Category Archives: ~ my 2cents …

~ my 2cents ..., ~ politics petitions pollution and pop culture

Week -end Wrap -up & News


Sunday buzz… while the temps on the East Coast are hot and def out of control the left Coast, depending on what part you live in is cool and or experiencing rain. The ranting and def un-PC raving of MGibson has us all tuned in as he alienates several in a matter of minutes  hey maybe he will get into politics next because he probably will fit right in.  nuff said. In another bit of strange but obviously important to the french is the new law to ban burqas, which still seems odd to me because of the obvious ramifications of being told what you can and cannot wear because …well that part is not clear but it seems very exclusionary to me and maybe somewhat racist -it is a cultural thing that is not meant to offend anyone and i might be wrong but wearing a burqa-style veil has now become a choice; it just seems like such an odd thing for the french to want to control and begs the question again why did they need to implement a law about the way a person dresses because the door is now open to tell people actually force people to accept laws that seem discriminatory. The notion that anyone could be told what to wear is strange -it isn’t about gangs about signs or whatnot it’s aged old cultural ritual that offends the french government? odd

In other odd news while people wait to see if the newest BP cap is still holding the talk seems to have taken another turn to negative and that just is odd. It should be a positive thing to see this cap is holding and the relief wells are being drilled, yet cable heads have decided to take the public on yet another path to what if not this is great. I watched a couple of shows say ok so it is holding but now people are praising gov Jindal for standing up to the government while others are saying he is just doing photo opp… who is dumb enough to think this man is actually standing up to government  when ok he is government a part of our country that wants oil drilling in their area who did not have a contingency plan themselves, did not have the national guard out there asap and why didn’t they insist on respirators, Hazmat suits sooner why didn’t they have some sort of pre authorization in place to put barriers up for the Marshes, Wetlands or beaches in case there was an oil leak or a oil disaster because things do happen and anyone with that much power should have had a plan.  It is my contention that Gulf Coast Government failed a lot of people but that part is not being covered by many.

Saturday thoughts …Are Americans now going to be subject to words of hate, fear and what seems like threats to me from some folks on the right until the November elections? In addition, should we expect them to engage in this ugliness daily? should we be scared, are we going backward, are people listening to the race baiting from Fox News and should our children our future be afraid? equality is worth the fight but we are in the 21st Century and moving forward is a very powerful and an adult thing to do -we should all take part because going backward is not an option.

“Who controls the past controls the future. Who controls the present controls the past.”

-George Orwell

I sat here listening to Senator Pat Robertson’s response to the President’s morning address, which btw was great but the comments coming out of the mouth of Senator Robertson were negative. I only heard the scare tactics, the fear mongering Senator Robertson and the Republican Party is engaging in. It is offensive and plays into the minds of those most needing the Republicans to vote yes to HR5297 and H.R.4213 not to provoke fear and or violence because the fear this party of No is engaging in has consequences unlike the Obama Administration wanting to help All Americans

On July 16, 2010, our President laid it out for everyone …The President blasts Republicans in the Senate who are blocking unemployment insurance and small business tax breaks to create jobs, even as they push for permanent, massive tax cuts for the richest Americans…

Moreover, as we wait to see if the newest BP cap holds then move into the next phrase, hopefully in front of us. We also have to hear the unbelievable noise from the airwaves, cable, and mainstream TV touting the bad Poll numbers our President has going into the elections hovering around 50%. In  my book 50% is not bad it can be better and probably will; you see i have faith in most Americans to see through the forest of nasty moldy trees such as McCain, Angle, Boehner, Canter, Barton, McConnell, Bachmann and so many who have shown their true colours and where they stand and clearly it’s with Wall Street because they were among others a group of folks using creative accounting procedures which eventually helped to bring this economy to its knees (almost)

I watched the 2008 elections and while the McCain/Palin ticket looked among other things, a sad reminder of what Republicans look like. It was also look at how some can make a joke out of our political process, which could have come close to becoming a reality. Thank goodness, someone turned on the light and 53% of our population saw the light and voted for the only possible person to help lead us out of the ditch the last guy drove us into without a word or warning or a solution. The ditch -in my opinion was worse than the Bush administration told us worse than the Obama administration knew until one silly mismanaged thing happened after another… and while progressives want him to act vote and be more left of center it is by definition that most would then call him the S-word. Its obvious most if not all American Presidents must and have to govern in the middle on most issues. However, it is not lost on me or others that we have issues that most Presidents avoided were unable to redress or introduce because as the group responsible for creating and make laws were if nothing else more conservative than we are today. Though we are literally in the 21st Century, the lawmakers on the Hill are slow to follow or be progressive. This is not to say that debates and or conflicts should not happen as not all legislation though progressive is correct or good for the American public, it would be nice to have the obvious things move through without so much trouble. We will forever wonder what pace our economy would be at if the stimulus amount had been as big as some economist had stated it should be, we will continue to wonder just how bad was it and why did the last Admin wait so long do anything about it.

