Archive for May, 2012
The “Bain Report” Articles that Affect You and Your Family for Monday, May, 28, 2012
Posted by rabman13 in Bain Report, Politics, The Bain Report on May 26, 2012
The “Bain Report” is a weekly publication for those citizens of Michigan who are concerned with the representation they are receiving from their elected officials. The purpose of this report is to educate and inform the citizens with pertinent articles and legislation that affect the families of Michigan. If you or anyone you know wishes to receive the “Bain Report” reply to rabman13@aol.com with add me to the weekly “Bain Report” in the subject line with your name and e-mail address in the body. Your email will be added to the list of those Patriots, Activist, and Concerned Citizens here in Michigan who receive the “Bain Report” published every Monday. For those currently receiving the “Bain Report” and wish to be removed from these mailings please reply to above e-mail address with remove me from your list in the subject line.
Opinion by R Al Bain
A Special Thanks to All Our Military Veterans this Memorial Weekend
To all those past and present that took an “oath” to uphold and defend the Constitution of the United States against all enemies both foreign and domestic as to preserve our Freedoms and Liberties as a free and moral people.
I would also like to congratulate State Representative and former United States Air Force Veteran Dave Agema for being elected as committeeman to the RNC. I would also like to congratulate former Michigan Secretary of State Terri Lynn Land for being elected RNC committeewoman as well.
Michigan Income Tax Overhaul is Going to Cost You
Dozens of changes face taxpayers following reforms lawmakers adopted this year. They add up to this: Individuals should be prepared to cough up more income tax as they carry much of the burden previously shouldered by businesses. I thought Republicans were for less government, less taxation, and more freedom and liberty? Guess not! As a business person I will save approximately 1000 a year. So I’m going to run right out and hire someone? Not! The savings doesn’t justify hiring anyone period. I will just pay down some debt before I go under. Small businesses won’t save enough to hire anyone.
http://www.mlive.com/politics/index.ssf/2011/09/michigan_prepares_for_a_tax_cr.html
Richardville Re-Call Petition Language Rejected Yet Again
New Richardville Re-Call Language to be Submitted
This is the second time the elections commission has rejected wording from Andring. He said he will file revised language soon and called the decision to invalidate the wording “politically motivated.” The language was proof read by a fifth grade teacher who said it was perfectly clear! It was clear to many citizens who commented on the Internet article also!
http://www.mlive.com/news/jackson/index.ssf/2012/05/sen_randy_richardville_recall_1.html
State Budget: Subsidies for “Movie Producers” Get Boost
One of the target agreements reached in the budget Wednesday was the decision to double the state’s “failed” $25-million film subsidy program in 2013. Lawmakers reneged on the promised income tax cut that was part of the agreement in 2007 after Michigan taxpayers received the largest tax increase in the states history. So instead of the taxpayers getting the promised cuts in taxes they get to fund more of the “failed” movie producers subsidies, ain’t that special! The only winner here is Senate Majority leader Randy Richardville and his Hollywood Buddies who will benefit from the taxpayers of Michigan.
http://www.freep.com/article/20120523/NEWS06/120523062/Budget-deal-doubles-Michigan-film-subsidy-to-50-million?odyssey=nav%7Chead
Film Producers and Movie Studios Subsidies Paying Off for Richardville at Taxpayers Expense
We all know how “liberal” Hollywood is but can anybody fathom a so-called Republican advocating on their behalf? Right here in Michigan we have such a person in Senate Majority leader Randy Richardville! It was former governor Jennifer Granholm who brought this idea to fruition back in 2008 with Richardville onboard from the onset. This was two years before she was term limited and she has been rewarded by the Hollywood “Fat Cats” with her own TV Show (The War Room) on cables Current TV.
According to an article by MIRS, a Lansing subscriber based publication in an interview with Mr. Richardville he is currently working on either a movie or TV pilot based on his experience in the Legislature. I’ve had some discussions with some people about a movie not necessarily a movie possibly a TV series or a pilot that would be discussing the life of a state representative,” he said. “And so, writing has begun. “We’re probably going to get a young, good-looking actor. And then after it’s successful, tell people it was based on me.” Richardville was quoted as saying. Can you say excessively arrogant and conceited?
