It's never just another week in the life of Gov. Charlie Crist and Florida.

The first week of the 2008 legislative session began with the Florida Democratic Party launching a Web site blasting Crist for spending too much time off the job.

"Where is he when Florida needs him?" the site asks, next to a photo of a grimacing Crist looking as if he's just been force-fed a lemon.

The site, www.emptychaircharlie.com, exploits the perception that Crist is spending too much time with John McCain - and cleverly uses Crist's own tactics against him.

In the 2006 race for governor, Crist used a TV image of an empty chair rolling down the streets of Washington to highlight Democratic rival Jim Davis' missed votes in Congress.

By throwing a punch at Crist, the Democratic Party showed it still has a pulse. But what the Web site didn't say [according to what appear to be RPOF talking points regurgitated by the alleged journalist] was that some of Crist's official absences from state business were explained by his stumping for the Amendment 1 tax cut on Jan. 29, which passed with 64 percent of the vote.

The bars are now open

"Negotiations over more than $500 million in cuts to the state's nearly $70 billion budget for 2007-2008 were temporarily halted Friday, although a formal resolution is expected to come Monday." "State budget negotiations on hold until Monday".

Another Jebacy

Courageously fighting against taxes on the wealthy

Put on a happy face

"The nation's work force shrank by 63,000 jobs in February, the largest monthly drop in five years, adding to concerns that the U.S. economy is sliding into recession."

The federal government reported Friday that the job losses were broad-based, as labor troubles moved beyond the construction industry. Yet the unemployment rate also dipped last month, to 4.8 percent from 4.9 percent in January, in an unexpected decline that suggested large numbers of people had stopped looking for work.

Florida received a double dose of sobering news Friday, as a separate report revealed that statewide employment has been shrinking since September when compared with the same month a year earlier -- instead of growing steadily as previously thought.

Arrogation

"A House council approved Friday a resolution that would weaken the Board of Governors' authority over the State University System, mainly giving power to set tuition to the Legislature." "House may weaken Board of Governors". See also "Education commissioner again?".

Good luck

"Florida's tax commissioners on Friday urged lawmakers to set up a special committee that would draft bills to repeal sales tax exemptions if they fail to serve a public service or meet other criteria. If the Legislature doesn't do that, the Taxation and Budget Reform Commission may later ask voters to force lawmakers to do it." "Joint committee to review sales tax exemptions urged".

"Our Youth Are Dumber Than A Sack Of Maybelline Eye Liners."

Daniel Ruth: "There are moments, especially whenever state Sen. Ronda Storms, the Tammy Faye Bakker of Tallahassee, starts flap-jawing, that I begin to think maybe this whole evolution thing is indeed suspect."

Geez, the Earth is estimated to be 4.5 billion years old and all we have to show for it are the likes of Ronda Storms, R-Paula White-Lite, a woman who would send even the hosts of "What Not To Wear" screaming into the night? ...

Last month the state Board of Education, in a crazy, wacky, cuckoo kind of move, took the bold, unheard of step of acknowledging academic advancement when it voted to allow science teachers to actually teach science, including Darwin's science of evolution.

This week the Tugboat Annie of End Times filed a bill, disingenuously titled the Academic Freedom Act, which would allow science teachers to ignore established science, such as evolution, and instead introduce contradictory information to students.

In a gesture of faux sincerity rivaling a smiling Miss America runner-up, Storms insisted she was merely trying to encourage intellectual curiosity, not impose any religious belief or the teaching of creationism or its phony permutation - the Wizard In The Sky Intelligent Design.

Phooey - more or less.

More accurately, the propaganda masquerading as a piece of legislation being proposed by the Ma Kettle of Genesis would be more properly labeled the "Fundamentalist Tyranny Of The Classroom Act."

Of course Storms and her legislative Taliban are attempting to undermine the Board of Education's established science standards to finagle religious concepts like creationism and/or the Wizard In The Sky theology into the teaching of biology - of SCIENCE.

This is slouching to illiteracy. This is a state senator arguing - let's make our students less educated. Say, there's an economic development incentive for you: "Come To Florida - Where Our Youth Are Dumber Than A Sack Of Maybelline Eye Liners."

Dear Lord, forgive the Torquemada of Tallahassee for she knows exactly what she is doing. And she doesn't care.

FCAT Follies

"Students, schools confront Florida's high-stakes FCAT exam".

Spineless

The Sun-Sentinel editorial board: "So far, both chambers in Tallahassee have opted for spending cuts to balance the current fiscal budget. But to argue that lawmakers ought to make ends meet on the 2008-2009 budget by slashing another $2.5 billion on top of the hundreds of millions removed from this year's accounts is red meat politics. Draconian across-the-board cuts aren't feasible." "Legislature begins budget battle for 2008".

Boyd

The Tallahassee Democrat editorial board: "Two veterans' groups suing the federal government are seeking an additional $60 million in spending by the VA for a variety of pending health claims that include mental-health problems."

U.S. Rep. Allen Boyd, D-Monticello, is a combat veteran of the Vietnam War and a staunch advocate of better benefits for vets. This week he joined a bipartisan congressional caucus called the "America Supports You Caucus," to help veterans and their families through partnerships with support groups.

Mr. Boyd describes help for veterans and their families as a "continuing cost of war." Despite an increase of $11.8 billion last year for better VA benefits and health-care funding, he acknowledges that more help is needed.

Stoopid man

The Sun-Sentinel editorial board remarks upon Marco's depth:

Rubio doesn't help his cause with overly partisan jabs, even in jest, such as advising those concerned about tight budgets in Tallahassee to move to "socialist" states like Vermont, Canada or Venezuela. Let's strive to make Florida a model for plurality of thought and consensus rather than ideological purity.

Not exactly "Forever"

"Florida Forever, a state program that spends $300 million a year purchasing and preserving land, is nearly out of money." "Preservation program running short of money as land prices drop".

Off topic: McSame in a Bushco world

Wonder where super patriot John McBush is on outsourcing American jobs? This should help: "Former Hewlett-Packard CEO Carly Fiorina, one of the nation's best-known business leaders, is taking on a new high-profile job as an advocate for presumptive GOP nominee John McCain and the Republican Party."

During six years at HP, Fiorina became used to the spotlight as one of the few female CEOs of a major corporation. She was a leader on tech issues and defended HP for sending some jobs overseas.

In 2004, she was part of the tech sector's efforts to counter criticism of ''off-shoring'' jobs to India and China. ''There is no job that is America's God-given right anymore,'' she said at a Washington press conference.

Double dipping?

The Palm Beach Post editorial board: "lawmakers didn't consider unintended consequences when they amended retirement rules seven years ago, and are prone to make the same mistake again." "Be wary of new problem with double-dipping fix".

