Centrisity

10 years later

2011-09-11T07:43:00.003-05:00

I wrote my 9/11 story several years ago. The day was going to start with high level of nerves, and end with me being awarded full custody of my children. There was still a few bumps and bruises after that. But that ruling on that day proved to be the definitive conclusion to my domestic struggles.

Today those two boys are grown and graduated. The youngest, Bob, experiencing the freedom of adulthood, the the tribulations that go with it. Airman Nick, proudly serving our nation in the Air Force.

Yet, for most others, that day is marked by sadness and tragedy. As the memorial service in New York continues with the reading of the names of the innocents, I reflect on the impact on all of our lives of that day, that moment, that tragedy.

All my hopes for continued healing to all those who experienced loss on that infamous day.

Flash

I am a WORLD Champion

2011-09-06T12:47:00.004-05:00

Yeah, yeah, I thought I could get back in the swing, but my commitments to MN Brass on our drive to championships just took up what available spare time I had, and boy was it worth it.

This weekend we made history. After three consecutive runner-up awards I have finally reached the pinnacle of my activity, a World Championship title:

1. 98.35 Minnesota Brass
2. 97.45 Buccaneers
3. 95.55 Empire Statesmen
4. 94.35 Hurricanes
5. 93.13 Caballeros
6. 90.18 Renegades
7. 89.00 Alliance
8. 85.00 CorpsVets
9. 82.23 Kilties
10.78.95 Tampa Bay Thunder

This is the announcement of our placement and caption wins. So surreal!

Here some press floating around out there as well:

StarTribune Article

KSTP:

DCI.org

DCAcorps.org

It was a hell of a ride . . . . can;t wait till next year to defend!!

Flash

'Sconi Recall Wrap-Up

2011-08-10T09:34:00.002-05:00

So the big 6 race recall day is over. We knew two would flip for sure, a 3rd was doable, and a 4th just short of a pipe dream. Going into Red territory in a special election environment is always tricky. Turnout is dicey, Koch brothers & friends pouring money in to save their power, and dirty tricks of deception were necessary for them to stave off the challenge.

Or maybe their electorate doesn't mind being told one thing and having their leaders govern in a different way. Maybe the rule of law and the constitution don't mean anything to them. Maybe they like sitting back and watching their rights evaporating, the constitution deconstructed, all for the sake of claiming victory. I mean, it's all about winning, right!

The impact of the pillaging of the people by the Right Wing Koch machine will not be evident immediately. Soon the grip of a Government drowning in the bathtub will have meaningful consequences. The electorate will get fed up, they'll look for a party with a plan, and a clear understanding of what it takes to lead. But what happens once they're elected, and things improve, as they usually do. Oh the horror, the electorate will chase them out of office for raising taxes.

It's a vicious cycle, but we've seen it play out way too many times. The electoral memory is way to short to have any real long term success.

Flash

Back from Lewisburg, the Ship Showdown!

2011-08-01T10:51:00.003-05:00

HUGE Drum corps weekend as we took our mid-season excursion to the East Coast to go head to head with the 6 time defending, and 6 year undefeated Reading Buccaneers.

For the past three years we have finished runner up at World Championships. That, in itself, is a HUGE accomplishment for an organization that, when I first joined back in 1978, couldn't even make Top 10, the threshold for Finals. In the late 80's we finally took 9th, only to fall back to 11th the next year. We did that for a couple cycles until 1991 where our finalist streak began. It wasn't until the late 90's that we cracked into the top 5. 2009, our Nocturne show and the last time I was on the field, was our highest scoring finish to date. Last year was the first year we won both Horns AND Drums, but just missed the title. This year we're holding nothing back.

In 2009, we were 3 points back of Bucs at the midseason show, and finished 1.5 from them at Championships. last year. Last year we didn't go head to head with them early, but finished just a point way in the end.

This weekend, we nailed it. OK, we still took 2nd, 88.3 - 86.45 but won the music caption and was only 1.85 off the pace. We were very pleased with this first read from the East Coast judges. And the crowd was simply in love with our program.
This is the closest we have been to the defending champs this early. The chatter out East is this could be the year the giant falls, and the power house from the Midwest are the ones in the best position to do it. The Viking Ship against the Pirate Ship, a true show down.

I did follow the Debt Ceiling evolution, but, for obvious reasons, was pretty preoccupied and focused on our mission. I'll review the deal later today. My wife leaves for Michigan, in the morning. Blogging can wait another day I think.

Debt Creation

2011-07-27T10:41:00.003-05:00

I continue to tell other Right leaning fiscal conservatives that as much as they continue to support a Republican Party that says one thing, but then does the opposite once in office, they are supporting the wrong party. They scoff. Fair enough. As long as they consider FoxNews a legitimate news source there won't be much opportunity to show them the truth. But there is a Graphic that has been flying around Facebook for several days now. Take a look at the Left.

And for added reading, Bloomberg goes into some details.

House Speaker John Boehner often attacks the spendthrift ways of Washington.

“In Washington, more spending and more debt is business as usual,” the Republican leader from Ohio said in a televised address yesterday amid debate over the U.S. debt. “I’ve got news for Washington - those days are over.”

Yet the speaker, House Majority Leader Eric Cantor, House Budget Chairman Paul Ryan and Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell all voted for major drivers of the nation’s debt during the past decade: Wars in Afghanistan and Iraq, the 2001 and 2003 Bush tax cuts and Medicare prescription drug benefits. They also voted for the Troubled Asset Relief Program, or TARP, that rescued financial institutions and the auto industry.

Together, according to data compiled by Bloomberg News, these initiatives added $3.4 trillion to the nation’s accumulated debt and to its current annual budget deficit of $1.5 trillion.

You should read the rest.

Flash

A Question for Conservatives

2011-07-26T10:24:00.004-05:00

Next to 'The Fix', Cagle's blog with his assortment of Editorial cartoons should be a regular stop, and his collection of columns can be a must read.

Today's installment is 'The Question Conservatives Can't Answer'

The following fact was sent to numerous conservative pundits, politicians, and profitseekers:

Based on Tax Foundation figures, the richest 1 percent has TRIPLED its share of America’s income over the past 30 years. Much of the gain came from tax cuts and minimally taxed financial instruments. If their income had increased only at the pace of American productivity (80 percent), they would be taking about a TRILLION DOLLARS LESS out of our economy.

And a question was posed:

In what way do the richest 1 percent deserve these extraordinary gains?

Care to take a stab at it. If we were experiencing the boom we were led to believe would happen under these policies, they may be justifiable. But in reality, and as predicted by many of us, this only took money out of the economy, stalling it, and creating a catalyst for economic tumult.

Here, take a peek at the raw data in the article:

But based on 1980 dollars and IRS data, this is how U.S. income has been redistributed since that time:

• Incomes for the top 1 percent have gone from $148,000 to $450,000
• Incomes for the next 9 percent have gone from $46,000 to $50,000
• Incomes for the next 40 percent have gone from $17,500 to $15,000
• Incomes for the bottom 50 percent have gone from $5,400 to $3,750

Debt Denial

2011-07-25T11:26:00.001-05:00

As mentioned below, my post on January 25th is as timely today as it was then. 6 Months ago, we could have implemented my plan and we would not be facing inevitable economic tumult. Now we have no choice but to increase the borrowing power of the Fed to keep our country solvent. However, for those of you not paying attention, the Right has never been concerned about the solvency of this nation or deep spending cuts for that matter. It has always been a political ballot box game to them regardless of the cost.

We lived a microcosm of this during the MN State Government shutdown and when the Governor called their bluff, they got cold feet, initially. They had no choice but to own an offer they thought the Governor would never accept.

I suspect something similar will happen in the next day or two. The President will agree to a smaller, shorter term offer as long as it extends past Nov 2012. I mean, we wouldn't want to go through this same process just before an election, that would be . . . what . . . putting personal political partisanship over the best interest of the country. No one would do that, would they?

Flash

6 Month Vacation

2011-07-25T11:18:00.002-05:00

So, I stopped writing on January 25th, and ironically, that post is as timely today as it was then. More on that in the next screed.

Things have been going great, lately, so just a quick update.

Airman Nick is currently stationed at Tinker Air Force Base in Oklahoma City. He just completed Combat Readiness School and may deploy soon. He called the other day to say he probably won't get away on leave before then, so we'll have to rely on occasional phone calls and Facebook chat to stay in touch. He continues to be confident in his choices and grounded in his future. I am so proud of that young man.

My youngest officially completed his K-12 education. He claims to be committed to saving up some money so he can move out on his own. Maybe empty nest isn't as far always as I once thought *smile*

I am having an incredible time performing with Minnesota Brass, Incorporated, my 20th year on the field as a marching member. This is by far and away the most challenging book we have ever performed. This years' program in entitled VALHALLA! and takes our Viking hero, John, from immigration across the sea (Immigrant Song, Led Zeppelin) to our prayer/battle sequence (Mingus Children Hour of Dreams) where our hero dies in battle. From there we bury him at sea to our ballad of John Lennon's Imagine. And, of course, all Vikings who die an honorable death in battle are delivered to Valhalla with a ride from the Valkyries, which means Wagner's classic for the closer. Embedded below is our performance at TCF Bank stadium to give you a peek at us mid season. This weekend we head out to Lewisburg PA to go head to head with out main competition. Labor Day weekend is World Championships in Rochester NY.

I may not get into full daily posting mode, but I do plan on putting something out there a few times a week. Someone has to inject common sense in the midst of all the partisan gamesmanship!

Irregardless, it's GREAT to be back!!

Flash

Bi-partisan Balancing

2011-01-25T07:20:00.000-06:00

I was watching McCain this AM talk about the budget, and after seeing tea party style Republicans looking at peanuts for political gain as it relates to budget cuts (think Foreign aid, only .16%, that's POINT ONE SIX), McCain kept on harping about Agriculture Subsidies. But again, nice political buzz word, but eliminating those subsidies is again, ONLY .07% (yes, POINT ZERO SEVEN).

I've said it before, if we are going to make meaningful efforts in restoring the federal budget to sanity, we need to make the painful, yet not politically popular, decisions to reel this behemoth in. I propose the following:

1) Do NOT raise the debt ceiling. Force congress to make the cuts or revenue investments necessary to stop the growth in borrowing and begin buying down the debt, not increasing it.

2) A straight across the board cut, 15 % to start, on ALL budget areas INCLUDING Defense.

3) Revenue enhancements; not the least of which is rolling back the top tier tax bracket to pre-President GW Bush levels, adding a scant 3 cents on the dollar influx on adjusted Gross Income of the first dollars over $500,000

So that's the quick and dirty of where I am at, but coming off the heals of the President's Debt Commission recommendations, there is a bi-partisan piece of legislation being proposed that also recognizes the balanced approach needed to resolve the budget conundrum:

U.S. Sen. Mark Warner is about to heed his own admonition that Congress "put up or shut up" when confronting the dangerously high federal debt.

The Virginia Democrat and U.S. Sen. Saxby Chambliss, a Georgia Republican, are close to introducing a complex bill that would cut trillions in federal spending, raise some taxes and lower others, and spread the pain of cutting the federal deficit among just about everyone in America.

Nothing will be sacred. Everything is open for cutbacks or change to get spending under control, including defense, Social Security and Medicare.

And that is all I ever said that has to happen to make true and real budget reductions, EVERYTHING needs to be on the table, be it cuts or revenue.

No, as it the case with any legislation, by the time it hits the floor it will be sliced and diced. Radicals from both sides will play politics with amendments and slight of hand proposals to get members in vulnerable district to go on records with trick votes. The bi-partisan authors have a message for them:

The political cost is so high, Warner said in a recent interview, that the entire plan has to be a single bill - one up-or-down vote.

"The only way you realistically can get there is if you get... one package where everybody can say, 'I don't like a lot of it, but the sum of the good it does is worth the pain it will cost,' " Warner said. "At the end of the day, this is not going to be a painless process."

It's not easy, and it will hurt, but the hurt should be spread evenly.

If YOU want to try your hand it dealing with trillions of dollars in deficits, play the game. It kind of puts things into perspective.

Flash

RIP, Jack!

2011-01-24T08:04:00.000-06:00

My mother would get a kick out of me, when I was just a wee little boy, when I would go into the kitchen, and grab a chair, and drag it into the living room. JACK was on, and I wanted to do the exercises with him.

I watched Jack through those early years, and followed his life as he reached each and every milestone, while accomplishing another unheard of feat for a man his age. Even at 70, he pulled 70 rowboats in a flotilla while swimming for 2 1/2 hours in the waters off Long Beach. Jack was immortal, or so we thought or at least hoped.

Like George Burns we couldn't fathom a scenario of a world without their hope, their spirit, their drive. But mortality is a reality, and at 96 Jack succumbed to respiratory failure while battling pneumonia.

I miss you already, Jack. Thanks for the memories!!

Flash

McCain on Obama: "I believe he is a patriot"

2011-01-17T08:43:00.002-06:00

Did you catch McCain's Op-Ep in the WaPo, yesterday? Here's a snippet:

President Obama gave a terrific speech Wednesday night. He movingly mourned and honored the victims of Saturday's senseless atrocity outside Tucson, comforted and inspired the country, and encouraged those of us who have the privilege of serving America. He encouraged every American who participates in our political debates - whether we are on the left or right or in the media - to aspire to a more generous appreciation of one another and a more modest one of ourselves.

The president appropriately disputed the injurious suggestion that some participants in our political debates were responsible for a depraved man's inhumanity. He asked us all to conduct ourselves in those debates in a manner that would not disillusion an innocent child's hopeful patriotism. I agree wholeheartedly with these sentiments. We should respect the sincerity of the convictions that enliven our debates but also the mutual purpose that we and all preceding generations of Americans serve: a better country; stronger, more prosperous and just than the one we inherited.

