Questions on Dr. Covington's resignation

Oh, yeah, we have questions: 1) Why now? 2) Why all of a sudden? 3) It seems as though some event must have triggered this resignation, surely. What "event" was that? 4) Is there any truth to the rumor about this somehow being involved with a large ($86 million) contract Airich West is somehow supposedly involved in? 5) Was Dr. Covington in any way forced out? 6) If so, if that's the case, by whom was he forced out? 7) Why in heck (I want to say hell) would the superintendent resign at the BEGINNING of the school year? That seems to suggest there was or is some big problem and/or reason for this resignation. 8) If that's the case, what is that big reason? 9) Was this due in part or in whole to some problem--the contract or something else--with Airick West? 10) If so, what was that problem and why is/was it insurmountable? For now, that's enough but the fact is, the answers to these questions alone would be long ones. I hope we find out soon. Links: http://www.kansascity.com/2011/08/24/3097178/covington-steps-down.html; http://videos.kansascity.com/vmix_hosted_apps/p/media?id=108245961; http://www.kansascity.com/2011/08/25/3097850/state-commissioner-says-kc-districts.html; http://voices.kansascity.com/entries/covington-could-have-handled-airick-west/; http://voices.kansascity.com/entries/benson-says-board-community-didnt-protect-covington/

Big Oil: Big profits and tax cuts from us, to boot

How much is enough? The top five oil companies in the country raked in $70 billion--that's billion--in profits the first HALF of this year. These are some of the most profitable companies in the nation and so, the world. But here's a dirty little secret they don't want us to emphasize--they get tax subsidies. Here's another not-so-secret secret--the Republicans and Right Wingers have been fighting in the last few months to have these same wealthy companies KEEP those tax subsidies--tax breaks. "Big Oil" is sqealing like a stuck pig, too, over the mere POSSIBILITY that they might lose $400 million in subsidies. It's time to stand up, folks. It's time we speak out. This is insanity. We're being gouged at the pump and then giving them tax breaks, to boot. Sound sensible to you? Links: http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2011/07/29/big-oil-profits_n_913452.html; http://consumerist.com/2011/04/big-oil-companies-sucked-up-much-higher-profits-than-they-did-a-year-ago.html; http://thinkprogress.org/romm/2011/04/28/207983/big-oil-profits/

The latest SEC and government scandal America needs to know

A story breaking this week but that, I think, is getting far too little press tells of the SEC doing some preliminary investigations of Wall Street firms, then shutting them down and--worst of all--destroying any evidence. And why would this happen, you might ask? Well, because those very same SEC employees then get cushy, high paying jobs with the very companies they're supposed to be overseeing and regulating. And it's been going on since 1993, at least, apparently, and repeatedly. Goldman Sachs, anyone? It reminds me, once again, of the quote by Tim McIlrath: "If you're not angry, you're not paying attention." Read about it here: http://www.npr.org/2011/08/18/139758303/sec-documents-destroyed-employee-tells-congress; http://www.rollingstone.com/politics/news/is-the-sec-covering-up-wall-street-crimes-20110817

KCPT---Please!!

There are 2 shows I wish KCPT would create as a possible fund raiser for them and maybe even for the Nelson-Atkins Museum. They would be great for the city and the people interested in our history. The story of the Nelson-Atkins is one largely unknown to most Kansas Citians, both the long-time residents and the newcomers. It's a rich, wonderful story that becomes international quickly, when the associates left in the 30's, shortly after the museum was formed, to gain pieces for the gallery, as far as China. I've written about this before. The other story that would be a good one is that of Hare and Hare (later Ochsner, Hare and Hare) Landscape Architects and their work on everything in the city from Forest Hill Cemetery to the Country Club District to the Liberty Memorial, KU's and KSU's respective "master plans", Dealey Plaza in Dallas, the Harry S. Truman Library, Swope Park, the Nelson-Atkins Museum (again), Mission Hills and Loose Park, at minimum. These would be two fantastic stories lots of people in town would love to know. The Nelson could use it to boost both interest and, possibly, if done correctly, funds and donations. It would be fantastic for KCPT, to gain viewership and, again, possible donations. I see these two rich stories as nothing but a gain for KCPT, the Nelson Gallery, Kansas City and Kansas Citians. Here's hoping they happen and the sooner, the better. Links: www.ohhkc.com/, www.nelson-atkins.org/, www.kcpt.org

On those recent debt negotiations...

