This Fourth of July, our country will celebrate the 248th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. That was the day representatives from thirteen colonies spoke as one. It was the day they stood together and signed a document that declared the sovereignty of the United States of America to the world.

We would no longer be ruled by Great Britain; we would collectively rule ourselves.

That was the first step in a long, dangerous, and difficult journey toward personal, political, religious, and economic freedom. It would cost them and our country dearly, but they were all willing to take that first step.

Since none of us personally knew the “Signers”, we only know who they were and what they did based on the limited historical records available to us. We can speculate, interpret, and have an opinion, but we should do so in the context of their time, not ours.

Some will argue that these men were not perfect, that they were flawed. Yes, save one man, we are all flawed. What can’t be argued is that these men were brave, steadfast, and patriotic as they laid the foundation upon which our country was built.

Since their time, the United States of America has grown into the great Nation we all call home. Millions of immigrants legally emigrated from countries all around the world and chose to come to America. They came to help build this country. They wanted to experience the freedom, promise, and opportunity that this country offered. They wanted to work and to make a better life for themselves and their families.

My grandfather was one of those immigrants. He came from Italy to become an American, not an Italian living in America. He didn’t come here to be accommodated by America, he came here to assimilate into the “melting pot” that was America. He loved this country and was proud to be an American.

Countless immigrant family members served in World War II, fighting as Americans. They learned the language of their newly adopted country and insisted that their children did as well. They fully immersed themselves in the culture and traditions of their new homeland.

You see, in order to become a naturalized American citizen, legal immigrants are required to renounce their former country and take an oath to “support and defend the Constitution and laws of the United States of America against all enemies, foreign and domestic.” Today’s illegal “migrants” take no such oath.

Americans still absolutely welcome and support legal immigration. Americans are generous to a fault, and we are always willing to welcome into our country those who love our country, our traditions, and our way of life and who respect our laws.

Even as American citizens are being held against their will in foreign countries around the world, we allow foreigners, many who entered our country illegally, to burn our flag and disrespect our Country.

We allow them to spread hate, distribute drugs, traffic children, rape, murder and commit countless crimes against American citizens. Many of these foreign interlopers come from countries where the freedoms we take for granted don’t exist.

Yet despite breaking our laws, our government showers them with free housing, food, clothing, healthcare, and welfare, while American Veterans and citizens remain homeless. Is this the America the Signers dreamed of? I think not.

Sadly, even some misguided American citizens support and join these hate-filled demonstrations that denigrate and attack their own country.

Fortunately, most Americans still love and support their country. They understand that there is no perfect country, and they realize that America, despite her faults, is still the “home of the free, because of the brave”. Yes, Americans are still free to pursue, as our Founders declared so long ago, “Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness”.

Since that declaration almost two and a half centuries ago, many patriotic men and women have stepped forward to defend the freedoms we all enjoy. They, like the Signers, so loved this country that they were willing to die for it. Today, and every day, we should remember the words engraved on the granite wall of the Korean War Memorial in Washington, DC: “FREEDOM IS NOT FREE.”

So what does Independence Day mean to today’s American citizens? Do we all feel a sense of shared history, community, unity, patriotism, pride, love of country, thankfulness and appreciation for the country the Signers bequeathed to us? Again, I believe that most Americans still share those sentiments.

So today, as we celebrate our Independence Day by gathering with family and friends, let us not forget how blessed we are to live in this beautiful and bountiful country.

Let us pledge never to give up the personal, political, religious, and economic freedoms the Signers fought so hard for.

Let us remember those brave and selfless Signers whose actions on July 4, 1776, literally changed the world.

Let us put aside our personal differences and remember the common thread that unites us: We are all Americans, and it’s our birthday.

Happy Birthday, America, and may God continue to bless us!

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I know I shouldn’t be surprised, but still, I am surprised at all the hyperbolic reactions that are being published in response to the Supreme Court’s recent ruling on presidential immunity for official acts.

Biden can assassinate Trump now!  Trump will be able to assassinate Biden if he gets elected!  Biden can add four more Justices to the Supreme Court!  The President can amend the Constitution to make abortion illegal… or legal!  Democracy is over!  The President is now a king!

But this is what we get for telling generations of students that it’s okay if they can’t read or think clearly about what they’ve read.  We’ll just ‘meet them where they are’ and tell them, in overly simple terms, what is in the books they can’t read.

So now, we have hundreds of millions of people who can’t actually read or understand a Supreme Court ruling and who instead have to depend on politicians, political pundits, and podcasters — many of whom are in the same boat — to tell them what’s in the decision.  And then they repeat what they’ve heard, even when that bears little or no resemblance to what it actually says.  Maybe, especially when that’s the case.

(If someone starts telling you about how awful this decision is, your first question should be:  Did you read it?  And your second question should be:  Then how do you know what it says?)

This is what happens when we forget that public education isn’t about ‘bright futures for children’, or ‘training kids so they can get good jobs’, or ‘developing a work force that can compete on the world stage’, or providing subsidized daycare for parents.

As it says in Article 83 of our state constitution, it’s about ensuring the preservation of a free government.  Which is to say, helping each new generation become difficult to lie to.

To paraphrase Jackie Kennedy:  If we bungle educating our children,  nothing else we do matters very much.  

If we ever feel like turning things around, at least with respect to education, Article 3 of our state constitution provides a remedy:

When men enter into a state of society, they surrender up some of their natural rights to that society, in order to ensure the protection of others; and, without such an equivalent, the surrender is void.

That is, public schools could be focused exclusively on helping students develop the skills they need to educate themselves—which turn out to be exactly the same skills they need to avoid being manipulated through deceit: literacy, numeracy, and rationality.

And those are exactly the skills that taxpayers need children to develop in order for their own rights to be protected when those children acquire the right to vote upon reaching an arbitrary age.

And that is exactly what needs to happen if we’re going to preserve a free government.

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Dover Police announced yesterday that they had arrested a Somersworth man for posting what they called “criminal[ly] threatening,” “coercive,” and “hateful” messages on the door of First Parish Church in Dover, but upon further investigation, it appears that the sign contained nothing but Scriptural Truth from the Holy Bible, and the real threat may be an unjust application of state law for the purpose of religious persecution.

I called and spoke with Lieutenant Mark Nadeau of the Dover Police Department yesterday regarding the arrest of Isaac Santiago, who, around June 20, posted a sign on the door of the openly “affirming” LGBTQ-friendly church in Dover containing what he called a “coercive” threat illegal under RSA 631:4(I)(b). The state law prohibits a person from placing “any object or graffiti on the property of another with a purpose to coerce or terrorize any person.” The Lieutenant said Santiago was “attempting to coerce his religious beliefs” with the sign, which contained “anti-LGBTQ messaging” and what police called a threat, namely, “Be saved today or you will perish in your sins,” which is a paraphrase of John 8:24 and Luke 13:3. 

The first citation reads, “Therefore I said to you that you will die in your sins; for if you do not believe that I am He, you will die in your sins,” and the second citation reads, “unless you repent you will all likewise perish.” While it is unknown whether Santiago referenced other Scripture, it is relevant that the Apostle Paul wrote in 1 Corinthians 6:9-10: “Do you not know that the unrighteous will not inherit the kingdom of God? Do not be deceived. Neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor homosexuals, nor sodomites, nor thieves, nor covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor extortioners will inherit the kingdom of God.”

