From a shining city on a hill, to a dumpster fire.

 IS AMERICA STILL RESPECTED AND ADMIRED?

DO AMERICANS UNDERSTAND HOW WE APPEAR TO THE WORLD?

This phrase "a shining city on a hill" originated as a verse in the new testament and has been used by ministers and politicians to describe the United States as an example to the rest of the world. Is America still admired and respected or have we descended into believing we can influence the world not by our example, but by power, money and the threat of retaliation?

At one time the U.S. dollar was described as "good as gold". The maleficence of the political class has debased the currency that is continually declining in value. The standard now is that it is still better than other fiat currencies, not a real impressive standard.

The United States at one time had the most fair justice system in the world, it could be contrasted to the extreme politicization of many other countries, today we see the daily examples of a duel system of justice that has more to do with political objectives than the rule of law.

At one time we had a media that was the watchdog of the political class, but now it is just a propaganda arm that either ignores the truth or broadcasts disinformation for political purposes. Not much difference from authoritarian countries of the past.

We were the shining example of a country were there was unlimited opportunity with little interference from the state. We have become a bureaucratic administrative state with massive regulation and roadblocks to business success. We have watched as our own companies have fled the country for more opportunity abroad. 

An objective foreign observer, Alexis de Tocqueville made the famous statement that "America is great, because it is good". We all seem to continue to believe that this country is always the good guy, but we have increasingly broken our word to friends and adversaries and replaced fairness and justice with force and intimidation. Reagan was trusted, while engaged in tough negotiations with our adversaries, in the last 30 years we have repeatedly reneged on promises to both allies and adversaries.

At one time we had the 10 commandments displayed in all our courthouses, now that is considered an affront and many lawyers and prosecutors no longer seek justice but what can be manipulated out of the law. 

At no time was America a perfect country, as no one is a perfect person, but there was a goal to strive for perfection, rather than advantage. We have intentionally sought to replace religious belief with the state replacing religion as the arbitrator of what is good and what is evil, a constantly moving standard that has moved downhill in its effects on the country and society. Self restraint from the population is the only effective way to have a great country, not by government edict. We can bet that we are no longer a shining city on a hill by the objective opinion of many, as they watch America decline, morally, spiritually and economically as a positive influence on the rest of the world.

Biden Policy: Speak loudly and carry a big checkbook.

MORE MEANINGLESS SANCTIONS AND WASTED SPENDING

SANCTIONING RUSSIAN GOLD IS A JOKE

Biden is spending some time and a lot of taxpayer money during his big trip to Europe. Lots of bluster and a open wallet that hopes to keep our allies in line, even while his proposed policies could lead to their economic collapse.

We now hear that Biden proposes a $200 billion Build Back Better plan for Europe. Is this credible, while even his own senators are balking at his domestic spending?  He is spending going on $100 billion on Ukraine not to mention all the modern replacements he has promised to the NATO members for the obsolete equipment they have given Ukraine. Now it seems that as things decline at home he can convince the world that he is the leader of the whole world.

You may be able to buy allies for a while, but you can't buy their love or respect.

Then there is the latest sanction to ban the sale of Russian gold in London and New York. I would like to know how anyone can identify were gold bullion has come from. Do they really believe that they can stop Russia from selling gold all around the world? If the price is right, there will be plenty of buyers and lots of it will ultimately be traded in Europe and the U.S. It seems if it makes a good sound bite that they are doing something, it is all worth it.

So far, sanctions has not brought about the collapse of the Russian economy, but has brought lots of problems for the European economies. It will likely reach critical in the fall. What it also has done is to bring about the creation of second global economic system that will likely compete with the west for resources and sales. I don't think anyone knows what the ultimate outcome of this will be?

NATO is also planning on increasing its rapid response military to 300,000 and the U.S. now has 100,000 troops in Europe, sounds like the preparation for WW3. All this while the U.S. military has an increasing difficulty recruiting to sustain current enlistment. Maybe they need more woke policies to entice LGBTQ and others to fill the gap or is a new draft on the horizon.

All this can be laid at the feet of the Biden administration and the last 30 years of U.S. foreign policy. This, and the void of any common sense statesman who could have avoided this coming disaster.

 

Roe decision, More about process than abortion.

 COURT DISMISSES MAKING LAW FROM BENCH

DOES NOT OUTLAW ABORTION

There is much hysteria over the decision of the Supreme court to overturn the 1973 Roe vs Wade decision that legalized abortion nationwide. While this issue has been a divisive and controversial topic for over 50 years, it is more about deciding cases based on the written understanding of the text of the constitution and the bill of rights.

These justices have all been considered textualists, which means that the constitutions meaning is in the words. They believe that those who add rights or find rights and embellish federal  government power that is not in the text have overstepped their power. If we are to have any law that is effective and respected, this has to be the approach, or we will be giving this 9 member court almost imperial power.

So, now abortion is again a state issue, and will be determined by state representatives and referendums. Any power not specifically delegated to the federal government is a state issue to resolve. This is the great relief valve for controversial issues and if the time comes when a super majority of the states legalize abortion, then it could be possible to pass a constitutional amendment to make it the law of the land.

This is the proper way to make changes for the whole country.

