Comment Up
Despite a finding that the Defense of Marriage Act of 1996 is unconstitutional, nothing will change for married same-sex couples unless the Supreme Court hears the
case.
Read more...
Thursday, May 31, 2012
Library Board Meeting Tonight
Tonight at the Lake Worth Library the Library Board meets at 7pm:
B. PRESENTATIONS
A. Library Services Supervisor – Use of Trust Library Trust Funds &
recommendations
B. Information from Finance Department & Leisure Services Director
C. DISCUSSION
· Use of library Trust Funds for FY 2011-2012 budget.
· Alternative funding revenues
B. PRESENTATIONS
A. Library Services Supervisor – Use of Trust Library Trust Funds &
recommendations
B. Information from Finance Department & Leisure Services Director
C. DISCUSSION
· Use of library Trust Funds for FY 2011-2012 budget.
· Alternative funding revenues
Romney at Solyndra
Romney makes surprise visit to Solyndra after the solar energy company went bankrupt less than two years after receiving a $535 million loan in 2009 from the Department of Energy--reminding us of another Obama failure.
Feds Swoop in on West Palm Beach Housing Authority
Comment Up
Back in 2009, the West Palm Beach Housing Authority came to everyone's attention. That is when the West Palm Beach city commissioners unanimously agreed to provide $3.5 million to the West Palm Beach Housing authority to help rebuild the city's most notorious housing project, Dunbar Village.
The Housing Authority survives on government money. There are over 3,000 people in the Section 8 program alone. This means that these recipients receive free rent, along with the advantage of a low cost mortgage program, a hand-out by the U.S. government. We have become a hand-out economy as nearly 50% of Americans pay no taxes. We read about fraud everyday.
The Housing authority is made up of 60 employees. Even the City of West Palm Beach who appointed its five member board has no control over it or how they spend the grants. The Board of Commissioners for the West Palm Beach Housing Authority is appointed by the Mayor of the City of West Palm Beach. It's executive director is Lake Worth's Laurel Robinson, a former Chair of our CRA.
Thirteen federal agents of HUD just swooped down on the housing authority and are doing a full fledged investigation that involves 10% of the recipients of Section 8 Home-ownership Program. When dealing with millions of federal dollars, there is always the possibility of "mistakes."
Laurel Robinson said, "We are an open book, a government entity of complete transparency." Put on your seat belt, this could be an interesting ride.
An Old Family Recipe has its last Fundraiser
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Use forward button to advance
The children depicted in this slideshow are all part of the
First Tee Youth Golf Program
The end of an era--An Old Family Recipe had its last fundraiser yesterday evening. This was a spaghetti dinner for the benefit of the PBSO First Tee Youth Golf Program and annual Lake Worth Safety Patrol Picnic.
Janet Mahoney sold her business and another restaurant will be there in about one month. I just can't imagine that it will be the same. We will miss you, the great food and the family.
Wednesday, May 30, 2012
Reminder of Fundraiser
Don't forget the Spaghetti fundraiser now going on at Lake Worth Towers for PBSO.--until 7:30pm
Final applicants for Lake Worth's Planning & Zoning Board
Comment Up
I am interested in all the volunteer boards within Lake Worth but mainly the following three Boards : CRA, Historic Preservation and the Planning & Zoning board because these boards have the influence to change Lake Worth.
As this new commission is making a big move to change the face of our city by eliminating the present Planning & Zoning Board and pack it with their "friends," the following people have submitted applications to the P&Z. The application process is now closed. Those indicated below said that the P&Z was their 2nd choice for a board appointment. Only four people applied to the 7 member Historic Preservation Board: Wes Blackman, Clara Kim Hanson, Judy Just and Herman Robinson.
After being treated abominably by our present commission and being kicked to the curb, only two previous members of the Planning & Zoning Board have re-applied.
13 Applicants to P&Z:
Wes Blackman (2nd choice)
Mark Humm (2nd choice)
Judith Just (2nd choice)
Frank Palen
Mark Parilla
Greg Rice
John Rinaldi
Herman Robinson (2nd choice)
Kate Sheffield - reapplied
Dean Sherwin
Laura Starr (2nd choice)
Robert Waples - reapplied
Dustin Zacks (This will be his reward for Waterman Zack attacks)
So, if you eliminate all those who marked the Planning & Zoning as their 2nd choice, that leaves all of the above less one.
This will be the volunteer leadership of our city.
I am interested in all the volunteer boards within Lake Worth but mainly the following three Boards : CRA, Historic Preservation and the Planning & Zoning board because these boards have the influence to change Lake Worth.
As this new commission is making a big move to change the face of our city by eliminating the present Planning & Zoning Board and pack it with their "friends," the following people have submitted applications to the P&Z. The application process is now closed. Those indicated below said that the P&Z was their 2nd choice for a board appointment. Only four people applied to the 7 member Historic Preservation Board: Wes Blackman, Clara Kim Hanson, Judy Just and Herman Robinson.
After being treated abominably by our present commission and being kicked to the curb, only two previous members of the Planning & Zoning Board have re-applied.
13 Applicants to P&Z:
Wes Blackman (2nd choice)
Mark Humm (2nd choice)
Judith Just (2nd choice)
Frank Palen
Mark Parilla
Greg Rice
John Rinaldi
Herman Robinson (2nd choice)
Kate Sheffield - reapplied
Dean Sherwin
Laura Starr (2nd choice)
Robert Waples - reapplied
Dustin Zacks (This will be his reward for Waterman Zack attacks)
So, if you eliminate all those who marked the Planning & Zoning as their 2nd choice, that leaves all of the above less one.
This will be the volunteer leadership of our city.
Veteran's Memorial Marker Benefit
Located at 19th Avenue North and North Federal Highway in Lake Worth, the Blue Star Memorial is in dire need of repair.
American Legion Post 47 is holding a Luau this Saturday, June 2, in order to repair this memorial marker to show gratitude to all armed forces who have defended the Unted States.
American Legion Post #47
2315 N. Dixie Highway, Lake Worth
Noon til 5pm
Cost: $7 adults, $4 children
Evening Karoke Contest, door prizes
American Legion Post #47
2315 N. Dixie Highway, Lake Worth
Noon til 5pm
Cost: $7 adults, $4 children
Evening Karoke Contest, door prizes
Mosques and America's naive tolerance
Comment Up
Mosque in Dearborn, Michigan
As I attended the Memorial Day service at Pinecrest and prayed for all those who made the ultimate sacrifice, I couldn't help but think of those who want to harm our great country and all for which we stand and their driven force to annahilate Israel off the face of the Globe. The potential harm can be subtle and woven into a religious philosophy. We are taught tolerance and to love our neighbors but some religions are out to destroy all who believe differently.
Mosques are springing up all over the United States and little coverage is given in the Press. No one seems the least bit worried about it all until they wanted to build one near Ground Zero. Across America as a Mosque pops up, there's whispering about it-- "Can you believe they're building a damn mosque right in our backyard?" This is an astounding article about one that was temporarily stopped in Murfreesboro, Tennessee, right in the heart of the Bible Belt close to where I once lived. We can all be against mosques, but still stand for religious freedom and The First Amendment.
Under the pretense of tolerance, and because we wanted to prove to ourselves that we were cured of the disease of racism (we voted in Obama), we have been opening our gates to millions of Muslims. After all, our Constitution welcomes all religions and praying to your own God. As of 2010, there are now over 2.6 million in the United States and growing. According to Care2, Islam seeks to overthrow the established Constitution of the United States, and to replace it with Shari'a. That is sedition.
According to Wikipedia, mosques are usually explicitly Sunni or Shia. The well-known guerrilla organization Hezbollah, which forced the Israelis out of southern Lebanon in 2000, is Shia. Worldwide, Shias constitute 10 to 15 percent of the overall Muslim population, but they make up the majority of the radical, violent element of Islam. There are 1,209 mosques in the United States and the nation's largest mosque, the Islamic Center of America, is in Dearborn, Michigan. In Great Britain and in Germany some mosques are used to recruit suicide bombers.
The Department of Justice has named the Islamic Society of North America, the Council on American-Islamic Relations and other key Muslim groups and figures as unindicted co-conspirators in a scheme to fund the Palestinian terrorist group Hamas. These groups filed a friend-of-the-court brief demanding that the case against the Murfreesboro mosque be dismissed.
"We have 50 million Muslims in Europe. There are signs that Allah will grant Islam victory in Europe—without swords, without guns, without conquest—will turn it into a Muslim continent within a few decades." -- Muammar Ghaddafi
"America will never be destroyed from the outside. If we falter and lose our freedoms, it will be because we destroyed ourselves." -- Abraham Lincoln
"A great civilization is not conquered from without until it has destroyed itself from within. " -- Ariel Durant
Muslims living in our country want to see an Islamic America--that is their goal. We are One Nation under God, but their God is different and don't let anyone tell you differently.
Mosque in Dearborn, MichiganAs I attended the Memorial Day service at Pinecrest and prayed for all those who made the ultimate sacrifice, I couldn't help but think of those who want to harm our great country and all for which we stand and their driven force to annahilate Israel off the face of the Globe. The potential harm can be subtle and woven into a religious philosophy. We are taught tolerance and to love our neighbors but some religions are out to destroy all who believe differently.
Mosques are springing up all over the United States and little coverage is given in the Press. No one seems the least bit worried about it all until they wanted to build one near Ground Zero. Across America as a Mosque pops up, there's whispering about it-- "Can you believe they're building a damn mosque right in our backyard?" This is an astounding article about one that was temporarily stopped in Murfreesboro, Tennessee, right in the heart of the Bible Belt close to where I once lived. We can all be against mosques, but still stand for religious freedom and The First Amendment.
Under the pretense of tolerance, and because we wanted to prove to ourselves that we were cured of the disease of racism (we voted in Obama), we have been opening our gates to millions of Muslims. After all, our Constitution welcomes all religions and praying to your own God. As of 2010, there are now over 2.6 million in the United States and growing. According to Care2, Islam seeks to overthrow the established Constitution of the United States, and to replace it with Shari'a. That is sedition.
