Plane’s cost outrageous
Ever wonder how Washington manages to spend so much of our money so inefficiently? Here’s how: A new warplane, the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter, is being developed for the U.S. armed forces. It was supposed to have been ready for use by 2013. The initial estimate of the cost of developing and building 2,400 F-35s just a few years ago was $209 billion. By a few weeks ago, the cost estimate had rocketed to $300 billion. Don’t expect delivery of the jets until 2015, Air Force Secretary Michael Donley told members of Congress. And oh, by the way, the F-35 project cost probably will be significantly higher than current estimates, Donley added. How did this happen? The two-year delay occurred after the Defense Department uncovered problems with the F-35 contract. Last month, Defense Secretary Robert Gates announced $614 million in “performance bonuses” will be withheld from the lead contractor, Lockheed Martin Corp. Gates also said $2.8 billion will have to be added to the development cost.
» Full StoryCredibility of party on line
The Fulton County Democratic Committee is dealing with a bit of a controversy. How the committee handles the matter will determine the extent of damage to the party’s credibility.
» Full StoryCourt should reject gun ban
Ask high school graduates whether the Bill of Rights governs cities and states and most of those who paid attention during civics class will answer, “Of course.” But now, the U.S. Supreme Court is pondering that very questio.
» Full StoryDistricts face tough choices
The Northville Central School District recently notified 10 teachers and one teaching assistant they could lose their jobs because of a potential budget deficit for the 2010-11 school year.
» Full StoryCheers and jeers
CHEERS — To a beautiful soul. That is how one of our readers referred to Paul Nigra in our comment section on the story we did in January on his retirement from Lexington Center. A party was held this week for Paul, Lexington’s executive director.
» Full StoryRangel gets a free pass
U.S. Rep. Charles Rangel, D-N..
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