6/30/2008
Your voice should be heard
Your voice should be heard on the matter of Councilwoman Doris Minton-McNeill. If we so not speak up on this issue, it may fall to the way side like the Monroe Gray issue has. You can contact the whole city council at: http://www.indygov.org/eGov/Council/contactus.htm This will go to the secretary of the council and she does print it off and gives it to every council person. Its up to you.
Are we any worst off then our parents?
While reading the story in the Indianapolis Star today (Poll: Concern rises with gasoline prices) got to thinking about my parents and the way they lived or should I say we lived.
I grew up outside a small town in central Indiana on what started out to be a 115 acre farm. It was located about 35 miles east of Indy but I only remember being here once in my teen years. They sold off 15 acres so they could have that farm paid off in full. We worked 7 days a week, 365 days a year. (Milk cows and other animals did not take vacations.)
I can not remember eating out in a restaurant except maybe one or two times a year. And that was combined with other activities of farming. Gas was used for tractors not to be put into the car for just running around. I can remember weeks at a time that we did not leave the home place.
I had two older brothers so new cloths were very few and far between. I had two pairs of shoes. One good and one for “everyday”. Once a year those everyday shoes were replaced by a new pair of good shoes for school. If we wanted to listen to music, we just turn that little knob on the used radio that we got at an auction. We made most of our own toys. I remember making guns out of wood alone with bow and arrows. When mom and dad went Christmas shopping, you can be what they got each other was something that they could use. But they always came up with some toys for us boys. I remember a train set that I still have that was made in 1954.
Are we really worst off then those before us or are we just use to getting what we want, when we want it?
I grew up outside a small town in central Indiana on what started out to be a 115 acre farm. It was located about 35 miles east of Indy but I only remember being here once in my teen years. They sold off 15 acres so they could have that farm paid off in full. We worked 7 days a week, 365 days a year. (Milk cows and other animals did not take vacations.)
I can not remember eating out in a restaurant except maybe one or two times a year. And that was combined with other activities of farming. Gas was used for tractors not to be put into the car for just running around. I can remember weeks at a time that we did not leave the home place.
I had two older brothers so new cloths were very few and far between. I had two pairs of shoes. One good and one for “everyday”. Once a year those everyday shoes were replaced by a new pair of good shoes for school. If we wanted to listen to music, we just turn that little knob on the used radio that we got at an auction. We made most of our own toys. I remember making guns out of wood alone with bow and arrows. When mom and dad went Christmas shopping, you can be what they got each other was something that they could use. But they always came up with some toys for us boys. I remember a train set that I still have that was made in 1954.
Are we really worst off then those before us or are we just use to getting what we want, when we want it?
6/29/2008
Clinton supporters?
Fla. — Vandals have spray-painted 60 city vehicles in Orlando, Fla., some with messages against Sen. Barack Obama.
The cars were parked across from city hall late Saturday night. Investigators say the culprits tagged notes such as "Obama smokes crack" and a racial epithet. They even left business cards on each vehicle.
The cars were parked across from city hall late Saturday night. Investigators say the culprits tagged notes such as "Obama smokes crack" and a racial epithet. They even left business cards on each vehicle.
Witness Mike Lowe first told police about the damage. He saw three cars with anti-Obama messages, while the others were just heavily painted.
The business cards disparage both Obama and Sen. John McCain but have messages of support for Sen. Hillary Clinton.
Police also found that many of the vehicles had open gas tanks.
6/27/2008
July 4, 2008
Well July 4th week end is fast approaching with little or no mention of the tax protest that was planned at the governor resident located on Meridian Street in Indianapolis. Will there be anyone show up this time?
I remember last year there were enough tax protester that formed up and walked to the Governor’s resident, they had a police escort. They closed off Meridian Street and called in more units. But this year I have seen very little posted on blogs or even a mention in the Indy forms about this one with makes me believe that it will not be as before. But I will be there even if there are ten or one hundred.
I remember last year there were enough tax protester that formed up and walked to the Governor’s resident, they had a police escort. They closed off Meridian Street and called in more units. But this year I have seen very little posted on blogs or even a mention in the Indy forms about this one with makes me believe that it will not be as before. But I will be there even if there are ten or one hundred.
Second Amendment still in affect
As you all know the Supreme Court ruled to strike down the D.C. ordinance banning the possession of handguns. This is one great day for Americans because the Constitution gives us this right to have and bear arms. But some disagree with this.
In Chicago, Ill. Jennifer Hoyle said. “In the sense the Supreme Court has found this is an individual right to bear arms, we recognize the ruling is significant threat. It gives people an opening to challenged the ordinance in a way it hasn’t been challenged in may years.” What “threat” does the Constitution offer Ms. Hoyle?
You have got your ban of guns in Chicago but let you can not explain why 27 students were killed by gun fire since September. All you have done is taken guns out of the hands of the lawful citizens. “I’m still trying to figure out who we are more in love with, our children or our guns." No we are more in love with the rights of law bidding citizens.
In San Francisco, Ca. Mayor Newsom said the ruling “just flies in the face or reality. “You just wish the Supreme court could spend a week in public housing and then come out with this decision.”
Mayor Newsom, are you trying to tell us that the people who lives in public housing shops at the local gun store? Do they do all the necessary paper work and get permits for them? Or do they buy, sell and trade among their selves with no regard to law? Put all the gun bans you want and the only thing you will do is take guns away from people who wants protection. The criminal will laugh at you.
In Chicago, Ill. Jennifer Hoyle said. “In the sense the Supreme Court has found this is an individual right to bear arms, we recognize the ruling is significant threat. It gives people an opening to challenged the ordinance in a way it hasn’t been challenged in may years.” What “threat” does the Constitution offer Ms. Hoyle?
You have got your ban of guns in Chicago but let you can not explain why 27 students were killed by gun fire since September. All you have done is taken guns out of the hands of the lawful citizens. “I’m still trying to figure out who we are more in love with, our children or our guns." No we are more in love with the rights of law bidding citizens.
In San Francisco, Ca. Mayor Newsom said the ruling “just flies in the face or reality. “You just wish the Supreme court could spend a week in public housing and then come out with this decision.”
Mayor Newsom, are you trying to tell us that the people who lives in public housing shops at the local gun store? Do they do all the necessary paper work and get permits for them? Or do they buy, sell and trade among their selves with no regard to law? Put all the gun bans you want and the only thing you will do is take guns away from people who wants protection. The criminal will laugh at you.
6/25/2008
I want to go to the Mall
Muncie Indiana
A 7-year-old boy drove his grandmother's car more than a mile to a shopping mall before another motorist blocked the car and took the keys, police said.
Several motorists called police around 9 a.m. Tuesday to report a small child driving toward Muncie Mall on the Indiana city's north side. The boy was so small that some motorists could not see anyone behind the wheel, Police Chief Deborah Davis said.
"I'm kind of amazed at the whole thing," she said. Matthew Sands of Hartford City said he followed the Geo Tracker into the mall parking lot and tried to block the boy from leaving as he drove into some bushes and a tree. Sands said the boy backed the car into his vehicle before he was able to get the keys away from him. "He was awful small to be driving," said Sands.
Child welfare workers were called to investigate the case, Davis said. She did not immediately know whether the boy was returned to his family.
http://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,371084,00.html
A 7-year-old boy drove his grandmother's car more than a mile to a shopping mall before another motorist blocked the car and took the keys, police said.
Several motorists called police around 9 a.m. Tuesday to report a small child driving toward Muncie Mall on the Indiana city's north side. The boy was so small that some motorists could not see anyone behind the wheel, Police Chief Deborah Davis said.
"I'm kind of amazed at the whole thing," she said. Matthew Sands of Hartford City said he followed the Geo Tracker into the mall parking lot and tried to block the boy from leaving as he drove into some bushes and a tree. Sands said the boy backed the car into his vehicle before he was able to get the keys away from him. "He was awful small to be driving," said Sands.
Child welfare workers were called to investigate the case, Davis said. She did not immediately know whether the boy was returned to his family.
http://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,371084,00.html
6/24/2008
YOU CAN'T ARREST ME
“You’re arrogant and I don’t like you, you aint here to help me. You are a racist motherF$%er like all of the rest. You guys are a bunch of racist MotherF&*kers, you aint here to help”
Where did these words come from? Arresting a gang member? Arresting someone that was a convicted felon? No it is from one of our city counselor members, City-County Councilor Doris Minton-McNeil's. You can read the arrest report here: http://wxnt.radiotown.com/DorisMcNeilIMPDArrestDoc.pdf
In another part of this report it stated the McNeil “Continued to be disorderly and yelled to the them names of officials that she knew and demanded that we contact them” It would be interesting to know who’s names she was yelling for them to contact. She continued to yell Racial slurs at the officers and stated “All the white officers on this Fuc&^ department are racists” She “repeatedly yelled that she was a city county council member and that officers were not allowed to arrest her.”
There may have been sexual abuse that happens some time ago. But doing the interview with the child when asked if it had happen today the child responded “no it happen with I was a baby, I’m just saying what mom told me to.”
Councilor Doris Minton-McNeil's also said she was not drunk but she refused a portable breath test. She stated “I changed my mind, I aint taking no test cause I aint Drunk.”
Also it stated that when arrived at the APC, she had urinated in her pants and in the wagon.
Even if the charges do not play out, is this the kind of person that we want on our city council? You notice that I had to even edit the police report because of her language. Is this the kind of person we want to set an example for our kids? How can the democrats on the council defend such action? How come only white officers are racist? It sounds like there may be some racist comments on her side. I know there is a strong reaction by both parties to protect their own, but there comes a time to stop playing politics and do what is right.
Lets not let this become another Monroe Gray issue.
Where did these words come from? Arresting a gang member? Arresting someone that was a convicted felon? No it is from one of our city counselor members, City-County Councilor Doris Minton-McNeil's. You can read the arrest report here: http://wxnt.radiotown.com/DorisMcNeilIMPDArrestDoc.pdf
In another part of this report it stated the McNeil “Continued to be disorderly and yelled to the them names of officials that she knew and demanded that we contact them” It would be interesting to know who’s names she was yelling for them to contact. She continued to yell Racial slurs at the officers and stated “All the white officers on this Fuc&^ department are racists” She “repeatedly yelled that she was a city county council member and that officers were not allowed to arrest her.”
There may have been sexual abuse that happens some time ago. But doing the interview with the child when asked if it had happen today the child responded “no it happen with I was a baby, I’m just saying what mom told me to.”
Councilor Doris Minton-McNeil's also said she was not drunk but she refused a portable breath test. She stated “I changed my mind, I aint taking no test cause I aint Drunk.”
Also it stated that when arrived at the APC, she had urinated in her pants and in the wagon.
Even if the charges do not play out, is this the kind of person that we want on our city council? You notice that I had to even edit the police report because of her language. Is this the kind of person we want to set an example for our kids? How can the democrats on the council defend such action? How come only white officers are racist? It sounds like there may be some racist comments on her side. I know there is a strong reaction by both parties to protect their own, but there comes a time to stop playing politics and do what is right.
Lets not let this become another Monroe Gray issue.
6/23/2008
Council Brown blast republicans.
8:30pm
Proposal 187 was brought up before the council with turn into a heated debate between councilors. 187 is concerning the reduction of the Marion city county tax that was passed last year which the citizens protested.
Legal advisor Mr. Elrod said he was not sure that state law would permit this to happen.
Councilor Brown point out that the state has taken over responsibility of certain finical responsibility that concerned this tax.
“WHEREAS, the legislature has enacted pension relief that allows the members of the Marion County Income Tax Council to return to the tax paying renters, home owners and businesses in Marion County, who were asked to pay the new taxes, the relief offered by the legislature’s action”
I could tell that Councilor Brown really enjoyed this debate since he voted for this tax raise while most republicans voted against it and made a political issue of it as we all know.
There was a vote to cut off debate on the issue by a vote of 15 to 13. And a vote of 16 to 12 to send it back to committee. It will be put back on the committee docket for July 22.
Councilor Ben Hunter and Councilor Lutz said they voted against cutting off debate but said they wanted it to go back to committee for more study.
Now the question: If this tax important to the citizens before the election, is it as important to us now. Will the citizens show up at any committee meetings on this issue. Councilor Brown again said that is was the right thing to do.
The question I have for the councilors who want to revisit this issue is why did you vote no to paying our property taxes in installments?
Proposal 187 was brought up before the council with turn into a heated debate between councilors. 187 is concerning the reduction of the Marion city county tax that was passed last year which the citizens protested.
Legal advisor Mr. Elrod said he was not sure that state law would permit this to happen.
Councilor Brown point out that the state has taken over responsibility of certain finical responsibility that concerned this tax.
“WHEREAS, the legislature has enacted pension relief that allows the members of the Marion County Income Tax Council to return to the tax paying renters, home owners and businesses in Marion County, who were asked to pay the new taxes, the relief offered by the legislature’s action”
I could tell that Councilor Brown really enjoyed this debate since he voted for this tax raise while most republicans voted against it and made a political issue of it as we all know.
There was a vote to cut off debate on the issue by a vote of 15 to 13. And a vote of 16 to 12 to send it back to committee. It will be put back on the committee docket for July 22.
Councilor Ben Hunter and Councilor Lutz said they voted against cutting off debate but said they wanted it to go back to committee for more study.
Now the question: If this tax important to the citizens before the election, is it as important to us now. Will the citizens show up at any committee meetings on this issue. Councilor Brown again said that is was the right thing to do.
The question I have for the councilors who want to revisit this issue is why did you vote no to paying our property taxes in installments?
