America needs despairingly to improve its education system. Why should we worry about it? Because we are living in a new world where technology and science will reign to determine a country's wealth and power, and any country that is not equal to or better than the best will suffer economic and social problems. Americans have succeeded in building up the economies and technology of other countries in the world which is good for them but it has drained our national wealth and now we are falling behind in technology and leading edge science, especially in hard science.
So what do we need to do about this problem. First and most important is to get our education system improved. This means a little work and sacrifice. Inner city schools need improvement first on a high priority basis. We need to upgrade facilities, provide more money, support our teachers, throw out the social engineering courses, and make hard science, physics, chemistry, science, biology, and academic courses mandatory. Back to the 3 Rs but with algebra, trigonometry, and calculus added. Also we need computer programing and computer literacy courses included in all high school curriculums.
Finally, we need to do more to attract foreign students, scientists, and engineers to come to the US and live and work here.
If you agree with me, call and write your Congressmen and tell them. Then send me an email so I know that I have support from you on this issue.
Friday, December 31, 2010
Tuesday, December 14, 2010
HOW TO FIX UNEMPLOYMENT IN USA
The current thinking in Washington DC on the part of both Republicans and Democrats is that there is no way to fix unemployment and that it will take years to fix it. The only thing that stands in the way of getting people jobs is the government!
Here are some steps the government could take and in my opinion it should take:
1) Reduce taxes even further than the Bush tax cuts. Just continuing the Bush tax levels is not really a tax reduction from the levels we have now. So how is retaining the Bush levels a tax cut?
2) Reduce the Federal taxes on luxury items.
3) Raise taxes or tariffs on low price imports that kill our businesses.
4) Eliminate the Estate Tax (otherwise known as the death tax) completely. This will put money in the hands of people and keep some people from going on the public dole. But mainly it would stop small businesses from being liquidated along with the jobs people had as workers there.
5) Raise pay for soldiers and provide free housing for active military families. This will put more money in the pockets of our soldiers and their families which I know is greatly needed.
6) Provide free land and a tax moratorium for companies, domestic or foreign, that want to build industrial plants in the US, especially plants that employ significant numbers of employees.
7) Heavily tax goods manufactured by American companies in foreign countries that will be imported to the US for sale or incorporation in other products.
8) The government should impose large fines on any American company that lays off workers in America and moves their manufacturing facilities or process overseas.
9) Provide incentives to Americans to "Buy American".
10) Provide free job training for displaced workers or jobless people who need new skills to become employed.
11) Reduce or eliminate all non-essential government services until the budget is balanced each and every year.
12. We need more scientists and engineers to stimulate new product development in the US. Therefor offer incentives to degreed foreign engineers and scientists if they wish to immigrate to the US.
If you agree with the above write your Congressmen and tell them. If you don't agree with me, write me and tell me why you don't agree.
Here are some steps the government could take and in my opinion it should take:
1) Reduce taxes even further than the Bush tax cuts. Just continuing the Bush tax levels is not really a tax reduction from the levels we have now. So how is retaining the Bush levels a tax cut?
2) Reduce the Federal taxes on luxury items.
3) Raise taxes or tariffs on low price imports that kill our businesses.
4) Eliminate the Estate Tax (otherwise known as the death tax) completely. This will put money in the hands of people and keep some people from going on the public dole. But mainly it would stop small businesses from being liquidated along with the jobs people had as workers there.
5) Raise pay for soldiers and provide free housing for active military families. This will put more money in the pockets of our soldiers and their families which I know is greatly needed.
6) Provide free land and a tax moratorium for companies, domestic or foreign, that want to build industrial plants in the US, especially plants that employ significant numbers of employees.
7) Heavily tax goods manufactured by American companies in foreign countries that will be imported to the US for sale or incorporation in other products.
8) The government should impose large fines on any American company that lays off workers in America and moves their manufacturing facilities or process overseas.
9) Provide incentives to Americans to "Buy American".
10) Provide free job training for displaced workers or jobless people who need new skills to become employed.
11) Reduce or eliminate all non-essential government services until the budget is balanced each and every year.
12. We need more scientists and engineers to stimulate new product development in the US. Therefor offer incentives to degreed foreign engineers and scientists if they wish to immigrate to the US.
If you agree with the above write your Congressmen and tell them. If you don't agree with me, write me and tell me why you don't agree.
Wednesday, December 8, 2010
AMERICA, WHY IS IT GREAT?
I write a lot about all the problems that America has, but what is good and even great about America that we need to remember? I will list a few things that I can think of and if I leave any out please email me so I can add them to the list (These things I list here are not necessarily listed in order of priority) :
1) We are one of the most free nations in the world in terms of free speech and freedom of the press (including unfettered and uncensored access to literature and the electronic media.)
2) Free enterprise. The freedom to start almost any business that is legal that you can think of, and more businesses are legal here than in most countries.
3) The freedom to vote for the political party and candidate of your choice.
4) All citizens have the full rights of our United States Constitution regardless of gender, race, creed, age, or religion.
5) The right of privacy and protections against illegal search and seizure.
6) A person is considered to be innocent of any crime until proven guilty by due process of law and trial by jury.
7) The right of individuals to bear arms.
8) The right of free assembly.
9) The right of workers to organize to form unions.
10) The right to own real estate and other legal property, to accumulate wealth, and to protect it.
11) The right to travel to any state inside the country without interference or identity checks, and to almost any country (with legal documents such as a passport and visa when required.)
12) The free exercise of religion. The government does not restrict nor outlaw any religion.
13) The charitable character of the American people to contribute help to other nations and at times even fight and die for the freedom of others. The combating of tyranny and terrorism wherever it is found.
There are also many other good things about the United States that I cannot even begin to fully list or describe here. I will let those who criticize us think about it.
1) We are one of the most free nations in the world in terms of free speech and freedom of the press (including unfettered and uncensored access to literature and the electronic media.)
2) Free enterprise. The freedom to start almost any business that is legal that you can think of, and more businesses are legal here than in most countries.
3) The freedom to vote for the political party and candidate of your choice.
4) All citizens have the full rights of our United States Constitution regardless of gender, race, creed, age, or religion.
5) The right of privacy and protections against illegal search and seizure.
6) A person is considered to be innocent of any crime until proven guilty by due process of law and trial by jury.
7) The right of individuals to bear arms.
8) The right of free assembly.
9) The right of workers to organize to form unions.
10) The right to own real estate and other legal property, to accumulate wealth, and to protect it.
11) The right to travel to any state inside the country without interference or identity checks, and to almost any country (with legal documents such as a passport and visa when required.)
12) The free exercise of religion. The government does not restrict nor outlaw any religion.
13) The charitable character of the American people to contribute help to other nations and at times even fight and die for the freedom of others. The combating of tyranny and terrorism wherever it is found.
There are also many other good things about the United States that I cannot even begin to fully list or describe here. I will let those who criticize us think about it.
Friday, December 3, 2010
WHY IS UNEMPLOYMENT STILL HIGH?
The big network news people wonder why the unemployment figures have gone up to 9.8% instead of dropping. The news people bring on talking heads to try to explain it without blaming Democrat policies (not that Republican policies are so great either.) So what are the real causes of unemployment in the current economic environment. Here are just a few reasons that come to mind with only a little thought that government economists should be able to figure out:
1) The Democrats have created an atmosphere of uncertainty for businesses with their insistence on increasing taxes on even small businesses. If you were running a small business and your living is directly related to how profitable your business will be, would you take any risk hiring an additional worker or two? Even larger businesses for the most part are not in the mood for hiring new people when they are not sure what their tax bill is going to be, and especially if they think it will be higher and will be cutting into profits. Their counter policies to the government policies will naturally be to stop hiring, or even layoff more people, as well as other measures which tend to reduce employment, especially new investments in plant and equipment.
2) In a move to "save money" the Obama administration has cut back important work, such as the space program, which has resulted in a cut-back in employment of aerospace workers and other supporting educated people, adding to the number of highly qualified people looking for work and competing with less qualified people. Cutting back the space program also has a domino-effect causing private high-technology businesses to also cut back and layoff people. Now we are hearing talk in Congress about cutting the military budget. This will cause even further job loss and shrinkage in the economy, not to mention possible bad effects on our military capability and readiness. These cuts will affect us for years to come, even allowing foreign countries to forge ahead of us in space and military technology. This is a dangerous direction for the US to move in.
3) Extended unemployment benefits which give a lot of workers enough incentive to stay on unemployment benefits instead of finding a job.
4) Environmental regulations on virtually every form of construction, power plants, oil drilling, roads, bridges, etc. These regulations are holding up a lot of projects that would otherwise go forward and employ more people. What business would want to fight all of these regulations and red tape?
5) Red tape slowing infrastructure work that was supposed to be a stimulus for employment.
6) Older workers that have not kept up job training. They are mostly computer illiterate and not employable at any modern office work. So that only leaves lower paying jobs such as fast food work or labor jobs that many of them are not physically capable of doing. These people will continue to be unemployed and eventually add to the welfare burden unless they get assistance to become employed at work that they can do.
7) American education has become so poor that a lot of young people can't even read. Of course these people cannot be employed at most jobs except low pay labor jobs. (There is nothing wrong with labor jobs in general. In fact, trained workers can make good salaries operating heavy equipment, or for example, get good jobs in the trades, if they get the training for these jobs. Many operate their own businesses.) We also need people that are willing to do labor work, but currently there are too many untrained people that can't find jobs.
8) Finally, the big one, "free trade". How many industries have we lost to "free trade": textiles, shoes, tools, steel, a large part of the automobile market, hundreds of household items, and almost anything you go to the store to buy - even a lot of grocery items. How many people would have jobs if we still had these industries in our country? How many jobs have been lost by losing these industries? No doubt millions of jobs. The economists will say "but we are now a service economy". Oh, really? Haven't countries like India already taken over the "service market"? Lets have FAIR trade put back in place and bring back the industries we lost.
There are also probably a lot of other factors that are a direct or indirect result of poor government policies, either at the federal or state level or both. But, the eight items I mention above would be a good place to start attacking the problems.
Call and write your Congressman and tell them to wake up and start working to do something about jobs.
1) The Democrats have created an atmosphere of uncertainty for businesses with their insistence on increasing taxes on even small businesses. If you were running a small business and your living is directly related to how profitable your business will be, would you take any risk hiring an additional worker or two? Even larger businesses for the most part are not in the mood for hiring new people when they are not sure what their tax bill is going to be, and especially if they think it will be higher and will be cutting into profits. Their counter policies to the government policies will naturally be to stop hiring, or even layoff more people, as well as other measures which tend to reduce employment, especially new investments in plant and equipment.
2) In a move to "save money" the Obama administration has cut back important work, such as the space program, which has resulted in a cut-back in employment of aerospace workers and other supporting educated people, adding to the number of highly qualified people looking for work and competing with less qualified people. Cutting back the space program also has a domino-effect causing private high-technology businesses to also cut back and layoff people. Now we are hearing talk in Congress about cutting the military budget. This will cause even further job loss and shrinkage in the economy, not to mention possible bad effects on our military capability and readiness. These cuts will affect us for years to come, even allowing foreign countries to forge ahead of us in space and military technology. This is a dangerous direction for the US to move in.
3) Extended unemployment benefits which give a lot of workers enough incentive to stay on unemployment benefits instead of finding a job.
4) Environmental regulations on virtually every form of construction, power plants, oil drilling, roads, bridges, etc. These regulations are holding up a lot of projects that would otherwise go forward and employ more people. What business would want to fight all of these regulations and red tape?
5) Red tape slowing infrastructure work that was supposed to be a stimulus for employment.
6) Older workers that have not kept up job training. They are mostly computer illiterate and not employable at any modern office work. So that only leaves lower paying jobs such as fast food work or labor jobs that many of them are not physically capable of doing. These people will continue to be unemployed and eventually add to the welfare burden unless they get assistance to become employed at work that they can do.
7) American education has become so poor that a lot of young people can't even read. Of course these people cannot be employed at most jobs except low pay labor jobs. (There is nothing wrong with labor jobs in general. In fact, trained workers can make good salaries operating heavy equipment, or for example, get good jobs in the trades, if they get the training for these jobs. Many operate their own businesses.) We also need people that are willing to do labor work, but currently there are too many untrained people that can't find jobs.