According to Wikipedia, mosques are usually explicitly Sunni or Shia. The well-known guerrilla organization Hezbollah, which forced the Israelis out of southern Lebanon in 2000, is Shia. Worldwide, Shias constitute 10 to 15 percent of the overall Muslim population, but they make up the majority of the radical, violent element of Islam. There are 1,209 mosques in the United States and the nation's largest mosque, the Islamic Center of America, is in Dearborn, Michigan. In Great Britain and in Germany some mosques are used to recruit suicide bombers.
The Department of Justice has named the Islamic Society of North America, the Council on American-Islamic Relations and other key Muslim groups and figures as unindicted co-conspirators in a scheme to fund the Palestinian terrorist group Hamas. These groups filed a friend-of-the-court brief demanding that the case against the Murfreesboro mosque be dismissed.
"We have 50 million Muslims in Europe. There are signs that Allah will grant Islam victory in Europe—without swords, without guns, without conquest—will turn it into a Muslim continent within a few decades." -- Muammar Ghaddafi
"America will never be destroyed from the outside. If we falter and lose our freedoms, it will be because we destroyed ourselves." -- Abraham Lincoln
"A great civilization is not conquered from without until it has destroyed itself from within. " -- Ariel Durant
Muslims living in our country want to see an Islamic America--that is their goal. We are One Nation under God, but their God is different and don't let anyone tell you differently.
Tuesday, May 29, 2012
Jeff Clemens Tonight - Fighting Corporate Cash
Comment Up
Jeff Clemens Conference Call Town Hall
Tuesday May 29th @ 7:00pm
Call-in # (712) 432-1001
Access code: 480830182#
Join him on Facebook during the call by clicking here,
or on Twitter using #FightCorpCashFL
Tuesday May 29th @ 7:00pm
Call-in # (712) 432-1001
Access code: 480830182#
Join him on Facebook during the call by clicking here,
or on Twitter using #FightCorpCashFL
2012 DNC National Convention Schedule
Comment Up
**2012 DNC NATIONAL CONVENTION SCHEDULE**
4:00 PM Opening Flag Burning Ceremony
4:05 PM Singing of "God Damn America" led by Rev. Jeremiah Wright
4:10 PM Pledge of Allegiance to Obama
4:15 PM Ceremonial 'I Hate America' led by Michelle Obama
4:30 PM Tips on Dodging Sniper Fire , Hillary Clinton
4:45 PM Al Sharpton Leads Castrati Choir in Singing, "Great Balls of Fire"
5:00 PM UFO Abduction Survival , Joe Biden
5:30 PM Eliot Spitzer Speaks on "Family Values" via Satellite
5:45 PM Tribute to All 57 States
6:00 PM Joe Biden Delivers 100,000-Word Speech Featuring 23-MinuteQuestion and 2-Hour Answer
8:30 PM Airing of Grievances by the Clintons
9:00 PM Bill Clinton Delivers Rousing Endorsement of Obama Girl
9:15 PM Tribute Film to Freedom Fighters at Gitmo , Michael Moore
9:45 PM Personal Finance Seminar - Charlie Rangel
10:00 PM Denunciation of Bitter Gun Owners, Rosie O'Donnell
10:30 PM Ceremonial Waving of White Flag for Iraq & Afghanistan
11:00 PM Obama Energy Plan Symposium/Tire Gauge Demonstration
11:15 PM Free Gov. Blagojevich* *rally
11:30 PM Obama Accepts Tony and Latin Grammy Awards
11:45 PM Feeding of the Delegates with 5 Loaves and 2 Fish, Obama Presiding
12:00 AM Official Nomination of Obama by Bill Maher
12:01 AM Obama Accepts Nomination as Lord and Savior
12:05 AM Celestial Choirs Sing
3:00 AM Biden Delivers Acceptance Speech
**2012 DNC NATIONAL CONVENTION SCHEDULE**
4:00 PM Opening Flag Burning Ceremony
4:05 PM Singing of "God Damn America" led by Rev. Jeremiah Wright
4:10 PM Pledge of Allegiance to Obama
4:15 PM Ceremonial 'I Hate America' led by Michelle Obama
4:30 PM Tips on Dodging Sniper Fire , Hillary Clinton
4:45 PM Al Sharpton Leads Castrati Choir in Singing, "Great Balls of Fire"
5:00 PM UFO Abduction Survival , Joe Biden
5:30 PM Eliot Spitzer Speaks on "Family Values" via Satellite
5:45 PM Tribute to All 57 States
6:00 PM Joe Biden Delivers 100,000-Word Speech Featuring 23-MinuteQuestion and 2-Hour Answer
8:30 PM Airing of Grievances by the Clintons
9:00 PM Bill Clinton Delivers Rousing Endorsement of Obama Girl
9:15 PM Tribute Film to Freedom Fighters at Gitmo , Michael Moore
9:45 PM Personal Finance Seminar - Charlie Rangel
10:00 PM Denunciation of Bitter Gun Owners, Rosie O'Donnell
10:30 PM Ceremonial Waving of White Flag for Iraq & Afghanistan
11:00 PM Obama Energy Plan Symposium/Tire Gauge Demonstration
11:15 PM Free Gov. Blagojevich* *rally
11:30 PM Obama Accepts Tony and Latin Grammy Awards
11:45 PM Feeding of the Delegates with 5 Loaves and 2 Fish, Obama Presiding
12:00 AM Official Nomination of Obama by Bill Maher
12:01 AM Obama Accepts Nomination as Lord and Savior
12:05 AM Celestial Choirs Sing
3:00 AM Biden Delivers Acceptance Speech
Enamored by Power
Comment Up
We have regressed in the City of Lake Worth by some elected officials enamored with their own power.
1. They twist everything to their own personal point of view. Take the heights of buildings in our downtown. There are three "visionaries" who actually believe that by building higher, we will revitalize the downtown by attracting investment and developers who actually want to come here and build. They blame the lack of growth and our finances on former commissions that they say had no vision by keeping heights low in the City and they tell you that right to your face, with a straight face, never once putting the blame where it belongs.
They tell us that heights are keeping away investment and I guess they actually believe that but then you just never know about politicians. Developers want to build because they want to make money. If they can build higher, they can charge more for that building. It's all about the money--not money that Lake Worth will make off the taxes, but money into developer pockets. We all know that it will cost more for public services by building higher than what we reap in advalorem. Taller buildings should be restricted to Dixie Highway and the Park of Commerce.
2. They only listen to those with their point of view--special interests: Realtors, developers, planners and those who service development. The residents be damned. Maxwell is quoted as saying, "I've spoken to no one who wants to pave over everything and build into the clouds." They exaggerate to make points that their way is the right way. They fail to mention that a public benefit will allow a developer to build even higher than what they want our Plan to allow.
Even Commissioner Amoroso justifies The Lucerne 65 foot condo downtown by saying "People like living there." We never got that public benefit back then. He fails to tell you that his first interest is to attract people to shop downtown as he has a store there. He has not considered all those who have already spoken on the Master Plan process. He closes his ears to all of those people who want to maintain Lake Worth as a low rise city. He wants it his way in every respect.
3. They are petrified to put it to a vote of the people: Keep a quaint low rise city or build high. They don't tell you the truth on the costs involved in their "build to the sky" dream. Even if they put it on a ballot, the language would probably be so prejudicial to their point of view.
4. They pulled an anarchist coup by kicking off the present Planning & Zoning board in order to appoint "friends" who think as they do--friends who were directly responsible for The Lucerne as an example. Corruption is the mantra back in style all because of a change on the dais.
5. They had the new city manager stop the Zoning in Progress to ensure that they would get their way on heights. It didn't matter that they stopped nearly $85 million in planned development by doing so. They even twisted that explanation around to make you believe that there were no planned developments on the table. All they are hearing is "100 feet," and allowing the downtown to rise higher is a compromise from those few who scream the loudest on building high.
6. They have absolutely convinced themselves that what they have done is for the good of Lake Worth never once considering an opposite view of the minority now on the dais--two commissioners, McVoy and Mulvehill, who clearly remember what the people said that they wanted. Their voices count for squat and so does the majority of people's voices in this city. It is always about power and control.
After this goes before the present Planning & Zoning board, it will come to the commission and the public on June 19. The room will be stacked with developer friends and all their voices pitching for taller buildings--you can count on that-- and three people with all the power listening to only them.
We have regressed in the City of Lake Worth by some elected officials enamored with their own power.
1. They twist everything to their own personal point of view. Take the heights of buildings in our downtown. There are three "visionaries" who actually believe that by building higher, we will revitalize the downtown by attracting investment and developers who actually want to come here and build. They blame the lack of growth and our finances on former commissions that they say had no vision by keeping heights low in the City and they tell you that right to your face, with a straight face, never once putting the blame where it belongs.
They tell us that heights are keeping away investment and I guess they actually believe that but then you just never know about politicians. Developers want to build because they want to make money. If they can build higher, they can charge more for that building. It's all about the money--not money that Lake Worth will make off the taxes, but money into developer pockets. We all know that it will cost more for public services by building higher than what we reap in advalorem. Taller buildings should be restricted to Dixie Highway and the Park of Commerce.
2. They only listen to those with their point of view--special interests: Realtors, developers, planners and those who service development. The residents be damned. Maxwell is quoted as saying, "I've spoken to no one who wants to pave over everything and build into the clouds." They exaggerate to make points that their way is the right way. They fail to mention that a public benefit will allow a developer to build even higher than what they want our Plan to allow.
Even Commissioner Amoroso justifies The Lucerne 65 foot condo downtown by saying "People like living there." We never got that public benefit back then. He fails to tell you that his first interest is to attract people to shop downtown as he has a store there. He has not considered all those who have already spoken on the Master Plan process. He closes his ears to all of those people who want to maintain Lake Worth as a low rise city. He wants it his way in every respect.
