Jack's Page

Capitalism ravaged by government

2011-10-01T14:40:00.000-07:00

The modern social welfare governments are unable to deal with stagnant economies. It is especially obvious in Europe. These governments have matured during a period of growing economies, growth made possible by cheap fossil fuels. The economy is no longer growing and cheap fossil fuels are no longer available.
While other nations are more prone to social generosity, the US supports a large military in addition to it's social welfare. The country maintains military bases and facilities in most other countries while conducting wars and other actions around the world. While our men and women in the military and all government workers are good, hardworking folks who pay taxes; their salaries, equipment, and related expense are paid for by taxes of business and their workers.
The US populace is prone to look to the government for satisfation of their desires rather than the needs it was created to provide. Thus, it spends considerable money on such things as food stamps, welfare , unemployment compensation, and subsidies of every kind.
How will they maintain such a level of spending?
The US has lead the world in the use of credit to satisfy the desires of the populace and her elected officials.
The world is now feeling the effects of credit contraction. The private sector is busy reducing it's debt while the government adds to it's debt. Businesses are tightening, resulting in higher unemployment. It most likely will take a long time to extract the excess debt out of the US economy. Japan has been at it for 30 years. It took many more years for us to get to this point.
I doubt that the US will ever achieve a meaningful growth rate and most certainly not one that will provide revenues equal to government expenditures.
The world economy is headed into uncharted waters. Who is at the wheel?
How does one prepare for a situation such as this?

The Daily Bell - Blaming Wall Street Is Wrong

2011-10-01T06:47:00.000-07:00

The Daily Bell - Blaming Wall Street Is Wrong

The World as I see it today

2011-02-17T09:22:00.000-07:00

Egypt seems to have worked out their problems. The Army is in control now and military commanders are known for their wisdom in governing. Our government leaders appear to be satisfied with the results although all of our highly sophisticated Intelligence Agencies admit they had no idea any of this was about to take place. We must cut them a little slack due to the situation here in the US. It is budget time here and each of the twenty or thirty agencies are busy lobbying Congress for funding. (I have tried with no avail to learn what the total budget for intelligence gathering amounts to, but it must be classified information.) It has been said that there is little cooperation and information sharing between agencies.
Based on my cursory investigation of this situation, I have determined that there is nothing to share.
While the major agencies are heavily involved in skirmishes for lucrative positions and assignments (there is a backlog of requests for the Carribean theater), some of the lesser renowned agencies are commissioned to gathering information on a new group movement here in the US.
No, it is not the Muslim Brotherhood (which Jimmie Carter, Former President has declared a peaceful political party).
Working closely with Homeland Security these agencies are conducting investigations into the secretive, racist, violent and hateful members of a new movement known only as The Tea Party. This group seems to be gaining support although many refuse to be publicly associated for fear of reprisals.
It is just too early for me to summarize the events of today for an objective appraisal but, considering the expertise of our leaders, Israel better be making some contingency plans.

The Bible tells me so

2011-02-06T05:00:00.000-07:00

Watching the events unfolding in Egypt causes me to open my Bible to learn what God has to say about the struggle taking place.
It seems that our President is encouraging the takeover of the Egyptian Government by the Muslim Brotherhood. That would leave Israel totally surrounded by Muslim dominated countries.
I have read that Russia will join Iran in an invasion of Israel from the North and that Egypt will align with the Russia/Iran coalition and pressure Israel from the south.
That did not seem possible until the rioting became front page this past week and we have heard the President's recommendation.
We are told to watch the leaves on the fig tree and know when spring is near.
I think I see a bud forming.

I have finally lost it

2011-01-30T06:12:00.000-07:00

The headline says "19 private jets get out of Egypt". The article explains that the passengers were some of the wealthy of the country. Most were headed for Dubai. Not too bright if you ask me. Those folks build islands out of sand in the ocean and sell to the rich Americans. I hear the islands are washing away. Talk about real estate scams.
Many folks disparage wealth but it could have some advantage in perilous times as indicated. One good thing about the United States is that the wealthy control the government and they have made it illegal to have an uprising or even talk about it. One can do serious time if overheard decrying the policies of our leaders.
Homeland Security, in our best interest, has instituted a policy of the citizenry reporting any unusual activity or behavior by another citizen. You cannot believe the stuff that goes on in our cul de sac. Things I have never paid attention to now give me cause to debate reporting. I am fairly sure that there are terrorist sympathizers living on our block. I see suspicious characters disguised as senior citizens walking around the neighborhood. They seem to have a set schedule. They carry bottles of liquid larger than 3.5 ounces. There seems to be more service type vehicles parked along the street. I think some may be filled with cameras and recording equipment. It is really getting scary.
Would you believe....my jet is in the shop.

My Official State of the Union Response

2011-01-26T07:28:00.000-07:00

In order to prepare for this response I pulled up the 2009 and 2010 SOTUs to gain some understanding about SOTUs. I found that this SOTU followed fairly closely, The Official Presidential Guide for SOTU Speeches, and conformed to the generally accepted outline for SOTUs. He did employ a slight variation in the format in that he moved the section on Education to follow the section on Infrastructure. Other than that minor change it was acceptable in my overall critique.
The President spoke of the free enterprise system that allowed the creativity that built our country. As an example, he mentioned a few names and I quote, " We're the nation that put cars in driveways and computers in offices; the nation of Edison and the Wright Brothers; of Google and Facebook."
Somehow I have trouble reconciling that comparison, but who knows, someday I may pay Google to light my house and travel by Facebook. I knew I should have read those Harry Potter books.
This morning the news outlets are headlining "Obama proposes cutting $400 billion of spending over 10 years". I'm not very good at higher mathematics but I can count my money, and that statement caused me to spill my coffee on my keyboard. That equals $40 billion per year. We are currently spending $1.2 trillion more per year than we take in. That will hardly pay for the White House travel expenses.
The president spoke of cutting off money to oil companies here in the United States. Recently, I read that he authorized giving Brazil $10 billion to develop their offshore oil deposits.
And finally, our schools are failing to educate our students and we are far behind the rest of the world in that area. The only solution is to spend more on our school system. I just read that the NEA (our government agency in charge of education) gave $10 million to various political causes last year.
All in all, it was a wonderful speech with bipartisan attendance and an air of civility prevailed. The state of the union has not changed from my viewpoint.

It's over !!!!!!

2010-11-03T07:10:00.001-07:00

At last we may be free of all the political ads everywhere we look. I could not escape them even on the Cooking Channel. The dinnertime phone calls will probably cease. My wife will be disappointed not to hear from Pat Boone and other notables during the day.
I have actually received emails from my representatives and even some from other states. I wonder why they never answer my letters. I know they have my address.
We will no longer learn about all the criminal and lewd activities the candidates have been involved in throughout their lives. I had heard they were all crooks and now I am sure.
They say religion and politics do not mix but I'll venture a lot of praying was going on.

It seems there is some minor change in our government makeup today but not much change in government. There are many new faces in Congress . My State did not change very much.
That means those we send to Washington will not be heard from until just before the next election. We may catch a glimpse occaisionally on television.

We may begin to see new "experts" doing the one to three minute clips on the news . Those spot interviews pay pretty good I hear. If you have written a book, are a professor, a political analyst, a party strategist, or former politician, you can make a good side income appearing on the news broadcasts. You must be able to say "that sucks" in 150 words or more and make it sound somewhat intelligent. That is why you don't see many housewives or plumbers on news broadcasts. I quit trying.
I'm glad I kept my campaign contributions to a minimum this time. As Will Rogers said, " politics are getting expensive, it takes a lot of money to get beat", or something to that effect.

I guess Meg Whitman will get the trophy. I hope it is tax deductible.

What do we want?

2010-10-29T07:50:00.001-07:00

Recently, we have heard from expert political analysts such as Karl Rove and Charles Krauthammer explaining to us unwashed (Katy Couric) mid-Americans why electing folks like Sarah Palin, Christine O’Donnell, and many other non-ivy league east coast elites to Congress is, besides being unelectable, they simply are not smart enough to answer loaded questions by the media.

If we take a look at the current makeup of our legislature, the executive branch, and the judicial branch we find an overwhelming number of lawyers and professional politicians. This trend seems to be traceable almost to the founding fathers. While there is nothing inherently wrong with educated people in positions of leadership, it is becoming obvious that higher education has abandoned the mandate to educate in favor of a desire to brainwash, for lack of a better term. This has taken us farther down the road toward socialism. We can see that.

Even though we (unwashed) lack a piece of parchment (PhD.) verifying great knowledge, we possess through our Faith, hard work, determination, and experience in real life something far more valuable. That my friends, is called WISDOM. The World English Dictionary defines wisdom as “an ability to think and act utilizing knowledge, experience, understanding, common sense and insight”.

These are the qualities we (the unwashed) are looking for in our leaders. That is sorely lacking in many areas of our society as well as in politics. Thank God, we are still free to express our disdain at the ballot box.

A Tragedy in the Making

2010-10-14T04:38:00.000-07:00

If you are a Jew , Christian, woman, homosexual or average joe, you should be concerned about Islam here in the United States. We are seeing a rapid increase in Muslin population and a proliferation of mosques. We are being told that this is a peaceful religious movement and we must be tolerant. You would do well to spend a few hours learning exactly what Islam is. You will be surprised at what a short study will reveal. Islam is a dictatorship masquerading as a religion. It exercises complete control over every aspect of one's life through fear. Muslims who dare oppose are killed. Anyone who does not adhere to Islam is an enemy and must be killed. This applies especially to Christians and Jews. Islam seeks to gain a foothold in the United States by pretending to believe in our form of government while at the same time plotting to destroy it.
It is a far greater threat than Communism ever was and we will be urged to accept it through tolerance.
Some things are not to be tolerated for any reason and this is one.

Happy days are here again

2010-10-01T07:25:00.000-07:00

Only 32 or so days left until the election on this first day of October and like clockwork the numbers on unemployment, wages, spending, stocks, jobs, and anything a bureaucrat can keep track of is signaling an end to the dismal economic conditions we are suffering through. At last, the programs and policies this administration has executed, without even reading the large print, are miraculously coalescing to bring prosperity once again.
A word of warning to my younger friends.
Many years ago before the advent of computers this sort of news could not be disseminated rapidly enough to have much of an effect.
Now, figures and statistics can be massaged into spectacular news stories only to be forgotten and replaced with one even more spectacular within the hour.
Who can remember the GNP numbers from a day or so back?
Also, you might want to check a few prices at the places you shop before you jump in and start spending.

GIVE US FREE

2010-09-18T13:15:00.000-07:00

This pretty well explains what Arizona's SB1070 law is all about. It is somewhat more than just being here illegally. Arizona, like many other states, is having budgetary problems and the attitude displayed by the sign in the picture is a contributing factor. Those of us who live here feel it is time that our laws were enforced. We will need leaders who support law enforcement and the welfare of those who must pay for "FREE".

U.S.held hostage?

