I was disappointed that it didn't make it in the end, but I was impressed with what was accomplished with the time and resources available.

I wasn't very impressed with most of the field of candidates running for office last November (I guess that keeping an eye on our Capitol Critters will be on my '11 "to do" list).

My prognostications for '11?

With Michigan's economy swirling faster and faster around the drain, I fully expect more and more local politicians to be exploring for new and innovative ways to shake me down for more money.

One example: I fully expect to see groups like SEMCOG and the MML actively pushing for Prop A and Headlee to be "tweaked" so that gov't can collect more revenue.

Dove-tailing on that point, I also expect Gov. Snyder to sign off on that, or some other tax hike, to deal with the fiscal train wreck coming his way and fill that $1.6-billion hole.

On a state/nat'l level, with regards to Obamacare, I understand that AG Scheutte will be carrying on the legal fight against it. I have no reason to doubt his commitment to that end, but hearing about a ruling like this (from Virginia, no less), is really giving me cause for concern about what passes for "knowledgeable" people who supposedly have a handle on what the powers and duties of the federal government really are.

Nationally, even though Republicans have control of the House, I'm beginning get a stronger feeling that they have not learned their lessons on why they were kicked out in '06 & '08.

I, too, was very disappointed in our field of governor candidates and as I see Snyder in action before he is even emasiculated - I don't like what I see.  Michigan govt has so much complete total waste in it's halls and I don't see him addressing those issues and I don't think he is going to take on the unions.  So I think it is four years of ass kissing to get along and tax hikes to fork over to the cry babies.  Disgusting.

Fed elections were about what I expected and the establishment Republicans are doing as expected also.  Go along to get along.  We will see what the newbies bring - but I think a LOT more pressure needs to be applied from WE the people until they finally effin get it.  

My hopes for 2011 are not very encouraging unless our politicians figure out one simple thing.... STOP THE DAMN SPENDING!!!!  

My one wish for 2011 is that our new business thrives.

As a regular posting, but it shouldn't be considered an assignment..

There are a lot of reasons we write, but mostly it is to argue opinion, or at the very least try to influence it.  We present what we know as 'fact' and take our chances that we might embarrass ourselves, or possibly show a level of understanding that doesn't take in the big picture, yet we continue.  

Writing for me at least, is a pursuit of the truth.  Sometimes on reflection of the day's activities, or what might be happening around the state, or world, my 'opinions' can be challenged.  Either externally, or upon re-reading what I have just written. Its tough, but there have been times on here, where I felt I should comment on something, wound up spending a little time crafting my opinion into a 800 word story, then trashing it entirely because I didn't know jack of what I was talking about.

The comments by KG One and Granny are right in line with the type of commentary we would all like to see, but as postings.  The talent pool hanging around here is deep indeed, and the tidbits of personal take on the overall picture could keep us commenting for some time.  Further, there might be a gem or two of wisdom that could drive home some serious answers when Lansing re convenes.

People are paying attention to this site and your personal blogging efforts.  Funny how many people comment about RM, but are not posting.  They are reading and do have concerns of both positive and critical nature. It is affecting the way our work is done in the capitol, yet.. they do not comment HERE.