Republican Reporter

Flying S, Inc.

bob@republicanreporter.com (Bob Schultz) — Fri, 25 May 2012 15:07:16 GMT

Whenever I get a little depressed about the state of our nation and Illinois, I reflect on Flying S, Inc.

David Shaw, grew up in Palestine, IL (a tiny town of only 1,300 citizens in east central Illinois). An early passion in flying, instilled by his parents, led to an aeronautical engineering degree. Following graduation, David worked for a number of firms before, in his early 30's, returning to Palestine and forming Flying S, Inc. - an engineering consulting firm.

Accompanying David back to Palestine, was his Australian wife, Penny. Working with David's father, Penny helped market their prized grass-fed beef, while David consulted for firms around the world. One of David's clients was having trouble getting a proto-type completed. "Could David help?" they inquired.

Purchasing a few pieces of machinig equipment, David completed the job, and quickly found more demand. He added employees and equipment and even more clients. Flying S had started in a barn. Penny and David occupied the upstairs, while operations occurred on the main floor.

                            David & Penny Shaw - Original facility on the left.

Pretty soon their living space became the office, as every inch was needed for the growing manufacturing activities.

In April, the completed a new 16,000 square foot manufacturing facility. In three short years, they've added more than 20 employees, all highly skilled, well payed positions! Today, their manufacturing capabilities include elements for unmanned aircraft used in both the commercial and defense industries.   They've quickly become the top class supplier for a world market of customers, including NASA!


I was fortunate enough to be present for the grand opening of their new building. More than 250 people were in attendance. Due to my affiliation with the firm that completed the building, I was honored to give a short speech. You might be surprised to learn that the crowd of 250 people gave a standing ovation that day.........not for me, but for the person that spoke immediately after me.

David's father, John Shaw, gave an incredibly moving tribute that brought the crowd to it's feet.  I've kindly received permission to reprint his remarks. Please take the time to read his heartfelt words. I can think of no more fitting post for Memorial Day...............

Get R Done
(Speech by John Shaw at Flying S Grand Opening – April 20, 2012)

Welcome. When our children were young, Patti and I tried to give them opportunities to further their education. Sure, I always tried to direct David toward airplanes. Perhaps the poor child didn’t have a chance. His mother came from a family of aviators and I have been interested in flying for as long as I can remember. David had no problem taking the bait.

What a blessing it is that we live in this great country where we have the freedom to step out, dream big, take a chance, word hard, treat others the way we like to be treated and who knows what good things might happen. Opportunity is available to all. As Glen Beck would say "Small business is the heart of this nation." Its what the US is all about.

It’s to the point now that I’m no longer surprised by David and Penny’s accomplishments but I’m impressed. Who could have imagined a facility such as this a short time ago? Who could have guessed we would have been on national TV talking about the farm and business.

It’s great. However there is a reason for serious concern! Like Apollo 13 Lovell said "Houston we have a problem." Our problem comes from Washington. We have people in power who are intent on taking away the very freedoms that make things like you see here possible. They can’t stand to see someone rise above another – excepting themselves.

Our grandchildren assembled this puzzle of Emmanuel Lentz's famous painting of Washington crossing the Delaware. Lentz was German-American who went home to Germany in the mid-1800s for a visit. At that time Karl Marx had just completed his "Communist Manifesto" and it was taking Europe by storm. The state would own everything and personal freedom would be nonexistent. Marx’ plan was nothing new it has never worked and never will but it is the direction we are heading at high speed. Lentz painted the picture to show Europeans that those Yanks on the other side of the pond have a better idea. Forget Marx.

In the boat we find a Scot, a black man, a woman, some farmers, a Native American – all being led by General Washington, General Hand and future President Monroe. He illustrated a government that protects man’s God given rights to life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. A government where everyone has a chance to better himself.

The war had not been going well for Washington in 1776. They didn’t give up. On Christmas Day they crossed the Delaware at night and attached the Hessians defending Trenton. They had that Get R Done attitude. Washington and his rag tag army were victorious – it turned the tide of the Revolution.

I see the same Get R Done attitude in the people of Flying S. It comes only from a free people.

It is high time for people like each of us here today to make sure future generations have the same opportunities we have had. We need to work hard to defeat anyone who has even the slightest leaning toward Socialism, Marxism, Communism, whatever you want to call it. The future of our nation depends on us. Let’s Get R Done.

Thanks to TWO generations of the Shaw family for keeping me inspired!

Okay, let's talk about Bain

bob@republicanreporter.com (Bob Schultz) — Wed, 23 May 2012 13:55:49 GMT

Obama wants to make Mitt Romney's tenure at Bain Capital an issue. So, let's talk about it.

