LiberTEA Racine

WASP's have been swatted from power in America.

2012-02-06T14:48:00.001-06:00

When I was born JFK was President and there had been much controversy about Catholics taking orders from the Pope etc. This week Cardinal Designate Timothy M. Dolan is wrestling with the Obama Administration HHS Secretary Kathleen Sebilius, (a Cathoilc) over being forced to offer birth control and abortion as well as other services to their employees be included in their insurance plans. This is a direct attack on the Church and it's teachings! What happened to the First Amendment right of "freedom of Religion". This is the Church/ State argument in reverse. TMR TM Dolan will win this battle on it's merits, and the Obama folks will have to cave. Catholics since 1960 have been drifting back to the center, In fact Barack Obama won the Catholic vote 54-46 over McCain. (slightly better than Kerry or Gore). The longer trend is very close to the center right now. Team Obama can't risk losing 2 or 3% without seeing several states in the Electoral vote slip away from his grip. Florida, OH, PA, NJ, IN, MI and even WI could fall off his list.

This topic got me to wondering today when Nancy Pelosi (a Catholic), inserted herself in the fray in opposition to TMR Timothy Dolan. I decided to see just how many non-Protestant's are in control of our Govt. You might be surprised:

Barack Obama President Congregationalist/ Protestant
Joe Biden VP Catholic
John Boehner Speaker of the House Catholic
Eric Cantor House Majority Ldr. Jewish
Nancy Pelosi House Minority Ldr (and former speaker) Catholic
Harry Reid Senate Majority LDR Morman
Mitch McConnell Senate Minority LDR Baptist/ Protestant
Supreme Ct Justices Ginsberg, Kagan, Breyer Jewish
Supreme Ct justices Thomas, Scalia, Sotomeyer, Roberts, Kennedy, Alito Catholics
Kathleen Sebilius HHS Secretary Catholic
Several other Cabinet members.

6 or 7 of the US Senators are Morman. (Mormans are only 2% of the overall population in the US, yet are 6.5% of the Senate)
10 are Jewish (Jews are only 1.5% of the US Pop. and yet represent 10% of the Senate!)
I didn't even try to count the Catholics!

Looks like the WASP's and the rest of us are getting along pretty well despite our "religious" differences. I think we'll be fine with a Morman in 2012.

This is what ELECTION FRAUD looks like!

2012-02-01T16:01:00.002-06:00

Check it out HERE

Romney Is Pro-Life and has been for a long time!

2011-12-31T10:54:00.002-06:00

Here's a great explanation of the criticism: http://www.lifenews.com/2011/12/30/don%E2%80%99t-believe-misleading-attacks-on-romneys-abortion-record/

PREDICTIONS!!! For Iowa

2011-12-28T17:53:00.000-06:00

Still waiting to hear the weather forecast for Iowa on Tuesday Caucus day..but here goes anyway! The chatter this week has been the rise of Ron Paul, and Santorum's endorsements from the hard line Christians. Also the chatter has been what if Romney is suddenly trying to win Iowa? Has Romney's "steady as she goes" campaign actually worked out? After a year of being the leader in the polls until Bachmann made a run up, only to fall back a week later to Perry's surge, followed by his stumbles and the rise of Cain..only to be followed by Gingrich's arc of Triumph..Today barely leading the field is Ron Paul by a 1/2% and his trend is down in Iowa and Nationwide. The questions is will one of these get a new rise? Or is the guy who has been in second place all year get the win with all the marbles beginning in Iowa? Santorum and Huntsman never got a day in the sun..but maybe they will at last..

So here is my prediction for Iowa next Tuesday:
If the weather is Cold and/or snowy Ron Paul will win. if not it's gonna go like this:
Mitt Romney top 3 and I predict he'll win if the weather is mild.
Ron Paul second place possibly quite close maybe only one or 2 points.
Rick Santorum will surprise and amaze with a somewhat distant 3rd
Rick Perry and /or Newt will be right behind Santorum. Could be quite a tight cluster.
Bachmann next and lastly Huntsman.

If this happens Santorum will get a nice spike in the polls, Bachmann quits on Wed or Thursday. Huntsman will need to beat Santorum in NH a week later or he will be gone. Gingrich is already pulling some effort from Iowa and heading to SC realizing that will be his last chance to succeed. If Romney wins as I predict he will win New Hampshire and do very well in SC (even if he doesn't win). Romney wins Florida and then Nevada..and cakewalks thru the rest of the races. The only one who can keep the race interesting is Rick Perry but he'll need to WIN South Carolina, and then win or take 2nd in Florida to keep it interesting.

Drop-outs in this order:
Bachmann
Huntsman
Santorum
Gingrich
Perry (If 6th or 7th in Iowa he'll drop out, and the money will go to Romney)
Paul
Romney of course Wins the whole thing. And defeats Obama with over 300 electoral votes.

Looking at the latest polls Who is rising? Romney, Perry, and Santorum are up.
Falling are Ron Paul is fading and Gingrich is in collapse. Perry, Bachmann, and Huntsman.

Dear Santa:

2011-12-17T13:29:00.001-06:00

My Facebook Friend wrote on his wall:

"Dear Santa, I have everything I need. I live a happy and fulfilling life. But there is just one present that I would 'LOVE' to have this year and I promise if you grant me my wish, I will never ask for anything every again. Santa, could you please, please, please bring me a third party presidential candidate that has true Honesty, Integrity and Courtesy mixed with above average Intellect. Thank You Santa! If you do this for me Santa you will paint a smile on every human living on this planet. Thank You Santa!!! I will leave you extra cookies this year and I promise my cats won't drink your milk this year ;)"
D
You might agree with him..but I responded as follows:

Dear D.;
Santa asked me to let you know that on numerous occasions he has delivered assorted Third Party candidates and you the American people have squandered that opportunity since the last really good one..Honest Abe....Abe was the third party candidate that was gonna Unite the American people..well a few weeks Later the country went into a full on Civil war that caused the deaths of Millions of Americans. Sure it eventually worked out for the better, but some things will never be the same. Just a few more examples of answering your gift "requests".. Strom Thurmond, George Wallace, (Which of those racists would you have liked to see succeed?), Then there is Ross "the nut" Perot, who caused Bill Clinton to win, and thus cause the need for a second half of the War in Iraq and 5,000 dead Americans, and countless Iraqi's; Another is Ralph Nadar, and Pat Buchanan, both of whom caused the close disputed election of 2000 and has created a modern civil war in American creating deep divisions amoung friends and familes..that is SO FAR non-violent. So Dan if your need for another 3rd Party guy to come in a god forbid WIN!! He, or she would be so divisive from BOTH sides..the the Country would be even more UNGOVERNABLE than it is now. How on "God' Green Earth" can that be GOOD? Santa's helper...... :^). BTW how about chocolate chips this year?
Santa's Helper.

Sometimes we think the answer is something else, but it really isn't usually.

The End of the Cain Train

2011-12-03T15:21:00.001-06:00

Today Herman Cain dropped from the GOP race for 2012, before the first Caucus or Primary was held. I have never thought he was going to win..but I have to admit for a few moments in the past few months I thought I just might be wrong. (Cain didn't lose because of his alleged womanizing..he lost because he had trouble getting beyond his own headline of 9-9-9, added to his lack of a cogent understanding of Libya and the Collective Bargaining issue.) Cains' campaign was sunk from the moment Mark Block was seen smoking in his advertisement). My February prediction of a second place finish for Cain was blown due to the allegations. I will now re-direct my "Cain" prediction to Ron Paul who will finish second rather than third in the delegate race.

Today it's Gingrich out front and Mitt holding in second.but slipping just a little. The question is what happens to the rest of the Cain supporters? In the past several weeks the rise in Newt has been a mirror of the collapse of Cain, Cain's rise was a direct mirror of the Perry collapse 6-8 weeks ago. So prediction time again: I think the Cain supporters are Hell bent to not let it be Mitt that they will split between Perry, Bachmann and maybe a few to Ron Paul.

Now that the press has had fun ripping apart Herman Cain over unsubstantiated allegations the next target is of course Newt..Newt's history will now be retold for all to see. His third wife Calista will need to stand beside him and her plastic hair and appearance will be seen by a much wider audience than has been seen so far. It will not look good for Newt. Gingrich's inability to deflect these charges..because he's already admitted to them will force the TEA Party folks to take a more discerning look at him, and all of his assorted positions, and how the commercials that will be made by the Doms/ Obama campaign. Newt's polling #'s will begin to taper off and by Christmas he'll be tied or slightly behind Romney as he soars into a first place finish in Iowa on Jan 3rd. a week later Romney wins New Hampshire..and South Carolina becomes a must win for Newt or Perry if either can somehow manage to place 3rd in Iowa.
Predictions:
Iowa will be Romney, Paul and Gingrich with Perry a possible 4th. New Hampshire will fall Romney, Paul, Huntsman or Perry. If I'm right SC will be the deciding factor. If Romney wins Iowa handily, he will be able to cakewalk to the nomination. Ann Coulter is right Let's just get behind Mitt and go win this thing!

Romney and Cain Win big in Vegas

2011-10-18T22:26:00.002-05:00

Tonight's Vegas debate was the most spirited and most personal of any of the previous debates. Herman Cain took the early attacks on his 9-9-9 plan and handled the questions with grace and style. He used a lot of Apples and Oranges to try to differentiate his "Tax" from State sales taxes. That was wise considering the media and his opponents will try to blur the lines. He also defended most everything well. He stumbled a bit on the TARP flip-flop which he acknowledged, and on the negotiating with terrorists I think he handled a bit weakly, but overall a good night on stage. GINGRICH should stay in the race as long as we have debates. Newt's doing a great job of trying to keep the bickering from within, he's smart and funny..and he just needs to keep it going! He's the only one who reminds the group the media wants a fight..don't give it to them! Speaking of fights Perry clearly was more prepared this time around and was ready to go at Mitt with everything he could muster..this was the first debate where Mitt was the punching bag..and he deflected every punch extremely well. He kept his cool and his smile, but didn't give up his ground. He's smarter, and more studied, and more savvy than Perry by a mile. Perry just can't compete in that league and he looked slightly deflated towards the end of the debate. Bachmann worked herself into the discussion as did Santorum..who actually came out looking a bit bullyish, (I know coming from me? Really?). Paul, I was sorry didn't have time to make his TRILLION dollar case..and I think the viewers were denied a chance to have the others try to either pile-on Paul or to express their support of his plan.

Cain and Romney winners; Perry I think can stay around, Gingrich and Paul WON'T go away.. Santorum and Bachmann you may return to your corners of the Country..and hey why not run for US Senate in those 2 states?? Minnesota and Pennsylvania BOTH have races next year!

Is Cain just a temporary TEA Party crutch?

2011-10-18T12:52:00.001-05:00

Some people complain about the primary/ caucus process as favoring a few small states Iowa and NH, at the same time they will complain about the debates beginning so early. The truth is the debates have nearly replaced the primaries. The debates are sort of a national primary, and the national polls and fundraising follows the candidates that do well in those debates. Those performances and the money that follows will effect the ability of the candidates to buy media in the early states.
Herman Cain has wowed the press and TEA Party Conservatives and created a major Buzz just in time for his book tour. Many editorials are openly asking if Cain and the 9-9-9 plan can win..he is being taken seriously at least for the moment. But is he really just a "parking place" ?
Charlie Cook asks: "Cain seems to be functioning as a parking place for conservatives who have grown disillusioned or who harbor reservations about the previous flavors of the month. Until he demonstrates strength in some of these other dimensions (fundraising, campaign organization), it’s a good bet that Cain is little more than a place for conservatives to window shop while they decide what to do. If Gertrude Stein were alive, she might observe that with the Cain campaign, “there is no there there.”
I had framed almost the same commentary in my head and then I read Cook and decided to quote him rather than being accused of plagiarism :^). I think as we look back at the past 4 months we had a rush to Trump for a few days when he was calling out Obama, then Bachmann had her day in the sun..and good polling for a few weeks..until Perry got in and then he had a month in the top spot..thru it all Cain has been gathering strength and followers but not much cash until the last week before the reporting period where he took in about 1.5 Million dollars. But compared to the 14.5 and 17.3 million Romney and Perry camps brought in it's a pittance really. Cain has a lean campaign of about 35 staffers, he will now need to ramp up his staff FAST and he will need to keep bringing about 1 million a week and he'll want to leak that info. to the press to keep the focus on his growing momentum in the GOP race *(Cain's campaign leaked this week 10/28 that he raised 3 Million in Oct.). That much change in a short time is bound to cause problems and mistakes. If Perry has a mediocre performance tonight and Cain looks, good he could seriously become the official un-Romney candidate, if Perry does well then Cain and Perry will battle for that title now until January 3rd, when Iowa will decide if there will even be a race in 2012 for the nomination. (10/28 update Perry had his most combative debate with Mitt and Cain did his Apples and oranges defense, but little has changed and Cain has polled barely in first place for about 8 days, I suspect he has peaked though).
Scenario one: Cain or Perry places first in Iowa on Jan 3rd; Romney wins NH and Nev; and then either Cain or Perry MUST win SC; or it's over. Florida will be the next week.and Romney will do very well, either the TEA Party will take this race and give it to Cain/Perry or it's over on Jan 31st. (Florida).
Scenario two: If Romney wins Iowa because the folks see him as the safe choice, it's all over on Jan 3rd.
I like Cain and wish him success but I think the fact is that Romney has consistently been 20% or higher whether in first or second place..and is clearly winning every debate, he is inevitable as the undecideds have now given up on waiting for "Superman", as Chiristie, Palin, Guilianni and Ryan have declined to run.
2 Predictions:
Huntsman will be the next to drop out of the race, possible in the next 2 -3 weeks. Secondly, while Herman Cain has pulled to within a half point of Romney in the RCP avg.s he will not rise above Romney by more than 1 point , and probably won't climb above Romney at all *see 10/28 update Cain is up .7%.

Citizen CAIN on MTP

2011-10-16T12:31:00.000-05:00

Herman Cain this morning was on MTP with David Gregory. Cain handled himself very well and very confidently. Gregory badgered him over the 9-9-9 plan and he held his own..Gregory was intentionally, (I think), trying to mix the State tax with SALES tax! I found this interesting because this is the tactic that will be used by his GOP rivals, and the Dem's in the campaign, should he win the nomination.
Wisconsin we have a 5-5.1% SALES tax..and if Cain was to prevail that number would rise to 14-14.1% as the consumer sees it. Even though the STATE portion will not change..the Fed portion will be 9%. It will be a challenge to sell that in Wisc. or Ill where the Sales tax is already 12% in some areas. Michigan is 6 and would raise to 15%. While what is being ignored is the reduction in the INCOME tax that is already built into the cost of product.

My only other observation of Cain was when asked whether he was a "Neo-Conservative"..I knew he was asking about Iraq/ Afghanistan. He responded correctly that he is a "Conservative" missing the implication Gregory was making to try to tie his Foreign policy to Wolfowitz, Rumsfeld and others. Gregory is clearly trying to under cut Cain..but that is no surprise. Gregory's lefty bias is so blatant..Tim Russert would not be proud. For Cain to fend off Gregory without looking foolish is a success by any measure! NeoConservative comment

An early look at 2012 Senate Races

2011-09-30T13:35:00.000-05:00

I've been watching the 2012 Senate shape up since November of last year. I'm a geek about this stuff I know. I have a dry erase board with all the races color coded Red-Blue and Green, with assessments of assorted races. Ranked by which will switch from Dem ->Rep.

In order for the GOP to take control of the US Senate they only need 3 or 4 seats minimum, (Depending upon the Pres. result), and up to 13 to have a filibuster proof control of the Senate. I read Chris Cilizza, and Larry Sabato, and several assorted people who really dig into these races. And I follow RCP Polls to gather Poll results and trends. A few of their writers Sean Trende and Jay Cost are great analysts. Dick Morris is also entertaining, albeit a little optimistic sometimes. The Dems are defending 23, seats the GOP only 10.

As of right now I see 11 races that are switchable, including the Scott Brown, MA race as the only GOP possible loss. Update 12/29 Brown is polling 6 points behind, but he came from 30+points behind in just a few weeks in the special election last year. (We are a year away and much can change). Also considering Mitt is the likely GOP candidate that will help Brown on the down ballot.

North Dakota This is a shoe-in.
Nebraska          Ben Nelson and The Cornhusker Kick-Back are going down. Update 12/29 Nelson is retiring and this seat is now almost certainly a GOP pick-up
Missouri           Claire McCaskill is a great Dem. Senator but she is still gonna lose. The Missouri comp.
Virginia             No more Macaca..George Allen is taking this seat back that he barely lost. Tim Kaine     will make it interesting though.
Montana            John Testor just barely won this in 2006, he will have a difficult time holding on in 2012, with new TEA Party momentum.
Wisconsin         Herb Kohl's retirement should make this a slight GOP favorite depending on the candidate.
New Mexico      Open Seat..should be winnable by Heather Wilson over Dem's Heinrich or Balderas.
Ohio                  Sherrod Brown will not go away easily, but what I have learned about Josh Mandl should be a good race.
Florida               Bill Nelson will be a tough race for the GOP to pick up but still in range.
Michigan            Debbie Stabenow will be tough to defeat as well. But if Pete Hoekstra is the Candidate and Mitt Romney is the GOP Nominee..she will be in trouble.

So If the GOP runs the table on the above Dem held seats the pick up is only 10. In order to get to 13 lets look at the rest of the Dem held seats, that are remotely possible:
CA: Feinstein    Highly unlikely
CT: Open seat Slim Chance, Linda McMahon is in and so is Chris Shays..With Romney on top possible pick up.
DE: Carper          Highly unlikely
HI: Case              Highly unlikely, Best chance is if Former Gov. Linda Lingle runs. Update Lingle is running so there is some hope on this one.
MD: Cardin         Highly unlikely.
MN: Klobuchar    Some Chance. If Michelle Bachmann had jumped into this race the day she won the Iowa Straw Poll, this would've been hers for the taking. A Tim Pawlenty run would also be formidable!
NJ: Menendez       No Chance..So far I don't even know if he has a challenger.
NY: Gillibrand      No Chance
PA: Casey            Some Chance, but if Rick Santorum got in this race, it'd be 50/50.
RI: Whitehouse     Highly unlikely.
VT: Sanders         Slim Chance. I need to learn a bit more about Tom Salmon.
WA: Cantwell       Slim Chance. Wait to see how the GOP Primary turns out to get a gauge.
WV: Manchin       Possible. Shelly Caputo Moore is a well known candidate in WV, in a perfect storm this state could fall. But Joe Manchin is the most Conservative Dem on this list, he could even switch parties after the election if he somehow was the 60th vote.

So As I see it maybe 10 pick ups which would be huge!! But it still wouldn't be 13. The class of 2014 might be so intimated that a few party switches could happen, like in 1994.   AK, AR, CO, LA, NM, VA, NC Senators could be trembling, and might at least consider voting to repeal Obama-Care if it is still required by then.

Watch the Money and the Polls next week.

2011-09-28T16:28:00.002-05:00

Next week Mitt Romney will no doubt lead the field in cash raised. These past 10 days have been rough for Rick Perry. 2 lousy debate performances and just at the end of the first reporting period that Perry is involved in. I expect Romney could out fund raise Perry 2-1. Romney is gathering lot's of support from Obama's Wall Street donors of 2008. While, as of today, Perry is leading in the National Polls on RCP by about 6% over Romney. New polls in the past few days from Ohio, Penn, Iowa and Florida are coming out from PPP Polling are showing Romney ahead of Perry by 4-6%. By next week when the $$$ Race numbers are released I presume Romney will return to his front-runner status. Perry will drop to second and perhaps even third. Cain seems to have absorbed Michele Bachmann's voters. Huntsman and Johnson seem stuck in the basement. Gingrich and Santorum are moving upwards slightly and Ron Paul has 11% of the electorate. I think after the cash reporting Johnson, Gingrich, and perhaps even Bachmann will drop out. I could be wrong for one exceptional reason..Debate performances are essentially free, show up and get a hotel room and your in the debate. Lot's of exposure for very little money.

