tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-48950487805088764342024-02-20T02:55:53.305-08:00.Get Your Snark OnTired of all the political correctness? Just wanna say it like it really is? The truth is good and questions are even better.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10571166343920727516noreply@blogger.comBlogger56125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4895048780508876434.post-19697737233294144862016-02-20T17:29:00.002-08:002016-02-20T17:31:38.603-08:00More twists from the NRA<div class="Publishwithline">
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Before you get another word into this blog, I MUST lay
out a disclaimer---I AM A LIFETIME MEMBER OF THE NATIONAL RIFLE
ASSOCIATION.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I have been since 1990 when
I paid the first $25 payment on my lifetime installment.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Today I feel I must rant on a topic that has been largely
shoved down the throats of all Americans—possession of guns.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Whether it be the “right” to own a
semi-automatic rifle capable of firing 30 or more rounds a minute and has the
potential to empty TWO 100 round clips in less than 3 minutes; or owning a
handgun that might also have the capacity to hold 15, even 20 rounds, Americans
have been manipulated to accept guns as part of everyday life.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Again, in the interest of transparency, I do own several
guns.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And if truth be told, I would own
more if circumstances allowed.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Then last month, I see one of the cover stories on my NRA
magazine is about suppressors (December 2015).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Then I read an article in my local Detroit paper (January 31, 2016),
also about suppressors.<o:p></o:p></div>
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So I am extremely curious as to why silencers, aka
suppressors, are suddenly so beneficial.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Since both are so similar, I will use Jeff Johnston’s
article dated December 15, 2015 as my primary reference and identify Lydia
Lohrer’s article dated January 31, 2016 when I refer to her article.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Both articles put up a straw-man argument that in parts
of Europe, silencers are readily available over the counter for the asking and
require no special licensing—paper work—tax—or wait period.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Just set your money down, pick a silencer and
in less time than it takes to shoot 30 children in an elementary school—you can
have a silencer to call your own.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Those
liberal loving Norwegians sure know how to run small government while looking
out for their citizens’ rights to be armed. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>BUT WAIT…while it seems t be so easy to get a silencer,
buying a GUN is an entirely different story in most of Europe--<o:p></o:p></div>
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Both the NRA article (<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><a href="http://www.americanrifleman.org/articles/2015/12/15/5-reasons-to-consider-a-suppressor/">5
Reasons to Consider a Suppressor</a>) </i>and the Detroit Free Press article (<a href="http://www.freep.com/story/sports/outdoors/2016/01/30/outdoors-guns-silencers-suppressors/79577958/">On
Suppressors, Lend Me Your Ears</a>) note that in Norway, all one has to do in
walk into a gun store and buy silencer—no paper work, no wait period, no bureaucratic
red-tape.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But what they do not tell us
is that it is NEARLY impossible to buy a gun in Norway—<o:p></o:p></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">The purchase, possession, and use of <u>firearms are tightly controlled
in Norway</u>, whose laws and regulations were <u>made more stringent with
amendments</u> to the Firearms Act in 2009 and the adoption of new Firearms
Regulations in that year. Permission to acquire a firearm must be
obtained from the local police chief and is limited to persons of “sober
habits” who have reasonable grounds for having a weapon<u>. Fully
automatic weapons, some semiautomatic weapons, and firearms disguised as other
objects are banned under the law</u>. Certain types of weapons not covered by
the Firearms Act’s definition of firearms, such as stun guns, are also
generally banned. In addition, the National Police Directorate may issue
regulations prohibiting the acquisition, ownership, or possession of firearms
deemed through their design or operation to be especially dangerous or
inappropriate for use.<o:p></o:p></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">There are also legal provisions, among others<u>, on the licensing of
firearms dealers and exporter/importers, the maintenance of a central firearms
register, and the mandatory safe storage of firearms</u>. <u>The police
have the authority to conduct inspections of privately stored firearms,</u>
after notifying the owner.<o:p></o:p></b></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Nearly 10% of Norway’s populace own firearms, which are used chiefly
for hunting purposes. The gun laws were apparently not extensively
amended in the aftermath of the 2011 massacre in Oslo and on a nearby island in
which seventy-seven people were killed, chiefly through the use of firearms;
however, <u>the country’s Mental Health Act has been revised to include a new
chapter on enhanced security in institutions that accommodate the severely
mentally ill or persons at risk for serious violent behavior.<o:p></o:p></u></b></div>
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<a href="https://www.loc.gov/law/help/firearms-control/norway.php">https://www.loc.gov/law/help/firearms-control/norway.php</a><o:p></o:p></div>
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SO, one does not simply walk into
a gun store, pick out a military assault style weapon—because these weapons are
NOT SOLD in Norway.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There is also
something called the CENTRAL REGISTRY of GUNS—and local law enforcement can
INSPECT gun owner homes to assure the weapons are safe and secure.<o:p></o:p></div>
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So while the NRA grasps at straws
to make a PROGRESSIVE and extremely LIBERAL country like NORWAY appear gun
crazy and so much more advanced in their weapons of mass destruction mentality—giving
the appearance that America is backwards and has a draconian view of guns, the
reality is that European Countries RESTRICT access to weapons – have an
extensive background check for those who want a gun – have a CENTRAL REGISTRY
for ALL GUNS --<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>and has safe guards in
place to prevent those with mental illness and the proclivity to commit violence
from getting guns in the first place.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">So let’s all tell the NATIONAL RIFLE ASSOCIATION, that if they support
the over the counter purchase of silencers and they believe countries like
NORWAY are doing the right thing---then we MUST sign into law similar GUN LAWS
IMMEDIATELY—then we can get on with the business of selling silencers.<o:p></o:p></b></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10571166343920727516noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4895048780508876434.post-33842103901145325542016-02-18T10:39:00.002-08:002016-02-18T10:52:02.696-08:00Governor Rick Snyder's circus<div class="PadderBetweenControlandBody">
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Are you a reader of the <i>Detroit
News</i>? If you are, then you are
probably familiar with its editorial slant of being PRO-BIG GOVERNMENT while
giving that same government immunity for any and all wrongs it commits in the name
of <b>Industrial Corporate Oppression</b>.<o:p></o:p></div>
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If you are not a reader of the <i>Detroit News, </i>you may not be aware of the previous statement, nor
would you be aware that the biggest proponent for Industrial Corporate Oppression
immunity policy is <a href="https://www.facebook.com/NolanFinleyDetnews/">Nolan
Finley</a>.<o:p></o:p></div>
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He typically targets the working class and labels us as
responsible, unappreciative or otherwise slandering the elite governing class
who are typically INNOCENT victims and recipients of the working class’ venom
and persecution.<o:p></o:p></div>
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One recent example can be found in the <i>Detroit News </i><a href="http://www.detroitnews.com/story/opinion/columnists/nolan-finley/2016/02/13/snyder-flint-water-crisis-governor-pollitics/80359120/">Sunday
February 14, 2016 edition</a>. Apparently,
Mr. Finley feels the citizens of Michigan just refuse to understand Governor
Rick Snyder’s “style.”<o:p></o:p></div>
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Seems Rick Snyder isn’t a political as he needs to be? As a politician holding an elected office,
one would think that makes him political by default? Finley wants us to believe that Snyder is the
type of leader who does what is right by the numbers, and that data is always
right. Because of this, Snyder lacks the
political insight to understand the system?
Also, Finley would tell us that Snyder’s image as a leader suffers
because the Governor refuses or refused, to surround himself with Lansing insiders,
and instead went with people the Governor felt were reliable—not necessarily
politically savoy—but capable of providing the data the Governor requires to
Govern by.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Finley wants us to believe that this data driven method has
worked 90% of the time for the Governor.
After all it was the perception of not doing politics that Finley claims
made Snyder such an attractive candidate for Governor and lead to his
re-election in 2014. And that it was the
cold hard facts that were what FAILED the Governor when responding to the Flint
Water Crisis, when what Snyder really needed was “political instincts.” <o:p></o:p></div>
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Finely then points out that these cold hard facts have also
led to the problems that the public schools in Detroit are experiencing. Though Finley ignores the epic failure of the
EAA, he does point out the faults of the Emergency Manager. Not that Darnell Earley is remotely faultless;
Finley wants us to believe (again) that is the Governor’s lack of political
instincts that allowed the schools to become a money pit, not the fact that Snyder
just placed a person in charge with a losing track record as an emergency
manager. Earley previously served as EM
in Flint, Saginaw Schools and Muskegon Heights Schools.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Finley continues with the kudos and admiration of the Governor
by sharing with us the idea that “He’s (Snyder) the rare elected official who
is not always looking for the camera.”
