Well, When You Honestly Think About It . . .

 

This Remains Absolutely Unconscionable!

August 22, 2023:

Biden told Maui wildfire victims, “I almost lost my wife, my ’67 Corvette, and my cat” and “being out of our home for [the] better part of a year was difficult.”pic.twitter.com/DNY0Tyatg7

— RNC Research (@RNCResearch) August 31, 2023

Bidenomics? How's That Working Out For You?

 

WOW! Inside The Royal Yacht Britannia!

This was Queen Elizabeth's famed royal yacht, The Britannia, which she used for decades until it was eventually decommissioned. 

The Britannia traveled around the world many times and hosted numerous dignitaries and historical fugures. Today, it is a major tourist attraction in Edinburgh, Scotland. Here are some photos from our visit to the Britannia!

Van Drew To Murphy: Halt AC Illegal Alien Move

 

Support For NJ Offshore Windmills Collapses

 

Illegals To Be Housed In AC? 'Hell NO!'

New Jersey State Senator Vince Polistina criticized the Biden Administration for offering Atlantic City International Airport as a possible place to house NYC migrants.

Sen. Vince Polistina criticized the Biden Administration for offering Atlantic City International Airport as a possible place to house NYC migrants. (©iStock)

“My message to President Biden and NYC Mayor Adams is ‘hell no!’ Atlantic County residents shouldn’t be forced to pay the price for the Biden Administration’s disastrous handling of our border and the outrageous ‘Sanctuary’ state and city policies of Democrats in Washington, New York, Trenton and across the country,” said Polistina (R-2). “I call on Governor Murphy, and US Senators Booker and Menendez to join me in opposing this attempt to dump unvetted migrants at Atlantic City Airport—and spreading a humanitarian crisis they created to our backyard.”

Free Philly Concert Set For 'End Of Summer'

In collaboration with The South Street Headhouse District, The No Name Pops is pleased to announce presentation of a free, family-friendly “Summer Send Off’ concert with a Philadelphia theme at Headhouse Plaza, 2nd and South Streets, at 7:30 PM on September 9, 2023. The event marks the No Name Pop’s first full orchestra public performance, featuring former American Idol contestant LaKisha Jones. Conducted by Stuart Malina, Music Director of the Harrisburg Symphony, the orchestra will feature music by Whitney Houston, Tina Turner, and many of your Philly favorites.

For Matthew Koveal, The No Name Pops Executive Director since its formation just months ago, this concert marks more than the end of the summer: “Like the classic Philadelphia story, this concert celebrates the simple fact that everyone in this city has a chance to succeed.” He considers the September 9^th concert collaboration with The Headhouse District as “a thank you to South Street, and the people and institutions of Philadelphia. It is only because of their generosity that we have gotten this far, this fast and we dedicate this celebration to them.”  

Guests are encouraged to arrive early, grab dinner and shop before the performance at the Headhouse Plaza, 2nd and South Streets.. Bring lawn chairs, seats, or a picnic blanket to set up at 6:30 pm before the performance begins at 7:30pm. It’s recommended to park with TargetPark, featuring two conveniently located parking lots on the east end of South Street. TargetPark is located at 530 S. 2nd Street or 215 Lombard Street with entrances located on 3rd near South Street, and Lombard between 2nd and 3rd Streets.

About No Name Pops:

Since its May 2023 genesis, the No Name Pops, made up of many of the musicians formerly associated with the Philly Pops, has been busy performing over 15 free shows, engaging new audiences, and collaborating with groups and organizations, including The South Street Headhouse District, to keep the sound of symphonic pops music alive. And now, thanks to the generous support of these organizations, the No Name Pops has successfully booked a concert on October 28 at 3 and 8 p.m. at the Kimmel Cultural Campus’ Verizon Hall called Let’s Groove Tonight: Motown and The Philly Sound and contracted with the Philadelphia Orchestra/Kimmel Center to perform nine Christmas season concerts, celebrating a beloved holiday tradition. For tickets visit, www.kimmelculturalcampus.org. For more information, visit www.facebook.com/nonamepops . (The website is about to be launched.) 

