*sigh* -- its one thing to be a little skeptical...

but when skepticism proves true as, again, real science and real detective work (as simple as a phone call) say otherwise...

The show [Medium] repeatedly claims to be based on the experiences of a woman named Allison Dubois, who is credited as a "consultant/real-life medium." In fact, according to the show’s NBC Web site, "Dubois has consulted on a variety of murders or missing persons cases while working with various law enforcement agencies including the Glendale Arizona Police Department, the Texas Rangers, and a County Attorney’s Office in the Homicide Bureau."

Unfortunately for Dubois, the Glendale police and the Texas Rangers tell a different story. "The Texas Rangers have never used psychics and have no plans to do so," spokesman Tom Vinger stated flatly. Glendale police spokesman Michael Pena stated that the detective who handles missing persons cases "does not recall using Dubois at all in [one specific] case, or in any other cases." As is often the case, the claims made by psychic detectives wither under a little real detective work.

source: livescience.com

*sigh*, what was that document again?

They just don't read, do they?

Article 1, Section 5, Clause 1: Each House shall be the Judge of the Elections, Returns and Qualifications of its own Members, and a Majority of each shall constitute a Quorum to do Business; but a smaller Number may adjourn from day to day, and may be authorized to compel the Attendance of absent Members, in such Manner, and under such Penalties as each House may provide.

so why the hell did they think they could get away with this?

(note: its not that I don't think a contingency plan is unwarrented...its just that damn it, its the Constitution.  if its such a good idea, propose an amendment and go through the process.)

(note 2: I will note that so far, I can't find independent verification of this.  all references on line point back or totally mirror the Boston Herald story.  the house rules available on line at house.gov are dated january 4th, before this story was published.)