He passed out information in Thursday’s Senate GOP caucus about Actorfest Detroit Backstage, a confab for Michigan talent to mingle with film, TV and Broadway casting directors. The event is Saturday in Pontiac where the taxpayer funded Raleigh Film Studio that opened just ten months ago is in default on an $18 million state-issued bond. But now the movie studio can no longer meet its debt obligations, and will not make a $420,000 payment due Feb. 1. “But the bonds will not be in default, since the State of Michigan Retirement Systems is obligated to make those payments.” OK let’s cut to the chase it’s the taxpayers of Michigan that is now on the hook for this yet again! The money will come out of the retirement funds of public school and state employees, police and judges.
http://michiganradio.org/post/michigan-movie-studio-defaults-bond-payment-state-pension-funds-cover-costs
Although governor Snyder capped these subsidies at $25 million Richardville wants to increase the subsidies from $25 million already appropriated in 2012 to $100 million annually. It’s obvious why he wants this increase! Richardville has a family connection to the film industry, as his daughter, Amanda Richardville works in Hollywood. Can you say conflict of interest at the taxpayers’ expense?
http://michiganfilmcreditsecrets.blogspot.com/2011/04/movie-script-you-wont-believe.html
Ballot Proposal Designed to Kill “Right to Work” in Michigan gets Required Signatures
Organizers of the ballot proposal designed to kill Right to Work in Michigan have more than the minimum signatures needed to make the ballot multiple sources have told MIRS (subscription required). This would have been a mute point if Senate Majority leader Randy Richardville would not have blocked legislation in the Senate! He continues to be the point man and the “Democrat Unions” best friend in Lansing.
What End of Bush Tax Cuts Would Mean for “You and Your Family”
Unless Congress takes action, it’s not just the “rich” who will see higher tax bills. The so-called Bush tax cuts are scheduled to expire at the end of this year. While you may already know that, you may not fully understand what’s in store for you and your family. Here’s what to expect. Higher Tax Rates! When coupled with the reforms and reinvention here in Michigan it’s more than double the tax increases!
http://www.smartmoney.com/taxes/income/how-the-expiring-bush-tax-cuts-affect-you/?cid=djem_sm_WeekontheStreet_h
U.S. Rep. Thaddeus McCotter Could Be Left Off Primary Ballot
Throwing his congressional race into turmoil, Rep. Thaddeus McCotter said Friday evening that he may not have turned in enough valid signatures to qualify for the Aug. 7 Republican primary in his suburban Detroit district.
http://www.freep.com/article/20120526/NEWS06/205260442
Mike Duggan Quietly Tests Waters for a Run for Detroit Mayor
Detroit Medical Center CEO Mike Duggan has been coy about publicly discussing the 2013 mayor’s race, but he has been talking privately with business and community leaders about a possible run. You can’t be serious! Mike Duggan really? This is exactly what Detroit doesn’t need another Ed McNamara political step-child! Why should the citizens expect anything different out of Ed (Fast Eddie) McNamara’s political step children? McNamara, a Democrat, mentored members of the party in the state, including Jennifer Granholm, Mike Duggan, Kwame Kilpatrick, Bob Ficano, and allegedly former state attorney general Republican Mike Cox!
http://www.freep.com/article/20120518/COL10/205180390/Rochelle-Riley-Mike-Duggan-quietly-tests-waters-for-a-run-for-Detroit-mayor
HP to Cut 27,000 Jobs as Profits Declines 31%
The Hewlett-Packard Company on Wednesday confirmed that massive job cuts are coming. The tech company said it will eliminate about 27,000 jobs by 2014 in an effort to cut costs and get its balance sheet in order. To help achieve the job reduction target, HP is offering an early retirement program.
http://www.bizjournals.com/mobile/portland/news/2012/05/23/hp-to-cut-27000-jobs-as-profit.html
“It is a universal truth that the loss of liberty at home is to be charged to the provisions against danger, real or pretended, from abroad.” James Madison writing to Thomas Jefferson in a letter in 1798 ~ Think Patriot Act, NDAA, TSA, etc. and a slew of other contrivances purportedly designed to protect us by powerful people unencumbered by their own laws.
The “Bain Report” Articles that Affect You and Your Family for Monday, May, 21, 2012
Posted by rabman13 in Bain Report, Politics, The Bain Report on May 18, 2012
The “Bain Report” is a weekly publication for those citizens of Michigan who are concerned with the representation they are receiving from their elected officials. The purpose of this report is to educate and inform the citizens with pertinent articles and legislation that affect the families of Michigan. If you or anyone you know wishes to receive the “Bain Report” reply to rabman13@aol.com with add me to the weekly “Bain Report” in the subject line with your name and e-mail address in the body. Your email will be added to the list of those Patriots, Activist, and Concerned Citizens here in Michigan who receive the “Bain Report” published every Monday. For those currently receiving the “Bain Report” and wish to be removed from these mailings please reply to above e-mail address with remove me from your list in the subject line.