3. They are petrified to put it to a vote of the people: Keep a quaint low rise city or build high. They don't tell you the truth on the costs involved in their "build to the sky" dream. Even if they put it on a ballot, the language would probably be so prejudicial to their point of view.
4. They pulled an anarchist coup by kicking off the present Planning & Zoning board in order to appoint "friends" who think as they do--friends who were directly responsible for The Lucerne as an example. Corruption is the mantra back in style all because of a change on the dais.
5. They had the new city manager stop the Zoning in Progress to ensure that they would get their way on heights. It didn't matter that they stopped nearly $85 million in planned development by doing so. They even twisted that explanation around to make you believe that there were no planned developments on the table. All they are hearing is "100 feet," and allowing the downtown to rise higher is a compromise from those few who scream the loudest on building high.
6. They have absolutely convinced themselves that what they have done is for the good of Lake Worth never once considering an opposite view of the minority now on the dais--two commissioners, McVoy and Mulvehill, who clearly remember what the people said that they wanted. Their voices count for squat and so does the majority of people's voices in this city. It is always about power and control.
After this goes before the present Planning & Zoning board, it will come to the commission and the public on June 19. The room will be stacked with developer friends and all their voices pitching for taller buildings--you can count on that-- and three people with all the power listening to only them.
The End of Memorial Day
Last evening we had one heck of a rain storm. About 7:10 or so the loudest explosion took place. It sounded like a bomb went off. I later learned that part of ROLOH had no power. A neighbor called me to say, "Hurry, the sun is setting and it is beautiful." I thought, "No way...in all of this rain?" Between the rain drops, this is the best I could do last night. I took 3 quick shots and got the heck back inside. Even the ducks were all in hiding.
So, no matter how bad the weather, there is always something beautiful to see if you take the time.
Monday, May 28, 2012
Trees or convenient parking?
Comment Up
Some West Palm Beach Commissioners want to take out 13 convenient parking spaces on Clematis Street, the heart of their city, for trees. Does that sound familiar?
Well, the same thing happened at the Lake Worth beach. A majority commission voted to take out 167 upper level parking spaces to put in trees and bushes. Our new visionary could have stopped it...they didn't.
At least new WPB City Commissioner Shanon Materio had the sense to ask staff to postpone its decision while they gauged the feeling of business owners. That is a step in the right direction.
Some West Palm Beach Commissioners want to take out 13 convenient parking spaces on Clematis Street, the heart of their city, for trees. Does that sound familiar?
Well, the same thing happened at the Lake Worth beach. A majority commission voted to take out 167 upper level parking spaces to put in trees and bushes. Our new visionary could have stopped it...they didn't.
At least new WPB City Commissioner Shanon Materio had the sense to ask staff to postpone its decision while they gauged the feeling of business owners. That is a step in the right direction.
Pinecrest Memorial Day Service
Click forward button to advance show
I believe that this was the finest Memorial Day Service in my memory. Attendance was good and many of our friends were there to give tribute: Jack, Loretta, Doris, Mary P, John, Sam, Barbara Jean and Helen to name a few. There was nothing political about it--we were all there for one purpose--to honor all of those who sacrificed so much for the United States of America and all the freedoms we hold so dear. Joe Matthews' speech was one of the best ever and because of it, I am sure that our Commission will do everything possible to honor our Veterans with a parade on November 11.
Mayor Pam Triolo's speech was short and to the point and well said:
Thank you. It is an honor to be here today to remember all the courageous souls who've sacrificed everything to keep our country safe and secure and to protect the freedoms that make America the amazing country it is.
I was asked today to talk about what Memorial Day means to me. As a child, like many of you scouts, I remember the day off from school, and gathering of family and friends. While my cousins and I were carefree and at play, many of the men would join together and share stories of their time of duty and the loss of friends they loved. Mr. Giordano was like a grandfather to me who often spoke of storming the beach at Normandy and the terror of seeing his fellow servicemen die right in front of him as he barely made it to safety.
My father was part of the last draft before the Vietnam war. He was in the 3rd Infantry Division, 7th Infantry Regiment. It was the first time they drafted an entire division at the same time, accelerating the training in Ft. Benning by 1/3 to send them during Cold War time to Germany as things were tense in Europe, as he always told me. He remembered being stationed in existing German WWII barracks with tile floors, a detail he always mentioned. His mission was called operation Gyroscope and his division was to replace the 10th Mountain Division. As a weapons specialist, my Dad and his Division were sent to the Czechloslovakian border and were face to face with Russian forces. Fortunately for my family, they didn't attack. As my dad says "they had superior numbers to us and gratefully didn't attack or we would have been wiped out within a week.
On this day we remember those brave women and men who weren't as lucky. Please always remember that freedom isn't free. From the American Revolution to the Wars on Terrorism, one million American men and women have made the supreme sacrifice so we can enjoy life as we know it. They've left mothers and fathers, sisters brothers, husbands, wives and children in the name of freedom, never to come home again. To the men and women who have so bravely given their lives for us, to those who have served or are serving proudly and to their families and loved ones who have lost or worry every day in the name of freedom...
Thank you for your sacrifices and on behalf of my family and the City of Lake Worth, God bless you all and God bless America!
I was asked today to talk about what Memorial Day means to me. As a child, like many of you scouts, I remember the day off from school, and gathering of family and friends. While my cousins and I were carefree and at play, many of the men would join together and share stories of their time of duty and the loss of friends they loved. Mr. Giordano was like a grandfather to me who often spoke of storming the beach at Normandy and the terror of seeing his fellow servicemen die right in front of him as he barely made it to safety.
My father was part of the last draft before the Vietnam war. He was in the 3rd Infantry Division, 7th Infantry Regiment. It was the first time they drafted an entire division at the same time, accelerating the training in Ft. Benning by 1/3 to send them during Cold War time to Germany as things were tense in Europe, as he always told me. He remembered being stationed in existing German WWII barracks with tile floors, a detail he always mentioned. His mission was called operation Gyroscope and his division was to replace the 10th Mountain Division. As a weapons specialist, my Dad and his Division were sent to the Czechloslovakian border and were face to face with Russian forces. Fortunately for my family, they didn't attack. As my dad says "they had superior numbers to us and gratefully didn't attack or we would have been wiped out within a week.
On this day we remember those brave women and men who weren't as lucky. Please always remember that freedom isn't free. From the American Revolution to the Wars on Terrorism, one million American men and women have made the supreme sacrifice so we can enjoy life as we know it. They've left mothers and fathers, sisters brothers, husbands, wives and children in the name of freedom, never to come home again. To the men and women who have so bravely given their lives for us, to those who have served or are serving proudly and to their families and loved ones who have lost or worry every day in the name of freedom...
Thank you for your sacrifices and on behalf of my family and the City of Lake Worth, God bless you all and God bless America!
Remember Our Troops
Comment Up
According to Obama's proposed 2013 budget, foreign aid and diplomacy comprise around 1 percent of the federal budget, or $56 billion. In addition, we will give an additional $14 billion in fiscal 2013 for foreign military assistance. This is the money we spend to train foreign armies and help them acquire weapons.
Then why is it that we have forgotten our soldiers and can't even send them a baby wipe? Read more... about Forgotten Soldiers Outreach that needs our help.
According to Obama's proposed 2013 budget, foreign aid and diplomacy comprise around 1 percent of the federal budget, or $56 billion. In addition, we will give an additional $14 billion in fiscal 2013 for foreign military assistance. This is the money we spend to train foreign armies and help them acquire weapons.Then why is it that we have forgotten our soldiers and can't even send them a baby wipe? Read more... about Forgotten Soldiers Outreach that needs our help.
Remember, Reflect, Respect
Speech from the Keynote Speaker:
Thank you, Commander Apol. My fellow veterans, our families and friends, welcome to the almost 100th year anniversary of Memorial Day here in Lake Worth. Thanks to the clergy for their prayers and to the Honor Guard detail.
Look around and see the great job done by our Boy Scouts from Troop 204 in placing the flags and crosses for our honored dead and let us further give thanks to those who made today’s celebration possible: The city’s workers for their assistance, our American Legion Post 47, and the true driving force, the Ladies Auxiliary.Without them, there would be no celebration like we have here today.
Take a moment to recall why we are here and keep in mind three special R’s for this Memorial Day. They are REMEMBER, REFLECT RESPECT.
Note the flag flying at half mast. By custom and tradition, it will fly this way until noon to recognize the sacrifices of those who have gone before us, and at noon, it will be raised to full staff to celebrate their accomplishments in war and in peace.
What greater honor can we bestow on these men and women than to recall some words in our Pledge of Allegiance… where we pledge allegiance to the flag of the United State of America…. Old Glory’s 50 stars and 13 stripes today evolved from the original 13 stars and stripes on the first national flag.
When our honored dead served and fought under the colors, no matter what design, there was no thought given to any hyphenated Americans, they served one nation, under God. Indivisible – meaning you cannot break it down further. Our brothers and sisters resting here are now one with their maker.So why today do some insist on separating us by ethnic backgrounds, religious ideals, or life styles? We are Americans all!
Indivisible! With liberty and justice for all – the beauty or our great nation is that we are constantly working to better ourselves.Sure it’s true that discrimination existed – and still does – but we have the finest nation on the face of the earth.Made so in no small part by those who lie here.
REMEMBER, REFLECT, RESPECT
Remember their sacrifices. Whether they enlisted or were drafted, they answered the call and served to the utmost of their ability.
Reflect on what they accomplished – who they did it for, why, and against what odds.
Respect them for that service.
To the politicians present, greetings, and I ask you too to remember, reflect, and respect, not by lip service but in positive actions relating to veteran affairs.
Here in Lake Worth, two matters come to mind immediately. On North Federal Highway at Worthmore Avenue, there was a Blue Star Memorial Highway Marker and that marker is in dire need of repair or replacement. Help us, the Legion and the Lake Worth Town and Country Garden Club, fix that problem and restore it with pride to honor all veterans. We have the funds; you help us with the paperwork for the state.
