Craig Crawford's Trail Mix

Woo Hoo lets get this week started

More Open Books..?
What audit powers does the Treasury have over the Fed? Can Timmy keep an eye on everything?

Wow I did not realize that the Congress did not have review powers.

Ron Paul is on track for Independence Day from the control by only one branch !!

"....Independence Day from the control by only one branch"

ping, must be my morning cobwebs, but what does this mean? who's being liberated from whom?

Before listening to Ron Paul I thought that the congress had review power and audit power over the FED. Will accoding to his position and statement that in fact this is not correct - that the congress is blocked. That is why he is pushing for this bill.

Ron Paul always made sense. He couldn't get elected because he didn't have a big machine behind him. That includes the media. The news media may be the most significant factor. You have to have the media's approval to get elected. They are a 27/7 powerful source for manipulation now.

The news media let Bush slip in the second time. They took Howard Dean out. They helped take Hillary out. They made Obama. They helped make Ron Paul insignificant by not taking him serious.

Ron Paul always had good ideas. He may have been more the people's advocate than anyone else. That definitely isn't a good thing and will never get anyone anywhere.

It would be very interesting to find out what the Federal Reserve is up to but can we handle the truth? I'm not sure we can. It could be the final straw that takes the world economy down. I already know more than I want about our financial institutions and don't trust any of them anymore. I don't have a secure enough mattress to keep my money in so I'm forced to use a bank.

My prediction is that we won't find out anything even though it is an interesting concept.

excuse me that is 24/7. I wouldn't want to squeeze another hour in a day.

http://blogs.cqpolitics.com/trailmix/2009/06/gop-real-world-strategy.html#comment-240046

warren, "the insurance business" that's where the money is, not the providing care business. easier to get our representatives to think/vote in terms of dollars than in terms of human needs.
example: mass transit

ct, if you have an extra oxygen bottle handy, sturge probably could use a few draws on it right about this time. any other hangover treatment suggestions for too much gilbey's and late night reminiscing?

sturge, hang in there, we're on our way.

Can't believe Obama trusted Tom Daschle in the first place.

http://www.thedailybeast.com/blogs-and-stories/2009-06-28/whose-side-is-daschle-on/?cid=hp:mainpromo2

Sturge was holding this blog up almost by himself last night. He did need a little lubrication.

And Warren, I bet you thought you would get a rise outta some of us here with that womanizer comment last night. You even reeled it back in pretty quick. I'm sorry but we already know you and like you so it wouldn't have worked anyway.

Patsi - How can Daschle "torpedoe" a public health-care option that Barack is playing a game to support - trying to SNEAK certain elements.

And they are all off track anyway - Trying to CHANGE the Effect not attack the Cause of our problems.

Very disappointing activity by the Obama administration. Why are they not going after the FACTS around Healthcare like they are the Unkown of Global Warming. This is dangerous and going to cost us way to much when it does not have to.

3.5 years to go

RON PAUL - Here is a face of the True Republican Core Values !!

patd.....not to worry......using Great-Uncle Sturgeone's Super Crab-oil Formula Hangover medicine, Hair Restorer, and Auto-Lube, and the day is under way...........

Skunks abound. Republicans have their Sanford scandal, but the Dems now we have the alleged John Edwards' sex videotape(s), and there is a book in the works.

http://www.nydailynews.com/gossip/2009/06/28/2009-06-28_aides_tale_of_john_edwards_sex_tape.html

Patsi, why should he trust him? What personal loyalty does Daschle owe Mr Obama? They are two politicians each with his own agenda. If their goals coincide, it's great. If they don't, part ways and wait for another opportunity for collaboration.

Sturg Man !! Remarkable -- Will Great-Uncles Strugeone's also cure the Gout?

If John Edwards does have a sex tape floating around, then he's even dumber than I thought.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9c7kr43HG4Q&eurl=http%3A%2F%2F

"Nico Pitney Confronts Dana Milbank Over Obama Question"
What ever happened to the days when reporters were just called on to ask the President an original unscripted question?

The Economist has established it's opinion as to how Mr Obama should proceed on healthcare:

http://www.economist.com/opinion/displaystory.cfm?story_id=13900898

Flatus - First good day to you - hope all is well.

And you are right on! Daschle is also much more in tune with the needs and solutions for Healthcare then most likely anyone in the White House.

Question: with the economic situation - You think it is a good time to take jobs out of any sector - including Healthcare?

Barack is on a Political Agenda that is going to have negative consequences and unfortunate outcomes

Ping in the face of the Super Crab-Oil Formula, gout has about as much chance as ron paul has of being president...........just ask for the special formula with "Gout-Out"

Well Patsi, that woman was paid to video tape Edwards. She just didn't know what was supposed to be on the video and what wasn't. Maybe she saw it as her meal ticket like Monica and the sperm specimen.

"Ron Paul always made sense. He couldn't get elected because he didn't have a big machine behind him."

He couldn't get elected because of several factors, none of which had to do anything his policies.

1. He wasn't photogenic.
2. During the primaries, he couldn't present his policies in a coherent matter. He always seemed frantic.
3. The news media were always taking shots at him, making him appear to be a whacko.

TiR, Gov Sanford made the terrible mistake of following in love with a woman other than his wife; Sen Edwards, on the other hand, appears to be a professional philanderer.

The escapades of the Republican congressional leadership on or about the time of the Cheney defrocking provide enough material for serialized manuscripts.

Flatus - Sorry but the Economist article has a few false statements that Obama is floating.

First - Obama was elected in general to replace Bush - and not to drive an overhaul and socialistic agenda - this will cost Barack a second term

Second - Outcomes in the US in many areas for healthcare situations are much better then other countries

Third - If we get just a few elements under control then we will remove cost from our system which will improve access. One big one is the huge failure of Obama to go for Tort reform - What does Edwards have video of Barack? - Some study show that drives as much as 1 out of 3 test which is defensive medicine. Now Barack says Tort reform will cheat those that deserve - again a lawyer getting a big fee?. Fact is this extra cost is creating a demand that we cannot afford and Barack is failing the people. This will be another reason he does not make a second term

following = falling

Ping, the article is opinion, not news.