I have some theories about the need to make change we can all believe in if the system is so bad, so corrupt, so needing its band-aid ripped off that the 2 month window helped create a moment when the road to change was all too obvious. We were in trouble the solutions just as bad but Barack Obama stepped up, was willing, able,  who is supported by most members of Congress and who 53% voted for. The notion that the stars were in alignment is such a cliché but just think about it. Is it possible the last guy finally saw the problems for what they were and could no longer keep the masque on the financial numbers that someone somewhere saw it too and meetings and deals had to be made…  happening way before the 2008 election, question is when and this was kept from the public.

It would be in the best interest of voters if the Democratic Party met regularly to get on the same page that says this is the agenda we need to work on in both Chambers of Congress. Though Democrats might not always agree on political policy, they all agree we need to fix the problems so they will transition into the 21st Century. We need to have our system function beyond what other countries are now and become that the nation that was number one in so many things only to have gotten us in the current condition and still digging our way out. I don’t know what happened in Canada but they have improved so much faster than we have though we have what 300mil people and obviously a bigger financial system -maybe it’s time to confer with a neighbor or two to find out just what did they do to rectify their countries financial system. just sayin

Other News …

**Neo-nazi leading patrols on the AZ border

C-SPAN …

watch Pres. Obama on Gulf Oil Spill

Oil Spill Cap Continues to Stop Leak

BP announced last week that oil had stopped flowing into the Gulf after engineers closed three valves on the new capping stack. President Obama described the sucessful capping as “good news” but added that more work is needed to permantly contain the oil.  Engineers will continue to monitor the pressure within the well to determine if the cap can hold the oil without leaking from other locations along the pipe. The results of these integrity tests will provide BP with insight into how to proceed with their efforts to seal the leaking well. National Incident Commander Thad Allen reminded the public that the cap was not designed to be a permanent fix – it will allow four vessels to contain the oil and assure redundancy in the event of severe weather. BP hopes two relief wells will provide a permanent solution; the first well is within 5 feet of its target and should be completed sometime in August.

Last week, the national commission investigating the cause of the Gulf Coast disaster held a public meeting in New Orleans. President Obama established the bi-partisan commission in May to investigate the oil spill and give recommendations on ways to prevent and lessen the impact of future oil spills resulting from offshore drilling. Witnesses included the Interior Department’s newly appointed Bureau of Ocean Energy Management Director Michael Bromwich. He talked about the Interior Department’s second moratorium order to stop deep water drilling.

Arizona senate GOP candidates square off in debate

Senator John McCain (R-AZ) met Friday night with his primary challengers vying for the Republican nomination in Arizona’s U.S. Senate election this fall. Former Rep. J.D. Hayworth (R-AZ) and conservative “tea party” activist Jim Deakin debated the four-term Senator in the first of two televised Republican primary debates. During the one-hour debate, the three candidates discussed a host of issues including immigration policy, financial legislation and health care. While they each sought to establish their positions on issues, Hayworth criticized McCain’s voting record, Deakin called his opponents “career politicians,” and McCain referenced his voting record against the President’s policies. Senator McCain also noted the support he’s received from many conservative organizations stating, “They know I’m going to go back to Washington not only to fight, but to lead.”   The second and last debate before Arizona’s Aug. 24 Republican primary will be held tonight in Tucson, AZ.

Lawmakers Look Into Airline Fees; Impact on Industry

The Government Accountability Office (GAO) recently reported that airlines earned $7.9 billion from additional fees in 2008 and 2009. Many of these fees include a variety of unbundled services for food; extra carriers; blankets; bathroom use; priority seating and more. On Wednesday, the House Transportation Aviation Subcommittee questioned whether the airline industry should better disclose these fees to flyers.  Subcommittee Chairman Jerry Costello (D-IL) agreed with the GAO’s findings and supported statements from witnesses representing the GAO, Department of Transportation and associations for air travel and travel agents. “I frankly do not believe that we are going to get where we need to be unless we do this either through rulemaking or action taken by the Congress,” Rep. Costello stated.