Update 10/17 Romney took second in the cash raising race. Perry out-raised by a little, but most of those funds were right out of the gate when he jumped in. As he got closer to the filing deadline I suspect his donations had dropped significantly, at the same time Cain was picking up big donations in the last week to ten days.

Is it already a one man race? Maybe.

2011-09-23T16:47:00.001-05:00

I have been making predictions on the 2012 campaign since Feb of this year. February Predictions Most of the scenario I put forward has come to pass, just as I predicted. In my original posting I mentioned the possibility that Rick Perry could jump in the race and it could mess up my scenario, I suggested a Perry run was 50/50. As it happened, he did get in the race and launched to the top of the polls. Many Conservatives and TEA Party folks were waiting for the "Great White Hope"..and they believed Perry was it. I have cautiously watched and waited while the Perry campaign, the media rectal exam, and the critics to have their way with him. Perry has handled his new fame pretty well until the last 2 debates. His "Front-runner" status gave him front and center placement at the last two debates and he was therefore the target of everyone else. He teetered a bit in the MSNBC debate, and fumbled in last nights Fox/ Google debate. Now I am not new to watching debates or campaigns and he can certainly come back from this and regain his status. But I do think next weeks polls will show a continued strength for Mitt Romney. In Yesterdays Rasmussen poll Romney had pulled to within 4 points (28-24%), a dramatic upswing form a month earlier (29-18). Also Raz Reports include LIKELY voters and a large sample size of 1000 polled. This is a huge correction to the initial Perry euphoria after the Iowa Straw Poll. (BTW my suggestion to Michelle Bachmans campaign to get out the day after and run for Senate was spot on..if I do say so myself!).

Romney has had 5 years to get ready for this race..he has been steady this year and not panicked by the flavor of the month. I think most everyone believes Palin is not running..she's gonna try to run the attention clock thru October. We still don't know the dates of the Iowa Caucus, but at the moment I don't think Bachmann will win it. Iowa could even be won by Ron Paul, Romney or Perry. In fact I think Perry must beat Romney in Iowa to stay in the race, neither must be first but Perry will need this win over Romney. NH the following week Perry is running 4th in single digits. SC and Nevada are next Romney should win NV again this time around, and take 2nd in SC, (assuming Perry does well in Iowa, if Mitt wins IA the race is over in SC). The next week is Michigan where Romney will win handily, and then it's Florida and Mitt actually fits the GOP voter better than Perry the Southerner. Jay Cost did a nice analysis of the Southern states, and Florida is NOT a southern state 70% of the people in Florida are not born there! Morning Jay Cost.

The decisions of who will be the 2012 candidate is being made right now. The money is still flowing quietly to Romney, pol's are being careful to not alienate Romney..if you watch or listen to Rush and Hannity they are being VERY careful.. When it was Buchanan or McCain they were much more willing to comment positively or negatively in one direction or the other..in fact some believe Rush's tacit support of Buchanan may have cost GHW Bush the election in 1992, as much as Ross Perot did.

So I might be jumping the gun a little bit here, but since I'm in the prediction business..I'm gonna suggest Romney regains the lead in the polls within 2-3 weeks. and possibly even as soon as next week.

The Evolution of First Friday

2011-09-21T17:53:00.002-05:00

7 years ago a group of merchants in Downtown created First Fridays, modeling it after similar events in small communities around the country. It has been a success beyond belief! So why would a group of those merchants want to end it? Because too many people are having fun and .......DRINKING...Yep that is the PROBLEM! According to these Tea-totaling nannies. It's now a new "plan" to "control" it. I and others have been fighting to keep it an open, free, easy going affair for all of the years I have been downtown. Every year, 3 or 4 voices complain about exactly the same thing with no new arguments. Rather than make our meeting an exciting creative planning session for the upcoming year, we instead spend 60% of the meeting discussing the same old business. The fact is the solution to these complainers has been reached by each business exercising individual liberty and controlling the situation at their own doorways. But for 3 people that's not enough..until they can control, manipulate and otherwise Nanny the rest of us and our guests to death, they will not relent. Many previous attendees of these meeting have stopped attending rather than listen to this incessant nagging. I still show up but each year I am finding myself arguing the points alone. It reminds me of when I was married..an issue bubbles up, and I compromise; 6 months later the same issue and I'm expected to compromise again until I'm a hen pecked cowering husband doing whatever I'm told to do, to avoid conflict. Sorry WRONG GUY!! Also I'm right on this and I'm not gonna cave even if I have to be the only one who speaks up. Don't worry it looks like we are safe to have fun for another year!!

Here are the facts the city knows it, the mayor knows it, DRC knows it and most of the downtown shop owners know it's true: The Taverns, Restaurants, and Clubs ( TRC), Pay more taxes, employ more people, provide more wealth and value to our city, than all of the merchants, lawyers, banks etc. combined!! I am hoping more businesses will join our district in the future once the economy turns a bit, but I don't expect it until late 2012 early 2013. West Racine, Uptown, State St. Douglas Ave and even the Mall would like to have what we have on First Friday. Stop complaining!!

I have kept this discussion out of the public for 5 years now.I decided the best way to deal with it is to let the light shine on the problem and let's get back to having fun!!

BTW to my Lefty Neighbors...Look around at the crowds on First Fridays. Mostly white 35-70 years old, middle to upper income folks and homeowners, most do not live in the urban part of the city, but rather from around the city.. Guess what those "Customers" are REPUBLICANS not Dems. Stop throwing cold water on their party! These are the customers you have products in your store to sell to!

Minister of Chaos...Miles Kirstan the face of the Unionistas.

2011-09-17T12:43:00.002-05:00

Miles Kirstan makes the news again. This time for pouring beer on the head of Rep. Robin Vos. Unfortunately Miles didn't dump this beer the Sunday or Monday before the first round of recalls. Imagine the effect his boorish behavior would've had on those swing voters in the recalls. Mr. Miles is notorious for his bad behavior. His Mommy and Step-dad are Govt. Union UW Parkside employees who love urging Miles to do the dirty work for those "Professors" who are too good for such behavior. Even Root River Siren has been willing to throw Miles under the bus. Here's another example of Washington State Longshoreman demonstrating the thuggish behavior the Unionista's are notorious for. Jimmy Hoffa Sr. and Jr. Richard Trumpka, CJ Terrell, Seg-Way boy, and of course Racine's own version of Bill Ayers..Miles Kirstan. Longshoreman Thugs. CJ Terrell and Miles Kristan showing how tolerant they are...

NY 9 and Perry's first "peak"?

2011-09-14T15:43:00.000-05:00

Yesterday the GOP won a seat in New York 9 for the first time in over 80 years. This seat was held by Anthony Weiner..the Pit Bull/ Weiner dog of the Democratic Congress for the past 6-10 years. This same seat previously held by Chukie Schumer! This district is very Jewish, Very Democratic 3-1 over GOP registrants, and the GOP Turner won the race by 8 points 54-46. Amazing!! This district will be drawn out of existence in Jan 2013, but It's a bell weather of what the Dems and the Jewish voters are thinking across the country. Jewish voters make up only about 3% of the electorate and mostly are in safe Dem States, NJ, NY MI with a sizable presence in Florida which is "swingy". If Obama is losing FLA and Michigan is in play he is in serious trouble!! Reports of California discontent was reported in polls today as well. Obama is facing a LANDSLIDE in 2012..and I think he knows it. That's why he is spending all of his precious moments living the high life at 1600 Pennsylvania Ave.

Virginia is for "RED" Lovers UPDATE 9/6

2011-08-25T10:44:00.002-05:00

Virginia is coming home. The Dems had been thrilled from 2006-2008..as they felt they had finally grabbed back a southern state from the "right". Former GOP Sec of the Navy, James Webb switched parties and ran against George Allen and in a very tight race won the Senate Seat, taking control of the US Senate,.and knocking Sen. George Allen out of contention for the 2008 Presidential sweepstakes, . The demographics in northern VA have been drifting to the "left" as more DC suburbanites fill in those northern areas. But the REST of the Old Dominion, hasn't changed..and the trend is swinging back the "right" way. Yesterdays primaries in VA show the GOP candidates have a very strong chance of retaking the State Senate. They already re-captured the Gov's office in 2009, (the beginning of the anti-Obama shift, and the first round of TEA Party successes). The GOP controls the House of Delegates and are behind in the Senate 22-18. The GOP has 16 uncontested races, and the Dems face a challenger in 16 of their races. A switch of 3 seats gives the GOP control at 21.

Former Sen and Gov. George Allen is in a 2012 race against Dem Rock star and also former Gov. Tim Kaine, that race is close so far. but surely the 2011 possible change could make things look bad for Kaine and Obama in 2012 who won the usually "red" state in 2008. Obama;s amp to electoral victory without those usually "Red" states like VA, OH, FL,IN, CO and Nevada which he won in 2008 will cost him re-election. In 2008 he also managed to hang onto IA, NM and NH which had flipped back and forth in 2000 and 04. George Allen should be able to re-take his Senate seat, in 2012. VA will be much like WI and OH and even MI which have changed over their state govt's. to the GOP and the TEA Party is strong in those areas..Obama is in serious trouble if he can't hang on to those States.

Keep your eye on VA this November as a precursor of what Nov 2012 will look like.
Interesting article that came out 3 days ago: Obama in trouble in Virginia!

Ames leaves 3 tickets to the White House.

2011-08-15T18:15:00.000-05:00

Even though Rick Perry didn't show up for the debate or the Straw Poll he gets a ticket to ride. He comes in as the second place in the latest polls, even before he gets in. Romney is still the front-runner, and the third ticket goes to....Michelle Bachmann.

Michelle should get out RIGHT NOW and go run for Senator of Minnesota..because she has hit her zenith in the Presidential sweepstakes. I do think a woman can win the Presidency but not her, not yet. She handled herself with grace and class on the Sunday shows after the Straw Poll.

I have long predicted Mitt Romney would be the winner of the Primary races...but even back in February I had stated it depended upon Perry's decision. So now that he's in this race..What do I think??   Well I still think it's too early to tell. I want to see how he does in a few TV interviews, and the next debate is in September..Also the press has been doing some digging and I've heard a few stories that could be trouble..but I'm waiting to see which are substantiated and which are just lies and rumors.   Team Obama has no serious resume to run on..so they will spend 3/4 of a Billion dollars to trash, dig-up, smear and tear apart the GOP candidate. So it's in our best interest to thoroughly vet Gov. Perry.   He's been in public office for 23 years..so he has a history of votes, and projects, and people he was connected with.

Here's how I see it at this point from now until January if Bachmann stays in the race:    Bachmann and Perry will duke it out for the TEA Party and Ron Paul will holding on to his slice of the TP at the same time..and Ron Paul isn't gonna fold his tent. Thus in a sort of 3 way race for half of the GOP voters, a back and forth action will occur with one of them winning Iowa Caucus...But Romney will have the other half of the voters of the GOP..in the mean time he can stay out of the fracas as they duke it out. He wins NH, NV, and MI...Bachmann and Perry split Iowa and SC..and the showdown is in Florida where Perry breaks out over Bachmann in either 1st or 2nd place, and Romney takes the opposite, Bachmann 3rd and she'll drop out.. Then it's a shoot out with Mitt Romney who by then will have 3 wins and 2 seconds going into Super Tuesday...I think Romney wins most of them and the race is over..with Ron Paul grabbing 10% in any of the rest of the races.

I can't help but add...If Michelle leaves right away Cain will fill her shoes in the above scenario..except that he won't beat Perry.. the smart money is still on Romney..because even though the TEA Party/ conservative have a lot of power this primary will engage most of the GOP voters..and half of the votes are in BLUE States...where Romney is neither a "Crazed" Bachmann or another "Texas Cowboy" as in Bush....rather Perry!   The folks in the middle are not afraid of Romney and will feel very comfortable putting him in the Oval Office. He will drag along with him very long coat-tails in the Senate and Congress and down ballot offices. Perry can win..but Romney will give us a landslide!   PA, CT,WI, MI, NJ, NM, NH, IO, WA, and maybe even Oregon and New York State!

Straw Poll 2011 Predictions.

2011-08-13T12:09:00.001-05:00

First thing to remember is the previous 5 Straw Polls record of winners is not very good. It predicted twice (and tied once) the winner of the Iowa Caucus and only twice the winner of the Republican Nominee. (Bob Dole was a tie in 1995, W was correctly selected in 1999), and only ONCE has it selected the winner of the Presidency.   President Pat Robinson never made it very far:^).    Last time around approx 15,000 voters participated, and you have to PAY to vote, so $$$ can effect your turnout and the vote. (BTW John McCain took took 10th place last cycle!)

With that said it's still a fun excersize to look at the race, so here's my predictions:

With 2 Minnesotans in the race the Bachmann vs. T. Paw is the most intriguing. T.Paw has practically moved to Iowa for the past 4 months..but I still think he will do 4th place at best. If he makes the top 3 or somehow beats Bachmann he'll be reinvigorated, if he takes 4th or worse I think he drops out soon.
Michelle Bachmann I predict will win closely, or second place. It will be a real boost to her and will mobilize some of the TEA Party support from the Herman Cain campaign and whatever T.Paw's supporters might remain. *

Herman Cain should come in 4th or 5th probably very close to T.Paws %'s.   He'll be able to stay in with those numbers..If he does worse than 5th he might decide it's not his year, but I think he'll soldier on. He's a great guy to have in the race!

Ron Paul should take 2nd place..but could pull out a first place..every Straw Poll he gets into his peeps show up and vote, and he usually wins. the RPer's are very dedicated and I think RP stays in the race thru the end, even if he's an also ran. He'll keep making his case which will allow Romney or Perry look more moderate to the rest of the electorate.

Mitt Romney doesn't have to place in the top 5 to be considered a win. (He won last time with 32% of the vote, but he also wrote out some BIG checks to get his people to the event, Interestingly Mike Huckabee supporters used Mitt's money, and his buses, to get to the Ames event and then voted for the Huckster who placed 2nd on Mitt's $$$), Romney decided not to pay to play this time..but I still think he will come in 3rd, anything better than 3rd will scare away a lot of the lesser candidates, who might decide to jump out of the race.

So my prediction is:
Michelle Bachmann 1st
Ron Paul                2nd
Mitt Romney          3rd
Tim Pawlenty         4th
Herman Cain          5th

Santorum, Gingrich and Huntsman could find themselves lower than Perry and Palin who might be write-in candidates. Should either Perry or Palin place in the top 5 using write in ballots only...it'll be a huge factor to the Bachmann, Cain and Pawlenty campaigns. Romney and Paul will be uneffected at this point.

Consequences:
I think Huntsman and T.Paw will drop out in the next few weeks, unless they out perform today. I still think Palin will not run. If somehow Herman Cain places last he will probably drop out..but i don't think he'll be last.

*Now that Rick Perry is getting in and is trying to Big foot the Ames Poll by announcing today...If I was Michelle Bachmann, and I won the Straw Poll as I have suggested..she should immediately, this week, announce that she is throwing her support behind Perry , Romney, or the TEA Party..and declaring that she will be better running against Amy Klobuchar for the US Senate seat in Minnesota. Her credentials will make her the instant front-runner in that primary, and will give Klobuchar a serious run, in an otherwise safe seat for her. If Bachmann's win comes today..this will be her peak in the campaign..she can either capture that energy and win in a bottle, or become more irrelevant every day from now on.

Winners and Losers @ Ames Debate

2011-08-12T16:56:00.004-05:00

Ames, Iowa; Last nights debate was entertaining for geeks like me and also to casual viewers who caught highlights on other media. Each candidate appeared prepared for a wide range of questions and most answered readily without notes.

Tim Pawlenty Loser, Sorry T Paw..you really needed his one. The Fox team wanted drama and you were the target, so they made u go after Bachmann and Romney to give u a chance to take out either one of them. While you tried to keep it nice..they both came out on top of the exchanges. You looked nervous and frustrated, like you knew you were swinging and missing. It's time to consider a run for US Senate against Amy Klobuchar...Good Luck! (See comments below under Michelle Bachmann).

Rick Santorum, Loser (sort of). While I want to like both Tim and Rick they needed to raise their profile and Rick was combative..his side position was a disadvantage to him and while his discussions with Ron Paul were worthy of credit..but he's just not gonna break thru.. I suggest Rick you should also go back and run for Senate in PA..The GOP will probably win this time and you will get your seat back from Casey.

Ron Paul, Winner. Paul remained calm during the discussions and firm to his very Libertarian non interventionists stances. He loses there amoung the right..and Rick Santorum gave him a well deserved task taking on the Iranian issue and won the crowd. But again RP held his own and looked competent. Still has ZERO chance to win the Nomination and even less chance of the General..but I think he'll be the last man standing besides the winner. I will confess the stuff he said 3 years ago on the economy is coming true because of the irresponsibility of Prez. O's spending.

John Huntsman, Loser. His first kick at the cat..and Huntsman looked timid and very nervous..but his policies and positions on Social issues and his reason for serving under Obama were not well received, and I think his campaign ends soon. I think he could be a solid cabinet member in a Romney or Perry administration though.

Michelle Bachmann, Winner. She once again came out looking good and swinging for the bleachers, and she was great in her exchanges with T Paw. She kept her cool. When she rec'd the absurd question about submitting to her husband..she let the crowd boo the question took a deep breath and then handled the question deftly. It was even better than her response to Chris Wallace's question a few weeks ago about whether she was a "Flake". Michelle I have an idea for you. You will probably win the Straw poll tomorrow, as Rick Perry gets in the race; You should refocus your campaign as a Senator against Amy Klobuchar..your exiting at the top of your game would be an ideal launching point for the Senate. Simply use the reason that your views will well represented by Romney or Perry and you can best serve the people of Minnesota as the next Senator! You have the money, and the name recognition now to carry this off!

Newt Gingrich, Winner. Newt came out swinging at the MEDIA!! Nicely done considering he was paid by Fox News for the past 8-10 years. He also brought up some great points about Dodd Frank and other things that are making a mess of the country. He held his own..but he still can't win the race.

Herman Cain, Winner. HC showed his wit and charm and his crowd pleasing abilities. His difference between the rest of the crowd as a businessman. He showed the class of someone who is learning as he goes, and that jumping into decision or wars etc. without all the facts is dangerous. Nice job Herman! I don't think it gets you over the hump like your first surprise performance..but I'm watching.

Mitt Romney, Winner..Once again Mitt was calm, cool and collected, with a genuine competence that is tough to miss by the average observer. The Hard right TEA Party folks still want to hate him..but since they are so divided amoung Bachmann, T. Paw, Paul and Cain and waiting on Perry. Romney is just holding his positions for now and letting the rest duke it out. He handled the RomneyCare issue well again. and made it clear he'll kill it when he has the chance.

Overall I'd call the Debate as follows:
Romney 1st
Bachmann 2nd
Gingrich 3rd
Paul or Cain 4th.

This debate will have no serious effect on the Straw poll, T. Paw wasn't gonna do very well anyway.

Loser: Sarah Palin for her classless visit of her Bus trip to Ames. Sarah either get in the race or get the hell out of the way!! Your squandering your King Making status.
Loser: Rick perry for trying to stomp on the Ames Straw Poll by announcing the same day. Not a huge faux pas but still a bit tacky.

Tomorrow's Blog will be my predictions for the Straw Poll results.

Is Bob Wirch having trouble with his base??