It must be mentioned that the court may very well have decided that any other decision would have subjected them to endless debates and decisions on this matter. The question of viability was at the root of the case in question and this is an ever moving target, brought about changes in technology.

Then another consideration is the insistence of the pro abortion crowd to be ever expanding this right to were they considered abortion to be an option up until the day of birth and some have even made the case for after birth possibilities. It seems it was an issue that would never be resolved by the Federal court.

While many believe that a change of the make-up of the court will change this decision, it is very unlikely, because even Ruth Bader Ginsburg recognized that the original decision opened a can of worms that would never be settled, it would have remained an issue forever.

I suspect that many federal lawmakers on both sides of the political spectrum are quietly feeling relieved that this will not be something for them to decide in the future.

2nd amendment vote, a vote for equality.

COURT MAKES CLEAR AND CORRECT INTERPRETATION OF SECOND AMENDMENT

AFFIRMS RIGHT TO KEEP AND BEAR 

The Supreme court has now shown that it is going to interpret the constitution as it was written. This is the correct approach and if it is deemed inappropriate by the majority of the citizens of this country, then the process of amending the constitution is the correct way to make changes.

Many large cities and some states have denied most citizens the right to arm themselves in public places, this has now been struck down and the remedy will be that citizens do have the right to bear arms for their self defense outside of their home.

In many cities like New York city the only people able to defend themselves have been celebrities, politicians and other prominent people. It was indeed a discrimination against the common person, who has the same rights as the elite.

This brings to mind how long this has been issue. The infamous case of Bernie Goetz of New York who shot 4 men on a subway in 1984, while in the process of robbing him. Goetz had earlier been robbed and assaulted and had made up his mind to not let it happen again and armed himself even though against the law in N.Y. city.

A grand jury refused to indict him on attempted murder charges. He was later again put before a grand jury and charged with illegal gun possession. He serve 8 months of a 1 year sentence as was later sued by one of the injured robbers. It was big story at the time and he was either praised as a hero or a vigilante.

This ruling by the Supreme court comes at a time of increased violence and lawlessness in most metropolitan areas. A lax enforcement of the law on petty crime has escalated in common assault and robbery and other violent acts becoming commonplace. I am sure it will again bring a mixed reaction of support and opposition. If the authorities are unwilling or unable to deal with violent offenders then this may be the only approach to reverse the chaos in these cities.

I would expect gun sales in these cities will now become the next story as I would assume many citizens will take this opportunity to protect themselves. Many of the elderly, disabled and women have been a target from the predators that roam these cities, they now will have the opportunity to have equal protection.

This loosening of the ability of citizens to arm themselves has been the trend for over 30 years. Many states now have must issue permitting and some are now implementing constitutional carry which requires no permitting. It has not increased cases of shooting by common people. The cases of gun violence it primarily a result of the illegal drug trade with enforcement of territory and settling disputes among traffickers and users.

The old adage, "God created man, but Sam Colt made them equal" is still applicable.

What countries allow no excuse mail-in voting

 THE U.S. AND U.K. ARE THE ONLY MAJOR COUNTRIES ALLOWING UNLIMITED MAIL-IN VOTING

The only countries that allowed no excuse mail-in voting are Austria, Switzerland, U.K and the United States. Most nations do allow mail-in voting for those in the military and living abroad. France outlawed mail-in voting in 1975 due to claims of voter fraud.

Voting in person is the most secure way of voting and most countries use paper ballots. It seems that the simplest way of voting is the most secure way of voting.

Some nations require that a thumb or finger must be inked after voting to insure against double voting, a good idea.

Remember, if fraud is possible, fraud will become a reality. No democracy can survive if the populace does not have faith in the election system.

We should all strive to have an election system that we can all be proud of and have confidence in an accurate and timely result.

Biden misinformation on cannons and the 2nd amendment.

    WHEN YOU DON'T LIKE THE FACTS, CHANGE THE FACTS AND HISTORY  

CONTINUOUS MISINFORMATION FROM HIGH GOVERNMENT OFFICIALS BREEDS  DISTRUST  

We are continually bombarded by misinformation and often outright lies. This is not limited to the internet or fringe websites, but it a fact of everyday political discourse. It is perpetrated by high government officials and attempted to be reinforced by the media. It can be assumed they believe that it will be accepted as fact by the majority of the citizens. 

Sadly, many citizens are very happy to accept as fact whatever is the consensus of the media or the government. That is why they continue to engage in these practices. It is without a doubt that more and more realize that there is an continuous effort to misstate the facts for political advantage. That is why you hear a growing effort by government and media to censure opposing views and often labeling those who point out their misinformation as misinformation. It is destroying the peoples faith in government and has already severely damaged media credibility. 

Just a little push back on Biden's statement on the Second Amendment and guns and ammunition.

First off, the first 10 Amendments to the Constitution, which is the law for the government, were insisted on by the states and those who understood the tendency of government to become oppressive, if given the opportunity. They all were a limit on government power, not the other way around. The militia was explained in the federalist papers as the whole of the population, not a government institution. The right of the PEOPLE to KEEP and BEAR arms shall not be infringed. Nothing could be more clear or simple. As for WELL REGULATED, regulated is synonymous with well equipped as used in english at that time.

