Universal Health care one step closer.

GOOD MORNING FLINT!
10/14/09
By Terrry Bankert a Flint Divorce Attorney Lawyer sharing his opinion with you.

CHANGE HEALTH CARE TO SAVE OURSELVES

Obama has called revamping the nation's $2.6 trillion health care system his top priority, and five separate committees in Congress have passed versions of the bill — advancing his goals further than any health care legislation in more than a generation. [u] The world is watching our winner of the nobel peace prize. He must succeed! We must succeed!

Our President has avoided open warfare with the republicans on Health care. For this alone he deserves the Nobel Peace Prize.

A REGULATED MONOPOLY WITH PAID LOBBYIST IS TRYING TO STEAL UNIVERSAL HEALTH CARE.

But attacks on the leading Democratic reform plan this week by the insurance lobby left little doubt that two of the most powerful institutions involved in the debate -- the White House and America's insurance companies -- have abandoned any real hope of forging a compromise. What was a tenuous truce has turned quickly into an all-out battle, with both sides ratcheting up the hostilities and their rhetoric. [WP] These corporations are stopping bipartisan cooperation. Just who do they own?
　
HISTORY CALLS ...SNOWE GETS IT RIGHT

"When history calls, history calls," Snowe said, ending months of speculation about her position on the bill. "The consequences of inaction dictate the urgency of Congress." [u] Well said.

SOME SAY THE BILL IS NOT ENOUGH

The bad news was the bill itself - a small step forward, but too skimpily funded to make the kind of difference that the public is counting on.[b] A journey begins with one step.

ITS ONLY MADE IT OUT OF COMMITTEE NEXT COMES THE FLOOR DEBATE.

Lawmakers turned their attention to the next critical step for health care legislation — floor debate — after a key Senate committee Tuesday advanced an $829 billion measure that would affect health insurance for millions of Americans[u] Legislative change in a democracy is a messy thing, but much better than the alternative.

The biggest hurdle: satisfying centrists wary of a government-run public insurance option without losing liberals who insist on one.[ws] Infected change always comes from a coalition. Its better than none at all.

PASSAGES

As the last of five congressional committees completed work Tuesday on a health-care reform package, lawmakers braced for a debate before the full House and Senate about whether Americans are ready to embrace the far-reaching changes necessary to extend coverage to millions of Americans. [w] Time is of the essance, people are dying in the street.

THERE IS ONE GOOD REPUBLICAN IN AMERICA, EVERY AMERICAN COULD GET HEALTH CARE.

With the backing of a lone Republican, the Senate Finance Committee voted 14 to 9 to approve legislation that would, for the first time, require every American to have health insurance. [w]

THE DEMOCRATS WITH SNOWE ARE ABOUT TO GIVE 29 MILLION AMERICANS HEALTH CARE.

The proposal, which the Senate Finance Committee approved 14-9, would expand insurance coverage to 29 million people who wouldn't otherwise have it by requiring nearly everyone to buy a policy and offering subsidies to help low- and moderate-income families afford premiums. [u] Think of the aniexty you felt the lastime you or a family member was without health care. Now multiply that by 29 million.
　
MEDICAID EXPANSION vs MEDICARE SHRINKING

The package would spend $829 billion over the next decade to finance the biggest expansion of Medicaid in 40 years and to provide federal subsidies to 18 million people who otherwise would be unable to afford coverage. [w] In the most militant sort of way we must demand future funding of universal health care , medicaid and social security.

UNDER MINIMUM WAGE GET INTO THE PROGRAM

The finance legislation would expand Medicaid by allowing individuals who earn less than about $14,400 a year to enroll in the program. The bill would also prohibit insurance companies from denying coverage or charging higher premiums because of a patient's pre-existing conditions.[u] Of course the cost will be sperad to the rest of us. Some don't support universal health care when its for those others. But its okay when its a sibling , cousin or mom in need.

THE BILL REDUCES THE BUDGET DEFICIT

It would reduce budget deficits by $81 billion over 10 years, according to the non-partisan Congressional Budget Office. [u] CBO the only truthful game in town.
　
HIGHER COSTS FOR SOME

It would raise taxes on high-cost health plans, impose new penalties on employers and slash future spending on Medicare, the federal insurance plan for people older than 65. [w]

MILESTONE OR MILLSTONE

President Obama said that while the Finance Committee package is "not perfect," its passage marks a critical milestone. "We are now closer than ever before to passing health reform," he said in a Rose Garden news conference. "But we're not there yet. . . . Now's the time to dig in and work even harder to get this done." [w] WORK HARDER MEANS FIGHT LIKE HADIES.

EVERYBODY HAS A DOG IN THIS FIGHT.

That work is likely to be grueling. Groups from across the political spectrum opened fire Tuesday on the panel's measure, mindful that it is likely to form the backbone of compromise legislation to be crafted in the coming weeks. [w] You need to make a personal decison to advocate your self or add your number and voice to those who are.