“Witnessing the Republicans and the Democrats bicker over the U.S. debt is analogous to watching two drunks argue over a bar bill on the Titanic.” --line in a recent editorial of the Idaho Statesmen.

Quote of the day--on the US' situation right now

"This is a tough game. You can't be intimidated. You can't be frightened. And as far as I'm concerned -- the Tea Party can go straight to hell." --Rep. Maxine Waters (D-CA), Kitchen Table Summit, 8/20/2011. (Good on you, Rep. Waters). Link to original post: http://tpmdc.talkingpointsmemo.com/2011/08/maxine-waters-tells-constituents-the-tea-party-can-go-straight-to-hell-video.php

Three kinds of people

There are 3 kinds of people: First, there are those that make actually things happen, then there are the ones who watch what happened and, finally, there are those who wonder what happened.

Did someone say "imbalance"?

"The 400 richest families in America now hold as much wealth as the bottom 50% of the country combined." Put another way, these "400 richest have as much as the 150 million poorest." --From the comic strip "Doonesbury" by Garry Trudeau yesterday. Anyone give a damn?

On the US, "heroes" and our non-functioning systems

From yesterday's New York Times Sunday Review section: "As the national narrative shifts from the war on terror to the specter of decline, the uniform performs another psychic function. The military is can-do, the one institution — certainly the one public institution — that still appears to work. The schools, the highways, the post office; Amtrak, FEMA, NASA and the T.S.A. — not to mention the banks, the newspapers, the health care system, and above all, Congress: nothing seems to function anymore, except the armed forces. They’re like our national football team — and undisputed champs, to boot — the one remaining sign of American greatness." --William Deresiewicz, essayist, critic and author of "Solitude and Leadership", an address delivered at West Point in 2009 and widely taught in the armed forces. Link to original post: http://www.nytimes.com/2011/08/21/opinion/sunday/americas-sentimental-regard-for-the-military.html?_r=1&scp=1&sq=our+sentimental+regard+for+soldiers&st=nyt

I-29 in Iowa

I have a brother and sister-in-law who live North of here, in Tarkio, Missouri. The above picture was just sent to them from a friend in Council Bluffs. As labeled above, it's of I-29 in Iowa where some of the water has receded. From what he's been told the Iowa Department of Transportation is thinking they will have to build a road to re-build the road. WPA (Works Progress Administration) for jobs and infrastructure, anyone?

Quote of the day

“Socialism never took root in America because the poor see themselves not as an exploited proletariat but as temporarily embarrassed millionaires.” -John Steinbeck

KC: Do you have any idea how lucky we are?

Think about it--Texas is suffering from who knows how many consecutive days of more than 100 degree days and no rain--none--so they have a horrible drought. Oklahoma? Very similar. To the North of us, the Dakotas and Montana and a few states up there flooded whole towns earlier this year that they're still working out of. We all know about Joplin, Missouri's awful tornado, destruction and rebuilding. California's economy and budget are both in the toilet. Same for Florida and Las Vegas, at least, along with Phoenix. I could go on here but you get the idea. We, on the other hand, though putting up with an admittedly tough economy, haven't experienced the truly desperate and difficult extreme drops other parts of the country have and though some parts of the area may be a bit dry, we really aren't suffering from a prolonged drought. Additionally, the temperatures--especially for August--have been far milder and even, dare I say it? pleasant, as it was this morning, after that rain and wind blew through. Could it be better? Sure, it always can be. But if we aren't counting our--these--blessings, we are an ungrateful lot, for sure. Now, here's hoping it holds. Have a great weekend, y'all.

