Sunday, September 30, 2012
The Re-Election of Commissioner Christopher McVoy
Comment Up
With integrity that cannot be breached or corrupted by outside influence, Christopher McVoy is running again for re-election to the Lake Worth City Commission District 2.
Reminder Introduction:
• Senior Environmental Scientist, Everglades Restoration Project
• Community Educator and University Lecturer
• Governor’s Commission for a Sustainable South Florida
• 14 Year resident and homeowner in Lake Worth
• Ph.D., Cornell University
• M.S., University of Florida
We need honesty in government.
With integrity that cannot be breached or corrupted by outside influence, Christopher McVoy is running again for re-election to the Lake Worth City Commission District 2.
• Senior Environmental Scientist, Everglades Restoration Project
• Community Educator and University Lecturer
• Governor’s Commission for a Sustainable South Florida
• 14 Year resident and homeowner in Lake Worth
• Ph.D., Cornell University
• M.S., University of Florida
We need honesty in government.
Extend the Bush Tax Cuts
If the Bush tax cuts are allowed to run out this year, we will see the biggest tax increase since World War II, says Will McBride, chief economist at the Washington, D.C. based Tax Foundation.
"It's pretty dramatic...I can't think of anyone who's really seriously thinking we should go through this. It would almost certainly result in another recession."
See how the various states will be affected by EXTENDING the Bush tax cuts.
"It's pretty dramatic...I can't think of anyone who's really seriously thinking we should go through this. It would almost certainly result in another recession."
See how the various states will be affected by EXTENDING the Bush tax cuts.
The Big Mouth
The Washington Post fact checked President Obama's claim that the Bush administration's policies accounted for 90 percent of the country's current deficit and rated the assertion as false.
Read more... about what big mouth Joe Biden has to say.
The Republicans are lucky to have Paul Ryan who actually knows what he's talking about. On October 11 everyone will get a first-hand look at Ryan's command of the facts particularly when it pertains to the budget.
Saturday, September 29, 2012
Obama and Family vacations
Comment Up
Certain places in Mexico might be safe to visit but we continually hear about the horrible murders there. Two drug cartel members were just sentenced to life in
prison without parole for kidnapping and killing two victims before
dissolving the corpses in acid.
Now we are learning that “numerous online press outlets have reported that the president’s 13-year-old daughter, Malia Obama, was on a spring break trip to Mexico accompanied by 25 U.S. Secret Service agents and as many as 12 of her friends--that's two body guards per person.
The U.S. State Department has warned that "U.S. travelers should be aware that the Mexican government has been engaged in an extensive effort to counter TCOs which engage in narcotics trafficking and other unlawful activities throughout Mexico. The TCOs themselves are engaged in a violent struggle to control drug trafficking routes and other criminal activity. As a result, crime and violence are serious problems throughout the country and can occur anywhere. U.S. citizens have fallen victim to TCO activity, including homicide, gun battles, kidnapping, carjacking and highway robbery. The number of U.S. citizens reported to the Department of State as murdered in Mexico increased from 35 in 2007 to 120 in 2011.
Although we can't protect our embassies, Obama's daughter was probably safe due to all that security that taxpayers were paying for during the Mexican Spring Break trip. Different security details but we know she was safer than Ambassador Chris Stevens was in Libya
No one knows the cost of all of this as The Whitehouse is not talking. How many 13 year old kids go to a foreign country for a vacation without their parents? I doubt if kids from the top 1% are vacationing without their parents either.
Last year taxpayers had to fork over a whopping $1.4 billion just to pay the expenses of the president, his family, and his staff for their lavish vacations as the country gets deeper in debt to a tune of over $16 trillion dollars and 23 million people don't have jobs, struggling to put food on the table. Family vacations.
Now we are learning that “numerous online press outlets have reported that the president’s 13-year-old daughter, Malia Obama, was on a spring break trip to Mexico accompanied by 25 U.S. Secret Service agents and as many as 12 of her friends--that's two body guards per person.
The U.S. State Department has warned that "U.S. travelers should be aware that the Mexican government has been engaged in an extensive effort to counter TCOs which engage in narcotics trafficking and other unlawful activities throughout Mexico. The TCOs themselves are engaged in a violent struggle to control drug trafficking routes and other criminal activity. As a result, crime and violence are serious problems throughout the country and can occur anywhere. U.S. citizens have fallen victim to TCO activity, including homicide, gun battles, kidnapping, carjacking and highway robbery. The number of U.S. citizens reported to the Department of State as murdered in Mexico increased from 35 in 2007 to 120 in 2011.
Although we can't protect our embassies, Obama's daughter was probably safe due to all that security that taxpayers were paying for during the Mexican Spring Break trip. Different security details but we know she was safer than Ambassador Chris Stevens was in Libya
No one knows the cost of all of this as The Whitehouse is not talking. How many 13 year old kids go to a foreign country for a vacation without their parents? I doubt if kids from the top 1% are vacationing without their parents either.
Last year taxpayers had to fork over a whopping $1.4 billion just to pay the expenses of the president, his family, and his staff for their lavish vacations as the country gets deeper in debt to a tune of over $16 trillion dollars and 23 million people don't have jobs, struggling to put food on the table. Family vacations.
Obama Cabinet Members disobeying the Law?
On his first full day in office, President Barack Obama ordered federal officials to “usher in a new era of open government” and “act promptly” to make information public.There are exemptions to solicitation of information under these acts that create problems and discrepancies. The nine exemptions to the FOIA address issues of sensitivity and personal rights. See Title 5 of the U.S. code
As Obama nears the end of his term, his administration hasn’t met those goals, failing to follow the requirements of the Freedom of Information Act, according to Bloomberg News.
Read more...
Nineteen of 20 cabinet-level agencies disobeyed the law requiring the disclosure of public information: The cost of travel by top officials. In all, just eight of the 57 federal agencies met Bloomberg’s request for those documents within the 20-day window required by the Act.
Lake Worth Bridge to close for Triathlon
Lake Worth Bridge Closed
6:45a.m. to 9:45a.m.
Sunday, September 30, 2012
If there is a priority medical call in Town during this time, Fire Rescue will be allowed access over the bridge.
Motorists should use the Southern or Boynton Beach Bridges during this period of time.
Friday, September 28, 2012
Last Night's Sunset
For some reason, uploading photos to Google does not depict the true colors or the real beauty of the sky. This was taken last night and it looked like there was a hole in the sky leading right up to heaven.
Click to enlarge
Obama Economy
Comment Up
This is especially for all you Obama groupies who continue to come over here and harass this conservative.
This is especially for all you Obama groupies who continue to come over here and harass this conservative.
We the People - A message to the President
Comment Up
Oklahoma State University Stillwater, Oklahoma
According to a friend--"This is without a doubt the best video that has come out and apparently 6 Million others think so too because there have been 6 million hits in 4 days."
Oklahoma State University Stillwater, Oklahoma
According to a friend--"This is without a doubt the best video that has come out and apparently 6 Million others think so too because there have been 6 million hits in 4 days."
Drew Martin up for Re-election
Comment Up
Lake Worth's Drew Martin is up for re-election this November 6. He has been a dedicated advocate of protecting our environment. With Bachelor and Master degrees, Drew is highly qualified to be re-elected to the Palm Beach County Soil and Water Conservation District, Group 2, a non-partisan race.
Drew says, "Protecting the wetlands, the environment, water quality and our endangered species is of the utmost importance when assisting people, groups or local governments with natural resources conservation."
Please Re-elect Drew Martin.
Lake Worth's Drew Martin is up for re-election this November 6. He has been a dedicated advocate of protecting our environment. With Bachelor and Master degrees, Drew is highly qualified to be re-elected to the Palm Beach County Soil and Water Conservation District, Group 2, a non-partisan race.
Drew says, "Protecting the wetlands, the environment, water quality and our endangered species is of the utmost importance when assisting people, groups or local governments with natural resources conservation."
Please Re-elect Drew Martin.
Thursday, September 27, 2012
The Sky
The Sunset was really spectacular tonight but I could not do it justice. This was a stunning cloud northeast of the sunset.
Foreclosure News
Foreclosures as of January 1, 2008
thru December 1, 2011:
It (was on WPEC 12 news last nite). Go to the link below and
file with the attorney general if you do not receive a letter within the
next few weeks. You may be eligible for a settlement.
Union backers and Socialists harass Allen West
Comment Up
"We should be able to talk about the differences between the direction that we want to take America," West said. "But instead all they (protesters) want to do — it's about the politics of character assassination."
~ Allen West
It seems anarchists and protesters caused havoc again--Stand Up Florida, which hires some paid pickets, such as Cara Jennings, is backed by the Service Employees International Union and CREDO SuperPAC, has taken aim at several high-profile Republicans across the country. They got involved in another Allen West event.