WHAT HAPPENED TO THE GON’T RUN PART

Labor unions complained that the legislation lacks a government-run insurance plan to compete with private insurers. [w] A govt run competitor to thwart the monopolistic pressures in organized health care.

THERE IS NOT PUBLIC INSURANCE PLAN.....darn!

In addition to lacking a public insurance plan as a low-cost option for consumers, the bill does not provide adequate subsidies for low- and middle-income workers who cannot get coverage at the workplace but who will, under the legislation, be obliged to buy insurance on their own.[b]

LEGISLATORS WITH A CONSCIENCE...SOUNDS LIKE SMOKE TO ME

Recognizing that the subsidies are insufficient, the bill’s authors decided they could not in good conscience levy severe penalties on those who fail to get coverage.[b]

INSURANCE COMPANIES SHOULD SUCK IT UP NOT PASS IT ON

Insurance companies said that new regulations on their industry could cause premiums to rise higher.[w] Of course they will, no matter what.We trust you guys and believe every word you say...not!

BUSINESS AND LABOR IN THE SAME BED,LACE SHEETS, candles a little wine!?

And major business groups joined with labor in decrying a proposed tax on high-cost insurance policies, which could increase health-care expenses for employers and workers alike. [w] Them against them..the enriched and powerful against the not so rich and not so powerful.

THE BILL IS NOT ALL IT COULD BE

Unions oppose a plan to pay for the bill in part with a 40% tax on high-priced insurance plans. [u] But then the un-unioned need the coverage also. What comes to mind, Sleep in the bed you make or you cannot have your cake and eat it too.

ITS NOW ALMOST UNIVERSAL

The bill also requires insurers to take all comers, including those with preexisting illnesses. [b]

EVERYONE IS A GOOD OBJECTIVE

With a weak penalty for failing to get insurance, many young, healthy consumers will choose to pay the penalty rather than fork over thousands of dollars that they can’t afford, leaving large numbers of families uncovered and the insurance pool top-heavy with older, sicker purchasers. [b] So whats wrong with a penalty.

Since insurers will be required to cover them and prohibited from charging extra for their preexisting conditions, premiums for everyone will rise.[b] And your point is?
　
CHAMBER WANTS BIPARTISANSHIP..RIGHT

"Although it was the best effort to date, the Senate Finance Committee missed an opportunity to create a truly bipartisan bill to reform our nation's health-care system," said R. Bruce Josten, chief lobbyist for the U.S. Chamber of Commerce.[w]

REDUCE COSTS, JUST ASK WHY ARE AMERICAN DOCTORS RICH!

"One of the primary goals of health-care reform is the overriding need to reduce ever-escalating costs for both consumers and employers. The Senate Finance bill increases premiums [and] raises taxes." [w]

AFSCME…PREPARING FOR BATTLE

Gerald W. McEntee, president of the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees, added: "They call it reform legislation, but we don't think it is. It's deeply flawed." [w] Its big anything against small any thing.

Unless it undergoes major changes, he said, "we're going to oppose it."
The reaction from many Republican lawmakers was equally strong.[w] Big Unions ,Big Money against the rest of us? I am glad my team is headed by a guy who just won the nobel peace prize or there would be internal fluids in the street.

SHE IS IN A PICKLE AND IS NOT FICKEL

Sen. Olympia Snowe, Republican of Maine, is fast becoming the Brett Favre of the political world: She has trouble making up her mind, but she sure knows how to play ball. [w]

YOU ARE MY SUNSHINE MY ONLY SUNSHINE, YOU MAKE ME HAPPY WHEN SKYS ARE GRAY

Only Sen. Olympia J. Snowe (Maine) voted to support Obama's top domestic initiative, while her fellow Republicans were united in their condemnation of the measure, which was largely crafted during more than three months of bipartisan negotiations. [w]

SHE HAS FOUND HER CALLING

"When history calls, history calls," Snowe said, ending months of speculation about her position on the bill. "The consequences of inaction dictate the urgency of Congress."[u]

THINGS WILL WARM UP BUT WE WILL KEEP OUR NEW SNOWE

Whatever merits swayed Snowe are likely to evaporate, they said, during private talks set to begin Wednesday in Senate Majority Leader Harry M. Reid's office. [W]

Reid (D-Nev.), Finance Committee Chairman Max Baucus (D-Mont.) and Sen. Christopher J. Dodd (D-Conn.), who shepherded a competing bill through the Senate health committee in July, expect to meet there with senior White House officials. [w]

BLENDING IN

Their task is to blend the bills into a final product that can unite the Democratic caucus, keep Snowe on board and win the 60 votes necessary to avert a GOP filibuster. [w]

A SMALL STEP FOR BIPARTISANSHIP A BIG STEP FOR DEMOCRACY

Snowe's vote lent the imprimatur of bipartisanship to the finance panel's measure, according to a senior Democratic aide, making it easier for Reid to rally support among Democratic moderates who have been reluctant to back a health-care bill without political cover from the GOP. But the politics of the Senate are complex. [w]