Democrats say sorry, pay up
7:23 pm. The republicans tried to bring a proposal up that would have made it possible for you to make payments on your make up bill for 2007 property taxes
Both parties voted party lines and the republicans were unable to bring this proposal in front of the council. Council Pryor said the city needs our money to keep government running. Council Sander said there was a plan for people in need to make payments. Council Nytes was in agreement with Pryor and Sanders.
So I ask the democrats this question: The democrat party is always saying they are for the working people in Indianapolis. How is denying this proposal to voted on tonight being in the benefit of the working class people?
So what we have here with the democrats on the council is sorry, no matter how much people are hurting, pay up. Never mind that some who will not be able to pay that make up payment on time, will get 10% added to their bills. I can see more houses going on the market.
Both parties voted party lines and the republicans were unable to bring this proposal in front of the council. Council Pryor said the city needs our money to keep government running. Council Sander said there was a plan for people in need to make payments. Council Nytes was in agreement with Pryor and Sanders.
So I ask the democrats this question: The democrat party is always saying they are for the working people in Indianapolis. How is denying this proposal to voted on tonight being in the benefit of the working class people?
So what we have here with the democrats on the council is sorry, no matter how much people are hurting, pay up. Never mind that some who will not be able to pay that make up payment on time, will get 10% added to their bills. I can see more houses going on the market.
City Council
City-County Councilwoman Doris Minton-McNeill was arrested is only the start of this story. Many details are coming out as Monday morning.It seems that this council woman thinks that since she is on the city council, she was above arrest with the very same statement to the police. She also refused to take a breathalyzer test. One of the officer was treated at the hospital.
She made a point to tell the police involved how racist all white officer were that was on the Indianapolis police department. Minton-McNeill is an administrative assistant with Indianapolis Public Schools. It is also reported that she lost bladder control on the way to jail.
As reported by Advance Indiana, Marion Co. GOP Chairman Tom John released a statement this evening calling for Minton-McNeil's resignation from the council. Here's his statement:
"We are deeply saddened that once again a Democrat member of the City-County Council has shown such public comtempt for law enforcement and disregard for the laws of our great city and the State of Indiana. The citizens of Indianapolis demand leaders who are servants of the law, not people who think they are above it. Doris Minton-McNeill should immediately resign her seat on the City-County Council. I also call upon Democrat leaders such as Minority Leader Joanne Sanders and Marion County Treasurer Mike Rodman to join us in our call for Minton-McNeill to resign. They failed to act before when people like Monroe Gray felt they were above the law. I sincerely hope they act now that such a situation is unfortunately occurring once again."
Be prepared to hear everything from this is because she is black, she is a democrat that usually follows this type of news. I hope that our city council do not lag in action as they have done in the pass of this kind of actions by one of its members. I hope that the citizens do not lag in action like they did in the Monroe Gray issue. This will show us if the "Ballard rules" and the new city council will hold their members up to accountability. There is a city council metting tonight at 7pm.
Ohio Expands Right to Self-Defense
This week, Ohio Governor Ted Strickland (D) signed NRA-backed “Castle Doctrine” legislation into law to expand the self-defense rights of law-abiding citizens. SB 184, sponsored by State Senator Steve Buehrer (R-1), protects the rights of innocent victims to defend themselves from criminal attack, while expanding the rights of concealed-carry permit holders. Please be aware that this law will not take affect until ninety days.
“I want to thank all parties concerned for working together to make this victims’ rights bill the law in Ohio,” said NRA-ILA Executive Director Chris W. Cox. “When you’re confronted by a criminal, you don't have the luxury of time. Under the ‘Castle Doctrine’ provision, if someone breaks into your occupied home or temporary habitation, or your occupied car, you now have an initial presumption that you may act in self-defense and you will not be second-guessed by the state. The ability to protect yourself and your family from harm is important no matter where you are.”
Also included in SB 184 are several pro-gun provisions that improve Ohio’s Right-to-Carry laws. Among these revisions are important clarifications allowing persons without a Concealed Handgun License (CHL) to legally transport firearms in an automobile and pick-up/drop-off abilities for license holders in school “safety” zones. The bill also designates mandatory legal fees for gun owners who require court orders to have firearms returned to them, decriminalizes concealed carry in privately-owned parking garages, allows CHL holders to carry a firearm in an unlocked glove compartment or center console, and removes the written test requirement for renewal of a CHL.
“I want to thank all parties concerned for working together to make this victims’ rights bill the law in Ohio,” said NRA-ILA Executive Director Chris W. Cox. “When you’re confronted by a criminal, you don't have the luxury of time. Under the ‘Castle Doctrine’ provision, if someone breaks into your occupied home or temporary habitation, or your occupied car, you now have an initial presumption that you may act in self-defense and you will not be second-guessed by the state. The ability to protect yourself and your family from harm is important no matter where you are.”
Also included in SB 184 are several pro-gun provisions that improve Ohio’s Right-to-Carry laws. Among these revisions are important clarifications allowing persons without a Concealed Handgun License (CHL) to legally transport firearms in an automobile and pick-up/drop-off abilities for license holders in school “safety” zones. The bill also designates mandatory legal fees for gun owners who require court orders to have firearms returned to them, decriminalizes concealed carry in privately-owned parking garages, allows CHL holders to carry a firearm in an unlocked glove compartment or center console, and removes the written test requirement for renewal of a CHL.
Obama and gun rights.
Based his real record, based on votes taken, political associations, and long standing positions, shows that Barack Obama is a serious threat to Second Amendment liberties.
Barack Obama voted to allow reckless lawsuits designed to bankrupt the firearms industry.1
FACT: Barack Obama wants to re-impose the failed and discredited Clinton Gun Ban.2
FACT: Barack Obama voted to ban almost all rifle ammunition commonly used for hunting and sport shooting.3
FACT: Barack Obama has endorsed a complete ban on handgun ownership.2
FACT: Barack Obama supports local gun bans in Chicago, Washington, D.C., and other cities.4
FACT: Barack Obama voted to uphold local gun bans and the criminal prosecution of people who use firearms in self-defense.5
FACT: Barack Obama supports gun owner licensing and gun registration.6
FACT: Barack Obama refused to sign a friend-of-the-court Brief in support of individual Second Amendment rights in the Heller case.
FACT: Barack Obama opposes Right to Carry laws.7
FACT: Barack Obama was a member of the Board of Directors of the Joyce Foundation, the leading source of funds for anti-gun organizations and “research.”8
FACT: Barack Obama supported a proposal to ban gun stores within 5 miles of a school or park, which would eliminate almost every gun store in America.9
FACT: Barack Obama voted not to notify gun owners when the state of Illinois did records searches on them.10
FACT: Barack Obama voted against a measure to lower the Firearms Owners Identification card age minimum from 21 to 18, a measure designed to assist young people in the military.11
FACT: Barack Obama favors a ban on standard capacity magazines.12
FACT: Barack Obama supports mandatory micro-stamping.13
FACT: Barack Obama supports mandatory waiting periods.2
FACT: Barack Obama supports repeal of the Tiahrt Amendment, which prohibits information on gun traces collected by the BATFE from being used in reckless lawsuits against firearm dealers and manufacturers.14
FACT: Barack Obama supports one-gun-a-month sales restrictions.9
FACT: Barack Obama supports a ban on inexpensive handguns.9
FACT: Barack Obama supports a ban on the resale of police issued firearms, even if the money is going to police departments for replacement equipment.9
FACT: Barack Obama supports mandatory firearm training requirements for all gun owners and a ban on gun ownership for persons under the age of 21.9
http://www.nraila.org/Legislation/Read.aspx?ID=3991
Barack Obama voted to allow reckless lawsuits designed to bankrupt the firearms industry.1
FACT: Barack Obama wants to re-impose the failed and discredited Clinton Gun Ban.2
FACT: Barack Obama voted to ban almost all rifle ammunition commonly used for hunting and sport shooting.3
FACT: Barack Obama has endorsed a complete ban on handgun ownership.2
FACT: Barack Obama supports local gun bans in Chicago, Washington, D.C., and other cities.4
FACT: Barack Obama voted to uphold local gun bans and the criminal prosecution of people who use firearms in self-defense.5
FACT: Barack Obama supports gun owner licensing and gun registration.6
FACT: Barack Obama refused to sign a friend-of-the-court Brief in support of individual Second Amendment rights in the Heller case.
FACT: Barack Obama opposes Right to Carry laws.7
FACT: Barack Obama was a member of the Board of Directors of the Joyce Foundation, the leading source of funds for anti-gun organizations and “research.”8
FACT: Barack Obama supported a proposal to ban gun stores within 5 miles of a school or park, which would eliminate almost every gun store in America.9
FACT: Barack Obama voted not to notify gun owners when the state of Illinois did records searches on them.10
FACT: Barack Obama voted against a measure to lower the Firearms Owners Identification card age minimum from 21 to 18, a measure designed to assist young people in the military.11
FACT: Barack Obama favors a ban on standard capacity magazines.12
FACT: Barack Obama supports mandatory micro-stamping.13
FACT: Barack Obama supports mandatory waiting periods.2
FACT: Barack Obama supports repeal of the Tiahrt Amendment, which prohibits information on gun traces collected by the BATFE from being used in reckless lawsuits against firearm dealers and manufacturers.14
FACT: Barack Obama supports one-gun-a-month sales restrictions.9
FACT: Barack Obama supports a ban on inexpensive handguns.9
FACT: Barack Obama supports a ban on the resale of police issued firearms, even if the money is going to police departments for replacement equipment.9
FACT: Barack Obama supports mandatory firearm training requirements for all gun owners and a ban on gun ownership for persons under the age of 21.9
http://www.nraila.org/Legislation/Read.aspx?ID=3991
City-County Councilwoman arrested.
City-County Councilwoman Doris Minton-McNeill was arrested on a preliminary battery charge Sunday after a scuffle at her home with an Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department officer.
Minton-McNeill, 51, was booked at the Arrestee Processing Center in Downtown Indianapolis after being arrested about 5:30 p.m. Sunday.
When police arrived at the home in the 2000 block of Medford Avenue, they found a woman outside who appeared to be intoxicated
http://www.indystar.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080623/NEWS02/806230342
Minton-McNeill, 51, was booked at the Arrestee Processing Center in Downtown Indianapolis after being arrested about 5:30 p.m. Sunday.
When police arrived at the home in the 2000 block of Medford Avenue, they found a woman outside who appeared to be intoxicated
http://www.indystar.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080623/NEWS02/806230342
6/21/2008
National Guard to be pulled July 15
Unless our goverment acts, the Nation Guard will be pulled from the border of Mexico and the U.S.
"As many as 6000 Nation Guard was sent as back up to the Border Patrol. They used helicopters and night-vision gear to watch for people trying to slip across the border, then told Border Patrol agents where to find them. They also built roads and fences."
The mission was criticized in January 2007 after several heavily armed men approached an observation site in remote Arizona and the National Guardsmen pulled back and radioed for the Border Patrol, as instructed, instead of shooting it out.
The soldiers were also credited with saving lives. When deadly tornados struck the Texas border town of Eagle Pass in April 2007, National Guardsmen on border duty were among the first to arrive. Two Texas National Guard soldiers received a medal for risking their lives to pull a woman from the Rio Grande in 2006.
"I think peoples' minds were changed on what the guard is here for," said Texas National Guard Col. Robert Canon, who oversaw Jump Start in Texas.http://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,369761,00.html
"As many as 6000 Nation Guard was sent as back up to the Border Patrol. They used helicopters and night-vision gear to watch for people trying to slip across the border, then told Border Patrol agents where to find them. They also built roads and fences."
The mission was criticized in January 2007 after several heavily armed men approached an observation site in remote Arizona and the National Guardsmen pulled back and radioed for the Border Patrol, as instructed, instead of shooting it out.
The soldiers were also credited with saving lives. When deadly tornados struck the Texas border town of Eagle Pass in April 2007, National Guardsmen on border duty were among the first to arrive. Two Texas National Guard soldiers received a medal for risking their lives to pull a woman from the Rio Grande in 2006.
"I think peoples' minds were changed on what the guard is here for," said Texas National Guard Col. Robert Canon, who oversaw Jump Start in Texas.http://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,369761,00.html
Did the Democrats lie to us?
Has the democrats that was elected in 2004 held true? They ran on getting out of Iraq and looking into impeaching our President along with a balance budget.
Well last Thursday our democratic lead Congress passed a war funding bill along with historic increases in college aid for returning troops. The bill passed by a vote of 268 to 155 at a cost of $162 billion to fund operations in Iraq and Afghanistan well into next year. Of course we can not have a bill pass without “ad-ons at a tune of $2.7 billion.
This would also set Bush’s successor several months not to fund the wars.
They don’t seem to care how much U.S. is paying for gas in Iraq because they dropped a demand that Bush negotiate an agreement with Baghdad to subsidize the U.S. military’s fuel cost so we are not paying more then the Iraqi citizens.
Well last Thursday our democratic lead Congress passed a war funding bill along with historic increases in college aid for returning troops. The bill passed by a vote of 268 to 155 at a cost of $162 billion to fund operations in Iraq and Afghanistan well into next year. Of course we can not have a bill pass without “ad-ons at a tune of $2.7 billion.
This would also set Bush’s successor several months not to fund the wars.
They don’t seem to care how much U.S. is paying for gas in Iraq because they dropped a demand that Bush negotiate an agreement with Baghdad to subsidize the U.S. military’s fuel cost so we are not paying more then the Iraqi citizens.