8) Finally, the big one, "free trade". How many industries have we lost to "free trade": textiles, shoes, tools, steel, a large part of the automobile market, hundreds of household items, and almost anything you go to the store to buy - even a lot of grocery items. How many people would have jobs if we still had these industries in our country? How many jobs have been lost by losing these industries? No doubt millions of jobs. The economists will say "but we are now a service economy". Oh, really? Haven't countries like India already taken over the "service market"? Lets have FAIR trade put back in place and bring back the industries we lost.
There are also probably a lot of other factors that are a direct or indirect result of poor government policies, either at the federal or state level or both. But, the eight items I mention above would be a good place to start attacking the problems.
Call and write your Congressman and tell them to wake up and start working to do something about jobs.
Thursday, December 2, 2010
Hauser's Law
What is Hauser's Law? Hauser's law states that total tax revenues per year are always equal to 19% of GDP. Now what happens if the Government raises taxes? Well, of course the GDP will shrink because higher taxes have a negative effect on business activity. So what happens when the Government raises taxes is that business activity drops so the GDP drops and then total tax revenue also drops because is will not be above 19% of GDP, even though the Government has raised taxes in an attempt to collect more revenue. By the way, Hauser's Law is based on many years of GDP and tax revenue data and is not challenged by anyone that knows economics.
So what should the Government do to get more revenue? The answer is to actually reduce taxes which will stimulate business, increases GDP, and so total tax revenue actually increases. This has been proven in the past when taxes have been reduced. Obviously there is then some optimum tax rate which will allow a healthy business tax environment with a growth in GDP, but still have enough tax revenue to meet necessary government expenses.
Economists, if they are worth their pay, should be able to calculate what that tax rate should be based on the vast amount of data that is available to them. Then Congress can set rates that will allow reasonable revenues without killing business.
So what should the Government do to get more revenue? The answer is to actually reduce taxes which will stimulate business, increases GDP, and so total tax revenue actually increases. This has been proven in the past when taxes have been reduced. Obviously there is then some optimum tax rate which will allow a healthy business tax environment with a growth in GDP, but still have enough tax revenue to meet necessary government expenses.
Economists, if they are worth their pay, should be able to calculate what that tax rate should be based on the vast amount of data that is available to them. Then Congress can set rates that will allow reasonable revenues without killing business.
Friday, November 26, 2010
GOVERNMENT FLEXING THEIR NEW SOCIALIST POWER
On the basis of the new Health Care Law the government is trying to impose minimum so-called "medical loss ratios" on health insurers. What does this mean? It means for example that an insurance company is required to pay out between 80 to 85% minimum of its premium revenue for medical payments to subscribers. At the same time the government is also saying that a company cannot make more than so much profit. This is socialism if I have ever heard of an example of it. This is a blatant exercise of government power that is directly against the United States Constitution.
Any insurance company should be free to set any premium rates it wants and to pay out whatever portion of premiums it sees fit. Why? Because that is the capitalist system and the market place will determine if a company will last in the business or not. For example, if a company's premiums are too large and it does pay out claims as it should, it will not last long in business anyway. Customers will naturally buy the best policy they can that has the lowest premiums and pays reasonable claims the way it should. If an insurance company is not doing a good enough job paying claims and/or their premiums are too high they will not be competitive with other companies that do.
In the socialist government system our Democrat political leaders we are now building, the health care industry is just the start. Next will be control of communications(the Internet, radio, TV, and newspapers), transportation, the food industry, and many other industries. The government will then have complete power over the country and individual freedoms will be strictly limited. People will be under continuous surveillance by Big Brother. We will have a police state.
So you think airport screening is tough now? Just wait for the new US Socialist Government to develop its full power.
Any insurance company should be free to set any premium rates it wants and to pay out whatever portion of premiums it sees fit. Why? Because that is the capitalist system and the market place will determine if a company will last in the business or not. For example, if a company's premiums are too large and it does pay out claims as it should, it will not last long in business anyway. Customers will naturally buy the best policy they can that has the lowest premiums and pays reasonable claims the way it should. If an insurance company is not doing a good enough job paying claims and/or their premiums are too high they will not be competitive with other companies that do.
In the socialist government system our Democrat political leaders we are now building, the health care industry is just the start. Next will be control of communications(the Internet, radio, TV, and newspapers), transportation, the food industry, and many other industries. The government will then have complete power over the country and individual freedoms will be strictly limited. People will be under continuous surveillance by Big Brother. We will have a police state.
So you think airport screening is tough now? Just wait for the new US Socialist Government to develop its full power.
Thursday, November 18, 2010
A PLAN TO UGRADE AMERICAN EDUCATION
Everyone knows that US education, despite having good teachers, is behind the times and way behind other leading countries such as China, Japan, Germany, and others. Also we have a bad problem where a lot of children come out of school and are not really prepared to go to college and don't have any skills or training that would allow them to get a job. Here is my plan.
First change grade school so that by the eighth grade students are computer literate, and at least know American history, English, geometry, and algebra as a minimum. Each subject should have two class structures, one for A-B students, and one for C students, so that the slower learning students don't slow down the faster learning students, but both groups get the best education possible.
Also grade school (and high school students) need interesting and motivating teaching that will get them interested in learning. Feed them breakfast and lunch so that they will have the necessary energy if they need it.
High school needs to be re-organized along the same lines except that now it is time to prepare the C level students for non-college graduate work such as the building trades, mechanical technology,software/IT, crafts, and arts as their interests indicate. The C level group is really an important group as these people will need to be skilled enough to get good jobs so that they will be productive citizens.This will benefit them and the country. We need more skilled people in this country if we are to be productive as a country.
The same is true of the college bound students. They need to be intensely trained in the field that they choose whether they are heading for law, science, engineering, or the social sciences. For example, science and engineering students, should know math up through calculus,and chemistry covering inorganic and organic basics. Also they should be proficient in basic software for computation, and basic physics. All high school students should have some education in finance, investments, stocks, bonds, and real estate with an emphasis on saving and investment for their future needs.
If the grade and high schools are up-graded according to this plan, colleges won't have to spend a lot of time teaching students material they should already know. Finally, college science and engineering studies needs to be up-graded so that America is once again the leader in science and engineering. Write and call your Congressmen and let them know we are very concerned about the poor education in America now and something needs to done!
Everyone should be active in promoting good education for our children. It is more important than the present ridiculous political machinations we are going through.
First change grade school so that by the eighth grade students are computer literate, and at least know American history, English, geometry, and algebra as a minimum. Each subject should have two class structures, one for A-B students, and one for C students, so that the slower learning students don't slow down the faster learning students, but both groups get the best education possible.
Also grade school (and high school students) need interesting and motivating teaching that will get them interested in learning. Feed them breakfast and lunch so that they will have the necessary energy if they need it.
High school needs to be re-organized along the same lines except that now it is time to prepare the C level students for non-college graduate work such as the building trades, mechanical technology,software/IT, crafts, and arts as their interests indicate. The C level group is really an important group as these people will need to be skilled enough to get good jobs so that they will be productive citizens.This will benefit them and the country. We need more skilled people in this country if we are to be productive as a country.
The same is true of the college bound students. They need to be intensely trained in the field that they choose whether they are heading for law, science, engineering, or the social sciences. For example, science and engineering students, should know math up through calculus,and chemistry covering inorganic and organic basics. Also they should be proficient in basic software for computation, and basic physics. All high school students should have some education in finance, investments, stocks, bonds, and real estate with an emphasis on saving and investment for their future needs.
If the grade and high schools are up-graded according to this plan, colleges won't have to spend a lot of time teaching students material they should already know. Finally, college science and engineering studies needs to be up-graded so that America is once again the leader in science and engineering. Write and call your Congressmen and let them know we are very concerned about the poor education in America now and something needs to done!
Everyone should be active in promoting good education for our children. It is more important than the present ridiculous political machinations we are going through.
Tuesday, November 9, 2010
THE FEDERAL RESERVE'S MONEY MOVE
The Federal Reserve Board's decision to proceed with "quantitative easing" or in simple terms printing more money to buy back government debt is in reality a move to devalue our currency. This will have a number of effects both good and bad. First of all this will cause inflation in our economy. We will have to pay more for food and goods of all types. Our salaries will not go as far. Utility bills will go up. Fuel prices will go up. Seniors Social Security payments will buy less and some seniors will have difficulty just surviving.
What are the good effects? Our exported goods will be more competitive. China and other countries will not be as competitive with our own export goods. Other countries will not get so much of a free ride on our economy as they have been getting. The burdensome value or our public debt will not be as high (so now the Democrats can spend even more money!)
Some people insist that the Fed move is protectionist, and so it is, but it does not go far enough. It is kind of a wimpy adjustment in my view. Also, we need to do a lot more to protect and re-build our own manufacturing base. We need to tax or tariff imports on a fair basis (Fair Trade instead of Free Trade.) If the Fed is really trying to stimulate our economy, a better way would be to issue bonds to collect money to be invested in private business plant, equipment, skills training, and infrastructure which we badly need. Agree with me or not. It is your choice but note that every year we continue to lose industries and jobs is another year closer to the decline and fall of America if we don't do something. Write your Congressmen and tell them what I am saying or whatever you think. But get involved!
What are the good effects? Our exported goods will be more competitive. China and other countries will not be as competitive with our own export goods. Other countries will not get so much of a free ride on our economy as they have been getting. The burdensome value or our public debt will not be as high (so now the Democrats can spend even more money!)
Some people insist that the Fed move is protectionist, and so it is, but it does not go far enough. It is kind of a wimpy adjustment in my view. Also, we need to do a lot more to protect and re-build our own manufacturing base. We need to tax or tariff imports on a fair basis (Fair Trade instead of Free Trade.) If the Fed is really trying to stimulate our economy, a better way would be to issue bonds to collect money to be invested in private business plant, equipment, skills training, and infrastructure which we badly need. Agree with me or not. It is your choice but note that every year we continue to lose industries and jobs is another year closer to the decline and fall of America if we don't do something. Write your Congressmen and tell them what I am saying or whatever you think. But get involved!
Wednesday, November 3, 2010
WILL REPUBLICANS SUPPORT DEMOCRATIC BILLS?
If the Democrats want to pass any laws, they will now have to convince Republicans to vote with them. Forget any extreme leftist laws passing, as for example the Health Care Law. Such politically extreme laws from either party will not pass in the new gridlock Congress. It is going to be very hard for Congress to increase taxes but it will also be hard for Republicans to get an extension of the Bush tax cuts. So I predict that there will be a de-facto tax increase. If this happens it will be another black eye for the Democrats in 2012. I see 2012 as a further disaster for Democrats unless there are some significant improvements in employment and the real estate market, especially in the area of credit availability.
At some point, regardless of our personal likes and dislikes, we must stop fighting each other, or the USA will turn into another third world debtor nation (We are already a debtor nation.) If America wants to be a prosperous nation and a world leader, we must start cooperating and forget the far left and far right agendas. America still has the great ideal of freedom for all and it should be our goal to promote freedom everywhere in the world. We should not support any country that is not free or discriminates against any minority, race, or religion. This should be our major policy and we should build our country on that basis. There is no reason why we cannot be prosperous and leaders in all forms of technology and business. We should maintain a very strong military and CIA to discourage all would-be attackers and terrorists.
At some point, regardless of our personal likes and dislikes, we must stop fighting each other, or the USA will turn into another third world debtor nation (We are already a debtor nation.) If America wants to be a prosperous nation and a world leader, we must start cooperating and forget the far left and far right agendas. America still has the great ideal of freedom for all and it should be our goal to promote freedom everywhere in the world. We should not support any country that is not free or discriminates against any minority, race, or religion. This should be our major policy and we should build our country on that basis. There is no reason why we cannot be prosperous and leaders in all forms of technology and business. We should maintain a very strong military and CIA to discourage all would-be attackers and terrorists.