And there is that small matter of a Veterans Day Parade in Lake Worth. Can the city find funding for an item so small in cost but huge in terms of respect? Remember we would not be living free today but for the service of these good men and women. Reflect on that and respect them with an “absolutely” to a parade this year.
In closing, I just want to say how grateful I am to be able to speak on their behalf. Semper Fidelis, Always Faithful, the motto of the United States Marine Corps, sums up their service. Thank you, and don’t forget
REMEMBER, REFLECT, RESPECT
Peter J. Matthews
Captain, U. S. Marine Corps (Ret'd)
In Memory - The Wall
Comment Up
58282 Names on The Wall in Wash, D.C
The United States, over time and even today, has been suckered into war because of foreign powers turning on their own people. Our involvement in Viet Nam caused our biggest casualties other than the Civil War and World Wars I and II. This was my era that seems like it happened 100 years ago although every day, however, I will meet someone who was there, who served, and has memories unforgotten. One such person will speak this morning at Pinecrest, Retired Captain, Peter Matthews. Come on down at 10am.
We ended up there because in the North, the communist government massacred landowners and peasant rebels in a series of purges, with upper estimates of the death toll ranging between 172,000 Northern collectivization efforts, though broadly successfully, also led to a brief famine. In the South, Diem went about crushing political and religious opposition, imprisoning or killing tens of thousands; dissidents were routinely labeled as communists even if they were anti-communist. Both Vietnams developed into virtual police states according to Wikipedia.
We ended up there because in the North, the communist government massacred landowners and peasant rebels in a series of purges, with upper estimates of the death toll ranging between 172,000 Northern collectivization efforts, though broadly successfully, also led to a brief famine. In the South, Diem went about crushing political and religious opposition, imprisoning or killing tens of thousands; dissidents were routinely labeled as communists even if they were anti-communist. Both Vietnams developed into virtual police states according to Wikipedia.
Sunday, May 27, 2012
John G's Manalapan
Comment Up
Roses are still on every table, a tradition of their father, John.
Helen and I had lunch there yesterday after the dog judging. The place was mobbed. One couple sitting in a booth next to ours said, "We love this new location and we don't have to pay for parking." John G's kept all the same prices too.
They will be open on Memorial Day for breakfast. Try it out. You will love it and be among the hundreds of thousands who have enjoyed it over the years.
Roses are still on every table, a tradition of their father, John.
Wendy an owner and Helen a patron
In all the 38 years John G's has been around, they have never once disappointed--the food and service as well as the ambiance is unequaled. The servers treat everyone like family and the portions are generous.Helen and I had lunch there yesterday after the dog judging. The place was mobbed. One couple sitting in a booth next to ours said, "We love this new location and we don't have to pay for parking." John G's kept all the same prices too.
They will be open on Memorial Day for breakfast. Try it out. You will love it and be among the hundreds of thousands who have enjoyed it over the years.
Paws on the Plaza at Plaza del Mar
Comment Up
If loop hangs, click forward button
Lots of fun was had by all yesterday in Manalapan. The event was held in front of the Playhouse directly next door to John G's at the Plaza del Mar. Maurici and the star of the show, Milton, were there from ML International. They gave out prizes totaling $250 to each of the four winners: Lucy, a ShihTzu, adopted from Florida Shih Tzu Rescue in Boca and judged the Cutest, Snuggles the Funniest, Tucker the Most Creative and Lassie the Most Talented.
Many of these dogs were pound dogs, and service or therapy animals. Vendors attended and a raffle for 50 cents a ticket was held with fabulous prizes from various merchants one of which was John G's. Helen Marino and I got the pleasure of judging the contest....too many cute and talented dogs there...all were wonderful. Katie arrived with Naughty, my favorite Chihuahua.
Lisa Manzione, author of Bella and Harry, about two tiny Chihuahua dogs with wide ears that look like the wings of a moth, was there to sign her book and read to the children. A live play on one of her books was held at the theater at 11am. The Bella and Harry series of children's books is Lisa Manzione's first foray into children's fiction writing. As a member of the Society of Children's Book Writers and Illustrators (SCBWI), Lisa's entrance into the field of literature is one she has eagerly awaited and is very passionate about.
Share-A-Pet was represented as well. It provides training, support and direct service for people in need. Many thanks to all those who put on the event with a special thanks to my friend, Barbara Jean, who worked tirelessly to ensure its success.
If loop hangs, click forward button
Lots of fun was had by all yesterday in Manalapan. The event was held in front of the Playhouse directly next door to John G's at the Plaza del Mar. Maurici and the star of the show, Milton, were there from ML International. They gave out prizes totaling $250 to each of the four winners: Lucy, a ShihTzu, adopted from Florida Shih Tzu Rescue in Boca and judged the Cutest, Snuggles the Funniest, Tucker the Most Creative and Lassie the Most Talented.
Many of these dogs were pound dogs, and service or therapy animals. Vendors attended and a raffle for 50 cents a ticket was held with fabulous prizes from various merchants one of which was John G's. Helen Marino and I got the pleasure of judging the contest....too many cute and talented dogs there...all were wonderful. Katie arrived with Naughty, my favorite Chihuahua.
Lisa Manzione, author of Bella and Harry, about two tiny Chihuahua dogs with wide ears that look like the wings of a moth, was there to sign her book and read to the children. A live play on one of her books was held at the theater at 11am. The Bella and Harry series of children's books is Lisa Manzione's first foray into children's fiction writing. As a member of the Society of Children's Book Writers and Illustrators (SCBWI), Lisa's entrance into the field of literature is one she has eagerly awaited and is very passionate about.
Share-A-Pet was represented as well. It provides training, support and direct service for people in need. Many thanks to all those who put on the event with a special thanks to my friend, Barbara Jean, who worked tirelessly to ensure its success.
Saturday, May 26, 2012
Obama and the Socialist Connection
This is another "Blast from the Past" from 1996 wherein Obama was featured speaker and running as a Senator in Illinois. Calling him a Socialist is far fetched? Really?? Back then, he also supported Gay Marriage. He is, without a doubt, the most liberal "progressive" we have ever had as president of the United States.
Read more on the Socialist connection.
Read more on the Socialist connection.
Click to enlarge
Florida Congressman wants to give Amnesty to Illegal Aliens
Comment Up
People from Miami believe that they represent the entire country I guess. Anywhere that you go in Miami, you must speak Spanish. It is like a Third World and you will feel like a stranger in your own country. Congressman David Riviera of Cuban heritage, has been rather controversial to say the least. His latest scheme, STARS, wouldn't have anything to do with his Hispanic heritage, would it?
NumbersUSA says, Rep. David Rivera (R-Miami) has proposed legislation that would legalize illegal aliens once they graduate high school and enter a four-year college or university. Rep. Rivera announced his legislation with a high school valedictorian, Daniela Palaez, who will be attending Dartmouth University in the fall.
People from Miami believe that they represent the entire country I guess. Anywhere that you go in Miami, you must speak Spanish. It is like a Third World and you will feel like a stranger in your own country. Congressman David Riviera of Cuban heritage, has been rather controversial to say the least. His latest scheme, STARS, wouldn't have anything to do with his Hispanic heritage, would it?
NumbersUSA says, Rep. David Rivera (R-Miami) has proposed legislation that would legalize illegal aliens once they graduate high school and enter a four-year college or university. Rep. Rivera announced his legislation with a high school valedictorian, Daniela Palaez, who will be attending Dartmouth University in the fall.
Rep. Rivera believes that his STARS Act is superior to the DREAM Act because it requires illegal aliens to graduate from high school (instead of requiring only a GED) and it requires students to attend a four-year institution. It’s a modified version of the controversial DREAM Act, the long-stalled legislation that would allow undocumented students to remain in the country.
Read more here.
At the announcement, Palaez said: "We've been here for a long time, we were raised here, and we deserve to stay here.... "I'm very proud and honored that my path has started something and I'm actually making a difference. My community, my classmates who started it all, this is the fruit of our labor."
Even Marco Rubio supports this bill.
100 Fundraisers Later
And what better way to start off the day but with another reminder on Obama's failures.
Friday, May 25, 2012
Conference in Connecticut on Shariah
"In 1916, Roosevelt observed: Wherever the Mohammedans have had a complete sway, wherever the Christians have been unable to resist them by the sword, Christianity has ultimately disappeared.
Shariah law is famous for making headlines in the West over its penalties, such as beheadings and amputations; its treatment of women and the violence that is allowed, and its relegation to those who follow other faiths to a subservient status.
Now, it seems, there’s a new move to expand its influence in the United States, with a weekend conference in Hartford, Connecticut on “Understanding Shariah” and “how to apply Shariah in a society where most people are not of the same faith.”
Women are third class citizens and if you are Gay, forget about it. They hate Gays.
City Manager Reports to be Bi-Monthly
Now we know why we haven't had a city manager report in over a month:
CITY MANAGER'S REPORT #151
From the Office of the City Manager
Hello Citizens,
We are currently taking the time to change the face of the City Manager's Report. We want to provide you with a more thorough and informative report that will both inform and inspire you.
Therefore, we will be changing the format and frequency of the City Manager's Report.
The publication will now print twice monthly, the first and third weeks of each month, beginning in June.
We look forward to hearing your responses in the near future. In the meantime, please enjoy your Holiday Weekend.
Take the time to come out and enjoy Downtown this weekend or just take a stroll on the Beach!
Michael
CITY MANAGER'S REPORT #151
From the Office of the City Manager
Hello Citizens,
We are currently taking the time to change the face of the City Manager's Report. We want to provide you with a more thorough and informative report that will both inform and inspire you.
Therefore, we will be changing the format and frequency of the City Manager's Report.
The publication will now print twice monthly, the first and third weeks of each month, beginning in June.
We look forward to hearing your responses in the near future. In the meantime, please enjoy your Holiday Weekend.