There were no restrictions of who could own a cannon, there were individuals who owned cannons, gatling guns, and much later full auto machine guns. The first real limits on these weapons was the National firearms act of 1934. which required the regulation of full auto machine guns but never outlawed their private ownership which is still in effect today. Many people still legally own full auto machine guns and other heavy weapons.

Then there is often used bit that citizens should not own weapons of war, all firearms are weapons of war. The colonists had superior weapons to the British in the revolution. The Indians at the Little Big Horn had Winchester repeating rifles while Custer's troops had single shot springfields. Innovation has always come form the private sector. Today there are still many superior weapons owned by private citizens.

Then there is the often misinformation as to types of weapons and ammunition.

handgun ammunition

Biden stated that no one needed a weapon bigger than a 22, that is the one on the far left, mostly used for target practice and small animals like squirrels in hunting. A very deadly round, penetrates most bullet resistant fabric and almost killed President  Reagan and seriously wounded several others.

His statement that a 9MM, second from left, was a powerful weapon that could blow a lung out of chest, is so much bull. This cartridge is a 100 year old European police cartridge, often considered ineffective by police who have upgraded to the .40 SW and the .45, 3rd from left also a 100 year design used in U.S sidearms in WW1 and WW2. There are several others available , the 44 Mag. far right and also many much larger cartridges used in civilian sidearms.

rifle cartridges

Then there is the often made statement that the .223 or 5.56 mm Nato round is a powerful cartridge. This cartridge came into being during the Vietnam war with the idea the it could cut down on the weight of carrying 300 rds of ammo by the infantry. This round, far left is far smaller than the 30-06, second from right, which was the ammo used in WW1 and WW2. it uses a 55 grain solid bullet meant to wound rather than kill, thought to be more inconvenient for the enemy. It is mostly not legal due to its small size for hunting large game such as deer.

The second from left is the round used in all the AK variants, which was the Soviet era round which has also been now downsized.

The most deadly at close range is the 12 ga. shotgun, far right. capable of carrying 15, 32 cal lead balls.

The guns and ammo are all immaterial as to the violence in this country, until society is willing to be harsh on violent offenders with the implementation of the Crime bill of 1994 and taking these offenders out of society, no gun laws will make any difference. They will only likely make criminals of the law-abiding who do not believe they have the authority to implement such laws.

Bitcoin: only Millenials would think this is a good idea.

 WHY WOULD ANYONE STORE THEIR ASSETS IN THE CLOUD?

WE HAVE ALL WITNESSED CLOUDS DISAPPEARING

Only Millennials would accept storing their hard earned wealth in cyber space where it could disappear in an instant. I believe many millennials are smart and do have a view of the future, but they obviously have a very limited understanding of history. The history of money, and what it is supposed to be. The history of governments ability to debase and devalue money and implement policies to benefit government over citizens.

Recently bitcoin has traded at over $37,000. It began at 30 cents in 2011. Many believe its value is unlimited, because it is a fixed limited supply. This is reminiscent of Tulip Mania in Holland in the 1830's  and the Pine lumber bubble in early America and the more recent bubble in silver prices in 1980's. These are commodity bubbles and after their collapse at least you still owned tulip bulbs, pine boards and silver, while the value was dramatically lower, you still had something.  I don't know if you can classify Bitcoin as a commodity, it is sold as a currency.

I  suppose we have been conditioned to put our faith in intangible things. Money up until the late 20th. century was always gold or silver. Our paper money, up until the 1970,s was a receipt for a certain weight of gold and silver. Our coins up until 1964 were silver. Now our paper money only has value because people will exchange goods and services for it. It has no real value in itself. It is continually losing its buying power due to government budget deficits and unlimited supply of so called money.

We often hear the term when reminiscing about what things were worth years ago as increasing in value, but in effect they have not, just the value of money has been debased. This is why many believe bitcoin is a good investment, because it cannot be debased by government action. The problem is you cannot put it under the mattress and it is probably the most vulnerable asset ever created. Does anyone believe that governments around the world will allow transactions to occur that are not taxed, regulated and controlled by them? Government regulation can and will likely sentence bitcoin and other digital currencies to disappear into thin air.

They will likely actually replace these digital curriens with their own, controlled, taxed and regulated by governments around the world. It is their perfect dream. They will be able to fine, tax and confiscate without any restraint. Have no doubt, I suspect the planning is already in the works. 

When I was a young boy in the 1950's, I spent a lot of time with elderly people in my neighborhood, who relayed stories of the depression. They did not trust banks, they often kept their money hidden somewhere in their house. They saw many peoples money just disappear overnight. They unanimously were deathly afraid of debt. They remember the confiscation by the government of their gold. 

My parents generation, the WW2 generation, did regain their trust in banks and the government but they also were very wary of debt.

My generation, the boomers have embraced debt as the only way of doing business, never counting the interest they have paid over their lifetime, some never actually acquiring a positive net worth.

The present generation has thrown off all restraint and their faith is in the clouds, not anticipating that anything bad can ever happen. Maybe the wariness of earlier generations has pushed off the inevitable day of accounting. Bitcoin is just a symptom of the times.

originally published 2/5/21

Bitcoin and other crypto currencies have recently plunged in value. It is inevitable to eventually be worthless.

