Time To Buck Up Senate Democrats

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/robert-creamer/every-democratic-senator_b_333634.html This article spells out what I said a couple of months ago: Every Democrat needs to vote against a fillibuster. Then they can vote their conscience. Harry Reid, here is your blueprint.

I'm Back!!!!!

I'm sorry for not having any posts since Sept.11. I have had some health issues that had cause me to be laid up for awhile. But I'm ok and doing fine. Look for posts beginning tomorrow.

Health Care Reform Now

http://www.nytimes.com/2009/09/11/opinion/11fri1.html The President made a very clear and convincing argument for health care reform. It's apparent that reform will come from the Democrats as the Republicans, despite the President's attempt at bi-partisanship, are committed to being the Party of No.

Shame On Niagara Wheatfield School District

It has come to my attention that the Niagara Wheatfield School District decided to not have President Obama's speech for children today. What a god damn disgrace!!!! I'd love to know the un-American, domestic terrorist idiot who made that decision. Who the hell do these people think they are??? There's a disturbing trend here with Niagara-Wheatfield. The school district bans the African-American President's speech and the Town of Niagara bans a mosque from being located on Military Road......Hmmmmm..see a pattern here.

I want to hear the explanation for why a speech that advocated the importance of education and personal responsibility was not heard by students in the Niagara-Wheatfield School District??? I have a friend who works in the NF School District and she told me the children of Niagara Falls saw the President's speech. Why were the kids in NF allowed to see and hear the speech and why not in Niagara-Wheatfield???? Could it be that there are more minorities in the NF School District??? Could it be that the administration of the NF School District is more patriotic than the terrorists running Niagara-Wheatfield???

I want to see if the tremendous local news reporters pick up on this. How many other school districts here in Niagara County banned the President's speech???? In an earlier post, I compared this place to West Virginia or eastern Kentucky. I guess Niagara-Wheatfield is the capital. What a goddamn disgrace!!!!! And I bet these morons sing "Proud To Be An American" and cry when they sing. Hypocritical bastards!!!!!!

U.S.A.: We Are Children of Barnum & Bailey's Circus

http://www.truthout.org/090609Z?n Bill Moyers hits this one out of the park. This summer has proven what I have thought all along: we have become a country of chicken hawks who love to beat our chests and say how we are proud to be Americans. Yet, our founding fathers would be disgusted with our "me first, to hell with every one else" attitude. It gets me sick when I see these "patriotiic" American's sing Lee Greenwood's "Proud To Be An American". They are usually bigoted, love it or leave it hypocrites. All of us who supported President Obama need to stand up for our country!!!!!! We need to have health care reform and we need it now!!!!1

Just When You Think You Have Heard It All

http://mediamatters.org/research/200909030013 The utter ridiculous baseless criticism of Prsident Obama's desire to reach out to school children in this country to talk about the value of education is just about all I can syand. In fact, for you neo-con nut jobs, your man Reagan addressed school children in 1988 and talked about the importance of cutting taxes!!!!!! This recent nonsense takes the cake for down right domestic terrorism and racism. Hmmm.....we don't want a President to value education. WHY????? And we want to know why this country is in the shape it's in. In fact, just recently its was reported that American children areway below other industrial countries in math and science test scores. And you want to know why all these kids can do is work at Wal-mart!!!! I can't take it anymore!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Afghanistan

http://www.nytimes.com/2009/09/05/opinion/05herbert.html?_r=1 I have not commented on Afghanistan but as I read more it appears to me that this is a war we can't win.

The Culture Of Cruelty

http://www.truthout.org/090209R?n What has happened to America??? We were a compassionate, looking out for the underdog people. We have truly become "The Ugly American".

What About The Poor??

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/arianna-huffington/ted-kennedy-and-the-missi_b_270053.html Senator Ted Kennedy was one of the last national politician to focus on the plight of those less fortunate, those struggling to survive, those homeless and hungry. When President Obama calls Kennedy the "soul of the Democratic Party" he was right on the money. But even more so, the soul of the country. The Reagan years began the focus on individual wealth and the hell with everyone else. The hope and promise that was a hallmark of the Kennedys has been replaced by hatred for government, disgust for the poor and overwhelming greed. Who will step up???

Tribute

http://www.truthout.org/082609R?n Ted Kennedy will be deeply missed by all lefties who believe in social justice, public service and an America that is respected and admired throughout the world. I'm still shocked that he is gone. Not that I didn't realize this was inevitable since the brain cancer was diagnosed but it is hard to imagine not having a Kennedy at the forefront of American politics. One thing that really struck me was the overwhelming sentiment that Ted Kennedy knew when he had to put his partisan hat aside and get down to the business of governing. Unfortunately, most of our representatives in Washington haven't learned this.

Of course, you can say that our elected representatives in general haven't learned it. Albany there is constant posturing. Senator Maziarz and Assemblywoman DelMonte can't resist taking shots at each other instead of working together for Niagara County.

Have you watched a Legislative meeting on cable lately. If the majority caucus is for something the Dems are against it. If the Dems are for something the majority caucus is against it. In the mean time the County is dying. And in Niagara Falls, every 4 years city councilman take turns trying to take down whoever the current Mayor is and as a result of this over the last 20 years the City continues to sink deeper.

Ted Kennedy was a statesman. There's not many left. His passing is the end of an era and for that I am sad. The ideals and basic principles of the New Frontier, the drive of RFK's commitment to the less fortunate and the call to get involved was embodied in Ted Kennedy's public service. He didn't need to be a Senator. He wasn't in it for the money as was neither JFK or RFK. They were in it to make America a better place and as a result the world a better place.

God Bless You Senator Edward Moore Kennedy. Us lefties will all miss you.

The End Of An Era

The passing of the great liberal lion of the Senate, Senator Ted Kennedy, truly marks the end of an era. The Kennedy family has been dedicated to public service and particularly for championing the causes for those less fortunate. I will have more later today. Our country lost a piece of its soul today.

The Curse Of Reagan Continues

http://www.nytimes.com/2009/08/24/opinion/24krugman.html?_r=2 It's incredible what a lasting influence such a terrible President has had on this country.

Long History Of Nut Jobs From The Far Right

http://www.truthout.org/082309V?n

This Is What I've Been Talking About!!!

http://www.nytimes.com/2009/08/23/opinion/23rich.html?_r=2&adxnnl=1&adxnnlx=1251025949-3AfeREEz5mCM+NGRmF2IoQ Frank Rich is echoing the alarm which I have been ringing for months. As he states so well, you have elected officials like Senator Coburn stating its ok to be caring guns to public meetings. I asked the nit-wit Senator: What's the purpose for carrying a gun to a town hall meeting???? About the same reason you would carry a gun to a supermarket: there is none. But when morons like Coburn, Beck, Hannity and Limbaugh tell everyone the government is the enemy and that Obama is Hitler, what might happen when a gun toting militia man walks in to a town hall meeting??? Please read and hope that someone rational takes over the Republican Party

Health Care Mobs = Swift Boaters

http://mediamatters.org/columns/200908180002 Please read.....It's getting to the point where these guys just keep the same old playbook. The trouble is we have to make sure it doesn't work again!!!!!

More and More Clear: Forget The G.O.P.

http://www.truthout.org/081909R?n This article spells out that the Republican is not only against a public option for health insurance, they are against health care reform in general. It's obvious Jon Kyl has never ahd to worry about being denied health care. He should be ashamed.

Face Reality: A Majority Of Americans Want a Public Option

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/robert-l-borosage/health-care-let-the-major_b_262666.html A recent poll by Rasmussen (a conservative leaning polling company) shows that 57% of Americans believe that without a public option there will be no true health care reform. The aricle attached nails it: have the Democrats kill a fillibuster and then let there be a vote up or down.

It's Crunch Time For President Obama

The last few days I have been besides myself. The Obama Administration stating that a public option was only a sliver of health care reform through me for a loop. I've tried to figure out what the President was trying to accomplish. One thought was maybe by saying that the public option wasn't a key to health care reform the President was looking to mobilize the left. The other thing I was thinking was maybe he was trying to gauge where the American people were on all of this. I then considered maybe the President felt that he needed to get a health care reform bill passed even if there was no public option.

Of all three, I'm really hoping that he wanted to mobilize the left. Passing health care reform bill without a public option is not really reform. Politically, if a health care reform bill is passed without a public option, the President will still not get Republican votes and he will lose Democratic support and alienate the base. In my opinion, the President needs to push the public option and let the chips fall where they may. While I admire President Obama's attempt to change the bitter partisanship of Washington, it takes two to tango and the Republicans want no part of the bipartisan dance. That is why the President needs to lean on the Democrats to pass a bill with a public option and put an end of it.

Palin Wake Up

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/kathleen-reardon/the-death-panel-already-e_b_256089.html Hey Sarah, wake up!!!! We have death panels now.

More Palin!!!!!

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/shannyn-moore/death-panels-for-dummies_b_255060.html You may be wondering why am I slamming Palin so badly. Well, there are 2 reasons. First, she is intellectually bankrupt. Her next original thought will be her first. I don't believe she is qualified to be Mayor of Wasilla let alone President of the United States. But she is classic Republican candidate material. She is no different than W. except that W. was a governor of a major state, had a resume' that was well crafted and followed instructions to mask his inefficiencies. Palin does not listen to anyone and has no resume' It's frustrating because there are people out there who think she's great. I had a conversation with some elderly men. They loved Palin. I asked them why and the bottom line: she's good looking and has great legs!!!! And you want to know why this country is in the state that were in.

Secondly, because people like Palin and Limbaugh and Hannity and Beck are listened to and believed by millions of Americans they are extremely dangerous when they spew lies and frighten people. They amount to being domestic terrorists!!! Interesting clip I saw the other night where George Stephanopolous called Gingrich out by saying that the health care bill had nothing in it about euthansia. Gingrich just blew it off and continued with the Republican talking points. But there are people who believe the crap about death panels, etc. Today I heard a Congressman tell a story of a 90 year old woman begging him not to put her out on an ice flow to die. The scary thing is that the day before a right wing radio talk show host was saying that Obamacare was going to round all the old people up and put them on ice flows to die.

