.SIG DR .POST 11/27 11:12pm The postal "pee police" are obviously an arm of Homeland Security. This Orwellian occurrence can only be evidence that the Patriot Act has finally reached the sleepy town of Norfolk in the waning days of the Bush Administration. .SIG DA .POST 11/27 11:12pm The 21-Nov-2008 Boston Phoenix had an article about Bruce Fein (a Reagan-administration lawyer and lifelong Republican) who has been advocating the impeachment of President George W. Bush and Vice-President Dick Cheney. You can read the article at [article link] .SIG DV .POST 11/27 11:06pm My note about zip+4 prompted a reader to email me:One sunny day in 2009 an old man approached the White House from across Pennsylvania Avenue, where he'd been sitting on a park bench.
He finally approached the U.S. Marine that was standing guard and said, 'I would like to go in and meet with President Bush.'
The Marine looked at the man and said, 'Sir, Mr. Bush is no longer president and no longer resides here.'
The old man said, 'Okay', quietly, and walked away.
The following day, the same man approached the White House and said to the same Marine, 'I would like to go in and meet with President Bush.'
The Marine again told the man, 'Sir, as I said yesterday, Mr. Bush is no longer president and no longer resides here.'
The man thanked him and, again, just walked away.
The third day, the same man approached the White House and spoke to the very same U.S. Marine, saying 'I would like to go in and meet with President Bush.'
The Marine, understandably agitated at this point, looked at the man and said, 'Sir, this is the third day in a row you have been here asking to speak to Mr. Bush. I've told you already that Mr. Bush is no longer the president and no longer resides here. Don't you understand?'
The old man looked at the Marine and said, 'Oh, I understand. I just love hearing it.'
The Marine snapped to attention, saluted, and said, 'See you tomorrow, sir.'
(Quoted from Kate Donaghue's Dispatch)
...Didn't know that; thank you! .SIG Wm. .POST 11/21 12:49am [... continued from Main page] Honestly, although the spin stops with him, I think some people around town are watching way too much Bill O'Reilly. .SIG MHC .POST 11/21 12:38am That Zogby disclaimer about their Ziegler poll is quite cleverly worded -- it basically says, "Hey, they paid, so we asked their questions. They're not our questions, don't blame us. It's not a push poll if it's just some harmless fun. The poll is what it is, and what it is anybody can see."A zip+4 number is assigned to a "block face". The idea is that if delivery routes are changed so that at a corner the mailman turns and goes down a different block, or a block is moved from one route to another, the changes won't happen in the middle of a block, so all the mail sorted to the same zip+4 code will continue to be on a single route. For the residential parts of Norfolk all the houses on the same side of a street between two intersecting streets should share the same zip+4 code.
...
As to the premise, that this survey was to test media effects, that's hokey --
Obama supporters would naturally listen closer to their candidate's points
scored against the opponent. Without also knowing how McCain voters, more
attuned to less liberal media sources, would have rated, the results obtained
are a literary curiosity, but statistically useless.
Which leaves: a publicity stunt.
.SIG Wm.
.POST 11/20 5:01pm
Regarding the proposed bailout for the auto-industry, I hope you are all as
dismayed by this as I am. I am tired of all of this nonsense. We as
taxpayers need to let our government know how we feel about this. I
encourage you all to email Barney Frank and let him know your thoughts.
You have to realize that we as a town will be facing some serious financial
peril next year. We will already have to bail out our own town with perhaps
higher property taxes and/or user fees at schools and other places. I am so
tired of the ``sky is falling'' propaganda that has been spread regarding all
the bailout scenarios. I have not seen my 401K go back to anything near
where it was even after the infusion of what, 400 billion dollars to the
financial industry. Now they want to give the automakers 25 billion?
Outrageous. I wish we had a vote on this--but we don't. So we need to
contact Frank and let him know. Our voice is important. Here is the contact
info:
[White House Rep contact list]
Our zip code is 02056-[****]. Because he covers our district--he has to
respond to us, his constituents.
Our power is in the pen (or keyboard, if you will).
.SIG JN
I would enjoy a poll that asked McCain supporters the same questions. I
am sure there are morons out there that believe he is a muslim, wasn't
born in this country and many other falsehoods. All the questions asked
in the poll were right to ask. Every responsible American should know
how the government is structured. Thank the schools for that.