2010-09-10T06:54:00.000-07:00

The recent outcry by leaders of our country opposing the burning of the koran by various individuals because it will endanger our troops in foreign countries, and now, Fox News is stating that the guy who wants to build a mosque next to the World Trade Center Site has announced that any attempt to relocate the proposed mosque would result in endangering our troops in foreign lands,,,,,,,, has left me very confused.
I never thought I would see our military brought to it's knees by a bunch of "religious" camel herders.
What are our troops doing over there anyway? Bring them home if it is that dangerous.
I hear that the next threat from our peace loving muslim citizens will be exemption from the healthcare law recently instituted against our will. Yes, only Christians, Jews, agnostics, and conservative Republicans will be required to participate and pay for the religious objectors.
It looks like we will soon follow Europe into the muslim trap.
The so-called peace loving muslims emigrate, form settlements and procreate like rabbits. They soon want their own laws and government by the religious leaders. Then the radicals start rioting and soon take over an area. They keep up the process until a country is conquered. Killing is just part of their lifestyle. If you don't join you die.

Too bad all the freedom loving citizens are now too old to do much.

"flations"

2010-09-06T07:47:00.007-07:00

Look out for the "flations". If you are an investor you are interested in the "flations". If you are a housewife or breadwinner you are concerned with "flations". If you are involved in governmental financial decisions you keep track of trends in "flations". Nearly everyone who is responsible for transactions involving money is concerned with the value of that money and it's purchasing power. Whether it is inflation, deflation, or stagflation you are affected in some way in your decision making process. What we must be aware of is that each entity looks at the data differently and with conflicting views on it's importance.

The housewife is concerned with the price of food, clothing, and shelter.

The investor is interested in interest rates and the price of assets in the market.

The Government finance guys look at things like the money supply, GDP, producer prices, and consumer spending in an effort to tinker with money's effect on the economy.

So, when our nightly news talks about one of the "flations" you must listen carefully to learn to whom they speak.

I have spent much of my retirement trying to learn economics as practiced by our Government. Having spent most of my life in business, making all sorts of financial decisions, my idea of economics is far different than what I witness daily from the Federal Reserve on down in our Government. I am fully convinced that we have entrusted this nation's financial health to the most inept people avaliable. We have chosen academics to manage our system. The only resource they apply is financial theory and our financial system is one huge experiment. We try "stimulus", tax, regulation, and any other theory of the day. We also have far too many cooks in the kitchen. With probably at least 700 inexperienced (fill in the blank___________) including Congress, Cabinet, Regulatory Agencies, and University economic professors all applying their version of the recipe, the resulting meal will, at the least, permanently disable the partaker. I believe we are so far down in the hole that only GOD has a rope long enough to reach us.

Peace loving muslims?

2010-09-04T08:12:00.000-07:00

Some news clips from Drudge today:

PARIS - Friday in Paris. A hidden camera shows streets blocked by huge crowds of Muslim worshippers and enforced by a private security force.

This is all illegal in France: the public worship, the blocked streets, and the private security. But the police have been ordered not to intervene.

It shows that even though some in the French government want to get tough with Muslims and ban the burqa, other parts of the French government continue to give Islam a privileged status.

AMSTERDAM (Reuters) – A well-known Australian Muslim cleric has called for the beheading of Dutch anti-Islamic politician Geert Wilders, a newspaper said on Friday.

Wilders' Freedom Party scored the biggest gains in June 9 polls and is currently negotiating to form a new minority government with the Liberals and Christian Democrats. Polls show Wilders would win a new election if one were called now.

Wilders demanded to know why he had learnt about the threat from the newspaper and not from Dutch authorities who are guarding him after a film and remarks he made angered Muslims around the world.

(Reuters) - Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad urged Palestinians to keep up their armed struggle against Israel a day after Israeli and Palestinian leaders agreed to continue talks on a U.S.-backed peace deal.

I think it would be beneficial for all Americans (especially Christians) to read Geert Wilders speech before Parliament of Holland.
http://lionheartuk.blogspot.com/2008/03/geert-wilders-speech-to-hollands.html
He clearly explains problems associated with attempting to blend islam culture into the Judeo-Christian constitution of our culture.
We have many who insist that we must accept those with differing beliefs. I agree, providing that they assimilate and obey all our laws without an ulterior motive that seeks overthrow of our government and our Faith.
It has become clear to me that we have an invasion by deception. We are beginning to see it in areas of high concentration of muslims in our cities similiar to what the French and British are experiencing these days.
I believe in loving my neighbor but I find it very difficult when my neighbor desires to do my family and myself harm if we do not convert to his beliefs.
I have a real problem in my faith about how Christ would have me deal with this.

Revival?

2010-08-31T07:34:00.000-07:00

Last Saturdy Glenn Beck and several extreme right wing clingers (Obama's term for those of us who cling to our Christian faith and our guns) met on the mall in Washington D.C. to rally for restoring honor in the U S. Beck called for a return to GOD and the faith that once prevailed.
Yes, I remember those days.
Of course this did not sit well with a couple of our notable Christian leaders, namely, Rev. Al Sharpton and Rev. Jesse Jackson who immediately declared the gathering of several hundred thousand citizens as Racist. They held their own completely non-racist conclave nearby. Although the Beck rally was almost in front of the White House Obama stated he didn't notice it or something like that.
Glenn Beck is not an ordained minister so there is some question whether the Constitution allows him to speak anything that can be construed as Christian. We will have to wait for a Federal Judge to decide.
Beck is a Mormon and that further complicates matters.
Personally, I support anyone who calls upon us to return to GOD.
Some Christians would not vote for Mitt Romney because he is a Mormon.
I say heck, we've had a muslim leaning socialist so what could be worse?

I AM CONFUSED

2010-08-22T05:56:00.000-07:00

I usually check the Drudge Report for News each morning and begin by scanning the headlines for clues to articles that seem relevant to my family’s interest and well-being. Today, several articles caught my eye. The recent debate over our Presidents faith is becoming more prominent in the media and since I am Christian (born again and saved by the blood of Jesus Christ), it has piqued my interest. It seems that our President is a man of many faiths. As I am discovering (see below), he was born a muslim, became a Christian in Jeremiah Wright’s church. Jeremiah (who used to be a muslim himself) explains that his church’s Christianity is different from my Christanity, and is known as Black Liberation Theology.

I must admit, I was not aware that there were different forms of Christianity until the last few years. I do find it amazing that there are so many different interpretations of the Bible. I have studied it from beginning to end on a couple occasions and it is very clear to me, when I allow the Holy Spirit to give me understanding, that there is only one.

I would guess that our President does not have a real faith in anything except himself and his Marxist friends. As all politicians, he is trying to be everything to everybody for votes.. He has a loyal following of worshipers (the media) who are working diligently to convert us to Obama’s idea of socialism. The articles following help indicate that in the halls of higher learning and the media the way to a saving faith is quite different from what I am familiar with.

From the New York Times May 12, 2008

OP-ED CONTRIBUTOR

President Apostate?

By EDWARD N. LUTTWAK

“But it is a mistake to conflate his African identity with his Muslim heritage. Senator Obama is half African by birth and Africans can understandably identify with him. In Islam, however, there is no such thing as a half-Muslim. Like all monotheistic religions, Islam is an exclusive faith.

As the son of the Muslim father, Senator Obama was born a Muslim under Muslim law as it is universally understood. It makes no difference that, as Senator Obama has written, his father said he renounced his religion. Likewise, under Muslim law based on the Koran his mother’s Christian background is irrelevant.

Of course, as most Americans understand it, Senator Obama is not a Muslim. He chose to become a Christian, and indeed has written convincingly to explain how he arrived at his choice and how important his Christian faith is to him.

His conversion, however, was a crime in Muslim eyes; it is “irtidad” or “ridda,” usually translated from the Arabic as “apostasy,” but with connotations of rebellion and treason. Indeed, it is the worst of all crimes that a Muslim can commit, worse than murder (which the victim’s family may choose to forgive).”

From the Associated Press Thursday, Aug. 19, 2010
11:06 a.m.

“President Barack Obama is a Christian who prays daily, a White House official said Thursday, trying to tamp down growing doubts about the president's religion.”

Will the U S be a muslim nation?

2010-08-14T17:44:00.003-07:00

President Obama made a speech at a White House dinner celebrating the end of fasting and Ramadan. In that speech he voiced his support for the construction of a mosque near ground zero in New York City. He stated that he is enthusiastic in his belief that everybody should be able to practice their religion anywhere in the United States. This is not the first time he has voiced his support for the muslin faith. He seems to desire a stronger muslim presence in this country.
I was taught and have always believed that the United States was founded by Christians as a Christian nation.
Recently we have seen several instances of Christians prevented from praying on government property while the muslims were encouraged to do so. Our children cannot pray or carry a Bible on school property. Christian symbols and biblical verses are not allowed on public property. Other instances of Christian persecution are arising everyday.
With the exception of a few brave souls the Church is noticeably silent. That includes the Catholic Church, as I believe they claim to be Christian also.
From what information I have gathered over the years the muslim leaders are not tolerant of non-muslims and unless one accepts the muslim faith he is to be enslaved or killed. I personally do not regard Islam as a religion but, it is a government with religion as a front.
I know that many Christians feel that God is in control and we should do nothing but pray and trust in Him. I totally agree until I read that we are a nation governed by the people for the people under God. That implies to me that we have some responsibility to consider what is good for our neighbor if we love our neighbor. I look back at the numerous examples in the Old Testament of the Israelites befriending and mingling with the pagan cultures that God had specifically warned them about.
Every muslim believes that Israel and it's people should be destroyed and wiped from the face of the earth.
That alone is enough to for me not to encourage the growth of the muslim faith in the United States. Check this out.
http://www.hallindsey.com/watchman-warning-11102009/

Solvency vs. Liquidity Who cares?

2010-08-12T07:20:00.000-07:00

How employable is a person who has been unemployed for two years. Most jobs require a person to keep abreast of new techniques, new systems, new tools and on and on. Extending unemployment benefits for up to two years may not be the best solution for the worker.
Making it possible for people to purchase homes they could not afford certainly was not such a great idea but it garnered lots of votes.
We are witnessing the greatest array of giveaways to buy votes in history.
The current policies are creating a larger class of dependent citizens who will continue to vote for more and more.
A few of us can see the damage to the economy and the debt burden these policies are creating for future generations. This looming debt burden is leading some of the better economists (and myself) to recognize what they are calling a Systemic Solvency Crises. That usually follows a Crises of Liquidity.
To be honest, I had to resort to a refresher search in The Harvard Economics Terminology Series, 2010 Edition to spark my memory.
In laymans terms, a Crises of Liquidity may be alleviated by borrowing from a bank, family, or other sources and then repaying the loan from income that the loan made possible.
The Systemic Solvency Crises results when several Crises of Liquidity have occurred without satisfactory repayment and decreasing income. This usually results in what we in economic study refer to as bankruptcy.
I will use this treatise to officially declare the United States of America in the early stages of bankruptcy.
Those of you who rely on my interpretation of economic conditions to make investment decisions are now on your own.

What happened to majority rule.

2010-08-05T10:26:00.000-07:00

Am I the only voter who is wondering "wha happened"? I have always been under the impression that when a law is voted on and passed by the citizens it would become law. That is not the case nowadays. A homosexual federal judge overrules the State's 7 million voters and declares that their law on marriage is unconstitutional.
An activist federal judge guts Arizona's immigration law.
Soon, we will witness a federal judge ruling that Christianity is unconstitutional.
It would not surprise me to find a federal judge declaring that shariah law is constitutional in the United States.
Our court system and judicial arm of our government has become politicized. We have seen the politicization in the choosing of the Supreme Court Justices.
This, coupled with the power being vested in Czars and renegade government agency heads results in a totalitarian regime.
How long will the American people tolerate this takeover of our country.
Frankly, I don't have much confidence in the Republican party making much of a difference.
It is time for legislators to put a moratorium on new legislation and start reviewing and discarding all the unneeded laws currently on the books.
We need a leader who is more interested in preserving the American Way of Life and not his own personal interest.
Lets pray for such a leader.