Take the time to come out and enjoy Downtown this weekend or just take a stroll on the Beach!
Michael
Bear Week at the Palm Beach Zoo
Comment Up
This is bear awareness week at the Palm Beach Zoo. Great way to spend a day over this holiday weekend.
This is bear awareness week at the Palm Beach Zoo. Great way to spend a day over this holiday weekend.
Lake Worth Water Rate Study Presentation
Comment Up
In spite of Vice Mayor Maxwell being political at every opportunity last night as well as trying to find fault with what he believes are high water rates, or even finding anything/something to criticize for our decision to build our Reverse Osmosis, the presentation was positive. No one ever mentioned the Bond that we are repaying for our electric upgrade and our RO that affects rates until paid off. Everyone knew when we built our RO that it would cost a lot of bucks but it was still less than going with Palm Beach County water.
Those cities in the sub-regional sewer system owe us a fortune found by a 2005 audit. Everyone rung their hands as to what to do back then as it involved ten million dollars. All those cities knew they owed us but because they were not billed, failed to pay us and we swept it all under the rug. Four years later after Susan Stanton was hired, she turned over that rug and went after the money.
It was said that by the time the case is settled it will be another two years as we are going through a government process (Chapter 164 Florida Statutes) in order to resolve the issue. Because of this non-payment by regional customers, the rates have been charged to Lake Worth customers and will continue along that vein until this dispute is solved.
We buy water from West Palm Beach that serves the Lake Worth beach. The cost of water, the cost of the pipes and the cost of billing has zero impact on the rest of Lake Worth's customers. Maxwell was very concerned about this.
When asked by Maxwell regarding water at the Park of Commerce, the Assistant Utility Director, Clay Lindstrom said, "We are in a position to provide water and sewer to the Park of Commerce. The Park of Commerce is now Maxwell's number one goal, a switch from slum and blight.
Also stated was that our permits are all in place, another concern of Maxwell's and a myth that has been circulating for quite some time that we needed a permit. We can now formally put that one to rest.
All in all, our water department is looking good, producing the best tasting water around.
Utility Rate Study Update for Lake Worth by Burton & Associates, a firm that does a rate study yearly:
Water System:
Reduce rate adjustment for FY 2013 from 5.25% to 0.00%
Adopt new multi-year schedule of rates as presented through FY 2016
0% in FY 2014, 4.50% in FY 2015 and FY 2016
Regional Sewer System:
Reduce O&M rate adjustment for FY 2013 from 20% to 15%
Continue efforts to receive full payment from members
Consider adopting FY 2014 rate adjustment of 5% as presented herein
Local Sewer System:
Reduce rate adjustments for FY 2013 from 13% to 0%
Do not adopt any future rate adjustments at this time
Dependent upon resolution of Regional Sewer collection issues by FY 2015
All Systems:
Continue to Perform Annual Updates
Account for changes in costs, demands, regulations, etc.
In spite of Vice Mayor Maxwell being political at every opportunity last night as well as trying to find fault with what he believes are high water rates, or even finding anything/something to criticize for our decision to build our Reverse Osmosis, the presentation was positive. No one ever mentioned the Bond that we are repaying for our electric upgrade and our RO that affects rates until paid off. Everyone knew when we built our RO that it would cost a lot of bucks but it was still less than going with Palm Beach County water.
Those cities in the sub-regional sewer system owe us a fortune found by a 2005 audit. Everyone rung their hands as to what to do back then as it involved ten million dollars. All those cities knew they owed us but because they were not billed, failed to pay us and we swept it all under the rug. Four years later after Susan Stanton was hired, she turned over that rug and went after the money.
It was said that by the time the case is settled it will be another two years as we are going through a government process (Chapter 164 Florida Statutes) in order to resolve the issue. Because of this non-payment by regional customers, the rates have been charged to Lake Worth customers and will continue along that vein until this dispute is solved.
We buy water from West Palm Beach that serves the Lake Worth beach. The cost of water, the cost of the pipes and the cost of billing has zero impact on the rest of Lake Worth's customers. Maxwell was very concerned about this.
When asked by Maxwell regarding water at the Park of Commerce, the Assistant Utility Director, Clay Lindstrom said, "We are in a position to provide water and sewer to the Park of Commerce. The Park of Commerce is now Maxwell's number one goal, a switch from slum and blight.
Also stated was that our permits are all in place, another concern of Maxwell's and a myth that has been circulating for quite some time that we needed a permit. We can now formally put that one to rest.
All in all, our water department is looking good, producing the best tasting water around.
Utility Rate Study Update for Lake Worth by Burton & Associates, a firm that does a rate study yearly:
Water System:
Reduce rate adjustment for FY 2013 from 5.25% to 0.00%
Adopt new multi-year schedule of rates as presented through FY 2016
0% in FY 2014, 4.50% in FY 2015 and FY 2016
Regional Sewer System:
Reduce O&M rate adjustment for FY 2013 from 20% to 15%
Continue efforts to receive full payment from members
Consider adopting FY 2014 rate adjustment of 5% as presented herein
Local Sewer System:
Reduce rate adjustments for FY 2013 from 13% to 0%
Do not adopt any future rate adjustments at this time
Dependent upon resolution of Regional Sewer collection issues by FY 2015
All Systems:
Continue to Perform Annual Updates
Account for changes in costs, demands, regulations, etc.
Thursday, May 24, 2012
Live play for children to be held in Manalapan
Comment Up
Plaza del Mar, Saturday, from 9am til Noon
The live play is a children's story about two Chihuahua dogs that visit places all over the globe. In this particular adventure 'Bella & Harry', the pups, visit London. There is going to be items raffled and a pet pageant and with judging by business owners in the plaza! The event is from 9:00 to 12:00 and the play starts at 11:00. It is pet friendly and great for the children!
Click to enlarge
Plaza del Mar, Saturday, from 9am til NoonThe live play is a children's story about two Chihuahua dogs that visit places all over the globe. In this particular adventure 'Bella & Harry', the pups, visit London. There is going to be items raffled and a pet pageant and with judging by business owners in the plaza! The event is from 9:00 to 12:00 and the play starts at 11:00. It is pet friendly and great for the children!
The Entrepreneur - A Bloody Event
Comment Up
Every time you think you've heard it all, now comes a gentlemen in the UK that wanted to sell a vial of what he claimed to be President Reagan's blood. Their socialistic country is going down the tubes (and Obama is giving them advice to spend more!!!) but the entrepreneurial spirit is not yet dead.
PFC Auctions has withdrawn the auction due to pressure from the Ronald Reagan Presidential Foundation.
Every time you think you've heard it all, now comes a gentlemen in the UK that wanted to sell a vial of what he claimed to be President Reagan's blood. Their socialistic country is going down the tubes (and Obama is giving them advice to spend more!!!) but the entrepreneurial spirit is not yet dead.
PFC Auctions has withdrawn the auction due to pressure from the Ronald Reagan Presidential Foundation.
Explosion in West Palm Beach
Comment Up
Local police and the DEA are investigating the explosion that occurred on Monday in West Palm Beach at a 4 unit warehouse. It has been suggested that the explosion was caused by chemicals-- that drugs were being manufactured. Rumor has it that the synthetic drug, Spice, was the culprit.
Packets of a similar description, as shown to the left, were catapulted sky high when the building exploded.
Spice is a synthetic marijuana and popular with teens and the "20 somethings." It is banned in many countries but not yet in the United States. Studies have shown that Spice has many negative side effects that marijuana does not: anxiety attacks, hallucinations, nausea, and a chemical dependency.
This dangerous synthetic "drug" may be closer to Lake Worth than we know.
Local police and the DEA are investigating the explosion that occurred on Monday in West Palm Beach at a 4 unit warehouse. It has been suggested that the explosion was caused by chemicals-- that drugs were being manufactured. Rumor has it that the synthetic drug, Spice, was the culprit.
Packets of a similar description, as shown to the left, were catapulted sky high when the building exploded.Spice is a synthetic marijuana and popular with teens and the "20 somethings." It is banned in many countries but not yet in the United States. Studies have shown that Spice has many negative side effects that marijuana does not: anxiety attacks, hallucinations, nausea, and a chemical dependency.
This dangerous synthetic "drug" may be closer to Lake Worth than we know.
Latest Poll in Florida shows Romney ahead
On the news last night, Mitt Romney has a 6-point lead over President Obama in Florida.
Read more....
Perhaps people are finally seeing the light. Even his last two budgets (2012 & 2013) did not receive one single vote from members of his own Party. That tells you something. Are all you socialists and occupiers getting worried? Cutting spending is just not in the equation.
Read more....
Perhaps people are finally seeing the light. Even his last two budgets (2012 & 2013) did not receive one single vote from members of his own Party. That tells you something. Are all you socialists and occupiers getting worried? Cutting spending is just not in the equation.