.SIG PJT
.POST 11/19 7:35pm
Hi Wm,
Is there a reason why you haven't posted my earlier emails?
.SIG PJT
If we give them 25 Billion dollars, they will just be back in 2 more
years asking for more. Yesterday, the CEO's of the big 3 took private
jets, costing $20k apiece to travel to DC and beg for a bailout.
Disgusting.
[article]
.SIG PJT
.POST 11/19 7:21pm
To Wm,
Actually the link that I placed in the post also has the same article
link on it. They article is hit piece on Zogby.
Zogby also defended itself against that article. Read below.
[zogby link]
.SIG PJT
howobamagotelected.com
.SIG PJT
Now he and his supporters need to begin the task of patching things up with the other side. The divide is greater than ever. I for one will never forget being called a racist for the vote I cast yesterday..SIG Wm. .POST 11/6 6:52pm
All joking aside, here is a reminder of the last eight years. It hasn't
been pretty. Let's hope the next 4 are better, regardless of political
affiliation (or obsession, I might add).
.SIG JN
.POST 11/6 6:42pm
This is pretty funny, all you Obamamaniacs out there.
[link]
.SIG JN
.POST 11/6 12:17am
Some very ecstatic posts concerning the Obama victory. We have all had
Bush fatigue and were certainly due a change. My best wishes to the
president-elect as he faces huge domestic and global challenges. I
sincerely hope that he follows through on his promise to bring a new
kind of politics to Washington - one that unites vs. divides.
.SIG DA
.POST 11/6 12:10am
Looks like the Warmonger party carried Norfolk yet again. I hope
that the thin margin of victory for Kerry and Frank are messages
heard loud and clear that there is at least one town in the state
that has had enough. And just a theory, but... I'm going to say
that the culprits of the stolen Obama signs are just as likely to
be Obama supporters who would like to keep them as a little bit of
nostalgia considering the historical signifigance of the election
(similar to the nostalgia of Kennedy in 1960) as opposed to members
of the Warmonger party. Glad to see that the name calling isn't
reserved for CNN and MSNBC web sites.
Congratulations to Obama. Hopefully his supporters can win with
as much dignity and class as he displayed last night.
Now he and his supporters need to begin the task of patching things
up with the other side. The divide is greater than ever.
I for one will never forget being called a racist for the vote I cast
yesterday.
.SIG BC
.POST 11/5 5:43pm
Maybe Obama sent around civil servants to scoop up all the signs once he
realized he was on the winning side of the election. This very well
might be part of his first move to get people back to work!
.SIG BHS
.POST 11/5 2:51pm
No need to worry about showing your ID at the poll, folks.
The good people from ACORN were overseeing the entire operation.
One interesting sight last night... The Rev. Jesse Jackson,
tears in his eyes, watching President Elect Obama.
Was Jackson wondering why he said Obama "acting like he's white"
or was he thinking about the time he said
he "I want to cut his nuts out." At least there were no Rev. Wright sightings!
.SIG PA
.POST 11/5 2:36pm
What I did last night... I cried and laughed!! JOY!!
Photos I took from my TV last night!
JOY!
.SIG PRR
.POST 11/5 2:34pm
What a great day for America. I, personally, as a white American woman,
am thrilled that I lived to see the day that a Black person would become
President of the United States. What a momentous occasion!!!! My husband
and I made calls to people in a swing state on Monday to encourage
people to vote. I want my grandchildren to know that their grandparents
did that in 2008! I am a proud American.
.SIG JHR
.POST 11/5 12:11pm
Yes We CAN!!!
Bravo to our new President Elect, Barack Obama & First Lady MIchelle Obama
November 4th , 2008.
Photo taken of TV Screen.
.SIG PRR
.POST 11/3 11:58pm
An observation on this nonsense about "redistributing the wealth."
The federal budget is $3,000 billion dollars. There are 0.3 billion
residents in the country. Thus the equitable share of the cost of
running the government is $10,000 per person.
A two-earner family with three kids has $50,000 as their share,
regardless of income.
Not tax children? That makes people without kids pick up the slack -- a
redistribution of wealth.
Not tax quite as much someone who's earning less? That leaves the
higher earner paying more, a redistribution of wealth.
Not tax non-earners? That's a redistribution of wealth.