Tax cap

"A citizen petition that aims to cap property taxes at 1.35 percent of a home's taxable value appears to have cleared its first hurdle to the 2010 ballot." "Tax cap petition advances".

Florida's dynamo

"Cuba flirts with economic reforms". Perhaps Mr. Cellophane can teach Cubans the skill set of how to be appointed to paying jobs for reasons unrelated to merit (unless being a drooling Bushco lapdog is considered "merit"). More: "House Of Cards".

Do-over?

"Adding confusion to a process already beset with it, Gov. Charlie Crist on Friday reopened the door for taxpayers to help fund a do-over mail-in Democratic primary run by the state. Democrats variously dismissed it as a Crist publicity grab, a crafty way to weaken the Democratic contenders, or a potentially nifty idea." "Ideas floated for Democratic redo".

S.V. Dáte writes that a Florida "do-over still seems unlikely. But after the fun of 2000, and then the questionable vote totals from the 2002 Democratic gubernatorial primary, all that seems certain right now is that nothing is certain. Which is to say, for Florida elections, everything's pretty much normal." "The Second Florida Primary".

"Charlie Crist said he'll push for state elections officials to oversee a primary do-over, if Democrats pay for it." "Crist proposes state oversight of a revote". "Letting voters use computers is being touted by some as a way to end Florida's Democratic delegate standoff." "Online vote discussed for Florida".

As 30,000 a year teachers fight over merit pay?

"In pointed exchanges with Congressional lawmakers Friday, three prominent financial executives defended the multimillion-dollar pay packages they received even as their companies were brought to their knees by the spreading credit crisis. " "Chiefs’ Pay Under Fire at Capitol".

positioning himself well for future political runs, said Darryl Paulson, professor of government at the University of South Florida-St. Petersburg, who has known Crist for more than 20 years.

"I do think he wants to be a major player in the Republican Party," Paulson said. "I wouldn't be a bit surprised if four years down the road, eight years down the road, he jumps into the presidential campaign."

Tapping Crist could help McCain win Florida, a must-win battleground state.

Viewed by many as a post-partisan Republican who is more problem solver than ideologue, Crist's approval ratings as governor are 65 percent. He has won support from Democrats by pushing to restore voting rights to felons and lower greenhouse emissions, appointing minorities to key positions and dropping the official state song -- deemed racist by some -- from his inauguration.

Despite his snowy hair, he is 20 years younger than McCain, who at 72 would be the oldest president elected to a first term. While McCain has faced questions about his health, including a bout with skin cancer, the deeply tanned Crist is a fitness buff who has made mandatory gym classes for children one of his legislative priorities.

Crist has experience governing a state, a void for McCain, a military hero who has been in Washington since he was first elected to the House in 1982.

"He's never run anything as large and complex as a state," said James Thurber, director of the Center for Congressional and Presidential Studies at American University.

On the other hand, Crist's experience as the state's chief executive is not extensive.

"He's been a chief executive only a year and he has limited foreign policy experience," Paulson said.

Few politicians can maintain a 60-plus percent approval rating for long, and Crist's challenges could dampen his prospects as a No. 2 candidate.

The state's economy is sagging with a nearly 13 percent drop in tax revenues possibly leading to deep cuts in education and services for the poor.

Paulson said Crist should turn down the slot if offered to him: "Florida has a mess of problems ... and he needs to pay attention to those problems."

Crist, like McCain, is not considered a strong conservative, an attribute McCain could seek elsewhere to balance the ticket.

Florida Republican Party Chairman Jim Greer said wooing the conservative base is no longer needed. [ed. note: say what?]

"No one segment of the party dominates the outcome of an election anymore," he said. "The idea of balancing the ticket by different views? Those days are over. The dynamics of politics have changed."

Other questions about Crist involve his personal life. He is single; no candidate for president or vice president has been unmarried since Herbert Hoover's vice president, Charles Curtis, who was a widower.

And during the 2006 gubernatorial campaign, allegations about his private life briefly surfaced. Crist denied the allegations repeatedly, but they likely would reappear in a national campaign.

Florida Democratic Party has ripped Crist in recent days for spending more time this year campaigning for a state tax-cut proposal and McCain than working on gubernatorial matters.

"Empty Chair Charlie's brazen disrespect for the people is appalling," Florida Democratic Party spokesman Mark Bubriski said in a statement. "He's spent more than enough time at photo-ops with McCain this year already -- how about spending some time governing, governor?"

The "values" crowd in action

"Florida lawmakers are cutting more than just dollars as they whittle more than $500-million from state government; they're also proposing basic changes to Medicaid that critics say will undermine care for poor patients." "Senate freezes Medicaid".

"The Florida Senate OK'd roughly $500 million in cuts to the state's $70 billion budget Thursday, capping a grim opening week for a Legislature facing even more reductions to next year's spending plan. Senators then turned around and began taking an ax to the 2008-09 budget, agreeing to erase automatic increases that nursing homes, hospitals and other health-care providers get each year as payment for treating low-income Floridians. Facing the need to cut as much as $2.5 billion, leading lawmakers said it was time to get serious, even if it meant risking harm to the needy." "Senate budget ax strikes at automatic increases for health care".

More: "Budget agreement expected today". See also "House Votes To Cut Current Budget By $517 Million", "$500 million budget cut receives Florida Senate approval" and "Senate cuts $500 million from budget".

Wingnuts amuck

"State lawmakers around the country are proposing hundreds of bills this year aimed at curbing illegal immigration, but experts say the cost and public opposition will keep many from becoming law." "State lawmakers propose more immigration bills, few gain traction".

"Fair ways to re-enfranchise 1.75 million voters"

The Daytona Beach News Journal editorial board: "It's unacceptable that Florida's vote in the January Democratic primary is not being represented in the national tally of delegates for Hillary Clinton and Barack Obama. Some 1.75 million Democrats voted on Jan. 29. The result -- 50 percent for Clinton, 33 percent for Obama -- may or may not decide the nomination. That it should be part of the decision is indisputable. That the state and national Democratic parties and their two candidates work out a way to make Florida's voice count through its 210 delegates is imperative." "To count in Florida".

Do over?

"The biggest stumbling block to doing over the Democratic primaries in Michigan and Florida may be the cost."

Michigan Democratic Chairman Mark Brewer estimates it would cost the state party $8 million to $12 million to set up party-run election sites and allow voting by mail or over the Internet.

Florida Democrats could be facing even higher costs.

During a meeting Wednesday night among House Democrats from Florida and Michigan, Rep. Alcee Hastings of Florida relayed estimates that another primary would cost the state between $22 million and $24 million, a vote-by-mail contest would cost at least $8 million and the bill for a caucus would be about $4 million, said Hastings spokesman David Goldenberg.

