Because We Are Way Too Nice To Poor People In Texas
"Here’s Perry's latest deal. First he builds toll roads, you know, so that rich people don’t have to drive with the riffraff and he doesn’t have to raise taxes to build an infrastructure. But just in case some working poor people will save enough in gas to justify using the toll road, guess where you have to go to pass the toll road account?"
January 6, 2014
Detroit Retirees Will Lose Health Insurance In 2 Months If City Manager Gets His Way
www.thinkprogress.org/economy/2014/01/06/3121671/detroit-retirees-lose-health-insurance/
"About 24,000 retired Detroit public servants will soon receive letters notifying them that they are losing their health insurance on March 1, even as the city claims to be negotiating with retirees’ groups to strike a better deal on health care"
"About 24,000 retired Detroit public servants will soon receive letters notifying them that they are losing their health insurance on March 1, even as the city claims to be negotiating with retirees’ groups to strike a better deal on health care"
Darrell Issa Has Sleazy Plan to Restore Veterans’ Pensions By Privatizing the Post Office
www.politicususa.com/2014/01/06/darrell-issa-sleazy-plan-restore-veterans-pensions-privatizing-post-office.html
"Issa’s proposal informs that there is no bad Republican legislation that he, or any Republican, cannot make worse to satisfy their dirty machinations to privatize the government, kill Americans’ jobs, repay UPS and FedEx for campaign donations, deprive Americans of reliable mail delivery, and punish Veterans; all the while portraying the privatization scheme as restoring Veteran’s benefits Republicans stole in the first place. Darrell Issa has a criminal history and it has been painfully obvious he brought that mindset to Congress; particularly since he has been Chairman of the House Oversight Committee."
"Issa’s proposal informs that there is no bad Republican legislation that he, or any Republican, cannot make worse to satisfy their dirty machinations to privatize the government, kill Americans’ jobs, repay UPS and FedEx for campaign donations, deprive Americans of reliable mail delivery, and punish Veterans; all the while portraying the privatization scheme as restoring Veteran’s benefits Republicans stole in the first place. Darrell Issa has a criminal history and it has been painfully obvious he brought that mindset to Congress; particularly since he has been Chairman of the House Oversight Committee."
GOP’s ulterior motive on unemployment: Economic sabotage?
GOP’s ulterior motive on unemployment: Economic sabotage?
"There's more to Republican opposition to extending unemployment benefits than conservative principles"
"There's more to Republican opposition to extending unemployment benefits than conservative principles"
Fukushima fixes: Duct tape and wire net instead of bolts and rebar
Fukushima fixes: Duct tape and wire net instead of bolts and rebar
"At this point, I'm surprised it wasn't bubble gum and string!"
"At this point, I'm surprised it wasn't bubble gum and string!"
Koch Network Raised Over $400 Million in 2012
Koch Network Raised Over $400 Million in 2012
"The Koch network alone raised nearly as much as the Romney campaign, and tens of millions more than GOP presidential candidate John McCain raised for his entire 2008 campaign. By design, following the Koch money trail is extremely difficult. Despite the groups spending hundreds of millions influencing elections, most of their spending and the sources of their funds are not reported to the Federal Elections Commission, earning them the moniker "dark money" groups.
Money is passed from one organization to the next, both to give donors an extra layer of anonymity and to help groups retain their tax exempt status. Nonprofits are not supposed to have electoral intervention as a primary activity, and the Koch groups apparently claim that transferring funds to other politically-active nonprofits should be counted as advancing "social welfare" rather than electoral activity."
"The Koch network alone raised nearly as much as the Romney campaign, and tens of millions more than GOP presidential candidate John McCain raised for his entire 2008 campaign. By design, following the Koch money trail is extremely difficult. Despite the groups spending hundreds of millions influencing elections, most of their spending and the sources of their funds are not reported to the Federal Elections Commission, earning them the moniker "dark money" groups.
Money is passed from one organization to the next, both to give donors an extra layer of anonymity and to help groups retain their tax exempt status. Nonprofits are not supposed to have electoral intervention as a primary activity, and the Koch groups apparently claim that transferring funds to other politically-active nonprofits should be counted as advancing "social welfare" rather than electoral activity."
Retirement Theft in 4 Despicable Steps
www.alternet.org/economy/retirement-theft-4-despicable-steps
"But the American workers who have paid all their lives for retirement security are being cheated by wealthy individuals and corporations who refuse to meet their tax obligations, and who have found other ways to keep expanding their wealth at the expense of the middle class."
"But the American workers who have paid all their lives for retirement security are being cheated by wealthy individuals and corporations who refuse to meet their tax obligations, and who have found other ways to keep expanding their wealth at the expense of the middle class."
West Coast sardine crash could radiate throughout ecosystem
www.latimes.com/science/la-me-sardine-crash-20140106,3994833,1114214,full.story#axzz2pcpKz7qK
"If sardines don't recover soon, experts warn, the West Coast's marine mammals, seabirds and fishermen could suffer for years."
"If sardines don't recover soon, experts warn, the West Coast's marine mammals, seabirds and fishermen could suffer for years."
Surprise! Right-Wing Buffoonery Continues in 2014: Pope Pisses Off Rich Republicans Edition
www.alternet.org/tea-party-and-right/surprise-right-wing-buffoonery-continues-2014-pope-pisses-rich-republicans
"Gheen is head of a rabid anti-immigrant group called Americans for Legal Immigration (ALIPAC). And he’s extremely worried that immigration reform might be on the agenda in the new year. But it hurts his feelings when people call him a racist because of his anti-immigrationist views. He is not a racist, he explained to a radio host in Idaho this week — he’s just against the people who are trying to change America’s history of being “predominently governed by people of European descendancy.” And by that, he doesn’t mean whities, although those are the people of European descent."
"Gheen is head of a rabid anti-immigrant group called Americans for Legal Immigration (ALIPAC). And he’s extremely worried that immigration reform might be on the agenda in the new year. But it hurts his feelings when people call him a racist because of his anti-immigrationist views. He is not a racist, he explained to a radio host in Idaho this week — he’s just against the people who are trying to change America’s history of being “predominently governed by people of European descendancy.” And by that, he doesn’t mean whities, although those are the people of European descent."