Bliss

2010-07-29T05:31:00.000-07:00

I am amazed at the American people who seem to be continually led down the primrose path to poverty by the would be dictator in the White House. We are moving to third world status if the folks do not wake up and take back their country.
How is it possible that we are allowing our legislature pass 2500 page bills that no one has even read.
Why do we allow the President to appoint "Czars" to override Senate approved Cabinet members and Agency heads.
The Tea Party has made a feeble effort but that is now fading. The younger generation has been so brainwashed that they actually believe these people.
Communism, socialism, and dictatorships have never worked except for those in power.
If the elections fail this fall and in 2012, we are doomed.

Technology

2010-07-17T07:16:00.001-07:00

My blog is now in bold type. I did not want bold. I do not know how to go back to the old way.
I find that in order to change it I must edit the HTML. I looked at the HTML and decided to either hire a technician or leave it alone. I opted for the latter.
That reminds me of my life nowadays. I am being swept along by technology without a life preserver. If you notice changes that I do not brag about, it is technology.

I am having a similiar experience in my everyday life. The government passes a new law. I cannot change it or go back to the old way and I must hire a lawyer to understand it. Much like hiring a technician.......he doesn't understand it either.
Everybody, but me, wants change. At 76, I don't want any more damned change. It's hard enough to remember to put on my pants every day, much less trying to decide if it's the day that everyone wears dresses so we don't offend women or the muslims. I have bigger things to worry about, like when does my doctor refuse to see me because I am too old. Maybe I can find an old doctor. I hope the democrats don't think of that, so keep it quiet.

I just noticed that this blog is not in bold and to brag a little, I found out why. If I type it in Word and paste it in it comes out in bold. If I type it on the blog post page it comes out normal. I don't know how to erase so will leave it alone. Confusing isn't it.

Suckers

2010-07-17T06:29:00.000-07:00

Scott Brown was elected to fill Ted Kennedy's Senate seat in Mass. The Tea Party can honestly take credit for his election. We all know that the Tea Party members are adamantly in favor of smaller government, major cuts in spending and defending the Constitution as it is written.

     Things don't seem to working out that way. Brown just provided the 60th vote for the financial reform bill. This bill does little to prevent another crash and creates enabling legislation for lawyers, banks, and unions. Money printing by the Federal Reserve and the central banking mechanism are not even touched upon although that is the root of the problem.
     Scott Brown is a prime example of today's informed politician. He was aware that his election involved the support and help of thousands across the country. They somehow had the idea that he would support their ideals, but his statement is "this is what my constituents want", and that is probably right since they are democrats. He learned from the new master of deceit B. Obama. Tell them what they want to hear and once you're in you have six years to do what you really believe. You can get rich also if you play your cards right. You might even get re-elected.
     The Republican Party is in disarray and I see little to convince me of any change. We have no leadership. Every strong republican seems to be going in their own direction, promoting their own agenda and not seeking to bring all together on our common beliefs. The Tea Party has been trying with considerable success. With the old guard and the RINOs, it's tough.
     If you observe the democrats you will see a unity that is almost unimaginable. They all say the exact same things as though they have earpieces dictating the mantra as they speak. If one goes off track he is brought back immediately. No one dares to venture off the reservation. I find it almost surreal how well organized they are from the politicians to the bureaucrats to the media.
     We must learn from the Scott Brown case and be careful who we support. The problem is........who can we believe.

Paradox daily

2010-07-10T07:29:00.000-07:00

The news in the last few days have a story about the Iranians planning to stone a woman for adultery. She is buried up to her chest and the rocks are thrown at her until she dies. For me to visualize this causes chills to run up my spine. My immediate thought was how barberic and brutal this form of execution is but, it is done in the Bible. Jesus vetoed this form of punishment when He said that the man without sin should be the first to cast a stone. I believe it is more than horrible when I read that a woman who is raped is guilty of adultery.
My question is: Where is the outcry from the capital punishment, human rights and other groups whose voice is pronounced here?

Another news story on the front page is that Mel Gibson was allegedly caught on tape using the word "nigger". On the same news outlets we have been exposed to some video and audio of a couple of black jerks in some sort of uniform at a polling place yelling about killing white people and "white crackers" and their babies. The concern for Mel Gibson is his alleged use of the word. The concern for the black guys is "did they get a fair trial" for standing in front of a polling place. Not a peep about their speech or terminology.
My question is: What in the hell is the difference between the two terms? I am just as offended by "white cracker" as everybody is about "nigger"

If one is racist then both are. I am tired of this racism thing always so one sided.

I have questions

2010-07-05T07:42:00.000-07:00

Will the public and taxpayers have access to accounting of the $20 Bil. BP fund that Feinberg is administering?
Will we ever see anything on the news broadcats that show any real oil damage to the beachs?
Is it possible that tourism to the gulf seashore is down due to the economy?
Will destroying BP as a company and provider of employment of many people really help me as an investor and taxpayer? Will it help the administration?
Does anyone else feel that the response to Katrina was lightning fast compared to the BP oil spill?
Will $8.00 per gallon gasoline make you happy or sad?
How do you feel about the 32 Czars and their power?
Will the financial reform bill be more or less effective than the Health Care Bill?

I have other questions but it is so depressing to think about politics.
I would much rather discuss my health issues and ailments.

YouTube - US Naval Academy Performance Kings Firecracker

2010-05-17T05:55:00.000-07:00

A great performance by very talented 4th through 8th graders from Ohio. I got a kick out of comparing them to the SB1070 protesters here in Arizona. It ain't what you eat......it's how you use it.

YouTube - US Naval Academy Performance Kings Firecracker

Water supply dries up (maybe)

2010-04-19T07:00:00.000-07:00

Recently, in my search for investment ideas, I found several hot stock promoters have been pushing stock in companies with interests in clean drinking water. I have actually assembled a model portfolio of just such companies. Fortunately, it is only a watch portfolio and no money has been invested, making me very happy. The primary reason for my jubilation is the head of Planetary Climatology and Sustainment, Al Gore, has joined the call for “human action” to stem the water scarcity disaster that lies in the immediate future. Al Gore has made millions convincing our leaders that carbon dioxide, a necessary gas, must be regulated by financial duties with his company a major recipient of fees involved.

This leads me to believe that congressional action cannot be far behind as government attempts to take control of the other necessity for life in addition to air. Food cannot be far behind as a scare based promotion also.

The monitoring systems for tracking energy consumption will soon be adjusted to provide information on your water consumption. Additional taxes will be necessary along with some sort of financial trading device to provide commissions to Al Gore’s company along with others.

Remember, you heard it here last.

In 1958 73% of the population trusted the government. Recent polls show it is now only 22%.

Tibor Machan on the Myth of Medical Care Rights, the Media Frenzy and the Possibility of Backlash

2010-03-28T05:33:00.001-07:00

Tibor Machan on the Myth of Medical Care Rights, the Media Frenzy and the Possibility of Backlash

Every thinking person should read this.

Posting once more

2010-03-23T07:03:00.002-07:00

I can't stand it any longer. There are too many things that are kindling a fire in my soggy brain.

A news article states that one must save one million dollars for retirement (for those over 50, two million for those younger) if you wish to continue in your current lifestyle.

Another news article cites a survey that concludes that 43% of workers have less than $10,000 saved for retirement. The same survey reveals that 54% are "clueless" about saving for retirement.

Another posts the U.N.'s estimate that the world’s population will grow from 6.8 billion to 9.1 billion by 2050. What are the implications of that development?

While such dispatches are usually given a casual study, they soon dissolve into more enticing bulletins such as Tiger's return to golf, its effect on CBS's bottom line and the latest on John Edwards’s love child's mother and other celebrity's sexual frolicking.

All of this leads me to wonder why such a phenomenon exists. Is it the educational system? Is it our leadership? Is it failure of our religious community?

Surely you have some opinion and conclusions.

Here are some of mine in abbreviated form beginning with the most important in my mind.

To cope with the flood of predominately bad news one must have real Hope, not a fantasyland type of hope, but a belief that there is a reason for all that is happening. Many would say that religion is the answer. I disagree. I say a faith in the true God of the universe and His Son Jesus Christ is the only answer. Religion and Christianity are not the same!!! Through religion one seeks goodness and God's favor through one's own effort. Through faith in Christ, God reaches out for us through His love for us.

God also provides us with all the tools we need to deal with any and all of the aforementioned situations. Most of the solutions may be found in a study of God's Word with implementation of its concepts. There is considerable instruction regarding personal finance in addition to moral and ethical behavior.

You will surely have to deal with the same trials and problems but it will be so much easier and in most cases a rewarding experience with this real hope.

I quit

2009-12-22T06:54:00.000-07:00

Folks. Nothing is humorous any more. Current events have always provoked my sense of humor. I love satire, whimsy, and facetiousness when flavored with a goodly dollop of truth.
My problem now is the truth has overwhelmed my sense of humor with a sense of fear, for lack of a better word. To be sure, I have nothing to fear for my trust and faith is in my Lord and I have peace that passes understanding.
My fear is for all those unsuspecting souls who have been conditioned to believe the media and politicians.
In my 75 years I have witnessed a steep decline in morality and ethics at all levels of society. Leading the pack is politicians closely followed by the news media.
What was in my childhood a great country is now a cesspool of graft, theft, deception, and hatred.
I would like to be able to shine some light of hope for those folks, so here it is.
Get your face in your Holy Bible and find out who, what, when, where, and why. Educate yourself. The Bible has been around for 3 or 4 thousand years and has yet to have anything in it disproven, so it is a great place to start.
At the age of twelve someone gave me a saying. I have utilized the principle ever since. It is:
DON'T BELIEVE ANY OF WHAT YOU HEAR AND ONLY HALF OF WHAT YOU SEE

This blog will close on Jan. 2, 2010

Lemmings?

2009-12-04T11:37:00.001-07:00

Many years ago, upon graduation from high school, I entered into the union sponsored plumbers apprenticeship program in Southern California. It was a wonderful opportunity for me since no one in my family even considered college as an option. As far as training for an excellent trade was concerned, it was the best program in the country with classroom study combined with on the job training. While working a forty hour week we attended night classes of three hours each on Tuesdays and Thursdays. A good deal of home work was assigned but the classes were suspended during the summer and the wages were above average. As a result of good grades and a good work report I was able to complete the five year program in four and one half years. I learned that in the union every member is equal as far as pay and job opportunity was concerned. Friends of the Business Agent were more equal as usually is the case. Although my skill level exceeded most of the others, my services did not warrant any higher wage than the most unskilled member of the union unless I could become foreman or an employer was willing to pay me more. Not likely.

We now have a "pay czar" who dictates what some corporate employees are allowed to earn. That will likely lead to people not performing the right job in the right place. There will be mismatches in jobs to be done and employees doing the jobs. We see this in the government bureaucracy today. Considering all the other "czars" along with the effort to take control of healthcare, manufacturing through taxing emissions, the auto industry, and the financial system, we are headed into a dysfunctional economy without a balanced marketplace controlled by supply and demand, coupled with the profit motive.