Gay rights advocates to stop the peoples voices
Gay rights advocates asked California's highest court Friday to keep off the November ballot a citizens' initiative that would again ban same-sex marriage.
"This court has recognized that gay and lesbian couples have a fundamental right to marry and, as of June 16, such couples have been getting married across the state," the petition states.
So once again the gay rights advocates do not want your voice heard in this matter. The last time the state Supreme Court was asked to decide if a proposition should remain on the ballot was 2005, when it did so twice. In both decisions, the propositions were allowed to stay on the special election ballot.
Lets hope the state Supreme court denies this case once again and let the voices of the people heard once again.
"This court has recognized that gay and lesbian couples have a fundamental right to marry and, as of June 16, such couples have been getting married across the state," the petition states.
So once again the gay rights advocates do not want your voice heard in this matter. The last time the state Supreme Court was asked to decide if a proposition should remain on the ballot was 2005, when it did so twice. In both decisions, the propositions were allowed to stay on the special election ballot.
Lets hope the state Supreme court denies this case once again and let the voices of the people heard once again.
State to speed tax relief checks
But don’t look in your mailbox because it’s not to the taxpayers, it to the counties.
“The advance is meant to ease a cash-flow problem many counties are facing. The state hopes federal disaster relief funds will come to counties in the coming weeks and months, replacing any of the money spent on such things as road and sewer repairs and law enforcement overtime.
Every county will be getting a check. Marion County's share of the money is more than $99 million.”
“Sending the money early will not affect homeowners' property tax bills, which still will be reduced. Instead, it simply puts cash into the hands of counties now, while they wait to see what disaster relief they might get later in the year.”
I ask when my reduced property tax bill is going to arrive. The one I got was about 30% higher then my 2006 bill.
“The advance is meant to ease a cash-flow problem many counties are facing. The state hopes federal disaster relief funds will come to counties in the coming weeks and months, replacing any of the money spent on such things as road and sewer repairs and law enforcement overtime.
Every county will be getting a check. Marion County's share of the money is more than $99 million.”
“Sending the money early will not affect homeowners' property tax bills, which still will be reduced. Instead, it simply puts cash into the hands of counties now, while they wait to see what disaster relief they might get later in the year.”
I ask when my reduced property tax bill is going to arrive. The one I got was about 30% higher then my 2006 bill.
City to charge for working off duty.
Vernon Brown and Monroe Gray will introduce a proposal at the Monday city council a proposal to charge employers five dollars an hour extra when a company hires police officer for security.
Companies that want to hire such officers for jobs such as tavern security -- a common second job for police officers in places such as Broad Ripple -- would pay the city, which would pay the officers at a set rate per hour.
Officers not in uniform or using city assets would be free to work off-duty jobs without oversight.
Hunter said the proposal already has caused a controversy among officers. He said bars and other employers will downsize their security forces, causing on-duty officers to receive more police runs to those places.
"The proposal takes away money from the officers," Hunter said. "We may need something to offset costs, but the way this is written will decrease public safety."
Companies that want to hire such officers for jobs such as tavern security -- a common second job for police officers in places such as Broad Ripple -- would pay the city, which would pay the officers at a set rate per hour.
Officers not in uniform or using city assets would be free to work off-duty jobs without oversight.
Hunter said the proposal already has caused a controversy among officers. He said bars and other employers will downsize their security forces, causing on-duty officers to receive more police runs to those places.
"The proposal takes away money from the officers," Hunter said. "We may need something to offset costs, but the way this is written will decrease public safety."
Police seek ways to conserve
With gas prices rising, Indianapolis police officers could be asked to chip in to fuel their patrol vehicles, which they are allowed to drive for personal use under a long-standing city policy.
City-County Councilman Benjamin Hunter plans to propose a fuel surcharge for public safety officers in an effort to tackle mounting fuel budget deficits in the Indianapolis Metropolitan Police and Marion County Sheriff's departments. He said the proposal could be introduced as early as July.
http://www.indystar.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080621/LOCAL18/806210441
City-County Councilman Benjamin Hunter plans to propose a fuel surcharge for public safety officers in an effort to tackle mounting fuel budget deficits in the Indianapolis Metropolitan Police and Marion County Sheriff's departments. He said the proposal could be introduced as early as July.
http://www.indystar.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080621/LOCAL18/806210441
6/20/2008
Obamb and the pledg of Allegiance
Since some have pointing out things about the Obama and the pledge of ALLEGIANCE story, I am removing it from this blog.
6/18/2008
Muslim women banned
Two Muslim women were prohibited from sitting behind the podium at Barack Obama’s Monday rally in Detroit, apparently so their headscarves would not appear in photographs with him, according to a report Wednesday in the Politico.com.
The Washington-based Web site reported that Obama campaign volunteers said the women could not wear the hijabs behind the candidate, though they gave different reasons for the rule.
One volunteer said that one of the women could not be seen on TV with Obama “because of the political climate and what’s going on in the world and what’s going on with Muslim Americans,” according to the Muslim woman’s friend.
The other volunteer gave a less political explanation to the other woman, according to the article, claiming nobody with any kind of headpiece could sit behind the stage.
Both women said they were disappointed by the treatment they received at the rally, and the Obama campaign later apologized, according to The Politico.
http://elections.foxnews.com/2008/06/18/report-muslim-women-in-headscarves-banned-from-obama-photo-op/
The Washington-based Web site reported that Obama campaign volunteers said the women could not wear the hijabs behind the candidate, though they gave different reasons for the rule.
One volunteer said that one of the women could not be seen on TV with Obama “because of the political climate and what’s going on in the world and what’s going on with Muslim Americans,” according to the Muslim woman’s friend.
The other volunteer gave a less political explanation to the other woman, according to the article, claiming nobody with any kind of headpiece could sit behind the stage.
Both women said they were disappointed by the treatment they received at the rally, and the Obama campaign later apologized, according to The Politico.
http://elections.foxnews.com/2008/06/18/report-muslim-women-in-headscarves-banned-from-obama-photo-op/
6/17/2008
Why is Greg Ballard Mayor.
Watch this video and you will find out.
In the second part of our “Day in the Life” series, Seth Hancock shows you a very personal side of the mayor of Indianapolis. Mayor Gregory Ballard opens up and discusses his life, the Marines, his aversion to the curve ball and his passion for Indy.
http://www.indy.org/indianapolis/web/jsp/podcast/podcast.jsp?channel=9295145&episode=12971081&m=v&p=1&x=1213371375958
In the second part of our “Day in the Life” series, Seth Hancock shows you a very personal side of the mayor of Indianapolis. Mayor Gregory Ballard opens up and discusses his life, the Marines, his aversion to the curve ball and his passion for Indy.
http://www.indy.org/indianapolis/web/jsp/podcast/podcast.jsp?channel=9295145&episode=12971081&m=v&p=1&x=1213371375958
Home owners upset with taxes
As I was looking over my own property tax bills from 2004 to the present, I fine that they have gone up each year.
2004 Tax Bill = $988
2005 $1010
2006 $1024
2007 First bill $1530
2007 real bill $1437
So that is $413 more then my 2006 taxes. As I understand it it will be about the same next year then drop to $1003. when the 1% cap is applied. Is there a rebate on its way for next year?
All of this and we are paying the new 1% sales tax for property tax "relief". In effect, I will be paying the same bill in 2009 as I am in 2007. The only difference will be, it will be two taxes instead of one.
Lets take a full view of this. It will take two years for the cap to take affect. Then we will have the one percent cap in place. But the does not mean that your taxes will not go up by reassessment. There is still work to be done. I hope everyone shows at the July 4th "talks" at the Governor mansion. I plan on being there and I hope to see you there.
2004 Tax Bill = $988
2005 $1010
2006 $1024
2007 First bill $1530
2007 real bill $1437
So that is $413 more then my 2006 taxes. As I understand it it will be about the same next year then drop to $1003. when the 1% cap is applied. Is there a rebate on its way for next year?
All of this and we are paying the new 1% sales tax for property tax "relief". In effect, I will be paying the same bill in 2009 as I am in 2007. The only difference will be, it will be two taxes instead of one.
Lets take a full view of this. It will take two years for the cap to take affect. Then we will have the one percent cap in place. But the does not mean that your taxes will not go up by reassessment. There is still work to be done. I hope everyone shows at the July 4th "talks" at the Governor mansion. I plan on being there and I hope to see you there.
6/16/2008
Indiana Fraternal Order of Police Endorses Daniels
The Fraternal Order of Police of Indiana (FOP), representing 14,000 law enforcement officers and their families, endorsed Governor Mitch Daniels today for re-election.
"Governor Daniels has earned the respect and support of those of us who work in law enforcement and public safety and his door has always been open to us," FOP President Tim Downs said. "Mitch Daniels has worked hard to develop strong and effective relationships with law enforcement and he's always responded to our needs. The FOP appreciates Governor Daniels' leadership and we enthusiastically support his re-election."
"I have been reminded several times in recent days of the service and sacrifice law enforcement officers and public safety officials make on a daily basis for their fellow citizens," Daniels said. "In the past several weeks, parts of our state have been hit hard by bad weather, and, of course, police officers, along with other first responders, are always on the scene, often risking their own safety, to help their fellow Hoosiers. I look forward to continuing to work with the FOP in the years to come."
"Governor Daniels has earned the respect and support of those of us who work in law enforcement and public safety and his door has always been open to us," FOP President Tim Downs said. "Mitch Daniels has worked hard to develop strong and effective relationships with law enforcement and he's always responded to our needs. The FOP appreciates Governor Daniels' leadership and we enthusiastically support his re-election."
"I have been reminded several times in recent days of the service and sacrifice law enforcement officers and public safety officials make on a daily basis for their fellow citizens," Daniels said. "In the past several weeks, parts of our state have been hit hard by bad weather, and, of course, police officers, along with other first responders, are always on the scene, often risking their own safety, to help their fellow Hoosiers. I look forward to continuing to work with the FOP in the years to come."
No Gas bill for our policeman.
If you are a policeman in the city of Indianapolis should you be worried about the price of gas? You stop at the service station and fill up at taxpayers expense. Granted, some days they will issue tickets or go on a run when there is not any other officer to do so but with gasoline at $4.16, should we be supplying gas for that officer to do personal business or go visit Grandma on the week-end?
Its time for the city to look at having the policeman who gets to take home his or her car to kick in on some of the gas that they use when off duty and not doing police work. I know that some of them goes to court on their days off, which I say OK, we will pay for that gasoline. But to pay for 100% of the gasoline while off duty, its time to make a change.
Last May in Evansville, the city said “The price of gas is no secret and we cannot absorb those costs anymore” Officers with take home vehicles who live within the city will pay $25.00 per two week pay period while those in the county but outside the city limits will pay $35.00 Those officers that live outside of the county will no longer be allowed to have take-home cars.
Also officer will no longer be allowed to have children under the age of 18 in their take home cars unless they are dropping the child off on the way to or from work. Also the mileage of off duty driving would be monitored on the vehicles. http://www.courierpress.com/news/2008/may/09/fuel-costs-force-change-epd-take-home-car-policy/
Maybe the city of Indianapolis should look into this same plan here to keep the take home car at a reasonable cost to both the taxpayer and the officers.
6/15/2008
The truth about Bush's tax cuts
As you know, the democrats in Congress refuses to support the renewing of Bush's tax cuts. Do you really know what this means to the average taxpayer? Well I have news for you. If we let this happen most of us will be paying more when it comes April 15. Here are a few examples
If your taxable income is 0 to $43,050 you would be in the 15% tax rate in 2000. Under Bush's tax cuts this goes down to 10%.
If your taxable income is $43,051 to $104051 in 2000 your rate was 28% under Bush's tax cuts this would drop to 15%.
The top, those making the top money would drop from 39.6% to 33%.
So the next time you talk to a democrat, ask them why they are raising our Federal taxes next year. See what they answer then show them the facts.
If your taxable income is 0 to $43,050 you would be in the 15% tax rate in 2000. Under Bush's tax cuts this goes down to 10%.
If your taxable income is $43,051 to $104051 in 2000 your rate was 28% under Bush's tax cuts this would drop to 15%.
The top, those making the top money would drop from 39.6% to 33%.
So the next time you talk to a democrat, ask them why they are raising our Federal taxes next year. See what they answer then show them the facts.
6/14/2008
Gay Pride day
Well, how should I say this? I took a ride downtown today to see how many took part in the “Gay Pride” day in Indianapolis. For the size of Military Park there seem to be only a small number of people there. Of course it was early and the Parade was just getting over with. Speaking of the parade, I did see one float, with this 200 lb guy dress as a woman with a blond wig on, waving to people. There seem to be more women there than men. Of course there will be those who disagree with me about the number of people who attend. How they come up with a number, I will never know.
I stop by the circle for a break and a couple of tourist from Lexington Ky. They ask me what was going on up the street. I told them that it was Gay pride day in Indy. They rolled their eyes and said “You are kidding, right” No I am not kidding was my answer.
A couple of facts did stand out of how many companies were there. I saw a Subway stand and a Star Buck coffee had a stand. I am sure others were there also. Another fact that I did not see what most of us would think of such an event was that there was no “display” of affection. The most I saw was two young women holding hands walking down the street. So in part, I would say that the people there did hold to being out in public.
So goes another year. But what I did not see that stood out the most to me. There were no churches there tying to convert any of the people. Another sign of our times.
I stop by the circle for a break and a couple of tourist from Lexington Ky. They ask me what was going on up the street. I told them that it was Gay pride day in Indy. They rolled their eyes and said “You are kidding, right” No I am not kidding was my answer.