About The South Street Headhouse District:

The South Street Headhouse District (SSHD) is a business improvement district, or BID, which aims to provide a safer, cleaner, & well-managed community for the benefit of local business owners, residents, and visitors of the South Street Area. The SSHD has a rich history that has revolved around providing public safety, sanitation, and other services in addition to the helpful services provided by the City of Philadelphia. Now, SSHD continues planning improvements in the urban area by developing and emphasizing the artistic and creative aesthetic within the dynamic and diverse business community. Located between Queen Village and Society Hill, the SSHD is one of the most visited tourist destinations in Philadelphia and is home to over 400 businesses. The Philadelphia Magic Gardens, Famous 4th Street Delicatessen, Philly AIDS Thrift, Repo Records, and the Historic Fabric Row are some of the many attractions that can be found in this area. Whether you are looking for a bite to eat, a new favorite spot to shop, or simply a chance to learn about the interesting history behind the area, the South Street Headhouse District has many opportunities for fun and exciting experiences. For more information, visit https://southstreet.com

Honestly, This Is Painful To Watch . . .

BREAKING: Republican Senator Mitch McConnell appears to have another medical emergency when he froze for nearly 30 seconds while speaking to reporters.

I speak for most Americans when I say it’s time for McConnell to resign.

Just last month, McConnell had a separate freezing… pic.twitter.com/ltz9Poj1wV

— Collin Rugg (@CollinRugg) August 30, 2023

Travels In Scotland: Seen On The Street

We had a great time during our recent journey through Scotland. Here are some candids that we managed to snap of people on the street!

HIGHLY Anticipated: Coming This Christmas!

It is the summer of 1957. Behind the spectacle of Formula 1, ex-racer Enzo Ferrari is in crisis. Bankruptcy threatens the factory he and his wife, Laura built from nothing ten years earlier. Their volatile marriage has been battered by the loss of their son, Dino a year earlier. Ferrari struggles to acknowledge his son Piero with Lina Lardi. Meanwhile, his drivers' passion to win pushes them to the edge as they launch into the treacherous 1,000-mile race across Italy, the Mille Miglia. In Theaters Christmas Directed by Michael Mann Written by Troy Kennedy Martin Starring Adam Driver, Penélope Cruz, Shailene Woodley, Sarah Gordon, Gabriel Leone, Jack O'Connell, Patrick Dempsey

The Curious Case Of The FORMER President

Barack Obama is PRESIDENT Obama.

George W, Bush is PRESIDENT Bush.

Bill Clinton is PRESIDENT Clinton.

Jimmy Carter is PRESIDENT Carter.

But as far as the media and the self-appointed intelligentsia are concerned Donald J. Trump is simply “the FORMER president.” For the most part he isn’t even “former President Trump." No, it’s simply (and almost always) the former president.

Hey, for all the trouble he got into (and as hated as he was by many) Richard Nixon was always President Nixon. And let’s not forget that Bill Clinton was impeached (the first elected president ever to be impeached) yet he was still accorded the presidential moniker. 

People of my parent’s generation positively hated Herbert Hoover, blaming him for the Great Depression. But till the end of his exceptionally long life he was always President Hoover. President Johnson? He was hardly a hero to my generation — the generation that bore the brunt of the Vietnam War — but he was President Johnson.  Harry Truman? He left office with one of the lowest approval ratings of any president up to that time but he was President Truman. The same could be said for President George H. W. Bush. And, of course, the title also remained with the martyred President Kennedy, the military hero President Eisenhower and even the unelected President Ford.

But this is not the case with the former president, often referred to as the controversial former president, the disgraced former president, the polarizing former president and now, the indicted former president.

Okay. He may be all of those things. But he was, and he remains, the 45th President of the United States duly elected by the people of the United States. Toqueville, a great political philosopher and student of  American democracy, called the President of the United States "the tribune of the people" because the president is the only official elected to represent  the people of every state. As such, the distinction and the title remain with the person elected to the office.

So it’s now time for everyone, out of a sense of simple decency and common respect, to call the 45th President of the United States PRESIDENT TRUMP. 

That’s what we do here —always. That’s what we’ll continue to do and what you should do as well!

Buckle Up, America; We’re Gonna Get Through This

America is going through a sort of collective nervous breakdown right now. Of course, it’s largely driven by politics. But there are other factors as well: history, ideology, culture, demographics and complicated social fissures.

