Freedom not the only thing that isn't free Nov 18, 2009
But the political cartoon on the Nov. 11 Juneau Empire opinion page, showing Uncle Sam thanking veterans in front the a wall with the names on many countries inscribed on it, should remind us that not only is freedom not free, but neither are imperialism, neo-colonialism, protection of the interests of capital abroad, energy dependence, maintenance of global dominance and militarism, which we all too often were serving while we thought we were serving freedom. This veteran could not help seeing... (Juneau Empire)
14,700 US tax cheats pay up Nov 18, 2009
More than 14,700 Americans hoarding untaxed cash in offshore banks have agreed to disclose and split billions of their secret booty with Uncle Sam to stay out of jail ... More than 14,700 Americans hoarding untaxed cash in offshore banks have agreed to disclose and split billions of their secret booty with Uncle Sam to stay out of jail. (New York Post -- Business)
It's BofA-foonery! Nov 18, 2009
When hit with questions aimed at addressing allegations BofA might have threatened to walk away from its deal to buy Merrill Lynch in order to strong-arm Uncle Sam into forking over billions to complete the merger, Moynihan served up rambling responses that left some House members baffled ... When hit with questions aimed at addressing allegations BofA might have threatened to walk away from its deal to buy Merrill Lynch in order to strong-arm Uncle Sam into forking over billions to complete the... (New York Post -- Business)
Enemy of the State Nov 17, 2009
As important as such material is, much of it can be found elsewhere albeit not so succinctly and cogently argued in studies by the Cato Institute and other think tanks with an eye on Uncle Sam s spending habits and urge to meddle. Against Leviathan s last two sets of chapters, however, present rather more original matter surprisingly, most of it in the form of book reviews. (The American Conservative)
Clothing the rebellious soul Nov 17, 2009
One poster shows small men hatching out of numbered eggs, only to look up in terror as a giant Uncle Sam hand reaches to grab them. Another poster jokingly offers an all-expenses paid vacation to Vietnam, Cambodia and Laos with free clothing and room. (GW Hatchet, Washington DC)
A Stimulus Success: Build America Bonds Are Working Nov 17, 2009
The higher payments don't hurt the finances of the local government, because Uncle Sam is picking up the difference. The higher yields of BABs have made muni bonds more attractive to pension funds and other nonprofit (i. (Time.com)
Audit: Federal credit will cause trouble for taxpayers Nov 17, 2009
Tax experts say the blunder means Uncle Sam will want some money back from millions of taxpayers. "What's happening here is people have gotten more benefit from the credit than they're due," Freeman explained. (WSJA.com, AL)
Danny Henley: Dont forget a gift for your favorite uncle Nov 17, 2009
Among that crowd is at least one uncle - Uncle Sam. With the national debt at $7. (Belmont Citizen Herald, MA)
Answer Desk: Who needs overpaid bankers? Nov 16, 2009
This at a time when Goldman Sachs reportedly is ready to divvy up $23 billion in bonuses and amid word that Bank of America CEO Ken Lewis abruptly resigned because he just couldn't take having Uncle Sam as a boss after $25 billion in taxpayer funds kept his bank afloat. The leaders of these giant corporate welfare recipients have been arguing that they need to pay managers of government-owned banks and other bailout beneficiaries extremely well to compete for their talents in the cutthroat... (MSNBC -- Business)
Containing China is bad, weird advice Nov 16, 2009
A former Japanese Prime Minister once opted in India to form an "arc of freedom" in Asia-Pacific to circle China; and lately, an aging politician in Singapore dangled the "warning" in a speech in the United States that if China's rising military and economic might were not "balanced" by America, Uncle Sam may risk losing its global leadership. It is an untenable allegation that China is not ready or willing to assume responsibility for managing the international system. (People's Daily Online, China)
Payback for GM Nov 16, 2009
" The Wall Street Journal, also working on information from a single unnamed source, calculates that as early as next month it would pay back the entire loan by mid-2011. "But in a move that could be controversial and risky, the car maker plans to use other money it received from the government to pay back the borrowing," the newspaper adds. Still, some in-flows are sorely needed for indebted Uncle Sam these days. And, well before Washington ever expected them too. "GM did not have to pay back... (Slate)
Bank of temerity Nov 16, 2009
