“An American is English, French, Italian, Irish, German, Spanish, Polish, Russian or Greek.
An American may be Canadian, Mexican, African, Indian, Chinese, Japanese, Korean, Australian, Iranian, Asian, or Arab, or Pakistani or Afghan.
An American may be a Comanche, Cherokee, Osage, Blackfoot, Navaho, Apache, Seminole or one of the many other tribes known as Native Americans.
An American is Christian, Jewish, or Buddhist, or Muslim. In fact, there are more Muslims in America than in Afghanistan . The only difference is that in America they are free to worship as each of them chooses.
An American is also free to believe in no religion. . .
An American lives in the most prosperous land in the history of the world.
The root of that prosperity can be found in the Declaration of Independence. . .
An American is generous. Americans have helped out just about every other nation in the world in their time of need, never asking a thing in return.
When Afghanistan was over-run by the Soviet army 20 years ago, Americans came with arms and supplies to enable the people to win back their country!
As of the morning of September 11, Americans had given more than any other nation to the poor in Afghanistan.
The national symbol of America, the Statue of Liberty , welcomes your tired and your poor, the wretched refuse of your teeming shores, the homeless, tempest tossed. These in fact are the people who built America.
Some of them were working in the Twin Towers the morning of September 11, 2001 earning a better life for their families. It's been told that the World Trade Center victims were from at least 30 different countries, cultures, and first languages, including those that aided and abetted the terrorists.
So you can try to kill an American if you must. Hitler did. So did General Tojo, and Stalin and Mao Tse-Tung, and other blood-thirsty tyrants in the world... But in doing so you would just be killing yourself because Americans are not a particular people from a particular place. They are the embodiment of the human spirit of freedom. Everyone who holds to that spirit, everywhere, is an American."
Written by an Australian Dentist
Monday, December 28, 2009
Thursday, December 24, 2009
Friday, December 18, 2009
The Tribal News
Sault Ste. Marie, Mi...The tribal newspaper reports comprehensive communication is in the works. The tribe will communicate better with its members, the media, and the state and federal governments.
Whoop pee! Isn't that wonderful. What does it mean for the average tribal member? It means the truth about the tribe's business will be buried deeper in mumble-jumble, journalist will work at the point of a politicians gun to get the ( their ) news out to you.
Why not approach comprehensive communication as proposed in the new constitution...which the tribe spent $400,000.00 on and promised the members a vote to ratify it. In the proposal, the newspaper would be overseen by an independent editorial board; it would be left up to them what did or did not get in it.
So big deal--tribal government will be reported on comprehensively in a government owned and edited newspaper. Members can surely can expect an article on government waste in every edition..along a report on holding leaders responsible for the outcomes of their decisions, especially when it has to do with the tribe losing millions of more dollars.. as in the millions spent finishing Greektown even after it was in bankruptcy.
Or their circumventing of the constitution and arranging behind closed doors to have one of their own appointed to the tribal court, which operates under the board's heavy judicial thumb.
It's called spoon-feeding. News flows from the government owned and edited newspaper to the people. They aren't allowed an opinion in it on the goings-on of their own government. The government controls everything...and it owns the spoon.
Thank you, Charles Forgrave
Whoop pee! Isn't that wonderful. What does it mean for the average tribal member? It means the truth about the tribe's business will be buried deeper in mumble-jumble, journalist will work at the point of a politicians gun to get the ( their ) news out to you.
Why not approach comprehensive communication as proposed in the new constitution...which the tribe spent $400,000.00 on and promised the members a vote to ratify it. In the proposal, the newspaper would be overseen by an independent editorial board; it would be left up to them what did or did not get in it.
So big deal--tribal government will be reported on comprehensively in a government owned and edited newspaper. Members can surely can expect an article on government waste in every edition..along a report on holding leaders responsible for the outcomes of their decisions, especially when it has to do with the tribe losing millions of more dollars.. as in the millions spent finishing Greektown even after it was in bankruptcy.
Or their circumventing of the constitution and arranging behind closed doors to have one of their own appointed to the tribal court, which operates under the board's heavy judicial thumb.
It's called spoon-feeding. News flows from the government owned and edited newspaper to the people. They aren't allowed an opinion in it on the goings-on of their own government. The government controls everything...and it owns the spoon.
Thank you, Charles Forgrave
Sunday, December 13, 2009
YOU ASK...
....why I am not writing. I am, just not here. I will be back soon....sooner if I can find a way to add a few more hours to the day.
Sunday, December 6, 2009
ONE MOB
Written by: Nick Kosin
When did people forget to be people?
Labeling and classifying. Everyone is a percent to someone.
Just numbers on a paper, where the papers run the world,
And we as percents are the fuel that feeds the fire in our globalized inferno.
It's so loud and blatant, that which we've become.
From the citizens of the World to prisoners of society,
Where lives are marked with dollar signs
And morals are lost in profit margins.
When people forget to be people.
When did people forget to be people?
Labeling and classifying. Everyone is a percent to someone.
Just numbers on a paper, where the papers run the world,
And we as percents are the fuel that feeds the fire in our globalized inferno.
It's so loud and blatant, that which we've become.
From the citizens of the World to prisoners of society,
Where lives are marked with dollar signs
And morals are lost in profit margins.
When people forget to be people.
JUST RELEASED...
NEW SHORT SALE RULES
The Treasury department has just released new rules to help simplify the 'short sale' process.
HAFA...HELP FOR AMERICA'S HOMEOWNERS
"In a deed-in-lieu of foreclosure (DIL), the borrower voluntarily transfers ownership of the mortgaged property to the servicer in full satisfaction of the total amount due on the first mortgage. The servicer’s willingness to approve and accept a DIL is contingent upon the borrower’s ability to provide marketable title, free and clear of mortgages, liens and encumbrances. Generally, servicers require the borrower to make a good faith effort to sell the property through a short sale before agreeing to accept the DIL. However, under circumstances acceptable to the investor, the servicer may accept a DIL without the borrower first attempting to sell the property. With either the HAFA short sale or DIL, the servicer may not require a cash contribution or promissory note from the borrower and must forfeit the ability to pursue a deficiency judgment against the borrower.
In accordance with the provisions of Supplemental Directive 09-01, a loan meets the basic eligibility criteria if all of the following conditions are met:
• The property is the borrower’s principal residence;
• The mortgage loan is a first lien mortgage originated on or before January 1, 2009;
• The mortgage is delinquent or default is reasonably foreseeable;
• The current unpaid principal balance is equal to or less than $729,7501; and
• The borrower’s total monthly mortgage payment (as defined in Supplemental Directive
09-01) exceeds 31 percent of the borrower’s gross income.
Pursuant to the servicer’s policy, every potentially eligible borrower must be considered for HAFA before the borrower’s loan is referred to foreclosure or the servicer allows a pending foreclosure sale to be conducted.
For more info....https://www.hmpadmin.com/portal/docs/hamp_service/sd0909.pdf
The Treasury department has just released new rules to help simplify the 'short sale' process.
HAFA...HELP FOR AMERICA'S HOMEOWNERS
"In a deed-in-lieu of foreclosure (DIL), the borrower voluntarily transfers ownership of the mortgaged property to the servicer in full satisfaction of the total amount due on the first mortgage. The servicer’s willingness to approve and accept a DIL is contingent upon the borrower’s ability to provide marketable title, free and clear of mortgages, liens and encumbrances. Generally, servicers require the borrower to make a good faith effort to sell the property through a short sale before agreeing to accept the DIL. However, under circumstances acceptable to the investor, the servicer may accept a DIL without the borrower first attempting to sell the property. With either the HAFA short sale or DIL, the servicer may not require a cash contribution or promissory note from the borrower and must forfeit the ability to pursue a deficiency judgment against the borrower.