Without knowing the full content of what the Police called “anti-LGBTQ messaging” on Santiago’s sign, I asked Lieutenant Nadeau to explain what the department meant by this statement. He said, “I don’t remember the exact wording of the messages, but the general spirit of it was that God doesn’t accept LGBTQ people and everyone who is LGBTQ should repent of their sins so they can be saved.” I promptly advised the Lieutenant that based on this and the other information police released concerning Santiago’s message, it appears like his sign came straight out of the Holy Bible. Provided the Lieutenant did not omit any information that could be deemed hateful even by a Bible-believing Christian, the message Santiago left appears to be a loving attempt to save sinners from judgment rather than anything hateful.

We want to thank Andrew J. Manuse for this Contribution – Please direct yours to Steve@GraniteGrok.com.
You can review our ‘Op-Ed Guidelines‘ on the FAQ Page.

God does not desire condemnation for any one of us but rather that all of us will turn away from our sins and come to repentance. That being said, sinners will not inherit the kingdom of God. Only those who repent from their sin in Christ and then live according to the righteousness of God’s Word will inherit eternal life. God is just and will not ultimately accept those who continue to practice sin, which He calls “lawlessness. 

Furthermore, 1 Corinthians 6 specifically commands Christians to judge other Christians regarding matters of the Holy Word of God and, therefore, lead them on the narrow path of Christ toward the Kingdom of God. It is imperative and part of the Christian faith that God’s Truth be communicated to all Christians, especially those who are going astray and unbelievers. 

As to First Parish Church, by affirming any sinful behavior listed in Paul’s writing or any other part of Scripture, leaders, and congregants there are living in sin and preaching unrighteousness, and God will hold them accountable without repentance. In Isaiah 5:20, we read, “Woe to those who call evil good, and good evil.” This refers to spiritual woe relative to eternal life in Heaven, not woe to the human life on Earth, and it is likely Mr. Santiago’s message had this same intent. God promises eternal life to those who trust in Christ and live by the commandments of God, but woe to those who deny this testimony.

From a civil perspective, we ought to pause and reflect on the grave legal problem the Dover Police have created as it pertains to religious liberty. Knowing that Santiago’s sign contained Biblical messages and was presented to congregants at an errant “Christian” church, it is highly troubling that the civil authorities have involved themselves at all. While Lieutenant Nadeau may posit that Santiago’s sign was an “attempt to coerce their religious beliefs,” it was actually an attempt to save those who call themselves Christian from the due punishment of God that they will receive for deceiving other believers counter to the Word of God. 

Lieutenant Nadeau also explained that Dover Police consulted the Attorney General’s office and local department attorneys prior to issuing an arrest warrant, and these attorneys all gave the go-ahead to make this arrest, which is perhaps the most troubling consideration of all. Are we really going to start persecuting people in New Hampshire for preaching what God has said in His Word? I have personally asked the Dover Police Department to drop the charges against Mr. Santiago immediately, but absent that I do pray for the unconstitutional application of an unclear law to be fully struck down and admonished by the court.

Andrew J. Manuse is the pastor of First Fruits Ministries, a first-century Messianic congregation of Jews and Gentiles returning to the Jewish roots of the faith in Messiah Yeshua (Jesus Christ) through the Hebraic understanding of the Scriptures. First Fruits Ministries is located in Manchester, NH.

 

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On the 2018 Summer Solstice, a climate witch predicted humanity’s doom if “we” did not stop using fossil fuels in the next five years. June 21st, 2024, has come and gone, and while we may still be doomed six years later, it is not because of fossil fuels. The people trying to force us off them are more likely to end us.

In related news, Joseph R. Biden’s 2020 platform for President included a plank ending fossil fuel use.

So, how are those plans working out?

The End is Near

Thunberg is her own puppet these days, having aged out, but, like her ilk, regardless of age, is not held accountable for hyperbolic or bombastic prognostications that never come to pass.

Teenage Greta quoted a professor of atmospheric chemistry at Harvard. James Anderson claimed that by 2022, there would be no permanent ice caps, which would have catastrophic consequences. He said there was zero chance this would not happen and would be bad for humanity.

Yawn.

Anderson was the latest in a long line of thieves and liars (often funded by federal grants) who predicted the same thing and got it wrong. It was wrong in more ways than whether there was ice at the poles. Polar Sea Ice (much like the atmospheric concentrations of CO2) has nothing to do with sea level or life on Earth, and there is ample evidence for both, but we’re not going there today because we have a much bigger problem.

Biden said he’d end fossil fuels. Greta said they’d end us. So, how is that working out?

We’re Still Here

The only earth-shattering incidents since Thunberg’s Twitter sandwich board prediction were political: the 2020 election, everything that followed, Fauci’s China virus, and the more damaging response to it. Ironically, it is all man-made, but it has no more to do with fossil fuels than the production of EVs. None are possible without them. And the proof is in the pudding.

Robert Bryce is an excellent source for data and graphs on the state of energy, especially the transition. From 2004 to 2022, for example, 4.1 trillion was spent on wind and solar. What did we get for that (feel free to tack on the added cost of the electricity it generates)? Wind and solar account for 5% of total generation. In the same span of years, energy from hydrocarbons grew 3.4 times faster.

To make matters worse, from 2022 to 2023, also from Bryce,

Biden has, in effect, increased reliance on fossil fuels because the dirty little secret is that nothing about the so-called green transition is possible without them. And that begs at least one question. All of this new stuff has a shelf-life.

Assuming they survive long enough, EVs need their batteries replaced, followed by the vehicles themselves. A very liberal projection is every ten years, while reality suggests it could be half that.

Wind and solar farms don’t last the 25 years advertised; some don’t last five. But even if they did, with what and how would we replace aging and damaged capacity?

Even the most basic demands of modernity cannot be met without fossil fuels, so there is no human-habitable world without them, which suggests other motives for the alleged (impossible) transition—of which there are many, all political. But even that need not matter to the street. Every day, people ought to be able to grasp the matter with both hands.

Even if some energy-inspired man-made doom is in our future, the path these climate elites have chosen for us is a dead end. It can’t be impossible without the thing it claims to replace.

You’d also be right to ask why since you’ve already given so much—if the doom, as predicted, is true, why isn’t the focus directed elsewhere?

|Substack

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To the Maine Congressional Delegation: For the good of the Country, I respectfully request that you, individually and collectively, move forward or co-sponsor legislation that invokes the 25th Amendment with the subsequent removal from office of President Joe Biden.

It is regrettable to request this action, but the circumstances of last week, namely his performance in the presidential debate, have caused me great alarm for the safety of our County and the President himself.

With Joe Biden in office, the Country does not have a competent chief executive in office.

Given the international uncertainties of war and conflict in Ukraine (ongoing), the middle east (ongoing), Niger (ongoing), Taiwan (threatened), and South Korea (threatened), America appears weak and vulnerable to our current batch of enemies that include Russia, China, North Korea, Iran, and its proxies.

These situations are currently wildcards to the safety and security of our Nation. Joe Biden’s actions at the debate have shown that he is not up to the task of protecting the country.

Further, I live with my mother-in-law, who is stricken with dementia and early Alzheimer’s Disease. I know the signs of mental and physical distress.

We want to thank Howard Coffman for this Contribution – Please direct yours to Steve@GraniteGrok.com.
You can review our ‘Op-Ed Guidelines‘ on the FAQ Page.

President Joe Biden is stricken both mentally and physically by ailments that compromise his effectiveness to remain in office.

