism with some Democrats even calling on the president to delay the law.
In a speech on the House floor Wednesday, Rep. John Barrow, a Blue Dog Democrat from Georgia, called on the president to delay implementation of the law’s individual mandate, which is set to be enforced Jan. 1.
“This isn’t about pointing fingers. This is about providing some relief to the folks we represent who are facing serious uncertainty because they’re being forced to buy something that’s not ready,” Barrow said. “I urge my colleagues and the administration to delay the individual mandate. It’s not only the right thing to do, it’s the only practical thing to do.”
Plenty of Republicans have piled on disapproval about the problems with the health insurance exchange website, but now many of President Obama’s own allies are joining the chorus of criticism with some Democrats even calling on the president to delay the law.
In a speech on the House floor Wednesday, Rep. John Barrow, a Blue Dog Democrat from Georgia, called on the president to delay implementation of the law’s individual mandate, which is set to be enforced Jan. 1.
“This isn’t about pointing fingers. This is about providing some relief to the folks we represent who are facing serious uncertainty because they’re being forced to buy something that’s not ready,” Barrow said. “I urge my colleagues and the administration to delay the individual mandate. It’s not only the right thing to do, it’s the only practical thing to do.”
Emails: White House, State Department coordinated with journalist on national security leaks
Emails: White House, State Department coordinated with journalist on national security leaks
Then-Acting Assistant Secretary of State for Public Affairs Michael Hammer and other State Department employees arranged background interviews between New York Times chief Washington correspondent David Sanger and State Department officials between December 2011 and March 2012 for Sanger’s 2012 book “Confront and Conceal: Obama’s Secret Wars and Surprising Use of American Power.”
Sanger’s book included leaks of confidential national security information, including details of the computer worm Stuxnet that was used in a cyberattack against Iran. Sanger linked the worm to a U.S.-Israeli intelligence operation called “Operation Olympic Games” in a June 2012 New York Times article.
Then-Acting Assistant Secretary of State for Public Affairs Michael Hammer and other State Department employees arranged background interviews between New York Times chief Washington correspondent David Sanger and State Department officials between December 2011 and March 2012 for Sanger’s 2012 book “Confront and Conceal: Obama’s Secret Wars and Surprising Use of American Power.”
Sanger’s book included leaks of confidential national security information, including details of the computer worm Stuxnet that was used in a cyberattack against Iran. Sanger linked the worm to a U.S.-Israeli intelligence operation called “Operation Olympic Games” in a June 2012 New York Times article.
WHITE HOUSE DELAYING OBAMACARE INDIVIDUAL MANDATE
WHITE HOUSE DELAYING OBAMACARE INDIVIDUAL MANDATE
The White House announced today that the Obamacare individual mandate deadline will likely be pushed back as much as six weeks.
The individual mandate forces Americans to purchase health insurance that meets certain standards, or pay a fine. Currently, individuals have until February 15 to start the Obamacare application process and avoid a penalty. If the mandate is pushed back, however, that deadline will be moved to March. At this time, it is unknown if Congress will need to approve the deadline switch.
The White House announced today that the Obamacare individual mandate deadline will likely be pushed back as much as six weeks.
The individual mandate forces Americans to purchase health insurance that meets certain standards, or pay a fine. Currently, individuals have until February 15 to start the Obamacare application process and avoid a penalty. If the mandate is pushed back, however, that deadline will be moved to March. At this time, it is unknown if Congress will need to approve the deadline switch.
Obamacare contractors: Don’t blame us
Obamacare contractors: Don’t blame us
The Obamacare website contractors plan to tell Congress on Thursday that they are not to blame for the massive problems at HealthCare.gov and that they completed successful testing before the Oct. 1 launch.
But, according to prepared testimony, the four contractors ran into unforeseen problems once open enrollment began. The testimony offers a slight glimpse into the problems that made the website all but unworkable — and warnings that the problems are far from over.
The Obamacare website contractors plan to tell Congress on Thursday that they are not to blame for the massive problems at HealthCare.gov and that they completed successful testing before the Oct. 1 launch.
But, according to prepared testimony, the four contractors ran into unforeseen problems once open enrollment began. The testimony offers a slight glimpse into the problems that made the website all but unworkable — and warnings that the problems are far from over.