But this is the part that that hit home (emphasis mine):

I disagree with many of the president's policies, but I believe he is a patriot sincerely intent on using his time in office to advance our country's cause. I reject accusations that his policies and beliefs make him unworthy to lead America or opposed to its founding ideals. And I reject accusations that Americans who vigorously oppose his policies are less intelligent, compassionate or just than those who support them.

Our political discourse should be more civil than it currently is, and we all, myself included, bear some responsibility for it not being so. It probably asks too much of human nature to expect any of us to be restrained at all times by persistent modesty and empathy from committing rhetorical excesses that exaggerate our differences and ignore our similarities. But I do not think it is beyond our ability and virtue to refrain from substituting character assassination for spirited and respectful debate.

Read the whole thing, he's on to something!

Flash

Healing

2011-01-13T07:10:00.000-06:00

Last night:

At a time when we are far too eager to lay the blame for all that ails the world at the feet of those who think differently than we do -- it's important for us to pause for a moment and make sure that we are talking with each other in a way that heals, not a way that wounds

President Brack Obama
January 12, 2011

I thought Right Wing blogger Allahpundit recognized the positives of last night:

right after the line “it is not because a simple lack of civility caused this tragedy,” he punctuated it with “it did not.” He’s not playing the “climate of hate” game here

and this part:

Ace heard a different speech than I did, I guess, but for what it’s worth, this is playing remarkably well thus far among righties on Twitter: Rich Lowry, Jonah Goldberg, Jim Geraghty, Andy Levy, S.E. Cupp, Philip Klein, and Ace’s own co-bloggers Drew and Gabe all thought it was rock solid.

I don't presume that this crazed mad man acted out based on words of others. It seems more clear each day that he was acting independently, irresponsibly, and delusionally.

However, isn't it enough to give us pause that maybe our words matter. Isn't it enough that the mere chance that something like this could happen by some kook taking words literally, rather than rhetorically. It is hopefull to see members on both sides of the aisle beginning to recognize this.

Flash

AZ in Pictures

2011-01-12T07:08:00.004-06:00

I thought these three cartoons did a decent job of recognizing the fractured debate even this incident has caused. At this point, I see too much finger pointing and not enough reflection.

I continue to pray for the recovery of all those injured, and for those greiving the loss of loved ones.

Flash

We Are All Responsible as Words Matter

2011-01-10T06:52:00.003-06:00

President Bill Clinton, April 2010 (emphasis mine):

"What we learned from Oklahoma City is not that we should gag each other or that we should reduce our passion for the positions we hold - but that the words we use really do matter, because there's this vast echo chamber, and they go across space and they fall on the serious and the delirious alike. They fall on the connected and the unhinged alike," he said.

"One of the things that the conservatives have always brought to the table in America is a reminder that no law can replace personal responsibility. And the more power you have and the more influence you have, the more responsibility you have."

And I agree, the perpetrator of this horrendous attack is the one who is solely responsible, but it is a time to reflect on our words and how they effect others.

If we truly believe our positions are the correct ones, can't we successfully impress them on others without the incendiary dialogue. I know during President Bush's first term I was falling into that trap, but upon his re-election I'd like to think I dialed it back and stayed on the high road. Can't we all!?

My heart and prayers go out to the Victims of Arizona's tragic events. May the healing begin!

Governor Dayton!

2011-01-03T12:25:00.002-06:00

I just like saying that. Not because he was my first choice, or even my preferred choice. Heck, he spent most of the election on my 'No way in hell' list. But the Right wing smear machine has already started the hatefest by taking a page out of the National Republican book.

See, it isn't about what is best for Minnesota. It's about their way or the highway. For them, elections only have consequences when the Right wins. When they lose it is to stop, stonewall, and HATE until everyone is beat into submission. Minnesotans tend to be smarter than that.

I've grown tired of the Strawman fights the bought and paid for blogs of the local Right stir up. They know if they ever had to actually debate real issues they'd get swallowed up. I refuse to fall into their heartless and soulless trap.

I'm going to stick to issues, because only juveniles stomp up and down demanding their way or the tantrums will continue. Us grownups are willing to do more than that.

Flash

Airman Countdown

2010-12-21T13:56:00.004-06:00

Airman Nick is scheduled to fly in for the Holiday Exodus, Wednesday evening. He graduated from Lackland this past August, and has been attending Tech School in Keesler, MS ever since.

He'll be gone before the new year begins, but anytime to catch up will be good times. I am hoping to get him downtown Thursday night, But I understand I do have to share him with the rest of his friends.

Thinks have been hectic on my end, thus the snails pace of posts. I;m sure I'll find some time to rattle some cages soon enough.

Flash

Joel is Home . . . for now.

2010-12-10T21:54:00.004-06:00

Spotted on Facebook:
This isn't over by a long shot, but it is a good first step.

Welcome home, Joel!

Flash

Joel Juked

2010-12-10T07:56:00.001-06:00

Joel Rosenberg, MOB Member, friend, carry advocate, renowned carry trainer, author, and MPD Gadfly, is in jail . . . STILL!

A Minneapolis man who claims to have a right to carry a gun in City Hall faces charges for bringing a loaded weapon into the police chief's office last month.

Now, we reap what we sow, and all that. But as you read the case you'll see that the Police officer A MONTH AGO, return the gun to Mr Rosenberg after disarming him and politely asked him to return the gun to his vehicle. Sure would imply to me that that would be that. Not in this case.

Remarkably, the court is holding Joel on $100,000 bail and continued his hearing till after the first of the year. Just plain senseless.

Other 2nd Amendment and MOB blogs are getting the story out. They have a much better handle on the details then I do, so give them a look:

Political Prisoner
Sgt. William Palmer
Joel Rosenberg: Alpha Male of the Day
Free Joel (Update)
The Empire Strikes Back
25% of Windypundit Blog Team Now In Jail
Latest news on civil rights activist Joel Rosenberg from Ellegon.com

I'll be following this to see if/when the court comes to it's senses.

Flash

Congratulations, Governor-Elect Dayton

2010-12-08T07:12:00.000-06:00

Dear Mark,

OK, it's finally over, and what we have known all along will become official within the next few hours.

Now, the political landscape isn't quite what you were hoping for, but that doesn't mean there isn't opportunities. The local Right Wing smear machine is taking a page out of the national playbook, already. They are planning, hoping, and praying for you to fail. The Legislature will do whatever they can to set bugs and booby traps in your way. Let them. The Minnesota electorate will see them for who they are.

The MN GOP has never been a forward thinking bunch, pacifying their base until the real people get hurt enough that they vote them out. It will happen again, in a couple years. For now take the high road. No need to roll over or capitulate. We learned from the outgoing Governor that there are a variety of options for you when working with an opposition legislature. Relax and be relieved. If their pattern holds true, they'll implode soon enough. And you'll be there to pick up the pieces, and show everyone the true leader you are.

Godspeed Governor Elect Dayton!

Kurt 'Flash' Schiebel
Centrisity.com

Capitulation

2010-12-07T07:02:00.000-06:00

Sometimes I wonder if the Democratic Party actually has a plan. These tax relief negotiations are something that should have happened BEFORE the midterms, especially the vote. The Left would have been in a position of strength, whereby they could DARE the Republicans to vote against Tax Cuts for all before the midterms. This would have saved their house majority. But they didn't, and now they are backed into a corner.

The new vote on the Framework gives the Right a second chance, and now puts the 'double dare ya' on the Democrats, instead. How much are we spending now . . . estimates are between 600 and 800 BILLION. The deal:

Paraphrased:

- Bush tax cuts: $458 billion. The package would extend the Bush tax cuts for everyone for two years

- Unemployment benefits: $57 billion. The package would also leave in place for 13 months the option to file for extended federal unemployment benefits

- Social Security tax break: $120 billion. The package would also offer workers a 2% payroll tax holiday next year

- Individual tax credits: $40 billion. extend for two years the increased value of a number of tax credits that benefit low- and middle-income tax filers,

- Business tax breaks: Cost unclear. It is still not clear how many business tax breaks are in the package. Some, like an extension of the research and development credit, has drawn bipartisan support and is typically renewed annually. But also included is a new temporary option for businesses to write off 100% of their expenses in 2011. A cost estimate was not immediately available.

- Estate tax: $88 billion. exemption level would be raised to $5 million and the top rate lowered to 35%.

Another deficit killer. Everyone wants to give away money, but no one wants to make the tough budget cutting decisions that need to happen. And I mean meaningful cuts, not Freezing salaries and chopping apart Earmarks, feel good actions that are pennies to the budget.

GOP, come back to me when you have meaningful tax cuts, like a 20% cut in defense!! Dems, let me know when you are willing to do the same in Health and Human services, or even Education.

Isn't there at least some group of true fiscal conservatives who have the guts to do what is needed, regardless of personal electoral peril?

I doubt it!!

Flash
Centrisity.com

The Chess Game

2010-12-02T07:13:00.000-06:00

There is a reason I tend to support Democratic candidates in the face of my right leaning moderacy. The Left is a forward thinking compromise based group, whereas the Right is a power hungry unmovable behemoth. The current stunt they are pulling nationally, block everything and anything until they get their way, is no different than what is happening here in the recount. It's all about power and the base. But what happens when the base begins to wane. Lets look at that.

From the Strib:

The Dayton campaign said that of the 2,776 ballot challenges Emmer workers have filed, 98.2 percent have been declared frivolous. By contrast, 39 Dayton challenges have been ruled frivolous, according to the campaign.

Does the Emmer legal team even know what they are doing to themselves. With control of both houses of the legislature they have a chance to lead, and govern. They have an opportunity to show the MN electorate how they believe things should be done. Even with a Governor Dayton, there is much room to show what they can do. But the hunger for power, even briefly, seems to be more important than long term improvement of the state. Some Emmer supporters are getting fed up:

Those challenges were wearing thin even on some Emmer voters.

"I'm an Emmer supporter, but I think what's going on here is a bunch of nonsense," said Steven Camp, a Robbinsdale resident and small-business owner who worked as a Hennepin County table official.

But Camp didn't blame Emmer. He suggested larger forces may be at work. If Republicans delay the recount long enough or contest it in court, the planned Jan. 3 swearing-in of the next governor could be delayed.

"It seems to me, frankly, that Emmer is something of a pawn in this situation," Camp said.

Being a pawn is NOT the mark of a leader. If Rep Emmer wants any hope for future political viability he needs to recognize a couple things; 1) there is no path to victory for him; and 2) The behavior of his recount team and the MNGOP smear machine is causing frustration even within his base.

Rep Emmer has a choice to make, if it is his choice and that is to simply recognize reality. If there is a decision to move forward with an election contest post recount, we'll have our answer. No sensible leader would continue after the process is complete . . . unless, of course, he is merely a pawn.

Flash

Yes, That's Her!

2010-11-30T07:32:00.001-06:00

Yes, that;s my sister leaning over the table on the front page of the Strib. Both her and my mom participated in the recount efforts, yesterday. My take is very simple numbers:

By day's end, more than 400 ballots were challenged, with the vast majority coming from Emmer's side. County officials declared half of those challenges "frivolous," meaning they remain in the current count but could get another look.

According to a final tally released by secretary of state Monday night, taking challenged votes out of the count did little to change the overall vote

margin. Dayton picked up 20 votes while Emmer lost four.

Dayton now leads Emmer 43.6 percent to 43.2 percent -- a margin of 8,794 votes.

Folks, according the the SoS site, almost half (44.65%) of the votes have been looked at, and the results have barely budged. There is not path to the Governor's mansion for Emmer. So the question that becomes more clear, is whether the Right risks losing the independents and moderates to go on a wild goose chase to suppress the will of the electorate.

It seems to me, that cooler heads will prevail. The Right has a prime opportunity to show the people of Minnesota they can be sensible, and then govern from the platform that they ran on. If they try to do that with an end around of the electoral system, they could become a permanent minority in two year. I would think the last thing they want is for the DFL to hold all three branches of government. If they are willing to see the writing on the wall, they will have a much better chance of keeping their majorities in both chambers come 2012.

Flash

8 Years!

2010-11-19T07:42:00.003-06:00

Eight years ago, today, Centrisity was born. In that time. congressional controls has swung Left, and back Right. The President is of a different party. My grade school kids are now fledgling Adults, well except for the youngest, who is a Senior in high school, now.

My oldest spent 5 years in the marine corps, including a trip to the sandbox. And the #3 son is active duty in the Air Force. I've lost two best friends, watched my nephews grow up and marry. My parents enjoy good health, I'm still madly in love with my wife, and the Drum Corps has gone from middle of the pack to Championship contenders.

I haven't written much, recently. Attempts to stick to policy get drowned out by members of the smear machine who can't even take time to see the good that is happening right now. I'm not sure what will happen next, on these pages. But an 8 year investment isn't something I just want to walk away from. I still plan on lying low as I watch the recount, the holidays, and the world. At some point the fire will burn again, but time is a treasured resource. As I shuffle my priorities, Centrisity will soon find a place on that list.

Thanks to many of you for sharing this journey with me. 8 years is a long time, let's hope that time will continue to grow.

Kurt 'Flash' Schiebel
Centrisity.com

Thanks for your Service!

2010-11-11T06:58:00.003-06:00

I special Thank You to the newest Veteran to be, Airman Nick!

He is currently excelling at Keesler AFB on track for Tech School Graduation in mid December. He will then get a couple weeks off for Christmas Exodus where we'll have much to catch up on.

