Blog @ MoreWhat.com

There are simply too many troubling stories in recent weeks. And this post simply selects a few that demonstrate the contrast of issues needing attention. From the never ending failure to enforce immigration law in the US to years of ignoring an issue of equal importance to national security, Iranian nukes, President Obama adds his ‘Katrina’ to the list of issues railed on by liberals during the Bush years but now silent with the Messiah in the White House. And let’s not forget about financial reform, too big to fail, bailouts and the announcement of a merger between United and Continental airlines.

An estimated 10 to 12 million people are thought to have entered the United States illegally, and most come from Latin America. Hispanics are the largest minority group in the American southwest, and immigration reform has become a potent political issue in the Hispanic community, where calls for crackdowns on illegal immigration have been viewed as anti-Hispanic.

There was a time when the number of illegals was estimated near 30 million. Over time it has been greatly reduced. The excerpt above points to the problem. ‘People thought’ to be here illegally. More important is stating ‘most come from Latin America.’ That the largest minority group in the southwest is ‘hispanic’ and the ‘hispanic community’ protests enforcement of immigration laws speaks to the larger problem. Being here illegally, making the most noise about amnesty, expressing no intention of becoming American while invoking the race card explains the fallacy. Illegal immigration is an entirely self-serving proposition. It denounces the very principles it claims to represent.

President Barack Obama says an expanding oil slick in the Gulf of Mexico is a massive and unprecedented environmental disaster that will require a relentless, coordinated effort to overcome.

That ‘relentless, coordinated effort’ is taking a long time to begin. Compare this to reaction over the response to Katrina during the Bush administration. NOAA has had an oil spill response program for 15 or 20 years. So why the long delays here? Now it is suggested the oil slick will travel around Florida and up the east coast of the US. Another example of how ineffective big government is.

And then there is the small matter of a merger in the airline industry.

The merger between United and Continental Airlines will be worth some $3 billion.

The combined company will have nearly 700 planes, 80,000 employees, and fly to 370 destinations in 59 countries.

Airline industry expert Joseph Schwieterman of DePaul University in Chicago says the announcement is a positive sign for an industry that has struggled since the 2001 terrorist attacks on New York and Washington.

The airline industry struggled long before 2001. In many ways the troubles of the airlines is quite similar to that of automobile manufacturers. So two airlines merge as the answer to solve their problems. It does nothing to confront the underlying problems of the industry. But it does present a possible example of what the current push for financial reform in Congress, too big to fail and more bailouts in the future will bring. More problems for the American taxpayer, consumers in general and evidence politicians have no idea what they’re doing or are lying to you about their intentions.

This post concludes with a brief mention of Iranian nukes. This issue is the most troubling in this list. Continued failure to properly address and resolve it may result in a mushroom cloud. The only positive outcome thus far illuminates ineffective leadership around the planet, not just the United States. And that is little consolation.

Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad kicked off the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) Review Conference with a lengthy diatribe against the United States and other Western powers who seek to sanction his country for its controversial nuclear program.

Mr. Ahmadinejad spoke for more than half an hour, giving what has become something of his trademark - a speech criticizing the United States, Israel and invoking God - and sending the U.S., British and French delegations walking out of the hall in protest.

There is nothing new about this issue. The UN is as impotent as ever. The Obama administration has done nothing. China, Russia and Iran have used this issue to their collective advantage and no one else presents an answer. As another terrorist demonstrates how vulnerable to attack everyone is weak minds obsess on how to be fair to those who do not understand the concept. When will we treat terror threats like terror threats? Stop coddling those who support and produce terrorism and other acts of war.

Stanford Matthews
MoreWhat.com

If you are a fan of either the New Orleans Saints or the Indianapolis Colts Sunday’s forty-fourth Superbowl undoubtedly had special meaning for you. Likewise if you are simply a big fan of professional sports the annual premiere pigskin competition gets your undivided attention. But as the case goes for most activities these days there are many ways to analyze this year’s football finale.

Certain aspects of the event receive the lion’s share of attention each year. From the half time entertainment to the big bucks offerings from commercials during the broadcast to commentary on the ‘elites’ on the field or those occupying spectator seating at the venue. But this year presented the almost obligatory injection of politics into the fray.

Move over Janet Jackson your wardrobe malfunction may no longer occupy first place for the absurd at a Superbowl. Fortunately there was no such problem with delivering the National Anthem. And Carrie Underwood’s performance of the Star-Spangled Banner eclipsed The Who’s halftime performance as well as finding the singer’s wardrobe choice a refreshing change of pace. But that’s not the politics. It is part of the usual appraisal.