Will Big government threats decrease prices?

PRICE CONTROLS AND THREATS TO PROFIT INCENTIVES ALWAYS PRODUCES SHORTAGES

HUMAN ACTION IS NEVER CONSIDERED BY BIG GOVERNMENT SOLUTIONS

The predicted solutions of socialist big government types of price controls is rearing its ugly head. This week Biden signed legislation that will attempt to cut the price of shipping costs by forcing price cuts on international shipping companies. He also has proposed enacting excess profits taxes on oil companies. You can now expect that our energy and shipping problems will now become more acute.

Don't be surprised that you will next see attempts to control prices of food. Again, if that happens you may very well see severe shortages of food. Incentives will produce more cooperation than threats, taxes and authoritarian control. We can only expect worse from this administration, their solutions are always more government and more intimidation and control.

Shippers have their own problems, increase fuel costs, and dead time in ports waiting to load and unload. These ships travel the world and if you attempt to make life more difficult for them in your country, they may just shift their emphasis elsewhere. Then what? More government threats?

As for oil production, refining capacity in the U.S. has been declining due to the explosion of costs and regulation in this country. Much more of the refined products are refined outside the country, which has made products more expensive and if over regulated may just be sold to other countries. Much is made that oil companies have made substantial profits with the ever increasing price of oil, but no one complained when they lost money during the declining price of oil. When prices stabilize their profits will also stabilize. No one mentions their profit to investment ratio, which is minimal compared to most tech companies, but who are considered allies to this administration.

Since the first day of the Biden administration the oil companies have been threatened with an end to the need for fossil fuels. Only foolish management would consider high priced investment in new plants and equipment. 

They have also suffered from discrimination by lenders who were incentivised by the administration to not lend to any fossil fuel companies. you reap what you sow with short sighted policies and reverse incentives to be energy independent.

The intentional policy of phasing out fossil fuels without any substitute has damaged the economic prospects for all western countries. This policy has also made our adversaries view this as an opportunity to take advantage of the situation while we are hoppled with economic inflation and shortages that are likely to become critical in the months ahead.

The mindset of this administration and the democrat party is that more government is always the solution. Get ready for possibly the worst days of this country in the coming months.

 

It is unlikely Fed will raise rates enough to quell inflation.

 ARE WE ON OUR WAY TO ADOPTING MODERN MONETARY POLICY?

GOAL MAY BE TO CONTROL ECONOMY THROUGH TAXES RATHER THAN INTEREST RATES

Yesterday the Federal Reserve raised interest rates .75 %, this was the biggest interest rate hike since 1994. It is too little to have much effect on inflation, but will have an effect on economic growth. The sad truth is that the Federal Reserve no longer has the option to raise interest rates to control the economy. With a federal debt of $30 Trillion and growing, every interest rate increase, increases the payments by the treasury to service this debt. Of course, they don't all increase at once, but all new debt going forward will be much more expensive than the past.

Keynesian economics, which has been the policy for the last 80 years and especially since the decoupling of the dollar from any restraint by its backing from gold and silver. It was a failed policy then and it will likely be replaced by an even greater threat to everyone's freedom and prosperity in the future. This policy continually devalued the dollars purchasing power ever since its inception. 

The idea was that the economy would be controlled by the raising and lowering of interest rates and the economy could be stimulated by deficit spending. An idea that most politicians found favorable, since they could spend without restraint of a balanced budget, buy votes from different groups and paper over their abuse with a constantly lowering the buying power of the currency. The Federal government has not balanced the budget since 1969.

Originally all money was an asset, this policy made the dollar an instrument of government debt. Many predicted that this trend could not continue indefinitely and it is likely we are now at that time. When you see near zero interest rate for over 12 years you should have seen there is trouble brewing. 

Modern Monetary policy believes debt, budgets etc are relics of the past. The adherents believe that all economic activity should be controlled by government spending and taxes. So, spend as much as possible to keep the economy humming by spending on social programs, infrastructure spending, subsidies to prefered sectors and to keep it under control raise taxes on either everyone or on anyone who should be making what the government considers excess profits. The first act we are likely to see is an excess profits tax levied on oil companies by the Biden administration. They seem to believe they can accomplish this through executive action, we will see.

In, effect Modern Monetary policy is totalitarian government, were the government will control every aspect of the economy, by either subsidising the favored and taxing out of existence the less favored. It is Un American, unconstitutional and will result in the end of this great experiment in liberty and freedom. 

It's the policy stupid!

 STOP BLAMING THE GENERALS, THE OIL  COMPANIES, THE IMMUNE CITIZENS, THE PRIVATE SECTOR OR TRUMP

WANT TO SEE WHO IS CAUSING THIS CHAOS, JUST LOOK IN THE MIRROR

 

THIS IS THE MASTER ARCHITECT OF CHAOS

Everyday we hear Biden blame someone for the disaster of the day. Yesterday he blamed the private sector for the distribution problems. How about the rules and regulations that have forced many independent Truckers out of business, everything from log books and restrictions on driving. How about increased tolls, bridge fees and other costs levied by Democrat mayors and governors. 