Not taxing home mortgages, health benefits, food, clothing,
business expenses -- all a redistribution of wealth.
Neither side has suggested doing away with any of these fundamentals:
redistributing wealth by shifting around who pays how much in taxes.
So to portray a minor disagreement in small details as some kind of
Socialist revolution is hypocritical and deceptive.
.SIG AR
.POST 11/3 11:57pm
DA: I read you post and tried to figure out what your point is. I'm
not sure I found it. Did you actually watch the film I referenced, or
were you just commenting on the very short description I posted? The
point of the film "The End of America" is that we are very fortunate
to have our constitution. The Bush administration has violated the
constitution and tried to override parts of it and take away rights
that it gives us. There are precedents for this. The film describes
how similar actions were taken in Nazi Germany and fascist Italy and
how those actions led to the oppressive societies that we had to
defeat in World War II.
Because you are writing on Norfolk Net, I'll assume that you are an
intelligent person. Allow me to suggest that even an intelligent
person such as yourself might benefit from actually watching the film
and thinking about the issues it raises (with which you might still
disagree, but at least you could state the basis of your
disagreement).
With respect to your curiosity, I found several acts which describe
themselves as "The Fairness Act". One seems to deal with employment
discrimination. One seems to deal with fair compensation for women.
One seems to deal with requiring broadcasters to give listeners both
sides of political issues so voters can make informed decisions. Is
it the latter to which you are referring? If it is, then to satisfy
your curiosity, I wasn't previously aware of this proposal. However,
it does seem like a good idea to require organizations that use the
public airwaves to use them fairly, i.e. to present both sides of
political issues. But the unfairness of conservative talk-radio
doesn't pose nearly the same threat to the country as the Bush
administration's undoing the protections of our constitution.
.SIG DR
.POST 11/3 11:55pm
For anyone still undecided at this late date, or worrying about the
impact of the candidates tax proposals on their bottom line, check out
this analysis on CNN.com.
[article]
Too bad this wasn't more readily available for all those who've been
crying Socialism these past few weeks.
.SIG TC
.POST 11/3 2:09pm
Vote the MON way! As a testament and furthering of political justice!
MON's Picks O' the DAY
Question 1-YES-send a message to the Hacks, Unions and Weird Politics as
Usual-They will tell you how it will "hurt" -THEM
Question 2-YES-send a message to the alcohol lobbyists that they are not
alone and to stop damaging people's reputations
Question 3- YES, Stop exploiting animals-We should race politicians
around racetracks instead of dogs.
State Senator- Orozco a YES-Anybody but S. Brown.
Representative- ROSS-but on the condition he actually does something
for Norfolk
Congress-Get rid of Frank. Look at your 401K lately?
President- McCain and Palin- Just don't tell us if he dies in office.
That should do it.
.SIG MON
.POST 11/3 9:26am
Spending your children's interitance $1,000,000,000,000 at a time.
Your help makes it possible. Vote Warmonger Party.
Big Business: your tax dollars at work.
Continue to redistribute the wealth -- Vote Warmonger.
.SIG AR
.POST 11/3 9:26am
The path to independence lies in occupation. Help foster independence.
Vote Warmonger.
One million dead Iraqis can't be wrong! Vote Warmonger Party.
Fallout adds such lovely color to a sunset... Help enhance the environment.
Vote Warmonger Party.
.SIG AR
.POST 11/2 5:17pm
Peace through brutality. Wisdom through ignorance.
Vote for peace. Vote for wisdom. Vote Warmonger Party.
Democracy is the best form of government -- after the Unitary Executive.
Vote for our continued rule! We know best. Vote Warmonger Party.
.SIG AR
.POST 11/2 4:32pm
DR - the loss of civil liberties? Worked up over the Patriot Act's
unconscionable ramifications on your sleepy little town I guess (the
jackbooted thugs posted at the roundabouts? the secret detention camp
in the woods behind MCI Norfolk? those evil postal clerks on Main
Street prying into your mail? the town webcam and its Orwellian
surveillance of the public's coming and going from the library?) I am
sure that Senator Obama will usher in a Pax Americana and assuage your
fears. (Are you likewise upset with the ironically named Fairness Act,
which would stifle political dialogue that dare question Democratic
policies? Just curious.)