Employment - the top worst years are under Obama
Comment Up
1. (tie) July 2011, 58.2 percent, President Barack Obama
1. (tie) June 2011, 58.2 percent, Obama
1. (tie) November 2010, 58.2 percent, Obama
1. (tie) December 2009, 58.2 percent, Obama
5. (tie) August 2011, 58.3 percent, Obama
5. (tie) December 2010, 58.3 percent, Obama
5. (tie) October 2010, 58.3 percent, Obama
8. (tie) April 2012, 58.4 percent, Obama
8. (tie) October 2011, 58.4 percent, Obama
8. (tie) September 2011, 58.4 percent, Obama
8. (tie) May 2011, 58.4 percent, Obama
8. (tie) April 2011, 58.4 percent, Obama
8. (tie) February 2011, 58.4 percent, Obama
8. (tie) January 2011, 58.4 percent, Obama
15. (tie) March 2012, 58.5 percent, Obama
15. (tie) January 2012, 58.5 percent, Obama
15. (tie) December 2011, 58.5 percent, Obama
15. (tie) November 2011, 58.5 percent, Obama
15. (tie) March 2011, 58.5 percent, Obama
15. (tie) September 2010, 58.5 percent, Obama
15. (tie) August 2010, 58.5 percent, Obama
15. (tie) July 2010, 58.5 percent, Obama
15. (tie) June 2010, 58.5 percent, Obama
15. (tie) March 2010, 58.5 percent, Obama
15. (tie) February 2010, 58.5 percent, Obama
15. (tie) January 2010, 58.5 percent, Obama
15. (tie) November 2009, 58.5 percent, Obama
15. (tie) October 2009, 58.5 percent, Obama
29. February 2012, 58.6 percent, Obama
30. (tie) May 2010, 58.7 percent, Obama
30. (tie) April 2010, 58.7 percent, Obama
30. (tie) September 2009, 58.7 percent, Obama
1. (tie) July 2011, 58.2 percent, President Barack Obama
1. (tie) June 2011, 58.2 percent, Obama
1. (tie) November 2010, 58.2 percent, Obama
1. (tie) December 2009, 58.2 percent, Obama
5. (tie) August 2011, 58.3 percent, Obama
5. (tie) December 2010, 58.3 percent, Obama
5. (tie) October 2010, 58.3 percent, Obama
8. (tie) April 2012, 58.4 percent, Obama
8. (tie) October 2011, 58.4 percent, Obama
8. (tie) September 2011, 58.4 percent, Obama
8. (tie) May 2011, 58.4 percent, Obama
8. (tie) April 2011, 58.4 percent, Obama
8. (tie) February 2011, 58.4 percent, Obama
8. (tie) January 2011, 58.4 percent, Obama
15. (tie) March 2012, 58.5 percent, Obama
15. (tie) January 2012, 58.5 percent, Obama
15. (tie) December 2011, 58.5 percent, Obama
15. (tie) November 2011, 58.5 percent, Obama
15. (tie) March 2011, 58.5 percent, Obama
15. (tie) September 2010, 58.5 percent, Obama
15. (tie) August 2010, 58.5 percent, Obama
15. (tie) July 2010, 58.5 percent, Obama
15. (tie) June 2010, 58.5 percent, Obama
15. (tie) March 2010, 58.5 percent, Obama
15. (tie) February 2010, 58.5 percent, Obama
15. (tie) January 2010, 58.5 percent, Obama
15. (tie) November 2009, 58.5 percent, Obama
15. (tie) October 2009, 58.5 percent, Obama
29. February 2012, 58.6 percent, Obama
30. (tie) May 2010, 58.7 percent, Obama
30. (tie) April 2010, 58.7 percent, Obama
30. (tie) September 2009, 58.7 percent, Obama
Interestingly, the 30 (or 32, including ties) worst months for employment in the past 25 years have all come after the most recent recession ended, in June 2009.
Read more: The Weekly Standard
Wednesday, May 23, 2012
Bougainvillea on North A Street
Comment Up
Drive by and see this beautiful Bougainvillea cultivated into a tree in the 400 block of North A Street.
Drive by and see this beautiful Bougainvillea cultivated into a tree in the 400 block of North A Street.
Response from Animal Care & Control on "Buddy"
Comment Up
Animal Care & Control needs to take out the words care and control from their name. Let's call it what it is in the case of pit bulls and those with pit bull mix.--a kill facility.
Dear Ms. Anderson:
Commissioner Vana asked me to forward the information below that we received from Dianne Sauve, Director of Animal Care and Control and to let you know we are very sorry about Buddy. If we can be of further assistance, please don’t hesitate to contact us. Thank you for letting us know about this unfortunate incident.
...................
Aide to Commissioner Shelley Vana
301 North Olive Ave
West Palm Beach, FL 33401
561-355-2203
Hi Danna,
I was off-site Friday and got your message this morning. I am somewhat familiar with the case, after the fact. I did attempt to reach Ms. Anderson on Thursday but she has yet to return my calls. (NOTE--Ms. Sauve left a message on my cell phone that she would be out and not returning until Wednesday, May 23)
The dog was a pit mix (the man who turned him in said it was a lab, but it looked more pit). Pre-exam he was tentatively chosen for the adoption program. All animals are basically slated for adoption or rescue unless extenuating circumstances are found. If severe behavior problems exist such as aggression, dogs do not go for either.
In the case of medical problems we send as many animals as people will take to rescue. We work with approximately 70 rescue organizations with new ones added regularly. Few groups will take pits or pit mixes. Lab rescue will only take purebred labs. Some will take on cases that require surgery but those are usually small breed dogs that the rescues deem imminently adoptable. Or, high profile cruelty cases… everyone wants those.
This dog was found to have a leg/joint problem that would require surgery. Conservative estimates for this type of orthopedic surgery would be about $2,000.00 to $3,000.00. As a result of the medical finding, and the fact that our rescue groups have not been able to take on the expense of these cases, the dog was euthanized. I do stand behind the veterinarian who made the determination and 2 vets reviewed the case beforehand. (NOTE: None of us saw anything whatsoever wrong with any of his legs, ankles...in fact he was walking perfectly)
It should also be noted that the person who brought the dog in did not indicate that he or anyone else would be willing to take the dog. (NOTE: The man who brought in the dog told the gal at the front desk that he wanted to adopt but needed to check first with his wife) Staff are required to place memos in the database if anyone is willing to be a last resort. (NOTE: Staff did not do this nor did they ask me for my phone number the very next day) No memos existed. We do periodically have people visit dogs in the shelter but unless they indicate that they want to be a last resort, such visits are not noted. (It is our fault for not asking the right questions?)
Euthanasia decisions must be made and those decisions are not made lightly. Each day we have upwards of 100 animals that we are trying to move into rescue. We understand the financial limitations of our rescue partners and what animals they are willing to take. With numerous healthy, friendly pit and pit lab mixes currently being rejected by rescue organizations, we have to make those decisions for the ones that have medical issues. (NOTE: They kill pits all of the time)
Many people think that becoming a no-kill facility would eliminate euthanasia. Nothing is farther from the truth. We will still have the pits and the cats, and the ones needing exorbitant surgery, that no one comes for...
Dianne Sauve
Animal Care & Control needs to take out the words care and control from their name. Let's call it what it is in the case of pit bulls and those with pit bull mix.--a kill facility.
Dear Ms. Anderson:
Commissioner Vana asked me to forward the information below that we received from Dianne Sauve, Director of Animal Care and Control and to let you know we are very sorry about Buddy. If we can be of further assistance, please don’t hesitate to contact us. Thank you for letting us know about this unfortunate incident.
...................
Aide to Commissioner Shelley Vana
301 North Olive Ave
West Palm Beach, FL 33401
561-355-2203
Hi Danna,
I was off-site Friday and got your message this morning. I am somewhat familiar with the case, after the fact. I did attempt to reach Ms. Anderson on Thursday but she has yet to return my calls. (NOTE--Ms. Sauve left a message on my cell phone that she would be out and not returning until Wednesday, May 23)
The dog was a pit mix (the man who turned him in said it was a lab, but it looked more pit). Pre-exam he was tentatively chosen for the adoption program. All animals are basically slated for adoption or rescue unless extenuating circumstances are found. If severe behavior problems exist such as aggression, dogs do not go for either.
In the case of medical problems we send as many animals as people will take to rescue. We work with approximately 70 rescue organizations with new ones added regularly. Few groups will take pits or pit mixes. Lab rescue will only take purebred labs. Some will take on cases that require surgery but those are usually small breed dogs that the rescues deem imminently adoptable. Or, high profile cruelty cases… everyone wants those.
This dog was found to have a leg/joint problem that would require surgery. Conservative estimates for this type of orthopedic surgery would be about $2,000.00 to $3,000.00. As a result of the medical finding, and the fact that our rescue groups have not been able to take on the expense of these cases, the dog was euthanized. I do stand behind the veterinarian who made the determination and 2 vets reviewed the case beforehand. (NOTE: None of us saw anything whatsoever wrong with any of his legs, ankles...in fact he was walking perfectly)
It should also be noted that the person who brought the dog in did not indicate that he or anyone else would be willing to take the dog. (NOTE: The man who brought in the dog told the gal at the front desk that he wanted to adopt but needed to check first with his wife) Staff are required to place memos in the database if anyone is willing to be a last resort. (NOTE: Staff did not do this nor did they ask me for my phone number the very next day) No memos existed. We do periodically have people visit dogs in the shelter but unless they indicate that they want to be a last resort, such visits are not noted. (It is our fault for not asking the right questions?)
Euthanasia decisions must be made and those decisions are not made lightly. Each day we have upwards of 100 animals that we are trying to move into rescue. We understand the financial limitations of our rescue partners and what animals they are willing to take. With numerous healthy, friendly pit and pit lab mixes currently being rejected by rescue organizations, we have to make those decisions for the ones that have medical issues. (NOTE: They kill pits all of the time)
Many people think that becoming a no-kill facility would eliminate euthanasia. Nothing is farther from the truth. We will still have the pits and the cats, and the ones needing exorbitant surgery, that no one comes for...
Dianne Sauve
Vice Mayor Scott Maxwell - The Art of Negotiation
Comment Up
Presented with a book that was inspired by the FMPA law suit settlement, with a smile Scott said, "You should have given this to me last week."
Negotiating is an art. Negotiating is not a part of the Vice Mayor's DNA when it comes to law suits...settlement is...let's make them all go away, far away. Since he now has the power and is a part of the new "visionary," the slogan really is "It's my way or the highway; let's take what we can get."
After last night' workshop on land development regulations, it is easy to see where this trio is taking the city...from a quaint low rise town with its own identity to more 65 foot Lucernes and scratching the back of developer friends.
Presented with a book that was inspired by the FMPA law suit settlement, with a smile Scott said, "You should have given this to me last week."
Negotiating is an art. Negotiating is not a part of the Vice Mayor's DNA when it comes to law suits...settlement is...let's make them all go away, far away. Since he now has the power and is a part of the new "visionary," the slogan really is "It's my way or the highway; let's take what we can get."