He had an opportunity to go to Japan for his first assignment, but decided that getting more training and being involved in the meet of the Air Force beet going over seas to a Sit down Help Desk Job. He's got 6 years, I am sure he'll get to travel some over that time.

Also a salute to Sgt. Tom, who continues to enjoy his inactive reserve status. He is attending College in San Diego and actually called last night. He needed to check up on his brother still at home.

Thanks, gentleman! You have made me very proud!

Dad!

Other Veteran's Day Posts:

2009
2008
2007
2005
2004

Same Song, Different Verse

2010-11-08T07:34:00.000-06:00

Please Vote!

2010-11-02T06:53:00.003-05:00

The fear and Smear from the Right is over. The failed campaign of the Left is done.

The Right successfully deceived the electorate, as is their practice. The Left limped along without even attempting to show where we were at two years ago, and how much better we are today.

Fortunately, Minnesota is ahead of the curve. We tried it their way and it has cost us dearly, in jobs, in education, in basic infrastructure needs.

So while the US House slips away, the US Senate majority narrows, and Nationally the midterm massacre will take the President's working majority away, Minnesota will be a bright spot. For the first time in almost 20 years there will be a Democratic Governor and a House and Senate willing to work together to steer this great State back into economic prosperity.

The news tonight will be bleak for common sense Moderates, and progressives, but the talking heads will come back to Minnesota as that oasis of sanity. We tried it there way, it simply doesn't work. The memory of the National electorate is short, but that is not the case in the great state of Minnesota.

Flash

Myth and Magic

2010-10-27T06:47:00.004-05:00

Something strange happened a few months ago. I was starting to get drawn into the smear that is the Tea Party Republican hate game. As a real fiscal conservative, small government type I started buying into their spin. But then I woke up, and started researching on my own.

As mentioned in Monday's post, it is actually the Democratic administration and congress that is reducing Government jobs while increasing private sector job opportunities. You would think, if the Tea Party brigade was sincere about what they want, they would reject the failed policies that got us here, and embrace the very practices that are delivering the exact goals they claim they want. But the Right Wing noise machine continues to push false memes and myths, for the truth would simply destroy them.

With their unlimited foreign money and corporate contributions, they have controlled the media. The electorate now actually believes the opposite of reality. Here is one of those falsehoods:

1) Job Killing Taxes -> Would you know that 40% of the stimulus was directed straight to tax cuts:

In a troubling sign for Democrats as they head into the midterm elections, their signature tax cut of the past two years, which decreased income taxes by up to $400 a year for individuals and $800 for married couples, has gone largely unnoticed.

See, the Right doesn't care about tax cuts, they care about winning.

Fortunately, Minnesotans are smarted than that. While many around the country have been suckered by the myths perpetrated by Right Wing extremists, the Minnesota electorate has dismissed them. The GOP wave, with assistance from their slush fund money, may fool those most vulnerable, but not us, here! Democratic candidates are doing well, as the folks here know what is at stake. Too bad others around the country don't get it . . . yet!

Flash

Job Creators!

2010-10-25T07:18:00.000-05:00

The Tea Party brigade and their dutiful minions keep harping two main things, JOBS and Smaller government. What's interesting, is the current party in power is delivering on both:

This is the 9th straight month of private sector job growth in the midst of a devastating recession that has put a serious strain mostly on the poor and middle class. There has been a total of 863,000 private sector jobs created in 2010, exceeding the total created under the Bush/Cheney regime.

Recall in President Bush's last month, we shed over 700,000 jobs in January 2009 alone. Now we have much further to go, and for many the picture isn't all that rosy, but for the 'Drown Government in a bathtub' contingent, you would think they would be jumping for joy (NYT):

But over all, the economy lost 95,000 nonfarm jobs in September, the result of a 159,000 decline in government jobs at all levels. Local governments in particular cut workers at the fastest rate in almost 30 years.

So we have consistent Private Sector growth, albeit not enough, coupled with significant shrinkage in government. A perfect Tea Party storm. In fact, consistently, the Left has had much more success in economic growth than the Right.So what;s the gig . . . POWER! The Right has shown they aren't at all interested in working towards a better future. They aren't at all interested in acknowledging what works, and what doesn't. This is about pushing myths and mysticism into the election cycle, in hopes the electorate has short memories.

There are several myths being pushed in the waning moments of this election. I'll point some of them out this week.

Flash

Beginning of End in Afghan?

2010-10-20T07:56:00.000-05:00

NYTimes reports:

KABUL, Afghanistan — Talks to end the war in Afghanistan involve extensive, face-to-face discussions with Taliban commanders from the highest levels of the group’s leadership, who are secretly leaving their sanctuaries in Pakistan with the help of NATO troops, officials here say.

The discussions, some of which have taken place in Kabul, are unfolding between the inner circle of President Hamid Karzai and members of the Quetta shura, the leadership group that oversees the Taliban war effort inside Afghanistan. Afghan leaders have also held discussions with leaders of the Haqqani network, considered to be one of the most hard-line guerrilla factions fighting here; and members of the Peshawar shura, whose fighters are based in eastern Afghanistan.

Optimism, maybe, but I haven;t seen a very organized leadership structure within the Taliban. It only takes one to go off on their own and create havoc. But this time, it is sounding more positive:

American officials said last week that talks between Afghan and Taliban leaders are under way. But the ranks of the insurgents, the fact that they represent multiple factions, and the extent of NATO efforts to provide transportation and security to adversaries they otherwise try to kill or capture have not been previously disclosed.

At least four Taliban leaders, three of them members of the Quetta shura and one of them a member of the Haqqani family, have taken part in discussions, according to the Afghan official and a former diplomat in the region.

The identities of the Taliban leaders are being withheld by The New York Times at the request of the White House and an Afghan who has taken part in the discussions. The Afghan official said that identifying the men could result in their deaths or detention at the hands of rival Taliban commanders or the Pakistani intelligence agents who support them.

Read the whole article, it is a great insight into the next phase of this ongoing struggle!

Flash

The Strib Endorsement

2010-10-18T07:02:00.003-05:00

In the STRIB's endorsement of Emmer . . I mean Horner, they state

"Don't let fear cause you to vote for a candidate you consider to be the second-best choice."

Which, ironically, is the reason most people ARE voting for Horner, out of FEAR! I will NOT vote for an unelectable only to inoculate myself from criticism. I will proudly vote for Dayton knowing he will right the wrongs of the TPaw fiasco!

Some people confuse ideological perspective with voting pattern. I'm not one of them. I tend to vote more Blue than Red since the GOP candidates of late have been to the extreme. Of the two electables, I am going for the more moderate of the two, and it isn't Emmer. For Congress, as an example, I will NOT vote Blue for the same reason.

This isn't about party, its about progress. The state has stagnated for 8 years and we have lost our status of leader in the country. Time to change that, make the tough decisions, and get this state moving again.

Flash

Turning it Around

2010-10-13T07:18:00.000-05:00

Good News Great News

2010-10-08T07:19:00.000-05:00

Good news for everyone:

Private businesses added 64,000 workers in September,

GREAT news for small government Tea Party Conservatives:

the government shed 159,000 workers,

Certainly not anywhere near the private sector jobs growth we need. Here, lets take a trip in the time machine, to the booming years of the Bush economy:

Employers slashed another 598,000 jobs off of U.S. payrolls in January, . . .

The latest job loss is the worst since December 1974, and brings job losses to 1.8 million in just the last three months, or half of the 3.6 million jobs that have been lost since the beginning of 2008.

The loss since November is the biggest 3-month drop since immediately after the end of World War II, when the defense industry was shutting down for conversion to civilian production.

How does the saying go, those who refuse to remember history are doomed to repeat it. If we go back to the policies that ravaged this economy during the Bush years, we will, be doomed! Think about that when you review your ballot this fall.

Flash

Airman Update: Classes Begin!

2010-10-07T07:04:00.004-05:00

Coming off Basic Training in August, these well training and prepared men and women are eager and ready to begin their new paths. And then it all comes to a screeching halt. A hurry up and wait situation where significant downtime is experienced following an 8 1/2 week adrenaline push. That's what happened to my son.

He arrived at Keesler AFB (Mississippi) immediately after graduation weekend. A 16+ hour bus ride to his new home. However, there was no opening in his classes, so duty assignments like Security, loading dock, and PT conditioning was his world . . . but no classes. That all changed this week.

After 6 weeks of waiting, with early signs of frustration beginning to set in, he began his next step in his journey. The Airman is going into Cyber Systems Operations, so his class schedule start with Cyber Systems Basics, Windows & introduction, and high tech classes that will prepare him for his first duty station.

Anticipated Graduation is the 2nd week of December, where God willing, he'll get some much needed leave including about 2 weeks of uncharged leave as part of the Recruiter Assistance Program. IF the timing works out, it will be a very merry Christmas at the Flash homestead.

Now that he has begun Tech School, within a few weeks, we may found out more specifics of where his first assignment will take him. HE is hoping for over seas, Japan or Germany, but he he will go where he is needed, and serve out country proudly.

My son, the Airman . . . I'll keep you posted.

Flash
Proud Air Force Dad; AB Nick
Proud Marine Dad; Sgt. Tom (inactive reserves)
Proud Dad; Josh and Bob

Stealthy

2010-10-05T07:09:00.001-05:00

How to FInd a Trillion!

2010-10-04T07:08:00.001-05:00

There are various estimates to what the deficit currently is, but here is what we do know (Careful, ScaifeNet link). When President Clinton left office, he had a surplus. During the Bush years the deficit climbed to close to half a trillion. With the much needed stimulus, unfunded, the deficit jumped to over a trillion. So where can we find a trillion.

Lets start by reviewing the budget breakdown. As you can see, no meaningful dent can be made on the budget without significant cuts, reforms, or cost savings, in the area of Health & Human services and defense.

Of course, the other option is to look at potential revenues. By extending the Bush era tax cuts to ALL Americans, yet allowing the top tier to expire (a modest 3% increase in each earned dollars over $250,000) would fuel a 700 Billion dollar revenue in flux. Without this balanced approach, where does the money come from.

See, it is ease to scream cuts, it is simple to buy into the Liberal spending spree, but NONE of these Tea Party Republicans have any solid details as to how they would do it.

You wanna slice of reality, lets cut the entire Department of Educations, but that is only 100 Billion dollars, where do you find the other 900 Billion, OH, that would be the same as the Defense Budget . . . . . . If you want to get real serious, the Interesting on our debt is almost 400 Billion dollars. You want to start taking the debt, you need to eliminate the deficit. And like we have found here in Minnesota, you can't do it with cuts alone, a balanced approach is required.

Flash

Poll Trends Confirmed

2010-09-29T06:47:00.002-05:00

I love when the Right Wing Smear-o-sphere spends two days bashing the MN Poll and, right on cue, another poll comes out confirming the trend and showing RepublicanMussen as the true outlier.

38 (34) Dayton
27 (34) Emmer
16 (13) Horner
9/29/10 (8/29/10)

Its not over till its over, but I hear MNGOP heads exploding already. And this tidbit was very revealing and just may be a national trend:

So what's changed?

"The big story in September is that the Democrats have woken up from their summer slumber," said University of Minnesota political science professor Larry Jacobs, who oversaw the poll.

"When you go back to August, you find 57 percent of Democrats who are likely to vote saying that they had only a little or really no interest in voting come November," Jacobs said. "Now we found a substantial 83 percent of Democrats saying they have a great deal or a fair amount of interest in this election."

That 83 percent enthusiasm number for Democrats matches the Republicans', meaning the GOP has lost the edge in election excitement it had enjoyed over Democrats.

Remember, just a moment in time . . . .

Flash

Balancing Acting!

2010-09-27T07:09:00.001-05:00

It's hard cutting over a trillion dollars from the budget, while holding Medicare/caid, defense, education, et. al. harmless. I mean, those are the biggest chunks of the budget, forcing even deeper cuts elsewhere which would virtually eliminate some of the programs. And don't misread me, that just may be part, but not the complete, solution. Also, with the goal of continuing tax cuts, we can't count on significant revenues to help. But one advantage I do have, while we heard all the attacks going on this election season, I don't have political viability to sorry about. So I am still reading analysis, from both side of the aisle, as I juggle numbers. But here is a question for you.

When is reform not a cut, or when is a cut, really reform. I think we all agree that there is much opportunity to save, via reform, without effecting the service being provided. Locally, Tea Party Republican candidate Rep. Tom Emmer talks about reform and savings while improving service delivery, specifically in education. Yet the Right wing attack ads against the 'Affordable Health Care Act' talk about deep cuts to Medicare and Medicaid, when, in reality, there aren't cuts at all, but a plan to streamline and create a much stronger and better program through efficiencies.

When is the electorate going to stand up against the spin words and silly talk? At what point will the people demand honest answers? When will a candidate have the guts to actually present the cold hard facts, make the tough decisions, and put themselves out there to do what is right?

I am no candidate, yet, but I'm trying to give it a shot!

Flash

Pledge to America Preview

2010-09-23T07:11:00.001-05:00

I haven't had time to delve into the 'Pledge' (PDF), but it does touch on the Spending cut issues I am working on. I am delaying that post till I review the GOP's options. Specifically:

Our Plan to Put Government on a Path to a Balanced Budget

We will have a responsible, fact-based conversation with the American people about the scale of the fiscal challenges we face, and the urgent action that is required to deal with them. We will curb Washington’s spending habits and promote job creation, bring down the deficit, and build long-term fiscal stability.

• Act Immediately to Reduce Spending:
There is no reason to wait to reduce wasteful and unnecessary spending. Congress should move immediately to cancel unspent “stimulus” funds, and block any attempts to extend the timeline for spending “stimulus” funds. Throwing more money at a stimulus plan that is not working only wastes taxpayer money and puts us further in debt.