Imagine our country under the control of a few "elites" where they designate where you work, what your pay will be, what medical care you receive, what you eat, where you live, when you may travel and so on.

I was fortunate enough to realize that as a union plumber my future was limited, so as quickly as possible, I opened my own plumbing business.

I pray that my grandchildren have that same opportunity.

Today's big news

2009-11-18T07:54:00.003-07:00

Today we hear this brilliant remark from our President.
BEIJING, Nov 18 (Reuters) - President Barack Obama gave his sternest warning yet about the need to contain rising U.S. deficits, saying on Wednesday that if government debt were to pile up too much, it could lead to a double-dip recession.
We have been hearing this from all the top economists and my barber for the past year.

Where is the spending originating?
From reuters-
"Improper payments by the U.S. government to people, firms and contractors rose sharply to $98 billion in fiscal 2009 and President Barack Obama plans new rules to clamp down, the White House said Tuesday"
The government through bailouts, pork, and waste.

Goldman Sachs has set aside 16.7 billion for bonuses to execs.
OAKLAND, Calif., Nov 17 (Reuters) - California faces a budget gap of nearly $21 billion over its current and next fiscal years, according to the state government's budget watchdog agency, the Los Angeles Times reported on Tuesday.
California legislators might learn something from these bandits.

Fear not !!!!!!! Warren Buffet and Goldman Sachs are joining together to provide charitable help to small business. They will be hiring chaplains to console struggling businessmen ans advice on locating money to borrow. Probably from one of their companies.

Why politics

2009-11-16T08:01:00.000-07:00

Many folks are asking the question, "Why do politicians devote so much time and money to winning a seat at the government table"? This question has been rattling around in my head for so many years that I determined to understand and find the answer. Though elusive, my answer to myself was twofold. I will try to explain.

First, politicians are generally audacious and loquacious individuals with an overpowering desire for recognition without a high regard for its origin. We all harbor these attributes, but in far less magnitude. This tendency coupled with the inability to succeed or simple misdirection in career selection makes them ideal candidates for twenty first-century politics. In all fairness it is my firm belief that perhaps five percent could be as wise and humble as myself. To these folks, politics offers an opportunity to satisfy their innermost needs and desires.
Second, although the majority of beginning politicians fail to realize the total financial benefits that accrue with longevity in office, the lucrative initial compensation is enough to arouse their initiative, and enables them to pursue with vigor the office of their desire. There are many who are financially secure and see opportunity to increase their wealth while gaining influence among the elite. In either case, money plays a large part of any decision.
Considering my excellent analysis of the personality and motivations of politicians, I have concluded that the majority begin with high ideals but very soon fall under the spell of governing power and become what we see daily on our television screen.

An egomanic given power to spend our money while being praised by so called journalists.

Another view

2009-11-14T09:41:00.000-07:00

Geert Wilders is a Dutch politician who is fearful of the Islamic growth and takeover in Europe. He has spoken throughout the world on his beliefs. This is from a web blog discussing the contradiction of Islam as a peaceful religion. I was curious. Perhaps you are also.

Friday, March 6, 2009

Islam 101 from Geert Wilders

Just came across this intro to Islam from Geert Wilders on FaithFreedom.org It is definitely worth a read:

Allow me to give you a brief Islam 101. The first thing you need to know about Islam is the importance of the book of the Koran. The Koran is Allah’s personal word, revealed by an angel to Mohammed, the prophet.
This is where the trouble starts. Every word in the Koran is Allah’s word and therefore not open to discussion or interpretation. It is valid for every Moslem and for all times.
Therefore, there is no such a thing as moderate Islam.
Sure, there are a lot of moderate Moslems. But a moderate Islam is non-existent. The Koran calls for hatred, violence, submission, murder, and terrorism. The Koran calls for Moslems to kill non-Moslems, to terrorize non-Moslems and to fulfill their duty to wage war: violent jihad. Jihad is a duty for every Moslem, Islam is to rule the world - by the sword. The Koran is clearly anti-Semitic, describing Jews as monkeys and pigs.
The second thing you need to know is the importance of Mohammed the prophet. His behavior is an example to all Moslems and cannot be criticized. Now, if Mohammed had been a man of peace, let us say like Ghandi and Mother Theresa wrapped in one, there would be no problem.

But Mohammed was a warlord, a mass murderer, and a pedophile. Islamic tradition tells us how he fought in battles, how he had his enemies murdered and even had prisoners of war executed. Mohammed himself slaughtered the Jewish tribe of Banu Qurayza. He advised on matters of slavery, but never advised to liberate slaves.

Islam has no other morality than the advancement of Islam. If it is good for Islam, it is good. If it is bad for Islam, it is bad. There is no gray area or other side.

Koran as Allah’s own word and Mohammed as the perfect man are the two most important facets of Islam. Let no one fool you about Islam being a religion. Sure, it has a god, and a hereafter, and 72 virgins. But in its essence Islam is a political ideology.

It is a system that lays down detailed rules for society and the life of every person. Islam wants to dictate every aspect of life. Islam means ’submission’. Islam is not compatible with freedom and democracy, because what it strives for is sharia.

If you want to compare Islam to anything, compare it to communism or national-socialism, these are all totalitarian ideologies. This is what you need to know about Islam, in order to understand what is going on in Europe.

Now you know why Winston Churchill called Islam “the most retrograde force in the world,” and why he compared Mein Kampf to the Koran: Mein Kampf, he said, is “the new Koran of faith and war.”

Political partying

2009-11-04T07:26:00.002-07:00

My dad would have been 104 years old yesterday. He probably would have been disappointed in the election results of the day.
He was a Democrat, primarily because the first decent job he ever had was a result of having to join the Plumbers and Pipefitters Union in order to work for a pipeline company during the second big war. It is hard to be a union member and not be a Democrat, if you want the good jobs.
I was a member of that union for several years until I became an employer. Then, it makes no difference what your politcal bent is. You are despised and considered an enemy of the proletariat henceforth.
I had the last laugh though.
I was a closet Republican the whole time. I became a Republican in high school after watching my parents anxiously await instructions from the union hall on how to vote.
I just couldn't wait to be able to vote exactly opposite.

Thank God, I made the right choice.

High School circa 1950

2009-10-18T10:32:00.001-07:00

It was a typical sunny morning on the campus of San Bernardino High School in Southern California in 1950. I had just finished my biology class, spent too much time visiting in the hall, and was running a little later than usual. I had plenty of time though. My next class was P.E. and coach Fawley allowed us more than enough time to get dressed and out on the field. The bell rang as I left the building to walk across the lawn and street to my car. About 7 or 8 kids were walking toward me and, as we met, one of them shoved me down to the ground as the rest encircled me. "I'm gonna kick your ass" , the leader said as the circle tightened. In my usual challenging manner I immediately assumed a tight fetal position and mentally prepared myself for grave physical injury. I only barely recognized one member of the group and definitely had never spoken to any of them. Fortunately for me, after a few kicks, the group lost interest and, amidst a great many epithets and threats, walked away. I felt somewhat embarrassed since the incident took place in full view of the classroom windows of the science building, but was happy to have a chance to escape. I reached my car and headed home wondering if I should ever go back. I was scared to say the least. Thankfully, after a troubled night I decided to finish High School but from then on I traveled only in a group. A question lingered in my mind.

Why would black kids attack me? I certainly did nothing to provoke them as far as I could tell.

That experience troubled me for many years and it still comes to mind far too frequently. I formed a negative opinion of all black people that day. As time passed and racial strife increased I had little sympathy for their suffering. As time went on the awareness of the seriousness of the issue, and the real need to end it prevailed in my mind, Legislation was passed and doors opened for black people to participate on an equal basis in nearly every area of society. At least that is what I thought. I did my best to understand the reasoning behind that incident in 1950 and to forgive them. It seemed that their action was just a little bit justifiable.

We elected a black president and, for a while. it seemed like we could finally come together and forgive and forget

Well, guess what?

Some of us don't necessarily agree with everything the government is planning for us. The administration and many black leaders have created a name for me.

I am now a RACIST.

Are we back to square one?

Jackpot

2009-10-17T10:40:00.002-07:00

Our government for the last 10 months reminds me of the average huge jackpot lottery winners. Thay say that over 80% of winners are broke within a short period of time. They have no experience handling large amounts of money and succumb to all the requests for a handout or investment schemes. They pass out money to curry favor with friends and relatives. Soon the money is gone along with the friends and relatives.

Today a top story in the news is a bill introduced in the Congress to provide a tax credit of $3500 to pet owners. I have now seen it all. There is no shortage of money

The current administration hit the lottery jackpot last November and is spreading the wealth. Giving to the bankers, unions, Acorn, lobbyist's employers, friends, relatives, foreigners, anyone with their hand out. We got it........come and get it.

KEEP BUYING THOSE TICKETS FOLKS

HisChannel - Christian Video on Demand - Christian TV

2009-10-04T07:58:00.001-07:00

Take 20 minutes to watch for a review of what really happened at the UN meeting recently. You will not hear this anywhere else. Find the Hal Lindsey video and open it

HisChannel - Christian Video on Demand - Christian TV

The Olympics

2009-10-03T07:42:00.002-07:00

Rio suits me better too.

A word resurfaces

2009-10-01T07:54:00.003-07:00

In today's financial news I noticed increased use of the term "stagflation" to describe the economic scenario in the days ahead. Most of us remember from our sixth grade studies the meaning of the word "stagflation". If you said "tepid growth combined with relatively high unemployment and rising prices" you remember well and are in pretty good financial shape for the time being. Keep in mind that government is working tirelessly to help you share your good fortune.
Like most of the highly paid financial advisory services I occaisionally offer one of my recent recommendations to the public at no charge as a token of my gratitude. In keeping with that custom I am advising purchase of gold and silver. This is not really an investment. It is a form of insurance. Although gold is an ancient barbaric relic it has for thousands of years served as real money. Paper money has a way of losing value and your favorite fast food purveyer will always take gold or silver coin.

The following is being written and edited for possible use in the United States Educational System. Politically correct wording is used.

Speaking of older things, I picked up my recent edition of the oldest continually published book known to man, just as many of you have at one time or another. Being pressed for time, as most everyone, I was only able to read the first half. What captivated my attention was the similarity of the history of a nation of some three thousand years ago to the history of the United States. This nation was empowered by a higher being to become the most powerful and influential nation on the face of the earth. This empowerment came with certain covenants and conditions for that esteemed privilege. These were basically rules for ethical and moral behavior that would stand out in a world devoid of such substance. This nation would become the standard for moral and ethical behavior for all the other nations so that they would desire to emulate them. They began well but as time passed and their wealth increased so did desire. Soon they were experimenting with other culture's customs and pleasures but they felt too restricted. It wasn't long before the leaders appointed agents to seek ways to get around the covenants and conditions. Soon they were burdened with more and more laws which begat more and more laws. They became morally worse than the nations they were assigned to guide toward higher moral and ethical standards. Before long this empowerment was removed and the nation was reduced to a tiny fraction of its former self.

Will history rhyme?

Lawmaking today

2009-09-30T07:18:00.000-07:00

Our local newspaper headlines that 191 new state laws go into effect. The article curiously fails to mention the effective date. I like to know things like that. It also only discusses the hot button issues, primarily guns, abortion, stray animals, and political sign removal after election. I'm curious about the last one because few people realize how important it is to know who your representative is and the signs serve as a reminder.

