https://pjmedia.com/richardfernandez/2009/03/12/beginnings-and-endings/feed/PJ Media is a leading news site covering culture, politics, faith, homeland security, and more. Our reporters and columnists provide original, in-depth analysis from a variety of perspectives.en-usTue, 09 Jun 2026 23:44:28 -0400<![CDATA[This is where your earmarks are being spent. &#8220;BOSTON – More than one out of every five dollars of the $126 million Massachusetts is receiving in earmarks from a $410 billion federal spending package is going to help preserve the legacy of the Kennedys. The bill includes $5.8 million for the planning and design of a building to house a new Edward M. Kennedy Institute for the Senate. The funding may also help support an endowment for the institute.&#8221; In the meantime, taxes are being cut and compensated for by borrowing! &#8220;Democratic state leaders announced the elimination of $1.3 billion in proposed nuisance taxes from the state budget Wednesday, and will pay for the move with federal stimulus funds.  &#8230; The agreement between Paterson, Assembly Speaker Sheldon Silver and Senate Majority Leader Malcolm Smith eliminates new taxes on common items — including previously tax-free goods and services such as clothing under $110, sugared drinks, digital downloads, cable and satellite television, and manufacturers&#8217; coupons. &#8221;]]>Thu, 12 Mar 2009 04:54:06 -0400<![CDATA[Richard Fernandez]]>https://pjmedia.com/richard-fernandez/2009/03/12/beginnings-and-endings-n187469