This is why the Becks, Limbaughs and Palins of the world need to be called out and they need to be called liars, anti-American and domestic terrorists because that is what they are. As Americans we should be able to have intelligent debate. But when you have these terrorists spewing their lies and hate there cannot be intelligent debate but merely fear, hatred and ultimately violence.

When Walter Cronkite died it made me remember of a better time before 24 hour news and opinionated talking heads who are not reporting the news but are trying to make the news and get high ratings. Cronkite was the most trusted man in America because he just gave us the facts and left it up to the American people to figure out where they stood on issues. But 24 hour news has to be outrageous to get ratings. Hence we have Sean Hannity and Bill O'Reilly. And let's not forget Glenn Beck and Lou Dobbs. And how can we forget Pat Buchannan who has returned to his extremist self from 1992 by acting like your typical angry old white guy.

We as Americans have no one to blame but ourselves. People don't read anymore and reporters are all about giving their opinions as opposed to reporting the facts. That is why we lefties need to call these domestic terrorists out!!! Let's not patronize the sponsors of Limbaugh and Hannity and Beck and O'Reilly and Fox News. And let's correct the lies and calm the fears. If things continue the way they have, I'm afraid something terrible is going to happen.

Calling Palin Out

http://www.truthout.org/081009A?n Well, it's happening!!! The mainstream media is calling Sarahcuda out!! Her ridiculous comments about the health care reform bill is an embarassment and she now is backtracking. Too late Sarah baby. You are a joke and as I have stated before you need to be banished from the national stage.

This Is Why We Need Health Care Reform!!!!

http://www.truthout.org/080709A?n This article should be read by every American. The very people who think their current health care policy is great need to wake up!!!!!

It's About Time: Keep On Calling Them Out

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2009/08/07/white-house-warns-rush-na_n_254147.html It was great to hear the White House call out that fat windbag Limbaugh. This guy is a treasonist. He hates America!!!! If you listen to him you need to stop!!!!!! And don't patronize his sponsors!!!!!

Sarah Palin Must Go!!!!

And, as Talking Points Memo reported on Friday, she put up a demented, fact-free Facebook rant trashing the president’s health care plan: “The America I know and love is not one in which my parents or my baby with Down Syndrome will have to stand in front of Obama’s ‘death panel’ so his bureaucrats can decide, based on a subjective judgment of their ‘level of productivity in society’ whether they are worthy of health care. Such a system is downright evil.” This is a quote from the woman who right-wing leaders such as Limbaugh and Buchanan believe are the future of the Republican Party. Normally I would say this is great because with these sort of comments, Sarah Palin will lead them to obscurity. However, the battle for health care reform is too serious to have this nut job add to the misinformation. It wouldn't be so bad if the mainstream media called her out on it. But they are afraid of the neocons to do it. Sarah Palin is the female version of Joe McCarthy. She must go off the public stage. She's a very bad joke who continues to exploit her Down Syndrome baby to push her sick fact-free agenda. It would be great if she got zero media coverage because that's what she craves. She's an ego-maniac created by the neocon spin doctors. Sarah Palin: America's Bad Joke!!!!!

Call To Arms On Health Care

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/robert-l-borosage/health-care-reform-time-t_b_251964.html

Who Are The Nazis????

http://www.nytimes.com/2009/08/07/opinion/07krugman.html?_r=1&hpw Rush Limbaugh is equating President Obama to Hitler but whose allies are employing brown shirt, Gestapo tactics???? Rachel Maddow spelled it out a few nights ago and Paul Krugman sounds the alarm. Please read....

Can You Believe This????

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/bob-cesca/get-your-goddamn-governme_b_252326.html The GOP has pulled the old and only playbook they have had since Nixon: FEAR!!! Now they have seniors all fired up thinking health care reform promotes euthansia and that Medicare is going to be negatively effected. The article indicates some seniors don't even realize that Medicare is run by the federal government.

The Truth On The Canadian Health Care System

http://www.truthout.org/080509D?n For years all we hear is that Canadians have to wait for critical medical care and can't choose their doctors. Once again,misinformation by the big money interests here in the U.S. Read this article and get the facts!!!!!

Rachel: You Go Girl!!!!

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/26315908/vp/32307452#32307452 Thank God for MSNBC. Rachel Maddow followed up Olbermann's great special comment by dissecting the so-called grassroots middle class opposition to health care reform. Please watch the video because Rachel hits this one out of the park. You Go Girl!!!!!

Olbermann Nails It!!!!!!!

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/32276889/ns/msnbc_tv-countdown_with_keith_olbermann/ This is why Keith Olbermann is the best on TV. He nails the problem right at its core: Bought and paid for representatives are killing health care reform. And mind you he spares no one: Republicans and Democrats. A must see!!!!

The Dollars Are Flowing To Kill Health Care Reform

http://www.truthout.org/080109Z?n The dollars being spent to kill health care reform is staggering. Over $130 million to keep things the way they are. When your done reading this article its clear that we are in the fight of our lives!!!!!

They Are Serious: Kill Health Care Reform

http://www.truthout.org/080109G?n Please read this article. If you think that these tea parties were non-partisan, THINK AGAIN!!!! The delay in the vote on health care reform after August played right into the conservative, big money interests. First part of the startegy has worked: delay. Now comes the second part of the strategy: Kill. Many have said, (including myself) if health care wasn't done this summer it was in serious jeopardy. Read the article: we are in a huge fight!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!1111

The Fight Of Our Lives

Isn't it amazing!!! Us lefties fought like dogs the last 3 years to get a Democratic Congress and a Democratic President. Last year we won. Do you national elected Democrats understand: WE WON!!!!! So where do we find ourselves??? Fighting to get health care reform enacted. We are talking about a public option. Forget co-ops and triggers. PUBLIC OPTION!!! But nooooooooo!!!! The so-called Blue Democrats are concerned. They say it's going to cost too much money. It's not going to play well with their constituents. You know what. That's flat out bull shit!!!!!

The Democrats could pass sweeping health care legislation right now but the leadership, particularly Harry Reid doesn't have the stones to do it. Instead he is going to allow Baucus and company to go on vacation and allow the righties and the big insurance lobby to misrepresent the issue to the American people. I've said it in an earlier blog, if health care reform, true health care reform with a public option, is not passed this year, we can forget it!!!! And 40 million Americans will be up the creek without a paddle.

I heard a Democratic strategist say that we needed to take it easy on the Blue Dogs because we need them to maintain a majority. Big freaking deal to have a majority when you can't pass what over 70% of Americans want and that is a public option for health care.

If this does not get done, I predict that Democrats will be on the road to minority status again

The Trouble In These United States

As I think about what I have to do this weekend some random thoughts about our country and everything in it:

- Watching the current debate over Health Care Reform has really confirmed that unless there is true campaign finance reform, true change can never take place. If President Obama is able to pull this off with a public option, it will be the most significant policy initiative since the Great Society.

- The whole nonsense over the President's response to the question of what happened in Cambridge illustrates that race relations in this country is still less than where it needs to be. I have to tell you I hear the race comments regularly at work, with family and friends. As I told my wife the other day, the President has a big problem: many people can't get by the color of his skin.

- While I understand freedom of the press and free speech, the right wing talkers have been continuing the race baiting beyond belief. I've stated this in previous blogs, this disturbing behavior could lead to dangerous circumstances.

- Bringing it closer to home, I had to laugh the other day when the County Legislature expressed shock that no other county is joining them in their frivolous lawsuit against NYPA. The Leg is wasting money, casino money. Assemblywoman DelMonte was right: the Legislature can't be trusted with casino money. What a joke!!

- Speaking of jokes, have you read the Niagara Times blog????

- The situation at City Hall in Niagara Falls is another black eye for the city. I don't get John Gross. He has a great business and they do great work. I had a furnace problem and his guy came over and took care of it right away. The one thing that doesn't surprise me is Attorney Jim Faso's involvement. The guy really is disgrace to the legal profession that goes beyond this incident. Just ask the many clients he has screwed over.

- The racial overtones in the e-mails of a city official again illustrates there is a big problem in this city and in city government. I would hope that Mayor Dyster would address this more publicly.

- Am I the only one who wishes that Liz Cheney would go away. Maybe she can slide into the bunker her father was in for 8 years.

- Speaking of her father, interesting the Time Magazine article about how Dick Cheney lobbied hard for President Bush to last minute pardon Scooter Libby. I give Bush credit. Cheney was as guilty as sin and he tried to take care of his buddy. Cheney is a national disgrace!!!!

- And whatever happened to Tom "the Hammer" DeLay??

G.O.P: Nothing Wrong With US Health Care

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2009/07/21/internal-rnc-memo-engage_n_241940.html The G.O.P. is delusional. In the article they are quoted as saying that "there's nothing wrong with our Health Care system". What should we expect from the party of Millionaires. The sad thing is that the Baucus, Conrad,Specter, etc. crew is what stopping reform. And I heard today that Harry Reid is saying earlies we will see something is in October. You call yourself the majority leader???? Reid you are useless!!!! The President must get out there and pound away, including against the so-called blue-dog Democrats. If this ship passes, we will never see health care reform again!!!

Some Rainy Friday Thoughts

As I'm watching TV some things I'm thinking about on a rainy Friday night:

- Why is it that Democrats refuse to stay true to the people who put them in office??? The gang of six: Nelson, Conrad, Baucus, Landrieu, Wyden and Lieberman are telling the President to slow down on health care. Slow down!!!!! Are you kidding me???? These 6 should have bullseyes on them if health care reform with a public option does not happen. The President needs to bang some heads!!!!!

- Why not just create the committee and investigate the Bush-Cheney cabal. I'm sick of hearing these Republicans saying that the call for an investigation of the CIA is an attempt to cover for Pelosi. What a bunch of crap!!! The only ones covering up anything are the Republicans because they know Cheney is dirty.

- Did you hear that old Tommy Golisano was in Albany to watch the new "reform" Senate install Pedro " the crook" Espada as Senate President. Saw in the Buffalo News that the investigation begins on Tommy and his buddy Pigeon's campaign contributions. I will be following this big time.

- Speaking of Tommy and Steve, what the hell is up with the NF Reporter praising these two nitwits??? Rumors have it that Golisano pumped money into the weekly freebee paper.