In accordance with the provisions of Supplemental Directive 09-01, a loan meets the basic eligibility criteria if all of the following conditions are met:
• The property is the borrower’s principal residence;
• The mortgage loan is a first lien mortgage originated on or before January 1, 2009;
• The mortgage is delinquent or default is reasonably foreseeable;
• The current unpaid principal balance is equal to or less than $729,7501; and
• The borrower’s total monthly mortgage payment (as defined in Supplemental Directive
09-01) exceeds 31 percent of the borrower’s gross income.
Pursuant to the servicer’s policy, every potentially eligible borrower must be considered for HAFA before the borrower’s loan is referred to foreclosure or the servicer allows a pending foreclosure sale to be conducted.
For more info....https://www.hmpadmin.com/portal/docs/hamp_service/sd0909.pdf
Thursday, December 3, 2009
Robert Geroux Sr
There is no death. . .Only a change of worlds. . .Only a change of worlds.
Author Unknown....
Sault Tribe member, passed away last night, December 2, 2009. Mr. Geroux will be remembered as a good man..a caring man.
The funeral will be held at:
Uht Funeral Home
35400 Glenwood Road
Westland, MI 48186
Visitation: Friday 12/4, 1-9 p.m. Services: Saturday 12/5 11:30 a.m.
See obituary
THE CHIEF
Written by Kristi Jones, granddaughter of Robert Sr.
Grandpa is the leader, the wise one and the Chief,
He's done so much in his life, it's practically beyond belief.
When we moved to Boston he loaded a house full of stuff into a pea size truck,
And wished us a hearty farewell and all the best of luck.
He came again to see us and to help us move again,
This time to New York, and as always with a grin.
We had such fun when they'd come and see us, walking and visiting sites,
Or heading over to Felipe's to grab a few burrito bites.
When we'd get a break from school, we'd come and walk around the lake,
We'd visit and do puzzles and have all the bread he could bake.
He always had the strength and worked harder than anyone,
Was always lending a helping hand and sure knew how to have fun.
We truly love our grandpa, the leader and the Chief.
He's done so much more in his life than he has belief.
But it is true and I hope he knows it now,
The love and kindness he has brought and his eternal Pow-wow!
Granddaughter
Kristi Jones
NATIVE AMERICAN PRAYER
Do not stand at my grave and weep.
I am not there, I do not sleep.
I am a thousand winds that blow.
I am the diamond glint on snow.
I am the sunlight on ripened grain.
I am the gentle autum rain.
When you wake in the morning hush.
I am the swift uplifting rush of quiet birds in circling flight.
I am the soft starlight of night.
Do not stand at my grave and weep.
I am not there, I do not sleep.
Tuesday, December 1, 2009
United We Stand….Divided We Fall
By Lynne Weaver
On Tuesday, December 1st, I listened to President Obama explain to the American people why he made the decision to send 30,000 troops to Afghanistan. After several weeks of discussion with qualified military leaders and advisors, the president felt the Afghanistan buildup necessary and a matter of national security. By sending more troops we can pound the heck out of the al Qaeda terrorist network while training the Afghan people to fight their own battles.
Is it just their battle? Withdrawing from Afghanistan could mean an insurgency by al Qaeda against the U.S. and our allies who joined us in battle. Leaving Afghanistan before the task is complete may make us look weak in the eyes of the Afghan-based army of terrorists. Would terrorist attacks on the homeland of the United States increase if we back off now? It’s frightening to think that there are terrorists currently plotting future attacks on the U.S.
President Obama promised to end the war in Iraq by August 2010 but will this be possible with the Afghan buildup? Do I think the President is making the right decision? Since I am not a qualified military advisor, I won’t pretend to provide a qualified opinion. Here lies the problem between the right and left, the Republicans and the Democrats…word wars.
As a gatherer of public opinion, it seems we are in the midst of verbal wars between the two parties. Occasionally an Independent or member of the Green party steps in with a word or two before dodging safely away from the battle of words, many of which are not very nice. I spend a fair amount of time reading comments posted by bloggers using fictitious names in several online newspapers. With every decision President Obama makes, the Democrat and Republican readers come out limbering up those fingertips to prepare for ‘word battle’. No matter what decision the president makes, the Republicans complain and the Democrats jump to defend the person they voted for to lead the country. The left blames the former president for the current economic woes and the right blames the current president and the last Democratic president for the national debt and both blame the other for every single thing wrong with the country.
Eventually, blaming past and current presidents gets monotonous and the alpha dog name-callers begin to battle it out with such labels as “right wing-nuts,” “lib-tards,” “morons,” “pigs,” and a host of other words that would probably not be said if these bloggers were face to face with their real names and current addresses pinned to their shirts.
Are Bin Laden’s people taking note of the widening gap that is growing between American political party lines? Do terrorists view our divisions as hatred for each other and consider this an opportunity to advance terrorist activities while we are absorbed in political battles of our own?
United we stand. Divided we fall.
On Tuesday, December 1st, I listened to President Obama explain to the American people why he made the decision to send 30,000 troops to Afghanistan. After several weeks of discussion with qualified military leaders and advisors, the president felt the Afghanistan buildup necessary and a matter of national security. By sending more troops we can pound the heck out of the al Qaeda terrorist network while training the Afghan people to fight their own battles.
Is it just their battle? Withdrawing from Afghanistan could mean an insurgency by al Qaeda against the U.S. and our allies who joined us in battle. Leaving Afghanistan before the task is complete may make us look weak in the eyes of the Afghan-based army of terrorists. Would terrorist attacks on the homeland of the United States increase if we back off now? It’s frightening to think that there are terrorists currently plotting future attacks on the U.S.
President Obama promised to end the war in Iraq by August 2010 but will this be possible with the Afghan buildup? Do I think the President is making the right decision? Since I am not a qualified military advisor, I won’t pretend to provide a qualified opinion. Here lies the problem between the right and left, the Republicans and the Democrats…word wars.
As a gatherer of public opinion, it seems we are in the midst of verbal wars between the two parties. Occasionally an Independent or member of the Green party steps in with a word or two before dodging safely away from the battle of words, many of which are not very nice. I spend a fair amount of time reading comments posted by bloggers using fictitious names in several online newspapers. With every decision President Obama makes, the Democrat and Republican readers come out limbering up those fingertips to prepare for ‘word battle’. No matter what decision the president makes, the Republicans complain and the Democrats jump to defend the person they voted for to lead the country. The left blames the former president for the current economic woes and the right blames the current president and the last Democratic president for the national debt and both blame the other for every single thing wrong with the country.
Eventually, blaming past and current presidents gets monotonous and the alpha dog name-callers begin to battle it out with such labels as “right wing-nuts,” “lib-tards,” “morons,” “pigs,” and a host of other words that would probably not be said if these bloggers were face to face with their real names and current addresses pinned to their shirts.
Are Bin Laden’s people taking note of the widening gap that is growing between American political party lines? Do terrorists view our divisions as hatred for each other and consider this an opportunity to advance terrorist activities while we are absorbed in political battles of our own?
United we stand. Divided we fall.
Monday, November 23, 2009
Sunday, November 22, 2009
What’s In An Opinion….
By Lynne Weaver
“Great spirits have always found violent opposition from mediocrities. The latter cannot understand it when a man does not thoughtlessly submit to hereditary prejudices but honestly and courageously uses his intelligence.” Albert Einstein.
According to my trusty American Heritage dictionary, the meaning of the word ‘opinion’, in its simplest form, is “a judgment or estimation” and being opinionated is “holding stubbornly to one’s beliefs.”There’s nothing wrong with having an opinion because we all own up to many of them on a multitude of subjects. I like opinions and spend a good deal of time listening to and reading the opinions of others. Most online sources that include newspapers, magazines and blogs have comment sections that I not only read but contribute to. No matter how strongly I feel about a certain subject, I first try to apply a little logic as well as weigh and balance the source for credibility.