In the run up to the event news reports or op-eds and other commentary raised an issue for some liberals about the planned advertising spot from Tim Tebow and his mother. Libs of course suggested there should be no political advertising during a sporting event. Their concern was the growing public sentiment against abortion. The ad was described as the Tebow pair presenting the fact that a difficult pregnancy was not aborted and the child born grew up to be a very successful quarterback.

If you saw the ad on Sunday you may be surprised at the uproar from the libs. It was well done and the libs probably raised more attention to it than if they had just let it be. But then liberals are nothing if not neurotic.

So if you want to raise a political issue with the Superbowl how about this? Courtesy of VOA News an opening paragraph from one article on Superbowl 44.

Just four years after Hurricane Katrina decimated the city of New Orleans, the Saints are the champions of the National Football League. The New Orleans Saints defeated the Indianapolis Colts, 31-17, Sunday night in Super Bowl XLIV.

And in the same article this statement:

Saints quarterback Drew Brees, who has dedicated himself to helping both the Saints and city of New Orleans recover from 2005’s Hurricane Katrina, was named the game’s most valuable player.

An otherwise interesting additional article from VOA News examining the possibility of this Superbowl being a ‘classic’ also included something of a political reference.

A victory for the Saints would complete the resurrection of the franchise, which finished 3-13 the season before Drew Brees came to New Orleans. It would also go a long way toward instilling pride in a city still working toward recovering from the horror and devastation of 2005’s Hurricane Katrina. Saints head coach Sean Payton says the team has a special relationship with the people of New Orleans.

“This is a city that really has been very close to this team through a lot of hard times. And after Katrina, when the Saints were able to get back and play in the Superdome there was certainly some symbolism that evening. I think playing good football and giving them something to be proud of is important,” he said.

The game has special meaning for Peyton Manning as well. He grew up in New Orleans, where his father Archie quarterbacked the Saints during 10 losing seasons.

There were more relevant references to NOLA that could have been made but the point is they were unnecessary. Anyone with a brain can make the connections without urging from the media. And if you are going to make an emotional case for a sad situation at least have the common courtesy to present a balanced appraisal. Like most of NOLA’s troubles are of their own making or neglect.

One title in news reports suggested someone might be making the case for balance.

Not everyone is happy for the Saints

It was really no shocker to find a sports report suggesting others in the sporting world may be unhappy with Sunday’s outcome. And in the opening the author wondered upon arriving in NOLA if he would observe a population hung over the Superbowl XLIV or ‘revving up’ for Mardi Gras then expecting both.

And President Obama hosted a Superbowl party in a week when he has renewed talk about bipartisanship in the wake of the failure of his flagship agenda item, ‘health’ reform. The lone member of the GOP invited was Joseph Cao of the LA-2 which includes most of NOLA.

It had nothing to do with the game or NOLA but a down payment on the purchase of Cao’s vote for the Demcare. Cao was the only Republican in the House to vote for it based on promises of help for NOLA from President Obama.

The point here is enough already with the wailing and gnashing of teeth about NOLA or Katrina. For about three hundred years the city has been below sea level. There is an abundance of reference material available to demonstrate the repeated failures of public officials and private interests to adequately deal with Katrina-like vulnerabilities for years. Some of that information is on this site and at this blog.

The final word on New Orleans and Katrina is get over it. Stop blaming others for problems of your own doing.

Although this post does not offer an exhaustive list of funding provided for earthquake relief purposes to Haiti the reports featured raise questions. But that does not address a broader question on why each ‘natural disaster’ or other catastrophic event is treated the way they are. If ET were to visit the planet Earth the impression for the extra=terrestrial might be that this is the first time humans have encountered such an event.

The shock and awe reaction in the main stream media suggests we have never witnessed such an event. The wailing and gnashing of teeth expressed by those affected and interviewed by the same MSM demonstrate a universal theme. There is the expectation that someone else is responsible to return ‘victims’ to their pre-disaster condition.

No, this is not a heartless rant targeting millions affected by the earthquake in Haiti. It is an observation presented during a crisis to offer suggestions for future events. It seems little if anything is done to effectively prepare for such contingencies by those most likely to be affected. Certainly those who are least prepared to face life in general are not in a position to prepare themselves properly for extreme conditions like a quake. But that is the whole point.

Just as issues like education avoid the responsibility of the family component e.g., good parenting, and the so-called global economic crisis sidesteps greed on every level, preparation for natural disasters receives little attention between events or focus on simple preventative measures addressing those most likely to be harmed.

Most ongoing ‘humanitarian’ efforts elicit funds based on emotional appeals for money to address problems after the fact. Outside of legitimate organizations raising funds to accomplish goals like teaching the have=nots to fish in order to feed themselves rather than give them food to solve an immediate need, most ‘humanitarian’ appeals are a scam.

Here are some reports regarding the current difficulties in Haiti that illuminate the world’s curious reponse to such events.