WELCOME TO THE NEW GRIDLOCK CONGRESS
What can happen with a Republican House of Representatives and a Democratically controlled Senate? Well mostly nothing I think. The Health Care Law will not be repealed for one thing. There will be no more massive stimulus except whatever the federal Reserve can do by itself. There will be no new major spending projects either. There will definitely be no major actions on politically sensitive issues such as immigration. Why will this be? Suppose for example, that the House writes a politically sensitive law. The Senate could kill it or they could pass it and send it to the President. But the President will veto it if it contradicts any of his mostly extreme left agenda. Or the Senate could write some leftist bill but the House will not pass it, so it dies. Either way the bill will not be passed. So we will have gridlock in government to a great extent especially on any political issues on which action would offend either the right or the left. But don't forget that the Executive branch our of government which includes the President has a lot of power to take actions in many areas that are not under the direct control of Congress and there are ways to get around Congress such as recess appointments, etc.
And don't forget the Federal Reserve and the Treasury Depts. that can move mountains in the economy if they want to, controlling the money supply, interest rates, bond issues/re-purchases, and many other aspects of the economy. As far as the gridlock is concerned it can actually be a good thing for business as there will be no significant laws that will "rock the boat" so to speak. What does it mean for 2012 though? I think that many Democrats will be in political trouble even more than now if they don't forget about their leftist agendas and start being cooperative with Republicans and working for the people instead of themselves. This includes the President.
And don't forget the Federal Reserve and the Treasury Depts. that can move mountains in the economy if they want to, controlling the money supply, interest rates, bond issues/re-purchases, and many other aspects of the economy. As far as the gridlock is concerned it can actually be a good thing for business as there will be no significant laws that will "rock the boat" so to speak. What does it mean for 2012 though? I think that many Democrats will be in political trouble even more than now if they don't forget about their leftist agendas and start being cooperative with Republicans and working for the people instead of themselves. This includes the President.
Saturday, October 30, 2010
WHY WE DON'T NEED POLITICAL PARTIES
After some consideration I have come to the conclusion that America does not need political parties! Why? Because all of the parties have some agenda, or social idea, or in other words some extreme "axe to grind." For examples, the Republicans believe that the only thing that is important is that their way (working to become self sufficient, rich and powerful) is the only thing that Americans need to do to live (they will never need welfare, Social Security, or Medicare/Medicaid.) The Democrats, on the other hand, believe that everyone should be taken care of no matter what the cost and that the only real function of government is to level everyone to the same status (really no status) and only the party big Whigs have power, perks, and the special privileges. The Libertarians, believe that we really don't need any government and that everyone should be absolutely free to do whatever they want. The Tea Party may be the only good party because they don't really know what they want. So what is my conclusion? What should our government really be like? First, we as voters and politicians should make sure that we believe in and support the Constitution of the United States that our nation is supposed to be based on. Next, we should elect only those politicians who support the Constitution and take sound and reasonable positions on the issues. We should vote for who we personally think are the best people and leaders and forget about parties and the political nonsense that does not mean anything. Then in a democracy like ours, the majority is right by the definition of our government.
We as Americans need to recognize that we will always have poor people and people who need help from the rest of us. Not everyone will be capable of earning enough money to become self-sufficient. And people do eventually get old and possibly disabled, and not able to work anymore. And what about people who have paid significant part of their salaries into Social Security and Medicare deductions for years (without any choice). Should they be cheated out of their benefits just because some people are upset about government spending? There are a lot of other areas of government that could be cut before we need to start cutting Social Security and Medicare. On Tuesday Nov. 2, you will have a chance to make your choices. Vote for the Constitution!
We as Americans need to recognize that we will always have poor people and people who need help from the rest of us. Not everyone will be capable of earning enough money to become self-sufficient. And people do eventually get old and possibly disabled, and not able to work anymore. And what about people who have paid significant part of their salaries into Social Security and Medicare deductions for years (without any choice). Should they be cheated out of their benefits just because some people are upset about government spending? There are a lot of other areas of government that could be cut before we need to start cutting Social Security and Medicare. On Tuesday Nov. 2, you will have a chance to make your choices. Vote for the Constitution!
Wednesday, October 27, 2010
What is a Moderate Politician?
In my opinion, a moderate is a politician who does not subscribe to, nor support, any extreme conservative or liberal policy. He or she is someone who judges each policy or bill of law, or existing law, on the basis of its common sense consequences, and whether or not it is in conformance wit the literal meaning of the Constitution.
An ideal moderate does NOT vote on a bill of law according to the dictates of their political party, or some political or business influence that he or she is being pressured to give in to. Let me give you an example of an extreme policy that has recently been voted into law. This is of course the new Health Law voted into law by the Democrats. Does anyone think that there was no political pressure involved in the votes to pass it? A lot of people believe that this law is actually not in conformance with the Constitution and should actually be repealed.
Here is a policy that some Republicans or conservatives are trying to promote as something that should be done: Cut or eliminate Social Security and Medicare. These extreme ideas are the reason why I will not vote for the Republicans this year, even though I am a conservative or moderate on most issues. One thing I noticed about the "cut Social Security, etc." people is that they are generally young, healthy, and already rich or high income types that may never need SS or Medicare. Fine idea. These people can refuse the benefits if they don't need them. But there are people who do need the benefits: the elderly, the sick, the handicapped, and the poor who don't make enough money to save for their retirement or pay for expensive medical services. So, these benefits are expensive, but there is a lot of stupid pork spending that should be eliminated first before we even consider cutting SS or Medicare.
An ideal moderate does NOT vote on a bill of law according to the dictates of their political party, or some political or business influence that he or she is being pressured to give in to. Let me give you an example of an extreme policy that has recently been voted into law. This is of course the new Health Law voted into law by the Democrats. Does anyone think that there was no political pressure involved in the votes to pass it? A lot of people believe that this law is actually not in conformance with the Constitution and should actually be repealed.
Here is a policy that some Republicans or conservatives are trying to promote as something that should be done: Cut or eliminate Social Security and Medicare. These extreme ideas are the reason why I will not vote for the Republicans this year, even though I am a conservative or moderate on most issues. One thing I noticed about the "cut Social Security, etc." people is that they are generally young, healthy, and already rich or high income types that may never need SS or Medicare. Fine idea. These people can refuse the benefits if they don't need them. But there are people who do need the benefits: the elderly, the sick, the handicapped, and the poor who don't make enough money to save for their retirement or pay for expensive medical services. So, these benefits are expensive, but there is a lot of stupid pork spending that should be eliminated first before we even consider cutting SS or Medicare.
Sunday, October 3, 2010
SHOULD WE LIVE IN FEAR?
There are many threats to our human life, such as terrorism, nuclear war, biological or chemical warfare (NBC), natural disaster, ecological threats, global warming, global cooling, meteor impact, volcanoes, floods, earthquakes, political chaos, etc. But should we live in fear of these threats? Some of them we could maybe do something about and if we need to take some action maybe we should, depending on the consequences. But we still cannot solve every crisis necessarily by human means so sometimes we will have only our internal intellectual or spiritual strength (depending on what you believe.) So back to our question: Should we live in fear? I say no. We should live each day to the fullest because we have no promise of tomorrow. At the same time we need to take whatever means are necessary to defend ourselves from terrorists or any nation state that would cause us physical harm in a planned attack. But should we start a nuclear war over trade problems? NO. We have to be careful in a world where a number of countries could cause us significant harm. Obviously anyone who would undertake a nuclear war is embarking on a deadly course which would never have a good outcome. The Cuban Missile Crisis is an example of a case where a man (or men) decided to back-off rather than risk an all-out nuclear war. But we can expect madmen to try to harm us with terrorist attacks and we need to be extremely vigilant against such plots. The fullest surveillance powers of the government should be used in this regard. For example, there should be no question about using assets to monitor any telephone or Internet communications of suspects or questionable communications, even if some people don't like it.
Tuesday, September 14, 2010
US SCHOOLS RANK 20TH OR LOWER IN SCIENCE
US schools are way behind other countries in the world in math and science. We are behind countries like Finland, UK, Germany, Japan, and others. Why is this? I will give you several reasons that I think are responsible and you can judge.
First, there is no discipline in our schools. Discipline needs to be established and students need to have respect for their teacher, their principal, their fellow students, and their school.
Second, teachers need to be fully qualified to teach their subjects and they need to be chosen and tested for their skills periodically. Continuous updating of teacher knowledge and skills should be practiced. We must have the best teachers possible.
Third, classes must be interesting and stimulating for students so that they will be interested in learning the subject. Students who show a special interest or ability in a subject should be encouraged.
Fourth, classes should be kept as small as possible, less than 25 if possible.
Fifth, schools should be clean and properly maintained to provide a good teaching environment.
Sixth, the school year should be extended to a full year with reasonable breaks for vacations, and teacher training.
Seventh, but maybe the highest priority, schools must be safe. All entrance doors should controlled entry with metal detectors, cameras, and other security devices as needed. There must be NO GUNS or other weapons in schools.
Eighth, students must be continuously watched and monitored to prevent any form of student bullying or harassment.
I think all of the above problems apply to most US schools. Do you agree? Let me know your thoughts!
First, there is no discipline in our schools. Discipline needs to be established and students need to have respect for their teacher, their principal, their fellow students, and their school.
Second, teachers need to be fully qualified to teach their subjects and they need to be chosen and tested for their skills periodically. Continuous updating of teacher knowledge and skills should be practiced. We must have the best teachers possible.
Third, classes must be interesting and stimulating for students so that they will be interested in learning the subject. Students who show a special interest or ability in a subject should be encouraged.
Fourth, classes should be kept as small as possible, less than 25 if possible.
Fifth, schools should be clean and properly maintained to provide a good teaching environment.
Sixth, the school year should be extended to a full year with reasonable breaks for vacations, and teacher training.
Seventh, but maybe the highest priority, schools must be safe. All entrance doors should controlled entry with metal detectors, cameras, and other security devices as needed. There must be NO GUNS or other weapons in schools.
Eighth, students must be continuously watched and monitored to prevent any form of student bullying or harassment.
I think all of the above problems apply to most US schools. Do you agree? Let me know your thoughts!
Tuesday, September 7, 2010
IS AMERICA IN A STATE OF DECLINE?
According to the Wall Street Journal, 65% of Americans think we are in a state of decline at the present time. The rest either believe otherwise, don't know, or don't care. President Obama recently proposed a tax incentive for business research and development, investment, and new plants and equipment. He also proposed $50 billion for infrastructure improvements. These are a couple of good steps in the right direction but is Congress smart enough to approve these measures? We need to support our President on these important initiatives and work to help restore our former drive, can-do attitude, and cooperation with each other. This means rejecting negative thinking, racism, demonstrating over minor disagreements, rolling up our sleeves, finding jobs, starting businesses, and hiring workers. It would also help if President Obama would get our manned space flight moving again and continuing with advanced military weapons research. We need a complete overhaul of everything we do in this country, in business, in medicine, in the space program, in our infrastructure, in our space program, in our military, and in our dealings with our nations. It will take a mighty effort on the part of all of us to bring us back to the super-power nation we used to be with the respect of the world. This is the only way we can hold back the forces of darkness that are threatening us now in the US and in the world. Write your Congressmen and tell them what needs to be done and why. There is limited time available to us before we could be engulfed with evil forces.
Friday, September 3, 2010
SECURITY OR PRIVACY?
India is now going to force Google and Skype to allow the Indians to spy on private Internet communications. RIMM has already been pressured to do the same. The supposed reason for this is state security. I think this is a big price to pay for the companies involved to have to comply with India's requirements. True, India might catch a few terrorists or criminals, but is it really worth the loss of communication privacy. How do we know that corrupt officials might not use the stolen information to fatten up their pockets? A similar problem surfaced earlier in China where the Chinese government is scared to death that someone might find out the truth by searching on Google.
It is evident to me now that the democracies will fail because the freedom of privacy and free speech can no longer be tolerated in the world. The world is now on the path to an absolute dictatorship because of this issue and the need for beefed up security everywhere. It will be impossible to have any privacy and freedom of expression. Everything you do will be known and controlled.
So what can we do about it? Not much, unless we refuse to do business with countries like China and India, but I don't think that is going to happen. Maybe some sanctions? Hello Congress, anyone, is anybody listening? Any comments?
It is evident to me now that the democracies will fail because the freedom of privacy and free speech can no longer be tolerated in the world. The world is now on the path to an absolute dictatorship because of this issue and the need for beefed up security everywhere. It will be impossible to have any privacy and freedom of expression. Everything you do will be known and controlled.