There are a lot of opinions out there in the world of news on a number of emotionally charged topics like healthcare, the war in Iraq and where and in what court the Gitmo prisoners should be tried. The media, of course, is the major source of information between news and the people who listen to it or read about it. Some news reports are tinged with a touch of opinion and melodrama to enhance readership but media opinion is also driven by the source of information itself. Political party affiliation seems to determine who we are at any given point in time and our opinions become based on what the leaders of our chosen political party believe to be true, or what they want us to believe is true.
In order to make informed choices, don’t we have a responsibility to go beyond our party affiliations to do our own research before we finalize an opinion that can change the course of another’s life, perhaps in a negative way? Some seem to have lost their ability to reason, if they had it in the first place. Can it be attributed to laziness? Should we rely completely on which news channel we choose to watch or what newspaper we subscribe to? Should we go along with party affiliation or be prepared to bend back and forth between left and right in order to better estimate the truth values of any given statement?
Some say I overanalyze the truth but how do we know what is truth unless we pick it apart…piece by piece? Isn’t it better to have done that, to educate ourselves through research of a particular topic, then to peacefully accept the status quo as the only acceptable way? How many thought the Wright brothers were nuts to think they could fly like a bird? Who knew we would be able to transport our thoughts across an entire globe by a thing called the ‘internet’?
Anything is possible and opinions are strong only if they are based on education and truth.
Comments…email me at lynne.mackbands@yahoo.com
“Great spirits have always found violent opposition from mediocrities. The latter cannot understand it when a man does not thoughtlessly submit to hereditary prejudices but honestly and courageously uses his intelligence.” Albert Einstein.
According to my trusty American Heritage dictionary, the meaning of the word ‘opinion’, in its simplest form, is “a judgment or estimation” and being opinionated is “holding stubbornly to one’s beliefs.”There’s nothing wrong with having an opinion because we all own up to many of them on a multitude of subjects. I like opinions and spend a good deal of time listening to and reading the opinions of others. Most online sources that include newspapers, magazines and blogs have comment sections that I not only read but contribute to. No matter how strongly I feel about a certain subject, I first try to apply a little logic as well as weigh and balance the source for credibility.
There are a lot of opinions out there in the world of news on a number of emotionally charged topics like healthcare, the war in Iraq and where and in what court the Gitmo prisoners should be tried. The media, of course, is the major source of information between news and the people who listen to it or read about it. Some news reports are tinged with a touch of opinion and melodrama to enhance readership but media opinion is also driven by the source of information itself. Political party affiliation seems to determine who we are at any given point in time and our opinions become based on what the leaders of our chosen political party believe to be true, or what they want us to believe is true.
In order to make informed choices, don’t we have a responsibility to go beyond our party affiliations to do our own research before we finalize an opinion that can change the course of another’s life, perhaps in a negative way? Some seem to have lost their ability to reason, if they had it in the first place. Can it be attributed to laziness? Should we rely completely on which news channel we choose to watch or what newspaper we subscribe to? Should we go along with party affiliation or be prepared to bend back and forth between left and right in order to better estimate the truth values of any given statement?
Some say I overanalyze the truth but how do we know what is truth unless we pick it apart…piece by piece? Isn’t it better to have done that, to educate ourselves through research of a particular topic, then to peacefully accept the status quo as the only acceptable way? How many thought the Wright brothers were nuts to think they could fly like a bird? Who knew we would be able to transport our thoughts across an entire globe by a thing called the ‘internet’?
Anything is possible and opinions are strong only if they are based on education and truth.
Comments…email me at lynne.mackbands@yahoo.com
Friday, November 20, 2009
"The fragrance always stays in the hand that gives the rose."
Hada Bejar
The generous gifts from the lovely couple who donated them were very well appreciated by all those that received them.
The generous gifts from the lovely couple who donated them were very well appreciated by all those that received them.
Sunday, November 15, 2009
We Come Bearing Gifts...
This year, like last year, a generous couple from downstate has donated a large amount of gifts for Christmas giving. There are piles of toys, personal items, hats, mittens and slippers for all ages, t-shirts and hoodies, and many other clothing items. Of particular interest is to distribute these gifts to Elders who are unable to afford gifts for family members but also for those who aren't likely to receive a gift themselves. If you know of someone that qualifies, please contact me at suninyourface@gmail.com.
Thursday, November 12, 2009
WHO...?
Who operated in secret and spent millions on a barge?
Who ferried friends and family to watch hockey with tribal airplanes?
Who saw to the employment, raises and promotions of family members?
Who used tribal money for political campaign purposes?
Who robbed the tribal children of a safe haven when placing alcohol in the Big Bear?
Who spent millions on failed businesses?
Who gave away millions to pay off political allies and girlfriend?
Who planned the resignation of top employees?
Who filed suit against the tribe's gaming entity for three million dollars?
Who managed to keep the new constitution from the citizens?
Who made a mockery of the tribe's judicial system?
Who continues to use tribal resources to attack political opponents?
Who is in complete denial for the amateur negotiation for Greek Town?
Who continues to get employed and paid by the tribe despite a majority of voters denying that privilege?
Who has always been a scourge on the tribe's reputation?
How does this person , and his fellow supporters on the board continue to be reelected?
Do you want to guess?
ANONYMOUS....
Who ferried friends and family to watch hockey with tribal airplanes?
Who saw to the employment, raises and promotions of family members?
Who used tribal money for political campaign purposes?
Who robbed the tribal children of a safe haven when placing alcohol in the Big Bear?
Who spent millions on failed businesses?
Who gave away millions to pay off political allies and girlfriend?
Who planned the resignation of top employees?
Who filed suit against the tribe's gaming entity for three million dollars?
Who managed to keep the new constitution from the citizens?
Who made a mockery of the tribe's judicial system?
Who continues to use tribal resources to attack political opponents?
Who is in complete denial for the amateur negotiation for Greek Town?
Who continues to get employed and paid by the tribe despite a majority of voters denying that privilege?
Who has always been a scourge on the tribe's reputation?
How does this person , and his fellow supporters on the board continue to be reelected?
Do you want to guess?
ANONYMOUS....
Wednesday, November 11, 2009
HEALTHCARE…GOVERNMENT INVOLVEMENT OR PRIVATIZED
By Lynne Weaver
Someone once told me that I am very analytical and to the point and since that may or may not be positive reinforcement, I try to choose my words carefully rather than forcefully. That being said, where the heck do some people come up with their opinions? Is it just me or does the debate on healthcare between the public sector and government do more to confuse than help? I might as well get in on the discussion since it seems to be the highlight of everyone’s day lately.
It seems that those who hated the idea of healthcare reform have now adjusted their thinking to only the idea of a governmental takeover of all healthcare providers. Admittedly, I am addicted to the ‘news’. Although it may not be the most accurate source of a random sampling, opinions matter to me, so much of my time is spent in the comment section of news sources, reading and responding with my own thoughts. Where in all of this, is there any proof that government is going to take over all private insurers and that Americans will be forced to join a government run public option?
Avoidance of having to read the healthcare bill in order to form an educated opinion is why most of us rely on elected representatives to do that for us. It’s not as if most of us would have a clue of what we are reading if we did take the time, so putting our trust in those we elected is what we are left with. Trouble is, they are attached to that word ‘Politicians” and they are a group who are sometimes expected to speak louder on behalf of very large groups, like insurance providers.
We hear comments like “keep the government out of insurance” or “government should stay out of our business”, but aren’t they already there? What if government did just that? What if they said, “Okey Dokey, we are shutting down all government involvement in the private lives of the American citizens.” So what happens if they shut down Medicare, Social Security, Medicaid, government jobs, and government contracts to privately owned companies? What will happen to the Armed Forces? Won’t bank and postal employees be a little upset when they have to work on non-government holidays?