These guys are crazy to think that they can do anything that will be kept a secret for long. If they do it, it will come out sooner or later.

"Second - Outcomes in the US in many areas for healthcare situations are much better then other countries"

Ping, for the sake of argument, I'll allow that statement. But, wouldn't it be great if those outcomes, largely funded by the public purse, be available to all Americans?

Healthcare 4th.

Why O' Why is Obama going after "Foundational Change" on Global warming based on Corelative data that does not prove a cause. Change that may cost jobs and will Raise the cost of everything - this combined with the inflation coming will make the debt look very small - ah balance the budget.

BUT in Healthcare - not addressing the Foundation Change - So if you want us all in small cars we need to go on a diet as 1 in 3 Americans will be Obese creating one of the greatest cost overrun factors.

Come on Barack get with it !!

Have a great day. Mine started with another nice rain. I hear the grass growing. Even though the drought we had was bad, it did give me a mowing break for a while.

Plus Ron Paul was understaffed, under funded, but his biggest obstacle was the 4th wheel of government, the news media. It was the news media who got Obama to be the Dem's candidate and not HRC, and it was the news media coverage of Obama that helped him get elected POTUS.

Flatus - In emergeny care they are available and delivered to Anyone that hits the door.

Our System does need some corrections - but not what you are being made to believe. Barack is NOT addressing the Cause in Healthcare - He is addressing the effect. This is simply wrong. It is very complex so 99.9% of the media or Congress have no clue and the 0.1% most likely have a seperate agenda.

http://blogs.cqpolitics.com/trailmix/2009/06/ron-pauls-monetary-gripes-ring.html#comment-240079

i think TinR is frightfully close to the truth with this one.

Gale Storm has passed away. You Tube has clips of My Little Margie, but here she is singing one of her typical hits from the 1950s: Dark Moon

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4RopfQwkQCE

Yes, Jamie, she did do some very nice work.

When I saw the name I tried to put her in context. I got her confused with her 'cousin' Tempest. :)

Sturge, I've not really dug into Mr Sanford's career, but I've had the impression that he was more of a libertarian than the other Republican candidates. Am I completely confused on this? Wouldn't be the first time.

Conclusion - with the same dollars we can serve all the people
First - People Must take personal responsibility

Second - We must have Tort reform as this cost is out of control.

Third - We must develop and empower more care givers

Fourth - we must drive innovation into healthcare and not just imagination of cheap products - more of the same but cheaper - is nice marketing but a losers choice

http://www.thenation.com/blogs/edcut/446851/time_to_end_false_bipartisanship

"Time to End False Bipartisanship"

"God I hope David Broder is wrong. "The President has told visitors," the Washington Post columnist wrote last week, "that he would rather have 70 votes in the Senate for a bill that gives him 85 percent of what he wants rather than a 100 percent satisfactory bill that passes 52-48." The good news is that Chief of Staff Rahm Emanuel is now talking about how bipartisanship may need to be redefined downward if the Democrats are going to pass meaningful healthcare reform. In a meeting with journalists last week, Emanuel proposed that health-care legislation could be bipartisan without Republican votes. "There will be ideas from both parties, and individuals from both parties, in the final product," he said. "Whether the Republicans decide to vote for things they promoted will be up to them." ( David Axelrod seconded the emotion in his appearance on ABC's "This Week.")"

wonder if there's any connection to the fact that they're parent company to nbc.

"How a Loophole Benefits GE in Bank Rescue

Industrial Giant Becomes Top Recipient in Debt-Guarantee Program"

http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/06/28/AR2009062802955.html?hpid=topnews

Flatus

Tempest is still alive, but at 82, you might want to meet her dressed. :-0

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tempest_Storm

http://blogs.cqpolitics.com/trailmix/2009/06/ron-pauls-monetary-gripes-ring.html#comment-240085

Ping,

While I'm willing to concede that work needs to be done in the areas you name, I've never known a cause of death that read "Less Paperwork"

The system to cover as many human beings as possible with at least some sort of catastrophic plan should be done FIRST. To leave families open to economic destruction due to lack of adequate coverage is insane.

jamie - you and I agree, This is another failure of Obama to not address this in January, Instead of serving the country he took care of his voters.

We talked about this in the past that if we had a Healthcare Safety net - this would have made the Auto Industry elements with one less complication.

The Bottom of the Prymid (Maslow) should have been addressed first before they pandered to those that swung the vote

Now we all will pay to much

John Edwards has a sex tape out there? I'm sure it's probably just a video of him getting a $400 hair cut. So, that Britney Spears song "Womanizer" was about Warren? Who knew?

I wonder if the autopsy on Billy Mays will track back to that blow on the head he received in the hard landing of the airplane he was in when it blew a tire.

He was relatively young and apparently very healthy, so a cerebral hemorrhage would be a possibility.

"...but at 82, you might want to meet her dressed."

Undoubtedly.

I generally form opinions on a person's attractiveness by their eyes and the genuineness of their facial expressions. Other physical attributes play a distant role.

Everything can go 'poof' once a conversation starts. :)

flatus.....i'm not really at all sure where sanford comes down politically..........i cant get past all that religious crap he and his wife spout..............i know it's crap because it became crap to him the second he went off to the hot tamale.......glad, though, to see that the hot tamale was not a young goofette........

" They are two politicians each with his own agenda. If their goals coincide, it's great. "

I think Daschle was-and-is in the pocket of corporate America. He certainly has never been a friend of "the people."

" The news media were always taking shots at him, making him appear to be a whacko."

I agree with you on this, TiR. Although I think a Ron Paul presidency would be a disaster.

"So, that Britney Spears song "Womanizer" was about Warren? Who knew?"

ROFL, Corey....we always suspected Warren was a layabout....

old edwards is getting lower than a snake's belly in a wagon rut..............

"not a young goofette........"

LMAO! I love the concept of "goofs and goofettes" ...

If a marriage is on the rocks, the rocks are in the bed.