January 5, 2014
Reagan’s Tax Shock » CounterPunch: Tells the Facts, Names the Names
Reagan’s Tax Shock » CounterPunch: Tells the Facts, Names the Names
"Buying stocks doesn’t grow jobs or grow the economy, it grows portfolios. The money that’s invested doesn’t go to companies, it goes to the prior owners of the stock. In fact, through dividends and stock buybacks, shareholders take money out of companies rather than put it in; they’re a drain on company funds, not a source."
"Buying stocks doesn’t grow jobs or grow the economy, it grows portfolios. The money that’s invested doesn’t go to companies, it goes to the prior owners of the stock. In fact, through dividends and stock buybacks, shareholders take money out of companies rather than put it in; they’re a drain on company funds, not a source."
13 Major Clean Energy Breakthroughs of 2013
www.alternet.org/environment/13-major-clean-energy-breakthroughs-2013
"While the news about climate change seems to get worse every day, the rapidly improving technology, declining costs, and increasing accessibility of clean energy is the true bright spot in the march toward a zero-carbon future. 2013 had more clean energy milestones than we could fit on one page"
"While the news about climate change seems to get worse every day, the rapidly improving technology, declining costs, and increasing accessibility of clean energy is the true bright spot in the march toward a zero-carbon future. 2013 had more clean energy milestones than we could fit on one page"
Fukushima Fallout Damaged the Thyroids of California Babies » CounterPunch: Tells the Facts, Names the Names
Fukushima Fallout Damaged the Thyroids of California Babies » CounterPunch: Tells the Facts, Names the Names
"A new study of the effects of tiny quantities of radioactive fallout from Fukushima on the health of babies born in California shows a significant excess of hypothyroidism caused by the radioactive contamination travelling 5,000 miles across the Pacific. The article will be published next week in the peer-reviewed journal Open Journal of Pediatrics."
"A new study of the effects of tiny quantities of radioactive fallout from Fukushima on the health of babies born in California shows a significant excess of hypothyroidism caused by the radioactive contamination travelling 5,000 miles across the Pacific. The article will be published next week in the peer-reviewed journal Open Journal of Pediatrics."
Fukushima Meltdowns: Global Denial At Work
www.opednews.com/articles/Fukushima-Meltdowns-Globa-by-William-Boardman-Accident_Chernobyl_Chernobyl_Denial-140104-187.html
"For the near future, what all that means, in effect, is that the world has to accept chronic radiation releases from Fukushima as the price for avoiding another catastrophic release. And even then, it's not a sure thing.
But there's another aspect of Fukushima Unit #3 that's even less reassuring. Unit #3 is the one Fukushima reactor that was running on Mixed oxide fuel, or MOX fuel , in its fuel rods. MOX fuel typically uses Plutonium mixed with one or more forms of Uranium. Using Plutonium in fuel rods adds to their toxicity in the event of a meltdown. In part because Plutonium-239 has a half-life of 240,000 years and can be used to make nuclear weapons of "dirty bombs," its use in commercial reactors remains both limited and controversial . Because it contains Plutonium, MOX fuel is more toxic than other nuclear fuel and will burn at lower temperatures."
"For the near future, what all that means, in effect, is that the world has to accept chronic radiation releases from Fukushima as the price for avoiding another catastrophic release. And even then, it's not a sure thing.
But there's another aspect of Fukushima Unit #3 that's even less reassuring. Unit #3 is the one Fukushima reactor that was running on Mixed oxide fuel, or MOX fuel , in its fuel rods. MOX fuel typically uses Plutonium mixed with one or more forms of Uranium. Using Plutonium in fuel rods adds to their toxicity in the event of a meltdown. In part because Plutonium-239 has a half-life of 240,000 years and can be used to make nuclear weapons of "dirty bombs," its use in commercial reactors remains both limited and controversial . Because it contains Plutonium, MOX fuel is more toxic than other nuclear fuel and will burn at lower temperatures."
Fukushima Worker Says 'Slipshod Work' Done on Storage Tanks | Common Dreams
Fukushima Worker Says 'Slipshod Work' Done on Storage Tanks | Common Dreams
"Plant operator TEPCO has been slammed for mishap after mishap in what has been described as a "permanent crisis" that demands a global take-over."
"Plant operator TEPCO has been slammed for mishap after mishap in what has been described as a "permanent crisis" that demands a global take-over."
Darrell Issa’s Cruelest Cut: A Seriously Cynical Attack on the Postal Service | The Nation
Darrell Issa’s Cruelest Cut: A Seriously Cynical Attack on the Postal Service | The Nation
"The USPS has historically been one of the nation’s largest employers of veterans—second only to the US Department of Defense, according to USPS figures. Roughly 120,000 postal service employees—more than 20 percent of the total workforce—have records of service in the military. Roughly a third of those employees are rated as 30 percent or more disabled, a reflection of the fact that the postal service goes out of its way to provide an array of employment services and options for veterans.
Cuts to the postal service threaten an institution that provides jobs to veterans and that—thanks to its own practices and strong commitments from postal unions—respects them once they are in those jobs.
Instead of embracing Issa’s latest and most cynical assault on a necessary service, Congress should do right by veterans. It can move to strengthen the USPS, along lines proposed by Senator Bernie Sanders, I-Vermont, and Congressmen Peter DeFazio, D-Oregon, and Mark Pocan, D-Wisconsin."
"The USPS has historically been one of the nation’s largest employers of veterans—second only to the US Department of Defense, according to USPS figures. Roughly 120,000 postal service employees—more than 20 percent of the total workforce—have records of service in the military. Roughly a third of those employees are rated as 30 percent or more disabled, a reflection of the fact that the postal service goes out of its way to provide an array of employment services and options for veterans.
Cuts to the postal service threaten an institution that provides jobs to veterans and that—thanks to its own practices and strong commitments from postal unions—respects them once they are in those jobs.
Instead of embracing Issa’s latest and most cynical assault on a necessary service, Congress should do right by veterans. It can move to strengthen the USPS, along lines proposed by Senator Bernie Sanders, I-Vermont, and Congressmen Peter DeFazio, D-Oregon, and Mark Pocan, D-Wisconsin."