Helpful tips for this weekend's KC Airshow

With a beautiful weekend forecast and the United States Air Force A-10 Thunderbolt headlining, the 2011 Kansas City Air Show a large turnout is expected at the Kansas City Downtown Wheeler Airport on August 20 and 21. Gates open to the public at 9:00 AM. Advanced sale discount tickets are available for purchase through August 20 at www.kcairshow.com. Tickets will also be available for sale on-site. Guests are encouraged to arrive early in order to avoid expected heavy traffic and find a seat close to the flight line. Guests are asked to limit their personal carry-in items to only the essentials. The air show’s concessions feature a variety of delicious food and beverages for patron’s enjoyment while on the grounds. In order to ensure that guests are comfortable and will enjoy the show, chairs, blankets, umbrellas, etc. are permitted within the general admission seating area. Umbrellas must be a reasonable size; only handheld umbrellas will be permitted.Although temperatures are expected to be very comfortable throughout the weekend, guests are encouraged to drink plenty of fluids to keep hydrated. The forecast also calls for sunny skies all weekend and guests are reminded to bring and apply sunscreen throughout the day to avoid burns.Please note that all carry-in items are subject to search and all unattended bags will be removed from the premises. The following items are not allowed on the show grounds: ·Coolers ·Loose ice·Cans/glass·Alcohol·Pets·Weapons·Tents/awnings·Cooking Equipment·Bicycles·Rollerblades·Scooters·Ladders·Large Umbrellas. Please note that smaller coolers containing life-saving medications or formula for infants will be permitted. Also note that there is absolutely no smoking on the air show ramp or in the spectator area. Smoking is permitted outside the spectator gate and in the parking lots. The USAF A-10 Thunderbolt headlines a blockbuster lineup that also includes the, the US Army Golden Knights, Tim Weber, the Trojan Phylers, and the Flashfire Jet Truck. General Admission tickets remain on sale at www.kcairshow.com Limited premium seating tickets remain available.

I'm so old...

...I remember when you went to YouTube and you just got your video. There was no advertisement first. THAT old.

It's done. We have curfews

I heard on KCUR this evening that the City Council and Mayor James got their curfews passed. As I said earlier this week, it seemed inevitable. They had to have solutions by tomorrow evening and a heavy police presence just wasn't going to cut it. The details, according to The Kansas City Star: • From Memorial Day weekend through the last Sunday in September, it will be 9 p.m. for all youth under age 18 for five entertainment districts in the city — the Country Club Plaza, Westport, the Downtown Business District, 18th and Vine, and Zona Rosa. Elsewhere in the city during the summer, the curfew will be 10 p.m. for youths 15 and under and 11 p.m. for 16 and 17-year-olds. • The rest of the year, from October through Memorial Day, the curfew for all minors will be 11 p.m. weeknights and midnight on Friday and Saturday. • The fine for parents of curfew violators, currently $1 for a first offense, will increase to a maximum of $500 for each offense. With as many layers as it has for the different ages and different parts of town and times of the year, I doubt the police appreciate this little gift. Let's see if this all works. Here's hoping it does. Link: http://www.kansascity.com/2011/08/18/3084943/kc-sets-earlier-curfew-hours.html

Okay, the Troost bridge over Brush Creek is open

And that's good news. We can have that traffic going through again, great. Now, I wonder if the city is going to dredge Brush Creek, further to the East, since not-so-small islands have cropped up because of the slower flow of the creek due to that construction. It will be interesting to see if it's cleared.

KC Air Show Presents UFC Fighter Ryan Bader on behalf of the USAF Reserve

The Kansas City Air Show is proud to announce that Ryan Bader of The Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) will be in attendance at this year’s 2011 Kansas City Air Show. The air show will feature the United States Air Force Thunderbolt II Demo Team along with an impressive civilian and military lineup August 20th and 21st at Kansas City Wheeler Downtown Airport.Bader will be attending on behalf of The United States Air Force Reserve, a group that he has long supported. Bader will be available for autographs and for photos near the U.S. Air Force Reserve display on Saturday, August 20th from 11:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m.Bader was a contestant on season Eight of The Ultimate Fighter. He was the first light heavyweight selected by Coach Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira, winning his first three fights on the show to earn a spot in the finals. Bader defeated Vinicius Magalhães at The Ultimate Fighter Eight Finale, earning the title of "The Ultimate Fighter" and winning a six-figure UFC contract. “We are extremely excited about the opportunity to have such a great sports figure as UFC fighter Ryan Bader to do a meet and greet with our guests at the air show,” stated Ed Noyallis, Executive Director - Chairman of the Mid America Youth Aviation Association. “The fact that he is taking time out of his busy schedule to interact with our community is wonderful,” he added. If you would like any more information on UFC Fighter Ryan Bader or the 2011 Kansas City Air Show please visit their websites accordingly at www.ryanbader.com/ or www.kcairshow.com/.