--Tennessee Williams

Sturg, I can't imagine any SC statewide candidate getting more than a handful of votes in the upstate unless they're selling religious crap.

http://blogs.cqpolitics.com/trailmix/2009/06/ron-pauls-monetary-gripes-ring.html#comment-240080

Ping,

Yes. At the point of the greatest, most expensive need, the healthcare system delivers. Of course this is often months or years after a much cheaper, less damaging action could have been taken. Top this off with you pay for this care in your city, county, and state taxes and overcrowd services that you may need in a crises.

From the point of pure selfishness, when you would like the medical personnel to save your life in a crisis at an affordable level, you might want to consider trying to find a way to cover others.

Pay on the front end or pay on the back end ... Pay you will.

flatus....yep, that's the sad case around here..............it's why we have the dreadful Lindsay Graham instead of Alex Sanders.....

mornin'

I love seeing our current healthcare system being defended by conservatives. They seem to forget that for the most part it is only nonprofit hospitals and what used to be referred to as county hospitals that provide uncompensated care for the poor and uninsured - and it is part of the bargain that is built into the tax code. We who pay taxes pay for that care. It amounts to about 10% of the care provided at nonprofits if the hospital I worked for is about average, and I suspect it was. Newsflash - we are already taxed to provide care for the unisured. IF (and I do say if) the costs for care can be controlled by a combination of modernization of healthcare, standardization of protocols for diagnosis, care and medication, limits on lawsuits for bad outcomes and the development of a public insurance option the healthcare we taxpayers already pay for should be less expensive going forward. But it is something akin to changing the liquid and solid fuel rockets to atomic warp drive engines so that we can visit neighboring solar systems.

And I'm happy to be among the goof class this morning.

the bill always comes.

--papa hemingway, in Death in the Afternoon

"Ron Paul always made sense. He couldn't get elected because he didn't have a big machine behind him. That includes the media."

That and also despite making sense a lot of the time - he sounds real kooky now and then.

Probably no surprises here but---a widening generation gap in the US---Pew Research study finds Americans of different ages more at odds over a range of social & technological issues--the biggest spread since 1969.

Getting old isn't as bad as people believe in terms of health, but isn't as good when it comes to lifestyle

Older adults end up having less leisure time than expected

Americans differ on when old age begins---on average
they say 68.

People under age 30 believe it begins at
60, while those 65 & older push the threshold to 74.
(Put me in the second group)

http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/n/a/2009/06/28/national/w210218D44.DTL

http://blogs.cqpolitics.com/trailmix/2009/06/ron-pauls-monetary-gripes-ring.html#comment-240092

jamie, did i hear someone say "law suit"?

ct:

no doubt! I was reeling it back as soon as I was typing it!!

Patsi:

Edwards always struck me as having more slickness than substance.

(Must be that trial lawyer thing....)

http://blogs.cqpolitics.com/trailmix/2009/06/ron-pauls-monetary-gripes-ring.html#comment-240060

sturge, glad all's right with your world. hope you saved some of those gilbey bottles. enough for a trio or a chamber ensemble? maybe with more resonating bottle shapes to improve bass, you could give these melbourne guys some competition.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pUru7nSyKxQ

"Americans differ on when old age begins---on average
they say 68. "

Oh, damn, damn, damn.

Ping:

"Our System does need some corrections - but not what you are being made to believe."

Am I correct in assuming that this is a statement coming from someone with health insurance?

You should think about what you are being led to believe...

(It is a common theme - trickled down from the elitist establishment heading up the GOP - that the status quo is just fine as far as they are concerned.)

warren, equal time for the "manizers" among us.

http://onlineslangdictionary.com/definition+of/manizer

Coreen,

I more look at when decrepitude (or old-old) begins. For most people I would say between their middle 80s and middle 90s.

Tony:

The problem with bi-partisanship is that it takes two to tango.

The GOP will not be swayed by Obama's rhetoric. It will take the voters kicking more of them out on their asses for being obstructionists - instead of offering alternatives - before the Republicans will come around.

and equal time musically for those who have given up demon alcohol for demon sodapop

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D_-_ABBzuAo&feature=related

Flatus,

I really don't feel that I am approaching the consensus
number for "old"age ---but most days the aches & pains suggest I may be deluding myself-

And just reading your posts I am pretty sure that you
are in no way close to "decripitude"--your excellent
work ethic shines through

http://blogs.cqpolitics.com/trailmix/2009/06/ron-pauls-monetary-gripes-ring.html#comment-240114

warren, in the immortal words of the Cowardly Lion, "Ain't it th' truth?"

Patsi:

Had to look that one up to be sure. (But it looks like this term accurately sums me up ; ) I really like some of the synonyms:

layabout - person who does no work; "a lazy bum"
do-nothing, idler, loafer, bum

nonworker - a person who does nothing

clock watcher - a worker preoccupied with the arrival of quitting time

couch potato - an idler who spends much time on a couch (usually watching television)

dallier, dilly-dallier, dillydallier, lounger, mope - someone who wastes time

dawdler, laggard, lagger, trailer, poke, drone - someone who takes more time than necessary; someone who lags behind

daydreamer, woolgatherer - someone who indulges in idle or absentminded daydreaming

good-for-naught, good-for-nothing, goof-off, ne'er-do-well, no-account, goldbrick - an idle worthless person

lazybones - a lazy person

lie-abed, slugabed - a person who stays in bed until a relatively late hour

loon - a worthless lazy fellow

shirker, slacker - a person who shirks his work or duty (especially one who tries to evade military service in wartime)

sluggard, slug - an idle slothful person

spiv - a person without employment who makes money by various dubious schemes; goes about smartly dressed and having a good time

sunbather - someone who basks in the sunshine in order to get a suntan

trifler - one who behaves lightly or not seriously

whittler - someone who whittles (usually as an idle pastime)

"Getting old isn't as bad as people believe in terms of health"

coreen, seems like the current pandemic proves your point. older folks appear to have more immunity. sad to think of the possiblity of a tragic die-back of the young if the n1h1 does re-emerge this fall with avengence as they fear.

warren, thanks for the synonym list. some of my favorite people are the dilly-dalling, dawdling daydreamers.

damn, seems that almost all of those synonyms apply to me- no wonder people say I'm laid back - I just don't give a shit and act accordingly.