A couple of facts did stand out of how many companies were there. I saw a Subway stand and a Star Buck coffee had a stand. I am sure others were there also. Another fact that I did not see what most of us would think of such an event was that there was no “display” of affection. The most I saw was two young women holding hands walking down the street. So in part, I would say that the people there did hold to being out in public.
So goes another year. But what I did not see that stood out the most to me. There were no churches there tying to convert any of the people. Another sign of our times.
Ford may lay off more workers
Managers told union officials Friday that the company will have to further reduce its factory work force in the coming months.
"The slumping U.S. economy has cut U.S. auto sales by 8 percent during the first five months of the year, but it's been a double hit on Ford, General Motors Corp. and Chrysler LLC as consumers shun their high-profit pickup trucks and sport utility vehicles for more fuel-efficient models as they cope with $4 per gallon gasoline." http://ap.indystar.com/dynamic/stories/F/FORD_FACTORIES?SITE=ININS&SECTION=HOME&TEMPLATE=DEFAULT
Anyone want to buy a big SUV or one of those huge Motor Homes? I bet you could get a great deal on them today.
"The slumping U.S. economy has cut U.S. auto sales by 8 percent during the first five months of the year, but it's been a double hit on Ford, General Motors Corp. and Chrysler LLC as consumers shun their high-profit pickup trucks and sport utility vehicles for more fuel-efficient models as they cope with $4 per gallon gasoline." http://ap.indystar.com/dynamic/stories/F/FORD_FACTORIES?SITE=ININS&SECTION=HOME&TEMPLATE=DEFAULT
Anyone want to buy a big SUV or one of those huge Motor Homes? I bet you could get a great deal on them today.
Freddie Mac posted a loss of $3.1 billion last year
And they lost $151 million in the first quarter of this year. Freddie Mac, like its larger government-sponsored sibling, Fannie Mae, buys home loans from banks and lenders, packages the loans into bonds, and sells the bonds to investors. Since investors assume the government would not let Fannie and Freddie fail, the companies are able to raise money more cheaply than other banks and lenders.
Investors are afraid that this company is heading towards a government bail out. Lawmakers are considering legislation that tightens regulation of Fannie and Freddie, as part of a broad housing package that includes a $300 billion foreclosure prevention program. The House passed its version last month. Senate leaders say they want to vote by July. http://ap.indystar.com/dynamic/stories/F/FREDDIE_MAC_OUTLOOK?SITE=ININS&SECTION=HOME&TEMPLATE=DEFAULT
Investors are afraid that this company is heading towards a government bail out. Lawmakers are considering legislation that tightens regulation of Fannie and Freddie, as part of a broad housing package that includes a $300 billion foreclosure prevention program. The House passed its version last month. Senate leaders say they want to vote by July. http://ap.indystar.com/dynamic/stories/F/FREDDIE_MAC_OUTLOOK?SITE=ININS&SECTION=HOME&TEMPLATE=DEFAULT
Home Foreclosure filings jumped 48% in May
261,255 homes received at least one foreclosure-related filing in May, up 48 percent from 176,137 in the same month last year and up 7 percent from April, foreclosure listing service RealtyTrac said Friday.
A Credit Suisse report from this spring predicted 6.5 million loans will fall into foreclosure over the next five years, reaching more than 8 percent of all U.S. homes.
On the local scene, Tucker said that home sales dip 15.4% in May. They also said that he average home price dropped 3.3% over the same period last year.
A Credit Suisse report from this spring predicted 6.5 million loans will fall into foreclosure over the next five years, reaching more than 8 percent of all U.S. homes.
On the local scene, Tucker said that home sales dip 15.4% in May. They also said that he average home price dropped 3.3% over the same period last year.
Ballard not to attend gay pride.
Reposted from Advance Indiana: http://www.advanceindiana.blogspot.com/
Carson Joins LGBT Equality Caucus
U.S. Rep. Andre Carson announced today on the eve of Indianapolis' Gay Pride Festival and Parade that he has become a member of the House of Representatives LGBT caucus, which was co-founded by two openly gay members of Congress, U.S. Rep. Barney Frank (D-MA) and U.S. Rep. Tammy Baldwin (D-WI). The mission of the caucus "is to achieve the extension of equal rights, the repeal of discriminatory laws, the elimination of hate-motivated violence, and the improved health and well being for all, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity or expression." “It is indeed an honor and great privilege for me to serve as a member of the LGBT Equality Caucus,” said Congressman André Carson. “Working to ensure that no American is discriminated against because of their sexual orientation or gender is something that I take very seriously in my role as an elected official.” “I welcome Andre Carson’s participation in this caucus, and I appreciate his commitment to achieving equality for all Americans,” said Rep. Barney Frank.Rep. Frank chairs the House Committee on Financial Services on which Carson also sits as a member. Carson's addition to the LGBT Equality Caucus can only help Carson steer legislation through Frank's committee. Carson is scheduled to participate in tomorrow's Indy Pride events. Mayor Ballard's press secretary, Marcus Barlow, just confirmed that Mayor Ballard, who had been extended an invitation, will not be participating in this year's Pride festivities. Barlow says the Mayor's schedule won't permit his participation. The Mayor's public schedule has him attending a Support Our Troops Event sponsored by Krogers on West 38th Street from 9:30 a.m.-10:30 a.m. No other events are on his public schedule for tomorrow during the Pride event. He's scheduled to attend another Peace In The Streets block party Sunday afternoon at 38th and Post. Ballard received substantial support from Indianapolis' GLBT community during last year's election. His absence from an event which draws more than 25,000 people to Indianapolis' downtown is a huge disappointment to say the least.
____________________
Now those who wants to talk to the Mayor, he will not be at the gay pride thing. But he will be at a couple of other location this week-end. So here your chance to see and talk to him. I say that Ballard received support because he was the best choice for Mayor and it had nothing to do with the fact that he does or does not support this kind of choice. As far as Mr. Carson goes, you get what you vote for.
Carson Joins LGBT Equality Caucus
U.S. Rep. Andre Carson announced today on the eve of Indianapolis' Gay Pride Festival and Parade that he has become a member of the House of Representatives LGBT caucus, which was co-founded by two openly gay members of Congress, U.S. Rep. Barney Frank (D-MA) and U.S. Rep. Tammy Baldwin (D-WI). The mission of the caucus "is to achieve the extension of equal rights, the repeal of discriminatory laws, the elimination of hate-motivated violence, and the improved health and well being for all, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity or expression." “It is indeed an honor and great privilege for me to serve as a member of the LGBT Equality Caucus,” said Congressman André Carson. “Working to ensure that no American is discriminated against because of their sexual orientation or gender is something that I take very seriously in my role as an elected official.” “I welcome Andre Carson’s participation in this caucus, and I appreciate his commitment to achieving equality for all Americans,” said Rep. Barney Frank.Rep. Frank chairs the House Committee on Financial Services on which Carson also sits as a member. Carson's addition to the LGBT Equality Caucus can only help Carson steer legislation through Frank's committee. Carson is scheduled to participate in tomorrow's Indy Pride events. Mayor Ballard's press secretary, Marcus Barlow, just confirmed that Mayor Ballard, who had been extended an invitation, will not be participating in this year's Pride festivities. Barlow says the Mayor's schedule won't permit his participation. The Mayor's public schedule has him attending a Support Our Troops Event sponsored by Krogers on West 38th Street from 9:30 a.m.-10:30 a.m. No other events are on his public schedule for tomorrow during the Pride event. He's scheduled to attend another Peace In The Streets block party Sunday afternoon at 38th and Post. Ballard received substantial support from Indianapolis' GLBT community during last year's election. His absence from an event which draws more than 25,000 people to Indianapolis' downtown is a huge disappointment to say the least.
____________________
Now those who wants to talk to the Mayor, he will not be at the gay pride thing. But he will be at a couple of other location this week-end. So here your chance to see and talk to him. I say that Ballard received support because he was the best choice for Mayor and it had nothing to do with the fact that he does or does not support this kind of choice. As far as Mr. Carson goes, you get what you vote for.
It did not take long, Protest planned
That didn’t take long. Those tax protestors are making a comeback. Outraged by reconciliation bills, they are planning a 4th of July protest in front of the Governor’s residence on North Meridian. The rally is being led by Andy Horning, Libertarian candidate for Governor.
In an e-mail to supporters Horning writes “…this time, we’re not going to be distracted by the tax policy sub-issue. We’ll no longer nibble at the branches of the problem of lawbreaking lawmakers. We’re not going to fuss over symptoms - we aim to cure the disease of ungoverned government!”
Do you hear the people sing? This is going to be fun to watch.
http://www.indianabarrister.com/archives/2008/06/the_people_are_revolting.html
In an e-mail to supporters Horning writes “…this time, we’re not going to be distracted by the tax policy sub-issue. We’ll no longer nibble at the branches of the problem of lawbreaking lawmakers. We’re not going to fuss over symptoms - we aim to cure the disease of ungoverned government!”
Do you hear the people sing? This is going to be fun to watch.
http://www.indianabarrister.com/archives/2008/06/the_people_are_revolting.html
6/13/2008
voluntary tax statements
Hendricks County residents it seems received a "voluntary" tax statement in the mail in the last few days. How many other counties will do this this year. Its rumored that some counties will be hurting because they will not get this years tax bills out as late as November. That will hit people around their Christmas shopping time. It will also make at a great Christmas gift for some who are just scraping by as it is.
6/12/2008
Property taxes
I picked this pituce up someplaceduring the tax protest of 2007
Well guess what I got in the mail yesterday? Yes, that right my make up bill for 2007. Why am I not surprise, when I add all three payments up it comes out just like the big bills of 2007.
In 2006 I paid $1024 for my property. In 2007 I received a letter to just pay that amount in 2006 and we will send you a make up bill. So I sent in $1024. Now I receive a bill for for $$413 that is due July 10th. So my taxes with up almost a third with this new "property tax relief"
I fine it interesting that the letter that we got explain this. "Unfortunately this bill is for the taxes due prior to the General Assembly's 2008 legislative session and does not reflect the tax breaks you have heard so much about. Those changes will appear on future property tax statements?"
They also want to help you understand your bill. Well I understand my bill. I paid almost 33% more this year plus now I am paying the new 1% sales tax that they passed. So where is my tax relief?
When is the next tax protest? When is the next election?
In 2006 I paid $1024 for my property. In 2007 I received a letter to just pay that amount in 2006 and we will send you a make up bill. So I sent in $1024. Now I receive a bill for for $$413 that is due July 10th. So my taxes with up almost a third with this new "property tax relief"
I fine it interesting that the letter that we got explain this. "Unfortunately this bill is for the taxes due prior to the General Assembly's 2008 legislative session and does not reflect the tax breaks you have heard so much about. Those changes will appear on future property tax statements?"
They also want to help you understand your bill. Well I understand my bill. I paid almost 33% more this year plus now I am paying the new 1% sales tax that they passed. So where is my tax relief?
When is the next tax protest? When is the next election?
6/11/2008
Democrats say NO to more oil drilling.
WASHINGTON — A House subcommittee on Wednesday rejected a Republican-led effort to open up more U.S. coastal waters to oil exploration.
Rep. John Peterson, R-Pa., spearheaded the effort. His proposal would open up U.S. waters between 50 and 200 miles off shore for drilling. The first 50 miles off shore would be left alone.
But the plan failed Wednesday on a 9-6, party-line vote in a House appropriations subcommittee, which was considering the proposal as part of an Interior Department spending package.
With record oil prices and gas prices projected to hover around the $4 mark for the rest of the summer, Republicans have ratcheted up their efforts to open up oil exploration along U.S. coastline. But the long-sought change has so far been unsuccessful.
Most offshore oil production and exploration has been banned since a federal law passed in 1981.
"We are kidding ourselves if we think we can drill our way out of these problems," House Appropriations Committee Chairman David Obey, D-Wis., said during the bill mark-up session.
For his part, Peterson said: "There is no valid reason for Congress to keep the country from energy resources it needs."
http://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,365627,00.html
Rep. John Peterson, R-Pa., spearheaded the effort. His proposal would open up U.S. waters between 50 and 200 miles off shore for drilling. The first 50 miles off shore would be left alone.
But the plan failed Wednesday on a 9-6, party-line vote in a House appropriations subcommittee, which was considering the proposal as part of an Interior Department spending package.
With record oil prices and gas prices projected to hover around the $4 mark for the rest of the summer, Republicans have ratcheted up their efforts to open up oil exploration along U.S. coastline. But the long-sought change has so far been unsuccessful.
Most offshore oil production and exploration has been banned since a federal law passed in 1981.
"We are kidding ourselves if we think we can drill our way out of these problems," House Appropriations Committee Chairman David Obey, D-Wis., said during the bill mark-up session.
For his part, Peterson said: "There is no valid reason for Congress to keep the country from energy resources it needs."
http://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,365627,00.html
6/10/2008
Marion County taxes
Marion County Treasurer Michael Rodman said today that the final 2007 property tax bills were being mailed today and will be due July 10.
The bills will bring an end to the property tax fiasco last summer that prompted Gov. Mitch Daniels to order a reassessment. http://www.indystar.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080610/NEWS05/806100404
Nope its just the start of the fiasco.
The bills will bring an end to the property tax fiasco last summer that prompted Gov. Mitch Daniels to order a reassessment. http://www.indystar.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080610/NEWS05/806100404
Nope its just the start of the fiasco.
Get your check books out Marion County
Its time for you to start looking for that dreaded property tax make up bill to come to your mail box. If you are expecting "property tax relief" I would not count on it.