WHY IS FARVE IN THIS ARTICLE

Congress's answer to Favre is Snowe, the wiry New Englander who, for the past several months, has been unable -- or unwilling -- to take a position on health-care legislation. The longer she held out, the more concessions Democrats made to win her over, to the point where she became, arguably, the single most influential member of Congress drafting the legislation, even though she is a member of the minority party. [w]

NO SNOWE JOB WE COURTED HER

Democrats negotiated with her for months; President Obama wooed her personally. Olympia wants amendments? She gets amendments. Olympia needs more time? The Senate Finance Committee delays its vote. Olympia opposes government-run insurance? Voilà -- the public option is gone. [w]

COY ROUTINES, SWEET NOTHINGS, FLOWERS AND ....TOUCHDOWN.

The coy routine was working so well for Snowe that, as she walked into the Hart Building on Tuesday morning for the committee vote on the legislation, she claimed she still hadn't made a decision. [w] SHE WORKED IT.

BATTLE LINE ARE BEING DRAWN

For some Democrats, immediate electoral concerns are paramount. Sen. Blanche Lincoln (Ark.), a moderate and top GOP target in next year' midterm elections, sought several changes to the bill, including a provision aimed at limiting insurance executives' incomes. But minutes after she voted "aye" Tuesday, the National Republican Senatorial Committee denounced her for supporting a bill that would, it said, "ultimately shift costs to voters in Arkansas who are still struggling to make ends meet." [w]

POLLS TROLLS AND REPUBLICAN BACKLASH

Polls show Reid himself may be vulnerable next year, and he has tended to home-state interests by securing Medicaid funding for Nevada to offset the cost of expanding the program. Republicans also are targeting Dodd, who faces a tough reelection fight. [w]

WHO COULD POSSIBLY CARE WHAT LIEBERMAN THINKS

Dodd's Connecticut colleague, Sen. Joseph I. Lieberman (I), said Tuesday that he could not support the Finance Committee bill, citing insurers' concerns that the fees and taxes it would impose on their industry would drive up premiums. Connecticut is home to numerous health insurance companies. [w]

LIBERALS ARE IN OPEN REBELLION... MOVEON.ORG VS UNIONS!

Liberal groups also were in open rebellion. A new cable television ad from MoveOn.org features a former insurance company executive calling the finance panel's bill a dream come true for insurance companies, and it demands a government-run insurance plan to lower premium costs. Meanwhile, 27 major unions will sponsor full-page newspaper ads, expected to run Wednesday, that criticize the measure for not containing a public option or a mandate on employers to offer health insurance to their workers. [w]

THE BATTLE ..LIBERALS,-VS -CENTRIST,-VS- CONSERVATIVE, THIS IS REAL SURVIVAL OF THE FITTEST

Those two issues are also most important to Senate liberals. But if Reid yields an inch to them, he risks losing support among centrists -- as well as Snowe, who could prove to be the most fragile ally of all. [w]

SNOWE IS NOT FLAKE

Snowe said during Tuesday's session that she remains concerned that the package would do too little to make coverage affordable for the millions of Americans who would be required to buy it. But after considering the "astronomical increases in health-care costs" of recent years, she said, she concluded that the consequences of inaction would be far more damaging than the potential pitfalls of the legislation. [w]

SNOWE WILL NOT BE TAKEN FOR GRANTED

Still, she said, she could withdraw her support if the measure changes substantially. Like other moderates, she has serious reservations about a public option and employer mandate. [w]

COMPROMISE PLANS ARE IN DEVELOPMENT

Sen. Charles E. Schumer (D-N.Y.) said he is working with colleagues to craft a compromise that would let states decide whether to create their own government plan, team up with neighboring states or opt into a national plan. But the divide over the employer mandate could prove more difficult to close. "I think that's going to be hard," Schumer said. [w]

THERE IS MANUVERING ROOM TO JUST DO IT RIGHT

With Tuesday's vote, Baucus said, Democrats can rule out the need for extraordinary measures to pass a bill, such as a fast-track procedure known as reconciliation. But the challenge now is to "put on the floor a bill that is perceived as solid, balanced, common-sense and not slanted too far in one direction or the other," he said. [w]

WHERE ARE THE VOTES

"We want to listen to senators," he added. "But it still comes down to what gets 60 votes." [w]

THE INSURANCE INDUSTRY IS FIGHTING OUR PRESIDENT

"The insurance industry has decided to lead the charge against health reform, and everyone recognizes their motives: profits," said White House deputy communications director Dan Pfeiffer. "We are going to make sure they can't sink this effort at the last minute." [wp]