Olathe Native to Headline Kansas City Air Show

USAF Captain Joe “Rifle” Shetterly will face some added pressure this weekend when he takes to the skies as the headline act of the 2011 Kansas City Air Show. Shetterly, a graduate of Olathe North High School and the University of Kansas will pilot the A-10 Thunderbolt II demonstration in front of family, friends and the hometown fans. The show launches on August 20th and 21st at Kansas City Wheeler Downtown Airport and will be headlined by the United States Air Force A-10 Thunderbolt Demonstration Team.

 

Making the hometown performance even more special for Shetterly is the fact that his father, Greg Shetterly will also be performing at this year’s show in his One Design aircraft. Greg Shetterly said that it is an indescribable feeling to be able to perform in the same air show with his son in their hometown show. “This is really special for me,” said Greg Shetterly. “I sent my son off to the Air Force as an amateur (pilot) and they sent him back an expert. He has become my mentor as an aerobatic pilot.” Captain Joe Shetterly and the crew from the A-10 Demonstration Team will be available for planeside interviews on Thursday, August 18th at 2:00 PM at Kansas City Wheeler Downtown Airport. The news conference is open only to media and invited guests. As the Air Force’s top close air support aircraft, the A-10 Thunderbolt II, also known as the “Warthog”, is known for its role in destroying ground targets in support of ground combat troops. The A-10 demonstration at this year’s show will feature a booming, fiery pyrotechnic display that will simulate the A-10’s destruction of enemy ground targets. In addition to the A-10 demo,b> the Kansas City Air Show will host an impressive lineup of military and civilian performers and unique ground displays. Military performers will include the Unites States Army Parachute Team Golden Knights, and the United States Air Force Academy Gliders. Civilian performers include CC Gerner, the Trojan Phlyers, Flashfire Jet Truck, and Tim Weber. Additional performers and static aircraft are listed at www.kcairshow.com. “We are extremely excited about this sensational lineup and especially that our headlining performer is one of our hometown heroes,” stated Ed Noyallis, Executive Director - Chairman of the Mid America Youth Aviation Association. “We are very pleased to once again bring a world-class air show to the great fans here in Kansas City,” he added. Tickets for the event are on sale through the show’s Web site, www.kcairshow.com. All children ages 15 and under will be admitted to general admission areas for free when accompanied by a paying adult. There are a variety of premium seating upgrade options still available. Visit the show’s Web site for further information. Founded in 1993, the Kansas City Air Show is held at Kansas City Wheeler Downtown Airport and is one of America’s premier air shows. The air show showcases world-class aerobatic champions, military jet demonstrations and entertainment for the whole family. Mid-America Youth Aviation Association (MAYAA), formed in 1998, is a not-for-profit group that provides educational aviation and aeronautical opportunities for youngsters and produces the Kansas City Air Show. Support of the air show and its associated education programs is provided by donations and sale of tickets to the air show. For more information, visit www.kcairshow.com.

Quote of the day

"After bashing Fed, Perry now accusing scientists of lying about global warming. More right-wing gonzo populism. Keep this man in Texas." --Robert Reich, American political economist, professor, author, and political commentator. He served in the administrations of Presidents Ford and Carter and was Secretary of Labor under President Bill Clinton from 1993 to 1997. Reich is currently Chancellor's Professor of Public Policy at the Goldman School of Public Policy at the University of California, Berkeley. Links: http://twitter.com/#!/RBReich/statuses/103874512646447105; https://www.facebook.com/#!/RBReich; http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Robert_Reich

The ACLU vs. KCMO: Are you kidding me?

After reading the fine print in the Kansas City Star yesterday, I see I overlooked that "the local chapter of the American Civil Liberties Union said a court challenge was likely" regarding a possible curfew on the Country Club Plaza, because of the shootings. Right up front, I'll tell you, I am usually always (but not always) a supporter of the ACLU and their fight for our basic rights. On this matter, however, I have to say I come down squarely agin' 'em. I mean, come on, what's more important here, teenagers rights or their lives? If it's either letting them wander free in the city so they have their "rights" or letting them get shot at, I think I'm absolutely having them get off the streets after 9 pm rather than possibly being targets for some idiot with a gun. And it's not as though the ACLU hasn't got plenty of other, far more important and bigger issues on their collective plate, either. If they want or need something to "go after", then let them pick apart all the parts and wrongs they can of the "Patriot Act", let alone all the other goofy, probing, prodding the Right Wing of the country keeps coming up with to get into our private lives, in spite of their calls for "small" and "non-intrusive" government. If the ACLU goes ahead with this and files suit, then I say we demand they fly in everyone they can on their staff and everyone else they need, so they can guard and protect people, every weekend, ad infinitum, so everyone's safe--children, adults and otherwise. If they can't or won't do that, then I suggest they butt out and file no such lawsuit. But thanks, anyway, ACLU. Link: http://www.kansascity.com/2011/08/15/3078819/curfew-option-has-kcs-attention.html