Debt Ceiling Deal: DC Wins, Americans Lose
Debt Ceiling Deal: DC Wins, Americans Lose
Washington, DC, Wall Street, and central bankers around the world rejoiced this week as Congress came to an agreement to end the government shutdown and lift the debt ceiling. The latest spending-and-debt deal was negotiated by Congressional leaders behind closed doors, and was rushed through Congress before most members had time to read it. Now that the bill is passed, we can see that it is a victory for the political class and special interests, but a defeat for the American people.
The debt ceiling deal increases spending above the levels set by the “sequester.” The sequester cuts were minuscule, and in many cases used the old DC trick of calling reductions in planned spending increases a cut. But even minuscule and phony cuts are unacceptable to the bipartisan welfare-warfare spending collation. The bill also does nothing to protect the American people from the Obamacare disaster.
As is common in bills drafted in secret and rushed into law, this bill contains special deals for certain powerful politicians. The bill even has a provision authorizing continued military aid to opponents of the Ugandan “Lord’s Resistance Army,” which was the subject of the widely-viewed “Kony 2012” YouTube videos. Most of these unrelated provisions did not come to public attention until after the bill was passed and signed into law.
Washington, DC, Wall Street, and central bankers around the world rejoiced this week as Congress came to an agreement to end the government shutdown and lift the debt ceiling. The latest spending-and-debt deal was negotiated by Congressional leaders behind closed doors, and was rushed through Congress before most members had time to read it. Now that the bill is passed, we can see that it is a victory for the political class and special interests, but a defeat for the American people.
The debt ceiling deal increases spending above the levels set by the “sequester.” The sequester cuts were minuscule, and in many cases used the old DC trick of calling reductions in planned spending increases a cut. But even minuscule and phony cuts are unacceptable to the bipartisan welfare-warfare spending collation. The bill also does nothing to protect the American people from the Obamacare disaster.
As is common in bills drafted in secret and rushed into law, this bill contains special deals for certain powerful politicians. The bill even has a provision authorizing continued military aid to opponents of the Ugandan “Lord’s Resistance Army,” which was the subject of the widely-viewed “Kony 2012” YouTube videos. Most of these unrelated provisions did not come to public attention until after the bill was passed and signed into law.
Wednesday, October 23, 2013
MegaCon 2013 - Frenchy and the Punk - Carnival (2013-03-16)
MegaCon 2013 - Frenchy and the Punk - Carnival (2013-03-16)
Gypsy and the Punk perform 'Carnival' on Saturday at MegaCon 2013 in Orlando, Florida.
Gypsy and the Punk perform 'Carnival' on Saturday at MegaCon 2013 in Orlando, Florida.
'Delay’ suddenly not a dirty word at White House
'Delay’ suddenly not a dirty word at White House
WHITE HOUSE OPENS DOOR TO OBAMACARE DELAY - As the federal government teetered on the brink of shutdown at the end of last month, the White House and Senate Democrats flatly refused a Republican emergency spending bill that would have kept the government open but delayed ObamaCare’s requirement that individuals purchase health insurance by March 31 or face a fine. Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid responded to a GOP counteroffer by saying Republicans had “lost their minds.” But after an epic failure of a launch for the new health insurance entitlement and with the partial shutdown over, “delay” suddenly isn’t a dirty word anymore. With many of those subject to the fine unable to sign up due to manifold botches in the enrollment process, Democrats are warming up to the idea.
WHITE HOUSE OPENS DOOR TO OBAMACARE DELAY - As the federal government teetered on the brink of shutdown at the end of last month, the White House and Senate Democrats flatly refused a Republican emergency spending bill that would have kept the government open but delayed ObamaCare’s requirement that individuals purchase health insurance by March 31 or face a fine. Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid responded to a GOP counteroffer by saying Republicans had “lost their minds.” But after an epic failure of a launch for the new health insurance entitlement and with the partial shutdown over, “delay” suddenly isn’t a dirty word anymore. With many of those subject to the fine unable to sign up due to manifold botches in the enrollment process, Democrats are warming up to the idea.