- You know who I am really sick and tired of: Candra Thomason. This middle aged Barbie wanna be should stay out of politics. She's no longer a new face and her modus operandi is clear: a divisive political opportunist who wants to be mayor. Heaven help us.

- Has anyone seen or heard from City Administrator Donna Owens??

- Does anybody wonder why our County Legislators need a vacation for the month of August??? Aren't they part-time Legislators??? So why do they need to be off???

- Really sad to hear about the passing of Walter Cronkhite. Many of the so-called news people of today could learn a lesson from this news giant. Who could forget his memorable reporting on the assassination of Presient Kennedy. Cronkhite's influence on this country was as great, if not greater, than Michael Jackson but I will bet you won't see as much press coverage on his life as you did for Jackson.

- And finally, will summer ever get here this year????

What A Tangled Web We Weave, Mr. Golisano

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/wires/2009/06/12/monserrategolisano-smokin_ws_214813.html Tom Golisano is like a loan shark. He played on the scumbag Monserrate's felonious situation and in the end Tommy Boy got double-crossed!!!

Where Have You Gone Tom, George and Steve???

Well the big reformers: Tom Golisano, George Maziarz and Steve Pigeon accomplished quite a bit. The Three Muskateers basically brought NY government to a standstill and made the Empire State more like the Jackass State!!!! These big reformers made a deal with two of the most unscrupulous, self-serving scumbags in NYS government (and with that whole crew that is a mouthful). When the big coup took place, you saw Senator George all over local television. Once Benedict Arnold #1 went back and caused the 31-31 deadlock, you had to put out an APB to find our good Senator. Not a word from Maziarz. You see the nonsense game that Maziarz has pulled in Niagara County with Democrats running and siding with Republicans did not work in Albany because they couldn't fill the ego-maniac needs of Espada. That's what happens when you make a deal with scum.

Speaking of scum, where is big, bad reformer Tom Golisano. Talk about ego-maniacs. This guy needs to go to the Everglades and play with the alligators. Talk about frauds, Tom Golisano is the biggest fraud going because he, like Maziarz just want power.

And then there's Steve Pigeon. When will someone be able to convince Pigeon that the glory days of the 90's are over and he is a powerless groupie golddigger who latches on to dumb rich ego-maniacs who he convinces that he can deliever. I'm not sure Pigeon could deliver a pizza let alone a political victory.

Here's what needs to happen: the people of Niagara County need to realize that George Maziarz is in government for one reason: George Maziarz. He realizes that if the Democrats retain control of the Senate, they will redistrict and he and his Republican buddies will be on the outside looking in for years. Maziarz needs to be voted out for his despicable roll in this whole ridiculous mess. Where was reformer George Maziarz when he was in the majority and his good buddy Pataki was Governor?? He wasn't worried about equal pork barrel money and staff then!!! The problem is that the local Democrats are led by a moron. It will take the state Dems to do something to get old Georgie out of here.

Second, Steve Pigeon and Tom Golisano need to be found guilty of campaign finance fraud related to their illegal contributions last year in pursuit of Pigeon's vendetta against Sam Hoyt. They need to be eliminated from politics because they are both everything that is wrong with politics: power hungry, cut-throat, job grabbing scumbags!!!!!!!

Finally, if you want reform: eliminate pork barrel money, eliminate stipends, put stringent restrictions on receiving money from lobbyists and eliminate the outrageous daily expense reimbursement that these birds get for serving us.

Conservative Catholics Wake-Up And Stop Being Shills For the GOP

http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/07/08/AR2009070802693.html?wpisrc=newsletter&wpisrc=newsletter&wpisrc=newsletter When there was all the controversy about President Obama being at Notre Dame, I wrote that Pope Benedict praised the President for his position to look for common ground on the abortion issue. If you read this article you will see that the Conservative Catholic Bishops here in the U.S are out of touch with the Pope.

Maverick or Quitter!!!

http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/07/06/AR2009070603141.html?wpisrc=newsletter&wpisrc=newsletter&wpisrc=newsletter&wpisrc=newsletter&wpisrc=newsletter Sarah Palin the self-proclaimed maverick is a quitter. She quit on the people of Alaska and she has the audacity to think she could be President. She is the Great Hope of the Republican Party!!! Hip-Hip-Hooray!!!!

Where Have You Gone G.O.P. - I Love It!!!!

http://www.truthout.org/070509A?n The party of family values has turned into the party of disgrace, the party of lunatics and the party of extremists!!!! Again, they are out of touch with the American people, yet the Democrats seem content to let the tail wag the dog on health care. We need to ram this through and those Democrats who aren't on board need to pay a price. They should vote as a bloc to prevent a Republican fillibuster and then let the chips fall where they may. My guess is that Health Care reform with a public option would pass by a simple majority!!!

No Excuses: Health Care Reform Now!!!!

http://www.nytimes.com/2009/07/06/opinion/06krugman.html?_r=1 This article spells it out perfectly. Interestingly enough, with the obsessive media coverage of the death of Michael Jackson, this latest CBO report citing the affordability of health care reform with a public option has been buried by the mainstream media!!

Palin: The Gift That Keeps On Giving

http://www.nytimes.com/2009/07/05/weekinreview/05tanenhaus.html?_r=1&hp This is why the Democrats need to move for real reform on health care and the environment. The Grand Obstructionist Party ain't what it used to be. Keep it going, Sarah!!!!

It's All About Sarah!!

So why has Sarah Palin quit her job as Governor of Alaska: a.) she thinks this helps her 2012 chances for President, b.) she has been told resign or be indicted, c.) some other personal or public scandal is going to become public and d.) she wants to spend more time with her family. The only good answer is d. The others are all about Sarah, the self-absorbed not-ready-for-prime time Governor. There's a part of me that wants Sarah to go off into the Alaskan sunset. There's another part of me that wants Sarah to stay on the scene: she's the best weapon for Democratic electoral success. http://www.nytimes.com/2009/07/04/opinion/04collins.html

It's Been Awhile But I Have A Whole Lot To Say

The last few days I have been on the road but been thinking about a bunch of things:

- Curious as to why we don't hear more from Senator Maziarz about the tremendous reform movement he engineered??? Probably because it is a total joke!!! These guys should all be voted out of office. This was a power grab that went bad at the public's expense!!!

- It's my understanding that the local tea party crowd is going to have a demonstration blasting the NYS Senate situation. That's great except they are targeting Antoine Thompson and Bill Stachowski. While they are both dopes, why aren't they targeting the architect George Maziarz and any other local Republican Senator. The reason is that the whole tea party thing is a big SCAM!!!!

- I'm really tired of hearing middle-aged and senior white Americans making passive racial remarks about President Obama. OHHH they are going to run the country... Black President, Black Governor, we are doomed. These same people consider themselves patriotic Americans. Give me a break.....

-While I appreciate the impact Michael Jackson had on music in the 80's and early 90's, I'm tired of the media's ridiculous coverage. The issue of health care reform is much more important than what happens to Neverland.

-Sabre hockey fans are the biggest suckers going. Big UFA signing: Steve Montador!!! Give me a break!!

-Congrats to Al Franken. Now can the Democrats grow a set and bring true health care reform, with a public plan, to America!!

Congrats to Lockport for getting Yahoo. Heard the yahoos on WLVL blasting the tax breaks they got. And you want to know why this area is dying???

-And finally, how about those Hawks!!!! Hossa and Madden.....Cup to the Windy City in 2010!!!!

We Need More Audacity

http://www.nytimes.com/2009/06/26/opinion/26krugman.html President Obama is to be commended for trying to end the partisan nonsense that has gone on for the last 16 years in Washington. However, the Republican Party has not abandoned the Rove/Attwood playbook: it's all about power forget what's good for the country. Mr. President to hell with bi-partisanship!!! To get true health care reform, we need a public option. If this does not happen, this will be the beginning of neo-con comeback.

The People Are Speaking: We Want A Public Option On Health Care

http://www.nytimes.com/2009/06/22/opinion/22krugman.html?_r=2 Some "centrist" Dems and all Republicans fail to hear the American people who overwhelmingly want the government involved in health care.

Golisano For Senator: PLLLLEEAAASSEEE!!!!!

Word out of Florida is that Tom "Ego-maniac" Golisano is considering running for U.S. Senate representing the state of Florida. Are you kidding me!!!!!!!!!!!! This guy needs to shut the hell up and stop thinking he's some type of political player. He is an old stupid hippocrite!!!! Just what we need Golisano in Washington with old Steve Pigeon in the halls of Congress. Disgusting!! The funny thing is that Golisano is reportedly going to run as a Democrat. The Democrat who through the Democratic controlled NY State Senate into turmoil and ran for Governor twice as an independent. What unmitigated gall that this carpetbagging scumbag moves to Florida and now decides he's going to run for Senate. I hope he runs because he will get buried. Florida get ready for the biggest joke going: The Golisano Traveling Scum Act!!!

Mr. Golisano: You Want Reform??? Please Read!!!

http://www.nytimes.com/2009/06/20/opinion/20sat1.html?_r=1 If Messrs. Golisano, Maziarz and Pigeon are interested in reform they will read this article and step away!!! The fact of the matter is that for Golisano and Company its all about getting power not about reform. This article spells out a good plan for true reform, not the back door crap that Maziarz, Golisano and Pigeon are masters at!!!!!

It's Health Care!!!!! It's Up To You, President Obama!!!

I understand that TV talkers have to be mindful of ratings but lefty talkers need to spend more time on the health care issue and less time on Palin, gay marriage and what's up with Cheney. If the Democrats don't get a health care bill passed this year it WILL NEVER HAPPEN and they will lose plenty of seats in 2010. Count me as a member of the screw the partisan health care bill bandwagon. I understand what the President's strategy was however it is clear that the old Republican nonsense (you won't keep your own doctors, there will be long waiting lines, etc.) and the influence of the pharmaceutical companies, health insurance industry and the AMA are pulling out all the stops.