Perhaps that is because the Governor is more comfortable legislating
from behind <a href="http://peoplesworld.org/locked-capitol-doors-lead-to-michigan-unions-right-to-work-lawsuit/">CLOSED-DOORS</a>
and during the <a href="http://rhrealitycheck.org/article/2012/12/14/michigan-legislature-gives-final-approval-to-super-bill-overnight/">MID-NIGHT
hours</a> when the public is excluded from the discussion?<o:p></o:p></div>
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So, Mr. Finley, Governor Rick Snyder is not a VICTIM of the
peoples, misunderstanding of who he is. Rather he is a conniving, greedy extremist,
hell-bent on PROFITS over PEOPLE and callous towards the most basics of human
rights.<o:p></o:p></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10571166343920727516noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4895048780508876434.post-83502091671638853102016-01-03T09:25:00.003-08:002016-01-03T09:25:50.376-08:00The Eradication of Public Education in Michigan<div class="MsoNormal">
THIS IS THE FIRST OF 3 PARTS LOOKING AT THE RISE AND FALL OF
THE MICHIGAN EDUCATION ACHIEVEMENT AUTHORITY AND THE DISENFRANCHISEMENT OF THE
PUBLIC’S RIGHT TO BE REPRESENTED BY ELECTED BOARDS AND THE RIGHT TO DIRECT
THEIR DESTINY AND INFLUENCE THEIR COMMUNITY.</div>
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<h1>
PART I</h1>
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We all know about that dreaded 7-Year inch. <span style="background: black; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia, defines </span><b>the seven-year itch”</b><span class="apple-converted-space"></span>as
a <span class="apple-converted-space"></span>psychological <span class="apple-converted-space"></span>term that suggests that
happiness in a relationship declines after around year seven of a <span class="apple-converted-space"></span>marriage”.<span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="color: #252525; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.5pt;"> <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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The phrase was first used to describe an inclination to
become unfaithful after seven years of marriage in the play<span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="color: #252525; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.5pt;"></span></span><i>The Seven Year Itch</i><span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="color: #252525; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.5pt;"></span></span>by<span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="color: #252525; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.5pt;"> </span></span>George Axelrod, and gained popularity
following<span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="color: #252525; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.5pt;"> </span></span>the
1955 film adaptation<span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="color: #252525;"> </span></span>starring<span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="color: #252525; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.5pt;"></span></span>Marilyn Monroe<span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="color: #252525;"> </span></span>and<span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="color: #252525; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.5pt;"></span></span>Tom Ewell.</div>
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The phrase has since expanded to indicate cycles of
dissatisfaction not only in interpersonal relationships, but also in any
situation such as working a full-time job or buying a house, where a decrease
in happiness and satisfaction is often seen over long periods of time.</div>
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<span style="background: black; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.5pt;">Beginning
2009, former Governor<span class="apple-converted-space"></span>Jennifer
Granholm appointed Robert Bobb to oversee the financial `issues of Detroit
Public School until she left office the end of 2010. Current Governor Rick
Snyder then appointed Roy Roberts in 2011 and Roy remained in that position
until 2015.</span><sup><span style="background: black; mso-bidi-font-size: 9.5pt;">
<o:p></o:p></span></sup></div>
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It was during Roy Roberts tenure as financial manager that
Snyder announced the formation of the Education Achievement Authority (EAA) to
restore the former glory of Detroit Public Schools.</div>
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By March 2012, Governor Snyder holds a high profile
conference, introducing John Covington (most recently of Kansas Public School
disaster) as chancellor and Roy Roberts as the EAA chair.</div>
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In June 2012, Roy Roberts (also the emergency manager
appointed by Snyder) is touting the need for “accountability” as the last of
Covington’s “Pancakes and Politics” conferences comes to a close.</div>
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This accountability will become Robert’s mantra as he seeks
to restore financial control and accountability. Something Roberts has been working on during the previous year
before joining the EAA.</div>
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The keys to Detroit Public Schools, at least 15 schools, are
handed over to John Covington who is only answerable to an 11-member board
appointed by Snyder to oversee the turnaround of 98 Michigan schools deemed to
be failing, a total of 38 that are in Detroit.</div>
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Three years after John Covington took the helm and four
years since Roy Roberts assumed financial control of DPS, the district was </div>
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By June 2014, Johns Covington resigns as EAA chancellor and
Governor Snyder is quoted as saying:</div>
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"Dr. Covington embraced the tremendous challenge of
building such a school district. His student-centered approach, with
individualized learning plans, longer school days and longer school years
allowed children to make great strides. With passion, he built a solid
foundation for the work of the EAA to continue and thrive, helping thousands of
our young people now and into the future." </div>
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John Covington was paid a $175,000 signing bonus and a
$225,000 salary his first year as leader of the new Education Achievement
Authority.<o:p></o:p></div>
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His base salary grew to $325,000 in the second year. And if
he meets yet-to-be-determined goals, he could make more than $425,000 in each
of the last two years of the contract.</div>
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<span style="background: black;">The better students within the system perform,
the more money he makes. All told, he had the opportunity to earn up to $1.5
million over four years. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="background: black;">All this just to oversee HALF
the public school in Detroit.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="background: black;">Meanwhile, the remaining
schools of Detroit Public Schools are under the direction of another of
Governor Snyder’s appointees.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt;">Darnell Earley, who was appointed March 2014 as the
Emergency Manager for the other HALF of Detroit schools is currently earning
$210,000.00. Earnley previously was
paid $110,000.00 as EM of Saginaw and $180,000.00 as EM in Flint—the increase
in his salary seems to be non-reflective of the progress that has NOT been made
in either previous endeavor.</span></div>
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<a href="http://www.mlive.com/news/detroit/index.ssf/2012/03/eaa_set_to_take_over_six_detro.html">http://www.mlive.com/news/detroit/index.ssf/2012/03/eaa_set_to_take_over_six_detro.html</a></div>
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<a href="http://bridgemi.com/2014/06/f-is-for-frustrated-disorganization-at-detroit-eaa-schools-leaves-students-scrambling-to-graduate/">http://bridgemi.com/2014/06/f-is-for-frustrated-disorganization-at-detroit-eaa-schools-leaves-students-scrambling-to-graduate/</a></div>
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<a href="http://michiganradio.org/post/eaa-progress-report-how-15-failing-detroit-schools-fared-year#stream/0">http://michiganradio.org/post/eaa-progress-report-how-15-failing-detroit-schools-fared-year#stream/0</a></div>
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<a href="http://michiganradio.org/post/how-fix-detroit-public-schools#stream/0">http://michiganradio.org/post/how-fix-detroit-public-schools#stream/0</a></div>
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<a href="http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2013/08/06/buena-vista-school-distri_n_3713599.html">http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2013/08/06/buena-vista-school-distri_n_3713599.html</a></div>
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<a href="http://www.mlive.com/news/muskegon/index.ssf/2014/06/muskegon_heights_charter_schoo_19.html">http://www.mlive.com/news/muskegon/index.ssf/2014/06/muskegon_heights_charter_schoo_19.html</a></div>
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<a href="http://www.mlive.com/news/detroit/index.ssf/2011/08/new_troubled_schools_chancello.html">http://www.mlive.com/news/detroit/index.ssf/2011/08/new_troubled_schools_chancello.html</a></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt;"><a href="http://www.mlive.com/news/detroit/index.ssf/2015/01/flint_em_darnell_earley_to_bec.html">http://www.mlive.com/news/detroit/index.ssf/2015/01/flint_em_darnell_earley_to_bec.html</a></span></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10571166343920727516noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4895048780508876434.post-68963143174324573962015-12-29T13:16:00.001-08:002015-12-29T13:18:14.775-08:00<div class="MsoNormal">
Are you ready to SNARK?
The New Year is upon us and it is time to SNARK as no one has SNARKED
before. Or at least not as too many
have previously SNARKED.</div>
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New Years is traditionally a time of RESOLUTIONS, a time to
change what has not worked during the previous 365 days and a time to confess
to prior FAILURES and commit to doing better, improving one’s self and
otherwise stepping up to make a difference somewhere somehow someway.</div>
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It with this definition of RESOLUTION—<br />
<br />
the mental state or quality of being resolves or<br />
resolute; firmness or purpose.</div>
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<span class="oneclick-link"><span style="box-sizing: border-box;"><b><i><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.5pt;"><br /></span></i></b></span></span>
<span class="oneclick-link"><span style="box-sizing: border-box;"><b><i><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.5pt;">She</span></i></b></span></span><span class="apple-converted-space"><b><i><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.5pt;"> <span style="box-sizing: border-box;"></span></span></i></b></span><span class="oneclick-linkoneclick-available"><b><i><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.5pt;">showed</span></i></b></span><span class="apple-converted-space"><b><i><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.5pt;"> <span style="box-sizing: border-box;"></span></span></i></b></span><span class="oneclick-link"><b><i><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.5pt;">her</span></i></b></span><span class="apple-converted-space"><b><i><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.5pt;"> <span style="box-sizing: border-box;"></span></span></i></b></span><span class="oneclick-linkoneclick-available"><b><i><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.5pt;">resolution</span></i></b></span><span class="apple-converted-space"><b><i><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.5pt;"> <span style="box-sizing: border-box;"></span></span></i></b></span><span class="oneclick-link"><b><i><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.5pt;">by</span></i></b></span><span class="apple-converted-space"><b><i><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.5pt;"> <span style="box-sizing: border-box;"></span></span></i></b></span><span class="oneclick-link"><b><i><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.5pt;">not</span></i></b></span><span class="apple-converted-space"><b><i><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.5pt;"> <span style="box-sizing: border-box;"></span></span></i></b></span><span class="oneclick-linkoneclick-available"><b><i><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.5pt;">attending</span></i></b></span><span class="apple-converted-space"><b><i><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.5pt;"> <span style="box-sizing: border-box;"></span></span></i></b></span><span class="oneclick-link"><b><i><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.5pt;">the</span></i></b></span><span class="apple-converted-space"><b><i><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.5pt;"> <span style="box-sizing: border-box;"></span></span></i></b></span><span class="oneclick-linkoneclick-available"><b><i><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-font-size: 12.5pt;">meeting.</span></i></b></span></div>
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<span style="box-sizing: border-box;">
</span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoBodyText">
I resolve that in the year 2016, and forevermore, I will
stand against those who abuse power and marginalize the working class for
personal petty gain and enhancement of the oligarchy. </div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-right: 1.0in;">
I realize this is a mighty commitment,
but it is one that must be made. It
would be nice if there were those among us that would also add this resolution
to their New Years strategies and join us in this endeavor.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-right: 1.0in;">
But nonetheless, we here at GET
YOUR SNARK ON will persevere to make it so.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-right: 1.0in;">
While we have a predetermined list
of SNARK targets, we reserve the right not to limit our commentary to such a
narrow register, and to expand our agenda as we see fit and as the SNARKS do
tend to change on a case-by-case basis.</div>
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<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-right: 1.0in;">
We will SNARK, and our SNARKS will
be brief (typically), as factual as the daily news, (generally) and as pertinent
as the rising of the sun (as a rule).</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10571166343920727516noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4895048780508876434.post-86985212788656208042015-09-02T06:17:00.004-07:002015-09-02T07:32:16.929-07:00Are we LUKEWARM?<div class="MsoNormal">
I came across this post on a popular forum today. I started me thinking about what Jesus
really meant when he spoke of being LUKEWARM.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoBlockText">
<b>I personally think it would because they love the world
and the things of the world like music, movies, clothes, houses, automobiles,
wealth, popularity, going on vacations, trips to the beach, concerts, amusement
parks, sporting events, eating good food, hanging out with friends, plus having
all the lukewarm Christians in Heaven means the more number of friendships I'll
get to have there, I personally prefer being around the worldly and lukewarm
Christians more than the angry Bible thumping Christians who'll tell you you're
gonna be going to Hell for this and that, I wouldn't find joy or happiness if
all of the people who I've loved on Earth or people who I've wanted to meet
ended up in Hell</b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I see it differently.