Book TV Live From Harlem Book Fair

This weekend, Book TV will be live from the 12th Annual Harlem Book Fair at the New York Public Library’s Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture. Panels will include discussions on religion, Barack Obama, human rights and reading in the digital age. The Harlem Book Fair will also hold a tribute to Book TV, presented by Max Rodriguez, founder of the Harlem Book Fair. The Harlem Book Fair’s mission is to partner with local and national leadership organizations to promote literacy. The Fair is the nation’s largest African American literary event celebrating family literacy, community empowerment, and community cooperation.

watch Harlem Book Fair: C-SPAN2 at 11am ET
watch Book TV: Previous Programs
read Book TV Receives Harlem Book Festival Award
visit Harlem Book Fair

~ my 2cents ..., ~ politics petitions pollution and pop culture

TGIF …


Word of the day … Amusing

Today is an amusing day for those of us who have to listen to folks on the right talking trash about the latest Obama Administrations win. We must say this … 2 big sweeping bills passed in Congress which were on the Obama campaign agenda … YaY !!!! …and BP’s newest cap is doing the job at this moment, the pressure is rising which they say is a positive sign though after 87days we are all waiting hoping for the best.

With the help from three Republicans, a final vote in the Senate of 60-39 for Wall Street Reform finally happened. This vote was a big fing deal like the one Biden said about Health Care Reform. The drama was great because the Senate wasted no time, the first vote for cloture was 60-38 to move the Wall Street bill forward then a couple of hours later the  final vote  of 60-39 came through. This reform bill should move us all beyond Wall Street to get Every Street fixed with this somewhat watered down bill. The Bush Administration did let the people down and avoided reforming anything financial.  We all know that all things financial finally needed to be repaired and reintroduced so that it functions correctly not corruptly and President Obama was able to get some in Congress to see and accept the idea and step up to the plate and got it done.

The President will sign the bill into law next week, until then celebrate because it’s Friday! Woke up to some strange weather in the 206 but then heard that the DC area experienced an Earth Quake reported being 3.6. It is considered minor or barely felt earthquake if you live on the left coast but it will be the topic so many on cable, main stream TV and airwaves because they don’t usually have them there and is the largest recorded earthquake in that area.

The President has gotten things done though the Administration is not getting the credit in this nasty climate; what seems to be louder and even noisier is the trash that Republicans keep talking  …Boehner came out and not only announced they would repeal Wall Street Reform on national TV they let their constituents finally see where they stand. The last few days and or months; say, since the 2008 elections we have been bombarded with crazy talk  from the right and while we may gasp at all or most of what they throw out at us. It should open the eyes of all that have been trying to decide which side of the isle they should be on … it is clear to me Republican talk is cheap.

More amusing is the ramping up of race and the importance of it now that we have an African American President. In addition to race, it is also amusing at how easy folks on the right seem to be throwing out labels to describe President Obama’s actions in a time when the jig is up so to speak. The corruption of not only just Wall Street came out some say a few things about the last administration were not just swept under the rug they were shoved and an agreement made to move on. It is obvious that Wall Street’s creative accounting procedures finally coming to an ugly head and the show, “House of cards” by David Faber on Cnbc was a cruel reminder and or an awakening at how greed affects the mind. It was a truthful documentation of the nasty journey our economy took … for who, by who and how it (they)almost brought  all of us down …and if we have to subscribe to labels … call me a Marxist who believes in Socialism at this time ….. We need someone who cares, who is socially responsible and who believes the gap between the haves and have none needs to shrink. School me, what can be wrong with caring for all the people of the US … not just the top one or 2percent… especially since that one percent has been wheeling and dealing starting from the house of bush and trickled down to main street … gotta admit it’s time for a change.

Obama is not a socialist or a Marxist …

Other News …

**Rising pressure on the BP well cap is a positive sign

**West Virginia Governor Joe Manchin announced the temporary appointment to fill the Senate seat left vacant by the death of Senator Robert Byrd. Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid has said that the Senate will swear in the new senator on Tuesday, July 20th

*”Goldman Sachs has agreed to pay $550 million to settle federal claims that it misled investors in a subprime mortgage product as the housing market began to collapse.” The settlement with the SEC “would rank among the largest in the 76-year history” of the agency, but “represent[s] only a small financial dent for Goldman, which reported $13.39 billion in profit last year.”

**Sen. Saxby Chambliss (R-GA) has joined the chorus of Republicans already calling for repeal of the recently-passed financial overhaul bill. “Oh, I’d love for it to be repealed,” said Chambliss, the ranking Republican on the Agriculture Committee, which played a key role in writing the bill.

**Yesterday, the U.S. Army “reported a record number of suicides in a single month among active duty, Guard and Reserve troops, despite an aggressive program of counseling, training and education aimed at suicide prevention.” In June, there were 32 soldiers who are believed to have committed suicide, and suicides “for the first half of the year are up 12 percent over 2009.”

