S: Is for the spiritual side of life

Believing is a law and there are two types: positive and negative, faith and fear. It is important to understand both for we live according to our belief. Our believing is the rudder on a ship. If we are positive; if we believe we will be supplied with all that we need, then we will go in that direction. If we are afraid that we will lose our livelihood or experience some calamity we will go down that river. Believing is a law and as such holds power. If we are afraid we will be defeated. The one thing that leads to defeat a is fear. We are more than conquerors, but if we are afraid, we cannot reap the benefits. We cannot tap into the resources that provided for us if we do not believe they exist. If we believe what are media says, if we buy into the fear thrown at us day by day, we will reap what is being planted. We exist because of our believing. We will be where we will be tomorrow because of our believing. "Fear is the believer's only enemy. Fear is sand in the machinery of life". We see this all around us. There are some people who just live their lives with all their needs met and all is well with them and they have these great attitudes. On the other hand, there are those that all you ever see is defeat in their lives and that all they ever talk about. They seem to be afraid of a variety of things. Instead of their lives running smoothly their lives progress like gears encrusted with sand. Believing is a law that works like gravity. If you drop something that is supposed to fall, it will fall. If you have faith or fear you will receive it. You either have confidence or doubt. You either trust or worry about the things of the world. Have confidence, which leads to trust which develops into faith and that is a comforting F.A.C.T.

T: Is for teamwork, but whose team?

It's official, the MTA is increasing it's fares and tolls by 8% effective in July with another 5-percent increase following in January 2011. This is only the second time in the 104-year history of the transit system that back-to-back fare hikes have happened. The MTA is also looking for an additional $300 million from the city and the state. The MTA has cut costs by 6 percent over the last four years, but what about New Yorkers who have had to cut out the essentials of living. It amounts to more than 6%."There are a lot of things that are totally unnecessary in the MTA," said board member Norman Seabrook. "And to ask people -- mom and pop -- to come out of their pockets one more time for a fare increase is just unacceptable to me." Some officials say further budget cuts will not even cover costs. Another way the MTA is looking to increase its revenue is through expanding advertising. The agency said it is considering a partnership with CNN that would put monitors in stations. The monitors would broadcast the news station, similar to what is currently available at many airports.

Then we have Michael Bloomberg who backed the fare hike. He says he isn't trying to buy the election - but new records show he has put an $18.7 million down payment on a bid to acquire a third term. Already he has poured $15.6 million into his campaign in the past two months, spending millions on advertising, printing, consultants, dozens of staffers, rent and office supplies. The new total is 55% higher than Bloomberg had spent at the same point four years ago and it dwarfs what any of his three rivals expect to spend all year.

Controller William Thompson raised $83,561 in the past two months and spent $352,75.00, he had raised $3,571,181 and spent $1,399,841. "Mike Bloomberg is spending almost $19 million to try to convince New Yorkers that they need four more years of higher taxes, rising unemployment, record homelessness and overcrowded schools," said Thompson spokeswoman Anne Fenton. "Bill Thompson is building a network of supporters in all five boroughs because he is the candidate who understands the unprecedented challenges facing all New Yorkers."

Congressman Anthony Weiner (D-Brooklyn/Queens), who is on the fence, raised $30,725 in the past two months for a total of $5,068,796. He spent $143,773 in the past two months for a total of $963,433.

Longshot candidate Councilman Tony Avella (D-Queens), who prides himself on not taking contributions from developers or many large donors, has raised $248,270 and spent $116,664.

The reason I bring all this up in the same article,, is that you have New Yorkers who are suffering. You have a candidate who wants to disregard the rules and is spending what could of been put where he would of made the biggest impact...the MTA. Why is it candidates spend a fortune on publicity, when helping the people with whom they are seeking approval would get them publicity by the score. Imagine if Bloomberg had put 18.7 million into helping the MTA. He would of become a hero and Oprah would of honored him. Now that's a publicity F.A.C.T.

C: Is for a rock show or is it a concert?

