A note about inauguration costs. I guess donations aren’t covering everything…
106 thoughts on “One more inauguration note”
Comments are closed.
A note about inauguration costs. I guess donations aren’t covering everything…
Comments are closed.
In order to allow the economy to grow, we must demand that our government manages our national, state, and local cash flow. Running out of cash is the definition of failure in business. Imagine what would happen if the government could not sufficiently fund programs for business growth?
Comment by runescape money -
As Chairman of the Federal Reserve, he has emphasized the importance of deficit reduction and warned of higher interest rates. At the helm of monetary policy, the Chairman of the Federal Reserve has been forced to lower the Federal Funds Rate. But, they can no longer go any lower. In fact, he has been projecting major increases if the Federal Budget deficits continue. The dollar’s 30 percent tumble under the Bush Administration should create concern about the U.S. Economy.
Comment by wow powerleveling -
I agree that The AP and other hypocritical snots like yourself will talk about how helpful it is to the struggling DC economy etc. Face it, your bitching just to bitch. Otherwise you’d be complaining about Clintons doublewide Library in Little Rock and the millions spent/wasted at both conventions.
Comment by notebook -
There is nothing wrong with spending private money on this event. Providing security may cost tax money, but protecting the VIPs cost tax money no matter where they go on inaugeration day. If they hang out together resources can be pooled. If they called off the inaugeration (a proposterous notion) then I doubt there would be much saving in tax dollars for security.
Comment by Theodore -
The fact that 2005’s Presidential Inaugural is coming from private donations is a wonderful thing. I donated to it. I donated to the 9/11 fund, President Bush’s re-election campaign, the Republican Party, the floods in Asia, the hurricanes in Florida, the homeless, abused women, toys for tots, humane shelter, etc.
I would be furious if the money I donated for the Inaugural was diverted to Asia. I am totally taxed to death, so if I want to donate money that has escaped the tax man I want it donated to what I specify.
You must be smoking some strong cigars.
Comment by Carolyn Jackson -
Hey John..It’s not a FREE COUNTRY when you have spent all the ‘surplus’ that was handed to you by our former President..when you’ve spent BILLIONS of $$ for spreading freedom on a war where 100’s of thousands have died. When over 160,000 people just lost their lives to a catastrophe..enough is enough! Our President should quietly take his oath and let Chaney run the Country as he has been.
Comment by Kate -
In order to get more insight in the real costs involved in this inauguration, I made a list of all things needed (mentioned in several news articles). I translated the list to money. I stopped counting now. The score is little over $30 million. And we’re not talking about the $40 million for the festivities (paid for with donations).
You can see the list at:
http://blogger.xs4all.nl/steeph/archive/2005/01/17/23164.aspx
Comment by Steeph -
Josh – Now you are just speaking out of your ass. Somehow, you know the proper level of event security? At every event, they have to have cops to close off streets and divert traffic. This does not have anything to do with there being a terrorist threat.
But somehow, you can tell that $17.4 million is too much for typical security and the extra $$ has to be because they are concerned about terrorists. What a load of BS. Maybe you can tell me how much security should cost in a pre 9/11 world for an event of this magnitude?
Comment by MattR -
Star Jones was bragging last night about some $7,000,000.00 “Bling” she was wearing and several of the folks at the Golden Globe Awards were talking about all of the “Partays”. How could they????!!!!
ANSWER: BECAUSE IT”S A FREE COUNTRY!!!!
Comment by John -
Who cares what the privite sector spends on the cerimonies for the president. How much do the networks spend to tell us its midnight, January 1st., 2005. Who questions that non-sence? How about the 100’s of millions spent on determining how many folks have toe fungus? Do you get the point?
Comment by dennis zellaha -
As you scan the comments on inauguration you will not see any comments, other than this one, from me. I said at the beginning of my first comment, it would probably not be published, and HA, I was right. What a bunch of cowards Cuban and his cronies are!
Comment by Lanny Covey -
Calvin,
It’s illegal to divert earmarked funds from donors to purposes other than those intended. Bush can’t just give other people’s money away. There’s accounting rules around not-for-profits that regulate that sort of thing.
Comment by Educator -
I continue to be amazed by the sour grapes of the losers in an election. First it’s the costs of the inauguration then its blue bracelets. What next? Another Michael Moore film of fiction passed off as a documentary? If you are really interested in the costs related to our presidents, you should be concerned about a former president and his library just recently opened with funds from unidentified individuals. The cost of this library exceeded all previous presidents and evicted a number of poor people in the city of Little Rock. This was a perfect example of giving to the rich and taking from the poor.
Comment by Jerry Mosler -
There is a big fundraiser cancer bicyle ride scheduled for this summmer and they cancelled it. The reason being is because the nonprofit organization doesn’t feel comfortable asking corporations for money because of the tsunamis proceeds many corporations have already given to the tsunami aid. I think that is why Bush is having a hard time with donations, the corporations are doing the right thing by giving to the tsunami relief aid. Too bad Bush doesn’t do the right thing and give the money to the tsunami relief fund.
Comment by Calvin -
That $35 million is just the beginning. We also pledged another $350 million. None of this counts the $5 million a day its costing us to have our military guys over there helping with various parts of the relief effort.
By the way, providing foreign aid is not provided for in our constitution.
The true example of american generosity is the couple hundred million that private individuals have pledged, more than most countries. By the time its over the government and citizens of the US will have given over a billion dollar$ in aid.
Comment by Fact Corrector -
MattR,
Why do they need “Extra police to monitor intersections, do crowd control, stuff like that” if they weren’t concerned about a terrorist attack at the event?
If they had no concerns about terrorist threats then I doubt that level of “event security” would be required.
Comment by Josh Turcotte -
MattR,
Why do they need “Extra police to monitor intersections, do crowd control, stuff like that” if they weren’t concerned about a terrorist attack at the event?
If they had no concerns about terrorist threats then I doubt that level of “event security” would be required.
Comment by Josh Turcotte -
Comment #83 is a shortcut to a porno site.
Comment by Concerned Reader -
Re: “Could there be anything more confusing and shocking than to read that our country was offering $35 million in aid to the areas affected by the tsunamis, but that the cost of inauguration parties would be about $40 million?” Cuban said on his Web log. “Does anyone else think that this is wrong?”
NO!
Comment by Bill Hackney -
Re: “Could there be anything more confusing and shocking than to read that our country was offering $35 million in aid to the areas affected by the tsunamis, but that the cost of inauguration parties would be about $40 million?” Cuban said on his Web log. “Does anyone else think that this is wrong?”
NO!
Comment by Bill Hackney -
enjoy this video clip from George Bush’s last inauguration …
http://www.bangbus.com/t1/PPS=typein/updates/bb808/trailer.wmv
Comment by bobby bang -
the spurs game isn’t even over yet, but tonight finley is playing like a true leader.
Comment by Dave -
Josh – The $17.4 million is for event secuirty. Extra police to monitor intersections, do crowd control, stuff like that. It has nothing to do with “homeland security”. That is why it should not come out of funds that were earmarked for homeland security.
Comment by MattR -
MattR, not to pick on you, but your logic is completely illogical (as Mr. Spock would say)
It’s funny because I thought DC was in the United States. Maybe we should change it from “homeland security” to “homeland except for DC” security?
Also, if there was no risk of “terrorist” attacks then why would DC be putting security in place to prevent one?
I guess the expenditure does constitute spending for “homeland security” that is designated to “stop terrorist attacks.”
Comment by Josh Turcotte -
This is a very selfish and egomaniacal event/man.
K…you talking about Clinton??
Comment by steve l. -
Michelle – It is not ridiculous for DC to say “gee, we were planning on spending that money on Homeland Security, which it why we were given it” That money was given to DC by Congress for the first time becaue “9/11 changed everything”. It was designed to help prepare/prevent terrorist attacks, not provide general security in the city.
