Confessions of a Recovering Talk Show Host: April 2009

Thursday, April 30, 2009

Schools Stay Informed about H1N1 Virus

TOPEKA, Kan. - Seaman USD 345 is joining the ranks of many other school districts staying in touch with Kansas health officials on the topic of the H1N1 "swine flu" virus.

The Kansas Department of Health and Environment continues to provide updates to hospitals, clinics, state and local officials, and schools.

Pleasant Hill is part of the USD 345 district. Teachers from the school said Thursday they have been very well informed by the district, which has information posted on it's website.

Teacher Peggy Kuhn said the kids have learned about H1N1 at school and at home. "We teach the kids to wash their hands, cough into their elbow. We're just trying to keep it calm for them while still acknowledging it's out there," Kuhn said.

I like the approach this school district is taking. This in contrast to the panic which would happen if were to listen to the ramblings of our Vice President.

New Kansas Governor Sees Need for 'Shared Sacrifice'

TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) _ Gov. Mark Parkinson is calling on legislators to embrace ``a middle ground'' to deal with the state's budget problems.

He said Thursday that ``shared sacrifice'' will lead to better times after the state eliminates a projected $328 million deficit in the budget for its next fiscal year.

Parkinson addressed a joint House-Senate session on his second
full day in office. He rose from lieutenant governor to governor when Kathleen Sebelius resigned to become U.S. health and human services secretary.

I continue to favor cuts versus "revenue enhancements" (code word for taxes, no matter what he says). I am not optimistic about this wrap up session of the Legislature.

What Should We Call It?

The latest viral outbreak sweeping the world has the media caught up in the debate over technical language versus common phrasing.

Late last week, we started hearing about problems in Mexico with something called swine flu. It's a virus with elements from swine, bird and humans that had never before been seen by health officials. By the weekend, cases started showing up in the U.S., including two in Dickinson County, Kansas. Health and emergency management officials started sounding the alarm about protecting yourself from swine flu.

But hold on! There is no evidence humans can catch this virus from swine and, in fact, there is no evidence of the virus at all in the U.S. swine population. Yet, some markets put bans on shipments of U.S. pork and Egypt went so far as to mass-slaughter its hogs.

Melissa raises some good questions on her blog. Might be good fodder for discussion on today's Steve Forman Show, 1-3pm on radiorichandlouann.com.

Biden would avoid subways, planes after swine flu outbreak - Carol E. Lee and Amie Parnes - POLITICO.com

Vice President Joe Biden said Thursday that he would not recommend taking any commercial flight or riding in a subway car “at this point” because swine flu virus can spread “in confined places.” A little more than one hour later, Biden rushed out a statement backing off.

“I would tell members of my family – and I have – I wouldn’t go anywhere in confined places now,” Biden said on NBC’s “Today” show.. “It’s not that it’s going to Mexico. It’s [that] you’re in a confined aircraft. When one person sneezes, it goes all the way through the aircraft. That’s me. …

Oh, this is great. Our Vice President is going to cause a nationwide panic if he doesn't watch his mouth. You know what? Maybe we should all pray for President Obama's health, because if this guy were to become president, who knows what he might say.

Royals romp, despite scores on Greinke | CJOnline.com

Royals romp, despite scores on Greinke CJOnline.com

Zack Greinke talked last winter about a pitcher reaching that perfect blend, where physical ability exactly matches mental ability.

So with a 5-0 record after five starts and a microscopic ERA, is he there?

"I'm trying to get to that," he said. "But not yet."

The Kansas City right-hander is close, though. He gave up an earned run for the first time in 43 innings, but Billy Butler backed him up with two homers Wednesday night and the Kansas City Royals pounded 11 extra-base hits in an 11-3 rout of the Toronto Blue Jays.

I don't know if the Royals will win an pennant this year, but I can tell you one thing. This team is fun to watch, win or lose. And this year, they might just win more often than lose. And if they can stay in the race all summer, it could be an interesting year at the new K.

I just love baseball season.

Lawmakers return amid budget crisis | CJOnline.com

Lawmakers return amid budget crisis CJOnline.com

The business lobby warned about dire consequences of tax hikes and a state employee union expressed firm opposition to furloughs Wednesday as legislators returned from a three-week recess to resolve a $328 million budget deficit.

Newly minted Gov. Mark Parkinson, sworn in Tuesday night after the resignation of Kathleen Sebelius, said a combination of spending cuts and revenue adjustments would be required to meet a constitutional obligation to adopt a balanced budget.

Parkinson is scheduled to address a joint session of the Legislature at 4 p.m. today to outline his priorities.

Ah, the boys and girls are back under the dome. And we better hang on tight to our wallets. This could get ugly before it is over. But I will back in front of a microphone trying to figure out with you what it all means.

Wednesday, April 29, 2009

Fox sticking with schedule instead of Obama

NEW YORK – Fox became the first broadcast network to turn down a request by President Barack Obama for time, opting to show its drama "Lie to Me" on Wednesday instead of the president's prime-time news conference.

Fox will direct viewers interested in the news conference to Fox News Channel and the Fox Business Network, which will both carry it. ABC, CBS, NBC, CNN, MSNBC and CNBC are all carrying the 8 p.m. EDT event, on Obama's 100th day in office.