C-SPAN …

watch Pres. Obama Remarks financial reform bill

watch Hearing on Working After Retirement

watch Spkr. Pelosi Briefing

watch Defense Briefing on Afghanistan

watch Pres. Obama: From Earlier read Energy Dept. Report

Well Cap Holding; No Oil Leaking as Integrity Tests Continue

BP announced yesterday that oil had stopped flowing into the Gulf after engineers closed three valves on the new capping stack that was placed earlier this week. Engineers will continue to monitor the pressure within the well to determine if the cap can hold the oil without leaking from other locations along the pipe. The results of these integrity tests will provide BP with insight into how to proceed with their efforts to seal the leaking well. However, National Incident Commander Thad Allen reminded the public that the cap was not designed to be a permanent fix – it will allow four vessels to contain the oil and assure redundancy in the event of severe weather. BP hopes two relief wells will provide a permanent solution; the first well is within 5 feet of its target and should be completed sometime in August.

Lawmakers pass Financial Bill, President to sign next week

President Obama praised the Senate yesterday for passing the financial regulation bill (HR4173), also known as the American Financial Stability Act of 2010 by a vote of 60-39. During his statement, he thanked lawmakers for passing the measure that would “crack down on abusive practices” in the financial system, and added, “the reform puts in place the strongest consumer protection. “The measure, which is the biggest overhaul of the system since the Great Depression, became a top priority of Congress and the White House after the 2008 financial collapse. The legislation creates a Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, as well as other provisions to protect consumers from predatory lending.

The President is expected to sign the bill sometime early next week. The House approved the bill last month by a vote of 237-192.

WV Governor to announce Senator Byrd Replacement

At 2pm this afternoon West Virginia Gov. Joe Manchin will make a temporary appointment to fill the vacant Senate seat left by the late Senator Robert Byrd (D-WV).

It is also expected that Gov. Manchin will indicate whether he plans to run for the same seat in November 2010 if the West Virginia legislature approves a special election for that date. The legislature is in special session to determine if the governor can order a special election before 2012, Sen. Byrd’s re-election year.

Senate Majority Leader Reid (D-NV) also said yesterday that the Senate will swear-in the new West Virginia senator on Tuesday, July 20th.

Senator Byrd served in Congress for 57 years and was the Senator from West Virginia for 51 years before passing away last month.

watch Press Conference: C-SPAN at 2pm ET
read WP: Democratic prospects look good in WV
read WVGazette: Manchin to announce replacement

~ my 2cents ...

another thorny Thursday &some News -Wall Street Reform


As we the people wait … for the result of the new BP cap testing, the vote on Wall Street Reform which has been reported as a go because Republicans Brown, Snowe and Collins have stated they will vote for the Reform bill.

This is great news and confirms that when push comes to shove though only three get it. The people are watching and telling at least these three members of Congress that it is time to reform Wall Street even if the reform is watered down.

It is a glaring reminder of just how hard it has been to move Americans into the 21st Century and where most Republicans stand and it ain’t for We the People folks. The decision to bet against the People to bring President Obama down is one that is not only in bad taste it will bring the rest of us down with them. I know i say this almost everyday  … but as sad as it is the truth is Republicans are willing to let our entire financial system collapse to get control -has any of their constituents asked what will happen if they are successful? Have their constituents watched or listened to what they offered up as solutions? The only solutions heard around the country is they plan to Privatize just about everything take away your grandma’s Social Security as well as any program that can be called an entitlement. It is offensive to think people work all their lives in some cases and money is taken out of their check at a rate they have no say in and this group of Republicans say ish on that …That Americans should pull up their boot straps and live at the pace that they come into…okay so let’s dissect that statement because it sounds like those of us born into middle and or lower class not mention poor should be given no opportunity to lead better lives unless we find a way on our own, granted there are self-made folks who did exactly that but if you know your history unlike folks who are so bold to make references to Americans being spoiled, not everyone can or are able to move into the self-made category without help and helping others  just seems much more American to me.

-Women and People of Colour have been kept down for what decades and have been the last to get not only the right to vote but to have the same access to things the White man was given just because they were of and felt of privilege. I admit some great people, Caucasian people felt segregation was a bad thing that all people have the right to pursue happiness…no one has the right to hurt others but history says otherwise and with all the ugly noise it looks like some folks do want to go back in time. It was a time when women and people of colour were seen …maybe but they definitely were not heard…but forces to build without much in return and today after all the Marches, Riots and Political maneuvers to rectify the injustices done to people over the last few decades. Though things are better the climate, the environment is less friendly since our first President of colour was elected

-53% of the people of the United States voted Obama into office, Republicans should  respect that though the poll numbers are down it is my contention that those who are upset don’t understand exactly know how much President Obama has accomplished or are upset because he has done everything you want now…. I call BS and people more left of center need to stop the tantrums because we have two Political Parties two chambers of Congress and it is obvious who is and is not working for all Americans. The House is by far the Democratic Party at work as legislation is getting through after much evaluation debate and votes but The Senate has more issues and that is because of the rules there and unfortunately Republicans have taken advantage at almost every angle have misused true efforts to improve things for all Americans  to break the possibility for all Americans to progress into the 21st Century and for our Government to reform thus progressing into the 21st Century as it should

Other News …

First Lady Michelle Obama announced yesterday that preventive health care services “will be free” under the Affordable Care Act. The law will “require all new private health insurance plans to cover services that can detect the first symptoms of long-term problems.” Chronic and often preventable diseases “are responsible for seven of 10 deaths in the U.S. each year and for 75 percent of the nation’s health spending.”