Further, I ask that an investigation be performed into President Biden’s care. It appears to me that the persons responsible for his care have misled the public about his health and general welfare. This includes White House Staff, doctors, congressional leaders, Secret Service detail, and sadly, his family, the media, and anyone else who has observed his deteriorating health and wellness.

As a former elected School Board member, teachers and staff had an obligation to report abuse.

I would offer my observation that President Joe Biden is being subjected to a form of elder abuse. I ask that this be investigated and appropriate charges filed against those persons responsible for this abuse.

It’s not right. The President deserves better care than he is receiving.

The Country deserves competent leadership in these uncertain times.

I look forward to hearing from you on this matter, including the actions you have taken to ensure that our President is safe and well-protected. For it is clear to me that he is neither safe, protected, nor cared for from this rather obvious elder abuse.

Most Sincerely,

Howard Coffman

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The midweek memeage continues with another round of memes. That’s it: no side dishes, no appetizers, just memes, memes, and more of those damn memes.

As always, these are (need I remind you) just memes. Some are intuitive, others offensive, some are funny, others not, and that’s just how memes are – “memes.” So, ask not what memes can do for you but what you can do for memes. Share them. That’s what you can do! Share the link to these. We appreciate it.

Here we go – and I slipped some Independence Day Memes in there too!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Trigger Warning!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

And since tomorrow is Independence Day…

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The End

The post Midweek Memes – Ask Not What Memes Can Do for You, But What You Can do for Memes appeared first on Granite Grok.

There’s no way technological progress has spared you, so you probably know firsthand how much fun can be found in the online realm today. And if your interest lies in games, then an online casino is exactly the place where you can chill and unwind from your daily activities. Gaming rush can be perfectly supplemented with bonuses that help to spend more time in a casino online and a variety of games such as slots, table games, video poker, specialty, live games, and so on. If you cannot imagine your free time without a smartphone in your hand and want to get the most out of online casino services, casino operators have taken into account the wishes of modern punters and are happy to welcome you to their apps or mobile versions of their sites. The doors to the world of online entertainment are wide open for New Zealand online casino players, so get ready to find out more about how things work here.

How the Play at Casino Online Is Different from a Brick-and-Mortar One

Thinking about a casino, images of wealthy people, bright lights, the laughter of noisy companies, slot machines, and tables appear before our eyes. While land-based casinos continue their prosperous activities, many online sites have appeared as an alternative to them, making access to the online casino offerings more convenient and faster. Among the obvious advantages of choosing a casino online are the following factors:

• convenience and speed of access to services
• the possibility to have a trial run
• bonuses and loyalty programs
• mobile gaming
• developments from the best gaming operators

Even if you are an online casino NZ player and a trip to the legendary Las Vegas is not at all in your plans, you can appreciate how far modern casino providers have advanced in creating the atmosphere of a real online gambling site. So what can set players’ mood up to get an online casino experience and make the gameplay all real and enthralling? The answer is simple – the presence of live dealers on the site. Yes, you can choose according to your mood whether you want to spend time one-on-one with the game, as, for example, in casino online pokies, or a pleasant dealer will join your session and keep you in excellent company. But that’s not all the human interaction you may need during your visit; if you have any questions, do not hesitate to contact the casino customer support. You should definitely check its availability before playing for real money.

In general, the large assortment and variety of games offered by any good online casino are some of the criteria that make players come back to internet sites again and again. New interactive titles are released by gaming providers on a regular basis and catch the attention of players due to their themes (for example, dedicated to Halloween or a famous movie), sound and 3D effects, etc. Of course, as in offline sites, in online casino you will need to deposit a penny to discover the full range of emotions and offers available.

Choose an Online Casino with Good Reputation and Get Your Payouts Fast

Since network security is a very important concern for users, one must be vigilant to avoid falling into the hands of fraudsters. All actions in any online casino must be governed by clear rules. Players should be sure to read the Terms & Conditions page and check if the site has a valid license. While your winnings will be in your hands on that lucky day in a land-based gambling house, the whole procedure in casino online takes about a week. It consists of the need to verify the player’s identity, and in addition, the transfer of funds itself may take some time, depending on the method chosen. On the positive side, in almost any online casino NZ, you will be offered the most common withdrawal methods and currencies, including New Zealand dollars.

Once you find yourself on a regulated online casino, it can be said that now nothing will prevent you from plunging headlong into all the opportunities that are in store for you. What also makes visiting a casino online different is the need to register an account with an online site. But don’t worry, this is a very quick process that shouldn’t take you more than 5 minutes. Take your time – explore the lobby, find the tabs where you can request a bonus, make a deposit, and withdraw money. Also, do not miss the great opportunity to try your hand at available online casino games in demo mode and choose titles to your liking.

Skeptics will say that nothing beats real land-based casinos, but players keeping up with the times will be able to see for themselves that this is no longer the case. While there are some nuances that need to be taken into account, the experience at the proven New Zealand online casino is really worth it. Go for real player reviews and experiences described on review sites to choose only the best online casino and get the most out of the digital era and the wide offer of online sites at onlineplaytechcasinos.com.

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From Tucker Carlson … Black Jesus wants BidenX to drop out. I would add that virtually everything Black Jesus says is disingenuous. He’s today’s Lenin … he has no connection to the working man he claims to champion and, in fact, despises the working man. He is all about power – HIS power. He sees himself as entitled and, indeed, obliged to rule over us and actually believes this destiny is for our own good. In a word, Black Jesus is EVIL.

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Giving birth is a life-changing emotional experience. You get to hold your baby after carrying them in your womb for nine months. The birth of a baby is the most joyous day for parents, but it becomes stressful for some. Not all journeys into parenthood follow the conventional timeline. Some babies arrive in the world before 37 weeks of pregnancy is complete. 

While parents are happy that their little bundle is alive, seeing them at the NICU is heart-wrenching. About 380,548 premature births were reported in the U.S. in 2022. These figures indicate you’re not alone; premature babies are born to over a hundred thousand parents. 

Parents of preemies are the happiest when they take their little ones home. But they are equally overwhelmed and uncertain about how to provide their bundle of joy the best care. You must also experience similar feelings—don’t you? But don’t worry; here, we’ll share a few things that you must know about premature babies. Knowing them will make it easy for you to care for your little one. 

#1 Temperature Regulation is Important

Term babies have fat beneath their skin that insulates them by retaining heat and fluid. But your premature baby doesn’t have this protective fat. Regulating body temperature, therefore, will be difficult for them. Once your baby is at home, it will be your duty to keep them warm and cozy. 

Your preemie might have needed an isolette in the hospital, but they won’t need that at home. An extra layer of clothing will be enough to help them maintain their body temperature. For additional warmth, you can use sleep sacks or lightweight blankets. 

Pay attention to the room temperature, too. It must neither be too hot nor too cold. The best temperature for a baby’s room is between 68°F to 72°F or 20°C to 22°C. Aim for that. 

Avoid overheating your premature baby, however. If the weather is warm, there is no need to use a cap indoors. Likewise, you must use a cellular blanket with lots of little holes in it to prevent overheating your little one. 

#2 Nutritional Needs of Preemies Are Unique

Preemies are smaller than term babies. Their organs are immature and are still developing. Their nutritional needs, thus, are different from that of a term baby. 

Your premature baby will require more protein, calories, and other nutrients than a term baby. Though nutritious, your breast milk won’t deliver all the nutrients your preemie needs to grow into a healthy human being. You will have to add milk fortifiers to your breast milk to meet your baby’s extra nutritional needs. 