Family fun activities at the KC Airshow this weekend

The Kansas City Aviation Expo will be the highlight of the summer for local families. Headlined by the US Air Force A-10 Thunderbolt Demo Team with a supporting line-up of exciting civilian and military performers, the air show will provide for hours of entertainment August 20 and 21 at the Kansas City Wheeler Downtown Airport. The show features a kid-friendly, family environment with special activities planned for kids of all ages. Best of all, kids 15 and under get in free to the general admission area when accompanied by a paid adult. Kids and parents will love the Kids Zone Play Area which will include inflatable recreational equipment, climbing walls and aviation-themed play opportunities . The Lego Construction Experience will also be on-site. In this exhibit kids young and old can experience four unique areas of the Lego brand firsthand by building their own creations. This supervised area will allow children to make their favorite Lego creation. The air show will also be hosting exhibitors on-site, including NASA and the Red Tail Project. Many of these vendors will have hands-on, interactive games and displays that will engage both kids and adults, making the Kansas City Aviation Expo the perfect family activity in Kansas City this weekend. For all the information, go to their link: http://kcairshow.com/

An apology from the State of Texas

Good on you, Texas, and thanks. At least this time it's not just the Dixie Chicks owning up to the ignorance of this buffoon but the whole state. (If even in jest). Thanks and a hat tip the The Immoral Minority blog for bringing this to our attention. Link: http://theimmoralminority.blogspot.com/

P-51 C Mustang and Traveling Exhibit Honoring The Tuskegee Airmen to Appear at the Kansas City Air Show

The Kansas City Air Show is taking place this weekend on August 20 and 21 and will feature the U.S. Air Force A-10 Thunderbolt with live pyrotechnics. The Thunderbolt will be joined by a fantastic line-up of military and civilian performers and will include aircraft ranging from modern aerobatic planes to World War II warbirds. One warbird in particular will stand out to the crowd. The P-51C Mustang with its unmistakable red tail is part of an educational initiative to help patrons understand and appreciate the history and legacy of the special group of black pilots, the Tuskegee Airmen.

 

The CAF Red Tail Squadron, a volunteer-driven non-profit organization that is part of the Commemorative Air Force, completed a $1 million restoration of the Mustang - named Tuskegee Airmen - in 2009 and the airplane has been on the air show circuit ever since. At each stop, its pilots and crew take every opportunity to tell audiences the story of the Tuskegee Airmen, the first black fighter pilots to serve in the U.S. Army Air Corps (now U.S. Air Force) and the thousands of other black men and women who supported them. The P-51C Mustang will be joined by the new CAF Red Tail Squadron RISE ABOVE Traveling Exhibit, a customized 53' trailer with expandable sides that houses a 160-degree curved movie screen and seating for 30 in climate-controlled comfort. A 14-minute original movie called "RISE ABOVE" focuses on what the Tuskegee Airmen - pilots and their support personnel - had to overcome to be allowed to fly and fight for their country during World War II. Admission to the exhibit is free of charge. Air show attendees will be spellbound as they hear how, after training at the segregated base in Tuskegee, Alabama, the Tuskegee Airmen pilots were sent first to Africa and then to Italy where they distinguished themselves as American military aviators. During their European tour, the Tuskegee Airmen proved that black men had the courage and intelligence to fly and fight effectively against the Axis powers, particularly the Germans. The Airmen and their crews painted the tails of their fighters red, and as these pilots proved their skill and courage in the skies over Italy and Germany, bomber pilots soon began requesting the "red tail angels." The Tuskegee Airmen flew thousand of sorties and earned hundreds of medals and designations, including the Congressional Gold Medal in 2007 in honor of their war service to the United States. The CAF Red Tail Squadron's RISE ABOVE Traveling Exhibit and the red-tailed P-51C Mustang, Tuskegee Airmen, will be on display during the core hours (9:00 a.m.- 5:00 p.m.) of the Kansas City Air Show on August 21and 21, 2011 at Wheeler Downtown Airport in Kansas City, Missouri. The Mustang will also fly (weather permitting) as scheduled. Founded in 1993, the Kansas City Air Show is held at Kansas City Wheeler Downtown Airport and is one of America’s premier air shows. The air show showcases world-class aerobatic champions, military jet demonstrations and entertainment for the whole family. Mid-America Youth Aviation Association (MAYAA), formed in 1998, is a not-for-profit group that provides educational aviation and aeronautical opportunities for youngsters and produces the Kansas City Air Show. Support of the air show and its associated education programs is provided by donations and sale of tickets to the air show. For more information, visit www.kcairshow.com. Additional links: http://www.usarec.army.mil/hq/goldenknights/; http://www.acc.af.mil/aerialevents/a10west/index.asp; http://www.turbo-shark.com/; http://www.redthunder.us/