2011-08-10T16:07:00.001-05:00

In Kenosha the Wirch campaign is focusing on Pro-Life and Pro-Choice issues?? Why would they do that? They are avoiding issues and just focusing on Jonathan Steitz' "Corporate Lawyer" status. This is interesting considering those are issues you run to when your trying to mobilize your BASE! With 6 days left Wirch's folks can't even get the Base mobilized? After yesterdays failure to capture the Flag of 3 Seats in the State Senate..and the Meltdown from Zelinski and Tate..it could be they see this seat slipping away. Polling from Monday (Before the vote), shows this race is Tightening fast.. Low single digits!!! Last week it was 10 points..Steitz is closing fast and thousands of new dollars cascaded into the campaign office since last night! JS has the momentum..and Wirch's folks are worried. With only 2 races left..it'll be a rocking week!

Party ID is is shifting..and It might not be a blip!

2011-08-10T15:58:00.000-05:00

Since 2004 Rasmussen Reports has been tracking Party affiliation. Most of the past 50 years the Dem's have had the lead in affiliation across the country, since this tracking began it has been consistently D over R. Occasionally the R's get close but then the D's pull away.In 2008 and 2009 the D's were around 40% and the R's were around 32% behind by as much 8.5% at on point. From Jan 2004 thru Nov 2010 the D's were ahead every single month..but something happened in November 2010. The success of the TEA Party and it's connection with the Republican's was seen as good place for 36% of the people to self identify with! In December it moved to 37% and was a 3.3% advantage over the D's. All in the 7 months since the first time the R's overtook the D's 6 months the R's have held that lead. As of May 35.6% over 34%. This trend seems to be gaining a foothold and perhaps the R's have finally gotten back to their Conservative roots and the electorate is ready to see those policies applied to control spending and the Dems have been shown for their Big govt. ideology.

Round 1 leaves Sen's. Holperin & Wirch in a lurch!

2011-08-10T10:39:00.000-05:00

Perhaps it's ironic, that the GAB put the Dem's and Repub's races in 2 different weeks. The Dem's yesterday FAILED to achieve the 3 seats neede to take back the Senate, and many of the Dem/ Union operators have begun to leave the state. I assume they'll be taking their checkbooks with them. That is BAD NEWS for Wirch and Holperin. The energy is out of the sails of Unionista's and the original argument of recalling State Senators who failed to show up for work returns to the fore-front. If Stietz and Simac can get that message out..and the GOP and TEA PArty voters GOTV they will take back 2 seats and the entire argument will have been for naught! Help if you can, ($$ or effort). If "Our" side keeps the energy high we can win them both! A week or 2 ago I was told the Stietz race was listed as #8 of 8..if all the races had been held the same week this race would've been written off. Now it can be the lynchpin in holding the Conservative majority! What reason do the Dem/ unionista's have to fight this race anymore?

Afterthought. The newly drawn districts for State Senate will make the 2 seats the GOP lost much easier to take back in a rematch.

June Updates on February predictions:

2011-06-17T15:28:00.000-05:00

JUNE UPDATE: Palin still being discussed, But I don't expect her to get in; Huntsman to jump in this week. and Rick Perry is getting more serious talk, (I still think 50/50% at best). Fox Debate was "won" by Herman Cain..and his poll numbers ticked up. The New Hampshire debate added Romney and Michelle Bachmann and they both won the debate with Romney on top. The polls this week came out and have Romney breaking 30% and as high as 33%. The NH Poll came out with GOP/ IND. Voters who are "Likely" and over 50% had watched the NH Debate. Romney was 42% and led by over 32% over the nearest competitors: Ron Paul and Bachmann were tied with 10%. National polling gives Ron Paul has been stuck around 7-8% for years. Cain and Bachmann are both polling around 10-12%. Palin and Giulianni have been grabbing 14-16% but neither are likely to run. T. Paw can't get over 5%; Gingrich is still 8-9% despite his campaign staff all resigning last week. Finally Johnson and Huntsman are both stuck around 1-2%.

CNN Republican Debate

2011-06-14T14:28:00.000-05:00

        I wanted to get my thoughts out before others have a chance to influence my perception: As I was watching late last night the debate i was impressed that each candidate was very well prepared, very confident, and answered the questions directly, and quickly. I watch most debates and can usually form an opinion about a winner or loser. I was having a hard time finding much to criticize. in the performances.

Last nights debate was an interesting set up. (except for the stupid deep dish pizza questions)..I rather liked the format. I missed the first few minutes..but it seemed the questions came quickly and from all over the audiences and media personalities. It also seemed the candidates didn't always know when questions were coming at them...and yet they answered directly, quickly and ably. (Just picture Prez Obama having to come up with answers in that rapid fire type situation..he'd be so busy hemming and hawing and um er um er).   I have to say I think each of them did extremely well and I could see any of them as the nominee.

Who won?? Romney won; easily. Romney won by not losing, at this point he's put in front by nearly 20 points over any other declared candidate, he had few great lines, my favorite dealt with Prez. Obama never called him about RomneyCare where he would've told him what worked, and what did not. .    Most surprising? Michelle Bachmann, (also best dressed!!) Classy, unwavering, unapologetic. Gingrich needed a great performance to save his dead campaign..and I think he handled himself with confidence..but I still think he's toast.   T. Paw really needed to have a great night to break out of the "also ran" pack and while he was competent..he was not stellar, and he biffed the chance to go at Romney..thus granting Romney the "Win", Pawlenty is trying to be the Right winger and he is finding himself dividing the "right" amoung himself, Bachmann, Paul, Palin and even Cain. Santorum was solid, and non-apologetic in his social stances but I still don't see how he can break through. This brings us to Herman Cain...confident, competent and even exciting..but not enough to break over the top. (See the notes above re: T.Paw). Once we know Palin is out for sure, (I am sure), and we figure out if Rick Perry is in or not (50/50)..it'll continue to be Romney in the lead..and as long as he has no gaffes or obvious flip-flops. He will remain the prohibitive front runner. He might win the Ames Straw poll and not even have to attend!

More 2012 Election analysis.

2011-06-07T21:52:00.001-05:00

Today's Wash Post/ ABC poll showed for the first time a declared GOP candidate leading Pres Obama 49-46%...Not a land slide or even a majority..but on top. The candidate is Romney. The other major players were listed as well and they all lost to Obama by 11% or more. There is some who say the field is set, and others who say more could jump in. I tend to agree with the former.. I still doubt Palin is running...(She is toying with the media..which is hysterical to watch, but I still think she doesn't run). Bachmann I think will decide to run for Senator of Minnesota..with all the $$$ she has raised pretending to be considering a run for Prez. I think she knows she can't win the nomination and the polls for the next 3 weeks will show her in the low single digits. Guiliani likes to be romanced..but also knows his window has passed. He can't compete in Iowa..and Romney won't lose NH. Now below I have an analysis I sent to a friend..and it does discuss the 3 above as possibles because the WP/ABC poll has them listed and with some support..especially Palin and Gulianni. The most important thing about this poll is if you remove those 2 from the survey Romney is almost 20 points out in front..and that's with only 25% of the polls support!RCP Polls WP/ ABC is the top line.

The reason for this conversation was to discuss the "Next in line" argument about the GOP nominee. Romney (or Palin) would be the next in line. The other is to point out that the GOP Nominee Always wins either Iowa or New Hampshire. More details below:

THE GOP BTW has won the Presidency 63% of the time since 1860-2008; 61% since 1968-2008; and 61% of the time since 1980-2008. In almost every year the GOP ran the "Next guy in line". It works almost every time. The Dems have suceeded only 37-39% of the time and the SELDOM run the next guy in line. FDR was one exception that won..Stevenson, Humphrey; McGovern; Mondale; Gore and Hillary Clinton would all be examples of the "Next" who lost. The Dems do better with the fresh face.

Finally I disagree that Romney would rule as a RINO..He would rule to the right of Reagan. Especially if given a TEA Party supported House and Senate. Romney is known across the country by 75-80% of the electorate...he has no dark secrets, is moderately tempered..and looks and acts like a leader. Plus he's all the qualities the Obama is not. Besides just accept it...he's gonna win the primary gambit. Today's Wash Post/ ABC poll shows Romney out front 21% with Palin at 17, and Giuliani at 8%; Paul and Gingrich tied with 6% and Cain at 4%; T. Paw was 2 or 3%. If you take the survey with out Palin, Romney is 25% leading Giuliani with 9% I don't think either of them is going to get in..leaving you at Paul and Gingrich.at *% !!! Johnson didn't even register 1% and Santorum and Bachmann each had 1%. It's just not even close! ow one or 2 of these folks is gonna rise to the second tier pretty soon. and then it'll be at least interesting. But if Palin and Bachmann and Perry, and even Paul Ryan's names are still bandied about it'll hurt all of the folks at the bottom and Romneys' spread will just keep widening, and the $$$ will go his way.

Iowa Caucus : if Michelle Bachmann runs she might win it..and then nothing else..Romney will take second..Win NH and then wipe the floor the rest of the way. Same scenario is true with Palin, instead of Bachmann.except she could make it a 2 person race..but ultimately Romney wins..because the grown-ups will out perform the TEA Party in last dozen races. Same scenario plays out with T. Paw or Herman Cain in Iowa ..T. Paw would be sort of a "Fav. Son"..but his margin wouldn't be as good as Palin or Bachmann, Cain is the upset guy if he really can get into the hearts of the Christian Conservatives in Western Iowa...More likely they split the vote if they're both still in the hunt and Romney grabs first or Second..goes to NH and blows out the other guy and then SC and Nevada are his wins the following week. Only one or 2 will have money to compete in Florida at this point and Romney will outspend at 5or 10-one and wrap it up in FL.

BTW since the Iowa Caucus and NH Primary era (1972-2008). No Republican has won both..and only one Republican has won Iowa and the Presidency George W. Bush ()Who lost the NH Primary the next week to John McCain. The GOP Nominee has always one at least one of these 2 races since 1972. The same is true on the Dem side. Thus since Romney is almost certain to win NH thus he's 50/50 for the nomination. And if Palin or Bachmann doesn't run ,,he'll very likely win Iowa as well.

The next metric will be to see how Romney does on the Sunday talk shows. He's usually pretty good, but I know he'll start to get some tougher questions. I'm counting on Chris Wallace to dig into him on Global Warming and Ethanol. This is how I see 2012 today...I'll keep watching and reading and learning..And I'll update you in a month or so. Right now it looks like we can win..and build on our House majority..and the Senate!

Weiner Pulls Out at the last minute, leaves a huge mess for Wisc. Dems

2011-06-03T12:19:00.003-05:00

Anthony Weiner seems to be even too much for the Wisconsin Dem's. He has zipped up his junk and decided to stay in New York. I think we can safely say he won't be injecting himself into the New York City mayors race now. The only question is how long can he hold onto his current...umm...situation in Congress. You can bet that by now a Mark Foley, Christopher Lee or other Republican Congressman would be gone already. C'mon Nancy Pelosi..how about throwing this lying Twitterer to the curb! I understand his New York City district is actually competitive imagine a chance for the Republicans to re-capture a NY State Congressional seat after the loss of NY26 last week. JS Online has it here

2012 Electoral map; Wisconsin AS the Knifes Edge!

2011-05-25T17:29:00.001-05:00

I'm still looking for a good interactive map for the 2012 election cycle. Here is pretty good one from Daily.Kos Electoral Map which offers a look at Pres, Senate, House and Gov races from 2000-2008. I suspect they will soon offer a 2010 & 12 update. In reviewing this map site and many of the individual states from 2000-2012, and we look back at the past 12 years we still are a 50/50 country. With this in mind the 2000 and 2004 elections were precariously close wins for Bush over Gore and Kerry. 2008 was a solid win for Obama. So I decided to look at the states McCain lost in 2008 that the 2012 candidate needs to reach 270 electoral votes, (McCain won 173 EV's).

First consider the Redistricting factor in McCain states..he picks up 7, thus we begin with 180 EV's. The Republican candidate needs to pick-up 90 votes. I have tried to put these in order of possibilities for the R's to pick-up, but I have also weighted them by EV's needed to win:

Ohio 18 EV's: No Republican has won the Presidency without Ohio. Obama 51/47 Kasich reversed that in the Gov. race in 2010 and Rob Portman did even better. (The very liberal Sherrod Brown is defending his US Senate seat, and there is a few good competitors).

North Carolina 15EV's: NC has been a solid Republican state for many years, and should likely revert to the R column, McCain lost the state by less than 1% about 14,000 votes out of 4 million.

Indiana 11 EV's: IN is also a solid Rep. state and should swing back to the R column especially with Mike Pence running for Gov. and Dick Lugar running for US Senate again. Obama won this state by less than 1%

New Mexico, New Hampshire, and Iowa 13 EV's combined: These were the 3 states in 2000 & 2004 that switched red to blue or visa-versa. Each state was close both times, Obama swept them in '08 but will be winnable by either side in 2012.

Virginia 13 EV's: Went for Obama in 2008 53-46%, (Bush won 00-04 by the reverse %ages), but Virginia has been a reliable R state for decades. While some of the media have thought they had finally dragged this state over the Red-blue line, but 2009 Gov. race, showed they trend had ended. So all things equal Virginia should fall in the R's column in 2012.

If the Republican Nominee can win all of the above that is 270; Obama loses. We don't even need Florida!
The "Bush" states is the next tier of possible States that are very winnable for the Republicans:

Colorado 9EV's: Bush won narrowly in 2000; & handily in 2004; which was reversed in 2008 by Obama.
Very swingy purple state with good shot for the Republican in 2012..The Dem's convention certainly helped build support for them in 2008.

Florida 29EV's: The Famous Florida of 2000, and the Bush decisive win in 2004, followed by the close race in 2008 where Obama won 51-48%, FL has had some very close elections since then Ric Scott won as Gov.; Marco Rubio the Tea Party darling who will be on a short list option for anyone as the VP candidate, will make this state very winnable for the R's.

Nevada 6EV's: NV was another "Bush" State that Obama picked up..and it was a split decision in 2010 on the Gov/ US Senate races. With the famous Sharon Angel TP fiasco. There was certainly some slippery stuff in Las Vegas relating to vote fraud..but "What happens in Vegas....." This time Harry Reid won't be on the ticket, and the US Senate race Heller vs. Berkeley should make the race very competitive.

The "Gore-Kerry" States that are in play:

Wisconsin EV's 10: Wisconsin is often called "The next Red state"...Wisconsin is the most talked about, watched and focused upon state in the nation since Nov. 2010. With our tremendous change in Govt. Walker, both State houses, Reince Priebus; Ron Johnson; Sean Duffy, Reid Ribble; and of course the most recognized US Congressman is Paul Ryan on the national stage. (Not to mention Aaron Rodgers and the Green Bay Packers), but I digress. Wisconsin is so enmeshed in the recall's; recounts; and revamping of our state Govt. we shall certainly remain the Knifes Edge all the way thru November 2012. The TEA Party is very powerful, and effective in this State as we demonstrated in a recent State Supreme Court election. While the Unions are showing their teeth as wild animals trapped in a corner..their ruling over Wisconsin seems to be coming to an end. Any Republican nominee will be foolish not to consider Paul Ryan for the Veep slot. If Ryan is on the ticket Wisconsin goes Red for sure.

Minnesota 10EV's: Minnesota is another very close state..that many think is a solid Dem state. but MN has had several close races in the past few years Bush came close both times, and Gov Dayton barely won, Al Franken had to cheat to win, and a few years back Norm Coleman beat Mark Dayton narrowly for Senate. It is my hope that Michele Bachmann gets in this race against Amy Klobuchar for US Senate and that could help make MN a very competitive race as well. Tim Pawlenty could also be the nominee, or a strong candidate for Veep as well, but I don't know if he adds as much to the ticket as Ryan or Rubio would.

Michigan 16 EV's: Here is the state we might consider out of reach for the Republicans, but MI has also swung dramatically in the "Red" direction since 2010, the R's control both houses of the legislature and now has a Rep Gov. again. They have a US Senate race in 2012 and Debbie Stabenow is being challenged by Pete Hoekstra, John Engler; and a few others with statewide name recognition. Add to that the very real possibility that Mitt Romney could be the nominee.. Michigan becomes a very strong likelihood for the "R's".

Pennsylvania 20EV's: I originally thought Pennsylvania would be needed to win, but I don't think it is. Bush lost it both times; We'd love to have it in our column, and it has been trending in 2010 in our direction. I would really like to see Rick Santorum go grab his Senate seat back from Bob Casey. Pat Toomey won last November, and the Rep's won the Gov job as well.

It could also be a sweep either way. It could be Reagan vs. Carter 1980, or Clinton vs. Dole in 1996. Or a Reagan-Mondale 1984.. with Obama riding to a sweep..I just don't see it likely. I think the most likely scenario is Reagan Carter 1980 and I think Obama will lose almost every state I mentioned above.

2012 Race updates: Hucky is out Looking back to predictions.

2011-05-14T23:11:00.000-05:00

Here's the latest with updates: libertearacine.blogspot.com/why-mitt-will-win-in-2012.html

Wisconsin moves up 17 places in best States for Business!

2011-05-07T11:58:00.000-05:00

Great news for Wisconsin! Look at the amazing difference a Business friendly gov. and State Congress has made in just 6 months for our State! Louisiana jumped 13. No other state had a more dramatic change than Wisconsin. Memo to Mayor Dickert, Council Pres. Helding and the rest of City Council...lets follow some Walker's lead and make Racine a city that is more business/ jobs friendly and we can help Wisconsin jump a few more points next year! The path is paved we need only to follow it! Best/ worst states for business 2011

Doesn't Europe hate Cowboy Style Presidents?

2011-05-04T11:09:00.002-05:00

       The Noble Peace Prize winning current "Cowboy" President has succeeded in capturing and killing Usama Bin Laden..and for that we can all be grateful.
   I think it is important to change the characters though just a bit. (Suppose the Prez was Bush; the attack was made on sovereign territory without the permission of the host country; the assault made attacking and killing an unarmed man in his bedroom. Would the press have treated the previous "Cowboy President" the same way? Would the press have rolled over an accepted the dumping of the body in the Arab sea within a few hours, but assuring the people of 99.9% accuracy they had killed the right guy. (When we bombed and killed Al Zarqawi in Iraq we didn't dump and bury the body within 24 hours, we made a verification of 100% accuracy that it was the right guy.) ABC news report . Release the videos ASAP Mr. Prez. Make no mistake I support what was done by our Special Forces under the guidance of Prez. Obama..it just that it goes against everything we have heard from the left for 10 years. From water-boarding to acting unilateral actions and invasion of foriegn lands without congressional approval. Which is it?
       Does anyone know the address in Oslo, Norway to return the Peace Prize?

UPDATE: Now the President has decided NOT to release the Pictures of Bin Laden. Is trying to create another birth certificate Rope-a-dope? C'mon Mr Pres. your so transparent we can see the BS inside of you!

Charles Krauthammer's take on the 2012 Prez prospects.

2011-04-22T12:45:00.002-05:00

Sir Charles agrees with me: See my commentary from February 12 2011 http://libertearacine.blogspot.com/2011/02/why-mitt-will-win-in-2012.html. The only difference since my writing then is Donald Trump is being thrown around as a possible name. Krauthammer gives odds of 5-1 for both Romney and Pawlenty, but otherwise we are on the same page. I would add Pawlenty will do well in Iowa unless Michelle Bachman runs..in which case they could cancel each other out and Romney could place first in Iowa. New Hamp will go for Romney and so will Nevada and Florida. South Carolina (After NH and before Nev), could go to Haley Barbour, or Herman Cain..maybe Michelle Bachman, but in any case Romney should hold at least second place there. So Florida will determine the candidate in all likelihood. Mitt will be the most viable remaining at that time. Ask yourself how well Trump is gonna do in Iowa or New Hampshire, or SC, or Nevada. If after 4 races you have no "First places" how are you going compete. Trump could hold out for Florida like Rudy Guilainni did..but Trump is simply not appealing enough to the Conservatives that will be needed to win a primary/ Caucus.