New York has a new guilty pleasure, and it is the rock transfer from off -Broadway, "Rock of Ages." In a time when recessions and worries have plagued our minds, "Rock of Ages" plunges us madly into the 80's and it is done with perfection. Sadly I missed the first half hour, as shows now start on Tuesdays at 7pm. When I arrived I felt like I had entered an event where I missed something. The audience was waving lighters, singing along and totally involved. Had there been a pre-show? No, this show is infectious. Unlike it's predecessor "Mamma Mia," this show has a book by Chris D'Arienzo that is uproariously funny. It winks at us all to remember the good, the bad and the ugly. Like the old Mickey Rooney and Judy Garland movies the plot is the same: Greedy German real estate developer (Paul Schoeffler) wants to tear down Sunset Strip, mainly the Bourbon Room. The club’s owner, Dennis (Adam Dannheisser), a pothead rock hound past his prime, hosts a farewell concert by a hit band that got their start there. American Idol Constantine Maroulis, is our hero, Drew a bartender/struggling musician looking for love and success. Maroulis, shows us why he was one of the forerunners of that hit show. He sustains notes for days while holding the audience in the palm of his hands. Vying for Drew's affection, enter Sherrie the dynamic Amy Spangler, an aspiring actress from Kansas. Looking like a bewildered Farrah Fawcett she meets and sleeps with Stacee Jaxx (James Carpinello), the bleached blond rock God stuck on himself. Like life, that act sends the show into the seedier side of Hollywood but like all good fables ends with everyone rocking into the sunset. This cast is down right terrific. Mr. Carpinello, is the epitome of the skinny, drugged out rocker, who girls throw their panties to. Wesley Taylor, as the German real estate's son, almost steals the show with his goofy accent. His duet ala "Let's Get Physical" with Lauren Molina, is a definite “Hit Me With Your Best Shot.” Mitchell Jarvis, is the narrator who leads us through this musical romp back to our past. He is zany and effervescent and just what the doctor ordered to sooth us into an evening where we can forget our troubles. Boasting 80's anthems, this is so much better than K-Tell. Poison, Journey, Twisted Sister, Joan Jett, Bon Jovi and oh, so much more. These songs stay with you. From the marvelous choreography by Kelly Devine; to the music and orchestrations by Ethan Popp; sets by Beowulf Boritt; costumes by Gregory Gale and the delightful direction by newcomer Kristin Hanggi, there is nothing missing, as all is done to perfection. What I missed was the chance to buy a ticket so the ushers could bring a drink to my seat, as I watched the show. Now that's service. This is a show that doesn't take itself seriously and is more fun than I would of ever guessed. This is the newest cult musical and I for one can't wait to bring my son and that is a F.A.C.T

A: Is for Allison, Megan and Stephanie

"9 to 5: The Musical" is getting ripped off by the award committee's. In terms of music, these are some of the best songs out there. The 11:00 number "Get Out and Stay Out" is one of the best theatrical songs written since Wicked. This score burst with tunes that are musically a joy to listen to. Before this I was not a big Dolly Parton fan. Now you can sign me up. The stage version hysterically makes fun of itself, bringing the 1980 feminist revenge comedy to life. Joe Mantello's direction is hard to critique as it is muddled in Andy Blankenbuehler's choreography. Trying to recreate the 70's, his movement never seems to end and it is beyond annoying. Though Patricia Resnick's book has been criticized by many, it is the choreography that is the culprit to the frantic, furious pacing, but then their are the women, who dominate the stage. Allison Janney, Stephanie J. Block and Megan Hilty, each shine in their own way. Janney, best known for her role on "The West Wing," plays the role created by Lily Thomlin. Though not a singer she is like Lauren Bacall or Katherine Hepbern in a musical, she wins you over with her delivery, be it sardonic or vulnerable. Ms. Janney is having fun and because she, is we do. Megan Hilty Doralee, is Dolly Parton to a tee. Her "Cowgirl's Revenge" is sassy and believable. your heart breaks for her as she is shunned for the way she looks. In the Jane Fonda role, Stephanie J Block proves why she is on Broadway. Her voice is glorious and she stops the show with "Get Out and Stay Out." Marc Kudisch's chauvinistic boss, puts the P in pig. His performance is tour de force, whether it is singing while falling off his chair, getting hung from his kohones or prancing in chains. Kathy Fitzgerald, shows how even with a small role you can stand out. As the secretary with a shameless crush on her boss. She also stops the show, with "5-9." This is a corny look at the 70's and you will leave the theatre feeling totally satisfied. You will also find yourself singing the score which is a rarity in this season and that is a F.A.C.T.