Supreme Court rules white firefighters in New Haven were unfairly denied promotions

Here's one of the initial reports on Ricci

http://www.wsbtv.com/news/19891317/detail.html

And for those interested---here is the Court's decision:

http://www.supremecourtus.gov/opinions/08pdf/07-1428.pdf

I guess I'm suppose to say something about Ron Paul..... hmmmmm....
I hear he was popular here in live free or die NH....

actually.... I agree with him on transparency and government..... but apparently the government doesn't agree with us....

hey.... does anyone know how to do a "please stop raining" dance....

Cap and Trade.

This is from the office of the CBO. From my reading of this letter, they sure do put a lot of trust into the what ifs, and what shoulds, or the what happens if we include or exclude this or that. This is all from a bunch of buracrats, lawyers, economist, and accounting getting together. Bottom line, they are just guessing and hoping. You'll find the words mights and coulds, but you will not find the word "will".

http://www.cbo.gov/ftpdocs/103xx/doc10327/06-19-CapTradeCosts.htm

"Supreme Court rules white firefighters in New Haven were unfairly denied promotions "

And they were.

To all you Ron Paul fans:

Now, explain the gold standard thing....

Coreen,

Have you followed the arguments presented closely enough to determine if the proper Constitutional outcome was achieved?

SCOTUS decision again 5-4. All we really need is Justice Kennedy, apparently.

How different would the U.S. be if Ron Paul had been elected president ? Is he for real or is he just another politician promising anything & everything the people want just to get elected?

My only thoughts on Ron Paul

A broke clock is right twice a day. That beat Ron Paul's average.

The Fed is set up the way it is to keep the politicians away from the banking system. A good idea in my opinion.
It was the Ron Paul like laizze faire beliefs that caused the problems at the fed so I don't believe that a Ron Paul solution will do any thing except make things worse.

Jack

ct, better stock up on wading boots.

"Rising sea level to submerge Louisiana coastline by 2100, study warns
A vast swath of the coastal lands around New Orleans will be underwater by the dawn of the next century because the rate of sediment deposit in the Mississippi delta can not keep up with rising sea levels, according to a study published today."

http://www.guardian.co.uk/environment/2009/jun/29/rising-sea-level-new-orleans

"Now, explain the gold standard thing...."

let's see.... there's 14k gold, 18k gold, 21k gold, 24k gold.... there's everything that glitters is not gold.... there's worth your weight in gold....
there's gold in them there hills..... good as gold... heart of gold... pot o' gold...
sitting on a gold mine.... go for the gold....
and of course the ubiquitous gold digger....

"The Fed is set up the way it is to keep the politicians away from the banking system. A good idea in my opinion."

jack, right on target.

Flatus,

I have not read the Court's decision as yet---it is some
50+ pages with a lengthy dissent by Judge Ginsberg.

I have been aware of the case since I have a couple
of Bpt. firefighters as clients---who happen to be black

Please know that the firefighters I know (and I am sure
those in New Haven as well) continue to work together
successfully--regardless of the spotlight that has been
focused on them because of the appointment of
Judge Sotomayor.

Concur with Jack and Patd.

('though a little more transparency might not hurt.)

No big surprise here - in a 5-4 decision - S. Ct. rules for white firefighters:

http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20090629/ap_on_go_su_co/us_supreme_court_firefighters_lawsuit

Renee, How could you forget 'Goldfinger'?

goldman sachs

Don't think that the Ricci case is destined to be a landmark case. It is a 5-4 decison that "clarifies how Title VII applies to resolve competing expectations under the disparate-treatment and disparate-impact provisions" and "not decide the underlying constitutional question."

Its real impact will be how it is used by the 'pugs in the Sotomayor confirmation hearings. My advice to her would be to say something like "I and two of my colleagues agreed with the Title VII analysis of the District Court. The Supreme Court disagreed and clarified a Title VII analysis that had not been clear before. That happens."

"Edwards always struck me as having more slickness than substance."

Warren, I'm sorry to say that I really liked him during the first months of the primary. Although if honest, I have to say I think I liked his wife more than him!

yeah....
I forgot the golden parachute too....

This one's my favorite "spiv - a person without employment who makes money by various dubious schemes; goes about smartly dressed and having a good time

Although I am a "spiv" wannabe and more of a dilly-dallier in reality.

is it Ping or Truth (formerly Frydaddy) that has employment in the health industry? One of them does. That and being a "status quo" type of guy. Neither wants to be the subject of that book a few years ago called "Who Moved My Cheese."

While I totally understand the legal reason for the appellate court's decision as written by Sotomayor, I actually agree with the majority of the Supremes on this one.

Certainly, the appellate court had a good legal foundation, I think the ultimate decision that "fear of being sued" is not grounds to deprive others of their accomplishments.

It is a "you made your bed, lie in it" decision. If the City got sued after the fact for giving the jobs based on test results, then a corrective measure could be determined at that time and/or another exam could have been written and given for future openings.

Now one area that I don't know about is that most of these types of jobs are a combination of test and board. Did they not have any board interviews? If they did, then how was that weighted. It is after the fact, and just curious, but the city should never have been in this position in the first place.

http://zerohedge.blogspot.com/2009/06/goldman-sachs-engineering-every-major.html

aaaahhhhh....

blessed are the goat cheese makers.....
for they sit on gallons and gallons of black gold......

Pogo,
I agree. Wouldn't you also say that Sotomayor is replacing Souter, who, along with three others, essentially agreed with the lower court.

http://blogs.cqpolitics.com/trailmix/2009/06/ron-pauls-monetary-gripes-ring.html#comment-240113

Old age ... 68 is close to the traditional "three score and ten". I've always liked the idea that once you are past that you get to be childlike again and then be bar or bat mitzvaed again at 82 when you are all grown up all over.

Judging by my relatives on the long lived side, there isn't any old age. They just keep perking along pretty self sufficient until 89 and then go to sleep and forget to wake up.

jamie, the decision goes into fairly great length detailing how the department's promotion procedure works.