If your assessment went up with the new assessments on property, you tax bill will also go up for 2007. The next two years will be high until the 1% cap kicks in. The property tax “relief” package is a good deal, but they sneaked in that it takes 3 years to get there. With the one percent cap, I will be paying a little less then I did in 2006 when it kicks in. But I will be paying the 1% sales tax for 3 years before this. That only leaves you with the time that they raise your assessments on your property to meet the next property tax raise.
So for the next two years, I will be paying more property tax then I did before the property tax relief came about. They do such great work at the state house.
If your assessment went up with the new assessments on property, you tax bill will also go up for 2007. The next two years will be high until the 1% cap kicks in. The property tax “relief” package is a good deal, but they sneaked in that it takes 3 years to get there. With the one percent cap, I will be paying a little less then I did in 2006 when it kicks in. But I will be paying the 1% sales tax for 3 years before this. That only leaves you with the time that they raise your assessments on your property to meet the next property tax raise.
So for the next two years, I will be paying more property tax then I did before the property tax relief came about. They do such great work at the state house.
6/09/2008
LandSource files for bankruptcy
LandSource Communities Development LLC, a real estate partnership involving the nation's largest public employees pension fund, has filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection.
The California Public Employees' Retirement System is a major investor in LandSource, which announced the bankruptcy filing in U.S. Bankruptcy Court in Delaware late Sunday in a news release. The partnership's assets include 15,000 acres of undeveloped land north of Los Angeles in the Santa Clarita valley.http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20080609/ap_on_bi_ge/calpers_land_partnership_2
The California Public Employees' Retirement System (CalPERS) provides pension fund, healthcare and other retirement services for approximately 1.5 million California public employees. As of October 2007, it owns $254.8 billion worth of stock, bonds, funds, private equity and real estate. It is the largest pension fund in the United States. CalPERS provides benefits to all state government employees and, by contract, to local agency and school employees.
The California Public Employees' Retirement System is a major investor in LandSource, which announced the bankruptcy filing in U.S. Bankruptcy Court in Delaware late Sunday in a news release. The partnership's assets include 15,000 acres of undeveloped land north of Los Angeles in the Santa Clarita valley.http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20080609/ap_on_bi_ge/calpers_land_partnership_2
The California Public Employees' Retirement System (CalPERS) provides pension fund, healthcare and other retirement services for approximately 1.5 million California public employees. As of October 2007, it owns $254.8 billion worth of stock, bonds, funds, private equity and real estate. It is the largest pension fund in the United States. CalPERS provides benefits to all state government employees and, by contract, to local agency and school employees.
6/08/2008
Gas prices up again
How does this set with you. Well if you live in New York gas was at $4.29 on Saturday at some stations with the lowest being $4.12.I look for it to travel our way soon. Is this enough for you to cut down on the use of gas? We did it over the holidays by 5% and we can do it again in our everyday driving. As I have stated, I only use about four or five gallons a week but that cost me $16 to $20 dollars. You can cut down some by buying gas at a Swift gas stations. They give you five cents off per gallon for cash. AP Photo/Mark J. Terrill
6/07/2008
Where did this picture come from?
You may think that it comes from some middle east country right? Will if you did you would be dead wrong. It comes from CHARLOTTE, N.C.
The person, Samir Khan, calling for the death of American troops in Iraq and supporting terrorist. Terrorism experts say the Web site, written in English, is one of the premiere sites for Western audiences to get access to radical Islamist propaganda. Khan would say only that “they represent Muslims.”
In an e-mail sent to FOX News, Khan lashed out at the "arrogance" of the media, saying it should focus instead on converting to Islam. "When you go down in to the earth six feet deep, nothing will matter except what Religion you died upon," he wrote.
This story brings us to another point in history. How much freedom do people have in this county and is it the right thing to do? When a person can put a web site up like this one with no action taken, then it is questionable to how far we extend rights. You can reach the site at http://revolution.muslimpad.com/
Courts and the Market
Do you think that a member of the Supreme Court should be able to hold shares of stock and then sell them right before a case comes up that concerns that company?
Here are a few examples:
Annual financial disclosures released Friday confirm that Chief Justice John Roberts Jr. sold stakes in Citigroup Inc. (C) and Cisco Systems Inc. (CSCO) so he could vote in two major Wall Street securities cases. Roberts, who pushed for a 2006 tax law change that eases the tax burden judges face when they unwind stock positions, also sold Merck & Co. Inc. (MRK) and Becton Dickinson & Co. (BDX) holdings in 2007. Roberts sold a stake in Cisco Systems worth between $50,000 and $100,000 in March 2007. The move allowed him to be the fifth vote in the 5-3 Stoneridge ruling that restricted the ability of shareholders to sue lawyers, accountants and other third parties that do business with corporations. The disclosures also show Roberts sold between $50,000 and $100,000 of Citigroup stock a week before the court heard arguments in Credit Suisse Securities v. Billing, a case where the court ruled 7-1 that Wall Street firms are immune from certain class-action lawsuits brought under federal antitrust laws. Justice Samuel Alito also pared some of his stock holdings by selling a stake in Intel Corp. (INTC) and selling part of his holdings in Bristol-Myers Squibb Co. (BMY), McDonald's Corp. (MCD) and Exxon Corp. (XOM). Exxon appeals cases to the high court regularly and Alito has in the past recused himself from those matters. Although he sold between $100,000 and $250,000 of his Exxon stake, he continues to hold a similar amount. Justice Stephen Breyer, who holds a large portfolio of stock and fund investments, said he sold Alltel Corp. (AT) stock in November 2007 worth between $50,000 and $100,000. Breyer also sold stakes in PartnerRe Ltd. (PRE) and Scottish Power PLC. By Mark H. Anderson and Christina M. Wright Of DOW JONES NEWSWIRES
There is nothing that says if they brought the stock back after these cases but I would content that this could be a conflict of interest.
Here are a few examples:
Annual financial disclosures released Friday confirm that Chief Justice John Roberts Jr. sold stakes in Citigroup Inc. (C) and Cisco Systems Inc. (CSCO) so he could vote in two major Wall Street securities cases. Roberts, who pushed for a 2006 tax law change that eases the tax burden judges face when they unwind stock positions, also sold Merck & Co. Inc. (MRK) and Becton Dickinson & Co. (BDX) holdings in 2007. Roberts sold a stake in Cisco Systems worth between $50,000 and $100,000 in March 2007. The move allowed him to be the fifth vote in the 5-3 Stoneridge ruling that restricted the ability of shareholders to sue lawyers, accountants and other third parties that do business with corporations. The disclosures also show Roberts sold between $50,000 and $100,000 of Citigroup stock a week before the court heard arguments in Credit Suisse Securities v. Billing, a case where the court ruled 7-1 that Wall Street firms are immune from certain class-action lawsuits brought under federal antitrust laws. Justice Samuel Alito also pared some of his stock holdings by selling a stake in Intel Corp. (INTC) and selling part of his holdings in Bristol-Myers Squibb Co. (BMY), McDonald's Corp. (MCD) and Exxon Corp. (XOM). Exxon appeals cases to the high court regularly and Alito has in the past recused himself from those matters. Although he sold between $100,000 and $250,000 of his Exxon stake, he continues to hold a similar amount. Justice Stephen Breyer, who holds a large portfolio of stock and fund investments, said he sold Alltel Corp. (AT) stock in November 2007 worth between $50,000 and $100,000. Breyer also sold stakes in PartnerRe Ltd. (PRE) and Scottish Power PLC. By Mark H. Anderson and Christina M. Wright Of DOW JONES NEWSWIRES
There is nothing that says if they brought the stock back after these cases but I would content that this could be a conflict of interest.
Don't be fooled
With oil at a new high of $138.54 the stock market did not look that great yesterday. In fact it fell almost 400 points But don't be fooled about the new unemployment figures that came out.
Careful examination of the data revealed that the jump in the unemployment rate was not a reflection of lower employment levels (or an indication that the nonfarm payroll data are misleading). It was due either to a large number of people re-entering the labor force and being counted as unemployed, or to a one-month aberrant swing in the data. My bet would be on a combination of the two.
There was a gain in oil and gas stock while finance fell quite a bit yesterday. This was due to the SEC investigating the Dow component AIG for its swaps accounting and growing concerns about the rising consumer loan defaults that has hit the back stocks extra gard. I believe that there are some good buys in the financials right now. One is Centerline Holding Co (chc). It closed at $2.85 yesterday. I brought it at $2.50 a week ago. What I like about the stock is that it not to costly to get into it and it pays 21% dividends. So I brought 100 shares. Not to much to lose. Another one is Bank of America. It closed yesterday at $30.50 but only paying 8.39%. But with a 52 week high of $52.96, I do believe this will come back in time. So there you have my stock market report.
Along with the oil price you will also notice that gas is higher. I paid $3.99 last night (Cash price $3.94.) Where will the gas prices end up at this year?
Careful examination of the data revealed that the jump in the unemployment rate was not a reflection of lower employment levels (or an indication that the nonfarm payroll data are misleading). It was due either to a large number of people re-entering the labor force and being counted as unemployed, or to a one-month aberrant swing in the data. My bet would be on a combination of the two.
There was a gain in oil and gas stock while finance fell quite a bit yesterday. This was due to the SEC investigating the Dow component AIG for its swaps accounting and growing concerns about the rising consumer loan defaults that has hit the back stocks extra gard. I believe that there are some good buys in the financials right now. One is Centerline Holding Co (chc). It closed at $2.85 yesterday. I brought it at $2.50 a week ago. What I like about the stock is that it not to costly to get into it and it pays 21% dividends. So I brought 100 shares. Not to much to lose. Another one is Bank of America. It closed yesterday at $30.50 but only paying 8.39%. But with a 52 week high of $52.96, I do believe this will come back in time. So there you have my stock market report.
Along with the oil price you will also notice that gas is higher. I paid $3.99 last night (Cash price $3.94.) Where will the gas prices end up at this year?
6/06/2008
Kissing upsets fan
How would you like to go to our local baseball field and have to explain this to your kids?
SEATTLE — Most of the time, a kiss is just a kiss in the stands at Seattle Mariners games. The crowd hardly even pays attention when fans smooch.
But then last week, a lesbian complained that an usher at Safeco Field asked her to stop kissing her date because it was making another fan uncomfortable. "The women refused to modify their behavior, began swearing at the seating hosts and complained that they were being singled out for their sexual orientation," the club said.
Now it gets better:
On Tuesday, Guerrero said a Mariners director of guest services had apologized to her. The team spokeswoman could not immediately confirm that. Savage called for a "kiss-in" to protest against the Mariners.
http://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,363427,00.html
If you are for or against Gay rights, don't forget next week is gay pride week here in Indy, June 13-15. http://www.indyprideinc.com/ So if you don't want to explain things to your kids I would stay away from downtown. There will be a "Parade" at 10:00 a.m. starting at Mass Avenue to Vermont to University Park Saturday the 14th
SEATTLE — Most of the time, a kiss is just a kiss in the stands at Seattle Mariners games. The crowd hardly even pays attention when fans smooch.
But then last week, a lesbian complained that an usher at Safeco Field asked her to stop kissing her date because it was making another fan uncomfortable. "The women refused to modify their behavior, began swearing at the seating hosts and complained that they were being singled out for their sexual orientation," the club said.
Now it gets better:
On Tuesday, Guerrero said a Mariners director of guest services had apologized to her. The team spokeswoman could not immediately confirm that. Savage called for a "kiss-in" to protest against the Mariners.
http://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,363427,00.html
If you are for or against Gay rights, don't forget next week is gay pride week here in Indy, June 13-15. http://www.indyprideinc.com/ So if you don't want to explain things to your kids I would stay away from downtown. There will be a "Parade" at 10:00 a.m. starting at Mass Avenue to Vermont to University Park Saturday the 14th
How much is one job worth?
In politics, money talks. And money is likely to be an important factor in discussions between Barack Obama’s advisers and the debt-saddled Hillary Rodham Clinton campaign.
Clinton will likely seek help from Obama in retiring her massive campaign debt, which has swollen to more than $30 million, including $11 million she lent the effort, advisers said Thursday.
The former first lady, who plans to bow out of the race and endorse Obama on Saturday, told donors she will raise money for Obama’s campaign, both to help the Democratic Party’s cash position and to expand the Illinois senator’s prodigious fundraising base. Her advisers estimate the former first lady could bring in $50 million to $100 million for the general election campaign — and much more if she were named Obama’s running mate.
The former first lady, who plans to bow out of the race and endorse Obama on Saturday, told donors she will raise money for Obama’s campaign, both to help the Democratic Party’s cash position and to expand the Illinois senator’s prodigious fundraising base. Her advisers estimate the former first lady could bring in $50 million to $100 million for the general election campaign — and much more if she were named Obama’s running mate.
http://elections.foxnews.com/2008/06/05/clinton-expected-to-seek-help-from-obama-in-retiring-30m-debt/
Clinton will likely seek help from Obama in retiring her massive campaign debt, which has swollen to more than $30 million, including $11 million she lent the effort, advisers said Thursday.
The former first lady, who plans to bow out of the race and endorse Obama on Saturday, told donors she will raise money for Obama’s campaign, both to help the Democratic Party’s cash position and to expand the Illinois senator’s prodigious fundraising base. Her advisers estimate the former first lady could bring in $50 million to $100 million for the general election campaign — and much more if she were named Obama’s running mate.