Here's CK's article: http://www.washingtonpost.com/opinions/the-racing-form-2012/2011/04/21/AFT4TxKE_story.html

Update 4/26: Looks like Haley Barbour has removed himself from the race. Huckabee is perhaps interested, (I still think he won't).

Mayor Dickerts Second Chance

2011-04-20T14:09:00.000-05:00

Yesterday Mayor Dickert was sworn in for his second term and a chance to hone his vision for 4 years. Mayor John has been a well known personality in Racine his entire adult life, and his family name is well know for over a century. Hizhonor the Mayor and I have had been on opposite sides of several issues since his swearing in after the vanquished Mayor Becker left the scene. Mayor John also came into office just as the TEA Party movement was building steam..and drawing more folks into the understanding that Govt. is too big and enough is enough. The new mayor to his credit did attempt to get some spending under control and avoid a large tax increase in his first 2 budgets. I have criticized that he still spent 2 million per year from the reserve fund, and he still increased taxes in both years. It was for those reasons that I and others tried to find a candidate to run against the mayor and every possible Alder-person who was afraid to get spending under control. Remember during this time the City rec'd a bit of "stimulus Money", and put off the need for stronger cuts in those first 2 budgets. I spoke before the council and warned of the coming storm when those funds ran out. I asked the Mayor and the Council to not renew any Union Contracts until after Walkers was sworn in and look at the new "deal" that would be available to us the tax-payers after the Spring elections would be held. For instance today Ald. Fair, Becker, and Morganroth are bound by a bad deal signed a month ago..for their entire 2 year term. It would've been prudent to wait until now to make those votes..and we could even postpone them a few more weeks when the Judge Sumi case is settled. The savings potential for the tax-payers and the ability to save jobs, and not raise taxes might have been missed. It is also reported today that our City's unemployment rate has dropped from a year ago, (We may need to explore if our workforce has grown or not). I did want to salute Mayor John for volunteer effort to clean up the Root River Parkway...and it seems he has finally moved away from the KRM Train idea. I also admire his idea for a great city in his "Ten Year Plan"..despite it's lack of clarity.
Now i have been advised by some friends to watch for the John Dickert 2.0 which was launched yesterday at the swearing in. We are to see a more diligent cost-cutter and more understanding that even the "left" tilting City of Racine is looking for more responsible govt. spending as the new rule. I have printed my own copy of the 2011 Budget, and hope to work with the Mayor and the new Council to make Racine a better, lower taxed, more efficient city for all of us. So Mayor John you have 4 more years, let's make your time well spent. Teh TEA Party is not your enemy..we are looking to see Racine the City folow the direction of the County and all of the surrounding communities. We can either leave Racine a high taxed place or make it lower taxed "Island"...Which will bring more businesses, and middle and upper income residents? I think we all know the answer..let's build a place they will want to call home. In case you weren't listening the Tax increase Referendum went down 60%, the people are not in favor of higher taxes..keep that in mind.

Disclaimer: I placed a bet, (which I almost never do), the bet was a nickel and a 300 page blog of positive commentary of Mayor Dickert. I lost! (Marcus needed at least 40%). So the above is a honest assessment of the first partial term of Mayor Dickert, to fulfill my obligation. But I wanted to be sincere.

My Friend's observations of the TEA Party Rally, Guest Blogger Wade

2011-04-16T23:22:00.000-05:00

Just got back from a “HEATED” Tax Day Tea Party Rally in Madison!

by Wade Anderson on Saturday, April 16, 2011 at 9:31pm

As soon as I got through the Union Anti-Walker protesters and found an open spot to watch the rally, I kept hearing someone yelling “F… You” repeatedly. I looked to my left and saw some big dude in his late 40’s screaming at this high school kid that was there to support the Tea Party! Obviously I went over and shut the IDIOT up, and we quickly came to the agreement that he’d be better off protesting somewhere else! (God my blood’s boiling again just writing this!) About 20 min later one of “Chicago’s Finest” (off duty) started going off on some lady to my right for taking his picture! So I just couldn’t help myself… I decided to start taking his picture to see if he wanted to try that shit with me! He turned to me and started saying Sara Palin’s a “WHORE” repeatedly. I couldn’t believe it, there were families right behind me with kids as young as 6-7! Again… I had to have the same talk with him as I did with the last IDIOT! WE came to the conclusion that it’d be in his best interest if he went somewhere else too!

It’s obvious they were there to pick a fight with someone, at least the COP was… but I guess he didn’t like who called hi bluff! What kind of people do that? They stoop so low to do all of this right next to a bunch of kids, HELL… one of em was SCREAMING at a kid!

The thing that really got me was this… Just after the rally was breaking up, this lady walks by with her two kids who were about 4 and 6 walked past me. The FOUR year old boy says… mommy… does everyone HATE Mr. Walker??? She said… No honey… he has some supporters. At first I was impressed at how much empathy was in her voice as she said it, but then a bit disturbed that she would be exposing them to all of this at such a young age.

C’Mon people… I just gave the last HALF of my LIFE defending our country so that “EVERYONE” here has the right to protest without the threat of VOILENCE, don’t make me spend the NEXT half defending US from OURSELVES!

WAY TO GOOOOO... JACK ASS!!! I'm sure mom's proud!

“Chicago’s Finest”

2011-04-07T17:16:00.001-05:00

Walkers Budget repair Bill just passed into LAW moments ago!

2011-03-25T17:03:00.000-05:00

Moments ago the Walker Bill/ Law was published...bypassing the Secretary of State's office entirely. The Sec of State and the State Treasurers offices are very likely to be eliminated sometime in the near future. These ceremonial offices are growing ever more useless, as we have just demonstrated. We shall see how quickly a Judge tries to block it...perhaps tonight, or Monday..or maybe they have run out of steam?

City of Racine for sale only $1.00

2011-03-25T14:05:00.000-05:00

I have watched and listened to the Mayoral forums for the past several week. In each of these events the topic of NSP and other "real estate" related issues have come up repeatedly. For instance the Walker property, the West Racine development. and the stubborn disaster which is Uptown, (aka Paducah North).   Now I am excited to hear that a new Coffee Shop/ Tapas bar is opening along with an artist studio on the South side of the 1500 Block of Washington. How exciting for Uptown we should all be thrilled...Except that this new project which require nearly 400,000.00 to make workable has already cost the Taxpayers of our city almost 200 G's!

The Mayor in these debates has repeatedly said he is not giving away the city properties..and yet he's giving this one away fro $1.00! Respectfully Mr. Mayor..either decide to liquidate our real estate and get the Hell out of the City real estate business, or go back to being a Realtor.

It is time to seriously consider tearing down every building on the North side of Uptown and widening Hwy 20. Doing so will dramatically increase the property value of every building on the south side of the district. But the most important benefit will be to finally make the entrance corridor into our city much more visitor friendly. Racine's population is down nearly 17,000 from it's 1970 high, it makes sense to eliminate some excess retail districts which will require years of demand to be viable districts. Right now, Uptown, West Racine, Downtown, and now the State Street corridors will all be competing for the same retail "customers" and will merely strangle each of them from success.    Remove the North side of Uptown will help all of the others to have a chance at success, and at the same time dramatically improve the Uptown district and traffic flow.

MOMENT OF CLARITY: Madison Wild Wings

2011-03-04T11:12:00.000-06:00

MOMENT OF CLARITY: Madison Wild Wings

RTA Rest in peace.

2011-02-15T14:15:00.001-06:00

H/T to the Siren for this..although we post it for different reasons. Robin Vos and Van Wangaard took the leadership to get rid of this thing before the KRM and the "Not Very High speed train to Almost, but not exactly Madison", is almost dead. Mayor Dickert can yank his unelected representative from the RTA, and save the city and/or State a few bucks. But most importantly the entire state will save millions. Here's my eulogy for RTA:

Good bye RTA. You wasted your life and those of us who never voted you in to existence, but we found a way to vote you out. Kudo's to Vos and WanGaard, the tens of millions dollars we will save because of just this one death.

RTA your death will be remembered for many years to come! The train no one would ride will thank your for preventing a life of emptyness, loneliness, solitude, and rusty rails to nowhere. I think I'll wear black today to mourn your passing. RIP

Why Mitt will win in 2012 Nomination/ With June Update 6/16

2011-02-12T19:34:00.006-06:00

I have had numerous discussions on this topic for the past several months with my TEA Party and Facebook friends and many others. Nearly every time I get this groan...Not Mitt! One word "Romney-care..game over". I disagree!

I have felt Mitt is the best choice since well back in 2006 when names were just getting tossed around, and I still think he will win in 2012 at least the nomination.
I'm gonna get a little wonky here..but stay with me. CPAC just finished it's Straw poll (record attendance and record number of voters), and for the second year in a row Ron Paul came out on top this year with 30% of the support. (Romney placed second this year and last and first the 3 years prior to that).   First off CPAC is very core conservatives/ TEA Party and in the past 2 years infiltrated by lot's of the Ron Paul-ittes. 3700 voters in this years Straw Poll. Ron Paul gets 30%, Romney 23%, Gary Johnson (another Libertarian) ties with Christie, (who is NOT running) get 6% each. Newt garners only 5%, and Sarah Palin comes in at 3%. Huckabee doesn't even place with 1% T. Paw and Daniels 4% each, Herman Cain, (the TEA Party darling) only 2%.
Now we must accept the Ron Paul infiltrators are trying to stack the deck here, but it's artificial. Paul only rec'd about 3-5% of the actual vote in primary's in 2008. So of the attendees Paul got about 1110 votes. Gary Johnson the other Paul-itte got 6% (222 votes).

This leaves about 2400 voters who represent a more traditional Republican/ Conservative voter:

Mitt with 23% of the total (962 votes), actually represents 40% of the adjusted vote, Christie at 6% (222 votes), equals just under 10% of the vote. Newt @ 5% (185) equals 8%, Palin at 3% (111 votes) equals 5% of the adjusted voters. Herman Cain with 74 votes is about 3%.

Now lets look at who is actually likely to run. Romney, Cain, and T. Paw * are in for sure. Ron Paul MAYBE, (but I doubt it)..and I suspect he'll do better than 2008 but 10% at best. Christie is NOT running; Palin is smart enough to not run this time; and Newt will probably waffle until he sells a few more books and then drop out or not ever get in like the past 2 times.

The race becomes Mitt, Cain, T. Paw * and maybe Hayley Barbour who both got 3% of the votes. T. Paw is boring even compared to Mitt, and Barbour has a few things that are lingering out there, and he was a big time Lobbyist for a few years as well.    What about Huckabee?? Great question! The Huckster has a pretty good ride going on Fox right now, he didn't even show up at CPAC this year..and didn't receive enough votes to garner even 1%. I think most people see his "aw shucks" thing and realize the folks in IOWA got bamboozled in 2008, where Mitt took second place..and could never recover, despite doing well in each race he was in. It's almost too late for anyone else to jump in and compete.. JEB Bush wont do it. Rick Perry from Texas maybe *. Any US Senator that could go at it, right now I can't think of one; (John Thune indicated he is NOT going to run). The rest of the Repub Govs are still too new to jump into a race this soon. But there are some GREAT Govs out there Christie, Walker, Scott, Kasich just to name a few. I suppose I should add Mitch Daniels from Indiana as a possible, he did make some dramatic changes to IND. But I think he'll come across a little too wimpy/ wonky for the voters to grasp. But he could be the possible upset. (He scored 4% in the CPAC poll).

My handicap: Romney wins with 54%; Cain places with 20%; T. Paw* (Perry jumped in the same day T.Paw dropped out), and/or Daniels drops out early with 3-4% ; Barbour 12%; and Ron Paul with 10% if he even gets in the race this time.

I welcome your comments and hopefully a dialogue. I fully expect the Mormon topic to come up as well. (* Comments were added regarding Perry/ T. Paw after the Iowa Straw Poll).

APRIL UPDATE: See Charles Krauthammers commentary: http://www.nydailynews.com/opinions/2011/04/22/2011-04-22_handicapping_the_2012_presidential_odds_can_any_of_the_republicans_unseat_obama.html

MAY UPDATE: Huckabee is out; Still looks like Palin is not running; Gingrich is in..but no one seems to take him seriously. Trump was a one week wonder. Daniels is seriously considering it...but there is a bunch of stuff with him that will be challenge. I'll talk about more later:

JUNE UPDATE: Palin still being discussed, But I don't expect her to get in; Huntsman to jump in this week. and Rick Perry is getting more serious talk, (I still think 50/50% at best). Fox Debate was "won" by Herman Cain..and his poll numbers ticked up. The New Hampshire debate added Romney and Michelle Bachmann and they both won the debate with Romney on top. The polls this week came out and have Romney breaking 30% and as high as 33%. The NH Poll came out with GOP/ IND. Voters who are "Likely" and over 50% had watched the NH Debate. Romney was 42% and led by over 32% over the nearest competitors: Ron Paul and Bachmann were tied with 10%.    National polling gives Ron Paul has been stuck around 7-8% for years. Cain and Bachmann are both polling around 10-12%. Palin and Giulianni have been grabbing 14-16% but neither are likely to run. T. Paw can't get over 5%; Gingrich is still 8-9% despite his campaign staff all resigning last week. Finally Johnson and Huntsman are both stuck around 1-2%.

This is why there are no jobs in America.

2011-02-12T14:56:00.000-06:00

Guest blogger Porter Stansberry

"This Is Why There Are No Jobs in America
I’d like to make you a business offer.

Seriously. This is a real offer. In fact, you really can’t turn me down, as you’ll come to understand in a moment…

Here’s the deal. You’re going to start a business or expand the one you’ve got now. It doesn’t really matter what you do or what you’re going to do. I’ll partner with you no matter what business you’re in – as long as it’s legal.

But I can’t give you any capital – you have to come up with that on your own. I won’t give you any labor – that’s definitely up to you. What I will do, however, is demand you follow all sorts of rules about what products and services you can offer, how much (and how often) you pay your employees, and where and when you’re allowed to operate your business. That’s my role in the affair: to tell you what to do.

Now in return for my rules, I’m going to take roughly half of whatever you make in the business each year. Half seems fair, doesn’t it? I think so. Of course, that’s half of your profits.

You’re also going to have to pay me about 12% of whatever you decide to pay your employees because you’ve got to cover my expenses for promulgating all of the rules about who you can employ, when, where, and how. Come on, you’re my partner. It’s only “fair.”

Now… after you’ve put your hard-earned savings at risk to start this business, and after you’ve worked hard at it for a few decades (paying me my 50% or a bit more along the way each year), you might decide you’d like to cash out – to finally live the good life.

Whether or not this is “fair” – some people never can afford to retire – is a different argument. As your partner, I’m happy for you to sell whenever you’d like… because our agreement says, if you sell, you have to pay me an additional 20% of whatever the capitalized value of the business is at that time.

I know… I know… you put up all the original capital. You took all the risks. You put in all of the labor. That’s all true. But I’ve done my part, too. I’ve collected 50% of the profits each year. And I’ve always come up with more rules for you to follow each year. Therefore, I deserve another, final 20% slice of the business.

Oh… and one more thing…

Even after you’ve sold the business and paid all of my fees… I’d recommend buying lots of life insurance. You see, even after you’ve been retired for years, when you die, you’ll have to pay me 50% of whatever your estate is worth.

After all, I’ve got lots of partners and not all of them are as successful as you and your family. We don’t think it’s “fair” for your kids to have such a big advantage. But if you buy enough life insurance, you can finance this expense for your children.

All in all, if you’re a very successful entrepreneur… if you’re one of the rare, lucky, and hard-working people who can create a new company, employ lots of people, and satisfy the public… you’ll end up paying me more than 75% of your income over your life. Thanks so much.

I’m sure you’ll think my offer is reasonable and happily partner with me… but it doesn’t really matter how you feel about it because if you ever try to stiff me – or cheat me on any of my fees or rules – I’ll break down your door in the middle of the night, threaten you and your family with heavy, automatic weapons, and throw you in jail.

That’s how civil society is supposed to work, right? This is Amerika, isn’t it?

That’s the offer Amerika gives its entrepreneurs. And the idiots in Washington wonder why there are no new jobs…

Regards,

Porter Stansberry"

Unemployment #'s are Fudged-Up in Mayor's Radio Campaign

2011-02-11T12:10:00.005-06:00

An advertisement on WRJN touts the Mayors 5% decrease in the UE #'s. Lets look at a Gov. site that provides #'s for our City, Worknet.gov

Worknet research:

2009 http://worknet.wisconsin.gov/worknet/dalaus.aspx?menuselection=da

2010 http://worknet.wisconsin.gov/worknet/dalaus.aspx?menuselection=da

May 09 #'s 15.5 % June 09 16.0% July 09 16.8%

Dec 10 #'s 12.8%

Best case scenario on this is 4% from the High to the Low.

However in the same time period Labor force in

July 09 40,537 E 33,730 UE 6807 UE Rate 16.8

Dec 10 37,867 E 33,028 UE 4839 UE Rate 12.8

The first point is obvious from May 2009 at 15.5 to the latest #'s Dec 2010 The decrease in UE was 2.7%. If we give credit for the Highest to the lowest July 09 to Dec 10 the best the Mayor can claim is 4%. so why advertise with 5%?? It was the same with "Balanced budget" and the Zero increase! Why use numbers that are fake? It makes no sense to me.

Look just a little deeper here though the ACTUAL numbers of jobs in Racine DROPPED by 702 jobs. That's Less jobs not more!! It is true that the UE number dropped as well by nearly 2000 but it's not because these people got jobs..they simply ran out of benefits. Otherwise the Employed # would have INCREASED by that nearly 2000 folks.

Look at the other number in this comparison How many people are in our workforce We dropped nearly 2700 people in our workforce. Did they move away? Retire? Die? Go to prison? I think if 2700 people died or went to prison we would've read that story in the papers. Thus I presume it's a combination of a few retirees, and a whole host people simply leaving town, or dropping out of the labor force.

To celebrate these Numbers in your Advertising without telling the real story is disingenuous at the very least.

Racine can not afford to have 2700 people leave our city/ or our work force every 18 months.

We must look at lower taxes, smarter spending, and a business friendly environment if we are to save our City. Mr. Mayor use the TRUTH!

Alderman Marcus's Voting against business?

2011-02-09T19:51:00.000-06:00

Last night the Public Safety and Licensing Committee met to discuss the request by a local DT market, to acquire a waiver of the "Class A" liquor license so the market can offer full liquor product selection, rather than the current "Beer" only license.

The market argues that offering full Class A will permit them to make enough profit during the sales day to be able close at 9 pm rather than the current midnight closing. Whatever their reason the fact that Racine abides by this silly artificial "Cap", on licenses makes no sense whatsoever. Now it should be noted the committee voted "Yes" to send the request to the full council this coming Tuesday evening, (Primary election day); however Alderman Marcus voted NO!!! Ald. Marcus' reason, he explained was that he didn't believe the market had enough of a reason to break the "cap". I respectfully disagree Alderman, if the market asks we should grant the request unless they have a history of problems. If the city of Racine is going to recover and grow..we must allow businesses to make the decisions to grow their businesses, Most of the current council and Mayor have blocked several businesses from opening in the city for "perceived problems", rather than actual problems.

Mr Marcus, as you pursue your Mayoral bid it must be your first goal to smooth the path, rather than block the path, of new and existing businesses. If this market violates or abuses the rules, then we slap them down. Until then give them the benefit of the doubt and let them make their business work better.

Lady Liberty strikes again. Obamacare is Dead?

2011-02-03T13:21:00.000-06:00

"We have to pass this, so the American people can see what's in it." Nancy Pelosi on Obamacare bill in 2010.

Every day the American people see more that we don't like. 28 States AG's have taken this to Court and 2 of the decisions have stated the mandatory clause is unconstitutional, and the most recent ruling said the ENTIRE 2800 page Law is unconstitutional. This is great news for the Country. As of now the 26 States effected by that decision can effectively Halt enactment of the Federal mandates.