Stand Up Florida has organized several recent anti-West protests (their mission in life and what keeps food on their table, ironically a sick sense of free enterprise/capitalism that they constantly demonstrate against). Lynne Purvis, Socialist, activist, occupier and good friend of Jennings is in charge of Stand Up Florida's efforts.
Lynne Purvis Mug Shot
Minus the facial jewelry
I don't know why they think Allen West is part of a Tea Party race as he has not gone along with many Tea Party ideas and his voting record proves it. But this is where these anti-free speech demonstrators don't know what in hell they are talking about.
It is all about liberals and socialists who are against anyone who disagrees with their socialist principles. They are against conservatives and even people who believe in God who are simply asking for fiscal responsibility and for people to take charge of their own lives rather than being dependent upon government for everything.
Read more...
"We should be able to talk about the differences between the direction that we want to take America," West said. "But instead all they (protesters) want to do — it's about the politics of character assassination."
~ Allen West
It seems anarchists and protesters caused havoc again--Stand Up Florida, which hires some paid pickets, such as Cara Jennings, is backed by the Service Employees International Union and CREDO SuperPAC, has taken aim at several high-profile Republicans across the country. They got involved in another Allen West event.
Stand Up Florida has organized several recent anti-West protests (their mission in life and what keeps food on their table, ironically a sick sense of free enterprise/capitalism that they constantly demonstrate against). Lynne Purvis, Socialist, activist, occupier and good friend of Jennings is in charge of Stand Up Florida's efforts.
Lynne Purvis Mug Shot
Minus the facial jewelry
I don't know why they think Allen West is part of a Tea Party race as he has not gone along with many Tea Party ideas and his voting record proves it. But this is where these anti-free speech demonstrators don't know what in hell they are talking about.
It is all about liberals and socialists who are against anyone who disagrees with their socialist principles. They are against conservatives and even people who believe in God who are simply asking for fiscal responsibility and for people to take charge of their own lives rather than being dependent upon government for everything.
Read more...
Custodial Services for Lake Worth owned buildings
Comment Up
The Commission voted on janitorial service for the coming budget year beginning October 1 and voted to contract with Image Janitorial Services for $116,556 per year with two (one) year renewals.
There are 13 locations throughout the city but no where in the City of Lake Worth's Bid requirements does it mention the bathrooms near Benny's on the Beach that are being constructed, soon to be completed. It only mentions the Casino Alternative #3. Tuesday night during the Public Hearing on the Budget, I asked the question but received no answer.
Relative to the Casino, the City said:
Casino Building: Please provide an Alternative for cleaning all common areas at the new Lake Worth beach front Casino building: -Cleaning of all corridors, stairwells, and elevators to keep them free of all trash and debris -Removal of all trash -Restocking of paper supplies in restrooms as needed (no paper towels necessary due to hand dryers) -Maintaining the highest level of cleanliness in all restrooms at all times (including but not limited to floors, sinks, counter tops, doors, mirrors, urinals, toilets, walls, partitions, hand rails, etc)
First Floor Women‟s (South end): 4 toilets, 3 sinks
First Floor Women‟s (North end): 2 toilets, 3 sinks
First Floor Men‟s (South end): 1 toilet, 1 urinal, 2 sinks
First Floor Men‟s (North end): 1 toilet, 1 urinal, 3 sinks
First Floor Unisex: 1 toilet, 1 sink
Second Floor Women‟s (South end): 4 toilets, 3 sinks
Second Floor Women‟s (North end): 2 toilets, 3 sinks
Second Floor Men‟s (South end): 1 toilet, 1 urinal, 2 sinks
Second Floor Men‟s (North end): 1 toilet, 1 urinal, 3 sinks
*Casino must be maintained for all hours it is operational: Monday – Wednesday from 6:00am – 12:00am, Thursday – Saturday from 6:00am – 1:00am, Sunday from 6:00am – 11:00pm.
As this janitorial service must have someone on site during the casino hours of operation, it is difficult to conceive that any company can give us quality service at this price. And what about the restrooms near Benny's? These are the rooms that will be used the most and no where do I find that they are addressed in the contract unless it is under the section for the Casino.
Public Restrooms can be well maintained, tidy and neat even if the city manager disagrees but it takes daily attention.
There are 13 locations throughout the city but no where in the City of Lake Worth's Bid requirements does it mention the bathrooms near Benny's on the Beach that are being constructed, soon to be completed. It only mentions the Casino Alternative #3. Tuesday night during the Public Hearing on the Budget, I asked the question but received no answer.
Relative to the Casino, the City said:
Casino Building: Please provide an Alternative for cleaning all common areas at the new Lake Worth beach front Casino building: -Cleaning of all corridors, stairwells, and elevators to keep them free of all trash and debris -Removal of all trash -Restocking of paper supplies in restrooms as needed (no paper towels necessary due to hand dryers) -Maintaining the highest level of cleanliness in all restrooms at all times (including but not limited to floors, sinks, counter tops, doors, mirrors, urinals, toilets, walls, partitions, hand rails, etc)
First Floor Women‟s (South end): 4 toilets, 3 sinks
First Floor Women‟s (North end): 2 toilets, 3 sinks
First Floor Men‟s (South end): 1 toilet, 1 urinal, 2 sinks
First Floor Men‟s (North end): 1 toilet, 1 urinal, 3 sinks
First Floor Unisex: 1 toilet, 1 sink
Second Floor Women‟s (South end): 4 toilets, 3 sinks
Second Floor Women‟s (North end): 2 toilets, 3 sinks
Second Floor Men‟s (South end): 1 toilet, 1 urinal, 2 sinks
Second Floor Men‟s (North end): 1 toilet, 1 urinal, 3 sinks
*Casino must be maintained for all hours it is operational: Monday – Wednesday from 6:00am – 12:00am, Thursday – Saturday from 6:00am – 1:00am, Sunday from 6:00am – 11:00pm.
As this janitorial service must have someone on site during the casino hours of operation, it is difficult to conceive that any company can give us quality service at this price. And what about the restrooms near Benny's? These are the rooms that will be used the most and no where do I find that they are addressed in the contract unless it is under the section for the Casino.
Public Restrooms can be well maintained, tidy and neat even if the city manager disagrees but it takes daily attention.
Wednesday, September 26, 2012
The Lake Worth Budget
Comment Up
Nothing new occurred last night during the Second Public Hearing on setting the millage of $5.49. With the Fire Rescue, it brings up the total millage to $8.95. The budget was approved, nothing changed. This commission believes that it is perfectly A-OK to rob reserves to balance the Budget. Commissioner Amoroso even stated that he does that in his own business when he is short. The problem is, reserves are never replenished and it is money that belongs to the taxpayers.
Vice Mayor Maxwell wanted to know where all the multi-millions went during 2006 through 2008 when property values were sky high, saying that there was an unprecedented amount of money that is gone. After complaining about all the missing money, he then went on to state, "You can't take it with you. Sometimes you have to take reserves and plug a hole." If Maxwell would hire an Internal Auditor, perhaps we could find out where the money went.
Taking money out of reserves to balance the budget is no way to run the city. To take money out of the Simpkin Trust for library operations is breaking a Trust set up for library capital improvements. To take $700,000 from the billboard settlement money that has been shifted around from a dedicated fund to operations, is no way to run our city. We can’t continue to rob Peter to pay Paul.
My suggestion last night was to continue funding the conservation fund through our Utility and put that 1.4% back into the utility and then transfer the same amount of money to operations instead of using our savings. It is a small monthly utility tax and it is based on consumption--those who use more KWh pay more. It is a way to raise revenue without hurting the average consumer who is paying only $1.96 per 1,000KWh. We can then eliminate it next year from the utility bill if we can. Also, cutting the electric bill by 5% is too much this year when we have a budget shortfall. Cut that 5 in half and take money of like amount and transfer to operations until such time property values go up to a sustainable level to fund our operations.
Negotiate with the Unions. Roll back pension benefits and change retirement to age 65. Collect the past-dues on our utility bills amounting to millions. Collect from those cities owing us on the sub-regional sewer system. Cut more. Do not fund new positions this year. Do with what we have. Do not spend more than we receive, a concept that fell on deaf ears last night.
Although McVoy and Mulvehill voted against the budget because of steps that were not taken last year on the fire assessment as well as robbing from the reserves, I want to state one more time my thoughts on this fire assessment. It was an unfair tax because rich and poor would be paying the exact same amount to fund pensions for the fire department. It was not an assessment for services but for pensions. Taxes need to be equitable based on property values and/or income or in the case of a conservation tax, consumption.