At the White House: Obamacare success stories that aren't
At the White House: Obamacare success stories that aren't
President Obama invited a number of people to stand behind him as he delivered his speech on the state of Obamacare at the White House Monday morning. One of them, Janice Baker, a small business owner from Delaware, introduced the president, and Obama spoke of Baker and the others gathered there as people who have benefited from Obamacare. But after reading the White House-provided descriptions of each of those behind the president, it’s clear the administration was stretching to present people who, beyond supporting Obamacare, have actually gained from it in any tangible way.
For example, a Pennsylvania man named Malik Hassan was in the group, and this is the White House description of his situation, in full: “Malik Hassan works at a restaurant in Philadelphia. Hassan, who does not receive coverage through his employer, is looking forward to enrolling for health coverage this fall. He recently used Healthcare.gov. to process his application and is waiting for the options for potential plans in Philadelphia.”
So, Hassan is employed, not covered, and has not yet succeeded in finding coverage through Obamacare. That is, in the White House’s estimation, an Obamacare success story.
President Obama invited a number of people to stand behind him as he delivered his speech on the state of Obamacare at the White House Monday morning. One of them, Janice Baker, a small business owner from Delaware, introduced the president, and Obama spoke of Baker and the others gathered there as people who have benefited from Obamacare. But after reading the White House-provided descriptions of each of those behind the president, it’s clear the administration was stretching to present people who, beyond supporting Obamacare, have actually gained from it in any tangible way.
For example, a Pennsylvania man named Malik Hassan was in the group, and this is the White House description of his situation, in full: “Malik Hassan works at a restaurant in Philadelphia. Hassan, who does not receive coverage through his employer, is looking forward to enrolling for health coverage this fall. He recently used Healthcare.gov. to process his application and is waiting for the options for potential plans in Philadelphia.”
So, Hassan is employed, not covered, and has not yet succeeded in finding coverage through Obamacare. That is, in the White House’s estimation, an Obamacare success story.
Tuesday, October 22, 2013
MegaCon 2013 - Frenchy and the Punk - Make Out (2013-03-16)
MegaCon 2013 - Frenchy and the Punk - Make Out (2013-03-16)
Frenchy and the Punk perform 'Make Out' on Saturday at MegaCon 2013 in Orlando, Florida.
Frenchy and the Punk perform 'Make Out' on Saturday at MegaCon 2013 in Orlando, Florida.
Who Will Protect You from the Police? The Rise of Government-Sanctioned Home Invasions
Who Will Protect You from the Police? The Rise of Government-Sanctioned Home Invasions
Unfortunately, with every passing week, we are hearing more and more horror stories in which homeowners are injured or killed simply because they mistook a SWAT team raid by police for a home invasion by criminals. Never mind that the unsuspecting homeowner, woken from sleep by the sounds of a violent entry, has no way of distinguishing between a home invasion by a criminal as opposed to a government agent. Too often, the destruction of life and property wrought by the police is no less horrifying than that carried out by criminal invaders.
Consider, for example, the sad scenario that played out when a SWAT team kicked open the door of ex-Marine Jose Guerena’s home during a drug raid and opened fire. Thinking his home was being invaded by criminals, Guerena told his wife and child to hide in a closet, grabbed a gun and waited in the hallway to confront the intruders. He never fired his weapon. In fact, the safety was still on his gun when he was killed. The SWAT officers, however, not as restrained, fired 70 rounds of ammunition at Guerena—23 of those bullets made contact. Guerena had had no prior criminal record, and the police found nothing illegal in his home.
Unfortunately, with every passing week, we are hearing more and more horror stories in which homeowners are injured or killed simply because they mistook a SWAT team raid by police for a home invasion by criminals. Never mind that the unsuspecting homeowner, woken from sleep by the sounds of a violent entry, has no way of distinguishing between a home invasion by a criminal as opposed to a government agent. Too often, the destruction of life and property wrought by the police is no less horrifying than that carried out by criminal invaders.
Consider, for example, the sad scenario that played out when a SWAT team kicked open the door of ex-Marine Jose Guerena’s home during a drug raid and opened fire. Thinking his home was being invaded by criminals, Guerena told his wife and child to hide in a closet, grabbed a gun and waited in the hallway to confront the intruders. He never fired his weapon. In fact, the safety was still on his gun when he was killed. The SWAT officers, however, not as restrained, fired 70 rounds of ammunition at Guerena—23 of those bullets made contact. Guerena had had no prior criminal record, and the police found nothing illegal in his home.