This will be Obama's third prime-time news conference as president, a schedule that has caused some private grumbling among network executives. Carrying a news conference costs the four broadcast networks an estimated $10 million-plus in lost advertising revenue.

Good for Fox. I seriously doubt the President will say anything important. And if he does, their own news networks will be covering it.

FAA Memo: Feds Knew NYC Flyover Would Cause Panic - wcbstv.com

A furious President Barack Obama ordered an internal review of Monday's low-flying photo op over the Statue of Liberty.

CBS 2 HD has discovered the feds will have plenty to question.

Federal officials knew that sending two fighter jets and Air Force One to buzz ground zero and Lady Liberty might set off nightmarish fears of a 9/11 replay, but they still ordered the photo-op kept secret from the public.

In a memo obtained by CBS 2 HD the Federal Aviation Administration's James Johnston said the agency was aware of "the possibility of public concern regarding DOD (Department of Defense) aircraft flying at low altitudes" in an around New York City. But they demanded total secrecy from the NYPD, the Secret Service, the FBI and even the mayor's office and threatened federal sanctions if the secret got out.

Yet another blunder early in the Obama administration. Say what you want about President Bush, but something like this would not have happened under his watch.

Council creates TIF district | CJOnline.com

Council creates TIF district CJOnline.com

The city of Topeka will create a tax-increment financing district to encourage economic growth in the area of S.W. 37th and Topeka Boulevard.

City council members voted 8-1 Tuesday evening to create the district. Councilman Jack Woelfel dissented, saying he had unanswered questions about the move and couldn’t support it until they had been addressed to his satisfaction. Woelfel made a motion to postpone action on the measure for two weeks, but it died for a lack of a second.

Deputy city manager Randy Speaker said Tuesday’s action doesn’t commit the city to spending any money or issuing any bonds but clears the way for developers to approach the city with proposals for TIF projects in the area involved.

I like the idea of TIF districts as an economic development tool. They allow local governments to be involved in improving areas of town that need it, while limiting the costs to average taxpayers. And the part of town involved here sure could use some improvement.

Tuesday, April 28, 2009

New Owners Approved for RoadRunners

Topeka - Hockey will stay in Topeka. New owners for the Topeka RoadRunners have been conditionally approved by the North American Hockey League. The league's board of governors will meet with the new ownership group on Saturday to move forward towards a final approval. The new ownership group was only described as a group of "businessmen open to local investors."

"This group will merge with the community, and put cash into it," NAHL commissioner Mark Frankenfeld said in a phone interview Tuesday evening. He also stated that it is a "100% sale," with the team, name, logo, equipment, etc. to all change hands from current owner Mary Magdalene Lorang. When asked weather Lorang will have any involvement with the team after the sale, Frankenfeld said "no."

I am happy to see that the RoadRunners will stay in Topeka. They are really beginning to find a following, and it is nice to see we can keep a minor league franchise in our town.

Call her Madam Secretary - KTKA.com

Governor Kathleen Sebelius has resigned and is on her way to Washington, D.C.

An official statement from the Governor's office reads:

“With so much important business to attend to, including monitoring and managing the flu situation, it was important to the Governor and the President that she get started immediately."

U.S. Senators voted 65 in favor to 31 against to approve Kathleen Sebelius as the U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services.

I have no idea what kind of Cabinet Secretary Ms. Sebelius will be. But I have to admit I am glad to see that the moving vans are backing up to Cedar Crest. Now, she will be the whole country's problem, not just ours.

Column: Weather reporters should leave sensationalism to nature | CJOnline.com

Column: Weather reporters should leave sensationalism to nature CJOnline.com

All right, let’s go to our SKY DOMINATOR RADAR and look at this VOLATILE MIX OF ATMOSPHERIC CONDITIONS capable of producing DEADLY SUPERCELL THUNDERSTORMS.

Yes, it’s springtime in the Midwest, which means it’s time for dramatic weather coverage.

Fortunately, our local meteorologists are relatively calm and reserved compared to some I’ve seen and heard. I’ve been in Oklahoma City when storms moved through, and the difference between the tone of the weather reporting there and in Topeka is striking.

Ric Anderson has it right when it comes to our local tv stations and their coverage of severe weather. I found myself flipping around and comparing stations as the storms hit. And they were all doing a great job. Perhaps the best was channel 49, who had video of the tornado north of Lawrence.

It is a shame that radio coverage in this town is not as consistent as television. You will find yourself without tv before you will lose radio in most cases.

Monday, April 27, 2009

Boosting Obama

Howard Kurtz - The Media Elite's Secret Dinners - washingtonpost.com

The networks have given President Obama more coverage than George W. Bush and Bill Clinton combined in their first months -- and more positive assessments to boot.

In a study to be released today, the Center for Media and Public Affairs and Chapman University found the nightly newscasts devoting nearly 28 hours to Obama's presidency in the first 50 days. (Bush, by contrast, got nearly eight hours.) Fifty-eight percent of the evaluations of Obama were positive on the ABC, CBS and NBC broadcasts, compared with 33 percent positive in the comparable period of Bush's tenure and 44 percent positive for Clinton. (Evaluations by officials from the administration or either political party were not counted.)

(Note: You need to scroll half way down the page to find this story.)

The media love affair with Obama continues. I would dare anyone who supports Obama to tell one real accomplishment of his during the past 100 days or so. Yet, the media treats him like a god. Maybe, it is worship.