The former first lady, who plans to bow out of the race and endorse Obama on Saturday, told donors she will raise money for Obama’s campaign, both to help the Democratic Party’s cash position and to expand the Illinois senator’s prodigious fundraising base. Her advisers estimate the former first lady could bring in $50 million to $100 million for the general election campaign — and much more if she were named Obama’s running mate.
http://elections.foxnews.com/2008/06/05/clinton-expected-to-seek-help-from-obama-in-retiring-30m-debt/
6/05/2008
Mayor Greg Ballard.
Here is a story taken from the Indianapolis reporter, a interview with our New Mayor. It is long but I think its important enough to post the whole thing here. And I will respond later.
By BRANDON A. PERRY
For many Indianapolis residents Gregory A. “Greg” Ballard is still the “new” mayor.For others, quiet changes made by the self-described “low-key” mayor have made the city a different place than it was when he took office in January.After five months the Ballard administration has presided over transfer of control of the Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department to the mayor’s office, launch of the Peace in the Street’s Initiative, an increase in $7 million for a fund to resurface roads and prevent potholes, creation of a new fund to help residents avoid having their utilities cut off during winter, and the city’s successful bid to host the 2012 Super Bowl.In his first full interview with the Recorder since taking office, Ballard talked about what he’s been up to, discussed the city’s challenges and answered tough questions related to crime, education, city finances and racial diversity in local government:
When you ran for mayor last year many people said you didn’t have a chance and dismissed your candidacy. Are those individuals “paying” for their doubt today?Ballard:
Well, I don’t really look at it that way (laughing). I’m not holding grudges or being vindictive to anybody. We’re just doing what we said we would do; there’s not much more to it.
You have said public safety is “job one.” But some neighborhoods are still devastated by crime. What have you accomplished in this area so far?
I think we’re making big strides in public safety. We wanted to get control of the police department back, and we did. Public Safety Director Scott Newman and the department have concentrated on high crime areas with multiple techniques. We’re using real time data now to see what the crime is doing and determine whether we have had an effect or not.People come up to me and say they’re seeing more police out there. We just completed a graduating class of new officers and have another class coming out. We also freed up cops on their beats so they can be more visible.We’re supporting an initiative by Rep. Andre Carson that will give us a thousand wireless laptops because right now some cops have to drive the “hot spots” to file their reports. It takes up to two hours for them to get back and forth, and we want them to be able to stay in the same area and make reports.
Do you have any other accomplishments?
We have a city administration that is much more transparent and open, as promised. We started Indy Stat already, which is a performance review available on the city’s website. City boards actually hold open meetings so that people can see what’s going on. Previously those meetings were held behind closed doors and were shams of a public meeting, so we’re not doing that anymore.Also, we will have budget reviews starting in July so that the public will be able to see how money is being spent in each department.We did get the Super Bowl, so we’re happy about that too.Finally, the City of Indianapolis probably had the best year in over a decade at the Indaina statehouse because the public safety pensions are taken care of, and now we know there won’t be a large bond on the city. Two days before the end of the session health care for the indigent was gonna be picked up around the state except in Marion County. Our people said ‘hey, that’s not quite fair, you need to put Marion County in that mix.’ That got us another $35 million.We saved Marion County property tax payers $65 million above and beyond the state’s regular property tax reform. That is absolutely huge.
During your campaign you mentioned that you would like the mayor’s office to play an increased role in education. What efforts have you made so far?
We’ve got a team in our office that’s working with the United Way for a pilot program to track every kid in the county from the first through the eight grade. The intent is to tie non-profit groups together so that we can assess whether a second grader can’t read instead of waiting two or three more grades to get to him, when he’s angry fifth grader. We’re partnering with non-profit agencies who have programs that can can help students right away and track student progress every four to six weeks so we’ll know whether or not a kid is on track.
Some Indianapolis residents still fill a bit disconnected from your administration. How do you plan to engage those citizens?
We already are engaging them. No administration has ever done anything like Mayor’s Night Out, where citizens have an opportunity to meet me and ask questions. I’m still out there going to neighborhood association meetings. You can correct me if I’m wrong but I don’t think the city has had a more visible mayor. We’ve already held several Mayor’s Night Out events in different areas of the city, with another coming at 6 p.m. at the Indianapolis Training Center, 2820 N. Meridian, on May 29. We’re out there, so people who say they’re feeling disconnected��- honestly, we’ve given them quite a bit of opportunity.We also get positive statements such as ‘Gee, you actually returned my phone call’ from people. So, we’re out there.
Recently critics have accused you with allegations that your administration, compared to those operated by previous mayors, does not place a high priority on meeting federal standards of racial diversity in the police and fire department. What are your thoughts on those allegations?
Well, that’s exactly what they are; allegations. First of all, during the State of the City Address I said IMPD is now a meritocracy (where advancement is based on merit), and received a standing ovation. If that’s fine, then why would people say we don’t have much diversity? Come on, we’re getting praise on both sides, and no one can dispute the increased moral among officers in the Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department, regardless of race. A couple of days ago we had a meeting between the police chief and several of the city’s Black pastors. The chief explained the changes at IMPD to them and it was a very good and productive meeting. I think people just make stuff up without looking at the facts, which riles people up because they don’t have the true story.
By BRANDON A. PERRY
For many Indianapolis residents Gregory A. “Greg” Ballard is still the “new” mayor.For others, quiet changes made by the self-described “low-key” mayor have made the city a different place than it was when he took office in January.After five months the Ballard administration has presided over transfer of control of the Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department to the mayor’s office, launch of the Peace in the Street’s Initiative, an increase in $7 million for a fund to resurface roads and prevent potholes, creation of a new fund to help residents avoid having their utilities cut off during winter, and the city’s successful bid to host the 2012 Super Bowl.In his first full interview with the Recorder since taking office, Ballard talked about what he’s been up to, discussed the city’s challenges and answered tough questions related to crime, education, city finances and racial diversity in local government:
When you ran for mayor last year many people said you didn’t have a chance and dismissed your candidacy. Are those individuals “paying” for their doubt today?Ballard:
Well, I don’t really look at it that way (laughing). I’m not holding grudges or being vindictive to anybody. We’re just doing what we said we would do; there’s not much more to it.
You have said public safety is “job one.” But some neighborhoods are still devastated by crime. What have you accomplished in this area so far?
I think we’re making big strides in public safety. We wanted to get control of the police department back, and we did. Public Safety Director Scott Newman and the department have concentrated on high crime areas with multiple techniques. We’re using real time data now to see what the crime is doing and determine whether we have had an effect or not.People come up to me and say they’re seeing more police out there. We just completed a graduating class of new officers and have another class coming out. We also freed up cops on their beats so they can be more visible.We’re supporting an initiative by Rep. Andre Carson that will give us a thousand wireless laptops because right now some cops have to drive the “hot spots” to file their reports. It takes up to two hours for them to get back and forth, and we want them to be able to stay in the same area and make reports.
Do you have any other accomplishments?
We have a city administration that is much more transparent and open, as promised. We started Indy Stat already, which is a performance review available on the city’s website. City boards actually hold open meetings so that people can see what’s going on. Previously those meetings were held behind closed doors and were shams of a public meeting, so we’re not doing that anymore.Also, we will have budget reviews starting in July so that the public will be able to see how money is being spent in each department.We did get the Super Bowl, so we’re happy about that too.Finally, the City of Indianapolis probably had the best year in over a decade at the Indaina statehouse because the public safety pensions are taken care of, and now we know there won’t be a large bond on the city. Two days before the end of the session health care for the indigent was gonna be picked up around the state except in Marion County. Our people said ‘hey, that’s not quite fair, you need to put Marion County in that mix.’ That got us another $35 million.We saved Marion County property tax payers $65 million above and beyond the state’s regular property tax reform. That is absolutely huge.
During your campaign you mentioned that you would like the mayor’s office to play an increased role in education. What efforts have you made so far?
We’ve got a team in our office that’s working with the United Way for a pilot program to track every kid in the county from the first through the eight grade. The intent is to tie non-profit groups together so that we can assess whether a second grader can’t read instead of waiting two or three more grades to get to him, when he’s angry fifth grader. We’re partnering with non-profit agencies who have programs that can can help students right away and track student progress every four to six weeks so we’ll know whether or not a kid is on track.
Some Indianapolis residents still fill a bit disconnected from your administration. How do you plan to engage those citizens?
We already are engaging them. No administration has ever done anything like Mayor’s Night Out, where citizens have an opportunity to meet me and ask questions. I’m still out there going to neighborhood association meetings. You can correct me if I’m wrong but I don’t think the city has had a more visible mayor. We’ve already held several Mayor’s Night Out events in different areas of the city, with another coming at 6 p.m. at the Indianapolis Training Center, 2820 N. Meridian, on May 29. We’re out there, so people who say they’re feeling disconnected��- honestly, we’ve given them quite a bit of opportunity.We also get positive statements such as ‘Gee, you actually returned my phone call’ from people. So, we’re out there.
Recently critics have accused you with allegations that your administration, compared to those operated by previous mayors, does not place a high priority on meeting federal standards of racial diversity in the police and fire department. What are your thoughts on those allegations?
Well, that’s exactly what they are; allegations. First of all, during the State of the City Address I said IMPD is now a meritocracy (where advancement is based on merit), and received a standing ovation. If that’s fine, then why would people say we don’t have much diversity? Come on, we’re getting praise on both sides, and no one can dispute the increased moral among officers in the Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department, regardless of race. A couple of days ago we had a meeting between the police chief and several of the city’s Black pastors. The chief explained the changes at IMPD to them and it was a very good and productive meeting. I think people just make stuff up without looking at the facts, which riles people up because they don’t have the true story.
6/04/2008
New toilet at a cost of $19 million
Less than a week before Discovery lifted off from Cape Canaveral Saturday evening, the Russian-built zero-gravity toilet aboard the space station broke down.
Until Discovery docked Monday, the two Russian cosmonauts and NASA's Garrett Reisman were using the toilet aboard the Soyuz escape vehicle that's always parked at the space station, as well as using the "manual mode" to flush the broken one.
"The reason a broken toilet could potentially cause an evacuation is because the space station only has one," said Moskowitz.
That's about to change. Later this year, another shuttle mission will bring up and install a newer, more efficient second toilet, again built by the Russians, this time at a cost of $19 million.
And that will effectively transform the space station from a one- to a two-bathroom apartment, albeit a phenomenally expensive one with an unbeatable view. http://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,362562,00.html
Until Discovery docked Monday, the two Russian cosmonauts and NASA's Garrett Reisman were using the toilet aboard the Soyuz escape vehicle that's always parked at the space station, as well as using the "manual mode" to flush the broken one.
"The reason a broken toilet could potentially cause an evacuation is because the space station only has one," said Moskowitz.
That's about to change. Later this year, another shuttle mission will bring up and install a newer, more efficient second toilet, again built by the Russians, this time at a cost of $19 million.
And that will effectively transform the space station from a one- to a two-bathroom apartment, albeit a phenomenally expensive one with an unbeatable view. http://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,362562,00.html
Had enough?
Have you had enough of me preacher on how much gasoline people are using? Well it must work.
http://www.foxbusiness.com/story/markets/industries/energy/oil-steady/
"
Oil prices also fell Tuesday on forecasts that domestic oil and fuel supplies rose last week. Analysts polled by energy research firm Platts expect the Energy Department to report that oil inventories rose by 2.7 million barrels last week."
"Oil prices fell sharply Tuesday, dropping below $124 a barrel as demand concerns grew and Federal Reserve Chairman Ben Bernanke indicated that more interest rate cuts are unlikely. Bernanke's comments sent the dollar higher and raised questions about oil's ability to reach new highs in the short term."
At less then 3% Mr. Bernanake, if you cut the interest rate anymore, poeple will be paying banks to take our money.
"Retail gas prices, meanwhile, rose slightly to a new record near $3.98 a gallon, but could fall if oil prices continue to decline."
"The latest MasterCard SpendingPulse survey found that demand for gasoline fell by 4.7% last week -- which included the long Memorial Day holiday weekend -- compared to the same week last year. Averaged over the last four weeks, demand was down 6% last week compared to last year."
As I have always said on the blog, the more you use the higher the price will be. If you stop buying the product or cut down, the price will go down. They will keep on raising the price as long as people are willing to pay the price. They are only testing what the public is willing to spend. "
"Investors are ... wondering if we've got to the point, with prices around $130 a barrel, if that's too much for consumers to bear," said Rachel Ziemba, an analyst at RGEMonitor.com in New York."
"On Tuesday, General Motors Corp. said it would close four truck and SUV plants in the U.S., Canada and Mexico as surging fuel prices hasten a dramatic shift to smaller vehicles."
Thank you G.M. for taking Amercicans jobs outside of this county.
http://www.foxbusiness.com/story/markets/industries/energy/oil-steady/
"
Oil prices also fell Tuesday on forecasts that domestic oil and fuel supplies rose last week. Analysts polled by energy research firm Platts expect the Energy Department to report that oil inventories rose by 2.7 million barrels last week."
"Oil prices fell sharply Tuesday, dropping below $124 a barrel as demand concerns grew and Federal Reserve Chairman Ben Bernanke indicated that more interest rate cuts are unlikely. Bernanke's comments sent the dollar higher and raised questions about oil's ability to reach new highs in the short term."
At less then 3% Mr. Bernanake, if you cut the interest rate anymore, poeple will be paying banks to take our money.
"Retail gas prices, meanwhile, rose slightly to a new record near $3.98 a gallon, but could fall if oil prices continue to decline."
"The latest MasterCard SpendingPulse survey found that demand for gasoline fell by 4.7% last week -- which included the long Memorial Day holiday weekend -- compared to the same week last year. Averaged over the last four weeks, demand was down 6% last week compared to last year."