So what can we do about it? Not much, unless we refuse to do business with countries like China and India, but I don't think that is going to happen. Maybe some sanctions? Hello Congress, anyone, is anybody listening? Any comments?
Tuesday, August 31, 2010
TOLEDO'S GLASS MUSEUM
Toledo Ohio has built a glass building for its newest museum. The crazy part of it is that Toledo had to buy the high tech glass panels from China! Granted some of the panels are large and curved to boot, but why couldn't Toledo buy the panels from a US manufacturer? Is China to blame? No, China is not to blame. In fact, a Chinese company was the only company that Toledo found that would make the glass panels. Why? Because no US manufacturer was willing to invest the $500,000 for a machine that would make the glass. Now for many years, the US has been the leader in high tech glass manufacturing and now we are loosing our lead to an emerging foreign company. Why is this? Is it because US companies have no guts or no ambition anymore? No, its because the US is now turning into a welfare state with higher taxes on individuals and businesses.
US businesses are now in a period of total business uncertainity. They don't know what new taxes they will have to pay. They don't know how much they will have to pay for employee's new health insurance plans due to the new health care law. They don't know what market demand will be with so many people out of work and so many cities and states having budget problems, especially for any custome made products such as curved panels of glass. So who is to balme for this state of affairs? Our leftist socialist Congress of course.
US businesses are now in a period of total business uncertainity. They don't know what new taxes they will have to pay. They don't know how much they will have to pay for employee's new health insurance plans due to the new health care law. They don't know what market demand will be with so many people out of work and so many cities and states having budget problems, especially for any custome made products such as curved panels of glass. So who is to balme for this state of affairs? Our leftist socialist Congress of course.
Wednesday, August 25, 2010
IS A MARKET CRASH COMING?
A popular TV and radio host is saying the a market crash is possible and cites the Hindenberg Omen as one of the indicators. The theory is that when the "Omen" is indicated in market action that a crash happens 77% of the time. The "Omen" has recently occurred. A market crash is always possible but so is a market boom. No one can say for sure no matter what the indicators are showing. But lets suppose that a market crash is coming. What should people do? My theory is that people should always be prepared for economic or natural disaster if they want to protect themselves and their families.
Please note that I am not a financial advisor nor a stock analyst. Nor am I an economist. But here is my advice if you are interested. Be prepared for either possibility. If you take all your money out of stocks then you might lose out on the next stock market boom. If you put all your money in bonds and deflation does not happen then you may lose money on the bonds (depending on what bonds you buy.) If you have a stock portfolio there are ways to protect your assets such as positions in gold, options, or inverse ETF funds. Ask an expert for advice.
If you are not a stock market investor what should you do? Try to make sure you will have cash money available to you if the markets do crash and the banks fail. Save as much of your paycheck as you can. Keep up your home food supplies. Keep your cars filled up with gasoline and have extra motor oil on hand. An extra set of tires in your garage is a good idea. Have a stock of necessities at home. Keep jugs of clean water at home. Make sure you have wood for your fireplace. If you don't have a fireplace, install a wood stove or kerosene heater (have a supply of kerosene for it) if you live in a cold climate. Plan for an evacuation of your area with a route and a place to go live if you need to. Learn to camp out and have camping equipment on hand. It is also a good idea to own a legal registered gun if you can shoot. Owning fishing equipment and knowing how to fish is also a good idea. Then don't forget the usual emergency supplies such as flashlights, batteries, matches, etc. I know that a lot of my advice is easier said than done, but do the best you can to be prepared.
Finally, don't be afraid. Be proactive. Work hard for yourself and your family. Watch out for opportunities that you can take advantage of to improve your situation. Don't let anyone discourage you. Save and invest wisely.
Please note that I am not a financial advisor nor a stock analyst. Nor am I an economist. But here is my advice if you are interested. Be prepared for either possibility. If you take all your money out of stocks then you might lose out on the next stock market boom. If you put all your money in bonds and deflation does not happen then you may lose money on the bonds (depending on what bonds you buy.) If you have a stock portfolio there are ways to protect your assets such as positions in gold, options, or inverse ETF funds. Ask an expert for advice.
If you are not a stock market investor what should you do? Try to make sure you will have cash money available to you if the markets do crash and the banks fail. Save as much of your paycheck as you can. Keep up your home food supplies. Keep your cars filled up with gasoline and have extra motor oil on hand. An extra set of tires in your garage is a good idea. Have a stock of necessities at home. Keep jugs of clean water at home. Make sure you have wood for your fireplace. If you don't have a fireplace, install a wood stove or kerosene heater (have a supply of kerosene for it) if you live in a cold climate. Plan for an evacuation of your area with a route and a place to go live if you need to. Learn to camp out and have camping equipment on hand. It is also a good idea to own a legal registered gun if you can shoot. Owning fishing equipment and knowing how to fish is also a good idea. Then don't forget the usual emergency supplies such as flashlights, batteries, matches, etc. I know that a lot of my advice is easier said than done, but do the best you can to be prepared.
Finally, don't be afraid. Be proactive. Work hard for yourself and your family. Watch out for opportunities that you can take advantage of to improve your situation. Don't let anyone discourage you. Save and invest wisely.
Saturday, August 21, 2010
CHINA BUYING DEBT OF OTHER NATIONS
China is buying debt of nations such as Japanese government bonds, more South Korean debt, and is adding Malaysia to the group of currencies it is allowing to compete with the yuan. What is the significance of China buying the debt of other countries? The answer is going to be the eventual financial control of other countries that will be virtually as good as political control once they start to implement their financial power that stems from holding the debt and large monetary reserves.
Consider what would happen for example if China suddenly dumped their holdings of almost $1 trillion of US Government bonds. The market for these bonds would suddenly drop dramatically, especially for the longer term bonds such as the 10 year and 30 year maturities. People and businesses in the US and other countries would lose faith in the bonds and their value could become worthless in a selling panic. The US could not issue new bonds because there would be no confidence in their safety or value as an investment. This could cause severe financial problems for the US and other countries possibly throwing the entire world into recession or even a depression. China will then of course come to the rescue provided that we give China certain privileges of control over our affairs and the affairs of other countries.
But what about China? Wouldn't this also cause them financial problems? Not to worry. China has $2.5 trillion in reserves and also has many gold fields and many gold mines. In June 2010 alone China mined over 31 tons of gold or approximately 1.2 billion dollars of value at today's gold price.
Now combine China's buying of other nation's debt with their buying of natural resources all over the world and we have a recipe for disaster. China will rule the world financially and politically and that will be that!
Consider what would happen for example if China suddenly dumped their holdings of almost $1 trillion of US Government bonds. The market for these bonds would suddenly drop dramatically, especially for the longer term bonds such as the 10 year and 30 year maturities. People and businesses in the US and other countries would lose faith in the bonds and their value could become worthless in a selling panic. The US could not issue new bonds because there would be no confidence in their safety or value as an investment. This could cause severe financial problems for the US and other countries possibly throwing the entire world into recession or even a depression. China will then of course come to the rescue provided that we give China certain privileges of control over our affairs and the affairs of other countries.
But what about China? Wouldn't this also cause them financial problems? Not to worry. China has $2.5 trillion in reserves and also has many gold fields and many gold mines. In June 2010 alone China mined over 31 tons of gold or approximately 1.2 billion dollars of value at today's gold price.
Now combine China's buying of other nation's debt with their buying of natural resources all over the world and we have a recipe for disaster. China will rule the world financially and politically and that will be that!
Friday, August 20, 2010
THE HUNTINGTON WORLD MODEL
The Huntington model views the world as it is not as we (the US) would like it to be. The problem with our present, and our long standing, diplomatic policy is that we don't consider the real cultural nature of our so-called allies and enemies.
The truth is that some nations we now consider, or have considered, as allies are really culturally opposed to our type of democracy, freedom, and method of governing. We should really consider them as non-friendly or even enemy nations as far as our relationship with such nations is concerned today. Examples are nations that pretend to be democratic but are really religious dictatorships, despotic, communistic, or monarchies that support cultures and activities that are secretly against our culture or even openly attack our government or its institutions. Treating such countries as allies or as trading partners is courting disaster for the US.
The world situation we have now is that we have a serious and sometimes deadly confrontation of ideologies of the major cultures. We as a free democracy are under serious pressure by cultures that are each trying to dominate the world and neither of which are compatible with our culture. We know who they are and what they are doing but our government acts as if there is no problem and that we can really get along with these cultures. Nothing is further from the truth. It is really a case of "them or us" and someday if this situation is allowed to persist, we will be forced to accept what we don't like and don't want as a foreign culture that will control our government and our very lives.
The present world situation, if I have my history correct, is very much like that of the late 1930's when the fascist powers were rising to world powers and both Germany and Japan were on a path to world conquest. At the same time the US refused to accept the true nature of the threat and did nothing until it was almost too late to stop the fascist flood. In fact in the late 1930's the US shipped many tons of scrap iron to Japan which they used to build a massive naval fleet that we would eventually have to fight against.
We should be very careful when picking our allies and our trading partners that they are like us culturally and are democratic. Also we need to be more aggressive in protecting our interests, our technology, making sure that we are militarily strong, and constantly improve our homeland security against terror threats. We cannot let down our guard.
The truth is that some nations we now consider, or have considered, as allies are really culturally opposed to our type of democracy, freedom, and method of governing. We should really consider them as non-friendly or even enemy nations as far as our relationship with such nations is concerned today. Examples are nations that pretend to be democratic but are really religious dictatorships, despotic, communistic, or monarchies that support cultures and activities that are secretly against our culture or even openly attack our government or its institutions. Treating such countries as allies or as trading partners is courting disaster for the US.
The world situation we have now is that we have a serious and sometimes deadly confrontation of ideologies of the major cultures. We as a free democracy are under serious pressure by cultures that are each trying to dominate the world and neither of which are compatible with our culture. We know who they are and what they are doing but our government acts as if there is no problem and that we can really get along with these cultures. Nothing is further from the truth. It is really a case of "them or us" and someday if this situation is allowed to persist, we will be forced to accept what we don't like and don't want as a foreign culture that will control our government and our very lives.
The present world situation, if I have my history correct, is very much like that of the late 1930's when the fascist powers were rising to world powers and both Germany and Japan were on a path to world conquest. At the same time the US refused to accept the true nature of the threat and did nothing until it was almost too late to stop the fascist flood. In fact in the late 1930's the US shipped many tons of scrap iron to Japan which they used to build a massive naval fleet that we would eventually have to fight against.
We should be very careful when picking our allies and our trading partners that they are like us culturally and are democratic. Also we need to be more aggressive in protecting our interests, our technology, making sure that we are militarily strong, and constantly improve our homeland security against terror threats. We cannot let down our guard.
Tuesday, August 17, 2010
CHINA IS BUILDING UP THEIR MILITARY?
Suddenly the US is concerned about China's military build-up. It will have new carrier-killer missiles. Surprise. What else is new? Hello? Wake up US! The Chinese have been building up their military for at least a decade or more. And, what else would you expect from a super-power in this dangerous world? They now build their own jet fighters, and yes, missiles, and probably soon stealth bombers. Expect nuclear powered ballistic missile submarines next.
So what is the answer to this problem? Of course the answer is first intelligence and second our own revitalization of our defense industry. We must know well ahead of time what China and other powers are doing to build their military and then plan our defenses accordingly. But just defensive weapons is not enough. No war was ever won with defense only. We must constantly be developing new offensive weapons and technology that can defeat any enemy now or in the future.
What kind of weapons should we have or develop? Nuclear? Conventional? Ships? Subs? Advanced fighters and bombers? Advanced drone aircraft? Anti-terrorist weapons? Electronic? Cyberspace? Yes. All of the above, and deployed without interference from the politically correct crowd!
Also badly needed is up-grading our homeland security. Are our borders well protected? No, we know they are not. Are our ports protected from terrorist weapons on ships or in cargo containers? Do we check every ship and container that comes to our shores? Do we constantly monitor for nuclear materials in our cities?
One thing we should consider seriously is a total up-grade of our nuclear weapons and to resume underground testing to make sure that they really work. Without real testing how do we know that they work?
A very strong military and strong homeland security is our only real deterrent to the bad guys.