Maybe Health care is something each state can determine. Massachusetts has something but it's not working very well. They can undo it whenever they decide to. The Dem's in 2009/10 decided that the deal was unraveling and had been eroded in so many ways from it's original inception. They shoved anything thru and didn't bother to add the sever-ability clause. Just so Obama could claim a "success".

Thanks Judge Vinson for your brave stand. Now the AG's of the 26 states should join J.B. VanHollen and act like this law is truly voided. If team Obama wants to request a stay, let them try it. Otherwise this thing is DEAD: and I think the Dems know it.

Dickerts Ignores Even More Campaign Rules

2011-01-18T11:48:00.002-06:00

CRG of Racine has alerted me to check into Mayor Dickerts campaign website http://johndickert.org/ Which has been up since at least December 1st 2010. As of today it still is missing one particular election disclaimer:

"Authorized and paid for by....blah blah blah".

First Occupancy Permits for his West Racine HQ's; and now he's ignoring the State Election / GAB requirements. Now I'm no fan of excess "restrictions", or excess Govt. regulations; but theses are the rules. When someone comes to Racine to open a business, we seem to invent new rules, regulations and obstacles for them as they sit before the Mayor and the council...and then once they open their business we heap ever more restrictions, and make it more difficult to succeed, in a challenging business climate.

I suspect that sometime in the next day or so, this will be remedied. I made a screen capture as of today. The "Letter from John" page is also missing the disclaimer.

H/T CRG of Racine.

Update: Sometime between 3:36 pm Central time and 4:00 pm the Mayor's campaign staff did make the correction. I have a full page print out of before my posting. It looks like it took about 3-4 hours to correct, and comply. Good work Mr. Mayor.

Mayor's Dickerts Dusty Pledge

2011-01-15T13:22:00.001-06:00

The very night the mayor tried to convince his competitors into taking his phony "pledge". Someone from the Dickert campaign, (or a supporter), using a fake Facebook ID sent me a "Rope-a-dope" type story. I suspected the story was an attempted plant from someone in, or close to the Dickert campaign.   It isn't the type of story I would normally get involved with. Then a day later I rec'd a second person's confirmation of the tale..but again the FB Identification was too vague.   I was advised that the poster was going to offer the story to some other blog.   I told them I wasn't interested, but did contact a few of my fellow bloggers to use caution if they decide to take the story on.   Each of my contacts agreed to ignore the story.

The reader might ask then..why am I even referring to the story now? As I suspected the Mayors supporters are now angry and the whispers are out. I am offering my clarification..that I didn't believe, nor did I attempt to spread this tale..which I believe to be nothing more than an attempt by someone to expose a story, which is easily debunked to try to portray myself, or some other Marcus sympathizer, as using "Dirty" politics to get a boost in the campaign. Mr. Mayor don't propose a Pledge..and then allow your team to undercut it.

   I believe the citizens of Racine realize that Mayor Dickert's unwillingness to propose a truly Balanced Budget, his 2 consecutive years of tax increases..his ramming thru of Recycling carts, and his idea that making the taxpayers of the City of Racine into general contractors..so he can insert the city govt. into a competitive battle with builders, investor and contractors; is too many for failures of leadership for less than 2 years of service. Citizens are interested in smaller, responsible efficient Govt. for Racine. Eric Marcus has been the main guy to stand up to the "Old Boys Club", and make them tremble.

Mr. Mayor, Mr. Marcus, and Mr. Locke...if you want to sign a "Pledge":
CRG of Racine Pledge: http://www.facebook.com/home.php#!/pages/CRG-of-Racine/120390008028726
Balance the Budget.
No new taxes, fines or fees.
No new regulations.

Simple, uncomplicated, and looking out for the taxpayer's bottom line.

Doing Business in Racine can be tough! Even for the Mayor!

2011-01-10T11:25:00.000-06:00

Mayor John Dickerts new headquarters at 3214 Washington Ave in West Racine must be extremely challenging. Just ask Tom Tousis how hard it is to do business in West Racine! It seems that Mayor John Dickert's campaign staff forgot to check into an occupancy permit! CRG of Racine; the new Govt. "Watchdog" for Racine city and county politics checked with the Building Department today and found no record of an application for that address.

Mayor Dickert is it so challenging to walk down the hall a few doors to request the permit? Imagine if it's that hard for you..how difficult we make it for other companies to come to our city in the hopes of bringing jobs and making profits in our city. If the Mayor can't follow his own rules, how can we expect others to follow them. If the rules are too onerous..perhaps we should back off some of the rules. Let's make Racine business friendly again! Lower taxes, less spending, balanced budget, and less regulations!

CRG of Racine is calling on the new Aldermanic candidates and those current serving to open our city to easy access for businesses in the next year.

The Road to our success is a ROAD! 794 is that road!

2010-12-15T11:12:00.002-06:00

If Racine is going to thrive in the next 20 years it is imperative that the City Council, Mayor and County leadership to embrace a 794 Freeway into our city. Racine has been waiting since 1959 to correct the mistake of running I-94 to run 9 miles from the lakefront and it’s population. 60 years later we realize the economic development happens close to major arterial freeways and airports. Just like in the pre-railroad days growth was along lakes and rivers. The new 794 will be used for trucking, commuting and commerce. This new road will be the salvation for our entire community.

Caledonia will eventually complete their section from Hwy 100 to 6 Mile or even 3 or 4 mile. Racine must get in this discussion NOW!! Lets utilize the KRM corridor right next to Douglas Avenue and Memorial Drive, Connecting out Industrial Parks, snaking it to the edges of UW Parkside for education opportunities; thru Kenosha along 30th Ave, (or approx.), then Waukegan, etc. ending just east or west of Great Lakes Naval Academy. This route keep's the almost the entire Interstate within 1-2 Miles of Lake Michigan's shoreline, where 60-70% of our residents live, and thus will be with 5 minutes of access to a major N/S Freeway connecting Milwaukee and Chicago. It will be open 24-7-365, it will leave and return on your schedule!

Imagine the improved housing values for Caledonia & Racine; homes from the Shoreline to Hwy 31. Consider the investments made by new business, retail, manufacturing, and hi-tech, etc. as people with middle and upper incomes determine that lake living and a Milwaukee commute aren't that bad now that they can get to Milwaukee in 30 minutes rather than 40-50minutes. People populating Milw.’s north shore or Brookfield, Elm Grove areas, will begin to look at the opportunities to the south. This group of mid-higher income people coming to our city will reduce our tax-burdens, help improve our schools, and greatly improve the job climate in our city. Not just building the road, but the jobs that will follow for decades to come!

A 2nd option is along Hwy 31, and many folks will support that route: That will be BAD for the City of Racine. If the 794 Freeway is along 31, all of the future development will be in Mt. Pleasant and thus west of the city. If we build it down the Douglas/ Memorial Ave. corridor we will create an infusion of economic energy to State St., Downtown, Uptown, West Racine and still make get the economic development in Mt. Pleasant and all the way to Yorkville. Racine and Caledonia are the next Oak Creek/ Franklin corridor, whether we like it or not. We have 3 negatives: Taxes are too high, our public schools are sub-standard, and our road access is unacceptable. Fixing the roads and controlling spending will improve all of our problems including our schools system.

Looking for a job in our area? Look at N. Illinois or north of Milwaukee. Build this road and the jobs and opportunities will flood into Racine- Kenosha corridor.

If we hope to fill our empty houses, employ our chronically unemployed, improve our quality of life and make Racine a destination city for resorting, business, commerce and residency; we must build this road and build it smart... Let's get the ball rolling NOW. This thing won't build itself!

A response to a Facebook "Friend"

2010-11-03T17:56:00.000-05:00

One of my FB friends posted this comment today:
"I will always have hope for the future but the fact that so many people back the likes of Sarah Palin is making me physically ill today."
My Response:
I can certainly sympathize. I actually was choked up with fear for America 2 years ago on election night. Because some of my ignorant fellow Americans bought into the phony "Hope and Change" message brought to you by the "American Idol" candidate. Obama was the "Cool" yet completely unqualified candidate, and he was going to somehow make the rest of the world happy.

The Prez. "Community Organizer" spent his first 4 months apologizing around the world for American greatness, then he followed that up with the biggest wasteful spending program in history after serving only 29 days in office, known as the Stimulus pkg. (Everyone clearly sees it was ineffectual, and was nothing more than a handout to Govt. employees and special interest groups.) The guy who ran as moderate then proceeded to take the reigns of not one but 2 Automotive companies!!! This from a man who's never raked a lawn for $$ or flipped a burger, or bussed a table let alone had ANY experience running anything more than a classroom of law students. It's no surprise the people who were screaming from every corner of the country to STOP..and the Elitist Commander in Chief rammed thru a destructive plan to ruin the American Health Care industry.

The TEA Party could have been stopped if Obama, Reid and Pelosi had listened. But they didn't.. they rammed through full speed ahead, damn the ignorant citizenry, they don't know what's good for them. WE THE IMPERIALIST ELITISTS know, best. WE know what you should eat, drive and the health plan you must have. We have decided the Liberties in the Constitution are null and void. (except of course abortion and "seperation of Church and State which aren't in the Const.).

Fortunately there are enough smart people who woke up and realized their country, liberty and freedom were under attack by some Harvard Law Review Editor/ Scholar. These Americans realized all of the phony Bullshit thrown at Sarah Palin for being "unqualified" by the American media in 2008, was actually a deflection away from the ACTUAL unqualification's of Senator Obama. This time the media is losing control of the message; because the TEA Party, Facebook, Blog's and other alternative ways of sharing information is at an all time high. Even "people like me" can figure out how to use it.

For as "Ill" as you are today, the results of the TEA Party triumph will actually be good for you and your family and your business. If the Bush tax cuts are extended and Obamacare is abolished businesses will return to hiring and the economy will start to recover; the housing bottom will have passed and the world economy can grow again. There is 2-3 trillion dollars waiting to flood back into this economy. That is a lot of money! The Sarah Palin sympathizers will put the brakes on big Govt. spending, and that will also go a long way to improving the future for our children.

We can, of course, disagree about who is the most qualified to run and serve...but you cannot break the laws of economics...using big govt. spending will never work in a modern economy, and over-paying Govt employees is not an "investment in the future" it's a thievery of your children's future earnings. How can you saddle your children with this obligation?? Pay as you go. If we can't afford the bills now..then don't make the commitment. Let these Govt. employees fund their own pensions with the money they are being paid today!

Sarah Palin will not be my candidate for President, but if it comes down to her versus Barack Obama..I will stack her experience in business, and as a chief executive over Mr. "We're the ones that we've been waiting for" ANY DAY. The I would vote for her, (I do not believe she will run in 2012).

BTW the State of Wisconsin just switched Governor, State Senate, State Assembly and even threw Russ Feingold to the curb. We also switched 2 of our Congressional seats to Conservative TEA Party Republican!! Wisconsin has been a Blue State on the fence for the past 20 years..but is the home of the Progressive Party and the Socialist movement of the 1920's. (It is also the home of the Republican Party, BTW, an dmight have the most powerful TEA Party in the country). Yesterday Wisconsin had the LARGEST D-R switch in the entire country! The most dramatic switch in the State of Wisconsin's History.

I am extremely proud of the TEA Party and Sarah Palin's support of our cause which was vastly superior to the support of Prez Obama over for the Progressive views.

So take 2 aspirin, (or the herbal equivilent), and call me in the morning. Sometimes you "Progressives" have to be saved from yourself! You're welcome! Love the TEA PARTY

Even John Stewart is Breaking Bad on the Dem's

2010-09-10T20:08:00.001-05:00

Watch this link of Stewart and Tim Kaine Chairman of the Dem's Campaign .http://www.mediaite.com/online/jon-stewart-tells-dnc-chairman-tim-kaine-youre-in-trouble-dude/

Racine Post: Jonah Goldberg to appear at Racine TEA party's Sept. 11 rally

2010-09-07T19:13:00.001-05:00

Racine Post: Jonah Goldberg to appear at Racine TEA party's Sept. 11 rally

Guilt by Association?? And the Lefty media goes nutZ!

2010-09-07T18:48:00.002-05:00

Racine Post today Dustin takes a gigantic leap to link the Racine TEA Party (of which I am one member), and the 9/12 Group (of which I have never been a part of, nor even ever visited their website until today.).   Dustin ran the commentary that John Stossell had been added to our Tribute and Town Hall this Sat at 2-3:30 at Pershing Park on Racine's Lakefront. Within Dustins article he took a few stabs at Stossell's investigative journalism, but then he takes the huge leap of tying Stossell and the Racine TEA Party to the 9/11 Meet-up group! Now it may be true that some folks are members of both groups, which each are loosely organized. 9/11 is much more structured with a "Meet-up". It also has a different mission of it's members. But link our group to a few comments of some bloggers on another groups "site" is attempted sabotage by "journalism". Now that Dustin has linked theses comments to his "Blog" am I now free to slander or freely associate his commentary with that of 9/12? I think not. Dustin voted for Obama, Obama went to Rev Wright's church, and friend of Bill Ayers, Wright is a racist and a biggot, Ayers is a terrorist..therefore Dustin is a biggot and a terrorist? That would be wrong...so I just won't do that.

   The RTP has a primary focus spending, taxation, KRM, and we spent some time on ObamaCare.
We have stayed away from 2nd amendment, issues. Gay marriage, abortion etc. But it is important to note.    We have no formal membership...no dues are collected, no initiation's etc.

I do find it interesting that over the past 16 Months.. The TEA Party has been grown from a handful of "Astro-Turfers", TEA Baggers, Crazies..and Loons, and even Racist's by the NAACP, (Ironic, huh?). Gun-toting Bible-thumpers..into an extremely powerful Political Grass Roots organization. The Health Care Bill was nearly killed entirely, and was arguably disolved into a nearly un-definable document that still no one knows what's in it. The Republicans are changing dramatically, and the "middle" and "left" are reversing course to the center. Arlen Specter left....Good riddence! Russ Feingold, Patty Murray, Barbara Boxer are terrified! Obama Fired his Genl. and replaced him with Bush's guy! The Bush tax cuts the Dem's have demonized for 8 years are no being renewed for 2 years or even permanently!   Even Chris Matthews is no longer mocking us!!

I watched on Sunday Cynthia Tucker the "LOON "from the Atlanta Journal-Constitution Declare that the push back against the Govt. is due to "RACISM!!!"   Yep the "white's" are seeing their majority threatened, so they are pushing back!   Is it possible the same "whites" that voted for Obama 22 months ago are suddenly "racists"? Please.

Last point. I watched the "Brilliant" Nobel Prize winning Paul Krugman on This Week, and he looked like the little Liar he has always been. he's been attacking Bush, Ryan and George Will etc. for years! His smug little self who helped push the Obama/ Keynesian Bullshit economic package down our throats.   He now says......(You guessed it)...It wasn't big enough!!!!! ARGHHH!!!! George Will, handed him his hat on Sunday. To the point Krugman compared now to 1938! In fact I suspect he expects that WW III should start in 2 1/2 years, and will solve our economic problems!???    It was wonderful watching him squirm his way out of his ridiculous economics. I hope Nobel calls Obama and Krugman and asks for the Awards to be returned.   I suggest we award them both to Paul RYAN!

Racine Post: 'Things are not dead,' Feingold says after Main Street business tour

2010-08-18T18:01:00.000-05:00

Racine Post: 'Things are not dead,' Feingold says after Main Street business tour

Conservatives and Republicans and recent history re: Spending

2010-07-15T17:00:00.000-05:00

“Real” Conservatives will be working very hard to get control of spending next year. Even in 95-2001 the Republicans were influenced by a lot of “Conservatives” in the House, (and the deficits were seriously reduced, giving Bill Clinton that Surplus liberals love to brag about, the Rep. House gave him those surplusses), the gradual weakening of the conservatives in the Senate..followed by the 9/11 attacks which launched the crazy spending dealing with Homeland Security..a new department which seemed to be a bottomless pit of “defensive” / preventive spending. In the past few years most of our “moderates” and liberals have been purged. Spector, Voinavich, Bennett, Chaffee, “Jumping Jim” Jeffers and dozens of others in the House, Senate and State Govt. houses all across the country. Furthermore the “Left” has lost a lot of their moderates and blue dogs too. So if the Conservatives manage to take the House and/ or the Senate in Washington you will see a great difference even better than the 94 revolution because the Conservatives will be in the majority of the majority.

The State of Wisconsin is about to have a transformation as well. Scott Walker is much better to conservatives than Tommy Thompson ever was. The conservative leadership in both houses will drastically change the way Wisc does business over the next few years.

Hopefully in few years of proving the Conservative Republicans can govern like the Grown-ups we profess to be the term “Republican” will be synonymous “conservative and even Libertarian will feel better as part of the fold. The Progressive “Cheques” are now starting to bounce across the country and around the world. it’s time for the grown-ups to be in charge again.

One last point: on the weak kneed Republicans of the 2001-2006 era. The reason was that Jim Jeffords, Olympia Snowe, Arlen Spector and even John McCain were constantly threatening to " Jump" and switch the Senate control if they didn’t get their way..which was always special interest items that ran contrary to “conservative" ideals. Trent Lott, Bill Frist, and even Mitch McConnell and others caved rather than fight for a principle. We do have a few left to purge and the Club For Growth and the TEA Party has been doing the job. Scott Brown might be a RINO..but he’s not Teddy Kennedy or Martha Coakley.
BTW next year when all the press is asking why we can’t a get along?? It’s because the Blue areas have voted in and kept the leftists while the rest (Red) of the country has installed conservatives and a few moderates. We are not very “purple” any more. Obama's attempt to bring us together have failed.

Tea Partism is changing the way Wisconsin and America votes.

2010-07-03T16:10:00.000-05:00

Johnson and Walker appear to be making their case rather well in Wisconsin. Other Conservative leaning candidates are having success elsewhere in our state. I have sat back for the first weeks to see some of the post convention poll's. I was thrilled to see my expectation that Feingold and Johnson are neck and neck. After the most recent polling from last week. Also the PPP poll which came out regarding the Walker/ Neumann smackdown is just as I expected. at 58% vs. 19%! Also Johnson vs. Westlake numbers are even better at 49-11%. With that in mind I believe either Neumann or Weestlake will decide to pull the money plug, since it's a losing battle in the next few days. leaving very little need or attention for the Republican Primary. Even the Westlake Deadenders have to be losing faith.

Further evidence BTW that Terrance Wall's phony accusation about Johnson "stealing" or corrupting of the vote was nothing more than BS. Served up by a whiner.

A real promising thing is that even though I realize many people don't know much about Johnson yet; he's running very just 1 or 2 points below Feingold who has nearly 100% ID. The folks polled were very similar to Wisconsin's recent voting results as well. So this demonstrates there is not a lot of groundswell for Feingold voters, and with the likely GOP/ conservative energy I think he could lose by several points in November. Feingold appears to be the Dog food that the voters just don't like, despite all the great praise he has received.

The Governor race is looking very easy for Scott Walker, and I think the Dem enthusiasm level will be tepid, unless Barrett can find an issue that resonates, and builds his support. Many of us Walker folks have been excited for 4-8 years about his prospects, ever since Scott Jensen was dethroned over a "non-issue".

Speaking of issues...I was appalled at Mark Neumann's blatant attempt to link Scott Walker to the County parking structure...And that wasafter the poll was taken. Furthermore Neumann embarrassed himself on Belling's show pretending his concern was genuine and not political..

I was at an event last night in a rather "left" leaning area of the State, and I witnessed several GOP/ Tea Party folk approaching potential voters by the thousands. and the reception of energy and enthusiasm for the entire GOP slate was unlike I have ever seen!! People climbing over each other to sign nomination papers, speak openly about issues,and Govt. over-reach. This just 2 days after the Presidents visit to SE Wisconsin. I'm not sure if the Republican's can take the Senate back but if PPP and Rasmussens latest poll results get factored into the RealClearPolitics.com numbers Wisconsin should be moved from the "leans Dem" column to the "toss-up" column, I suspect the same thing in California as well in the next few days. I also believe Rob Portman in Ohio will prevail as John Kasich should win Ohio for Gov. with a nice margin. 3-4%.