Last night on The Ed Show, Ed Shultz went over a recent poll which indicated that the President has high personal approval ratings. However, when it comes to Health Care, 33% supported the President's plan, 32% disapprove and 35% were unsure. The problem is that the President was committed to let Congress hammer the details for reform but it has turned into a mish mash of nonsense. The American people are hearing different messages.

With his personal appeal and charisma, President Obama needs to take lead on this. He needs to be out front and tell the public what he wants and build support that way. He needs to use his personal appeal to sway the American public and apply pressure on the bought and paid for members of Congress. Obama is the only person who can pull this one off. There's no one in Congress who can do it. It's up to you, Mr. President!!!!

It's Scary Out There And How Will It End??

http://www.nytimes.com/2009/06/14/opinion/14rich.html?_r=1 The right-wing message of hate and fear is rivaling that of the KKK back in the 60's which led to plenty of violence including the assassination of 3 progressive leaders. What happened to decent public discussion?? It ended with Fox News and Rush Limbaugh.... Please read this article. It's getting scary out there!!!!

The Mess Called NYS Politics

http://www.nytimes.com/2009/06/14/nyregion/14democracy.html?_r=1&hp This article is about State politics but could also explain what goes on here in Niagara County.

Hate Spewing Righties!!!!

http://www.nytimes.com/2009/06/12/opinion/12krugman.html?_r=2&hpw

http://www.truthout.org/061009WA Please read......I'm really concerned for our President.

Golisano - Mr. Reform?? NOT!!!!!!!!

The recent coup of the NYS Senate by the Republican Party is really interesting and should make one hopeful that real changes could take place except when we examine who the players are behind it. First, there is the magnifcient Tom Golisano. The inept owner of the Sabres is just as inept in political elections. His multiple gubenatorial defeats and his failed attempts to elect Joe Mesi and take out Sam Hoyt prove my point. Now old Tom got pissed off because Malcolm Smith was on his blackberry when old Tom came to speak to Smith about Golisano's agenda. So what does old Tom do??? He gets his attack dog Steve Pigeon to move into action.

Pigeon is the second player in this coup. Mr. Insider back in the 90's, Pigeon still has contacts in Albany. So he reaches out to the two Democratic State Senators who have more ethics issues than ex-Gov. Blago. One, who is the new senate president, has multiple campaign finance violations and is being investigated for trying to funnel state funds to a not-for-profit he has an interest in using his influence. The second culprit is charged with abusing his girlfriend and could get 7 years in jail if convicted.

Next entering the picture is our own Senator Maziarz. Maziarz while in the majority with his buddy Pataki as governor didn't know what the word reform meant until he found himself in the minority. He is quite experienced in getting Dems to work with Republicans to form a majority as he has mastered it here in Niagara County. Maziarz, Golisano, Pigeon and two ethics lacking Dems from downstate are the champions of reform here in NYS. Give me a break!!!!

If Golisano is so interested in reform why doesn't he have the new majority get rid of his boy Mesi who's making $80,000 a year to look pretty?? If Golisano is so committed to reform why doesn't he press to limit campaign donations and institute strict guidelines to curb the influence of lobbyists??? If Maziarz is so interested in reform, why doesn't he sponsor a bill to put a $50,ooo cap on member items?? If Maziarz is so interested in reform, why doesn't he sponsor a bill which will eliminate stipends for committee assignments and committee chairmanships???

This whole thing is a crock!!!! The new majority's first act was to make sure that they got more staff positions and took control of committee chairs. Instead of the these leeches wearing D's on there hats, now they are wearing R's. Golisano plays the game that he is a reformer. He's so committed that when he had to pay more in taxes he skipped town. He's nothing more than a power hungry money grabbing parasite who wants to call the shots. Since he can't win an election, he figures he can buy control. All the way from his compound in Florida. It had to be dumb luck that he made money in his business, because he can't run a hockey team and he is a loser in politics. Here are his key people: in hockey - Larry Quinn, in politics - Steve Pigeon. Need I say more????

Some Random Thoughts

Some random thoughts as another weekend comes to an end...

- When will Democrats get some intestinal fortitude and stand up to the neo-con nut jobs in the Congress and the media??? I read today that President Obama is going to get personally involved in the health care reform debate. He has no choice since you have so-called Democrats like Baucus and Nelson waivering. Mitch McConnell is saying the President better tread softly. Mitch, wake-up: Americans want change and they want national health care.

- Along these lines, when are we going to stop hearing Dick Cheney and his brat daughter Liz?? If Democrats in the Congress had a set they would be asking for a special counsel to investigate the abuse of power of the Bush Administration and their trampling of the Constitution.

- I wonder why the mainstream media is not really focusing on the hate mongering of the fanatical right?? The recent shooting of Dr. Tiller is a prime example of the ginned up rhetoric of wackos like O'Reilly and Randall Terry and its impact on the simple minded in this country. By the way, have you heard much about the nut job who was planning on killing the President??? Probably not!!!!!

- The circus act taking place in Wheatfield over Tim Demler is really something to behold. The Republicans have created another mess here locally. Unfortunately, the local Democrats are so inept that they probably won't capitalize.

- I had to laugh last week when I read the head of the SEIU at NFMMC praise Don Ruffalo. The same mafioso who destroyed the union's pension program. What a joke!!!!!!

- Read today in the Buffalo News where 2 county legislators are suing the NF Bridge Commission. Sklarski and Cerretto should worry about there responsibilities and stop carrying Senator Maziarz's water bucket. They are both a disgrace to the office they hold.

-Does anybody wonder if Governor Patterson really thinks he can win next year??

-What is Senator Gillibrand's position on single payer health care??? She's been awfully quiet.

- And finally, does anyone really care what politicians donated to the NF Reporter's drive for Community Mission??? The Community Mission does a great job here and we should support this worthwhile organization, but to devote a huge portion of a weekly on who didn't contribute is simply amazing!!!!

-

Liz Cheney: Daddy's Little Girl!!!

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2009/06/04/liz-cheney-restates-iraq_n_211477.html Liz Cheney is as delusional as her old man. This revisionist history to protect Papa Cheney's legacy (and maybe keep him out of jail) is a complete and total joke!!!! What's said is that but for people like Andrea Mitchell, the mainstream media continues to give both Cheney's a pass. The gall to say that Dick Cheney never linked 9/11 to Iraq!!! Pleeeaaassseee!!! After reading the attached article I have four words for Liz Cheney: SHUT THE HELL UP!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

When Will Cheney Be Held Accountable

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/arianna-huffington/when-will-dick-cheneys-to_b_210627.html Dick Cheney's backpedaling on the Iraq link to 9/11 and the declassification of memos further compounds this man's despicable reputation. My question is: When will he be held accountable??? I really believe he is a sociopath.

The Beginning Of The Financial Mess: Reagan

http://www.nytimes.com/2009/06/01/opinion/01krugman.html?_r=1 I have stated over and over the beginning of our problems began with the Reagan Administration. Read this article on how the seeds of our financial problems began with Reagan.

It Hasn't Ended Yet: Gutless Dems And Talking Heads!!!

http://www.nytimes.com/2009/05/31/opinion/31rich.html?_r=1 If you think the election of Barack Obama ended the neo-con manipulation of the media and the cowering of certain Democratic politicians you are DEAD WRONG!!! Read this article!!!!

The President And I Got It Right: Health Care This Year Or Never!!!

http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20090528/ap_on_go_pr_wh/us_obama_health_care;_ylt=Atx3YbpBQ9Fpho3hvlribdes0NUE;_ylu=X3oDMTJsNDU3aXV2BGFzc2V0A2FwLzIwMDkwNTI4L3VzX29iYW1hX2hlYWx0aF9jYXJlBGNwb3MDMgRwb3MDNwRzZWMDeW5fdG9wX3N0b3J5BHNsawNvYmFtYXNheXNoZWE- Its real simple.....we need health care reform now!!!!!

Limbaugh: Shut The Hell Up!!!!

Boss Limbaugh continues his anti-American diatribe ratcheting up the rhetoric by calling Judge Sonia Sotomayor a reverse racist and that Obama is the biggest reverse racist going!!! In same breathe, he repeats proudly that he hopes Obama fails. This during a time of war!!!! Boss Limbaugh is the biggest domestic terrorist in the USA.

Limbaugh's ridiculous schtick is extremely scary because Republicans believe this fat drug abuser. Of course, the rest of the right wing wackos are spewing all kinds of things about Judge Sotomayor. The problem is that its so ridiculous you can't believe what you are hearing. Tom Tancredo and company are calling her a racist. Rove says she's not really smart which insinuates that she only succeeded in school because of her race. Buchannan calls her a racist and is concern for white males. Are you kidding me!!!!!!!!!

Cheney's Republican Party

http://www.truthout.org/052309Z?n The Republican Party is in the wilderness and it all began with Richard Nixon. The excesses of big business, imperial presidency and espousing fear and prejudice has led the GOP to the isolation of the political wilderness. And guess who is a common thread throughout?? Dick Cheney.

Cheney, McNulty, NFMMC, And More....

After being on the road most of the week, just some things in my head as I'm watching the Red Wings pushing the Black Hawks to the brink....

- Maybe someone needs to tell Dick Cheney he is no longer in power. His ridiculous performance this week in a speech after President Obama's speech was really a joke and disrespectful. It must be tough to see a President who can think and speak at the same time as opposed to the man-puppet he teamed up with to get us in the mess that we are in. Cheney's defense of torture, Gitmo and the Iraq War is disturbing but illustrates what a dangerous individual he is. The more he talks, the bigger hole he digs. But maybe he's trying to taint the jury pool for when he's charged with war crimes.

- The Andrea McNulty situation represents what's wrong with the political parties here in Niagara County. You can't tell me that the Republican Party didn't know what McNulty was doing. But hey, we are overwhelmingly in control that we can do what we want. It's called arrogance and that's what exudes from the Niagara County Republicans. Ms.McNulty was playing a cute game and she got caught. Then we have the Democratic Party. You use your litle boy to rat out a Republican leaning Democratic legislator??? Kind of disgusting. So now that they've outed McNulty now what's going to happen??? Do they have a candidate??? Can that candidate win??? My thought is probably not. Maybe the Niagara County Democrats ought to try to get good candidates and maybe raise some money as opposed to using a little boy to stake out an opponent. With the state of both parties, you wonder why we are in the state that we are in.