House lawmakers “pushed ahead” yesterday with an amendment to ban BP “from obtaining new offshore oil leases because of its poor safety record.” While it won’t affect BP’s current leases, the amendment, added to a “broader oil rig safety bill,” highlights “the threat to BP’s long-term future in the US.”

Yesterday, a federal judge blocked a Nebraska law “requiring mental health screenings for women seeking abortions,” which was set to go into effect today. The judge said the measure would place “substantial, likely insurmountable” obstacles in front of women, requiring doctors to administer “screenings that could be impossible to perform under a literal reading of the law.”

**A ship from the 18th Century may have been found on ground Zero

“Argentina legalized same-sex marriage Thursday, becoming the first country in Latin America to grant gays and lesbians all the legal rights” of heterosexuals. “Today’s historic vote shows how far Catholic Argentina has come, from dictatorship to true democratic values, and how far the freedom to marry movement has come, as twelve countries on four continents now embrace marriage equality,” said Evan Wolfson of Freedom to Marry.

C-SPAN ...

Hearing on Working After Retirement

Senate votes 60-38 to limit debate on the financial regulation bill

The Senate voted 60 to 38 to limit debate on the financial regulation bill (HR4173).

Up to thirty hours of debate can take place but Senator Chris Dodd (D-CT) announced that an agreement has been reached where debate will continue until 2pm today after which a point of order vote will take place followed by a final vote on the legislation.

If the bill passes, it will then be sent to the President for his signature.

The House approved the bill last month 237 to 192, with just three Republicans voting for the legislation.

Senate Floor: NOW on C-SPAN2
H.R.4173 AP: GOP Sees Political Advantage AP: bank bill ready for passage

Testing Resumes on containment cap following overnight leak

BP has announced that a leak has been repaired and they can continue to test the new containment cap to see if it will be able to stop the oil flowing into the Gulf of Mexico. The testing could take up to 48 hours.Experts will increase pressure in the capping stack in 6 hour intervals to assess data and measure pressure. Adm. Thad Allen (Ret) said yesterday that they must consider, if pressure readings remain low, the possibility that there is oil leaking elsewhere. Allen did not promise 100 percent containment, but said he is “very optimistic” that BP will be able to contain much more of the leaking oil.

Allen refuted claims that relief well drilling had been delayed. He announced it had just slowed, upon reaching 4 feet, 4 inches from its target. However, further process will be much slower to ensure no problems occur.

EPA Administrator Lisa Jackson is appearing before a Senate Appropriations Subcommittee to talk about the effects dispersants are having on the Gulf of Mexico’s wildlife and seafood safety. The focus of the hearing is to find out about the chemicals and what are the unintended consequences from their use.

Hearing on Dispersants: NOW on C-SPAN3
Thad Allen: From Earlier Live: Undersea ROVs
Times-Picayune Coverage of Oil Spill
EPA: List of Dispersants Used

Senate Cmte. Questions Federal Reserve Nominees

Janet Yellen, President Obama’s nominee to be vice chairman of the Federal Reserve, appeared at a nomination hearing before the Senate Banking Committee. The Committee also questioned additional Board nominees Peter Diamond and Sarah Bloom Raskin, who were tapped to serve as members of the Federal Reserve board of governors.

In her opening statement, Yellen stated her highest priorities, if confirmed, would be to revitalize the economic recovery and reduce unemployment. When asked about the biggest challenges facing the Fed, Yellen said the Central Bank will need to learn from the financial crisis of 2008 and implement any legislative changes to the financial industry.

Speaking to the panel, Chairman Christopher Dodd (D-CT) stated that the government and American people are entrusting the Fed’s Board of Governors to “play a key role in recovering the economy.” Ranking member Richard Shelby (R-AL) called on the nominees to strive towards transparency and questioned the feds increased power since the economic crisis of 2008.

The 63-year-old Yellen has served as San Francisco Federal Reserve President since 2004 and was chosen by the President in April. If the Senate confirms all three nominees, the Federal Reserve Board will have all seven members for the first time since early 2006.