UN Appeals for $550 Million for Haitian Quake Victims

If millions are affected it is not surprising the UN would request $550 million. If there are 3 million ‘victims’ that is less than $200 per person. But while the request receives much attention during the disaster little valid disclosure will follow documenting where the money went.

Obama Pledges Sustained Commitment To Haiti

Okay, so the UN asks for $550 million and the US offers $100 million. That’s nearly 20% of what the UN asked for and a decent percentage for the US to offer. It seems large compared to what reports show for other countries thus far.

China Sends Aid to Quake-Stricken Haiti

Purely based on the report, China claims they will do what’s necessary to help but the only specific monetary amount is $1 million from the Chinese Red Cross.

Sarkozy Calls For International Donors Conference to Help Haiti

Go figure, France calls for a conference to solve the problem.

France Calls for Cancellation of Haiti’s Debt

Okay, correction, France calls for a conference and cancelling Haiti’s debt. So what does that cost France?

Haiti Aid Pouring in Through Text Message Campaign

Some reporting has warned the public about fraudulent websites accepting donations for earthquake ‘victims’ in Haiti. The bottom ilne warns there are genuine relief sites and frauds. Let the donor beware. The point is the public may represent the only honest source of aid for this event. Are the other sources bogus and do they feed on these events to perpetrate fraud?

And of course to repeat the broader point of this post, why does there seem to be no effort to prepare humans on this planet to be prepared to handle disaster in an effective manner?

Stanford Matthews
MoreWhat.com

Just a short post for posterity to illuminate Senator Mary Landrieu’s price tag for a vote. If it weren’t so pathetic and typical of POLS it would be funny for one reason. Landrieu is so clueless she could not decide whether to admit or deny her vote was paid for with Medicaid dollars for Louisiana. $100 million for a vote on HarryCare. First she denies she was paid for her vote and then admits she would do it again.

After reports surfaced of $100 million for Louisiana was added to the Senate’s health care reform legislation, originally from ABC News, and subsequently commented upon by prominent lefties, like U.S. News and World Report’s Bonnie Erbe as my colleague Noel Sheppard pointed out, Sen. Mary Landrieu, D-La., took the Senate floor on Nov. 21 to announce she would vote in favor to proceed forward with the Senate Democratic leadership’s bill.

First there was Blanco, then Nagin, now Landrieu. And the Army Corps of Engineers gets blamed for Katrina in court. Sometimes justice is illusive. Much of what caused the problems in NOLA comes from a long history that few are willing to review. And that mindset is alive and well with Landrieu and HarryCare.

Stanford Matthews
MoreWhat.com

Wheeling & dealing: Snowe pow-wows with Obama; Landrieu, Schumer, Daschle behind the scenes (Michelle Malkin) 

That Michael Moore proudly displays his love of the left is well known. That Michael Moore continues to express tasteless, despicable comments on behalf of the left is also well known. That other lefties like a former DNC Chairman would engage in such practices says a great deal about the Democratic Party.

Michael Moore: Gustav is proof of God

2:36 PM Sun, Aug 31, 2008
Wayne Slater-Dallas Morning News

Liberal filmmaker Michael Moore has his own take about the divine aspects of Hurricane Gustav’s scheduled landfall just as Republicans open their convention in St. Paul. Says Moore: “Gustav is proof that there is a God in Heaven.”

How the ‘letter’ described below is considered a backtrack by Michael Moore on his shameless comments about ‘proof of God’ is not known. If you actually read it the sentiment suggests he is only extending his reprehensible remarks.

Michael Moore backtracks on Gustav and the GOP

Top of the Ticket, Politics, Coast to Coast with the LA Times
– Leslie Hoffecker

Michael Moore calls on God to let Hurricane Gustav die offshore.Friday, we noted Michael Moore’s comments on MSNBC describing the timing of Hurricane Gustav (during the Republican convention) as divine intervention.

Today, Moore — who almost immediately came under fire for his remarks — responded by releasing an “open letter to God.”

The reference below is linked to its source while the VIDEOS are linked just below the excerpt. Another copy of the ‘Two Democrats’ video was linked rather than the one cited at the source as it seems the audio quality is better.

Meanwhile the Democrats — at least some of them — are gloating, as this YouTube clip shows.

“That just demonstrates God’s on our side,” former DNC chairman chairman said, with a smug smile and a snicker. “Everything’s cool.”

The remark from this Democratic leader was not received well, and, in fact, is less demonstrative of God’s will than it is of a new air of uncertainty and sweaty desperation coming from high-level Democrats. Clearly irked and frightened by Alaska Gov. Sarah Palin’s entry into national politics, they’re now resorting to reading things into the tea leaves that aren’t really there, or as this case shows, just simply making up crap.

Even worse than Fowler’s snickering was Michael Moore’s outright guffaws along with — you guessed it — Keith Olberman on MSNBC.