These tight polling numbers for the R's will bring a lot more national money into our race. More of the Rep Senate and Gov Races are no longer close so the need to spend money in those states diminishes..freeing up funds for our race. The Dem's will need spend money in otherwise "safe" seats and defend even more! What a great year for America!

BP Coffee Spill Hysterical

2010-06-17T14:25:00.000-05:00

The only character missing is the "Community Organizer-in-Chief" Who should be kicking Asses and putting his neck on everyone trying to clean up the mess!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2AAa0gd7ClM&feature=player_embedded

Caledonia's Unemployment "Problem" and the KRM solution?

2010-06-01T14:27:00.001-05:00

Thanks to Caledonia Unplugged Raising the point that Caledonia has the LOWEST unemployment in the State at 3.7%!! This is great news!! In fact Cal-Up further links to lists including Franklin 6.7%, Oak Creek 7.1%, and Mt. Pleasant 11% all with lower unemployment than City of Racine. Looks to me that jobs for our "unemployed" are within just about a 12 mile radius around our City, maybe if we cut off benefits after 3 or 6 months, we would see people start taking jobs.

I have often suggested that Racine's 14.8% unemployed should go to where the jobs are, but been told that people don't want to move away from family etc. Well a few miles radius is not that challenging. Cal-up further makes the point that the KRM is not running thru Caledonia; I will add; nor is it running thru Franklin, and if ever built would only run thru a sliver of Mt. Pleasant and Caledonia, and Oak Creek. So on balance it seems if we are going to help Racine's unemployed we need to make sure they are able to work in Franklin, OC and Cal. Or encourage them to move closer to those areas. It would further help to not keep continuing unemployment benefits for nearly 2 years.

BTW the Hwy 38 and 27th St. corridor in O.C and Franklin are growing like crazy! if you know someone looking for a job send them there!! We can't wait for Mayor Dickert or the Local Unions to bring jobs back to our City. Until they are willing to cut spending, and lower taxes and restrictions. Until the the growth will be north of us. It's too bad the "customers" living along those corridors would be ideally suited to improve our city, our schools and our future.

"I reserve the right to refuse service to anyone!"

2010-05-26T13:54:00.000-05:00

This statement is often found posted on the wall in restaurants, taverns, and retail businesses across the City, County, State and the country. I support a private businesses right to maintain that policy. If a Government entity comes in to your businesses and begins to dictate who you must serve, they have attacked your "Liberty". From the Racine Post Article:
"The Finance and Personnel Committee voted 3-0 Monday night to give the city's Affirmative Action and Human Rights Commission remarkable new powers. Under the ordinance, the volunteer commission will be able to hold hearings on housing discrimination complaints and fine landlords or homeowners up to $25,000 for violating discrimination laws." Full article HERE

First question: Why does our city have an "Affirmative Action and Human Rights Commission". (Been around about 35-40 years. Has it outlived it's usefulness?) How much money does this "committee" cost the tax-payer? ($120,000 per year.) Why does it have any enforcement powers over private property? If there is City owned apartments I could see a reason for it's existence. But since to the best of my knowledge, and confirmed with the Housing authority, all residential rental properties in the City are PRIVATELY owned!

Can Mr. Ron Thomas really use the "Affirmative Action" committee to interfere with only rental business? If he can how soon will Mr. Thomas and committee decide to tell Restaurants who they must serve, perhaps we will need to force restaurants to carry different products to cater to assorted minorities? Shall now every private tavern have to carry Dos Equis, Corona, Peroni & saki? Will every menu be required to be diverse? From grits, and tacos, to Sushi and wasabi?

No private business should have the terms of products, or targeted clientele dictated by this committee or any others in the city.

I address this in my business every single day..I don't carry products for "everyone" I have a targeted customers, Higher income and fashion forward; and I buy my products in hopes of gaining their business. I know of businesses like mine who cater to the low-end clients, and others that make great money off of the "Drug Thugs". Others that cater to the average customer. Each of us serve our niche. We can change our market as needed. The same rules will apply to the owners of Rental Property. We are all familiar with Jacato Dr. We are all aware of certain areas in the city that have an over abundance of "low-end" renters with sketchy records. The building owners I'm sure would love to upscale but the reality of certain neighborhoods will require more work than any one rental business can change.
I am not in favor of anyone refusing to rent to anyone based on color, but at the same time no one should be forced to rent to persons based on color. Affirmative Action is an outdated practice and should be struck completely from the City business, ordinances, or mandates.

Affirmative Action is reverse Racism and everyone knows it! Mayor, Dickert, Ald's Coe, Marcus, Maack and Helding. I urge you to fight this policy and this abuse of city power immediately!

I understand Trains now!! SEWRTA presentation!

2010-05-24T12:28:00.001-05:00

Here is Coverage from one the recent SEWRTA presentations with an explanation of how KRM and the Milw to Madison routes will work. Bringing 19th Century technology to our commute!

A 3 minute explanation worth watching.
Modern Rail

George Meyers Educates City Hall!

2010-05-24T11:55:00.005-05:00

Watch this clip where George speaks of Recycling Chips and Chickens:

George on YouTube

RINO's becoming an endangered species.Thank the TEA Partier's UPDATED

2010-05-13T15:35:00.005-05:00

It's been an interesting 6-12 months watching the local, State and National political scene.
One of the first big upsets was last Summer when the Congressman went home in August to have their "Listening sessions". What they found was an irate, agitated populace showing up at these sessions and telling them NO! NO! NO! To huge Government growth... The Politicians were scared and cowed into submission to the point that every single Republican fell in line against the expansion of Govt., especially the Obama Health Care proposal. Arlen Specter got scared and switched parties. (He was evidently the last person know that he was actually a Democrat, he even ran for President as Republican in 1996).

Then Scott Brown came on strong in Massachusetts and Won running against Obama-Care. John Murtha died in Western, PA and his seats is shifting from a Conservative Dem to a Conservative Rep. David Obey has retired in Northern Wisconsin and the Sean Duffy is looking very strong there. Bart Stupak has faded away, and even Steve Kagan in Green Bay hasn't said if he's running again! WTF?? One of my best political buddy's is reluctant to see what happens when the Republicans get back in office. He refers back to 1994. I have told him that I have great faith in the new much more Conservative Republicans at every level of Govt. And this fall it should get even better. Folks like Paul Ryan, Eric Cantor, John Boehner, Mike Pence, John Shaddeg, and Michelle Bachmann. if you compare those leadership folks against the Gingrich, Armey crew..you will have to accept that the "R's" are shifted way closer to the Libertarian position.
Sen Bennett lost his bid for Senate in Utah, and Dem. Rep. Alan Mollohan has lost to a Dem and Rep. candidate in W. VA.

I can make a similar case with the State of Wisconsin. Just look at the "R's" in Wisconsin at the top of the political landscape. Paul Ryan (is in Les Aspin's seat), and Jim Sens is still there, but Scott Walker and Mark Neumann are competing for the Gov. Job and Ron Johnson, Dave Westlake and Terry Wall are all competing to the most conservative guy running for US Senate.

I have heard that Ron Kind is in danger in LaCrosse...Both Belling and Sykes are suggesting 3 of the 8 US House seats might switch from Blue to Red! And these will be CONSERVATIVE's! Our delegation could switch from 5-3 to 6-2 and two remaining would be Baldwin and Moore!! Also Census estimates we will lose a House seat in 2012 when the Redistricting occurs. We could carve out one of those seats entirely! If The Republicans win the Gov. job and 1 or both state houses this November.

I read the other day that Hawaii might vote a Republican into office! Michigan is ready to switch around many houses and Ohio and Illinois Virginia and New Jersey, are in transition.

I read the other day before Obey retired the Real Clear Politics projection had the R's gaining enough seats to TIE, and then Obey's Seat in Play the R's are 1 over the number needed to take back the House. I know' it's months until the Fall election and much can happen from now until Nov. but it could get even worse for Dem's by then. Safe seats are resigning!! the energy is clearly on the R's side for now..and all of the Obama youth vote from 2008 is likely to sit at home. Even Russ Feingold is in trouble Check out Firefeingold.org where concerned citizens have organized to raise funds to help defeat him this fall.

I have often thought Wisconsin should be the next "Red State"..this could be the first year of that trend. The Tea Party has changed the Landscape in Wisconsin and across the US..perhaps we should THANK Pres. Obama for showing what happens when the unchecked Left grab's power!

On a personal note to Arlen Spector Thanks for beating up Anita Hill and her lies back in 1990..but your time has past and you have messed up more legislation that could've improved the conservative cause in the past 20 years..you will not be missed. John McCain and Lindsay Graham I hope your next!!!

UPDATE: Looks like Hawaii's TEA Party guy won! Rand Paul won Big. Spector Lost BIG! And Now Wisconsin Republicans have endorsed Ron Johnson with the overwhelming support of the TEA Partiers! Fight on Scott Walker, and Johnson can take down Barret and Feingold in 2010!

KRM The Little Engine that Can't.... Seem to go AWAY!

2010-04-08T15:32:00.002-05:00

We all remember the story of the Little Engine that Could. In fact I read it as a child and to my own children from a Little Golden Book. Since I moved back to Racine 20 years ago, this story of a Transit system has been thrown around. The Cost is always under rated, and the ridership is inflated. I see that the County Sup's are proposing a referendum for this November on this issue. It is about time! Maybe we can put our School Referendum on the same ballot! But I digress. This referendum must be BINDING!! Not advisory..our young people can not afford another financial burden layered on top of all of the existing and upcoming burdens they will have to pay for Health care and other boon-doggels the Assorted Govt's will be piling on in the next few years.
Mr Mayor the City needs improved access I will agree..so make the roads better! wider smother, etc. It's time to extend the Lake Parkway from The Airport to the IL border. THAT Will bring new residents, customers investors etc. and most importantly JOBS!!!!

The little engine is yesterdays technology Mr. Mayor. Until the Jetson's era comes along we need to make Auto's, Trucks an buses our primary mode of transport!

Back to Blogging!

2010-03-21T13:28:00.002-05:00

Thanks to the few of you who helped me identify and fix the "bug" on my Blogsite!

Health Care passes?? KRM stopped for now? Still too soon to know. But what we do know is that with 24 hours notice an "Instant TEA Party" can get 120 or so folks together in the Cold and speak our piece! Thanks again to the "Post" for coming to cover the story.

LiberTEA for Christians in Racine.

2010-02-02T23:30:00.007-06:00

The City Council voted 14-1 against requiring a "Storefront" Church on Douglas Avenue to relocate or dissolve. Many of the Parrish members and it's Rev'd showed up and asked the City not void their lease. and the Rights of Property owner were upheld. Thanks to Denis at Free Racine and his urgent attention on this Matter several members of LiberTEA Racine were able to attend the Public forum and add their voices to the cause of the Liberty of the Church, the Parishioners, The Landlord and the Tenants, and all the other persons of Racine. Now the folks can pray in Peace. It was once again a victory against the City attempting to interfere in legal commerce thru it's micro-management. Of course we all accept the City has to have some planning. But if the City isn't prepared to purchase all of the buildings, and thus decide who all of the tenants will be. Sometimes the City leaders seem to feel this is a semi-private "Gated" community. It's not it's a city where people and businesses can choose to come and go, and if we want People and businesses to come we must make them feel welcome to make their own decisions with the own property. Subsequently the City needs to control itself when dictating who gets to live and operate where. In the past year we have blocked a Grocery, increased the cost of Liquor licenses; attempted to block a development in West Racine; And shoved Recycling bins onto everyone's doorstep, without a choice by the people.

Folks it shows that if we stand up and notify the Aldermen and the Mayor when an issue comes up we can change the direction of our city. Thanks to everyone who spoke, and thanks to all the Alderfolks who listened to the citizenry.

KRM...What does the Mayor have do with it?

2010-01-16T11:02:00.002-06:00

Racine Post 14th of Jan article on Dave Blanks response to the KRM Hotel Tax.

"Anon Said This was done in the assembly. What does the Mayor have to do with it?"

Hey Anon 1:08 Mayor Dickerts person appointed the RTA board is Jody Karls who serves at the pleasure of the Mayor. We can't "un-elect" Karls we can only ask the Mayor to give him the correct direction on issues like KRM and increasing our Taxes on things like Hotel's etc.
Now If Dave Blank doesn't like having his Axe gored with a Hotel tax. why does he think anyone else should bear the Tax. Rental Car companies? (They'll simply re-locate out of Racine and Milw counties). An increased sales tax? The Stadium tax was one tenth of oen percent. this thing will need at least a 2-3 Cent tax. (Don't believe me check with Chicago and the Metra)! Fact is we Don't need this KRM thing it will not work or get ridership anywhere near the needed amount to not lose a fortune per year. One propsal that MIGHT work and would cost a lot less money is to build an extension to METRA from Kenosha to Sturtevant Station. At least it would serve as a logical Hub for assorted transit options. and people can decide to take the Slow train or the fast train. to Chicago, the Burbs, the Airports and into Milwaukee. Racine can make sure that the Bus system logically connects with the Strutevant station to provide easy affordable access to all of the rail options at the Station. Furthermore there is easy parking near Stvt. Station. We could easily build a larger secure ramp for overnight parking as well. Heres the real beauty of my proposal this more Centralized station can attract riders from Burlington and Waterford as well as downtown Racinians. Whereas the State St. Station would only entice Downtowners to ride on very limited basis. Call the Mayor and him know that Jody Karls must oppose any tax increases or phony growth of RTA. Money is tight building a risky project like KRM is Silly and a irresponsible.

Bonfire TEA Party January 16th 2010

2010-01-08T10:44:00.004-06:00

RACINE TO HOST FIRST EVER “BONFIRE TEA PARTY”

Racine, WI – Fired up about high taxes? Come join the first ever “Bonfire Tea Party” in Racine. Not only will the bonfire be a great way to keep warm in chilly nights, but concerned taxpayers from all over Wisconsin and Illinois will be able to make sure their voices are heard by politicians.

The event will feature Joe the Plumber, Vicki McKenna and Dr. Tracey Purath. State Representative Robin Vos and Tim Dake of the Wisconsin Grandsons of Liberty will announce the Healthcare Freedom Amendment to the state Constitution. The organizer of the Racine “Bonfire Tea Party,” Lora Halberstadt, says after seeing what was happening in Washington DC and Madison, she had to act.

“The Racine Tea Party movement is concerned that the burden to our next generation is already at the breaking point and is completely unsustainable!” Halberstadt said, “We owe it to our children and grandchildren to protect their freedom and make their America a better place.”

WHAT: First ever “Bonfire Tea Party”
WHERE: 4505 Highway H, Franksville, WI
WHEN: Saturday, January 16, 2010, 3:00- 4:30 pm

An Iranian Invasion of Iraq? Mr. President your move?

2009-12-18T18:23:00.003-06:00

President Obama was going to be ready on "Day one", to preside. So here we have yet another act by a rogue country. Iran has gone into Iraq to steal and claim Oil Wells. This is the same week the President is trying to pass Health Care or anything he pretend is H/C. Unemployment is "Unexpectedly" up again? Unexpected to who Mr. President? Did you actually think passing a Trillion dollar spending program with no significant "shovel ready" projects ready to move. Only a small percent of the monies have been spent most of it went to Teachers union jobs, and AFSCME jobs in GOVERNMENT. So it wasn't unexpected to most of us..we realized the only way to grow jobs is to reduce the tax burden on Americans..especially was to reduce Taxes. U also knew that was true, but chose to wreck the economy further!

Bush's Policy's win the Nobel Prize, (Obama reads Bush's speech?).

2009-12-10T15:28:00.004-06:00

I think it was really of Classy of Obama to accept the Nobel Peace Prize Award that George W. Bush EARNED. You notice in the Speech how much he sounded like the Bush Doctrine rather than the Obama Doctrine..(Surrender and apologize). Even my Lefty friends are mad that Obama is gonna try to win the Afgan War. (Sorry MarKOS).

"Whatever mistakes we have made, the plain fact is this: The United States of America has helped underwrite global security for more than six decades with the blood of our citizens and the strength of our arms." Barack Obama's Teleprompter.

"We have borne this burden not because we seek to impose our will," Mr. Obama said. "We have done so out of enlightened self-interest — because we seek a better future for our children and grandchildren, and we believe that their lives will be better if other peoples' children and grandchildren can live in freedom and prosperity."

The president sharply advised his audience to "make no mistake: Evil does exist in the world."

Sarah Palin's Qualifications

2009-12-08T14:53:00.003-06:00

One of My Toledo Facebook Friends, (and a long time friend) posted the following comment (note the level of intolerance of other's opinions):
Face book user states: " 'has earned her disillusionment. she has been fighting most of her life" - Ani Difranco p.s. here's a litmus test. if you think that Sarah Palin is anything more than pretty hair and a waste of lip gloss... don't read my shit (on Facebook). Thank you."

I found it revealing that it fits the idea that "Everyone I know thinks X y or Z".

There was a bit of dialogue (including a comment mentioning Isabella Rosselini's and her beauty), and my response got a bit lengthy so I thought I'd copy it here:

Unfortunatly Isabella Rossellini is not eligible to run for Pres. or VP since she's Italian: But I agree she's pretty Hot.
Now maybe I'm a little out there but I don't vote for the "Hot" candidate; I vote for the most competent candidate, who most closely matches my ideology and supports the US Constitution, since the swearing in of said candidate must state the oath.
Now I would gladly put Palin's qualifications and resume up against any of the following: Barack Obama; Joe Biden; Hillary Clinton; Harry Ried; or Nancy Pelosi. While I don't expect to support her in the Primary in 2012 should she decide to run.. but I have great respect for her. For those of you who wish to dismiss her out of hand at this point in history go backwards 4 years and tell me anyone thought Barack Obama could possibly be elected President in 2008. I do find it interesting how my friends on the"Left" are trying so hard to dismiss her. She is a self made successful Woman, and mother..Who DOES have executive experience, Does have a background in business, does have a success as a Mother and Wife. She is also a WOMAN elected to the highest office in the Country so far. Something only a handful of woman have accomplished thus far. Granholm, Sebilius, Lingle, Rell and a very few others. Now Alaska is one of the most "White Male" Republican States in the country and yet they were able to elect a Woman.. how about Ohio? How many woman have one the top 3 jobs in Ohio? I'm counting none so far. (Same thing here in Wisconsin). Now I wouldn't vote for or against someone based on sex..I am just pointing it out. I know Rachel's for passion for fairness to woman..and I support her efforts and passion. I just wonder if the hair and make-up would be mentioned if Todd had beat her up, (Chris Brown)..or cheated on her (Bill Clinton), Or if she had been raped or had a few abortions (Maya Angelou). Instead she succeeded against many "Glass ceiling" odds. and almost made it to VP of the land. For those of you under the delusion that Palin lost the election for McCain..trust me when I tell you Johnny Mac lost his election, it would've been worse for him if Palin hadn't been on the ticket.

President Obama fires Charlie Brown??!!