- The NFMMC story was mentioned in the NF Reporter this week. The critical question is: what did Joe " Gotti" Ruffalo know about the fraud scheme that was being pulled by the hospital's hired collection agency??? The other question is: where is Assemblywoman Del Monte, Senator Thompson and Senator Maziarz in all this??? These are state Medicaid dollars that was being stolen on top of the fact that this facility receives casino money. Why aren't our State representatives asking questions??? There needs to be a thorough investigation of NFMMC. And while were at it, every Board member of the hospital should be made to resign!!!! If they don't I wouldn't give them another dime of casino money. Maziarz has said that the City of NF couldn't run a lemonade stand, well Don Ruffalo couldn't run one either, yet they get unquestioned casino money.

- The NF Water Board should be ashamed of themselves. Callously telling homeowners in the 56th Street area that they are out of luck for the water damage to their homes as a result of a broken water line is a joke!!! I smell arrogance again. I hope these people take them in front of a judge. It's totally disgusting.....

- It's good to see Ted Kennedy back in action and pushing for national health care. I am so tired of the stalling and stammering on the part of the health insurance companies and their lackies on Capitol Hill. The President can certainly use The Liberal Lion's help to push this through. As I've said before, if it doesn't happen this year it will be a while before we get a shot again.

- And finally, do you remember how after the Iraq War started how anyone who criticized Bush was considered unpatriotic because we were at war??? Hmmn....we are at war in Iraq and Afghanistan yet the Chicken Hawk neo-cons can't stop criticzing President Obama and leading the way is Mr."7 deferments of the Vietnam War" Cheney leading the way. Hypocrites everyone. As Ed Schultz said today, the neo-cons want to see the economy tank and the nation be attacked so they can blame it on the President. These are so-called patriots??? PPLLLLEEAASEEEE!!!!!

Oh my its overtime....here's hoping the Hawks pull this out!!!

Notre Dame: The Pope Has It Right!!!

Monday I read on the MSNBC website a report from the Vatican pertaining to the Pope's reaction to Notre Dame's invitation to President Obama to speak at its commencement and Pope Benedict was on the money. Please remember that when Benedict was selected Pope it was believed to be a victory for conservative Catholics. However, the arch-conservative American bishops who blasted Notre Dame had to be unhappy with the Pope's response. Basically, the Pope indicated that it was more important to focus on the common ground with the President: to work toward limiting the number of abortions and making it easier for people to adopt. The Pope, as the President, understands that the differences between Pro-Life and Pr0-Choice are irreconcilable. However, its important to find the common ground: to limit the number of abortions. What this acknowledges is that being Pro-Choice does not make you Pro-Abortion.

The Pope's position indicates that the arch-conservative Catholic bishops have become political shills for the neo-con Rovian element of the Republican Party. They need to wake up and follow the lead of the Pope. It's funny also how you didn't read much about this or hear about it in the mainstream media. Geez, I wonder why??? I'm sure many of Catholics are not aware of the Pope's comments. I wonder if I will hear about it at Church this Sunday.

Conservatives Playing The Media Again!!!!!

This morning set me off big time and reminds me that despite the victory in November, the mainstream media is still influenced by the neo-cons in this country.

First, the focus and attention that is being placed on Nancy Pelosi's knowledge of waterboarding and torture. Let's be serious here. You have to be a strong partisan to believe that Nancy Pelosi would have any influence over the Bush Administration. What would the mainstream media have done if Pelosi came out in 2002, 2004, 2006 or 2007 and said that the Bush Administration should not torture??? She would have been called a terrorist sympathizer and weak. Am I stunned that she said that the CIA lied to her?? This coming from an Administration that lied us into war and in fact cheated to get the White House in the first place in 2000.

The point that is being conveniently missed by the media is that who gave the order to torture??? And what were they trying to find out??? The answer is that the Bush Administration, going as high up to Bush and Cheney, authorized torture in order to get justification for starting a war with Iraq by connecting Saddam to 9/11. We know that there was no connection. WHY ISN'T THE MEDIA FOCUSING ON THIS!!!!! Instead they are focusing on Pelosi.

Second Item: This morning an Associated Press article about President Obama's address at Notre Dame. With the article is a picture where they identify a student who had a symbol on her cap which symbolizes the pro-life movement. But who is not identified nor even mentioned is that in the same picture, 4 or 5 students over from the one identified, was a student who had the Obama campaign symbol on their cap. The media played up the opposition to Obama's visit but did not at all talk about or focus on supporers of the President. Typical capitulation of the mainstream media.

Long live MSNBC... Long Live Ed Schultz....Long Live Bill Press....Long Live Randi Rhodes...Long Live Stephanie Miller..... Us lefties must be vigliant!!!!!!

Some Thoughts On A Rainy Saturday

As I'm sitting here watching my grass grow crazily I was wondering:

-Why didn't Senator Maziarz when he was in the majority and his buddy Pataki was Governor ask the NYPA to move its offices to Niagara County???? You would have to be pretty foolish to think that this is going to happen now.

-Why would a County Legislator think she was going to get away with living outside of her district??? The whole Andrea McNulty situation is really unbelievable. I'm not sure who is telling the truth but she was at the Pendleton house (owned by her husband) in the morning in her bathrobe. Ms. McNulty represents a district in the City of North Tonawanda.

-Why would the Grand Obstructionist Party continue to let Dick Cheney run amok??? This guy represents everything that is wrong with politics. He's almost out of a comic strip: a dastardly meglomaniac who thirsts for power. Where's the Justice League when you need them??

-Why no one is asking questions about the management at NF Memorial Medical Center??? First, they can't make pension payments for their employees and now they have a contractor who has bilked the taxpayers of this county for over $700,000. When asked, spokesman Pat Bradley says the hospital was not aware of what was going on. Right, and I have some land to sell you in the Florida swamps!!

-Why is everyone surprised that the Obama Administration is focusing troops to Afghanistan?? Candidate Obama made it clear that is what needed to happen. My only concern is where are other countries in all of this???

-Why is so much time being devoted to arguing over the removal of the Parkway?? Are you kidding me?? It's kind of like fiddling while Rome burns!!!!

- And finally, whatever happened to rallying around a new President?

Cheer, Cheer For Old Notre Dame

The University of Notre Dame should be commended for standing up to the arch-conservative, one-dimensional bishops who are raising an uproar of the University's invitation to President Obama to speak at this year's graduation commencement. There are a number of things that bother me with the position of the bishops.

First, the bishops position on making abortion the litmus test for all things Catholic is ridiculous!!! The President is not a Catholic and to impose this litmus test on him makes no sense.

Second, the bishops are attempting to make the Catholic Church a one-dimensional religion. Being a Catholic, I know that the Church has taken a stand against the death penalty, against pre-emptive wars and has taught the importance of concern for the poor. Which leads me to point #3:

Where was the bishops outrage when Notre Dame had George Bush speak at the commencement??? I guess the bishops thought that the fact that Bush started a pre-emptive, unjust (Pope John Paul II's words not mine) war was ok because he was against abortion. Not to mention as Governor of Texas he presided over the most death penalty executions in the country. The other point to be made here, ND alumni did protest Bush's presence at that commencement but you heard nothing about it.

Fourth, these bishops are trying to manouver the Catholic Church as an arm of the neo-conservative Republican Party.

What a joke!!! President Obama's policy positions are more in line with Christian principles than any other President. I thought it was truly enlightening when he announced a task force had been formed comprised of pro-life and pro-choice advocates to develop strategies to avoid the need for abortions. You see the bishops don't get it: pro-choice does not mean you are pro-abortion, it means you believe people should have the right to choose. The President is right on: we should be examining ways to reduce the number of abortions.

The other thing that the bishops refuse to acknowledge is that the majority of American Catholics are pro-choice and are in favor of birth control. This stupid rigid litmus test on abortion will continue to drive people away from the Church.

I'm glad that Notre Dame will have President Obama address their graduates. A Church that preaches love one another, can't see the social significance of having the first African-American president speak at its commencement. What a shame!!!

Cheney The Best Thing To Happen To The Democrats

http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/05/11/AR2009051102670.html?wpisrc=newsletter&wpisrc=newsletter&wpisrc=newsletter Cheney is really gone bananas!!! Keep talking Dick, and in 2010 us lefties will pick up more seats!!!!

NF Reporter Right On Fournier!!!!

This afternoon I read the NF Reporter article online pertaining to the Councilman Fournier debacle. Mike Hudson gets it: A city government with racial issues now has a City Councilman shouting racial slurs and getting into an altercation with City police officers. Hudson touches on something I stated last week: Fournier says he doesn't remember using racial slurs. So either he is a liar or Fournier was "bombed out of his gourd." Either way, Fournier needs to step down.

Hudson's article points out that both Bob Anderson and Charles Walker have suggested to Fournier that he should resign. However, this has been done privately while Mayor Dyster has been quiet. As I stated last week, our City leadership needs to make a statement that this type of behavior is unacceptable for an elected official and that unless Fournier is totally exonerated he must resign. Yet, we hear nothing from 745 Main Street.

The Mayor and City Council need to make a statement that this type of behavior cannot be tolerated. Fournier may be a nice guy but being a City Councilman requires responsible leadership for all of the residents of this city. Instead of acting as a responsible City Father, Fournier has acted like an immature City Teenager. Own up Steve and resign!!!!! And if he fails to do the honorable thing, then the Mayor and City Council must push the issue. Failure to do so means they condone Fournier's behavior and maybe explains why racial issues continue to plague city government.

Two Factors Trying To Kill Health Care Reform

President Obama boldly has place health care reform on the table stating that he wants something done by the end of this year. In the November election, Americans who decisively elected Obama wanted health care reform. Most surveys indicate that this is necessary. Yet, two factors are working hard to kill health care reform.

Number One: The Grand Obstructionist Party- As Ed Schultz said on his show the other day, the GOP is gravely concerned that if President Obama gets action on health care reform Democrats will rule for years like what happened after 1934. Damn what's in the best interest of the American people it's all about taking back control. They should be ashamed of themselves!!! They refuse to deal with the problem and will not come up with anything credible except espousing the tired old mantra: Americans will lose control of their own health care, we won't have any say in how we will be treated, etc., etc,. Let's stop the propaganda!!!