• Cut Government Spending to Pre-Stimulus, Pre-Bailout Levels:
With common-sense exceptions for seniors, veterans, and our troops, we will roll back government spending to pre-stimulus, pre-bailout levels, saving us at least $100 billion in the first year alone and putting us on a path to begin paying down the debt, balancing the budget, and ending the spending spree in Washington that threatens our children’s future.

• Establish a Hard Cap on New Discretionary Spending:
We must put common-sense limits on the growth of government and stop the endless increases.

Only in Washington is there an expectation that whatever your budget was last year, it will be more this year and even more the next.

We will set strict budget caps to limit federal spending on an annual basis. Budget caps were used in the 1990s, when a Republican Congress was able to bring the budget into balance and eventual surplus. By cutting discretionary spending from current levels and imposing a hard cap on future growth, we will save taxpayers hundreds of billions of dollars.

• Cut Congress’ Budget:
This year, Congress increased its own budget by 5.8 percent at a time when families and small businesses across the country are cutting back. We will make Congress do more with less by significantly reducing its budget.

• Hold Weekly Votes on Spending Cuts:
Earlier this year, House Republicans launched the YouCut initiative to combat the permissive culture of runaway spending in Congress. Over the course of nine weeks, YouCut produced proposals to save taxpayers more than $120 billion. We will continue to hold weekly votes on spending cuts.

• End TARP Once And For All:
Americans are rightly outraged at the bailouts of businesses and entities that force responsible taxpayers to subsidize irresponsible behavior. We will cancel the Troubled Asset Relief Program (TARP), a move that would save taxpayers roughly $16 billion.

• End Government Control of Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac:
Since taking over Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, the mortgage companies that triggered the financial meltdown by giving too many high risk loans to people who couldn’t afford them, taxpayers were billed more than $145 billion to save the two companies. We will reform Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac by ending their government takeover, shrinking their portfolios, and establishing minimum capital standards. This will save taxpayers as much as $30 billion.

• Impose a Net Federal Hiring Freeze of Non-Security Employees:
Small businesses and entrepreneurs are the engine of our economy and should not be crowded out by unchecked government growth. We will impose a net hiring freeze on non-security federal employees and ensure that the public sector no longer grows at the expense of the private sector.

• Root Out Government Waste and Duplication:
Once created, federal programs almost never go away, even if the problem they were created to address is no longer relevant. More than 20 states have addressed this problem by requiring that programs end – or “sunset” – by a date certain. We will adopt this requirement at the federal level to force Congress to determine if a program is worthy of continued taxpayer support.

• Reform the Budget Process to Focus on Long-Term Challenges:
We will make the decisions that are necessary to protect our entitlement programs for today’s seniors and future generations. That merequiring a full accounting of Social Security, Medicare, and Medicaid, setting benchmarks for theseprograms and reviewing them regularly, and preventing the expansion of unfunded liabilities.

There are some good ideas in here, if you get past the spin. I'm not going to nit pick the spinner bait, that is left for those who want to totally give up on the policy debate and waste time bogging down the conversation in bickering. There are plenty of sites for that.

Flash

Doing Both - 1st, Tax Cuts for All

2010-09-22T07:04:00.004-05:00

In order to reel in the budget, we can still support and encourage tax cuts for 100% of American's, but still allow the top bracket to return to its old level. All wage earners would still receive the extension of cuts up to the top bracket cut off of $250,000.

Now the Tea Party Republicans, and their 'in the pocket' media drones have tried to tell Americans that only 97% of wage earners would receive cuts. But that simply isn't true. EVERYONE will benefit from the extension all the way up to the upper teir break point. That is tax cuts for 100%. Former tax hawk and Federal Reserve chair Greenspan, disagrees:

"I don't think we have time to wait," Greenspan said. "Our choice is not between good and bad, it's between terrible and worse."

Greenspan said he feels so strongly about the issue that he is now in favor of raising taxes -- a position he could hardly have imagined earlier in the decade, when he famously came out in favor of former President George W. Bush's 2001 and 2003 plans to cut taxes.

Greenspan said all the Bush tax cuts should be allowed to lapse -- a position that conflicts with Republicans' desire to extend the cuts and the Obama administration's efforts to let them stand for those making less than $250,000 annually. He said he still believes taxes should be cut, as a general principle, but not at a time when the government is digging a deeper and deeper fiscal hole.

Greenspan is in that small group of people of the 'smarter than me' set, but in this case I believe he is simply wrong. The fragile economy would struggle with an across the board tax hike. But allowing the upper Tier to lapse would begin the stream of much needed revenue. And seriously, would someone making $500,000/yr really notice a $600 tax bump (ed - To be clear, $600 is the average tax bump for wager earners making between 250,001 and $500,000. The additional tax on a $250.001 is 3 pennies, the actually tax burden on a $500,000 is about $7,000, still a pittance at that level of income). They certainly wouldn't change any business decision based on that pittance.

But we can't do it with revenues alone, cuts need to be made. Unlike the State, who has a revenue problem, the federal Government has a spending problem. Tough choices need to be made. And since I'm not running for anything, yet, there are no sacred cows in my budget. We'll get back to that.

Flash

Can You Do Both!

2010-09-20T07:06:00.005-05:00

As a true fiscal conservative, it is necessary that we reel in the deficits while not further inciting the recession. The problem, of course, is no one wants to cut what needs to be cut to make a difference. The big three, Education, Defense, and Health and Human Services are difficult areas to campaign on cutting. The backlash would be incredible, while the commercials write themselves.

So where do American's want to cut. The Economist shined a light on this a while ago. Leading the way is Foreign aid. 71% want to cut foreign aid, and easy foil and not to political reality. However, the reality is "• Foreign aid makes up less than 1% of America's total spending." so although a start, it would have minimal actual effect on the budget. In a nut shell:

The most expendable programs, according to poll takers, were mass transit, housing, agriculture, environment and foreign aid, the runaway winner at 71 percent. The problem? These programs together barely comprise 3 percent of the federal budget. Even if the programs were entirely eliminated, the cuts would do nothing to solve the United States’ long-term entitlement program. Indeed, the responses had no obvious correlation with spending size.

I go to thinking when someone tried to tell my that 50% of all Americans receive some form of entitlements, I believe it was from this WSJ article. What it really says is 50% of all households have at lease one person in it receiving government funds. We're going to look into that this week.

Flash

Reviewing Cuts, A Policy Debate

2010-09-17T07:21:00.007-05:00

A Republican candidate for MN Senate District 64, Tony Hernandez, has listed 10 places he feels we can save about 2 billion dollars. I thought I would share where I am on each of his items:

1. Reduce legislators' and constitutional officers pay by 10%: $1.3 million

No more than a token gesture, but I could support this. However, the consequence of this is making it more difficult to attract competent and qualified individuals to run for these thankless positions.

2. Freeze state employee salary increases for two years: $18.7 million

3. Freeze U of M employee pay increases for two years (via U of M's
"General Compensation" appropriation request): $95 million

To expect only certain groups of employees to be 'taxed' by having their pay frozen seems unfair. If this Republican candidate is in favor of only taxing public employees he should state that. If he is serous about 'freezing wages' which in effect is nothing more than a tax by taking away the nominal increase, maybe he should consider an across the board payroll withholding surcharge so that everyone see a freeze in wages. I am not in favor of this, but I am in favor of fairness. Expecting small slivers of the workforce to bear the brunt is not fair!

4. Change Renters Tax Credit to actual percent of rent paid toward property tax: $60 million

I am open to this

5. Eliminate Integration Revenue- The Intergration Revenue program, a component of the K-12 education funding formula, is supposed to provide money to certain school districts for integration-related activities: $132 million

I am not familiar with this program

5. Reform the Social Security Title IV-D program so child support services are paid only to parents that qualify for public assistance. $258.3 million

I am not sure what this means, Does it mean my ex, who is $60,000 in arrears and hiding in another state would no longer have to be responsible for her obligation. The need for inter agency cooperation is the only way I have seen any of the court ordered payments. Furthermore, a portion of any payments received is deducted from the support I do receive to pay for the services.

I can manage with my ex's refusal to pay her obligations, but how many families currently 'not receiving public assistance' would by thrust back into said assistance if their ability to collect support through this programs help dried up. Now we are back to not only paying to help them collect support, but also to provide for their welfare. This idea might save a dime in one area, only to spend a dollar in another

6. Merge Child Care assistance programs into one for greater efficiency. $23.3 million

I'm all for greater efficiency as long as service remains consistent

7. Eliminate family, Friend, & Neighbor grants--this program puts the state in charge of monitoring and directing childcare by relatives. $743,000

I would have to learn more about this program, but I think I could be persuaded

8. Sell excess state lands-the DNR, the DOT and the IRRB together hold millions of acres of idle, acquired, and commercial lands that should be sold back to private parties.

I would be open to long term, unrestricted leases agreements but am adamantly opposed to selling title to any publicly owned lands.

9. Repeal the public school staff development mandate: $175 million

I have always been an proponent of more local control, so anytime we eliminate state mandates is a good thing.

10. Reduce LGA payments by weaning local units of government off over a four-year period would save the tax payer substantial amounts of money and push cities to enact more responsible, locally oriented budget priorities. $1.069 billion over next 2 biennia

The LGA battle is interesting as it has been shown to not really save taxpayers anything, it only has been shown to shift the tax burden for the state to local property taxes. I do feel the state has some responsibility to compensate local units of government when it is unrealistic to expect their property taxes to maintain local services. Whether this is public safety in rural Minnesota, or local infrastructure support int he larger cities.

As is usually the case here at Centrisity, policy before politics.

Flash

Tom Spoiler

2010-09-16T07:22:00.000-05:00

First, reality at this moment:

38 (46) Dayton
36 (32) Emmer
18 (09) Horner
04 (13) Undecided

This is real simple math, a vote for Horner is no different than voting for Emmer. If those 8% that left Dayton's camp think they'll get change with a Horner vote you are doing nothing but furthering the Mississippiazation of Minnesota. At least have the guts to just pull the Emmer lever.

Oh, and on this media 'in the bag for Dayton' Smear Meme from the Tea Bag Republican set. KSTP using Democrat where Democratic is more appropriate is, frankly, juvenile. I expect that from the Smear Merchants. Liberal Media my ass!

Flash

My State Budget Plan

2010-09-15T07:42:00.003-05:00

I am not going to raise taxes!

I am going to increase Spending!

The deficit doesn't exists

If you elect me Governor, the budget will miraculously balance itself, because I said so!

I am the Necromancer!

Flash, and I approved this message!

The Spiteful Face of the Tea Party

2010-09-15T07:18:00.002-05:00

The extremist Palin Brigade cuts off another nose:

(CNN) -- Christine O'Donnell's upset win over Rep. Mike Castle in the Delaware Republican Senate primary is also another major victory for the Tea Party Express and for Sarah Palin.

"I also want to thank the Tea Party Express," said O'Donnell in her victory speech Tuesday night.

The Tea Party Express, a leading Tea Party organization, endorsed O'Donnell on July 21 and spent more than $250,000 to help the once long shot candidate defeat Castle, a brand name in Delaware thanks to two terms as governor and the past 18 years as the statewide congressman.

With this latest result, the Democratic Party, once left for dead just a few weeks ago has new life. The Senate is majority is in much better shape than a month ago. Delaware was prime picking with a Castle victory, but now with an extremist candidate in the R slot, it is a leans Blue, now.

The next 6 weeks will bring a battle in Congress to continue tax relief for the Middle Class, an effort that the Right will resist. Unless the recognize the error in their ways, this just may be enough of a fools errand for the House to remain in the hands of the Democratic Party. You would think the Right would see that, but political intellect has not been their forté of late.

Flash

Back to School Spiel

2010-09-14T07:10:00.002-05:00

The President will deliver his back to school message today. Unlike last year, the Right is steering clear of controversy. See, last time they went public with concerns of the President politicizing the event. Of course, all they needed to do was read the pre=released text to know this was about motivating the children, and encouraging them to stay on track. This years' message is quite similar:

But here is what I came to Masterman to tell you: nobody gets to write your destiny but you. Your future is in your hands. Your life is what you make of it. And nothing – absolutely nothing – is beyond your reach. So long as you’re willing to dream big. So long as you’re willing to work hard. So long as you’re willing to stay focused on your education.

That last part is absolutely essential – because an education has never been more important. I’m sure there will be times in the months ahead when you’re staying up late cramming for a test, or dragging yourselves out of bed on a rainy morning, and wondering if it’s all worth it. Let me tell you, there is no question about it. Nothing will have as great an impact on your success in life as your education.

More and more, the kinds of opportunities that are open to you will be determined by how far you go in school. In other words, the farther you go in school, the farther you’ll go in life. And at a time when other countries are competing with us like never before; when students around the world are working harder than ever, and doing better than ever; your success in school will also help determine America’s success in the 21st century.

So, you have an obligation to yourselves, and America has an obligation to you to make sure you’re getting the best education possible. And making sure you get that kind of education is going to take all of us working hand-in-hand.

May everyone have a successful and productive school year!

Flash

Oh, I'm Back!!

2010-09-13T07:54:00.001-05:00

I had a GREAT Summer, capped off by a trip to San Antonio that many of you shared as we witnessed the graduation of my Son to Airman! He is currently studying in Tech School at Keesler AFB.

But with less than two months to go before mid terms and State races, I simply can't stay away any longer. It seems that the memories of some is short. You would think that the incredible economic turnaround instituted by the President and his party would be enough to show the people that the old way, which created this mess to begin with, is certainly not a solution. Sure, things are not going as quickly as we'd like, but slow incremental change is far more sustainable than large burst of help for political gain.