RIDE THE INSURANCE INDUSTRY AND BREAK THEM...SAVE A COUNTRY.
　
POSTED HERE BY
12/14/09
Terry Bankert
http://www.flintfamilylaw.com/

see
[w]
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/story/2009/10/13/ST2009101300095.html
[u]
http://www.usatoday.com/news/washington/2009-10-12-healthcare_N.htm
[b]
http://www.boston.com/bostonglobe/editorial_opinion/editorials/articles/2009/10/14/as_baucus_bill_skimps_health_reform_suffers/
[w]
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-yn/content/article/2009/10/13/AR2009101301771.html?hpid=topnews
[ws]
http://online.wsj.com/article/SB125547649535083655.html
[wp]
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/10/13/AR2009101303472.html?hpid=topnews

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DAD WINS CUSTODY OF CHILDREN

GOOD MORNING FLINT!
10/12/09
By Terry Bankert
www.flintfamilylaw.com
　
FATHER WINS CUSTODY OF THE CHILDREN, MOM APPEALS, FATHER WINS!
　
Issues reviewed by Flint Divorce Attorney Lawyer Terry Bankert:

There are cases in Family Law where the burden of proof is critical. Such is the case when one parent wants to change the custody order. We want children’s lives to be stable, so there should be and there is great pressure to not change the custodial environment.

The Higher courts have directed the lower court that changes to a child’s established custodial environment should be permitted only “in the most compelling cases,” Baker v Baker, 411 Mich 567, 577; 309 NW2d 532 (1981), and only where the moving party can show by clear and convincing evidence that the change is in the best interest of the child, MCL 722.27(1)(c); Foskett v Foskett, 247 Mich App 1, 6; 634 NW2d 363 (2001).

In this case, the circuit court held that an established custodial environment existed with defendant only. Accordingly, the circuit court concluded that plaintiff had to prove by clear and convincing evidence that a change in that custodial environment would be in the best interests of the minor children.

The law of Custody; is found in state Law MCL 722.28; and explained inBerger v. Berger; Fletcher v. Fletcher;

Since there are several levels of burden of proof a higher court here was asked to review the local trial court on whether the trial court properly applied the "clear and convincing evidence" standard; MCL 722.27(1)(c); Foskett v. Foskett;
Clear and convincing evidence defined; Kefgen v. Davidson;

PREPONDERANCE VS CLEAR AND CONVINCING

The clear-and-convincing evidentiary standard imposes a higher burden of proof than
the preponderance-of-the-evidence standard. See id. Albeit in a different context, we have
defined clear and convincing evidence as evidence that “‘“produce[s] in the mind of a trier of fact a firm belief or conviction as to the truth of the allegations sought to be established, evidence so clear, direct and weighty and convincing as to enable [the trier of fact] to come to a clear conviction, without hesitancy, of the truth of the precise facts in issue.”’” Kefgen v Davidson, 241 Mich App 611, 625; 617 NW2d 351 (2000) (citations omitted); see also In re Martin, 450 Mich 204, 227; 538 NW2d 399 (1995).

LOWER COURTS USE OF THE BEST INTEREST FACTORS

Whether the trial court's analysis of the best interest factors (MCL 722.23) was against the great weight of the evidence; Eldred v. Ziny; Rittershaus v. Rittershaus; Sinicropi v. Mazurek;
We want to know what the judges based their opinion on in change of custody disputes. Custody issues are to be resolved in the child’s best interests, as measured by the best interest factors enumerated in MCL 722.23. Eldred v Ziny, 246 Mich App 142, 150; 631 NW2d 748 (2001).

The best interest factors of MCL 722.23include:

(a) The love, affection, and other emotional ties existing between the
parties involved and the child.

(b) The capacity and disposition of the parties involved to give the child
love, affection, and guidance and to continue the education and raising of the
child in his or her religion or creed, if any.

(c) The capacity and disposition of the parties involved to provide the
child with food, clothing, medical care or other remedial care recognized and
permitted under the laws of this state in place of medical care, and other material
needs.

(d) The length of time the child has lived in a stable, satisfactory
environment, and the desirability of maintaining continuity.

(e) The permanence, as a family unit, of the existing or proposed custodial
home or homes.

(f) The moral fitness of the parties involved.

(g) The mental and physical health of the parties involved.

(h) The home, school, and community record of the child.

(i) The reasonable preference of the child, if the court considers the child
to be of sufficient age to express preference.

(j) The willingness and ability of each of the parties to facilitate and
encourage a close and continuing parent-child relationship between the child and
the other parent or the child and the parents.

(k) Domestic violence, regardless of whether the violence was directed
against or witnessed by the child.

(l) Any other factor considered by the court to be relevant to a particular
child custody dispute.