A money thing

"Voters would get a chance to change who controls the education system in Florida under a proposed constitutional amendment approved Friday by a House panel." "House panel approves elected ed commissioner amendment".

False light for me but not for 'ye

"In a clash of press and privacy rights that has drawn national attention, skeptical Florida Supreme Court justices raised pointed questions Thursday about permitting lawsuits against publishers and broadcasters for casting a 'false light' on facts and information in news stories. ... most of the justices seemed to doubt that Florida should adopt the 'false light' doctrine that permits suits over news items that are accurate or non-defamatory [but are misleading]." "'False light' cases get day in court".

Space

"A coalition of about 20 space-related businesses and interests joined Thursday to promote the space industry's value as an economic engine as part of the annual Space Day at Florida's Capitol." "Space Day at Capitol highlights industry".

"Not all that impressed with Florida"

The Miami Herald editorial board: "This will come as no surprise, but experts who judge government performance are not all that impressed with Florida." "Grades turn-around puts heat on state".

Brain dead

"President Bush says a leadership shift in Cuba to Fidel Castro's brother will not change U.S. policy toward the island." "Bush pushes democracy for Cuba, calls for improved human rights".

Land-use changes petition

"Frank Govett of Leon County said he signed a statewide petition to require that voters approve land-use changes after watching developers get what they want at county commission meetings." "Pelham offers new option 'Citizens Planning Bill of Rights' offered in response to 'Hometown Democracy'".

Sorry 'bout that

The Tallahassee Democrat editorial board: "When an individual, organization, state or nation perpetrates an act or policy so harmful to an innocent person or group of people, the right thing to do is to repair the damage to whatever reasonable extent possible."

That's a long-standing principle in our Judeo-Christian tradition, and a pillar of civil law.

In 2008, it's time for Florida to express regret for parts of its distant and recent past, make amends — and create a more just system for compensating current and future victims of state error.

By three acts — apologizing for the state's role in slavery, the most dehumanizing institution in history; compensating wrongfully convicted ex-inmate Alan Crotzer; and passing new legislation that standardizes fair treatment for victims of wrongful incarceration — Florida would make a meaningful symbolic and actual statement:

That this state, which is known for its sunshine, is also big enough to face up to its dark history and take steps to avoid injustice in the future.

How about that Mr. Fung Happy Face?

"Florida's economy worsened in January when 7,300 workers lost their jobs, resulting mostly from a construction industry bogged down as a result of a plunging housing market." "Slumping housing market claims 7,300 more workers".

Ag

The Tampa Tribune editorial board: "Agriculture is central to the state's economy, so it's foolish for the University of Florida to consider balancing its budget on the back of the Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences. Yet to cut $50 million from the university's budget by July 1, UF President Bernie Machen is reportedly prepared to pare the institute by 200 to 300 faculty members and close or cut extension offices in all 67 Florida counties." "Agriculture Should Hold Its Own As UF Cuts Its Budget".

The slows

"Just when you thought a sluggish economy and the state's budget woes would delay progress on milestone legislation this year, one bill is rapidly gaining support among Florida lawmakers." "Next icon: gopher tortoise?".

Pay up

"A special House committee quickly approved a settlement Thursday with lobbyist William Barrett who agreed to pay a $10,000 fine for unregistered lobbying for the cities of Palm Bay and St. Cloud." "Lobbyist fined for unregistered lobbying".

Ginny

The Tampa Tribune editorial board:

Congresswoman Ginny Brown-Waite may do a good job representing constituents on policy matters, but she does a lousy job minimizing the damage caused by putting her foot in her mouth. ...

Instead of owning up to her insensitive and incorrect remarks, Brown-Waite stubbornly tried to turn the tables on some of the people she offended: She criticized a protest against her last week in Brooksville, organized by Orange County Democrats, and demanded they reimburse local officials for the cost of providing police coverage and other control measures.

Brown-Waite should recognize that a peaceful protest is a fundamental American right.

Brown-Waite even complained about organizers not delivering the number of people they told local officials to expect. The tough-talking representative must not have enough to do. Whether reimbursement is in order is a matter between Hernando County officials and the Orange County Democratic Party.

Super

"A second major property tax-cutting proposal advanced Thursday in a commission that proposes state constitutional amendments, but only one is likely to go on the November ballot. The new plan being considered by the Taxation and Budget Reform Commission would cut taxes about 12 percent when fully implemented. It would provide a 25 percent 'super exemption' for all residential properties, including second homes and rentals." "'Super exemption' mulled for all homes". See also "Commission gets 2nd plan to cut property tax".

Good Ginn

"Amid construction of one of his latest multimillion-dollar ventures several years ago, luxury golf course community developer Bobby Ginn came up against what some would have found to be an obstacle - a nesting pair of bald eagles." "Developer sets aside land for eagles, praised by environmentalist".

Idiots

The Orlando Sentinel editorial board:

Given the contentious crossfire between Cuban exiles and Fidel Castro, it's not too surprising that a bill placing more state oversight on travel agents selling trips to Cuba is gaining support in the Florida House.

But it's also wrong.

Rep. David Rivera, a Miami Republican, has the backing from the state House committee on agribusiness, but it would be ludicrous if the bill ever goes any further.

Stoopid man

Scott Maxwell: "I know I'm not the only one who hears Bobby McFerrin whistling and singing every time Charlie Crist opens his mouth."

This week's State of the State speech was the perfect example.

Right now, the economy's in the toilet. There are questions about efforts to reform both taxes and insurance. And it looks as if the state may need duct tape and a glue gun to cobble together next year's budget.

But our governor simply says: Don't worry. Be happy.

Insult

The St. Petersburg Times editorial board: "As an example of how direct legislative control over Florida universities might look, senators played the role exquisitely on Wednesday. Not willing to listen as university chancellor Mark Rosenberg described his misgivings with a fast-track plan to abolish the Board of Governors, they instead wanted to insult him." "Legislative bullying won't fix universities".

"The Ken Pruitt Employment Act"

"If the Florida Senate wants to improve transparency in public education, it should start by calling a sweeping piece of reform legislation what it really is: the Ken Pruitt Employment Act." "Pruitt's Ambitions Trump Standards".

Citizens Property Insurance

"Legislators gave an early thumbs-up Thursday to a bill that would be the first step in a major overhaul of state-backed Citizens Property Insurance Corp." "House panel OKs Citizens Property Insurance overhaul bill".