Don't even think about the blaming the border disaster on Trump, he was getting things done on border security. 

Energy high prices and soon shortages, your new policies are directly to blame. Don't deny it.

Covid chaos, where is the study that verifies those who have had covid have immunity, just as good as a vaccination. 2 years, no research, no study, no conclusions. Possibly 100,000 subjects to be surveyed. No effort, no discussion.

Why is it that those who have had covid can donate blood to manufacture Monoclonal antibodies that can save the lives of covid patients, but yet you want to deny these same people employment and a way of life if they don't submit to your mandates.

Also, you are going to fire medical personnel and police who worked through covid, taking care of the sick, putting their lives at risk, most who have already contracted covid and are now immune. This is a political policy, without scientific basis.

Your withdrawal policy in Afghanistan was you and your staffs plan, don't blame the general's.

For years, educators have encouraged parents to be involved in their children's education, now if they question the infiltration of the schools with marxist  propaganda they are threatened to be charged as terrorists.  At least you have admitted that  is YOUR policy.

One can only surmise that the goal of this president and his staff is the destruction of the country. Can anyone name one thing that is better under this president?

Originally published 10,15,2021

 

What! U.S. government now encourages fertilizer purchases from Russia.

FERTILIZER AND GRAIN PURCHASES NOW EXEMPT FROM SANCTIONS

WHAT WILL BE NEXT?

It was reported yesterday that the U.S. government is now encouraging business and farm supply companies to purchase fertilizer from Russia. Many were wary of making such purchases for fear of going afoul of sanctions. The government found it necessary to assure those companies that they had the approval of the Government. It seems this also includes grain shipments from Russia.

The grain of Russia and the Ukraine have not been getting to market, due to the conflict in Ukraine. Ukraine has mined the port of Odessa, the only remaining Black sea port under Ukraine control. Many feared to purchase grain and fertilizer that originated from ports controlled by Russia, this was all made clear yesterday. It seems that there are negotiations going on between Russia and the U.N. in an attempt to guard against major food shortages this fall.

It also appears that the Black sea ports will not be under Ukraine control any time soon as Russia has been able to consolidate its gains and the hopes of pushing Russia out of Ukraine are diminishing by the day. This relaxing of sanctions on these items may be just the beginning, as four months of sanctions have not brought Russia to its knees as expected. Will EU countries soon feel they need Russian energy to be available in the fall. So far, Russia has not curtailed shipments to Europe as long as they are willing to pay in rubles. I suspect that grain and fertilizer will also be paid for in rubles.

former Mcdonald's in Moscow

It should also be noted that the 800 former McDonald's restaurants in Russia have now reopened with a new logo, and a new Russian owner. While we are repeatedly are told that the Russian's are suffering greatly from the sanctions and the exodus of western countries from the country, it appears that Russia is adapting to their new place in the world.

This week the average gas price in Russia was $2.10 a gallon.

One must wonder if sanctions are an effective way of deterring bad behaviour, so far it seems that they have never worked anywhere, not in Iran, North Korea, Venezuela or Cuba. It seems most countries can survive without having relations with the bigger countries in the world. This probably is especially true of places like Russia and China, who have the resources to be independent of other nations.

Jan, 6, "Hearing" Is not a Hearing

JAN. 6, HEARING IS A ONE SIDED POLITICAL INFOMERCIAL

A "HEARING" WOULD HAVE WITNESSES FOR THE DEFENSE

The Jan.6 hearings are a gigantic political and hollywood production without any opportunity for witnesses to bring evidence contrary to the assumptions portrayed by this biased partisan committee.

There is no ability to bring opposing evidence into view. There is no cross examination of witnesses.

Pelosi only allowed Republicans on the committee who embraced her narrative and only 2 could be found. One is Liz Chaney whose family 's idea of foreign policy was contradicted by Trump and is hoping to preserve the family legacy.

All republicans who were put forth as members of the committee were rejected by Pelosi. She is in fact acting like a judge. She is not a judge.

This committee was assembled contrary to many rules of the House.

Much of the testimony and videos are not in context and often edited. Thousands of witnesses and hundreds of hours of video and we only see what this committee wants us to see.

There is no mention of Pelosi or the Mayor of DC who were instrumental in the preparations for the security for this rally. No mention of Trump and others recommending 10,000 to 20,000 national guard to be on hand, which was rejected by Pelosi and the DC Mayor.

It is an intentional and contriverd effort to damage Donald Trump, not to examine the true facts around this rally that became a riot.

It is in fact an illegitimate committee, not in the spirit of the legal system of this country and a disgrace heaped upon the other disgraces brought by the democrats, the media and government agencies.

They themselves are the true danger to democracy.

  

NW Lehigh school board to vote to repeal senior tax rebate.

REBATE WAS MEANT TO HELP SENIORS, WIDOWS AND DISABLED TO KEEP THEIR HOMES

PARKLAND AND OTHER LOCAL DISTRICTS HAVE SIMILAR REBATE

The Northwestern Lehigh school board is planning on repealing the Senior property tax rebate program at their June 15th meeting. This rebate was enacted in June 2015. it was fashioned after the rebate program of Parkland and other local school districts. Parkland has had such a program since 2005.