Special offering -- sex -- puts church at risk | floridatoday.com | FLORIDA TODAY

Special offering -- sex -- puts church at risk floridatoday.com FLORIDA TODAY

MELBOURNE -- Sermons about sex -- and advertisements depicting sockless feet snuggling between bedsheets -- have landed a church in hot water with Brevard Public Schools officials.

The school district's risk-management department has threatened to boot New Hope Church out of Sherwood Elementary, its new home for Sunday services.

Why? A worship series titled "Great Sex for You."

Last week, church leaders mailed 25,000 colorful fliers to Melbourne households, asking residents "Is Your Sex Life A Bore?" and inviting them to go to the school to "learn how to have the Great Sex that God created you to enjoy!"

The three-week program kicked off Sunday morning inside the school auditorium. Seated on stage in black jeans and an untucked collared shirt, Bible in hand, Pastor Bruce Cadle said the Christian church has been "shamefully silent" on the typically taboo topic.

I am thrilled that a church is taking this topic on in a mature, God centered way. Why is it that the schools can talk about sex to our children, but a church can't use the same building to preach what God says about sex within a marriage? Seems like a bit of a double standard to me.

Thursday, April 23, 2009

NBAF Tornado Argument - Manhattan Vs. San Antonio

NBAF Tornado Argument - Manhattan Vs. San Antonio

WIBW-TV did the math, and the lawsuit against the Manhattan facility is bogus.

According to the National Data Climate Center - US Department of Commerce... Bexar County has recorded 59 tornado touchdowns since 1950, and Riley County has recorded 22 confirmed touchdowns. Discussion over? Now, let's be completely fair to Bexar County... it is a larger county in area than Riley County. Bexar is almost 1250 square miles, and Riley County is about 625 square miles. That's about a 2 to 1 ratio. Here is the math.

Apples to Apples...
Bexar County(San Antonio) has recorded 59 confirmed tornadoes since 1950.
Riley County(Manhattan) has recorded 22 confirmed tornadoes since 1950.

To make Apples to Apples... the same size of apple...
Bexar County is 2.02 times larger than Riley County.

Sooooo.... 22 x 2.02 = 44.44(adjusted Riley County value to fairly represent tornadoes per square mile vs. Bexar)

And...
Bexar 59 / Adjusted Riley County 44.44 = 1.32
Or... in English, Bexar County has recorded 32% higher tornado frequency, per square mile over the past 59 years verses Riley County Kansas.

This thing should be run out of court quickly

Chiefs trade TE Gonzalez to Atlanta / Kansas News Leader

The Kansas City Chiefs announced on Thursday that the club has traded TE Tony Gonzalez to Atlanta in exchange for a second-round selection in the 2010 NFL Draft.

“On behalf of my family and the Chiefs, I want to thank Tony for his time in Kansas City,” Chiefs Chairman Clark Hunt said. “Over the last 12 seasons, Tony has been one of the finest players in Chiefs history, and he will always be remembered as a member of the Chiefs. His play on the field speaks for itself – he holds almost every major NFL record for tight ends, and he is arguably the best to ever play his position. We wish him the best in Atlanta.”

This is sad for two reasons. First of all, it just will seem wrong to see Tony in any other uniform besides the Chiefs. Second, and even more sad for Tony, he won't win a Super Bowl ring in Atlanta, either.

CNN Political Ticker: All politics, all the time Blog Archive - Magazine takes heat for doctoring Obama pic « - Blogs from CNN.com

(CNN) – A magazine is taking heat for making undisclosed alterations of a photograph of President Obama in a bathing suit.

Washingtonian Magazine changed the color of the president's shorts and made a few other touch-ups, but media critic Howard Kurtz calls the small adjustments "unethical."

"While the alternations of this picture might seem to some people to be kind of minor, it is absolutely unethical," he said. "It is dishonest. It is not journalism. You cannot present a news photo, particularly of a president, but of anybody, and alter it through digital technology without being honest about it with readers."

The fact that any "serious" news outfit is having this debate is funny, except that it shows how far journalism has fallen. And No, I don't have an opinion on this.

Earmark critic Lynn Jenkins criticized over earmarks - KTKA.com

During her successful 2008 campaign for Congress, Lynn Jenkins criticized her opponents for voting for earmarks — those appropriations for specifically requested projects tucked away in large spending bills.

The Topeka Republican, whose 2nd U.S. House District includes west Lawrence, took to task her Republican primary opponent, former Congressman Jim Ryun, and general election opponent, Democratic incumbent Nancy Boyda, both of whom she defeated, over the issue.

Jenkins signed a pledge vowing to abide by strict earmark limits.

But on Wednesday, it was Jenkins who was under fire for pushing for earmarks.

The Club for Growth issued a news release saying Jenkins violated her pledge. And the organization removed Jenkins from its “Sworn Off Earmarks” list.

Ms. Jenkins is learning the hard way that you have to watch what kind of pledges you agree to, because every rule has an exception. We will have to wait and see if she will regret ever having signed that pledge.

County banks $13K per game | CJOnline.com

County banks $13K per game CJOnline.com

Will they stay or will they go?

That has been the most pressing question surrounding the Topeka RoadRunners after estimates of their chances to remain in town went from zero to 90 percent in just four days.