Berger Singerman gets some action

"Chief Financial Officer Alex Sink asked Florida lawmakers Thursday to take stronger steps to help local governments on the hook for money the state invested in shaky, mortgage-backed securities. Sink released a 10-point plan to deal with the issues that caused a run last fall on the Local Government Investment Pool managed by the State Board of Administration. No. 1 on her list: She wants the law firm the state has retained, Fort Lauderdale-based Berger Singerman, to review whether the state can sue the brokers that sold the securities." "Florida weighs lawsuit over struggling investment fund".

What about counterfeit guvs?

"But counterfeit goods are a growing problem in Florida, said Attorney General Bill McCollum, who on Thursday announced an offensive against fake consumer products." "Florida to crack down on counterfeit goods".

As Charlie smiles ....

"South Florida gas prices hit record highs second week in a row".

Good luck

The St. Petersburg Times editorial board: "Public awareness of the need to treat depression and other mental health disorders just like physical health issues has risen significantly in recent years. Yet Florida lags behind and allows health insurers to limit and price mental health benefits differently than coverage for physical ailments. After years of deferring to the powerful insurance lobby and killing efforts to require parity for mental health and substance abuse disorders, the Legislature should quit ignoring this significant public health issue and level the playing field." "A fight for fairness on mental health".

"It'll be a hellacious battle," said Don Fowler, a former DNC chairman who sits on the party's rule-making committee.

Before the primaries started, "Howard Dean had enough votes to get most everything he wanted. Now that this thing has gone as far as it has and the lines have formed according to candidates. I'm not sure how that vote would shake out now," said Fowler, who has endorsed Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton.

Now, everything is being viewed in terms of how it benefits a particular candidate, not the party or the process, Fowler said.

Nonetheless, Fowler said, something has to be done, "the rules be damned" to seat delegates from states Democrats have to and can win in the general election. "We're going to forfeit those two big states? What kind of fools would we be."

Cut frenzy

"Spurred by a dismal economy, Republican House leaders raced Wednesday to slash $542 million from the current year's state budget over the blistering objections of Democrats." "Tempers flare over proposed budget cuts".

"Lawmakers in Florida's Senate will debate about half a billion dollars in cuts to the state's current budget as they try to deal with shortfalls in tax collections. Lawmakers in the House took up similar reductions Wednesday." "Florida Senate will take up cuts to budget".

"The state House voted to make more than $500 million in budget cuts, despite appeals from Democrats to spare schools and healthcare." "School, court funds slashed".

"House lawmakers voted Wednesday to slash the current state budget by $517 million, despite the protests of Democrats who tried in vain to blunt the cuts to education." "House Votes To Cut Current Budget By $517 Million". See also "Senate cuts $500 million from current budget", "House bill slashes $518M in spending" and "Florida Republicans push ahead with budget cuts".

Imagine that ... politicizing the education system

"A constitutional proposal that would ensure the Legislature, not an appointed board, can set tuition sailed through its first Senate committee Wednesday after lawmakers cast aside arguments it would politicize Florida's university system. ... The measure, which passed unanimously, will be heard by the Higher Education Committee before it can go to the Senate floor. It's a top priority of Senate President Ken Pruitt, R-Port St. Lucie." "Amendment would ensure lawmakers can set university tuition". See also "Fight brews over university control" and "Senate panel votes to weaken BOG".

More: "Tuition for Florida's college students would remain low -- but competition for seats would be high -- under a plan lawmakers put on the fast track Wednesday." "Legislators seek to control tuition".

The Palm Beach Post editorial board: "The Legislature, which is ruining higher education in Florida, now wants permission from voters to do even more damage." "A political power grab wouldn't help education".

The St. Petersburg Times editorial board: 'Florida Senate President Ken Pruitt tried Tuesday to portray his attack on the university Board of Governors as a principled stand against the excesses of "an unelected board.' But we've seen this script before, and the plot is driven by political ego and personal spite." "Pruitt's destructive fit of pique". See also "Fight over higher education governance gets nasty".

The Daytona Beach News Journal editorial board: "In a sweeping bill he is attempting to fast-track through the Legislature, Pruitt proposes a constitutional amendment to:"

· Abolish the state Board of Education, which oversees public schools and assign duties to the Cabinet.

· Abolish the independent Board of Governors, which oversees the 11 public universities.

· Elect the commissioner of education as a Cabinet member.

· Give the Legislature the final say over public schools and universities.

In 1998, voters changed the state constitution to create a separate Board of Education (which had been a part of the Cabinet's job) and make the commissioner of education an appointed rather than elected position. In 2002, voters overwhelmingly approved creation of the Board of Governors precisely because the legislators [and Jebbie] were mucking up the higher education system.

In 2001, former Gov. and U.S. Sen. Bob Graham said the legislators have injected an "anthrax-like infection" of politics into the university system. Graham, who led the charge to create the new Board of Governors, has been a strong advocate for the new board to step up its role of governing independently. Over the past two years, the board has taken giant steps toward assuming its assigned powers and is leading Florida's universities through a 20-year plan to make them more competitive with world-class university systems, such as those in North Carolina and California. Pruitt's plan would undo all of that.

It would appear that Pruitt's plan is based on his anger at the university board for acting independently, and the public-schools proposal was thrown in as a side dish. That's not how education policy should be developed in Florida -- not when economic prosperity depends on fair and dependable public-school and higher-education systems.

On tap

"The Florida Legislature is in session through May 2. The key issues yesterday and what's coming up:" "2008 Legislature roundup".

False light laff riot

"The Florida Supreme Court hears arguments today in two First Amendment cases involving thorny issues of libel, defamation and invasion of privacy." "Fla. Supreme Court weighs 'false light' defamation cases".

Florida's corporate media - self-proclaimed protectors of our "vibrant democracy" - thinks false light lawsuits are really bad things, unless of course it is the corporate media that wants to file such lawsuits. See what we mean here: "Oh ... The Hypocrisy".

"So far away"

"The last time Oscar Braynon stepped foot on the floor of the Florida House of Representatives he wore a blue jacket with a circular patch -- his uniform as a page for political up-and-comer Rep. Kendrick Meek." "Dade lawmaker's debut 'seemed so far away'".

Reefer madness

"Operators of 'grow houses' used to cultivate marijuana plants in a protected indoor setting face increased penalties under a bill that passed a major House panel Wednesday." "Bill targets 'grow house' operators".

'Glades

The Miami Herald editorial board: "The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers' latest proposal to unclog the Tamiami Trail's water blockage in the lower Everglades has only a faint resemblance to the logical solution for this long-festering problem. The Corps plan is to construct a mile-long bridge to restore some movement to historic southward sheet flow. That's a trickle compared to the gusher that is needed." "Corps' Glades fix too little, too late".

Small

"Two Tampa Bay lawmakers want to ensure the right to fly Old Glory at home." "Tampa Bay lawmakers push to ensure flag-flying rights".