And literally everything feels upside down or the reverse of what it ought to be. For example, just look at the political parties: the traditional party of the working class is now the party of socio-economic elites while the party that was always thought to represent the well-to-do is now the party of working people.

And now we face an historically unprecedented situation with the leader of the political opposition being arrested and threatened with jail. And it makes you wonder whether we will ever recover from this or whether we are headed toward some type o doomsday.

While things might seem terribly grim, we’re going to get through this. And, like they say — the way around is through, So, we’ve got to work our way through it and we will. We will go through this upcoming political campaign and the right person will emerge — someone who will capture the public’s imagination and show the way forward. It won’t be easy. It will be noisy, anguished and full of upheaval. But we’re going to come out the other side of this. And, God willing, we will be better for it!

For The Whales, We Should Hold Them Accountable!

By Brian Thomas reprinted with permission from Save Jersey

The winds, they are changing; however, there is a foul stench in the air which if you follow, it will lead you directly to the halls of the New Jersey State House. The stench stems from the ever-growing dead bodies of whales and dolphins which had their lives cut short due to the irresponsible actions of the members of the Legislature who sold out our coastlines, oceans, beaches, and more for the promise of foreign “green” energy dollars associated with wind turbine projects.

Yet, this unfortunate tale of greed truly began in 2021. You see, while most of us were consumed with all the ongoings surrounding COVID-19, New Jersey State Senators and Assemblymembers passed a law along party lines revoking local authorities from having a say when it comes to wind turbine projects off the Jersey Shore. Essentially, our “leaders” in Trenton knowingly and wrongfully sought to silence the voices of towns and their residents before projects even commenced. A dark foreshadowing of what carnage was to come.

Fast forward to when wind companies began deploying acoustic sonar mapping ships. These ships use a type of sound to map the seafloor to gauge the sediment of the oceans prior to hammering monopole structures for wind turbines. The correlation to when these acoustic mapping ships started operations and the first deceased marine mammals being found is, some may say, more than coincidental.

How is there a possible connection? Well, marine mammals such as whales, dolphins, orcas, and porpoises (etc.) are echolocation-based ocean animals. Meaning, they rely heavily on their ears to judge depth, hunt, and communicate. Unlike other marine animals, echolocation-based mammals’ survival is grounded on their natural sonar capabilities. Any disruption to their natural sonar by manmade sonars can be devastating.

To illustrate further, the sounds from sonar mapping ships can drive into marine mammals’ ears, causing eruptions to occur and severe, debilitating injuries. To draw a comparison, imagine attending a heavy metal concert where you stood near a 7ft speaker for hours on end. The damage caused to your eardrums would be debilitating, wreaking havoc on your equilibrium. Now assume you are a whale or dolphin, who is having the same happen to them each day. I’ll let you make your own conclusions.

A common rebuttal to this possibility, popular among state politicians who voted in favor of “big wind,” is that these animals show no significant damage to their sonar-based ears and that the cause of death is likely from boat strikes. They would have you believe that animals, which have lived for centuries alongside commercial shipping lanes, are now just happening to find themselves swimming into propellers of massive cargo ships.

Sounds ridiculous, no? That’s because it is false and a means for them to suppress the nature of their voting records since they know how bad this has become. They are the ones spreading “misinformation,” not those who object to wind turbines and here is why.

One of the first body parts that deteriorate postmortem of whales and dolphins (etc.) is their ears. This was stated to me directly from NOAA officials. If that is the case, how can they justify saying there is no evidence? Also, in the partial inner ears that have not completely disintegrated, some of these animals have shown inner ear damage.

Concerning boat strikes… if you have ever had the misfortune of having an ear infection or eardrum damage, you know all too well how your equilibrium is disturbed. You become uncontrollably unbalanced, lose focus, and can become disoriented.

Now imagine the same devastating impact occurring to an aquatic animal, whose sole survival rests on the proper functioning of their ears and equilibriums to survive. Becoming permanently or even partially disoriented can have devastating effects, including possibly swimming too close to ships.

In the end, no matter what you believe is happening, a lot of this combativeness could have been avoided if New Jersey Legislators in Trenton showed any regard for those they represent. This is not the first time they have acted in total disregard for the towns and people they took an oath to safeguard.