2009-12-02T16:00:00.003-06:00

OK first GM and Chrysler and dictating how much money this, that or the other Regional director of Wachovia can be paid; But Mr. Present did you have to eliminate CHARLIE BROWN??? OK I realize how you only had 5 and a half months to create a policy that wouldn't succeed but will allow you to PRETEND that you are doing SOMETHING. Mr. Pres. Your "guy" Genl. McKrystal was the one who said give me 40,000 if YOU want to win. YOU sir decided on 30,000..that tells us, (The American people and the remaining Taliban, Al Queda and other potential enemies), that your heart isn't in it, and Victory is not part of your "Plan". This come as no surprise to me at all. I also noticed how little emotional support in the room full of young Officer's facing your leadership. You chose that Venue at West Point for your photo-op, and you had weeks to write your speech. and yet you gave the worst delivery I have seen from you. Mr. Present I have seen your speeches..you don't care what you say as long it's on the Tele-prompter you "Read" a magnificent speech. You could read a recipe for oatmeal cookies with greater passion. That Sir was mailed in. I do hope that our forces can be effective next Spring as the numbers of casualties grows. Your base Mr. Pres. want you to fail on this mission as much as I want you to fail on Cap and Tax, Health care and foolhardy Stimulus pkg's.

Just remember Pres. O. This is the WAR you said needed to be fought. So strap on a pair and fight. Genl. McClellan "dithered" for 2 years.. Genl. US Grant WON! Try winning.

George Vs. Goliath, (And are you throwing that away?)

2009-11-21T18:52:00.004-06:00

I 'd like to point all of my readers to George Meyers new Blog. he's been active about a month or so. George has probably attended more City council meetings that most anyone else in the city..who isn't actually a seated board member. George has paid special attention to the Council this year as Mayor Dickert's first budget rolls thru. I am happy to report that there appears to be some sign of pressure on our elected Alderfolks. They are looking a bit more carefully at some of the spending that passes beneath their noses. It's good to see. every family and Business in the City, County, State, and Federal level had to sharpen the pencil and budget's. It's only normal that the City should do the same.

Rick Jones and his folks have managed to shove this "Recycling Cart" down our throats. when most folks were happy with the Blue Bags. It can not possibly be cheaper to the city, or the DPW or the taxpayers to go and purchase a bunch of silly carts. Just think for a second we still have to send a crew house to house..and they still have to pick-up the recyclables and throw them in the back of the truck. If a truck is parked in front of your house the attendant can more easily pick up 1,2 or even three Blue bags. But a cart will require 3 separate trips for the worker. How does that save time or money? Is that more efficient or less? Now many days or weeks during the year many people will not bother to drag the recycle cart to the road because of snow or what ever. Where tossing the blue bag would be easy.

Parking in the winter? Why must our city enforce this new weekend parking restriction? is it really because of snow removal and street sweeping? no of core not it's about collecting more "FEES". not taxes..don't be ridiculous..we're addicted to "FEES" yes on the 3-10 times a a winter it snows enough for an "emergency" but how many times is it on a Friday or Saturday. Maybe twice? Make no mistake folk it's for the Money...and the refusal to cut the hard stuff.

BTW I'd like to commend Jeff Coe, Sandy Weidner, and Mike Sheilds for at least having the cohannes to make some tough cuts. Bravo. George I'll try to join you for a few of these meetings..maybe if they can see the people watching they'll be even more thrifty. All of you out there who see George on Car 25 keep giving him and Atta-boy's.. he's looking out for you!!

President George W And Laura Bush Quietly vistit Ft. Hood.

2009-11-12T15:42:00.003-06:00

I was so struck to hear this. They asked for a secret visit, so they could offer condolences, and comfort to the soldiers and families of Ft. Hood. They didn't have to go..but I am not even a little surprised that they did.

I read these 2 Blogger posts today, written by a few liberals and I was impressed by their commentary: I strongly urge you read them.

Blog link #1

Blog link #2

Dede Scozz. Get's Spooked in NY 23

2009-10-31T11:37:00.002-05:00

I've been curious to watch the tide in the 2010 Races in NJ, Virginia and NY 23 Us Congressional race. After the Dem's controlled the Congress for nearly 3 years and the Executive position for nearly a year. These are always an interesting barometer of the mood, and faith of the direction of the country. NJ is notoriously Dem, but a few recent Re. have broken thru. The "Presint" and his advisers are watching this one very closely, should Corzine and all his money and backing lose it could derail much of the "Presint's" agenda..because the Blue Dog's and other moderate Dem's will be scared off. I think even in NJ the people are losing faith in the Huge Govt. agenda the Dem's are foisting on the masses all across the country, and are asking for a Hold" on any new taxes until we can see some stability in our markets, real estate values, etc.

Today Dede "S" who has been challenged from the Conservative Candidate Hoffman, has seen her lead evaporate in the past week or so, and she's now in third place. Today she has bowed out of the race. Dede is one of a dying breed of RINO's the Conservatives are gaining strength all across the country. Those Rino's of the past who spent too much during the Bush years are vanishing..Next time the R's take control of the House, Senate, and Presidency..it is imperative that they demonstrate spending control! In just 9 Months with all the control over spending Obama and the Dem's have spent more in deficit than Bush and the R's did in the first 6 years of their control!

All of the excessive, unexcusable spending is a Tax, and an infringement on the Liberty of all of us..but most especially the younger generation who will be enslaved by the debt we are amassing! Furthermore we have made it more difficult for them to climb the first rung of the ladder with outrageously high unemployment for the youngest workers!

"Peace" in just 11 Days!!

2009-10-09T10:44:00.005-05:00

Obama was sworn in as "Present" for 11 Days.. Yes that's right 11 DAYS!!! "Present" Obama was so masterful that he earned the highest Peace award.

Remember folks Adolph Hitler and Yassar Arafat also won or were nominated for the "Peace" prize. and glowingly un-brilliant incompetents like Al Gore and Jimmy Carter also won. The selection was made on Feb 1st! Obama was sworn in 11 days earlier!!.. the only thing he had accomplished by that time was a freeze on Drilling in the US, an empty promise to close Gitmo, and opening up the American wallet to pay for abortions in other countries. for that he get's a "Peace" award???

Imagine W was president for 8 years and stopped or brought their knees 5 tyrants...Osama, Saddam, Qhadaffi, Kim Jung Il, and Arafat. He at least made fools of Achmedinajad, Chavez, and even kept Bashir in check.

Under Bush more woman were given freedoms in Muslim countries than at any time in history.

I have thought Nobel prize was a fools game anyway. Nobel was the inventor of TNT afterall...not exactly a "peaceful" tool!

Blame it on Rio or Blame it on B.O.?

2009-10-02T17:15:00.003-05:00

Congratulations to the Brazilians and all of South America. I believe this will be the third time in history the Summer games will be played the Southern Hemisphere, (Melbourne and Sydney). It might mean the games will be in Sept./October like the Aussies did in Sydney. Remember how that impacted our Presidential election.

Of course the absolute embarrassment of the "Pres-ent" dropping everything to go to Denmark where the results were not pre-ordained was just politically stupid.

One thing or another happened: Either the the deal was pre-determined that Chicago would win and the "Pres-ent" wanted to stick his nose in and claim a victory.. which is the worst possible scenario.. because if true; He went, He spoke, He knelt and the Euro's were not as impressed as we were led to believe they would be.
Or it wasn't pre-set in which case he demonstrated that he is not the great sales guy he portends himself to be. (Maybe Vince, the Sham WoW guy wasn't available).

Now ask yourself.. he had to know there was a downside risk here. Did Richard Daley have the dirt on him, enough to convince him to make the effort.. When Pres-ent O' should be figuring out what he thinks about Afganistan..what he should do with the Auto industry that he F'ed up; what he should do to try re-invigorate the economy..oh yeah and what about the Health Care thingy.. that he has over-exposed himself over.

(BTW Mr. Pres-ent if you want to get the economy going again..get out there and propose extending the Bush tax cuts for another 4 years. They expire next year! Furthermore look for other cuts in taxes and spending immediately!) Cancel the stimulus package!

Well I'll give him this at least he didn't apologize this time for anything.

How does this effect Racine? Well if Chicago had gotten the games the KRM thing would be put on the front burner.. fortunately we can keep this thing kicked down the path for another few years. We can keep the focus on widening 94 and perhaps we can get back to discussing extending 794 to Racine, Kenosha, Waukegan and beyond.

I do hope Chicago re-applies for the 2020 Olympics and President Mitt Romney would have much greater credentials to bring to the table, and it Gives Illinois a few years to clean up it's politics. Can someone please beat Richard Daley!!

Racine has Wisconsin's BEST Schools!

2009-09-26T11:32:00.002-05:00

OK no they don't actually. But in 5 years they COULD. Free Racine this morning has some great commentary about what schools can/ or should teach. Free Racine

I responded:
In an ideal situation the Govt. would provide a voucher for each U.S. student to be used for educational purposes. The parents of the children could direct those funds towards the education they believe is the best for each child. It could be an all philosophy school, and all arts academy, and athletics, or even military focused academy; or a plethera of options in between. Different sized communities would offer greater assortments. People with similar needs may decide to relocate in certain areas that offer a specific experience.

Racine is actually the perfect size city to experiment with. We have lot's of school buildings many are empty. and we could offer REAL school choice right here in Racine, Caledonia, Mt. Pleasant.
It is true that initially the religious schools would attract students and would likely double or triple enrollments within the first 2-3 years of the program. but soon you will see experimental start-ups throughout our community. Capitalism and quality will determine which schools succeed or fail.

It's too late for my children to benefit, but it's not too late for the next generation of children in our city.

If we want to draw people, business and opportunity to our city we must create something better, and different. Racine's biggest challenge is our public schools reputation, Imagine a few years from now the perception of is Racine is how fantastic the educational opportunities are.
We can do this WITHOUT increasing taxes on citizens or businesses."

Now I realize this will not fix broken families or other endemic problems, that NO GOVT. program can fix. But we are always told to not be so narrow minded, I submit to you that this 21st century approach to education will save money and resources for all of us. But most importantly will raise the quality of education of our children.

"They don't know who they're messing with," J. Spangenberg

2009-09-24T13:06:00.001-05:00

Jim Spangenberg Alderman from West Racine, Is wielding his mighty sword AGAIN!. This time he's after a local businessman Tom Tousis. TT has bowed at the alter of the Union's; The Enviornmentalist's; many of the West Racine neighbors; the Farmers Market; and even the city council. Evidently he forgot to kneel down before Ald. Spang. and beg his mercy and blessing.

Shame on you Tom how dare you try to do business in this town. Did you not the read signs on the way into town. Unless you are willing to open a business designed by the City council which it has deemed appropriate, in it's infinite wisdom.

You see Tom our City Council, (which was going to "help" historic neighbors decide which shingles and window treatments they should consider appropriate). Has evidently created a new product, It's called "Business in a Box". This where a City Council creates the business YOU should build, YOU simply go in with your big stack of money and they will design your a business for YOU! Now don't expect to be allowed to sell anything profitable, or that will make your shop convenient, like petroleum or alcohol.

You see Tom our city is losing residents, has a high unemployment problem, and opening anything other than yet another Dollar Store, is considered to "Elitist".

OK sorry about the heavy hand above. but really this is getting ridiculous!! If I understand this correctly Tousis isn't asking for a hand out. He's getting property back on the tax rolls; his proposal will create jobs and provide products and services to a neighborhood. Furthermore he is spending his own money, he has a viable and I would say clean, attractive business on Douglas already.

So seriously Alderman Spangenberg, why not allow a Gas Station on that location. Or reach into your pocket and you build the perfect project. If Tom Fails he fails. America should be about success without the heavy hand of Govt.

Threats like "They don't know who they're messing with," Are just as over the top as my article.

Has the "Economic Civil War" begun? Is that what "Change" is?

2009-09-15T16:06:00.011-05:00

It seems the Obama "non-partisan" local support groups are now threatening local business just for allowing opposing groups to meet in their businesses. I am affiliated with assorted business, political, and advocacy groups. One of those groups meets un-officially at a local restaurant. When the coordinator of another local "Change" group, found out that our group would be meeting at this location, she went and approached the Franchise owner after asking several employees who to discuss her concern's with.

Now this is not a formal meeting, no mics, no dues collected, no attendance is taken, it's not part of a 401C or anything. Just people with a similar point of view meeting to discuss our issues, and offer suggestions on how to address them. We don't involve anyone from nearby tables. We simply gather enough chairs and tables to accommodate our group; from 4-20 people, whoever shows up.

The owner of this local franchise received a veiled threat from this woman, notably that the business could be boycotted because he was permitting this group to meet at his place. Inferring that many people might object to this group and what it believes..perhaps his business might even be accused of supporting "RACISM"!! Yes the "Racism" word that is being tossed around. (There is absolutely nothing Racial or Racist within this particular group). But have you noticed since last weeks Obama speech how much the word Racism is being thrown around? (See Maureen Dowd amoung others).

I have recently had several people mention that they wouldn't support my local business because of my political views. My business is not "political" although I can be. It is a fine line you cross, especially when you are a one person operation. I have been made to feel that if I don't support the Neo-lefties and the "Statist" overthrow of our country, that they would like to see my business suffer.

My second hand information appears to point to the leadership of a local "Non-Partisan" controversial head. I wonder now if said person might be responsible for the attacks on myself and other businesses in town, on the blogs and elsewhere. If my suspicion is proved out; It would be ironic considering the recent hulaballo over the town hall forums, and the phony outrage demonstrated during that fiasco. I can only imagine if the business person had been threatened to have the Franchisor "notified". Perhaps that was inferred in the veiled threat?? (BTW neither the franchisor, or the Franchisee are part of this group that meets).

I have read recently some who say that we already in a "Civil War" in this country between Right and Left. Instead of North vs. South it seems the "Tolerant Left" may not be so tolerant after all. But it comes as no surprise to me. I have left the names of the players out of this general topic, but I know firsthand all of the players involved, (although one is only a suspect, that meets the description to a tee).

UPDATE:
The identification has been verified that person who approached the Franchise owner has verified that it was in fact Kelly Gallaher. (Thanks to the picture featured on Racine POST. Thanks Pete Selkowe!)

If Senator Larry Craig is dead should we lower the flags for him too??

2009-08-29T19:04:00.004-05:00

Watched most of the Coverage of the "Teddy" Funeral this morning. I thought the Younger Ted Kennedy did a great job in his eulogy of his father, I suspect he may be handed the temporary job to fill his Fathers shoes. But I understand the Massachusetts GOP will be fighting to keep the Kennedy Law on Senators in place thus creating a State Supreme Court fight over the legitimate replacement for the seat.

I drove around the past several days and noticed how many Flags were at half staff at the Govt. buildings, Post office, Public Library, etc. I asked several people today if we can expect to see flags at half-staff when Sen Larry Craig passes away? There used to be a standard for when the flags were lowered..Now it seems every time someone gets a head cold the flags are ordered lowered. Now if you have a Flag and a pole at your home..I am in favour of your choosing to lower it and raise it as you wish..If you brother, or cousin dies..It should be up to you if want to honour that person by lowering your own flag. But The Govt. buildings should have a set of standards..and follow them.

Low cost housing for "Public Employees"??

2009-08-19T14:40:00.003-05:00

The City of Racine is wanting to clear some properties off their lists, and encourage people to move back into our city. So several of your City Alderfolks have decided to offer Half price houses for Public employees. I simply can not understand why the AlderPeople have decided that half of the things they rule on have to be special for City and public employees. Let's ask the question..is the reason the intended buyers are not currently buying these houses at full price, and they are not yet buying any of the hundreds of foreclosed properties which are already half price or even less? What is the reason these "Public Employees", haven't already gobbled up these homes? Is it because the price is too high? Or is there another reason?

If a lower price (and thus a lower cost of residency) is the stimulation required to get them to Buy now; Is it possible that some of the reason others aren't flocking here to grab up our "bargains", is because Racine is perceived to have a high tax atmosphere? Or is it our below average Public Schools? High un-employment?

Why is it in a time when so many other companies are cutting staff and costs, and trying to hold down costs. Why is the City, (and the School Board), are not following suit? Yes it's true the State cut back on funding at the City and County level...We should respond by operating our civic governments within the remaining taxable funds. Attacking our few prosperous remaining residents will only further limit the spending ability needed by these tax-payers to support our businesses.
As a resident, Tax-payer, Small business owner, and property owner, I find it an outrage that we would target this "Brilliant" idea to liquidate City owned property..but will only offer these homes to City and School employees. While the city has the Liberty to do it..Don't all people have the same Liberty to bid on these homes? And should the City undercut the free market, infringing on the Liberty of other property Sellers, and the agents they hire to sell their extra homes. Feel free to add your comments...

Another business blocked from Racine

2009-08-11T16:31:00.002-05:00

Last evening the Committee, voted to make it too difficult for a new business to join 6th Street. The recent enactment of a "Cap" on liquor licenses, has been used as the excuse, that Rules are rules. Thus Racine can ensure less entrepreneurs, will look to Racine as a place to grow and welcome businesses. Yes we can open all the art galleries, clothing stores, antiques and wig shops as no "licenses" are required...

I would like to thank the Chun's and the Choi's for their diligence in attempting to bring a new business to our community. Mr. Choi has been a generous investor in the 6th St. region, and his enthusiasm, and track record should be enough to garner the support of his neighbors and the Council...I am sorry to report it was not sufficient.

I'd like to thank all of the points of view that were represented last night..It does however seem to me that several of the 6th Street residents want a Zero allowance for any additional alcohol outlets. This renders the value of the remaining vacant buildings less valuable since the Leasor can not have access to a complete and fair market. This IMHO is a violation of the liberty of the property owners.

Alderman Helding is correct in that I, do not feel the limitation rule is fair. While the state gives the cities the power to limit licenses, it also gives them the power to NOT limit licenses.

I read the news today Oh boy.....

2009-08-08T10:12:00.004-05:00

On my coffee "mission" this morning I passed by the Headline on the top of the fold of the JTimes: "Unemployment Rate Drops". I had to do a double take...Did I not actually hear the UE numbers INCREASED?? I did listen to the joyous chorus of reporters yesterday as the unemployment numbers were released, these floks were so giddy I thought the new jobs created was 250 K rather than lost. I couldn't help but to wonder if 1 year ago the UE numbers INCREASED by a Quarter of a Million Jobs, and George Bush was President..would the headline read the same? Somehow I doubt it. I see the banner headline "250 thousand more jobs lost" (Vote for Obama!)...Ok the Obama part wouldn't have been written in the article..but the inference would be there.

I also noticed the other day all of the discussions about the "Mobs", and the intolerance of the "Right". When people care enough to go to a town hall meeting which normally has 15-50 people...and 1500 are willing to show up...It is catching the anti-Liberty factions running our Govt. at so many levels. They can't believe the "silent Majority", that sat on their hands, and were disappointed in John McCain or let Tina Fey pick the president by trashing his running mate, who had stronger Executive credentials than either Obama or Biden. Imagine if the Repubs had run a "Community Organizer" as the party head...all of the SNL & Leo jokes that would have been forth-coming.

OK I know that LiberTEA Racine is a non-partisan site, and the Blog commentary is usually for "Local" issues. But I am excersizing my own "Liberty" to speak on a broader topic...However in my defense we are seeing many LOCAL citizens speak up at City Hall, Common Council meetings.. on the Blogs and at Town Hall meetings all over Wisconsin and the US... For those attended or only read about the TEA party meetings of April & May....We all asked then:" What next??" The answer is your fellow citizens are standing up and trying to stop the Anti-Liberty, big tax, big Govt. folks from rolling over your life, Liberty and pursuit of happiness, While taking even more money from your earnings..If you don't join in the fight you will have no one to blame but yourself.

These times are nearing revolutionary momentum...I am not speaking of a Gunfight..but an "IDEA" fight we have got to stop this at every level..from who owns your property, to who gets to decide your health care. The current leadership in Washington and Madison are NOT making the choices they know will make the economy better, they are ignorantly or purposely choosing to keep the Recession ongoing so they can use it as a tool to enact their big Government solutions. If they make Govt any larger, and taxes even harder, you will begin to see an exodus of money and wealth leaving this country, first a trickle (It's already happening), and then a stream and then a tidal wave as the last of the wealth leaves the country. (I point to NY, CA and NJ where it's already begun). So join the "Mob" of your choice and lets keep the heat on. We are all "Community Organizers" now.