Why ‘I Have Nothing to Hide’ Is the Wrong Way to Think About Surveillance
Why ‘I Have Nothing to Hide’ Is the Wrong Way to Think About Surveillance
As James Duane, a professor at Regent Law School and former defense attorney, notes in his excellent lecture on why it is never a good idea to talk to the police:
Estimates of the current size of the body of federal criminal law vary. It has been reported that the Congressional Research Service cannot even count the current number of federal crimes. These laws are scattered in over 50 titles of the United States Code, encompassing roughly 27,000 pages. Worse yet, the statutory code sections often incorporate, by reference, the provisions and sanctions of administrative regulations promulgated by various regulatory agencies under congressional authorization. Estimates of how many such regulations exist are even less well settled, but the ABA thinks there are ”nearly 10,000.”
If the federal government can’t even count how many laws there are, what chance does an individual have of being certain that they are not acting in violation of one of them?
As James Duane, a professor at Regent Law School and former defense attorney, notes in his excellent lecture on why it is never a good idea to talk to the police:
Estimates of the current size of the body of federal criminal law vary. It has been reported that the Congressional Research Service cannot even count the current number of federal crimes. These laws are scattered in over 50 titles of the United States Code, encompassing roughly 27,000 pages. Worse yet, the statutory code sections often incorporate, by reference, the provisions and sanctions of administrative regulations promulgated by various regulatory agencies under congressional authorization. Estimates of how many such regulations exist are even less well settled, but the ABA thinks there are ”nearly 10,000.”
If the federal government can’t even count how many laws there are, what chance does an individual have of being certain that they are not acting in violation of one of them?
More People Sign Up for Mars Trip than for Obamacare
More People Sign Up for Mars Trip than for Obamacare
Dutch entrepreneur Bas Lansdorp’s Mars One, an organization planning to establish a colony on the red planet by 2023, is more popular than Obamacare. Lansdrop has collected more signatures for his improbable project than all the number of Americans who have enrolled in Obama’s mandatory health insurance fiasco.
On Wednesday, the first Delaware resident signed up for Obamacare. On Thursday, it was reported that nobody in Alaska had bothered to sign up for the program due to the government’s inability to keep up its glitch-prone enrollment website. In response, Alaskan Republican Sen. Lisa Murkowski fired off a letter to the Obama administration.
“This system that cost more than $400 million, took three years to build, and was billed as a one-stop shop for individuals seeking health insurance is not working as advertised,” Murkowski wrote. “In its first two weeks of operation, I am told that no one was able to enroll in the Alaska Exchange.”
Dutch entrepreneur Bas Lansdorp’s Mars One, an organization planning to establish a colony on the red planet by 2023, is more popular than Obamacare. Lansdrop has collected more signatures for his improbable project than all the number of Americans who have enrolled in Obama’s mandatory health insurance fiasco.
On Wednesday, the first Delaware resident signed up for Obamacare. On Thursday, it was reported that nobody in Alaska had bothered to sign up for the program due to the government’s inability to keep up its glitch-prone enrollment website. In response, Alaskan Republican Sen. Lisa Murkowski fired off a letter to the Obama administration.
“This system that cost more than $400 million, took three years to build, and was billed as a one-stop shop for individuals seeking health insurance is not working as advertised,” Murkowski wrote. “In its first two weeks of operation, I am told that no one was able to enroll in the Alaska Exchange.”
Monday, October 21, 2013
MegaCon 2013 - Frenchy and the Punk - Le Train (2013-03-16)
MegaCon 2013 - Frenchy and the Punk - Le Train (2013-03-16)
Frenchy and the Punk (along with Captain Sprocket from The Cog Is Dead) perform 'Le Train' on Saturday at MegaCon 2013 in Orlando, Florida.
Frenchy and the Punk (along with Captain Sprocket from The Cog Is Dead) perform 'Le Train' on Saturday at MegaCon 2013 in Orlando, Florida.