It is not unreasonable for the city to expect to be given specific money to cover the costs of the inauguration like they have been every time before and like every other event in DC does.
Comment by MattR -
It’s also the first time that the city has had a huge budget granted by the feds specifically for security. For DC to say “gee, we were planning to spend that money on something else” is ridiculous. Did they expect the inauguration to be held somewhere else? Or did they just expect the feds to hand over millions of dollars for security on top of what they have already given DC?
Comment by Michelle -
It really is amazing the lack of reading comprehension. Mark’s complaint in this post (and the related Washington Post artcle) was about the fact that this is the first time that the city of Washington is being asked to foot the bill for Inauguration security. Mr. Cuban did comment that he thought that the festivities in general were overly expensive and extravaggant, but that was not the main thrust of this post. So for all the posts who compare this to previous Inaugurations or the Oscars or whatever, can you please explain how these are even comparable to the fact at hand? The 2nd Bush Inauguration is going to cost the city of DC $17.4 million. None of the other events cost the city a penny.
Comment by MattR -
I can’t wait to see how much is spent on the next Deomocratic Presidential Inauguration. I’m sure that the AP and other hypocritical snots like yourself will talk about how helpful it is to the struggling DC economy etc. Face it, your bitching just to bitch. Otherwise you’d be complaining about Clintons doublewide Library in Little Rock and the millions spent/wasted at both conventions.
Comment by Andy Howard -
Donations aren’t covering everything because in addition to donations there are budgets to cover expenses such as security. The District should not be complaining about paying their share since they have grants from the US government to cover such expenses. In addition, they have been given even more funds since 911 for security purposes.
I think the Federal Government should take over the District. Mayor Williams has no right to complain about spending money being given to the District for such events. It about time for the Federal Government to take over. The inauguaration only happens every 4 years and every cent spent goes right back into the pockets of DC residents and surrounding areas. We need the business and the inauguration creates the needed commerce. You as a millionaire have no right to take that from us. We need the business and you don’t.
Comment by Jackie -
Matt, Mark donated all the money he made from the Benefactor to charity.
Comment by Carrie -
Dani….no child in this country is denied healthcare. Anyone can walk into any hospital and get the care they need. Too many people confuse healthCARE with health INSURANCE. Why should anyone be obligated to pay for health INSURANCE for someone else’s children?
Comment by Michelle -
Dani….no child in this country is denied healthcare. Anyone can walk into any hospital and get the care they need. Too many people confuse healthCARE with health INSURANCE. Why should anyone be obligated to pay for health INSURANCE for someone else’s children?
Comment by Michelle -
Note to Frank….Reagan’s second inaugural was held inside due to the bitter cold. As you may recall from watching the news that night, $$$ had already been spent!
Comment by John -
Gee, can we cancel the Oscars, too? How about the Super Bowl? If we’re in such dire straits and are facing economic disaster along with the financial responsibility VOLUNTARILY assisting tsunami victims, then shouldn’t we discontinue all forms of conspicuous consumption? I think there is much ado about nothing, here.
Comment by Michelle -
I agree with both Beth and Mark. I have been saying for years that Americans spend money unwisely on so many things while some of their own people are living in poverty and not every child has healthcare. It sickens me to see them spent money – no matter whose money it is – on something as frivolous as a gala. And during a time when our men and women are at war, natural distasters are occuring all the time with the Tsunamis and California mud slides…very sad and very embarrasing.
Comment by Dani -
The government isn’t paying for the inauguration, it’s being funded by private donations. If people want to spend their own money on the event, what’s wrong with that? Nobody seems to have any problems when George Soros and a few of his buddies spend 63 million on promoting liberal ideals! As for the security costs, yes DC is paying the bill, but it’s coming out of their homeland security fund, which was appropriated by congress! That money is being used precisely what it was intended for, security within DC.
Comment by Chris -
This is such a rip-off. A bunch of fat cats getting drunk and dancing poorly on the nation’s dime! It’s stupid. WE ARE AT WAR! Doesn’t anyone remember that? Or has Don Rumsfeld forgotten how it felt to have a reservist ask why his vehicle wasn’t armored in a war zone. And then the President wants to spend millions of dollars on a one-night party to say thank you to the rich corporate types that footed the bill for his reelection? Is that leadership? How about just inviting the fat cats to the White House for a private dinner and leave off with the flags and the fencing around the mall and the multimillion dollar party. When JFK’s head got blown across Dealey Plaza, LBJ took the oath of office right there on the plane. Didn’t need a multimillion dollar shindig for that one did they? So why waste money on a party when there are far more pressing national security issues to spend it on. And to stick DC with a 17.3 million dollar bill is a hoot. Maybe if some of the inaugural ball attendees had to pay the higher parking meter ticket costs that DC will use to recoup some of its losses, they would think twice about having their black tie Brouhaha
Comment by byrdman -
Wow, I sense some real hostility in here.
I don’t understand why this is such a big issue, or even news worthy. I do agree that Bush could have requested more modest settings and sent a message about spending, but I think there’s a million different ways to send that message and this may not be the most appropriate venue. I mean really, we could even point to early presidents who just walked down the street for the inaguration. Maybe he could save a few bucks in gas if he hoofed it?
I think the major problem with the country is in people’s hearts. I understand Mark was just pointing out an opportunity that could have been used to make a point in a big way, but some of these comments are really hateful. How can we move forward if the people of our nation are all filled with hate and anger. Debate and passion are great, but without cooperation, compromise,consideration, and caring they mean nothing. I remember my little league days where we always lined up for the hand shake after the game; that’s what America’s all about. Yes, be competitive, but at the end of the day we all have to live together.
PS Name calling and categorizing people is not constructive.
Comment by Josh Turcotte -
Hey Mark, how about you take some of your own advice and donate money to whatever cause you feel like? You have far more money than Bush is raising through private donations for this event. By the way, if someone donates money for the inauguration, then our President is obligated to use their money for that cause. If they would prefer to donate the same money for the tsunami relief efforts, they are certainly welcome to. There are plenty of fund-raising efforts already on-going for that. Instead of making a reality TV show like The Benefactor, why not donate that money to charity? Seems to me that unless you raise more money than the goverment is already donating to other countries world-wide, you do not have a leg to stand on.
Comment by Matt -
Ronald Reagan’s second innaugural consisted of a simple swearing-in in the East Room of the White House. Why isn’t this administration following Reagan’s example? Does President Bush need the self-aggrandizement that this tasteless spectacle will afford him?
Comment by Frank Torres -
I find this article to be one sided and pumping the liberal media.
How about the truth, 12 years ago a guy named Bill Clinton spent 33 million dollars on his inauguration.
Calculate the inflation and you would see that President Bush truly spent less.
Remember the money is donated.
And Washington is spending a whole lot more for a sports team, where is the logic to that?
Comment by Harlan Tharp -
Private money is primairly supporting the inauguration. Think of how many small businesses and employees will benefit from being paid for their services. Its a financial windfall for the local economy and its always good when money is spent in a free enterprise system, it also increases tax revenues!
Relax! The Republicans and the nation have a right to celebrate – did we forget the HUGE celebrations the Democrates had when Clinton was king? People also compalined about how much Clinton spent. We as a nation need to stop this hypocritical act that we know best how to spend other people’s money; the average American only gives 2% to charities. Its 2005, the future is bright, we are still a great people and nation, so briefly pause and enjoy the celebration, be grateful we live in America where we elect our leaders and then party! Happy inauguration day!
Comment by Richard -
I move that the Golden Globe Awards and Academy Awards events be cancelled for this year. After all, how could we enjoy such a lavish event so soon after the Tsunami. Especially the Golden Globes, c’mon only 20 days after the horrific events of the 26th of December. And, in the spirit of Hollywood compassion I move that instead of expensive evening gowns that normally go with the event that simple dresses from Sears or Wal-mart be worn. http://www.oscar.com/style/women/index.html
If the GG Awards were cancelled I am sure that more than 57 million would be saved (ad costs, formal wear, etc.)Those funds could go to the victims in SE Asia!