“I was just thinking this Gustav is proof there is a God in heaven,” Moore said with a raspy laugh. “To have it planned at the same time. That it would actually be on its way to New Orleans for Day One of the Republican Convention in the Twin Cities at the top of the Missisippi River.”

Below are the VIDEO links as mentioned above.

Two Democrats Make Fun of the Hurricane and Palin (VIDEO) from reference above

Michael Moore Glad Hurricane Gustav Will Hit New Orleans, Louisiana (VIDEO) from reference above

Other reactions in the blogosphere…..

Fowler Apologizes For Offending, Attacks Recorder (Big Dog’s Weblog)

Democrats Laugh At Potential New Orleans Disaster (Big Dog’s Webllog)

Fmr DNC Chair Thinks Hurricane Proves God is on the Side of the Dems (Maggie’s Notebook)

While Louisiana prepares for Hurricane Gustav, Dems gloat and guffaw; RNC opening night cancelled; Fowler apologizes (Michelle Malkin)

Stanford Matthews
MoreWhat.com

Argue the point all you want but there is plenty of evidence readily available, including on the net, to reinforce the idea that there is a long history with NOLA of neglecting the fact that the cereal bowl is a perennial hazard and disaster waiting to happen when hurriicane season arrives.  The majority of blame related to Katrina and other past similar events in New Orleans can be traced to local and state inaction, corruption and failure to choose appropriate measures to maximize protection against such occurences.

The links below indicate that while they may be slow learners Gustav hitting 230 MPH and getting close after the last big soaking ( and that doesn’t refer to all the money spread around after Katrina) some people are taking the news more seriously this time.  But if disaster strikes one can expect a similar reaction after the fact regardless of how it works out.

Hurricane Gustav Near Cuba With 230 kph Winds

Thousands Flee New Orleans as Powerful Hurricane Nears

Stanford Matthews
MoreWhat.com

Following the content listed in most popular news on Google and Yahoo has been a regular occurence here. At first it was disappointing that so much of what made it to the listing were stories with topics that probably shouldn’t rank as high as they did. But that just seemed to indicate a sad trend that ‘clickers’ at these venues concentrated on items that really do not matter. The tabloid type of content was getting the lion’s share of the most popular ratings by click. Again, sad that important issues were being neglected by whatever the demographic was. If one assumed that the readers were a representative slice of the general public the bulk of what they were reading was an even more dismal trend.

But over the months it seems more public affairs issues are being digested if only for a moment. A snapshot of one of this morning’s lists has been reordered below by this blog’s opinion of what matters most.along with a commentary on each. Links are maintained except for those items designated here as useless stories.

News Analysis Choice of Palin Is Bold Move by McCain, With Risks

The central argument in the NYT piece seems to be that McCain’s VP selection gives ammunition to Obama while diminishing McCain’s criticism that Obama is not ready to lead due to inexperience. Right out of the blocks, Alaska Gov. Sarah Palin has executive experience and a resume’s considerably more accomplished than Senator Obama’s. No one said you cannot take on the VP slot as it does not lend itself to on the job training. And as for the ability to step in to the Presidency if disaster would strike, how many former VP’s would have been ideal for that contingency? If Palin ends up spending four years as VP she will likely be quite prepared for the Office of President in 2012. Even with the unlikelihood that she would have to take over as President, by then the McCain Adminstration would be in place and the typical resources used by each President would be available to Palin for executing the office. In contrast, nothing about Barack Obama equals that assessment.

Additionally, Mr Hope and Change Obama selected a Washington insider which conflicts with his new everything claims and that McCain is more of the same. It also cnocedes his lack of foreign policy experience which most suggest will be of primary importance to the next President. Like it hasn’t been every year.

Obama campaign buoyed by convention

The report above offers more of the same from the Dems more of the same complaint against McCain/Palin. It also cites a Gallup poll showing an 8 point lead for Obma post-convention. While Obama did a fine job of bolstering his celeb status which has little to do with leading the country, the Rasmussen poll shows the lead to be a mere four points. Just a few days ago it was a dead heat as indicated by just about everyone. It would not be a surprise if the polls reflected dynamic swings over the next few weeks.

Small Change From Obama

David Broder says it for all those suspicious of Barack Obama. From reminding readers that little is known about the freshman Senator to describing his nomination speech as ordinary and focusing on traditional liberal talking points, the change meister (Obama) has squandered his big moment by making a convincing argument for his opponents that an Obama Administration would offer nothing new.

Michelle Obama: Bringing back the brooch

Ah, the significance of Michelle Obama has materialized. She wears a pin. Let the fashion statements begin. So Dems comparing Barack to JFK will lead to comparisons of Michelle to Jackie? Oh, please.