Joe Conason | Rich Catholics Threaten Pope Francis - Because He Frightens Them
Joe Conason | Rich Catholics Threaten Pope Francis - Because He Frightens Them
"If anyone wonders whether Pope Francis has irritated wealthy conservatives with his courage and idealism, the latest outburst from Kenneth Langone left little doubt. Sounding both aggressive and whiny, the billionaire investor warned that he and his overprivileged friends might withhold their millions from church and charity unless the pontiff stops preaching against the excesses and cruelty of unleashed capitalism."
"If anyone wonders whether Pope Francis has irritated wealthy conservatives with his courage and idealism, the latest outburst from Kenneth Langone left little doubt. Sounding both aggressive and whiny, the billionaire investor warned that he and his overprivileged friends might withhold their millions from church and charity unless the pontiff stops preaching against the excesses and cruelty of unleashed capitalism."
An elderly veteran delivering pizza? The system has failed us ...
www.dailykos.com/story/2014/01/05/1265470/-An-elderly-veteran-delivering-pizza-The-system-has-failed-us
"Pensions are going the way of the carrier pigeon and the bill of goods we were sold with the 401K turned out to be nothing more than a pack of lies. The future for many of us does not include a comfortable retirement. We will work as long as we can and if we lose our corporate jobs we will take what ever work we can—be it delivering pizzas or working weekends at Home Depot stocking shelves. The golden years that our parents had in retirement are not for us. My generation will have to work until we die."
"Pensions are going the way of the carrier pigeon and the bill of goods we were sold with the 401K turned out to be nothing more than a pack of lies. The future for many of us does not include a comfortable retirement. We will work as long as we can and if we lose our corporate jobs we will take what ever work we can—be it delivering pizzas or working weekends at Home Depot stocking shelves. The golden years that our parents had in retirement are not for us. My generation will have to work until we die."
Forgetting Why Al-Qaeda Spread
www.consortiumnews.com/2014/01/05/forgetting-why-al-qaeda-spread/
"President George W. Bush and Official Washington’s neocons are gifts that keep on giving, at least to America’s terrorist enemies. The Shiite-Sunni sectarian conflict that Bush and his neocon advisers stirred up by invading Iraq in 2003 has now engulfed the entire region and has given al-Qaeda and its affiliates footholds in countries where they hadn’t existed before the Iraq War."
"President George W. Bush and Official Washington’s neocons are gifts that keep on giving, at least to America’s terrorist enemies. The Shiite-Sunni sectarian conflict that Bush and his neocon advisers stirred up by invading Iraq in 2003 has now engulfed the entire region and has given al-Qaeda and its affiliates footholds in countries where they hadn’t existed before the Iraq War."
The Best Reporting on the North Carolina Takeover
The Best Reporting on the North Carolina Takeover
"In 2012, North Carolinians elected a Republican to the governor’s office. That same year, the Republican majority in the General Assembly — first elected in 2010 — grew to a supermajority. The result was that conservatives won the power to change state law dramatically — and over this last year, they used that power. The new legislation included ending benefits for the long-term unemployed; declining the Obamacare Medicaid extension; eliminating the earned-income tax credit; and passing what some observers call the worst voter suppression law in the country. In response, those critical of the right-wing legislative agenda united around protests at the state legislature on Mondays, part of a growing citizen movement that has come to be known as “Moral Mondays.” So far, the movement, however ambitious, has done little to slow the state’s Republican majority from pushing through its agenda.
But this story didn’t start on Election Day 2012 — its roots run deep. And a similar situation could unfold in any of America’s 50 states."
"In 2012, North Carolinians elected a Republican to the governor’s office. That same year, the Republican majority in the General Assembly — first elected in 2010 — grew to a supermajority. The result was that conservatives won the power to change state law dramatically — and over this last year, they used that power. The new legislation included ending benefits for the long-term unemployed; declining the Obamacare Medicaid extension; eliminating the earned-income tax credit; and passing what some observers call the worst voter suppression law in the country. In response, those critical of the right-wing legislative agenda united around protests at the state legislature on Mondays, part of a growing citizen movement that has come to be known as “Moral Mondays.” So far, the movement, however ambitious, has done little to slow the state’s Republican majority from pushing through its agenda.
But this story didn’t start on Election Day 2012 — its roots run deep. And a similar situation could unfold in any of America’s 50 states."
Fukushima Disaster: Impacts & Continuing Threats
www.psr.org/assets/pdfs/fukushima-fact-sheet.pdf
"More than two years since the nuclear disaster began at the Fukushima Daiichi reactors, its impact is massive and widespread. It will be decades before the full scope of the impacts of this ongoing disaster is fully understood but significant health, economic, environmental and social consequences are already evident and quantifiable."
"More than two years since the nuclear disaster began at the Fukushima Daiichi reactors, its impact is massive and widespread. It will be decades before the full scope of the impacts of this ongoing disaster is fully understood but significant health, economic, environmental and social consequences are already evident and quantifiable."
Did Underground Explosions Rock Fukushima Nuclear Power Plant?
www.samuel-warde.com/2014/01/underground-explosions-rock-fukushima-power-plant/
"A Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution study conducted in October 2011 concluded that the Fukushima disaster had already released 100 times more radiation into the environment than Chernobyl. It is not far-fetched to say that the damage has increased by astronomical proportions when one considers that 300 tons of radioactive waste has been released into the Pacific Ocean on a daily basis since the disaster occurred on March 11, 2011.
The ramifications of this latest report of explosions have yet to be revealed, but it is safe to say that whatever the news, it won’t be good."
"A Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution study conducted in October 2011 concluded that the Fukushima disaster had already released 100 times more radiation into the environment than Chernobyl. It is not far-fetched to say that the damage has increased by astronomical proportions when one considers that 300 tons of radioactive waste has been released into the Pacific Ocean on a daily basis since the disaster occurred on March 11, 2011.
The ramifications of this latest report of explosions have yet to be revealed, but it is safe to say that whatever the news, it won’t be good."