Nothing new occurred last night during the Second Public Hearing on setting the millage of $5.49. With the Fire Rescue, it brings up the total millage to $8.95. The budget was approved, nothing changed. This commission believes that it is perfectly A-OK to rob reserves to balance the Budget. Commissioner Amoroso even stated that he does that in his own business when he is short. The problem is, reserves are never replenished and it is money that belongs to the taxpayers.
Vice Mayor Maxwell wanted to know where all the multi-millions went during 2006 through 2008 when property values were sky high, saying that there was an unprecedented amount of money that is gone. After complaining about all the missing money, he then went on to state, "You can't take it with you. Sometimes you have to take reserves and plug a hole." If Maxwell would hire an Internal Auditor, perhaps we could find out where the money went.
Taking money out of reserves to balance the budget is no way to run the city. To take money out of the Simpkin Trust for library operations is breaking a Trust set up for library capital improvements. To take $700,000 from the billboard settlement money that has been shifted around from a dedicated fund to operations, is no way to run our city. We can’t continue to rob Peter to pay Paul.
My suggestion last night was to continue funding the conservation fund through our Utility and put that 1.4% back into the utility and then transfer the same amount of money to operations instead of using our savings. It is a small monthly utility tax and it is based on consumption--those who use more KWh pay more. It is a way to raise revenue without hurting the average consumer who is paying only $1.96 per 1,000KWh. We can then eliminate it next year from the utility bill if we can. Also, cutting the electric bill by 5% is too much this year when we have a budget shortfall. Cut that 5 in half and take money of like amount and transfer to operations until such time property values go up to a sustainable level to fund our operations.
Negotiate with the Unions. Roll back pension benefits and change retirement to age 65. Collect the past-dues on our utility bills amounting to millions. Collect from those cities owing us on the sub-regional sewer system. Cut more. Do not fund new positions this year. Do with what we have. Do not spend more than we receive, a concept that fell on deaf ears last night.
Although McVoy and Mulvehill voted against the budget because of steps that were not taken last year on the fire assessment as well as robbing from the reserves, I want to state one more time my thoughts on this fire assessment. It was an unfair tax because rich and poor would be paying the exact same amount to fund pensions for the fire department. It was not an assessment for services but for pensions. Taxes need to be equitable based on property values and/or income or in the case of a conservation tax, consumption.
Top Lake Worth Pirate
Comment Up
Pardon me, but would ya mind if I fired me cannon through your porthole?
How'd you like to scrape the barnacles off of me electric bill?
With 30% of the vote, Loretta Sharp is the winner of the poll and a deserving choice. She is afraid of no one, carries a big sword and speaks her mind.
With 30% of the vote, Loretta Sharp is the winner of the poll and a deserving choice. She is afraid of no one, carries a big sword and speaks her mind.
Scott Maxwell.....22%
Mike Bornstein....7%
Greg Rice............27%
Wes Blackman......2%
Loretta Sharp.......30%
Mark Parrilla........5%
Pam Triolo............5%
Ed Koch speaks out on Obama's shabby treatment of Israel
Former Democratic New York Mayor Ed Koch recently expressed disappointment
in President Obama’s treatment of Israel, telling a Jewish crowd last
weekend that no one “can rightfully say that President Obama is the
best president” for Israel.
Read more... at the Washington Free Beacon.
Read more... at the Washington Free Beacon.
Tuesday, September 25, 2012
Allen West on Obama's Appeasement Speech to U.N.
Comment Up
In his speech today to the United Nations, President Obama stated six times that the attacks across the Islamic world are attributed to a silly video. Furthermore, he refused to use the words terrorist attack in referring to what occurred in Benghazi Libya at our US Consulate on the 11th anniversary of 9-11. He continues to offer up apologies instead of defending our hard earned First Amendment right to freedom of speech and expression. There is no message to this silly video trailer, and it is beneath the dignity and esteem of the Office of the President of the United States to mention it at all.
When tolerance becomes a one way street it leads to cultural suicide. I shall not be tolerant of the intolerant. I know about the UN Resolution 1618 which would make any statement deemed by the Organization of Islamic Countries (OIC) “offensive’ to Islam a crime…..NOT ON MY WATCH FELLAS!
My statement to the United Nations would have been, “The future does not belong to those who attack our Embassies and Consulates and kill our Ambassadors. The Angel of Death in the form of an American Bald Eagle will visit you and wreak havoc and destruction upon your existence.”
Read more...
In his speech today to the United Nations, President Obama stated six times that the attacks across the Islamic world are attributed to a silly video. Furthermore, he refused to use the words terrorist attack in referring to what occurred in Benghazi Libya at our US Consulate on the 11th anniversary of 9-11. He continues to offer up apologies instead of defending our hard earned First Amendment right to freedom of speech and expression. There is no message to this silly video trailer, and it is beneath the dignity and esteem of the Office of the President of the United States to mention it at all.
When tolerance becomes a one way street it leads to cultural suicide. I shall not be tolerant of the intolerant. I know about the UN Resolution 1618 which would make any statement deemed by the Organization of Islamic Countries (OIC) “offensive’ to Islam a crime…..NOT ON MY WATCH FELLAS!
My statement to the United Nations would have been, “The future does not belong to those who attack our Embassies and Consulates and kill our Ambassadors. The Angel of Death in the form of an American Bald Eagle will visit you and wreak havoc and destruction upon your existence.”
Read more...
His name is Ponyo -- Japanese Chin
Comment Up
Katie is getting another dog, a Japanese Chin. This breed is considered one of the most cat-like of the dog breeds in attitude: it is alert, intelligent, and independent, and it uses its paws to wash and wipe its face.
Katie's daughter, Shae, fell in love with Chins so as soon as he is old enough to take away from his mother, he will be a new addition at the McGiveron family already with 3 cats and 2 dogs. This photo is not the one they are buying but similar...a new born weighing 5.4 ounces at birth now at 12.5 ounces and eyes still closed.
Katie is getting another dog, a Japanese Chin. This breed is considered one of the most cat-like of the dog breeds in attitude: it is alert, intelligent, and independent, and it uses its paws to wash and wipe its face.
Katie's daughter, Shae, fell in love with Chins so as soon as he is old enough to take away from his mother, he will be a new addition at the McGiveron family already with 3 cats and 2 dogs. This photo is not the one they are buying but similar...a new born weighing 5.4 ounces at birth now at 12.5 ounces and eyes still closed.
He will look similar to the photo below once he is grown.
Candidate Forum
Comment Up
I was told by College Park Neighborhood President, Mary Lindsey, not to use a flash...they did not want the candidates disturbed during the question and answer period. You would think that last nights' forum was a federal case or something. These two candidates being disturbed by a flash from a camera? First Amendment and all of that. As an elected official, they will have to deal with so much more "aggravation" than a flash from a camera. And if they can't, then they should quit the race right now.
There were two lecterns on the stage--one in the middle of the stage with good light and the other to the right of the stage, out of the light. McVoy was in the dark the entire night, not a strategic place to be. A better arrangement would have been to have one lectern with both candidates seated on each side and each coming up to the podium that was lighted during their two minutes to answer each question. Lecterns are supposed to be in strategic positions--one was not.
And although McVoy was in the dark the entire night, he was not in the dark as far as his answers that were spot on. Stafford also did a good job and was coached well. He stumbled at one point, not having an answer but this is the first public "debate." Also, he harped on our electric utility--fix it and get competitive rates or sell it was his main point. He has always made electric rates a focus since he first came on the scene several years ago but never has given any solutions on making up the $10 million we pull from it to operate our city and balance our budget.
Even though there is a ballot initiative coming up in March, not one submitted question from the crowd on the subject of heights in our downtown was asked of the candidates, an issue that is highly significant. It was totally avoided.
All in all, it was one of the better organized neighborhood debates in years. It was nice to see John Paxman as moderator. He will be back at the Lake Worth Playhouse as moderator for the neighborhood council debate on October 22 at 7:00pm.
What's wrong with this picture?
Aside from being just a lousy photograph--
I was told by College Park Neighborhood President, Mary Lindsey, not to use a flash...they did not want the candidates disturbed during the question and answer period. You would think that last nights' forum was a federal case or something. These two candidates being disturbed by a flash from a camera? First Amendment and all of that. As an elected official, they will have to deal with so much more "aggravation" than a flash from a camera. And if they can't, then they should quit the race right now.
There were two lecterns on the stage--one in the middle of the stage with good light and the other to the right of the stage, out of the light. McVoy was in the dark the entire night, not a strategic place to be. A better arrangement would have been to have one lectern with both candidates seated on each side and each coming up to the podium that was lighted during their two minutes to answer each question. Lecterns are supposed to be in strategic positions--one was not.