This is it in a nutshell:

"When the City of New Haven undertook to fill vacant lieutenant and captain positions in its fire department (Department), the promotion and hiring process was gov-erned by the city charter, in addition to federal and state law. The charter establishes a merit system. That systemrequires the City to fill vacancies in the classified civil-service ranks with the most qualified individuals, as de-termined by job-related examinations. After each exami-nation, the New Haven Civil Service Board (CSB) certifiesa ranked list of applicants who passed the test. Under thecharter’s “rule of three,” the relevant hiring authoritymust fill each vacancy by choosing one candidate from thetop three scorers on the list. Certified promotional lists remain valid for two years."

The decision is based on the Court saying that the fear of being sued under a disparate impact result from the test is not enough to fail to certify the test. Instead the city (just an example from this case) would have to have "a strong basis in evidence to believe it would face disparate-impact liability if it certified the examination results" in order to comply with the statute's requirements.

The 1991 codification of disparate impact and disparate treatment has been a nightmare for employers, and I really don't see how this decision clarifies that in light of the purpose of Title VII.

Joe, yep. And she agreed with 3 members of the court with whom the majority of the Senate should be expected to agree. This is not much of a decision for the right to use to try and bludgeon her IMHO.

Has that test every been posted? I still want to see how is discriminatory.

RFLMAO - Dickipedia entry for Tom Tancredo

http://www.dickipedia.org/dick.php?title=Tom_Tancredo

Patsi

That is part of the problem with this particular case. No specific claim of discrimination was ever brought, only the fear that one might be brought based on the results. There were black firefighters who passed the test, but not high enough to qualify for the number of openings in existence.

This is why the Conservatives had that "fear of legal challenge" not being enough to cancel the test.

Now Pogo is right that there definitely has to be a great deal more clarification in the administration of the Title VII provisions.

Certainly the test needs to be carefully reviewed to see if cultural background and language was enough to disadvantage minorities since the problem didn't seem to be in the performance of duties and firefighting technique parts of the test.

IO Solutions, Inc. politically correct test used by the New Haven Fire Department.

http://www.adversity.net/newhavenfd/default.htm

Jamie, the administration doesn't get to clarify Title VII, although it could try and issue new regs to clarify it - but I'm skeptical, or Congress could amend Title VII, (again, I'm skeptical). I think employers now have cover, and the age of Bakke is back. White is the new minority status. This is the problem with the decision - it sidestepped the equal protection issue that could have been confronted in this case.

But meanwhile back at the ranch. Just when you thought it might be safe to use the toilet again, he's baaaaccckkk - yep, Joe the Plumber makes the news again.

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2009/06/26/joe-the-plumber-suggests_n_221631.html

This time he's wrapped in the flag and really, isn't it ironic that an essentially failed plumber was asked to speak at the Wisconsin chapter of Americans for Prosperity? I guess he did take marginal plumbing and business skills and parlay them into celebrity among the radical right. And I bet he is making more now than he did as a guy who apparently only knew the first rule of plumbing - it all flows downhill.

Madoff sentenced to 150 years

Based on the victim testimony, more time would have been ok too.

Politically correct - Truth, it is legally mandated. In order to pass muster if challenged, employment exams have to be based on legitimate requirements of the job being tested for, and designed not to disadvantage minority applicants - that is, to be race and background neutral. If that is PC to you, I suggest that fundamental fairness is a concept foreign to your world view.

Poor Bernie - hope he enjoys the view from the window in whatever medium security lockup he gets to spend the rest of his life in.

Patsi, the test is likely not discriminatory. And that wasn't the issue. That would be tested under a disparate treatment analysis. The issue was that the results of the test, although the test was facially neutral and carefully designed to avoid discriminating, made it appear to be discriminatory under a disparate impact analysis. This will cause many employers to wonder what the hell they are to do now with their tests. And the answer is - use them. Oh, and unless I'm missing something, what Truth posted is an analysis fo the test results - not the test itself. But wait, there's more - the written exam comprised 60% of the total score - the oral exam comprised the other 40%. The guy who scored highest on the written exam for lieutenants - a black applicant - scored 92.08 on the oral portion scored only 59 on the written portion. Statisticians will have a field day analyzing this test.

To all you Ron Paul fans:

Now, explain the gold standard thing....

Posted by: cajunjoe.pip.verisignlabs.com Author Profile Page | June 29, 2009 10:33 AM

By manipulating the "discount rate", and through the process of "fractional reserve banking", the FED can either expand or contract the money supply; usually they expand it. This causes inflation, as the FED is essentially "printing money"; i.e, devaluing the currency by creating more fictitious money in the form of loans. With a gold standard, the value of currency is directly tied to a quantifiable amount of gold, leading to a much less dramatic currency fluctuations. Under a gold standard, that dollar in your pocket would actually have an intrisic value, rather than just representing a "promise" from government.

See ya, solar - lunch, ya know.

A total of 118 applicants took the two tests for promotion to lieutenant or captain in late 2003, and 59 earned passing scores. Because there were limited vacancies, only the top scorers were eligible for promotion -- a group of 17 whites, and two Hispanics. None of the 27 black firefighters with passing scores was eligible.

Those of you who are old enough to remember "silver certificates" (I'm not, though I have a few), might remember that you were supposedly able to take your $5 Lincoln note (silverish-green with red printing) and redeem it for $5 worth of silver that you could hold in your hand. In other words, the money in your pocket had actual value, where as now, it is just a piece of paper.

Dark Lord,

While the 'gold standard' sounds like a policy that would create stability, historically, it has actually created great economic instability. Many economists contend that the strict adherence to the gold standard was a major contributor to the great depression, in that it removed a tool that central banks could have, and now do, use to stabilize world economies. As I read it, the straight jacket that a gold standard would put on central banks would be worse than the current fiat based system.

On the other hand ... we all know that economists can and will argue on any side of any issue. One thing seems apparent, though, is that we are never going back to a gold standard, and not many economists think we actually should.

Auditing the Fed? Now there's a job that could employee a lot of people. Since the auditors would probably part of the same old-cronies club, who would audit the auditors?