Thousands get health insurance cancellation notices
Thousands get health insurance cancellation notices
Health plans are sending hundreds of thousands of cancellation letters to people who buy their own coverage, frustrating some consumers who want to keep what they have and forcing others to buy more costly policies.
The main reason insurers offer is that the policies fall short of what the Affordable Care Act requires starting Jan. 1. Most are ending policies sold after the law passed in March 2010. At least a few are canceling plans sold to people with pre-existing medical conditions.
Health plans are sending hundreds of thousands of cancellation letters to people who buy their own coverage, frustrating some consumers who want to keep what they have and forcing others to buy more costly policies.
The main reason insurers offer is that the policies fall short of what the Affordable Care Act requires starting Jan. 1. Most are ending policies sold after the law passed in March 2010. At least a few are canceling plans sold to people with pre-existing medical conditions.
NORMAN ROCKWELL-ERA POLICEMEN REPLACED BY DOMESTIC ARMY
NORMAN ROCKWELL-ERA POLICEMEN REPLACED BY DOMESTIC ARMY
An alarming trend has been on the lips of hundreds of thousands of Americans. The trend was covered quite well in Radley Balko’s book, “Rise of the Warrior Cop”. The book documents the reversal of the “spirit” of the Posse Comitatus act of 1878. The Act restricted the powers of the Federal Government in using federal military personnel to enforce laws.
While the Act from 1878 does not legally cover DHS, a viral video in August shows a Marine Colonel at a Concord, NH town hall stating:
“What’s happening here is that we’re building a domestic military, because it’s unlawful and unconstitutional to use American troops on American soil,” he says in the video. “We’re building a domestic army, and we’re shrinking the military, because the government is afraid of its own citizens… We’re building an army over here, and I can’t believe that people aren’t seeing it. Is everybody blind?”
An alarming trend has been on the lips of hundreds of thousands of Americans. The trend was covered quite well in Radley Balko’s book, “Rise of the Warrior Cop”. The book documents the reversal of the “spirit” of the Posse Comitatus act of 1878. The Act restricted the powers of the Federal Government in using federal military personnel to enforce laws.
While the Act from 1878 does not legally cover DHS, a viral video in August shows a Marine Colonel at a Concord, NH town hall stating:
“What’s happening here is that we’re building a domestic military, because it’s unlawful and unconstitutional to use American troops on American soil,” he says in the video. “We’re building a domestic army, and we’re shrinking the military, because the government is afraid of its own citizens… We’re building an army over here, and I can’t believe that people aren’t seeing it. Is everybody blind?”
Friday, October 18, 2013
▶ MegaCon 2013 - Wil Wheaton
▶ MegaCon 2013 - Wil Wheaton
Enjoy fifty minutes in a Q & A with Wil Wheaton as he discusses the Big Bang Theory, Star Trek and more.
http://youtu.be/uPAIE9Qzk4w
Enjoy fifty minutes in a Q & A with Wil Wheaton as he discusses the Big Bang Theory, Star Trek and more.
http://youtu.be/uPAIE9Qzk4w
The USA Defaults - on Its Constitution (Again)
The USA Defaults - on Its Constitution (Again)
Section 4 of the 14th Amendment to our Constitution:
“The validity of the public debt of the United States, authorized by law … shall not be questioned.”
Compare and contrast with the President’s comment of a week ago: “As reckless as a government shutdown is … an economic shutdown that results from default would be dramatically worse” or the opening of his address to the nation a couple of days later, in which he talks of meeting “Republicans and Democrats from both Houses of Congress in an effort to … remove the dangers of default from our economy.”
Let’s be clear.
If anyone who has sworn an oath of office to uphold the Constitution would threaten any default by the USA when the USA has a) the revenue to meet the interest obligations on its debt and b) (for shame) the ability of a sovereign issuer of its own currency to pay all its debts at any time c) seen this coming for ages, and therefore had plenty of time to prepare for it, then he is doing little other than threatening willfully to violate his oath.
Section 4 of the 14th Amendment to our Constitution:
“The validity of the public debt of the United States, authorized by law … shall not be questioned.”
Compare and contrast with the President’s comment of a week ago: “As reckless as a government shutdown is … an economic shutdown that results from default would be dramatically worse” or the opening of his address to the nation a couple of days later, in which he talks of meeting “Republicans and Democrats from both Houses of Congress in an effort to … remove the dangers of default from our economy.”