The job of both sides is to let the electorate know what happens AFTER November 2. We can continue down the path of growth and recovery, or we can go back to the flawed policies that created this economic tumult.

The choice is easy, and for those still having difficulty, I'll be around to help you along.

Flash

San Antonio Shots for those that are interested:

Coin Ceremony and Base Liberty Thursday, 8/19/2010

Graduation Parade and Town Pass Friday, 8/20/10

The Arne Endorsement

2010-09-13T07:14:00.006-05:00

The governorship is the DFL's to lose, and they have been good at that. Four years ago the seat was all but secured, but then a mis-step, and mis-speak, and a Right Wing smear machine that can twist reality better than Dune was folding space, turned the tide.

Now the Republicans have a new tool in their arsenal. A Republican Independent Candidate with a plan to protect corporate interests on the back of the Low and middle class. This candidate wants to expand the most regressive of taxes into the sacred cow of clothing. I am convinced it is a way to make him look liberal, to siphon votes, see, it is the only way the Right can win. And Arne is in on it:

Former Republican Gov. Arne Carlson is climbing on a campaign bus this morning with Independence Party candidate Tom Horner, whom he is endorsing in the governor's race.

"I'm calling this the Common Sense Tour and common sense indicates you can't grow Minnesota by taxing those people who grow jobs," Carlson said.

But they think they CAN grow jobs by raising taxes on those that don't even have them.

Seriously, the Right knows they have an unwavering base that will vote for anything with an R on it, as long as it is moving, and in some cases, it doesn't even have to be moving. But this base isn't quite big enough to ensure another plurality victory, so they need a splitter, a spoiler, someone who can balance out the remaining voters to allow their candidate to sneak in again. Lest not forget the last two elections:

2002 Gov Race
46.7 Rep
45.7 DFL
06.4 Indy

2002 Gove Race
44.4 Rep
37.2 DFL
16.4 Ind

So in comes Former Republican Governor Arne Carlson with an attempt to keep Horner in the news, with a perception of bi-partisanism. The Right won't budge, they have an election to win, but the Left may start to move which may make Horner appear viable. And THAT is all the Right needs to find an opening.

It's part of the plan, and Arne is in on it!

Flash

The day the world changed . . .

2010-09-11T08:40:00.002-05:00

All my hopes to those most closely effected by the horrendous actions of 9/11. And a deep and sincere thank you to those that displayed what the America spirit is all about during the aftermath.

My 9/11 story is here.

As fall approaches, I am going to ease back into the blogosphere following my Summer hiatus. Stay tuned.

Flash

RUSH - Row 6

2010-08-28T12:21:00.006-05:00

Sold, crisp, clean!! No other group mimics their studio performances on a live stage as well is the three man band form Toronto!

Amazing Stage presence!

Sell out crowd:

Rest of the pics are here!

Can't wait till next time!

Flash

Ladies and Gentleman, Meet the NEW Airman!

2010-08-19T20:10:00.002-05:00

Words can not begin to describe the pride I feel. Not only as a dad, but as an American watching around 700 young men and women take the ultimate step to be part of the strongest fighting force on this planet.

I proudly share my Airman whose next step is a 16 hour bus ride to Keesler, Mississippi where for about two months he will attend tech school for Cyber Systems Operations. Some time towards the end of October, or early November, he will graduate from Tech School and earn some much needed leave. He will get 13 days of uncharged leave by participating in the Recruiter Assistance Program, where he will acts as an aid to his recruiter here at home. He is considering using some of his personal leave as well to give him about 3 weeks total back home. This means I should have much to be thankful for on Thanksgiving *smile*

Thanks to everyone's kind words. This is only the beginning of this journey, so I will look for continued support. We won't know what happens after Thanksgiving, that we will find out a few weeks into Tech School. However, I do know this much, odds are either Japan or Germany for starters!

Thanks again!

PROUD Air Force Dad

Graduation Week

2010-08-16T09:24:00.004-05:00

Can you believe it's been 8 weeks. WOW!

This afternoon we leave for Lackland via Dallas. Will stop at Dealey Plaza, tomorrow, and arrive in San Antonio Weds AM. I assume Internet will be limited, but I am pretty sure there is WiFi at the Hotel.

The Trainee called Saturday. He passed all physical tests and got a 97% on the academic exam. He's on the bubble for honors grad, but incredibly proud no matter what. I'll keep you posted.

Flash

WEEK 8

– Airmanship and core values
– Formal retreat/Airman’s coin ceremony
– Haircuts
– Technical school briefing
– Commanders departure briefing
– Town pass briefing
– Graduation

Thursday: Airman's Run, Orientation Briefings, Retreat, Honor Graduate Ceremony, and Base Liberty

Airman's Run (8:00am): Cheer the Airmen. Please look below for specific squadron colors.
320 TRS- Red t-shirt
321 TRS- Dark gray t-shirt
322 TRS- Gold t-shirt
323 TRS- Tan t-shirt **Trainee Nick's squadrom **
324 TRS- Maroon t-shirt
326 TRS- Dark blue t-shirt
331 TRS- Black t-shirt

Airman's Coin Ceremony (11:00am)
Honor Graduate Reception (11:45am):
Airman, Spouse and Parent Orientation (1:00pm):
Buffet Dinner Opportunity (12:00pm-7:30pm):
End of Liberty (8:00pm):

Friday: Orientation Briefing, Parade, Open House, Family/Spouse/Parent Orientation, and Town Pass
Transportation to Parade Ground (7:15am-8:30am):
Graduation Parade (9:00am):
Squadron Open House (10:15-11:15am):
Lunch Opportunity (11:30-1:30pm):
Airman, Spouse and Parent Orientation (12:00pm):
Town Pass (12:00pm-8:00pm)
End of Liberty (8:00pm): Airmen are due back in their dormitory.

Saturday
Town Pass (9:00am):
End of Town Pass (8:00pm): Airmen are due back in their dormitory

Sunday
Religious Services (6:30am-4:00pm):
Special Town Pass (9:00am-6:00pm)
Base Liberty (9:00am):
Sunday brunch (9:30am-1:30pm):
End of Liberty (6:00pm):

GOP Cleansing or Simple Purity Test

2010-08-13T09:52:00.002-05:00

Let me share anther reason as to why, even though I would argue I lean Right on the overall ideological spectrum, I struggle with even considering being a Republican.

Two term GOP State Senator Paul Koering loses primary and is now leaving the party. Why?

Koering begrudges the Minnesota GOP for asking local sheriffs for his law enforcement records in July. He said the state GOP is imposing an increasingly exclusionary "purification process" on members.

"The party that I've called home for 14 years has kind of, in essence, went off the cliff," Koering said. "I always tried to stay with the party to hopefully be a voice of reason within the party. But I found through this campaign that that doesn't work anymore."

The primary appears to have vanquished Koering's appetite for politics; he told the Times his "political days are over."

Koering said he wants Stevenson to succeed him because Gazelka is too ideological to find common ground with DFLers and independents.

Yes, he says his party "went off a cliff". I believe that happened many years ago and is nothing new. Sad really!

Flash

Dayton -v- Emmer: The Bloodbath!

2010-08-11T07:54:00.004-05:00

I was pretty disconnected from this primary race. Of the three candidates in the DFL Primary, I felt Matt Entenza was clearly the best possible person for the Governor's seat. I know his past was a distraction, but when I put 'Minnesota First' it seemed he had the best ideas, the most balanced approach, and a solid foundation to get the state back on track.

But in the end, I voted for MAK. If I had any regrets I would go back in time and have worked towards a MAK victory. A MAK nomination would have put Emmer in 'stick a fork in him' land. Democrats, moderates like myself, and sensible Republicans would have been able to support her, we would have a issues based campaign, and the people would decide.

So with Dayton the nominee, and Emmer, the Tea Party and Palin chosen one, I expect a blood bath. The greatest fear the Right has is having to run on issues. They know their policies and practices have gotten us into an economic and social mess. A MAK candidacy would have kept this race cleaner. Now the Right will cherry pick the quirks of Senator Dayton and keep the electorate in confusion. The Left will then be on the defensive and continue with the DUIs smear.

The airwaves will be filled with blood and mud. The people will grow weary of juvenile style junior high politics. Classic Right Wing "I know you are but what am I' defenses along with the 'I'm rubber you're glue' gambit will replace what we should do to fix the pending 6 billion dollar deficit without further gutting the budget. We won't here one candidate's desire to further chip away at the bone, cracking into the budget marrow, and sucking it dry, just to appease his rich donor friends. But we will hear about how the other candidate wants to steal every one's money through taxes, rather than the truth of tweaks to bring fairness back into the tax rates.

And sitting back is the IP candidate, who will proclaim he is above all this and if you want to end 'politics as usual' that is where your vote should go.

Sorry, this state can't afford another 4 years of a Governor who is selfish and out of touch while the rest of us suffer. I never thought I would say this, as Senator Dayton was on my 'no way in Hell' list. But since the Right has opted for a Palin style Tea partier, they've alienated me.

Senator, have your people call my people, we have a state to rescue!

Flash

UPDATE: MAK bows out gracefully:

“I just spoke with Mark Dayton and congratulated him on winning the DFL primary. I offered him my full support. He will make an excellent governor.

“I am so grateful for all of the hard work of our volunteers and supporters over the last twelve months. This was a people-powered, grassroots campaign and we should all be proud of what we achieved together.

“In Minnesota we value every person’s voice and count every person’s vote. And that’s what happened this election.

“Today we will come together as DFLers. We will unite behind Mark Dayton, and beat Tom Emmer in November.”

Margaret Anderson Kelliher

WEEK 7 Almost there!!

2010-08-09T15:51:00.003-05:00

Can't believe we are int he home stretch. I leave a week from tomorrow for Lackland AFB. Where has the Summer gone!

WEEK 7

– Air Force history
– Combat stress recovery
– Sexual assault prevention and reporting
– Suicide awareness and prevention
– Financial management
– Sexually transmitted diseases
– Ethics
– Evaluation of drill, reporting and courtesies
– PT (Physical Training) evaluation
– Written test

= = = = = =

On an unrelated note, I have really enjoyed taking some time away from serious posting. I've been doing this for some time and needed to just take a few steps back. Soon I will be re-engaged, but that may not happen till after I get back from Texas.

Enjoy your week!

Flash

Justice!

2010-08-06T09:42:00.003-05:00

Koua Fong Lee: A free man after 2.5 years in prison for fatal Toyota crash

"It is not a dream."

That's how Koua Fong Lee responded Thursday afternoon when asked how it felt to have his wife's hands clasped around his arm at a St. Paul hotel, to have her stand next to him and to feel her touch after two years and seven months in prison. And after thinking he would spend several more years away from her and their four children.

"Sometimes, when I was sleeping in the cot, I dreamed (I was at home), and then I woke up still in the little room," he said, as his wife, Panghoua Moua, leaned her head against his shoulder and protested, "No. ..."

"But now," Lee said, "my dream has come true."

==
He always said he was innocent; now he's free

After Ramsey County District Judge Joanne Smith ruled that Lee is entitled to a new trial, County Attorney Susan Gaertner said there would be no retrial and no appeal.

==

There are still unanswered questions here, not the least of which is why the County Prosecutors would so vigorously proceed in a case where it was pretty clear the driver, Lee, had no reason or intent to cause this accident. It was simply that, an accident, a tragic loss of life due to factors beyond human control.

May all those involved find peace in their lives as we move on from this tragedy.

Flash

CNN posts the story on their front page:
Minnesota judge frees man convicted in acceleration crash of Toyota

(CNN) -- A Minnesota man sent to prison after the deadly sudden-acceleration crash of his Toyota Camry has been freed by a judge, and the local prosecutor says he will not be retried.

Ramsey County, Minnesota, District Court Judge Joanne Smith on Thursday ordered Koua Fong Lee released from prison pending a new trial related to the 2006 crash that killed three people. Ramsey County Prosecutor Susan Gaertner immediately said she would drop the charges.

"Mr. Lee will be a free man," Gaertner said in a written statement.

WEEK 6 - The BEAST!

2010-08-02T10:07:00.003-05:00

WEEK 6 - The BEAST!

– SERE (Survival Evasion Resistance Escape)
– Deployment briefing
– Basic Expeditionary Airman Skills Training (BEAST)

I've booked my hotel and am set for Graduation. We'll be driving down and probably staying in Dallas for a day. I've never been to Dealy Plaza so I can't just drive through without stopping.

The Trainee called Saturday, but we missed his as we were out. Dag Nabbit!

Flash

Up Nort' 2010

2010-07-21T11:53:00.002-05:00

We are leaving for our annual excursion Up Nort' to da Range. We'll be on Lake Leander, near Britt, MN north of Buhl.

My View will be something like this!

Place nice while I am gone.

Flash

Gov. Timmeh Asks for Help

2010-07-20T07:23:00.001-05:00

WEEK 4 - BMT and another phone call

2010-07-20T07:10:00.003-05:00

WEEK 4

– CBRNE/chamber training
– Anti-terrorism/Force protection level I
– Security programs
– Obstacle course
– Weapons evaluation (breakdown and assembly)
– Second clothing issue
– Dress and appearance (service uniform)

==

Got another phone call from Trainee Nick. All is still well and on track. His first words were 'I just got out of the gas chamber' I had to ask if it was some kind of punishment, but it was related to the CBRNE/Chamber training. He even sounded somewhat excited about it.

From here on out things start to get better, TIs (Training Instructors) are more in 'build up' mode rather than 'tear down' mode.