So what is the answer to this problem? Of course the answer is first intelligence and second our own revitalization of our defense industry. We must know well ahead of time what China and other powers are doing to build their military and then plan our defenses accordingly. But just defensive weapons is not enough. No war was ever won with defense only. We must constantly be developing new offensive weapons and technology that can defeat any enemy now or in the future.
What kind of weapons should we have or develop? Nuclear? Conventional? Ships? Subs? Advanced fighters and bombers? Advanced drone aircraft? Anti-terrorist weapons? Electronic? Cyberspace? Yes. All of the above, and deployed without interference from the politically correct crowd!
Also badly needed is up-grading our homeland security. Are our borders well protected? No, we know they are not. Are our ports protected from terrorist weapons on ships or in cargo containers? Do we check every ship and container that comes to our shores? Do we constantly monitor for nuclear materials in our cities?
One thing we should consider seriously is a total up-grade of our nuclear weapons and to resume underground testing to make sure that they really work. Without real testing how do we know that they work?
A very strong military and strong homeland security is our only real deterrent to the bad guys.
Friday, August 13, 2010
WHY DO WE NEED SOCIAL SECURITY?
A lot of conservatives, especially young people and rich people, don't think that we need the government social security system. These people believe that a person should be responsible for saving for their own future. Well lets look at some facts. First of all if a person has saved $1,000,000 and has it invested at 5% interest (hard to get these days), he will only have an income of $50,000 per year. After 25% tax he is left with only $37,500 for the year, assuming he does not start spending the principle. Spending the principal does not make sense, if he has a lot of years left to live after he retires and if he wants to leave something to his decsendents. Another problem is that if for some reason he gets sick and has to go to a nursing home, he will need to pay the nursing home $60,000 to $75,000 a year and money will be needed to do this. Most likely he or she is just going to make it on the $1,000,000! If a person is only able to save say $300,000, then their retirement will be very marginal and either they will have to invest in very high risk investments or they will have to continue to work well past the age of 70 and even may never be able to retire.
Now lets assume that you have a person who never makes more than $25,000 per year his or her entire working life. Just living expenses will eat up their entire earnings and they will be able to save only little if any of their earnings. Without being able to retire on social security, this person would have to work into their 80's or as long as they are able just to survive. What happens if this person gets sick or disabled and cannot work? He or she then becomes a ward of the State and who will pay? The tax payers of course! I can tell you that a lot of people like this person will be homeless when they can no longer work.
We have to face up to the fact that a lot of people will never go to college and will never be able to save enough money for an adequate retirement. Taxpayers will pay for this in one way or another, whether its social security taxes, or subsidized housing, or food stamps, or emergency services, we will pay. So I am in favor of the Social Security system, even though I am very conservative in my politics. We are a wealthy country. We don't need to have large groups of destitute, homeless, and poverty stricken people that we could have helped with social security.
Now lets assume that you have a person who never makes more than $25,000 per year his or her entire working life. Just living expenses will eat up their entire earnings and they will be able to save only little if any of their earnings. Without being able to retire on social security, this person would have to work into their 80's or as long as they are able just to survive. What happens if this person gets sick or disabled and cannot work? He or she then becomes a ward of the State and who will pay? The tax payers of course! I can tell you that a lot of people like this person will be homeless when they can no longer work.
We have to face up to the fact that a lot of people will never go to college and will never be able to save enough money for an adequate retirement. Taxpayers will pay for this in one way or another, whether its social security taxes, or subsidized housing, or food stamps, or emergency services, we will pay. So I am in favor of the Social Security system, even though I am very conservative in my politics. We are a wealthy country. We don't need to have large groups of destitute, homeless, and poverty stricken people that we could have helped with social security.
Tuesday, August 10, 2010
IS LEAKING CLASSIFIED DOCUMENTS A CRIME OR NOT?
Wikileaks has released thousands of classified Afghan War documents and plans to release more that they have obtained. Isn't releasing classified documents a crime anymore? Why hasn't the Government charged these people with crimes against the United States of America and the legitimate government of Afghanistan?
Has our government gotten so rotten with the worm of leftist socialist anarchy and mis-guided pacifist politics that it has lost all sense of justice? What is the Justice Department doing with this case?
If any Afghans or American soldiers die as a result of the action of Wikileaks or their associates, the blood of the victims should be on the hands of Wikileaks and its staff. In that case, all of the staff and associates of Wikileaks and any others who have participated in the documents being processed and released should be charged with First Degree Murder and Treason.
Mr. Eric Holder what are you doing? Why aren't you doing something about this blatant act of treason?
Why is there a strange silence on this subject from the White House? Are they afraid to take a position? Is the White House going to approve what Wikileaks has done? No? Then why hasn't the White House instructed Mr. Holder to do something? Is this a case of "chicken politics", or say nothing to stay out of trouble? This should give the Republicans a real issue to talk about. Republicans are you awake? Hello? Fox News why aren't you reporting on this?
Has our government gotten so rotten with the worm of leftist socialist anarchy and mis-guided pacifist politics that it has lost all sense of justice? What is the Justice Department doing with this case?
If any Afghans or American soldiers die as a result of the action of Wikileaks or their associates, the blood of the victims should be on the hands of Wikileaks and its staff. In that case, all of the staff and associates of Wikileaks and any others who have participated in the documents being processed and released should be charged with First Degree Murder and Treason.
Mr. Eric Holder what are you doing? Why aren't you doing something about this blatant act of treason?
Why is there a strange silence on this subject from the White House? Are they afraid to take a position? Is the White House going to approve what Wikileaks has done? No? Then why hasn't the White House instructed Mr. Holder to do something? Is this a case of "chicken politics", or say nothing to stay out of trouble? This should give the Republicans a real issue to talk about. Republicans are you awake? Hello? Fox News why aren't you reporting on this?
Thursday, August 5, 2010
THE DEMOCRATIC SOCIALIST PARTY
The so-called Democratic Socialist Party (a contradiction of terms in its name) is promoting their socialist ideas to take the place of capitalism in America. These people stand for the same ideals as the communists of North Korea, China, Vietnam, and Cuba.
Is this what we want in America? This "progressive" organization thinks that government can make better decisions for people than people can make for themselves and therefore the government needs to control everything, especially health care. They will also want to control and sensor media, control all banks and financial transactions, utilities, and all means of production and transportation. What does this result in? A dictatorship of course!
Since capitalism is eliminated by the rules of Democratic Socialism, an individual will not be allowed to own any capital, or any asset that would have capital value. You cannot own your own home as this would make you a capitalist!
America is this what you want? If not, you need to be vigilant and make sure that you protest any people who advocate the DSP or extreme left proposals. Make sure you never vote people like this into office! We already have a lot of these people in our government and they push their leftist agenda whenever they can. Also watch out for people who pretend to be "conservative" but whose record and statements indicate they are really the progressives (leftist liberals) or socialists. Don't vote for them.
Is this what we want in America? This "progressive" organization thinks that government can make better decisions for people than people can make for themselves and therefore the government needs to control everything, especially health care. They will also want to control and sensor media, control all banks and financial transactions, utilities, and all means of production and transportation. What does this result in? A dictatorship of course!
Since capitalism is eliminated by the rules of Democratic Socialism, an individual will not be allowed to own any capital, or any asset that would have capital value. You cannot own your own home as this would make you a capitalist!
America is this what you want? If not, you need to be vigilant and make sure that you protest any people who advocate the DSP or extreme left proposals. Make sure you never vote people like this into office! We already have a lot of these people in our government and they push their leftist agenda whenever they can. Also watch out for people who pretend to be "conservative" but whose record and statements indicate they are really the progressives (leftist liberals) or socialists. Don't vote for them.
Wednesday, August 4, 2010
FOREIGN AUTO COMPANIES IN US HAVE UNFAIR ADVANTAGE
Ford, Chrysler, and GM do business in their 100% unionized plants with the UAW. Congress has guaranteed that the UAW will maintain their solid situation at American auto companies by a tweak here and there to US laws.
But a foreign company can build a plant in the US and avoid the UAW. One, example: VW will build a plant in Kentucky but will not have to have a union in that state.
We do not advocate for or against unions, but we do feel that this is not a level playing field and that laws need to be changed so that competition is fair. Either the UAW should be in all auto plants or not required to be in any auto plants. Or, tariffs on US sales need to be in place against foreign auto companies if they do not unionize in their US plants.
The situation now is like so-called "free trade" where no tariffs can be applied no matter how different the labor scale is between our country and the foreign competitor.
What we need is FAIR TRADE! So-called free trade has done a lot of damage to this country's wealth and business. If it continues and American exports and business sales remain less than our foreign imports we might as well just send money to foreign governments, clean out our treasury, and close down the country.
Write and call your Congressmen and let them know this situation is wrong and needs to be corrected!
But a foreign company can build a plant in the US and avoid the UAW. One, example: VW will build a plant in Kentucky but will not have to have a union in that state.
We do not advocate for or against unions, but we do feel that this is not a level playing field and that laws need to be changed so that competition is fair. Either the UAW should be in all auto plants or not required to be in any auto plants. Or, tariffs on US sales need to be in place against foreign auto companies if they do not unionize in their US plants.
The situation now is like so-called "free trade" where no tariffs can be applied no matter how different the labor scale is between our country and the foreign competitor.
What we need is FAIR TRADE! So-called free trade has done a lot of damage to this country's wealth and business. If it continues and American exports and business sales remain less than our foreign imports we might as well just send money to foreign governments, clean out our treasury, and close down the country.
Write and call your Congressmen and let them know this situation is wrong and needs to be corrected!
Monday, August 2, 2010
UAE AND SAUDI ARABIA TO KILL BLACKBERRY USE
The UAE and Saudi Arabia will ban Blackberry email and text messaging. Why? Are they afraid of terrorist activity? NO. The freedom of the internet and encrypted communications threaten their dictatorships. They are the typical dictatorships that want to spy on everyone and know everything people say and do.
So, should we do any business with countries like this? We say not if we can help it! It would be great if America as a free nation, did not have to buy oil or anything else from these dictatorships or from any country that participates in OPEC.
Should we treat these countries as allies? Why should we? They will do whatever they want to without a second thought about us. Other than oil we don't need anything from them.
We support these dictatorships by buying oil from them and selling weapons to them. This needs to stop.
US energy independence should be a number one priority. We should drill in deep water, shallow water, dry land, mine shale and the oil sands, and find oil anywhere in the world that we can drill for it.
We should have a crash program to build nuclear power plants and convert vehicles to electric power as soon as possible. The intrusions of the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and China on communications freedom should be a wake-up call for the US. We should find enough oil for ourselves and, if we have a surplus, sell to other free nations.
Write and call your Congressmen and tell them that you want some action on energy policy or they are going to be looking for a new job in November.
So, should we do any business with countries like this? We say not if we can help it! It would be great if America as a free nation, did not have to buy oil or anything else from these dictatorships or from any country that participates in OPEC.
Should we treat these countries as allies? Why should we? They will do whatever they want to without a second thought about us. Other than oil we don't need anything from them.
We support these dictatorships by buying oil from them and selling weapons to them. This needs to stop.
US energy independence should be a number one priority. We should drill in deep water, shallow water, dry land, mine shale and the oil sands, and find oil anywhere in the world that we can drill for it.
We should have a crash program to build nuclear power plants and convert vehicles to electric power as soon as possible. The intrusions of the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and China on communications freedom should be a wake-up call for the US. We should find enough oil for ourselves and, if we have a surplus, sell to other free nations.
Write and call your Congressmen and tell them that you want some action on energy policy or they are going to be looking for a new job in November.
Wednesday, July 28, 2010
CHINA TRIES TO DOMINATE SOUTH CHINA SEA
Secretary of State Clinton and the White House have to be applauded for their stand against Chinese expansionism in the South China Sea.
China has been harassing our naval ships in international waters there and blustering about the power of their navy. They think they own the South China Sea. What about the other nations in the area like Malaysia, the Philippines, Taiwan, and Vietnam which should have the same free access to the sea?
Also Clinton had the courage to complain about the human rights abuses in China, Burma, and Vietnam. She and the White House are to be applauded for that too.
Of course, what do we expect from Communist dictatorships? These governments will do whatever is necessary to maintain their grip on the people under their control. We must be vigilant and maintain our opposition to them.