Yawnnnn

"For months, Gov. Charlie Crist has insisted that New York socialite Carol Rome is just "a friend," but Tuesday night at a soiree in the Governor's Mansion, he introduced her as 'my girlfriend,' ... ." "She's Florida's first girlfriend".

Ignorant

Bill Maxwell: "too many Floridians, led by the likes of Storms, Rubio and state Board of Education member Donna Callaway, are channeling the ghosts of the Scopes Monkey Trial of 1925 in Tennessee. ... Again reasonable people should ask lawmakers in Tallahassee to keep Florida moving toward enlightenment by tossing out Storms' backward-looking bill. If passed, it will permit the teaching of creationism and intelligent design in our science classes." "Storms champions ignorance".

Stoopid

With his nose firmly in the derrières of his corporate masters, Mike Thomas argues yet again that teachers unions are the root of all evil:

Florida has made more progress than at any time in its history in improving school performance.

This is because reforms were pushed by Gov. Jeb Bush, who was not beholden to the education bureaucracy and the teachers unions. In fact, because of those reforms, the unions poured millions of dollars into a campaign to unseat Bush in the 2002 election.

Blah, blah, blah ...

The Tallahassee Democrat editorial board: "The state of the state is strong. That's a pretty optimistic view, and that's the only view you're going to get from Gov. Charlie Crist."

But unless "optimism" translates to "magic," at some point Mr. Crist will have to engage in a debate, even with some members of his own Republican Party, over where this money will come from.

The choices, if all tax increases remain taboo, are cutting and slicing existing programs and agencies, spending rainy day reserves or borrowing from trust funds. All are subjective, political, ideological, confusing and tough to settle on.

New rules

The Miami Herald editorial board: "Federal Medicaid administrators have finalized seven new rules that in many cases will stop payments for services that Medicaid long has covered. One rule would end federal support for care provided to poor and disabled children by public schools, among them schools in Miami-Dade and Broward counties. These services include health screenings, medical care and transportation for special-needs children who get health services at school." "New Medicaid rules punish kids, states".

Audits

"State elections officials are wary of a hasty overhaul as they switch to optical scanners." "Better audits are sought for voting".

The committee voted along partisan lines to approve a House plan that would slash $542.5 million, with much of the cuts coming from criminal justice and health programs.

The House and Senate are expected to negotiate through the weekend, with a final vote coming early next week, according to House budget chairman Ray Sansom, R-Destin. ...

The latest deal still leaves more than half of the state's public defenders with budget shortfalls that will require 78 days of furloughs, Crist said. The offices would have to close from a single day in the least effected circuits to as much as 12 days in the hardest hit, including the two that serve Leon, Pinellas and Pasco counties.

State attorneys would still have to face two-day furloughs in the circuits that serve Brevard and Sarasota counties.

Sen. Victor Crist, R-Tampa, fired the opening salvo between chambers earlier in the day when he accused his House counterparts of trying to steal his thunder.

Crist, who chairs the committee that oversees criminal justice spending, complained about a House news release that last week announced a deal to use more than $12 million in reserves to blunt recent cuts to the state court system.

Crist made sure the audience at his committee meeting knew that it was a Senate proposal.

Hours after a House committee approved more than a half-billion dollars in budget cuts, the atmosphere was relaxed and casual at the annual Associated Industries of Florida party a block south of the Governor’s Mansion.

"Florida can't afford to be a patsy any longer"

The Palm Beach Post editorial board: "House Bill 1237 is almost unreadable, except maybe for tax lawyers. The sponsor, though, says clearly that the bill would close a corporate tax loophole and bring Florida roughly $400 million a year from income that has not been taxed."

Despite the dense language of the bill, House Minority Leader Dan Gelber, D-Miami Beach, can explain its intent. Florida allows corporations to divide how they report income. So, some large corporations pay taxes on less than their total income. Recognizing that multi-state and multi-national firms have many parts, Rep. Gelber's bill would establish "combined reporting" and tax them on what all those parts earn. Many other states already have made this change. ...

Some will call this a "new tax." But Florida can't afford to be a patsy any longer. This needless break is costing the state.

Marco's "utter nonsense"

The Tampa Tribune editorial board: "Florida House Speaker Marco Rubio cares so much about Florida's education standards the second of his "100 Innovative Ideas for Florida's Future" was creating a "world class" curriculum for our students."

Rubio never specifically defined what he meant in saying world class. But since the speaker began pushing lawmakers to continue the battle over teaching evolution in public schools, now we know.

In Rubio's world, apparently world-class curriculum standards means undermining and ignoring the top-flight educators and scientists who spent months crafting and reviewing the guidelines to create a rigorous and appropriate science curriculum that would bring Florida's education into the 21st Century.

And it means allowing science teachers to infuse science curriculum with religion - with the state's endorsement and protection.

Rubio invited his fellow lawmakers to follow him down this path shortly after the Florida Board of Education adopted new standards last month requiring that evolution be taught in public schools.

Until that action, Florida's science curriculum standards were among the worst in the nation. Test scores were equally lamentable.

That's utter nonsense - and unfair to Florida's science teachers who understand that many students in their classroom have religious beliefs that transcend the day's science lesson.

Rubio further inflamed the situation by suggesting that this standard makes schools, not parents, responsible for a child's upbringing.

Really, Mr. Speaker? We would suggest if parents' years of influence are negated in a single science lesson, they probably didn't make a big impression on their children.

Laff riot

The Tallahassee Democrat editorial board: "Florida desperately needs strong leaders who govern not with their districts in mind, but with the whole state as their collective concern. And we need leaders who appeal to the highest common denominators and best instincts of citizens in our diverse state instead of pandering insincerely for votes." "Legacy lawmaking".

Good luck

"Facing a lean revenue situation this year, Tallahassee-area legislators say they’ll try this session to protect proposed raises for state workers ... ." "Local legislators will try to protect state employees in lean times".

Raising cash

The Palm Beach Post editorial board: "Before this year's legislative session, which opens today, there was plenty of talk about cutting money from the budget. There was little talk of raising money. Hold on. We're not for a state income tax. But with the Legislature looking at a $2 billion budget deficit for next year and Florida creeping toward tax-cut hysteria, it's time to pause and discuss how the state could bring in more money simply by enforcing tax rules fairly." "Tax all sales, anywhere".

Double-dippers

"Stung by angry cries from citizens, state lawmakers are drafting bills that could put an end to future double-dipping by some members of the state retirement system. But they say they can't stop everyone already getting a pension and a salary. " "Opening day: Double-dippers beware".