After last night' workshop on land development regulations, it is easy to see where this trio is taking the city...from a quaint low rise town with its own identity to more 65 foot Lucernes and scratching the back of developer friends.
Obama tops $1 billion in career contributions
Obama, who has put down the one percenters, raised nearly all of his $1 billion after reversing his promise to follow suit. Obama broke his promise in June 2008, saying “We face opponents who’ve become masters at gaming this broken system.”
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Friend or Foe
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Sometimes we don't know who the enemy really is. We spread ourselves all over the globe in places that we can't make a difference and end up spending billions from our Treasury doing it as well as thousands of American lives. Our government does the damndest things. Last week there was a talk at the Lake Worth Democratic Club West on Obama Friend or Foe to Israel. I don't know how that turned out but I can well imagine. Take Syria as an example--
There have been reports of al-Qaida collaborating with Syria and it has been said that we have been helping them out by sending arms. "Egyptian security officials, however, outlined to WND and what they said was that there is large-scale international backing for the rebels attacking the embattled regime of Assad – including arms and training from the Turkey, Jordan and Saudi Arabia being coordinated with the U.S. We're not just talking about small guns here--anti-tank weaponry is included in the mix.
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Sometimes we don't know who the enemy really is. We spread ourselves all over the globe in places that we can't make a difference and end up spending billions from our Treasury doing it as well as thousands of American lives. Our government does the damndest things. Last week there was a talk at the Lake Worth Democratic Club West on Obama Friend or Foe to Israel. I don't know how that turned out but I can well imagine. Take Syria as an example--
There have been reports of al-Qaida collaborating with Syria and it has been said that we have been helping them out by sending arms. "Egyptian security officials, however, outlined to WND and what they said was that there is large-scale international backing for the rebels attacking the embattled regime of Assad – including arms and training from the Turkey, Jordan and Saudi Arabia being coordinated with the U.S. We're not just talking about small guns here--anti-tank weaponry is included in the mix.
Read more...
Tuesday, May 22, 2012
Get Home Free Card
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Senate Bill 1196, sponsored by Bradenton Sen. Mike Bennett, and House Bill 1013, from Miami Rep. Frank Artiles, pits developers against homeowner associations with builder-friendly protections against payments to repair poor work on common-area infrastructure.
"It's like a 'get home free' card for contractors...the normal responsibility to stand behind their work is eliminated," says Doug Wilson, president of Lakewood Ranch's Advanced Management.
Thousands of homeowners have already sent Scott emails in opposition to this bill, requesting a veto. Additional messages can be sent to the governor at Rick.Scott@eog.myflorida.com . Or call 850-717-9238.
Senate Bill 1196, sponsored by Bradenton Sen. Mike Bennett, and House Bill 1013, from Miami Rep. Frank Artiles, pits developers against homeowner associations with builder-friendly protections against payments to repair poor work on common-area infrastructure.
"It's like a 'get home free' card for contractors...the normal responsibility to stand behind their work is eliminated," says Doug Wilson, president of Lakewood Ranch's Advanced Management.
Thousands of homeowners have already sent Scott emails in opposition to this bill, requesting a veto. Additional messages can be sent to the governor at Rick.Scott@eog.myflorida.com . Or call 850-717-9238.
Read about the political "Free Ride" for developers by Clicking here.
Today's Obama News
New disclosures show that one of President Obama’s bundlers is the wife of an executive at an energy company that received a more-than-$1.2 billion Department of Energy (DOE) loan guarantee for a solar power plant.
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The Obama administration is opposing House legislation that would loosen restrictions on exports of U.S. satellites that were imposed after two U.S. companies illegally improved China’s strategic missiles through satellite launch deals in the 1990s.
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Obama's Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) chairman Gregory Jaczko announced Monday he will resign, effective on the confirmation of a successor, after years of criticism and allegations of inappropriate behavior toward women and potential false testimony before Congress.
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A new study conducted by a non-profit organization reveals that House Republicans speak at a higher grade level than President Barack Obama.
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In a major development in his probe of Barack Obama’s eligibility for Arizona’s 2012 presidential ballot, Maricopa County Sheriff Joe Arpaio has dispatched his lead Cold Case Posse investigator and a deputy detective to Hawaii.
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Marco Rubio says that the present-day Obama “is a very different person” and that “we have not seen such a divisive figure in modern American history as we have over the last three and a half years.”
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Land Development Regulations in Lake Worth
Comment Up
It seems that Tim and Elizabeth Hulett want to build a 4,000+ sq. foot house on the property. Their agent is Brower Architectural Associates and Wes Blackman. Wes is the former Chair of the Planning & Zoning board who helped bring us The Lucerne. Blackman has re-applied to the P&Z after the visionary commission re-wrote the Ordinance freeing up all seven positions to stack the Board with "their" people. It has also been his dream to get back on the P&Z Board where he can "really make a difference" and utilize all of his professional qualifications as a city planner.
One neighbor said, "I have seen the plans for the proposed new construction and feel that a house of this size, bulk, and scale will be incompatible with the neighborhood, and will negatively impact the historic nature of the quaint Parrot Cove neighborhood as well as negatively effect the real estate and aesthetic value of my cottage home as well as the other homes in the neighborhood. Would it be possible for the architect to design something less daunting, and overwhelming to the neighborhood, but still desirable to the owner of the property?"
A house this large will dwarf both properties to the north and south of it blocking views and air flow. Most of the houses around the site are one story. It most definitely affects the house across the street, a bungalow built in the 1920's. This house, if allowed to be built per its present Plan, will diminish the value of several houses near it on N. Lakeside Drive not to mention the quality of life of those occupants living in the surrounding properties.
Our Plan says, The height of proposed buildings shall be visually compatible in comparison to or in relationship with the height of adjacent buildings. The relationship of the width of the building to the height of the front elevation shall be visually compatible with and in direct relationship to the width and height of the front elevation of adjacent or adjoining buildings within the district.
As we discuss the Land Development Regulations tonight, can we put in some protections for owners who won't have to live around massive structures built all around them--as an example a one story house of 1,700 sq. ft. next to a house of over 4,000 sq. ft. that will tower over them. And what about those townhouses that developers want to build in single family neighborhoods and our new Land Map showing that possibility?
We need some definite safeguards from planning board members who have friends or interests in projects that allow development to be intrusive. Recusing oneself because of a possible conflict of interest or lack of impartiality is not enough.
302 N. Lakeside Drive
located in the Historical District
I have been looking at this property for years. During every election, political signs appear--they pop up all over the front of the lot. It is owned by builder, Hector Cabrera, who builds some really nice houses. I can't find the property in PAPA to confirm.located in the Historical District
It seems that Tim and Elizabeth Hulett want to build a 4,000+ sq. foot house on the property. Their agent is Brower Architectural Associates and Wes Blackman. Wes is the former Chair of the Planning & Zoning board who helped bring us The Lucerne. Blackman has re-applied to the P&Z after the visionary commission re-wrote the Ordinance freeing up all seven positions to stack the Board with "their" people. It has also been his dream to get back on the P&Z Board where he can "really make a difference" and utilize all of his professional qualifications as a city planner.
One neighbor said, "I have seen the plans for the proposed new construction and feel that a house of this size, bulk, and scale will be incompatible with the neighborhood, and will negatively impact the historic nature of the quaint Parrot Cove neighborhood as well as negatively effect the real estate and aesthetic value of my cottage home as well as the other homes in the neighborhood. Would it be possible for the architect to design something less daunting, and overwhelming to the neighborhood, but still desirable to the owner of the property?"
A house this large will dwarf both properties to the north and south of it blocking views and air flow. Most of the houses around the site are one story. It most definitely affects the house across the street, a bungalow built in the 1920's. This house, if allowed to be built per its present Plan, will diminish the value of several houses near it on N. Lakeside Drive not to mention the quality of life of those occupants living in the surrounding properties.
Our Plan says, The height of proposed buildings shall be visually compatible in comparison to or in relationship with the height of adjacent buildings. The relationship of the width of the building to the height of the front elevation shall be visually compatible with and in direct relationship to the width and height of the front elevation of adjacent or adjoining buildings within the district.
As we discuss the Land Development Regulations tonight, can we put in some protections for owners who won't have to live around massive structures built all around them--as an example a one story house of 1,700 sq. ft. next to a house of over 4,000 sq. ft. that will tower over them. And what about those townhouses that developers want to build in single family neighborhoods and our new Land Map showing that possibility?
We need some definite safeguards from planning board members who have friends or interests in projects that allow development to be intrusive. Recusing oneself because of a possible conflict of interest or lack of impartiality is not enough.
Monday, May 21, 2012
Boynton Beach takes the easy way out.
Boynton had a recent survey that asked residents how to solve their budget problems. Geez. Isn't this why you hire a city manager and pay him big bucks? Instead, they can now blame it on the 224 residents who responded if they raise taxes per the results of this survey.
This reminds me of the Lake Worth beach redevelopment when Jennings had a Survey and about the same number of people said take out all the parking...let the people walk up the dune...we want green and Jungle Jims...take away the decal parking spots. They didn't ask the other 37,000 people.
Very soon Lake Worth will be going into Budget workshops and will have to deal with the exact same problems that Boynton has. As Scott Maxwell has never voted or approved any budget, we have to wonder about the 2012/2013 and what to expect.
This reminds me of the Lake Worth beach redevelopment when Jennings had a Survey and about the same number of people said take out all the parking...let the people walk up the dune...we want green and Jungle Jims...take away the decal parking spots. They didn't ask the other 37,000 people.
Very soon Lake Worth will be going into Budget workshops and will have to deal with the exact same problems that Boynton has. As Scott Maxwell has never voted or approved any budget, we have to wonder about the 2012/2013 and what to expect.
Making it easy for Developers
Comment Up
I don't know much about planning but what I do know is what is acceptable to me and what is not. I could be way off base here but...