Let’s be clear.
If anyone who has sworn an oath of office to uphold the Constitution would threaten any default by the USA when the USA has a) the revenue to meet the interest obligations on its debt and b) (for shame) the ability of a sovereign issuer of its own currency to pay all its debts at any time c) seen this coming for ages, and therefore had plenty of time to prepare for it, then he is doing little other than threatening willfully to violate his oath.
Mitch McConnell gets nearly $3 billion for Kentucky dam project in congressional deal
Mitch McConnell gets nearly $3 billion for Kentucky dam project in congressional deal
According to reports, a provision in the funding bill includes $2.918 billion in funding to the Army Corps of Engineers to install locks as part of the Olmsted Dam and Lock Authority Project on the Ohio River.
A recent investigation by the St. Louis Post-Dispatch found that the project has run millions of dollars over budget and should have been completed “years ago.” The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers estimates that the project will not be fully complete until 2024.
McConnell’s spokesman dodged a question about the funding provision when asked by local radio affiliate WFPL.
According to reports, a provision in the funding bill includes $2.918 billion in funding to the Army Corps of Engineers to install locks as part of the Olmsted Dam and Lock Authority Project on the Ohio River.
A recent investigation by the St. Louis Post-Dispatch found that the project has run millions of dollars over budget and should have been completed “years ago.” The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers estimates that the project will not be fully complete until 2024.
McConnell’s spokesman dodged a question about the funding provision when asked by local radio affiliate WFPL.
A rising torrent of debt and destruction
A rising torrent of debt and destruction
As absurd as it sounds, the federal government borrows money in order to pay the debt service on money it has already borrowed and spent. Is it any wonder that today the government’s debt has reached $17 trillion?
In his zeal to persuade Congress to let the government borrow another trillion dollars over the next nine months, Mr. Obama has stated that raising the debt ceiling will not add to the nation’s debt. He is either willfully ignorant or Clintonesque in his use of misleading words.
He knows the feds never have declined to borrow whatever they want, whenever they want it, up to the limit of their legal borrowing authority. They have done so with their eyes on only immediate political needs, with disdain for the economic consequences and with contempt for the future.
However, the future cannot sustain this much longer. The half-trillion dollars a year the feds now pay in debt service on current and ancient debt is equivalent to one-fifth of all the yearly revenue collected in taxes. The $1.2 trillion the feds borrow and spend each year is the equivalent of half of all the yearly revenue collected in taxes.
As absurd as it sounds, the federal government borrows money in order to pay the debt service on money it has already borrowed and spent. Is it any wonder that today the government’s debt has reached $17 trillion?
In his zeal to persuade Congress to let the government borrow another trillion dollars over the next nine months, Mr. Obama has stated that raising the debt ceiling will not add to the nation’s debt. He is either willfully ignorant or Clintonesque in his use of misleading words.
He knows the feds never have declined to borrow whatever they want, whenever they want it, up to the limit of their legal borrowing authority. They have done so with their eyes on only immediate political needs, with disdain for the economic consequences and with contempt for the future.
However, the future cannot sustain this much longer. The half-trillion dollars a year the feds now pay in debt service on current and ancient debt is equivalent to one-fifth of all the yearly revenue collected in taxes. The $1.2 trillion the feds borrow and spend each year is the equivalent of half of all the yearly revenue collected in taxes.
HHS Spent $56 Million on Conferences in 2012
HHS Spent $56 Million on Conferences in 2012
HHS also held the “Voice Awards” at Paramount studios in Los, Angeles to honor those in Hollywood who promote the “social inclusion” of people with behavioral health problems. The event sought to change how television and film audiences “understand mental health and substance use disorders,” and cost $313,212.
In all, 135 conferences were held between Oct. 1, 2011 and Sept. 30, 2012, costing taxpayers a total of $56,130,877.
HHS also held the “Voice Awards” at Paramount studios in Los, Angeles to honor those in Hollywood who promote the “social inclusion” of people with behavioral health problems. The event sought to change how television and film audiences “understand mental health and substance use disorders,” and cost $313,212.