It is especially sad to find that if your pet is picked up as a stray without a license it is automatically spayed or neutered at your expense. Since I could find no provision for remedy if the animal has previously been spayed or neutered, I assume one might have just cause for legal action. I am sure we will soon see televised advertising by law firms advising you of your right to compensation.
You may carry a gun into a parking garage as long as no one sees it, but if you carry it into a bar you cannot drink, so leave your bottled water in the car.
It occurred to me that as I sit here writing this manifesto, I could be breaking one or more laws. It's not the ones that I am intentionally breaking that I am worried about.
It also occurred to me that our State Legislators have done an exemplary job creating 191 new laws in only one session given the meager compensation allowed by our State, and, in light of the fact that our Nations lawmakers, who are the most highly paid in the world, cannot even pass the President's healthcare plan.
Speaking of lawmaking, my eye caught a snippet on a crawler at the bottom of my TV screen that stated that more students are enrolling and graduating from law school than ever before.

The big question is: Will our lawmakers be able to keep up?

Fabulous Flying Machines

2009-09-28T07:02:00.000-07:00

One recent afternoon I switched through the TV channels searching for a typical program that would give me that little nudge into a peaceful nap after lunch as is my daily habit. A picture of that magnificent aircraft known as Air Force One appeared on the screen and my trigger finger froze as I gazed at the awesome, ultra-luxurious flying office/ residence combo. Being a pilot of little renown myself, I could not help but visualize the grandeur of this machine and the organization tasked with the maintenance and operation of this aristocratic conveyance.

I had happened upon a documentary about the aircraft, its twin, the support aircraft and the hundreds of people required to successfully transport the President (POTUS) and his staff anywhere in the world at his whim. He does have to give some advance notice so the chef on duty has time to prepare the menu and do the shopping.

I was particularly surprised to learn that the presidential helicopter and armored limousine always accompany the President when he travels, even on the little jaunts up to the City. These are transported in huge cargo jets. The union does not permit him to use local personnel so the entire staff must travel with him. The Secret Service (haven't you ever wondered about that name?) has the resposibility for his security so they are pretty much in charge. A slightly less extravagant procedure is involved in transporting the First Lady (FLOTUS) I just love that acronym.

It was a very interesting presentation and I completely missed my nap. I do wish that they had given us some idea of the cost though, for those of us who fiddle with figures.

In recent news however, our General leading the troops in Afghanistan appeared on TV a few moments ago and stated that he needed to talk to the President about more help. He noted that he had only been able to speak to the President once in the last 70 days and he keeps being put on hold when he calls.

In other news I see that the President has decided to fly to Copehagen on thursday evening for a long weekend partying with the Olympic Committee and urging them to hold the Olympics in his hometown of Chicago.

FLOTUS will leave a few hours before POTUS in order to meet the girls for a little shopping. Seems like he could get off a little early once in awile

Hurry

2009-09-25T07:55:00.000-07:00

I am seriously considering giving up this blog.
I have always found a good deal of humor in reading and listening to the news.
Lately I find little or no humor in anything regarding politics, finance, or everyday life.
Big business and our government have become so entertwined through the "power for sale" concept that it is no longer humorous but downright frightening.
Morality and the Christian ethic that I grew up with has been replaced with greed, hatred, narcissism, carnality, rudeness, and all sort of undesirable attitudes.
We live in a sound bite environment where every action must be quick so we can move to the next. No calm discussion, contemplation, reflection, reasoning or concern.
Our pursuit of self satisfaction is so complicated we can hardly cope now, yet we search for new ways to complicate our lives with gadgets, devices, strategies and desires.

Get out of the way or you will be run over.

Qualified

2009-09-23T05:54:00.000-07:00

Some are questioning my qualifications as an Economist and Analyst since my academic credentials consist only of a High School Diploma. Au contraire.

I can produce audited records, although I am not running for any office, that will show without a doubt that I have lost enough money in so called safe investments to pay for the most highly rated academic parchment that money can buy. This is hard earned money acquired by overcharging unsuspecting folks for building construction services and plumbing repair in my younger days.
I have spent hours reading reports, statements, and articles on the creation, management, and uses of money. Several hours have been accumulated studying comments and dialogue on various screens dealing with every aspect of finance.
Considering the street definition of an economist (thanks to Barry Ritholtz)
"Explaining tomorrow why the predictions made yesterday did not come true today." , I have mastered this fine art.
As to the Analyst part, I must strongly disagree with any remark disparaging my competence in this area. Many will testify to the excellence of my analyzing acumen. Those that have read my commentary have stated unequivocally that my opinion was on a par with what is out there. I also sand behind my flawless record of analyzing numerous subjects over the years. I must admit I have slowed down as I grow older.

Have a nice day!

High finance

2009-09-22T11:27:00.001-07:00

In reviewing the activities of the Federal Reserve in my ongoing search for any reason for it's existence or benefit to myself as an ordinary citizen, I came across this.

In the second quarter of 2009 the Fed borrowed 300 billion dollars by selling Treasury Bonds.
U S citizens bought 29 billion through mutual funds, pension plans, and directly.
Foreigners, through their governments and investment groups, bought 101 billion.
Most of the remaining 170 billion was absorbed through intermediation.
Since I am a fairly new economist and analyst I admit that I had to resort to a search in my "Economist Handbook" for the meaning of intermediation. It is a variation on the system that Bernie Madoff employed in his own investment service.
Through complicated bookkeeping entries and accounting procedures the Fed essentially buys the 170 billion themselves.
In other news, the FDIC is considering borrowing money from banks to maintain it's required reserves. Sorry, I don't even want to go there.
Meanwhile, healthcare is still being debated in Washington while the Presidential entourage charms and illuminates the conclave of the world officials at the United Nations in New York City. Many worldwide problems will be debated and solved while the photographers are busy recording the handshakes and embraces of members comraderie and accord.

We can rest easy.

We must take care in Healthcare reform.

2009-09-18T07:48:00.000-07:00

The Sun Times newspaper in London is sporting a headline something like this "Boy, 12,turns into a girl".

This evidently happened over the summer vacation. According to the story, teachers called an emegengy assembly to order fellow pupils to treat him as a female. As you can imagine, somewhat of an uproar has erupted among the parents of many of the students.

I could not help but vizualize a reporter seeking opinions of various citizens.

"What do you make of this, sir?" to an elderly gent. "I guess you can do anything with a computer nowadays", he replied.

A young mother responded, "I would hate to pay for school clothes for this kid".

A middle aged offered this,"I wish my boys had done that. Maybe they would have married and moved out by now".

A couple teenage girls put it brilliantly, "like, cool".

The principal of the primary school where the boy previously attended stated that although the child wore a bikini instead of trunks to swimming class, dried himself on Barbie towels, rode a pink scooter to school, and wore pink ribbons in his hair....he was treated as a boy. The child's parents have accepted the transformation and are currently under police protection because of various threats.

The psychologists, psychiatrists, and other officials burdened with the decisions for the child's life and welfare have decided that since hormone treatments are not available until after puberty the child will just have to cope with what can sometimes be a nasty world in middle school.

The point I want to make is the obvious inequity in the British healthcare system with regard to hormone treatment and the need to be extremely thorough in our healthcare legislation currently before our Congress.

I am a racist

2009-09-16T07:42:00.001-07:00

Yes sir, I admit I am racist.

I dislike those muslims who advocate annihilating the jewish people.

I oppose the Koreans who wish to build nuclear weapons for sale to terrorists. Iranians and Russians also.

I abhor the dictators in various African countries who starve and slaughter their own people for no other reason than their quest for power.

I hold in high disregard people of any race, color, or creed that violate the laws and constitution of the United States.

So, yes, I consider myself a racist but I love everybody whose concern is for the welfare of his neighbor.

Grandfatherly advice.

2009-09-14T13:51:00.000-07:00

My grandchildren are beginning to graduate from high school and I wanted to refresh their memories from economics and civics classes. This is aimed at them.

Most of you are familiar with your credit score. You know what happens when your credit score falls.Typically borrowing becomes more expensive (points, fees and interest), unless you are borrowing from mom. More borrowing creates more expense and thus more debt in the race to catch up. For those of you who occaisionally crack open the Bible, perhaps you have read in the Book of Proverbs (Solomons advice on many subjects including money management) the statement that "The borrower becomes the lender's slave". Solomon was the richest man in recorded history. Now many disciples sit at the feet of Warren Buffet hungering for the secret to wealth. I have to go with Solomon because his wisdom about wealth was a special gift from God. Please try to avoid slavery to lenders.

O K, back to borrowing and credit score as it relates to the economy..

Facts --- The US Government runs a deficit (spends more than it takes in).

It must borrow from someone to finance the spending. (It sells Treasury Notes paying interest to those willing to loan it money)

The biggest lender (buyer of Treasuries) is China.

China is taking a good look at the U. S. credit score and is realizing that it has dropped to the low 600's. What will that mean, class?

That's right. China will want higher interest rates. Where does the money come from to pay the interest. The taxpayer is the correct answer.

Let's hope that the U. S. Government does not have to go to a payday lender.

More;
Due to the recent job losses non-farm payrolls are back to the year 2000 levels.

Government jobs are up six per cent from 2000 levels.

Government jobs for the first time in history now pay at least fifteen per cent more than private sector jobs and the benefits are guaranteed. Consider that as you make career decisions.

Osama who?

2009-09-12T10:11:00.001-07:00

Eight years have passed and we still have not apprehended Osama Bin Laden. That statement has been repeated many time in the past few days. Does that set some kind of record for topping the The New York Times Most Wanted List? After all, Charlie Sheen and some other Hollywood experts have postulated that Osama may not be the real culprit, but just a hired gun working for cowboy GW, shaky Dick C. and the CIA gang in D. C.

Charlie has played some leading detective and politcal roles in several flicks and (although he flunked out of high school) that establishes him as an authority on any matter relating to criminal activity and terrorism. (I'm sorry about using the word terroism but I forgot the new politically correct phraseology). His time spent in drug rehab has also served to elevate his investgative acumen.

Getting back to the subject, has it ocurred to others besides myself that perhaps we do not really want to capture O B Laden. "Why", you ask.

Where would we incarcerate him? Gitmo is out of the question and Ritz-Carlton execs refuse to discuss it.

Under whose jurisdiction would his case be placed? Surely the UN, NATO, The World Court, The Security Council, The ACLU, the International Red Cross, ACORN, the Senate Judicial Committee and Code Pink would be involved in any decision of this nature.

Which legal firm would represent Osama as counsel? With the potential of thousands upon thousands of billable hours accumulated at rates probably in excess of $700 per hour, the additional employees required, the prestige associated with such publicity, and the full payment of legal fees guaranteed and paid by the United States Government, one can hardly visualize the lobbying and payoffs associated with securing appointment as defense counsel.

What would he be charged with?

Is he a war criminal or is this a civil matter.

Since he is neither democrat or republican, what will be the New York Times position?

Will he be required to reimburse those involved in his pursuit and capture?

The questions continue to pile up.

It is becoming more obvious that considering the current problems associated with Healthcare, global warming, various economic and budgetary issues, and general disappointment with the perfomance of our legislators, perhaps this should be postponed until after the 2010 elections.