It is a constant – passing budgets in the middle of the night or waiting until July 4^th weekend to give big wind a billion-dollar tax incentive. Then telling residents that they believe “misinformation” and showing utter disregard for us when the public dares to challenge their decisions.

But really, we as New Jersey residents must do a better job of calling into question motives, votes, and actions by these “leaders.” If we do not start to pay more attention to what is going on, then things will only continue to get worse. 

In Case You Missed It: Scandalous NJEA!

Who works for who in the NJEA? https://t.co/0vn15gHtJ3 pic.twitter.com/fi1XjFWGKy

— Jack Ciattarelli (@Jack4NJ) August 18, 2023

The Shame Of A City Gone Under . . .

Once again time to post what @PhillyMayor hides from the public but every tourist should go on tour. Of how our leadership runs our city. Takes care of our city. We have hundreds of millions but not a cent or plan to address it. pic.twitter.com/zd9tSiFre1

— PhillyFails (@FailsPhilly) August 18, 2023

A Momentous Event In US History, Preserved!

Nearly 260 years ago!

 

It's About Time SOMEBODY Told Him!

Larry Elder hit Charlamagne with a headshot on The Breakfast Club by bringing up Joe Bidenpic.twitter.com/O7r8Bgn3CX

— Anthony Brian Logan (ABL) 🇺🇸 (@ANTHONYBLOGAN) August 18, 2023

Are You Old Enough To Remember HER?

Her hit songs include "Where the Boys Are," "Don’t Break the Heart That Loves You," "Lipstick On Your Collar," "My Happiness, "Stupid Cupid," "Who's Sorry Now" and "Mama" and they are still being played today. It's New Jersey native Concetta Rosa Maria Franconero, otherwise knows as Connie Francis, the singing sensation of the 1950s and 60s. She's 85 now!

Our Travels Take Us To . . . SCOTLAND!

If you’ve been with us on the Dan Cirucci blog these past 15 years you’ve followed us to Australia, New Zealand, Alaska, Canada, Iceland, Russia, Greenland, Norway, France, Italy, Austria, Hungary, Spain, Portugal, England, Ireland the Czech Republic, Poland, Slovenia, Greece and so many other places. Now, we’re in Scotland — a place we’ve long wanted to visit. And we’re having a wonderful time with a great group of people assembled by Tauck Tours. Here are some photos we’ve taken of this beautiful section of the world!If you’ve been with us on the Dan Cirucci blog these past 15 years you’ve followed us to Australia, New Zealand, Alaska, Canada, Iceland, Russia, Greenland, Norway, France, Italy, Austria, Hungary, Spain, Portugal, England, Ireland the Czech Republic, Poland, Slovenia, Greece and so many other places. Now, we’re in Scotland — a place we’ve long wanted to visit. And we’re having a wonderful time with a great group of people assembled by Tauck Tours. Here are some photos we’ve taken of this beautiful section of the world!

Don't Let THIS Happen To The Jersey Shore!

HORRIFYING!

 

Lawlessness In Democrat Cities? It's EPIDEMIC!

A mob of baby-faced teens attacks random cars in traffic in Philadelphia. Welcome to the new normal. pic.twitter.com/T8NdLxLVGy

— Catch Up (@CatchUpFeed) August 15, 2023

Now, The Unthinkable Has Become . . . THINKABLE?

 

‘Sex Ed Camp’ For Kids With $$$ Incentive!

OMG, Philly! This Is Absolute INSANITY!

Your eyes don’t deceive you these are PPD officers forced to stand guard in Kensington while people shoot up next to them. If they were to arrest anyone here the cops would get in trouble!!! This is the insanity that’s Kensington pic.twitter.com/3pvZYxh6gi

— Sgt. Mark Fusetti (Retired) (@MarkFusetti) August 17, 2023

Just Arrived In Glasgow: First Round, Street Photos!

They Suck Up To Him: THIS Is What They Get!

"Can you tell us about your Hawaii trip, sir?"

BIDEN: "No" pic.twitter.com/ok4wrelK0q

— RNC Research (@RNCResearch) August 17, 2023

Well, This Sounds About Right To Us . . .