Following his graduation from Harvard's joint MBA/JD program, Romney started his business career as a business consultant with Boston Consulting. His work there earned the attention of Bill Bain, founder of Bain Consulting, who asked him to join Bain. For the next six years, Mitt distinguished himself as a Bain consultant for numerous companies across America.

In the early 80's, Romney wanted to be more than a consultant, he wanted to have a stake in the outcome. And so, Bill Bain formed Bain Capital and named Romney as it's head. Through Bain Capital, Team Romney would employ their consulting expertise to firms that they were actually investing in.

Romney would run Bain Capital for fourteen years. The average annual internal rate of return? OVER  100% per year!

Now we've all heard of Romney's success at the turnaround of 2002 Salt Lake City Olympics. (Did you realize that a major financial complication facing Romney's efforts there was the fact that nearly $300 million in security was added due to the events of 9-11?). But there's another turnaround that few have written about.

In 1990, after less than a decade at the helm of Bain Capital, Mitt Romney was called back to Bain Consulting. The multi-partner consulting firm was in DEEP trouble. Huge deficits, partner defections and disgruntled employees had put the firm on the financial ropes. Bill Bain asked Mitt to help turn things around.

It took Romney exactly two years to restore Bain Consulting to its former glory.

In both the Bain Consulting and Salt Lake City turnarounds, Mitt Romney assumed leadership of entities with HUGE deficits, demoralized members and unfocussed leadership. He re-energized the organizations, with new focus and direction. He is a turn-around specialist with results.

    HUGE Deficits
    Demoralized Members
    Unfocussed Leadership

    It's seems like Mitt Romney has arrived, just when America needs him the most!

I

Tuesday, May 22nd

bob@republicanreporter.com (Bob Schultz) — Tue, 22 May 2012 16:15:47 GMT

Congratulations to Rodney Davis - Taylorville native, Rodney Davis has been selected to run as the Republican Candidate for Illinois' 13th Congressional Seat being vacated by Tim Johnson. In addition to his family ties in business, Rodney has been a executive with Congressman Shimkus' office. He also headed up the Victory Illinois organization in 2010, which delivered countless victories for the Illinois delegation.

I've known Rodney for years - he will be an incredible advocate for fiscal discipline and economic opportunity in the Central Illinois district in which he's running.

Tuesday, May 15

bob@republicanreporter.com (Bob Schultz) — Tue, 15 May 2012 14:11:17 GMT

Energy News: Natural Gas prices, at historic lows in January, have fallen by 50% more since then!! The lower energy prices will drive US manufacturing competitiveness. While the rest of the world only looks on with envy.....
                        Fracking is flopping overseas

King Coal is having trouble though. The switch from Coal to Natural Gas, as an energy source, has driven the demand and price down....dramatically. Publicly traded Coal companies have lost 50% or more of their value in the last year. A friend is working on a $600 million bankruptcy for a coal mine in West Virginia.

With the largest world reserves of coal, America holds an abundnant energy source. We can retap it, once the "known" natural gas supply is depleted (which is estimated at 100 years). Offer some tax incentives to invest in Coal gasification research, and we can unlock that bountiful resource, as well.

Meanwhile, North Dakota continues to open up new wells every day. As big as the Bakken formation is, the Sanish Three Forks formation appears to be even bigger and more abundant.   But that's not the biggest oil news this week.

        Federal Lands in Colorado, Wyoming & Utah hold known oil reserves that exceed the entire world oil supply.

        Lower energy prices will drive both manufacturing and consumer spending in this country.  It will necessarily jump start our economic recovery.  Which Presidential candidate is most likely to help deliver cheaper oil prices for America - Obama or Romney? Vote accordingly.

Election News

    Team Obama seems to be losing the women's vote.  It was critical to his 2008 victory.
    And his new gay marriage stance is creating a wedge with Christian America.  Here's a great state-by-state graph on the percentage of different faiths in each state.  In particular, take a look at the percentage of Christians in swing states like Ohio, Penns. & Florida.   And remember, in just over a month, the Council of Catholic Bishops have called for a two week protest against the Obamacare mandates. But that's not Obama's biggest headache.

    Wisconsin's recall election, against Gov. Scott Walker, is exactly three weeks away. Results will be an early predictor of Democrat's position for November. And, it's not looking good for them.

                                    Walker jumps to a 9 point lead
                                    Democrats form circular firing squad

    Given the investment by unions, in this fight, a victory for Walker will seriously neuter the perceived strength of unions as a political force.

    Frankly, it's already happening, as Democrat governors across the nation are making serious cuts in union power and benefits in their economically ailing states.

    Democrat leaders have quickly realized that unions no longer provide political power, they are only good for campaign contributions. And where else will those union dollars flow? As a result, unions, in state after state, are having to swallow the bitter pill of benefit reform that their own elected leaders are forcing down their throats.