Nomination Hearing: From Earlier C-SPAN Archived Video of Janet Yellen
Hearing Witness List & Details
MarketWatch: New faces strengthen Bernanke
FED minutes from June meeting AP: Yellen – job creation must be `high priority’

~ my 2cents ..., ~ politics petitions pollution and pop culture

wacky Wednesday &some News


Today on CSPAN … tune into what is going on in Congress too!

watch Thad Allen Briefing: c-span.org at 3pm ET

watch Senate Hearing: c-span.org at 2pm ET

watch JEC Hearing: C-SPAN3 at 2pm ET

The  weekend is almost here and most of us will be at home maybe relaxing, drinking coffee, getting up to do errands or go to church; basically not experiencing natural or man-made disasters like the one by BP, but most of us will not be in the path of   tornados , earthquakes over 6.0, mine disasters, or sinking oil rigs. It does seem like Americans are easily desensitized from the events that have happened over the last few days or months. Do not get me wrong, yes, life goes on yet the latest moves from the very people voted into public service have shown fear that cannot be ignored because we are all going to be feeling it. We all need to be responsible for watching, listening to how these new Arizona laws just waiting to go in effect at the end of the month effect the Arizona people, specifically the brown ones. The birther law will essentially make it impossible to run for office in AZ without producing a birth certificate that they feel or deem valid and the police will handle SB1070, which legalizes racial profiling, and take note fear is driving these two laws.

The question is what kind of fear. Yes, there is a lot of violence, drugs, and large numbers of people literally shooting their way into our borders and it definitely has to be dealt with as soon as possible. Though the way to resolve immigration is not by making life harder for some that have lived year for generations or picking up people merely because they look a certain way, talk a certain way or judge them by their shoes – is just wrong. It’s not only wrong but is it  just me or is it strange to be giving ICE authority to the local police who are already stretched  to the limit and who clearly are not immigration agents to behave like them just makes no sense. The move does make it impossible for Congress not to address; they have to and anyone with common sense knows that the law in and of itself could incite big ole problems.

Arizona was a beautiful place that some say is of a diverse population. The reports  say Hispanics make up 30% of the population. I wonder if that includes the many undocumented who have been here for generations have children that were born here who are hiding in the shadows now. I will admit to liking some of the stuff McCain said prior to the 2008 elections because it seemed like a foundation could be made between Republicans and Democrats when the legislation finally reached the floor of Congress. But, like everything else -Republicans have stalled and blocked the progress of immigration and are now talking about immigration like it is a dirty word.  This sadly includes Sen. John McCain and other Republicans who once were open to offering a pathway, offering legislation for legal immigration now are turning their backs on any path proving apparently they can only offer lies.

In a time when we have to accept, our government needs to be changed significantly as well as a need for bipartisanship not lies should be in full force on the floor of Congress for all Americans and quite obviously, it is not. I have  found some of the attitude change or adjustment by democrats in Congress refreshing  … to explain better; the notion that having a Democratic majority in both Chambers of Congress but were unable to get legislation through at the beginning of President Obama’s first year in office still is awkward or strange. The fact remains actual work is getting done.  It has been slow but progress is real and continuous efforts for bipartisanship on most legislation are also a reality but if those efforts on the Republican side become disingenuous, the Democratic Party needs to move forward, which it seems to be doing even with all the comments and or noise coming from the right.

The noise and comments from Sen. Graham shows not only how Congress in the past were unable to handle more than one issue at a time but Republicans are willing to obstruct progress of all Americans for their own agenda; we have many American issues that need to be worked on at the same time. The news that Sen. Graham essentially is having a tantrum after 6 full months of work and a possible agreement on Climate being made on a bipartisanship path is huge. That being said, Graham is now stating”, putting a climate bill on hold is a cynical and or political ploy by Sen. Harry Reid; moving forward on immigration reform being hurried and panicky seemed to be reckless”

We the People certainly are not stupid enough to believe that the current situation with immigration is small, can be put on hold for climate change or clean energy policy or that it’s  a political ploy and just hearing it is offensive. We all know that Republicans have a policy of NO a political ploy would not you say … we need lawmakers to do their jobs even if it means solving more than one at a time.

President Obama has proven he can handle more than one American issue at a time, the question is can our Democratic Party do the same.

Other News …

C-SPAN …

Budget deficit, jobs and economy focus of admin. appearances

Vice President Biden and the Chair of the Council of Economic Advisers Christina Romer will unveil the latest CEA quarterly report on the economic impact of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 (ARRA). The report will cover the amount of private sector jobs created through Recovery Act investment projects.  Later, at a Joint Economic Committee hearing, Ms. Romer will give further evidence of the Recovery Act’s impact on job creation and economic growth. Recent reports show the U.S. federal budget deficit at $1 trillion with three months to go in this budget year.

$257.3 billion from the $787 billion stimulus fund has been paid out to states, according to the latest White House release. The Recovery Act was signed into law by President Obama on February 17th, 2009.