As I have always said on the blog, the more you use the higher the price will be. If you stop buying the product or cut down, the price will go down. They will keep on raising the price as long as people are willing to pay the price. They are only testing what the public is willing to spend. "
"Investors are ... wondering if we've got to the point, with prices around $130 a barrel, if that's too much for consumers to bear," said Rachel Ziemba, an analyst at RGEMonitor.com in New York."
"On Tuesday, General Motors Corp. said it would close four truck and SUV plants in the U.S., Canada and Mexico as surging fuel prices hasten a dramatic shift to smaller vehicles."
Thank you G.M. for taking Amercicans jobs outside of this county.
6/03/2008
New law in Minnesota for Doctors
Interesting:
CHICAGO (Dow Jones)--Pity the Minnesota cancer doctors who journeyed to a big medical meeting here: some drug companies are denying them free food and trinkets, citing a state law limiting such gifts.
It's a custom for drug companies to set up extravagant exhibit booths at major medical meetings like the annual gathering of the American Society of Clinical Oncology, which runs through Tuesday. To encourage doctors to prescribe their drugs, the corporate booths often feature free espresso bars and pens emblazoned with product logos.
At this year's ASCO, doctors were lining up 15 deep to get a taste of frozen yogurt offered by Indianapolis drug maker Eli Lilly & Co. (LLY), enjoying a break from the information overload of clinical trial presentations. But like a convenience-store warning against underage cigarette purchases, the Lilly booth had a sign that meant no yogurt for some doctors.
The sign said Lilly wouldn't provide food, beverages or meals to doctors from Minnesota "in order to comply with Minnesota statutes," or to government employees from New York, in order to comply with laws there.
Across the aisle, Swiss drug company Novartis AG (NVS) was giving away soapstone bowls carved in Kenya as part of Novartis's support of a non-profit group that promotes economic growth in developing regions. But the sign said Minnesotan doctors, members of a Medicaid committee and employees of state and federal entities "may be subjected to restrictions on acceptance of food, beverages or items."
They're signs of the times in the beleaguered pharmaceutical industry. In recent years, some state governments have cracked down on drug makers' sales and marketing practices. Lawmakers fear that certain sales tactics are swaying doctors to prescribe drugs that might not be medically necessary - or might have cheaper alternatives - which in turn contributes to ballooning costs for state health plans.
A Minnesota law, first enacted in the 1990s and tweaked by state officials a few years ago, prohibits drug companies from giving gifts to physicians with a combined value of more than $50 per year. The law allows for compensation of doctors for consulting and other services and has other exceptions.
Lilly has posted similar warning signs on its freebie booths for the past three years, spokeswoman Amy Sousa said. "We want to make sure we're doing all the right things according to state regulations," she said.
It's unlikely a single cup of frozen yogurt would crack the $50 Minnesota threshold. But Sousa suggested it's better for Lilly sales reps to keep track of items given to doctors they call on, rather than try to track the giveaways at a large conference.
So have any doctors from the Land of 10,000 Lakes been turned away? "Not to my knowledge," Sousa said. Some doctors may have stayed away on their own when they saw the sign, she said.
If they were turned away, they could probably go elsewhere for free stuff - similar warning signs weren't visible at all drug makers' freebie booths.
For the record, this reporter, who is neither a doctor nor a Minnesotan, declined the Novartis bowl but accepted Lilly's yogurt.
-By Peter Loftus; Dow Jones Newswires
CHICAGO (Dow Jones)--Pity the Minnesota cancer doctors who journeyed to a big medical meeting here: some drug companies are denying them free food and trinkets, citing a state law limiting such gifts.
It's a custom for drug companies to set up extravagant exhibit booths at major medical meetings like the annual gathering of the American Society of Clinical Oncology, which runs through Tuesday. To encourage doctors to prescribe their drugs, the corporate booths often feature free espresso bars and pens emblazoned with product logos.
At this year's ASCO, doctors were lining up 15 deep to get a taste of frozen yogurt offered by Indianapolis drug maker Eli Lilly & Co. (LLY), enjoying a break from the information overload of clinical trial presentations. But like a convenience-store warning against underage cigarette purchases, the Lilly booth had a sign that meant no yogurt for some doctors.
The sign said Lilly wouldn't provide food, beverages or meals to doctors from Minnesota "in order to comply with Minnesota statutes," or to government employees from New York, in order to comply with laws there.
Across the aisle, Swiss drug company Novartis AG (NVS) was giving away soapstone bowls carved in Kenya as part of Novartis's support of a non-profit group that promotes economic growth in developing regions. But the sign said Minnesotan doctors, members of a Medicaid committee and employees of state and federal entities "may be subjected to restrictions on acceptance of food, beverages or items."
They're signs of the times in the beleaguered pharmaceutical industry. In recent years, some state governments have cracked down on drug makers' sales and marketing practices. Lawmakers fear that certain sales tactics are swaying doctors to prescribe drugs that might not be medically necessary - or might have cheaper alternatives - which in turn contributes to ballooning costs for state health plans.
A Minnesota law, first enacted in the 1990s and tweaked by state officials a few years ago, prohibits drug companies from giving gifts to physicians with a combined value of more than $50 per year. The law allows for compensation of doctors for consulting and other services and has other exceptions.
Lilly has posted similar warning signs on its freebie booths for the past three years, spokeswoman Amy Sousa said. "We want to make sure we're doing all the right things according to state regulations," she said.
It's unlikely a single cup of frozen yogurt would crack the $50 Minnesota threshold. But Sousa suggested it's better for Lilly sales reps to keep track of items given to doctors they call on, rather than try to track the giveaways at a large conference.
So have any doctors from the Land of 10,000 Lakes been turned away? "Not to my knowledge," Sousa said. Some doctors may have stayed away on their own when they saw the sign, she said.
If they were turned away, they could probably go elsewhere for free stuff - similar warning signs weren't visible at all drug makers' freebie booths.
For the record, this reporter, who is neither a doctor nor a Minnesotan, declined the Novartis bowl but accepted Lilly's yogurt.
-By Peter Loftus; Dow Jones Newswires
Will the democrats split?
With Obama leading with 2073 to Clintons 1916 delegates I wonder if the Democratic Party will come together in November.
This has been a mud slinging contest with the democrats this year. With all the racist remarks spoken from Obama supporters in the black churches to Hillary remarks made against Obama, will this have an affect on the outcome?
The Democratic primary race ran two historic candidates — the first woman so close to seizing a major party nomination, and the first African-American man, who is likely to be the major party nominee.
But my question is will there be enough democrats so angry that they will cross the lines and vote for McCain?
This has been a mud slinging contest with the democrats this year. With all the racist remarks spoken from Obama supporters in the black churches to Hillary remarks made against Obama, will this have an affect on the outcome?
The Democratic primary race ran two historic candidates — the first woman so close to seizing a major party nomination, and the first African-American man, who is likely to be the major party nominee.
But my question is will there be enough democrats so angry that they will cross the lines and vote for McCain?
California citizens get the right to vote
It seems that the citizens has the right to over rule the California Supreme Court ruling on gay Marriage. To qualify for the ballot, the measure needed 694,354 petition signatures, an amount equal to 8 percent of the votes cast during the last governor's race.
But what happens if they proceed with the marriage? Will the ones who get married from now still the election be valid? The court could put a hold on this until the people have the right to vote which I believe would be the right thing to do.
Do we want the courts to set the rules for the citizens even in Indiana? Its about time that we had the right to vote in this state if we want gay marrage or not.
But what happens if they proceed with the marriage? Will the ones who get married from now still the election be valid? The court could put a hold on this until the people have the right to vote which I believe would be the right thing to do.
Do we want the courts to set the rules for the citizens even in Indiana? Its about time that we had the right to vote in this state if we want gay marrage or not.
6/02/2008
Rumors going around town
There seems to be a rumor that there exist a tape of Michelle Obama railing against “whitey” at Jeremiah Wright’s church. It will be interesting if this tape shows up.
Now on the lighter side of politics. Watch this video http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HAX-TZJ2UYI
Red state update: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HAX-TZJ2UYI
Small towns: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OVC4JUg9A9A&feature=user
Warning, this is rated R because of the language. I find them funny and also others at this site.
Now on the lighter side of politics. Watch this video http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HAX-TZJ2UYI
Red state update: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HAX-TZJ2UYI
Small towns: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OVC4JUg9A9A&feature=user
Warning, this is rated R because of the language. I find them funny and also others at this site.
6/01/2008
In trouble with your mortgage?
Since this is a slow time for news, I thought this would be a good time to post this from AARP.
Any other suggestion are welcome.
Get Above Water: When You Are Struggling to Make Mortgage Payments
Many borrowers are struggling to make their mortgage payments. It may be because they were attracted to an adjustable rate mortgage (ARM) that at first had affordable monthly payments. Now that the interest rate has adjusted upward, the only direction most ARMs are headed these days, the homeowner can't make the new higher payments. They may have been manipulated into a loan they cannot afford to repay. They may have been convinced that because they had less than perfect credit the only way they could refinance was with a loan with high fees and high interest rates. Whatever the promises that the loan was right for them, too many homeowners now feel that they are drowning in debt and at risk of losing their homes.
Save Your Home
If you have that sinking feeling, there are some things that you can do to save your home.
If it is not too late, refinance. See if you can refinance your mortgage with a reputable lender to get out of zero-interest or ARM loans into a fixed interest loan. The payments may be higher but you'll be glad you locked into a fixed payment. Ask if you are eligible for a Federal Housing Authority (FHA) insured loan. FHA lenders are required to follow foreclosure prevention procedures designed to assist the homebuyer in keeping his or her home through rough times. Also FHA has been given new authority to help homeowners refinance who are struggling to make their payments when their adjustable rate mortgage payments increase.
Talk to your lender, the sooner the better. Most lenders may be willing to work with you set up a new payment plan that you can live with. It will be easier to negotiate before you get too far behind.
Talk with a credit counselor. Good counselors should sit down with you-preferably face-to-face-to help you work out a budget and find ways to manage your mortgage payments.
Talk with a housing counselor. HUD supports some housing counseling agencies that provide free assistance about how to keep your home out of foreclosure.
Sell and downsize. This may sound painful but you can try to sell your home, pay off the mortgage and use your remaining equity to purchase a more affordable place to live. This is better than losing your home and all of your equity.
Consider bankruptcy. Talk with a bankruptcy lawyer to find out if bankruptcy might be the better way to save your home.
Watch for False Help
Watch out for predators who want to take advantage of homeowners who are falling behind in their payment or are at risk of foreclosure. According to the National Consumer Law Center, foreclosure rescue scams come in at least three versions:
Phantom help: The "rescuer" charges outrageous fees for a few phone calls or some paperwork that the homeowner could easily do, none of which results in saving the home. This predatory scam gives homeowners a false sense of hope and prevents them from seeking qualified help.
The lease/buy back: In this scam, homeowners are deceived into signing over title with the belief that they will be able to remain in the house as a renter and eventually buy it back over time. The terms of these scams are so onerous that the buy-back becomes impossible, the homeowner gets evicted, and the "rescuer" walks off with most or all of the equity.
The bait-and-switch: The homeowners think they are signing documents to bring the mortgage current, but instead actually signing over the deed to their home. They usually don't even know they've been scammed until they're evicted.
Safety Tips
To avoid getting into even bigger problems:
Never deal with anyone who contacts you with offers to help if you are already in foreclosure. Ignore those street signs that say "We buy homes!" or "Save Your Credit."
Never sign any documents related to your home—or add a co-owner to your deed—without first getting advice from an independent source you trust, like a legal service attorney or community counseling service.
Be sure you thoroughly understand any document you are asked to sign. Don't rely on what someone says they mean. Get all promises in writing, get copies of everything you sign, and never leave any blanks in the document.
Be sure your loan agent is employed by a lender that is licensed or registered and therefore authorized to sell mortgages in your state. Check with your state department of housing or licensing.
As Jean Constantine-Davis, a senior attorney for AARP Foundation Litigation says, “The worst thing people can do is bury their heads in the sand. The second-worst thing is dealing with people that are making promises that will make matters worse.”
Predatory Loan Help
If you think your lender is dishonest, for example you discover you paid fees you were not told about or you were required to buy credit insurance, report it.
Call your county office of consumer affairs or consumer protection. You can find the phone number in the government listings of the phone book.
Call your state attorney general or state office of banking. Those numbers will also be in the government listings in the phone book.
Report to the Federal Trade Commission at 1-877-FTC-HELP or at www.ftc.gov.
Ask a lawyer to look at all of your loan document to see if there are state or federal laws that would let you get out of the loan.
Get Above Water: When You Are Struggling to Make Mortgage Payments
Many borrowers are struggling to make their mortgage payments. It may be because they were attracted to an adjustable rate mortgage (ARM) that at first had affordable monthly payments. Now that the interest rate has adjusted upward, the only direction most ARMs are headed these days, the homeowner can't make the new higher payments. They may have been manipulated into a loan they cannot afford to repay. They may have been convinced that because they had less than perfect credit the only way they could refinance was with a loan with high fees and high interest rates. Whatever the promises that the loan was right for them, too many homeowners now feel that they are drowning in debt and at risk of losing their homes.
Save Your Home
If you have that sinking feeling, there are some things that you can do to save your home.
If it is not too late, refinance. See if you can refinance your mortgage with a reputable lender to get out of zero-interest or ARM loans into a fixed interest loan. The payments may be higher but you'll be glad you locked into a fixed payment. Ask if you are eligible for a Federal Housing Authority (FHA) insured loan. FHA lenders are required to follow foreclosure prevention procedures designed to assist the homebuyer in keeping his or her home through rough times. Also FHA has been given new authority to help homeowners refinance who are struggling to make their payments when their adjustable rate mortgage payments increase.