But as the RoadRunners’ fate remains uncertain, another question arises: What does the North American Hockey League team mean to the Kansas Expocentre and to the community?

The value of the RoadRunners to Topeka is much greater than the dollars and cents it generates. The team is a source of pride for the community, and help put positive headlines out there for a city that desperately needs them. I hope and pray we can find a way to keep the team here.

Wednesday, April 22, 2009

Texas officials prepare to sue over biolab - KTKA.com

A group of Texas research facilities has filed a notice in federal court in Washington saying they intend to sue the Department of Homeland Security over its selection of a Kansas site for a new biodefense lab.

The researchers contend DHS violated federal law and arbitrarily chose Manhattan, Kansas, over San Antonio. The filing Wednesday was the notice required before the group can sue in the U.S. Court of Federal Claims.

Looks like a case of sour grapes to me. I guess if you can't win fairly, sue somebody.

Fast-food restaurant start of lifelong passion | CJOnline.com

Fast-food restaurant start of lifelong passion CJOnline.com

TECUMSEH — Toni Boyles grew up in an A&W restaurant her parents owned in Independence.

"I was a whiz-bang at root beer floats, french fries and hamburgers," Boyles said.

Now, she's a whiz-bang at hundreds of recipes — everything from Caramel French Toast to I Should Have Ordered That Meatloaf.

Sitting in the 1928 building that used to serve as the Tecumseh Social Service Club, Boyles last week discussed how she became a successful business owner and cook. The building is home to Boyles' business, A Place in Time. She is a human resource professional who offers leadership training, management consulting and conference speeches.

The very first meal Karie and I catered was in Toni's building in Tecumseh. It is such a wonderful place, and she was so gracious as she allowed us to invade her kitchen to serve my friends for a birthday. Toni helped sow the seeds for our passion for barbecue. I am thrilled for her success.

Tuesday, April 21, 2009

Some Kansas Schools Cutting Back to 4 Days / Kansas News Leader

HUTCHINSON, Kan. (AP) _ Some Kansas schools are preparing for further additional cuts in state spending by cutting to four-day weeks.

The Cunningham school board in south-central Kansas earlier this month decided to adopt the four-day week for the district's grade school and high school. That will save the district about $45,000 on busing, utility and labor costs.

Hey, this isn't such a bad idea. If everyone did this, we'd all have longer weekends.

CNN Political Ticker: All politics, all the time Blog Archive - Senate committee endorses Sebelius for secretary of health and human services « - Blogs from CNN.com

WASHINGTON (CNN) — The Senate Finance Committee voted Tuesday morning to send the nomination of Kansas Gov. Kathleen Sebelius to be secretary of health and human services to the full Senate.

Senators voted 15-8 to report her nomination to the Senate.

Looks like we are a step closer to having the moving vans back up to Cedar Crest. Is this a good thing?

Local Talk Radio About to Return to Topeka Via the Internet

R A D I O R I C H A N D L O U A N N - They're Back and Better Than Ever!

Yes, as you might have heard, I am joining several of my ex-coworkers to start up an Internet radio station. You will soon be able to hear Radio Rich and Louann, Deb Goodrich, and me every weekday. We are putting the final touches on our new studio, and will soon be cybercasting real local talk again.

My show will air weekdays from 1-3pm. We will discuss may of the issues you are finding on this blog. We will cover lighter topics as well, like sports and of course barbecue.

Keep tuned here, and on Facebook and Twitter (@SteveInKansas). I'll keep you posted on the exact launch date.

Runners owner changes her tune | CJOnline.com

Runners owner changes her tune CJOnline.com

The Topeka RoadRunners may be on more solid ground than owner Mary Magdalene Lorang implied Sunday.

A day after she claimed “there’s nobody to buy this team,” Lorang said a number of interested parties have come forward.

“There’s higher than a 50 percent chance,” Lorang said Monday about the possibility of the RoadRunners being sold. “There are a lot of prospects right now. I may be done with this team. I may be going home. But I still own the team. I still manage the team, and I’ll still be true to my word.”

North American Hockey League commissioner Mark Frankenfeld confirmed Monday that prospective buyers exist and said the league and Lorang continue to hold out hope that the team will remain in the capital city.

I hope there is a way to keep the RoadRunners in Topeka. But in the long run, it would be better to achieve that goal with a different owner. I am glad the league is getting involved, and seems committed to keeping the team here.

City is closer to children’s center | CJOnline.com

City is closer to children’s center CJOnline.com

Founding board members of the Kansas Children’s Discovery Center announced Monday morning that Topeka is one step closer to having a place where children can learn about math, science and art under one roof.

Several people gathered at the Big Gage Shelterhouse for the announcement that more than $4 million has been raised for the Kansas Children’s Discovery Center.

“We are two-thirds of the way there,” said Joanne Morrell, executive director of the center.

The campaign goal is $6 million, Morrell said. If the campaign goal is met, groundbreaking for the center will take place later this year in Gage Park. A grand opening is planned for 2010.

This Children's Discovery Center could be a real asset and draw for Topeka. And it looks like they are going about getting it built the right way. Hats off to everyone involved.

www.washingtonexaminer.com >> Politics - In time of victory, why is the left so angry?

http://www.washingtonexaminer.com/politics/In-time-of-victory-why-is-the-left-so-angry-43315892.html

These should be happy times for liberals and the Democratic party as a whole. They control the White House and both houses of Congress, while opposition Republicans are leaderless and lost. So why do some Democrats, particularly those farther to the left, appear so angry?