The circuit court must state its findings and conclusions regarding each of the best
interest factors. Rittershaus v Rittershaus, 273 Mich App 462, 475; 730 NW2d 262 (2007).
Failure to do so generally results in reversible error. Id. However, the court need not comment
on every matter in evidence or declare acceptance or rejection of every proposition argued.
Fletcher, 447 Mich at 883 (BRICKLEY, J.), 900 (GRIFFIN, J.). Moreover, a court need not give equal weight to all the factors, but may consider the relative weight of the factors as appropriate to the circumstances. Sinicropi v Mazurek, 273 Mich App 149, 184; 729 NW2d 256 (2006). Here the lower circuit court addressed each factor or determined that it was not applicable.

The Mother had staked here claim on the position that the lower court did not evaluate factor g properly.

Factor g; Whether expert testimony is always required for a trial court to find a party's mental illness negatively impacts her or his ability to parent

The circuit court considered testimony concerning the condition of defendant’s home, the
cleanliness of the parties’ minor children, and the effect of defendant’s bipolar condition on the parties’ daughter. We disagree with defendant that the circuit court’s findings were against the great weight of the evidence. There was ample testimony establishing that defendant’s home was unclean and smelled of animal excrement, and that the parties’ minor children were dirty, unkempt, and always in need of a bath. The record also clearly established that the parties’ daughter had anxiety and emotional issues that were negatively affected by defendant’s bipolar disorder. Contrary to defendant’s argument on appeal, expert testimony is not always required before a circuit court may find that a party’s mental illness negatively impacts his or her ability to parent. Nor has defendant presented any evidence that the circuit court was unable to properly consider this issue without expert testimony.

The Michigan Court of Appeals conclude, based on a review of the totality of the circumstances surrounding the circuit court’s analysis, that the court understood and applied the correct standard.

The Michigan Court of Appeals decided the trial court correctly applied the "clear and convincing evidence" standard and its findings on best interest factor g were not against the great weight of the evidence, the court affirmed the trial court's order granting the plaintiff-father's petition for sole custody of the parties' minor children.

See , Michigan Court of Appeals (Unpublished 10/1/09),Case Name: Husen v. Campbell ,e-Journal Number: 43930 ,Judge(s): Per Curiam - Jansen, Fort Hood, and Gleicher , UNPUBLISHED,No. 289918,Bay Circuit Court,, LC No. 07-007522-DC[This case modified for presentation, do not rely on its contents without consulting an attorney.-trb]
　
Posted here by
Terry Bankert
www.attorneybankert.com

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Look into Soy Beans!

Good Morning Flint!
10/10/09
By
Terry Bankert

A Flint Divorce Attorney Lawyer sharing his thoughts with you.

Name this movie, “ You should look into…” now its SOYBEANS!

Farming .,Fur trading, Lumber, Cigars, Whip Sockets and will we now get SOY beans? Have we gone full circle, is our future in Farming? Why not?
　
Of Course SOY BEANS are an important commodity. I share the hope that we can capture for Flint an increased market share of an important product. But I alsao share the skepticism of many Flint Citizens about the “latest” project/report/investor that’s here to save Flint.

I cringe when I read or hear reported the cheer leaders proclaim “talk about a yet-to-be-developed interposal facility on land left behind by General Motors." [ML]

Good God here we go again. Please just do it with our eyes open .

So …WHAT IS AN INTERMODAL FACILITY

Intermodal freight transport involves the transportation of freight in an intermodal container or vehicle, using multiple modes of transportation (rail, ship, and truck), without any handling of the freight itself when changing modes. The method reduces cargo handling, and so improves security, reduces damages and losses, and allows freight to be transported faster. Reduced costs versus over road trucking is the key benefit for intercontinental use.[WI]

This site has more and a few good pictures. In rough its an automated,…[not may employees].. transferring site taking one type of transportation load and putting it on another, like from truck to trains. This is not rocket science.
　
WHAT ARE SOYBEANS AND WHY DO WE CARE

“Soybeans are one of the "biotech food" crops that have been genetically modified, and genetically modified soybeans are being used in an increasing number of products.”

SOME THINK GENETICALLY MODIFIED FOODS ARE MAKING OUR CHILDREN FAT IN THE SHORT RUN AND KILLING US IN THE LONG RUN.

“ In 1995 Monsanto Company introduced Roundup Ready (RR) soybeans that have been genetically modified to be resistant to the herbicide Roundup through substitution of the Agrobacterium sp. (strain CP4) gene EPSP (5-enolpyruvyl shikimic acid-3-phosphate) synthase“.”

MONSANTOR IS THE DARTH VADER OF INTERNATIONAL CORPORATE MONOPOLISTICE PREDATORY PRACTICES.

But then our 100 years with General Motors is a good warm up.

“The substituted version is not sensitive to glyphosate.In 1997, about 8% of all soybeans cultivated for the commercial market in the United States were genetically modified. In 2006, the figure was 89%. As with other "Roundup Ready" crops, concern is expressed over damage to biodiversity.However, the RR gene has been bred into so many different soybean cultivars that the genetic modification itself has not resulted in any decline of genetic diversity, as demonstrated by a 2003 study on genetic diversity.