Investigators are poring over fresh evidence they say suggests Bank of America strong-armed Uncle Sam into ponying up billions in taxpayer support, using as leverage the threat of nixing its merger with Merrill Lynch ... " mark.decambre@nypost.com email Investigators are poring over fresh evidence they say suggests Bank of America strong-armed Uncle Sam into ponying up billions in taxpayer support, using as leverage the threat of nixing its merger with Merrill Lynch. Government officials say the... (New York Post -- News)
Murphy visits Greene County, chats with residents Nov 16, 2009
"2nd Amendment Rights were addressed. "If I'm good enough to carry (a gun) for Uncle Sam I'm good enough to carry one at home," said Bruce Knox, a veteran and lifelong resident of Ashland."I'm a strong supporter of the right to keep and bear arms," Murphy responded, while acknowledging the issue is complex. "There are a lot of responsible gun owners and gun dealers out there. "This breaks down to a rural and urban issue. It is a different experience for those of us living in rural areas.... (Catskill Daily Mail, NY)
Feds are planning to take the (650) Fifth Nov 13, 2009
According to an amendment to a lawsuit Uncle Sam first filed last year, the feds are seeking forfeiture of more than $500 million in assets owned by the Muslim non-profit organization founded by the Shah of Iran, including the Razi School in Queens and properties in Maryland, California and Houston, some of which may be mosques ... According to an amendment to a lawsuit Uncle Sam first filed last year, the feds are seeking forfeiture of more than $500 million in assets owned by the Muslim... (New York Post -- News)
The Palin Persuasion Nov 13, 2009
In another, he's portrayed as an unruly little boy showing off the ugly contraption he's built--the populist Democratic party--to a worried Uncle Sam. When the Reagan era rolled around, the Gipper's conservative supporters were "right-wing extremists" engaged in a racist "backlash." Later, "angry white men" brought Newt Gingrich to power in the 1994 Republican Revolution. (CBS News -- Opinion)
Stock questions? Ask Matt Nov 13, 2009
You can also import your tax data into Intuit's TurboTax tax-preparation software when it comes time to pay Uncle Sam. Quicken is packaged software, which will cost you about $50 a copy. (USA Today -- Money)
Leland Thompsons military service during WW II recounted by his brother Nov 13, 2009
In fact, some of them didnt even make it to graduation before being called up by Uncle Sam. Others chose to quit school and sign up, not waiting for Uncle Sams call. (Keokuk Daily Gate City, IO)
VICKERS/A great mistake Nov 12, 2009
When Uncle Sam pointed a finger in my direction and said, "I need you," I left this house to serve two years with the Army during the Korean Conflict. As time went by, Sister and I married and brought our families to the home place. (Philadelphia Neshoba Democrat, MS)
Ad firms ask feds' help with GM bills Nov 12, 2009
Ad-production firms are protesting GM's onerous payment terms and are calling on Uncle Sam -- the car company's majority owner -- to intervene ... Ad-production firms are protesting GM's onerous payment terms and are calling on Uncle Sam -- the car company's majority owner -- to intervene. (New York Post -- Business)
Feds may change tactics after Bear Nov 12, 2009
When it comes to nailing Wall Street's bad actors, Uncle Sam may soon decide it's better off taking the civil approach ... When it comes to nailing Wall Street's bad actors, Uncle Sam may soon decide it's better off taking the civil approach. (New York Post -- Business)
Call Joe Lieberman's Bluff On Ft. Hood Nov 12, 2009
Uncle sam bears half of the burden of the murdered soldiers, the grief and loss of the families. This piece of dreck is an insult to them and to America. (CBS News)
'They treated us like royalty' Nov 11, 2009
They treated us like royalty' - OregonLive. Sign in to OregonLive. (OregonLive, OR -- News)
Terms of contracts should have been set up prior Nov 11, 2009
However, if Uncle Sam was clear regarding the terms of these loans, why is there any discussion about it going on now. As a matter of contractual common sense, these executives should be thankful that they have jobs at all. (Lodi News Sentinel, CA)
His and Hers: Yuma veteran recalls time during service Nov 11, 2009
Clarinda joined while in her early 20s, after being laid off from a factory job in Rochester, N.Y. The message Uncle Sam Wants You was tempting to the unemployed woman looking for adventure. She walked into the recruiter s office and said I want to see the world. (Yuma Daily Sun, AZ)
Wall St. 1, US 0 Nov 11, 2009
Uncle Sam suffered a major setback yesterday when a federal jury in Brooklyn acquitted two former Bear Stearns hedge fund managers accused of lying to investors to cover up the 2007 meltdown of two funds widely viewed as triggering the financial crisis ... We didn't feel it was proven enough," she said. Meanwhile, after the verdict tears of joy were flowing on the defense side, as family and their lawyers celebrated with Wall Streeters. Tannin's lawyer, Susan Brune, openly wept after reading a... (New York Post -- News)
Obama appoints Rajiv Shah to head USAID Nov 11, 2009