 

That Rutgers Covid Vaccine Mandate? It's Ludicrous!

New Jersey State Senator Declan O’Scanlon sharply criticized Rutgers ongoing COVID vaccine mandate as being out of step with science and logic following news that Rutgers University is continuing to require students to provide proof of immunization from COVID-19 or face possible dis-enrollment from the school.

Sen. Declan O’Scanlon sharply criticized Rutgers ongoing COVID vaccine mandate as being out of step with science and logic. (SenateNJ.com)

“It’s baffling to see that from what should be a leading voice of science-based rationality, comes arbitrary garbage,” said O’Scanlon (R-13). “We now know for an absolute fact that the COVID vaccine protects no one except the recipient of the vaccine. Broad-based policies like this should only be enacted with the goal of protecting individuals from someone else’s action or inaction. It’s not the job of Rutgers, or Governor Murphy, or anyone else to enact a policy to protect me from myself and my own decisions– or from some perceived protection of my own self due to my own decisions.”

Rutgers was the first university in the nation to require their students to be vaccinated from COVID-19, according to a Rutgers press release.

“Further highlighting this absurdity and inconsistency is that Rutgers is mandating the primary vaccine series but not mandating boosters. It’s a ludicrous policy; any benefit there might have been from the initial vaccine has long since waned in the face of continuously evolving strains.” O’Scanlon continued. “We are all very likely being exposed to COVID on a regular basis, in some form, just by virtue of interacting with people. It is extremely probable that no one who has been out and about in society in any way over the course of the last 3 years hasn’t been exposed to COVID—and doesn’t have some level of natural immunity. Evidence of how ludicrous this policy is just keeps piling on.”

Although the federal government made the long-awaited announcement that the public health emergency was over months ago, Rutgers University still requires students to provide proof of immunization to attend classes.

“Rutgers students who don’t want to get the vaccine for whatever reason should be allowed to not get the vaccine and still attend college– that should absolutely be no business of irrational Rutgers administrators,” O’Scanlon concluded. “Good job Rutgers for putting another stake in the heart of the credibility of institutions of higher education and the greater health policy community. Maybe the good news is that there’s so little credibility left the net result isn’t impacted that much by this ludicrous mandate.”

'No Name Pops?' Here's What It's All About!

Let’s Groove Tonight: Motown and The Philly Sound! is the first Kimmel Center concert performed by the No Name Pops, composed of the former musicians of the Philly POPS. It will take place on October 28 at 3 and 8 p.m. in Verizon Hall. Ticket prices begin at $41 and are available kimmelculturalcampus.org.

 

Conductor Herb Smith leads the full No Name Pops orchestra featuring special guests Chester Gregory, who played the role of Berry Gordon in Broadway’s “Motown the Musical”, Brik.Liam, and Ashley Jayy. Titled Let’s Groove Tonight: Motown and The Philly Sound, this symphonic experience presents Motown, Soul, R&B, as well as the famous hits of the Philly Sound with classic songs by artists like The Spinners, The Temptations, Marvin Gaye, Diana Ross, Gamble & Huff, and The O’Jays. Some of the songs included will be “Me and Mrs. Jones” sung by Billy Paul, Gamble & Huff’s “Ain’t No Stoppin’ Us Now”, “Hurt so Bad” recorded by Little Anthony and Diana Ross’ “I’m Coming Out.” 

 

Matthew Koveal, Executive Director of No Name Pops, is thrilled to present this concert in Verizon Hall at the Kimmel Center and is appreciative of the tremendous support they have received since the orchestra launched in May 2023. He said, “Philadelphia deserves pops orchestral music in a straightforward, enjoyable experience. The name "No Name Pops" signifies the absence of musical limitations and obstacles in our pursuit of collaborating with all artists. This approach ensures that our exceptional art form remains accessible to everyone. Our commitment is underlined by the series of free concerts we've organized in various neighborhoods.

 

The musicians, represented by Jon Fink, cellist and founding board member of No Name Pops, have a mutual dedication to the music. Fink said, “We believe that our great city should have Pops music, so we came together to form the No Name Pops and provide this style of music to Philadelphia.” Councilmember Mark Squilla shared his appreciation of this new orchestra saying, “I am excited to have No Name Pops bring pops orchestral music to Philadelphia. I look forward to seeing them at their free performances on South Street, and then again at their first performance at the Kimmel Center. Let the music continue."