If we shut down the government, we won’t have to pay taxes, but who will fix the roads and build the bridges? Will private citizens have to hold meetings to deal with contractors, secure loans and make payments? We will have to learn to speak for ourselves since we won’t need elected officials to do it for us, but who will we speak to? Who do we complain to about anything and everything or blame when things don’t go our way? Anyone will be able to own a gun and there won’t be Homeland Security to protect us from terrorists?
Perhaps we should think this through more carefully. I kind of appreciate government playing a role in my life.
Your comments are welcome. Email me: lynne.mackbands@yahoo.com
By Lynne Weaver
Someone once told me that I am very analytical and to the point and since that may or may not be positive reinforcement, I try to choose my words carefully rather than forcefully. That being said, where the heck do some people come up with their opinions? Is it just me or does the debate on healthcare between the public sector and government do more to confuse than help? I might as well get in on the discussion since it seems to be the highlight of everyone’s day lately.
It seems that those who hated the idea of healthcare reform have now adjusted their thinking to only the idea of a governmental takeover of all healthcare providers. Admittedly, I am addicted to the ‘news’. Although it may not be the most accurate source of a random sampling, opinions matter to me, so much of my time is spent in the comment section of news sources, reading and responding with my own thoughts. Where in all of this, is there any proof that government is going to take over all private insurers and that Americans will be forced to join a government run public option?
Avoidance of having to read the healthcare bill in order to form an educated opinion is why most of us rely on elected representatives to do that for us. It’s not as if most of us would have a clue of what we are reading if we did take the time, so putting our trust in those we elected is what we are left with. Trouble is, they are attached to that word ‘Politicians” and they are a group who are sometimes expected to speak louder on behalf of very large groups, like insurance providers.
We hear comments like “keep the government out of insurance” or “government should stay out of our business”, but aren’t they already there? What if government did just that? What if they said, “Okey Dokey, we are shutting down all government involvement in the private lives of the American citizens.” So what happens if they shut down Medicare, Social Security, Medicaid, government jobs, and government contracts to privately owned companies? What will happen to the Armed Forces? Won’t bank and postal employees be a little upset when they have to work on non-government holidays?
If we shut down the government, we won’t have to pay taxes, but who will fix the roads and build the bridges? Will private citizens have to hold meetings to deal with contractors, secure loans and make payments? We will have to learn to speak for ourselves since we won’t need elected officials to do it for us, but who will we speak to? Who do we complain to about anything and everything or blame when things don’t go our way? Anyone will be able to own a gun and there won’t be Homeland Security to protect us from terrorists?
Perhaps we should think this through more carefully. I kind of appreciate government playing a role in my life.
Your comments are welcome. Email me: lynne.mackbands@yahoo.com
WARNING...EMAIL FRAUD!
I received an email this morning from a tribal member stating he is in the UK, lost his wallet and needs to borrow money. At least one other person in my email contacts has also received this request. It is a fraud and the request does not come from the real CForgraves.
If you opened this email,report it to the we address below.
Report phishing here
Update....It has been discovered that my personal email account was entered illegally and my password was changed. Beware of any emails that appear to come from me. I will no longer be using weave977 or weaver 977@yahoo. I have a new account and have ensured that all passwords are extremely difficult to break.
Lynne Weaver
If you opened this email,report it to the we address below.
Report phishing here
Update....It has been discovered that my personal email account was entered illegally and my password was changed. Beware of any emails that appear to come from me. I will no longer be using weave977 or weaver 977@yahoo. I have a new account and have ensured that all passwords are extremely difficult to break.
Lynne Weaver
Monday, November 9, 2009
It's his story and he is sticking to it !
Sault Tribe Board member, Benard Bouschor, writes a Board Note attacking a former board member that defeated him during the 94' election.
Bouschor has used several Board Notes to attack the one term chairman, Aaron Payment. (Board Notes are the communication link from tribal government to the citizens.) They are generally used to discuss actions taken by government and/or notices of interest. Bouschor's loss was accompanied by great controversy.
He took the liberty of paying out two and a half million dollars to tribal attorneys and administrative heads just days prior to the election. He never advised the Board of Directors that this pay out also meant that these key personnel had tendered their resignations, almost crippling the tribal operations. Office furnishings and computers were also removed the night of the election.
Bouschor has never taken responsibility for Greektown and its loss. Instead, he blames Aaron Payment for allowing the Bankruptcy to be delayed.
A majority of tribal citizens voted not to allow Bouschor back into tribal government.
He found a way to trump that.
The list of Bouschor failures, during the twenty five years in power, are too great for this note. But, if you ask him........everyone else is to blame.
His Board Note in the current issue of the tribal paper will attest to that.
It is his story.................. and he is sticking to it.
An Anonymous Contributor
Bouschor has used several Board Notes to attack the one term chairman, Aaron Payment. (Board Notes are the communication link from tribal government to the citizens.) They are generally used to discuss actions taken by government and/or notices of interest. Bouschor's loss was accompanied by great controversy.He took the liberty of paying out two and a half million dollars to tribal attorneys and administrative heads just days prior to the election. He never advised the Board of Directors that this pay out also meant that these key personnel had tendered their resignations, almost crippling the tribal operations. Office furnishings and computers were also removed the night of the election.
Bouschor has never taken responsibility for Greektown and its loss. Instead, he blames Aaron Payment for allowing the Bankruptcy to be delayed.
A majority of tribal citizens voted not to allow Bouschor back into tribal government.
He found a way to trump that.
The list of Bouschor failures, during the twenty five years in power, are too great for this note. But, if you ask him........everyone else is to blame.
His Board Note in the current issue of the tribal paper will attest to that.
It is his story.................. and he is sticking to it.
An Anonymous Contributor
REPOWER AMERICA....HEAR THE VOICES OF AMERICA
"We can all come together to make our voices heard as one."
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copy and paste the link to listen to the voices of thousands of Americans who have a message for you and our representatives in government.
JOIN REPOWER AMERICA TODAY. Please call your representatives in government and tell them to vote for clean energy technology. Mother Earth thanks you.
http://www.repoweramerica.org/wall
copy and paste the link to listen to the voices of thousands of Americans who have a message for you and our representatives in government.
JOIN REPOWER AMERICA TODAY. Please call your representatives in government and tell them to vote for clean energy technology. Mother Earth thanks you.
Friday, November 6, 2009
Anonymous email
I received this email from someone who prefers to remain Anonymous...
MB citizens are proud of their heritage but would prefer to stay low key. The aging Elders who were duped into joining the Sault Tribe, thirty years ago, always knew that they had treaty rights and that they were recognized by the federal government as a separate band, the Mackinac Band of Ottawa and Chippewa.
Believing that they would share in the government services, wealth and opportunities of the Sault Tribe, they allowed their numbers to be added, neglecting to safeguard their own identity and their own future. They never really organized. What was the sense? The Sault Tribe would provide the necessary services.
" After all, the Mac Band added thousands of natives to the rolls, demonstrating great need and qualified the Sault Tribe for grants and government services. There was only one problem. Most of the Mac Band lived beyond the Sault Tribe service area".
In more recent years, their participation in the Sault Tribe government was questioned by an elected Board member, who no doubt received votes from those very people he wanted to purge from the tribal rolls. Removing their voice from government all but eliminated their token identity. It became very clear that they could no longer depend on a future with the Sault Tribe. Now, they would have to make a decision about the Band's future. Who would lead? What laws would apply? How would we begin?