Hopefully, I’ll some some of you guys up in DC on the 20th. Look for me at the DC Convention Center at 7pm!
Comment by John -
If Mark wants the President to set an example and not have an inauguation this year why doesn’t Mark set the example and donate two, three or more of the Maverick Gate receipts?
Comment by Bill -
The difference between Clintons 2nd inauguration and the 2nd Bush inauguration is simple- national debt, economy, our place in the eyes of the world- all good then, all bad now.
Comment by k -
actually, the inaugurations were cancelled or cut back, Roosevelt served chicken salad and poundcake, Wilson cancelled his parties saying they would be undignified. It’s outrageous that the city of DC has to foot the bill for the security costs. By losers i’m sure you mean Democrats, I think the people calling for a cancellation of his “festivities” are the sensible, not the losers. This is a very selfish and egomaniacal event/man. Maybe it’s time for an image change.
Comment by k -
I like the way that Mr. Cuban is a maverick in the NBA. I believe the players are overpaid juveniles.
On the other hand, why is ok, if someone from the left is elected that we throw a big party and have all the Hollywood people in attendance, but have a Republican – an OH MY GOD conservative – win an election and everyone thinks they should have the swearing in at McDonald’s.
Even the icon of the left, Bill Clinton, believes the inaugration should go on. What is the problem?
It is our demonstration of a free and safe transition of power. Isn’t that what we are showing the rest of the world about Democracy?
Cuban, you need to figure out that free enterprise is borne out of a free and safe democracy. It is easy to ridicule the David Stern or the NBA ref’s, but you can’t just complain about this without reviewing how you were able to make all your money. If the left, ie Ted Kennedy, et al, had their way, you would pay 90% of your income in taxes, so the federal government could give it to whomever they want.
Get over yourself and enjoy the fact you live in a free country.
Comment by Phil -
Although $40,000,000 is nothing to sneeze at, it’s a miniscule drop compared to the overspending of congress. The inaugural is an old tradition that deserves to go on. Did the inaugurals stop for WW1 or WW2? I think not. What other traditions would the losers like to end? Probably all of them.
Comment by steve l. -
The inauguration is more about showing our freedom and democracy to the world.
The fact that we have an election … and then a peaceful transition of power from one president to the next is probably THE most important aspect of a free democracy. The inauguration … and all events associated with the inauguration … shows this no better way.
Also … all planning for the inauguration takes place between the civilian Presidential Inauguration Committee (PIC) and the military Armed Forces Inauguration Committee (AFIC). See this link: http://www.afic.army.mil/
Where else in the world do you have such a display as the military supporting it’s elected commander in chief?
Our nation’s laws provide monies for our president’s inauguration. These laws were made through the process of democracy — starting with every citizen who is capable of voting.
To lose site of any of this is to take for granted your right to voice your opinion over it, even if you don’t really understand what you are voicing an opinion over.
The misguided and uninformed always need such a pleasent reminder and explanation.
Comment by george jones -
I think you should foot the bill for the inauguration festivities. You’ve got a lot of mouth on you regarding “We have service people dying. We face responsibilities to help those suffering from the … devastation of the tsunamis.” Shut up and quit acting like a fool.
Comment by Sam Brooks -
I fully agree that a full blown inauguration for a second term is a waste of money but still I wonder where all this concern for cost was during Pesident Clinton’s second inauguration? It’s a case of anything to continue to pile on the President.
Comment by Ed Feidt -
I fully agree that a full blown inauguration for a second term is a waste of money but still I wonder where all this concern for cost was during Pesident Clinton’s second inauguration? It’s a case of anything to continue to pile on the President.
Comment by Ed Feidt -
I voted for Bush once… then I took his advice…
He said, “fool me once, shame on you…….. fool me twice….. you can’t get fooled again!”
Thanks Mr. President.
BTW, Marc, you get a nice mention in this article. http://news.yahoo.com/news?tmpl=story&cid=544&u=/ap/20050114/ap_on_go_pr_wh/inaugural_price_tag_3&printer=1
Comment by KC -
But, weren’t you the guy who spent $100k to have John Mellencamp perform at your birthday party. Actions, Mark, speak much louder than your words.
Comment by Roy Caldwell -
Gosh…things are bad. I guess we should cancel the Superbowl, save all that fuel spent at NASCAR for our tanks by cancelling it, forbid any wealthy person in the U.S. from flying their personal/corporate jet to save jet fuel for our fighters and helos in Iraq, close down Aspen and tell Las Vegas and Disneyland that with a war on, they just aren’t appropriate!
Comment by L. Russo -
I couldn’t agree more. I, too, voted for Bush twice but I may never vote for another politician. I find it only encourages them; they’ll run again. Too much money is being spent in Washington on all fronts — inaugurations, lobbying, pork, etc. Did any of you ever stop to think how we could possibly have a true voice in our government when all the special interests and the lobbyists drown our voices in a sea of money?
Comment by Tom Aswell -
P.S.
Bravo to Riles!!!
Comment by Trish Hoffman -
LOL – all this hysteria! Over what? A party? I realize that is an incredible amount of money – definately not the budget I have to work with to throw a bash – but please keep it in perspective! Jeepers, if the inaugurational festivities were scaled back or foregone completely there would be the same crowd spinning it their advantage once again.
Comment by Trish Hoffman -
I always find it makes me shudder when people talk about PRIVATE funds in relation to the defecit. Please folks, this money was donated for a specific reason by Americans (who last I checked can spend their hard earned money on anything they want including such frivolous things as basketball tickets during a time of war) and further the costs to the city will be more then recouped by the money pumped into the local economy during that time.
Further, to have a billionaire that owns a sports team commenting on irresponsible spending is almost laughable and he should hope people don’t take im to much to heart becausepeople may realize that makig a billionaire richer isn’t the wisest way to spend money.
I just looked and the cheapest seat at a Mavericks game is $30 dollars and the most expensive is $285 dollars.
In your article blog you say:
“I realize that the cost for the inauguration is being picked up by corporate sponsors and people purchasing outrageously priced tickets. The question is why.”
I realize Mr. Cuban that corporations BUY your outrageously priced tickets. The question is why?
Finally, Mr. Cuban you should do a touch more reseacrch before you sound off. The highest priced inaugural ticket I have been able to find is $1495.00 not $10,000 as you stated. It is much easier to follow the lead of someone that tells the truth.
Comment by Riles -
Why is it you care what private people spend their money on?
And how do you reconcile your “concern” for the soldiers when they voted for W by a 4-1 margin?
Comment by cj -
Wow. You believed something that a D of C politician said at face value. Hook, line, and sinker. These are the same people who tried to pull out of the MLB deal in order to get their pictures on the news for a week…you know that, right?
Come on, Mark. You gotta try harder than this.
Comment by Darin K. -
How hard is it to inaugurate a president? All you need is a Supreme Court Justice, a Bible (although I’m all for having the bible present, I’m not really sure it is required) and a president-elect. It could be done in the Oval Office in a matter of minutes – no muss, no fuss. Then the President can give his acceptance speech on TV from behind his desk. The news media will be there anyway.
Even more than the obscene amount of money that’s being spent on this “event,” it’s the statement that it makes. Sure we’re a generous country – both the goverment and the American people individually have given millions upon millions to help aid people all around the world. But the plain and simple fact is that what gets reported around the world isn’t what we give, it’s what we lavishly spend on ourselves. This would be a great opportunity for the president to send a positive message about America to the rest of the world – and actually do some good with the money in the process.