Choose any milk fortifier but Enfamil. The brand has been under fire because its baby formula is linked with necrotizing enterocolitis. NEC, or necrotizing enterocolitis, is a gastrointestinal disease that affects premature babies’ intestinal tract. This life-threatening illness is characterized by the inflammation of the intestine, which results in the death of the intestinal tissue. 

More than a hundred Enfamil lawsuits are filed by parents whose children developed NEC after being fed with its milk fortifiers. Some studies, TorHoerman Law comments, suggest that liquid protein-based fortifiers like Enfamil’s human milk fortifier might increase preemies’ risk of NEC. 

Early this year, the Illinois District Court ordered Mead Johnson to pay $60 million in damages to Jasmine Watson, who filed the Enfamil lawsuit. Watson sued Mead Johnson because her premature baby developed NEC after being fed Enfamil’s products. In her lawsuit, she blamed the manufacturer for failing to warn parents about the risks associated with the use of its products in preemies. 

Thus, you should steer clear of Enfamil. There are many alternatives available, but we advise you to consult a pediatrician to be on the safe side. 

#3 Premature Babies Have Sensitive Skin

All babies’ skin is sensitive. But the skin of preemies is thin and tender. It is because their skin doesn’t develop fully at birth. 

Some premature babies’ skin is prone to dryness or peeling. This is mainly because the skin finds it a bit hard to adjust to the dry, cooler temperature of the outside world from the warm and wet womb environment. Keeping this in mind is important, especially when you’re shopping for skincare products. 

Caring for your preemie’s sensitive skin involves using products that are mild. Go for body washes, soap, and shampoos that are made of natural and hypoallergenic ingredients. They should also not contain any fragrance. Products with fragrance can irritate your baby’s sensitive skin and might even cause allergic reactions. 

Even when it comes to wipes, opt for those that are free from scents. Or, you can simply use a washcloth if you want. 

To wrap things up, caring for a premature baby might seem like an uphill battle, but it isn’t. Try understanding your baby’s unique needs—be it nutritional or skin care. It will help you navigate the challenges of caring for them and provide them with the best possible care. In case of any queries, consult your preemie’s pediatrician. They will help you overcome any challenges that come your way.

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Harvard Business School (HBS) researchers, yes, THAT Harvard, have found that “Electric vehicle (EV) chargers have a high malfunction rate” and that “EV drivers can expect non-residential charging systems to not work approximately 20% of the time.”

The HBS study used artificial intelligence to examine more than one million customer reviews of charging stations from North America, Europe and Asia over 10 years, finding that EV drivers can expect non-residential charging systems to not work approximately 20% of the time and also that some of America’s more rural regions are effectively “charging deserts.” Its findings are the latest to suggest that the Biden administration’s long-term vision for an EV-dominated future is struggling to make early progress.

“Among other things, the deep dive into tomorrow’s gas station network estimates that drivers can successfully recharge their cars using non-residential EV equipment only 78% of the time, highlighting critical issues with reliability,” reads an article on the study posted to HBS’ website. “The research proves that frustration extends beyond ‘range anxiety,’ the common fear that EV batteries won’t maintain enough charge to reach a destination.”

We’ve shared plenty of reports and research on why you should stay away from EVs. From the cost of ownership, to range, to not being green. High repair costs, battery life, risk of fire, charging wait times, cost to charge, mobility limitations, resale value, and more. A boutique luxury item favored by virtue-signaling elites, wholly impractical to the average American. You can’t use them for freight or even local delivery. They will never replace existing construction or heavy equipment.

And they are not green, which was supposed to be the point (at ease for those pumping them). A point increasingly lost on nearly half the current crop of EV owners.

Approximately 46% of Americans who own an EV want to go back to a standard vehicle for their next purchase, citing issues like inadequate charging infrastructure and affordability, according to McKinsey’s study, which was obtained and reviewed by the Daily Caller News Foundation. The study’s findings further suggest that the Biden administration’s EV push is struggling to land with American consumers, after 46% of respondents indicated that they are unlikely or very unlikely to purchase an EV in a June poll conducted by The Associated Press and the University of Chicago’s Energy Policy Institute.

Moreover, 58% of Americans are very likely to keep their current cars for longer, and 44% are likely to postpone a possible switch to EVs, McKinsey’s study found.

The HBS research citing home charger failure rates over 20% won’t help, especially if that is your best or only reliable charging station. Sorry, I can’t come into work today, my EV charger is on the fritz.

I wonder if employers should start asking applicants what they drive before hiring them.

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Ever felt like your debt was a giant jigsaw puzzle with pieces scattered everywhere? If so, you’re not alone. Tackling debt can indeed feel overwhelming, but just like solving a puzzle, the right strategy can make all the difference. A well-structured debt repayment plan doesn’t just help you pay off what you owe; it turns a mountain of bills into manageable steps that lead you back to financial freedom. And if you’re considering a debt relief program, integrating it into your debt repayment plan can amplify your efforts, helping you see progress faster and more efficiently.

Understanding Your Debt Landscape

Before you can start paying off your debt, you need a clear picture of what you’re up against. This means listing every debt you have, from the smallest credit card balance to the biggest mortgage or student loan.

List It Out: Start by writing down every debt, including the creditor’s name, balance, minimum monthly payment, and interest rate. This will help you see the total amount you owe and which debts are costing you the most in interest.

Assess Your Income and Budget: Next, review your monthly income and budget. How much money is coming in, and where is it going? Understanding your cash flow is crucial for setting up a repayment plan that’s realistic and sustainable.

Prioritizing Your Debts

There are a few different strategies for deciding which debts to pay off first. Each has its benefits, and the right choice for you will depend on your specific circumstances and psychological preferences.

The Snowball Method: This involves paying off your smallest debts first to build momentum. As you pay off each smaller debt, you move on to larger ones, “snowballing” the payments as you go.

The Avalanche Method: With this strategy, you focus on the debts with the highest interest rates first, regardless of balance. This can save you money on interest over time, making it a cost-effective approach.

Setting Up Payment Schedules

Once you’ve prioritized your debts, it’s time to set up a payment schedule that fits your budget. This is where the puzzle pieces start to fit together.

Automate Payments: If possible, set up automatic payments for at least the minimum amounts due on all of your debts. This ensures you never miss a payment and helps protect your credit score.

Allocate Extra Payments: Decide how much extra you can pay on your targeted debts each month. Even small additional amounts can lead to significant savings on interest and faster debt repayment.

Integrating Debt Relief Programs

If your debt feels too overwhelming to tackle alone, or if you’re struggling to keep up with payments, a debt relief program might be a suitable option.

Debt Consolidation: This type of program combines multiple debts into a single loan with a lower interest rate. It simplifies your payments and can reduce the amount of interest you pay.

Debt Settlement: This approach involves negotiating with creditors to pay off a debt for less than you owe. While this can significantly reduce your debt load, it may also impact your credit score.

Staying on Track

Establishing your plan is one thing, but sticking to it can sometimes be challenging. Regular reviews and adjustments can help you stay on course.

Monitor Progress: Regularly check your balances and track your progress. Seeing the numbers go down can be a huge motivator.

Adjust as Needed: If your financial situation changes—for better or worse—adjust your plan accordingly. If you get a raise, consider putting the extra money toward your debt. Conversely, if money gets tighter, look at where you can cut back without derailing your debt payoff efforts.

Conclusion

Creating a debt repayment plan is like mapping a route through a complex maze—it might seem daunting at first, but with each step you take, the path becomes clearer. By understanding your debts, choosing a repayment strategy, setting up a realistic payment schedule, and possibly incorporating a debt relief program, you can transform the overwhelming into the achievable. Remember, every payment you make is another step toward reclaiming your financial freedom.