And although McVoy was in the dark the entire night, he was not in the dark as far as his answers that were spot on. Stafford also did a good job and was coached well. He stumbled at one point, not having an answer but this is the first public "debate." Also, he harped on our electric utility--fix it and get competitive rates or sell it was his main point. He has always made electric rates a focus since he first came on the scene several years ago but never has given any solutions on making up the $10 million we pull from it to operate our city and balance our budget.
Even though there is a ballot initiative coming up in March, not one submitted question from the crowd on the subject of heights in our downtown was asked of the candidates, an issue that is highly significant. It was totally avoided.
All in all, it was one of the better organized neighborhood debates in years. It was nice to see John Paxman as moderator. He will be back at the Lake Worth Playhouse as moderator for the neighborhood council debate on October 22 at 7:00pm.
Monday, September 24, 2012
Obama Lies
Comment Up
Does anyone care that Obama lies?
I hope everyone watched 60 Minutes last night. President Barack Obama told CBS News’ 60 Minutes that “ninety percent” of the reason the federal budget deficit has risen dramatically under his administration is because of his predecessor, George W. Bush. Not only is that a baldfaced lie--Obama borrowed more money in less than four years than Bush did in eight--but it is a lie that many in the media want to believe, as Andrew Sullivan of Newsweek demonstrates.
Read more... at Breitbart.
It is because of such willful self-delusion and fakery by significant portions of the media that Obama believes he can get away with lying about the deficit, says Conservativebyte.com.
Does anyone care that Obama lies?
I hope everyone watched 60 Minutes last night. President Barack Obama told CBS News’ 60 Minutes that “ninety percent” of the reason the federal budget deficit has risen dramatically under his administration is because of his predecessor, George W. Bush. Not only is that a baldfaced lie--Obama borrowed more money in less than four years than Bush did in eight--but it is a lie that many in the media want to believe, as Andrew Sullivan of Newsweek demonstrates.
Read more... at Breitbart.
It is because of such willful self-delusion and fakery by significant portions of the media that Obama believes he can get away with lying about the deficit, says Conservativebyte.com.
Florida Ballot Amendments
Comment Up
Amendments to the Florida Constitution:
Amendment 1, Florida Healthcare amendment
Prevents penalties for not purchasing health care coverage in order to comply with federal health care reforms
Amendment 2, Florida Veterans Property Tax Amendment
Allows for property tax discounts for disabled veterans
Amendment 3, Florida State Revenue Limitation
Replaces existing revenue limits with a new limitation based on inflation and population changes
Amendment 4, Florida Property tax Amendment
Amends commercial and non-homestead property taxes
Amendment 5, Florida Supreme court Amendment
Gives the Legislature increased control over the judicial branch.
Amendment 6, Florida Abortion Amendment
Prohibits public funds for abortions
Amendment 8, Florida religious Freedom Amendment
Repeals ban of public dollars for religious funding
Amendment 9, Florida Property Tax Exemption for Surviving Spouses
Authorizes the legislature to totally or partially exempt surviving spouses of military veterans or first responders who died in the line of duty from paying property taxes
Amendment 10, Florida Tangible Personal Property Tax Amendment
Provides an exemption from ad valorem taxes levied by local governments on tangible personal property that's value is greater than $25,000 but less than $50,000
Amendment 11, Florida Senior Homestead Exemption Tax Amendment
Authorizes counties and municipalities to offer additional tax exemptions on homes of low-income seniors
Amendment 12, Florida Appointment Process for State University System Board of Governors Revision Amendment
Revises selection process for student member of Board of Governors of State University System
Amendments to the Florida Constitution:
Amendment 1, Florida Healthcare amendment
Prevents penalties for not purchasing health care coverage in order to comply with federal health care reforms
Amendment 2, Florida Veterans Property Tax Amendment
Allows for property tax discounts for disabled veterans
Amendment 3, Florida State Revenue Limitation
Replaces existing revenue limits with a new limitation based on inflation and population changes
Amendment 4, Florida Property tax Amendment
Amends commercial and non-homestead property taxes
Amendment 5, Florida Supreme court Amendment
Gives the Legislature increased control over the judicial branch.
Amendment 6, Florida Abortion Amendment
Prohibits public funds for abortions
Amendment 8, Florida religious Freedom Amendment
Repeals ban of public dollars for religious funding
Amendment 9, Florida Property Tax Exemption for Surviving Spouses
Authorizes the legislature to totally or partially exempt surviving spouses of military veterans or first responders who died in the line of duty from paying property taxes
Amendment 10, Florida Tangible Personal Property Tax Amendment
Provides an exemption from ad valorem taxes levied by local governments on tangible personal property that's value is greater than $25,000 but less than $50,000
Amendment 11, Florida Senior Homestead Exemption Tax Amendment
Authorizes counties and municipalities to offer additional tax exemptions on homes of low-income seniors
Amendment 12, Florida Appointment Process for State University System Board of Governors Revision Amendment
Revises selection process for student member of Board of Governors of State University System
Lake Worth Running on Fumes says the PBPost
Comment Up
Lake Worth was getting its act together under the former city manager. Now we are back to business as usual.
Read more at the Palm Beach Post and its editorial Lake Worth getting close to running on fumes.
Lake Worth was getting its act together under the former city manager. Now we are back to business as usual.
Read more at the Palm Beach Post and its editorial Lake Worth getting close to running on fumes.
The American Dream and Deferred Action
Comment Up
Homeland Security document on Deferred Action.
On June 15, 2012, President Barack Obama announced that the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) would not deport certain DREAM Act–eligible undocumented youth. Under a directive from the secretary of DHS, these youth will be given a type of temporary permission to stay in the U.S. called “deferred action.” Deferred action will be valid for two years and may be renewed at the end of the two years. Individuals who receive deferred action may apply for and may obtain employment authorization.
The federal government began accepting deferred action requests on August 15, 2012. Read more... at the National Immigration Law Center.
As previously mentioned, the Palm Beach County Sheriff's Department has issued 2,000 identification cards to illegal aliens so that they can open bank accounts and become more "legal." Now the City is allowing the PBSO to use a public building and will have an Information Session at our Shuffleboard Court Building for all those illegals looking to be a part of Obama's Deferred Action. The session will be on October 4 from 6:30 to 8:00pm.
Obama and the Democrats like to tell you that walking across our borders is not an illegal action and they want you to call these people undocumented, not illegal because there is no such thing as "illegal." Illegal immigration is the act of living in a country uninvited and without documentation. However, those people defending the undocumented people give legalese and quote the 14th Amendment which affirms that neither the federal government nor state governments may "deny to any person within its jurisdiction the equal protection of the laws."
Journalist with the Huffington Post, Jose Antonio Vargas, an admitted illegal alien, is calling on all news outlets to drop the use of the term “illegal immigrant.” We will see the liberal press following this advice.
We all can recall Arizona SB 1070 when our city commission issued a proclamation against it. Supreme Court Justice Anthony Kennedy wrote the majority opinion on it saying, “As a general rule, it is not a crime for a movable alien to remain in the United States.” Being in the U.S. without proper documents is a civil offense, not a criminal one, or so we are being told.
Obama is giving certain illegals the documentation that they need. Illegal aliens are NOT immigrants however those children brought here by their parents, and through no fault of their own, have been given a bad rap. For more information, see Benito Gaspar who was being paid by a JAG grant to help the illegal alien in Lake Worth...561-202-9629
Benito giving a thumbs up when the Lake Worth City Commission did not support Arizona 1070.
On June 15, 2012, President Barack Obama announced that the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) would not deport certain DREAM Act–eligible undocumented youth. Under a directive from the secretary of DHS, these youth will be given a type of temporary permission to stay in the U.S. called “deferred action.” Deferred action will be valid for two years and may be renewed at the end of the two years. Individuals who receive deferred action may apply for and may obtain employment authorization.
The federal government began accepting deferred action requests on August 15, 2012. Read more... at the National Immigration Law Center.
As previously mentioned, the Palm Beach County Sheriff's Department has issued 2,000 identification cards to illegal aliens so that they can open bank accounts and become more "legal." Now the City is allowing the PBSO to use a public building and will have an Information Session at our Shuffleboard Court Building for all those illegals looking to be a part of Obama's Deferred Action. The session will be on October 4 from 6:30 to 8:00pm.
Obama and the Democrats like to tell you that walking across our borders is not an illegal action and they want you to call these people undocumented, not illegal because there is no such thing as "illegal." Illegal immigration is the act of living in a country uninvited and without documentation. However, those people defending the undocumented people give legalese and quote the 14th Amendment which affirms that neither the federal government nor state governments may "deny to any person within its jurisdiction the equal protection of the laws."