I’m not just spouting off about our current president (whom I’ve voted for twice), or about this particular inauguration, but to the leadership of our country as a whole, now and in the future. Our leaders need to have a fundamental change in their perception of their own importance. They work for us. When was the last time an employer threw you a huge party on your first day on the job?
Comment by David Kimmel -
Maybe we ought to circulate a notice to President Bush through e-mail. We were able to stop the vulgar Kid Rock from performing at the inaguration.
Let’s inform President Bush that if he wants the inauguration pay for it out of his own pocket. I would help but my $590 a month Social Security doesn’t go very far.
Comment by Beverly Lynchard -
Sorry about repeating myself with my comment(s). It would seem that posting to a blog is also “Not easy. It’s not easy. It’s hard. It’s hard work.”
Comment by Brian Patrick Clarke -
“I voted for W because I felt he would be a stronger leader than Kerry could be.”
Or, perhaps, Mark, simply because you like having a lighter load in taxes?
Leadership? A joke if e’er there were one. Leading us into WHAT exactly; oblivion?
This “reformed” coward (as in, “suddenly got balls when it was not his which were on the line”) has finally conceded that there were no WMD, NONE; and as an Ivy-League (Boola, boola, for that matter) educated 52-year-old, lifelong democrat (who also supports the death penalty, with but a single proviso: kill some rich white men along with the poor black ones) I am infuriated by – as well as immeasurably contrite for – my miscue in “stepping out” on many of my more “leftist” democrat friends two years ago and declaring myself – ON THE BASIS OF BUSH’S CAMPAIGN OF MASS MISINFORMATION DISSEMINATION – to be in favor of the incursion into Iraq. Of course, in addition to supporting such an action on the basis of bald-faced deceit (shame on me, a product of the Watergate fiasco) I expected that the coward of the county (whichever such space includes Crawford) and his cadre of feckless fighers (you know, Cheney, DeLay, Rove, Hastert…oops, none of them served did they?) would actually have ensured, in advance of the incursion, a methodology for an EXCURSION from the insanity that now prevails. Having taken such pains to secure safety for their own asses in the midst of the Vietnam war, they surely had to be at least equally passionate about protecting other people’s children, didn’t they? Apparently not.
In contrast, the man whom you simply couldn’t see leading our nation actually KNOWS what war is. Therein lies the rub: He, like my older brother (USMC, Vietnam ’68-’69) has, in FACT, not just in “form”, been forever cursed by the things he saw and did as a young man who placed undue trust in his untrustworthy government. Ergo, men like Senator Kerry (and my brother) are loath to send other folks’s babies off to be killed/maimed (or to kill/maim) simply because they can.
Meanwhile, President “Bring ‘Em On” is being tucked warmly into bed every night by both the Secret Service and his ardent admirers (who, like you, put him back into office!), as Rome burns. Or are you unaware that we now have most of the world’s 1.3 BILLION (a sum you can well appreciate, while others may not) Muslims very pissed off. Worse yet, we have given substantive testament to the claims by Bin Laden (rememember him?) and his ilk that America is The Great Imperialist War Machine, with a green eye for the Middle East’s oil.
Thanks so much for your own “leadership”, Mark. At least you got it right on the inauguration, er…assembly ball.
Comment by Brian Patrick Clarke -
“I voted for W because I felt he would be a stronger leader than Kerry could be.”
Or, perhaps, Mark, simply because you like having a lighter load in taxes?
Leadership? A joke if e’er there were one. Leading us into WHAT exactly; oblivion?
This “reformed” coward (as in, “suddenly got balls when it was not his which were on the line”) has finally conceded that there were no WMD, NONE; and as an Ivy-League (Boola, boola, for that matter) educated 52-year-old, lifelong democrat (who also supports the death penalty, with but a single proviso: kill some rich white men along with the poor black ones) I am infuriated by – as well as immeasurably contrite for – my miscue in “stepping out” on many of my more “leftist” democrat friends two years ago and declaring myself – ON THE BASIS OF BUSH’S CAMPAIGN OF MASS MISINFORMATION DISSEMINATION – to be in favor of the incursion into Iraq. Of course, in addition to supporting such an action on the basis of bald-faced deceit (shame on me, a product of the Watergate fiasco) I expected that the coward of the county (whichever such space includes Crawford) and his cadre of feckless fighers (you know, Cheney, DeLay, Rove, Hastert…oops, none of them served did they?) would actually have ensured, in advance of the incursion, a methodology for an EXCURSION from the insanity that now prevails. Having taken such pains to secure safety for their own asses in the midst of the Vietnam war, they surely had to be at least equally passionate about protecting other people’s children, didn’t they? Apparently not.
In contrast, the man whom you simply couldn’t see leading our nation actually KNOWS what war is. Therein lies the rub: He, like my older brother (USMC, Vietnam ’68-’69) has, in FACT, not just in “form”, been forever cursed by the things he saw and did as a young man who placed undue trust in his untrustworthy government. Ergo, men like Senator Kerry (and my brother) are loath to send other folks’s babies off to be killed/maimed (or to kill/maim) simply because they can.
Meanwhile, President “Bring ‘Em On” is being tucked warmly into bed every night by both the Secret Service and his ardent admirers (who, like you, put him back into office!), as Rome burns. Or are you unaware that we now have most of the world’s 1.3 BILLION (a sum you can well appreciate, while others may not) Muslims very pissed off. Worse yet, we have given substantive testament to the claims by Bin Laden (rememember him?) and his ilk that America is The Great Imperialist War Machine, with a green eye for the Middle East’s oil.
Thanks so much for your own “leadership”, Mark. At least you got it right on the inauguration, er…assembly ball.
Comment by Brian Patrick Clarke -
This year’s Inauguration constitutes the highest form of Imperial Hubris. Our troops have nothing but shortages from the theater of operations to the pitiful reception and care at the hands of the V.A., and the white-tie set will spend Homeland Security funds for the paper-pushers to pat themselves on the backs for their “victory”. Why not follow the example set by previous ‘War Presidents’ and have a humble ceremony in honor of those who will never see a white tie or formal gown? Why not honor those who truly serve by not flaunting what they will never enjoy? What harm would it do to simply be a humble servant of the nation instead of a BIG SHOT?
Comment by Sine Pari -
In response to Chris Thompson’s comments as to the Red White and Blue Ball, wake up and face reality. Do you really think these men and women who have been injured in battle want to join in partying while their fellow soldiers are still in Harms Way!!!! Do you think the men and woman in Afghanistan, Iraq, and other forward areas really care about some big bash in Washington DC where millions of dollars are being wasted.
Washington DC has the largest employement of Federal Govt Workers and even the Office of Personal Management is wanting these employees to leave early on the 19th. And they have been given the day off on the 20th. Do you have any idea just how many Federal dollars that is, well above $400,000,000 and Chris is you cannot count the zeros, that is 400 Million dollars. So do not come to me with this 11 million in Homeland, 40 million in private donations. The American people are paying well over half a billion dollars for GWB to be sworn in. And I guess you live in a fiction world, cause being that I am employeed with the Federal Govt, do you really believe the soldier on the front would rather have this half billion dollars spent on a swearing in or in providing salaries, weapons, protection, food, supplies to off set what they face everyday when they are in the middle east, “Death”. If GWB was a true leader he would send those dollars to the troops and their families. You do the math, 150,000 troops, that is about 33,000 dollars to each solider and lets not forget those soldiers who will be replacing those already in harms way.
I do believe a simple 100 dollar swearing in would be just fine for the American people.
Comment by Gary Rocker -
This administration doesn’t lead by example. The lack of responsibility and restraint is on par with that of a 13 year old teenage girl with her daddy’s stolen credit card. Spend to the limit and then blame someone else when the bill comes in.
Here are a few examples:
Responsibility – Introduce No Child Left Behind and then cut the funding.
Responsibility – Force CIA analysts to produce WMD information, invade a country based on that information and then, when the weapons aren’t found, blame in on the CIA.