“2012 Republican State Convention Edition”
Opinion by R Al Bain
With the State Republican Convention at hand the time has come for the conservative delegates to step up to the plate. The Michigan Republican Party is rife with liberal left leaning progressive “RINOS” and the time is here to “purge” those that have infiltrated our Party! Don’t be fooled by the rhetoric you will hear at this convention by those out for the sole purpose of saving their political careers who will say and do anything and everything to keep the status quo and the establishments “failed” direction in place.
I suspect you will witness the “shenanigans” I have at both the county and state conventions of the past where they will manipulate the process in their favor, don’t let them get away with it! The delegates are the one’s who are supposed to set the direction of the Party not the Party Bosses. This is evident by the email sent out by the Republican Party establishment warning delegates they will not tolerate opposition threatening to take away credentials and expelling those who do not agree with their program. This is just a way of them saying show up, shut up, stay “our” course, because we know what’s best for the Party!
It’s Time to Dump Upton for Jack Hoogendyk in MI-6
Just as the GOP Establishment was “Rocked” recently in the Indiana and Nebraska primary’s it’s time the “Tea Party” faithful continued to send a strong and powerful message from the conservative base to the GOP elitist that we will no longer tolerate liberal “RINOS” within “our” Party!
It’s hard to think of a more liberal Republican that occupies a more consequential position in Congress than Fred Upton. It’s not just the fact that the Chairman of the Energy and Commerce Committee, one of the most powerful House panels, is a big supporter of green energy. It’s not just the fact that this same man was the Thomas Edison of the incandescent light bulb ban. It’s about Republicans shedding an image of hypocrisy.
Endorsement for National Committee: Dave Agema & Terri Lynn Land
My belief is that Dave Agema and Terri Lynn Land not only meet these requirements, but also hold the conservative ideals necessary to bring the party and the country back to the constitutional principles that made this country the greatest on earth. Both Dave and Terri meet all the qualifications listed in the job description. They also have the work the work ethic and enthusiasm to do great things and to inspire others to similar achievements. I look forward to casting my delegate vote for Dave Agema and Terri Lynn Land.
Unscientific Survey Suggests Land/Agema Could Win National Committee Bids
Tea Party members apparently are coming down on the side of the challengers in Saturday’s Michigan Republican Party convention race to see who be the next National Committeeman and Committeewoman from Michigan.
According to an unscientific survey that included 111 self-selected participants and being circulated by Gene Clem in the race for Committeeman, Rep. Dave Agema (R-Grandville) is securing 71 percent of the vote to current National Committeman Saul Anuzis’s 19 percent and Sterling Heights delegate G.J. LaRouche netted 10 percent. In the race for National Committeewoman, incumbent Rep. Holly Hughes (R-Montague) is taking it on the chin to former Secretary of State Terri Lynn Land 72 percent to 28 percent.
Michigan One of the Most Corrupt States for State-Level Politicians
Michigan state-level politicians can get away with some of the most corruption in the nation, according to a study released this week. A state integrity survey argues Michigan financial disclosure regulations are too lax, allowing state lawmakers to keep hidden potential financial conflicts of interest and keep perks from lobbyists off the books.
Much of the interaction between legislators and lobbyists is off the books, as they don’t have to disclose some gifts, said Rich Robinson, executive director of the Michigan Campaign Finance Network, a nonprofit organization dedicated to monitoring campaign financing.
Snyder Considering ‘Interlocal’ Agreement to Build New Government Bridge
“We have heard that Gov. Snyder intends to do what we’ve expected, but hoped he wouldn’t do — go around the will of the Michigan Legislature and the people who elected them in order to advance his own agenda,” said Mickey Blashfield, in a post meeting statement.
This is yet another back-door scheme option Snyder is proposing. In August of 2011 he was throwing around the idea to rewrite State Trunkline Act (Public Act 51) giving more authority to MDOT to cut a deal with Canada.
Wait a minute, isn’t (Public Act 51) the excuse given as to why are roads cannot be fixed because that Act ties the legislature’s hands? Several times in recent past that’s just the excuse that Senator Randy Richardville who introduced not one but two legislative Bills for the new “government bridge” had been quoted in the newspapers, candidate forums, and I believe the Monroe County Chamber of Commerce was told this in a speech!
If private enterprise want to build the Bridge at no cost to taxpayer and without sticking Michigan’s hand in the debt ridden, springs attached Federal government cookie jar that I say let Capitalism work!!
Tax Hike Rejected for “Failed Movie Studio” Allen Park Devastated
After a millage defeat, Allen Park doubts it can close $4.2-million budget gap. For some residents, it’s inevitable that the state will take over the city. Once the “crown jewel” of several downriver communities Allen Park appears to be headed to state receivership. How could this have happened? I’ll tell you, the blame falls directly on our legislators in Lansing!