LUKEWARM has ZERO to do with enjoying LIFE here and now. Many believe that God ( or whatever name you
use) not only wants us to enjoy life, he/she DEMANDS that we have the time of
our life.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
This idea that lukewarm means we are enjoying life and
having fun is ludicrous and is surely the work of our evil subconscious. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
We can still love the world and the things of the world
like music, movies, clothes, houses, automobiles, wealth, popularity, going on
vacations, trips to the beach, concerts, amusement parks, sporting events,
eating good food, hanging out with friend and LOVE God (or whatever name
you use) and God would be ecstatic that we are taking advantage of LIFE. After all is LIFE not a GIFT from God?</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
What parent would ever chastise their child for having fun
and ENJOYING life? </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Does loving the world preclude people from making
discoveries? If we truly "loved
god" why would we be curious and look for patterns and why would we seek
knowledge? It is NOT because we do not
LOVE GOD, but because we do LOVE GOD that we want to make LIFE BETTER.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Are doctors "lukewarm" because the want to extend
life (what did Paulie the heretic write about being absent from the body? Wasn't that a narcissistic piece if there
ever was one?) or when they treat a disease?
I think not. They are doing
God's work here on earth.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
All this "love the world" crap is jut
that--CRAP. Do we really think that in
the here-after all we will do is sit around singing HOLY-HOLY-HOLY 24/7? God I hope not! There are legions of angles who are doing that right now so I
really doubt God needs a few million more sitting around boasting his / her
ego...</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
LUKEWARM I BELIEVE refers willingness to justify ignoring
those in need. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
When we refuse to love our neighbors. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
When we do not demand justice and administer MERCY when
called for. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
We are lukewarm when we walk on past a person on the streets
who needs help and we do nothing. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Whether we withhold that extra dollar in our pocket and
justify not giving the money.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Or we withhold that coat or food. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Even when we avoid a simple HELLO and a smile out of “fear”
it makes us LOOK weak?. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
We are lukewarm when we think like the Pharisees and say:</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
THANK GOD I AM NOT
LIKE------</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
And we hold ourselves ABOVE those who are marginalized. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
LUKEWARM expects others to pull themselves up and we stop
asking WHY is this allowed and how can we provide the hand up.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
LUKEWARM promotes INDIVIDUALISM and rejects the individual.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
LUKEWARM fears "socialism" because we are told
everyone has to WORK for what they get.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
LUKEWARM fears government (despite what Paulie said about
all government is appointed by God) and seeks to take control from the people
and place it in corporate hands.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
When we fear our neighbor (ignoring what Jesus said NUMEROUS
times) and we support an armed society and justify it by saying MIGHT MAKES RIGHT
that is lukewarm. Can we imagine this
happening on the playground--Your son goes to the teacher and says Bobby is
throwing rocks at everyone--and instead of stopping Bobby the teacher gives
EVERYONE rocks??</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
LUKEWARM no longer believes God is LOVE. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
LUKEWARM needs a God of VENGEANCE</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
LUKEWARM demands God be PUNITIVE</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
LUKEWARM wanting God to be JUDGE & JURY provide we are
the executioner</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
LUKEWARM exists on the outer edges of society because we are
"better" than EVERYONE else.</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10571166343920727516noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4895048780508876434.post-59461818469336419612015-08-19T02:24:00.004-07:002015-08-19T02:24:51.031-07:00REPOST--An open letter to Mrs. Bush<header class="entry-header" style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #444444; font-family: 'Gentium Basic', Georgia, 'Times New Roman', Times, serif; font-size: 20px; line-height: 28px;"><h1 class="entry-title" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: #283d4b; font-family: 'Open Sans', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; margin: 0px 0px 0.67em;">
An Open Letter to Mrs. Bush</h1>
<div class="entry-meta" style="box-sizing: border-box; font-family: 'Open Sans', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin: 0px 0px 30px;">
<span class="posted-on" style="box-sizing: border-box; margin-right: 10px;"><a href="http://floridadvreform.com/2015/08/13/an-open-letter-to-mrs-bush/" rel="bookmark" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: #1185d7; text-decoration: none; transition: all 0.3s ease-in-out;"><time class="entry-date published" datetime="2015-08-13T21:41:14+00:00" style="box-sizing: border-box;">August 13, 2015</time></a></span> <span class="byline" style="box-sizing: border-box; display: inline; margin-right: 10px;"><span class="author vcard" style="box-sizing: border-box;"><a class="url fn n" href="http://floridadvreform.com/author/dvindustryissues/" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: #1185d7; text-decoration: none; transition: all 0.3s ease-in-out;">dvindustryissues</a></span></span></div>
</header><div class="entry-content" style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #444444; font-family: 'Gentium Basic', Georgia, 'Times New Roman', Times, serif; font-size: 20px; line-height: 28px; margin: 0px 0px 30px;">
<div style="box-sizing: border-box; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-top: 1em;">
Dear Mrs. Bush,</div>
<div style="box-sizing: border-box; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-top: 1em;">
When I was six years old, I hid behind a couch with my ears covered by my tiny hands. I sang “Somewhere over the Rainbow” to drown out the sound of my mother screaming as my stepfather beat her. Black eyes, a busted lip–all were common to see on my mother’s face. Another night, I awoke realizing I needed to use the restroom. I was so scared to run into my stepfather in the hallway that I chose to urinate in the bed. I slept in it all night. The predominant feeling throughout my childhood was fear. Fear that my mother would die, fear that I would die… just fear.</div>
<div style="box-sizing: border-box; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-top: 1em;">
We survived. I received counseling. The scars from my youth never faded.</div>
<div style="box-sizing: border-box; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-top: 1em;">
This is why I chose to get involved in the Domestic Violence movement. I did not find a job on Career Builder; I sought out a shelter for this work. When I began my work at the shelter, it was due to a genuine care for victims and their experiences.</div>
<div style="box-sizing: border-box; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-top: 1em;">
I left the field five years later. I left because I realized the domestic violence movement had been hijacked by the very organization I imagined was its greatest ally: the Florida Coalition against Domestic Violence (FCADV).</div>
<div style="box-sizing: border-box; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-top: 1em;">
You, Mrs. Bush, have partnered with FCADV since the early 2000s. According to their last 990 filing, you sit on the Board of their Foundation. In 2003, your husband, then Governor, Jeb Bush signed House Bill 1099. This bill allowed the FCADV to attain control over all funding for the 42 certified Domestic Violence centers in Florida. Over the past two weeks, your husband has publicly referenced his and your work on domestic violence as he makes his bid for Presidency.</div>
<div style="box-sizing: border-box; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-top: 1em;">
For this reason, I can no longer be silent.</div>
<div style="box-sizing: border-box; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-top: 1em;">
Immediately after your husband signed House Bill 1099, a multitude of things began to change at our shelter and others. In 2005, our Children’s Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) left and was never replaced. Our shelter decided the service was no longer necessary. In 2010, our Adult Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) was laid off and never replaced. Also in 2010, two members of our Board of Directors raised concerns about various issues, including the possible misappropriation of funds, blatant mistruths on the shelter’s 990s, and the fact that the Executive Director was never on-site. Since the shelter’s only oversight was and still is the FCADV, those affected reached out to them, calling and expressing concerns.</div>
<div style="box-sizing: border-box; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-top: 1em;">
The result? They were dismissed from the Board.</div>
<div style="box-sizing: border-box; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-top: 1em;">
Our longstanding Board of Directors included fifteen members; today it has five. In 2010, a strategic planner came in to help the shelter create a more concrete and effective plan to meet shelter objectives. However, he was dismissed when the Executive Director was unhappy or, rather, “unsatisfied” with his findings.</div>
<div style="box-sizing: border-box; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-top: 1em;">
Among the findings? The lack of full time presence of the CEO (Executive Director).</div>
<div style="box-sizing: border-box; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-top: 1em;">
In 2012, the three top administrators at the shelter received two raises in two months. With those raises, 40% of the entire funds of the shelter paid (and still pays) the three top administrators, one of which is the Executive Director who is almost never on-site. No action has been taken regarding any of these facts because, as previously mentioned, their only oversight is the FCADV and they do not appear to be concerned, based upon their lack of response to clearly expressed, valid concerns.</div>
<div style="box-sizing: border-box; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-top: 1em;">
Certified Florida domestic violence shelters are required to report their counseling hours to FCADV monthly and FCADV compiles the numbers. The FCADV boasts that its centers provided approximately 455,000 hours of counseling to victims of domestic violence in 2014.</div>
<div style="box-sizing: border-box; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-top: 1em;">
I called every one of Florida’s 42 certified centers and all but three confirmed that they have no LMHC counselor on staff. Most of them clarified that while they did not have licensed counselors, they follow a “peer counseling” model, which allows for a much looser conception of what counts as counseling. At the shelter where I worked,<i style="box-sizing: border-box;">each and every </i>moment a staff member even speaks to a victim counts toward counseling hours.</div>
<div style="box-sizing: border-box; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-top: 1em;">
Internal memos signed by our director encouraged advocates to “get counseling hours up.” One specific memo (which I have in my possession) reads: “Do their nails, hair, gather them for a movie—just get the hours up.” I find it troubling that they consider this counseling. Had that been the counseling service I received as a child, or my mother received as an adult, I fear what would have become of us.</div>
<div style="box-sizing: border-box; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-top: 1em;">
In 2009, the Department of Justice released their national fatality review on domestic violence victims. Among their findings were the following:</div>
<div style="box-sizing: border-box; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-top: 1em;">
<i style="box-sizing: border-box;">Up to <span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700;">88% of battered women</span> <span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700;">in shelters suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)</span></i></div>
<div style="box-sizing: border-box; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-top: 1em;">
<i style="box-sizing: border-box;">The Mexico fatality review study documented that <span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700;">a third of the female victims had alcohol in their system at the time of autopsy</span>, with a blood alcohol content of twice the legal limit.</i></div>