Obama: An American Dream and a Promise for Change

For those who may have missed the opportunity to drink the liberal Kook-Aid, the above link is for you. All of what the Dems would like you to believe is in this. If any of it were likely the Dems might have something but just like the long awaited Obama nomination speech it is a terrible letdown. Nothing to believe in. Nothing to hope for and nothing will change from the liberal realm.

Obama turns to Greek columns for support

The celeb strategy is alive and well in the Obama campaign. Wanting to make a connection and comparison between himself and MLK and JFK rather than Ayers and Rezko, Obama opted for the Greek thing. Just another example of smoke and mirrors that appeal to the far left. Could it be they are attracted to fantasy and fiction more than reality and logic?

Unconventional Ratings: Obama’s Speech Draws Record 38 Million Viewers

Just another example that the Obama celeb thing has the capacity to attract those inspired by fads and bells and whistles. To be fair, there is the possibility that those sincerely seeking change may have paid attention. But as reported by Broder in another item above, Obama missed his opportunity to make the case and instead optted for traditional Dems talking points and the party line.

The other items linked below are secondary in importance. The report on Russia is another reminder that cold war sentiments may resurface. The mention of Gustav and threats to the Gulf Coast remind that NOLA is still the only part of the area that will get the bulk of coverage from the MSM and we haven’t learned the lesson of not putting all our refining capacity or most of it in one vulnerable area.

The IT topics represented by Microsoft, Apple and Comcast represent a trio of standouts all compromising the digital landscape. MS continues its habit of trying to convince users that things are different now. Apple has become as notorious as a techo-gangsta’ as MS with its idiot phone marketing as the latest Comcast episode proving net neutrality is an issue.

The unlinked titles below, of course, represent the least important topics offered on the list of most popular news items. Have a fine Labor Day Weekend and start clicking on the important stuff. Focus on MoreWhat Matters

Stanford Matthews
MoreWhat.com

S. Ossetia to be absorbed into Russia

Gustav strengthens off west Cuba
US Oil, Gas Producers, Pipelines Brace for Gustav (Update1)

Microsoft: No more Windows Live Mail crashes with IE8 Beta 2
Update: Steve Jobs - Alive And Kicking
Mystery ‘iPhone Girl’ On Her Way To Meme Status
Comcast to Place a Cap on Internet Downloads

Duchovny in Rehab
Lindsay Loses Grandfather, Calls for Family Peace
Earwax: Too Much of a Good Thing?
Two films will vie with ‘Tropic Thunder’ for No. 1 at box office
A-Rod abors through traffic to get to Stadium before game
Thai prime minister vows to sit tight despite anti-government protests

Bush Ushers In Thanksgiving Holiday Week
By Paula Wolfson
White House
19 November 2007

Wolfson report - Download MP3 (612k)
Listen to Wolfson report

As Americans prepare to gather for their Thanksgiving Holiday, President Bush is reminding them to remember their blessings and help those in need. VOA’s Paula Wolfson reports from the White House, the president traveled to the nearby state of Virginia to make his point.

But this year, President Bush opted to add on a series of public events, including his first Thanksgiving holiday speech.

Aides say during his travels around the country, the president has met many people who have given of their time and talents to help others. They say he wanted to highlight their contributions this week, and urge others to follow in their footsteps.

So Monday he traveled to the site of one of America’s first settlements - historic Berkeley Plantation in central Virginia. In remarks to a crowd of 500 guests, Mr. Bush spoke of the evolution of America since the day when its earliest settlers paused to give thanks centuries ago.

“In the four centuries since the founders of Berkeley first knelt on these grounds, our nation has changed in many ways,” the president said. “Our people have prospered, our nation has grown, our Thanksgiving traditions have evolved.”

But he said one thing that has not changed is the compassion and generosity of the American people. He spoke of the troops who serve in harm’s way and the volunteers who serve the needy. But he told personal stories as well, including a salute to a school principal in one of the poorest neighborhoods in flood-ravaged New Orleans, Louisiana, a woman named Doris Hicks.

“After Katrina many said her school could not return to its building in the lower ninth ward. Principal Hicks had a different point of view. She had a different attitude. She has a uniquely American attitude. She had a vision for a resurgent community with a vibrant school at its heart,” he said. “This summer, the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Charter School for Science and Technology became the first public school to re-open in the lower ninth ward.”

Before the speech, the president helped out at a center that distributes donated food to needy families.

On Tuesday, he will carry out one of the more unusual Thanksgiving Day traditions in the United States when he officially pardons a live turkey at the White House. Instead of gracing someone’s holiday table, the bird will be part of a holiday parade at Disney World in Orlando, Florida.