Feds Issue Warning About North Dakota's Fracked Bakken Crude
Feds Issue Warning About North Dakota's Fracked Bakken Crude
"Before Monday’s fiery derailment of an oil train near Casselton, North Dakota, leading to the evacuation of nearly 3,000 people, the state government was commissioning a study that would show it was safe to move massive amounts of oil on 100-car trains. Once finished, the report would try to dispel the negative press the state’s oil industry was getting since 47 people were killed in Lac-Mégantic."
"Before Monday’s fiery derailment of an oil train near Casselton, North Dakota, leading to the evacuation of nearly 3,000 people, the state government was commissioning a study that would show it was safe to move massive amounts of oil on 100-car trains. Once finished, the report would try to dispel the negative press the state’s oil industry was getting since 47 people were killed in Lac-Mégantic."
California Researchers Find Drastically Low Snowpack, Spelling Danger For 2014 Water Supplies
www.thinkprogress.org/climate/2014/01/04/3119631/california-snowpack-20-percent-normal/
"The findings aren’t too surprising considering California was parched for water throughout 2013, with major metropolises like Los Angeles and San Francisco experiencing record-low precipitation. Los Angeles, which averages 14.74 inches of rain, ended the year with 3.4 inches. Currently, almost the entire state is gripped in drought."
"The findings aren’t too surprising considering California was parched for water throughout 2013, with major metropolises like Los Angeles and San Francisco experiencing record-low precipitation. Los Angeles, which averages 14.74 inches of rain, ended the year with 3.4 inches. Currently, almost the entire state is gripped in drought."
Two Gutsy Women Are Ready To Make History In Texas’ Election
www.addictinginfo.org/2014/01/04/two-women-wendy-davis/
"Women around the country fell in love with Wendy Davis in June. She single-footedly held an 11-hour filibuster in the Texas Senate to protest restrictions on abortions. They went crazy for her again when she announced she would run for governor in 2014. Now, they have double the reason to rejoice. State Senator Leticia Van de Putte (D-San Antonio) is running for lieutenant governor."
"Women around the country fell in love with Wendy Davis in June. She single-footedly held an 11-hour filibuster in the Texas Senate to protest restrictions on abortions. They went crazy for her again when she announced she would run for governor in 2014. Now, they have double the reason to rejoice. State Senator Leticia Van de Putte (D-San Antonio) is running for lieutenant governor."
January 4, 2014
Thomas Cahill Talks About The Pope And The Conservatives Who Fear Him
Thomas Cahill Talks About The Pope And The Conservatives Who Fear Him
"Francis is the first Jesuit to ascend to the papacy, so this week Bill turns to Jesuit-educated author and historian Thomas Cahill to get his perspective on Pope Francis and the relevance of the Church in the 21st century.
“[Pope Francis] is talking about the poor, as Jesus did. He’s talking about the absolute necessity for us to take care of the poor, to do something for them"."
"Francis is the first Jesuit to ascend to the papacy, so this week Bill turns to Jesuit-educated author and historian Thomas Cahill to get his perspective on Pope Francis and the relevance of the Church in the 21st century.
“[Pope Francis] is talking about the poor, as Jesus did. He’s talking about the absolute necessity for us to take care of the poor, to do something for them"."
Seattle Mayor Raises Minimum Wage to $15
Seattle Mayor Raises Minimum Wage to $15
"Good luck, Mayor Murray. May other cities follow your lead."
"Good luck, Mayor Murray. May other cities follow your lead."
Kentucky Man Denounces US Safety Net While Relying on Government to Stay Alive
Kentucky Man Denounces US Safety Net While Relying on Government to Stay Alive
"One of the biggest Republican successes at "framing" (as George Lakoff calls it) public policy into fictional choices based on emotion has been making the white economically needy resent the non-white poor. It's the divide and conquer strategy, using a racial tribal identity appeal."
"One of the biggest Republican successes at "framing" (as George Lakoff calls it) public policy into fictional choices based on emotion has been making the white economically needy resent the non-white poor. It's the divide and conquer strategy, using a racial tribal identity appeal."
The New Financial Scam Driving Workers Deep Into Debt
www.alternet.org/economy/new-financial-scam-driving-workers-deep-debt
"There's a new game in town: workplace loans, which should really be called company rip-offs."
"There's a new game in town: workplace loans, which should really be called company rip-offs."
Rand Paul is totally, shamefully wrong about the long-term unemployed
Rand Paul is totally, shamefully wrong about the long-term unemployed
"Right-wing libertarian that he is, Rand Paul isn’t much for using the federal government to make the world a slightly less terrible place. It was hardly a surprise, then, to find out the Kentucky senator opposed extending emergency unemployment compensation, preferring instead to let it expire for some 1.3 million in late December, with millions more to come after that. EUC is a federal government program, after all; and worse still, it’s one whose primary beneficiaries are the unemployed, a population with little political influence or social standing. You’d expect, in other words, Rand Paul to leave these people shuddering in the winter cold. It’s what his rigid vision of libertarianism requires."
"Right-wing libertarian that he is, Rand Paul isn’t much for using the federal government to make the world a slightly less terrible place. It was hardly a surprise, then, to find out the Kentucky senator opposed extending emergency unemployment compensation, preferring instead to let it expire for some 1.3 million in late December, with millions more to come after that. EUC is a federal government program, after all; and worse still, it’s one whose primary beneficiaries are the unemployed, a population with little political influence or social standing. You’d expect, in other words, Rand Paul to leave these people shuddering in the winter cold. It’s what his rigid vision of libertarianism requires."
North Carolina’s Conservative Shift is Good for ALEC
North Carolina’s Conservative Shift is Good for ALEC
"ALEC is a conservative organization that brings corporations and state legislators together behind closed doors to produce to write what it calls “model” bills that the lawmakers then introduce as their own."
"ALEC is a conservative organization that brings corporations and state legislators together behind closed doors to produce to write what it calls “model” bills that the lawmakers then introduce as their own."
January 3, 2014
Pope Francis Attacks Christian Fundamentalism Again, Says It’s ‘Not Healthy’
www.addictinginfo.org/2014/01/03/pope-francis-unhealthy-fundamentalism/
"On Friday, La Civiltà Cattolica published remarks that Pope Francis made in November during a meeting with the leaders of men’s religious orders. The pontiff once again blasted those who stick to extreme ideology and attacked fundamentalism for being blind to reality."