Tuesday, May 8 - TEA Party tonight!

bob@republicanreporter.com (Bob Schultz) — Tue, 08 May 2012 13:00:53 GMT

Tea Party in Effingham tonight!!!

    Stephen C. Tucker - noted national speaker - will be in Effingham this evening for his talk "The Truth About Obamacare."

    5 pm - Effingham VFW.
    2304 S. Veterans Dr, Effingham

    It's a free event and open to everyone!

    Have you heard people say, "I just don't get involved in politics anymore. It's just gotten too harsh."
    Well this is exactly what the entrenched politicians and bureaucrats want. The more you disengage from the political process, the more their power grows.

    Don't just come to the TEA Party tonight. Bring your son or daughter (or grandchild) along with you. We only can preserve our freedoms for future generations if we get them involved at an early age.

    I still fondly recall the first political events in which I accompanied my parents. From a march for Martin Luther King to political fundraisers, my parents raised my political awareness.

     Do a favor for America and your children by bringing them to this event!

Thought for the day....

bob@republicanreporter.com (Bob Schultz) — Thu, 19 Apr 2012 17:58:51 GMT

"Apparently, I'm supposed to be more angry

about what Mitt Romney does with his money

than what Barack Obama does with mine."

Gov. Scott Walker

bob@republicanreporter.com (Bob Schultz) — Wed, 18 Apr 2012 14:00:53 GMT

In a little more than 6 weeks, Wisconsin Governor Scott Walker faces a recall election in his home state.
Yesterday, your Republican Reporter Team (Dick R. & John P.), along with an Effingham business exec. attended a speech by Governor Walker in Springfield, IL.

The 90 minute ride included insight from the business exec (born in Wisconsin and son of a union leader and former state rep.) and a phone call from my cousin who still resides in Wisconsin and is employed by a state University there. Let's just say the opinions were polar opposite.

Arriving at the downtown hotel for the speech, we had to weave our car through a picket line of protestors.

Frankly it was all pretty orderly. Although the protestors were loud, as one had a megaphone. (I told Republican Reporter Dick that we needed to put a megaphone in our budget for the next event). There were also several large busses on the streets. Quizzing a few protestors, we found out that most had come from Chicago area and had been bussed in for the day. I'm guessing there were at least two thousand people in the streets - not including the Republican Reporter Team.

Interestingly, every sign was a pre-printed offering. Through these eyes, it all looked a little manufactured.

Once we were inside, Chamber Exec.Todd Maisch gave an all too brief presentation on what other states are doing to reduce their budget deficits. (He had lots of great info - that I didn't have time to capture). Some snippets:
    1 in 5 Illinois residents are now on Medicaid
    Other states are tackling their problems
        Rhode Island has imposed many of Scott Walker's pension reforms - but the union is not protesting
        New Mexico has ended the food stamp program in their state
        Michigan has placed a lifetime cap on entitlement benefits. Once you hit the cap you are out of the system.

    Ironically, the unions aren't protesting these actions, only Governor Walker.

Chamber President Doug Whitley made reference to the protestors when he introduced Governor Walker. He said, "The people outside are raising a lot of flak for the Governor's appearance here today. But, I've always found if you aren't catching any flak, then you aren't over the target."

The speech by Walker was incredible. For all the media characterizations of this guy, he gave a one hour speech, without notes, and laid out his reasoning for crafting a new fiscal direction for Wisconsin.

Walker's main point was that State Governments (Illinois included) always put forth the idea that we must either raise taxes or cut state services. This is a "False Choice". Walker's approach is to make government more efficient. His greatest example was removing the requirement that school boards HAD to use the Union owned Insurance company. This has saved millions of dollars across the state. (Even my Wisconsin cousin didn't disagree that this had been a good thing).

Walker pointed out that the union control of schools was so unbalanced that the Wisconsin State Teacher of the Year received a layoff notice from her school district due to cutbacks. It was all based on seniority. Walker has implemented a merit based consideration plan, as well. (As I listened to this, I realized that even unions don't ascribe to a seniority system. After all, the longest serving union members aren't the leaders. That's done through an election, presumably based on merit. What a novel idea that they have embraced!)

Walker challenged Illinois leaders to think more about the future of Illinois than their own political futures.

In office just over a year - Walker's having an impact.
    Already, state teachers, by a strong majority, feel the schools are on the right track.
    The business community has gone from only 16% feeling the state was heading in the right direction, to more than 90% today.

Walker reminded that states don't create jobs, but that businesses and people do. And the only time that jobs expand, is when business owners feel there is a stability in the future. A big driver of that perception is the political and fiscal stability of a state. Having just impeached a governor, raised taxes by 66% and facing nearly 100 billion in debt, Illinois needs to get serious about restoring fiscal and political stability in the state if they ever want jobs to return.