When ignorance isn’t bliss

By Derrick Z. Jackson | August 18, 2007

NEWSWEEK RECENTLY detailed how ExxonMobil, the oil lobby, and other earth-plundering apologists spend millions of dollars to keep us ignorant on global warming. Time reported that in the rebuilding of New Orleans, “environmental ignorance is setting up the city for another catastrophe.”

America’s catastrophic ignorance continues.

Time said the US Army Corps of Engineers understands that protecting New Orleans from hurricanes like Katrina or worse will require not just bigger and stronger levees. It also means preserving and restoring marshes, swamps, and barrier islands that offer natural protection against winds and high water.

It would be fair to say that this blog views the Boston Globe as fringe left. Taking issue with reports published in the paper before was followed with a compliment or two on other articles. But today another example of politicizing an issue as the left being deprived and the right being the demon gives further evidence the initial appraisal was correct.

The author is going out on a limb with the use of a title featuring the word ‘ignorance.’ While there have been plenty of items published since Hurricane Katrina, few have placed any responsibility on the city of New Orleans or the State of Louisiana for the consequences of past neglect.

Reacting to an article in Time, the Globe author indicates more needs to be done than just strengthening levees and related components. No kidding. If the author was ambitious enough to examine the history of NOLA and hurricane risk he would find evidence of NOLA officials rejecting the strongest level of protection, environmental groups suing to obstruct the Army Corps of Engineers, funds being used for purposes other than hurricane protection and appropriations bills that were stalled for numerous reasons.

Then the Globe subjects the reader to more frantic panic of the current global warming debate. The debate needs a third viewpoint. The first two are at opposite ends of the spectrum. One believes everything about global warming and the other believes none of it. Not an impressive stand for either. Again, politics is being implemented where none is needed.

The single item for which the author of the Globe piece may have a point is energy. The politics of energy has many villains in the public and private sector. The one he fails to mention is the public. An unfortunate and painful truth is the public wants what the public wants. The notion that higher energy prices are the only realistic stimulus to reasonable conservation and alternative methods for energy use is lost on the report. Instead the focus is again on politics and the big bad corporations. Criticism of the public demand for unlimited and cheap energy that poses no threats and requires no sacrifice or discipline is absent.

A small mention of surveys showing public opinion is nothing more than a casual reference. The focus on business and government as the primary villains is a familiar theme. How about a little consumer bashing rather than criticizing only business and government as in this case they may be doing their jobs reacting to public demand. How convenient that as consumers we want everything the way we want it and complain when ‘they’ won’t get it for us.

Stanford Matthews
MoreWhat.com

Mr. Edwards:
By your press release on the USACE current report on NOLA you expose your lack of understanding the situation and history of hurricanes and NOLA or your arrogance to blame everyone but officials in Louisiana. From Congress failing to fund projects to choices made by Louisiana officials to obstacles presented by environmental groups and others, the failure of New Orleans has little to do with anyone outside the state of Louisiana.

Why is it, sir, that of all the locations in this country vulnerable to ‘natural disasters’ that endless discussion of New Orleans and Hurricane Katrina monopolize the debate? And why is their even a debate? Is it simply good fodder for political nonsense and cheap shots? Or is it that no one will accept the fact that choosing to live in areas where disaster is likely to occur and/or occur often is asking for trouble?

People continue to live in areas where they are likely to lose everything because it is common knowledge they expect someone else to bail them out every time the high risk events take place. Live below sea level and act shocked when everything is destroyed. And do it over and over again. How stupid is that?

Stanford Matthews
MoreWhat.com

Edwards Statement On Army Corps Of Engineers’ Report On New Orleans
Chapel Hill, North Carolina – Following the Army Corps of Engineers’ report on the vulnerability of large parts of New Orleans in the event of another significant hurricane, Senator John Edwards released the following statement.

“The people of New Orleans continue to be ill-served by the federal government — first, when tens of thousands were left to fend for themselves after Katrina hit, and now again by President Bush and the Army Corps of Engineers. It’s unacceptable that the Corps has not protected large parts of the city from the next major storm.

“We must to do everything necessary to ensure that New Orleans never suffers trauma on the scale of Katrina ever again. And, with all due respect to the Army Corps, we need an independent evaluation of the risk to the people of New Orleans and their property.”

It has been a while since Hurricane Katrina. The daily assault of news, editorials and blame shifting faded into weekly updates. President Bush, FEMA and whatshisname, Governor Blanco, Mayor ‘Chocolate City’ Nagin and others have at least temporarily lost their positions as top news items. But it is hurriance season again and what do we have for an update on solutions to avoid another disaster this year?