Several local chief wannabees struggled to establish an organized government. The Board of Directors became a revolving door. Power grabs and dirty tricks have kept the Band from achieving anything of substance. Volunteers have emerged and offered a glimpse of the future if only the Band could organize, unite and work for a common cause. Their efforts have been ignored by the ignorant and selfish. They have treaty rights. They could develop their own services and provide for their citizens. There are corporate interests that are ready to help them develop enterprises and create a job base. The opportunities are there.
There is no better way to honor those from the past as well as those in the future than by becoming self sufficient. Sharing their culture and building a legacy for their children's children is within their grasp. Maybe it will take some non-native help. Are they so proud not to want it, too proud for their own good, is it too much effort or just plain fear of change? Whatever the case, maybe it's time to move over and make room for those who are ready to cut through the B.S. and do the right thing for all members of the MB.
Wednesday, November 4, 2009
The White House National Native American Heritage Month
November 2009 by the President of the United States of America a Proclamation.
The indigenous peoples of North America -- the First Americans -- have woven rich and diverse threads into the tapestry of our Nation's heritage. Throughout their long history on this great land, they have faced moments of profound triumph and tragedy alike. During National Native American Heritage Month, we recognize their many accomplishments, contributions, and sacrifices, and we pay tribute to their participation in all aspects of American society.
This month, we celebrate the ancestry and time-honored traditions of American Indians and Alaska Natives in North America. They have guided our land stewardship policies, added immeasurably to our cultural heritage, and demonstrated courage in the face of adversity. From the American Revolution to combat missions in Iraq and Afghanistan, they have fought valiantly in defense of our Nation as dedicated servicemen and women. Their native languages have also played a pivotal role on the battlefield. During World Wars I and II, Native American code talkers developed unbreakable codes to communicate military messages that saved countless lives.
Native Americans have distinguished themselves as inventors, entrepreneurs, spiritual leaders, and scholars. Our debt to our First Americans is immense, as is our responsibility to ensure their fair, equal treatment and honor the commitments we made to their forbears. The Native American community today faces huge challenges that have been ignored by our Government for too long. To help address this disparity, the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act allocates more than $3 billion to help these communities deal with their most pressing needs. In the Fiscal Year 2010 budget, my Administration has proposed over $17 billion for programs carried out by the Bureau of Indian Affairs, Indian Health Service, and other Federal agencies that have a critical role to play in improving the lives of Native Americans. These programs will increase educational opportunities, address the scourge of alcohol abuse and domestic violence, promote economic development, and provide access to comprehensive, accessible, and affordable health care. While funding increases do not make up for past deficiencies, they do reflect our determination to honor tribal sovereignty and ensure continued progress on reservations across America.
As we seek to build on and strengthen our nation-to-nation relationship, my Administration is committed to ensuring tribal communities have a meaningful voice in our national policy debates as we confront the challenges facing all Americans. We will continue this constructive dialogue at the White House Tribal Nations Conference held in Washington, D.C., this month. Native American voices have echoed through the mountains, valleys, and plains of our country for thousands of years, and it is now our time to listen.
NOW, THEREFORE, I, BARACK OBAMA, President of the United States of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and the laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim November 2009 as National Native American Heritage Month. I call upon all Americans to commemorate this month with appropriate programs and activities, and to celebrate November 27, 2009, as Native American Heritage Day. IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this thirtieth day of October, in the year of our Lord two thousand nine, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-fourth. BARACK OBAMA
-----
The indigenous peoples of North America -- the First Americans -- have woven rich and diverse threads into the tapestry of our Nation's heritage. Throughout their long history on this great land, they have faced moments of profound triumph and tragedy alike. During National Native American Heritage Month, we recognize their many accomplishments, contributions, and sacrifices, and we pay tribute to their participation in all aspects of American society.
This month, we celebrate the ancestry and time-honored traditions of American Indians and Alaska Natives in North America. They have guided our land stewardship policies, added immeasurably to our cultural heritage, and demonstrated courage in the face of adversity. From the American Revolution to combat missions in Iraq and Afghanistan, they have fought valiantly in defense of our Nation as dedicated servicemen and women. Their native languages have also played a pivotal role on the battlefield. During World Wars I and II, Native American code talkers developed unbreakable codes to communicate military messages that saved countless lives.
Native Americans have distinguished themselves as inventors, entrepreneurs, spiritual leaders, and scholars. Our debt to our First Americans is immense, as is our responsibility to ensure their fair, equal treatment and honor the commitments we made to their forbears. The Native American community today faces huge challenges that have been ignored by our Government for too long. To help address this disparity, the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act allocates more than $3 billion to help these communities deal with their most pressing needs. In the Fiscal Year 2010 budget, my Administration has proposed over $17 billion for programs carried out by the Bureau of Indian Affairs, Indian Health Service, and other Federal agencies that have a critical role to play in improving the lives of Native Americans. These programs will increase educational opportunities, address the scourge of alcohol abuse and domestic violence, promote economic development, and provide access to comprehensive, accessible, and affordable health care. While funding increases do not make up for past deficiencies, they do reflect our determination to honor tribal sovereignty and ensure continued progress on reservations across America.
As we seek to build on and strengthen our nation-to-nation relationship, my Administration is committed to ensuring tribal communities have a meaningful voice in our national policy debates as we confront the challenges facing all Americans. We will continue this constructive dialogue at the White House Tribal Nations Conference held in Washington, D.C., this month. Native American voices have echoed through the mountains, valleys, and plains of our country for thousands of years, and it is now our time to listen.
NOW, THEREFORE, I, BARACK OBAMA, President of the United States of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and the laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim November 2009 as National Native American Heritage Month. I call upon all Americans to commemorate this month with appropriate programs and activities, and to celebrate November 27, 2009, as Native American Heritage Day. IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this thirtieth day of October, in the year of our Lord two thousand nine, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-fourth. BARACK OBAMA
-----
TRIBAL NATIONS ARE ONCE AGAIN RECOGNIZED AS A POLITICAL FORCE WITHIN THE U.S.
Find more news on INDIANZ.COM
Tribal concerns to gain U.S. attention
Obama to meet with Indian leaders
NEWSOK.COM
BY CHRIS CASTEEL
Published: November 4, 2009
WASHINGTON — President Barack Obama’s conference with American Indian leaders this week will be the first such gathering in 15 years and a "monumental step” toward better relations between Washington and tribal nations, administration officials said Tuesday.
Multimedia
Photoview all photos
Interior Secretary Ken Salazar told reporters that more than 400 of the 564 federally recognized tribes had committed to sending representatives to the conference, scheduled for Thursday at the Department of Interior.
Many Oklahoma tribal leaders are expected to attend what may be the largest conference of its kind and the first since Bill Clinton was president.
Obama is scheduled to address the tribal leaders, and several cabinet officials also plan to make appearances.
Salazar said Obama wants the dialogue with the tribal leaders to be meaningful. And though he acknowledged that one conference is not going to solve complicated problems in Indian country, the secretary said the event would be "a monumental step in how we move forward together.”
Many aspects of the U.S. government’s history with American Indians have been "swept under the rug,” Salazar said.
The Obama administration is "about telling the truth and having an agenda that is proactive and positive,” he said.
Larry Echo Hawk, the head of the Bureau of Indian Affairs, said, "The best way to address the past is to honor treaty priorities and respect sovereignty.”
Among the issues expected to be discussed are economic development, education, health care and law enforcement.
In June, Obama named Kimberly Teehee, a member of the Cherokee Nation, as his senior policy adviser for American Indian affairs.
Last week, he proclaimed November to be National Native American Heritage month and said his administration had already steered $3 billion in stimulus funding to Indian country and had asked for increases in programs that serve American Indians.
Read more: http://www.newsok.com/tribal-concerns-to-gain-u.s.-attention/article/3414404#ixzz0VtpsWHCo
Tribal concerns to gain U.S. attention
Obama to meet with Indian leaders
NEWSOK.COM
BY CHRIS CASTEEL
Published: November 4, 2009
WASHINGTON — President Barack Obama’s conference with American Indian leaders this week will be the first such gathering in 15 years and a "monumental step” toward better relations between Washington and tribal nations, administration officials said Tuesday.
