Here's a cogent piece from the Wall Street Journal on the subject of states that raise their top-tier income tax rates to balance their budgets or expand services. It doesn't seem to work, and this article does a pretty good job of explaining why.

It's true that high-tax states often have non-fiscal incentives for the rich to live there. They're ( Read more... )

I've been getting an unusually high number of cryptic sad posts on my friendslist. I'm never sure quite how to respond, in the moment, so I'll just put a general invitation out there:

I'm sometimes busy and sometimes free, but if you're feeling depressed, sad, anxious or similar, let me know. I will make time for you. I love being a shoulder to cry ( Read more... )

Ok, I haven't posted here for 4 months. Wow ( Read more... )

Obama's inaugural address was well-written. I didn't watch it, but I imagine it was well-spoken, as well. I don't plan to let a pretty face make me turn a blind eye to policies I disagree with, and a well-spoken opponent is worse than a bumbler. Still, there's something to be said for being represented to the world and to ourselves by a great ( Read more... )

Vote for Sherril Huff. No foolin ( Read more... )

I decided that this year I'm going to give gifts to charity in people's names instead of giving them knick-knacks or practical items. I'm trying to spread the love a little bit. Here's the four charities I've got so far--what other charities should I consider for my limited Christmas gift allowance?

Power Of Hope: Arts/Creativity based youth- ( Read more... )

I am neither gay nor a Mormon, but I've got plenty of both as friends, so this fight affects me personally and adversely. Here's my feelings on the matter, in succinct bullet form ( Read more... )

We did our standard "go around the table and say what we're thankful for" thing. My contribution ( Read more... )

Making your way in the world today takes everything you've got ( Read more... )

Some fiscal conservatives feel like they weren't given much of a choice this election. Check this out (OC register via realclearpolitics.com)

"The greatest dangers to liberty," wrote Justice Brandeis, "lurk in the insidious encroachment by men of zeal, well meaning but without understanding."

Now who does that remind you of?

Ha! Trick question! ( Read more... )