In all, 135 conferences were held between Oct. 1, 2011 and Sept. 30, 2012, costing taxpayers a total of $56,130,877.
Thursday, October 17, 2013
Scholastic (Commodore 64)
Advertisement for Scholastic educational software for the Commodore 64 from the July 1984 issue of K-Power.
Bonnie Doon Ice Cream blames Obamacare for shutdown
Bonnie Doon Ice Cream blames Obamacare for shutdown
Tuesday, FOX28 talked with owners of the Bonnie Doon plant and downtown Mishawaka location. They tell us there are many reasons for the shutdown such as the declining economy and the rise in production costs. But the number one factor? The anticipated cost of the Affordable Care Act.
Tuesday, FOX28 talked with owners of the Bonnie Doon plant and downtown Mishawaka location. They tell us there are many reasons for the shutdown such as the declining economy and the rise in production costs. But the number one factor? The anticipated cost of the Affordable Care Act.
OBAMACARE: OBAMA LOSES HOMETOWN NEWSPAPER
OBAMACARE: OBAMA LOSES HOMETOWN NEWSPAPER
There are more problems. People who have individual insurance coverage are finding that Obama’s oft-repeated promise — “if you like your health care plan, you can keep your health care plan” — is just not true. They are being told by insurers that their existing plans expire on Dec. 31 and they must choose new coverage. They’re learning that insurers managed to offer lower-cost plans by narrowing the networks of hospitals and doctors that are available or by upping the out-of-pocket expenses. Unless people are careful in selecting coverage, they may be surprised to find they have to pay much more for out-of-network care to go to their doctors or get treated at the best hospitals. Federal officials argue that they’ll work out the kinks in the system in plenty of time for people to sign up by Dec. 15 for coverage that begins Jan. 1. Yes, the techies might be able to work out the computer network problems by then. But that’s not a given.
The deeper problems of cost and coverage in Obamacare are going to require an admission by the administration that this government management of the health care market is extraordinarily complicated and will be very costly for many people. The law has to change.
There are more problems. People who have individual insurance coverage are finding that Obama’s oft-repeated promise — “if you like your health care plan, you can keep your health care plan” — is just not true. They are being told by insurers that their existing plans expire on Dec. 31 and they must choose new coverage. They’re learning that insurers managed to offer lower-cost plans by narrowing the networks of hospitals and doctors that are available or by upping the out-of-pocket expenses. Unless people are careful in selecting coverage, they may be surprised to find they have to pay much more for out-of-network care to go to their doctors or get treated at the best hospitals. Federal officials argue that they’ll work out the kinks in the system in plenty of time for people to sign up by Dec. 15 for coverage that begins Jan. 1. Yes, the techies might be able to work out the computer network problems by then. But that’s not a given.
The deeper problems of cost and coverage in Obamacare are going to require an admission by the administration that this government management of the health care market is extraordinarily complicated and will be very costly for many people. The law has to change.
Wednesday, October 16, 2013
NYT: OBAMACARE COLLAPSE 'HAS DEEPLY EMBARRASSED' WHITE HOUSE
NYT: OBAMACARE COLLAPSE 'HAS DEEPLY EMBARRASSED' WHITE HOUSE
A New York Times investigative article based on two dozen interviews with industry insiders and confidential Obama Administration documents reveals that the catastrophic $500 million Obamacare rollout “has deeply embarrassed the White House” and has the technology companies involved “publicly distancing themselves” from the Obamacare fiasco.
“These are not glitches. The extent of the problems is pretty enormous,” an insurance executive who participated in Obamacare conference calls told the Times. “At the end of our calls, people say, ‘It’s awful, just awful.’”
A New York Times investigative article based on two dozen interviews with industry insiders and confidential Obama Administration documents reveals that the catastrophic $500 million Obamacare rollout “has deeply embarrassed the White House” and has the technology companies involved “publicly distancing themselves” from the Obamacare fiasco.
“These are not glitches. The extent of the problems is pretty enormous,” an insurance executive who participated in Obamacare conference calls told the Times. “At the end of our calls, people say, ‘It’s awful, just awful.’”