.SIG DA
.POST 11/2 4:28pm
JN: I actually wasn't responding to your cartoon. Just the endless
chants from the McCain camp that Obama is a socialist. I'm all for a
good laugh, at anyone's expense. Why I even enjoyed McCain on SNL last
night, though I must confess to feeling badly for him. It's hard to
imagine a race for the highest office in the land has been reduced to
SNL skits.
Can't wait until this is over. Whatever happens, I am hopeful the next
president will start addressing some of our very real problems. The
rest of this is just noise at this point. I feel like the entire country
is sorting their collective sock drawer while the house is on fire.
.SIG TC
.POST 11/2 12:50am
I recommend the film "The End of America" which you can (currently)
watch at no charge at
[snagfilms.com]
The End of America is a new documentary from award-winning filmmakers
Ricki Stern and Annie Sundberg (The Trials of Darryl Hunt, The Devil
Came on Horseback), based on Naomi Wolf's 2007 book of the same name.
It details the ten steps a country takes when it slides from an open
to a closed society. It's an historical look at trends (in
once-functioning democracies) that are being repeated in our country
today. It gives the viewer a much-needed history lesson and
constitutional refresher. Most importantly, it puts the recent,
gradual loss of civil liberties in the U.S. in a historical context.
.SIG DR
.POST 11/2 12:45am
TC: Calm down, it was just a cartoon. Geesh......
Here's another one--reminds me of all the angry liberals. Deep breaths,
please. You make it sound like if McCain wins it will be Armageddon.
.SIG JN
.POST 11/1 3:34pm
I find it totally bizarre that people are calling Obama and his proposed
tax policy socialist. It's the most absurd thing I've ever heard. Was
Bill Clinton a socialist? All Obama is attempting to do with his tax
policy is to reverse the Bush tax cuts that favored the wealthy at the
expense of the middle class and FAILED! (Check your 401K statements!
This isn't about giving money to lazy slobs who won't work; this is
about an entire economic policy that failed the majority of Americans
and put us all on the brink of financial crisis, whether you made $40k a
year or $200k. WAKE UP!)
Obama is not a socialist; in fact he's quite centrist. All these people
freaking out about Obama sending goons to their door to "take their
stuff" are getting stoked by fear-mongering media personalities (thanks
Jay Severin and Michael Graham, just to name a few.) People making
over $250k will go back to paying 39 % tax rate-3% more than most
currently do, before factoring in the myriad deductions we take that cut
that rate significantly. This is the rate paid during the 8 years of
peace and prosperity under Bill Clinton when our economy soared as well
as our investments. (socialist? I think NOT!) Anyone making less will
see a tax DECREASE. You should all just relax. Obama buys his arugula
at Whole Foods for heaven's sake! Your goodies are safe with Obama, no
one is coming to the door to steal your kid's toys or your designer
duds. Chances are that whatever extra we pay in taxes will bring
benefits in other ways, like improved health care, education, public
safety, protection from skyrocketing fuel prices, etc. (And remember,
this matters even if you already have all these things taken care of.
Insurance companies and many others set their rates with a "reverse"
socialist philosophy; those of us who have health care, for example, pay
high premiums to cover those who don't. Corporate welfare or socialism
should be unacceptable too!)
This is the most important election of our time. We have the chance to
move forward with courage and unity to face the challenges of the world,
or to dig in our heels and cling to failed policies that have landed us
where we are today: a country more divided than since the Civil War, in
two unending wars, and on the brink of a Depression.
.SIG TC
.POST 11/1 10:31am
JN - thanks for the laugh. The cartoon was priceless. (Even if Obama's
proposed programs at the national level aren't).
.SIG DA
.POST 11/1 10:26am
I just received another Sara Orozco leaflet in the mail. (It will
be "swimming" with its sisters and brothers in the transfer station
paper recycling bin tomorrrow.) This one has adopted the insipid
"The Change We Need" mantra of Big Brobama's presidential
campaign. If voters want to further feed monolithic one
party rule in Massachusetts and at the national level, then they
deserve what they get. Go ahead and stifle healthy
political discourse - I don't think the end result will be the kind of
change that most of us earnestly crave.