<div style="box-sizing: border-box; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-top: 1em;">
<i style="box-sizing: border-box;">Other studies have found that as many as <span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700;">72% of abuse victims experience depression.</span></i></div>
<div style="box-sizing: border-box; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-top: 1em;">
<i style="box-sizing: border-box;">Among women treated in emergency rooms for injuries caused by their abusers, <span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700;">those who suffered from substance abuse had increased risk of violence from partners</span>.</i></div>
<div style="box-sizing: border-box; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-top: 1em;">
<span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700;"><i style="box-sizing: border-box;">75%</i></span><i style="box-sizing: border-box;"> </i><i style="box-sizing: border-box;">(of battered women in shelters) <span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700;">experience severe anxiety</span>.</i></div>
<div style="box-sizing: border-box; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-top: 1em;">
<i style="box-sizing: border-box;">Another hospital study found that <span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700;">victims injured by partners were more likely than other injured women in an emergency room to test positive for substance abuse</span>.</i></div>
<div style="box-sizing: border-box; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-top: 1em;">
This is not about blaming victims; it is about establishing which services victims truly need. How did it come to be that FCADV would ignore the desperate need for mental health counseling and substance abuse help in your shelters and centers? How did it come to be that FCADV stopped providing those services? The official word from FCADV is that, “It’s not one of our core services” and/or “We can’t assume that every victim needs those services.” If credible data demonstrates that 80% of women in shelters have PTSD, shame on FCADV for not helping them. This is especially true when Executive Directors continue to receive raises while those in need struggle for resources. The FCADV claims they “refer out” for mental health services. But to what resources? Mental health and substance abuse are incredibly underfunded while the FCADV is not. When I worked at the shelter as an advocate, most referrals I was required to recommend involved month-long waiting lists.</div>
<div style="box-sizing: border-box; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-top: 1em;">
The Empowerment Model looks good on paper but one cannot empower an individual to do “what’s best for herself or her children” when the individual needs sobriety, substance abuse counseling, or mental health care. Blatantly ignoring what statistics make clear is irresponsible, unethical, and, at best, ineffective.</div>
<div style="box-sizing: border-box; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-top: 1em;">
I worked with at least 600 women in our shelter. How many had what the average person or shelter employee would consider a “happy ending” or beneficial outcome? I would wager that fifty is a more than generous guess. <span style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 700;">Approximately fifty of 600 women left our shelter better off than when they arrived.</span> The vast majority left almost no better from their time in our center. The reason is that, of the 600 women I worked with, only fifty dealt solely<i style="box-sizing: border-box;"> </i>with domestic violence. The other 550 dealt with (and are likely still dealing with) with co-traumas of substance abuse and/or mental health.</div>
<div style="box-sizing: border-box; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-top: 1em;">
Our shelter sent them back out into the world with none of what they needed to stay safe. Where did they go? Sometimes we dropped them off behind a Publix to walk into the woods, sometimes at homeless shelters, sometimes back to their abusers, sometimes to different shelters. Not one of the highest paid administrators who take home 40% of the shelter’s funding demonstrated concern about the outcome of these survivors—or in this case, victims. I blame the FCADV.</div>
<div style="box-sizing: border-box; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-top: 1em;">
I applaud the efforts of FCADV to raise awareness. I applaud their efforts to change the conversation and place the blame on abusers. I do NOT applaud their efforts to save lives because they are failing. And as long as they continue doing what they are doing—putting salaries above services and greed above goodwill—they will keep failing. Hiding behind the Empowerment Based Model does a disservice to victims, and that is not okay.</div>
<div style="box-sizing: border-box; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-top: 1em;">
To empower women and victims, you must start by having honest conversations about the co-traumas that shelter workers see. The FCADV spends a great deal of money on lobbyists, to maintain their status quo. Domestic violence victims and survivors are not interested in the politics that have allowed this to spiral out of control, but it is certainly political in nature.</div>
<div style="box-sizing: border-box; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-top: 1em;">
The FCADV has dwindled away services at its 42 centers, all while top executives and administrators continue to receive unjustified and unnecessary raises. It is unconscionable that the Executive Director of the FCADV makes nearly half a million dollars a year while victims go without essential services. Florida does not even come close to comparing to other Executive Director salaries.</div>
<div style="box-sizing: border-box; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-top: 1em;">
I took the time to look at the 990’s for all State Coalition Executive Directors… here is how Florida’s Director compares:</div>
<div style="box-sizing: border-box; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-top: 1em;">
<a href="http://floridadvreform.files.wordpress.com/2015/08/clip_image002.jpg" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: #1185d7; text-decoration: none; transition: all 0.3s ease-in-out;"><img alt="clip_image002" border="0" height="421" src="http://floridadvreform.files.wordpress.com/2015/08/clip_image002_thumb.jpg?w=746&h=421" style="background-image: none; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; display: inline; height: auto; max-width: 100%; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px; vertical-align: middle;" title="clip_image002" width="746" /></a></div>
<div style="box-sizing: border-box; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-top: 1em;">
Florida is often cited as leading the nation in domestic violence initiatives. I am terrified that other states would model themselves after ours. I cringe to think about what will become of the victims as executives’ pockets get bigger. I believe the FCADV began with good intentions. However, as often happens, when left unchecked, greed found its footing.</div>
<div style="box-sizing: border-box; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-top: 1em;">
Please stop listening to the highest paid executives and go back to the basics. Speak openly with advocates, case managers, and all those who provide direct service. Ask what they see, what services and resources they need to protect women, and to provide comfort and safety through their transition. You will find that the FCADV has gotten in the way of saving lives.</div>
<div style="box-sizing: border-box; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-top: 1em;">
For too long, I stayed quiet. For too long, I tried to justify what I knew was wrong. For too long, I covered my ears like I did when I was a child hiding from the abuse in my own home. Now I will speak out. I will speak to State Representatives and individuals in Congress. I will reach out to others to join the fight. I will reach out with documentation of everything I have collected through my extensive research. I will never again let Mr. Jeb Bush go on TV and claim he has made positive changes to Florida’s domestic violence system. Perhaps you have both raised some important initiatives, but you have also helped the rich to get richer by ignoring the needs of victims.</div>
<div style="box-sizing: border-box; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-top: 1em;">
Enough is enough.</div>
<div style="box-sizing: border-box; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-top: 1em;">
Domestic violence survivors and victims in Florida deserve better. Every victim deserves better. It is time to take back the movement whose vast potential for change has been stolen by the FCADV. I sincerely hope you will consider my plea and use your position of power to benefit those in need rather than contributing to their further victimization.</div>
<div style="box-sizing: border-box; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-top: 1em;">
Sincerely,</div>
<div style="box-sizing: border-box; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-top: 1em;">
Cassandra<br style="box-sizing: border-box;" /><a href="http://www.floridadvreform.com/" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: #1185d7; text-decoration: none; transition: all 0.3s ease-in-out;">www.floridadvreform.com</a><br style="box-sizing: border-box;" /><a href="mailto:dvindustryissues@gmail.com" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: #1185d7; text-decoration: none; transition: all 0.3s ease-in-out;">dvindustryissues@gmail.com</a><a href="http://www.facebook.com/FLDVReform" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: #1185d7; text-decoration: none; transition: all 0.3s ease-in-out;">www.facebook.com/FLDVReform</a><br style="box-sizing: border-box;" /><a href="https://twitter.com/cassandra_dye" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: #1185d7; text-decoration: none; transition: all 0.3s ease-in-out;">https://twitter.com/cassandra_dye</a></div>
<div style="box-sizing: border-box; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-top: 1em;">
Feel free to repost this blog, link to it, and/or share. If sharing on Twitter, use #FloridaDVReform. You may also tweet it to Columba Bush and Jeb Bush.</div>
<div style="box-sizing: border-box; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-top: 1em;">
<a href="https://dailypost.wordpress.com/dp_prompt/break-the-silence/" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: #1185d7; text-decoration: none; transition: all 0.3s ease-in-out;">Break the Silence</a></div>
</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10571166343920727516noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4895048780508876434.post-11439702807345401552015-08-18T17:03:00.000-07:002015-08-18T17:03:55.008-07:00Disappointments are memorable<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
When does one finally realize they
are getting old? Is it when we no
longer look forward to Friday nights—going out to the bar or the movies? Is it when we buy tour first car that has
four-doors or that gas saving motor?
Perhaps it is when our high school reunion rolls over from one-digit to
two-digits?</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
What ever your demarcation is, or
will be, there comes a time when each of us must acknowledge that time has
continued, as we were busy living. We
actually never realize the progression of age.
At least not as we notice it on others.
How many times have we meat an old “friend” from the distant past and
the first thing we think is “Do I look that good / bad?” Or we find ourselves out in the community at
some event or strolling the local big box store and we notice some one looking
at us. We wonder are they
flirting? DO they know me? OMG, they are so OLD, why would they even
think…then we realize the ultimate truth—we are about the same age—which
means—I AM OLD.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
Yeah, tell me something new. Actually this is not the point I am coming
to. Age is but a slice of the blooming
onion. There ARE many other slices such
as education, economic status, employment, community, and the ability to access
these and other slices slice with dignity and respect. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
The focus of this SNARK sprung to
life as a result of a personal disappointment.
Not that this was any more disappointing that having worked in the same
career for over 20 years and I am barely making what I did when I started in
1995. We are all told that work hard,
it will pay off. Do what you love; it
has its own rewards. Stay focused and
on point and your efforts will be recognized.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
But what if you go above and
beyond, but you just don’t hold the party line? Or worse yet, you are unable to without compromising your
clients?</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
But as usual, I digress. Returning to the topic at hand, which was
what exactly?</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
OH, it was being able, or actually
ALLOWED to access the onion with dignity and respect and how I survived yet
another personal disappointment today.