Restraint – Spend billions of dollars on researching a “missile shield” that doesn’t (and won’t ever) work.
Responsibility – Approve a weapons program that will work on developing a “bunker buster” nuclear weapon but expect the rest of the world not to have nuclear weapons programs.
Give me a break… now that the election is over, there is no reason not to celebrate… Half the country was fooled into believing that this was the republican party of their fathers (conservative and responsible), unfortunately for them, that party is now a kegger being run by their frat. Party on George, Rove earned it for you.
Comment by D Koch -
First, let President Bush have his inauguration party; he deserves it! Next time I hear a Republican scream about Democrats or independents overspending I am going to scream. It’s not the inner city minorities getting ice cream and cake projects.
Thirty-one of the U.S. states reap more in federal spending than their citizens contribute to the federal government in taxes. The other nineteen states provide more in taxes than they receive in spending. In the 2000 and 2004 U.S. presidential election, George W. Bush won on average 87% of the states that are net beneficiaries of federal spending programs, while the Democratic candidates won most of the states that are net contributors to federal spending. A state’s ratio of federal spending to tax dollars, particularly non-defense spending, is a statistically and substantively significant predictor of Bush’s margin of victory across the states. A state’s per capita federal tax burden is also associated with the election result: states with higher tax burdens gave higher vote margins to Bush.
Therefore, the Democrats need to refocus there strategy of “Taking Care of the Home Front”. Do you think that Bush does not realize this factor? Do you think voters in these state’s don’t know where they get their cookie cutter program funds.
Instead of using these facts to develop a successful campaign, Democratic candidates let Republicans paint them as “liberal over spenders” with no real plan. So, I say let Bush have his party. He deserves his to go out and get an overpriced Oxxford suit to look nice for America while a significant portion of Americans can’t pay the bills.
He has fooled Americans into believing that his leadership will provide for a healthy American economy. Well, it is all going to come to an end. Barring Congress passes a new budget, the bond market will realize deficit increases which will push interest rates new all-time high. Maybe this won’t happen during term. But, the next President will be left holding the bag.
Is anyone listening to Alan Greenspan. As Chairman of the Federal Reserve, he has emphasized the importance of deficit reduction and warned of higher interest rates. At the helm of monetary policy, the Chairman of the Federal Reserve has been forced to lower the Federal Funds Rate. But, they can no longer go any lower. In fact, he has been projecting major increases if the Federal Budget deficits continue. The dollar’s 30 percent tumble under the Bush Administration should create concern about the U.S. Economy. Do you think wealth is not growing in other countries? Do you think that as wealth grows in these countries the U.S. just might continue to slip?
There is $664 billion going into the pockets of foreign countries. This means less for investment in American schools, less for fighting crime, and less development in the U.S. All you have to do is look at the retailing industry. Watch what major American retailers like Target and Wal-Mart do abroad? There are smart people out their who know that American’s are too lazy to self-involved to do their homework. Where do you think the money to build new cities like Shenzhen is coming from, Taipei, Dhaka?
In order to allow the economy to grow, we must demand that our government manages our national, state, and local cash flow. Running out of cash is the definition of failure in business. Imagine what would happen if the government could not sufficiently fund programs for business growth?
Therefore, we must make the commitment to do what it takes so it does not happen to the U.S. economy. It’s important to recognize that cash is what will keep our growing. We need to manage it with the care and attention it deserves.
Therefore, we must all start to pay close attention to our government’s spending practices and voice our concern through written letters and phones to our elected officials.
Joe Frazier, the famous boxer, said “The punch that knocks you out is the one you didn’t see.” What Joe Frazier was saying is that in boxing, if you see the punch coming, you have a chance to react. You have a chance to get out of the way. You have a chance to at least “roll with the punch.” It’s when you don’t see the punch coming that you get knocked out.
In business, you can’t have a punch (a cash flow problem) show up at the last minute, when you didn’t see it coming. This kind of surprise blow will knock you out. It could be the kind of blow that ruins our small businesses and economies.
Comment by Logical Person -
First, let President Bush have his inauguration party; he deserves it! Next time I hear a Republican scream about Democrats or independents overspending I am going to scream. It’s not the inner city minorities getting ice cream and cake projects.
Thirty-one of the U.S. states reap more in federal spending than their citizens contribute to the federal government in taxes. The other nineteen states provide more in taxes than they receive in spending. In the 2000 and 2004 U.S. presidential election, George W. Bush won on average 87% of the states that are net beneficiaries of federal spending programs, while the Democratic candidates won most of the states that are net contributors to federal spending. A state’s ratio of federal spending to tax dollars, particularly non-defense spending, is a statistically and substantively significant predictor of Bush’s margin of victory across the states. A state’s per capita federal tax burden is also associated with the election result: states with higher tax burdens gave higher vote margins to Bush.
Therefore, the Democrats need to refocus there strategy of “Taking Care of the Home Front”. Do you think that Bush does not realize this factor? Do you think voters in these state’s don’t know where they get their cookie cutter program funds.
Instead of using these facts to develop a successful campaign, Democratic candidates let Republicans paint them as “liberal over spenders” with no real plan. So, I say let Bush have his party. He deserves his to go out and get an overpriced Oxxford suit to look nice for America while a significant portion of Americans can’t pay the bills.
He has fooled Americans into believing that his leadership will provide for a healthy American economy. Well, it is all going to come to an end. Barring Congress passes a new budget, the bond market will realize deficit increases which will push interest rates new all-time high. Maybe this won’t happen during term. But, the next President will be left holding the bag.
Is anyone listening to Alan Greenspan. As Chairman of the Federal Reserve, he has emphasized the importance of deficit reduction and warned of higher interest rates. At the helm of monetary policy, the Chairman of the Federal Reserve has been forced to lower the Federal Funds Rate. But, they can no longer go any lower. In fact, he has been projecting major increases if the Federal Budget deficits continue. The dollar’s 30 percent tumble under the Bush Administration should create concern about the U.S. Economy. Do you think wealth is not growing in other countries? Do you think that as wealth grows in these countries the U.S. just might continue to slip?
There is $664 billion going into the pockets of foreign countries. This means less for investment in American schools, less for fighting crime, and less development in the U.S. All you have to do is look at the retailing industry. Watch what major American retailers like Target and Wal-Mart do abroad? There are smart people out their who know that American’s are too lazy to self-involved to do their homework. Where do you think the money to build new cities like Shenzhen is coming from, Taipei, Dhaka?
In order to allow the economy to grow, we must demand that our government manages our national, state, and local cash flow. Running out of cash is the definition of failure in business. Imagine what would happen if the government could not sufficiently fund programs for business growth?
Therefore, we must make the commitment to do what it takes so it does not happen to the U.S. economy. It’s important to recognize that cash is what will keep our growing. We need to manage it with the care and attention it deserves.
Therefore, we must all start to pay close attention to our government’s spending practices and voice our concern through written letters and phones to our elected officials.
Joe Frazier, the famous boxer, said “The punch that knocks you out is the one you didn’t see.” What Joe Frazier was saying is that in boxing, if you see the punch coming, you have a chance to react. You have a chance to get out of the way. You have a chance to at least “roll with the punch.” It’s when you don’t see the punch coming that you get knocked out.
In business, you can’t have a punch (a cash flow problem) show up at the last minute, when you didn’t see it coming. This kind of surprise blow will knock you out. It could be the kind of blow that ruins our small businesses and economies.
Comment by Logical Person -
Pjid_
Logic? The logic is we can’t undo what we’ve already done. We need to focus on what CAN be done NOW. Not what should have been done six years ago.
Blame can always go around. No political party is exempt from blame. But, we are at a dangerous crossroads and immediate action needs to be taken before we all are taken on the bumpiest ride of our life. Partisanship needs to be put aside for our own good and for the good of our country.