Holbrooke, Crocker Update Congress on civilian strategy in Afghanistan

A top American official in the Afghanistan war will go before the Senate Foreign Relations Committee today to review the governance and civilian strategy in Afghanistan. Richard Holbrooke, the Obama administration’s special representative for Afghanistan and Pakistan will testify alongside former Ambassador to Iraq Ryan Crocker.

Following last month’s career-ending quotes by Gen. Stanley McChrystal in Rolling Stone magazine, Sen. Bob Corker (R-TN), a committee member, requested an immediate hearing on U.S. goals in Afghanistan. Committee Chairman John Kerry (D-MA) scheduled the hearing which is expected to reaffirm the U.S. troop draw down next year and “provide clarity” on the administration’s handling of the war.

watch Senate Hearing: c-span.org at 2pm ET
read NYT: Afghan Shift Puts U.S. in Tricky Spot

Integrity Tests delayed on Containment Cap, Relief Well

BP has delayed testing today to determine whether a new containment cap placed on the leaking well will contain the oil spilling into the Gulf. Additionally, Coast Guard and BP announced a temporary halt to the drilling of a relief well. Both groups will provide updates this afternoon — Thad Allen is scheduled to brief the media at 3pm (ET) and BP is expected to update later this afternoon.

The Interior Department announced Monday that they are issuing a second moratorium to block deepwater drilling. The new moratorium is not based on water depth like the first, but still targets deepwater drilling. The six-month moratorium is in place while oil and gas companies develop and implement new safety measures in response to the Deepwater Horizon explosion. Last Thursday, a federal appeals court rejected the U.S. government’s effort to keep a deepwater drilling ban in place after a lower court struck down the original ban.

The national commission investigating the cause of the Gulf Coast disaster yesterday completed its public meeting in New Orleans. The commissioners heard testimony involving the status of the spill response and the economic and community impact to the region. Witnesses included Adm. Peter Neffenger, Deputy Incident Commander, and Sr. VP of BP North America, Kent Wells. The commission also heard from Gulf citizens and business owners on the drilling moratorium and the impact to local communities

watch Thad Allen Briefing: c-span.org at 3pm ET
watch W.J. on BP Claims: Available Shortly
watch Live: Undersea ROVs watch Nat’l Commission Meeting on Oil Spill
read Times-Picayune coverage of oil spill
~ my 2cents ..., ~ politics petitions pollution and pop culture

mashup Monday &some News …


Where has our Democracy gone?

We the People have to deal with the ramping up of Right-wing Media Pollution …For those people on the right, like Fox news,Rove, Bill Crystal, Limbaugh and beck …53% voted for President Obama. The 53%, made up of more than just Black People makes you wonder if the comments used by the people listed are engaging in the fine line between racist remarks, the act of discrimination or as they honestly feel is freedom of speech. I believe freedom of speech should come with the ability to act and use it with responsible behavior …but that might be too much to ask from some people let alone ask them stick to the facts or speak the truth.

Today, the culmination of the various things in the news judged, questioned, denied negotiated, decided, debated, and still waiting on some table to be voted before the break will be faced head on in both chambers of Congress starting this week. We the People will hear a lot more vitriol leading up to the November elections. The various items Republicans have held up, blocked, or manipulated could make your head pop off. As Americans, we should see the forest through the trees; continue to push the Democratic Party to have courage, push for change that 53% voted for during the 2008 election. It might be time to have a meeting as one Party to get on the same dang page why don’t you and challenge this President to lead more if that is what is will take to get things passed in the Senate.

As Congress goes back to work this week, the pollution in various forms will be in play. The will have plenty to do, have plenty of complaints at a time when reports suggest another recession or worse is at hand or as talking heads refer to it as a double dip is coming. The impending doom and dread that cable heads of that double dip recession or worse, can be avoided if folks in Congress would just work for the best interest of the people instead of what will keep them employed on the Hill.

As we, all know Republicans voted against the unemployed … people should use their votes to voice how those NO votes made them feel and vote out Republicans. If you have not already heard, Republicans have invited lobbyists to the Hill next week. The week will start out slow but unless you live under a rock, the intent is clear; do Republicans think voters will continue to put up with them siding with Wall Street and not Main Street or the Street. The public will finally notice and call Republicans out. The Senate will convene around 2pmEt on Monday and there will be debates/votes and confirmation of a judge. The House meets on Tuesday and while the Senate battles it out on legislation given them both chambers will have climate change & clean energy, immigration dadt to deal with in a period of 4 months before the November elections; can they do it. Americans expect Congress to make a good faith effort to get these things done and maybe the Democratic side should look at budget issues that might merit the use of reconciliation.

