Progress Report: Engage RI, Labor Make Pensions Election Issue; The Paul Ryan, Todd Akin Connection; Generosity

If you had any doubt that this year’s campaigns for General Assembly seats would be colored by last year’s pension debate, just look at the news cycle this morning: Ted Nesi reports that EngageRI is attacking those who had the nerve to speak out against cuts to retired state worker’s salaries, while the Projo editorial board condemns organized labor for doing the same.

Thanks to RIPTA for trying to stave off reductions in public transportation. Doing so would certainly be bad for our already struggling economy. Remember, the goal is to make society work well, not for it to be inexpensive.

What do Paul Ryan and Todd Akin have in common: radical beliefs on reproductive freedom.

A new report claims religious people tend to be more generous than the secular folk among us. While they may give more to their church than others do to charities, I don’t buy for one minute that they are holier than the rest when it comes to giving. In fact, WPRO’s Matt Allen points out the last paragraph in the story:  “People in less religious states are giving in a different way by being more willing to pay higher taxes so the government can equitably distribute superior benefits, Wolfe said. And the distribution is based purely on need, rather than religious affiliation or other variables, said Wolfe…”

The state is looking for ideas for the old Shooters building next to India Point Park. As Providence begins its massive redevelopment project, this will be one o the lynchpins to overall success. How about an aquarium?

Poor Curt Schilling … he still somehow thinks it’s Gov. Chafee’s fault he doesn’t know how to run a video game company. In fact, he’s resorted to name calling over the matter. Even the Boston Herald recognizes this isn’t going to do him any good.

Did you hear that Augusta National is finally allowing women to join the exclusive Georgia golf country club? Well, Providence progressive activist Jessica Sherwood called upon them to do so two years ago!

Today in 1959, Hawaii becomes the 50th state.