Departing the speech (we left right after Walker spoke) we were stunned that all the protestors were gone. Well, there were five or six left. We had a pleasant chat with them.

Driving away from the Hotel, we saw several groups of people standing around waiting for their buses to return. And unlike the protest marches that I've seen in other places - the posters were all disposed of properly. You can thank the TEA Party for that - they set a high bar for being responsible citizens - and other protest groups are begrudgingly following along.

The unions have chosen to make Scott Walker the poster boy for fiscal responsibility. Latest polls show they may be losing that fight......in more ways than one. As Walker continues to balance the field for negotiating with unions, and delivering on budget reductions, more Governors will look to the Wisconsin model for making their own necessary changes. That's the last thing that Unions wanted.

He may be taking some flak, but he's over the target.

Just an observation

bob@republicanreporter.com (Bob Schultz) — Mon, 16 Apr 2012 19:33:20 GMT

The next time you hear about the Republican's "War on Women", it's important to remember this.

There are five female governors in the US. Want to guess how many are Rs?

Would you believe that 80% of governors in the United States are Republicans? That's right. 4 of 5 are Republicans
The only Democrat is Bev. Perdue of North Carolina, and she's not running for reelection because of ethical challenges.

In case you haven't seen this already....

bob@republicanreporter.com (Bob Schultz) — Mon, 16 Apr 2012 16:17:34 GMT

Invest in your future!!

bob@republicanreporter.com (Bob Schultz) — Thu, 12 Apr 2012 15:26:43 GMT

Plenty is being written about the MASSIVE student loan debt in this country.
Students are finding that their investment in education is not paying off in the job market. Many are now holding student debts that exceed a normal house mortgage.

    My off the cuff idea - Colleges and Universities are the ones that encouraged their students to take on large debt loads, as the way to "Invest in their future".

    Seems like those universities should now reciprocate. Let's require the Universities (via the Teacher Pension Funds) to hold at least 25% of their assets in Student Loans. Then the pension payments can be tied to the repayment ability of those students.

    College professors are happy to have students tie their financial future to the University's ability to deliver a career building education. Maybe the College Professors should have their financial futures tied to that promise..

Well, they are clearly capable of it.........

bob@republicanreporter.com (Bob Schultz) — Tue, 10 Apr 2012 13:21:10 GMT

Republican Reporter Dick Rhodes pointed out a recent article from the USA today.

Members of Congress (Senators & Representatives), all 535 of them are required to operate their offices under strict budget guidelines. They are each allowed $1,438,000 to run their offices, each year. If they go over that amount, they are required to fund the deficit from their own pocket.

So out of 535 members of Congress, how many are able to stay within the prescribed budget?

    - Keep in mind, this is a group that has racked up the biggest deficits in history of the world.

    - They were also required to cut their office budgets by 4% last year - THAT's A REDUCTION in spending!!

So what percentage of these prolific spenders were able to keep their own spending in check?

Would you believe 99.8% were able to stay within the budget stipulation? That's right, only one member of Congress, Rep. John Lewis of Georgia, exceeded the budget - and he by less than 1%.

What gives? Clearly, this group is capable of balancing a budget..........but only when its out of their own pocket. With our money, they throw caution, and their own budgeting prowess, to the wind.

There has been a suggestion that their pay and office budget be reduced by 10% each year, until the budget is balanced.

Clearly Congress has the skill set - now they just need the incentive.

Buffett Rule

bob@republicanreporter.com (Bob Schultz) — Mon, 09 Apr 2012 13:51:59 GMT

Obama and his adoring congressional members are going to try to pass the "Millionaires Tax" in the coming weeks. Here's a great chart that shows the impact of this new revenue on the federal deficit. As you look at the chart ask yourself, "Do we have a spending problem or a revenue problem?"

If you can't see the graph, you can find it here.

Assorted items

bob@republicanreporter.com (Bob Schultz) — Fri, 06 Apr 2012 15:24:59 GMT

Hey, how about some good news!   A start-up Effingham firm, launched just 2 & 1/2 years ago is already employing 31 people, and still growing! Serving the automotive industry, the firm is a testament to the opportunity for manufacturing growth and employment that comes through SMALL business (where 90% plus of private jobs are located).

Exciting times!

---------------------------------------------------------

    Is it just me or does anyone else see the subtlety of the Romney logo (which I like, by the way).
    Every time I see it, I always see the letters "R R" or Ronald Reagan.

----------------------------------------------------------
A friend's daughter is completing her student teaching, in a Metro East school.  The 3rd grade class of 22 students, has 3 students who are incredible standouts (straight A's). The majority of the class have real "issues". Her class includes two 12 years olds! (normal age for a 3rd grader is 9.)