Polsinelli Shughart and the West Edge: PLEASE???

From what Kevin Collison at the Star says in the paper today, the Polsinelli Shughart law firm is still considering different locations for its new headquarters in the area. Some of those are a spot still with Highwoods, North of Valencia Place, a downtown block near the Sprint Center, "the proposed Mission Gateway across the State Line" and, finally, thank goodness, "the unfinished West Edge Project." Please, please, for all that's good in this city, let it be the West Edge. It would, hopefully, be a match made in heaven. Someone needs to take over and complete that eyesore, it would keep them on the Plaza and hopefully fill their needs for space. That big hunk of construction needs an occupant and badly. It would be terrific for the Plaza, great for the city and, finally, maybe buy back some goodwill for Polsinelli to the people of the city. Here's hoping. Link: http://www.kansascity.com/2011/08/15/3078367/lessons-from-the-balcony-building.html

Plaza solution needed by Friday

I think we all know the city needs and wants a solution of whatever sort we can, as soon as possible for the Country Club Plaza so there are no more random shootings in or around the area. I think that's a given. That said, that assumed, I'd expect Mayor James to absolutely do whatever he has must in order to get a curfew in place by Friday, at latest. From what I understand, it is to cover kids under 18 and make it that they have to be out of there by 9. What I don't understand are the questions or concerns that it might not be constitutional when it's already being done in Philadelphia. Attorneys will be busy. Anyway, I feel sure it will sail through City Hall in these few days. Neither the Mayor nor City Council nor anyone else have any other quick solution available. I'd absolutely look for this to be a "done deal." Link: http://www.kansascity.com/2011/08/15/3078819/curfew-option-has-kcs-attention.html

KC Royal's current excitement

Well good for the Royals. They did, in fact, pick up Gardner Edgerton's Bubba Starling to play for the team. Standout as he is and "local boy", at that, it just made too much sense. Great player. Lots of prospects and possibilities. Has his "feet on the ground", so to speak. This is good for the Royals both long and short-term, as well as for Mr. Starling. The thing is--and I hate to sound even remotely like Tony over at his TKC blog--but if he is good and stays good and improves, etc., those same Royals--short-sighted cheapskates they are--will never keep him long-term, once he gets "expensive", in their eyes. Winning be damned, this team doesn't keep good players that they see as costly or too expensive. That said, good on you, Bubba. Enjoy. We'll love seeing this "local boy making good" right here at home, for as long as they'll keep him. Also, one final note, Bubba--we and likely your family, too--are especially glad you picked baseball instead of Nebraska football. You should be able to play much longer in life and with far fewer injuries. Links: http://www.kansascity.com/2011/08/15/3078827/bubba-starling-signs-with-royals.html; http://videos.kansascity.com/vmix_hosted_apps/p/media?id=106822291; http://www.kansascity.com/2011/08/15/3077679/bubba-starling-chooses-between.html; http://www.kansascity.com/2011/08/15/3078792/royals-come-to-agreement-with.html

Quote of the day--on our national spending

"The truth is that as far as straight economics, America's longer run fiscal problems shouldn't be all that hard to fix. An aging population and rising health care costs will, under current policies, push spending up faster than tax receipts. But the US has far higher health care costs than any other advanced country and very low taxes by international standards. If we could move even part way toward international norms on both these fronts, our budget problems would be solved." --Paul Krugman, Nobel Prize-winning economist, writer and columnist for The New York Times.