Journalist with the Huffington Post, Jose Antonio Vargas, an admitted illegal alien, is calling on all news outlets to drop the use of the term “illegal immigrant.” We will see the liberal press following this advice.
We all can recall Arizona SB 1070 when our city commission issued a proclamation against it. Supreme Court Justice Anthony Kennedy wrote the majority opinion on it saying, “As a general rule, it is not a crime for a movable alien to remain in the United States.” Being in the U.S. without proper documents is a civil offense, not a criminal one, or so we are being told.
Obama is giving certain illegals the documentation that they need. Illegal aliens are NOT immigrants however those children brought here by their parents, and through no fault of their own, have been given a bad rap. For more information, see Benito Gaspar who was being paid by a JAG grant to help the illegal alien in Lake Worth...561-202-9629
Benito giving a thumbs up when the Lake Worth City Commission did not support Arizona 1070.
Sunday, September 23, 2012
Fabulous Colorful Sky
Comment Up
The colors of tonight's sky were bright orange.
There is no photo that I could have taken that could do it justice.
And then to the south was a rainbow!
Quote from the Past - Obama
“I believe that marriage is the union between a man and a woman. For me as a Christian, it’s also a sacred union. God’s in the mix.”~ Barack Obama
At a 2008 campaign event at Rick Warren’s Saddleback Church, Obama framed his opposition to same-sex marriage in Christian terms.
Muslim Brotherhood Infiltration
Comment Up
The Muslim Brotherhood is a radical Islamist organization that has successfully penetrated both political parties and the delicate areas of defense and national security.
Retired U.S. Army Lt. Gen. William “Jerry” Boykin, executive vice president of the Family Research Council, told WND’s Greg Corombos that people with connections to the Muslim Brotherhood are in vital positions within every significant area of the U.S. government. He specifically cited high security clearances for such people in the Pentagon and the Department of Homeland Security.
Read more...
The Muslim Brotherhood is a radical Islamist organization that has successfully penetrated both political parties and the delicate areas of defense and national security.
Retired U.S. Army Lt. Gen. William “Jerry” Boykin, executive vice president of the Family Research Council, told WND’s Greg Corombos that people with connections to the Muslim Brotherhood are in vital positions within every significant area of the U.S. government. He specifically cited high security clearances for such people in the Pentagon and the Department of Homeland Security.
Read more...
Saturday, September 22, 2012
United States Debt
"There are two ways to conquer and enslave a nation.
One is by
the sword.
The other is
by debt."
~ John Adams 1826
Romneys give the most to Charity
Comment Up
Mistrust of the mass media has hit a high at 60% according to a recent Gallup poll and it's no wonder.
Something that the liberal left wing media will not tell you is that Romney and his wife Ann gave 29.4 percent of their income to charity in 2011, donating $4,020,772 out of the $13,696,951 they took in.
Obama and first lady Michelle Obama gave 21.8 percent of their income to charitable organizations last year, donating $172,130 out of the $789,674 they made.
Biden and his wife, Jill, gave 1.5 percent of their income away in 2011, with charitable donations totaling $5,540 out of $379,035.
Read more... at Politico.
Mistrust of the mass media has hit a high at 60% according to a recent Gallup poll and it's no wonder.
Something that the liberal left wing media will not tell you is that Romney and his wife Ann gave 29.4 percent of their income to charity in 2011, donating $4,020,772 out of the $13,696,951 they took in.
Obama and first lady Michelle Obama gave 21.8 percent of their income to charitable organizations last year, donating $172,130 out of the $789,674 they made.
Biden and his wife, Jill, gave 1.5 percent of their income away in 2011, with charitable donations totaling $5,540 out of $379,035.
Read more... at Politico.
The Two Worst People in the World
Comment Up
"Keith Olbermann, the former MNSBC resident lunatic and poster child for the tragedy of birth control failure, used to name some people the worst people in the world.
There are two men who deserve the title worst men in the world. Who are they and what are they doing?
They are Gary Johnson and Virgil Goode."
Go to the Tea Party Nation and find out why.
"Keith Olbermann, the former MNSBC resident lunatic and poster child for the tragedy of birth control failure, used to name some people the worst people in the world.
There are two men who deserve the title worst men in the world. Who are they and what are they doing?
They are Gary Johnson and Virgil Goode."
Go to the Tea Party Nation and find out why.
Friday at Lake Worth Beach
Everyone is working to meet the challenge of opening on time. Mulligans has pushed back its opening to accommodate Lake Worth. All the wonderful landscaping at the lower level has been ripped out so that we can re-design parking lots and replace it with new landscaping and spend $5 to $7 million on the beach redevelopment. Including the casino, our beach will have one heck of an expensive makeover at the tune of around $13.5 million. We will be charging visitors $2 an hour for this major renovation. We will now have 163 less parking spaces at the upper level, traffic backing into each other but we will have a Swing for little Sally.
Quote of the Decade - Obama
Comment Up
"The fact that we are here today to debate raising
America's debt limit is a sign of leadership failure. It is a sign that the US
Government cannot pay its own bills. It is a sign that we now depend on ongoing
financial assistance from foreign countries to finance our Government's
reckless fiscal policies.
Increasing America 's debt weakens us domestically and internationally. Leadership means that, 'the buck stops here'. Instead, Washington is shifting the burden of bad choices today onto the backs of our children and grandchildren. America has a debt problem and a failure of leadership. Americans deserve better."
~ Senator Barack H. Obama
March 2006
"The fact that we are here today to debate raising
America's debt limit is a sign of leadership failure. It is a sign that the US
Government cannot pay its own bills. It is a sign that we now depend on ongoing
financial assistance from foreign countries to finance our Government's
reckless fiscal policies.Increasing America 's debt weakens us domestically and internationally. Leadership means that, 'the buck stops here'. Instead, Washington is shifting the burden of bad choices today onto the backs of our children and grandchildren. America has a debt problem and a failure of leadership. Americans deserve better."
~ Senator Barack H. Obama
March 2006
Friday, September 21, 2012
Libertarians Invite District 2 candidates to speak
Comment Up
I really resent political parties getting involved in our non-partisan races in Lake Worth.
The Libertarian Party of Palm Beach County (LP Palm Beach) has regular social meetings in downtown Lake Worth each month and found it fitting to invite district 2 city commission candidates to speak to their group. The race is between incumbent Christopher McVoy and political new comer Jim Stafford. McVoy never responded to the libertarians’ request to speak at this week's meeting and Stafford readily agreed so unfortunately we cannot effectively comment on McVoy’s race to keep his job at the city. Lake Worth voters will decide between McVoy and Stafford on November 6, 2012 during the general election.
Read more about it: Libertarians accuse McVoy of no show.
When speaking with Commissioner McVoy he stated, "I never saw the invitation but just saw one on Facebook today inviting me to an October meeting. I plan on attending that."
I really resent political parties getting involved in our non-partisan races in Lake Worth.
The Libertarian Party of Palm Beach County (LP Palm Beach) has regular social meetings in downtown Lake Worth each month and found it fitting to invite district 2 city commission candidates to speak to their group. The race is between incumbent Christopher McVoy and political new comer Jim Stafford. McVoy never responded to the libertarians’ request to speak at this week's meeting and Stafford readily agreed so unfortunately we cannot effectively comment on McVoy’s race to keep his job at the city. Lake Worth voters will decide between McVoy and Stafford on November 6, 2012 during the general election.
Read more about it: Libertarians accuse McVoy of no show.
When speaking with Commissioner McVoy he stated, "I never saw the invitation but just saw one on Facebook today inviting me to an October meeting. I plan on attending that."
Trojan Football Home Game tonight
7:00pm tonight
Lake Worth Trojans play John I. Leonard
Come on out and support local football.
Obama disrespected Israel
Obama actually congratulated the Muslim Brotherhood's Morsi back in June.
Quotes from the Rally:
"Our capital shall not be Cairo, Mecca, or Medina. It shall be Jerusalem. Our cry shall be: 'Millions of martyrs march toward Jerusalem'. Banish the sleep from the eyes of all Jews. Come on, you lovers of martydrom, you are all Hamas. Brandish your weapons... say your prayers... We say it: loud and clear. We shall pray in Jerusalem or else we shall die as martyrs on its threshold."
Read more...