The three top students share one common trait, one factor that might point to their academic success. Care to guess what it is?

The top three students in the class are the only students, out of 22, that come from a traditional two-parent home.

We ought to be asking ourselves - what are we doing as a society to explore that connectivity to high performance and then encourage opportunities for promoting responsible families?

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------

THIS IS AN OUTRAGE!!!

    Okay, I can tolerate (only slightly) the higher gas prices.
    And I'm willing to endure (with gritted teeth) the new Illinois tax increase.

    But, THIS must not be allowed to stand:

                Vanilla shortage will lead to higher Ice Cream Prices.

    As a daily imbiber of Vanilla Ice Cream, I'm in shock. And more than a little scared.
    Don't we have some sort of strategic reserve for this?  Shouldn't we create one?
    If this endures, I predict guns in the streets (or at least lots of clenched fists with empty spoons).

    Clearly this is being driven by speculators. I would offer more commentary, but I'm heading out to the store to secure a six month supply for myself.

    The rest of you..........are on your own.

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Have a Happy Easter.

To those in the Effingham Community -
    Since the Cross at the Crossroads was formally dedicated in 2001, the Cross has been illuminated every evening for the past 3,800 nights. Tonight, for the first time, the Cross will be illuminated in a unique manner to commemorate Christ's crucifixion and death.
    If you are in the area, you might want to check it out.

Thursday, March 29, 2012

bob@republicanreporter.com (Bob Schultz) — Thu, 29 Mar 2012 13:06:07 GMT

So how is Obama doing among House Democrats? Obama budget defeated 414-0 in the House yesterday.
So much for those obstructionist Republicans..........who were joined by EVERY Democrat in defeating Obama's call for more taxes and more spending.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

More Treyvon Martin - from my favorite blog poster (Instapundit) - "A Hispanic Democrat shoots a black guy and somehow it’s the fault of white Republicans. Because, I guess, everything is."

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Congress may be taking up the "Farm Bill" in the future.
This $300 billion transfer of taxpayer money is often characterized as an Ag benefit. In fact, nearly 70% of the money in the Farm Bill is actually spent through Food Stamps.

Farmers, enjoying the benefit of higher commodity prices, are doing quite well. In fact, a majority of those farmers that I talk to would prefer that the Farm Bill be ended. Some political leaders meet that statement with shocked horror. You see, our elected leaders have used the term "farm bill" to push through all sorts of entitlement spending that has little to do with direct agriculture, and everything to do with hiding behind an image of that pitchfork toting couple.

Frankly, farmers wish that the Obama regime would stop inventing new problems (like regulating dust) just to get deeper into the pockets of farm families.

End the farm bill tomorrow and the entitlement program ends as well.
What does that say about our government and the elected representatives, when they are pushing for a benefit that the recipients no longer want?

-------------------------------------------------

Yesterday's item about Food Stamps elicited the following suggestion from a loyal reader:

Bob,

I agree with you as I have often said that those who prefer to “live” on “Link” cards should not have the same shopping experiences as those of us who are “supporting” their habits. Let me be clear on the following recommendations. I am setting forth examples for those people who are fully “Wards of the State” but who are capable of acquiring an education or trade in order to be a contributing member to society. I am NOT referring to those who suffer debilitating mental or physical health. (No, being STUPID is not debilitating, just a continual aggravation to society.)

Therefore, I decree that the government should take over the “empty” Wal-Mart buildings, K-Mart, Kroger buildings etc and have the newly acquired “State Run Food Stores” stocked with basic staple foods that a family needs to sustain a healthy life. (Fruit juices, off-brand

Soft drinks (no energy drinks – these people are not exerting themselves in any fashion) appropriate cuts of meats (not t-bones, filets) no “sugary” children’s cereal, no frozen dinners, (they have all day to prepare a healthy meal). Oh, and by the way, there will be basic cake mixes where a family can bake their “own” birthday cakes instead of ordering a $50 birthday cake from the bakery !! - (Can’t you see the family sharing quality time baking their “own” birthday cakes.?) This State Store will not have a liquor sales department but will have a hair analysis drug testing center. If the hair analysis shows evidence of drug use, the State issued Link card will be confiscated. The Link card will be reinstated once the “drug addict” can

Be retested and deemed free of drugs. (Should the drug addict eventually become baldheaded during the ongoing process, other testing means will be provided.) (No, the State Store will not have a cell phone department, remember, they all have one of those already.)

This State Store will also be voluntarily manned by Link recipients. They will be responsible for the following:

Unloading the delivery trucks (Yes that could possibly mean an “early” morning trip to the store – we’ll furnish them with an alarm clock)

Stocking the shelves

Cleaning the store

Preparing fruits, vegetables etc. for display

Basic tracking of inventory

Policing the attempted shoplifters

Filling grocery bags

Assisting the disabled to their vehicle

Etc., Etc.