Comment by TaterSalad -
Abby_
Yes the cost of “security” is in addition to the $40ml inauguration.
I don’t know the breakdown of costs, but let’s put it this way, you and I are paying for the majority of the costs.
Yes, we pay for the inauguration and zippo goes back into the same fund it was taken from.
Fair? Right? Responsible? I’d say NOT. We should have voted in someone much more responsible than W to take care of our hard-earned dollars.
Comment by Dot -
I’ve read that the cost of security and services for the inauguration will be $17million, which is being billed to the District of Columbia…and they are justifiably upset about this…but is that in addition to the $40 million cost of the inauguration already stated?
I’ve also read that individuals and corporations are “underwriting” much of the expense…but then it has also been suggested that Bush pay for it out of some emergency fund….does anyone know the breakdown of what comes from where/whom?
And lastly, where do the proceeds from the $17 tickets to see some parade or speech or the $100,000 to attend a gala go? Do WE pay for the inauguration, but the tickets for the proceeds go into some other spendable account.
Comment by Abby -
And you’re surprised by this?
Remember, you voted for the guy who knowingly sent us into a disastrous war on false pretenses to line the pockets of his contributors. The guy who listens to God, but shuts out everyone but his inner circle of neoconservative advisors. Face it: if you were an investor in a company that was run this way, you’d have fired his ass about a month into his first term.
There’s a reason that so many of these posts seem so hateful. People are DYING, Mark! Needlessly. Americans _and_ Iraqis (who, incidentally, will be looking for an outlet to vent their frustrations over seeing over 100,000 Iraqi civilians killed in this “battle for freedom”). The end result: a huge windfall for the defense contractors and another country (and probably a theocracy, at that) full of people who hate us. Not to mention the havoc they’re wreaking on our economy.
What more does the Bush administration have to do to prove to you that they’re completely unfit to run this country? What more _could_ they do? What if Bush started eating babies? Would that help?
Comment by Mike -
I think my major concern is how you apply this logic to just the Bush Administration. Why didn’t you advocate the same point of view during the Clinton Administration when over 800,000 Rawandans were hacked to death? Didn’t they deserve foriegn aid? U.S. support?
Comment by Pjid -
RE: Chris Thompsons Multiple posts.
Quit panhandling dude. Mr. Cuban would respond to you after the first post if he were interested. Your event features Michael Bolton, and two other acts never heard of. Mr. Cuban would do better. He already does a lot for our service people. Why don’t you donate to his cause?
The point has been made about the inaguration, but it has not and will not stopp it from taking place. Too bad. We need a budget conscious person in the house.
Comment by Aquarius -
Thank you, Mark! But a “No” vote for Bush on November 2, 2004, would have helped.
If you can recognize Bush’s reckless spending now, why couldn’t you have recognized this prior to November 2, 2004?
I disagree with your opinion of Bush being a strong leader. He is the weakest (in my opinion) leader this country has ever “selected” to the highest office of our country. Weak? Yes. Don’t turn a blind eye. The “strong leader” of our country is corporate America. Bush chooses to say NO to these corporations that are putting money in his pocket and faux power in his hands. It all comes down to the mighty dollar, which is the demise of our country. When, oh, when is it going to stop. Open your eyes America and educate yourselves.
The US dollar has fallen to its lowest value ever.
We have the largest deficit in our nations history.
There are millions of people without work.
Healthcare costs are skyrocketing.
More children (especially in Texas) are without insurance than ever before.
“No Child Left Behind” has been underfunded. Higher education is more costly today, yet grants are harder to come by.
The Medicare program was a scam for our senior citizens (benefits the pharmaceutical companies more than our parents and grandparents). Environmental policies which were put in place to protect you and me and our kids have been rolled back for the benefit of corporations. Did you know that it is now the US citizen’s responsibility now to pay for waste clean-up caused by environmental polluters?
Separation of church and state– you won’t have the freedom of either if you don’t protect their separation.
Using precious class time during science education to teach creationism– let’s dumb down our nation even more.
Abstinence only (once again, let’s dumb down our future generation) and within that program filling it with untruths, i.e., aids can be contracted from tears and sweat????
Privatize Social Security, OMG … don’t you realize that it’s for the benefit of Wall Street, not retirees. Due to the depressed state of our economy, Wall Street needs to be “pumped up” and it’s you and me that will take the fall.
Media … “fair and balanced” give me a break. The media is now controlled exclusively by whom? A few and mighty, i.e., Rupert Murdoch. They are going to report only what benefits them and their interests. Spread your wings. Refuse to be controlled by corporate media.
IRAQ … the worst of them all … our sons and daughters are dying for what? Not freedom. There was NEVER a threat from the WEAKEST country in the world, Iraq. There were no WMDs. No ties to Bin Laden. Spread democracy around the world, for what, global dominance? I personally find that frightening. Oil, yes. a scarce resouce that we in the US continue to deplete and refuse to conserve. We are running out of oil, folks. What’s more important, that Hummer or your children’s lives? Remember, oil has many uses, i.e., toothpaste, shampoo bottles, plastics, etc. Face it, we are using up this precious resource to support our extravagant lifestyles. This war has been all about LIES. These young men and women, mothers and fathers, are dying for corporate greed and the fight for natural resouces. It’s bad enough that we are all getting raped at home by these elite corporations, but too many of us have also supported the deaths, mutilations, catastrophic injuries for corporations that benefit from war, i.e., Halliburton, Betchel, etc. Of course, this is nothing new, but isn’t it time to take a stand and say ENOUGH???
The above items are just a few, I regret, that concern me and should concern every American citizen. We are moving backwards as a Nation as corporate America and our government that supports these actions flourish. This is a country founded by the people and for the people. So …
GOOD MORNING, AMERICA. Get your cup of coffee, educate yourself — your lives and the lives of our future generation NEED YOU!!
Again, Mark, I applaud you for speaking out. Let’s continue to do what’s right no matter what the cost and refuse to be led by LIES and DECEIT that demoralize our country and weaken our nation as a whole.
Comment by TaterSalad -
There is a solution to the international conflict, anger and disparities that besets us today:
SHARING the worlds resources.
That is the only sure way to justice, and justice leads to peace.
We have to choose between greed and competition or sharing and cooperation. Governments must realize that nations sharing the world’s abundant resources is the only way to alleviate the strife and thus develop trust.
3/4 of the world gets only 17% of the resources. It’s not because they’re lazy or stupid. It’s because market forces (the so-called wonderful idea capitalism – supported mainly by the elite class who benefit the most) assume everyone starts off at the same point. Well, that’s not true. All things are not equal.
Pass on the idea of sharing and cooperation. It’s the only true path to peace.
just a thought for your consideration…
for hopeful news and an extraordinary message known to many around the world please see
http://www.share-international.org
Comment by Peace Activist -
We can’t ever expect to pull out of this black hole of debt. Our country is being taken over by huge corporations that are in the business of making money off people in debt. Credit card companies get rich by exploiting people’s financial problems. Also, everywhere you look now you see places in business solely for the purpose of payday advances. How does it help someone to put them in a situation to spend their money before they even get it. Yes i realize that people should have enough restrain to live within their limits and not spend more than they have. But how can we act surprised when we are throwing the option to spend fake money right in their faces. you want to know how to end the debt, shut down credit companies. did we ever have problems with a simple paper and coin system. people are alot less likely to throw away their money when they are physically handing over cash out of there wallet than just siging a piece of paper and dealing with it later. We need to regulate how credit card companies operate. shouldnt we just have a set dollar amount that a person can only go so far into debt. i mean im 20 years old and i have a 8500 dollar credit line and no job. that is rediculous.
will the governemtn ever step up and say enough is enough and get control of this credit disease. not a chance as long as VISA keeps buying 10,000 dollar seats at ceremonies. Not a chance as long as Master Card sends its lobbyists to washington to take out government offials for 50 dollar steaks every night.