This Program was opposed by then board member Willard Dellicker who is now the board president. He stated at its enactment that it was a form of redistribution of wealth and that he would repeal it as soon as a new board was elected.

The stated reason now given is that it is not clearly a mandated function in the school code, but neither is astro turf and other vanity enhancements readily approved by the school board.

Most school boards understand that many retired, widows and disabled's incomes no longer rise, while property taxes increase on a yearly basis.

This program cost the school district around $30,000 in revenue and averages $344. per recipient, a pittance as being part of the new budget of $50,183,998.00. This years budget will include a 3.4% increase in the property tax. This board has increased the property tax every year since its election.

They are also planning on taking on another $14.5 million in debt to be added to the $42,687,000.00 existing debt.

It seems it much more of a political decision than an economic decision for the school district. 

The country is running on emotion and distraction.

NO LOGICAL CALCULATIONS, NO SERIOUS ATTEMPTS TO REMEDY PROBLEMS

DECISIONS ARE BEING MADE LIKE A BIPOLAR  SUFFERER

Public opinion is being whipsawed by an endless series of emotional crisis, all in an attempt to change and enact public policy. They even stoop to the low of using murdered children as props to increase the emotional leverage to enact immediate legislation. Legislation that may very well lead to a reaction of more chaos and law breaking.

Do we have a violence problem in this country? You bet. Will enacting more gun laws have any effect? No. Do they really want to stop violence in this country? No, not if it can be a useful tool to transform the country to their liking.

This scourge of increased violence can be layed at the feet of the democrat party which ushered in years of rioting and looting and destruction, which they openly supported, all in an attempt to motivate their base for political purposes. This has sent a message that violence is acceptable if it is considered righteous indignation.  Unless it should come from the right, then it is insurrection.

Then there is the progressive democrats running the cities which has encouraged lawlessness, mass looting and withdrew most threats of punishment. This has even become a policy for violent offenders. Many murderers are repeat offenders, recycled to foment intentional chaos and a need for big government. What we need is real responsible government, not more bureaucracy and corruption.

Then these same progressives have intentionally hamstrung and demotivated the police from enforcing many laws. They have driven out many of the seasoned and experienced officers who cannot be replaced or will be replaced with less competent officers, a recipe for disaster which is the goal.

We have a had a flood of drugs into the country. Over 100,000 yearly deaths and an incalculable number of overdoses and destruction of family and lives forever. Many of these drugs are now counterfeited to look like more harmless drugs. Intentional murder, without much effort to enforce these laws. Again I ask, are big city politicians on the payroll of the cartels? Why have we never seen any people of authority indicted for taking drug money? Is it a source of campaign funding?   Does anyone really believe this magnitude of drugs can be dispersed around the country without many looking the other way?

All of the problems, inflation, high gas prices, shortages and drug abuse will only lead to more violence and instability. There are solutions for all these problems, but it will take rational and direct approach to take the violent off the street. We can restore law and order and restore the future of America, but it will not be accomplished with a lot of spinning and emotional responses. We need rational and logical solutions and direct action, not convoluted responses that will have no effect. 

Is Jan.6 hearing the final episode in the "Get Trump" series?

HOPEFULLY THIS 7 YEAR MEDIA FIASCO WILL FINALLY END

A PARTISAN ENDEAVOUR WITHOUT CREDIBILITY FROM THE START 

So, tomorrow the Democrat's will begin the their final attempt to discredit Donald Trump and disqualify him from political life forever. It has been a series of misinformation and conspiracy since that day that Trump came down the elevator in Trump tower in 2015.

Trump produced fear from not only Democrats, but from establishment Republicans who feared he would upset their well established gravy train of power and corruption. Trump was to be labeled as a traitor with a false story of being a Russian agent, a preposterous idea that was sold by the media, the FBI and the whole lot of power brokers in Washington. A 3 year attempt to derail his presidency and to insure that their corruption could not be revealed. It was in fact an eye-opening revelation as to the corruption and hubris of this media and political establishment collusion to deceive the American people. It has damaged the institutions of this country, possibly irreparably.

Then of course, within days of this saga being discredited, it was off to episode 2 with and impeachment show, all with the hope of finally putting Trump down, ironically over the revelation of Joe Biden's skimming of money from Ukraine.

Then there was a series of other imagined Trump scandals that seemed without end that continue till today. 

It seems that there is a pattern of the establishment players being able to enrich themselves with billions of dollars of foreign aid which are then kicked back through several methods, the Clintons used their foundation, Biden used his son. 

Trump also raised the anger of many Republicans by questioning the likes of John McCain and the Bush/Cheney foreign policy, a foreign policy that has destabilized the world, caused the death of 100's of thousands and created the largest human migration since WW2.  This policy is still playing out today.

Did anyone take notice that during the 4 years of Trump there was a de-escalation of tensions around the world, no new military engagements by the U.S. and even some semblance of cooperation in the middle east?

The relative peace and tranquility of the Trump years disappeared overnight with the election of Joe Biden.

So now, we are about to witness the all-out attempt to discredit Trump concerning the Jan.6 2021 incident. Trump had the audacity to question the results of the election, which has become a censoring act by the media and the establishment. It is now treason to question or ask for an investigation into election fraud. You would think if you won fairly you would be glad for all details of the election to be viewed. 