For Immediate Release
06/19/2007
Pelosi to Blanco: ‘We Have Kept Our Promises; We Will Keep Working on Behalf of the Survivors of the Storm’

Washington, D.C. – Speaker Nancy Pelosi, Majority Leader Steny Hoyer, Majority Whip James E. Clyburn, and other Democratic leaders met this afternoon with Louisiana Governor Kathleen Blanco today to discuss ongoing efforts to address the needs posed by Hurricane Katrina. Below are Pelosi’s remarks:

“I thank our very distinguished Democratic Whip, Mr. Clyburn, for bringing us together this afternoon. Thank you for your leadership as chair of our Katrina taskforce to make sure that the promises that we made to Governor Blanco are promises that we kept.

“When we visited the Gulf Coast, we saw the tremendous need, we saw the urgency. We saw the challenge to conscience that Katrina posed to our country and we were determined to meet that challenge as best we could.

“We have welcomed Governor Blanco here on a number of occasions; I’m pleased to welcome her here again. This time, we are able to say that we have kept our promises. As our distinguished Whip Clyburn said, we had $6.4 billion in the supplemental spending bill Congress passed just last month. That was $3 billion more than the President requested. And that $3 billion went to meet the needs of the people of Katrina, such as helping schools recover, and repair and complete flood protection projects.

“Because of Mr. Clyburn’s relentlessness, and Mr. Melancon’s, on all of these issues, the supplemental also included a provision that waives the local funding match requirements for FEMA funding under the Stafford Act, allowing thousands of reconstruction projects to get under way. In some ways, some say that is more important than some of the money because it is a liberating provision in the bill.

“Because of Mr. Clyburn’s leadership and relentless advocacy of leadership of Mr. Melancon and the distinguished chairmen who are here, the chair of the Financial Services Committee, Mr. Frank, the House passed a comprehensive housing bill that addresses public housing, rental and low-income housing needs. The Chairman of the Appropriations Committee Mr. Obey, the Chairman of the Transportation Committee, Mr. Oberstar, and the Chairman of the Homeland Security Committee Bennie Thompson, who is also from the Gulf Coast, have all been instrumental in helping us get to the place where again, we can keep the promises that we made.

“We will keep working on behalf of the survivors of the storm.

“Governor Blanco, welcome. Thank you for your leadership. Thank you for being the persistent advocate and champion that you are. Thank you for helping Congress meet the challenge to counter what Katrina posed to our country.”

It is hard to imagine how New Orleans or the State of Louisiana or the nation could ever get passed a natural disaster like Hurricane Katrina without Speaker Nancy Pelosi and Governor Blanco. Are we ever lucky.

Jun 19, 2007
Governor Blanco’s e-postcard from Washington 6.19.07

Governor Kathleen Babineaux Blanco heads to Washington, DC this week to thank Congressional leaders for their quick action on her federal recovery agenda and to discuss Louisiana’s ongoing recovery needs. Topping the agenda is the projected Road Home funding shortfall, which the Governor will urge Congress to help meet. Gov. Blanco is sending updates to constituents back home through e-postcards.

e-Postcard from Governor Blanco:

I began a fast-paced trip to Washington today to resolve the projected Road Home shortfall and address our ongoing recovery needs. Congressman Charlie Melancon of Napoleonville joined me for much of the day on Capitol Hill and I reminded members of our Louisiana Delegation that we must work together as one united team to secure the assistance our citizens and communities desperately need.

I had positive meetings with the members of the Senate Democratic Caucus, Speaker Nancy Pelosi and Representatives Maxine Waters, James Clyburn, Barney Frank Steny Hoyer and other key leaders. Rep. Clyburn gave a personal commitment to help meet our needs, and I will ask other Members to do the same. Senator Patty Murray and I discussed the best ways for Louisiana to efficiently maneuver through the federal appropriations process. These individuals have become true advocates of our cause and worked to keep recovery funding for Louisiana in the recent Appropriations Bill. I thanked them for acting swiftly to advance the Federal Recovery Agenda I presented just months ago and urged them to stand by us.

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and there is more from Governor Blanco….

MESSAGE FROM THE GOVERNOR
“Louisiana is blessed with some of the Nation’s greatest resources. When a crisis threatens, we must take steps to protect our most precious of those resources – our people. State and local agencies are working diligently together to protect Louisiana citizens. This Web site provides important information your family needs to prepare for a disaster and to evacuate safely and efficiently, to escape harm’s way. Please take time to review the content of this site and discuss emergency preparedness with your family. In the event of a major disaster, I will activate Louisiana’s Joint Information Center and use this site and other channels of communication to quickly provide emergency information to you and your family. Working together, we can assure safety during times of crisis.”

-Governor Kathleen Babineaux Blanco

from the State of Louisiana, this appears to be the grand solution for Hurricanes Katrina and Rita:

Deadline to apply to the Road Home program is July 31, 2007
Louisiana homeowners affected by Hurricane Katrina or Rita have until July 31, 2007 to file an application for assistance. Louisiana homeowners who owned and occupied their homes at the time of Hurricane Katrina or Rita, and suffered damage as a result of one of the storms, may be eligible to receive assistance through the Road Home program.