"On Friday, La Civiltà Cattolica published remarks that Pope Francis made in November during a meeting with the leaders of men’s religious orders. The pontiff once again blasted those who stick to extreme ideology and attacked fundamentalism for being blind to reality."
Coming to a Field Near You: 'Agent Orange Corn'? | Common Dreams
Coming to a Field Near You: 'Agent Orange Corn'? | Common Dreams
"Despite widespread opposition from food safety, environmental and watchdog groups, as well as health professionals and concerned consumers, the USDA has paved the way for the commercial use of genetically engineered crops dubbed "Agent Orange" corn and soybeans."
"Despite widespread opposition from food safety, environmental and watchdog groups, as well as health professionals and concerned consumers, the USDA has paved the way for the commercial use of genetically engineered crops dubbed "Agent Orange" corn and soybeans."
Dumbing America Down
www.inthesetimes.com/article/15989/dumbing_america_down/
"Among the many visionary goals of our nation’s right wing—impoverish older people, starve the poor, deny climate change, outlaw abortion and contraception, eliminate healthcare for millions—few are more foundational than defunding education in general and higher education in particular."
"Among the many visionary goals of our nation’s right wing—impoverish older people, starve the poor, deny climate change, outlaw abortion and contraception, eliminate healthcare for millions—few are more foundational than defunding education in general and higher education in particular."
How Our Economy Lost $400 Million in One Week Alone | The Nation
How Our Economy Lost $400 Million in One Week Alone | The Nation
"Long-term unemployment benefits expired on December 28, meaning an absence of checks this week for more than 1 million jobless Americans. That’s bad news for them, of course—but also the rest of us. According to a new analysis from the minority staff of the House Ways and Means Committee released Friday, $400 million was drained from state economies this week alone thanks to the lapse.
Unemployment benefits are one of the more effective forms of stimulus because the money is badly needed and thus spent right away. The Congressional Budget Office says 200,000 jobs will be lost this year if the benefits are not restored, and this week the damage began."
"Long-term unemployment benefits expired on December 28, meaning an absence of checks this week for more than 1 million jobless Americans. That’s bad news for them, of course—but also the rest of us. According to a new analysis from the minority staff of the House Ways and Means Committee released Friday, $400 million was drained from state economies this week alone thanks to the lapse.
Unemployment benefits are one of the more effective forms of stimulus because the money is badly needed and thus spent right away. The Congressional Budget Office says 200,000 jobs will be lost this year if the benefits are not restored, and this week the damage began."
The Skills Shortage Myth: A Public Relations Tool for Bad Corporate Citizens
The Skills Shortage Myth: A Public Relations Tool for Bad Corporate Citizens
"There certainly is a good case that more education and training can be useful to generate upward mobility for various disadvantaged populations. But the existence of skill shortages, as Dimon maintains, exists mostly in the minds of those wanting access to low-wage, indentured servants or public subsidy for the training that firms should be doing themselves."
"There certainly is a good case that more education and training can be useful to generate upward mobility for various disadvantaged populations. But the existence of skill shortages, as Dimon maintains, exists mostly in the minds of those wanting access to low-wage, indentured servants or public subsidy for the training that firms should be doing themselves."
In Wake of Explosive Derailments, Warnings Issued on Crude by Rail | Common Dreams
In Wake of Explosive Derailments, Warnings Issued on Crude by Rail | Common Dreams
"Crude oil from 'Bakken region may be more flammable than traditional heavy crude oil,' and may be transported in the 'Ford Pintos' of railcars"
"Crude oil from 'Bakken region may be more flammable than traditional heavy crude oil,' and may be transported in the 'Ford Pintos' of railcars"
A Moral And Economic Imperative To Extend Unemployment Benefits
A Moral And Economic Imperative To Extend Unemployment Benefits
"Federal unemployment assistance for 1.3 million people who have been unemployed longer than 26 weeks expired last Saturday, after Republicans blocked efforts to extend them. 3.6 million more people will lose these benefits over this year. Restoring these benefits is a moral, economic and political imperative."
"Federal unemployment assistance for 1.3 million people who have been unemployed longer than 26 weeks expired last Saturday, after Republicans blocked efforts to extend them. 3.6 million more people will lose these benefits over this year. Restoring these benefits is a moral, economic and political imperative."
Paranoia-Rama: Obama's Alien Mission, Comic Book Communism & How Salsa Is Destroying America | Right Wing Watch
Paranoia-Rama: Obama's Alien Mission, Comic Book Communism & How Salsa Is Destroying America | Right Wing Watch
"RWW’s Paranoia-Rama takes a look at five of the week’s most absurd conspiracy theories from the Right."
"RWW’s Paranoia-Rama takes a look at five of the week’s most absurd conspiracy theories from the Right."
The right’s Benghazi insanity reaches new depths
The right’s Benghazi insanity reaches new depths
"But the usual suspects on Fox and within the GOP leadership continue to believe they have a way to disqualify Hillary Clinton from becoming president, and it will take much more than facts to convince them otherwise."
"But the usual suspects on Fox and within the GOP leadership continue to believe they have a way to disqualify Hillary Clinton from becoming president, and it will take much more than facts to convince them otherwise."
The Fight for $15: Campaign for Living Wage Readies National Push | Common Dreams
The Fight for $15: Campaign for Living Wage Readies National Push | Common Dreams
"The push for a true living wage—not $8.25, not $9.50, not $10.10, but an hourly wage of $15—wants to go national."
"The push for a true living wage—not $8.25, not $9.50, not $10.10, but an hourly wage of $15—wants to go national."
'Jobs or Inequality?' That's No Choice at All
'Jobs or Inequality?' That's No Choice at All
"While it's theoretically possible to imagine an economy which experiences both extreme inequality and healthy GDP growth, it's not possible to imagine this economy growing that way."
"While it's theoretically possible to imagine an economy which experiences both extreme inequality and healthy GDP growth, it's not possible to imagine this economy growing that way."