Thanks for reading my rant. Now go enjoy he Rain..LOL. (This "Mob"-ster/ Comm Orgzr. is gonna call Kohl and Feingold.)

PS check out the Action Alert posted on Free Racine. See you Monday night at City Hall:
http://freeracine.blogspot.com/2009/08/action-alert.html

LiberTEA served up Asiana Style

2009-07-16T17:06:00.003-05:00

FreeRacine has invited all of our readers to enjoy a friendly meet up at Asian (Corner of 6th and Park), next Friday July 24th..Denis will be "Guest Bartender", Lookng to discuss support of the Chun's new Pantry store on 6th St. (Right across from Asiana). Looking forward to many of our members joining in and trying out some of the great Korean food items "Sue" has to offer.

BTW the food great!!!

City Employees get EXTRA Liberty!!

2009-07-10T13:25:00.003-05:00

Introducing our 2nd Guest Blogger. Jody Harding Writes:

Well, friends, our ever-vigilant City Council has come up with a new and inventive way to stick it to the Citizens of Racine. Proposed Ordinance No. 16-09 would allow the city to GIVE parcels of land to city employees for the purpose of building a house. That’s right, I said give. As in no cost, including no closing costs or fees. Ownership free and clear.

But wait, it gets better. In addition to not paying for the property – which the taxpayers have paid to purchase (possibly a small expense if the property was donated or foreclosed), vacate, and clean – they are also excused from any City of Racine property taxes for a period of five years.

And what do they have to do to receive this boon? They are required to build a house on the property of approximately the same size and quality as other houses nearby. The house must then be their “legal residence” for five years from the date they received the property, and they cannot rent out any part of it – also for the five years. (Of course, if they live in the new house and rent out their OLD house, that’s okay.) After the five years is up, the owners can sell the property, rent it or anything else they want to do with it. It’s entirely theirs. And YOU helped, by paying for the land and taxes. Don’t you feel proud?

As stated in the ordinance, “The primary purpose of this ordinance is to improve existing neighborhoods in greatest need within the City of Racine, by encouraging City, County and RUSD employees to build homes in the City. Other purposes include increasing the value of properties eligible to participate in the program offered by this ordinance and increasing the value of other properties in the neighborhoods where participating properties are located.” Bless those city employees, they sure must be some quality folks. Nobody lets ME own property in a neighborhood unless I PAY for it.

I could not find a direct link to the ordinance on-line, perhaps because it is still a proposal, but you may read it in the Minutes from the City Council meeting held July 7^th (http://legistar.racinenet.org/meetings/2009/7/3448_M_Common_Council_09-07-07_Meeting_Minutes.pdf) beginning on page 49.

This is OUR money, my friends, and the City Council plans to hand it out to a favored few at a time when the rest of us are staggering under an outrageous tax burden, and many of us have lost jobs or had our hours and/or incomes reduced. This is just one more way our City Government is “improving” Racine for you and me. Thanks, Guys.

Historical Liberty Beats City Hall, Unanimously!

2009-07-06T18:29:00.007-05:00

Many of you have read about the City proposal to create an "Historic Preservation District" on the City's south Side from 8th to Dekovan and Lake Michigan to approximately Park Ave.

Several members of LiberTEA Racine and other citizens were in attendance at the "Landmarks Preservation". We listened to the members provide Documented complaints, as well as personal testimonial, and each member spoke his or her opinion and thought process. It seemed as if several of them had felt it was either a matter of "poor communication" or too large of a district originally proposed. Yet upon a study of the affected properties in what would be a smaller area the number of people who verbally spoke up at the open meeting last month were also overwhelmingly opposed to the idea.

The audience today was presented with a list of those who spoke, and the residence of those who spoke. However the property owners who may have been affected, but don't actually use those property for a primary residence.

Todays attendees were also allowed to offer commentary after the initial arguments made by the commitee members. Initially the call was to "table" the idea. But upon public urging....OK It was me...The Motion was changed to "Receive and File" the motion. It was seconded and then voted in favor of Unanimously!!

The mystery of who the "somebody" was that started this process was narrowed down somewhat, the mystery is still ongoing.....But that "Somebody" is going to be Pissed!!

I appreciate the committee allowing us to attend. I must add one additional comment to the members who suggested it was communication problem...I believe the people heard loud and Clear! No more Govt. thanks anyway!!

Our first Guest Blogger. Welcome Billy

2009-06-02T21:53:00.002-05:00

I rec'd this from Billy Yank and post his words for your review.

"The Federal Legislator has suggested a National Sales Tax. As Congresswoman Bachmann has recently demanded of Tim Geithner what Constitutional power do you have for your actions.

For the taxation of all trade in America I would say they have no power. Article 1 Section 8 of the Constitution starts out by giving the Federal Legislature the power to "lay and collect Taxes." However, the power of the government is almost instantly contracted in that very same section where the government is given the power only "To regulate Commerce with Foreign Nations, and among the several states, and with the Indian Tribes" (it was an open question as to whether "Indian Tribes" were Foreign Nations).

The Constitution also prevents its power, which was feared by every one of the Founding Fathers, from growing. They thought they were OK, but knew in their hearts the next generation, or the one after that would forget, in their untried hearts, about freedom. Thus they insisted on the Ninth and Tenth Amendments to the Bill Of Rights.

The enumeration in the constitution, of certain rights, shall not be construed to deny or disparage others retained by the people.

The Power not delegated to the United States by the Constitution nor prohibited by it to the states, are reserved to the states respectively, or to the people.

Now it would seem only Common Sense that a thing made in a state, which never leaves that state would be the business of that state, to tax or not tax as that state saw fit. Our milk is produced by Wisconsinite farmers, some who's families founded this state. It is purchased by Wisconsinite mothers, 15% of whom have no work and are feeding their babies as best they can. Finally, it is being drunk by Wisconsinite kids, our next generation.

What is to be done? I say that for those products that we do not send to other states, but sell and consume for ourselves, we must pass a law of nullification. It would simply say to the Federal government that your tax upon our internal commerce is Unconstitutional and we refuse to pay it.

To tax the bread from our children's mouths smacks of the actions of Evil Prince John and his Sheriff of Nottingham, of the abuses of Edward Longshanks against Scotland in the time of William Wallace's "Brave Hart" rebellion. Let us have Our Bread, O Milk, Our Cheese, and OUR FREEDOM!

Billy Yank"

Feel free to submit your editorials about Liberty for Review and possible publication..

Downtown Brown

The Jacato Preservation District???

2009-06-02T17:39:00.003-05:00

It looks like there is a new proposal to create yet another "District" in Racine. It will be called the Jacato Preservation District (JPD)..This was created by the group "Gangster Racine". The goal will be to ensure that everything in the "Jacato" district is "preserved" in it's current state. Any future Gardens, green spaces or removal of obsolete buildings will now be Banned. SOMEONE has urged the City Council to look into this, So I expect there will soon be a public hearing on the idea.

The JPD was proposed to ensure that the Private owners of the property will not begin making improvements of any type that may cause the value of their own personal property to increase, causing the current residents to be forced to move away and making it more difficult for Drug dealers and other Money leaching pond scum to have access to their Prey.

The people of the 14 Aldermanic districts will override the votes of the people in the Jacato Preservation District and it's representatives. It is the hope Of "Gangster Racine" that preserving the current conditions will result in securing their Drug Client base for generations to come. It will also ensure a constant source of underprivileged children for the School District to use as examples and excuses for any future poor performance. It is also believed the new district will help keep property values DOWN not only in the District, but in the entire community. This will help keep the taxes LOWER so the City can continue to spend outside of it's budget for years to come.

Landlords will be refused all permits for any reason, with no ability to rationally appeal any decisions that don't Keep "Jacato"...."Jacato-ish". Tom Jones a Jacato landlord is asking anyone with out-dated electrical or plumbing fixtures to drop them off, so that any needs of restoration circa 1970 will be easy to comply with. Shag Carpet samples, harvest gold and avacado appliances are welcome as well!

Jacoto "resident" Billy "Big Guns" Hanson; (he "stays "there), was quoted as saying he was thrilled that in the future he will not need to ride the "C" bus across town to buy his next "Lid". It was impossible to quote him exactly...this reporter has some standards..(Billy was wearing a "Grill" which made him difficult to understand). My apologies to the reader.

Hans Jansenn from the nearby neighborhood is glad to know that at no point will the Jacato area get any better thanks to the Govt. intervention, and he was assured that at some point his home on Mars Blvd...will eligible to be included in the district. He is planning to avoid any future improvement to his home, so he will comply, when the authorities tell him to.

Hmmm I wonder where they got the idea????

Hysterical Historians

2009-06-02T16:37:00.003-05:00

Last night LiberTEA Racine joined over 100 voices of citizens in the City and surrounding areas. Our voices were added to the overwhelming objections to the attempt to confiscate the property rights of those residents of the South Side Historic Area. You see SOMEONE* want's to ask the City council to create a Historic District Committee which will be responsible for "Controlling" private citizens and the alterations they make to their homes.. Including replacement Doors, windows, Porches, and Shingles and Downspouts, etc. At the moment house color is not considered, but a review of the proposals indicates that colors of trim, porches, etc. WILL be enforced. I'm sure once the door is open..the restrictions, ordinances, and other "nanny-isms" will be abundent.

So many great points were made, citing the 5th amendment (Illegal Siezure).
The 13th involuntary servitude.....And just the general issue of Liberty.

Thanks for all of the members of LiberTEA who showed up, and for their voices of Liberty.

This isn't "won yet" The next meeting is scheduled for 4:30 on July 6th...I suspect the time will be moved later before the date. If you haven't done so please call your alderman and request this idea be shredded, rather than the Constitution.

Now I (DTB) think the Great question we need to ask is WHO is the *SOMEONE, who requested this proposal? I'd really like to know..Is it Preservation Racine, Landmark Preservation, Dr. Moles; Or could it be that this is the first part of Mayor Dickerts 10 year plan we never heard about?

Thanks for joining in LiberTEA's first Call to Action!!

Dollar Store or other options.

2009-05-22T21:59:00.003-05:00

The recent article about the Dollar Store, and BP proposals submitted for the 1100 Washington ave Site, have created a bit of discussion on the Post http://news.racinepost.com/2009/05/dollar-store-proposal-on-washington-ave.html This is a bit unusual from a Liberty perspective.

The land is currently owned by the City Taxpayers, and consequently is not collecting any taxable income, nor is it being used by the Citizens as a park or other use. The Council is entertaining options as to what should go in that location, and the question is should we take one of the 3 current offers; or wait until a better project comes down the road?

Speaking of the Road, Hwy 20 is the most important Avenue into Racine at this time. It has some undesirable corridors which strongly effect the visitors and residents of their perception of the City as they approach our Downtown. (Yes I have a Downtown Bias, because it is the future of the City in my opinion). I think a semi-permanent Farmers market could be created by the City, or a private developer, It could be like a Borgardts with mostly outdoor displays, rented to whomever, perhaps an enclosed section for a Butcher Shoppe or even a Bakery. It could almost become a part time/ seasonal Grocery for local, and not so local produce. Having a Class A liquor store down the road on 6th St would be great as well.

If the property was already owned by the Minn. company and they wanted to build the Dollar Store, I'd say let them, and let's stay out of the way. But since we do have a choice, I think we should keep the options open.

In the meantime we are rebuilding 7th St, next year, (I think), and will likely get a Round-a-bout at 7th and Grand, Let's widen Hwy 20 while we have the chance and put in a narrow Blvd. from Tino's to the tracks or 14th? As we continue West we should consider that theme for Hwy 20.

Traffic flow, ample parking and as much aesthetic beauty down the Avenue is going to improve the appearance and the attitudes about our City.

So what do you think??

Open Carry in Wisconsin

2009-05-21T22:50:00.002-05:00

We may have to wait until we get rid of Jim Doyle before we have concealed carry in Wisconsin. But unabated open carry is a move in the right direction.

Why shouldn’t a home owner be able to openly carry a gun on his body while working in the yard? Sounds like a good way to warn would be invader criminal types that they would be in a heap of trouble should they decide to come on over uninvited.

Why shouldn’t a store owner be able to openly carry a gun on his body while working around the store. Again, a nice warning should anyone have misguided thoughts about removing cash from his cash register.

Mayor Jim Smith went ballistic some 10 years ago when a private citizen went shopping with a holstered gun on his hip. Had him arrested for disorderly conduct.

Will the new Mayor John Dickert be able to keep his cools should Racine citizens decide to exercise their rights to openly carry weapons in protection of their persons and property? Or just because they want to wear one for ornamentation?

If he just went on about business and gave it no-mind, it would get him a star on my chart.

UNIT goes Historical!!

2009-05-21T15:25:00.004-05:00

Today's JT informs us that our community is about to propose/ impose an Historic district Just South of the Downtown section of the City. As a long time resident of the district I can tell you I am thrilled that the City will be eliminating my property taxes completely in exchange for a "Slavery" agreement where my neighbors and I agree to submit our window plans, Door requests, color chips, and Siding materials before a new nebulous board, which will determine if I am compliant with the Central Planning commission". BTW the city hasn't proposed eliminating property taxes, despite the fact that they wish to invade our property with new regulations, thus denying our Liberty, we should fight back. if you have ever seen some of the nightmares people go thru in theses Historic districts around the country, it's tedious, expensive, and a denial of your personal Liberty.

I remember my Grand-parents telling me stories about parts of Europe back in the 70's where if you wanted to paint your door a different color, you couldn't, unless you got permission from City Hall. I thought it was crazy..and now it's being proposed here by the Neo-Statists. With my home I have always attempted to be true to the "period" it was built, but I did that for my own pleasure, and I believed it helped keep the neighborhood in character. But I wouldn't impose the same rules on my next door neighbor.

It seems rather than killing UNIT we are giving it "Historical" powers.

Clean up the River!! Mr. Mayor??

2009-05-20T00:43:00.004-05:00

I was speaking with a friend the other day, and he told me how he had really worked hard on the Dickert campaign. I told him I was proud of his activism, and asked why he supported Dickert over Turner or Harding. His answer was that John was the only one that spoke to him about cleaning up the Root River, and he really cared about the environment! I said well that was great why does John, or you or anyone else have to go knocking on doors, or chanting at rally's or waving signs, just to elect a guy to "clean up" the River.. It seems to me that the same amount of energy would've probably cleaned up the river pretty nicely. A month ago!!

So to all of you who want to "clean up" the Root River, or North Beach, or the nearest City park to your house...GO DO IT...Let me know what day, and I'll show up if I can. We don't need to Charge the Taxpayers, to hire a company or add more burden to the Park's Dept, or the DNR, to go clean up some litter. Also a little finger wagging at the some of the folks who treat our city like it's their personal trash barrel. (In case your wondering..yes I have, finger waved and yelled! Often!)

Here's other things we can all do to make Racine a better place, Urban Gardening....just picking up loose trash and throwing it in a basket. no taxpayer cost at all. Just your "Liberty" at work.

Random Thoughts

2009-05-19T21:18:00.003-05:00

First Thought: I have sent out invitations to several additional Bloggers whose opinions and commentary will posted on this page too. Readers please remember all of the commentary is from individuals.

Second thought: I read with interest on Denis' blog freeracine.blogspot.com where he discussed Efficient City Govt. And the proposal of Alderman Mozol regarding extending the term of Alderman to 3 years from the current 2. I agree with Denis that this is something we should fight. Taking even more power (Liberty) from the voter is another chip at our Govt. by the people.

3rd: Still trying to weigh my opinion on the SCJ issue where the Company managed to get property tax exemption for the historic area at 16th and Howe, and several of the Buildings. On the one hand if it's good for business (and Liberty) to have lower taxes, maybe we should offer the same deal to ALL of the business owners in Racine! If on the other hand I find out there was a quid pro Quo with with Gov. Doyle, and KRM or something else, I'll become very wary.

4th: Librarian shortage in the schools?? Why can't some of the parents , especially those who may be unemployed, VOLUNTEER for those jobs?? RUSD can not afford to buy more Librarians right now...I'm not against kids, schools or reading, but come on, there is somewhere a few extra employees to fill those jobs, and if not this is exactly the kind of thing Volunteers should jump in to do! I like how some commenter was appalled that we had money for Tennis Courts but not Librarians. I could respond several ways, but the first is that Tennis Courts don't get health care or retirement benefits paid for by the taxpayers. But secondly the reason we have Tennis Courts is Somebody else "Whined", and your School board fell for the "It's for the Kids", line. Maybe when the school tennis courts need to be repaired next time, we wait until we have a volunteer, or we plow them under. Is a Tennis degree currently being offered in RUSD?

Welcome to LiberTEA Racine

2009-05-14T20:35:00.002-05:00

Welcome to LiberTEA Racine.

I'd like to thank all of the people who helped me take an idea and turn it into something real. It is the goal of all us at LR to raise awareness to the "Disease" that is "killing" Freedom everyday in Racine, America and around the world. Our Liberty's are being attacked one by one as the government grows at all levels. I have been chomping to get this site running for weeks now. In just the past few weeks our Common Council members killed a small Liquor store and pantry from joining our community to sell legal products legally, in a building where the landlord was supportive! Our Common council knows better? A vacant building is a better deal for the city? Today the State of Wisconsin passed a law crushing the Liberty of a business to decide whether it's customers should have the freedom to smoke or not smoke. President Obama fired the President of GM, and is in the process of turning the majority stock holding to the Unions that created the demise of Chrysler. Had Chrysler had the Liberty to actually make cars that their market research said the people wanted to buy, Chrysler today wouldn't be turning into a Govt. Agency! Mr. president have you ever had a job selling ANYTHING that wasn't a Govt. Agency??

These are just a few of the items that seem to come along everyday, week, or month. LR doesn't believe we can stop all of the fights against Govt. and Nanny state intervention, but we can be a forum for discussion and a group that advocates change, and then takes action at the local level to make change real!

Over the next few weeks we have in place a Website, and will use this Blogsite to welcome commentary from anyone interested in sharing their thoughts. We will also have 6 regular contributors, and we are considering offering "guest" contributors as well.

LiberTEA Racine is a group of concerned Racine area citizens dedicated to preserving and recovering our liberties from the near constant encroachment by government. We are an issue driven, active and non-partisan organization focusing on local issues that concern our liberties.

I'd also like to thank Denis and the TEA Party in Racine for the inspiration to "Do Something!"
Denis also directed me to the following quote:
"Democracy is two wolves and a lamb voting on what to have for lunch.
Liberty is a well-armed lamb contesting the vote." -Benjamin Franklin

LR will have a group of contributors, as well as an investigative newshound or 2, looking for the News the JT and the local radio station don't cover. We will focus primarily on issues in the City, and County of Racine, with additional coverage of issues in the surrounding villages. LR knows Racine is not the Liberty haven we would like, but our surrounding neighbors are very supportive, and we ask for and will offer our help on their issues, too.

Liberty Racine is not a "Rent-a-Mob" that shows up around a statue every week shouting Jesse Jackson chants. But we do believe our voices are being ignored, and maybe it's our own fault. To change that we will have about every 2 weeks an "Action Call". No you don't have to ride on horseback thru the city at night...but instead we'll post the issue, and the appropriate contact people, (Alderman, Mayor, County Super. or County Executive, and on occasion Lehman, Turner, Mason, Vos, and even the Gov. ). It is our goal to make it so easy you can "Do Something" in five minutes..you don't even have to get out of your jammies!! A phone call or a quick e-mail. If you know a friend who would benefit from our "service" have them send LR an e-mail, and we will include it in the broadcast.

At this time this is a voluntary, unpaid, act of conscience, there is no charge to subscribe, nor any commitment to act, but you have your conscience's too;^).

This is a non-partisan group focus on winning achievable Liberty issues.

My Grand-parents gave me a free America, I owe it to my Grand-children to leave the "campsite" in better shape than I found it!! Keep America Free!