The widespread use of such types of GM soybeans in the Americas has caused problems with exports to some regions. GM crops require extensive certification before they can be legally imported into the European Union, where there is considerable supplier and consumer reluctance to use GM products for consumer or animal use. Difficulties with coexistence and subsequent traces of cross-contamination of non-GM stocks have caused shipments to be rejected and have put a premium on non-GM soy. [W]

Recently I saw the documentary Food.inc , in it Monsanto was a leader in the damage that these Genetically modified foods have done to our bodies and this industry dominated by Monsanto with patents have affected our national economy.

But then a Flintoids got to eat, welcome Monsanto. In Food Inc. Monsanto owns the patent on corn as I surmise they do with Soy Beans.

The farmers cannot grow the seeds they grow, Monsanto has the patent. Each crops seeeds have to be bought from Monsanto. . The corns as I guess the soybean industry is dominated by Monsanto in every aspect. I am sure they will have some influence here. It may be a good thing but lets just keep our eyes open.

MONSANTO

“The Monsanto Company (NYSE: MON) is a United States-based multinational agricultural biotechnology corporation. It is the world's leading producer of the herbicide glyphosate, marketed as "Roundup". Monsanto is also the leading producer of genetically engineered (GE) seed, holding 90% market share for various GE seeds. It is headquartered in Creve Coeur, Missouri.

Agracetus, owned by Monsanto, exclusively produces Roundup Ready soybean seed for the commercial market. In 2005, it finalized purchase of Seminis Inc, making it the world's largest conventional seed company.[W1]
　
Will our relationship with Monsanto be different because of lessons learned with General Motors? Lets hope so, grab an elected leader or a self appointed [private sector] one and shake them screaming do your homework and keep your eyes open. Actually don’t grab them really that’s assault do it figuratively.
　
The latest beat in the drum circle , I can hear their drums and see the dust rise from the shuffling feet, of Flint revitalization in a somber deep chant they say…“The idea of linking Michigan farm crops like soybeans to the truck-to-rail facility proposed at the former Buick City site is quickly gaining supporters, and a key potential investor appears absolutely sold on the location as the ideal spot for agricultural and other shipping.”[ML]

Unnamed supporters and investors..give me a break…do your home work before you write this stuff.

“Flint is a perfect fit to move agricultural products out of Michigan,” said West Michigan businessman Gary Wruble. [ML]

WHO IS GARY WRUBLE, he appears to be the real deal, but then so was Durant, applause, and the thieves that ran ERON, watch out, ask question, we need him but we do not have to give away what’s left of the farm.

WRUBLE SPEAK

Gary Wruble with Soy Ultima says the goal is to give consumers an alternative to high fat foods,

"Taking a specific variety of soy bean and delivering it into products that will be a benefit from the nutritional standpoint."[WN]

Since 2001 Soy Ultima has been finding ways to get soybeans into foods people will eat like potatoes. [WN]

WHO IS SOY ULTIMA

A 4/12/2007 article”GR's Soy Ultima predicts first year sales of $7M ,By: Deborah Johnson Wood

Grand Rapids-based Soy Ultima has been in business five years. But it wasn't until last October that their first product hit the market.[su]

That's when Xtreme O's, a crunchy snack food made with Soy Ultima's ProTato product, was introduced to select schools as a healthy snack for students. Each single-serving package delivers 4g of protein and less than 100 calories.[su]

Sales are expected to hit $7 million by the end of this year.[su]

Soy Ultima is a food and technology company with a mission to introduce "whole soy" technology into finished foods. Conventional processes isolate certain properties of the soybean, harnessing only a portion of the bean's nutrition. Whole soy technology uses the entire bean, sans the hull, to deliver all of its nutritious properties—protein, fiber, and isoflavones—to processed foods.[SU]

Soy Ultima came to Grand Rapids from East Lansing and spent two years developing their products and processes in the West Michigan Science and Technology Initiative's business incubator.

The fledgling company has patented two of their processes focused on the bioavailability of the nutrients in soybeans.[SU]

They have a Patent ,SOY ULTIMA, LLC [US/US]; 1120 Giddings, S.E. Grand Rapids, MI 49506 (US) (All Except US). NSOFOR, Leslie, M. [US/US]; (US) (US Only). Inventor: NSOFOR, Leslie, M.; (US). Agent: BONDARENKO, Gregory, P. et al.; Warner Norcross & Judd LLP 900 Old Kent Building 111 Lyon Street, N.W. Grand Rapids, MI 49503 (US).