Water wars

The Orlando Sentinel editorial board: "They're blaming each other and federal negotiators for failing to agree over the weekend on how they can better share water stored in federal reservoirs in Georgia. But officials in Tallahassee, Atlanta and Montgomery instead should blame themselves and local officials throughout their states for putting themselves and their states in so untenable a position." "Our position: The water war among Florida, Georgia and Alabama could have been avoided". Mike Thomas: "People will save water when it drains budgets".

Local projects

See "Water projects targeted by Calhoun, Liberty counties.", "What's at stake in your community?", "Chances slim Madison County will get state money for EMS facility", "FAMU puts 14 projects on its wishlist for Legislature", "Jefferson County wants money for construction, repairs", "Gulf County asks state to pay for nine projects", "Water management a high priority for Franklin County" and "New state prison puts strain on Live Oak wastewater treatment plant".

The other Allen

"Judge Michael Allen faces new charges of making false statements in the judicial misconduct case against him that continues to reveal a poisoned atmosphere at the 1st District Court of Appeal."

In 2006, Allen wrote a scathing concurring opinion in a case in which he questioned fellow Judge Charles Kahn's failure to recuse himself from the appeal of W.D. Childers, a legendary Florida political figure convicted of bribery as an Escambia County commissioner.

Cheap shot

"State university leaders say a proposal filed by a leading senator to strip power from the Board of Governors can only be viewed as retaliation for the board's attempt to set tuition rates. The board, which was created by voters via constitutional amendment in 2002 to oversee Florida's 11 public universities, met in emergency session this morning to discuss the joint resolution filed late last week by Sen. Lisa Carlton, R-Osprey. The proposal would replace the appointed Florida education commissioner with an elected position and reduce the 17-member Board of Governors to seven members, whose job it would be to 'administer the state university system as provided by law.'" "University leaders see retaliation in senator's proposal".

HD 55

"Two Democrats officially qualified on Monday to run in the March 25 special election for state Legislature District 55. On Monday, the state Division of Elections declared both Charles McKenzie Jr., and Earnest Williams eligible to run in the district that includes parts of Pinellas, Manatee and Sarasota counties. ... A third candidate likely to qualify for the race is Darryl Rouson, an attorney from St. Petersburg who is also the former head of the Pinellas chapter of the NAACP." "Two qualify for special election in District 55".

"Avoid turning youth offenders into victims"

The Daytona Beach News Journal editorial board writes about punishing juvenile offenders "Justice with care". the editors also pen this today: "Children in chains".

Sales tax

"The Palm Beach County firefighters union is lining up bipartisan support for a bill that would allow counties to impose a 1-cent sales tax for fire-rescue service in exchange for a cut in property taxes. Similar tax-swap bills are being sponsored by state Sen. Mike Fasano, R-New Port Richey, and state Rep. Shelley Vana, D-Lantana." "Firefighters union wants 1-cent sales tax".

Oh well ...

"Florida Democrats are awaiting presidential primary results in Texas and Ohio today, realizing they could have been voting, not just watching, on this potentially decisive day." "Florida Dems would vote today if primary hadn't been moved".

"Happy Birthday, Florida. Now what?"

"The Florida Legislature convenes for its annual 60-day session today, just one day after the state's 163rd birthday. On March 3, 1845, Florida was admitted to the Union, and the nation hasn't been quite the same since. Whether it was selling swampland or swaying the outcome of a presidential election, Florida has had impact, and the one constant throughout the state's history has always been a reliance on growth and development. It has been the economic life blood for the Sunshine State and a big factor that sets Florida apart from other states." "Florida's 163rd birthday a cause for celebration".

Slavery

"Attorneys have begun closing arguments in the case of four members of a South Florida family accused of forcing a Haitian teen into involuntary servitude." "Closing arguments under way in Haitian slave trial".

Whatever

"State Rep. Priscilla Taylor, D-West Palm Beach, on Monday said she would be interested in taking over the state Department of Business and Professional Regulation." "Taylor wants to head business agency".

"Modest adjustments"

The Sun Sentinel editorial board - "A strapped state budget and overwhelmed state university system now require the following, modest adjustments to Bright Futures:" "Bright Futures program needs adjustment to improve effectiveness of state university system".

Obama bashes

"Democrat Barack Obama aims to raise at least $200,000 in Florida Tuesday as four other states hold presidential contests." "Obama supporters plan Florida fundraising 'parties'".

"For the first time in history, Florida's general revenue has fallen for two straight years," Kurt Wenner, director of tax research for Florida TaxWatch, said at a recent seminar sponsored by the government watchdog group and the LeRoy Collins Institute at Florida State University.

Carol Weissert, the Collins Center eminent scholar chair for civic education and political science, said 77 million baby boomers are reaching retirement, with a disproportionate number of them heading for Florida, increasing demand for a wide range of state services. And "the mobile elderly are the least likely to support new taxes," she said.

Poor little Marco

"On the eve of his final legislative session, House Speaker Marco Rubio received another in a series of setbacks that have dogged Florida's first Cuban-American speaker over the past 18 months: His chamber lost a GOP seat to the Democrats. The latest defeat came Tuesday in a special election to replace Rep. Bob Allen, a Merritt Island Republican who was caught up in a sex scandal. Though the GOP still holds 77 seats in the 120-member House, the loss was a disappointment for Rubio, who last year watched seven Republican House seats go Democratic and had his ambitious plans to reduce property taxes and shrink government thwarted by a more moderate Senate and a popular governor." "Rubio's undeterred by series of setbacks".

Free to be stoopid

"The evolution argument has officially reached the Florida Legislature, courtesy of Sen. Ronda Storms. Storms, R-Valrico, filed a bill on Friday that would permit public schools teachers to present evidence in class that contradicts the theory of biological and chemical evolution. The 'Academic Freedom Act' comes from activists who failed last month to convince the state Board of Education to write their proposal into the state’s new science teaching standard, which explictly requires the teaching of evolution." "Storms Files Evolution Bill".

Poor Mr. Happy Face

With "a combination of a dismal economy, an irascible Legislature and the traditional sophomore slowdown may limit Crist's reach in his second year." "Year 2 for Crist looking tougher". The Miami Herald editorial board: "Tough choices await state lawmakers".

"Time to settle"

The Miami Herald editorial board: "South Florida residents have long contended that the state's citrus-canker eradication program was poorly conceived, badly executed and inherently unfair. Several courts have now validated those perceptions with evidence and convincing proof. So, it is time for the state to reconsider its position and sue for peace. It is time to settle." "The bell tolls for canker program".

Yawn

"A new center at UF aims for students interested in public service and political leadership." "Learning to serve, lead".

No "extra cash to sprinkle around the budget"

"Ending the 60-day session on time has not been a problem in the dozen years since the Republicans took over, but doing so has usually meant the presiding officers and appropriations chieftains have a little extra cash to sprinkle around the budget for going-home projects that members in vulnerable districts need. That won't be easy this year, with state revenues off by about $2 billion." "Tight budget may mean fewer 'bragging rights'".