The post Establishing Debt Repayment Plans appeared first on Granite Grok.

According to a Homeland Security Investigations press release, two men were observed by Customs and Border Protection in Northern NH after illegally crossing into Pittsburg, New Hampshire, from Canada at the beginning of June 2024. One of those people was arrested by Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) for child sexual abuse-related criminal allegations.

Please note that the HSI release clearly states these are allegations, and the defendant is innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. Please see the official Homeland Security Investigation link Mexican National Arrested by HSI, Border Patrol on Child Sexual Abuse Material Charges | Homeland Security (dhs.gov).

Homeland Security Investigations is the main investigative arm of Homeland Security. It investigates transnational criminals who threaten our global infrastructure through international travel, trade, and finances.

We want to thank Ryan Bennett for this Contribution – Please direct yours to Steve@GraniteGrok.com.
You can review our ‘Op-Ed Guidelines‘ on the FAQ Page.

Currently, Homeland Security Investigations is also a front-line leader, on the US level at least (I believe), in investigating heinous sexual crimes against children and young teenagers who have transnational connections. Though HIS and CBP are different entities under Homeland Security, HSI and CBP work together. To my knowledge, CBP focuses on land and maritime borders, while HIS can operate within the USA internally.

As serious as the allegations are, this alarming release is also indicative of another problem Donald Trump repeatedly stated on his campaign trail in New Hampshire. The northern border along Canada is becoming an issue, and likely already is an issue, in many segments of the US/Canada boundary.  Though it is not as bad as the southern border, NH and Vermont residents should not be too complacent and should avoid thinking that it could never happen in their state because, likely, CBP is already facing some challenges that the woke mainstream media and weak, lame New Hampshire Governor will not address. I hope they prove me wrong.

I encourage NH and Vermont residents to visit some spots along the border if they have a half-day to spare. One example is Derby Line, Vermont’s port of entry. Take a drive in the small town, and you can see certain neighborhood roads that seem to bridge parts of Canada and Vermont, where illegal immigrants can walk through to get into the USA.

Also, an opera house and library straddle the Quebec and Derby Libe border. Please link below to a report about a library servicing two countries at once. Though the library has historic value, it makes me wonder how easily illegal immigrants can sneak into the USA from Canada through fissure points in our border.

The U.S.-Canada Border Runs Through This Tiny Library – Atlas Obscura

The post Mexican National Illegally Enters New Hampshire from Canada, Gets Arrested appeared first on Granite Grok.

Transportation links are crucial for a region’s economy, connectivity with other cities, level of development, infrastructure, and other stages of civilization’s progress. Road engineering is also constantly evolving. Engineers are continuously improving construction technologies to enhance the quality and safety of road surfaces while reducing costs. Road construction progresses in stages.

Amid this backdrop, the international industrial holding company Del Mar Energy stands out by introducing its unique road construction system to the world.

The quality of road surfaces depends on adherence to standards, as state requirements for road construction specify norms that ensure the safety and comfort of road users.

Before laying a new road, the contractor must create a temporary surface. Workers will use this surface to move machinery and materials to the site. If the asphalt is being laid on a federal highway or if an existing road is being reconstructed, a temporary detour must be built. Once construction and installation work are completed, the temporary surface is dismantled.

Materials are brought to the site only after the area has been prepared. This stage can take several weeks or months. Work may be complicated by weather conditions, as well as the climate and landscape features of the area.

Forming the foundation is a crucial stage in road construction, affecting its durability and strength. Earthworks begin with the construction of an embankment. Builders sequentially lay the soil and compact it with a roller. Soil from the road construction area is used or imported if the local soil is unsuitable for the future road. Suitable soils include sandy, rocky, or sandy loam, while peat or silt soils are unsuitable. The embankment is thoroughly loosened and then compacted with a roller.

After the foundation is prepared, specialists start forming the sand “cushion.” This consists of several layers of crushed stone-sand mixture, sequentially laid on the future road site. The cushion ensures even load distribution during use and strengthens the surface. The first layer of the cushion is sand. Builders evenly distribute the sand, with a layer thickness of 10-12 cm. To prevent the sand from mixing with the soil, geotextile is laid between them.

The sand is thoroughly compacted, and then a layer of crushed stone is laid. The middle layer of the cushion uses materials of different fractions. The final layer is fine-grained crushed stone. A properly laid foundation guarantees road quality. The cushion is necessary for load cushioning. The number of layers and materials for the cushion depend on the chosen method, the area’s characteristics, and the road’s purpose.
After forming the sand cushion, specialists proceed to lay the final surface. Modern construction uses cement concrete or asphalt concrete.

The quality and durability are also determined by the material used as the top layer, as it is subject to greater wear during daily use. The most common materials are asphalt concrete and cement concrete, as these have proven effective in road construction.
Asphalt concrete involves layered laying. The construction and repair technology includes layered distribution of gravel, sand, rocks, and asphalt mixture with bitumen. The number of layers depends on the expected traffic, the road surface’s purpose, and the landscape and climate features.
Cement concrete or cast asphalt has high wear resistance, withstands mechanical damage during continuous use, and does not deteriorate under the influence of chemical reagents. However, laying cement concrete is more expensive.

To enhance the operational properties of roads, builders use geosynthetics. This is an artificial, environmentally friendly material that is inexpensive and easy to lay.
Using geosynthetic materials results in a durable surface with an anti-slip effect, increasing safety. Innovative technologies and materials allow builders to save on repairs and reduce the time and scope of work.

Therefore, it is not surprising that scientists have created entire tracks for electric cars. These tracks charge the car’s battery, eliminating the need for separate charging stations. Rails embedded in the road surface transmit electrical current to the car while it is in motion. The current is supplied only when the car is moving, posing no danger to other road users.

The use of innovations is justified. Roads become safer, more durable, and require less time for construction. At Del Mar Energy, engineers and builders use innovative road construction technologies, modern materials, and high-tech equipment to reduce road construction costs and achieve a high-quality, safe, durable, and reliable road surface.

The post Del Mar Energy: The Path to Excellence in Road Construction appeared first on Granite Grok.

Approximately 40 million used vehicles are sold each year. The companies tracking those sales provide an invaluable resource—detailed information on what sells and for how much. These are the figures anyone looking to buy or sell a used car needs to know to be sure they are getting a good—or at least fair—deal. Understanding the factors that affect vehicle value is crucial, whether you’re buying, selling, or seeking emergency cash through means such as a vehicle title loan.

Age and Mileage

One of the most significant factors influencing a vehicle’s value is its age and mileage. Generally, the older the car and the more miles it has, the lower its value.

1. Age: Newer cars tend to have higher values because they usually have more advanced features and less wear and tear. However, they also depreciate quickly within the first few years.
2. Mileage: High mileage indicates extensive use, which typically means more wear and tear on the vehicle. Lower mileage cars are often valued higher because they are perceived to have more life left in them.

Condition

The overall condition of the vehicle plays a major role in determining its value. This includes both the exterior and interior condition as well as the mechanical state.

1. Exterior Condition: Dents, scratches, and rust can significantly reduce a vehicle’s value. Regular maintenance and repairs can help maintain the exterior condition.
2. Interior Condition: The state of the seats, dashboard, and other interior features matter. Stains, tears, and odors can negatively impact the value.
3. Mechanical Condition: A vehicle with a well-maintained engine and transmission will retain more value. Regular servicing and keeping records of maintenance can enhance the value.