ABOUT CONDUCTOR HERB SMITH:

Smith is widely known in both the classical and jazz worlds as an exciting performer who inspires musicians and audiences wherever he goes. Whether he is performing, conducting, teaching or composing, his expression of music draws from his multifaceted and dynamic musical experiences from around the world.

                   

A regular guest conductor with the Rochester

Philharmonic Orchestra, Smith frequently conducts the Symphoria orchestra based in Syracuse, NY and currently directs the Eastman Youth Jazz Ensemble. He also guest conducts for All-State and All-County Bands, Orchestras and Jazz Ensembles across New York State. He recently conducted and curated a Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra Brass performance of Copland’s “Fanfare for the Common Man” at a Black Lives Matter rally and a concert honoring Harriet Tubman.

 

An acclaimed trumpeter, Smith was recently voted “Best Instrumentalist” of Rochester 2022 by City Magazine, and he currently holds the third trumpet position in the Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra and the principal trumpet position in the Gateways Festival Orchestra which made their Carnegie Hall debut in April 2022.

 

ABOUT CHESTER GREGORY:

Chester Gregory is an award-winning singer and actor. He was last seen starring in “Motown The Musical” as Berry Gordy. He was also in Broadway’s “Hairspray”, “Tarzan”, “Cry-Baby” and “Sister Act”. Other credits include August Wilson's “Fences” and “Two Trains Running”. Gregory has toured nationally with “Dreamgirls”, “Sister Act” as well as his one-man show “The Eve of Jackie Wilson”. The recipient of many awards, Gregory is honored to have received the Jeff Award and a NAACP Theatre Award, and has been presented the key to the city of his hometown of Gary, Indiana and in East Chicago. He has also been chosen as an Honorary State Representative of Indiana and has received an Honorary Doctorate from his alma mater Columbia College Chicago. He is currently producing several projects and recordings. 

ABOUT BRIK.LIAM:

An actor and singer, Brik.Liam has released many albums including an EP “What’s the Matter, Brik”, has performed with some of the industry's brightest talent, and showcased his music across the globe from London to Russia and the Republic of Congo. He has toured the United States as an opening performer for Grammy winning artist PJ Morton during the 2018 More Gumbo tour as well as the 2019 Paul Tour. Brik.Liam is committed to creating and presenting new, impactful music and visual work to match. Audiences will appreciate his talent to fuse classic soul vibes like the sound of Marvin Gaye with the urban contemporary music fans are accustomed to today.

ABOUT ASHLEY JAYY:

Ashley Jayy is a highly sought-after singer, writer, and vocal arranger. Born and raised in Portland, under the influence of her musically inclined father, she was destined to sing the songs that resonate with the soul. With internationally renowned mentors like Prince who taught her the importance of using music to talk about the world, purpose and humanity through art to Jennifer Lopez’s music director who believed in her great potential as an artist, Jayy’s confidence grew.

 

As a young person she won the youth division of the 2006 McDonald’s Gospel Fest in Seattle and later she competed at the legendary Apollo Theater in New York. In 2017, she released a harmonizing video with R&B singer Tank that went viral. Her popularity on social media has given Ashley Jayy the opportunity to work with legends from Tank, Monica, Tevin Campbell, PJ Morton, Focus… and more.

 

 

About The No Name Pops

Founded in 2023, the No Name Pops is a new, versatile ensemble composed of the former musicians of the Philly Pops with a mission to deliver authentic, exceptional musical experiences in Philadelphia. Drawing from Philly’s rich symphonic pops legacy, the orchestra melds tradition with an innovative approach unbound by musical genre for concert experiences that will entertain and empower the entire community.

The No Name Pops continues Philly’s long tradition of symphonic pops performance with no nonsense and no musical bounds. The musicians bring their wide-ranging experience and passion for music to create performances that have audiences standing on their feet and dancing in the aisles. Because music should be accessible for all, and in all places - not just the concert hall, the No Name Pops provides free concerts throughout the region and has been invited to perform in a variety of venues. The goal is to engage new audiences, build bridges and break barriers contributing a unique voice to the soundtrack of Philadelphia life. The upcoming No Name Pops orchestra series at the Kimmel Center is an exciting partnership that showcases the staggering legacy of the musicians. With guest artists and innovative programming, they present an incomparable musical experience that transcends genre and venue. 