The right’s Obamacare misinformation bubble: A visual representation
The right’s Obamacare misinformation bubble: A visual representation
"If you’re a regular here, then you’ve probably read a story or two about how the right’s ongoing war against Obamacare prevents most conservatives from acknowledging that anyone has benefitted, is benefitting, or will benefit from the Affordable Care Act — and that this unwillingness to grapple with any Obamacare success stories is inflating a conservative misinformation bubble. On the right it’s an article of faith that the law has done nothing but harm innocent people. That’s the only way to keep the repeal fantasy animated."
"If you’re a regular here, then you’ve probably read a story or two about how the right’s ongoing war against Obamacare prevents most conservatives from acknowledging that anyone has benefitted, is benefitting, or will benefit from the Affordable Care Act — and that this unwillingness to grapple with any Obamacare success stories is inflating a conservative misinformation bubble. On the right it’s an article of faith that the law has done nothing but harm innocent people. That’s the only way to keep the repeal fantasy animated."
Colorado Pot Sales Hit $1 Million
Colorado Pot Sales Hit $1 Million
"The state's marijuana dispensaries raked in $1 million on the first day of legalization, as Coloradoans braved winter weather and hours-long lines to be the first Americans to buy legal recreational weed. Marijuana was on sale at 24 stores, most located in Denver, and regulators said the roll-out of the nation's first legal pot industry went smoothly."
"The state's marijuana dispensaries raked in $1 million on the first day of legalization, as Coloradoans braved winter weather and hours-long lines to be the first Americans to buy legal recreational weed. Marijuana was on sale at 24 stores, most located in Denver, and regulators said the roll-out of the nation's first legal pot industry went smoothly."
Colo. Group Aims to Put the People Above Fossil Fuel Interests | Common Dreams
Colo. Group Aims to Put the People Above Fossil Fuel Interests | Common Dreams
"Local governments should have the authority to protect their communities from big polluters like the oil and gas industries and be able to ban practices such as hydraulic fracturing in the name of health and safety, says an amendment being proposed this week for the Colorado state constitution."
"Local governments should have the authority to protect their communities from big polluters like the oil and gas industries and be able to ban practices such as hydraulic fracturing in the name of health and safety, says an amendment being proposed this week for the Colorado state constitution."
January 2, 2014
What Would You Do With $67 Million? Cash-Strapped States Eye Colorado’s Weed Tax Revenues
www.addictinginfo.org/2014/01/02/marijuana-tax-revenue-stream/
"Marijuana use is now legal in Colorado. It will soon be legal in Washington state."
"Marijuana use is now legal in Colorado. It will soon be legal in Washington state."
Iraq War vet denied medical marijuana for PTSD first to buy legal pot in Colorado
www.rawstory.com/rs/2014/01/01/iraq-war-vet-denied-medical-marijuana-for-ptsd-first-to-buy-legal-pot-in-colorado/
"An Iraq War veteran who suffers from post-traumatic stress disorder became the first person to legally buy recreational marijuana under a new Colorado law that went into effect New Year’s Day."
"An Iraq War veteran who suffers from post-traumatic stress disorder became the first person to legally buy recreational marijuana under a new Colorado law that went into effect New Year’s Day."
Young Viewers Avoid Fox News Like the Plague as Ratings Drop 30%
www.politicususa.com/2014/01/02/young-viewers-avoid-fox-news-plague-ratings-drop-30.html
"The reality is that Fox News has the oldest audience in all television. The average age of a Fox News viewer is 65 years old. FNC can remain the ratings leader in the short term future as long as the senior set keeps tuning in, but what happens when there aren’t enough young people tuning in to replace the elderly audience?"
"The reality is that Fox News has the oldest audience in all television. The average age of a Fox News viewer is 65 years old. FNC can remain the ratings leader in the short term future as long as the senior set keeps tuning in, but what happens when there aren’t enough young people tuning in to replace the elderly audience?"
Fox News' 5 Worst Moments of 2013
www.alternet.org/tea-party-and-right/fox-news-5-worst-moments-2013
"It was another banner year for Rupert Murdoch's propaganda shop. Here are the most cringeworthy moments."
"It was another banner year for Rupert Murdoch's propaganda shop. Here are the most cringeworthy moments."
Mayor Bill De Blasio's "Progressive" Promise Puts Focus on NYC | Common Dreams
Mayor Bill De Blasio's "Progressive" Promise Puts Focus on NYC | Common Dreams
"New York City's new mayor recommits to far-reaching agenda as hunger for progressive populism bubbles nationwide"
"New York City's new mayor recommits to far-reaching agenda as hunger for progressive populism bubbles nationwide"
California Installed More Rooftop Solar In 2013 Than Previous 30 Years Combined
www.thinkprogress.org/climate/2014/01/02/3110731/california-rooftop-solar-2013/
"2013 was a banner year for clean energy and the U.S. solar industry was no exception. California, the nation’s solar standout, more than doubled its rooftop solar installations last year from 1,000 megawatts (MW) to 2,000 MW. To put this number in perspective, writes Bernadette Del Chiaro of the California Solar Energy Industries Association, it took California over 30 years to build the first 1,000 MW of rooftop solar."
"2013 was a banner year for clean energy and the U.S. solar industry was no exception. California, the nation’s solar standout, more than doubled its rooftop solar installations last year from 1,000 megawatts (MW) to 2,000 MW. To put this number in perspective, writes Bernadette Del Chiaro of the California Solar Energy Industries Association, it took California over 30 years to build the first 1,000 MW of rooftop solar."
Americans Can Now Start Using Their New Obamacare Coverage
www.thinkprogress.org/health/2014/01/02/3110271/americans-obamacare-coverage-january/
"Insurers are no longer allowed to discriminate against people with pre-existing conditions, or charge sick Americans higher prices than their healthier counterparts. And now, the Americans who have enrolled in new plans under Obamacare — either by picking a private plan on the state-level marketplaces, or by qualifying for Medicaid in the states that agreed to expand the program — may start using that coverage."
"Insurers are no longer allowed to discriminate against people with pre-existing conditions, or charge sick Americans higher prices than their healthier counterparts. And now, the Americans who have enrolled in new plans under Obamacare — either by picking a private plan on the state-level marketplaces, or by qualifying for Medicaid in the states that agreed to expand the program — may start using that coverage."