Guessing Game - We need to know our Enemy
Comment Up
1. 1968, Bobby Kennedy was shot and killed by:
a. Superman
b. Jay Leno
c. Harry Potter
d. A Muslim male between the ages of 17 and 40
2. In 1972, at the Munich Olympics, athletes were kidnapped and massacred by:
a. Olga Corbett
b. Sitting Bull
c. Arnold Schwarzenegger
d. Muslim males mostly between the ages of 17 and 40
3. In 1979, the US embassy in Iran was taken over by:
a. Lost Norwegians
b. Elvis
c. A tour bus full of 80-year-old women
d . Muslim males mostly between the ages of 17 and 40
4. During the 1980's, a number of Americans were kidnapped in Lebanon by:
a. John Dillinger
b. The King of Sweden
c. The Boy Scouts
d. Muslim males mostly between the ages of 17 and 40
5. In 1983, the US Marine barracks in Beirut was blown up by:
a. A pizza delivery boy
b. Pee Wee Herman
c. Geraldo Rivera
d. Muslim males mostly between the ages of 17 and 40
6. In 1985, the cruise ship Achille Lauro was hijacked and a 70 year old American passenger was murdered and thrown overboard in his wheelchair by:
a. The Smurfs
b. Davey Jones
c. The Little Mermaid
d. Muslim males mostly between the ages of 17 and 40
7. In 1985, TWA flight 847 was hijacked at Athens, and a US Navy diver trying to rescue passengers was murdered by:
a. Captain Kidd
b. Charles Lindberg
c. Mother Teresa
d. Muslim males mostly between the ages of 17 and 40
8. In 1988, Pan Am Flight 103 was bombed by:
a. Scooby Doo
b. The Tooth Fairy
c. The Sundance Kid
d. Muslim males mostly between the ages of 17 and 40
9. In 1993, the World Trade Center was bombed the first time by:
a. Richard Simmons
b. Grandma Moses
c. Michael Jordan
d. Muslim males mostly between the ages of 17 and 40
10. In 1998, the US embassies in Kenya and Tanzania were bombed by:
a. Mr. Rogers
b. Hillary Clinton, to distract attention from Wild Bill's women problems
c. The World Wrestling Federation
d. Muslim males mostly between the ages of 17 and 40
11. On 9/11/2001, four airliners were hijacked; two crashed into the World Trade Center towers, one crashed into the Pentagon and the other was diverted and crashed by the passengers. Almost 3,000 people were killed by:
a. Bugs Bunny, Wiley E. Coyote, Daffy Duck and Elmer Fudd
b. The Supreme Court of Florida
c. Mr. Bean
d. Muslim males mostly between the ages of 17 and 40
12. In 2002, the United States began fighting a war in Afghanistan against:
a. Enron
b. The Lutheran Church
c. The NFL
d. Muslim males mostly between the ages of 17 and 40
13. In 2002, reporter Daniel Pearl was kidnapped and his head was cut off by
a. Bonnie and Clyde
b. Captain Kangaroo
c. Billy Graham
d. Muslim males mostly between the ages of 17 and 40
14. In 2012, the American Embassy in Egypt was stormed and the American flag was burned by:
a. the Prime Minister of Israel, Benjamin Netanyahu
b. former Governer Mitt Romney
c. Secretary of State, Hillary Clinton
d. Muslim males mostly between the ages of 17 and 40
15. In 2012, the American consulate in Libya was stormed and the American Ambassador was killed by:
a. Barak Hussein Obama
b. the unrepentent terrorist, Bill Ayers
c. Rahm Emmanuel and David Axelrod
d. Muslim males mostly between the ages of 17 and 40
1. 1968, Bobby Kennedy was shot and killed by:
a. Superman
b. Jay Leno
c. Harry Potter
d. A Muslim male between the ages of 17 and 40
2. In 1972, at the Munich Olympics, athletes were kidnapped and massacred by:
a. Olga Corbett
b. Sitting Bull
c. Arnold Schwarzenegger
d. Muslim males mostly between the ages of 17 and 40
3. In 1979, the US embassy in Iran was taken over by:
a. Lost Norwegians
b. Elvis
c. A tour bus full of 80-year-old women
d . Muslim males mostly between the ages of 17 and 40
4. During the 1980's, a number of Americans were kidnapped in Lebanon by:
a. John Dillinger
b. The King of Sweden
c. The Boy Scouts
d. Muslim males mostly between the ages of 17 and 40
5. In 1983, the US Marine barracks in Beirut was blown up by:
a. A pizza delivery boy
b. Pee Wee Herman
c. Geraldo Rivera
d. Muslim males mostly between the ages of 17 and 40
6. In 1985, the cruise ship Achille Lauro was hijacked and a 70 year old American passenger was murdered and thrown overboard in his wheelchair by:
a. The Smurfs
b. Davey Jones
c. The Little Mermaid
d. Muslim males mostly between the ages of 17 and 40
7. In 1985, TWA flight 847 was hijacked at Athens, and a US Navy diver trying to rescue passengers was murdered by:
a. Captain Kidd
b. Charles Lindberg
c. Mother Teresa
d. Muslim males mostly between the ages of 17 and 40
8. In 1988, Pan Am Flight 103 was bombed by:
a. Scooby Doo
b. The Tooth Fairy
c. The Sundance Kid
d. Muslim males mostly between the ages of 17 and 40
9. In 1993, the World Trade Center was bombed the first time by:
a. Richard Simmons
b. Grandma Moses
c. Michael Jordan
d. Muslim males mostly between the ages of 17 and 40
10. In 1998, the US embassies in Kenya and Tanzania were bombed by:
a. Mr. Rogers
b. Hillary Clinton, to distract attention from Wild Bill's women problems
c. The World Wrestling Federation
d. Muslim males mostly between the ages of 17 and 40
11. On 9/11/2001, four airliners were hijacked; two crashed into the World Trade Center towers, one crashed into the Pentagon and the other was diverted and crashed by the passengers. Almost 3,000 people were killed by:
a. Bugs Bunny, Wiley E. Coyote, Daffy Duck and Elmer Fudd
b. The Supreme Court of Florida
c. Mr. Bean
d. Muslim males mostly between the ages of 17 and 40
12. In 2002, the United States began fighting a war in Afghanistan against:
a. Enron
b. The Lutheran Church
c. The NFL
d. Muslim males mostly between the ages of 17 and 40
13. In 2002, reporter Daniel Pearl was kidnapped and his head was cut off by
a. Bonnie and Clyde
b. Captain Kangaroo
c. Billy Graham
d. Muslim males mostly between the ages of 17 and 40
14. In 2012, the American Embassy in Egypt was stormed and the American flag was burned by:
a. the Prime Minister of Israel, Benjamin Netanyahu
b. former Governer Mitt Romney
c. Secretary of State, Hillary Clinton
d. Muslim males mostly between the ages of 17 and 40
15. In 2012, the American consulate in Libya was stormed and the American Ambassador was killed by:
a. Barak Hussein Obama
b. the unrepentent terrorist, Bill Ayers
c. Rahm Emmanuel and David Axelrod
d. Muslim males mostly between the ages of 17 and 40
PirateTalk catching on in Washington
Scotty Starnes says, "No surprise Obama enjoys pirates. He’s been plundering the taxpayers for nearly 4 years. Remember folks, this is the same guy who hasn’t met with his own jobs council for over 6 months due to what Press Secretary Jay Carney said was a 'full plate'.”
And the same sort of stuff happened right here in Lake Worth, a diversion from the real problems of our Budget and our unfunded liability. Read more...
And the same sort of stuff happened right here in Lake Worth, a diversion from the real problems of our Budget and our unfunded liability. Read more...
Disgrace in America
Are you kidding me? Dragged away in the middle of the night, police haul off filmmaker of the anti-Mohammad 14 minute film clip. Freedom of speech is in jeopardy. Who would have thought that could happen in this country? Obama apologizing again for the film that supposedly set off Muslim/Islam terrorist actions in 30 countries as our embassies have been destroyed, an ambassador murdered along with 3 American embassy guards.
Thursday, September 20, 2012
Talk like a Pirate getting more attention
Comment Up
United Press International, located in Washington, D.C., has picked up on our "Talk like a Pirate" proclamation and the Palm Beach Post article It is now being circulated to many markets. Read more...
Following is former Commissioner Jo-Ann Golden's letter to the city manager, Michael Bornstein:
Subject: Proclamation on city agenda
Dear Michael,
The proclamation set to be read this evening is an insult to the people of the City of Lake Worth. In these times when there is so much turmoil, ignorance, and killing, this effort to further dumb down our government should be rejected.
Pirates operate outside the sovereign governments. Pirates are outside of the law. What exactly is the purpose of this day? Pirates shared in whatever they seized. Are we promoting this philosophy for our City Government.
Modern definitions of piracy include the following acts: Kidnapping of people for ransom, robbery, murder, seizure and sabotage. People are killed by pirates. Environmentalist and yachtsman Peter Blake was murdered by pirates in 2001. A pirate is a criminal who plunders at sea; commonly attacking merchants ships and often pillaging port towns.