Something to take your mind off of the economy; "Cubby Speaks"

http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20090629/ap_on_re_us/us_sc_governor_spiritual_boot_camp

"The Sanfords "passed" the Culbertsons' course with flying colors. A week later, Jenny Sanford asked her husband to leave their home."

pogo you didn't read the article.

"IO Solutions, Inc. is one of a few dozen firms which specializes in this kind of politically correct test design, and they are very good at it. According to court filings, IO Solutions did everything right in designing the New Haven fire department's promotional exams to be completely race-neutral, i.e., to not have a disparate impact upon selected, preferred skin colors."

If you'll read the article you'll see that a good number of Blacks passed the test, but they just didn't score high enough. If a test is going to be truly race-neutral, the results of the test when [posted are race-neutral. You can't then inform Fireman #15 that he'll not be promoted, because Fireman #16 is Black and scored lower than he did.

The Carter administration during the late 70's early 80's were famous for putting minorities into government position over more highly qualified applicants just because they were simply minorities.

Posted by: cajunjoe.pip.verisignlabs.com Author Profile Page | June 29, 2009 12:19 PM

Never say "never", but yu're probably right. The reason it is not likely we will use a gold standard in the future is because it puts too much power in the hands of ordinary citizens.

Lord,
I probably should let this pass, but, unless you own a gold mine, you'd better explain how ordinary citizens gain power under a gold standard. The sure didn't in 1932.

I obviously don't understand the legal system. If the test isn't discriminatory, but the results are....uh....

Posted by: cajunjoe.pip.verisignlabs.com Author Profile Page | June 29, 2009 12:34 PM

Any holder of money under a certain "standard" controls actual wealth. A holder of money under a fiat system holds nothing more than a promise, and we all know promises can be broken.

However, either the market or a central government will set the relationship. Gold can be $32 per ounce, or it can be $320 per ounce. And gold, while relatively rare, has little intrinsic value, compared to, say, a bushel of corn that you can eat. If the market is free floating, you can have bubbles, like real estate. If it is 'fixed,' it is fixed by some central government, who can change it's 'price.'

In the end, if you only own and trade in gold, it's only worth as much as someone else is willing to give you in trade for something you 'need.'

Having the United States go back to a gold standard would be no panacea, but it would probably lead to quicker and deeper cycles of recession/depression.

pogo,

"scored 92.08 on the oral portion scored only 59 on the written portion."

Similarly a W candidate scored 63.75 on the oral portion, and a 95 on the written portion.

Both of these individual were on the Lieutenant's Exam

Well, for anyone wondering where the hell government is "getting" all this money for "bail-outs", the topics you and I have been discussing, Joe, are topics they need to understand. It sounds as if you already do, which is a good thing. You're in the minority.

Dark Lord,
I enjoy having give-and-take with you.
Thank you.

j

Patsi.

"I obviously don't understand the legal system. If the test isn't discriminatory, but the results are....uh...."

It's called, job security. lol

Warren and Horsey... Yes - I am in the Healthcare Sector - never was hiding that fact - But why does that automatic make one a bad person with corrupt ideals?
The better mouse trap is out there and in reach - and move the cheese - it is OK.

Do you want to roll the clock back and have your healthcare provided with 1965 Standards and technology? I think not - if so you can move to any number of other countries. But they also benefit from the technology and innovations - trickle over if you will

"And gold, while relatively rare, has little intrinsic value, compared to, say, a bushel of corn that you can eat."

Posted by: cajunjoe.pip.verisignlabs.com Author Profile Page | June 29, 2009 12:50 PM

A few final thoughts, and then back to work:

Gold actually does have intrinsic value, and has throughout the course of human history, as it's one of the few (if only, not sure) metals that does not oxidize, and it's highly-malleable; what that value is, is up for debate, a debate I can't have right now.

Corn and other food-stuffs are impractical for currency-standards because they are perishable. Talk about fluctuations...

The question ultimately evolves into a debate concerning political philosophy, and although Ron Paul was marginalized by the "MSM" in the most recent presidential debate, I believe a majority of Americans would prefer to be wards of the state, rather than endure the hardships and responsibilities that real freedom entails, hence his inability to garner broad-based support.

Posted by: cajunjoe.pip.verisignlabs.com Author Profile Page | June 29, 2009 12:59 PM

Right on, Joe. Have a good day.

Cjoe and DL....
interesting discussion.... all I know is that at the moment, gold is bloody expensive.... and as a craftsperson getting ready for my yearly fair.... it'll be interesting to see how that affects the many jewelers.....

I did have a decent Xmas season selling scarves.... but since then.... well let 's just say if I needed the money in order to eat I would have starved a few months ago... so I'm trying out a new market.... I've recently bought some lovely hand painted silk and silk blended yarns..... silk is bloody expensive too....
but it seems that those with money are still willing to buy quality.... and on the other end people are looking for bargains.... it's the middle priced stuff...
such as my scarves... that are languishing.... no matter what happens, it'll be interesting...

the golden mean

oops.......the golden mean vs. the golden fleece.....

pogo,

Question for you. Say they threw out the test and started from scratch, but the results were the same for Blacks, but Hispanics this time did much better. Then what, another exam until the right % of Blacks were promoted to LTs., or Capt's. Maybe they should also consider their personal life stories into the promotional process.

I wish both parts of this exam was made public, as I'll bet you the correct answers come from their training, experience and studying their field training manuals. The verbal portion of the exam has to do with situations a 1st and/or 2nd line supervisor would have to contend with during a normal day in the life of a firefighter.

maureen dowd on the sanford mess:

http://www.nytimes.com/2009/06/28/opinion/28dowd.html?_r=1

nail, head, slam. la martilla

Sanford should give his piety a rest. He told his cabinet that the Psalms taught him humility. (There’s a chance that a younger Argentine boyfriend of Maria’s also taught him humility, by jealously hacking into her e-mail account and leaking the governor’s missives.)

Sanford can be truly humble only if he stops dictating to others, who also have desires and weaknesses, how to behave in their private lives.

The Republican Party will never revive itself until its sanctimonious pantheon — Sanford, Gingrich, Limbaugh, Palin, Ensign, Vitter and hypocrites yet to be exposed — stop being two-faced.