Multimedia
Photoview all photos
Interior Secretary Ken Salazar told reporters that more than 400 of the 564 federally recognized tribes had committed to sending representatives to the conference, scheduled for Thursday at the Department of Interior.
Many Oklahoma tribal leaders are expected to attend what may be the largest conference of its kind and the first since Bill Clinton was president.
Obama is scheduled to address the tribal leaders, and several cabinet officials also plan to make appearances.
Salazar said Obama wants the dialogue with the tribal leaders to be meaningful. And though he acknowledged that one conference is not going to solve complicated problems in Indian country, the secretary said the event would be "a monumental step in how we move forward together.”
Many aspects of the U.S. government’s history with American Indians have been "swept under the rug,” Salazar said.
The Obama administration is "about telling the truth and having an agenda that is proactive and positive,” he said.
Larry Echo Hawk, the head of the Bureau of Indian Affairs, said, "The best way to address the past is to honor treaty priorities and respect sovereignty.”
Among the issues expected to be discussed are economic development, education, health care and law enforcement.
In June, Obama named Kimberly Teehee, a member of the Cherokee Nation, as his senior policy adviser for American Indian affairs.
Last week, he proclaimed November to be National Native American Heritage month and said his administration had already steered $3 billion in stimulus funding to Indian country and had asked for increases in programs that serve American Indians.
Read more: http://www.newsok.com/tribal-concerns-to-gain-u.s.-attention/article/3414404#ixzz0VtpsWHCo
Sunday, November 1, 2009
Albert Einstein
"We owe a lot to the Indians, who taught us how to count, without which no worthwhile scientific discovery could have been made."
Albert Einstein
Albert Einstein
Wednesday, October 28, 2009
Tribal Members Attempt to Oust Their Leaders
According to Christina Rohn, staff writer for the Petoskey Review, "Several members of the Little Traverse Bay Bands of Odawa Indians have formed a committee and are circulating a petition to recall their recently elected tribal chairman, Ken Harrington (right) and vice chairman, Dexter McNamara."
Far too many tribal leaders have forgotten that their purpose must always be in the best interest of the tribal members. Nepotism, jealousy, self-interests, and power-tripping seem to be the driving force behind the failure of many tribes and bands in Michigan. Questionable election results and even the failure to hold an election keeps some so-called leaders in their position of power at the expense of the members. The ability to load committees and available positions with friends and relatives is a political move to control the power within a tribe at the expense of the best interests of the membership.
Such loaded positions are added protection for tribal leaders who choose to ignore the constitution and bylaws of the people they claim to represent. Revisions and amendments to some tribal constitutions are passed at the whim of power hungry boards who want to eliminate the input of tribal members which includes the right to vote for their leaders in an election that is controlled by the members rather than the board. Holding back tribal constitutions from tribal members until it disables the rights of members to choose leaders prevents members from contributing their voice to the direction they want for their tribe. This places tribes under 'ownership' of the board instead of the people who were left out of the decision-making process.
Improperly held meetings, critical information withheld from members,lack of accountability of tribal funds, ignorance of tribal law, and failure to uphold state and federal laws are among many problems that place all tribal members in jeopardy along with the status of the tribe in the eyes of those agencies who oversee some tribal operations.
Elected tribal boards should never be in control of the tribal constitution and bylaws just as they should have no control over election policies. This alone can take down the success of a tribe and place all it's members in a hostage position with so-called elected leaders as the captors. All too often and very recently, I have seen tribal leaders turn down wonderful opportunities for their members that could provide or increase jobs and services because leaders may be required to relinquish some power to investors and members, uphold the constitution and bylaws, adhere to acceptable accounting practices and abide by IRS rules. Not all do so intentionally, but a lack of education and general knowledge intertwined with a wannabee mentality have been the source of embarrassment and dismay for those whose proud heritage is being tarnished by their leaders.
Federal recognition for tribes that provided the goose that laid the Golden eggs isn't always what it is cracked up to be. Anyone that has ever been a beneficiary in a large inheritance or won some big bucks in the lottery is well aware that the snakes will slither out to wrap themselves around those Golden eggs for their own personal profit while completely ignoring the true beneficiaries.
I am no judge of the character of the Chairman and Vice-Chairman of the Little Traverse Band since I do not know either one but I do credit those tribal members for taking a stand for what they feel is right. May the best man win.
Far too many tribal leaders have forgotten that their purpose must always be in the best interest of the tribal members. Nepotism, jealousy, self-interests, and power-tripping seem to be the driving force behind the failure of many tribes and bands in Michigan. Questionable election results and even the failure to hold an election keeps some so-called leaders in their position of power at the expense of the members. The ability to load committees and available positions with friends and relatives is a political move to control the power within a tribe at the expense of the best interests of the membership.
Such loaded positions are added protection for tribal leaders who choose to ignore the constitution and bylaws of the people they claim to represent. Revisions and amendments to some tribal constitutions are passed at the whim of power hungry boards who want to eliminate the input of tribal members which includes the right to vote for their leaders in an election that is controlled by the members rather than the board. Holding back tribal constitutions from tribal members until it disables the rights of members to choose leaders prevents members from contributing their voice to the direction they want for their tribe. This places tribes under 'ownership' of the board instead of the people who were left out of the decision-making process.
Improperly held meetings, critical information withheld from members,lack of accountability of tribal funds, ignorance of tribal law, and failure to uphold state and federal laws are among many problems that place all tribal members in jeopardy along with the status of the tribe in the eyes of those agencies who oversee some tribal operations.
Elected tribal boards should never be in control of the tribal constitution and bylaws just as they should have no control over election policies. This alone can take down the success of a tribe and place all it's members in a hostage position with so-called elected leaders as the captors. All too often and very recently, I have seen tribal leaders turn down wonderful opportunities for their members that could provide or increase jobs and services because leaders may be required to relinquish some power to investors and members, uphold the constitution and bylaws, adhere to acceptable accounting practices and abide by IRS rules. Not all do so intentionally, but a lack of education and general knowledge intertwined with a wannabee mentality have been the source of embarrassment and dismay for those whose proud heritage is being tarnished by their leaders.
Federal recognition for tribes that provided the goose that laid the Golden eggs isn't always what it is cracked up to be. Anyone that has ever been a beneficiary in a large inheritance or won some big bucks in the lottery is well aware that the snakes will slither out to wrap themselves around those Golden eggs for their own personal profit while completely ignoring the true beneficiaries.
I am no judge of the character of the Chairman and Vice-Chairman of the Little Traverse Band since I do not know either one but I do credit those tribal members for taking a stand for what they feel is right. May the best man win.
Lynne Weaver
Friday, October 23, 2009
MACKINAC BANDS FORWARD MOVEMENT GENERATES PUBLIC INTEREST
Several steps have been taken to generate public interest in the Mackinac Bands. The results have been, for the most part, positive. Enrollment has been steadily increasing with many members of the Sault Tribe requesting affirmation of their membership in the Mackinac Bands.
A growing stream of business developers along with the occasional philanthropist have communicated their interest in the MB. All the ingredients required for potential success are coming together. Invitations to become involved in large community projects, including outside the Indian community, are becoming more frequent.
Several Sault Tribe members who were employed and acted under certain authority for the ST, who are not eligible for membership in the MB, are giving the thumbs up along with several bits of advice.
Suggestions of a Mo
bile Health Unit are high on the priority list for the MB Board of Directors since the Sault Tribe does not provide convenient health services for members beyond the voting units in the Upper Peninsula. Members that are too ill to travel could benefit from the option of a Mobile Health Unit.