"If a nation expects to be ignorant and free, in a state of civilization, it expects what never was and never will be." Thomas Jefferson.
"This institution will be based on the illimitable freedom of the human mind. For here we are not afraid to follow truth wherever it may lead, nor to tolerate any error so long as reason is left free to combat it." Thomas Jefferson
Please return to reason. Perhaps it would have been more appropriate this week to recognize Constitution Day commemorating the signing of our Nation's Constitution. This agenda has been degraded by the inclusion of this proclamation. City Hall is showing a lack of sensitivity and an extremely juvenile mentality. There is no person,or for that matter, any city, that denigrates itself and expects to succeed. To grunt and growl like a pirate is a poor way to show respect for each other and our community. Please pull this agenda item.
Sincerely,
Jo-Ann Golden
Following is former Commissioner Jo-Ann Golden's letter to the city manager, Michael Bornstein:
Subject: Proclamation on city agenda
Dear Michael,
The proclamation set to be read this evening is an insult to the people of the City of Lake Worth. In these times when there is so much turmoil, ignorance, and killing, this effort to further dumb down our government should be rejected.
Pirates operate outside the sovereign governments. Pirates are outside of the law. What exactly is the purpose of this day? Pirates shared in whatever they seized. Are we promoting this philosophy for our City Government.
Modern definitions of piracy include the following acts: Kidnapping of people for ransom, robbery, murder, seizure and sabotage. People are killed by pirates. Environmentalist and yachtsman Peter Blake was murdered by pirates in 2001. A pirate is a criminal who plunders at sea; commonly attacking merchants ships and often pillaging port towns.
"If a nation expects to be ignorant and free, in a state of civilization, it expects what never was and never will be." Thomas Jefferson.
"This institution will be based on the illimitable freedom of the human mind. For here we are not afraid to follow truth wherever it may lead, nor to tolerate any error so long as reason is left free to combat it." Thomas Jefferson
Please return to reason. Perhaps it would have been more appropriate this week to recognize Constitution Day commemorating the signing of our Nation's Constitution. This agenda has been degraded by the inclusion of this proclamation. City Hall is showing a lack of sensitivity and an extremely juvenile mentality. There is no person,or for that matter, any city, that denigrates itself and expects to succeed. To grunt and growl like a pirate is a poor way to show respect for each other and our community. Please pull this agenda item.
Sincerely,
Jo-Ann Golden
Marco Rubio spearheads three Bills
Yesterday the Senate Foreign Relations Committee approved three bills spearheaded by U.S. Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL).
The bills deal with opposition to an international effort to regulate the Internet, demanding greater transparency and accountability in U.S. foreign aid programs and requiring a regular four year strategic review of U.S. foreign policy programs and objectives.
Read more... of Marco's Press Release.
The bills deal with opposition to an international effort to regulate the Internet, demanding greater transparency and accountability in U.S. foreign aid programs and requiring a regular four year strategic review of U.S. foreign policy programs and objectives.
Read more... of Marco's Press Release.
Lake Worth Historical Resources Preservation Board
Comment Up
I have always advocated building more expensive houses in Lake Worth, whenever possible, attracting the more affluent thus possibly, over time, driving out the slum and blight and increasing our tax base. Where there is poverty one often finds slum and blight.
Nothing has ever been built on 302 North Lakeside. It is surrounded by lovely houses on a wonderful street. It is owned by builder, Hector Cabrera who has built some really cute houses in our city. Tim and Elizabeth Hulett went before the Historic Planning &Zoning Board as they say that they want to build a house on the lot for their son, a structure that is not compatible to the adjacent properties. The 31 year old son even spoke before the board telling them that "I love Lake Worth."
Those who were in attendance and sat on the Historic Resources Preservation Board for that meeting were: Herman Robinson, Loretta Sharp, and alternates Mark Clary and Jimmy Zoellner. Juan Contin was absent. Wes Blackman, Chair of the Historic Preservation Board is the agent for the Hulett's who recused himself from the proceedings. Judith Just, another member of the Board, recused herself as well as she was against the development. She lives next door to it.
The subject property is located within the Old Lucerne Local Historic District, which is also listed as a national historic district on the National Register of Historic Places. The lot is zoned Single Family Residential (SF-7) and is subject to the development standards for this district in the City of Lake Worth Zoning Code and in the City’s Comprehensive Plan. In addition, the southern 17.5-feet of the lot is encumbered by a recorded utilities easement. The City’s property files do not indicate that there have ever been any buildings constructed on the property.
Staff’s opinion was that the building height should be lowered in order for the house to be compatible in height with other adjacent buildings in the district. Staff recommended an additional overall height reduction. This height can be taken out between the first and second stories, maintaining the high ceiling heights in the buildings while creating an overall height reduction. While still leaving the home taller than other buildings in the area, the reduction would bring the building more into scale with the rest of the neighborhood.
Loretta Sharpe, newly appointed Board member wanted the Hulett's to have anything they desired even though the Huletts had met with the P&Z staff and had agreed to their recommendations of lowering the ceiling heights and taking/changing out the tower. She wanted them to have all of it, tower included, and the heck with the neighborhood even if it did not comply with the Preservation's code for visual height compatibility to the adjacent structures.
The Hulett name is well known in Palm Beach County and Greg Rice is a well known representative of Hulett Environmental, a new member of our Planning and Zoning board, and one who owns property in Lake Worth. One unit he owns is located at The Lucerne, a building approved by Loretta Sharpe when she was previously on the P&Z several years ago and a building that is incompatible to the buildings in our downtown. It was given waiver after waiver to the developer by the P&Z. Sharp admits to being a good friend of Greg Rice. Sharp, a Realtor, has also been a big supporter of growing the buildings up in our downtown and was against the people's referendum recently vocalizing such at the last commission meeting. Just like the Lucerne, the 302 N. Lakeside proposed building is also incompatible to the other residential houses adjacent to it.
The former appointed members of the Planning &Zoning Board were removed and replaced with political appointees by the present commission. They did the same with the Historic Preservation Board so that the commission could pack it with their political sympaticos who are developer oriented at any and all costs, even to the detriment to our historic district and the people who live there. At least Jimmy Zoellner, member of the Historic Preservation Board wanted to keep the heights per Staff's recommendation.
The proposed structure was approved 4/0. I believe that all four members who voted on this approval were contacted by the Hulett's and at least three of them met with them out of the Sunshine. Perhaps the entire Board was contacted. This is the sort of practice that happened years ago when this city was known for its corruption. Even if this is not a Florida Sunshine Law issue, it could very well be construed as an ethical issue. All private conversations should have been revealed as to the details of the meeting, where it was held, who initiated it, what was said and what was asked and what conclusions or agreements were reached by the Board members at those private one-on-one meetings.
It was stated at Tuesday night's commission meeting that all city board members have taken the Palm Beach County ethics course. They are all in compliance with the County just for having taken the course but I question whether it all sank in or whether those private meetings by the Historic Resources Planning members with the prospective owners were proper.
Perhaps this entire Board should have recused itself.
I have always advocated building more expensive houses in Lake Worth, whenever possible, attracting the more affluent thus possibly, over time, driving out the slum and blight and increasing our tax base. Where there is poverty one often finds slum and blight.
Nothing has ever been built on 302 North Lakeside. It is surrounded by lovely houses on a wonderful street. It is owned by builder, Hector Cabrera who has built some really cute houses in our city. Tim and Elizabeth Hulett went before the Historic Planning &Zoning Board as they say that they want to build a house on the lot for their son, a structure that is not compatible to the adjacent properties. The 31 year old son even spoke before the board telling them that "I love Lake Worth."
Those who were in attendance and sat on the Historic Resources Preservation Board for that meeting were: Herman Robinson, Loretta Sharp, and alternates Mark Clary and Jimmy Zoellner. Juan Contin was absent. Wes Blackman, Chair of the Historic Preservation Board is the agent for the Hulett's who recused himself from the proceedings. Judith Just, another member of the Board, recused herself as well as she was against the development. She lives next door to it.
The subject property is located within the Old Lucerne Local Historic District, which is also listed as a national historic district on the National Register of Historic Places. The lot is zoned Single Family Residential (SF-7) and is subject to the development standards for this district in the City of Lake Worth Zoning Code and in the City’s Comprehensive Plan. In addition, the southern 17.5-feet of the lot is encumbered by a recorded utilities easement. The City’s property files do not indicate that there have ever been any buildings constructed on the property.
Staff’s opinion was that the building height should be lowered in order for the house to be compatible in height with other adjacent buildings in the district. Staff recommended an additional overall height reduction. This height can be taken out between the first and second stories, maintaining the high ceiling heights in the buildings while creating an overall height reduction. While still leaving the home taller than other buildings in the area, the reduction would bring the building more into scale with the rest of the neighborhood.