.SIG DA
.POST 10/30 2:53pm
RH and CS, Thanks for the posts. I saw the committee listing, but do
they meet ever? Or is this a committee on paper only? Perhaps I need to
consult my Organization Flow chart. I think a new committee to study
the line items and ways to reduce costs is important. But will the BOS
support such a committee? Does it matter if they do? If they don't I
will form my own and report back to Norfolknet regularly. After all, if
you can't beat em' go around them.
One comment on the Scott-confronting-the-school children issue. It is a
shame it was the most visible political act he has been associated with
in Norfolk in a long time. I struggle with DAs comment that he has
represented Norfolk well. But here is food for thought. Do you think
our town and the others represented by Republicans are being neglected
by our Democrat government? It sure seems that way. Democratic Walpole
gets 4x more money in prison mitigation funds than we do in Norfolk,
and is relatively prospering. It points to the fact that Republicans
and their constituents are treated like mutant children chained
underneath the basement stairs. So vote for Orozco, she can do no
worse.
.SIG MON
.POST 10/30 9:57pm
Here is a funny Halloween Cartoon.
Happy Halloween!
.SIG JN
.POST 10/30 9:56pm
MJD:
I watched the video link you posted. It is a weird video that is so edited
that you cannot follow a conversation. If you thought this was bad, you
have obviously not watched enough local politics here on Channel 22!
I am still not convinced a neophyte, as nice as she seems, should be elected
at this time. I am also not sure that our entire state (nor our country)
should be run solely by democrats. Our founding fathers showed the wisdom
of balance, and I think that is a mighty good policy.
Interestingly, no one is talking about the race between Ross and that other
guy from Medfield. I can never remember his name. He is another up and
coming young politician. I think he is more of a moderate independent. He
seems worthy of a look. Not that I have anything against Ross.
It seems like in local politics, we keep voting in the same players, even
when they are not effective and are even prone to criminal acts. It is like
they are an extended family member that we really don't like, but keep
inviting to Thanksgiving dinner anyway because, well, he's family, even
though we really do not like him much, he has rude manners and is prone to a
nasty outburst occasionally. I mean, how else can you explain Sal DiMasi
and Diane Wilkerson?
.SIG JN
.POST 10/30 9:53pm
MJD: That video was unbelievable! After reading other posts here, I was
beginning to think perhaps I'd judged his behavior at KP too harshly, given
it was about his daughter and as a parent I too would be ready to go at
someone who insulted my child. But that body language piece was downright
creepy! I can't decide if it indicates a a general tendency toward
hot-headedness or total dismissiveness of his opponent, perhaps both.
Did anyone attend their debate last night? I would love to hear a recap of
that event.
.SIG TC
.POST 10/30 10:40am
AR - I want to take issue with your comment about the well oiled
Obama campaign machine being a presage of an effective executive branch.
I concede that he has run a masterful campaign fueled by a well
organized grass root base and a bottomless war chest (he is the
epitome of old school Chicago machine politics elevated to the national
level); however, I don't believe it's a given that will necessarily
translate to effective stewardship of government. Deval Patrick,
who was guided by Obama's campaign manager, David
Axelrod, came to power due to a similar ground swell of
enthusiasm. However, the bloom is long off the rose of Gov.
Patrick's administration despite some apparatchiks who claim he has
been a resounding success as governor.
.SIG DA
.POST 10/30 10:39am
Scott Brown's service to this district has been
commendable. Dragging out the episode at KP where he
called out some cyberpunks for their scurrilous online
remarks amounts to an attempt at character assassination only days
away from voting.
Orozco, like another candidate
whose last name begins with an "O", is a neophyte. We
have a seasoned solon who has done well by our town and who represents a
voice of restraint and commonsense, but what the heck, if this year's
election cycle is all about "change," then vote for the new face.
.SIG DA
.POST 10/30 10:37am
Just a quick thought that seems to have been dismissed from the media
concerning the assassination plot against Obama... does it not bother anyone that
those kids intention was to kill 80 kids and behead at least a dozen. Sorry,
but that seems to be more of a disconcerting thought. That part of the plan
was more realistic. That could have been accomplished. Two kids trolling around
for Obama seems a little far fetched.
.SIG LB
.POST 10/30 10:28am
PJT - First of all, you would not have had the opportunity to address
an assembly at the school because someone picked on your child.