Title: SOY BEVERAGE AND RELATED METHOD OF MANUFACTURE A process for producing a stabilized soy beverage from dehulled-whole soybeans partially hydrolyzed with enzymes. The process generally includes: providing whole soybeans (100); activating endogenous enzymes of the whole soybeans (110); hydrolyzing proteins in the soybeans (120); and hydrolyzing carbohydrates in the soybeans (130) to form a hydrolyzed soy base (140) including proteins and carbohydrates that do not form an observable colloidal phase. A preferred process includes: providing whole soybeans; hydrating the soybeans to activate endogenous enzymes within the soybeans; dehulling the soybeans; hydrolyzing the proteins within the dehulled soybean cotyledons by incubating the cotyledons at elevated temperatures; gelatinizing the incubated cotyledons to induce coagulation of the soybean polysaccharides; milling the gelatinized cotyledons into a slurry; hydrolyzing the polysaccharides of the cotyledons with the aid of added cellulase and/or hemicellulase to form a hydrolyzed soy base; deodorizing the slurry; mixing sweeteners, flavoring, and solubilization aids with the hydrolyzed soy base; homogenizing the hydrolyzed soy base; and heat treating the hydrolyzed soy base to form a soy beverage.[su2]

THERE ARE MAJOR PLAYERS THAT WE SHOULD WELCOME WITH OPEN ARMS, SO LETS LEARN A LITTLE BIT MORE ABOUT THEM

Soy Ultima is using Michigan soybeans for their products. Right now they are estimating the need for 10,000 to 12,000 acres to produce these products. [WN]

How can we help the farmers develop this land?

Soy Ultima is part of the Grand Rapids based West Michigan Science and Technology a consortium of businesses working to find innovative ways to improve health and the health care industry.[WN]

Michigan economic incentives for research and development in SOY are needed it will help all of us.


Could Buick City, one of Flint's biggest eyesores, get new life as a job-creating intermodal hub to ship Michigan-grown soybeans and eventually use them to produce biodiesel?[ML2]

If that happens what secondary industries or business can we encourage to develop here?

The Flint Journal reports that a group of investors wants to spend $25 million to redevelop about 200 acres of the mostly razed General Motors property and create 600 jobs. The investor group includes GlobalLink Network, Flint investors and West Michigan businessman Gary Wruble, CEO of Soy Ultima LLC.[ML2]

WHO IS GLOBAL LINK

Their home page says,

GlobalLink Network provides an organization of highly skilled professionals to support your business "renovation" needs. Our focus is optimizing segments of your business where you are least proficient; and allowing you to concentrate on those areas where you excel. As part of our "get acquainted" process, we offer: Free company assessment ,Assignment of a Personal Consultant for Coaching
,satisfaction guarantee (We only invoice for services when completed to your satisfaction and sign off.)[g]

GARY WRUBLE OWNS HIS OWN PATENT IN THE SOY WORLD

Gary Wruble - bibliographic patent references
Recent bibliographic sampling of patent applications for Gary Wruble listed/published in the public domain by the USPTO (USPTO Patent Application #,Title):

Protein enriched mashed potato product and process

Abstract: This protein enriched mashed potato product and process employs a soybean protein that has had the beany flavors and odors naturally removed while retaining all of the beneficial characteristics normally associated with the soybean.

The soy protein is then incorporated completely and evenly into mashed potatoes resulting in a product that has the enhanced protein and other essential nutrient characteristics that are considered to be essential to a healthy diet but normally substantially absent in potatoes and products derived therefrom. (end of abstract)20070087109 - Protein enriched mashed potato product and process [P]

I heard Friday from a retired economic development specialist the railroads want nothing to do with an intermodal hub in Flint. There is a huge one in Ohio and its only a couple of hours away by truck.

BUICK CITY IN THE SKY

Wruble is protecting his position by suggesting alternative use for the contaminated slab representing the remainder of what we called Buick City.

“Wruble remains cautious in talking about the Buick City project, but he has confirmed he is one of a group of investors interested in all aspects of it. [ML]

SOY ULTIMA LLC

The chief executive officer of Soy Ultima LLC has yet to name any of the other investors in his group and said he’s not authorized to speak for them yet.”[ML]

WHO IS HE GETTING A GOOD RECEPTION FROM?

But Wruble has talked some about how Flint could transform into a transportation hub in the near future, partly by focusing on agriculture, and he’s getting a good reception from those who have heard him or read about his interest.[ML]

HENRY IS RELYING ON WHAT WRUBLE TOLD HIM, IS THERE EXCESS SUPPLY FOR TRANSPORTATION?

County Board of Commissioners Chairman Ted Henry said he heard a presentation on the potential for shipping products by rail from Buick City, especially farm products, and said Wruble told him there may be enough volume of crops in the Thumb region alone to make an impact.[ML]

AGRICULTURE IS NUMBER 1

Agriculture is the second-largest industry in Michigan, contributing more than $71 million into the state’s economy.[ML]

FARMERS FOR 100 MILES WILL SEND THEIR PRODUCT FOR SHIPPING TO FLINT MI

“I asked him quite a few questions about what he was going to do,” Henry said. “It made a lot of sense to me. His plan is to draw people here from within a 100-mile radius.”[ML]

A HUB COULD HELP

JoAnn Rutkowski, chief operating officer of Thumb Oilseed Producers’ Cooperative, …(TOPIC)…said she read about the potential for agricultural shipping at Buick with interest too.[ML]

WHO IS THUMD OILSEED PRODUCERS COOPERATIVE

They market their principal product on their home page.“Soy Beginnings® is a leader in providing soybean food ingredient products and solutions. Its foundation products include refined non-GMO soy oil, flour and grits for application in bakery, beverages, vegetarian and other food products.