Friday's Fun Facts

2009-09-11T07:38:00.002-07:00

The financial experts at CNBC like to castigate those who see gold as an investment vehicle. They tout the financial markets as the best place for your investment dollar. Let's look at some facts.

We will compare values in 1971 to 2009

The Dow Jones Industrial Average in 1971 was 890 or 25 oz. of gold. Today 9000 = 9 oz

New house 1971 $25,250 or 721 oz. gold. Today $250,000 or 250 oz.

Average Annual Income $10,600 or 302 oz. Today $70,000 or 70 oz.

Datsun sports coupe $1,866 or 53 oz. Today $28,400 or 28.6 oz.

You make the call.

Next, Government run businesses, successful or not?

The U. S. Postal Service established 1775. 234 years and they are broke.

Social Security established 1935. 74 years and it is broke.

Fannie Mae established 1938. 71 years and broke.

Freddie Mac established 1970. 39 years and broke.

Medicare and Medicaid established 1965. 44 years and broke.

AMTRAK established 1970. 39 years and never profitable. Last year bailout was $14 bil.

And we currently have TARP, TALF, Auto Companies and Cash for Clunkers.

You make the call.

Investing

2009-09-10T07:26:00.002-07:00

For those of you who are fortunate enough to receive my investment advice, you are aware my viewpoints on the economic front and the stock market. For my newer readers, I present a brief summary for your consideration.

     The economy is akin to a patient on life support. Dr. Bernanke and his staff have isolated the source of the disorder and have injected massive doses of fiscal stimulus resulting in a minor increase of the heart rate and renewed anticipation of complete recovery within a short period of time. The agressive action on the part of the team has, in turn, aroused the bullish contingent to begin an upward move which could be a signal to prioritize fixed income investing and consider options in emerging market technology issues. This, of course is dependant upon politcal issues within the worldwide investment community. Given the lack of consensus, we remain fully uninvested awaiting the moving average to consolidate. I remind you to do your own research since you might reach a different conclusion.
     In other news, the unthinkable happened during our beloved leader's speech before the entire Congress and their guests. One member of the House was unable to restrain himself and cried out "you lie" after the statement was made that illegal immigrants would not be provided healthcare under the proposed legislation.

     Today's debate will not center upon the validity of the outcry, but rather the ethical behavior of the primitive, uncultured miscreant.

     I'm awaiting that moment in time when, during a politician's speech, someone yells out "that's the truth".

Doubt

2009-09-08T08:26:00.000-07:00

There was much hoopla yesterday about the school speech that the President released for our perusal. I read the speech and other than the use of the word "I" 56 times it seemed very generic. I also read the government prepared curricula for the teachers to use after the speech.

Since I have been a keen observer of human nature (especially politicians) for many years, something just doesn't seem right.

My naturally suspicious mind began to instill a sliver of doubt into my contemplation. It occured to me that in order to prepare curricula one must have subject matter, in this case a draft of the speech. All of this preparation takes time, even in government environs.

Far be it from me to be a conspiracy freak but I just can't help but wonder if there might be another speech in the drawer.

Michael Moore Makes Movie

2009-09-07T07:38:00.002-07:00

In scanning Drudge this morning in search of invigorating and uplifting news, disappointment once again prevailed.
Among the dozens of offerings a picture of that beloved cinematographer Michael Moore caught my eye. Upon further examination I found that his latest attempt at polluting the truth is a statement that capitalism should be replaced with democracy.
That reminded me that I had once heard a statement that the United States was, in fact, a Republic. I immediately realized that I could not explain the difference between a Democracy and a Republic and that in turn led to a search for the answer.
This is what I came up with.
"Democracy and Republic are often taken as one of the same thing, but there is a fundamental difference. Whilst in both cases the government is elected by the people, in Democracy the majority rules according to their whims, whilst in the Republic the Government rule according to law. This law is framed in the Constitution to limit the power of Government and ensuring some rights and protection to Minorities and individuals.

A democracy is majority rule and is destructive of liberty because there is no law to prevent the majority from trampling on individual rights. Whatever the majority says goes! A lynch mob is an example of pure democracy in action. There is only one dissenting vote, and that is cast by the person at the end of the rope.

A republic is a government of law under a Constitution. The Constitution holds the government in check and prevents the majority (acting through their government) from violating the rights of the individual. Under this system of government a lynch mob is illegal. The suspected criminal cannot be denied his right to a fair trial even if a majority of the citizenry demands otherwise."
Found on this website. http://www.albatrus.org/english/home.htm

Lots of other good stuff there also.

Fixers Aim to Fix Fixes With Another Phony Fix

2009-09-05T07:53:00.002-07:00

This is pretty good weekend reading.

Fixers Aim to Fix Fixes With Another Phony Fix

Posted using ShareThis

Dear contact......

2009-09-03T06:50:00.002-07:00

I have just finished sorting through my email this morning.
Since 7pm last evening I received 92 new emails.
I only had 11 that I knew who the sender was and 5 that were not promotional.
I blacklisted 81, deleted 87, read 5 and saved 2.
I will repeat this exercise several times during the day with a lesser number each time.
I have set my spam filter so tight that I dare not go further for fear of missing something from my friends.
Before cranking down the filter, many mornings would find 6 or 7 pages (about 175 emails) so I have made some progress.
I admit that I have used my primary email address for the past 7 years or so. I admit that I visit lots of websites in my quest for the fountain of life, the goose that lays the golden egg, the pot at the end of the rainbow etc.
I have learned not to open any advertising links on websites, and attachments in emails of unknown source, This has helped considerably.
I have many very dear and well meaning friends and relatives who send me emails with a request to forward quickly to a number of my contacts in order to receive something, usually spiritual in nature.
In my search to cut down on unwanted email from unknown sources I have found several suggestions to resist forwarding such aforementioned types of emails. It seems that in doing that my email address can be added to a list somehow which is distributed to mass email operators.
For the past couple of years I have refrained from forwarding anything to my friends that I feel would not be completely safe on their computers. That includes emails of the aforementioned nature.
I do this for the same reason I lock my doors, use smoke alarms, brush my teeth and use deodorant.
The Internet is a wonderful thing but, like the government, it can become too intrusive and overbearing.
So, if I don't forward some of the emails, I still love you.

Now we know

2009-09-02T05:44:00.000-07:00

A guy stands up at a townhall meeting and wonders out loud into a microphone how it is possible to add 47 million to the healthcare system and lower costs.
Another wonders where the $787 billion stimulus is going because he hasn't seen any evidence of it in his area.
Another wonders what exactly is in these 1000 page books of new laws that our legislators haven't bothered to read.
Still another is curious how the government entering into a bankrupt automobile manufacturing business can possibly be to his advantage.
And there are those concerned with the Cap and Trade legislation and several other items flowing from the halls of government.
There is a common unifying distinction that some of the legislators and commentators are espousing.
We should have recognized immediately.
These folks are plain and simply Racists

Dang!!!! How did we miss that?

Tidbits

2009-09-01T07:59:00.001-07:00

Here are some tidbits I have gleaned from the news and commentary this morning. Most is rephrased from my memory which is sorely lacking.

According to an AP story today, the military will be pushing for a smoke free military. Now before you start screaming at me, consider this. Our government spends millions of dollars training these men the fine art of killing and being killed in remote areas of the world and suddenly we are concerned about their cardio-vascular health. Naturally, there is considerable resistance among many members of the military, especially those who have spent a hard day dodging bullets and exploding artillery and wishing to flop behind a rock and relax by sucking on a Marlboro. Now I don't smoke and I don't encourage anyone to start the filthy habit but something just does'nt seem right.
I have a feeling that perhaps most of those un-American, hateful right-wing extremist retirement community mobs are turning out to protest primarily for the same reason the soldiers are resisting.

THEY ARE TIRED OF THE GOVERNMENT TELLING THEM HOW TO LIVE THEIR LIFE.

Another subject.... the FDIC is now insuring $6.2 trillion of deposits with $10.4 billion of assets. You have to study this for a moment.

The 23rd of December, 1913 should be etched in your mind. That is the day Congress passed legislation to set up the Federal Reserve.
For 137 years prior to that the US enjoyed a stable currency backed by gold.
It took only 16 years to destroy the stock market etc. with this new banking scheme.
In 1933 the Supreme Cout ruled that a "fiat" currency could be created at any time, for any reason, 24/7, and the printing presses have not stopped since.
Our President has infomed us that the nation would run a $9 trillion deficit over the next ten years.
That is in an economic recovery mode.
What if the economy does not recover as expected?

Confidence?

2009-08-29T10:57:00.001-07:00

How many times have you seen or heard a media reporter bring up prior statements or positions taken by our leaders. I have witnessed such on various talk shows but rarely in the mainstream media. I would like you to study the following statement (note the date) and compare it to the actual events that followed. Can you honestly say that you feel he really knows what is going on. Bernie Madoff is a lightweight compared to this guy.

Extract from:
THE ECONOMIC OUTLOOK
by Ben S. Bernanke
Chairman, President’s Council of Economic Advisers
Testimony before the Joint Economic Committee
October 20, 2005

"House prices have risen by nearly 25 percent over the past two years. Although speculative activity has increased in some areas, at a national level these price increases largely reflect strong economic fundamentals, including robust growth in jobs and incomes, low mortgage rates, steady rates of household formation, and factors that limit the expansion of housing supply in some areas."

He will be at the helm for four more years. Invest accordingly.

The President was Bush and the Committee is still in Congress. Not a whole lot of change and less hope.

Apologies

2009-08-29T08:13:00.000-07:00

I must apologize for my failure to post for the past few days. The subject matter that I consider suitable for my analysis has been coming across the wires at such a pace that for the first time in my life I am simply overwhelmed. There are currently seven or eight unfinished chronicles in my files. I overslept today and so will have to cut my nap short in order to maintain my busy schedule. I will try to catch up.
Tip for today:
There is legislation being proposed in the Senate to raise the tax credit to $15,000 for anyone who puchases a house. If this is as successful as the "clunker" program many will benefit, primarily realtors, lenders, lawyers etc. Personally, if I were underwater on my current holdings, I would view it as a possible time to unload.

Child's play

2009-08-25T07:50:00.002-07:00

Given my resolve to ferret out usable and pertinent information in my quest to supply my basic needs without becoming a burden on society, considerable time is devoted to scanning numerous pages of material.
Today I found the most concise explanation of the entire concept of the Federal Reserve. Since today it is announced that the current Federal Reserve Chairman, Ben Bernanke will be reappointed for another four year term, it seems most appropriate.
This valued compendiary was found not in an economics textbook but in something most of us learned as children, the Rules for the Monopoly game......and if I may quote.

"The Bank 'never goes broke.' If the Bank runs out of money, the
Banker may issue as much as needed by writing on any ordinary paper."
(This gem was in an email sent to Fleckenstein Capital website)

Some of those attending the Federal Reserve meeting this past weekend at Jackson Hole noted that the policy of printing money to encourage inflation would continue for the near future.

That idea works until it gets away from them and goes into hyperinflation.

p/s The crypt went for $4,602,100.00 (see tuesday Aug18 post)

Czars and such

2009-08-24T14:26:00.003-07:00

The White house currently has 32 Czars who reportedly have more power than Cabinet Secretaries.
The Car Czar makes decisions regarding the automobile industry.
The Pay Czar determines the pay and bonus plans for corporations and financial institutions.
The Climate Czar controls the weather.
And the list goes on.
I am not sure if this will result in massive layoffs of government employees involved in existing government agencies. Since it is impossible to lay off government employees, most likely they will be reassigned to the Czars staffs.