The letter I had sent hi on Saturday already had arrived yesterday so it is good to know mail flows fast. The bad news is, the letter sits in his security locker till Sunday as he isn't allowed to read mail unless authorized.

So he is half over. We are finalizing travel arrangements for BMT graduation towards the end of August and I just can;t wait to see the new man he has become.

Have I mentioned how proud I am!!

Flash
Proud Marine and Air Force Dad!

Emmer Supporter, "This is a Catastrophe"

2010-07-15T07:14:00.003-05:00

I was able to make it to the Waitergate Spin Fest at Ol Mexico yesterday afternoon. By the time I get there the back room was already sealed off, pretty much. Well dressed doorman were restricting access signaling the room was full. However, an Emmer button or a Shirt stating "Proud Conservative" would still get you in. If you were wearing one of the "I am not Overpaid" stickers, you were denied. This didn't mean there was many friendlies int he room. Emmer, for the most part, was flustered, even showing edgy emotion. I found his tone angry and bitter. You could sense the regret.

He attempted to pass blame on the media for misrepresentation, but then a server at the microphone read the transcript back to him, using his own actual words. Lots of cheering for the pro Working Class group. Emmer was spiraling downward, fast, and it was clear as the microphone was being passed around he was waiting for the clock to run out, in fact, ending the even early, and clearing the room accept for the very press he ridiculed.

Since I was not in the room itself, I hung out in the bar area. The audio was being piped in, so you could hear what was going on. But what I found really interesting was the groups of Emmer/GOP supporters with the long faces, growing frustrated as the event wore on. Soon a supporter came out of the back room and approached a group of other Emmer supporters, I overheard:

"What is he doing . . . this is a catastrophe"

And that was pretty much how it went all the way to the end . . . until . . . a lone egotistical idiot became Emmer's best friend. In a rude and improper stunt, this idiot gave Emmer the out he needed, dumping a bag of pennies on the table in front of Emmer. And then started preaching about immigration and the hypocrisy of the Emmer campaign staging their little Town Hall in a Mexican Restaurant.

So what did the media talk about on the news. Did they focus on Emmer's unwillingness to actually engage the very hard working Minnesotans he wants to drive into bankruptcy. Oh hell know, it was all about the pennies. One brief moment within an hour of major Fail for the Emmer campaign. DBrauer did a breakdown and posted on Twitter.

Tale of TV tape: #EmmerFest time devoted to penny-pourer: @KARE11 41 sec of 1:58; @KSTP 1:26 of 2:30; @WCCO 8 seconds of 2:29. @fox9kmsp TBD

'CCO did the most balanced job, KARE11 even interviewed the idiot and I would expect nothing less from KSTP as the in the bag channel for the MNGOP.

Liberal Media my ass!

Flash

Week 3, BMT and a call from the Trainee

2010-07-12T07:31:00.003-05:00

Finally heard from Trainee Nick. He sounded GREAT and was very committed to his decisions. I heard no frustration and second guessing.

We had about 15 minute for our first 'conversation' following a couple other phone calls that were very robotic and rushed. This time he was very relaxed, almost excited about 'Hell Week' coming up.

He has passed all inspections, is ahead in his studies and memorization, doing well in PT, and get this, he is in the band *Smile* Now, what that means is he is playing the bass drum to help keep the cadence during marching drills, but still, hey, better than latrine duty LOL.

He gets his Blues this week, and soon the first set of official photographs. Can;t wait to put the fresh crisp Trainee up on the family wall. It will look sharp!

I have his address if anyone is interested, just shoot me a note to:

flash at centrisity dot com

The adventure continues . . .

Flash
Proud Air Force dad!

WEEK 3  

– Drill Precision   
- SABC (Self Aid/Buddy Care) under fire ...
– Bleeding control – Bandages and dressings
 – Combat application tourniquet 
– Blood clotting agents 
– Splint fractures 
– Internal bleeding 
– Burn treatments
 – Shock management 
– Airway management 
– Spinal injury 
– Job Classification Interviews

Gubernatorial Manicure

2010-07-09T08:10:00.004-05:00

via Steve Kelly at Comics.com

And in case you missed Lindsey's nails at her sentencing, take a peek.

Flash

Doublespeak from an Auditor Candidate

2010-07-08T07:46:00.003-05:00

She couldn't do her job the first time, and now she can't even audit her own words. From former Auditor and now perennial Candidate Pat Awada Anderson:

First She Says:

"giving local units the ability to levy a half-cent sales tax"

And later she says

"The last thing we want to do is raise taxes," Anderson stressed."

So which is it, do these folks even read what the speak, know what they say, believe what they think?

Flash

Em and Emmer

2010-07-06T09:12:00.002-05:00

Just when I think the faltering DFL campaigns are handing the Statehouse to the GOP for another 4 years, Emmer shows he is the gift that keeps on giving:

Republican gubernatorial candidate Tom Emmer rekindled a smoldering debate Monday when he said minimum-wage workers who earn tips should have their wages reduced.

Minnesota is one of seven states that forbids employers from using a "tip credit" to avoid paying the full minimum wage otherwise required by law.

Now, from a policy stand point, the debate is fair enough to have, but from a political standpoint, this is nothing short of shoving his foot down his throat.

In 2008, Republican Gov. Tim Pawlenty vetoed a bill that would have raised the minimum wage to $7.75 because it didn't include the tip credit for hourly service workers. Emmer voted against that bill. In 2005, DFLers defeated a tip credit amendment.

Emmer said he supports reinstituting the credit, which he said hasn't existed in Minnesota since 1990. He quoted a 2008 Hospitality Minnesota survey of restaurant owners that said state servers make an average of $15.43 an hour in wages plus gratuities.

And in case there is any confusion, this proposal is nothing more than a redistribution of funds from hard working Minnesotans to the wealthy business owners. And the GOP calls the liberals, socialists?!? Maybe they need to look in the mirror.

Flash

2nd Week

2010-07-06T09:11:00.000-05:00

Second Week of Training

Integrated Defense
Weapons Cleaning
Career Guidance
Recruit Living Area Progress Check

Mustangs: The Cutting Edge

2010-06-29T16:12:00.004-05:00

323d Training Squadron

Mission Statement:
Provides world-class military leadership and training necessary to transform recruits into highly motivated Airmen possessing the foundational warrior attitudes, knowledge, skills and abilities to sustain the world’s greatest Air Force.

Squadron Lineage:
Designated 3703d Training Squadron, and organized, on 26 Aug 1948. Redesignated: 3703d Basic Military Training Squadron on 7 Feb 1952; 323d Basic Training Squadron on 25 Aug 1992; 323d Training Squadron on 1 Apr 1994.

The “Mustangs” proudly wear a TAN colored t-shirt during the Airman’s Run.

The Smart Kid

2010-06-29T07:47:00.002-05:00

via Cagle:

Eyes on Franken

2010-06-29T07:13:00.002-05:00

The Fix knows who to keep an eye on:

Six Senators to watch in Kagan confirmation
Making the list, our very own:

* Al Franken: The Sotomayor hearings amounted to a public debut of sorts for the comedian turned Minnesota Democratic Senator. And, while Franken did occasionally crack wise, he was generally a low-profile presence on the committee. With another year of Senate service under his belt, does Franken take a different approach to this confirmation? With liberals expressing some concerns about Kagan's past policy positions (or, more accurately, her lack of past policy positions) will Franken take the mantle as liberal champion on the committee and try to draw her out?

Franken has turned the heads of even the most staunchest Conservatives, but they would never admit it publicly, the Tea Partiers are watching and any sign if weakness means you are out!

Flash

The Kagen Hearings

2010-06-28T15:52:00.002-05:00

CNN:

"While her confirmation is considered likely, Republican senators on the panel questioned Monday whether Kagan can be an impartial justice, "

If the Activist (read extreme partisans) Conservative judges on the bench set the bar for being 'impartial' than a Justice Kagen could be defined as a strict constitutionalist, for those of us that actually care about the constitution.

One thing I've learned from watching the Tea Party movement and their cheerleaders, it has nothing about what is best for the country, just what is best for them.

Flash

What is Normalcy?

2010-06-28T07:34:00.002-05:00

Summer School begins so it is back to the grind at the new environment. Will be double duty settling into the new place while providing service to the over 500 students attending at our Arlington location.

The Airman to be is working hard at BMT I am sure, although we haven't heard from him since he called the night he arrived. I understand that is generally the procedure. We'll hear from him soon enough.

I am going to get back into the saddle, as the Gubernatorial race heats up, Supreme Court hearings begin, and other political excitement rears its head. It will be as normal as normal can be.

Flash

The Last Day, Going Away

2010-06-21T07:03:00.003-05:00

Fantastic weekend, GREAT party, and now the final day. Leaving this AM for Al's Breakfast and then to the recruiter for final debrief.

Afternoon will be spent shopping for those boot camp essentials, maybe a visit to the cemetery to say goodbye to Grand Ma, and then a last meal at Rock Bottom, Mpls. We expect to be there between 5:00 and 7:00

First curfew is 9:00 pm this evening, at that point he is one of Them, and my job is done.

Bittersweet is the understatement, but I am confident in his preparedness.

Flash

Here is a shot of us at Al's, shopping done, leaving for Cemetery soon.

One week List

2010-06-15T06:29:00.002-05:00

What would you do if you had a week to go for basic. I asked Airman to Be Nick to make a list of what he wanted to do before he left. Hopefully we can hit more than half of them, but it is interesting to see what he wanted to do:

1) Visit Gramma's Grave
2) See the inside of the Cathedral (where he was baptized)
3) Go Camping with the guys one more time
4) Get Sandals and new Razor
5) Hit up a Rave
6) Finish Fable
7) Eat at Al's Breakfast
8) Ride every ride worth riding at Camp Snoopy
9) Visit Burial Mounds
10) Visit Science Museum
11) Visit Como Zoo
12) Run a 5 mile trail
13) One more Twin's Game
14) Paint balling
15) Whiskey River; St. Peter, MN
16) Patrick's in St. Peter, MN
17) 3-D IMovie theater
18) AMC
19) Visit Veterans Memorial
20) Rock Bottom for pizza and Sarsaparilla
21) Spend a day with Grandma and Grandpa
22) Visit Thole, Mr Modelli, Capt Karimi (former teachers)
23) Visit Art Museum (MIA)
24) Visit Capital
25) History Museum

Pretty grounded list if you ask me. This guy will do just fine. I think we can knock off at least 20/

Flash

YES HE DID!

2010-06-10T06:48:00.001-05:00

Its official:

The proud parents still in somewhat of a state of shock LOL Twelve days to boot camp. This morning the graduate is finishing scraping and prepping the garage for a coat of paint. Going to milk him for all the free labor I can before he disappears and turns into a man.

Flash

The Graduate

2010-06-09T06:23:00.000-05:00

Rehearsal this morning, commencement, tonight. I have seen the transcript but will not believe it till he is holding his diploma *laughing*

13 days till he embarks on his next journey in life as an Airman int he US Air Force.

Pics late tonight, or in the AM

Flash

Latest MN-Goober Poll

2010-06-08T10:04:00.003-05:00

The latest picture in time . . . Looks like people are not happy with wallowing in mediocrity:

All three leading Democratic-Farmer-Labor candidates for governor hold firm leads over Republican endorsee Tom Emmer, a new statewide poll shows.

The poll also showed Gov. Tim Pawlenty's popularity has sunk to a new low.

Ole' Gov. TPaws sell out tour will have everlasting effects on his legacy. Its what happens when you live inthe now, rather than the tomorrow. The Gubanatorial numbers:

Among the three main DFL gubernatorial candidates, former U.S. Sen. Mark Dayton has the biggest lead over Emmer, 40 percent to 28 percent.

House Speaker Margaret Anderson Kelliher, the DFL-endorsed candidate, led the GOP candidate, 38 percent to 28 percent.

Former House DFL Minority Leader Matt Entenza also topped Emmer, 34 percent to 27 percent.

Tom Horner, the Independence Party's endorsed candidate for governor, finished third in all three trial heats, receiving 17 percent to 19 percent of the vote.

Time for the Right Wing SmearisSphere to slime these numbers in 5 . . 4 . . 3 . . 2 . . 1 . . .

Flash

Cap n Gown

2010-06-04T06:32:00.000-05:00

The future Airman is another step closer, he picked up his Cap and Gown yesterday. I think that is a sign he may actually pull this off *laughing*

Today is the last day of classes for Seniors, commencement is Wednesday evening. Countdown to boot camp deploy continues on track for June 22nd. I think both our worlds will change greatly at that time.

Graduation Assimilation

2010-06-03T06:16:00.000-05:00

See Cartoons by Cartoon by Gary McCoy - Courtesy of Politicalcartoons.com - Email this Cartoon

See Cartoons by Cartoon by Joe Heller - Courtesy of Politicalcartoons.com - Email this Cartoon

9 days left

2010-06-01T06:02:00.000-05:00

The countdown begins, and the next few weeks will be pretty hectic.

As one of the schools effected by the downsizing in St Paul, there is much to do. Fortunately we are moving, not closing, but it is still bag and tag boxes in preparation for the slide down Rice Street to the Arlington building.

My Air Force bound Senior is wrapping up his last week of school. Still on track, he has many countdowns going on, Friday is last day of classes, Next Wednesday is Commencement, a week and a half later is the Graduation party and Boot Camp send off. Then, on the 21st, he has his final de-Brief before spending his final afternoon with family and friends. He has a 9:00 Air Force Curfew that day, where he checks into the hotel with an early wake up call. The next morning they are hurried to the MEPS center for final orders, official swearing in, and then the flight to Lackland for 8 1/2 weeks of fun in the sun.

At that point, the week just begins. It will be a crazy month.