Make and Model

Certain makes and models hold their value better than others. Factors like brand reputation, reliability, and demand can influence this.

1. Brand Reputation: Brands known for reliability and quality, such as Toyota and Honda, tend to retain value better than others.
2. Demand: Popular models that are in high demand will generally have higher resale values. This can vary by region and current market trends.

Market Conditions

The overall market conditions can also impact vehicle values. This includes factors like the economy, fuel prices, and even seasonal trends.

1. Economic Conditions: During economic downturns, the demand for new and used cars may decrease, leading to lower vehicle values.
2. Fuel Prices: When fuel prices are high, fuel-efficient cars may see an increase in value, while gas guzzlers may see a decrease.
3. Seasonal Trends: Certain types of vehicles, like convertibles, may be worth more in the summer, while 4WD vehicles may be more valuable in the winter.

Vehicle History

A vehicle’s history report can significantly impact its value. This includes accident history, title status, and service records.

1. Accident History: Vehicles that have been in accidents tend to have lower values, especially if the damage was severe or not properly repaired.
2. Title Status: A clean title is preferred. Vehicles with salvage titles or those that have been rebuilt usually have much lower values.
3. Service Records: Regular maintenance records can enhance a vehicle’s value as they demonstrate that the car has been well cared for.

Features and Upgrades

Additional features and upgrades can increase a vehicle’s value. This includes technological features, safety enhancements, and luxury add-ons.

1. Technological Features: Modern features like a navigation system, Bluetooth connectivity, and advanced safety features can boost a vehicle’s value.
2. Safety Enhancements: Vehicles with higher safety ratings and features such as airbags, anti-lock brakes, and stability control are often valued higher.
3. Luxury Add-Ons: Leather seats, premium audio systems, and sunroofs can add to a vehicle’s value, appealing to buyers looking for a more luxurious ride.

Location

Geographical location can also affect vehicle value. The demand for certain types of vehicles can vary greatly depending on where you are.

1. Regional Demand: Trucks and SUVs may be more in demand in rural areas, while compact cars may be more desirable in urban settings.
2. Climate Impact: In areas with harsh winters, all-wheel drive vehicles may be valued higher. Conversely, convertibles may be more sought after in warmer climates.

Conclusion

Understanding the factors that affect vehicle value is essential for anyone looking to buy, sell, or leverage their car for emergency cash. Age, mileage, condition, make and model, market conditions, vehicle history, features, upgrades, and location all play a role in determining a car’s worth. By paying attention to these factors, you can make more informed decisions and ensure you get the best possible deal, whether you’re on the buying or selling end of a used vehicle transaction.

The post Factors Affecting Vehicle Value appeared first on Granite Grok.

From billionaire hedge-fund honcho Bill Ackman. While I may not have known the exact diagnosis, it was obvious to me … and to anyone who gathers data about reality from sources other than the advocacy media and evil tech… that BidenX is and for some time has been seriously impaired.

I have never been a fan of the Trump-is-playing-3D- chess caucus, but in this case … intentionally or not … Trump exposed not only Biden’s incapacity but also that “Dr.” Jill is actually running the country and the advocacy media and evil tech are willing propagandists.

 

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Sunday, Norm held a “Pre-4th of July” party at his home (for a select group of Conservative political activists as well as a few politicians), high over Lake Winnipesaukee, which allows views from Wolfeboro to Alton. Both Chuck Morse and Kelly Ayotte, who are running for the Republican nomination for Governor, were among those invited.

I assumed, knowing Norm, that each politician would get a few minutes to give their “elevator speech” to the crowd and then a quick Q&A after each speech. However, this year he changed it up and stated that in the interest of time, everyone should button-hole each one individually and ask your questions.

So I did.

I had originally planned on asking each two questions: doozies, both. But under the maxim of always being adaptable (or as my former Marine Eldest STILL keeps telling me even after mustering out, “Improvise, adapt, and overcome”), I focused on something that one of them said during their elevator speeches.

SideNote: I was originally going to record the speeches, but while Norm always lets GraniteGrok cover anything going on at his house (and it stated as such on the notices on his front door), he nixed that activity: no Press. So, I’m not being coy here in not mentioning specifically who said what, as I do want to honor the request. However, I DO want to point out a significant difference in the answers. Both are “correct,” but they show a difference in thought processes in approaching their governance styles.

One of them, during their pitch, did state that they would sign a law that would ban Sanctuary Cities in NH in protecting NH.  When it was said, I thought it was odd and showed a lack of basic NH Civics. This topic is notable as it generally means that a city or town police force is then directed NOT to assist Federal immigration officials via their “detainers” (e.g., hold an illegal alien until we can come and get them). Basically, Biden’s “catch and release” program writ small.

To repeat something that I have found to be a constant BECAUSE I find that most adults, even the most politically aware ones, have no idea, I phrase my “button-hole” question to both (trying to be fair here!) thusly:

During [your|your opponent’s] pitch, you said wanted a law to sign banning NH towns and cities from declaring themselves as Sanctuary Cities. However, we are a Dillon’s Rule State which means that subdivisions of a State cannot do anything on their own. ANYTHING they can do can only be done after the Legislature/Governor have passed a Law specifically delegating the Legislature’s Power in that area / issue to a subdivision.

Given that, would you immediately then sic your AG against that town or city for trying to pre-empt the State’s Power that hasn’t been delegated to them?

The other kind of State, a Home Rule State, allows any political subdivision of a State to do whatever it wants as long as they don’t violate State or Federal law. Again, we are not that kind of state.

Now, as far as the answers go (summarized here by me, and I AM trying to get the answers correct):

Candidate 1: No, I would want to wait for a law to be passed as it can take a long time in court and can cost a lot of money to pursue it.

Candidate 2: Yes

So there it is.

I am getting the info for their Press folks and I will send my two “doozy of a question” to them and see if I get responses.

It feels good to return to this role. And I thank ALL the people there who asked me, “How is your family doing now?” It shows that Conservatives often put Family above mere politics.

The post I Had the Chance to Ask Both NH Republican Gubernatorial Candidates This Question … appeared first on Granite Grok.

The barely Republican-majority New Hampshire legislature managed to pass a pair of bills that unequivocally protect children from abuse. One suggests that it is unhealthy and dangerous to give children (hormone) drugs linked to a rise in the incidence of heart attack and stroke (and that neutering them might not be in their best interest). The other acknowledges that men are stronger than women and allowing them to compete athletically side by side is dangerous to women and girls.

Neither of these things is scientifically or biologically inaccurate. Yet, when protesters opposed to these common-sense protections (for children and young women) collected like plaque in the hall leading to the Governor’s office, the local TV outlet declared that they were asking Mr. Sununu to veto these “anti-trans” bills.

“Pro” Tip

There is nothing anti-trans about them. These bills are pro-child, pro-trans, and pro-girls and women. Speaking to the trans issue specifically,

The drugs are poorly regulated, over-prescribed, and can cause cancer and death. The surgery cannot make you a different gender, but advocates pretend that it will align the mental confusion they created with a physical person. This isn’t true either. Even the best surgeons can’t make a boy into a girl. If you’ve got enough money and time and tolerance for pain and pain drugs you can never stop taking, it is possible to come close to the affectation, but no one seems to care about the endless physical and mental suffering that is more likely to end in suicide than if you’d left them the hell alone.

Banning puberty blockers and genital surgery for minors protects “trans youth” from medical-intervention profiteers.

