I think that the connection is related to the idea that Obama did not hold a ceremony, as has been done for the past (at least) 8 years, in recognition of the National Day of Prayer. Weeks later a ceremony was held for Father's Day. Personally, I feel that is the President's choice-whether I like it or not. What I do not know (and would like to) where the money came from to fund the bbq held on father's day.

As for Merit Pay-let me explain why (I think) this will not work in education. Student tests and grades are not a reliable source for teacher merit. Classrooms that have a heavy placement of learning support and life skill students will never score at the same level as a classroom where the gifted are heavily placed and some of the students in these programs do not receive grades in certain subjects. When I previously worked for a company that gave merit pay increases we earned them through sales performance and costs evaluations. I can't think of any way to do that in relation to teachers. I would be interested (and am open minded enough and respectful enough) to hear how you think it WOULD work.