In fact, if we had more intestinal fortitude, we would not export nor import any goods, especially high technology items, to or from these countries! This is one of the biggest fallacies of so-called "Free Trade". In this case the free trade does nothing for but support these communist dictatorships. In China's case I believe that we have actually turned them into an industrial power by buying their inferior cheap goods. Remember the toxic heavy metals on their toys, and the poisoned powered baby milk?
We need to do everything we can to break their dictatorial control and return these countries to the people to run democratically.
Call and write US Congressman and express your outrage over the free trade bull and our lack of fortitude concerning these Communist dictatorships.
China has been harassing our naval ships in international waters there and blustering about the power of their navy. They think they own the South China Sea. What about the other nations in the area like Malaysia, the Philippines, Taiwan, and Vietnam which should have the same free access to the sea?
Also Clinton had the courage to complain about the human rights abuses in China, Burma, and Vietnam. She and the White House are to be applauded for that too.
Of course, what do we expect from Communist dictatorships? These governments will do whatever is necessary to maintain their grip on the people under their control. We must be vigilant and maintain our opposition to them.
In fact, if we had more intestinal fortitude, we would not export nor import any goods, especially high technology items, to or from these countries! This is one of the biggest fallacies of so-called "Free Trade". In this case the free trade does nothing for but support these communist dictatorships. In China's case I believe that we have actually turned them into an industrial power by buying their inferior cheap goods. Remember the toxic heavy metals on their toys, and the poisoned powered baby milk?
We need to do everything we can to break their dictatorial control and return these countries to the people to run democratically.
Call and write US Congressman and express your outrage over the free trade bull and our lack of fortitude concerning these Communist dictatorships.
Tuesday, July 20, 2010
WHAT HAPPENED TO THE JOBS PROGRAM?
Congress is now going to approve a new round of unemployment insurance without making spending cuts to keep the benefits budget neutral (as Republicans wanted.) But for every available job there are at least 5 job seekers. The Obama stimulus program is not working.
What is wrong with our government? Why can't they get the program working? Was it just Democratic propaganda that we were going to build high speed rail transportation and get infrastructure programs in place so that people would have jobs? No, nothing is happening fast enough to provide jobs. This must be because of the present government's inability to manage the programs and get the programs into operation.
Instead the government has actually acted against projects that were already in place causing many job layoffs and even possible damage to our security. Examples: The cancellation of NASA's Constellation program which cost at least 500 jobs and maybe more. Cutting the F22 fighter program causing not only directly related job loses, but also causing vital production line shut-downs and loss of technology. Refusing to release funds for a back-up engine for the F-35 fighter which is now a single source item. These government decisions have cost jobs, damaged our technical resources, and reduced the military and space capability of the US. One more example: Obama ordered the stoppage of all deep water drilling in the Gulf. This has caused 40,000 plus jobs and again, we will lose expertise and drilling rigs as they are moved elsewhere. There is no sense in this stoppage of work, as there have been no major problems except with the BP well that blew up due to bad decisions and failure to follow proper safety procedures. There are probably other examples of government interference in the economy or business costing jobs that could be found with a little research.
At the same time, the government is now anti-business, issuing onerous new financial regulations that will cost jobs because banks and other financial institutions will have to lay-off workers to off-set the extra costs involved meeting the new regulations. Also the financial regulations will affect farmers, oil companies, and utilities that use derivatives to protect their future positions in the commodity and energy markets. Watch the cost of food and energy go up as a result as the farmers and utility companies have to price their products and services higher to protect their operations, or even go out of business which further tightens supplies causing more price increases. In addition, people will pay higher taxes and higher insurance costs as a result of the new health care law. What else will the government do to hurt the economy?
In order to create jobs, the government should cut the red tape and get business stimulated with tax cuts and reductions in regulations. In order to create jobs there needs to be actual work to be done so hiring will take place. At this point we really need both business stimulation and whatever infrastructure, NASA, or military projects we can get into operation to create real jobs!
What is wrong with our government? Why can't they get the program working? Was it just Democratic propaganda that we were going to build high speed rail transportation and get infrastructure programs in place so that people would have jobs? No, nothing is happening fast enough to provide jobs. This must be because of the present government's inability to manage the programs and get the programs into operation.
Instead the government has actually acted against projects that were already in place causing many job layoffs and even possible damage to our security. Examples: The cancellation of NASA's Constellation program which cost at least 500 jobs and maybe more. Cutting the F22 fighter program causing not only directly related job loses, but also causing vital production line shut-downs and loss of technology. Refusing to release funds for a back-up engine for the F-35 fighter which is now a single source item. These government decisions have cost jobs, damaged our technical resources, and reduced the military and space capability of the US. One more example: Obama ordered the stoppage of all deep water drilling in the Gulf. This has caused 40,000 plus jobs and again, we will lose expertise and drilling rigs as they are moved elsewhere. There is no sense in this stoppage of work, as there have been no major problems except with the BP well that blew up due to bad decisions and failure to follow proper safety procedures. There are probably other examples of government interference in the economy or business costing jobs that could be found with a little research.
At the same time, the government is now anti-business, issuing onerous new financial regulations that will cost jobs because banks and other financial institutions will have to lay-off workers to off-set the extra costs involved meeting the new regulations. Also the financial regulations will affect farmers, oil companies, and utilities that use derivatives to protect their future positions in the commodity and energy markets. Watch the cost of food and energy go up as a result as the farmers and utility companies have to price their products and services higher to protect their operations, or even go out of business which further tightens supplies causing more price increases. In addition, people will pay higher taxes and higher insurance costs as a result of the new health care law. What else will the government do to hurt the economy?
In order to create jobs, the government should cut the red tape and get business stimulated with tax cuts and reductions in regulations. In order to create jobs there needs to be actual work to be done so hiring will take place. At this point we really need both business stimulation and whatever infrastructure, NASA, or military projects we can get into operation to create real jobs!
Thursday, July 15, 2010
SEX EDUCATION FOR 5 YEAR OLDS?
The recent proposal by a school board in the US to start sex education for 5 to 10 year-olds in elementary school starting in kindergarten, is the most shocking plan in schools I have ever heard of (and I think US schools in general have a lot of very questionable policies.)
It is almost unbelievable that a school system would even think of doing this. This is a perfect example of the Socialist State thinking that they know better what people need than the people themselves, and therefore they try to extend their control over every aspect of people's lives, including parental responsibilities.
The school system's responsibility in any case should not include Social Services! And, by the way, whatever happened to subjects like the three R's, English, history, science, and maybe one other language? It seems that if the schools concentrated on the education kids really need, they would not even have time for stupid courses like sex education, social science, and other junk courses the schools let students take to avoid the real courses they should take.
In fact it is time for Americans to wake up and start reforming their school systems, especially inner city schools, to bring them up to at least passing grades! Talk to your neighbors. Join the PTA and go to meetings. Call and write your local school representatives and tell them what you want them to do. Write letters to your local newspaper and television stations. Speak up for better education. America needs this.
It is almost unbelievable that a school system would even think of doing this. This is a perfect example of the Socialist State thinking that they know better what people need than the people themselves, and therefore they try to extend their control over every aspect of people's lives, including parental responsibilities.
The school system's responsibility in any case should not include Social Services! And, by the way, whatever happened to subjects like the three R's, English, history, science, and maybe one other language? It seems that if the schools concentrated on the education kids really need, they would not even have time for stupid courses like sex education, social science, and other junk courses the schools let students take to avoid the real courses they should take.
In fact it is time for Americans to wake up and start reforming their school systems, especially inner city schools, to bring them up to at least passing grades! Talk to your neighbors. Join the PTA and go to meetings. Call and write your local school representatives and tell them what you want them to do. Write letters to your local newspaper and television stations. Speak up for better education. America needs this.
Tuesday, July 13, 2010
GOOGLE HAS MORAL VICTORY OVER CHINA
China has renewed Google's license to operate in China. But Google has upheld American principles of free speech. It will no longer do censoring of search data for China. China will have to do its own censoring and when it happens it will be obvious to the user that their government is doing the censoring.
This is as it should be now. No American company should ever bow to a foreign company no matter how large or intimidating they might be.
Google's confrontation with China is probably the first of many to come for American information companies that want to do business in China. We should be prepared to face it, if we want to do business there.
We should not ever let China or any other country influence our business or government policies. This is a road to destruction of our freedoms and way of life. Just because a country has a billion or more people in its population and has giant marketing potential, should not affect our thinking when it comes to preserving our ideals, freedoms, or way of life.
Be vigilant in protecting our freedom and independence.
This is as it should be now. No American company should ever bow to a foreign company no matter how large or intimidating they might be.
Google's confrontation with China is probably the first of many to come for American information companies that want to do business in China. We should be prepared to face it, if we want to do business there.
We should not ever let China or any other country influence our business or government policies. This is a road to destruction of our freedoms and way of life. Just because a country has a billion or more people in its population and has giant marketing potential, should not affect our thinking when it comes to preserving our ideals, freedoms, or way of life.
Be vigilant in protecting our freedom and independence.
Friday, July 9, 2010
ONLINE TELEVISION FOR AUSTRALIA AND SOUTH-EAST ASIA!
Original post by Marie-Eunice M. Alarcon
MAJOR DEVELOPMENT: ONLINE DOWNLOADABLE TV SERVICE
A major company will start a service that will provide on-demand and downloadable TV for Australia and other South-East Asian countries. This is a major development and may have far-reaching implications for other countries around the world. It is certainly worth keeping track of this development. See the Press Release below:
Media Release
Date: Thursday 8 July 2010
STARTS
AUSTAR partners with online video platform provider Switch Media to launch Australia’s first streaming and downloadable on demand TV service.
The AUSTAR AnyWhereTM service is a first in the Asia Pacific region that lets viewers stream and download TV programs on Mac and PC.
Technical Director for Switch Media Luke Durham says this is possible because of the type Digital Rights Management (DRM) chosen.
The use of DRM means that online broadcasters have controlling rights over the content permissions given to different levels of subscribers.
Luke Durham says: “The challenge was bringing together leading edge capabilities like Adobe Flash Access 2.0 DRM, protected streaming and download access into a single you beaut service.”
He says Switch Media has also been able to provide a cost effective and reliable distribution network to AUSTAR’s regional subscriber base.
Switch Media Chief Executive, Christopher Stenhouse says: “We are on an evolutionary path, going from leaning forward to watch online videos to a lean-back on demand internet TV experience.”
AUSTAR Chief Executive Officer, John Porter, said, “AUSTAR AnyWhereTM is the next step in making the best entertainment available to our customers whenever and however they want it. It will give our subscribers complete flexibility and control over when they view their favourite shows, as long as they have an internet connection on their PC. A key feature of AUSTAR AnyWhereTM is that it will offer the ability to both stream and download content, meaning customers can either watch the video straight away online, or download it to their PC watch later.”
The online TV portal is available only on the AUSTAR AnyWhereTM service at www.austar.com.au/onlinetv.
ENDS
MAJOR DEVELOPMENT: ONLINE DOWNLOADABLE TV SERVICE
A major company will start a service that will provide on-demand and downloadable TV for Australia and other South-East Asian countries. This is a major development and may have far-reaching implications for other countries around the world. It is certainly worth keeping track of this development. See the Press Release below:
Media Release
Date: Thursday 8 July 2010
STARTS
AUSTAR partners with online video platform provider Switch Media to launch Australia’s first streaming and downloadable on demand TV service.
The AUSTAR AnyWhereTM service is a first in the Asia Pacific region that lets viewers stream and download TV programs on Mac and PC.
Technical Director for Switch Media Luke Durham says this is possible because of the type Digital Rights Management (DRM) chosen.
The use of DRM means that online broadcasters have controlling rights over the content permissions given to different levels of subscribers.
Luke Durham says: “The challenge was bringing together leading edge capabilities like Adobe Flash Access 2.0 DRM, protected streaming and download access into a single you beaut service.”
He says Switch Media has also been able to provide a cost effective and reliable distribution network to AUSTAR’s regional subscriber base.
Switch Media Chief Executive, Christopher Stenhouse says: “We are on an evolutionary path, going from leaning forward to watch online videos to a lean-back on demand internet TV experience.”