Number Two: Senator Dick Durbin (D-Ill) said that members of the Senate are bought and paid for by the insurance companies and one of them is Senator Max Baucus (D-Montana). Baucus chairs a committee dealing with health care reform and banned advocates of single payer health insurance from speaking. Are you kidding me!!!!!! This guy is a disgrace... This is actually more of a problem than item number one becaus eif Democrats stuck together we could get this done.

I honestly believe that the President is going to have to expend plenty of political capital on "bought and paid for Democrats." The President has said, "this is our time" and he is right. If we don't get health care reform done this year I'm afraid we are doomed. I think the public needs to get after these people and remind them that they represent us not the Insurance companies. If anyone can pull this off President Obama can. Not only can he do it,
he must do it.

NF Memorial, PABA and More Fournier

Just when you think it can't worse, we hear news about NF Memorial and the Pine Avenue Business Association. First, let's take a look at the hospital. Memorial failed to make pension payments since 2006 owing the pension fund $6 million. Fortunately, the pension fund agreed to keep current pensioners whole and cap current employees at a set pension figure based on past employees pensions. And by the way, no cost of living increase. There was one article in each newspaper and nothing in the Niagara Falls Reporter or on the local news stations. Why??? This is a hospital which receives money from the casino revenues yet there is no accountability and the employees have to suffer as a result of the mismanagement of the facility. Why isn't Francine DelMonte and George Maziarz, who cut the hospital in on the revenue, demanding answers???? The city of Niagara Falls has forgiven water bills for the hospital. Why isn't the Mayor demanding answers?? Certainly, the money being given to the hospital could be used to fix infrastructure in the city.

This hospital is grossly mismanaged by an overpaid CEO who is equivalent to the Teflon Don. He continues to screw up yet he gets away with it. As Gotti did, maybe Ruffalo is paying off someone. More than likely, he has cut deals with Board members who aimlessly go along. Memorial Medical Center has turned into a huge sinkhole yet no one has the guts to get to the bottom of it!!!

Speaking of useless Boards, the situation at the Pine Avenue Business Assoication is a disgrace!!! If we believe Jerry"mob boss wannabe" Genova all the problems lie with a secretary being soft hearted and allowing people not to pay on their health insurance premiums. Are you kidding me!!!! This secretary didn't tell the Executive Director who didn't tell the Board???? For the past 9 years, the Pine Avenue Business Association has turned into a shell of what it used to be. What a shame!! It needs to be disbanded and put to bed. Rather unfortunate because I always enjoyed the Italian Festival. Hopefully, law enforcement will do a complete investigation.

Steve Fournier just doesn't get it. As more comes out the more it is apparent that this guy is not fit to be in elective office. Threatening police officers and not remembering what he was saying. C'mon Steve do you think we are all lame!!!! If you don't remember usig racial slurs and threatening police officers then you are either a liar or you were stone cold drunk!!!! Either way you are a disgrace to the City of Niagara Falls!!! I had to laugh when Fournier said he has plenty of black friends.....typical bigot talk. I heard the Council chairman say that the matter needs to play out in the courts. But you know what that's a bunch of crap!!!! What should have been said that there will be a thorough investigation and that this type of behavior cannot be tolerated. Again I like to remind the Mayor and City Council, your DPW is being accused of racism and now you have a Councilman using racial slurs!!!!!! Don't you get it!!!! I pray that there is no cover-up here and that justice is served. And Chairman Robbins, its not about whether legally Fournier can continue to serve, its more about the perception and the message that this sends to the world that a City Councilman can attack a police officer, use racial slurs, threaten police officers and be stone cold drunk in public. Maybe there is no felony, but its a lack of responsibility and a violation of the public trust. If Fournier is smart, he will resign. If that doesn't happen, the Mayor and/or the Council needs to apply pressure on Fournier to get out. Failure to do so will impact not only Fournier but all of them!!!

The Grand Obstructionist Party: Out Of Touch

http://www.nytimes.com/2009/05/02/opinion/02herbert.html?_r=1 I couldn't have said it better!!!!!

Fournier Must Resign!!!!!

I hardly ever write about local politics, but yesterday's report pertaining to an incident that took place on Third Street involving City Councilman Steve Fournier compelled me to comment. According to the Buffalo News article, Mr. Fournier around 3 am arrived at Bragg's, a bar on Third Street (notorious for typical after hours stupidity), where a scuffle developed and Fournier became involved. Police were called and Fournier reportedly got into with the officers and choked one of them. In addition, Fournier, Mr. City official, used racial slurs before being arrested. Once at the station, he demanded an audience with the Mayor and the Police Chief.

What a disgrace!!!! First of all, what the hell are you doing Mr. Well-Respected businessman on Third Street at 3 am in the morning??? Second, why did you verbally and physically assault city police officers Mr. Youth Hocley Coach at 3 am in the morning??? And finally, why were you using racial slurs at 3 am in the morning Mr. City Councilman????

What a great example you are to the kids you coach. What great leadership you show to a city government that has had a 7 year history of racial discord amongst its Public Works employees. YOU MUST RESIGN!!!!! While the Mayor and the City Council cannot force you to resign, they must pressure you to do the honorable thing and step down.

Residents of Niagara Falls elected you Mr. Fournier because you were a young businessman who would be a change in government. But you have become more of the same, an arrogant public official who doesn't have the smarts to realize the enormous responsibility that we have entrusted you with. For the good of the City, RESIGN MR. FOURNIER and be an example to those kids you coach by owning up and taking responsibility for your actions.

Western NY or Western Kentucky???

Today as I was driving home I was thinking about the state of local radio here in Western NY especially as it relates to political commentary. As I thought about it you have Tom Bauerle and Sandy Beach who are 2 Hannity/Limbaugh wannabes. I stopped listening to them many years ago. They are flat out ridiculous!!!! The you have Scott Leffler. What is he all about??? I don't think he knows either. He's so self promoting its terrible.

Of course there is Tom Darro but he is so out of it politically I think that its all WJJL can really handle. Unfortunately, the only progressive voice has been silenced. John Restaino's show ended today and its really a shame. Enlightening political discussion was great. But now its gone. John had a great temperment and was right on the issues. So it hit me, there is no lefty local talkers!!!!!! I must be in Western Kentucky. Here's hoping John lands another gig on a local radio station. Some how I think WJJL wanted him out. John was pretty gracious about JJL but something doesn't add up because I know many people who listened to the show every day. Why would he leave so abruptly??? This is why us lefties need to be on guard!!!!!! Good luck John and I hope to hear you somewhere soon!!!!

100 Days: A for the President

Tonight's press conference further illustrates why Americans made the right choice in electing Barack Obama. The President spelled out his thoughts on the first 100 days and the realization that there is plenty of work to do. In my lifetime, I can't remember a new President facing so many problems. President Obama has demonstrated the intelligence, the calmness and levelheadedness to deal with them and the American people like what they see as evidenced by his high approval rating. The Republican Party, or what's left of it, simply can't deal with Obama and they are tone deaf to what Americans want: Government leaders working together to move this country forward and the GOP can only just say no.... I'm encouraged by the fact that we have a President who gets it and who is working for the American people!!!!

The Bush Administration: Hypocites, Liars, UnAmerican

http://www.nytimes.com/2009/04/26/opinion/26rich.html?_r=1 The ridiculous self-righteousness on the part of Cheney and conservatives throughout this country that torture was necessary to protect the nation has been proven to be a BIG FAT LIE!!!! It was all about selling the Iraq War and linking Iraq to 9/11. While I understand President Obama's concern that we must focus on our current problems, specifically the economy, these latest revelations are extremely damaging in the lives that have been lost, the billions of dollars spent and the destruction of America's image that was caused by the Bush Administration. The Justice Department needs to investigate. Hire an Independent prosecutor or form an independent commission. We need to hold those in power accountable.

Meghan McCain: A Voice In The Wilderness

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2009/04/18/meghan-mccain-old-school_n_188636.html Meghan McCain gets it. The Grand Obstructionist Party needs to throw out the old playbook: It doesn't work anymore. Gingrich and the rest of these clowns can't see the future. Or maybe they can and they don't like it. As Bill Clinton moved the Democrats to the center in 1992, some brave soul will have to do the same for the GOP.
Unfortunately, I don't see it happening!!!

Thoughts on a Friday Evening

After I got home from being on the road all week, here are some random thoughts:

*This tea party nonsense is really incredible. It really shows how desperate the Republican Party is after the 2008 election. The very people who flaunted wearing flag lapel pins and put yellow ribbons on their cars are now calling for an overthrow of our government and secession. Some patriots!!!!

*Isn't incredibly disingenuous on the part of some local officials to take such hard line anti-tax positions??? Senator Maziarz is the champion of the taxpayer. Yet, where was he when he was in the majority and his buddy Pataki was Governor??? Spending grew and the NYPA was sweeping money and screwing Niagara County royally. By the way, Maziarz was Chairman of the Energy Committee when the new 30 yr deal for NYPA was negotiated. How come he didn't do something about our rates then??

*Unfortunately, Senator Thompson is no better. How about growing a set and stand up for your constituents. Oh I forgot, if you did that you probably would lose office staff, your committee chairmanships and campaign funding from the State party.

*While the County is sinking further into despair, the County Legislature is going to sue the State to get more casino money. Kind of like Nero, these 19 are fiddling while Rome burns.

*Mayor Dyster is a good guy and a great change from the previous mayor. However, could someone please tell him that Donna Owens is killing him!!! I don't know of anyone who has anything good to say about her.

*Conservatives are outraged about Homeland Security warning about right wing extremists. In case these morons forgot, the second largest terrorist attack on American soil was Oklahoma City. This is what happens when you have morons like Hannity and Beck spewing their garbage. These guys and their ilk are domestic terrorists.

*Kudos to MSNBC to putting Ed Schultz on the air. The Ed Show is great, and Big Eddie really knows how to get after these conservative windbags!!!!

*While I've been on the road for awhile, a friend of mine told me this evening that The John Restaino Show is going off the air. What a shame!!!! I thoroughly enjoyed the show and I thought John did an excellent job. I wonder if there is any way we could keep him on the air.