If you doubt it, just watch a few minutes of MSNBC, where the recent nationwide series of "tea parties" to protest federal spending and taxes set off an angry, almost manic response. The most telling came on Keith Olbermann's program, during which the actress Janeane Garofalo, who plays an FBI computer geek on “24,” denounced the tea parties as "racism straight up."

"Let's be very honest about what this is about," Garofalo said. "It's not about bashing Democrats. It's not about taxes…This is about hating a black man in the White House."

This column says much about the state of the "left" as they try to govern. The only question really remaining is, are we on the right ready to regain and take control. It often seems that we too are better at being the opposition than we are at actually governing.

Monday, April 20, 2009

TheHill.com - RNC beats DNC in March fundraising

Even with the president on their side, the Democratic National Committee's fundraising woes continued in March as the party earned fewer individual donations than their GOP rivals.

The Republican National Committee, under new chairman Michael Steele, pulled in $6.7 million in March, padding the committee's swollen bank accounts and ending the month with $23.9 million cash on hand. That's higher than the $5.26 million the RNC raised in February, Steele's first month as chairman.

The DNC, which hosted President Obama's first fundraiser since being sworn in in January, posted just $5.57 million raised from individual donors, down from the $6.6 million raised in February. Obama's fundraiser brought in $3 million, a DNC source told The Hill.

If President Obama is so popular, how come the Republicans are winning the fundraising war? Now, if the GOP could just find a candidate for 2012, Obama might go down in history as another Jimmy Carter.

Thursday, April 16, 2009

Yankees sued over fan's ejection during 'God Bless America' - Los Angeles Times

New York -- A baseball fan who says he was ejected from Yankee Stadium after he left his seat to use the bathroom while "God Bless America" was playing sued the New York Yankees and the city Wednesday.

Bradford Campeau-Laurion says in his federal lawsuit that his rights were violated at an Aug. 26 game between the Yankees and the Boston Red Sox when he tried to pass a police officer, who was being paid by the Yankees to work at the Bronx stadium.

This lawsuit should go nowhere. The Yankees can eject from the stadium anyone who doesn't behave properly. The most this guy should get his the price of his ticket back.

John Madden retires from broadcasting - NFL- nbcsports.msnbc.com

NEW YORK - NBC Sports Chairman Dick Ebersol announced today that John Madden, Hall of Fame coach and the most honored broadcaster in sports television history, has decided to retire from broadcasting.

When you watched a game with John Madden, you always knew you were going to smile, even if your team was losing. His voice will be missed in the broadcast booth.

Perry fires up anti-tax crowd

Dallas Morning News News for Dallas, Texas Texas/Southwest

Texas Gov. Rick Perry fired up an anti-tax "tea party" Wednesday with his stance against the federal government and for states' rights as some in his U.S. flag-waving audience shouted, "Secede!"

An animated Perry told the crowd at Austin City Hall — one of three tea parties he was attending across the state — that officials in Washington have abandoned the country's founding principles of limited government. He said the federal government is strangling Americans with taxation, spending and debt.

Is it too early to start pushing Rick Perry for President? Or do we wait for Texas to declare independence and move down there?

Wednesday, April 15, 2009

KU’s Lew Perkins in line for extra $750,000 in retention bonus - KTKA.com

Kansas University’s athletics director could be in line for $750,000 more this summer than originally planned in his contract.

KU added the amount to a retention payment due to Lew Perkins this summer after he declined efforts made by another university in June 2006 to recruit him as its athletic director, said Lynn Bretz, a KU spokeswoman.

That university had notified both KU and Perkins that it was interested in recruiting him away, Bretz said Tuesday.

That brings the total amount of the payment from the original $1.3 million to $2.05 million, after taxes. That’s about a 58 percent increase from the original.

I have a feeling that if Mr. Perkins worked for a mortgage company or bank, we would have heard politicians making a big deal over this. But because he is at KU, the money can be spent this way with nary a word said. Of course, should the Jayhawks not make a bowl game next fall, all that could change, right?

Tuesday, April 14, 2009

DRUDGE REPORT: TEXAS GOV. BACK RESOLUTION AFFIRMING SOVEREIGNTY 2009®

AUSTIN – Gov. Rick Perry joined state Rep. Brandon Creighton and sponsors of House Concurrent Resolution (HCR) 50 in support of states’ rights under the 10th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution.

“I believe that our federal government has become oppressive in its size, its intrusion into the lives of our citizens, and its interference with the affairs of our state,” Gov. Perry said. “That is why I am here today to express my unwavering support for efforts all across our country to reaffirm the states’ rights affirmed by the Tenth Amendment to the U.S. Constitution. I believe that returning to the letter and spirit of the U.S. Constitution and its essential 10th Amendment will free our state from undue regulations, and ultimately strengthen our Union.”

Perry continued: "Millions of Texans are tired of Washington, DC trying to come down here to tell us how to run Texas."

We might all eventually have to pack up and move to Texas.