Jobs,especially in 'Green' technology, education and a diversified portfolio of business development all hold an equal level of priority on the MB agenda.
In order to achieve the MB's maximum potential at a faster rate and to further the best interest of all members, it would be beneficial if all like-minded groups who feel they are representing smaller bands of the original MB, could come together as one.
The Mackinac Bands are always searching for professional advice from talented members so if you are interested, don't hesitate to contact me....
A growing stream of business developers along with the occasional philanthropist have communicated their interest in the MB. All the ingredients required for potential success are coming together. Invitations to become involved in large community projects, including outside the Indian community, are becoming more frequent.
Several Sault Tribe members who were employed and acted under certain authority for the ST, who are not eligible for membership in the MB, are giving the thumbs up along with several bits of advice.
Suggestions of a Mo
bile Health Unit are high on the priority list for the MB Board of Directors since the Sault Tribe does not provide convenient health services for members beyond the voting units in the Upper Peninsula. Members that are too ill to travel could benefit from the option of a Mobile Health Unit.Jobs,especially in 'Green' technology, education and a diversified portfolio of business development all hold an equal level of priority on the MB agenda.
In order to achieve the MB's maximum potential at a faster rate and to further the best interest of all members, it would be beneficial if all like-minded groups who feel they are representing smaller bands of the original MB, could come together as one.The Mackinac Bands are always searching for professional advice from talented members so if you are interested, don't hesitate to contact me....
Tuesday, October 20, 2009
REPOWER AMERICA CAMPAIGN
The Alliance for Climate Protection is joining nearly 10,000 bloggers from more than 130 countries in the annual Blog Action Day, reaching a combined audience of more than 10 million readers.
JOIN US TODAY...1-877-9REPOWER
Make the call and tell your Senators you support clean energy and climate legislation.
From REPOWER:
On September 30, Senators John Kerry and Barbara Boxer introduced the Clean Energy Jobs and American Power Act, a new piece of comprehensive clean energy and climate legislation that will support America’s transition to a 21st century clean energy economy and create millions of clean energy jobs.
The legislation includes aggressive greenhouse gas pollution reductions of 20% by 2020 and 83% by 2050, which are the long term requirements consistent with the reductions recommended by scientists to avert the worst impacts of climate change. It includes funding for programs to train workers for the new clean energy economy through green jobs training programs, and provides a framework of rebates to protect consumers from potential energy price increases. The legislation also helps put America back in control of its national security by reducing foreign oil consumption through numerous programs to increase transportation efficiency and reduce greenhouse gas pollution, including: public transit incentives and upgrades, incentives for truckers to upgrade to more efficient vehicles, and pollution standards for various transportation vehicles. The bill also preserves the Environmental Protection Agency’s authority to regulate harmful greenhouse gas pollution and protect the public’s health and welfare.
As Alliance for Climate Protection President and CEO Maggie Fox remarked upon introduction of the legislation, "Right now, we have the opportunity to fundamentally transform how we generate and use energy in this country, to put ourselves back in control of our economy and national security and to assert global leadership in a new 21st century clean energy economy."
Join REPOWER AMERICA and help us pass the word.
Mother Earth thanks you.
JOIN US TODAY...1-877-9REPOWER
Make the call and tell your Senators you support clean energy and climate legislation.
From REPOWER:
On September 30, Senators John Kerry and Barbara Boxer introduced the Clean Energy Jobs and American Power Act, a new piece of comprehensive clean energy and climate legislation that will support America’s transition to a 21st century clean energy economy and create millions of clean energy jobs.
The legislation includes aggressive greenhouse gas pollution reductions of 20% by 2020 and 83% by 2050, which are the long term requirements consistent with the reductions recommended by scientists to avert the worst impacts of climate change. It includes funding for programs to train workers for the new clean energy economy through green jobs training programs, and provides a framework of rebates to protect consumers from potential energy price increases. The legislation also helps put America back in control of its national security by reducing foreign oil consumption through numerous programs to increase transportation efficiency and reduce greenhouse gas pollution, including: public transit incentives and upgrades, incentives for truckers to upgrade to more efficient vehicles, and pollution standards for various transportation vehicles. The bill also preserves the Environmental Protection Agency’s authority to regulate harmful greenhouse gas pollution and protect the public’s health and welfare.
As Alliance for Climate Protection President and CEO Maggie Fox remarked upon introduction of the legislation, "Right now, we have the opportunity to fundamentally transform how we generate and use energy in this country, to put ourselves back in control of our economy and national security and to assert global leadership in a new 21st century clean energy economy."
Join REPOWER AMERICA and help us pass the word.
Mother Earth thanks you.
Friday, October 16, 2009
CONGRATULATIONS TO SAULT TRIBE MEMBER...JOE NOLAN
In the October issue of the Bay Mills News there is a picture of a Sault Tribe member, Joe Nolan. Nolan, who is an engineering technician for the Indian Health Service in the Sault, received the 2009 Bemidjii Area Director's Award for Excellence. The Sault Field Office provides sanitation facilities assistance to tribal members and communities. Thanks for making us proud, Mr. Nolan.
Just a few words on Healthcare Reform....
Insurance companies who don't want to give up their mega profits don't want healthcare reform. Insurance companies and their lobbyists have resorted to scare tactics to stop reform.
There are those that say they don't want the government to be involved in their healthcare but some of these people are on Medicare. Huh? So I asked them, "So you don't want your Medicare anymore?" and they say "Huh?" If those on Medicare or Medicaid no longer want to participate because they discovered they are on a government run program, maybe the savings will help pay for a government run medical plan for those who need health care coverage and do want it.
How about all those cushy government jobs with their great benefits? Maybe the government should get out of the employment business and turn it all over to privatization. If that happened, would government employees have an option to stick with their government employer or would they be forced to give up that option to have the government involved in their employment, their health plan and all those other wonderful benefits government employees get from their government run employer? I have to wonder if privatization would reduce their salaries and benefits so that the private companies could drastically increase their profits.
How about all those government holidays? We should get rid of them too....that would save a lot of money. Doesn't the government run the military forces? Crap...what would we do without a government run military? Would we end up like other 3rd world countries? At least we wouldn't have the government interfering in our security and over-protecting us.
One more thing....a lot of us want the public option plan because it gives us a choice. Isn't that what we have when we vote in our government-run public elections...a choice? I like choices and options. My vote will go to those who want the American public to have a choice.
Wednesday, October 14, 2009
GO FIGURE......
Now that Sault Tribe management is out of the picture, Greektown is finally making money. Were we making money all along and didn’t know it? Where did it go? If Greektown’s revenues are up 11.8% over last year while the other 2 casinos in Detroit are down an average of 25% or more, which is representative of casinos all across the country, doesn’t this raise some questions in everyone’s mind. Even those that are clueless when it comes to doing the math are scratching their heads over this one. Add the 11.8 % increase to what the other casinos are down…an average 25% decrease over last year. That’s almost 37%. I spent 25 years examining and calculating budgets and doing comparisons of budget to actual, prior years, and projected sales, profits and expenses so I can’t help but have a couple of raised eyebrows over the calculations I just did.
Let me try to explain this. A manager I worked for continually added inventory counts to reported promotional sales and markdown figures which recorded a loss in profit. He did it to cover waste so that at the end of the year, he would come out smelling like a rose and get a big bonus for controlling waste. Trouble is, inventory figures, and cover-ups, roll over to the next year’s business just like your unused cell phone minutes. The following year’s inventory count reflects last year’s cover-up plus the current years normal expected waste figures. Waste is inevitable and the result of human error, undetected shoplifting, and employee theft with 1% and under as the goal.
So this manager thought he had a great year showing a 5% gain instead of a loss, which could only happen as the result of a huge mistake. He tried to explain it away by claiming the inventory of the prior year, before he got there, was in error. He was fired.