Tuesday, October 15, 2013
MegaCon 2013 - Frenchy and the Punk - Caravan (2013-03-15)
MegaCon 2013 - Frenchy and the Punk - Caravan (2013-03-15)
Frenchy and the Punk perform 'Caravan' Friday night at MegaCon 2013 in Orlando, Florida.
Frenchy and the Punk perform 'Caravan' Friday night at MegaCon 2013 in Orlando, Florida.
Suburban Cops In Florida Get Rich Selling Drugs
Suburban Cops In Florida Get Rich Selling Drugs
Police in Sunrise, Florida have made millions by luring drug buyers from across the country to their small town. Once the buyers show up and attempt to buy cocaine in restaurants like TGI Fridays or Panera Bread, cops arrest them then confiscate their cash and belongings.
Undercover detectives in Sunrise seized millions of dollars from the stings, collectively earning over $1.2 million in overtime. One officer earned $240,000 in overtime in just three-and-a-half years.
The officers also gave cash to informants who help make the arrests. One informant alone received over $800,000 in just five years.
Police in Sunrise, Florida have made millions by luring drug buyers from across the country to their small town. Once the buyers show up and attempt to buy cocaine in restaurants like TGI Fridays or Panera Bread, cops arrest them then confiscate their cash and belongings.
Undercover detectives in Sunrise seized millions of dollars from the stings, collectively earning over $1.2 million in overtime. One officer earned $240,000 in overtime in just three-and-a-half years.
The officers also gave cash to informants who help make the arrests. One informant alone received over $800,000 in just five years.
Obamacare: Who will ignore law's requirements?
Obamacare: Who will ignore law's requirements?
Millions of Americans may be wrestling with computer glitches to try to sign up for Obamacare — but many people eligible just won’t bother and will pay a price for it.
Some will flout the mandate to buy coverage on ideological grounds, a health insurance version of civil disobedience.
Some will opt for the penalty because it’s cheaper than paying for insurance, even with subsidies — as long as they don’t get sick and have to pay their own medical bills.
And some are so confused about the president’s health care law that they may not even realize they have to pay a penalty — or a tax, as the Supreme Court called it — until they get slapped with the fine when they file their 2014 tax returns. And sign-up rates may be affected, too, if the technical problems on the exchange websites persist.
Millions of Americans may be wrestling with computer glitches to try to sign up for Obamacare — but many people eligible just won’t bother and will pay a price for it.
Some will flout the mandate to buy coverage on ideological grounds, a health insurance version of civil disobedience.
Some will opt for the penalty because it’s cheaper than paying for insurance, even with subsidies — as long as they don’t get sick and have to pay their own medical bills.
And some are so confused about the president’s health care law that they may not even realize they have to pay a penalty — or a tax, as the Supreme Court called it — until they get slapped with the fine when they file their 2014 tax returns. And sign-up rates may be affected, too, if the technical problems on the exchange websites persist.
Why The Federal Government Wants To Redefine The Word 'Cancer'
Why The Federal Government Wants To Redefine The Word 'Cancer'
The federal government wants to reduce the number of Americans diagnosed each year with cancer. But not by better preventive care or healthier living. Instead, the government wants to redefinethe term “cancer” so that fewer conditions qualify as a true cancer. What does this mean for ordinary Americans — and should we be concerned?
The federal government wants to reduce the number of Americans diagnosed each year with cancer. But not by better preventive care or healthier living. Instead, the government wants to redefinethe term “cancer” so that fewer conditions qualify as a true cancer. What does this mean for ordinary Americans — and should we be concerned?
Obama Admin Replaces Barricades At WWII Memorial Today
Obama Admin Replaces Barricades At WWII Memorial Today
The Obama administration continues to play theatrics, which is, in fact, costing the tax-payers money. For those who have never been to Washington, these memorials have no staff or gates. They are open air memorials, which are accessible 24 hours a day- 7 days a week. The only time the memorials are not accessible is when money is spent to hire workers and rent equipment to wall them off.
The Obama administration continues to play theatrics, which is, in fact, costing the tax-payers money. For those who have never been to Washington, these memorials have no staff or gates. They are open air memorials, which are accessible 24 hours a day- 7 days a week. The only time the memorials are not accessible is when money is spent to hire workers and rent equipment to wall them off.
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