It is this event that once again brought me to think about a friend I
never got around to seeing as often as I should have since I left Madison,
Wisconsin in 1997.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
When I met Mark, he was the epitome
of dignity and respect. The
poster-person for determination if there ever was going to be such a
person. Mark grew up in Madison, went
to school in Madison, and lived every day (except the days I took him out of
the state) in Madison as if he was on a new adventure. Mark had two, TWO degrees from the Madison
Area Technical College—one in CISCO and the other in Microsoft Office. Either one would have been a ticket to
prosperity back in the early 1990s.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
Mark had a very active social
life. He was often seen on State Street
during the day, in and out of the shops and when he reached the University
Union, he stopped for a bit, and slurped on a cold cola, maybe a burger and
fries. Then he would head back towards
the Capitol on State Street, stopping to chat with all the people he knew, and
all those he had not met, until that day.
Mark would get on the 25 bus, and head home for some dinner, a shower
and a few hours of programming before dinner.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
After dinner, mark was back on
State Street from 8:00 P.M until 1:00 A.M Monday through Thursday. He always finished the night at the local
college bar, Bullwinkle’s. There he
would dance the night away. The women
he knew from his previous excursions always had a few new friends who had all heard
about Mark. By 1:00 A.M. Mark was ready
to head back home and get an early start in the morning. By all appearances, Mark was having the time
of his young life</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
Yet, every day Mark experienced
disappointment in his personal life, particularly in the area of employment.
Having completed two IT programs still was not enough to get Mark an offer for
employment. Once he had an offer to do
some work for a nonprofit doing data entry in a spreadsheet, but once that job
was completed, there was no other offers waiting. Mark tried several other avenues, designing websites on some of
those free hosting sites as a way of advertising his talent. Everyday, Mark anticipated a knock at his
door, a letter in the mailbox, an email from a stranger or a phone call from an
enthusiastic employer who had discovered his skills. There was nothing but SILENCE.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
Eventually, after too many
disappointments, possibilities no longer shine as they once had. The morning is no longer an exciting event
and your friends are not as interesting as they were yesterday.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
That is what I felt when I was
faced with my latest disappointment. I
understood what it feels like to always do your best. To put that best foot forward and always, always provide a fair
day’s work for a fair day’s pay. Only
Marko never had that opportunity to work with dignity and respect. Having dignity and respect in one’s social
life is great and all, but it is having respect and dignity via work is what
validates us as human beings, not just a life form, but a contributing member
of our community. Be it good or be it
bad, our work defines who we are and gives all of us standing within our
society. So when I encounter
disappointment, and I wonder just how I can deal with yet another set back, I
think of Mark.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
He NEVER was given the opportunity
to be employed with dignity and never had the respect associated with holding
your own. Even though there was no
pressure on Mark, there was no realistic reason why Mark should have been
concerned with securing employment, because Mark had fought his entire life for
dignity and respect from the day he was born.
Beginning September 08, 1970, everyday was a struggle for dignity and
respect. Living with cerebral palsy,
Mark never asked for favors. He never
took charity. Rather, he dove into
every experience for all it was worth. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
But eventually we all grow weary of
the battle. Even when we look back at
all our victories, there is always ONE tat has eluded us. The one we will never overcome and claim as
ours. For Mark, that was employment
with dignity and respect. It wasn’t the
money (though money does make some jobs easier), the benefits, or even the
actual work. As it is for many of us,
work allows us to bond with others who hopefully share our passion. Who take us in and embrace us when we are
successful, and they take us in and embrace us when we stumble—reminding us
there is always another day.</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
But for Mark, on November 01, 2010,
that next day would never come again.
Mark felt his community had let him stumble one to many times when it
came to employment. So Mark decided he
had one last job he could do. So he
boarded the 25 bus one last time, and went for a one-way stroll down State
Street, to the University Memorial Union.
From there, Mark directed his power chair across the isthmus to Monona
Bay. There, adjacent to Lake Monona,
where Otis Redding’s lane went down December 10, 1967, Mark slipped from his
power chair into the cold depths of history.</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10571166343920727516noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4895048780508876434.post-4182177565808443612015-07-28T18:55:00.002-07:002015-07-28T18:55:52.564-07:00Let no debt remain outstanding, except the continuing debt to love one another, for whoever loves others has fulfilled the law.<div class="MsoNormal">
Debt. It keeps the masses in line and under their
thumb.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Think about the world of possessions and material holdings.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="color: #464646; mso-bidi-font-size: 13.5pt;">U.S.
household consumer debt profile:</span></b><span style="color: #464646; mso-bidi-font-size: 13.5pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="color: #464646;">Average Credit Card debt =
$15,863</span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="color: #464646;">Average mortgage debt= $156,
584</span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="color: #464646;">Average student loan debt-
$33, 090</span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="color: #464646; mso-bidi-font-size: 13.5pt;">In
total, American consumers owe:</span></b><span style="color: #464646; mso-bidi-font-size: 13.5pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="color: #464646;">$11.86 TRILLION in debt</span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="color: #464646;">An increase of 1.9% from last
year</span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="color: #464646;">$901 BILLION in credit card
debt</span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="color: #464646;">$8.17 TRILLION in mortgages</span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="color: #464646;">$1.21 TRILLION in STUDENT
loans</span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="color: #464646;">an increase of 8.5% from last
year</span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #464646;">source:<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><a href="http://www.nerdwallet.com/blog/credit-card-data/average-credit-card-debt-household/" target="_blank">American Household Credit</a></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #464646;">How much do you owe? It
is probably enough to keep you working at a job that has
ZERO possibilities and and absolute dead end, right?</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #464646;">We have been raised to believe
that credit is the American way of life. It is how we buy cars (we just
bought a used 2008 Chrysler Town & Country on credit), the only way for 90%
of us to buy a house (though we paid cash for our modular and just owe lot rent).</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #464646;">Then we are told that real
people NEVER default on their loans--NEVER. We are taught
various ways to be shamed and humiliated, but defaulting on a loan is the
worse. We know this is true because as soon as we do default on a line of
credit, those wonderful caring humans at the
collection agency immediately start calling with a full does of
SHAME and HUMILIATION intended to get us to pay whatever we can to save
our reputation.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #464646;">The other great side-effect (or
is it by design?) of DEBT is controlling the populace. The more
we owe, the less likely we are to complain. Since I just bought a car and
now owe money, I am less likely to question my employer, challenge their
requests and more likely to accept most of their requests to work late or come
in early out of fear of losing my position and defaulting on a new line of
credit.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #464646;">Noam Chomsky has this to say
about debt:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div style="background: white; line-height: 16.15pt; margin-bottom: 5.0pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;">
<span style="color: #141823; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11.5pt;">"Well how do you indoctrinate the young? There
are a number of ways. One way is to burden them with hopelessly heavy tuition
debt. Debt is a trap, especially student debt, which is enormous, far larger
than credit card debt. It’s a trap for the rest of your life because the laws
are designed so that you can’t get out of it. If a business, say, gets in too
much debt it can declare bankruptcy, but individuals can almost never be
relieved of student debt through bankruptcy. They<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><span class="textexposedshow">can even
garnish social security if you default. That’s a disciplinary technique. I
don’t say that it was consciously introduced for the purpose, but it certainly
has that effect. And it’s hard to argue that there’s any economic basis for it.
Just take a look around the world: higher education is mostly free. In the
countries with the highest education standards, let’s say Finland, which is at
the top all the time, higher education is free. And in a rich, successful
capitalist country like Germany, it’s free. In Mexico, a poor country, which
has pretty decent education standards, considering the economic difficulties
they face, it’s free. In fact, look at the United States: if you go back to the
1940s and 50s, higher education was pretty close to free."</span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/NoamChomskyQuotes?fref=ts" target="_blank">Noam
Chomsky</a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<h3>
Hasn’t it been too long that we have gone without the human dignity our
parents and grandparents had?</h3>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Debt may be the Americanway, but so too is RESPECT, a LIVING
WAGE, a 40 HOUR WORK WEEK, a PENSION that cannot be stolen and a QUALITY OF
LIFE that provides us ALL with LEISURE and HAPPINESS.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
So, when do we start?</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div style="background: white; line-height: 16.15pt; margin-bottom: 5.0pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10571166343920727516noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4895048780508876434.post-31624421206299031812015-07-27T15:06:00.000-07:002015-07-27T15:06:26.556-07:00Time is one of our most precious resources. Remember when we were young? And if you are young, think about how quickly time has passed since your last birthday, your last Christmas, the last time you told someone you loved them--and you actually HEARD the words and felt the emotion.<br />
<br />
This is one of the foundations for Get Your Snark On..or as of August 08, 2015 Get Your Snark On, LLC.<br />
<br />
We will be taking issue with the events in our lives that seem to steal away our resources--<br />
<br />
1. TIME<br />
<br />
2. LIBERTY<br />
<br />
3. JUSTICE<br />
<br />
4. HAPPINESS<br />
<br />
5. STABILITY<br />
<br />
6. ECONOMIC LIBERTY<br />
<br />
7. CONTENTMENT<br />
<br />
We will make every attempt to be IRREVERENT while remaining RELATIVE to our situation as Humans, living in America. <br />
<br />
Stay tuned as we set off down the rabbit hole and take back our VOICES and restore our HOPE.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10571166343920727516noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4895048780508876434.post-76734509368688566262015-05-18T18:27:00.003-07:002015-05-18T18:27:58.302-07:00Holier than ThemCongratulations! <br><br>
I pray this self-proclamation will bring you to a greater understanding of life.<br>
I know, most people would end the previous sentence with GOD, but what or rather who is GOD—if not LIFE?<br>
Such a magnanimous proclamation must surely symbolize your FAITH in the word. Such confidence and vainglorious belief has to be the result of years of dedication and compliance with the law, even from a very young age.<br><br>
Though I do wonder is such a lengthy statement intended to draw praise of is it more to secure one’s place in the room of persecution? A means of solidifying internalized feelings of psychological crucifixion, whether real or imagined?<br><br>
Does anyone ever really know the heart of God?<br><br>
Does anyone ever really know if their faith brings a smile to God’s face?<br><br>
Does anyone ever really know if their smile gives Jesus warm fuzzies?<br><br>
Does anyone every really know if their deeds bring Jesus satisfaction?<br><br>
I suppose there are reasons men espouse such lengthy words attributed to God.<br>
I suppose in some ways the words bring some comfort.<br>
I suppose the ability to quote provides us with personal contentment, much as Paul experienced with the Corinthians the first time.<br><br>
Can our words then become service?<br>
Will our words then feed the hungry?<br>
Will our words then comfort the homeless?<br>
Can our words then educate the seekers?<br>
Will our words be reflected in our love?<br>
Does our words fulfill the FAITH?<br>
Would our words heal the sick?<br>
Could our words be merely the clanging of cymbals?<br><br>
I wonder, when God is there, in His place, gazing over His beloved, does He see our words or does He hear our heart?<br>
I wonder what God will remember us for?<br><br>
Having the best Rolex?<br>
The newest car?<br>
The biggest house?<br>
The highest education?<br>
The most hours in a pew?<br>
The most laws obeyed?<br>
The most endearing prayer?<br>
The most important vote?<br>
The best submissive spouse?<br>
The best display of abstinence? <br>
The best at resisting temptation?<br><br>
Or will They remember how passionately we loved?<br>
How deeply we cared for each other?<br>
How completely we gave of ourselves?<br>
How honestly we spoke?<br>
How thoroughly we embraced life?<br><br>
Will They think of us, the same way we should have though of Them?<br><br>
Will They see us the same way se saw our Neighbors?<br><br>
Will They mete out the same as we did to the poor?<br><br>
Will They defend us as we defended the least of us?<br><br>
Or will they say I NEVER KNEW YOU, WHO CLAIMED TO LOVE GOD YOY HAVE NEVEER SEEN AND COULD NOT LOVE YOUR NEIGHBOR WHO WAS WITH YOU EVERY DAY.<br><br>
The ONLY answer that matters is the one EACH of us will be given, not what words we recite from an empty mountain top that can neither heal the SOUL nor nurture the BODY.<br><br><br>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4895048780508876434.post-63329108498894178822015-05-15T11:26:00.000-07:002015-05-15T11:26:05.222-07:00Who shall I send...Not that I am an overly religious kind of person, but I can say I have an strong sense of JUSTICE and MERCY. For reasons that cannot adequately be explained, perhaps because I do not fully understand...I have been compelled to be at the front of the line when it comes to social action. And Isaiah 6:8 has forever resonated within my soul.