Now reverse the scenario....While the manager wanted to look good so he could get that top bonus, a corporaton would never report more profits than they earned. It would be stupid and cost them in corporate taxes. If a corporation wanted to pay less taxes, they would report less profit using a seperate set of books. If an owner of a large company wanted more money in his pocket, he might be inclined to show less profit and a loss would be even better. But of course, this scenario would assume that the owner of the large company was crooked, dishonest….a thief. Now imagine if this company had stockholders. They just got ripped off.
.................................................................................
Changing the subject and just as a reminder, why did Bernard Bouschor go to extraordinary lengths to get back on the Sault Tribe board? Prior to the last election, why did Cathy Abramson, DJ Hoffman, Lana Causley, Joe Eitrem, Dennis McKelvie and who am I missing, fight so hard to get Aaron Payment away from Greektown and replace him with the ousted police chief who wasn’t qualified to run an outhouse let alone a casino? Hmmmmm…….2 + 2+?=??…
Let me try to explain this. A manager I worked for continually added inventory counts to reported promotional sales and markdown figures which recorded a loss in profit. He did it to cover waste so that at the end of the year, he would come out smelling like a rose and get a big bonus for controlling waste. Trouble is, inventory figures, and cover-ups, roll over to the next year’s business just like your unused cell phone minutes. The following year’s inventory count reflects last year’s cover-up plus the current years normal expected waste figures. Waste is inevitable and the result of human error, undetected shoplifting, and employee theft with 1% and under as the goal.
So this manager thought he had a great year showing a 5% gain instead of a loss, which could only happen as the result of a huge mistake. He tried to explain it away by claiming the inventory of the prior year, before he got there, was in error. He was fired.
Now reverse the scenario....While the manager wanted to look good so he could get that top bonus, a corporaton would never report more profits than they earned. It would be stupid and cost them in corporate taxes. If a corporation wanted to pay less taxes, they would report less profit using a seperate set of books. If an owner of a large company wanted more money in his pocket, he might be inclined to show less profit and a loss would be even better. But of course, this scenario would assume that the owner of the large company was crooked, dishonest….a thief. Now imagine if this company had stockholders. They just got ripped off.
.................................................................................
Changing the subject and just as a reminder, why did Bernard Bouschor go to extraordinary lengths to get back on the Sault Tribe board? Prior to the last election, why did Cathy Abramson, DJ Hoffman, Lana Causley, Joe Eitrem, Dennis McKelvie and who am I missing, fight so hard to get Aaron Payment away from Greektown and replace him with the ousted police chief who wasn’t qualified to run an outhouse let alone a casino? Hmmmmm…….2 + 2+?=??…
Friday, October 9, 2009
NO NEWS CAN'T BE GOOD NEWS
We have waited and waited and now it seems that we waited for nothing. First Bernard Bouschor participated in a devious act to relieve 2.7 million dollars from the Sault Tribe members to pay off his key employees. Then on the night he lost the 2004 election, with a lot of help from some of his friends and a few of his family members, they relieved the tribal offices of computers, hard drives and rare native American art.
Five years later, it appears that Bouschor's traitor-like behavior will go unpunished. Attempts to right the wrongs perpetrated by Bouschor upon the tribal members only resulted in even more losses. It seems the courts are going to rule in his favor. The Indians lose again. Why should we be surprised that the innocent Sault Tribe members would lose in a court system not their own?
Sovereignty is not what it is cut out to be. Like the treaties signed by our ancestors, sovereignty is a half-ass promise filled with 'but onlies and exceptions to every rule' and those rules are not in our favor. We should have been able to sue Bouschor in accordance with our laws and in our courts. We should have been able to handle Bouschor's case in the same manner that he handled Mike Lumsdens....that is, if we were truly sovereign.
Because of Bouschor, hundreds of tribal members have suffered job losses and had many services cut but those on the board who supported him then and remain on the board to support him now, have given up nothing.
Those same directors also supported Fred Paquin, Sault Tribes disgraced former police chief. Where has the investigation of the Sault Tribes biggest embarrassment led? Don't expect the Sault Tribe chairman, or the Board of Directors to fill us in because....IT'S A BIG SECRET. Instead of our elected representatives (well-sort of)keeping us informed, they have chosen to hide the truth and hire a public relations firm to deal with the nasty publicity instead. Well, at least the news we will get should be good news, even if it's not.
Five years later, it appears that Bouschor's traitor-like behavior will go unpunished. Attempts to right the wrongs perpetrated by Bouschor upon the tribal members only resulted in even more losses. It seems the courts are going to rule in his favor. The Indians lose again. Why should we be surprised that the innocent Sault Tribe members would lose in a court system not their own?
Sovereignty is not what it is cut out to be. Like the treaties signed by our ancestors, sovereignty is a half-ass promise filled with 'but onlies and exceptions to every rule' and those rules are not in our favor. We should have been able to sue Bouschor in accordance with our laws and in our courts. We should have been able to handle Bouschor's case in the same manner that he handled Mike Lumsdens....that is, if we were truly sovereign.
Because of Bouschor, hundreds of tribal members have suffered job losses and had many services cut but those on the board who supported him then and remain on the board to support him now, have given up nothing.
Those same directors also supported Fred Paquin, Sault Tribes disgraced former police chief. Where has the investigation of the Sault Tribes biggest embarrassment led? Don't expect the Sault Tribe chairman, or the Board of Directors to fill us in because....IT'S A BIG SECRET. Instead of our elected representatives (well-sort of)keeping us informed, they have chosen to hide the truth and hire a public relations firm to deal with the nasty publicity instead. Well, at least the news we will get should be good news, even if it's not.
Sunday, September 27, 2009
"There's so much pollution in the air now that if it weren't for our lungs there'd be no place to put it."
I just came across this quote but unfortunately the author was not cited. Nevertheless, it opened my eyes even more than they already were to the need for clean air, clean water and a clean Earth. In some way, we are all contributing to the pollution of those necessary life-giving elements, but we can reduce our negative impact with a little effort and a lot of voice.
If you are reading this then you have access to the greatest source of information in the world and that is the internet. There are hundreds of websites that address pollution, clean energy and "living green".
Humans are responsible for the extreme weather patterns brought on by climate change largely in part to our reliance on fossil fuels that produce heat-trapping gases. The gases warm the Earth, which warms the water causing the polar ice caps to melt. Warmer waters force cold water species further north reducing a valuable food supply.
An increase in wildfires in the last decade is largely attributed to global warming,
"A warming climate encourages wildfires through a longer summer period that dries fuels, promoting easier ignition and faster spread."
http://www.grist.org/article/2009-09-01-global-warming-california-and-wildfires/
It's a 2 for 1 deal...push for clean energy legislation and create jobs in "green technology" Someone has to do it...why not you. Hand-write a letter to your Senator so they know you are serious. Please do it today and REPOWER AMERICA.
If you are reading this then you have access to the greatest source of information in the world and that is the internet. There are hundreds of websites that address pollution, clean energy and "living green".
Humans are responsible for the extreme weather patterns brought on by climate change largely in part to our reliance on fossil fuels that produce heat-trapping gases. The gases warm the Earth, which warms the water causing the polar ice caps to melt. Warmer waters force cold water species further north reducing a valuable food supply.
An increase in wildfires in the last decade is largely attributed to global warming,
"A warming climate encourages wildfires through a longer summer period that dries fuels, promoting easier ignition and faster spread."
http://www.grist.org/article/2009-09-01-global-warming-california-and-wildfires/
It's a 2 for 1 deal...push for clean energy legislation and create jobs in "green technology" Someone has to do it...why not you. Hand-write a letter to your Senator so they know you are serious. Please do it today and REPOWER AMERICA.
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