With a budget of over $40 billion and nearly 2000 employees, USAID is an independent federal agency that is responsible for most US non-military foreign aid, virtually the developmental face of Uncle Sam. "The mission of USAID is to advance America's interests by strengthening our relationships abroad. Rajiv brings fresh ideas and the dedication and impressive background necessary to help guide USAID as it works to achieve this important goal," President Obama said while announcing Shah's... (India Times, India)
Reform to cost more than billed Nov 10, 2009
grizzdad wrote on Nov 9, 2009 3:51 PM:" I agree that the problem needs to be addressed. Healtcare has run amok in this country. So let's address the problem, not just load heaping piles of steaming govt. pork, social programs, and new regulations onto a system that is already broken. The idea that the govt. can "FIX" healthcare by taking over is laughable.The cost of this bill is now estimated by the CBO to be more like $1.2T for the first 10 years. Except nothing really happens for the first 5... (Logan Herald Journal, UT)
Decision reversible? Nov 8, 2009
But to get those larger payments now, you have to reimburse Uncle Sam. by Russ Wiles - Nov. 8, 2009 12:00 AM The Arizona Republic. (AZCentral -- Business)
I Like to Watch Nov 8, 2009
" When you can't rely on Uncle Sam to take care of you, you can always rely on Mom. Although this generation of American parents has taken a lot of flak for closely supervising their children (see: "helicopter parents"), the parenting model we hear most about is closer to that of northern European parents. Sure, kids may walk to school less often and have more supervision of their homework and scheduled activities, but the major goal of professional-class parents tends to be toward breeding... (Salon)
Pakistan: A write-off? Nov 8, 2009
Most Pakistanis blame Uncle Sam. Muhammad Tariq, a civil engineer in Islamabad, says half of Pakistans problems would automatically be resolved if it renounced US policies in the region. (India Times, India)
A Meaty Debate Nov 7, 2009
Doing so would save Uncle Sam at least $20 billion per year, according to a report by University of California, Davis Professor Daniel Sumner. Prices would change, but people would be able to start responding to the laws of supply and demand. (Townhall.com)
Citi to spin off Primerica Nov 7, 2009
" Citi received $45 billion in government bailout funds, and the banking company is 34 percent owned by Uncle Sam. Citi also received $300 billion in guarantees on some of its souring investments. Reuters and Bloomberg reported the deal could net the financial services conglomerate $100 million immediately. Analysts have said Primerica could have a starting value of $1.6 billion. All shares sold will be sold by Citi, and the lumbering financial will receive all proceeds from the IPO, the company... (San Jose Business Journal, CA)
Reform efforts need to bare teeth Nov 7, 2009
So instead of being the last, best hope for a failing firm, Uncle Sam will be put in the role of pulling the financial plug on a financial institution on life support. But is it the government's real role to decide which company should be put out of its misery and which one is worth saving. (Daytona Beach News Journal -- Local)
FDA launches its attack on cigarettes Nov 7, 2009
Uncle Sam wants his tax money. Keep cranking up the taxes and people will just smuggle them into this country like dope. (Atlanta Journal-Constitution -- Opinion)
* Risk of conflict in Taiwan Strait reduced: US admiral Nov 6, 2009
TARGETING UNCLE SAM: The US top military officer said China was developing military technologies focused on US capabilities, particularly aircraft carriers By William Lowther STAFF REPORTER , WASHINGTON Friday, Nov 06, 2009, Page 3. The US top military officer, Admiral Michael Mullen, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, said on Wednesday that tensions between China and Taiwan had gone down in recent months and that he believed the danger of armed conflict had been reduced. (Taipei Times, Taiwan -- World Business)
They want YOU at Uncle Sam exhibit Nov 6, 2009
Detail of a newspaper containing an advertisement from Samuel Wilson and his brother, from 1809, to be hung in the new Uncle Sam exhibit at the Rensselaer County. Detail of a painting by George Gray, circa 1937, depicting Uncle Sam Wilson as a meat packer, to be part of an Uncle Sam exhibit at the Rensselaer County Historical ... Detail of a framed recruiting poster signed by the artist, depicting Uncle Sam to be hung in the new Uncle Sam exhibit at the Rensselaer County Historical Society. (Albany Times Union)
Ford Says (Mostly) 'No' to Washington -- And Wins Nov 6, 2009
The good news is in: Free enterprise can generate a turnaround without assistance from Uncle Sam. All government needs to do is get out of the way. (Human Events Online)
Police and protesters clash violently in Tehran Nov 5, 2009