This has been an annoyance throughout my life. At various times I have tried to stand wt the oppressed and demand justice, only to be ignored by all sides. Then they have been times when I thought to merely observe, and all sides demanded I pick up arms and defend a position, any position.
And so, I am resigned to simply being the one. The one who steps out from the smoke and mirrors.
Steps away from the rioting and chaos
Steps away from the idle contentment
To walk in the shoes of no one. To simply be....the voice of the observer..
Then I heard the voice of the Lord saying, "Whom shall I send? And who will go for us?"
<b>And I said, "Here am I. Send me!"</b>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4895048780508876434.post-87622439786497224962014-12-04T15:56:00.000-08:002014-12-04T15:56:17.576-08:00Classical Curriculum coming to Brighton??
Look for links and more details soon.
<BR><BR><BR><BR>Those who are concerned about public education need to know the TEA PARTY is attempting to open a franchise of CLASSICAL EDUCATION schools around Michigan. One right here in Brighton.<BR><BR>
The Brighton School Board has TWO TEA PARTY supporters who are willing to sign off on a school building for this STEP-FORD form of education.
No one should ever forget that one of the leaders in the profits before kids charter school movement is Hillsdale College. Their brand of for-profit charter schools which they call, “Classical Education”, is a nice way of saying Christian conservative education that bears little relevance to what students actually need to be prepared in a modern workforce and world. Hillsdale College last year took some much needed criticism university president Larry Arnn commented that the state had come to investigate whether Hillsdale College had enough “dark ones” enrolled.<BR><BR>
Larry Arnn’s racist comment is nothing compared to the scandal his predecessor left behind, but personal conduct or horrendous bigotry has nothing to do with running a Christian conservative college, or authorizing charter schools around the country.<BR><BR>
Or does it?<BR><BR>
Downstate near Holly, Michigan, lives a man named Pasquale “Pat” Battaglia. Self-labeled as a Christian husband father grandfather, he wants to open Hillsdale College-style charter schools in Southeast Michigan. Currently, he is working on securing a building to open a school in Brighton and another is projected to open in Warren in 2015. These schools according to him are based on the Hillsdale Academy model, which the college publishes reference manuals for $100 a pop so you too can run a for-profit charter school cleverly disguised as a Christian private school that fleeces public tax dollars.<BR><BR>
He’s written impassioned letters on nearby local tea party websites asking people to help him open up new charter schools so he can bring back real education to American children based on what the founding fathers would have wanted.
The letter begins with an obvious dog whistle:<BR><BR>
I guarantee to you folks that the kids that we see who are in the process of completely soiling the tenants of our Western Civilization are a products of the government run school systems, kindergarten thru grad school. What do we do?<BR><BR>
Apparently write letters with glaring spelling and grammatical errors. That will show people you’re the guy who’s qualified to operate a school.
We can get a clear picture of what kind of person Pat is from looking at his online presence. Remember that bit about kids soiling the tenants of our western civilization attending public schools? What kids could he be talking about?<BR><BR>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4895048780508876434.post-72516273760856403492014-12-04T15:51:00.000-08:002015-05-18T19:11:38.953-07:00Happenings in Lansing, Michigan 12/3/2014MIRS MIDDAY UPDATE: Capital Outlay Approves $370.4M In Project Planning<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.mirsnews.com/alert.php?alert_id=1866">http://www.mirsnews.com/alert.php?alert_id=1866</a><br />
<br />
<span style="color: red;"><b>The story comes from MIRS. My comments in red</b></span><br />
<br />
Emphasizing to community college and university officials today that it's "not a promise to fund," the Joint Capital Outlay Committee today approved a Fiscal Year (FY) 2015 Capitol Outlay, which gives the green light for planning and fundraising to begin on 29 projects.<br />
<br />
"This is not a spending bill," said Chairman Sen. Darwin BOOHER (R-Evart). "This is planning authorization only."
<span style="color: red;"><b><br />
When does it become a “SPENDING BILL”? Who the hell does Senator Darwin Booher (R-EVART) think he is fooling?
</b></span><br />
<br />
SB 0761 provides funding for 13 university projects for a total state commitment of $291 million if the projects go forward. The total cost, including institution share of the university projects is $683 million. <br />
Planning authorizations for community colleges covered 19 projects with a state share cost of $79.3 million. The total cost, including institution share of these projects is $158.7 million. Combined, the 29 projects will cost both the state and institutions $841.7 million. <br />
Among the university projects, the largest is at the Ann Arbor campus of the University of Michigan for the School of Dentistry. The $122 million project renovated half the space in the W.K. Kellogg Foundation Institute to correct overcrowded and outdated lab space. <br />
<span style="color: red;"><b>f universities have multi-million / billion dollar endowments, why is the state contributing any funds?</b></span><br />
<br />
Among community colleges, the largest is a $20 million project for Northwestern to renovate West Hall to provide an additional 35,000 square feet for a Student Learning and Simulation Center. <br />
<span style="color: red;"><b> Wouldn’t it make more sense to require schools with LARGE endowments to spend that before the state contributes? That would free up more money for community college development and improvements.</b></span><br />
<br />
A Senate Fiscal Agency (SFA) issue paper on the projects as well as S-1, Draft A of SB 0761 can be downloaded from MIRS' information page for SB 0761.
The emphasis on "planning authorization" follows a restructuring of the Capital Outlay process in the legislature during 2012. Essentially, the way the system works now is state agencies, universities and community colleges submit a "wish list" of projects to the state. <br />
<span style="color: red;"><b>Does the wish list items benefit the university or the students?</b></span><br />
<br />
Then the Chair and Vice Chair along with the Department of Technology, Management and Budget review, evaluate and score all the project requests using specific criteria. This review and scoring has to be done by March 1. <br />
In developing the FY 2015 Capital Outlay project list, DTMB required more time to gather information and input from the universities and community colleges. As a result, only three projects were included in the governor's FY 2015 budget recommendation. <br />
<br />
Inkster DHS Building Proposal Approved <br />
<br />
A move by the Department of Human Services to consolidate operations from three current spaces into a new leased building in Inkster got the blessing today of the Joint Capital Outlay Committee.
<br />
<br />
The project had been aired out in an earlier hearing (See "DHS Building Proposal In Inkster Questioned," 09/10/14). During that hearing, Sen. Glenn ANDERSON (D-Westland) voiced concern over whether the state was getting the best deal by leasing the new property at $20.71 per square foot. <br />
<br />
<span style="color: red;"><b>Most commercial real estate in Inkster is priced at less than $10.00 a square foot. There is a commercial / industrial site with buildings listed at $690,000 and it is equipped with cranes.
Just about the same size building and it comes with 3.38 acres of land.