It’s easy to blame former Governor Granholm for she is the one who pushed for the movie producer and film studio subsidies at taxpayer expense and by the way, she got her own TV show out of it. But it’s current so-called Republican Senate Majority leader Randy Richardville of Monroe who has continued to pursue and promote these subsidies for his Wealthy Hollywood buddies! His all expenses paid trips to the Hollywood Emmy’s and Campaign Contributions by these Hollywood Big Wigs are well documented as payment made for getting this favorable legislation passed.
The 4-mill tax, if approved by voters, would have raised $2.6 million a year to cover bond payments on the city’s failed movie studio. In October 2009, the city sold $25.3 million in long-term, general-obligation bonds to finance the purchase of 104 acres at Southfield and I-94 as part of an effort to create the Unity Film Studio. It was the third time a millage for the bonds has been defeated. Matakas said that many residents are still angry about the studio deal and won’t support any related millage (TAX INCREASE).
GOP Establishment “Rocked” Again! “Tea Party” Backed Deb Fischer Wins Nebraska Election
Nebraska’s GOP Senate primary: another tea party surprise! First there was Senator Richard Lugar of Indiana who was defeated in the Hoosier state’s Republican primary ending the 36-year career of a GOP establishment hack that was deemed to liberal and had been thumbing his nose at the conservative base for years.
A late surge for Sarah Palin’s pick for the Nebraska primary toppled yet another GOP establishment candidate, in a race that could help determine control of the US Senate. In Tuesday’s Republican primary, state Sen. Deb Fischer rode a wave of discontent with the GOP establishment to best Nebraska Attorney General Jon Bruning, the “preferred” candidate of Washington, D.C.-based Republican elitist, and Treasurer Don Stenberg.
http://www.miamiherald.com/2012/05/16/2801701/state-lawmaker-wins-nebraskas.html
Ohio’s Casinos to Cost Detroit and Indiana’s Right-to Work to Cost Michigan!
Ohio’s new casinos could cost cash-strapped Detroit $30 million a year, analysis predicts. When casinos open starting this month in four cities in Ohio, Detroit may come up a big loser. Now that Indiana has become a right-to-work state Michigan may very well come up a big loser as well!
‘Card Check’s’ Big Lie Exposed
This same Democrat Union tactic was used by the Richardville machine at the 2008 county convention. This same Democrat Union tactic was applied at a recent Senate caucus meeting in regard to a citizens letter sent to all Michigan Senators in regard to the Majority leaders alleged marital improprieties and failed leadership.
When only the five incumbent Senator’s out of 26 members stood to give the leader a standing ovation of support the other Senator’s hesitated until those five incumbents turned around as to say you better stand up if you know what’s good for you!
http://www.michigancapitolconfidential.com/16732
Union Friendly GOP Legislator Zorn Spurned by Big Labor
State Representative Dale Zorn has often been a Republican ally to public sector unions by trying to thwart some of his own caucus’ reform efforts. Stephenie Jacobson, leader of the Cheboygan Tea Party, said Rep. Zorn’s voting record sounds like it is opposed to the tea party concerns. She said public sector unions “certainly found an ally, especially on the Republican side.” The union’s biggest supporter in Lansing is the so-called Republican Senate Majority leader Randy Richardville who also hails from Monroe County!
http://www.michigancapitolconfidential.com/16920
“Politicians and diapers should be changed often, and for the same reason” ~ Mark Twain
The “Bain Report” Articles that Affect You and Your Family for Monday, May, 14, 2012
Posted by rabman13 in Bain Report, Politics, The Bain Report on May 11, 2012
The “Bain Report” is a weekly publication for those citizens of Michigan who are concerned with the representation they are receiving from their elected officials. The purpose of this report is to educate and inform the citizens with pertinent articles and legislation that affect the families of Michigan. If you or anyone you know wishes to receive the “Bain Report” reply to rabman13@aol.com with add me to the weekly “Bain Report” in the subject line with your name and e-mail address in the body. Your email will be added to the list of those Patriots, Activist, and Concerned Citizens here in Michigan who receive the “Bain Report” published every Monday. For those currently receiving the “Bain Report” and wish to be removed from these mailings please reply to above e-mail address with remove me from your list in the subject line.