The Librul media

The Orlando Sentinel editorial board brain trust: "Immunity for the telecoms makes sense." "Telecommunications firms deserve immunity from lawsuits over surveillance".

You can't make this stuff up

"One provision of Rep. Ellyn Bogdanoff's 'global' compensation bill, (HB1025) dubbed the clean-hands provision, would deny anyone automatic compensation if he or she had prior felony convictions other than the crime they were proven innocent of, or if they committed crimes while in prison. That provision has angered activists familiar with such wrongful convictions." "Crotzer fights on for compensation".

The lesson? When falsely convicted and serving a life term, do not defend yourself when your cell mate scotch tapes a centerfold to your back and demands that you "bend over and spread your cheeks". You wouldn't want to commit a crime while in prison now would you?

Good luck

The St. Petersburg Times editorial board: "There is no logical reason why sales taxes paid on goods such as sweaters or books bought in Florida stores can be avoided if those same items are purchased by mail order or over the Internet. That gigantic loophole is costing this financially strapped state maybe $2-billion a year in lost revenue, and the Florida Taxation and Budget Reform Commission recommends that the Legislature make it easier to collect that money. Lawmakers ought to make that a top priority this spring." "Hit delete on Web sales tax exemption".

Mommy, are there "Democrats in Sarasota"?

"Sink rallies Democrats in Sarasota".

CD 5

"The 5th Congressional District, which sweeps from Levy County in the north to part of Polk County in the south, has been a tough sell for Democrats since redistricting helped propel Brown-Waite to victory in 2002 over the now-chairwoman of the Florida Democratic Party." "Dems sense shot at 5th District seat".

Charlie's folly

"Jan. 29 will be remembered as an extreme triumph for Gov. Charlie Crist, the day he beat the critics and proved how hungry people are for property tax relief. But to record history accurately, Jan. 29 should also go down as the moment Florida's unfair tax system became more so." "Unfair system's a little more so now".

"Mopes in Miami"

Tom Blackburn has a point:

The well-publicized parts of the terrorism battle haven't been edifying. Not unless you are edified by the arrest of some mopes in Miami who are willing to blow up the Sears Tower in Chicago - if the government's stalking horse will give them explosives, and if he will teach them how to use them, and if he will tell them where Chicago is and how to get there and, oh, by the way, if they can find someone to pay their way up there. For that we need a Department of Homeland Security?

Flash!!! Florida moving into the Nineteenth Century?


The Daytona Beach News Journal editorial board: "Cash-strapped and felon-filled states are discovering that the politically expedient punish-and-banish habits of the last 25 years have created more problems than they're solving -- in costs to taxpayers, in broken families, in untreated diseases, in fostering an enormous subculture of ex-felons (Florida has more than 1 million out of a population of 18 million) who'll struggle to find willing employers." "Justice dungeon".

All is not lost - the Sun-Sentinel editorial board courageously asserts that "Nooses are not welcome in South Florida".

"Failing marks"

The Tallahassee Democrat editorial board: Florida "receives failing marks. In 2005, a statewide Florida Bar survey revealed that more than 40 percent of Florida citizens could not correctly identify the three branches of government. This lack of knowledge has metastized into lack of action. Among the 50 states, Florida was 39th in average voter turnout in the 2004 general election. We are a woeful 49th in volunteerism." "Florida must take lead in renewing citizenship".

"Florida’s economic engine is sputtering pathetically"

The Miami Herald editorial board: "If lawmakers don't know it already, they will discover when they convene in Tallahassee Tuesday for the 60-day legislative session that the party is over. We're not talking about the lobbyist-fueled party circuit, but about running one of the largest states in the union, which is in deep trouble." "Tough choices await state lawmakers".

And Charlie's solution? The usual - Don't worry, be happy: "Florida’s economic engine is sputtering pathetically, lawmakers are nervously eyeing painful budget cuts and Gov. Charlie Crist, the optimist in chief, is gambling that prosperity is just around the corner." "Crist figures prosperity will help state overcome its economic slump".

And we've heard this before, haven't we?: "With growth and revenues at historic lows, experts say we should shift to a technology economy." But there's a catch, it "would mean funding items that legislators are about to cut." "Florida at a crossroads".

"At the bottom of an abyss"

"Addressing the state's budget woes exposes ideological rifts among lawmakers. The expected clashes may result in deep and lasting political wounds." "Budget woes will dominate 2008 session".

"Rubio continues to eye his role as an eventual springboard to future office and Pruitt remains his willing straight man. But different philosophies and a series of battles between the House and Senate have damaged the Pruitt-Rubio collaboration. And now the pair face their toughest challenge yet: cutting the state budget by $2-billion." "Session set, but with less harmony".

The Daytona Beach News Journal editorial board: "When Florida lawmakers gather in Tallahassee on Tuesday for opening-day festivities, there will be a $2 billion gorilla in the House and Senate chambers -- the growing hole in the state budget that threatens to engulf other issues and suck most of the joy out of a traditionally celebratory day."

Unless lawmakers should also face up to their fiscal mistakes -- for instance, repealing the intangible property tax exemptions they passed in this decade that took billions out of state coffers and handed them back to wealthy investors.

Gov. Charlie Crist's recommended budget relies on increased gambling, higher local property taxes for schools and trust-fund raids to patch budgetary gaps. If Crist is right about the economy rebounding, his plan might not do much damage to the state's future fiscal stability -- but most economists don't share his optimism about Florida's sagging housing and tourism markets. If lawmakers adopt his short-term fixes instead of embracing long-term change, they could find themselves at the bottom of an abyss next year.

"Sixty-five percent of diddly"

"The '65 percent solution' was a national movement popular after the Sept. 11, 2001 terrorist attacks, when the nation's economy foundered and school funding was reduced."

Democratic minority leader Rep. Dan Gelber, D-Miami Beach, criticized the plan for obscuring the real problem: that schools will not have the money they need this year. Plus, depending on the definition of classroom spending, many districts could already comply, rendering the plan useless.

"It makes it look like they're solving a problem," Gelber said. "Sixty-five percent of diddly is still diddly."

Thank goodness for those "influential sponsors"

The Palm Beach Post editorial board: "As usual, plenty of good ideas will try to wedge their way into the discussions that begin Tuesday. But even in normal years, only a fraction of the bills filed become laws. This year, the Legislature will devote the first part of the session to budget-cutting - this year's. The Legislature then will devote much of the rest of the session to budget-cutting - next year's. Anything else will require an influential sponsor and an extra-good case." "Yes, there's the budget; there's also a lot more".