Talk to your lender, the sooner the better. Most lenders may be willing to work with you set up a new payment plan that you can live with. It will be easier to negotiate before you get too far behind.
Talk with a credit counselor. Good counselors should sit down with you-preferably face-to-face-to help you work out a budget and find ways to manage your mortgage payments.
Talk with a housing counselor. HUD supports some housing counseling agencies that provide free assistance about how to keep your home out of foreclosure.
Sell and downsize. This may sound painful but you can try to sell your home, pay off the mortgage and use your remaining equity to purchase a more affordable place to live. This is better than losing your home and all of your equity.
Consider bankruptcy. Talk with a bankruptcy lawyer to find out if bankruptcy might be the better way to save your home.
Watch for False Help
Watch out for predators who want to take advantage of homeowners who are falling behind in their payment or are at risk of foreclosure. According to the National Consumer Law Center, foreclosure rescue scams come in at least three versions:
Phantom help: The "rescuer" charges outrageous fees for a few phone calls or some paperwork that the homeowner could easily do, none of which results in saving the home. This predatory scam gives homeowners a false sense of hope and prevents them from seeking qualified help.
The lease/buy back: In this scam, homeowners are deceived into signing over title with the belief that they will be able to remain in the house as a renter and eventually buy it back over time. The terms of these scams are so onerous that the buy-back becomes impossible, the homeowner gets evicted, and the "rescuer" walks off with most or all of the equity.
The bait-and-switch: The homeowners think they are signing documents to bring the mortgage current, but instead actually signing over the deed to their home. They usually don't even know they've been scammed until they're evicted.
Safety Tips
To avoid getting into even bigger problems:
Never deal with anyone who contacts you with offers to help if you are already in foreclosure. Ignore those street signs that say "We buy homes!" or "Save Your Credit."
Never sign any documents related to your home—or add a co-owner to your deed—without first getting advice from an independent source you trust, like a legal service attorney or community counseling service.
Be sure you thoroughly understand any document you are asked to sign. Don't rely on what someone says they mean. Get all promises in writing, get copies of everything you sign, and never leave any blanks in the document.
Be sure your loan agent is employed by a lender that is licensed or registered and therefore authorized to sell mortgages in your state. Check with your state department of housing or licensing.
As Jean Constantine-Davis, a senior attorney for AARP Foundation Litigation says, “The worst thing people can do is bury their heads in the sand. The second-worst thing is dealing with people that are making promises that will make matters worse.”
Predatory Loan Help
If you think your lender is dishonest, for example you discover you paid fees you were not told about or you were required to buy credit insurance, report it.
Call your county office of consumer affairs or consumer protection. You can find the phone number in the government listings of the phone book.
Call your state attorney general or state office of banking. Those numbers will also be in the government listings in the phone book.
Report to the Federal Trade Commission at 1-877-FTC-HELP or at www.ftc.gov.
Ask a lawyer to look at all of your loan document to see if there are state or federal laws that would let you get out of the loan.
http://www.aarp.org/money/credit_debt/above_water.html
Any other suggestion are welcome.
Get Above Water: When You Are Struggling to Make Mortgage Payments
Many borrowers are struggling to make their mortgage payments. It may be because they were attracted to an adjustable rate mortgage (ARM) that at first had affordable monthly payments. Now that the interest rate has adjusted upward, the only direction most ARMs are headed these days, the homeowner can't make the new higher payments. They may have been manipulated into a loan they cannot afford to repay. They may have been convinced that because they had less than perfect credit the only way they could refinance was with a loan with high fees and high interest rates. Whatever the promises that the loan was right for them, too many homeowners now feel that they are drowning in debt and at risk of losing their homes.
Save Your Home
If you have that sinking feeling, there are some things that you can do to save your home.
If it is not too late, refinance. See if you can refinance your mortgage with a reputable lender to get out of zero-interest or ARM loans into a fixed interest loan. The payments may be higher but you'll be glad you locked into a fixed payment. Ask if you are eligible for a Federal Housing Authority (FHA) insured loan. FHA lenders are required to follow foreclosure prevention procedures designed to assist the homebuyer in keeping his or her home through rough times. Also FHA has been given new authority to help homeowners refinance who are struggling to make their payments when their adjustable rate mortgage payments increase.
Talk to your lender, the sooner the better. Most lenders may be willing to work with you set up a new payment plan that you can live with. It will be easier to negotiate before you get too far behind.
Talk with a credit counselor. Good counselors should sit down with you-preferably face-to-face-to help you work out a budget and find ways to manage your mortgage payments.
Talk with a housing counselor. HUD supports some housing counseling agencies that provide free assistance about how to keep your home out of foreclosure.
Sell and downsize. This may sound painful but you can try to sell your home, pay off the mortgage and use your remaining equity to purchase a more affordable place to live. This is better than losing your home and all of your equity.
Consider bankruptcy. Talk with a bankruptcy lawyer to find out if bankruptcy might be the better way to save your home.
Watch for False Help
Watch out for predators who want to take advantage of homeowners who are falling behind in their payment or are at risk of foreclosure. According to the National Consumer Law Center, foreclosure rescue scams come in at least three versions:
Phantom help: The "rescuer" charges outrageous fees for a few phone calls or some paperwork that the homeowner could easily do, none of which results in saving the home. This predatory scam gives homeowners a false sense of hope and prevents them from seeking qualified help.
The lease/buy back: In this scam, homeowners are deceived into signing over title with the belief that they will be able to remain in the house as a renter and eventually buy it back over time. The terms of these scams are so onerous that the buy-back becomes impossible, the homeowner gets evicted, and the "rescuer" walks off with most or all of the equity.
The bait-and-switch: The homeowners think they are signing documents to bring the mortgage current, but instead actually signing over the deed to their home. They usually don't even know they've been scammed until they're evicted.
Safety Tips
To avoid getting into even bigger problems:
Never deal with anyone who contacts you with offers to help if you are already in foreclosure. Ignore those street signs that say "We buy homes!" or "Save Your Credit."
Never sign any documents related to your home—or add a co-owner to your deed—without first getting advice from an independent source you trust, like a legal service attorney or community counseling service.
Be sure you thoroughly understand any document you are asked to sign. Don't rely on what someone says they mean. Get all promises in writing, get copies of everything you sign, and never leave any blanks in the document.
Be sure your loan agent is employed by a lender that is licensed or registered and therefore authorized to sell mortgages in your state. Check with your state department of housing or licensing.
As Jean Constantine-Davis, a senior attorney for AARP Foundation Litigation says, “The worst thing people can do is bury their heads in the sand. The second-worst thing is dealing with people that are making promises that will make matters worse.”
Predatory Loan Help
If you think your lender is dishonest, for example you discover you paid fees you were not told about or you were required to buy credit insurance, report it.
Call your county office of consumer affairs or consumer protection. You can find the phone number in the government listings of the phone book.
Call your state attorney general or state office of banking. Those numbers will also be in the government listings in the phone book.
Report to the Federal Trade Commission at 1-877-FTC-HELP or at www.ftc.gov.
Ask a lawyer to look at all of your loan document to see if there are state or federal laws that would let you get out of the loan.
Get Above Water: When You Are Struggling to Make Mortgage Payments
Many borrowers are struggling to make their mortgage payments. It may be because they were attracted to an adjustable rate mortgage (ARM) that at first had affordable monthly payments. Now that the interest rate has adjusted upward, the only direction most ARMs are headed these days, the homeowner can't make the new higher payments. They may have been manipulated into a loan they cannot afford to repay. They may have been convinced that because they had less than perfect credit the only way they could refinance was with a loan with high fees and high interest rates. Whatever the promises that the loan was right for them, too many homeowners now feel that they are drowning in debt and at risk of losing their homes.
Save Your Home
If you have that sinking feeling, there are some things that you can do to save your home.
If it is not too late, refinance. See if you can refinance your mortgage with a reputable lender to get out of zero-interest or ARM loans into a fixed interest loan. The payments may be higher but you'll be glad you locked into a fixed payment. Ask if you are eligible for a Federal Housing Authority (FHA) insured loan. FHA lenders are required to follow foreclosure prevention procedures designed to assist the homebuyer in keeping his or her home through rough times. Also FHA has been given new authority to help homeowners refinance who are struggling to make their payments when their adjustable rate mortgage payments increase.
Talk to your lender, the sooner the better. Most lenders may be willing to work with you set up a new payment plan that you can live with. It will be easier to negotiate before you get too far behind.
Talk with a credit counselor. Good counselors should sit down with you-preferably face-to-face-to help you work out a budget and find ways to manage your mortgage payments.
Talk with a housing counselor. HUD supports some housing counseling agencies that provide free assistance about how to keep your home out of foreclosure.
Sell and downsize. This may sound painful but you can try to sell your home, pay off the mortgage and use your remaining equity to purchase a more affordable place to live. This is better than losing your home and all of your equity.
Consider bankruptcy. Talk with a bankruptcy lawyer to find out if bankruptcy might be the better way to save your home.
Watch for False Help
Watch out for predators who want to take advantage of homeowners who are falling behind in their payment or are at risk of foreclosure. According to the National Consumer Law Center, foreclosure rescue scams come in at least three versions:
Phantom help: The "rescuer" charges outrageous fees for a few phone calls or some paperwork that the homeowner could easily do, none of which results in saving the home. This predatory scam gives homeowners a false sense of hope and prevents them from seeking qualified help.
The lease/buy back: In this scam, homeowners are deceived into signing over title with the belief that they will be able to remain in the house as a renter and eventually buy it back over time. The terms of these scams are so onerous that the buy-back becomes impossible, the homeowner gets evicted, and the "rescuer" walks off with most or all of the equity.
The bait-and-switch: The homeowners think they are signing documents to bring the mortgage current, but instead actually signing over the deed to their home. They usually don't even know they've been scammed until they're evicted.
Safety Tips
To avoid getting into even bigger problems:
Never deal with anyone who contacts you with offers to help if you are already in foreclosure. Ignore those street signs that say "We buy homes!" or "Save Your Credit."
Never sign any documents related to your home—or add a co-owner to your deed—without first getting advice from an independent source you trust, like a legal service attorney or community counseling service.
Be sure you thoroughly understand any document you are asked to sign. Don't rely on what someone says they mean. Get all promises in writing, get copies of everything you sign, and never leave any blanks in the document.
Be sure your loan agent is employed by a lender that is licensed or registered and therefore authorized to sell mortgages in your state. Check with your state department of housing or licensing.
As Jean Constantine-Davis, a senior attorney for AARP Foundation Litigation says, “The worst thing people can do is bury their heads in the sand. The second-worst thing is dealing with people that are making promises that will make matters worse.”
Predatory Loan Help
If you think your lender is dishonest, for example you discover you paid fees you were not told about or you were required to buy credit insurance, report it.
Call your county office of consumer affairs or consumer protection. You can find the phone number in the government listings of the phone book.
Call your state attorney general or state office of banking. Those numbers will also be in the government listings in the phone book.
Report to the Federal Trade Commission at 1-877-FTC-HELP or at www.ftc.gov.
Ask a lawyer to look at all of your loan document to see if there are state or federal laws that would let you get out of the loan.
http://www.aarp.org/money/credit_debt/above_water.html
heavy-handed Texas?
First is the oddity of a religious sect the agency knew little about, exacerbating the inherent perils of balancing parents' rights and child safety. Then there were the abuse allegations, starting with a mysterious telephone call and echoed by disgruntled former members, seemingly accepted at face value.
And an ill-fated 1992 brush with another religious sect - which led to the fiery deaths of 21 children at the Branch Davidian compound near Waco - still lingers on the agency's collective conscience.
"It's difficult to know whether, in fact, they screwed it up," said Linda Spears, vice president of the Child Welfare League of America, a national collection of nonprofits that aid abused and neglected children. "It's the 20/20 hindsight thing."
________________
Where they “screwed” up was they did not have a hearing before moving on this one. Have they ever heard of a “Emergency hearing for protecting a dependent? It would taken half of an hour to step before a judge to get a court order to go into that compound.
When will they learn from the past? “The second-guessing, too, is typical. CPS also was criticized for its handling of the Branch Davidians cult at its ranch compound outside Waco. Allegations of abuse at the Waco ranch had swirled for years, but interviews with children at the compound produced no outcry of abuse and CPS closed its investigation in 1992.
A year later, federal agents raided the fortified compound in a weapons investigation. Fire broke out and the 21 children died.”
And an ill-fated 1992 brush with another religious sect - which led to the fiery deaths of 21 children at the Branch Davidian compound near Waco - still lingers on the agency's collective conscience.
"It's difficult to know whether, in fact, they screwed it up," said Linda Spears, vice president of the Child Welfare League of America, a national collection of nonprofits that aid abused and neglected children. "It's the 20/20 hindsight thing."
________________
Where they “screwed” up was they did not have a hearing before moving on this one. Have they ever heard of a “Emergency hearing for protecting a dependent? It would taken half of an hour to step before a judge to get a court order to go into that compound.
When will they learn from the past? “The second-guessing, too, is typical. CPS also was criticized for its handling of the Branch Davidians cult at its ranch compound outside Waco. Allegations of abuse at the Waco ranch had swirled for years, but interviews with children at the compound produced no outcry of abuse and CPS closed its investigation in 1992.
A year later, federal agents raided the fortified compound in a weapons investigation. Fire broke out and the 21 children died.”
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