Other News …

**Spain wins World Cup

**UFCW 367 is asking you to call the Tacoma Macy’s tell them to treat their employees fair

**The WA state bandit was caught by the Bahamian police

SEATTLE — In a last-ditch effort to chip away at King County’s $60 million deficit, the county’s council is introducing a brand new tax proposal.But the measure is almost identical to a similar sales tax hike proposal that recently failed.  and   If King County doesn’t raise taxes, Sheriff Sue Rahr says she’ll be forced to make a list of cuts, including: “”the marine patrol, arson investigations, homicides, sexual assault investigations, elderly abuse investigations and domestic violence.”

**Republicans in Bonner County, Idaho are protesting the area’s “Fiesta at the Fair” theme. The county GOP said it will “decorate its booth with the word ‘celebrate’ instead of ‘fiesta’ and have “asked Arizona officials for some license plates to put in the booth” to show support for the state’s controversial anti-immigration law. Bonner County fair board Chairman Tim Cary responded, “Are we supposed to change the name of a burrito to something in English? I’m thinking there’s some narrow-mindedness here, but that’s just my opinion.”

**Cnn will be in Haiti starting today…stayed tuned

**President Obama will unveil “the first-ever national AIDS strategy” on Tuesday an attempt at “slashing the number of new infections and increase the number of people who get care and treatment.” The strategy will not increase federal spending but will “redirect money” to areas and population groups with the greatest need, “including gay and bisexual men and African-Americans.”

**On Fox News Sunday, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said he did not envision a negotiated Middle East peace agreement being implemented within the next two years. “Palestinian Prime Minister Salam Fayyad has set a goal of building the institutions of a Palestinian state within a year.”

C-SPAN …

Congress Returns to Tackle Financial Regulation, War Bill, jobless benefits

Following the week-long 4th of July break, lawmakers return to Washington this week for a busy month of legislative business, and this morning’s Washington Journal features a discussion of the agenda. Senate leaders hope to work on an extension of unemployment insurance benefits (H.R. 4213), the conference report on the financial regulations bill, and debate the confirmation of Supreme Court nominee Elena Kagan. Senate action on the fiscal year 2010 Defense Authorization Bill could stay in a holding pattern, however, due to an expected lengthy debate on contentious provisions within the legislation. When the House returns tomorrow, they will begin work on a bill aimed at improving and encouraging teleworking (H.R. 1722) along with a flood insurance bill (H.R. 5114), sponsored by Rep. Waters (D-CA). The House also is waiting to act on legislation the Senate may send it related to war spending and an extending unemployment insurance benefits.
watch Senate Floor: C-SPAN2 Live at 2 pm ET
watch House Floor: C-SPAN Live Tuesday at 2 pm ET
visit C-SPAN’s Congressional Video & Resources
visit C-SPAN’s Congressional Chronicle

Oil Spill Commission Holds First Public Meeting

The National Commission on the BP Deepwater Horizon Oil Spill and Offshore Drilling will hold its first public meeting today in New Orleans. The commissioners will hear testimony on the status of the spill response and the economic impact to the region. President Obama created the bipartisan commission one month after the April 20 rig explosion to provide recommendations on how to prevent and respond to future spills. Former Florida Governor and U.S. Senator Bob Graham (D-FL) and William K. Reilly, former Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency, serve as the commission’s co-chairs. On Sunday, a BP spokesman said the company was pleased with “capping stack” efforts to stem the flow of oil from the leaking well. Speaking to reporters on a conference call, BP Senior V.P. Kent Wells cautioned that the project could take another six days to complete. Wells is expected to testify today on the ongoing response effort, and will be joined by Coast Guard Rear Adm. Peter Neffenger, the Deputy Incident Commander.

National Incident Commander Thad Allen said Friday that relief well drilling efforts continue and are within a few hundred feet from their target; however, it is unlikely they will be completed before the end of July.Last Thursday, a federal appeals court rejected the U.S. government’s effort to keep a six-month deepwater drilling moratorium in place after a lower court struck down the ban on June 22nd. The court found the Interior Department did not show sufficient evidence that the federal government would suffer “irreparable injury” if the moratorium was not reenacted.

Weak Planning Found in Pentagon-to-State Department Handoff of War Contracts

A new report released this morning by the Wartime Contracting Commission indicates that there is insufficient planning in the transition of reconstruction, logistics, and security functions from the Pentagon to the State Department.

Defense Department officials are appearing before the panel today and face questions on how the lack of planning may lead to unnecessary spending in hiring new contractors which the State Department may be unable to properly oversee.

The commission was created by Congress in 2008 to examine federal agency contracting for reconstruction, logistics, and security functions in the Iraq and Afghanistan wars, and to recommend future improvements. Former Deputy Director of the Defense Contract Audit Agency, Michael Thibault, and former Rep. Chris Shays (R-CT) serve as co-chairs.

The commission will submit its final report to Congress in 2011.