Archer Wins District 7 by 1 Vote / Kansas News Leader

Robert Archer will be sworn into the District 7 seat on City Council Tuesday night at 6:00. Archer's win comes after his opponent Lisa Stubbs asked for recount of the votes on Friday after the board of canvassers met. At that point Archer was in the lead by just 3 votes. That was two votes closer than the 5 vote difference reported on election night.

The recount took place today at the Shawnee County Elections Office. Both Archer and Stubbs were present as Shawnee County Elections Commissioner Elizabeth Ensley conducted the recount. In the end Archer was announced the winner by just one vote.

This story is posted for those who don't think their vote counts. How would you like to be that Lisa Stubbs supporter who was too busy to vote?

Monday, April 13, 2009

Phils announcer Harry Kalas dies | Philadelphia Inquirer | 04/13/2009

Phils announcer Harry Kalas dies Philadelphia Inquirer 04/13/2009

Harry Kalas, the Phillies' Hall of Fame announcer, died at 1:20 p.m. today, the Phillies announced.

Mr. Kalas collapsed in the press box at Nationals Stadium in Washington at about 12:30 p.m. and was rushed to George Washington University Medial Center.

The cause of the death was not announced. Today's game against the Nationals will be played, but the team will not visit the White House tomorrow.

It is a sad day in the world of baseball. Kalas' call of the final out of last year's World Series is heard constantly on the MLB Network. It is a classic.

First Inning: Mariners 1, Pirates 0 ... - Political Machine - Politics Blog, Opinion and Analysis - AOL News

"Americans love a winner and will not tolerate a loser," General Patton famously said.

If you've ever noticed how many New York Yankee fans there are outside New York, you probably realize General Patton was, at least, on to something. Americans do seem to love winners -- and that's one reason that the successful rescue of Captain Richard Phillips has boosted morale; it was an example of America actually doing something against the bad guys.

This is perhaps the best column I have read on the pirate topic. Worth the time to click and read the whole thing.

Blackburn, Kennedy give advice | CJOnline.com

Blackburn, Kennedy give advice CJOnline.com

Two Topeka City Council members who chose not to seek re-election this year have advice for the three new council members elected this past Tuesday.

“Don’t start off with that 'us against them’ attitude,” was Lana Kennedy’s suggestion.

Brett Blackburn said, “Stick to your guns and do what you believe is right.”

Brett and Lana were both true public servants, who came into office with no real agenda except was they believed was best for the city of Topeka. They political system chewed them up and spit them out. And that is a shame. I will miss them both. Their departure from local government will be this city's loss.

TIBA 'disappointed' in sales tax | CJOnline.com

TIBA 'disappointed' in sales tax CJOnline.com

A local business group said Monday it was "disappointed' city voters approved a sales tax question but that it will continue to served as a "watchdog for government spending, taxes and policies that impact business."

The Topeka Independent Business Association had been a vocal opponent of the half-cent sales tax.

I am glad TIBA fought the good fight against the tax. But they were severely outspent by the pro-tax forces. If I ever get a business off the ground, I will join TIBA in a heartbeat.

Friday, April 10, 2009

Toledo Free Press » Blog Archive » Media personalities join Toledoans pinched by economy

The stories Toledo media personalities used to tell about their viewers and listeners are becoming their own.

Amid industry cutbacks, familiar faces and voices are disappearing from the airwaves.

“I think it’s the toughest downturn that’s happened in modern television, modern broadcasting, modern media, for that matter,” said Jim Blue, former primary anchor at WNWO-TV NBC 24 and Toledo Free Press contributor. Blue was one of the first visible casualties at the station when his contract was not renewed in 2008.

Later the same year, when interviewing for her position, former sports and news reporter Rebecca Solomon said she was told there had been 20 layoffs at the station in April.

This story does a great job of explaining what is happening in the broadcasting industry. So why did I post a story from Toledo on a blog read mostly by Topeka area residents?

Simple. People here want to blame local management for what has happened to people like me. But in my case, the blame goes to Atlanta, where corporate suits, who have never met me, are the ones who decided my fate.

And, I could take the blame a step further, to Washington, DC. They are the ones who changed the ownership laws so the majority of radio and tv stations are now owned by only a few huge companies.

So, how does local talk radio survive in this current climate? Stay tuned to your local Internet computer. News is coming soon.

Thursday, April 9, 2009

Twitter-Enabled Cat Door Tweets a Kitty's Comings and Goings

In what can only be called the next logical phase of the Twitter revolution, a man (who just happens to be a computer programmer) has rigged a cat door to tweet (post an update, in Twitter-speak) every time his cats enter or exit the house.

The Tweeting Cat Door, as it's inventively called, was originally created by a guy who seems to be named Ioan and who, along with his partner, was tired of neighborhood cats sneaking into the garage and eating his cats' food. The problem lay in the fact that the food could be reached by any ol' cat via a traditional cat door. But no more!

I enjoy twitter. I use it myself (http://twitter.com/SteveInKansas). But I think this goes a little too far, if you ask me.

Just 53% Say Capitalism Better Than Socialism

Rasmussen Reports™: The Most Comprehensive Public Opinion Data Anywhere

Only 53% of American adults believe capitalism is better than socialism.

The latest Rasmussen Reports national telephone survey found that 20% disagree and say socialism is better. Twenty-seven percent (27%) are not sure which is better.