Why Is the IRS Fighting Efforts to Unmask Karl Rove and U.S. Chamber Political Money Laundering?
www.alternet.org/tea-party-and-right/why-irs-fighting-efforts-unmask-karl-rove-and-us-chamber-political-money
"Robert Jacobson, a Tuscon, Arizona physician who brought the lawsuit, believes that a nonprofit created by the State Department in conjunction with the U.S. Chamber to build a much-ridiculed exhibition at the 2010 Shanghai Expo in China had another purpose—diverting large slices of the $70-plus million in donations to Rove for campaigns to retake the House. The idea was that money from GOP-friendly corporations and even the Chinese government would evade oversight by flowing through barely regulated nonprofits."
"Robert Jacobson, a Tuscon, Arizona physician who brought the lawsuit, believes that a nonprofit created by the State Department in conjunction with the U.S. Chamber to build a much-ridiculed exhibition at the 2010 Shanghai Expo in China had another purpose—diverting large slices of the $70-plus million in donations to Rove for campaigns to retake the House. The idea was that money from GOP-friendly corporations and even the Chinese government would evade oversight by flowing through barely regulated nonprofits."
A Trickle Down Republican Assault Is Forcing Americans To Work Themselves to Death
www.politicususa.com/2014/01/02/trickle-republican-assault-forcing-americans-work-death.html
"Americans have been economically besieged by Republicans for the past thirty years through their trickle down economic assault with the goal of transferring all the nation’s wealth to the richest 1% of income earners. They have taken Americans’ tax dollars and handed them to the rich, kept wages low to enrich corporations, and they will hardly stop until they hand them Americans’ Social Security and public pensions as well. Now that they have most working Americans working for poverty wages, they can turn their full attention to those nearing their retirement age because their concept of economic security in old age is forcing every American to work until they drop dead"
"Americans have been economically besieged by Republicans for the past thirty years through their trickle down economic assault with the goal of transferring all the nation’s wealth to the richest 1% of income earners. They have taken Americans’ tax dollars and handed them to the rich, kept wages low to enrich corporations, and they will hardly stop until they hand them Americans’ Social Security and public pensions as well. Now that they have most working Americans working for poverty wages, they can turn their full attention to those nearing their retirement age because their concept of economic security in old age is forcing every American to work until they drop dead"
Why I fled libertarianism — and became a liberal
Why I fled libertarianism — and became a liberal
"I was a Ron Paul delegate back in 2008 -- now I'm a Democrat. Here's my personal tale of disgust and self-discovery"
"I was a Ron Paul delegate back in 2008 -- now I'm a Democrat. Here's my personal tale of disgust and self-discovery"
Conspiracy theorist Jim Garrow: Obama will enlist aliens and Canadians to rule America
www.rawstory.com/rs/2013/12/31/conspiracy-theorist-jim-garrow-obama-will-enlist-aliens-and-canadians-to-rule-america/
"A birther conspiracy theorist who inaccurately predicted that President Barack Obama would order nuclear attacks on U.S. cities has improbably found a way to top that wild claim.
Conservative activist Jim Garrow appeared Monday on Fox News contributor Erik Rush’s radio program, where he claimed that Obama would try to boost his tanking poll numbers by claiming that scientists had communicated with extraterrestrials."
"A birther conspiracy theorist who inaccurately predicted that President Barack Obama would order nuclear attacks on U.S. cities has improbably found a way to top that wild claim.
Conservative activist Jim Garrow appeared Monday on Fox News contributor Erik Rush’s radio program, where he claimed that Obama would try to boost his tanking poll numbers by claiming that scientists had communicated with extraterrestrials."
Right-Wing Facebook Page Calls For National Lynch President Obama Day (IMAGE)
www.addictinginfo.org/2014/01/01/right-wing-facebook-page-obama-lynching/
"Once again, conservatives are taking their hatred of President Barack Obama to the extreme. Not satisfied with merely criticizing Obama’s policies, they have called for killing our first Black president since we voted him into office in 2008."
"Once again, conservatives are taking their hatred of President Barack Obama to the extreme. Not satisfied with merely criticizing Obama’s policies, they have called for killing our first Black president since we voted him into office in 2008."
Tea Party Activist Exiled For Planning Extermination Of Blacks And Jews (VIDEO)
www.addictinginfo.org/2013/12/26/tea-party-activist-exiled-italy/
"it’s been reported that he has been urged by thousand of activists within the Tea Party to take a run at the presidency. He even released a video speaking directly to Tea Party members about the “discrimination” that white people have to go through."
"it’s been reported that he has been urged by thousand of activists within the Tea Party to take a run at the presidency. He even released a video speaking directly to Tea Party members about the “discrimination” that white people have to go through."
January 1, 2014
Majority Report: Dave Dayen Explains Hidden Disaster in New Budget
Majority Report: Dave Dayen Explains Hidden Disaster in New Budget
"the implications for federal workers due to the Ryan-Murry budget and how states like Illinois "are breaking contracts with workers and slashing pensions."."
"the implications for federal workers due to the Ryan-Murry budget and how states like Illinois "are breaking contracts with workers and slashing pensions."."
Finance's Hold on Our Everyday Life Must Be Broken | Common Dreams
Finance's Hold on Our Everyday Life Must Be Broken | Common Dreams
"Consider, for instance, the policies to confront the crisis. First, public funds were injected into banks to boost capital. Second, public liquidity was made available to banks to sustain their operations. Third, public interest rates were driven to zero to enable banks to make secure profits by lending to their own customers at higher rates.
This extraordinary public largesse towards private banks was matched by austerity and wage reductions for workers and households. As for restructuring finance, nothing fundamental has taken place. The behemoths that continue to dominate the global financial system operate in the knowledge that they enjoy an unspoken public guarantee. The unpalatable reality is that financialisation will persist, despite its costs for society."
"Consider, for instance, the policies to confront the crisis. First, public funds were injected into banks to boost capital. Second, public liquidity was made available to banks to sustain their operations. Third, public interest rates were driven to zero to enable banks to make secure profits by lending to their own customers at higher rates.