Tickets for October 28 are available at the Kimmel Cultural Campus or by calling Ticket Philadelphia at 215-893-1999. 

The Real Meaning (And Cost!) Of Bidenomics!

A 30-year fixed mortgage payment on a $410,000 home was $1,358/mo in August 2021. Today, it's $2,202/mo.

Bidenomics! pic.twitter.com/XrWUAKASVn

— RNC Research (@RNCResearch) August 17, 2023

Oh My, Has It Really Come To THIS?

 

VIDEO: Hey, Does Anybody Remember THIS?

The moment CBS broke the news on Election Night that a “pipe burst” at State Farm Arena, “pausing” the vote count in Fulton County, GA.
pic.twitter.com/940misUKuM

— Elevator Charles 🛗 (@coopsimms) August 16, 2023

The Fall Of A Great American City?

 

Hmmm . . .Where Do You Want Us To Begin, Joe?

Biden, on the second anniversary of his botched Afghanistan withdrawal:

"Name me a single objective we've ever set out to accomplish that we've failed on! Name me one!" pic.twitter.com/7v5faTFddv

— RNC Research (@RNCResearch) August 16, 2023

SCANDALOUS Doesn't Begin To Describe It!

 

Actually, In Many States It's Over $4.00!

 

You Decide: Is This Kinda Creepy, Or What?

BIDEN: "I wanna say one thing to your children. I know some really great ice cream places around here and daddy owes you, so talk to me afterwards." pic.twitter.com/fSxmDVb6pp

— RNC Research (@RNCResearch) August 16, 2023

Let Minds Wander; Give Kids Unstructured Time!

 

An 'Historic Investment' In NJ Shore Towns!

Legislation prime-sponsored by New Jersey Senator Michael Testa and co-sponsored by Senator Vince Polistina that would establish a Boardwalk Preservation Fund to construct, repair, and maintain boardwalks and structures throughout the state’s coastal communities was signed into law today.

Legislation prime-sponsored by Sen. Michael Testa and co-sponsored by Sen. Vince Polistina establishing the Boardwalk Preservation Fund was signed into law today. (©iStock)

“Boardwalks are an economic driver for New Jersey tourism and generate millions of dollars in revenue for the state. The signing of this legislation makes a historic investment to improve the infrastructure of these iconic attractions,” said Testa (R-1). “The establishment of the Boardwalk Preservation Fund will have a significant return on investment by bolstering tourist appeal and opening additional opportunities for businesses to generate revenue. Most importantly, this fund will help our shore town communities preserve the historical significance of these structures.”

Senator Testa’s bill, S-3989, establishes the Boardwalk Preservation Fund within the Department of Community Affairs (DCA) to award grants to municipalities and counties for the purpose of supporting boardwalk, ancillary, and appurtenant structure projects along the Shore. The bill utilizes American Rescue Plan COVID State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds and appropriates $100 million to the DCA to administer the fund.

Municipalities, counties, or a combination of both who are awarded grants through the DCA Boardwalk Preservation Fund would be required to make a contribution or expenditure no less than five percent of the project’s cost. Under the bill, grant applicants who make a contribution or expenditure greater than five percent would be given preference by the DCA.

A grant applicant that has one of the highest fifty distress scores on the 2020 Municipal Revitalization Index would not be required to make a contribution or expenditure under the bill.

“With the signing of this bill, we are making a monumental investment into our shore town communities which are the lifeblood of our tourism industry. The Boardwalk Preservation Fund will provide a significant boost to support the long-term economic success of the New Jersey Shore,” said Polistina (R-2). “Millions of people travel from all over the world to enjoy our historic boardwalks and beaches. This fund will help our shore towns preserve and maintain these popular tourist destinations by enabling them to construct and make necessary repairs to these critical structures and landscapes.” 

Hey, Does Anybody remember THIS?

 

It's Becoming Harder And Harder To Ignore!

 

Amidst Horrific Tragedy, Biden Seems Oblivious!