The Road Home program is designed to provide compensation to Louisiana homeowners affected by hurricane Katrina or Rita for the damage to their homes. This groundbreaking program represents the largest single housing recovery program in U.S. history. Working together, Gov. Kathleen Babineaux Blanco, the Louisiana Recovery Authority and the Office of Community Development created The Road Home program with the approval of the Louisiana Legislature. The program affords eligible homeowners up to $150,000 in compensation for their losses to get back into their homes.

We can all relax now. Even though hurricane season is here there is nothing to worry about with Pelosi and Blanco on the job. That President Bush and FEMA’s Michael Brown really let us down. But don’t you worry any more. Pelosi and Blanco have it under control. No more disasters for Louisiana. Well, at least none that won’t have a public funding problem bigger than the universe. But you go ahead and keep rebuilding after every hurricane that fills the cereal bowl you live in. Like they can’t play jazz any where else. Perhaps a name change from Bourbon Street to Levy Street. More political logic for practical problems that keeps trying to fill the money pit.

Stanford Matthews
MoreWhat.com

crossposted at:
Maggie’s Notebook | Conservative Blog
FaultlineUSA

Hillary Rodham Clinton wants a lot. She wants to be seen as tough as her male colleagues. She wants to be known as a mommy. She wants to be known only as Hillary. She wants you to forget about the word impeachment. And she want s you to elect her and her husband President. This week she wants Now Orleans voters to elect her President so she can fix all their problems. New Orleans should ask Hillary why they have to do anything for her to help. Hasn’t she been a senator long enough to do something?

Earlier this week a report indicated Senator Hillary Rodham Clinton wants the internet to pick her campaign song. While it is also reported she limited the choices to nine songs, in the interest of fair play, more choices should be available. Here are a few suggestions, but readers are encouraged to offer more.

Blackhearted Woman by the Allman Bros
You’re No Good by Linda Ronstadt
Evil Ways by Santana
Sympathy for the Devil by the Rolling Stones

(Bill Clinton should suggest Machine Gun Kelly by James Taylor.)

Stanford Matthews
MoreWhat.com

Senator Clinton Asks Internet To Pick Her Campaign Song

May 16, 2007 8:04 p.m. EST

Matthew Borghese - AHN Staff WriterWashington, D.C. (AHN) - In an era where politicians are beginning to use the Internet to bring in votes and stir up buzz, Senator Hillary Clinton (D-NY) is asking users to help her pick the theme song to her 2008 presidential campaign.

Louisiana Gov. Blanco Lobbies for More Federal Flood Control

Louisiana Gov. Kathleen Blanco met with Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid on Thursday to lobby for more federal money for flood control in Louisiana.

We’ve been down this road before. What’s different now?

Stanford Matthews
MoreWhat.com

Red Tape Ties Up Katrina Funds
Despite the fact that President Bush and Congress have allocated more than $110 billion for reconstruction efforts in the Gulf Coast, some people say they’re still not getting the help they need. With so many levels of government involved, no one knows who to blame.

The outpouring of sympathy and offers of help for rebuilding in New Orleans are a display of understanding. For those who continue to criticize government and level accusations of racism, that understanding should be tempered by the failures of the past in preparing for disaster. Don’t look outside Louisiana for that information. See Katrina page

Stanford Matthews
MoreWhat.com

Bush, Mexico’s Calderon to work on immigration
Reuters -
… W. Bush and Mexican President-elect Felipe Calderon
pledged on Thursday to work together for a comprehensive
solution to curb illegal immigration from Mexico …

If it was not a plot by both Houses of Congress to introduce
HR4437 knowing it would never get through the Senate, then
the fine new Senate of the 110th Congress should be able to
finish strong reform starting in January 2007. Similar to the
fact that Immigration Reform of 1986 was never enforced, in
their grand wisdom, politicians have improved on their deceit
by creating a better strategy. Work together just long enough
to satisfy mutual goals and fool the public in believing you really
give a damn. Like Democrats conceding Presidential 2004
elections by nominating John Kerry when John Edwards wsa a
much more viable candidate. Kerry was a sacrificial lamb and
the only one who did not know it was Kerry. He still doesn’t.

We hope all you smiling Democrats are enjoying your victories.
We hope all you Republicans are understanding your arrogance
that led to this. And we hope you both as well as all of America
is prepared for a continuation of porous borders, unrestricted
immigration and a complete breakdown of national security.

If you haven’t noticed, the resignation of Secretary Donald
Rumsfeld and previously mentioned items absolutely elated the
Muslim world. Al-Jazeera and the rest have been celebrating
since November 7th, 2006. Thank you one and all. NOT!

Stanford Matthews
MoreWhat.com