Opinion by R Al Bain
This coming Wednesday, May, 15, 2012 is the deadline for filing with your local county clerk to become a precinct delegate before the close of the business day usually 4:00 PM but check with your local municipality for closing times. This is important for you the citizen to have a say in whom get’s elected to political positions and also allows you to have a voice in the direction our elected officials take in representing “we the citizens” and not the lobbyist and special interest.
http://www.michigan.gov/documents/Aff-ID_Precnt_139901_7.pdf
With the more I personally research our elected representatives the more I find that they “do-not” have our best interest at heart or in their minds! The majority of them are self-serving and only serve to advance their political careers as to continue to feed at the public trough, “we the taxpayers”. This is all the more reason Michigan needs and must have a part-time legislature. With a part-time legislature this would limit the corrupt activity we now have with the legislators, lobbyist and special interest groups and also create a disincentive for those that have a political career in mind versus performing a civic duty to the citizenry.
This would also not only save the state of Michigan and it’s taxpayers money, but would create a more efficient form of limited government. Our legislator’s currently enjoy outrageous salary’s and benefits not afforded to the common citizens in the private sector who they are supposed to represent. They work less than half of a year as it is now with full time pay and benefits. By limited the time our elected representatives spend in Lansing the less damage they can do and would be forced to deal with the basic needs of the state and it’s citizens. Our government has grown way beyond it’s original intent of basic governance and the time is overdue for it to become a part-time entity.
Senate Majority Leader Steps Down Amid Adultery Scandal
It’s getting to be a bad joke: Pick a Republican whose attacked same-sex marriage and they’re either gay themselves or done something totally ill-moral to besmirch the holy institution.
NEWS FLASH: Rumor Has It Richardville’s Mistress Has Been Identified?
Conservative Voices Speak Loudly in States’ Primaries
The “Tea Party” is alive and well! Senator Richard Lugar of Indiana was routed by the right flank of his own Republican Party on Tuesday ending his six-term run. True conservatives of the GOP and the “Tea Party” faithful are sick and tired of the “RINOS” that have infiltrated the Republican Party and they mean business!
Tea Party-backed Richard Mourdock is a relative newcomer to politics which just proves that the voters are sick and tired of the same ole’ status quo politicians who are more worried about their own political careers than those they are supposed to represent! Also North Carolina voters decided overwhelmingly to strengthen their state’s gay marriage ban.
Lugar’s Loss in Indiana Holds Lessons for Incumbents, GOP
Michigan Republican “RINOS” take note! Voters are unhappy with incumbents which is evident with the Tea party-backed Richard Mourdock’s easy win over the six-term Senate fixture also illustrates the deep divide that persists in the Republican base of true conservatives.
Allen Park Turns to Residents for Bad Investment Bailout –City Loses Tens of Millions in Quest for “Film” Business
Welcome, Allen Park, to the real world of economics and finance. Your elected officials, who should be seen by the citizens as the Board of Directors of their investment bank, made a bad business decision to lend and become guarantor of a movie studio. The citizens of Allen Park and the state of Michigan can thank Senate Majority leader Randy Richardville for continuing to pursue and promote this “failed” Granholm agenda item! At least Granholm got her television show out of it.
Speaking of becoming guarantor of a movie studio, the Raleigh Film Studio in Pontiac missed its bond payment recently and with Michigan’s state pension fund as the guarantor of those bonds that pension fund will have to make that payment! Michigan’s state pension fund has $45 billion hole according to The Center for Michigan. Will the voters opt for removing the shovel from the hands that dug the hole they’re in?
http://www.michigancapitolconfidential.com/16876
Allen Park Voters Reject “Tax Hike” to Plug Film Studio Debt
Allen Park residents on Tuesday rejected a property tax millage aimed at lifting the city out of a $1.6 million budget deficit. The millage would have helped the city pay off $31 million of debt from Unity Studios. The city sold $25 million in bonds to finance the purchase of land for a 104-acre site officials hoped would become a powerful film and TV production center. But the studio abandoned the site in the fall of 2010 after disputes over rental payment and other issues. An appraisal valued the land and building at $19.5 million.
Michigan Continues ‘Big Hollywood’ Film Subsides
The mainstream media, which can’t resist asking actors how they felt about the town they just finished a film in. The actors then offer generic praise of the city. AnnArbor.com’s Martin Bandyke asked George Clooney what he thought about Ann Arbor, and then described Clooney’s response as a “lovefest.” The headline read: “George Clooney declares love for Ann Arbor.” What usually goes unreported, however, are the costs that taxpayers shell out in incentives to moviemakers.
http://www.michigancapitolconfidential.com/16836
Proof “Tea Party” Hijacked by Republican Establishment
The actions of the governing elite have provoked the darkening mood creeping across the land. The rise of the Tea Party in 2009 was fueled by anger over the bank bailouts, out of control federal spending and ever increasing taxes. The anger spilled over into town hall meetings, as Congressmen felt the wrath of public dissatisfaction. The fury propelled Tea Party Republicans to being elected in large numbers in 2010. But the movement was hijacked by the Republican establishment and defanged.