It protects them from overzealous partisan cultural abuses. It allows them to be who they are now, and since gender is a fluid experience (subject to change not just daily but hourly), hormones and surgery prohibit them from being any other gender at any moment between now and the age of majority.

Puberty blockers and irreversible surgery are contraindicated if gender is on a spectrum.

What are the surgical alternatives? Male to female, female to male, in transit from one to the other. I suppose you could opt for the traditional alien look. No visible parts, shave your head (gray spray tan), but that’s not likely to solve the mental health problem, and it certainly won’t lead to fewer suicides. Speaking of which, from the UK Cass Review,

80. The original rationale for use of puberty blockers was that this would buy ‘time to think’ by delaying onset of puberty and also improve the ability to ‘pass’ in later life. Subsequently it was suggested that they may also improve body image and psychological wellbeing.

…

82. However, no changes in gender dysphoria or body satisfaction were demonstrated. There was insufficient/inconsistent evidence about the effects of puberty suppression on psychological or psychosocial wellbeing, cognitive development, cardio-metabolic risk or fertility.

Hey. Teacher! Leave Those Kids Alone

Puberty Blockers, hormone drugs, and surgery make doctors, hospitals, and big Pharma rich, cashing in on rearranging deck chairs on someone else’s Titanic. They are changes that do nothing to address the mental health issues or external influences that created the dysphoria.

The UK’s National Health Service (NHS) has since banned puberty blockers for minors based on this extensive research. The health risk isn’t worth the lack of any measurable benefit.

The best thing you can do for a child is to

1. stop confusing them about gender. Why are you talking about sex with children? Why are you advocating or defending it? It is a form of mental abuse that causes dysphoria that leads to dangerous drugs and irreversible surgery.

2. If a child is asking questions on their own, be supportive of the curiosity and be a friend, but be honest. It’s normal; most kids outgrow it, and drugs and (especially) surgery don’t really help. The drugs must be taken…forever. The surgery will harm you and cannot be reversed.

Adults interested in children’s health should not convince them to take this journey. They should protect the child until they are an adult, and then that adult can decide for themselves. And the idea is catching on. Western nations are increasingly backing away from the practice.

New Hampshire and America should, too.

| Substack

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The day after the debate (yesterday—6/28), BidenX asked, obviously rhetorically, what he did during the debate. The tweet was obviously written for him because, as the debate made obvious, he lacks the capacity to do much more than read from a teleprompter.

Shout at the teleprompter would be more accurate after being shot up with a cocktail of amphetamines and who knows what else.

What I did was watch an incapacitated octogenarian babble incoherently despite being on bed rest and an IV for a full week and being shot up with drug cocktails. What I did was watch that octogenarian stare blankly at who knows what as the rightful President shamed him. And what I did was watch the real “power behind the throne” … the dowager-bitch, Jill Biden … take the incoherent, disoriented octogenarian by the hand and lead his desiccated husk off the stage.

As for morals …, it’s bold talk from someone who refused to acknowledge a granddaughter until publicly shamed into it. From someone who showered with his daughter. From someone who covered for and enabled his cocaine-addicted, criminal son’s life of drugs and crime. From someone who peddled influence, including selling out to the Communists in China. From someone who uses the death of a child as a political shield and political sword.

Needless to say, BidenX not only did not write the tweet … he has no idea what he did last night. All he actually knows and cares about is that to get his pudding and juicy box, he has to yell at the teleprompter for a few minutes.

 

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The most important Event of the past week was NOT the Presidential Debate between Trump and President Zombie (formerly known as Biden). It was important.

Related: Bad Week for the Deep State – Chevron Deference is Dead; Admin Courts on Thin Ice

Biden should resign or be removed by the invocation of the 25th Amendment based on cognitive failure. And someone, IMHO, needs to arrest Jill Biden on the charge(s) of “Failure to protect against Elder Abuse.”

That debate took the oxygen out of our Public Square, but compared to a number of decisions handed by SCOTUS (Supreme Court of The United States), it was just a sideshow. This decision to burn the Chevron Doctrine to the ground is important.

“THE THREE HAPPIEST WORDS IN THE ENGLISH LANGUAGE TODAY – “Chevron is overruled.”

I’ve previously posted about this overreach by NOAA’s (National Oceanic and Atmosphere Agency) NMFS (National Marine Fisheries Services) here and here. Steve did the same here.  NOAA tried to force government human “monitors” on board fishing vessels and to force fishermen to spend lots of money on specific monitoring equipment (and the data services to relay that data). About $700/day/monitor. Not only did it violate the Fourth Amendment, but the courts also found that the agency violated the Administrative Procedures Act (“APA,” 1948) that set up the structure of how mere Executive Branch agencies could promulgate “regulations with the Force of Law.”

If you look at the Constitution, the ability to legislate is strictly a function of the Legislative Branch. But it was drafted and signed into Law when Progressivism was rising fast, and they took advantage of the growth of the Federal Govt and did the PR push that “mere legislators don’t have the expertise to make such laws; let the “experts” do it for you.” Our Elected Representatives bought into that Progressive philosophy regardless of their own Duties in the Separation of Powers as outlined in the Constitution – THEIR Foundational Law.

SideNote: Funny, isn’t it, that when it comes to abortion and other issues of Morality, Progressives get all in a tizzy about the Separation of Church and State as if there was a real firewall there.

SideNote to the SideNote: there is, but it only keeps the Government from establishing a State religion. How’s that working concerning LGBTQRSTUVWXYZ and the Government pushing that secularized sexuality religion down our throats (and into our minds and hearts)?

But when it comes to the Separation of Powers, they either remain silent or allow that philosophy to have lots of leaks by which to have us Ruled by technocrats vs Governed by elected representatives.

So, unelected, unaccountable, and unassailable bureaucrats whose ONLY Constitutional duty is to “faithfully execute the Law” as they report to the President to whom that command is laid. Here’s the background (emphasis mine):

Today, attorneys for a group of New Jersey herring fishermen landed a significant victory at the Supreme Court.  With its ruling in Loper Bright v. Raimondo [and  Relentless v. Department of Commerce -Skip] the Court has overruled the Chevron doctrine and restored the balance of power between Congress and the Administration. The Loper Bright decision was issued alongside Relentless v Department of Commerce.

The fishermen in the Loper Bright case face an unlawful requirement imposed on them by an Executive Branch agency that could force them to surrender 20 percent of their earnings to pay at-sea monitors. Because that fee resulted from unlawful overreach and threatened their ability to make a living, the fishermen decided to challenge the requirement in court four years ago. After a split decision in the D.C. Circuit, the Supreme Court decided to review the Chevron doctrine, which is the legal theory the government cited to justify its controversial monitoring rule. For 40 years, Chevron has required federal courts to abdicate their constitutional role to interpret the law by deferring to agency interpretations of statutes whenever those same agencies deem the law “silent” or “ambiguous.” In practice, such deference permitted agencies to engage in egregious overreach, often at the expense of ordinary citizens. 

Bill Bright, a Cape May-based herring fishermen and eponymous plaintiff in Loper Bright, offered this statement: “We are grateful the Court has overruled Chevron. Today’s restoration of the separation of powers is a victory for small, family-run businesses like ours, whether they’re involved in fishing, farming, or retail. Congress never authorized industry-funded monitoring in the herring fishery…

Former U.S. Solicitor General Paul Clement, who argued on behalf of the fishermen before the  Supreme Court, added the following: “

The Court’s decision puts to rest an interpretive methodology that has seriously distorted how the political branches operate for far too long. Courts should ask what the law means, not whether it is ambiguous, and in close cases, the tie should go to the citizen, not the government. We are gratified that the Court restored the constitutionally mandated separation of powers.”