This problem with debt cannot be addresed by small stabs like staging down a ceremony or two. Its going to a DRASTIC change to have any effect. and personally i dont see anyone in government having the cajones to step up.
Maybe we should jsut send in the governator to clean up.
Comment by jimmy dean -
Wounded Service Members to Be Honored at Heroes Red, White & Blue Inaugural Ball; Tickets Still Available For Event Featuring Michael Bolton, Nile Rodgers and R. Lee Ermey
Come on Mark, nothing but net! You are the man! Give me a call?
Comment by Chris Thompson -
Slightly off topic, here… maybe it was not Cuban who authorized Nash’s trade to Phoenix but this person instead, using Cuban’s Sidekick credentials.
We all know Cuban loves his Sidekick from TMobile.
http://www.securityfocus.com/news/10271
Rob
Comment by Rob Sherrard -
Unrelated idea.
what is about realtime short term insurance.
let’s say you drive your car only once a week for 2 hours and the rest of the time you spend home. would not you like to sign a contract with your insurance company that you pay only when you drive, let’s say $2 one time insurance vaid for 30 miles from your home.
let’s say that you decided to install new dish. you know that it can be dangerous, so you call your insurance company and ask them to cover next 3 hours.
number of examples are limitless.
the technology in use GPS+cellphone+some database management software.
Comment by arkady -
For everyone tied up in bickering over political affiliations answer for me this one simple question:
If I individually and separately place identical suitcases filled with $500,000 of “Special Interest” money in front of a powerful Democrat and a powerful Republican which one will take the suitcase and it contents?
The answer? Both.
I whole-heartedly agree with a comment I once read from Gore Vidal when he was the featured guest of one of USATODAY.com’s online chats. A reader accused him of partisanship to which he responded [paraphrased], “You are under a misconception that The United States of America has two distinct political parties. There is only one political party in America my friend, and that political party is Corporate America”.
What do I see as the deadliest sin? It‘s GREED, as we are all on the front edge of discovering. Eventually the love of money will annihilate us. Read some about Karl Marx’s views on “Democratic” [quotes emphasized] and Capitalist societies, or just look around at the disgustingly disproportionate number of wealthy and poor in the United States. Remember, and if you don’t know then learn, that loose Accounting practices and a grossly uneven distribution of wealth were the two largest contributing factors to THE GREAT DEPRESSION. Any parallels to today??? We as a people are diseased, and the only cure lies with those who are, and will remain, too selfish administer it.
Do not be sheep, there are so many websites where you can see the history of the National Deficit since it’s inception with FDR. It has INCREASED with every President since 1938. So instead of groaning about how President Clinton has sold the farm to China by giving them Most Favored Nation status (which he did), and complaining about how Reagan sunk the ship by contributing to a huge National Deficit (which he did), take the time to enjoy all of what you can while you can.
Quick sidebar, I would love to get into a match of “Mental Chess” with some of you arrogant know-it-alls who choose to viciously respond in these blogs. “The man who knows something knows that he knows nothing at all.” Some of you are a bunch of pompous idiots.
Comment by Brian R. Quigley -
All this does not suprise me too !
Comment by Shopping blog -
It seems to me this is another example of politicians’ lack of priorities. Some say, “Hey, he’s the President, he deserves it!” I say, we’re Americans, and that’s OUR money for OUR security and WE deserve it!
Whatever happened to doing the right thing, and not doing something just because that’s “the way it’s always been”?
And I voted for GW…twice. Just not happy about this.
– Rowdy
Comment by Rowdy Raider -
Inaugural organizers defend expense
Critics: Outlay is at bad time
By Carl Weiser
Enquirer Washington Bureau
http://news.enquirer.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20050112/NEWS01/501120405/1056
Comment by Chris Thompson -
Completely unsurprising. Virtually everything the federal government does is a big scam.
Comment by Scott Wickett -
The amount of money spent by the City of Dallas for the AAC was a little high as well. However…It’s supposed to be a good thing as it promotes consumer spending everywhere from the games to hotels, eateries, etc. resulting in a positive economic impact..that is exactly what the Inaugural will do for so many people in Washington DC.
Comment by John -
Mark,
I extend that invitation sincerely and invite you as our guest. The Fallen Heroes Fund does great work and and I tip my hat to you and would like to honor your work as a patriotic citizen.
BUT, I am not sure if I can let you be our title sponsor at $100,000…if that were the case it would have to be called “The Heroes, Red, White and Blue Ball sponsored by Mark Cuban” ….I dare you! 😉
Comment by Chris Thompson -
FYI, some Balls are not “official”, are non-partisan, celebrate democracy, invite 500 wounded in-patient Heroes and their loved ones as honored guests, and raise money for charity.
Mark, why don’t you come join us?
ORGANIZERS ANNOUNCE CELEBRITY PARTICIPATION FOR HEROES RED, WHITE & BLUE INAUGURAL BALL
Tickets Still Available For Event Honoring Wounded Troops Just Returned From Iraq
Washington, DC — Citizens Helping Heroes and Veterans Foundation Incorporated (VFI) announced today the celebrity line-up for the “Heroes Red, White & Blue Inaugural Ball” celebrating America’s wounded military heroes. Performers for the evening, which takes place Thursday, January 20, 2005, at the Mellon Auditorium in Washington, DC, from 9:00pm until 2:00am, include Grammy Award-winning artist Michael Bolton, Grammy Award-winning artist Nile Rodgers and Chic (“We Are Family”), Steve Bridges as “Mr. President,” (as seen on The Tonight Show with Jay Leno); and also appearing is R. Lee Ermey, The History Channel’s beloved star of Mail Call.
The Heroes Red, White & Blue Inaugural Ball will benefit three military support organizations: Fisher House, Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors (TAPS), and the Washington USO and will include 500 special guests, wounded service members and their families from Walter Reed Medical Center and Bethesda Naval Hospital.
One of the families in attendance at the Ball will be the Cheatham family from Rocky Mount, North Carolina. Christopher Jr. (14) and Mathew (12) lost their father last June in Baquba, Iraq. They will be special guests of CHH and will be bringing photos of their father for the celebrities to autograph. According to singer, songwriter and producer Nile Rodgers, “The sacrifice made by our service members and their families is one we can never repay. They are forever in our hearts and that is why we are coming together for this very special evening.”
TriWest Healthcare Alliance, a military healthcare provider, has signed on as primary sponsor of the event. According to Citizens Helping Heroes Executive Director Chris Thompson, “TriWest helps meet the health needs of our military men and women every day of the year. Through their sponsorship of this unique event, they are also helping support the non-profit organizations that meet the health, morale and welfare needs of our service members returning from duty.” Additional sponsors include Military.com and Union Pacific.
A limited number of tickets to the Ball are still available. Tickets are available for $350 per person (includes refreshments and entertainment) or $1000 for VIP tickets (includes access to VIP reception, photo opportunities with celebrities and special guests).
For more information on tickets, please contact Pam Garfield at 202-244-2121 or email balltickets@citizenshelpingheroes.org.
Sponsorship opportunities for the Heroes Red White & Blue Inaugural Ball are also available. For more information on sponsorship, please contact Chris Thompson at 888-785-3045. To purchase tickets, donate to the beneficiaries and learn more about The Heroes Red White & Blue Inaugural Ball, you can visit http://www.citizenshelpingheroes.org
About Citizens Helping Heroes
Citizens Helping Heroes (CHH), a 501c3 non-profit organization, was founded to help support America’s military families. CHH’s goal is to raise significant funds to support the official military relief societies of each branch of the Armed Services (Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society, Army Emergency Relief, Coast Guard Mutual Assistance and Air Force Aid Society) and to raise public awareness of the emergency services they provide to military families in need. Through the Heroes Ball, CHH is extending that support to other military relief organizations, including the United Service Organization (USO), Fisher House, and The Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors (TAPS). By educating Americans about the societies and the critical-need services they provide to our soldiers and their families — and by encouraging the public to help support the societies financially – we can help to make a difference in so many lives.