Flash

Memorializing 2010

2010-05-31T08:29:00.005-05:00

From my 2004 Memorial day tribute I shared a little bit about my ancestry and their involvement protecting our freedom's:

My dad was the youngest in the family, and his father, being a widower soon after my dad was born, remarried. Gramma who was also a Widow, had several boys whom joined the clan, and it was a nice size rural farm type family. My dad enlisted in the Navy, and is a veteran of the Korean War. The other boys, including Grampa, were all vets of WWII. Gramma had 4 Star flags hanging in her window. One for Grampa Otto, who was a mail carrier in WWII (Otto drove ambulances in WWI) and one for each of her boys, Vane, LaMoyne, and Bob.

Bob didn't make it home. He was a casualty in Europe (from 2008 post). His body was eventually returned and is interred in the Dummer family plot in Henderson, MN.

And Mom's side:

My maternal background is more domestic. I only have to go back a few generations to find Civil War veterans (one even buried right here is St. Paul) and a few more generations to find Revolutionary War descendancy.
In fact, an Eaton family homestead, in Green Lake Wisconsin, was acquired through a War of 1812 Bounty Land Warrant.

While you are enjoying the beautiful day, and the amazing weather, don't lose site of what this day is really for.

Have a SAFE and HEALTHY holiday.

Flash

Trust BP

2010-05-28T06:38:00.000-05:00

See Cartoons by Cartoon by Monte Wolverton - Courtesy of Politicalcartoons.com - Email this Cartoon

See Cartoons by Cartoon by Jeff Parker - Courtesy of Politicalcartoons.com - Email this Cartoon

AZ Immigration Frustration

2010-05-26T06:11:00.001-05:00

On paper, I think the Left is blowing way out of proportion the New AZ immigration law. No where int he law do we have Gestapoesque 'Papers Please' permissions, the law is clear that race can NOT be used is 'reasonable suspicion'. It really is a law that give Local law enforcement the same authority the Federal Agencies already have, and that is why they are getting together. The locals now fear the same or similar concern the Feds have had:

Washington (CNN) -- Police chiefs from about a dozen cities are scheduled to meet with U.S. Attorney General Eric Holder on Wednesday to talk about concerns they have with Arizona's new immigration law.

The group includes police chiefs from Phoenix and Tucson in Arizona; Los Angeles, California; and Houston, Texas.

The chiefs will tell Holder that they worry the new law will "drive a wedge" between the community and police, and damage the trust that officers have worked to build "over many years," according to a statement by the group.

Just like Politics is local, so is law enforcement. Politicians trying to create base based incendiary laws struggle with looking beyond the laws implementation, and the consequences that can take place. We are seeing similar reaction to Health Care Reform in a sense.

Others attending the meeting today:

The group attending Wednesday's meeting also comprises of chiefs of police from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania; Minneapolis, Minnesota; San Jose, California; Salt Lake City, Utah; Sahuarita, Arizona; Montgomery County, Maryland; and the president of Arizona's Association of Chiefs of Police.

Yeap, Minneapolis and others from agencies all across the country. IT is clear that similar laws like Arizona's are in the works, and local law enforcement is already proactively educating themselves for when the Feds hand over the keys. Is that the next step, de-federalizing immigration enforcement? I'll be reviewing the recent Immigration proposal by the Administration for clues. On the surface, it looks like more of the same that the prior administration tried.

Flash

A Woman of Distinction

2010-05-24T06:55:00.004-05:00

The DFL Feminist Caucus had their annual Hall of Fame Banquet, this weekend, to honor their inductees. They have two categories, Woman of Distinction, and rising stars. Lets take a look at these award winners:

Women of Distinction

Jane Dietl
Linda Freemon
Martha Johnson
Jo Matson
Alana Petersen
Nancy Schumacher
Lois Wendt
Lynn Wilson

2010 DFL Rising Stars

Laura Askelin
Melissa Jamrock
Janie Paulson
Keeya Steele
Trayshana Thomas

Why there's familiar name. It is none other than my sister and frequent Centrisity commenter Linda! Here is her bio in the events program (click to enlarge)
CONGRATULATIONS, Sis, and congratulations to all of this years' honorees!!

Flash

Economic Update

2010-05-20T06:40:00.002-05:00

So where are we at:

Job Growth Best gain in four years.

Manufacturing (ISM) 'Signs are positive for continued growth.'

GDP Growth slows to 3.2% in the first quarter.

Home Prices Value inched up 0.6% in February from a year earlier.

Consumer Confidence Confidence in April built on earlier gains.

Retail Sales 1.6% in March.

Inflation (CPI) Running at 2.3%.

The anti incumbency mood is spreading, but as the economy recovers, and improvement continues through November, the electorate will see the difference between then, and now.

Golden Boy

2010-05-17T12:05:00.000-05:00

My youngest is 17 on the 17th, today. No, it doesn't make me feel old, but it does put a generation of fun into perspective. I have been involved in the raising of kids since April 1987, when I first met Sgt. Tom, only 11 months old and not even walking yet. The Sgt. turned 24 last Saturday.

The Birthday boy is still a work in progress, eying the Navy, but not realizing the importance of getting through academia first. He'll get it, or the natural consequences will take over.

I don't mean to wish my life away, but the next 13 months will be a count down for us *laughing*

Happy Birthday, son!! Have a GREAT day today, then get your school work done *smile*

Dad!

Gone Fishin'

2010-05-14T06:46:00.000-05:00

I'll be heading up to Mille Lacs in the middle of the night to experience the opener. Not generally a big fisherman, but things kind of fell into place for a little get a way.

The Doctor and I plan on being on the water just before sun-up. Our other 'brother' Johny Jaws will already be up there as he is a die hard boy who wants to hit the lake right at Midnight. This way he'll have all the hots spots scouted already *laughing* A limit of bottle bass is assured, Walleyes are another story!

Have a safe and enjoyable weekend.

Flash

Drill, Baby, Spill ! - In Pictures

2010-05-13T06:20:00.000-05:00

Via Cagle:

See Cartoons by Cartoon by Nate Beeler - Courtesy of Politicalcartoons.com - Email this Cartoon

See Cartoons by Cartoon by Bob Englehart - Courtesy of Politicalcartoons.com - Email this Cartoon

See Cartoons by Cartoon by Jeff Parker - Courtesy of Politicalcartoons.com - Email this Cartoon

Things That Make Mitch's Head Explode

2010-05-12T06:47:00.000-05:00

A Carter is elected:

State election results show Atlanta attorney Jason Carter will follow in his grandfather President Jimmy Carter’s political footsteps.

Mitch, the strongest man I know for his ability to move goal posts with his little finger, was never a big Carter fan LOL Oh, it gets better:

“I’m excited the Carters are coming back in the system,” Trish Bricker said. “It’s a family tradition for us to vote so we can show the kids what it’s all about.”

. . .

Carter, 34, is the founder of Democrats Work, a national organization that does community service projects.

And we know what happens to Community Service Workers in politics.

So now you know what that large BANG was that you heard this morning

That is all!

Flash

Pawlenty to Raise Taxes!

2010-05-11T06:42:00.003-05:00

With a pending veto in the wings, and the Governor's use of unallotment ruled illegal, yes illegal, where does that leave us . . . the constitution:

If money on hand in any fund is not sufficient to pay all non-refunding certificates of indebtedness issued on a fund during any biennium and all certificates refunding the same, plus interest thereon, which are outstanding on December 1 immediately following the close of the biennium, the state auditor shall levy upon all taxable property in the state a tax collectible in the ensuing year sufficient to pay the same on or before December 1 of the ensuing year with interest to the date or dates of payment.

Scattered throughout the Constitution is revenue fail safes in case of indebtedness. The property tax, as we know, is very regressive, effecting lower income earners at a much higher percentage, but the Governor has had no problem having the less fortunate amongst us continue to carry the water so he can protect his wealthy donors.

The current revenue option sitting on the Governor's desk, equals out the income tax disparity in the state, while still having the richest amongst us paying less of a burden than those in the lower income deciles.

Why is it that this "no new tax" Governor, who by his actions, will now be raising taxes, chooses to put the burden on those who are already paying a higher percentage with less to give? Is his race to the White House really more important than the citizens of Minnesota?

Flash

Kagan to the Court

2010-05-10T06:37:00.000-05:00

Looks like Solicitor General Kagan:

Kagan, 50, a New York native, has been widely reported to be the front-runner for the nomination. She was a finalist for the high court vacancy last year when Justice Sonia Sotomayor was selected to replace the retiring David Souter.

If confirmed, Kagan would be the third woman on the nine-justice bench and the fourth in the history of the court.

Kagan received her law degree from Harvard University, where she later served as dean of the law school. She previously served in the Clinton administration as associate White House counsel.

Although the confirmation won;t necessary be smooth, look fir the new Extreme wing on the GOP to hammer her, there is little doubt she will be confirmed. Even GOP Sen Orin Hatch understands the dilemma as he spoke last year:

"You have to admit, Elena Kagan is a brilliant woman," Sen. Orrin Hatch, a Republican on the Judiciary Committee, said during a radio interview a year ago when Kagan was being vetted for a high court seat. "She is a brilliant lawyer. If [Obama] picks her, it is a real dilemma for people," especially conservatives.

"And she will undoubtedly say that she will abide by the rule of law."

I suspect, that unless something incredible controversial comes up over the next few weeks, the hearings won't be considered a spectator sport.

Flash

Testing Week, A Potpourri

2010-05-05T06:09:00.000-05:00

It has been a typical testing week at work, with early starts and busy mornings cutting into my blogging time. It is the price you pay for driving this Centrisity buss solo.

So here are some things I am still following.

-- TPaw still thinks we can cut ourselves out of this mess. I guess he is really prepared to hand the state over to the Left who will at least make the painful, yet common sense decisions to do it right.

-- I support the idea of a new Viking's stadium, but it should be contingent on the permanent retirement of 'The Mole' that is Favré. I still think the better funding mechanism would be to take all the tax revenues that we would lose if the Vikes left, spread it over 20 years, and I think you';; find that is a nice chunk of change. Argument is that is general fund money, my retort is it is money we won;t have anyway if they leave.

-- The stellar detective work in the Times Square Bombing attempt showed how inter-agency cooperation, persistence, and the goal of protecting Americans, works. I couldn't help but think of a scene in '24' as the agents stormed the place at the last minute, while still sitting on the Tarmac.

-- Speaking of '24', this season, claimed to be the final on TV, is shaping up to be quite a season. I am also watching the first 5 days as I didn't get into the series until day 6. I was not really impressed with Day 6, and after watching the first 4 1/2 days and I can see why diehard fans were just as discouraged. Each of the first 5 days has gotten better and better, so a Day 6 let down was inevitable.

I have heard mixed reviews on what happens next for '24'. A movie is almost assured, but 'Keifer explained that it was a way to do 24 hours in a 2 hour movie allowing for travel and flexibility that just doesn't exists doing real time.

Sutherland also confirmed what we’ve been hearing for awhile now: the movie version will get rid of the trademark real-time aspect, instead condensing events into one two-hour movie. The movie will likely take place over one 24-hour period, but nothing has been made official yet as far as the time-framing.

In another story I read most recently, the Movie will be 2 hours of real time to set up a 22 episode 9th day in 2011/12 I have more confidence in the former, than the latter.

OK, what's on your mind?

Flash

Presidential Papers

2010-04-30T06:45:00.000-05:00

Unintended consequences of the new AZ Immigration law LOL:

See Cartoons by Cartoon by Dave Granlund - Courtesy of Politicalcartoons.com - Email this Cartoon

Seriously, I have been going back and forth on this legislation, and I am still not convinced it is this big 3rd Reich boogie man the Left is making it out to be. But there is legitimate concern regarding enforcement and the pressure, specifically as it relates to litigation for failure to enforce, that should cause ones eyes to open wider.

Boots on the ground share their frustrations:

in a city less than an hour's drive from the Mexican border, Charlton and his fellow officers suddenly are at the center of a roiling immigration debate, and Arizona's new and controversial immigration law is almost certain to transform how they do their job.

"We're way too busy," Charlton said of the law's requirement that police officers question anyone they reasonably suspect of being in the country illegally. "We don't have enough officers on the street to look for other stuff like that. If they're not doing anything, they're just being normal people. Why would I do that?"

. . .

"We are in a tenuous position as law enforcement," Tucson Police Chief Roberto A. Villaseñor said, noting that the law allows citizens to sue police agencies that do not enforce it. "No matter which way we go, there are lawsuits in the wings. The ones who are going to get beaten up on this most are the law enforcement agencies."

. . .

The day after the Arizona legislature approved the bill, the police headquarters was flooded with phone calls. A typical complaint, according to Villaseñor, was this: "Hey, there are some Mexicans standing on the corner? You need to check them out."

The police chief considered the requests "ridiculous" because "a lot of people stand on street corners." Villaseñor, a Tucson native who joined the police force in 1980 and became chief last year, said he understands the frustrations but objects to the law on several levels.

"Too many vagaries," he said. He said that he doubts there is a law officer "anywhere in the state of Arizona" who can accurately describe how to enforce the measure and that he fears it will lead to racial profiling, despite the law's prohibition of the practice.

And it is the 'vagaries' that concern me as well. Certainly there will be training, and the bill attempted to limit 'racial profiling' and other unlawful contact situations. The law becomes active 90 days after the adjournment of the Legislature, so there is time for this to work itself out.

Here is a PDF of the bill. Be sure you quote specific text if you want to argue against this legislation. Many opponents think that a cop can and will walk up to someone just because of the color of their skin. Nothing in the law allows for that, and in fact, specifically prohibits it.