A wildfires raged in Maui amidst an inferno of devastation and a rising death count, Joe Biden spent 12 of the last 14 days in Delaware, mostly on the beach. While innocent people were immolated along one ocean, Joe Biden sat seemingly oblivious alongside another ocean.

When asked to comment on the rising death toll in Maui, Biden incredibly answered "no comment." Earlier, while taking a leisurely bike ride, Biden was asked to comment on the "devastation in Maui." He answered: "we're looking at it"

Over the same weekend Kamala Harris also spent her time seaside but she was in tony Martha's Vineyard hobnobbing with the glam set at a private $10,000 per person fund raiser.

And none of this is new. In fact, since taking office, Biden has spent 372 days — 39.7% of his presidency — on vacation. Yes, he's actually spent more than a year on vacation!

And Harris? Well, she hasn't done much of anything.

Bottom line: Pray for our country!

"Any comment on the rising death toll in Maui?"

BIDEN: "No. No comment." pic.twitter.com/oORpRuLUpz

— RNC Research (@RNCResearch) August 14, 2023

Biden again ignores questions as he takes a leisurely bike ride at the beach — despite multiple crises at home and abroad.

Today is Biden's 371st vacation day since taking office. pic.twitter.com/L1bau5GfEY

— RNC Research (@RNCResearch) August 13, 2023

Rating The GOP Presidential Candidates

With just 10 days to go before the first Republican presidential debate, we rate the prospects for the "noteworthy" (as listed by Ballotpedia) GOP presidential candidates. We can't guarantee all of them will make it into the debate but, anyway here are our ratings (on a scale of one to 10) listed in alphabetical order:

Doug Burgum: A self-funded billionaire who nobody knows. Does being Governor of North Dakota qualify you for anything? Did being Governor of Arkansas qualify Bill Clinton? 2.5

Chris Christie: Oh, c'mon. We can't rate Chris Christie. We love the guy and wish he was doing better in the polls. We can't be objective about Christie, but we will tell you this: we would never, ever count him out.

Ron De Santis: So much potential, and yet . . . He should have paid attention to the open letter we wrote him with lots of sound advice. There are still things he can do to turn this around but right now we can't rate him higher than a 5, and that's may even be generous.

Larry Elder: He failed in his bid to become Governor of California so, what's he doin' here? 2

Nikki Haley: We like her. But sometimes we think she simply tries too hard. Anyway, she's yet to really define herself and her campaign. 4

Will Hurd: Well, it's nice that he's from Texas. We like Texans. But other than that, we couldn't tell you much about this guy. 1

Asa Hutchinson: Here we go with a former Arkansas governor again. Is it something in the water in Arkansas or is it just the compelling desire to get the hell out of that state that drives these people. On top of all that, this guy's downright annoying. 2

Perry Johnson: Honestly, we thought his candidacy was some kind of gag -- 'ya know, like Deez Nuts and Pat Paulson (Remember him?) and the Naked Cowboy. But it seems this guy's actually running, sorta. 1

Mike Pence: We've got a framed autographed photo of Mike Pence. We're hoping titwill be valuable one day but we're not holding our breath. Ya can't be Trump's veep and his nemesis at the same time, right Mike? 4

Vivek Ramaswamy: Young, handsome, hugely successful, smart, articulate, largely self-funded. By all accounts, he's an American success story. And, his stock seems to be soaring which means the media will soon start looking for reasons to crush him. But he's remarkably adept and seems authentic. 7

Tim Scott: The most compelling life story of the whole lot. Plus, he's hugely likable, very human, caring, eminently decent and eloquent. Pay attention to this guy. 6

Corey Stapelton: A former Montana Secretary of State. Really? Generously, 1

Francis Suarez: The mayor of Miami. Hey, look: Miami ain't Noo Yawk. In fact it ain't even Chicago or LA. It's saucy, sensuous fun but there's a way more substantial candidate from Florida running. Sorry, 1

Donald Trump: The Big Kahuna. The Elephant in the Room. The Ferocious Phenom. He'll remain a Yooge Presence whether he participates in the debate or not. Smith, Bragg and Willis notwithstanding, right now, for better or worse, it's all about This Guy. It's still in his hands. 8.5