Proceeds From the Ball Support:
Fisher House (www.fisherhouse.org), like the Ronald McDonald House, is a home away from home for families of wounded military personnel on major military installations and VA Hospitals. Fisher Houses have hosted over 65,000 families since its inception in 1990.
TAPS (www.taps.org), which stands for Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors is a one of a kind non-profit Veteran Service Organization offering hope, healing, comfort and care to thousands of American armed forces families facing the death of a loved one each year. Over the years, thousands of families have turned to TAPS for a support system that they so rightfully deserve.
United Service Organization (USO) (www.uso.org) provides morale, welfare and recreation services to our men and women in uniform. The original intent of Congress—and enduring style of USO delivery—is to represent the American people by extending a touch of home to the military. The USO currently operates 124 centers around the world, including six mobile canteens.
Comment by Chris Thompson -
That’s horrid but that does suprise me… What’s even more obscene to me is the Jones Tax Arlington is being hit with… who the hell voted for that?! Certainly not the home owners that’ll taking it pretty hard in the a$$.
Comment by Mary in Big D -
I listened to you on Tony Snow last night, and I just want to get something straight in my head.
Even though the vast majority of costs for the parties (this $11 million is part of security, and would be spend regardless of parties or not) are paid by PRIVATE donations, and you admitted last night on the show that we probably pledged enough, that Bush should STILL call off the parties and ask the people who donated to put their money to the tsunami disaster. How is it sensible to send money to aid when you admitted that there is probably more than enough there already?
Also, did it ever occur that the same people who donated to the inauguration probably already have donated money to the tsunami relief effort? They chose to donate to the inagural, that was their choice.
When I donated to the Red Cross for 911, I wanted my money to go to 911 victims, not a new phone system that they wanted to do. My point is that these people donate because the want to… just like every other time they donate. That is why we live in America, because we CAN do both.
You also said that the President has to set an example, and that you don’t have to. EVERY American has to set an example. You are a public figure whether you like it or not, and you are in a better position to show an example as an AMERICAN than most people.
As I said before, that money that DC has to pay will have to be spend ANYWAY. It’s not paying for parties, and the money that they will bring IN will be much more than they will spend.
Comment by Irish John -
Yeah i just wanted to say how much of a fan i am of Mark Cuban, he is a real american hero.
I want to commend you on how you had the courage to stand up to those evil Republicans and there inauguration,Clinton would never have wasted money on something so redicules as that,only those ba$tard Repubs.Im sure since you are a Billionaire and a Fantastic American you will go above and beyond in your donation to the tsunami relief.I donated what i could which was only $100,im sorry i couldn’t donate more but my city was pretty badly destroyed by the hurricanes(my house and car were badly damaged) here in florida and i just finally went back to work last week =(..But im sure if we figure you are worth at least 1,000,000 times as much as me you will have no problem donating at least 10 million if not a 100 million to relief.That would be keeping with your status as a Great American Mark; I’m sure you are not a hypocrit like other people say and not just speaking up for political biases or to get free publicity.I know my buddy Mark would never do something like that,he is the best,in fact im betting he will donate 25% of his wealth and help 10’s of thousands and he would still have over a billion dollars Wowwww I’m not worthy
Comment by Glenn -
Rob – maybe you should read the whole article. The Feds told DC to use some of the $240 million they gave them for homeland security. Where is the spin?
It would be a nice gesture to have cancelled/scaled back the inauguration, but it is Bush’s priviledge to have a full bonanza if he wants. However, the security for every other event in DC is covered by the event sponsors (they pay for the police needed). Why should the inaugural ball be any different?
Comment by MattR -
Mr. Cuban, I applaud your stance! I am sickened by the thought of self-serving major players in world politics(especially those in this country) paying tribute to themselves on what wonderful humanitarians they are, while slurping Cristal as the steak sauce dribbles down their cheeks.
I am barely making ends meet, but I give everything I can all year round. I sincerely respect people, such as yourself, who have the means and the werewithal to put your money, and your heart where your mouth is. Thanks
Comment by Norman Hoffman -
Does anyone wonder how they came to $8M overtime for local police? If you assume the average cop in DC makes $75k (a high number I am sure) they would each have to work an additional 72 hours to achieve that number. Have I done my math wrong? The city is going to have 2000 cops working 6 extra 12 hour shifts over what a 3 day event? And that assumes the average cop makes the previously mentioned $75k a year. Seems like that number is way way overblown
Comment by Brian -
Well, if the logic used by the Mavericks and Stars applies here, the city should recoup some of this cost through sales, occupancy, and other taxes that will be assessed against the thousands of out-of-towners visiting for the inauguration. Add to the the $45 million or so that is being pumped into the local economy by private contributors. Or, does this logic only apply to sports team owners who want the public to finance their arenas.
PS. Don’t let the owners tell you they are paying back the City. The Mavs and Stars pay $3.4 million a year in lease payments to the city for 30 years. Even if you don’t take into account the time-value of money, the teams are only paying back $102 million of the $125 million the city of Dallas paid for the AAC. And, the city of Dallas keeps the AAC in the City’s name so that the Mavs and Stars pay no property taxes (unlike the working men and women of Dallas).
Comment by Wilson -
This is $11 million that DC will have to spend that would have been spent on Homeland Security instead. This is shameful. This administration wants everyone but themselves to have to suffer for 9/11, etc. Only one congressman has a son or daughter in Iraq. Bush didn’t serve in Vietnam but wants us to go serve in Vietnam II/Bosnia II, the remix (Vietnam 2 for obvious reasons, Bosnia 2 because Iraq is also made up of 3 different ethnic groups that will not peacefully coexist very well…high chance of civil war between the 3 groups, just like in Bosnia).
Bush wants every child to be born $18,000 in debt, with his budget deficit, but then wants to go spend lots of money on the inauguration…
Comment by Nicholas P -
The entire premise of this article is bogus from paragraph one. The author puts forth that the $11M is coming directly out of homeland security projects. Gimme a break folks! That is spin.
Comment by Rob Thrasher -
All politicians are scumbags. Anyone who rises above city council does so by selling out.
Marc, maybe you should consider a run for office. I would trust that you’d stick to the issues and vote with your head and not your fat bank account. 😉
Comment by KC -
The American people are generous. I would not be surprised if there is more raised for the tsunami tragedy than 9/11. We are a rich country. Until we forego eating out, vacations, and $9 movie tickets, I would not be against the usual inauguration ceremony and parties.
Lets not exaggerate. Life in America is not dire.
Comment by Neil -
The amount of money spent by our government is staggering. To condemn the inauguration, one very, very, small aspect of government spending, misses the point, and because we can only have one (Republican) President it therefore makes it a partisan issue. You really think John Kerry would forego his inauguration? Highly unlikely folks.
I agree that spending is out of control. But let’s get real and come up with things that could make a BIG difference to EVERYBODY.
Statements and messages are great, but in the end, is that enough? If Bush did trim down the inauguration plans, there would be just as vocal a group out there saying that it was a selfish ploy – a tactic done just to make him look like a hero. The message would probably have been lost.
Comment by Chris -
Call my cynical, but am I the only one that thinks it odd that a political party that won the election on the stance of, “We can defend this country aganist terrorists better than the other guy can,” is willing to divert millions from D.C.’s homeland security operations to throw a bash?
This could be another one of those “man behind the curtain” moments.
Comment by Senor Pez -
I commend you for your stand on the inauguration. It is obscene to spend this sum of money on such frivolity when our deficit rises daily with no end in sight. The greatest natural disaster of our lifetime has devastated millions, yet our government throws a gala.
Kudos to you for having the courage to speak out on this topic.
Comment by Beth Price -