Adults under 30 are essentially evenly divided: 37% prefer capitalism, 33% socialism, and 30% are undecided. Thirty-somethings are a bit more supportive of the free-enterprise approach with 49% for capitalism and 26% for socialism. Adults over 40 strongly favor capitalism, and just 13% of those older Americans believe socialism is better.

This poll is a sign that the Liberals who run our public education system are winning their propaganda war. This doesn't bode well for this future of this country as a free market, capitalistic society.

Full Royals TV slate now on Cox | CJOnline.com

Full Royals TV slate now on Cox CJOnline.com

The Kansas City Royals entire 140-game television package will now be available to subscribers of Cox Cable, the largest TV provider in Topeka and much of Kansas.

Geoff Goldman, a spokesman for the Fox Sports Kansas City network that originates all Royals telecasts, announced Wednesday that an agreement had been reached between the network and the cable company that will allow the telecast of the Wednesday night Royals at Chicago game, as well as Friday's home opener against the Yankees at the renovated Kauffman Stadium.

Here is some great news for the baseball fans in our midst. Let's Go Royals!!!!

Happy Passover to each of you from the Forman Family.

Wednesday, April 8, 2009

Council gets veto override power | CJOnline.com

Council gets veto override power CJOnline.com

Topekans voted nearly 2-to-1 Tuesday to give the city council the right to override mayoral vetoes.

Voters by a margin of 65 percent to 35 percent — 14,109 votes to 7,714 — approved Charter Ordinance No. 98 making changes in the city’s charter, which is basically its constitution.

I am happy this passed. Without the city council having override power, the mayor would, in reality, be a dictator. That just wouldn't work for this, or any, city.

Sales tax receives emphatic 'yes' | CJOnline.com

Sales tax receives emphatic 'yes' CJOnline.com

Topeka voters on Tuesday paved the way for the city to levy a half-cent sales tax to fix its streets and other infrastructure.

Topekans by a margin of 57 percent to 43 percent — or 12,954 votes to 9,691 — approved a ballot question that will raise the current sales tax of 7.45 cents on the dollar by a half cent, to 7.95 cents.

The 10-year tax takes effect Oct. 1, with proceeds going to pay costs of “maintenance and improvements of existing streets, gutters, curbs, sidewalks, alleys and street lighting.”

I was against this sales tax. But now that is has passed, I hope there will be some accountability as to how and where the funds are spent.

Tuesday, April 7, 2009

Obama declares US not at war with Islam

ANKARA, Turkey (AP) - Barack Obama, making his first visit to a Muslim nation as president, declared Monday the United States "is not and will never be at war with Islam."

Calling for a greater partnership with the Islamic world in an address to the Turkish parliament, Obama called the country an important U.S. ally in many areas, including the fight against terrorism. He devoted much of his speech to urging a greater bond between Americans and Muslims, portraying terrorist groups such as al Qaida as extremists who did not represent the vast majority of Muslims.

"Let me say this as clearly as I can," Obama said. "The United States is not and never will be at war with Islam. In fact, our partnership with the Muslim world is critical ... in rolling back a fringe ideology that people of all faiths reject."

The U.S. president is trying to mend fences with a Muslim world that felt it had been blamed by America for the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks.

This story gives me cause for concern for our country's safety. The best I can say about this is that the President is in a state of denial. The worst...I don't even want to go there.

Kansans live in state of happiness | CJOnline.com

Kansans live in state of happiness CJOnline.com

In today’s economy, everybody is looking for a little good news.

A ray of sunshine. A glimmer of hope. A light at the end of the tunnel. Something — anything — to hang your hat on.

Well, Kansas, you got it.

On Monday, the Sunflower State was ranked third nationally in the “Happiness Index” released by mainstreet.com, a financial Web site. In the rankings, Kansas trailed only two other Midwestern states, Nebraska and Iowa.

The “Happiness Index” rankings are based on several factors, such as household income, debt, employment and foreclosures.

Isn't it great to know we're so happy? Of course, when we lose to a state like Nebraska, I don't know if we can really be completely happy. ;)

Monday, April 6, 2009

Royals-White Sox opener postponed, snow predicted - MLB - Yahoo! Sports

CHICAGO (AP)—The season opener between the Kansas City Royals and Chicago White Sox scheduled for Monday has been postponed because snow is in the forecast.

The game will be played Tuesday at 2:05 p.m. EDT. Opening day festivities will be held before the first pitch.

The decision to postpone this opener was made Sunday. Snow, cold and high winds are in the forecast.

This was the first time since 1982 that the opener for the White Sox was postponed because of bad weather.

I know this is a silly question, but why does MLB schedule so many opening day games in cold weather cities without domes? Oh yeah, because they are MLB, that's why.

Sunday, April 5, 2009

NKorea launches rocket, defying world pressure

SEOUL, South Korea – North Korea defied international warnings and sent a rocket hurtling over the Pacific on Sunday, a launch President Barack Obama called an illicit test of the regime's long-range missile technology that threatened the security of nations "near and far."

Obama and European Union leaders meeting in Prague condemned the move and said North Korea's dangerous defiance demanded an international response. Diplomats at the United Nations scheduled an emergency Security Council session for later Sunday to discuss what Obama called a clear violation of U.N. resolutions.

"North Korea broke the rules once more by testing a rocket that could be used for a long-range missile," Obama said. "This provocation underscores the need for action — not just this afternoon at the U.N. Security Council, but in our determination to prevent the spread of these weapons."