F: Is for here fishy, fishy

After two nights of casual friends-and-family service, Chris Cannon and Michael White’s big bet on Central Park South, Marea, opened to the public for dinner last night. For the next week, the restaurant is in a preview mode, offering nearly three quarters of the menu, all at a 20 percent discount. The extensive menu is geared toward seafood lovers: A crudo bar offers a variety of raw seafood, such as tuna with oyster cream and artichokes; pastas include fusilli with octopus and bone marrow;(the raw bar isn’t quite ready yet, thanks to a construction mishap) and there’s a list of fish and shellfish that can be cooked in the method of the diner’s choosing, then paired with a number of different sauces, including bagna caoda and a Piedmontese dip made from anchovies. 56 covers are the allotted covers but will slowly increase over successive nights. “It’s like taking a new car out on the road for the first time,” says the boss, “you don’t floor it right away.” If you want to score a table during discount week, you can try your luck calling the reservation line (212-582-5100); table availability will increase incrementally as the week goes on. This restaurant is sure to please and that is a F.A.C.T.

S: Is for becoming a spy

So you've always wanted to be a spy. Well now you can with spy camp and it's only a day long. Packed with adventure that begins in the morning, you first train in military hand-to-hand combat techniques. Then follow in the steps of Bond and Bourne and 'eliminate the threat' with your bare hands. Taught by Elite Forces and Special Operations agents around the world in preparation for the most deadly situations. You and your fellow agents in training then enjoy a well deserved hearty lunch, served in a private dining room. Next, on to your next assignment - Perfect Your Poker Game. You'll learn negotiation skills, tactics, how to read people and the most important skill of bluffing in any given situation. A perfect martini caps off the day. Shaken not stired with a "Mission Accomplished" or a dream fufilled.

For those who one day is not enoug, they also arrange, weekend trips including various types of fire arms training, auto racing, competitive water sports, survival skills, sword/knife fighting, wine/fine scotch tastings, style/grooming workshops, or any of the MI6 standard iteneraries.To learn more contact 1-888-779-1905. This message will sef distruct in 5 minutes and that is a F.A.C.T.

T: Is for Tips for the President

When a company falls on difficult times, one of the things that seems to happen is they reduce their staff and workers. The remaining workers must find ways to continue to do a good job or risk that their job would be eliminated as well.
Wall street, and the media normally congratulate the CEO for making this type of "tough decision", and his board of directors gives him a big bonus.

Our government should not be immune from similar risks.

Therefore:
Reduce the House of Representatives from the current 435 members to 218 members.
Reduce Senate members from 100 to 50 (one per State).
Then, reduce their staff by 25%.

Accomplish this over the next 8 years
(two steps/two elections) and of course this would require some redistricting.

Some Yearly Monetary Gains Include:

$44,108,400 for elimination of base pay for congress. (267 members X $165,200 pay/member/ yr.)

$97,175,000 for elimination of their staff. (estimate $1.3 Million in staff per each member of the House, and $3 Million in staff per each member of the Senate every year)

$240,294 for the reduction in remaining staff by 25%.

$7,500,000,000 reduction in pork barrel ear-marks each year. (those members whose jobs are gone. Current estimates for total government pork earmarks are at $15 Billion/yr)

The remaining representatives would need to work smarter and improveefficiencies. It might even be in their best interests to work together for the good of our country!

We may also expect that smaller committees might lead to a more efficient resolution of issues as well. It might even be easier to keep track of what your representative is doing.

Congress has more tools available to do their jobs than it had back in 1911 when the current number of representatives was established. (telephone, computers, cell phones to name a few)

Note:
Congress did not hesitate to head home when it was a holiday, when the nation needed a real fix to the economic problems. Also, we have 3 senators that have not been doing their jobs for the past 18+ months (on the campaign trail) and still they all have been accepting full pay. These facts alone support a reduction in senators & congress.

Summary of opportunity:

$ 44,108,400 reduction of congress members.

$282,100, 000 for elimination of the reduced house member staff.

$150,000,000 for elimination of reduced senate member staff.

$59,675,000 for 25% reduction of staff for remaining house members.

$37,500,000 for 25% reduction of staff for remaining senate members.

$7,500,000,000 reduction in pork added to bills by the reduction of congress members.

$8,073,383,400 per year, estimated total savings. (that's 8-BILLION just to start!)

Big business does these types of cuts all the time.

If Congresspersons were required to serve 20, 25 or 30 years (like everyone else) in order to collect retirement benefits, tax payers could save a bundle.
Now they get full retirement after serving only ONE term and that is a F.A.C.T.