AUSTAR Chief Executive Officer, John Porter, said, “AUSTAR AnyWhereTM is the next step in making the best entertainment available to our customers whenever and however they want it. It will give our subscribers complete flexibility and control over when they view their favourite shows, as long as they have an internet connection on their PC. A key feature of AUSTAR AnyWhereTM is that it will offer the ability to both stream and download content, meaning customers can either watch the video straight away online, or download it to their PC watch later.”
The online TV portal is available only on the AUSTAR AnyWhereTM service at www.austar.com.au/onlinetv.
ENDS
Wednesday, July 7, 2010
FEDS TORPEDO HOME GREEN ENERGY PROGRAM
Why is the government shooting down its own green energy program for homes? The program was supposed to allow homeowners to borrow money to cover the up-front costs of installing green energy such as solar energy panels for water heating, home heating, or air conditioning. Presumably this would also allow wind energy projects for your home.
Who is trying to hurt this program? The Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA) that oversees Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac has said that the program will add to the risk of mortgages and so Fannie and Freddie may not approve mortgages without more qualification requirements or higher interest rates. This will probably result in killing the program.
So what good is all the White House baloney about green energy if the government is going to road-block it anyway?
How much energy can be saved by homes having green energy savings? Our estimate, based on an average savings of 30% of utility electric and gas cost is 8000 KWH per 2000 sq. ft. house per year. Assuming only 10,000,000 homes are converted, this amounts to 80 Giga-watts-hours, or 80,000 Megawatt-hours per year. Is that a lot? Ask someone at your local utility and see what they say.
So White House, wake up and start managing your agencies, or better yet, just eliminate them!
Who is trying to hurt this program? The Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA) that oversees Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac has said that the program will add to the risk of mortgages and so Fannie and Freddie may not approve mortgages without more qualification requirements or higher interest rates. This will probably result in killing the program.
So what good is all the White House baloney about green energy if the government is going to road-block it anyway?
How much energy can be saved by homes having green energy savings? Our estimate, based on an average savings of 30% of utility electric and gas cost is 8000 KWH per 2000 sq. ft. house per year. Assuming only 10,000,000 homes are converted, this amounts to 80 Giga-watts-hours, or 80,000 Megawatt-hours per year. Is that a lot? Ask someone at your local utility and see what they say.
So White House, wake up and start managing your agencies, or better yet, just eliminate them!
Tuesday, July 6, 2010
DOES CHINA WANT TO TAKE OVER US BUSINESS?
A Chinese steel company is trying to invest in US Steel plants, according to The Wall Street Journal, today's edition. This is another example supporting my theory that China is trying to take over business all over the world. This is predatory capitalism at its worst when a large government like China tries to gain control of a vital business or industry of other countries.
Why would the Chinese want to control our steel industry? Is it such a hot investment? No. Could Chinese run our steel industry any better than we can? No. The Chinese steel business that wants to iv est here is ultimately controlled and really managed by the Chinese government, not real private independent businessmen. Why should we allow the Chinese to gain control of a vital defense related US business and learn our steel industry technology? To allow this would indeed be folly of the dumbest kind for obvious reasons.
My prediction is that China will continue to try to control business around the world including the United States and other free democracy loving nations. Don't let them.
Call and write your Congressman and tell him how you feel about this.
Why would the Chinese want to control our steel industry? Is it such a hot investment? No. Could Chinese run our steel industry any better than we can? No. The Chinese steel business that wants to iv est here is ultimately controlled and really managed by the Chinese government, not real private independent businessmen. Why should we allow the Chinese to gain control of a vital defense related US business and learn our steel industry technology? To allow this would indeed be folly of the dumbest kind for obvious reasons.
My prediction is that China will continue to try to control business around the world including the United States and other free democracy loving nations. Don't let them.
Call and write your Congressman and tell him how you feel about this.
Monday, July 5, 2010
A SECOND DIP IN THE RECESSION?
The economy appears to be slowing with a drop in manufacturing activity and an increase in jobless claims, according to the Investors Business Daily. Why is this happening? Probably because the government housing incentives have expired, no more cash for clunkers, Tarp and other stimulus programs instituted by the Democratic Congress are not working, at least not yet.
Meanwhile, the Democrats are proposing various tax increase ideas such as "tax guns to the max", the value added tax (VAT), and probably planning basic income tax increases that will cut peoples pay checks.
Business is not stupid. They see the decrease in sales that is happening (because of joblessness), and they know that things will only get worse because of the continued government spend and tax policies, as well as new financial regulations that will decrease capital available for investment. Businesses will start laying off people again, cutting inventories, and cutting back new investments. They will hoard cash and slow down manufacturing as protective measures to survive the coming slowdown and the new financial regulations.
In the meantime, the government will continue to grow, creating new agencies to expand their control of citizens and business activity, implementing the liberal-progressive agenda. This situation will continue and probably get worse until voters wake up and vote these people out of government. Call and write your congressman now and tell him how you feel about what is happening in Washington!
Meanwhile, the Democrats are proposing various tax increase ideas such as "tax guns to the max", the value added tax (VAT), and probably planning basic income tax increases that will cut peoples pay checks.
Business is not stupid. They see the decrease in sales that is happening (because of joblessness), and they know that things will only get worse because of the continued government spend and tax policies, as well as new financial regulations that will decrease capital available for investment. Businesses will start laying off people again, cutting inventories, and cutting back new investments. They will hoard cash and slow down manufacturing as protective measures to survive the coming slowdown and the new financial regulations.
In the meantime, the government will continue to grow, creating new agencies to expand their control of citizens and business activity, implementing the liberal-progressive agenda. This situation will continue and probably get worse until voters wake up and vote these people out of government. Call and write your congressman now and tell him how you feel about what is happening in Washington!
Saturday, July 3, 2010
IS AMERICAN FREEDOM ERODING?
The latest ruling by the Supreme Court correctly interpreted the Constitution that individuals do have the right to bear arms. Instead of cheers, the ruling was met with a storm of protest by the far left liberal talking heads on television and by other far left liberals. These liberals are the people that keep trying to chip away at our freedoms. Latest examples; the new Health Care law and the new financial regulations bill.
Now there is a proposal to "tax guns to the max." Well thinking people know that criminals will not pay any tax but they will have guns, while law abiding citizens will hesitate to buy a gun if the prices go up because of high taxes.
Statistics show that states and cities that allow gun ownership have lower rates of crime than places that do not. Chicago has had laws against gun ownership for the last 28 years, yet they still have had one of the highest murder rates in the country, actually higher that New York and Los Angeles, having 18 murders per 100,000persons in 2008
A tax on gun ownership would only hurt law-abiding sportsmen and hunters. So call your representative and tell him or her that you are against any such tax.
Now there is a proposal to "tax guns to the max." Well thinking people know that criminals will not pay any tax but they will have guns, while law abiding citizens will hesitate to buy a gun if the prices go up because of high taxes.
Statistics show that states and cities that allow gun ownership have lower rates of crime than places that do not. Chicago has had laws against gun ownership for the last 28 years, yet they still have had one of the highest murder rates in the country, actually higher that New York and Los Angeles, having 18 murders per 100,000persons in 2008
A tax on gun ownership would only hurt law-abiding sportsmen and hunters. So call your representative and tell him or her that you are against any such tax.
Friday, July 2, 2010
NASA WILL FLY THE SPACE SHUTTLE ANOTHER YEAR
Finally some sanity has returned to the space program. NASA has decided it can operate the shuttle another year. So NASA will get another year for a total shuttle life of about 23 years.
Why does NASA want to discontinue the shuttles anyway? Not becasue they can't maintain the ships. Consider the B52 bombers, also a very complex machine. It has been flying for over 50 years and the Air Force expects to get 90 years of life out of this plane.
So what is it then? Is NASA worried about more loss of life? I don't think so. The answer is money. NASA (read the White House) does not want to foot the bill. The thinking is that the money could be better used on entitlement programs dear to the hearts of Democrat progressive liberals.
How long can Americans tolerate this liberal-progressive agenda anyway? Lets vote the bums out!
Also write or call your congressman as soon as possible.
Why does NASA want to discontinue the shuttles anyway? Not becasue they can't maintain the ships. Consider the B52 bombers, also a very complex machine. It has been flying for over 50 years and the Air Force expects to get 90 years of life out of this plane.
So what is it then? Is NASA worried about more loss of life? I don't think so. The answer is money. NASA (read the White House) does not want to foot the bill. The thinking is that the money could be better used on entitlement programs dear to the hearts of Democrat progressive liberals.
How long can Americans tolerate this liberal-progressive agenda anyway? Lets vote the bums out!
Also write or call your congressman as soon as possible.
Thursday, July 1, 2010
IS GOVERNMENT SPENDING BAD?
Government spending is bad when it (1) increases the deficit and public debt, (2) when it adds no physical assets, productive capacity, or wealth creating improvements to the economy, (3) when it creates another government agency that is not necessary, (4) when it provides another entitlement that adds to the public debt and gives people another incentive not to help themselves, and (5) when it is just wasteful spending or pork barrel legislation.
When is additional government spending good or necessary? During times of emergency, disaster, national defense, and defending vital interests.
What programs can be considered to be defending vital interests? Most obvious of course is military spending, but there are some others like the space program, re-building infrastructure such as bridges, roads, railroads, and protecting our health care system.
Also there are industries that need help and should not be allowed to decline, or even disappear from the nation, such as steel, electronics, medical equipment and services, automobiles, aircraft, and some other vital industries too many to list here. To preserve our industries under the private capital business model, we need to have fair trade, not "free trade", where American business is on an equal competitive footing with foreign companies.
When is additional government spending good or necessary? During times of emergency, disaster, national defense, and defending vital interests.
What programs can be considered to be defending vital interests? Most obvious of course is military spending, but there are some others like the space program, re-building infrastructure such as bridges, roads, railroads, and protecting our health care system.
Also there are industries that need help and should not be allowed to decline, or even disappear from the nation, such as steel, electronics, medical equipment and services, automobiles, aircraft, and some other vital industries too many to list here. To preserve our industries under the private capital business model, we need to have fair trade, not "free trade", where American business is on an equal competitive footing with foreign companies.
Tuesday, June 29, 2010
MOBILE COMPUTER WITH HORSEPOWER
Inventors, listen up. I am describing the next generation in mobile computing (Forget tiny cellphones.) A small wireless computer in your pocket or purse. It interfaces with the Internet. You have a nice wireless display built into special glasses or a monocle (Yes, you might look like a Borg out of Star Trek (c).) The display is like a heads up display that you can see through but it appears to you like a big screen TV in HD and just as fast. You have a small wireless headset with mic and earphone for your sound interface. You activate the speech recognition program stored on the wireless network so you can write a book by just talking into your mic, and save it in the cloud. You also have a wireless roller ball mouse that allows you to point and select anything you see on your display. No more wearing out your thumb or poking your finger at tiny little images on a cell phone. You store and retrieve data in the Internet cloud so you don't need a lot of computer power in your pocket. Call or receive calls, text messages, or pictures from your wireless network computer.
Any questions, comments, or suggestions? Please post a comment below.
Any questions, comments, or suggestions? Please post a comment below.
Monday, June 28, 2010
STOCKHOLDERS ALLOWED TO ELECT BOARD?
The new financial regulation bill may have a provision that allows stockholders who own 1% to 5% of the company or more, will be allowed to nominate persons to be on the board of directors and such nominations would be included in the proxy for shareholders to vote on. The process is called "proxy access". Businesses are going to lobby against this because they don't like small shareholders to have this power. If you vote on stock be sure to vote against all executives of companies if they are against proxy access.
Generally, legitimate long term stockholders should have more say in who the people are that run the company and the selection of the board of directors as, even if you are a small stockholder of only a few shares! After all stockholders are OWNERS of the company.
Call your congressman and make sure how you feel about this if you are affected.
Generally, legitimate long term stockholders should have more say in who the people are that run the company and the selection of the board of directors as, even if you are a small stockholder of only a few shares! After all stockholders are OWNERS of the company.
Call your congressman and make sure how you feel about this if you are affected.
I CAN'T BUY A DROID OR BLACKBERRY!
I can't get a DROID or a Blackberry cell phone without signing up for an expensive Internet plan on my cell phone, according to a major wireless phone company that I have been dealing with. I don't like this because I want the features of the better phones but I don't need the Internet on my phone because I prefer to use my laptop for that. I have talked to other people that don't like this rule either. This rule is also killing sales of Blackberry and DROID phones to a great extent I believe.