Their “wages” would be the equivalent to their acquisition of needed household food. “What do I do with my four children, (three different dads) while it is my turn to volunteer at the State Run store??” You find another Link recipient and share in the babysitting needs. Something tells me you know of other people in your predicament who could help you !! Also, a body scan will be taken on your first trip to “The Store.” The Store will document tattoos and piercings. Any person who obtains another tattoo or piercing while “on tax-payer’s assistance” will most likely have their Link card confiscated.

The Link Card also has an expiration date. Should the recipient prove (with a payroll check stub) that they are duly employed OR in an educational/ work training program, the taxpayers will be more than happy to assist them while they are struggling with their household budget. However, if the recipient is NOT working, nor actively seeking employment or educating/training for re-introduction into the workforce, the taxpayers can request that 18 months is sufficient in their subsidizing this individual’s lifestyle, and have the Link card terminated. You ask, “what will happen to this poor individual, he must eat ??” We can only assume

that “HE”LL FIND A JOB and FEED HIMSELF !!!”

Just my thoughts on the subject. I too, shop at (DELETED) (when I must) and the other day a female truck driver in front of me, after seeing a young couple with two very small children, no wedding rings, but tattoos, piercings and a Link card, check out their cart with frozen dinners, Oreos, Coke, Gatorade, etc. turns to me and says, “you would think that these young people could at least crawl out of their pajamas to shop for the food that WE are paying for.” She has a point !

It's worth a try. Ever notice how Democrats are ADAMANTLY opposed to any type of experiment like this. Even Charter Schools and School choice are HORRORS, even if tested on a limited basis. Frankly, it's that form of experimentation that leads to some great innovations.

It's always important to remember, that the automobile was invented more than 500 miles from our Nation's capitol. As one member of congress told me, "If the federal government had been responsible for creating the automobile, we would have had a mechanical horse!"

Democrats support innovation, but only if it emanates from DC. And yet, there in nothing in our history to suggest that they deliver.

Wednesday, March 28th

bob@republicanreporter.com (Bob Schultz) — Wed, 28 Mar 2012 13:21:23 GMT

Treyvon Martin - A racial divide
     As the Florida tragedy continues to unfold, I'm somewhat shocked by the near instantaneous and loud pronouncements of Jesse Jackson and Al Sharpton. Their inciteful words, combined with the $10,000 bounty for the "capture" of George Zimmerman (nice to know our justice department is letting that one slide), are clearly amplifying the emotion around this event.
    What are these reactions doing to the racial divide? No I'm not talking about a african-american/white conflict. I'm referring to the tenuous coalition of the Hispanic and African-American communities. The relationship between the two communities has never been strong. The one unifying connector between the two has been that both are voting minorities - but with growing influence. The Hispanic voting bloc has voted both Republican and Democrat - while being wooed by both parties.    Now comes Jesse and Al. As they form their mass demonstrations, directed at Mr. Zimmerman - a member of the Florida hispanic community, they are incitng anger at Mr. Zimmerman, while horrifying the Hispanic community.
    Jackson and Shaprton's words might solidify the African-American voting block. But 96% of african americans voted for Obama in 2008.  Are they trying to garner that last 4%? Because it seems that the animosity they are creating in the hispanic community will certainly drive a wedge - nationally - between the two groups. Democrats need the hispanic vote, if they hope to succeed in the 2012 elections.
    (I predict the Main Stream Media and Democrats will realize this error in the next few days, as they will try to extricate themselves from what is not in their best interest)

Food Stamps - My lovely bride returned from the store yesterday and reported that 2 out of 3 shoppers, she observed, were using Links Cards (food stamps). She was heartened to see that one of the Links holders was using coupons, as part of their purchase.  Of course, the other Links Card user had a card filled with every name brand (expensive) food item you can imagine.

    The Food Stamp conversation triggered two recent conversations with local surgeons (one an Opthalmologist, the other an Orthopedic surgeon) both have related how the compensation for surgical procedures (from Medicare and Medicaid) continues to decline. In fact, the surgeon's compensation for cataract surgery is about 66% less than 15 years ago.

    The idea of capping medical payments is standard. Why not consider the same for Food Stamps?

    Rather than allowing the FOOD STAMP abuser to pick out any food item they want, why not put the onus on the Grocery store? The federal government will only pay $2 for a gallon of milk, and $1 for a box of macaroni and cheese. The store can have name brand (expensive items out), but it is in the stores best interest to make sure the food stamp items are clearly marked.

    Just as the opthalmologist and Orthopod each can provide more expensive products and services, they are compensated for providing a base item. Compel the stores to do the same, and we will create a more efficient Links system.