" onclick="Next();" src="/images/butt_next. " When they refused to disperse, police moved in with batons, beating and arresting dozens of people as groups of pro-government hardliners stood by chanting "Death to America. (Channelnewsasia.com)
Overstimulated Nov 5, 2009
Thanks to the federal tax credit to buy high-mileage cars that was part of President Obama's stimulus plan, Uncle Sam is now paying Americans to buy that great necessity of modern life, the golf cart. The federal credit provides from $4,200 to $5,500 for the purchase of an electric vehicle, and when it is combined with similar incentive plans in many states the tax credits can pay for nearly the entire cost of a golf cart. (The American Conservative)
* Iranians mark 30th anniversary of embassy siege Nov 5, 2009
They also smashed up posters of the US Uncle Sam symbol and chanted the blood in our veins is a gift to our leader X a reference to Iranian supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. The crowd swelled as more people arrived on foot and by bus, witnesses said. (Taipei Times, Taiwan -- World Business)
Legalize marijuana and watch Palm Beach County get a new groove Nov 5, 2009
I am NOT a pot smoker and Uncle Sam is one of my employers, if Florida legalized pot I still would not be allowed to use it but I do not understand why people are against legalizing it. I do believe it is much less harmful than alcohol, and I believe an employer should hold the right to discriminate against pot smokers. (The Palm Beach Post)
Hudson: Tax increase a safer bet for revenue than casino gambling Nov 5, 2009
By law the state cannot run a deficit budget as our Uncle Sam is so wont to do. So here s my proposal. (Dover Sherborn Tab, MA)
Fresh protests in Tehran Nov 5, 2009
They also smashed up posters they had brought with them of the American "Uncle Sam" symbol and chanted: "The blood in our veins is a gift to our leader" a reference to Iranian supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. By mid-afternoon the streets of Tehran were calm again as people who took part in the various rallies and protests went home, witnesses said. (iAfrica.com)
Protesters return to streets of Tehran Nov 5, 2009
Witnesses said they also tore up Uncle Sam posters and chanted ''the blood in our veins is a gift to our leader'' - a reference to the country's Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. About a kilometre away at Haft-e-Tir square, riot police armed with batons and firing tear gas moved in as several hundred opposition supporters tried to stage an anti-Government protest. (Sydney Morning Herald -- World)
Developer Seeks Rent Subsidies for Project Nov 4, 2009
"If a person can't rent property, should Uncle Sam be shelling out money to make ends meet?" Overschmidt said. "I don't like subsidized housing.". (Missourian Publishing, MO)
Reader's plan KOd Nov 4, 2009
Reader's Digest Association's bankruptcy reorganization plan doesn't suit Uncle Sam ... Reader's Digest Association's bankruptcy reorganization plan doesn't suit Uncle Sam. (New York Post -- Business)
$5.5M to fund new gym Nov 4, 2009
A windfall of interest-free bond money from Uncle Sam will give Wetumpka High a new gymnasium and add six classrooms at Holtville and Eclectic elementary schools. The Alabama Department of Education allocated Elmore County more than 5. (Wetumpka Herald, AL)
Former Planned Parenthood Director Telling Fishy Story Nov 4, 2009
Originally they did it to ethnically cleanse the US of blacks, hispanics, and other "lower races." Now they do it for that reason (black babies are 3 times more likely to be killed by abortion than white babies), but also because Uncle Sam gives them $300 million a year. They support Universal Health Care because they are going to be chosen to be the "group with experience in teen sexual health". (Slate)
Simpson cosponsors tax bill Nov 3, 2009
"Throughout their lives, people pay sales tax, property tax, and income tax on their assets. Paying Uncle Sam again should not be part of the grieving process." The death tax accounts for less than one percent of the federal budget, but almost one-third of business owners are forced to sell their businesses or liquidate a portion of their assets to pay death taxes. Far from benefiting only the richest citizens, the repeal of the death tax assists people such as farmers, ranchers, small business... (Pocatello Idaho State Journal, ID)
Down with Big Brother Nov 2, 2009
Examples of natural law might be: that life has challenges, pain can be a teacher, liberty requires people willing to take responsibility, power can very easily corrupt, giving is joyous when uncoerced, and whether you live on Uncle Sam s plantation by choice or force you are no less a slave. Human nature, economic law and natural law are as dependable as gravity. (Logan Herald Journal, UT)
We will pay for Fed's borrow short, lend long strategy Nov 1, 2009