I have begun to wonder if Congress is really necessary outside of their entertainment value.

Did you realize just how important the Office of the First Lady has become in just six months? Jackie Kennedy had one staff member. Laura Bush had one or two. Michelle Obama requires twenty one. How’s that for creating jobs?

The Administration announced the creation of a terrorism interrogation unit to be supervised by the White House. The CIA will probably be limited to one low level member of the Unit given their past behavior.
Other members have not been announced so I have some suggestions.
The ACLU should be apportioned two members, one of whom would be the Chairman.
The Trial Lawyers also allowed two members.
There should be one each for ACORN, SEIU, La Raza, Black Panthers and Code Pink.
Interrogations must be videotaped and delivered to Rahm Emanuel for evaluation and editing.
Instead of the US Army Field Manual Rules for interrogation, I think Chicago rules would be far more effective.

They have never listened to me yet so I will hold little hope now.

Crisis

2009-08-24T07:18:00.002-07:00

(Only 5 hours left to bid on the crypt)

The headline of the Financial Times reads thus ….”Mounting joblessness fuels US housing crisis”.
A graduate of one of our best Universities wrote this and probably still has a job.
Frankly, I do not see any evidence of a housing crisis. In fact, there seems to be plenty of houses. The problem is that unemployed have trouble making mortgage payments so the uneducated, such as me, would label it as an affordability crisis.
We recently had a “Banking crisis”. We would label it a “Banking Ponzi scheme gone bad”.
We are in the midst of a “Global Warming Crisis”. The cause is not completely clear but, Congress has solved it through the Cap and Trade legislation.
Now, a Healthcare crisis threatens all of us. Congress has several plans to address the crisis. They seem to be very vague considering to the heated discussions that are ensuing.
The President has a plan to solve this crisis. The President very wisely has avoided a lot of the heated discussions by not revealing his plan. He simply travels to various assemblies and enlightens the attendees about the favorable aspects of his mysterious plan. His plan will be fine tuned and adjusted once Congress passes anything he can sign.
Several of us uneducated have concluded that it is really not a healthcare crisis but, a “paying for healthcare” crisis and a “not enough power” crisis.
One thing we have learned from all this is that money and government involvement are being promoted as the solution to this and all other crisis.

The President is on vacation this week so if your TV screen is blank do not call the cable company.
Remain calm and use this time to reflect on your family finances and the four or five million jobs that are being created. Hope will endure.

The Presidential family vacation videos will be running continuously on the major networks all next week, according to the White House News Secretary.

I remain on duty regardless.

Crypt update 2

2009-08-22T10:07:00.004-07:00

This morning the bid is $4,601,000.

Crypt update

2009-08-20T06:51:00.003-07:00

The bid is up to $4,506,100.00 this morning.
Unfortunately, due to circumstances beyond my control, I have been forced to drop out of the bidding. I called my bank (Bank of America) to make sure the loan would be in order. The loan officer was rather snotty and I was forced to go above her head. The manager was very polite but firm in his resolve to deny my request for a no-doc loan for $5,000,000.00 (the maximum I was planning to bid). The manager explained to me that new regulations had gone into effect and that since the bank was a recipient of TARP, TALF, and a couple other government bank reinvigoration (I don't remember the exact term) funding programs, he was unable to honor my request. He further explained that unless my name was on some kind of list that it would be necessary to provide documentation verifying my place of employment, salary, tax returns for prior years, and a statement of my financial condition. Regrettably, my documentation is not current and as it would be impossible to update my records within the timeframe of the bidding process, I must refrain from submitting any bids.
Don't you just hate government intervention.

Stocks and infidelity.

2009-08-19T06:01:00.002-07:00

Yesterdays Wall Street Journal posted an article stating that the Obama Administration authorized the first 2 billion of a possible 10 billion loan to Petrobras. Petrobras Brazil is one of the largest oil companies in the Americas. This money is to finance development of an oil deposit off the coast of Brazil. The oil lies 4.3 miles below the surface of the ocean.

My immediate reaction was not unlike that of a wife who has just learned that her husband has purchased 15 carat diamond necklace for someone else. Suspicion crowded out reason and I had to find out why. Was community property being diverted to enhance another's opulence. The question lingers and the search continues.

Also, I have decided to try and find out why deep water drilling off the Brazil coast is more cost effective than the US offshore fields.

On an unrelated subject, did you read where George Soros made some very large trades in Petrobras stock a few weeks ago?

Check around the house for valuables.

2009-08-18T05:35:00.004-07:00

The widow of a gentleman is in need of cash during the current downturn and, having undervalued assets lying around, will attempt to regain that value without regard to the tax consequences. It is interesting to note how some things are valued. Reminds me of the stock market. The description on Ebay follows:

"Here is a once in a lifetime and into eternity opportunity to spend your eternal days directly above Marilyn Monroe. This crypt in the famous Westwood Cemetary in West Los Angeles currently occupied above Marilyn Monroe is being vacated so as to make room for a new resident. "Spending Eternity next to Marilyn Monroe is too sweet to pass up", recently quoted by Hugh Heffner, who has reserved his place in eternity next to her. The lucky bidder will be deeded a piece of real estate that he or she will make their last address. And below you will be Marilyn Monroe. In fact the person occupying the address right now is looking face down on her."

The current bid at 9:50 PM Tucson time Aug. 17,2009 is
$4,501,500.00 with 6 days 14 hours remaining.

The high bidder must be a Goldman Sachs employee who just got his bonus.

Change you can believe in?

2009-08-17T07:31:00.002-07:00

Looks like Social Security will cease to goose the income side of the Gov. balance sheet sometime next year.
Yes, there has been more money coming in to Soc. Sec. than was going out. The extra money has been going into the general fund, thus helping to keep the deficit numbers down. That will soon end.
" I'm not worried", you say. "Al Gore said it was going into a lockbox". Where is Al Gore now, is my thought. "By the way, I have a government health care plan for you to take a look at......you want to save a little more money?", I ask.

Folks, I ask you to compare the following two comments to what is happening these days.

This is an exerpt from FDR's statement of Aug. 14, 1935 on signing the Social Security Act
"This law, too, represents a cornerstone in a structure which is being built but is by no means complete. It is a structure intended to lessen the force of possible future depressions. It will act as a protection to future Administrations against the necessity of going deeply into debt to furnish relief to the needy. The law will flatten out the peaks and valleys of deflation and of inflation. It is, in short, a law that will take care of human needs and at the same time provide for the United States an economic structure of vastly greater soundness."

This exerpt from FDR's Social Security Paradox by Jim Powell, April 30, 2009

"There was considerable opposition to the proposed Social Security Act from both Democrats and Republicans. Sen. Bennett Clark of Montana proposed an amendment that would have enabled employers to opt out of Social Security if they had pension plans offering more generous benefits than Social Security. That would have meant freedom of choice for employers and employees alike, but advocates of Social Security were adamantly against freedom of choice.
Social Security promoters must have feared that private retirement plans would offer a better deal. Wisconsin’s “progressive” Democratic senator, Robert M. LaFollette, fumed that the Clark amendment “would be inviting and encouraging competition with its own plan which ultimately would undermine and destroy it.” Roosevelt threatened to veto the Social Security bill if it had the Clark amendment. Freedom of choice was eliminated during the House-House conference, and Roosevelt signed the Social Security law on August 14, 1935.
In case anyone doubted that Social Security was a monopoly, employers across America were required to display this notice: “Beginning January 1, 1937, your employer will be compelled by law to deduct a certain amount from your wages every payday. This is in compliance with the terms of the Social Security Act signed by President Franklin Delano Roosevelt. This is NOT a voluntary plan.”

Didn't Obama say something about wanting to be like FDR.

I do hope I have not encouraged any disappointment or mistrust regarding our elected officials.

OK since you insist...Healthcare

2009-08-15T10:32:00.003-07:00

This just occurred to me.
We are paying for the President to travel to four different cities this weekend to promote support for legislation, supposedly to reform healthcare as we know it. I notice that the latest polls show that a clear majority does not support reform as it is being presented.
I hate to be a spoilsport but something just doesn't seem right.

Oh, and by the way, If you receive an email from David Axelrod you will know that you have a friend in Washington D.C.

Rumor has it that he is only a fair weather friend.

A current observation

2009-08-15T10:20:00.003-07:00

During the last five years or so I have noticed myself becoming more and more interested in the financial news. This was primarily due to my investments in various financial instruments in an effort to earn income for living expenses in my retirement years. My flagrant lifestyle was requiring even more than the huge Social Security check given to me by my ever benevolent government. The government bounty I was receiving left me with about $500 per month after my Medicare supplement and prescription drug costs. Since we are currently spending about $800 per month for food simple math will show that I was operating at a deficit similar to our government. Unfortunately, I lack the printing press to create an acceptable currency, so I resorted to acquiring securities that paid dividends on a regular basis. The dividends provided the additional funding needed to support my lifestyle.

Naturally I am thankful to GOD for the wisdom to accumulate the capital needed since I had no pension or other income. Needless to say, I quickly learned that one must pay taxes on this income including the Social Security funds. Thus, you can see my interest in worldly financial matters.

With the 2008 presidential election process beginning in about 2005 and the effect on financial markets, naturally politics began to play a larger role in my financial decisions. In observing the government involvement it became apparent to me in early 2008 that the robust real estate fiasco could not be sustained. While the overwhelming sentiment was one of everlasting prosperity, a few were becoming skeptical. I was torn between both perspectives and hence failed to take the proper precautions to adequately protect my capital. As a result, one third of my capital vanished one day in late 2008.

A very valuable lesson (one third of my life savings) leaves me extremely suspicious of any action by any part of the United States Government. I have become a news junkie. My rose colored glasses were trashed some time back and were replaced with a magnifying glass. The more I examine, the more it becomes apparent to me that something similar to the real estate fiasco is emerging. This fiasco looks to be much larger than any we have previously experienced. Given the amount of money and power involved I have come to the conclusion that the United States has a fairly good chance of self-destruction, along with the rest of my capital.

That is my opinion today. I pray that it will change.

Could you be an Economist?

2009-08-13T14:59:00.002-07:00

It was news to me that the Federal Reserve was created to manipulate the nation’s money in order to (theoretically) maintain stability of the economy. While it seems like a marvelous idea, after observing their activity for my 75 years, I have concluded that it is not quite working as intended. They haven’t been able to maintain the level playing field many of us would like.
As you know the Federal Reserve lends money to the banks among other things. Currently the banks are borrowing at near zero per cent interest rate. Rather than use the money for the intended purpose (loans to businesses and citizens) they are lending the money back to the same people they got it from…(by buying Treasuries) and earning 3.7% interest on it.

In July the government overspent the budget by $180 billion. Year to date overspending is $1.27 trillion. The government’s revenues for June were $151 billion.

It seems that China, other countries, and others are becoming reluctant to loan us money by purchasing Treasury Bonds. It is rumored that the Fed is making deals with primary dealers to buy the bonds and then the Fed buys them back from the dealers. How’s that for transparency?

A former sailor takes offense that drunken sailors spend like politicians. He makes the point that they quit spending when they are broke. He also notes that drunken sailors spend within their means only on things that are important to themselves (booze and babes).