*And finally, I'm thinking its Pittsburgh and Chicago in the Stanley Cup finals. It may be a stretch but there is no clear cut favorite so anything can happen!!!!

The Grand Obstructionist Party: Tea Bag This!!!

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/andy-ostroy/tea-parties-gop-once-agai_b_187750.html It's quite clear that the Grand Old Obstructionist Party and its propaganda arm, Fox News, haven't gotten the message: the American people aren't buying what their selling......

They Still Don't Get It!!!!!

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2009/04/01/white-house-house-gop-bud_n_181687.html More of the same from the Grand Obstructionist Party: They still don't get it!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

It's Time For A Change: Remove Geithner

In February I attached an article saying that there was a power struggle between Geithner and Axelrod over the direction that was going to be taken with the economy. Geithner won out and it was a mistake. President Obama needs to go back to the people who brought him. He needs to break away from the failed policies that Geithner is continuing that were Paulsen's. The President needs to take charge of this because he is being put into a terrible position and giving the neocons ammunition. Geithner's reality is Wall Street not Main Street. The President needs to go back to Main Street before its too late.

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/arianna-huffington/geithner-unable-to-escape_b_178006.html

Reagan and the Right Wing Conspiracy

Once Ronald Reagan announced that he was suffering from the terrible disease, Alzheimer's, the neocons decided that it was important to perpetuate the right image of Ronald Reagan. Led by neocon Grover Norquist, the Reagan Legacy Project was started in 1997. The purpose was to ensure that the neocon hero would never be subject to critical historical analysis. For the most part, the Legacy Project has been very successful. The coverage in 2004 of the death of Reagan and his funeral far surpassed that of any other President's death other than that of John Kennedy. Of course, Kennedy was murdered as our sitting President. Reagan had been out of office for 16 years.

Tied into the Reagan Legacy Project was the fear on the part of many neocons that the presidency of Bill Clinton could upset the neocon dominance moving into the 21st Century. Many of the same people who funded the Legacy Project were also involved in the many allegations against the Clintons. Bill Clinton was President during a time of great economic growth, no foreign conflicts and balanced budgets. The neocons knew that this was a problem and they needed to muddy him up. And that they did. Despite support from the American people, the House called for impeachment but the Senate could not move on impeachment the winner because of the American people's support of Clinton.

However, the neocons of the Reagan Legacy Project accomplished what they wanted. A president who presided over great economic growth, no foreign conflicts and balanced budgets was neutralized right out of the 2000 presidential election which had his vice president as the standard barrier of the Democratic party. Al Gore did not use Clinton as he should have which resulted in Gore losing states such as Arkansas and West Virginia where Clinton could have brought home the bacon. As a result, the Supreme Court decided the winner and we ended up with George W. Bush as the 43rd President of The United States.

George W. Bush played on the Reagan image: be tough and cut taxes. As a result, we are currently facing economic disaster and are fighting a war on two fronts in the Middle East. Bush won re-election thus maintaining the neocon dominance. But the 2006 congressional elections and the election of Barack Obama as president as set the neocons back on thei heels and has them ready to do whatever is possible to ensure that Obama fails. That's why Limbaugh says what he says. That's why Cheney is out there blasting the Obama Administration for making our country less safe. That is why the McConnell's and Boehner's of the world know nothing but to say no.

This is also why we as lefties need to combat everything that is said by any necon nut out there. We cannot let our guard down because these people are pissed and they will pull out all the stops to bring President Obama down. Hillary Clinton was laughed at when she talked about a right wing conspiracy but she was right on the money. Beware of the sainthood of Ronald Reagan!!!

What would Reagan Do????

Throughout Bush's presidency, Sean Hannity would constantly ask, "what would Reagan do?" Of course, Sean would conclude that Reagan would have invaded Iraq, would never negotiate with our enemies and would condone a pre-emptive strike. As usual Hannity is off base.

Reagan is credited with ending the Cold War however the facts are that the Soviet Union was collapsing on its own. In fact, Reagan's saber rattling probably delayed the end of the USSR. However, Reagan deserves credit for opening up discussions with Gorbachev. The standard bearer of the conservative movement sat down with the leader of the evil empire. He sat down with the enemy. Wasn't candidate Barack Obama criticized for saying that he would sit down with our enemies??

With respect to the Middle East, the seeds of the problems that exist today was born during the Reagan era. Reagan, through Rumsfeld, supported Saddam Hussein to neutralize Iran. When over 200 Marines were killed in a terrorist attack in Lebanon, Reagan pulled Americans out of Lebanon. Sounds like "cutting and run"!!! Of course there is the whole Iran-Contra affair where the Reagan Administration negotiated with terrorists.

You see unlike the neocon chicken hawks, Reagan abhorred war. He was deeply troubled by collateral damage that involved civilians. Based on the history, I don't believe Reagan would have invaded Iraq. However, that is not what the neocons would have you believe as was evidenced by last year's GOP presidential debates.

Why is this post and the last one relevant today??? Well tomorrow I will tie it all together for you: The Reagan Myth and The Right Wing Conspiracy.

The Facts of Reaganomics

The economy under President Reagan was a time of lower income taxes especially for the rich, higher payroll taxes on working families, runaway federal deficits and borrowing and an increasing trade imbalance. The seeds of today's financial crisis was sown during Reagan with the deregulation of the financial industry. In October 1982, Reagan signed into law a bill that lifted many restrictions on the savings and loan industry. Some seven years later, after Reagan was out of office, the S&L industry was on the receiving end of the largest bailout(at the time) with American taxpayers footing the bulk of the $160 billion tab. Hmmm...I don't recall conservatives calling anyone a socialist then.

The 1980's also saw America lose manufacturing jobs. This was attributed to a number of corporate takeovers that created widespread layoffs and the beginning of blue collar jobs being sent overseas. The 80's also saw America move from being the largest creditor nation to be the largest debtor nation. (Reagan disciple George Bush continued this trend)

The Reagan era also saw a nation of savers was encouraged to live beyond one's means(hmmm..sound familiar to W.) An explanation for this is that people could not save and had to overextend to survive. This is illustrated by the fact that the gap between the wealthiest and poorest Americans grew dramatically. (again sound familiar)

While federal spending grew under Reagan, the bulk of that was on defense. Domestic spending was cut, particularly for infrastructure, environment, education and aid to cities. All of this contributing to the problems we face today.

As you can see Reaganomics was a failure. The scary thing is that Republican members of Congress are still espousing the tired old principles of Reaganomics. The same principles which has led to the corporate greed and Madoffs of the world to rip off hard working Americans. You see Republicans have continued to perpetuate the myth of the greatness of Reaganomics and refuse to acknowledge that it was a failure.

Next: What would Reagan do with "The War On Terror"

A Factual Account of Ronald Reagan

Ronald Reagan was a transformative figure in American history, but his real revolution was one of public-relations-meets-politics and not one of policy. His 1981 tax cut was followed quickly by tax hikes that you rarely hear about, and Reagan's real lasting achievement on that front was slashing marginal rates for the wealthy - even as rising payroll taxes socked the working class. While Reagan talked about cutting government, in fact Reagan expanded the federal payroll and created a huge debt. Where he shrunk government was in regulation and oversight which ledto the savings and loan crisis in the late 80's and to the subprime mortgage crisis of the late 2000's.

Foreign policy is another area where what actually happened differs from what the neo-con myth machine will have one think. Reagan's credit for ending the Cold War is off based in that Reagan was not the sole reason. As with his acting career, Reagan was a B-movie participant in that. Then the Iran-Contra scandal is a situation that Reagan escaped blame leading to the term " the Teflon President"

My next post will focus primarily on the economics of the Reagan years. You may ask why discuss the Reagan years now? The reason is because the entire neo-con position is based on a re-creation of the Reagan years which is more fiction than facts and will help us understand why the Grand Obstructionist Party has taken the position that it has with our current economic situation. It also gives the clear example of why trickle down economics is a failure.

The Myth Of Ronald Reagan

Beginning this weekend, I will be exposing the myth of Ronald Reagan and how Reagan's shadow has dominated the Republican Party and was the beginning of the financial disaster that we find our country in today. The Reagan trickle down economics is only a small piece of the story. What is also important is that the media's continual deification of Reagan has done a considerable disservice to the American people and has led the Republican Party to the wilderness of Rush Limbaugh.

The Case For Reforming Health Care In America

http://www.nytimes.com/2009/03/01/opinion/01Kristof.html If you have a compassionate bone in your body, after reading this column I don't see how you can't admit that the health care system in this country is broken and we need change now!!!!!

The Grand Obstructionist Party Shooting Itself In The Foot!!!!

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/paul-jenkins/worst-week-ever-republica_b_170378.html

Finally, A Reasonable Budget That Eliminates Tax Breaks For Wealthy

http://www.nytimes.com/2009/02/27/opinion/27fri1.html President Obama's budget brings credibility back by ending the Bush trick of not including the cost of the Iraq War in the budget and ending the ridiculous tax breaks that Bush and his cronies gave to the upper 3% of this country. Isn't it ironic that the big tax breaks received over the last 8 years has led to the biggest economic disaster this country has faced since the Depression??? Hmmm... I'm still waiting for Jindal, Sanford, McCain and company explain that. Maybe Joe the Plumber has the answer!!1

After 8 years of Rich Boy President, Finally A President Who Cares and Has A Vision

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/robert-creamer/obama-and-the-revival-of_b_169800.html President Obama's speech was a breathe of fresh air having endured the last 8 years of bluff and blunder. How refreshing to have a President who can think and is more than a talking head.

The Grand Obstructionist Party: To Hell With You All, Its All About Being In Power

http://www.nytimes.com/2009/02/24/opinion/24tue1.html?_r=1 Jindal and Sanford are really disingenuous and its apalling to read about the plight of the unemployed in their respective states. These two, as with many in the Grand Obstructionist Party, won't be Profiles In Courage candidates!!!!

The Grand Obstructionist Party's No Problem

http://www.newsweek.com/id/185714 Na Na Na Na Na Na, Hey Hey Hey Good bye GOP!!!!