--maureen dowd

Truth, indeed I did read the article. And I consider the source. Adversity.net - white guy advocacy group dedicated to eradicating preferences for historically disadvantaged groups. You may support that goal - that's fine, but I don't think we are there yet. Apparently you do not understand what I wrote. I said the test likely was racially neutral. Whether a test that is facially race-neutral has a disparate impact is a statistical question based upon the results of the administration of the test - it shifts the burden of proof to the employer to show that the results are not because of raceial (or gender, etc.) bias in the test. Bias in the questions is a basis for a disparate treatment challenge. The two forms of discrimination are easily confused. "PC test" is a BS charge.

Patsi, you are not alone in not understanding discrimination law. The fact is, in designing a test, the test author can put questions in that only people from certain social, ethnic and racial backgrounds are likely to know or not know because of differences in their cultural milieu. That is discriminatory in design, which disparate treatment analysis was developed to address. You really don't see much of that these days., and there was no evidence aside from the results of the test that suggested that such disparate treatment existed in the New Haven case. Rather, the City was afraid that since the results were such that only 2 minority members, both Hispanic, had even a shot at one of the open positions, under a disparate impact analysis the city would face, and potentially lose, a discrimnination case.

Truth, I'm not so sure I disagree with the Court's ruling. I only wish the Court had not taken the easy way out and granted summary judgment without addressing the equal protection issue. By taking that approach the Court sidestepped the one issue that would actually help clarify the law. This was a Kennedy compromise and little more. Even if the decision had gone the other way, it would not have been particularly useful from a precedent perspective.

sturge, thanks for the dowd link. neat way of viewing la dolce vita republican style.

oh and was your golden meanie vs. the golden fleeced a reference to bernie the made off case?

"the test author can put questions in that only people from certain social, ethnic and racial backgrounds are likely to know or not know because of differences in their cultural milieu. That is discriminatory in design, which disparate treatment analysis was developed to address."

That's why I want to see the actual questions. I'm pretty good at spotting that sort of thing, and want to make my own judgement.

"Dark clouds are gathering again over Central America, and the United States would do well to pay attention. The current crisis in Honduras, the governance problems in Guatemala, and the ongoing destruction of democracy in Nicaragua form an ominous trend. U.S. President Barack Obama now has the opportunity to show both friends and foes in the Western Hemisphere that the United States has finally decided to side unequivocally with democracy -- and that the rule of law matters in Tegucigalpa as much as it does in Washington."

http://experts.foreignpolicy.com/

interesting info on overthro' but take him to task where he says "the rule of law matters in Tegucigalpa as much as it does in Washington" ....questionable assumption re dc and the rule of law.

It's 24-hours late for saying they're going to follow the rule of law--after they've sided with Zelaya.

In many of the small Latin American 'democracies' the military is the arbiter of truth and power. They'll hold the sword of nationalistic truth over administrations that stray from the constitutionality.

It's important noting that the age-old Latin American model of forcing an errant president into exile worked. In essence, that's what allows what are essentially violence-free coups d'etat.

Mimosa blooming today, that lovely pest that comes in such an array of pinks.

Later--got some catching up to do--

Don't forget EternaGold from QVC! Madoff got 150 years? Well...at least he didn't get life in prison.

"All parties have a responsibility to address the underlying problems that led to yesterday's events in a way that enhances democracy and the rule of law in Honduras," Clinton said.

http://politicalticker.blogs.cnn.com/2009/06/29/clinton-u-s-oas-working-to-restore-order-in-honduras/

"no doubt! I was reeling it back as soon as I was typing it!!"

Warren I saw your comment last night and I chuckled. It was a little slow here last night and you probably had that beer and pizza and wanted some action. You figured one of us feminazis would jump in and give you a work over. I, for one, was too pooped from the heat wave we've been having so all you got was a smile.

Yes I do believe it was the news media that got Obama elected and we all wanted a change after the disasterous previous 8 years. Now if we don't get the "change" we bargained for maybe the people will stop listening to the media(not likely) and start taking a harder look at some of these outliers like Ron Paul or Dennis Kucinich. They don't bullshit you like the big names do.

"ct, better stock up on wading boots" "Rising sea level to submerge Louisiana coastline by 2100, study" warns"

Oh, Pat, I sure hope I'm not around that long.

And Sturge, don't use my pet name for Solar, hot tamale, on that tart from Argentina. You will ruin it for me.

http://blogs.cqpolitics.com/trailmix/2009/06/ron-pauls-monetary-gripes-ring.html#comment-240117

Hey Warren
I so totally agree! I'm biased but I saw a lot more bi-partisanship for Bush.So far its been zero for President Obama.I listen to Grace all day long about Obama. Grace says he's a Socialist,a big tax and spender,he's weak on defense and the list of bitches go on and on.I thought a few weeks ago we could have some agreement,i threw out there what a wonderful first lady Michele is and all I heard was you wait the real Michele hasn't showed herself yet..I say the Republicans will never like Obama and never give him credit for all he's trying to do to fix the mess are country is in.I think the President should move full steam ahead with his agenda...President Obama is smart and if the Republicans actually offer constructive solutions to him i believe he will listen...

"I, for one, was too pooped from the heat wave we've been having so all you got was a smile."

Plus, calling himself a womanizer isn't a sexist statement.

He was just funnin us also Patsi. But it was funny how fast he tried to pull that statement back.

Too bad there aren't some of the government watch dogs, who are suppose to protect us from the Bernies of this world, going to jail with him. A little accountability would make me feel better.

Really, Carol, "tart" is pretty judgmental. I can understand not wanting your moniker for Solar being wrongfully appropriated. Would hot tamala be okay?

And to quote our friend Tony, Warren, you funny!

A tamale tart?

Mango tamale

http://www.foodreference.com/html/smango-tamales-523.html

Jack

OK Flatus, I'll give you that one.

Carol

with luck there will be others in the Madoff universe doing the perp walk. You don't pull off that scheme by yourself.

Ya know 150 years seems like a light sentence. maybe if it was up to his waist shoveling excrement 12 hrs a day.

Jack

And Flatus I'm just kidding the Tart.

Carol, I thought you were. Besides, it's mostly the British usage that offends.