Loretta Sharpe, newly appointed Board member wanted the Hulett's to have anything they desired even though the Huletts had met with the P&Z staff and had agreed to their recommendations of lowering the ceiling heights and taking/changing out the tower. She wanted them to have all of it, tower included, and the heck with the neighborhood even if it did not comply with the Preservation's code for visual height compatibility to the adjacent structures.
The Hulett name is well known in Palm Beach County and Greg Rice is a well known representative of Hulett Environmental, a new member of our Planning and Zoning board, and one who owns property in Lake Worth. One unit he owns is located at The Lucerne, a building approved by Loretta Sharpe when she was previously on the P&Z several years ago and a building that is incompatible to the buildings in our downtown. It was given waiver after waiver to the developer by the P&Z. Sharp admits to being a good friend of Greg Rice. Sharp, a Realtor, has also been a big supporter of growing the buildings up in our downtown and was against the people's referendum recently vocalizing such at the last commission meeting. Just like the Lucerne, the 302 N. Lakeside proposed building is also incompatible to the other residential houses adjacent to it.
The former appointed members of the Planning &Zoning Board were removed and replaced with political appointees by the present commission. They did the same with the Historic Preservation Board so that the commission could pack it with their political sympaticos who are developer oriented at any and all costs, even to the detriment to our historic district and the people who live there. At least Jimmy Zoellner, member of the Historic Preservation Board wanted to keep the heights per Staff's recommendation.
The proposed structure was approved 4/0. I believe that all four members who voted on this approval were contacted by the Hulett's and at least three of them met with them out of the Sunshine. Perhaps the entire Board was contacted. This is the sort of practice that happened years ago when this city was known for its corruption. Even if this is not a Florida Sunshine Law issue, it could very well be construed as an ethical issue. All private conversations should have been revealed as to the details of the meeting, where it was held, who initiated it, what was said and what was asked and what conclusions or agreements were reached by the Board members at those private one-on-one meetings.
It was stated at Tuesday night's commission meeting that all city board members have taken the Palm Beach County ethics course. They are all in compliance with the County just for having taken the course but I question whether it all sank in or whether those private meetings by the Historic Resources Planning members with the prospective owners were proper.
Perhaps this entire Board should have recused itself.
Mulligan's has new Opening date at Lake Worth Casino
Comment Up
Tuesday night the City Manager, Michael Bornstein, said that Mulligans would be opening on October 18 at our new Casino building at Lake Worth beach--that he didn't know where the October 3rd date came from. It was from Mulligan's Press release.
E-Mail from Mulligans:
I can confirm that we have delayed our opening until October 18th.
We had set our sites for October 3rd. After meeting with the city, we decided to push back a couple of weeks so everything and everyone are on the same page.
I must say though, this place is going to be BEAUTIFUL! We already have artwork on the walls, televisions hung, and the kitchen is almost ready to fire up and grill some fish!
Tuesday night the City Manager, Michael Bornstein, said that Mulligans would be opening on October 18 at our new Casino building at Lake Worth beach--that he didn't know where the October 3rd date came from. It was from Mulligan's Press release.
E-Mail from Mulligans:
I can confirm that we have delayed our opening until October 18th.
We had set our sites for October 3rd. After meeting with the city, we decided to push back a couple of weeks so everything and everyone are on the same page.
I must say though, this place is going to be BEAUTIFUL! We already have artwork on the walls, televisions hung, and the kitchen is almost ready to fire up and grill some fish!
Wednesday, September 19, 2012
Putting a Cog in the Wheel
Comment Up
The very "convenient" Chain of e-mails and condensed script without the attachments--
9-18-12
1:32pm
E-mail from Adam Biblo, Planning Analyst with the Department of Economic Opportunity thanking Karen Vaughan for the comp plan documents.
2:02pm
E-mail from K. Vaughan to A. Biblo sending final adopted Comp Plan.
2:44pm
E-mail from A. Biblo to K. Vaughan stating "you may want to have your legal consultants provide an advisory opinion regarding the appropriateness of a referendum regarding building heights." He cites 163.3167 8), Florida Statutes.
3:03pm
Karen Vaughan to William Waters. Contents of e-mail are not shown
3:26pm
William Waters to Torcivia, Goddeau, Bornstein, stating the e-mail from Biblo implies that the referendum is not valid and is illegal.
The very "convenient" Chain of e-mails and condensed script without the attachments--
9-18-12
1:32pm
E-mail from Adam Biblo, Planning Analyst with the Department of Economic Opportunity thanking Karen Vaughan for the comp plan documents.
2:02pm
E-mail from K. Vaughan to A. Biblo sending final adopted Comp Plan.
2:44pm
E-mail from A. Biblo to K. Vaughan stating "you may want to have your legal consultants provide an advisory opinion regarding the appropriateness of a referendum regarding building heights." He cites 163.3167 8), Florida Statutes.
3:03pm
Karen Vaughan to William Waters. Contents of e-mail are not shown
3:26pm
William Waters to Torcivia, Goddeau, Bornstein, stating the e-mail from Biblo implies that the referendum is not valid and is illegal.
A Stone Wall - The City of Lake Worth
Comment Up
Section 9 (a) (2)
Referendum from the Lake Worth Charter
The qualified voters of the City shall have the power to require reconsideration by the city commission of any adopted ordinance and if the city commission fails to repeal an ordinance so reconsidered, to approve or reject it at a city election, provided that such power shall not extend to the budget or capital improvements program or any emergency ordinance or ordinance relating to the appropriation of money, levy of taxes or salaries of city officers or employees.
In this case, it is Ordinance 2012-30--building heights ballot issue.
Last night during discussion under Public Hearings on the building heights referendum and placing it on the March ballot (that is costing us $21,000 because this commission majority decided to limit our rights and "stick it to us" and not place it on the November ballot at no cost), Glen Torcivia, new city attorney stated that he had just received an e-mail from someone unidentified with the State Office of Economic Opportunity saying the Referendum by Respectful Planning Pac is prohibited by State Law. It was an incredible statement that further went on to say that the city should get an advisory opinion regarding building heights.
No one alive believes that someone just out of the sky blue at the last 98 seconds of the day, sent an email stating there was a legal issue to our ballot initiative citing Florida Statute 163.3167 that has to do with Comprehensive Plans.
A Comprehensive Plan is directed by politics. A Charter change is directed by the electorate. We were reminded last night by Ms. Sharpe that the Charter was changed by vote nearly 20 years ago to reflect heights in our City.
Right now I have been told that I can't get a copy of this "e-mail" under the Freedom of Information Act of the actual transmission from this unknown person in Tallahassee who is acting like some authority to our Charter process until the information clerk is back from a grievance leave, days unknown.
This group will do everything or anything to put a cog in the wheel.
Cogs in the Wheel
Section 9 (a) (2)
Referendum from the Lake Worth Charter
The qualified voters of the City shall have the power to require reconsideration by the city commission of any adopted ordinance and if the city commission fails to repeal an ordinance so reconsidered, to approve or reject it at a city election, provided that such power shall not extend to the budget or capital improvements program or any emergency ordinance or ordinance relating to the appropriation of money, levy of taxes or salaries of city officers or employees.
In this case, it is Ordinance 2012-30--building heights ballot issue.
Last night during discussion under Public Hearings on the building heights referendum and placing it on the March ballot (that is costing us $21,000 because this commission majority decided to limit our rights and "stick it to us" and not place it on the November ballot at no cost), Glen Torcivia, new city attorney stated that he had just received an e-mail from someone unidentified with the State Office of Economic Opportunity saying the Referendum by Respectful Planning Pac is prohibited by State Law. It was an incredible statement that further went on to say that the city should get an advisory opinion regarding building heights.
No one alive believes that someone just out of the sky blue at the last 98 seconds of the day, sent an email stating there was a legal issue to our ballot initiative citing Florida Statute 163.3167 that has to do with Comprehensive Plans.
A Comprehensive Plan is directed by politics. A Charter change is directed by the electorate. We were reminded last night by Ms. Sharpe that the Charter was changed by vote nearly 20 years ago to reflect heights in our City.
Right now I have been told that I can't get a copy of this "e-mail" under the Freedom of Information Act of the actual transmission from this unknown person in Tallahassee who is acting like some authority to our Charter process until the information clerk is back from a grievance leave, days unknown.
This group will do everything or anything to put a cog in the wheel.
Obama's Plan
Comment Up
"The democracy will cease to exist when you take away from those who are willing to work and give to those who would not."
"The democracy will cease to exist when you take away from those who are willing to work and give to those who would not."