Obamacare - Day one

bob@republicanreporter.com (Bob Schultz) — Tue, 27 Mar 2012 12:47:43 GMT

The Supreme Court Justices heard the first day of oral arguments on Obamacare, yesterday. The compulsory aspect of Obamacare is the main bone of contention. While PRESIDENT Obama feels the mandate is essential to his health care plan, CANDIDATE Obama spoke and campaigned against it (when Hillary Clinton suggested it.)

Here's a great video of Obama arguing with himself before the Supreme Court on that very point.

Illinois Primary

bob@republicanreporter.com (Bob Schultz) — Thu, 22 Mar 2012 13:05:18 GMT

College roommate Peter C. (lifelong resident of Massachusetts) offered an interesting perspective on Romney's long, slow journey to the nomination:

"Romney's trouble locking down the nomination may actually help with some independents in the general election as it paints him as a moderate."

I hadn't thought about that. Let's hope.

-------------------------------------------------------------
While I've lamented Obama's attack on organized religion, I've never really talked about the faith aspect much. On Tuesday evening, I attended a retirement dinner for an individual, and the host quoted the following passage from the Bible. As you read it, think about the approach that the Obama administration has taken towards all things:

Do you want to be counted wise, to build a reputation for wisdom? Here’s what you do: Live well, live wisely, live humbly. It’s the way you live, not the way you talk, that counts. Mean-spirited ambition isn’t wisdom. Boasting that you are wise isn’t wisdom. Twisting the truth to make yourselves sound wise isn’t wisdom. It’s the furthest thing from wisdom – it’s animal cunning, devilish conniving. Whenever you’re trying to look better than others or get the better of others, things fall apart and everyone ends up at the others’ throats.

Until I heard that passage, I hadn't reflected on the fact that Obama was not a "community builder". He was a "community organizer". Community organizing in the city of Chicago is about creating enemies and anger. It's more about the blind ambition of winning, than the actual goal of improving. You need look no further than the South Side of Chicago to realize the community is nothing more than a springboard for political leaders (and organizers) than for really improving lives. Generating anger is not improving lives (or creating responsible citizens).

Primary Eve

bob@republicanreporter.com (Bob Schultz) — Mon, 19 Mar 2012 13:22:13 GMT

Tomorrow is Illinois' Primary. Effingham was graced with the arrival of Rick Santorum, who spoke at one of Effingham's oldest firms, John Boos & Company. A crowd of more than 1,000 were on hand for the Senator's speech. My mother-in-law thought that Santorum was the first presidential candidate to appear in Effingham since the 1950s.

Illinois Republicans, including myself, complain about the fact that our primary is usually so late in the season, as to have little or no impact on picking the nominee. Clearly, we have the ability to influence this year's results. Some commentators suggest that Illinois will either breathe new life into the Santorum campaign, or seal the victory for Romney.

------------------------------------------------------------------
Sweet Home Chicago - 10 people were killed and 39 were injured - just this weekend - in Chicago!! This is the city that wants to lecture the rest of the state (and the nation) on gun control. My brother Jim pointed out that Illinois is now the only state that does not have some form of conceal-carry laws.  I'm thinking there are 50 families that now think Chicago should look at a radical new approach to handling crime in their city.

But the 50 acts of violence wasn't the worst news for Mayor Emmanuel this Monday morning. It was this. Occupy Protestors plan to disrupt upcoming Chicago NATO conference.

-----------------------------------------------------------------
Obamacare poll -   Just out, 67% of American's either want Obamacare scrapped, or to remove the individual mandate of the law.

    Last week, I had a chance to visit with a Catholic Priest. If Obama thought the Catholic Church has gotten tired of battling the Obamacare mandate requiring abortion services be paid with Catholic dollars, he's in for a rude shock.
    The Catholic Church is gearing up for an all out battle on this issue. While Obama and friends have tried to characterize this as a "women's rights" issue, the church views this as a religious freedoms issue.
    As the priest said, "If the mandate is allowed to stand, the church believes this is the end of religious freedom and the Catholic Church as we know if." Pretty strong words - but they clearly reflect the line in the sand that the church will be taking this November.

    Ted R. pointed me to CatholicVote.org, a web site that helps track the lawsuits and political actions being taken against Obamacare.   Very interesting site.

I am waiting for my call, Mr. President.

bob@republicanreporter.com (Bob Schultz) — Mon, 05 Mar 2012 14:22:30 GMT

Last Wednesday, Rush Limbaugh made an inappropriate comment regarding a Law Student who testified about the financial burden of paying for birth control (while she's paying $70,000 per year for tuition.) Limbaugh made an excellent point regarding this woman's expectations for the government to pay for her birth control, while she's spending $70,000 a year on tuition. He chose an inappropriate word to describe the woman. Given the fact she's studying to become an attorney, while wanting to be so sexually active, conjures up a whole set of lawyer jokes. But I digress.