"On the Road with Mike and Tina" RV-ing around the country with mike and tina..........so far they've logged 9000 miles......just left the black hills for buffalo, ny.............lotsa photos..............

http://mjdolanski.blogspot.com/

Now Fred Travalena has died

http://www.seattlepi.com/tvguide/407693_tvgif29.html

I thought celebrities were supposed to go in threes not thirties.

As far as Madoff is concerned. When he actually dies, I hope they stuff and mount him and then prop him up in a cell to finish out the sentence.

On that link sturg posted, if you track back through the older posts to around May 27-28th they visited Holland, MI. Isn't that Corey's stomping grounds?? There are a few picks too.

http://mjdolanski.blogspot.com/2009/05/travel-to-holland.html

That would be pix, in lieu of picks. :-) tales about tails. lol

Great idea, Jamie! Let a stuffed Madoff sit in his cell till his time runs out!

Ron Paul has some likeable points, but overall I don't agree with him. One thing I question is the suspected racist letter he wrote years ago. I don't think that was ever gone into enough and I would like to know more about it. Aside from that, letting it all hang out sounds nice, but by those rules, Madoff would have stolen the whole country blind.

""Conclusion - with the same dollars we can serve all the people
First - People Must take personal responsibility""

Ping - What is done with or to the people who won't or can't take personal responsibility?

We could let them die or lie in gutters or rot in jail, because there will be some.

How will people be made to take personal responsibility?

Who will decide who is responsible for what?

It sounds good, but I think it's a pipe dream which will cause trouble if it's relied upon.

Got my new tv today and it will be installed tomorrow.
Comcast will NEVER be allowed anywhere near my computer or telephone, much as they might like to. If you don't have comcast you might not know that they are using the digital transition to make their own, so a cable box is needed in every case, altho their ads said we didn't have to worry about a thing. I talked for a few minutes today with a woman who was eating while talking to me!

Bethy

If you are on cable, your service wouldn't be interupted for the lower tier of channels without the box. Now I have every channel in the higher tiers such as BBC America, but my TV isn't digital so I have a standard box, I just can't pick up the HD only channels. My son's TV upstairs is digital so he can pick up everything.

Jamie,

Do you think some of Madoff's victim were themselves guilty of being a bit too greedy also? I'm not sympathizing with BM one iota, just wondering.

http://blogs.cqpolitics.com/trailmix/2009/06/ron-pauls-monetary-gripes-ring.html#comment-240224

I was thinking about the extremely high ROI some got as opposed to the norm for the market. Seems that old proverb or whatever holds true: ‘If something sounds too good to be true, it probably is.’

Posted by: bethyboo Author Profile Page | June 29, 2009 9:28 PM

Ron Paul advocates more transparency and oversight, beth, not less.

Dateline is replaying that old interview where he revealed his heart.. It is very sad.

Michael Jackson that is.

Posted by: Rezdog Author Profile Page | June 29, 2009 10:05 PM

"due diligence"

dlb - Apparently, someone wasn't performing it.

lower-case palindrome...nice.

...and, right. I agree.

http://blogs.cqpolitics.com/trailmix/2009/06/ron-pauls-monetary-gripes-ring.html#comment-240224

Rez,

Sure. He was paying off at a regular 10% per year when other investments were returning much less. The problem is that a lot of elderly who relied on the advice of others got taken. Then there were just average people such as employees of the wealthy who directed their smaller investment amounts because someone they trusted said, "Bernie will do right by you". Then there were all the charities - both the ones that trusted him and the ones that regularly received donations from their wealthy sponsors.

So many people facing an end to a lot of dreams. Some of the smaller ones will be made whole through a victims fund but some of those charities will be closing their doors, and a lot of elderly who thought they were safe for life will now be bunking in with the kids if they are lucky.

http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20090629/ap_on_re_mi_ea/ml_iraq

Ummm why hasn't there been a big announcement that we are going to bring a bunch of troops home?

(guess they are going to hang out in the countryside and see if the shit hits the fan...)

Why don't food companies that produce foods that have an expiration date of a couple of weeks - like bread and milk - be required to move the exp. date up by 3-4 days.

Then after the exp. date hits - the food can immediately be taken to homeless shelters and eater the next day.

I realize this is not practical for foods with a short shelf-life. And I also get the problem demonstrated by the Seinfeld episode when Elaine tries to donate her muffin stumps to the homeless shelter (what? homeless people are only good enough for the stumps?!)

But I think you could alleviate this latter problem by moving up the exp. date.

(It just strikes me how much bread we throw out at our house. Used to be the same with milk till I discovered soy milk which lasts long and tastes better.)

My bread-stuffs are have been much less prone to mold since I switched to whole-grains, I've noticed.

Jamie, What I am told is that one way or another, I have to have a cable box. In order to get channels 35-82, I have to have a new cable box strictly for comcast. If I want to have hd, I need an hd box, but if I didn't care about hd, I could use a standard bable box. I haven't had any boxes for years because I hate them. If your son gets 35-82 without a box, someone has told me wrong, and I'll git 'em.

Darklord, The puzzle to me is how one gets more transparency and oversight and still makes the government smaller and liberates people from all the horrible laws. Then again, there is the whole enigma of who will oversee the overseers. I love the idea of oversight - I just wonder where the inevitable sacrifices will be. We had a very highly respected judge here who didn't believe domestic violences cases should be tried in criminal court.

I think I will go to bed and begin my new Stephanie Plum book, since my niece is coming up Thursday and I always give her my book after I've read it. I can't believe nobody else here reads them.

New book Abigail and John out, re the Adams family.
It's supposed to be about how the two worked together and quite good - one October birthday present out of the way. I'm thinking of getting The Vodka King for another October birthday present. It's about Smirnoff and is supposed to include much of the social and political goings on during his years, turn of the 20th century. My sisters are so easy to shop for!

If you missed it, here it is...a firefight involving the Taliban and US troops, courtesy NBC's Richard Engel and a company of men who routinely get into firefights. This is the real thing, death right upon you , so you fire back...some of the damndest war footage i have ever seen.

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/3032619/#31613039