2830 Beech Daly Road<br />
Inkster, Michigan<br />
24,775 SF Total Building Size<br />
3 Cranes: 2-10 Ton and 1 5-Ton <br />
Newer roof (5 years) <br />
20' Clear
3.38 Acres Fenced Outside Storage<br />
Status: Active<br /><br />
Price: $637,000<br /><br />
Bldg. Size: 24,775 SF<br />
Cap Rate: N/A<br />
Primary Type: Industrial<br />
Sub-Type: Warehouse</b></span><br />
<br />
Anderson and Rep. Phil POTVIN (R-Cadillac) were the only no votes this morning in approving the 25-year lease that will cost the state $680,900 a year in lease payments.<br />
<span style="color: red;"><b>What would it cost to PURCHASE a building in Inkster?</b></span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4895048780508876434.post-50777157935073610912013-09-15T18:37:00.001-07:002013-09-15T18:37:09.143-07:00How do you get to a Reunion?Thirty-five years. Wow, how did this happen, that these 35 years could pass without a second thought? Since I graduated high school, I have done so much, while accomplishing so little. Like so many people, I look back and find myself asking what proof is there that I have done anything that mattered. Graduating high school is supposed to be the beginning of independence. It is also the start of one’s influence in society and eventually one’s affluence within their community.<BR><BR>
As I have written elsewhere, I graduated high school to do like my father had done—work at McLouth Steel. 1978 was a time when blue-collar jobs were withering and employment officially became a who-you-know process. <BR><BR>
Everyone who hired in the summer of 1978 was connected to current employees. Some were connected to management; some with labor and others were friends of a friend whose mother was sleeping with someone that had enough influence to move their son’s application to the top of the pile. Me, I had my father who had been in management the past 6 years.<BR><BR>
So with no thought or concerns as to what I was walking into, I went to work the steel mill in July 1978.<BR><BR>
For those who have never worked a factory, the best way for me to describe it is by comparing industrial life with moving to another country with just the clothes on your back and a job you have never heard of or trained for until you arrive at the time clock.<BR><BR>
The factory is a lot like high school. Everyone finds a clique and communities begin to take shape. I found myself floating between several communities. Eventually I found a home with the locals. Once you have a preferred community, it precludes your mingling with other folks, even those who are like-minded. Even amongst the deviant, there are cliques.<BR><BR>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4895048780508876434.post-16536615409110767712012-05-27T05:00:00.000-07:002012-05-27T05:05:03.405-07:00While you were preying...<BR><BR><BR><BR>
Later in life I once again found myself drawn to the church. Though it wasn’t so much for the denominational theology as it was for the social intercourse.<BR>
I went to several of the institutions that had their teachings aired on the local Christian radio station—103.5 WMUZ—in Detroit. I had been listening to the station going on 3 years. It was after I found the station that I met Brett. For more on Brett and his religious influence on me see my previous post. <BR>
I eventually walked into a Presbyterian Church that was 5,000 plus faithful members. Jesus had said wherever two or more are gathered in his name, he is there. What could a gathering of 5,000 accomplish?<BR><BR>
“For those who believe in God, most of the big questions are answered. But for those of us who can't readily accept the God formula, the big answers don't remain stone-written. We adjust to new conditions and discoveries. We are pliable. Love need not be a command nor faith a dictum. I am my own god. We are here to unlearn the teachings of the church, state, and our educational system. We are here to drink beer. We are here to kill war. We are here to laugh at the odds and live our lives so well that Death will tremble to take us.” <BR><BR>
― Charles Bukowski<BR><BR><BR>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4895048780508876434.post-17656157786585824582012-05-18T02:29:00.000-07:002012-05-18T02:29:07.569-07:00Reading between the lines of Matthew 18<BR><BR><BR><BR>
My father wasn’t particularly taken by religion. For whatever reason he never made a big production out of attending church. Though he always made it a point to watch the Reverend Billy Graham. Dad would say that was the only man of God he had any respect for. May be it was the experiences Dad had growing up in Harlan, Kentucky from 1929 through the early 1940s that neutered his interest in the church. It could have been the death of his older brother in 1937. Dad wasn’t anti-church; he just wasn’t enthusiastic about it either.<BR>
Mom was more likely to encourage our religious curiosity. However, she wasn’t going to turn us completely loose when it came to independent explorations. When I asked about running off with the neighbors to church on Sunday morning, she didn’t support the idea, but she didn’t exactly forbid it—not directly anyway.<BR>
Looking back, Mom seemed a bit apprehensive about the Catholic Church. Or may be it was just the holier than thou attitude many churches seem to have. When she was taking us on Sunday morning, it was to a small Lutheran Church. A single storey building, simple glass doors like those you would find on most retail businesses, and a small podium at ground level which the pastor stood behind to deliver his sermon of the day. <BR><BR><BR>
“Sometimes you climb out of bed in the morning and you think, I'm not going to make it, but you laugh inside — remembering all the times you've felt that way.” <BR>
― Charles Bukowski<BR><BR><BR>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4895048780508876434.post-52060349757595845242012-05-15T03:22:00.002-07:002012-05-15T03:22:58.327-07:00Who rules the world?<BR><BR><BR><BR>
To say I grew up in a church would be misleading. During my early years, my parents—that is to say mom—took her five kids to the neighborhood Lutheran Church. We sat with her and Dad in the pews every Sunday. Not sure why we didn’t go to the Sunday school classes. If I recall, Mom said something about being able to sit like humans and listen to the nice man talk. That and she wanted us to pay attention.<BR>
Eventually I was noticing my friends heading to church every Sunday as well. My immediate neighborhood, that is the street I lived on, was predominately Catholic. They all went to the same church every Sunday. This may have been because it was the only Catholic Church within 15 miles of our neighborhood. <BR>
After some prodding from my friends, I asked Mom if I could go to church with my friends.<BR><BR><BR>
“Sometimes you climb out of bed in the morning and you think, I'm not going to make it, but you laugh inside — remembering all the times you've felt that way.” <BR>
― Charles Bukowski<BR><BR><BR><BR>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4895048780508876434.post-26937630700903311882012-05-08T02:36:00.001-07:002012-05-08T02:36:04.788-07:00Disenfranchised from our values<BR><BR><BR>
I have always felt there has been a disenfranchisement between what we have been taught to believe / accept as righteous and beautiful, and that which is to be honored and valued.<BR><BR>
This has never been more obvious than in church. <BR><BR><BR>
“Sometimes you climb out of bed in the morning and you think, I'm not going to make it, but you laugh inside — remembering all the times you've felt that way.” <BR><BR>
― Charles Bukowski<BR><BR><BR>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4895048780508876434.post-90021800007275936932012-03-23T17:53:00.001-07:002012-03-23T17:53:53.717-07:00Fixing some green velvet cake for St. Patrick's Day<BR><BR><BR>
Guest post written by Brenda Stevens
It never hurts to do something a little special for your family. One of my favorite things to do is to bake treats. So I like to bake desserts for my family to mark special occasions. I started planning what kind of dessert I should fix for my family for St. Patrick's Day after our big dinner. We're of Irish heritage so I really love to fix some straight-up authentic Irish cuisine to help promote the holiday.<BR><BR>
But I wanted to make sure that I pick out some food that my kids will eat. They're kind of picky, so the super authentic stuff sometimes doesn't pass their approval. When I was looking for some kid-friendly Irish dessert I saw the website <a href="http://www.debtsettlementusa.com/debt-settlement.html">http://www.debtsettlementusa.com</a> and after I looked through it a little bit I decided to finally settle our debt. We've had financial issues for a while and I'm ready to have our finances be much better.<BR><BR>
I found a recipe for <a href="http://www.lovefromtheoven.com/2011/03/03/green-velvet-cake-st-pattys-day-baking/">green velvet cake</a>, a twist on red velvet cake and just decided to fix that because I think that the kids will love that a whole lot more.