The Grand Obstructionist Party's No Problem

http://www.newsweek.com/id/185714 Na Na Na Na Na Na, Hey Hey Hey Good bye GOP!!!!

Alan Keyes: SHUT THE HELL UP!!!!!!

Tonight's revelation that Alan Keyes has called President Obama a communist who must be stopped is another despicable example of the desperate nature of the right wing nut jobs of the Grand Obstructionist Party. Keyes went on to say that "President Obama must be stopped" crosses the line and must be considered an inciting statement for some nut job who will take Keyes seriously. Keyes trots out the old "Obama is not President because he was born in Africa" and goes on to say that "members of the military will not take orders from an illegitimate Commander in Chief ". This is treason!!!! When does it end.

RESULTS CONTINUE COMING IN: GOP = LOSERS!!

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/jane-hamsher/dc-journalists-love-gop-o_b_167277.html The results of November 2008 continue to bear out now as Americans are tired of the Dr. No policy of the completely lost GOP!!! Please read!!

The Grand Obstructionist Party: Too Blind To See Reality!

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/robert-creamer/republicans-take-huge-pol_b_165904.html It's a shame they are too blind to see it!!!!!

Wake Up G.O.P!!!!!

http://www.nytimes.com/2009/02/15/opinion/15rich.html?_r=1 The Grand Obstructionist Party will not face the facts that they are falling further and further out of touch with the American people.

DUMP THE GRAND OBSTRUCTIONIST PARTY

http://www.truthout.org/021309A Please read this article because I couldn't have said it any better!!!!!!

The Grand Obstructionist Party

My oh my!!! The G.O.P.,the Grand Obstructionist Party is out to destroy America and they are proud of it!!!!! This is the crowd that says love America or leave it. Well Conservatives its time to check your colors and maybe its time for you all to leave this country. These people are the biggest hypoctites you can find. I am sick and tired of the baseless, ridiculous, childless attempts to derail the Obama Presidency and most importantly derail the United States of America, the country they profess that they love!!! Please listen Conservatives: THE TAX CUTTING, LESS REGULATION, WAR MONGERING PHILOSOPHY YOU ESPOUSE LED US TO THE FINANCIAL DISASTER WE FACE!!!!! Let me go further, Conservatives: WHERE ARE YOUR HEARTS??? You would rather more people lose their jobs, lose their homes, have no health care to further YOUR MINDLESS, SELF-SERVING, PETTY POLITICAL AGENDA!!!! I'm sick of the ridiculous big government argument when it was the Bush Administration that blew threw a surplus he inherited and created the huge trillion dollar deficit that we face. CONSERVATIVES ARE DO-NOTHINGS!!!!! God Help President Obama, God Bless the United States!!!!!!!!

Reconsider Bank Bailout!!

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/robert-l-borosage/cant-get-there-from-here_b_165813.html President Obama needs to get after Geithner. From what I have read, many of the Obama inner circle, including David Axelrod were not in favor of Geithner's plan. But the bankers won out. The President needs to listen to the people who brought him!! Please read the article. It's not too late for the President to get this back on track!!!

G.O.P. Has Zero Credibility When It Comes To The Economy

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/bob-cesca/operation-zero-cred_b_164377.html The actions on the part of Lindsay Graham, John McCain and others illustrates the lack of credibility that the GOP has when it comes to the economy. As I tell anyone who cares to listen, we have tried it their way with tax cuts and less regulation and where has it led us?? To disaster!!!!! What is also disgusting is how the mainstream media refuses to call them out. The sudden concern for the deficit was nowhere to be found for the last 8 years when Bush and the boys were spending $1 billion dollars a month in a war that we had no business starting while cutting taxes for their buddies who have led this country to financial ruin and has crippled the rest of us. I look forward to President Obama's appearance on national TV on Monday and I will be curious as to how it will be received.

I have to ask Sen McConnell, who stated that the President was using language that was overstating things if he was saying the same thing when Paulson was cooking up the bank bailout so his buddies could continue their bonuses and trips to every exotic place on the planet. The GOP is out of touch and those who continue to give them credence on how to fix this economy are enablers in the GOP's desire to ruin this country and place the blame on the Democrats.

Niag Co. Dems: We're Screwed!!!!

This past week I was listening to The John Restaino Show and John had Dan Rivera, Niagara County Democratic Chmn. on one day and Henry Wojtaszek on the following day. If you want to know why despite an enrollment majority for registered Democrats in the County they are in the hopeless minority in the County Legislature all you had to do was to listen to John's show. Rivera was so out of control that at one point the host had to tell him to calm down. Rivera could not come up with anything insightful except for his connect the dot conspiracy theories.

Wojtaszek on the other hand conducted an intelligent conversation and while there was disagreement it was good dialogue. And that's why people gravitate to the local GOP and shun the circus like local Democratic party. The Democrats here locally are a joke and the clown prince is Rivera. With Democrats in control of Washington and Albany we are screwed because there is no way the Niagara County party will be taken seriously.

I'm not making the local GOP to be the best thing since sliced bread but Wojtaszek is a player on the state level in his party while Rivera is a considered a buffoon. Until Democrats rid themselves of this bad joke, we are going nowhere. Let me ask this question: where is Francine DelMonte??? I guess all she cares about is herself. But that's the problem with the local Democratic party: clueless, self-absorbed and petty politicians. If we are lucky, someone will rescue us. We can only hope!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Pass The Feingold Proposal Now!!!

http://www.nytimes.com/2009/02/04/opinion/04wed3.html?_r=1&ref=opinion We need this passed as we have watched Blago and Paterson screw things up!!!!

Frank Rich: Herbert Hoover Lives

http://www.nytimes.com/2009/02/01/opinion/01rich.html?em This article is a follow-up to my last blog. When is the G.O.P. going to wake up??? 7,000 laid off at Macy's, 27,000 laid off at Chrysler and McConnell is playing games in the Senate.

Shame on The Right!!!!

This past week illustrated the tone deafness of the right-wing individuals who call themselves Congress people. Not one Republican voted in favor of the Economic Stimulus package. In spite of President Obama's attempt at bipartisanship, this group headed by that wind bag John Boehner, voted lock, stock and barrel to continue the Bush/Republican created death spiral of the American economy. While these same windbags talk about the importance of protecting America, they continue to put roadblocks along the way to prevent the economy to bounce back.

Why are they doing this? Well, the public response is that they say we must be concerned about the ever growing national debt. ARE YOU KIDDING ME????? This is the same crew that followed Bush and company over the edge of the cliff by spending like drunken sailors on a war that wasn't necessary nor that they new how to win. This is also the same crew that while they were spending like drunken sailors, they were giving tax cuts to their rich buddies who have led this economy to ruin. Do you think Bush would have called out the executives at Citigroup like Obama did last week?? I highly doubt it.

The real reason for the stonewalling is that these so called public servants are following the lead of that leader of right-wing blowhards Rush Limbaugh. Limbaugh has made it point to say that he hopes President Obama fails. He says that because he knows that this country is ready for change from the neo-con agenda that has dominated this country over the last 8 years. He also knows that if the President is successful, Republicans will be left in the wilderness in Washington for years to come. Boehner and company realize that they will be relegated to minority status for a long time. Damn doing what's right for the country, I need to have my committee chairmanship back again!!!!

The party that lived and died on fighting terrorism is now furthering the mission of Osama Bin Laden by bringing this country's economy down the tubes making us weaker. They are domestic terrorists!!!!!!!!

Why Is Anyone Listening To The G.O.P.???

http://www.nytimes.com/2009/01/27/opinion/27herbert.html?hp The party of trickle down economics and a trillion dollar deficit are complaining about the economic stimulus packaged being proposed. While job cuts continue and the economy teeters on the brink of disaster, the G.O.P. plays like Nero, fiddling while America burns!!!

Democrats In Control: Will They Blow It

Being a lefty I should be very happy: Democrat in White House, Democratic House and Senate, NY Governor Democrat and NYS Assembly and Senate Democratic. So what's the problem??? On the federal level, President Obama needs to be given the opportunity to lead. The Senate and the House must work with the President. If there are disagreements, they should be worked out and not turned into a public stand off. Some how I can't help but think that Obama's new ideals for governing will meet resistance from the political old school. I hope I'm wrong.

As far as the State goes, I think we are in trouble. Since the Governor has come out with his budget, we have heard nothing from the Legislature as to what they are planning on doing. While I appreciate the position the Governor is in, I don't think he went far enough in cutting state expenses and I have no confidence that the Legislature will do anything about that. The state's financial problem will hang around the Democrats necks unless someone takes the bull by the horns and do what is needed to get our financial ship in order.

I also think that the Governor has badly mishandled the Senate appointment. The appointment of Kristen Gillibrand is a joke. The thought that somehow this will help Paterson in 2010 is way off base. First, her record is not in line with most Democrats in NYS. Secondly, I don't see how she is going to be able to raise the necessary funds available to run and keep the seat. Thirdly, what constituency is she going to bring to Paterson?? The gun-toting farm vote??? Some how I don't see Paterson getting that vote. By the way, did you notice former Republican US Senator Al D'Amato standing at Gillibrand's side at the announcement press conference???

Let me also say that the more I read about the Caroline Kennedy situation, the more I am becoming less supportive of Paterson for 2010. There was no need for the attacks by Paterson's staff once Kennedy bowed out. But this type of sophmoric behavior makes me question this governor's leadership and political abilities. In addition, he has succeeded in pissing off two families that could raise funds: the Kennedys and the Cuomos. You notice I didn't mention the Clintons. I believe that Paterson had no intention of appointing Kennedy and that is partly a result of the Clintons who are still stinging over Caroline's endorsement of Obama. It is more apparent that the President wanted Caroline to get the appointment. What an opportunity for NYS to have a US Senator who would have a pipeline to the White House. Believe me, Kennedy trumps Schumer when it comes to Obama.

I can see a scenario where the Democrats have a bitter primary for US Senate and Governor and the Republicans winning in November over a divided NYS Democratic Party. What a shame....Is it possible that Paterson is getting his advice from the brilliant Niagara County Democratic Chairman Dan Rivera?? It sure looks that way!!!!