Phone manufacturers and users, let's protest this rule! Call your provider and tell them you don't like this rule and that you will switch carriers if you find someone that does sell the phones without the Internet service purchase requirement.
Also, I believe that the Internet rule may violate FCC, SEC, and FTC rules on illegal trust activities. Any lawyers out there who would like to comment or start a class action lawsuit?
Phone manufacturers and users, let's protest this rule! Call your provider and tell them you don't like this rule and that you will switch carriers if you find someone that does sell the phones without the Internet service purchase requirement.
Also, I believe that the Internet rule may violate FCC, SEC, and FTC rules on illegal trust activities. Any lawyers out there who would like to comment or start a class action lawsuit?
INTERNATIONAL CONTROL OF GPS?
The White House apparently plans to allow international control of the Global Positioning Satellite System. Can this really be true? Why should we cede our technical knowledge to other nations, especially nations like China that do not share our core democratic principles? Doesn't this also open up the system to possible sabotage occurring at critical times when our military or civilian authorities need the system? The system is currently administered by the US Air Force and is relatively resistant to outside interference. It is true that the US military will soon have a separate system that it will depend on, but the question still remains: Why should we allow other nations to learn our technology? Why do we always give away our technical knowledge? We lose enough by means of espionage and foreign nations reverse engineering our products, so we should not voluntarily give up any technical knowledge of a strategic nature that we don't have to! To remain free we must maintain our technical knowledge edge, or face the prospect of enemy foreign nations catching up to us and maybe even exceeding us in technical capability. Write your congressman and protest this gross idiotic plan by our government!
WH POLITICS INTERFERES WITH EXPORTS
According to the Wall Street Journal of June 30, the White House politics is interfering with the export of ordinary mining equipment to India based on a theory (erroneous) that mining equipment is not good for the environment. Does this make any sense? Of course not. Here are the facts. Bucyrus International Inc. had a deal to sell $600 million worth of mining equipment to a company in India, Reliance Power. But the US Export-Import Bank would not help Reliance Power with a loan to help finance the transaction. The decision of the bank is believed to be based on the politics of carbon emission, not on business aspects. This means a large loss of business to Bucyrus and many US jobs may be lost as a result. This result is at odds with the WH promise to increase jobs. I am definitely for protection of the environment but I am not in favor of interfering with lawful normal export business or any business transaction on the basis of some supposed environmental impact. If we are to live on this planet as any society other than foraging savages, we need to conduct normal industrial and other business that support the life of our civilization. If the WH can interfere with this normal mining equipment transaction, what will they interfere with next? Your job?
Sunday, June 27, 2010
THE FINANCIAL PROBLEMS IN EU COUNTRIES
Why are countries such as Greece, Spain, Portugal, and others having financial problems due to excessive public debt? The main reason that EU countries are having problems is due to their liberal socialist forms of government. These governments try to provide cradle-to-grave security and medical care for all citizens, as well as other benefits. The people in these countries come to expect all of these benefits that run up the public debt. When hard times come, tax revenues drop. Also, in some of these countries, unions have gained great political power and can mobilize large groups of protesters against any government attempt to cut benefits or pay. As the public debt grows, the government sells more bonds to cover outlays. Then the interest tab on the bonds adds to the government's periodic outlays required, further adding to financial difficulties. Finally, these governments are forced to apply so-called "austerity measures". This causes even more problems and can cause a severe deflationary process in motion which is very difficult to stop. What can we learn from this? We need to resist liberal socialistic policies and try as Americans to be as self-sufficient as possible. Lets get our public debt paid down!
EASY MORTGAGES FROM FANNIE MAE AND FREDDIE MAC
What's wrong with getting a mortgage guaranteed by Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac? Nothing if you are really able to make the mortgage payments over the full term. Was it too easy to get a mortgage because of the backing available from these government supported agencies? Was this part of the sub-prime mortgage crisis? Yes, I think it was as too many people got mortgages that they were not really qualified to get. Ultimately this led to foreclosures and the value of the sub-prime mortgages became of questionable value further fueling the financial crisis. We are still suffering from this problem with homes still going into foreclosures. Fannie and Freddie are now holding about a trillion dollars in these questionable mortgages and Congress is still not dealing with this problem. How did this happen? I believe it was mainly due to erroneous liberal thinking which is that all poor people should have the right to own their own home. Good, they should have this right if they are really financially qualified to handle their mortgage and able to make the payments consistently. Another part of this problem was caused by crooked mortgage brokers who signed up people based on false or incomplete information, knowing that the person applying was not really qualified. The government still has not taken action to correct this situation to the extent that is needed.
CLEAN ENERGY, PRACTICAL OR NOT?
Clean energy is definitely possible but there are a number of obstacles in the way to name a few: Millions of gasoline and diesel fuel vehicles already on the road now which will last for years, and hundreds of thousands of new gasoline and diesel vehicles are still being sold. Hybrid vehicles also require gasoline, unless they are full electric plug-in vehicles. What about wind energy? It works but it does not produce much power for the land space it requires and it is unsightly for some people. What about solar power? This is only practical in sunny climates, is very expensive, requires a lot of space, and some designs require a lot of water to operate. Hydrogen gas power? It requires energy to separate hydrogen from water and there is an infrastructure problem to have hydrogen gas stations built around the country. A fuel cell vehicle? It still requires some kind of fuel to function. OK, so what are practical alternatives? Natural gas is one of the cleanest practical fuels available now. Full electric vehicles would be practical for short run trips, e.g., city driving, if we could upgrade our electric generating plants to nuclear energy or a combination of nuclear, solar, wind energy, and hydroelectric power. My vote is to go with a proven technology now: Nuclear energy.
Saturday, June 26, 2010
US GOVERNMENT UN-PREPARED FOR OIL SPILL
One thing that is evident from the oil spill event in the Gulf is that our government was un-prepared for this disaster. What if BP had just walked away from it and said its your problem, US? Our government should have a plan to handle this kind of event. If the government does not have the equipment or expertise to handle an oil spill (it doesn't) then it should at least have a group of oil companies that will be ready, under contract, to work with the US to handle the problem. One thing that the government should have been able to do is quickly organize a group of people to help prevent the oil from hitting our Gulf shores. Of course it did not, and look at the devastation of our marshlands and beaches, as well as the destruction of fishing grounds, and the livelihoods of Gulf fisherman! But all the government seemed to be able to do was build a few berms and rant and rave at BP. It did finally get a trust fund set up for affected people. The fund should have been set up right away so that thousands of people did not have to go without an income all this time. Another pathetic aspect is that we are losing a lot of oil that could have been saved and used, if the MMS regulators had acted properly to enforce safety rules and regulations. Hopefully this spill will be corrected someday soon and the government will be ready if such a disaster should happen again--hopefully it will not. In the meantime we need to quickly correct and implement the required safety regulation, as needed, that will protect us from another spill, and then resume deep water drilling as quickly as possible!
THE SPACE PROGRAM SETBACK
The Augustine Commission has in my opinion delivered a blow to the US space program. The new plan adopted by Obama based on the commission's report (but not yet approved by Congress) cut the Constellation Program. The Constellation Program would have allowed manned spaceflight returning to the moon and eventually to Mars and allowed the exploration of other parts of the solar system. Many people were employed on this program at NASA. Most of them are highly skilled technicians and engineers. Most of them will now lose their jobs and become part of our jobless community. The new "Augustine Program" sets us back to smaller rockets made by small companies that will not have the capability to build heavy lift rockets for many years, if ever, thus causing a delay in our earlier manned space flight schedule. Meanwhile, our NASA experts will lose their jobs. NASA remnant managers will have to spend many hours, days, and even years teaching commercial rocket companies the space flight trade. There may be poor results and possibly unintended consequences, such as safety problems, financial problems, and incompatible goals of commercial companies with our national goals. Also we will have to depend on Russia to get us to the ISS (International Space Station.) Expect other countries such as China and Japan to pass us in space flight capability while we struggle with small contractors to build something that is usable for space flight. By the way the ISS is now only of scientific use as its original purpose of helping to launch large rockets into space has been dropped. The ISS itself will be abandoned in another 5 to 10 years and become just another piece of space junk floating in orbit.
AMERICAS BIGGEST ECONOMIC PROBLEM
What is the biggest economic problem the US faces? It is cheap imports that are made in countries that have very low labor rates that we cannot compete with in this country. One example, Vietnam's labor rate is $0.49 USD per hour. How can we compete with that? We have already lost many industries to cheap imports from countries such as China, and others. Examples of US industries nearly wiped out: textiles, shoes, automobiles, steel, tools, and most small hardware items such as flashlights, knives, camping gear, kitchen utensils, dishes, silverware, etc., etc. Can you think of any small item that you could make in the US that can't be obtained more cheaply at a store that sells cheap imports? Even a can opener would be hard to make here at a profit. Our current trading system is called "free trade" both Democrats and Republicans have been pushing it for years. It has almost caused the US to lose its industrial base while we essentially tool up and build up countries like China by buying their imports. People say, "Yes, but we are a service oriented country now." Baloney, have these people checked out the services available from India? Everything from computer programming to catalog ordering and much more at cheap prices. Is there a solution. I think so. I call it FAIR TRADE. In this system an importer would have to pay a tax or tariff to equalize the import price of his goods to be reasonably equal to what the price of the goods would be in the US with our normal labor rates. In order not to start a trade war, the tariffs would be set so that some profit could be made by the importer while at the same time US manufacturers could compete with the imports using advanced manufacturing techniques and greater efficiencies of production. Lets re-build our industries. We cannot create wealth for the country if we do not manufacture products. We need more jobs in this country. New manufacturing jobs would be a big help. Whether you are Democrat or Republican, please consider this and write or call your representative to make sure he or she understands this problem.
THE TRIPLE HEDGED STOCK PORTFOLIO
A man who we will call Sam who is middle aged wants to earn dividend income form stocks but he needs also to preserve capital due to the limited funds he has for retirement. But he is also willing to accept a fair amount of risk. He does not know much about bonds so he does not want to buy bonds directly. He does not want to own physical gold as he has no place to keep it safe. So he decides to invest primarily in stocks and closed-end funds that pay high dividends, e.g., 5% or higher, on the open market. The high dividends also tend to stabilize the price of the stock. He buys only stocks that are profitable and can sustain their dividend. Example stocks are MLP's (Master Limited Partnerships, e.g., oil and gas stocks), REIT's (Real Estate Trusts), and closed-end high income bond funds. He invests 70% in these stocks. He wants protection from deflation so he keeps 10% in cash (a hedge in deflationary periods, e.g., the Great Depression.) He puts 20% in gold mining stocks or gold stock funds, or other non-perishable commodity stocks, to protect against decline in the value of the dollar (inflation hedge.) He sells call options (covered calls) on his commodity stocks to hedge against a decline in gold or commodity prices. Now he is triple-hedged but still has dividends with some potential for capital gain. So we have the triple-hedged stock portfolio!
FINANCIAL REG BILL NEARS FINAL VERSION
After more than 20 hours of overnight negotiations, Senate Democrats reached a compromise set of rules that will more tightly regulate banks and financial markets as well as transactions such as derivatives. The bill is over 2000 pages long and it will take some time for its full implications to be known and adjusted to. The effects will last for years and some of the regulations will be draconian and far-reaching even for the average person. Look for credit to be tightened by banks. Investors in real estate will find it harder to find mortgage money. Financial businesses will find it harder to operate their business. Ordinary business hedging will become harder to do. For example, a farmer may find it harder to sell corn futures to protect from a drop in price for his corn crop. Larger banks will have to divest most of their proprietary trading departments, especially derivative trading, because of the new regulations. This new law will create a new and giant government agency that is not really needed. We already have the Federal Reserve Board, the Securities and Exchange Commission, and the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation. Between them they should be able to handle enforcement.
Friday, June 25, 2010
OBAMA TO CREATE NEW AGENCY FOR FINREG
The Presisdent has announced that he will create a new agency to administer the new financial regulation law. Why do we need a new agency? What's wrong with assigning the work to the Federal Reserve? This is where the experts are and we they already understand our financial system!
This is another example of government waste, spending, and inefficiency. When does it stop?
This is another example of government waste, spending, and inefficiency. When does it stop?
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