<BR><BR>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4895048780508876434.post-52234821627150879752012-03-18T07:34:00.000-07:002012-03-18T07:34:26.943-07:00By what will I be Judged?<BR><BR><BR>
I have been in a slump. I suppose it is unavoidable. When I get just a bit too much in the brain, it tends to wander aimlessly—perhaps as a means of survival?<Br>
I have been busy with classes at the university, everyday obligations at the school and now preparing to move. This means packing, cleaning, and painting. We, actually I, am painting to make the place look “nice.” Which in and of itself is somewhat of a oxy-moron. The previous tenants used this pea-green Exorcist vomit color throughout the house. We were renting so the color didn't matter a whole lot to us. Though we were somewhat leery when the owners said they had only been in the house less than 4-5 times since the bought it 5 years ago. Not only was this said with a straight face, they were proud of this fact. They further clarified their commitment to the house when they added that they had invested practically ZERO dollars since they bought it as well. We want to say with pride that it obviously showed, but for the $650 we were paying, we just looked like we were truly impressed.<Br>
Anyways, I am again wandering from my intent. Like most of the planet, I have a FaceBook. In fact I have several. I wanted to make sure no logical human being could ever connect me to an account and I avoided posting pictures with faces of family members. I changed my birthday every month. I had friends sending me birthday wishes 12 times a year, how cool is that?<Br>
I even have the other gender box checked which created a few serious discussions with people I went to school with that I didn't even really know. But as I tell my students, it is a new millennium and we are allowed to be ourselves—unless you are a republickin then your true personality remains in the closet.<Br>
And make no mistake, FaceBook is tracking our every move.<Br><Br>
<iframe width="420" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/UJqGbA2tLww" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe><Br><Br>
<a href=”http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UJqGbA2tLww&feature=share “>You are being WATCHED</a><Br><Br>
But still I am wandering. There are so many tangents, they are like small shiny objects that I just can't resist. Temptations...<Br><Br>
My snark. That is what I started out writing. My snark is the “friends” we have on FB. I have become obsessed with my friends. Well, not the people per se, but the friends list itself. Every time I am on FB, I check my friends list. I am not looking for manes. Nor am I looking for a chat. I am looking at the number of friends on my list.<Br>
I occasionally go to other peoples FB and see they have hundreds, even thousands of friends. Can they actually know ALL these people? I suppose it is possible. I am not one to measure FB success by the length of my friends list. After all, I have gone to some pretty bizarre extremes to AVOID being found. My friends are typically those I have chosen to be friends with as opposed to them seeking to add to their cumulative total at my expense.<Br>
Like most of you, I am sure you get some strange shares from your friends. I mean if someone is my friend, they are probably kind of weird anyways, right? SO I either ignore the shares, sometimes I laugh and I might even share it myself—which is probably redundant as almost all my friends are friends of each other.<Br>
Lately I have been collecting some new friends on FB. People I have never met have sent me friend requests. I generally accept since I am always looking to expand my circle and stay outside the box. I had a friend who lived in Trinidad. She was anxious to talk. When I found out she was 16 I told her we could be FB friends, but conversation was off limits. I posted on a news article about the <a href=”http://tlc.howstuffworks.com/tv/all-american-muslim “>All-American Muslim Show </a> and had another new friend from Malaysia. I even posted some comments on her wall. She rarely writes or either that she doesn't share? But she is on my friends list.<br>
Lately I have returned to my roots, sort of. I have always been an advocate at heart. It is a very painful way to go through life. Speaking for those who have no voice, are terrified to speak or just generally uninformed about what they should be speaking out about. So I have found some pages on FB supporting various causes. The one I am really interested is is the <a href=”http://www.wearewomenmarch.net/ “> We are Women March</a> taking place on April 28, 2012 around the country. I have 2 or three new friends on my list from this great organization.<br>
Like I said, I get all kinds of shares from this group and others, along with some from friends from the neighborhood. The annoying ones I hide. The really senseless ones that a person sends all the tome like apps and games, I just hide everything. No problem. I even had a friend from the place I taught at in Clinton, Michigan. He was a staunch republickin. Now I have no problems with political or religious opinions. Provide they are not crammed down my throat. I would see his shares and giggle. Sometimes I would comment. Then I started posting / sharing views that were contrary to his politics and religion. I thought he would hide them or just ignore the shares.<br>
Now, I finally get to the point of this wandering snark. UN-FRIENDING people. I check my friends list everyday to see who has unfriended me today! It is an obsession. Suddenly FB has become a form of censorship? Post something someone does not like, and they will unfriend you? WTF?<br>
I suppose it is like life everywhere. We tend to FB with those just like us. We fear the diversity. We are anxious about those who live, talk and eat differently from us.<br>
So it is, with every pro-Obama post, every pro-choice—whether it be choosing life or religion—I am risking another FB relationship.<br>
FB has really evolved into a replica of our society. I suppose it was unavoidable. Humans as a whole are terrified of each other. Sure we all watch the news and shed a tear when an innocent is harmed or dies. We get frustrated when the government is lackadaisical and we get screwed at the pumps or taxes get a bigger chink of our shrinking take home pay.<br>
But almost without hesitation, we REFUSE to speak for CHANGE. We as a civilization have learned the ONE lesson authority has been cramming down our throats since the beginning of time. He who questions first is punished more severely. <br><br>
Christ was crucified for challenging the authority of Rome, not because He claimed to be god, or represent god. He continues to be misunderstood today because people want to put Him on a pedestal as one of the three god-heads.<br><br>
Listen folks....IT DOES NOT MATTER WHO CHRIST WAS, WHO He is...it DOESN'T matter who Mohammed IS, BUDDAH, DALI LAMA, or even the BILLY GRAHAM. They matter little in the scheme of existence.<BR><BR>
We all know what really matters (and it isn't the length of our FB friends).<br><br>
What makes a difference is:<BR><BR>
WHEN OUR NEIGHBOR CAME TO US, DID WE DO EVERYTHING IN OUR POWER TO HELP?<BR><BR><BR>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4895048780508876434.post-26497188338733929432012-02-29T19:00:00.005-08:002012-02-29T19:00:36.075-08:00The world begins to changeThree years doesn’t seem like a long time. It is barely long enough for a toddler to begin walking and talking. Just a little over half way through elementary school. It is just quick enough to get through middle school and not remember the agony. Three years will make you a junior in high school if you are on track and passed all your classes. Three years is just a measly 2.5% of the American box turtle’s expected lifespan.<BR>
Three also has some significance in the numerology world for being lucky. The holy trinity is three, the wise men were a trio, and Jonah spent three days in the belly of the whale. Then there are the rare references to the dark side of the three.<BR>
The three-day Christ was on the cross is probably the first evil 3 to come to mind. Then there is the 3 on a match curse. As I spent these three years in exile in North Carolina, I never knew how these three years were silently wreaking havoc in my life.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4895048780508876434.post-65086737190612598462012-02-21T19:36:00.001-08:002012-02-29T14:58:42.856-08:00Divorce<BR><BR>
Contribution by Saul Martin<BR><BR>
When I look back on my childhood, I never would have thought that my family would end up the way that it has. I didn't have the best childhood, there was a lot of fighting, but I really did think my parents were different and would stay together. While my friends' parents were going through divorce, I felt bad for them but I didn't really understand how it felt. Well, now I do. After 28 years of marriage, my parents have gotten a divorce. I am starting to wonder if any marriages last? I have been married for six years and I can see how it happens. Marriage isn't <a href="http://www.easymarriagevisa.com/get_started.html">easy</a>, but I still can't imagine not being with my husband. My mom has had the hardest time. I don't think she ever thought they would actually get a divorce either. She just moved into her own small two bedroom house by herself. She said she has never felt lonelier. I go over there every Tuesday and Thursday for dinner but I know that is not enough. I got her <a href="http://www.securitychoice.com">ADT Security Blair</a> to help her feel like she wasn't alone. I think it has really helped her feel safer.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4895048780508876434.post-51781893896458363422012-02-21T16:05:00.000-08:002012-02-21T16:05:10.456-08:00Like the ancient Phoenix<BR><BR><BR><BR><BR>
I suppose I should start by apologizing for my piss poor snark the other day. I was not only in a psycho-funk from a warring cold, but I was indeed pissed.<BR>
I have this issue with frustration. Once I have entered the frustration zone, it is extremely difficult for me to focus and I tend to become circular.<BR>
But alas, I also tend to digress.<BR>
Just about a year ago, Mary and I registered our domain name and hooked up with an internet host—In Motion. We were looking at going full time on the road in our recently acquired Coachmen Catalina 5th wheel. So we created a domain name BLUE ROAD BLOGGER with our host. Along with our initial site hosting, we have 5 or 6 other domains we can register with In Motion and for the cost of registration; we can have several web sites on out initial plan.<BR>
We later registered GET YOUR SNARK ON in anticipation of re-dressing the politically correct mentality. <BR>
Though it had been awhile since I was snarkin at the system, I thought I could just snark at the obvious and provide a platform for others to snark along. Kind of like a wanna be closet snarking society if you will. But as I should have known, one , at least I cannot snark quietly.<BR>
Then several months ago it started. I friended some anti-GMO groups, a few Agent Orange groups and then I went looking for trouble. I found my old favorite magazines on Facebook---RETHINKING SCHOOLS out of Milwaukee, Wisconsin; THE PROGRESSIVE magazine out of Madison, Wisconsin (see the trend?), and eventually I was back in Madison 1996, at least mentally I was. Walking down State Street, sitting st Canterbury Coffee / Bookstore and writing.<BR>
Then I find a FREE subscription to YES! Magazine. I had so forgotten about this publication. When I was living in Madison I had subscriptions to YES!, THE NATION, THE PROGRESSIVE, ADBUSTERS, RETHINKING SCHOOLS, and 2-3 other social commentary publications. I even drove to Milwaukee to work on RETHINKING SCHOOLS. There I met some devoted educators and great teachers fighting for their students on the front lines in Milwaukee Public Schools. In Madison I learned about Leonard Peliter and the Second Taking of Wounded Knee. I discovered Peter Kropotkin, Colin Ward, Black 47 and why society as a whole was drowning.<BR>
I was advocating the resistance to the IMF, the Summit of G8 (Now G20), and GMOs in 1996. I was suddenly a prophet and preaching about all that was wrong with society. I saw it as my duty to warn the others of the impending apocalypse. I was the black sheep no one wanted to acknowledge.<BR>
Eventually I settled down and let the frustration fall into a well-deserved sleep. I thought I wanted to be normal, and if that meant being comfortably numb, then I would be just that. So it has been for the last 10 years.<BR>
SO please be patient as I seek to regain my voice and my clarity. I have been practicing on a web site, <a href="http://www.city-data.com/forum/">CITY-DATA</a> where I have been promoting the evils of GMOs and facing off with two total capitalistic idiots who I believe work for mansanto as they have made several appeals to the moderators to close the thread they deem to be baseless. It has been a great venue for me to present an argument without the frustration taking control.
<BR><BR><BR><BR>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4895048780508876434.post-21800726105122399762012-02-18T19:42:00.001-08:002012-02-18T19:43:21.858-08:00OUTRAGE----Y not?<BR><BR><BR><BR><BR>
So are you feeling the outrage? Everyday we are witness to some corporation taking something from our community. We stand by as some politician taking a little more in our wages and attacking unions as the all-evil, soul stealing boogey-man.
And all along they tell us it is getting better, it is for our own good, and the best one of all time-----I am from the government and I am here to help….ROFLMFAO…seriously?<BR>
Now before all the political entities get in a bunch, this is NOT an us against them rant. It will not be democraps vs. republickins death match. Neither side is innocent in this fiasco. <BR>
Both, in fact dare I say ALL politics travels on money; really big money and a lot of it. Just watch the news and see all the corporations being served at the trough of earmarks. Whenever there is a disruption in the system, a protest or strike, the politicians are ready to send in the clowns—aka muscle; enforcement; law. If the clowns are to small, the military is always an option.<BR>
Multinationalistic businesses current own us. They have a license that has NO expiration date, because we love the ride. We are firmly entrenched in the front seat and holding on tight. Every year they add new and improved features that compel us to stay the course. <BR>
We are willing to pay big for the pleasure of having folks we elected to do what we want them to do for us—TELL us what they will do to us. And we accept this? Like Frankenstein, we have built a monster that no longer serves its master. Like I Robot, we have permitted the creation to rule the creator. And we want to believe it is all for our own good, because we are incapable of deciding for ourselves? <BR><BR><BR><BR>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4895048780508876434.post-73963771233056129412012-02-18T07:28:00.000-08:002012-02-18T07:29:17.045-08:00Do they really have to ask WHY?<BR><BR><BR><BR>
SO the 1% and their wanna bees are asking why the rest of us are PISSED OFF?<br>
<br>
After 10 years of "wanting to BELIEVE" in the america Mitt Romney espouses, I am ready to BE OUTRAGED again!
<BR><BR><BR><BR><BR>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0