In the back-up for Tuesday's meeting, I see a section regarding incentives for developers who give back a public benefit. We've had this for awhile now. No where do I read about the cost of infrastructure that might/could/will impact the city for a new development, a new house. We might have to have costly upgrades to infrastructure just to support that development. We should be able to charge developers for infrastructure on private property that is needed as a result of the development. This includes new or safer road schemes, sidewalks, curbs, storm water run-off, and utility considerations.
I see in the back-up where the developer, through a public benefit such as building a few bus stops, bike racks or the planting of more trees as examples, will be able to gain his desired end of possibly a taller building, possibly a massive footprint in comparison to nearby properties and more density that the present zoning might not allow.
Why can't we require developers to just work within our Comp Plan instead of coming before the P&Z for special favors. Why not just make them pay for all costs to the infrastructure. The only message in the back-up that seems consistent is bending over backwards so that developers can do what they want. We did it with Publix when the CRA handed over 1/2 of a million dollars for infrastructure on private property. I am just going along with the politicians who say it was for infrastructure. In actuality and in that particular case, it was just greasing Publix's palm to make it even more attractive to locate on the Hammon Park private property.
We should not be paying for infrastructure for developers to build on private property. Developers need to pay for these costs. All of our Code and Comp Plan should be written to reflect that. I'm not sure that it is.
I don't know much about planning but what I do know is what is acceptable to me and what is not. I could be way off base here but...
In the back-up for Tuesday's meeting, I see a section regarding incentives for developers who give back a public benefit. We've had this for awhile now. No where do I read about the cost of infrastructure that might/could/will impact the city for a new development, a new house. We might have to have costly upgrades to infrastructure just to support that development. We should be able to charge developers for infrastructure on private property that is needed as a result of the development. This includes new or safer road schemes, sidewalks, curbs, storm water run-off, and utility considerations.
I see in the back-up where the developer, through a public benefit such as building a few bus stops, bike racks or the planting of more trees as examples, will be able to gain his desired end of possibly a taller building, possibly a massive footprint in comparison to nearby properties and more density that the present zoning might not allow.
Why can't we require developers to just work within our Comp Plan instead of coming before the P&Z for special favors. Why not just make them pay for all costs to the infrastructure. The only message in the back-up that seems consistent is bending over backwards so that developers can do what they want. We did it with Publix when the CRA handed over 1/2 of a million dollars for infrastructure on private property. I am just going along with the politicians who say it was for infrastructure. In actuality and in that particular case, it was just greasing Publix's palm to make it even more attractive to locate on the Hammon Park private property.
We should not be paying for infrastructure for developers to build on private property. Developers need to pay for these costs. All of our Code and Comp Plan should be written to reflect that. I'm not sure that it is.
Vice Presidential Poll
Comment Up
The results of the latest Poll by Personal Liberty Digest:
I voted for Rick Santorum.
The results of the latest Poll by Personal Liberty Digest:
| The Total Number of people who voted in this poll: 5,512 |
|
I voted for Rick Santorum.
Occupiers - Sticks and Stones
"Get Real"as Dustin Zacks would say
These lunatics don't even know about what they are protesting. This NATO conference in Chicago was to approve a plan where security forces of Afghanistan will take the lead in defending their own country so that we can get out of there on schedule and less U.S. lives will be lost in the process.
A good majority of these people are Democrats and now they threaten not only Democrats, like Mayor of Chicago Rahm Emanuel, but our armed forces. They marched on Sunday and complained about everything. A few from Florida, a haven for every divisive group on Earth, were there and accused of making Molotov cocktails to use against Obama's headquarters and other targets in Chicago. Their main gripe: Economic inequality.
At least Afghan president Karzai thanked the U.S. for all the tons of money we have given them over the last ten years to help save their country from Islamic terrorists while protesters hurled sticks and stones and police tried to quiet the action and maintain sanity.
Sunday, May 20, 2012
I wouldda smoked "blow"
Comment Up
The press talks about Mitt Romney and carrying his dog in a crate on top of his car 30 years ago. They write about him being a bully while a kid 50 years ago. But they fail to mention the President of the United States and his dallying around with drugs and doing something dangerously stupid years ago. Why is that?
The press talks about Mitt Romney and carrying his dog in a crate on top of his car 30 years ago. They write about him being a bully while a kid 50 years ago. But they fail to mention the President of the United States and his dallying around with drugs and doing something dangerously stupid years ago. Why is that?
Genetically Modified Mosquitoes on the Horizon
Nature.com says, "There are 3,500 named species of mosquito, of which only a couple of hundred bite or bother humans. They live on almost every continent and habitat, and serve important functions in numerous ecosystems. Mosquitoes have co-evolved with so many species along the way. Wiping out a species of mosquito could leave a predator without prey, or a plant without a pollinator. And exploring a world without mosquitoes is more than an exercise in imagination: intense efforts are under way to develop methods that might rid the world of the most pernicious, disease-carrying species."
It has been reported that each year, millions of people die from malaria, dengue fever, and yellow fever after being bitten by a disease-carrying mosquito. Mosquitoes also carry diseases that pose serious threats to livestock and pets.
Another expert says, "As much as we loathe them, mosquitoes represent a considerable biomass of food for wildlife on the lower rungs of the food chain. Their extinction, were it even achievable, would have an enormous adverse affect on the entire ecosystem. "
The latest news is now out concerning the potential release of genetically modified mosquitoes –
It turns out that the genetically modified mosquitoes could be released into the U.S. environment this year. A private firm plans to initiate the release of the GE mosquitoes in the Florida Keys. Florida will be the first beta testing grounds to determine whether or not the mosquitoes lead to detrimental environmental and genetic impact. Residents in this area will also be subjected — without choice — to these genetically manipulated insects, unless the private firm decides to seek permission.
Scott Silverman 10th Highest Paid Executive in Palm Beach County
Comment Up
Scott Silverman
Applied Digital Solutions Share Holder Meeting 2005
Right on the front page of today's Post was a photo of one of my former bosses, Scott Silverman, listed as the 10th top paid executive in Palm Beach County with a total compensation of $5.9 million. No surprise. He was paid well when I worked with him years ago in a public company, Applied Digital Solutions, that grew by acquisitions. Scott also had a law degree and was extremely smart.
While working for Applied, we all eventually grew to believe that the company we worked for was a pump and dump. Some very good people left. When I resigned I walked out the door never to look back. I never gave one good bye. Even Silverman was fired at one time and then was brought back in. He was way too valuable to the scheme and its goals.
Applied Digital, with offices on Royal Palm Way in Palm Beach later moving to Delray Beach, gave the illusion to the public that the company was actually going places and was making money through sales. I used to get calls from people world-wide threatening my life. I had one guy who swore that the government was tracking him through the implantable chip. He was a whacko and he called me often. As a public company, of course, you want the public to buy your stock. It is now out of business after losing hundreds of millions of investor money with top and even middle executives made wealthy, all part of the plan, before the doors were finally shut.
ChipMeNot.org gave out its Hall of Shame award to Scott Silverman, CEO of the VeriChip Corporation (now known as the "Positive ID Corporation"), which markets the human microchip implant. If you read their web site, you really believe that this is a company going places too. Verichip Corporation originally was an acquisition by Applied Digital Solutions, a fine company that manufactured implantable chips for pets. But Applied had a better idea--market it for human tracking. Scott Silverman even went so far as to have a chip implanted in his shoulder...went on CBS promoting the thing.
"In September 2007, the link between implantable microchips and cancer was revealed through AP investigative reporter Todd Lewan's ground-breaking article "Chip Implants Linked to Animal Tumors."
Sensing the imminent demise of his company, Mr. Silverman began flooding the media with inaccurate statements, denial of facts, and outright lies. Details of his numerous misstatements can be found here.
Fortunately, his company's stock lost more than 90% of its value, and at last report, VeriChip (The Positive ID Corporation) was no longer marketing implantable microchips for humans."
The SEC is useless and most public companies know it.
Scott SilvermanApplied Digital Solutions Share Holder Meeting 2005
Right on the front page of today's Post was a photo of one of my former bosses, Scott Silverman, listed as the 10th top paid executive in Palm Beach County with a total compensation of $5.9 million. No surprise. He was paid well when I worked with him years ago in a public company, Applied Digital Solutions, that grew by acquisitions. Scott also had a law degree and was extremely smart.
While working for Applied, we all eventually grew to believe that the company we worked for was a pump and dump. Some very good people left. When I resigned I walked out the door never to look back. I never gave one good bye. Even Silverman was fired at one time and then was brought back in. He was way too valuable to the scheme and its goals.
Applied Digital, with offices on Royal Palm Way in Palm Beach later moving to Delray Beach, gave the illusion to the public that the company was actually going places and was making money through sales. I used to get calls from people world-wide threatening my life. I had one guy who swore that the government was tracking him through the implantable chip. He was a whacko and he called me often. As a public company, of course, you want the public to buy your stock. It is now out of business after losing hundreds of millions of investor money with top and even middle executives made wealthy, all part of the plan, before the doors were finally shut.
ChipMeNot.org gave out its Hall of Shame award to Scott Silverman, CEO of the VeriChip Corporation (now known as the "Positive ID Corporation"), which markets the human microchip implant. If you read their web site, you really believe that this is a company going places too. Verichip Corporation originally was an acquisition by Applied Digital Solutions, a fine company that manufactured implantable chips for pets. But Applied had a better idea--market it for human tracking. Scott Silverman even went so far as to have a chip implanted in his shoulder...went on CBS promoting the thing.
"In September 2007, the link between implantable microchips and cancer was revealed through AP investigative reporter Todd Lewan's ground-breaking article "Chip Implants Linked to Animal Tumors."
Sensing the imminent demise of his company, Mr. Silverman began flooding the media with inaccurate statements, denial of facts, and outright lies. Details of his numerous misstatements can be found here.
Fortunately, his company's stock lost more than 90% of its value, and at last report, VeriChip (The Positive ID Corporation) was no longer marketing implantable microchips for humans."
The SEC is useless and most public companies know it.