You can call it Uncle Sam's big fat ARM. ... But while legions of homeowners are now prudently shifting back to the comfort and stability of 15- or 30-year fixed-rate mortgages, Uncle Sam 00004000 is doing just the opposite of the average Joe ... Intuitively, Americans understand how all of this will likely play out on Uncle Sam's books and on their own -- that's why demand for 30- and 15-year fixed-rate home loans nearly doubled compared to a year ago. (New York Post -- Business)
Ask the pilot Nov 1, 2009
I was told to "take it up with Uncle Sam," and issued an unfriendly command that I please move on. This disturbing exchange made me wonder. (Salon)
Is the SENTRI program only for those who work for the state, federal government, county, city, business owners from Mexicali and/or the rich? Nov 1, 2009
But if war breaks out and the drafts kicks in, Uncle Sam will want me to carry a granade launcher and go fight. I thought I was a risk. (El Centro Imperial Valley Press, CA)
Devouring the future Nov 1, 2009
As far as that printing press in the basement, it is illegal for you or me to print money, but Uncle Sam is free to do so whenever things get tight, and those presses are humming right now. The currency is legal, but it debases the value of the dollar, which is at an all-time low. (Braintree Forum, MA)
Calorie counts for Big Macs, vending machines... Oct 31, 2009
Health care bill: Calorie counts for Big Macs, vending machines - Glenn Thrush - POLITICO.com. Health care bill: Calorie counts for Big Macs, vending machines. (The Drudge Report)
Now what for the economy? More government stimulus? Oct 31, 2009
Much of that growth can be attributed to government spending, namely from Uncle Sam. But federal programs to encourage consumer spending on cars and houses are expiring. (Atlanta Journal-Constitution -- Business)
Work to rule Oct 31, 2009
Not so with deficit-laden Uncle Sam. So the question remains, how can the government get the workforce it deserves. (FCW.com)
Stealers In Coteau Oct 31, 2009
Concerned wrote on Oct 30, 2009 2:55 PM:" I live in Coteau too, and it is not just property getting stolen, I had a peeping tom at my house....caught him and gave him a warning....If I caught him again, I had a bullet with his name on it....people today just don't care! There is no respect for people, someone else's property, etc.this is what happened when Uncle Sam got involved and scared people from disciplining their children..put God back in our schools, especially in our families, and let... (New Iberia, LA)
BofA facing long struggle exiting TARP program Oct 31, 2009
If BofA were to pay Uncle Sam $45 billion today, it would still boast a total capital ratio of 13. 79%, a Tier 1 ratio of 9. (Charlotte Business Journal, NC)
Bank on a advance premiums for FDIC Oct 30, 2009
Even if the FDIC borrowed from Uncle Sam, bank premiums would eventually have to pay it back. It makes three years of advance insurance premiums seem not so bad. (Juneau Empire)
Obama's Achievements Oct 30, 2009
" To Factchecker wrote on Oct 26, 2009 4:39 AM:" To FactChecker:Auto workers at G M and Chrysler have NO incentive to be productive now that deep pockets Uncle Sam is in charge. How long has Am Track been in business. (New Iberia, LA)
US gasps at Hillary's charm offensive that leaves Pakistan stunned Oct 30, 2009
But despite the charm offensive heading into a potential PR disaster, the word in Washington is that Uncle Sam will continue to lavish more guns and butter on Pakistan, as it has done for decades, this time in the name of defeating terrorism. If anything, Pakistan's own angry counter-offensive is poised to yield an even bigger bonanza. (India Times, India)
AndyStaplesInside College Football Bryant and Bradford cases send message to prospects: turn pro. Oct 29, 2009
After Uncle Sam and Stafford's various representatives take their cuts, Stafford probably will be left with $20 million, which is his even if his knee explodes tomorrow and he never takes another snap. Presuming Stafford doesn't meet some up-and-coming Bernie Madoff, his children's children's children will be set for life. (SportsIllustrated.CNN)
GI Bill looking like an IOU Oct 29, 2009
Most universities require a student to pay tuition and fees up front, and turning in an IOU from Uncle Sam doesn't quite do the trick. When I received my first tuition bill in August and realized the VA had not yet paid for my tuition and fees (nor my book and living stipends), I frantically called the financial aid office trying to figure out what to do. (Juneau Empire)
Don’t hold your breath waiting for help from NATO Oct 29, 2009
RE (Page A5, Oct. 24): Unless our NATO allies commit to matching, soldier for soldier, the number of additional troops we may soon mistakenly deploy to Afghanistan, the broad support cited by NATO Secretary General Anders Fogh Rasmussen amounts to nothing more than holding Uncle Sam s coat while America does the fighting. Platitudes of European officials who, according to Defense Secretary Robert Gates, indicated they were thinking about, or were moving toward, increasing either their military... (Boston Globe -- Editorial)