KC Airshow this weekend

Kansas City Air Show Finalizes 2011 Lineup

 

U.S.A.F. A-10 Thunderbolt to headline impressive lineup Kansas City, MO – After a one-year layoff, the Kansas City Air Show returns in 2011 with an impressive lineup of flight performances and on-ground displays. The show will take to the skies on August 20th and 21st at Kansas City Wheeler Downtown Airport and will be headlined by the United States Air Force A-10 Thunderbolt Demonstration Team. The A-10 demonstration will be a very special homecoming for the team’s pilot. Captain Joe “Rifle” Shetterly, a graduate of Olathe North High School and University of Kansas will fly the A-10 demo in front of the hometown fans. As the Air Force’s top close air support aircraft, the “Warthog” is known for its role in destroying ground targets in support of ground combat troops. The A-10 demonstration at this year’s show will feature a booming, fiery pyrotechnic display that will simulate the A-10’s destruction of enemy ground targets. Making the hometown performance even more special for Shetterly is the fact that his father, Greg Shetterly will also be performing at this year’s show in his One Design aircraft. In addition to the A-10 demo, the Kansas City Air Show will host an impressive lineup of military and civilian performers and unique ground displays. Military performers will include the Unites States Army Parachute Team Golden Knights, and the United States Air Force Academy Gliders. The military lineup will be supplementedby a very strong civilian lineup that has undergone a couple of updates since first announced earlier this year. CC Gerner has been added to the show lineup and will push her Edge 540 to the limit. The most recent addition to this impressive lineup is the Trojan Phlyers, a two-ship formation team flying T28B Trojans. The 12,000 horsepower Flashfire Jet Truck, the world’s fastest jet-powered pickup truck, will demonstrate at speeds up to 375 miles per hour. Additional performers and static aircraft are listed at www.kcairshow.com. >“We are extremely excited about this sensational lineup and especially that our headlining performer is one of our hometown heroes,” stated Ed Noyallis, Executive Director - Chairman of the Mid America Youth Aviation Association. “We are very pleased to once again bring a world-class air show to the great fans here in Kansas City,” he added. Tickets for the event are on sale through the show’s Web site, www.kcairshow.com. The show also announced that, new this year, all children ages 15 and under will be admitted to general admission areas for free when accompanied by a paying adult. In addition to their new policy of free general admission for children 15 and under, the show has created a variety of new ticket options suited for any budget. Visit the show’s Web site for further information.

Guest Post: Warren Buffet on the selfish, greedy rich of the US

From The New York Times today: Op-Ed Contributor, Stop Coddling the Super-Rich By WARREN E. BUFFETT, Published: August 14, 2011, Omaha; OUR leaders have asked for “shared sacrifice.” But when they did the asking, they spared me. I checked with my mega-rich friends to learn what pain they were expecting. They, too, were left untouched. While the poor and middle class fight for us in Afghanistan, and while most Americans struggle to make ends meet, we mega-rich continue to get our extraordinary tax breaks. Some of us are investment managers who earn billions from our daily labors but are allowed to classify our income as “carried interest,” thereby getting a bargain 15 percent tax rate. Others own stock index futures for 10 minutes and have 60 percent of their gain taxed at 15 percent, as if they’d been long-term investors. Read the entire column here: http://www.nytimes.com/2011/08/15/opinion/stop-coddling-the-super-rich.html?_r=3

Mary Sanchez column on the Plaza shootings: Wha??

I was surprised, at least, by Mary Sanchez' column Sunday on the Saturday evening shootings on the Plaza, with Mayor James right there. You have to read it. She says she is "...glad it was a black officer who shoved Kansas City’s black mayor into the bushes, drawing his gun protectively as shots were fired from a group of black teenagers. The race of the mayor and his bodyguard, and their perspectives, will help others be less hesitant to make the strong statements necessary after Saturday night’s shooting of three teens on the Country Club Plaza. Excuse me? Could we stop separating black from white in this country? The previous mayor had no excuse whatever to do what he did about the shootings on the Plaza and that was--nothing. He did nothing about this situation and his color should have played no role in it. He had his responsibilities and he didn't do them, either. This mayor being black doesn't heighten his responsibilities to this city--and I'm not saying that that's what she's saying, don't get me wrong--but we need to stop dividing ourselves in this city and nation. We're all Kansas Citians. We're all Americans. We have problems. We need to work together, regardless of differences otherwise, to solve them. Sheesh. What a column. Link: http://www.kansascity.com/2011/08/14/3076633/kc-mayor-bodyguards-reject-excuses.html