He said the launch threatened the security of countries "near and far."

The real question is, what is President Obama willing to do about this. Anyone can say the right thing. But action is another thing altogether.

Saturday, April 4, 2009

KC home opener not yet on Cox | CJOnline.com

KC home opener not yet on Cox CJOnline.com

Many Royals fans hoping to watch next week’s home opener against the Yankees at the renovated Kauffman Stadium should plan on being in Kansas City in person, or watching somewhere with satellite television.

A spokesman with Fox Sports Kansas City, which originates all Royals’ telecasts, said the April 10 Royals home opener is currently one of 40 games that will not be carried on Cox Cable, the cable TV provider for Topeka and much of Kansas.

Geoff Goldman, the Fox-KC spokesman, said negotiations with Cox were ongoing, and he remained hopeful that the cable company would ultimately agree to purchase all 140 available games.

“At this point, though, Cox subscribers are scheduled to see 100 of the 140 Royals games televised, and the home opener in not among those games,’’ Goldman said.

C'mon Cox. Do the right thing. The Royals should be worth watching this year. Give your customers as many of the games as are available.

Bonaparte's scores kept secret | CJOnline.com

Bonaparte's scores kept secret CJOnline.com

The net results of Topeka city manager Norton Bonaparte’s recent evaluation were better than those of his last review, Deputy Mayor Jeff Preisner said Friday.

Preisner said he and the city manager had a “very constructive” meeting Thursday to discuss Bonaparte’s evaluation.

But the Topeka City Council continued the practice it has followed since 2007 of keeping Bonaparte’s numerical scores secret, with Preisner saying he wouldn’t release any more information about the review because it was a personnel matter. State law enables governmental agencies to keep information regarding personnel matters confidential.

I have to admit I have mixed feelings about this story. On the one hand, I understand why you would want to keep personnel issues confidential. On the other hand, the city manager does work for the residents of Topeka. Doesn't that make his job evaluation an public matter? What do you think?

D.A. offers explanation | CJOnline.com

D.A. offers explanation CJOnline.com

Shawnee County District Attorney Chad Taylor said he didn’t request a special prosecutor from Johnson County to handle the shooting case against Topeka police officer Jason Judd because he wanted the case to be dismissed.

Rather, he sought assistance to avoid the appearance of a conflict of interest since his office works closely with law enforcement.

“I brought in a special prosecutor because the conflict exists when the district attorney’s office is prosecuting people it works with on a daily basis on thousands of pending investigations and prosecutions,” Taylor said. “Appointing a special prosecutor is the best means to cure any potential conflict in a criminal case. The appointment of a nonconflicted, competent third-party to oversee the case removes any conflict or appearance of conflict.

“I entered into the reciprocal special prosecutor agreement with the Johnson County District Attorney’s Office because doing so is in the interest of justice and the agreement removes any politics from prosecutions in my office, now and in the future.”

Most of you know, I supported Eric Rucker in the DA's race. So I have no reason to be anything but objective in this case. I believe Mr. Taylor did exactly the right thing in bringing in an outside prosecutor. And in all likelihood, the end result is the right one. I firmly believe that Taylor's only motivation was to see justice done.

Thursday, April 2, 2009

Sebelius: Everyone should have health insurance - KTKA.com

Health secretary nominee Kathleen Sebelius says everyone should have health coverage but she avoided endorsing the idea of making individuals legally responsible for seeing that they're insured.

Sebelius was responding to questions from Senate Finance Committee Chairman Max Baucus, who proposed a so-called individual mandate in his own health overhaul plan.

Watch out. The mandate is coming, to be followed by the government "solution" to the problem.

Wednesday, April 1, 2009

National (US) Poll * April 1, 2009 * U.S. Should Limit Pay At Baile - Quinnipiac University – Hamden, Connecticut

American voters say 81 - 16 percent that the government should limit executive compensation at companies receiving federal help, and say 47 - 44 percent that boards of directors and top managers at these companies should be forced to resign, according to a Quinnipiac University national poll released today.

Support for income limits is strong among Democrats, Republicans and independent voters and in all income groups, but the call for forced resignations drops as income rises.

It scares me a bit that so many Americans are ready to have the government take so much control of private companies. Can't you just smell the socialism?

Sebelius admits errors, pays $7,000 in back taxes

WASHINGTON (AP) - Health and Human Services nominee Kathleen Sebelius recently corrected three years of tax returns and paid more than $7,000 in back taxes after finding "unintentional errors"—the latest tax troubles for an Obama administration nominee.

The Kansas governor explained the changes to senators in a letter dated Tuesday that the administration released. She said they involved charitable contributions, the sale of a home and business expenses.

Sebelius said she filed the amended returns as soon as the errors were discovered by an accountant she hired to scrub her taxes in preparation for her confirmation hearings. She and her husband, Gary, a federal magistrate judge in Kansas, paid a total of $7,040 in back taxes and $878 in interest to amend returns from 2005-2007.

Is it my imagination, or does this seem to be a requirement for someone to serve in the Obama administration. I didn't put this on to condemn Sebelius. But if so many nominees have this problem, could it be that the tax code really is too complicated? Maybe the answer would be to scrap the current system, and go with some kind of flat tax?