Trump's asking for the Senate to not vote that day to certify the election has been attempted by democrats in the past and the rally that admittedly got out of control by some of the attendees was without a doubt counter productive. We can expect that we are going to presented with a one sided view of that day, the panel was rigged from day one by refusing to allow opposing panelists, only those who were chosen by speaker Pelosi.

No one will likely mention that Trump himself counseled that 10,000 national guard should be called out, an idea rejected by Pelosi and the D.C. Mayor. They have made much of the fact that 1 hour and 20 min.passed between the end of Trump's speech and his call for everyone to go home. How long does it take to securely return to the white house and be informed that the situation got out of control? 

So again, now we are going to see a hollywood produced show that is as one sided as every other episode in the "Get Trump" series. The media will go all in, the politicians will be full of bluster and likely it will change no ones mind about Trump. The question should be, Is the country and the world better off today than it was in 2020?

Progressive prosecutors goal is chaos.

 CREATE CHAOS AND LAWLESSNESS AND THEN OFFER BIG GOVERNMENT REMEDIES

NOT INCOMPETENCE, JUST A STEP TOWARD TRANSFORMATION

We continue to watch as big city prosecutors refuse to enforce the law, release violent perpetrators and refuse to charge defendants for crimes. This has ranged for failure to enforce retail theft to now in some places to not pursue sexual assault cases. While some blame incompetence or just a naive view of crime, it is now clear it its all part of the objective to transform America into a authoritarian socialist state.

Many of the deadly and violent acts being perpetrated are being done by repeat offenders who ordinarily would be in jail. Many are out on bail for other recent violent acts. This attitude by these Prosecutors and their focus on punishing police officers has now reached a critical point. Police are fearful of doing their duty as they could be prosecuted and perpetrators are emboldened, knowing they will most likely not be prosecuted.

The most well know of these prosecutors are George Gascon of Los Angeles, who makes headlines frequently for his dismal record of prosecutions and the exploding crime in his jurisdiction. His attorneys have rebelled and he is in the process of being recalled.

Then there is Larry Krassner in Philadelphia which has presided over an explosion of violent crimes and shootouts in his city. He again has refused to prosecute minor theft and other charges which has sent a signal that there is nothing to fear from the law. These policies are resulting in the death of many innocent citizens and also putting a financial burden on the business community of these cities.

Today is the recall election of Chesa Boudin the district attorney of San Francisco, we will know soon whether he will be removed. San Francisco has seen an explosion of violent crime, smash and grab robberies in broad daylight and general chaos. 

It is interesting to note that Boidin is the son of David Gilbert and Kathy Boudin who spent most of their life in jail, while Boudin was a youth. They were convicted of the death of a security guard and 2 police officers in New York city during a armored car robbery. They were both members of the Weather Underground, a marxist revolutionary organization. Boidin was raised by Bernadette Dohrn and Bill Ayers also of the Weather Underground, who engaged in violent acts and were early supporters of Barack Obama.

We have seen the elderly members of the Weather Underground with connections to Black lives matter and Antifa. They seem to be around when there is chaos and destruction. This is not an accident, it is their hope to destroy the present social, economic and legal system and create an atmosphere where it appears only an authoritarian socialist government can restore order. In the 70's they committed robberies to fund their endeavours, now they are liberally funded by George Soros and some billionaire social media types. 

After creating chaos, they then focus on attacking the rights of law-abiding citizens to defend themselves. There goal is citizen disarmament, allow mayhem to grow until the population submits to a new marxist totalitarian government. This death, destruction and chaos is not an accident, just like inflation, shortages, allowing an invasion across the border, the increase in the availability of dangerous drugs are all part of  the plan to transform America.

Democrats lust for power will destroy the Republic.

PASSING MAJOR LEGISLATION WITH A NARROW VOTE CREATES DIVISION 

THIS ALL STARTED WITH OBAMACARE

The pressure on Democrat senators is heating up to eliminate the filibuster so they can pass election reform, a bill that they feel will give them power forever. They will then go on to radical gun control proposals and every possible wish list to transform the country. If they do it, they will transform the country from a republic to a divided socialist state and an end to the country as we know it. It will likely lead to violent opposition and then the only hope of peace will be a orderly division of the country.

This increase in division in the country began when the democrats lust for national health care removed the 60 vote rule in the Senate and passed a law without any consensus on the other side. It outraged much of the country with unconstitutional provisions that disrupted the health care of the entire country.  It has been an escalating decline in civility and unity ever since. This has grown to where we have 2 America's, those that just want to be left alone, to choose how to live their life without government mandates on every action. The other side wants to force the rest of the country to adopt their ideological beliefs in any way that they can. We no longer are going to the same place, we are no longer a United States of America. We are in the midst of political war, that if continued will not end well for anyone in this country.

Forcing the 49% to adopt the ideological beliefs of the 51% is no way to change the basic structure of the country. Much of the radical left's agenda has been put into place by court action, things that should have been accomplished by constitutional amendments. These court actions have also divided the country. Instead of allowing states to decide about these controversial issues they were able to force much of these changes by a 5-4 vote in the supreme court. Now, believing that may not be able to get these changes through the court they propose expanding the senate by adding more states or expanding the court with more judges. There must be a limit to their destructive lust for power.