http://howestreet.com/2012/04/you-aint-seen-nothing-yet-part-two/
Michigan Lawmakers: Teacher Evaluations Needed to do Job Correctly
With what’s going in Lansing these day’s I would say legislator evaluations are needed more than teachers! The minimum required education for becoming a teacher is four years of college while there is no educational requirement for becoming a legislator!
http://www.mlive.com/education/index.ssf/2012/05/michigan_lawmakers_say_teacher.html
Welfare Recipients Get Hundreds for Car Repairs, Clothing Allowance
“You’ve got to be kidding me,” said Jim Chioda, a tea party activist from Holland. “This floors me. … They keep finding more and more. … When are we going to stop? They need money to go to the movies? It’s ridiculous.” Oh wait; “we the taxpayers” are subsidizing Movie Film Producers and Studios too! So essentially “we the taxpayers” are not only paying welfare recipients’ car repairs and clothing but for the movies they go to see as well!
http://www.michigancapitolconfidential.com/16839
“It is the duty of the Patriot to protect his Country from its government” ~ Thomas Paine
The “Bain Report” Articles that Affect You and Your Family for Monday, May, 7, 2012
Posted by rabman13 in Bain Report, Politics, The Bain Report on May 4, 2012
The “Bain Report” is a weekly publication for those citizens of Michigan who are concerned with the representation they are receiving from their elected officials. The purpose of this report is to educate and inform the citizens with pertinent articles and legislation that affect the families of Michigan. If you or anyone you know wishes to receive the “Bain Report” reply to rabman13@aol.com with add me to the weekly “Bain Report” in the subject line with your name and e-mail address in the body. Your email will be added to the list of those Patriots, Activist, and Concerned Citizens here in Michigan who receive the “Bain Report” published every Monday. For those currently receiving the “Bain Report” and wish to be removed from these mailings please reply to above e-mail address with remove me from your list in the subject line.
Opinion by R Al Bain
Our system of government is broke and badly in need of, shall we say “reinvention” to borrow a buzz word from our nerd governor. It’s entirely up to the citizens of Michigan to see to it that this happens. We citizens elect those to government positions to “serve” us not the other way around. We citizens are their employers (boss) and they are our employees (workers)!
If a business hires someone to do a job for them and they do not satisfactorily carry out the duty’s they were hired for they are terminated. The same should hold true for our elected officials. It doesn’t matter if they were elected for two or four year terms that should not be a reason for those to continue a disservice to the citizenry. There are mechanisms in place in which the public if dissatisfied with their performance can use to relieve them of their duty as a representative of the people such as the re-call process.
This process is part of the checks and balances of recourse provided to the citizens in the constitution. The problem is that there are those within perceived power and position both partisan and non-partisan that do not adhere to the peoples will. The old saying “they protect their own” is very prevalent within “the good ole’ boy’s club of government. A grand example of this is the recent rally or the “circling of the wagon’s” in support around Senate Majority leader Randy Richardville for his failed leadership and ill-moral behavior not only as a representative of the people but as a Roman Catholic as well.
A hearing May, 2, 2012 to approve the re-call language on a petition to re-call Senator Richardville was rejected because according to the Monroe County Elections Commission the language was not clear for the voters to interpret. “I expected it,” said Jeff Andring, who is trying to recall Richardville. “Randy Richardville sent an attorney down from Lansing. They cost a lot of money, and I’m just a common citizen.” Mr. Andring filed a revised copy of the language May, 3, 2012!
Some of the readers comment on several news articles in regard to the rejection of the language is as follows – “One would half to be asleep to miss the meaning of the wording of this petition” – “What the Hey? Sounds like the County Board couldn’t bear to have a recall of the Republican majority leader, now could they”? It would appear that the board didn’t like the “right-to-teach” aspect of the language because it didn’t contain the Senate Bill number. How many citizens know what a Senate Bill number is anyway? It’s the explanation with the words that count!
Senate Majority Leader Steps Down Amid Adultery Scandal
It’s getting to be a bad joke: Pick a Republican who’s attacked same-sex marriage and they’re either gay themselves or done something totally ill-moral to besmirch the holy institution.
Leadership in the Republican Legislature “AWOL”
For someone who has been in the political arena for over 10 years Senate Majority leader Randy Richardville has been, to borrow a military term, absent without leave (AWOL)! New Government Bridge, Autism Mandates, Mortgage Legislation tailored for one, Movie and Film Studio taxpayer funded subsidies along with taxpayer funded subsidies for Michigan International Speedway are all things Michigan’s economic recovery and it’s taxpayers cannot afford.