Electric cars

2009-08-09T05:39:00.006-07:00

Obama was recently in Elkhart, Indiana to convince his followers that in spite of 17% unemployment, he has the answer. He is going to do what science and industry has failed to do on it's own. While the money printing presses are humming he will apportion several billion dollars to create an electric car.....creating a few million jobs in their locale. I will not go into the many enviromental advantages of electric powered transportation. Instead I will try to visualize life in this wonderful new element.

To begin, let's look at this vehicle. It must be lightweight to conserve energy. I would guess that safety would be subordinated. Given the current battery technology I would estimate the range in miles to be no more than 100 between recharges. Of course, Congress could mandate a higher mileage. A few Czars could be appointed to enforce the rules. Naturally, computerization could play an important part in this new vehicle. Through the electrical recharging process and the miracle of GPS, information such as distances traveled, locations visited, number of visits and other data might be collected in a central database. This would be helpful to government in providing the public better roads, traffic signals and so on. Hahahaha

Longer distance travel might be by air or high speed rail systems under government supervision. Remember,if public money is used, the public must have a say in how it is spent. Amtrak is the most likely candidate to operate a rail system. It would not surprise me to see the government bail out an airline or two and, like the auto business, convert them to union/goverment enterprises run by Congress at great cost savings to the taxpayers.

The vision of the possibilities for this utopia has tired me out so I must go take a siesta and dream about it.

We can spend our way out of this mess!

2009-08-08T10:55:00.007-07:00

Obama says "But I don't want the folks who created the mess to do a lot of talking. I want them to get out of the way so we can clean up the mess. I don't mind cleaning up after them, but don't do a lot of talking."

Hey man, how you gonna shut'em up. They on TV every day. Barney, Chris, Bernanke, Geithner. They got new ideas, man, and they got Congress jazzin too. The Air Force wanted one new luxury jet for the Generals to fight over using and Congress says, hell, lets just get eight or ten and with the rebates we can probably get them for $65 million bucks apiece. Then we can have four or five for our own use.

Remember how they juiced the economy with liar loans for housing and 125 per cent financing. Folks were making big bucks trading real estate. They spent those easy dollars on stuff. "We can have it all now" they cried, and they bought next years stuff and for the year after that. Something went wrong however, and the economy slowed, leaving many out of work. Unable to make the payments, a cry went out. It was heard in Washington. "We must restart the spending spree. Let's give everybody $4500 for their old car on the purchase of a new one. Now folks are taking this freshly printed money and buying next years car. That'a a neat trick..... moving 2010 spending to 2009.

What will they come up with for the following years spending plan? Don't worry, it will be good

And the stock market is up.

2009-08-06T07:40:00.007-07:00

I only have one noteworthy items for your contemplation today.

The first is the Federal Government budget. A quote.
"In fact, speaking of taxes, it makes your hat fly up comically off your head in astonishment when you realize that total income and corporate taxes are less than this year's federal budget deficit alone! And then you really start screaming your guts out in anger when you then realize that the total federal budget is 400% of total federal revenues! They are spending four times as much as they take in! Four times as much!
"You can read the Mogambo Guru on the Daily Reckoning... http://www.dailyreckoning.com/

What, me worry?

Money to burn

2009-08-05T06:44:00.004-07:00

In my usual morning review of events and interesting news items buried in the internet, these seemed worthy of repeating.

As you may remember, Nancy Pelosi was very distraught to find that the high office she fell heir to was not regarded by the Air Force's bigwig transport service as warranting a full size airliner capable of nonstop flight from D.C. to San Francisco. This caused her and her family members great inconvenience on their weekly journeys back and forth due to the necessity of a refueling stop midway. This stop added a couple hours to the total travel time and was thus unacceptable. The Air Force refused to back down at the time but it is unreported what the current arrangements are. Well, to make a long story even longer, an unnamed member of the House has added $132 million dollars to an appropriation bill to purchase three long range luxury corporate type jets instead of the one $65 million dollar aircraft that the Air Force requested as a normal updating of the fleet. The appropriation stipulates that the three aircraft be assigned to the D.C. wing for the explicit use of Congress and high ranking officers or the military.

Here is the best explanation of the bank bailout that I have seen. It is a quote from the Daily Pfennig by Chuck Butler.

"These Big Banks that borrowed funds from the Gov't, got to stop marking to market the securities/bonds that had gone bust, which means they then got to sell them to the Gov't at inflated prices, then take the money they Gov't gave them for the inflated securities/bonds and pay back the Gov't! The funds also allowed the Big Banks to post those earnings that the markets got so wound up about! Now... How's that for getting your cake and eating it too!"

The two journalists rescued by Bill Clinton work for Current TV which is owned by Al Gore.

What did you learn over the weekend?

2009-08-03T05:56:00.008-07:00

Have you ever heard of the PWG (Presidents Working Group on Financial Markets). Formed in 1988 after the stock market crash of '87, the group, (comprised of the Tres. Sec, Bernanke, SEC chairman, and Commodity Futures Market boss) officially makes unofficial decisions concerning the nations economy. Here is a link to the decision after the October, 2008 meltdown.http://www.treas.gov/press/releases/hp1177.htm It seems four guys, or gals, basically run the show. You might want to keep an eye on their activity in the future although it's not widely covered by the media.

The newly famous Henry L. Gates Jr. PhD. emeritous, excellus,maximus, magnificus has a very interesting background (no prior arrests) in the political realm. It seems he has in the past been an ardent and active supporter and contributor to the campaigns of "The One". Rumor has it that he is also in favor of reparation payments to black and dark brown Americans. You will have to do your own research on this. I can't do everything for you, you know.

Three of the leading current representatives of the jackass party were on the big news shows this weekend preparing us for the Democrat version of "no new taxes". Enough said.

Dog days

2009-07-31T06:36:00.005-07:00

Now that the "beer summit" has slid down the mountain and most congress members have left early as usual, there is little excitement left for us old geezers confined to the air conditioned comfort of our abodes. As usual, I began the day browsing the internet for a shred of information to brighten my day and came up near empty. Even my last resort, "Letters to the Editor" failed to offer much in the way of intellegent discourse, however, the comments section was hilarious. They are usually about 70 per cent lib and 23 per cent conservative with 7 per cent being totally incoherent.

Todays discussion centered on whether the residual glue on the rear of automobiles once secured bumper stickers supporting Bush, Obama, Bush/Cheney with a slash, McCain/ Palin with a few suggesting Dole, Reagan, and a couple for Truman. Some ventured that the majority was Obama/Biden. I really could not say that a concensus was reached although a vision appeared in my mind that this must be like Congress pondering healthcare reform. I came away realizing what it must be like to be a participant in the legislative process.

I think I'll take the rest of the day off.

Healing today

2009-07-30T06:18:00.005-07:00

Today we will be treated to another facet of our Great Leader's genius with his ability to bring opposing viewpoints into focus and displaying his superior wisdom, merge them into one of peace and harmony.

Professor Gates will have his dignity restored and elevated to it's rightful place in a setting near the throne, among his peers and before all the citizens of this great kingdom.

Officer Crowley will be treated to a private audience with our Great Leader in the palace with much fanfare and attention. Something all loyal subjects can only dream of.

Our Great Leader will utter many phrases relating to settling disputes, especially those involving cultural level, ancestry, position, pedigree, and so on. He will emphasize that his choice of terminology must always be construed in light of his great wisdom and therefore should not be inerpreted literally.

All will emerge from this conclave with joy, tempered with understanding and obvious comraderie, with the assembled throng expressing their happiness and adoration for our Great Leader. This episode will be hailed far and wide as an example of the superb leadership of our Great Leader.

Anyway, this is what the staff hopes for.

Reporting

2009-07-27T08:59:00.004-07:00

This is the headline of a reuters artcle that appears on The Drudge Report this morning.

Earth bears scars of human destruction - astronaut
Sun Jul 26, 2009 5:25pm EDT

The headline leads us to believe that an astronaut has evidence of damage caused to the earth by humans. Reading the article however, reveals something very different.

This evidence is actually the astronaut's "feelings"

"It's a very thin veil of atmosphere around the Earth that keeps us alive," Thirsk said during an in-flight news conference. "Most of the time when I look out the window I'm in awe. But there are some effects of the human destruction of the Earth as well.""This is probably just a perception, but I just have the feeling that the glaciers are melting, the snow capping the mountains is less than it was 12 years ago when I saw it last time," Thrisk said. "That saddens me a little bit.

It's too bad that too many of us form opinions based on headlines and snippets of news.

My first video on the blog

2009-07-25T12:00:00.002-07:00

It only took six months.Wish I was an intellectual like Franken. See previous post.

Education

2009-07-25T07:55:00.010-07:00

As is my custom, each morning , (after checking my email, investing propaganda, and Drudge) I click on the website of our local newspaper, the Arizona Daily Star, (affectionately referred to as the Red Star) to check Letters to the Editor. It is another way I check the pulse of the dying liberal movement.

My eye was drawn to sentence in a letter by a retired judge regarding Al Franken's qualifications to be a senator, and I quote " Perhaps that reader does not know that Franken, too, is a man of superior intellect, having graduated from Harvard cum laude with a degree in political science."

Dang! I feel so inferior.

Cambridge Harvard Professor arrest

2009-07-24T08:50:00.003-07:00

Let me first be very adamant about this. I was not there and have no personal exposure to this situation.

After viewing several televised accounts of the events before, during, and after this tragic embarrassment of one of our most esteemed citizens, a Harvard Professor and a personal friend of our beloved President, I have reached a conclusion in my own mind.

I believe that this is more of a medical problem rather than a legal problem. I am convinced that the professor most likely suffers from diarrhea of the mouth and had an attack shortly after the police arrived.

Healthcare vs. Medical Insurance

2009-07-24T07:08:00.004-07:00

As many have observed, we cannot insure health. We can only insure against the cost of treatment.

A figure of 37 million uninsured does not mean 37 million are not getting healthcare.

I just took a look at my county and state budgets and to my surprise, the county budget allows nearly the same for health and welfare as for justce and law enforcement. Most of the funds are budgeted for long term care and the program for indigent medical.

The state budget has a 640,million allowance for health. Most of that is budgeted for AHCCCS, commonly known as "access", a program providing medical services payments for the poor and uninsured.

That tells me that a lot of my taxes are already going to provide for the poor and uninsured.

I admit that I have little expertise in budgets and accounting so I would really like someone knowlegeable in that area, who does not have a dog in the hunt, to explain it to me.

We used to have newspapers that would do that.

The infomercial

2009-07-23T08:09:00.000-07:00

Last night I wasted an hour of my time watching a bevy of adoring fans pose questions that certainly seemed scripted to me. The questions offered Obama the opportunity to expound on points made in the opening commentary, just like all infomercials that I have watched.

He also made some statements that somehow did not ring true to me.

He stated that he inherited a 1.3 trillion dollar deficit. I was under the impression that the deficit at the time he took office was around 400 billion.

He stated that he inherited a job loss statistic of 700,000 a month. I have been keeping a pretty close track of the unemployment and that was totally untrue.

Another point I would like to make. He stated that eliminating the waste and fraud in Medicare and Medicaid would pay a major portion of his reform. If that is the case then why don't we do that first.

Most doctors will tell you that their greatest fear is being sued. If we are to reform health insurance (which is what this is all about) , we must have tort reform.

Will his biggest contributors, the trial lawyers, allow him to do this?