We will likely see which way they decide to go in the next few weeks. Are you all ready for a new America?

It would be much more prudent to face the inevitable, we need a safe, peaceful process of divorce. Let the states decide through a process of referendums, without schemes to skew the votes, to decide if they wish to remain under the strict constitutional rule of the founders or let those states who want a new socialist constitution that lays out a country they want. States could also vote to change their borders to become part of one country or the other. People could have time to liquidate their property and move, it would likely be a 5 year or more process. It could be done without hate or rancor, just agree to go our separate ways. 

We are no longer one country and divorce would allow both sides to live in a country that they can support in their pursuit of happiness.

Originally published 3/18/21

We are all becoming Preppers now.

AS THE WORLD DESCENDS INTO CHAOS, ONLY FOOLS WILL NOT MAKE PREPARATIONS

WE MAY ONLY HAVE WEEKS UNTIL WE SEE SHORTAGES, RATIONING AND CIVIL UNREST

What it beginning to happen in Europe and in other parts of the world can only be a forerunner of what we can expect in our own country. We have seen an escalating decline in civil society, political decisions that are all focused on control without any effort to address the root causes of increasing problems. Whether it is the supply of energy, which has remained flat and even declined in the last year, all due to the messaging that fossil fuels are now a thing of the past, when in fact our very survival depends on their availability.

Food availability also depends on fossil fuels for powering machinery and fertilizer, not to mention transportation to where it is needed. These problems are not being addressed, they are just spun to blame others. 

These coming problems are then going to be compounded with the disasters that are our major cities. Places where politics has overridden public safety. Policies that have allowed lawlessness and decimated the police. These cities will erupt with violence when there are shortages and possibly rationing. Who is going to protect the population when and if this all happens. You better plan to be as self sufficient as possible, you may very well be on your on for an extended period of time.

We have been witnessing some preparing for these possibilities for years, they were derided and called "Preppers", are we all going to be preppers now? 

There are many who never thought along those lines who are now stocking dried beans, and rice and other staples that will keep without freezing. The stockpiling of arms and ammunition has been going on for 20 years, but it may very well take on a new intensity, just when the government will be focusing on more government control rather than addressing the causes of this chaos.

There has even been and increase in the purchase of iodine as a slight remedy for nuclear fallout.

So, are you vulnerable to supply shortages? Are you 100% dependent on electricity for heat? Do you understand that no central heating will operate without electricity? Everyone needs to focus on surviving in cold climates independent of society, possibly for months.

We have seen an exodus of those with means from many urban areas, but only those with means can escape. What will the others do when the means for survival dries up, possibly in a very short time. Anyone who has what others need to survive will possibly be the only source of these supplies. Are you prepared to defend you family and property in such a situation? Will anyone respond to a 911 call if all of society breaks down?

Preparation is like insurance, we only rarely need insurance, but we all expend much money for that peace of mind. Like insurance, you hope you will never need it, but when the time comes it will be too late, you will be at the mercy of others.

 

Forcing Russian debt default, who is the loser?

 WHILE DEFAULT MAY BE A GOOD TALKING POINT IT WILL BE PAID FOR BY WESTERN GOVERNMENTS

KEYSTONE COPS LOOKED MORE RATIONAL 

For the last 3 months the U.S. and its allies have been working to deny the Russian federation the ability to service its debt payments. So far the Russians have made all their payments on time often facilitated by J.P. Morgan or some other major bank. Now there is bragging that the U.S. have closed all the loopholes that have facilitated the servicing of this debt.

While this may make a good talking point, that Russia is struggling and that they are in default in their debt payments, the losers are western banks and investors. The very same banks and investors who will have a legal basis to be repaid by those western governments, Brilliant. 

We keep hearing how their plan is to weaken Russia and now they have, in effect, canceled their foreign debt. This obviously will give Russia more funds to continue their operations in Ukraine.

Russia does have the funds to make its payments, but these funds need to be transferred through some financial facility. Making it impossible for Russia to transfer funds will be a two edged sanction as its seems many are. That is why Russia is demanding to be paid in rubles for gas and oil and if their customers refuse, they are going to lose access to that energy.

While sanctions have increasingly cost western companies millions in financial loses, Russia has been able to adjust to those companies leaving their country. Others are now reaping the profits of their leaving, Credit card companies have been replaced by Indian and Chinese companies and the chances of those western companies recouping their existing balances has become poor. More debt cancelling.

McDonalds walked away from their plants and equipment and now they will become Putin burgers with the same facilities and employees. India and China and others are now buying discounted Russian oil and gas which will make them more competitive in the world markets. Energy in Russia is costing its residents 1/4 of the cost in the west. While Russian oil may be discounted, it is still rising as the world price rises.

In the last quarter payments in rubles and yen have risen 1000%. The value of the ruble is at an all time high. It is becoming obvious that emotionally levying sanctions without analyzing the long term consequences has not been a consideration of this administration and they are leader of the West. Where are they leading everyone?, into the abyss of economic ruin?