Our strengths include raw material sourcing, the use of Non-GMO soybeans and innovative processing technology that produces refined oils with no trans-fatty acids and no cholesterol. [t]

WHAT ARTICLES DID SHE READ

Her (Rutkowski) ;cooperative ships non-genetically-modified soybean products across the world and Rutkowski sees how an intermodal facility where beans are transferred from truck to rail to ship inside the same shipping container would increase security and decrease the chance for contamination for large-scale shippers.[ML]

(TOPIC) SPEAKS HIGHLY OF FLINTS POTENTIAL

The cooperative processes soybeans into food products like spy grits, soy flour and refined soy cooking oil. A shipping center in Flint could make shipping for the cooperative more efficient.[ML]

To ship to Japan, for example, Rutkowski said, containers have to be trucked from Detroit and returned to Detroit before being shipped to Los Angeles by rail and loaded onto a ship.[ML]

FLINTS HUB COULD SHAVE OF 3 DAYS

“Lets say you can shave three days (off a 10-day trip),” she said. “That’s a big deal.”
Ron Weisenberger, a New Lothrop area farmer and member of the Michigan Soybean Association Board of Directors, said he’s excited by what he’s heard about the intermodal facility. He likes the idea of producing biodiesel fuel on the site and having easy access to soybean meal
that remains as a byproduct of that process.[ML]

The meal is used as an animal feed.[ML]
　

WHAT IS THE MICHIGAN SOYBEAN ASSOCIATION

The mission of the Michigan Soybean Promotion Committee (MSPC) is to invest grower checkoff funds in well-focused research, education, and promotional activities in order to maximize the overall profitability of soybean growers and to promote soybean industry's role in a strong public image of agriculture.[ms]
　
A Genesee Regional Chamber of Commerce official confirmed this month that the production of bioiesel fuel is part of longer-term plans for the intermodal site.[ML]

THERE IS A FUTURE IN SOYBEANS

“There’s a big opportunity there. A lot of soybean meal is coming back in Michigan from out of state,” Weisenberger said.[ML]

The various uses of soybeans alone — from foam rubber to plastics to food products —open up many other business possibilities, he said.[ML]

“It’s something that could grow real easy,” he said. “To do it someplace like that in Flint would be much better than building (an intermodal center) out in a green field.”[ML]

SOME DO NOT SUPPORT THE HUB

Posted by Stulpnaegl
October 11, 2009, 4:28AM
Here we go again. Flint is a "perfect fit" blah blah blahand we'll soon be investing money in Flint and we'll getall kinds of jobs and Flint will come back and everything will be ducky just like it used to be. Nonsense.
There is much MUCH more to this story than Mr. Fongeris reporting, as usual. If having two railroads is the key,then why isn't this "investor" looking at Fenton or Durrand?Why would anyone buy a former toxic waste dump and thenpay exhorbitant Flint business taxes on top of exhorbitantstate taxes that already choke out any new business whowould locate here? If Granholm can't get the Japs to come,why would THIS guy come here? Answer: He won't.
Get over it.[ML]

WALLING WILL SUPPORT ANY REASONABLE EFFORT TO PUT THE LAND TO ECONOMIC USE

Flint Mayor Dayne Walling said he’s not fixated on what comes in and out of 200-acre site as long as it’s put back into productive use.[ML]

INTERMODAL IS A GOOD THING

“It doesn’t matter to me whether we’re moving soybeans or car parts ... an intermodal facility is a great reuse of that site,” Walling said.[ML]
[ML]

I agree with the mayor, but lets go into this with our eyes and options open.

Posted here by
Terry Bankert
http://www.flintfamilylaw.com/


See
[m]
http://www.mlive.com/news/flint/index.ssf/2009/10/potential_buick_city_investor.html
[W]
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Soybean
[w1]
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Monsanto
[WN]
http://www.wmsti.org/news2.asp?NewsID=39
[ML2]
http://www.mlive.com/michigan-job-search/index.ssf/2009/10/flint_michigans_buick_city_future_soybea.html
[P]
http://www.freshpatents.com/Gary-Michael-Wruble-HarborBeach-invdirw.php
[WI]
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Intermodal_freight_transport
[SU]
http://www.wmsti.org/news2.asp?NewsID=30
[SU1]
http://www.wipo.int/pctdb/en/wo.jsp?KEY=02/11557.020502
[t]
http://www.thumboilseed.com/index.html
[ms]
http://www.michigansoybean.org/msa/youngleader.htm
[g]
http://www.globallinknetwork.com/

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