President Obama, who is working night and day to solve our unemployment problems (in between vacations and golf matches) found time to give the "poor" student a call, because of Mr. Limbaugh's words. Mr. :Limbaugh has apologized for his remarks. But that's hardly preventing the mainstream media from piling on.

Mr. President, I'm waiting for my call. I, and whole group of my friends, have been derided with a derogatory name. Nearly every political commentator (starting with MSNBC) has called me a horrific name that I find reprehensible. I would like them to apologize, and I'd appreciate a call from you, as well.

The name? Well, it's because of our activities involving the tea party. We were called "Tea Baggers". It's as equally offensive as the name that Mr. Limbaugh used. But I don't recall the commentators getting so upset. Like Limbaugh, they too should apologize. And like the Georgetown woman desperate for birth control, I would appreciate a call from you!

Lot's of stuff

bob@republicanreporter.com (Bob Schultz) — Fri, 02 Mar 2012 16:18:12 GMT

Obama is demonizing the Catholic Church's opposition to providing health care funding for abortions as a "contraception ban". My favorite blogger, Glenn Reynolds of Instapundit.com offers a great analogy.........."I think we should require every employer to buy every employee a gun. Otherwise, you’re being denied the right to bear arms." That's right! (Feel free to offer your own apt analogy in the comments)

----------------------------------------------------
In other health care news, I have had two business owners recently tell me that if Obamacare passes, they are putting their employees into Obamacare and simply paying the per employee fine. Just this week, one of them explained their reasoning.

The penalty for not providing health care coverage for employees is a fine of $2,000 per employee. The uncovered employee is immediately enrolled into Obamacare. The one owner told me, "I currently pay $5,000/employee for my 100 plus employees in annual premiums. So, I will save over $300,000/year by simply paying the penalty."

An insurance friend said that major firms are already exiting health care coverage, as they see no future in it. Given the value proposition, I can see why.

----------------------------------------------------

Warning to Entrenched Republicans - Republican leaders that believed the Tea Party movement was nothing more than a "useful tool" are now realizing that, unlike the Occupy movement, the Tea Party is growing and thriving. Two examples from my own back yard.

McCarter vs. Jones - Two sitting Illinois state senators were redistricted into the same district. State Republican leaders wanted McCarter (strong conservative) to step aside in favor of Jones (the party insider). Jones has done very well with Republicans in the past. But there is a growing sense that INCUMBENTS must GO. Jones turned in a minimum number of petition signatures for the primary, many of which were thrown out, and he's now off the ballot.

Roger Eddy.
Area republicans have also started to rumble about Rep. Roger Eddy. Roger's been a capable and thoughtful Republican. But, local constituents have had growing heartburn over Eddy's role as both a legislator and full time school superintendent. (Double Government pensions are starting to stick in people's craw.). Also, Eddy's opposition to a particular school voucher program has been called into question.

Brad Halbrook decided to challenge Eddy in the Republican primary. Eddy had name recognition and plenty of cash. Halbrook had the Tea Party. Just this week, Eddy has terminated his race and is taking a position with a school board group. WOW! I am still stunned that he's exiting.

Tonight, Halbrook is holding a free dinner at the Charleston U Hotel (on the west side of Charleston). Newly renovated by local entrepreneur Reggie Phillips, the U Hotel is a great place for such an event. Tom Cross will be there. Cocktail reception starts at 6 pm. If you want to see the future of the Republican Party, you don't want to miss this.

------------------------------------------------------

Brother Jack sent a great item from economist Dr. Peter Lindeman

The economic prominence of the federal government today is underscored by the disproportionate performance of the so-called Lobbying Index in recent years. That is, the stock prices of companies which spend heavily on lobbying have far outperformed the rest of the firms in the economy, a notable change from the past. In a world where rules change daily and there is an explosion of new rules, rule makers are more relevant than ever. And, as we recently discovered, many of our legislators have utilized this information to invest far more profitably than the electorate. Rules rarely change in baseball, football, Scrabble, Monopoly, chess or checkers, as absent clear and predictable rules, it is all about currying the favor of rule makers rather than effectively playing the game. The “rules explosion” changes the emphasis of the economic game from the players to the officials, to the detriment of the economy.”

As you can see from the attached graphic the top 50 firms that spent the most on lobbying increased by about 3x when compared to the rest of the S&P 500 from 2001 to 2009, then fell in value. In the last two years they’ve recovered all that they lost and remain at about 3x to the market. It pays to lobby! Not sure how the rest of us gain from this, with both parties willing to sell to the highest bidder.