This extraordinary public largesse towards private banks was matched by austerity and wage reductions for workers and households. As for restructuring finance, nothing fundamental has taken place. The behemoths that continue to dominate the global financial system operate in the knowledge that they enjoy an unspoken public guarantee. The unpalatable reality is that financialisation will persist, despite its costs for society."
As Evacuation Ends For Explosive Oil Train Crash, Officials Hint At The Persistent Threat Of Rail Transport
www.thinkprogress.org/climate/2014/01/01/3109321/casselton-train-derailment/
"While the crash of a train carrying crude oil in North Dakota led to fireballs rocketing into the air, clouds of thick black smoke for 15 miles, and the evacuation of nearby residents, officials are saying the incident could have been much worse."
"While the crash of a train carrying crude oil in North Dakota led to fireballs rocketing into the air, clouds of thick black smoke for 15 miles, and the evacuation of nearby residents, officials are saying the incident could have been much worse."
13 Dumbest Things Media Said About Climate Change In 2013
www.mediamatters.org/blog/2014/01/01/13-dumbest-things-media-said-about-climate-chan/197331
"The evidence for climate change only got stronger this year, with a major climate report finding 95 percent confidence in manmade global warming and the amount of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere hitting a record 400 parts per million. Climate doubters, in turn, became increasingly desperate, citing everything from a verified scam artist to the "Ouija board of weather"."
"The evidence for climate change only got stronger this year, with a major climate report finding 95 percent confidence in manmade global warming and the amount of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere hitting a record 400 parts per million. Climate doubters, in turn, became increasingly desperate, citing everything from a verified scam artist to the "Ouija board of weather"."
Listicle: The 13 Best and Worst Economic Policy Ideas of 2013
Listicle: The 13 Best and Worst Economic Policy Ideas of 2013
"Reflecting the fact that fiscal policy in 2013 is a mess, the number bad ideas on this list far exceed the number of good ones. (A 9-to-4 bad-to-good ratio seemed about right.)"
"Reflecting the fact that fiscal policy in 2013 is a mess, the number bad ideas on this list far exceed the number of good ones. (A 9-to-4 bad-to-good ratio seemed about right.)"
Mayor Bill DeBlasio: “We are called to put an end to economic and social inequalities"
Mayor Bill DeBlasio: “We are called to put an end to economic and social inequalities"
"The thing I liked best about the ceremony? The inclusion of Dasani Coates, the ambitious homeless girl recently profiled in the New York Times, in the festivities. What a change from Bloomberg!"
"The thing I liked best about the ceremony? The inclusion of Dasani Coates, the ambitious homeless girl recently profiled in the New York Times, in the festivities. What a change from Bloomberg!"
50 Dumbest Things Right-Wingers Said in 2013 | Rolling Stone
www.rollingstone.com/politics/lists/50-dumbest-things-right-wingers-said-in-2013-20131204
"When America's right-wingers opened their mouths, astonishing words fell out of them."
"When America's right-wingers opened their mouths, astonishing words fell out of them."
The 10 Dumbest Public Figures In 2013
www.addictinginfo.org/2013/12/31/2013-stupid-people-awards/
"This past year has been rich with the stupid."
"This past year has been rich with the stupid."
Conservative Facebook page suggests lynching President Obama to make a ‘National Holiday’
www.freakoutnation.com/2013/12/31/conservative-facebook-page-suggests-lynching-president-obama-to-make-a-national-holiday/
"Is that a knock I hear on ‘‘America the next Generation’s‘ door?
"Is that a knock I hear on ‘‘America the next Generation’s‘ door?
Dear Secret Service, have you seen this?"
The 25 Best Progressive Victories of 2013 | Common Dreams
The 25 Best Progressive Victories of 2013 | Common Dreams
"let's look back at 2013 and examine 25 significant accomplishments -- elections, ballot measures, court rulings, legislation, new waves of mobilization, and changes in public opinion -- that meet one or more of those three criteria."
"let's look back at 2013 and examine 25 significant accomplishments -- elections, ballot measures, court rulings, legislation, new waves of mobilization, and changes in public opinion -- that meet one or more of those three criteria."
'Era of Marijuana Prohibition Officially Over' in Colorado | Common Dreams
'Era of Marijuana Prohibition Officially Over' in Colorado | Common Dreams
"For the first time in 70 years, legal recreational marijuana sales commenced in Colorado Wednesday, marking the beginning of a new year and, many hope, a new era for legalization."
"For the first time in 70 years, legal recreational marijuana sales commenced in Colorado Wednesday, marking the beginning of a new year and, many hope, a new era for legalization."
America's first marijuana stores open in Colorado
America's first marijuana stores open in Colorado
"America's first retail stores sellingmarijuana open for business in Colorado on Wednesday, putting the western state in the vanguard of the country's evolving attitudes on legalizing the drug."
"America's first retail stores sellingmarijuana open for business in Colorado on Wednesday, putting the western state in the vanguard of the country's evolving attitudes on legalizing the drug."
Wall Street Sings While Americans Sob: Happy New Year One and All | Common Dreams
Wall Street Sings While Americans Sob: Happy New Year One and All | Common Dreams
"Bankers on Wall Street rang in the final hours of 2013 with gains unseen in almost twenty years. However, for roughly half of America, these stock market highs mean nothing as they face a new year with little work and even less of a safety net."
"Bankers on Wall Street rang in the final hours of 2013 with gains unseen in almost twenty years. However, for roughly half of America, these stock market highs mean nothing as they face a new year with little work and even less of a safety net."
The Year in Stupidity: A Look Back at the Dumbest Republican Moments of 2013
www.forwardprogressives.com/the-year-in-stupidity-a-look-back-at-the-dumbest-republican-moments-of-2013/
"In January of 2013, Governor Bobby Jindal implored his party to, “Stop being the stupid party,” during a National Republican Committee meeting. Unfortunately, his party wasn’t really listening to him, and as it turns out Gov. Jindal had a hard time taking his own advice."
"In January of 2013, Governor Bobby Jindal implored his party to, “Stop being the stupid party,” during a National Republican Committee meeting. Unfortunately, his party wasn’t really listening to him, and as it turns out Gov. Jindal had a hard time taking his own advice."
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