In the Supreme Court’s opinion, Chief Justice Roberts wrote:

“The deference that Chevron requires of courts reviewing agency action cannot be squared with the APA.” He went on to say, “Chevron’s presumption is misguided because agencies have no special competence in resolving statutory ambiguities.  Courts do.”

IMHO, this headline encapsulates everything I’ve been saying for years: “The Supreme Court Firebombs the Administrative State and Tells Congress to Get Off Its Butt and Work“…”In short order, many of the reasons we gradually, like a frog in a pot of boiling water, transformed from citizens into subjects have been demolished…Today’s decision doesn’t prevent agencies from making rules, but it doesn’t prevent citizens from contesting those rules in court.”

And that is the Executive Branch making up its own laws under the rubric of “Federal Rulemaking”. And as the headline maintains, Legislators should now be made to make their Laws COMPLETELY and stop throwing their half-grown bills over the wall and let others finish the work THEY should be doing. This should:

• Have then creating smaller bills to more fully flesh them out – I’m hoping that these thousands of pages “Omnibus” bills will be now easily litigated by Citizens with much more of a chance of success.
• Result in much BETTER bills because they will have to sweat the details – ALL the details.

And because of that, they won’t have the time to meddle as much in our lives. Uber-Left Law Professor Laurence Tribe concurs:

Is there a 1-900 number where someone will read this to me over the phone in a sultry voice? https://t.co/V4jhvxPLH2

— Marc J. Randazza (@marcorandazza) June 28, 2024

I disagree with one part: unrealistic. Instead, it SHOULD be expected. We all should be demanding more of the folks whose butts we put into those seats.

To bring it back to NH, I’m re-purposing something I emailed to Grokster Ann Marie where the District 17 Superintendent Thomas Ambrose is trying to redefine emails containing student sexuality as a “student record” so as to bypass a valid Right To Know demand:

…An email is NOT a student record which is a record/entry in their IT system. An email is not such a record even as it is a GOVERNMENT record – there is no protection of privacy for a parent sending an email to a government worker. It then becomes Public. So he’s off base on that.

..and we’re a Dillon’s Rule State. Which, if strictly kept, has ALWAYS made us being an “anti-Chevron Doctrine) State as “agencies” can only do what the Legislature specifically delegates. Just as NOAA overreached in spite of the Federal APA, how many of OUR agencies have done so despite JLCAR?

This ban of the Chevron Doctrine, if this was MMA, is a leg sweep takedown to put him onto the legal map.

Before I forget, here’s the salient part of the Law against which SCOTUS viewed NMFS’s strong arm tactics against the fishermen:

In 1972, Congress passed the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act, “to respond to the threat of overfishing and to promote conservation.” As part of that law, eight regional fisheries councils were created. Each of those councils, which is a business association, is charged with producing a fisheries management plan. Under the plan created for New England herring fisheries, half of all fishing trips had to carry a federal monitor. Originally, all the observers were employed by the federal government. Somehow, the National Marine Fisheries Service managed to lose money from its budget as the rest of the federal government porked up. In 2020, the management plan required the fishing boats to pay for monitors reporting to the federal government. The cost was over $700. Many fisheries complained that this additional expense resulted in zero profit or even a loss for a day’s fishing.

Congress didn’t authorize billing private fishing companies to pay for federal monitors. But the Department of Commerce interpreted the requirement that it may “require that one or more observers be carried on board a vessel of the United States engaged in fishing for species that are subject to the plan, for the purpose of collecting data necessary for the conservation and management of the fishery,” to mean that half the fishing boats had to carry deadweight that they paid for.

…

1. Whether the Court should overrule Chevron or at least clarify that statutory silence concerning controversial powers expressly but narrowly granted elsewhere in the statute does not constitute an ambiguity requiring deference to the agency.
2. Whether the phrase “necessary and appropriate” in the MSA augments agency power to force domestic fishing vessels to contract with and pay the salaries of federal observers they must carry.

Result: Vacated and remanded.

The Administrative Procedure Act requires courts to exercise their independent judgment [instead of deference to the agencies because of the Chevron Doctrine -Skip] in deciding whether an agency has acted within its statutory authority, and courts may not defer to an agency interpretation of the law simply because a statute is ambiguous;

Chevron is overruled.

And this is part and parcel of the “overreach and self-justification of it” that I’ve been talking about for years. If you want, a more more thorough legal cut-and-paste is here. And it points out the whole issue of arbitrary and capricious:

 …federal agencies can adopt widely different interpretations and enforcement policies depending on who’s in power, and that makes the legal/regulatory environment inherently unstable for Americans.  Also, as Justice Clarence Thomas adds, it’s also flat-out unconstitutional. Chevron makes the judiciary subservient to the other two branches as a matter of structure and not just judgment…

And we’re back to the end goal of Democrats/Progressives/Socialists – being ruled by technocratic “experts” who, in their eyes, only have our best interest in their TOTALLY non-partisan hearts. Or as the post called it “the Rule of Whim” Anyone who has ever reviewed the political donations of government workers knows that a HUGE pile of human excrement.

And yet another reason that I really like this decision – Justice Kagan is against it DEMONSTRATING that she’s for the Administrative State (and you wonder why Democrats view SCOTUS as a Supra-Legislature):

Justice Elena Kagan wrote that Chevron deference “has formed the backdrop against which Congress, courts, and agencies—as well as regulated parties and the public—all have operated for decades. It has been applied in thousands of judicial decisions. It has become part of the warp and woof of modern government, supporting regulatory efforts of all kinds.”

And that’s the problem as it should be LEGISLATIVE, not regulatory. I just can’t say that enough!

The post SCOTUS Starts to Shove the Govt Genie Back Into The Bottle Part 1 appeared first on Granite Grok.

The “Right” in New Hampshire suffers … perhaps incorrigibly … from cognitive dissonance—a couple of examples. New Hampshire spends more on “public education” than almost every other State.

Yet the “Right” keeps reciting the mantra that New Hampshire is “fiscally conservative” and, worse, that the existential threat to the State’s “fiscal conservatism” is subsidizing rail to Boston, despite the cost of that subsidy being essentially a rounding error on what the State spends on “public education.” Totally irrational.

Next example. The “Right” pretends that Ayotte and Morse are conservatives. Ayotte was essentially a mini-me Jeannie Shaheenie during her last year in the Senate (having spent the previous five shilling for the military-industrial complex), while Morse voted to codify Obamacare into State law and supported Sununu’s COVID-tyranny. It is totally irrational to consider either conservative.

Tucker Carlson lost his job at Faux because, in the eyes of the system, he went too far in exposing the cognitive dissonance of GOP voters. Asking an obvious question, like how does it benefit the United States to wage a proxy war against Russia that is destroying Ukraine, is an unforgivable sin. It’s as bad as asking why the “Right” in New Hampshire ignores the runaway spending on “public education” and instead fixates on defining “fiscal conservatism” as not subsidizing rail to Boston.

Tucker, by speaking truth to power, has become a worldwide phenomenon. Of course, simply speaking truth to power is not enough. Tucker is intelligent, articulate, fearless and, above all, funny and happy. Every State, especially New Hampshire, needs a Tucker Carlson.

HERE is Tucker in Australia:

 

The post Every State (And Especially New Hampshire) Needs A Tucker Carlson appeared first on Granite Grok.