Consider Governor Snyder’s recipe for the budget that so far is not winning him any legislative ribbons. Lawmakers are essentially giving him a cheery wave and a casual brush off as they substitute ingredients. Virtually all of Mr. Snyder’s proposed changes in terms of best practices and evaluations in the different education budgets were dumped. Also dumped by at least some legislators were his proposals to add more general fund money to some parts of education spending, putting more pressure on the School Aid Fund.
Mr. Snyder called for a film credit cap of $25 million. So far, the Legislature is doubling it to $50 million with Senator Richardville liking the $100 million figure better! No surprise with this one because Senator Richardville has to pay back his Movie Producer and Film Studio buddies with the favorable legislation he has and continues to introduced all at the cost of the Michigan taxpayers! Mr. Richardville’s all expenses paid trips to the Hollywood Emmy’s has been well documented.
The Senate also voted to take some sales tax revenues on fuel sales, which will again put some pressure on schools and other budget areas, to put towards roads, and then trashed Mr. Snyder’s proposal to put more than $100 million in general funds into the state transportation budget. They replaced most of that money with the funds they had voted to take out of the sales tax.
The citizens of Michigan must ask themselves if this the kind of leadership and representation that they expect and deserve out of their elected officials in Lansing? This citizen feels that it’s high time and long overdue for new leadership in Lansing and the Senate Republicans have a duty and obligation to the citizens of Michigan as to elect a new leader!
http://domemagazine.com/weekly/wu033012
Local Governments Don’t Like What’s Happening in Lansing
The GOP dominated state legislature with it’s “failed leader” wants to repeal the Personal Property Tax on the equipment that businesses purchase. Local governments units collect millions of dollars by taxing the equipment that businesses purchase. If that revenue source goes bye-bye, the already financially strapped local communities will be strapped even more and will be forced to “raise your taxes” to replace the lost revenue.
http://www.mlive.com/politics/index.ssf/2012/04/tim_skubick_local_governments.html
Despite Cuts Michigan Cities Facing Budget Shortfalls
With all the recent legislative tax cuts to Businesses under the guise of job creation communities are facing budget shortfalls because of a continuing sharp decline in home property values. I can attest to this with home appraisals I received on my home in 2009 and 2012. In 2009 my home was appraised for $25 thousand dollars less than the purchase price and another $42 thousand with the 2012 appraisal.
Michigan’s Little Taxation Without Representation Secret
What in the heck were lawmakers thinking in 1978 when they created an agency that can tax all of us without a shred of sunshine on the process? Or were they smoking something at the time? You’ll find this difficult to fathom but lawmakers created the Michigan Catastrophic Claims Association and then told it do everything pretty much in secret, minus its mandated yearly financial statement.
http://www.mlive.com/politics/index.ssf/2012/04/tim_skubick_michigans_little_t.html
A Movie Script You Won’t Believe – Proposed Title of Movie: Film Credits for the Wealthy or The Studio the Taxpayer Built
Plot Summary: Imagine this — Four wealthy and politically connected businessmen concoct an elaborate scheme, using their checkbooks and relationships, to secure a taxpayer-funded movie studio for their own personal financial gain. Call them “The Gang of Four.”
Scene One: Have Michigan taxpayers provide the greatest tax giveaway for movie making in the country, allowing The Gang of Four to walk away with even more money, subsidized by the taxpayer.
Scene Two: Have Michigan taxpayers (as well as local and federal taxpayers) pay to build them a movie studio.
Scene Three: When newly elected reform-minded politicians threaten to end this scheme, The Gang of Four use their political clout and campaign cash to keep this system in place.
This is a script even Hollywood hasn’t come up with. Read on….
http://michiganfilmcreditsecrets.blogspot.com/
Michigan-Subsidized Film Studio Fails; State Pension Fund Had Guaranteed Loan
http://taxfoundation.org/blog/show/27937.html
2011 Senate Bill 569: Revise film subsidies (Public Act 291 of 2011)
Introduced by Sen. Randy Richardville (R) on July 13, 2011, to revise the state film incentive program, converting it into a straightforward subsidy program rather than an indirect one, with awards of up to 30 percent of the expenses a film producer incurs in Michigan. Reportedly the bill’s sponsor wants to increase the subsidies from $25 million already appropriated in 2012 to $100 million annually.
http://michiganvotes.org/2011-SB-569
2011 Senate Bill 383: Retain state film subsidy program (Public Act 77 of 2011)
Introduced by Sen. Mike Kowall (R) and co-sponsored by Sen. Randy Richardville (R) on May 12, 2011, to empower the state government film office to grant smaller tax break/subsidies less than the 42 percent of a producer’s Michigan expenses currently authorized by the state’s unlimited film subsidy program. The program will be replaced next year by $25 million appropriated by the Legislature to hand out to film producers.