The attorney general or county
attorney shall not investigate complaints that are based solely on race

I understand the need to regain control of our porous borders, but not at the expense of the rights of citizens who are here legally and lawfully. I'll continue to educate myself on this issue as I try to reconcile the realities being shared by both side of the aisle.

Flash

Reasonable Suspicion -vs- Probable Cause RE: AZ SB 1070

2010-04-29T08:33:00.004-05:00

OK, I’ve read the bill, and it seems both sides are making political hay, here. But maybe an esteemed attorney out there can help me. Here is the clause that makes me very uncomfortable about this legislation:

FOR ANY LAWFUL CONTACT MADE BY A LAW ENFORCEMENT OFFICIAL OR AGENCY OF THIS STATE OR A COUNTY, CITY, TOWN OR OTHER POLITICAL SUBDIVISION OF THIS STATE WHERE REASONABLE SUSPICION EXISTS THAT THE PERSON IS AN ALIEN WHO IS UNLAWFULLY PRESENT IN THE UNITED STATES, A REASONABLE ATTEMPT SHALL BE MADE, WHEN PRACTICABLE, TO DETERMINE THE IMMIGRATION STATUS OF THE PERSON. THE PERSON’S IMMIGRATION STATUS SHALL BE VERIFIED WITH THE FEDERAL GOVERNMENT
PURSUANT TO 8 UNITED STATES CODE SECTION 1373(c).

So what is the difference between ‘reasonable suspicion’ and “probable cause”.

Is someone who is Hispanic, living near the border, and legally and lawfully here, going to be subject to unlawful search and seizure because as a Latino near the border that is enough for ‘reasonable suspicion’?

I can understand in times of economic tumult, we need to make sure that those here, taking jobs, are here legally and lawfully and certainly not displacing legal and lawful employees who are waiting to work.

Marty Seifert was wise to not embrace this law and only saw it as a ’step in the right direction’ I am not sure that is necessarily the case, either.

So someone define for me ‘reasonable suspicion’ and explain to me why a legal and lawful citizen in AZ now should carry a passport and/or birth certificate just to prove their citizenship in the state the live in.

Flash

PDF of Bill SB1070:

From the Senate AZ Fact Sheet:

Enforcement

1. Requires a reasonable attempt to be made to determine the immigration status of a person during any legitimate contact made by an official or agency of the state or a county, city, town or political subdivision (political subdivision) if reasonable suspicion exists that the person is an alien who is unlawfully present in the U.S.

2. Requires the person’s immigration status to be verified with the federal government pursuant to federal law.

3. Requires an alien unlawfully present in the U.S. who is convicted of a violation of state or local law to be transferred immediately to the custody of ICE or Customs and Border Protection, on discharge from imprisonment or assessment of any fine that is imposed.

4. Allows a law enforcement agency to securely transport an alien who is unlawfully present in the U.S. and who is in the agency’s custody to:

a) a federal facility in this state or

b) any other point of transfer into federal custody that is outside the jurisdiction of the law enforcement agency.

5. Allows a law enforcement officer, without a warrant, to arrest a person if the officer has probable cause to believe that the person has committed any public offense that makes the person removable from the U.S.

6. Prohibits officials or agencies of the state and political subdivisions from being prevented or restricted from sending, receiving or maintaining an individual’s immigration status information or exchanging that information with any other governmental entity for the following official purposes:

a) determining eligibility for any public benefit, service or license provided by any federal, state, local or other political subdivision of this state;

b) verifying any claim of residence or domicile if that verification is required under state law or a judicial order issued pursuant to a civil or criminal proceeding in the state;

c) confirming a detainee’s identity; and

d) if the person is an alien, determining whether the person is in compliance with federal alien registration laws.

7. Disallows officials or agencies of the state or political subdivisions from adopting or implementing policies that limit immigration enforcement to less than the full extent permitted by federal law, and allows a person to bring an action in superior court to challenge an official or agency that does so.

8. Requires the court, if there is a judicial finding that an entity has committed a violation, to order any of the following:

a) that the plaintiff recover court costs and attorney fees;

b) that the defendant pay a civil penalty of not less than $1,000 and not more than $5,000 for each day that the policy has remained in effect after the filing of the action.

9. Requires the court to collect and remit the civil penalty to the Department of Public Safety (DPS), which must establish a special subaccount for the monies in the account established for the Gang and Immigration Intelligence Team Enforcement Mission (GIITEM) appropriation.

10. Specifies that law enforcement officers are indemnified by their agencies against reasonable costs and expenses, including attorney fees, incurred by the officer in connection with any action, suit or proceeding brought pursuant to this statute to which the officer may be a party by reason of the officer being or having been a member of the law enforcement agency, except in relation to matters in which the officer is adjudged to have acted in bad faith.

Happy Birthday, Mike - RIP!

2010-04-29T06:43:00.004-05:00

We will be visiting our good friend Mike Fanaris, today, who passed away a few years ago WAY before his time. Mike would have been 46.

After a brief stop at Mound Cemetery in Brooklyn Center, we'll venture to Rock Bottom where we will tell stories and reminisce

Happy Birthday, brother!

Flash

CLICK to View:

Recovery in a Cup

2010-04-28T06:36:00.000-05:00

Another indicator that the economic recovery is in process, via the PiPress:

The pee cup is starting to look half full.

First-quarter financial results from New Brighton-based Medtox Scientific and two other lab companies that process pre-employment drug tests suggest there's a promising trickle of hiring in the U.S.

And reports from the trenches — medical clinics that administer the tests — suggest the same.

"It's as though someone flipped a switch," said Jim Sebesta, vice president for business development at Twin Cities Occupational Health & Rehabilitation, which conducts tests at clinics in Mendota Heights and Blaine. "Clearly, employers are hiring."

From January to March, Medtox Scientific saw its first year-over-year increase in sales of drug testing services since 2008.

The small 'l' Libertarian in me has issues with drug testing, its inaccuracies and inconsistencies, but that is a post for another day. For now, any sign that the economy is continuing its recovery is good news for me, and you would think good news for all.

Flash

Speaker Kelliher, Endorsee

2010-04-26T06:42:00.002-05:00

Congratulations to Speaker Kelliher for her gutty victory on Saturday:

DULUTH - In a night of high emotion and tactical maneuvering, House Speaker Margaret Anderson Kelliher won a fierce DFL endorsement contest on Saturday, moving a step closer to becoming Minnesota's first female governor.

In a grueling day of battling over delegates, Kelliher triumphed over rival Minneapolis Mayor R.T. Rybak after vanquishing a slew of other candidates.

However, as we know, and Chris Cillizza points out, this is only the preliminary round:

Kelliher's work is not done, however. Neither former Sen. Mark Dayton nor former state House Minority Leader Matt Entenza participated in the convention process, choosing instead to run in the Aug. 10 Democratic primary.

Add to that asterisks County Attorney Gaertner, perennial Ole Savior, and Podcaster Peter Idusogie, and we have a crowded field for the August Primary.

I was a leans Rukavina going in, and if he ends up on someones ticket that is the candidate I will look closest at. But I don;t see that happening. Looks like he is going to run for his legislative seat and focus on his Iron Range roots.

Here is my dilemma, we can;t tax our way out of this mess, and we can't cut our way out either. The Right is holding fast on a no new tax mantra (Well, the faux titled 'Fiscal Responsibility Pledge' this time), and although the Left has a more balanced approach, they insists there is nothing left to cut. Now I agree there are areas where we are chipping at marrow, and bring cutting to the bone, but I still think there is waste to be found.

The state can't go through 4 more years of the same policies that have gutted the very budget items that made Minnesota great. We need to find balance in our solutions, and whoever can show me they are willing to make the tough choices, and find the correct balance, will earn my support.

Flash

Educational Accountability

2010-04-22T06:40:00.001-05:00

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WashLington

2010-04-21T06:34:00.002-05:00

As a member of the staff at Washington Technology Magnet Middle school, I am deeply effected by the proposed changes and budget cuts within ISD 625 (St. Paul Public Schools). This isn't the first time I have been bitten by the budget bug. You may recall that I was once a member of the EXPO Middle (later changed to Wilson) program that fell victim to the axe back in '04. I shared my frustration back then, and even included alternate solutions. But the district moved on, spending a dollar to save a dime. Now the tough decisions have to m be made, and it looks like the new Superintendent is not afraid to make them.

First, the top heavy administration is getting streamlined, a long overdue process that is a must in order to add credibility to the budget process. How can you slice and dice academic programs while preserving multi level admins at the White Ivory tower on Colborne. The Super put a stop to that:

The Superintendent announced her plan to restructure the District. In her presentation the superintendent indicated that as the District prepare for a new school year with fewer dollars and continued high expectations for student achievement, we must refocus our energy and resources for future success. "Given our fiscal picture I will regrettably have to eliminate the positions of some wonderful leaders," Supt. Silva said. "In other cases, I will create new positions or redefine existing positions as we continue to refocus our work. In either case, my goal is to ensure that we have staff in place to implement the strategies we believe will propel our students to even greater gains."

In an attempt to realign district leadership to reduce fragmentation, increase accountability and create a coordinated team to implement the superintendent's 2010-2015 work plan and goals, Supt. Silva has made several major changes. The new organization structure is projected to save as much as $945,000. The superintendent also point out that this is only the beginning of central administrative cuts. More positions will be eliminated once departments and schools finalize their budgets.Those reductions will be identified by the end of April or first week in May.

A million dollar savings beginning with the elimination of 8 central administration positions. I had always said I would find it difficult to support further referendum if significant cuts in admin didn't take place. I am finally seeing what should have happened years ago.

Along with the admin cuts, several programs will be consolidated or co-located. And the most controversial of the proposal as is the closing of Arlington Senior high Program, but not the building. A domino effect will take place as my program, the Washington Technology Magnet Middle School will take its BioSmart curriculum and move to the Arlington site to rebrand the building. See, the Arlington program has been struggling for some time, and with that tumult, came declining enrollment and a stigma that could not be overcome. By having a clean break from the former, and moving the successful Washington Program to this newer building, the district can capitalize on one of its newer assets, and create a Washington Technology Secondary Program, which in the end will serve 7 - 12 grade students. It is somewhat of a surprise that this resident cynic of the district is fully supportive of this transition, and recognizes that the positives outweigh the concerns being expressed by current Arlington community members.

The burgeoning Paul and Sheila Wellstone School will transition to the Washington Building site, with all the new upgrades and remodels that are in place. It will allow for the continued use of this state of the art building and allow the Welsstone school to continue its growth.

These are tough decisions in difficult times. There was passionate community input last night that clearly was heard by the Board. But now leadership must take the place of emotion. I don't envy the Board, or the new Super, but it is refreshing that they understand they need to make long term transitional moves, and not be caught up in the emotions. That's called leadership, something that hasn't always been a part of the St. Paul School Board. Now it is front and center. I applaud their courage.

Flash

"98 percent of Americans got a tax cut last year"

2010-04-15T11:45:00.001-05:00

For 98% of Americans, your taxes dropped, plain and simple. And for those who think the GOP is the tax cut party, the party of 'No' voted as a block, against these cuts.

link

What Happened in 2009?

One third of the Recovery Act was made up of tax credits, the White House emphasizes.

"No one I've met is looking for a handout," Mr. Obama said in his address Saturday. "And that's not what these tax cuts are. Instead, they're targeted relief to help middle class families weather the storm, to jumpstart our economy, and to bring the fundamentals of the American Dream -- making an honest living, earning an education, owning a home, and raising a family -- back within reach for millions of Americans."

The credits included:

* An increase in the Earned Income Tax Credit
* An expansion of the Child Tax Credit
* For those who work, the Making Work Pay tax credit offered $400 per individual and $800 per couple
* For those who lost their job, there was a 65 percent tax credit to help cover the cost of health care. The first $2,400 in unemployment benefits went tax-free
* Up to $2,500 under the American Opportunity Credit for students and parents paying for college tuition
* $8,000 for first-time home buyers
* A deduction of state and local taxes paid on a new car
* Up to $1,500 for home improvements to increase energy efficiency

Even conservative advocacy group Americans for Tax Reform, which advocates for a single, national flat tax rate, found some praise for the Recovery Act -- specifically for provisions allowing small businesses to write off a wider range of business expenses.

More generally, "all tax relief has the minimum value of depriving the government of revenue," Americans for Tax Reform's tax policy director Ryan Ellis said.

Posted for those who care about turth and reality!

Flash

BathrooMageddon; Done, Done

2010-04-15T06:09:00.005-05:00

Some minor tweaks left, but we're calling it DONE. Turned out even more amazing than I thought.
Plumbing, Tile labor (tub surround only, flooring was all my baby), and Glass Block Window Build was contracted out.

Everything else we did on our own from Demo to final finishing work including building Window Rough-in and outside stucco path and framing. Based on initial general contractor bids, we figure we save between $4000 and $5000 doing a lot of the labor ourselves.
And the final product, simply beautiful. And the final verdict from the lovely Mrs. Flash is nothing short of complete satisfaction. And when Momma's happy, everyone is happy *smile*

Tomorrow I fly out to Biden Country (Scranton PA) for Spring Drum Corp meetings of the international association, but back by the 10:00 news Saturday PM. Full political sniping will resume Monday!

Flash

RUSH - Time Machine - ROW 6

2010-04-13T11:45:00.003-05:00

BEST SEATS EVER for me at a RUSH event

Section PLZ1 (Floor Center), Row 6, Seats (18, 19)

Last time I was that close was the back to back Met Center shows in 1984 for the Grace Under Pressure tour/ 7th Row and 9th Row.

I'm pumped . . here's wishing my Summer away, again!

Flash