Refuge?

The Orlando Sentinel editorial board: "NASA's proposal to plow its coastal refuge mustn't get off the ground". Mike Thomas: "NASA probably won't build launchpads on the worst site imaginable".

Yawwnnn ...

"Despite his much-publicized disagreements with the Republican Party's conservative base, Sen. John McCain is the GOP's best possible presidential nominee for 2008, conservative pundit Fred Barnes told party activists Saturday. Barnes, the Fox News personality and editor of the conservative Weekly Standard magazine, headlined the Palm Beach County GOP's annual Lincoln Day dinner. About 450 people attended the event at the Kravis Center. The party expected to raise about $120,000 after expenses." "GOP should back McCain, pundit says".

Shake up

The Palm Beach Post editorial board: "Last year, newly elected Gov. Crist shook up the South Florida Water Management District board in a good way. With one more good shake this year, he'll get the board just about right." "A good job nearly done".

False convictions stink

"It is a stench Alan Crotzer will not forget." "From bitter taste of prison to sweet freedom".

Restoration

"Nationally, 5.3 million people are barred from voting because of their criminal history, according to a 2004 estimate cited by the Sentencing Project, a criminal justice policy group. In the last decade, as criminals who were swept into prison during the drug war have been released and the difficulty of re-integrating them into society has become clear, at least 16 states have made it easier for felons to vote." "Some felons get right to vote back; some had it all along".

More from the "values" crowd

The St. Petersburg Times editorial board: "Florida is second in the nation in the share of general government revenue it spends on corrections. That financial measurement is salient, since that same pot of money is used to pay for public schools and universities. Across the United States, prison spending over the past two decades has grown at five times the rate of education spending." And this is particularly cool: "Florida continues to stuff its prisons. Just last year, Gov. Charlie Crist pushed through a law that can lock up even those who have minor probation violations." "Locked into a prison mentality".

Back at the ranch: "Struggling to find space for inmates".

Whoopee

John Kennedy and Aaron Deslatte: "Nine".

That's the number of seats House Democrats have picked up during the past two years, marking what they say is the biggest legislative gain by either party in Florida in more than 30 years.

Democrat Tony Sasso's victory last week in a special election to fill a Republican-leaning House seat in Brevard County is being hailed as a pivotal turning point. ...

Republicans control the House by 77-41. But Democrats are expected to retain a couple of seats in upcoming special elections to further narrow the gap to 77-43.

That's a long way from a majority. ...

Gelber sees a larger anti-Republican movement that he says can be traced back to House Speaker Marco Rubio's budget-cutting, socially conservative policies in Tallahassee. It's a theme Democrats plan to echo on the campaign trail this fall.

"I think they've spent a lot of their time pushing a right-wing agenda with PowerPoints and Newt Gingrich instead of recruiting credible candidates that represent their districts," said Gelber of Miami Beach.

Bright?

The Orlando Sentinel editorial board: "As long as Florida's tuition rate is tied to Bright Futures, and the Legislature refuses to increase spending, the quality of the state's universities will continue to erode." "Backing down on change to state's scholarship program delays a needed fix".

Here we go again

"A year after passing a comprehensive package of property insurance reforms, lawmakers will consider reforms that would place more hurricane risk in the laps of private insurers." "Insurance Reforms On Table".

No taxes please

The nutty* Americans for Prosperity (who isn't) is "incredibly excited to see that a subcommittee of the state Taxation and Budget Reform Commission unanimously approved the Taxpayer Protection Amendment on Feb. 11." See also "Taxpayer Protection Amendment is essential".
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* It is safe to say the courageously titled "Americans for Prosperity" is "nutty" inasmuch as it is "affiliated with" the scary Independent Women's Forum. "Both organizations share the same Washington address, and they also share most of the same operational staff."

"Political Pull"

The Tampa Tribune editorial board: "USF Strategy For Top-50 Status Takes Back Seat To Political Pull".

Delegates

"Proving yet again that nobody does bizarre elections like Florida, thousands of loyal Democrats turned out for a rogue election Saturday where the votes may not count and the winners may not win." "Dems select delegates". See also "Democrats select delegates". More: "Democrats choose delegates for district".

Off topic

Bill Maxwell: "Many white people who complain about the use of African-American are shameless hypocrites." "Hyphens, histories and the hypocrites".

GOPer geniuses

Randy Schultz asks "Which country does the United States government believe poses a greater threat to the United States: Cuba or Iran? Which country is it easier for United States citizens to visit: Cuba or Iran?"

The answers are Iran and Iran. Yes, Iran. Suspected-of-concealing-a-nuclear weapons-program Iran. Wipe-Israel-off-the-map Iran. The Holocaust-never-happened Iran. Aiding-terrorists-in-Iraq Iran. Axis-of-Evil Iran.

Can you spell "stoopid"?

If you're an American and you'd like to visit Iran, however, the American government won't stand in your way. The State Department will warn you, strongly, about anti-American sentiment. The U.S. doesn't have diplomatic relations with Iran, so if you get in trouble you're probably on your own. The department especially will warn Iranian-Americans that they might not be able to leave when their visit is over because Iran does not recognize dual citizenship.

But travel to Iran is legal for Americans. You can book it online: American Airlines from Miami to New York, then Turkish Airlines to Istanbul and on to Tehran's Imam Khomeini International Airport, named for the leader of the Islamic revolution that took power in 1979 and held 53 Americans hostage for 444 days between November 1979 and January 1981. Fare: $1,500. ...

If you want to visit Cuba, though, forget it, in most cases. Unless you fit into one of a few categories - related to journalism or education - Americans can't go. If you have family in Cuba, you can go only once every three years. ...

How weird is that? You can visit a country half a world away that just a few months ago was being talked up as the next place the U.S. would invade. But you can't visit a country less than an hour by plane from Florida that threatens the United States about as much as Puerto Rico, which is part of the United States [Note to Ginny].

What about North Korea, the third country in Mr. Bush's Axis of Evil? The North Korea that has built several nuclear weapons on Mr. Bush's watch and whose leader the president called "a pygmy"? The U.S. government encourages Americans to register with the U.S. embassy in the Chinese capital of Beijing. Otherwise, have a great trip.

Off Topic

The Palm Beach Post editorial board finds it amusing that Dumbya would tsk-tsk Hillary Clinton and Barack Obama for what he sees as their foreign-policy shortcoming "botched the war in Iraq, is botching the war in Afghanistan, cost the leaders of Britain, Australia and Pakistan - alleged allies all - their offices and/or parliamentary majorities, watched Hamas take control in Gaza and the North Koreans build nuclear weapons and ... well, much, much more."

I believe dream candidate St. Condi had a bit to do with these brilliant policies as well.