http://www.michiganvotes.org/2011-SB-383
2008 House Bill 5841: Give subsidies for Michigan film production (Senate Roll Call 160)
Passed 37 to 1 in the Senate on March 20, 2008 with Senator Richardville voting in favor, to authorize a Michigan Business Tax credit of up to 42 percent of a film studio’s expenses for shooting a film or TV show in Michigan. The credits would be refundable, so if their value exceeded a studio’s tax liability the state would send them a check for the difference. The bill contains no cap on the aggregate value of the film subsidies.
http://www.michiganvotes.org/RollCall.aspx?ID=271640
Cost to Replace Lost Jobs with Michigan Film Subsidies: $39.4 Billion
Michigan employment declined by 204,000 jobs during 2009. Replacing all these lost jobs with subsidized film production jobs would have cost state taxpayers $39.4 billion (or $9.0 billion if the “indirect” jobs estimate is included.
Republican-led Legislature Votes Overwhelmingly to Continue ‘Big Hollywood’ Film Subsidy
SB 569 was originally passed by the Senate on Nov. 3. The bill’s sponsor is Senate Majority Leader Randy Richardville, R-Monroe, who previously said he would like to budget as much as $100 million for the film subsidy program.
Michigan movie studio defaults on bond payment, state pension funds to cover costs
A Michigan movie studio that opened just ten months ago is in default on an $18 million state-issued bond. Raleigh Studios made a big splash when it opened in Pontiac last March, with its seven sound stages and state of the art facilities. But now the movie studio can no longer meet its debt obligations, and will not make a $420,000
http://michiganradio.org/term/film-incentives
Michigan’s Film and Movie Subsidies Cost Taxpayers
The plot thickened when Senate Majority Leader Randy Richardville, who has been working to reverse the scaled back program, said the following to the Gongwer news service: “A few years ago we told some Michigan investors that if they invest in an industry that we would back them. And we gave them parameters and now we’ve changed that. We sent several businesses away that would help recoup that investment.”
By “sent several businesses away,” he means taxpayers stopped picking up 42 percent of film producers’ expenses. In other words, Sen. Richardville is using this default to lobby the governor and his colleagues to give more loot to film producers, insinuating that the state is breaking a promise by choosing to give away less loot instead.
Sorry, Sen. Richardville, but it doesn’t work that way. The individuals who finagled a state pension fund guarantee from Gov. Granholm are big boys who understand that their “business model” was in fact a purely political bet, not a business one, and the risks involved are likewise political as well as financial. And now their political bet is coming up a loser for the taxpaying citizens of Michigan!
http://www.michigancapitolconfidential.com/16357
Government Bridge, Casinos, “Right-to-Work” Union Issues Make November Ballot
As many as eight proposals may be on Michigan’s November ballot. Besides the deadlock over the proposal to repeal the state’s emergency manager law, the State Board of Canvassers approved petitions Thursday that would: Click the link to see the proposals.
http://www.freep.com/article/20120427/NEWS06/204270471/Bridge-casinos-union-issues-make-ballot
Lieutenant Governor Brian Calley Thinks “Government” is Private Sector
Fresh off his signing into law the Autism “mandate” that insurance companies cover that disorder (Governor Snyder was overseas) Calley spoke to a subscription bases news publication in Lansing. He proceeded to make the following statements that should show the citizens of Michigan why we need term limits. When our elected officials feel that the government is part of the private sector you know they have been in office to long!
Calley called the antics by the DIBC, the owner of the Ambassador Bridge, the only span across the Detroit River, “more of the same.This is in regard to the ballot campaign launched by the Detroit International Bridge Company (DIBC) that would constitutionally mandate that any “New Government International Bridge” be brought before the voters for a public vote”. He said it’s further proof that they’re “scared of private sector competition” since there are other very capable companies that want to build that second span. What did he just say? Since when is the Government part of the private sector?
http://www.detroitnews.com/article/20120420/METRO05/204200416/1409/rss36
Michigan Bank to close 6 metro Detroit branches
Huntington National Bank plans to close six branches in metro Detroit at the end of June as it consolidates a few of the offices of the former Fidelity Bank into its operations.
http://www.freep.com/article/20120419/BUSINESS06/204190523/1002/business
Regulators shut down Dearborn-based Fidelity Bank
Troubled lender Fidelity Bank, which has Dearborn headquarters, was closed Friday by the Michigan Office of Financial and Insurance Regulation.
http://www.pressandguide.com/articles/2012/04/01/business/doc4f7627043d987191401861.txt
“Politicians and diapers should be changed often, and for the same reason” ~ Mark Twain
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