You are a regular person without power and privilege. When Senator
Brown took it up on himself to address the assembly at KP, (he was
supposed to be there to discuss another topic) he over stepped his
role as a legislator and because a crazy, angry parent who felt
someone has been mean to his kid. Brown abused his power. You
really can not argue that even if you think you might have wanted
to do the same.
We need a cool head on Beacon Hill, someone who will be respected
and can control her emotions. Check out
this link.
This a video
that the Metro West Daily News put together of Brown's bad behavior
during an interview between he and Orozco. It really shows his
inability to act like a grown up. Vote Sara Orozco for State Senate!
.SIG MJD
.POST 10/30 10:25am
PRB and TC:
I think Senator Brown acted like a Dad. An angry, upset Dad who made a bad
decision and a bad mistake. I do not think it was an abuse of power, nor do
I think it should cost him this election. He was pretty contrite afterwards.
Now Diane Wilkerson, on the other hand....
Anyway, I am not so sure that this is the best time to be electing a woman
who has absolutely no experience at all. I mean, come on. Zero to State
Senator? I don't think that she is such a prudent choice. I am sure she is
a lovely person, but perhaps she should run for a local position in Needham
first. Isn't she from Needham? What can you tell me about her experience
that could possibly change my mind? Her web-site does nothing to impress
me.
I know the MNA (Mass Nurse's Association) is endorsing her--they hate Brown,
but the MNA word is not always one that the nurses follow.
.SIG JN
.POST 10/29 3:38pm
PRB: Thanks for reminding voters what Scott Brown can really be like,
underneath his "Mr. Cosmopolitan Magazine" good looks. Normally, I'd
give someone a pass for showing their anger when their child was
verbally assaulted online. But, given his position, and the fact that
he was in a school setting, he should have been able to control himself
and shown better judgment. His public response should have been
measured and mature, not vulgar and angry. That is not true leadership,
certainly not the kind we want modeled for our kids. When that story
broke, I wished for an alternate candidate for our district. I believe
we have one in Sara Orozco. Brown must fear the same, since he refused
to debate her publicly until tonight in Attleboro!
.SIG TC
.POST 10/29 3:35pm
To PRB,
I believe the Senator was confronting the vile hateful speech that was
directed his way by certain members of the class. I would have done the
same thing. There is no place for the foul things said about one's
family. I hope that the students who send the trash learned a lesson. It
was unfortunate that the students that did nothing had to hear it.
Hopefully a lesson was learned.
Did anyone attend the forum in Sherborn last night with our congressman.
I was unable to attend, but would have love to asked him a few pointed
questions. Did anyone put him on the spot? Did he show up? Did he blame
everything on the crazy right wing? Like he always does.
.SIG PJT
.POST 10/29 3:22pm
SO -
I applaud you for an extremely well written, descriptive story of
days past. Fortunately, I did not have "that word" used in my house
growing up, but I do recall visiting with friends and "that word"
was used freely and openly during normal conversations.
I feel we, as a country, have progressed and personally, I have not
heard that word used in conversation in years. Maybe I am naive,
maybe I am ignorant, but I feel that we have moved beyond it.
I think the story that broke yesterday of the 2 men arrested for
plotting an attack against Senator Obama is completely reprehensible.
These 2 bigots should be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the
law and there is absolutely no defense for what they were planning.
Here's my concern with your post.
Your last sentence states "Vote how you please." HUH? What does
that mean? I'm not sure how your story relates to my vote.
I don't want to jump to conclusions or try to put words in your
mouth, but I have a problem with that statement. The liberal media
has made this election about race and I am so frustrated by that.
Does it make me a racist because I do not support Senator Obama?
Isn't it ok for me to vote for Senator McCain because I agree with
his policies and what he stands for and not because of the color
of his skin? There are many, many commentators and experts who are
making me feel that way. Again, I don't want to put words in your
mouth and I'm not implying that you are saying that...I am just
curious about your comment.
Finally, 2 quick points that are somewhat related to your story.
First, let's not forget the movie that was produced and shown at
the Toronto Film festival this summer that depicted a bloody
assassination of President Bush. Before anyone gets upset or accuses
me of comparing a fictional movie with a foiled plot to assassinate
Senator Obama, that's not what I am saying. I'm instead stating
that there are disturbed, angry people out there and I am (in my
humble opinion) justified in being upset about a movie like that
being produced and released. Second, in no way shape or form am I
justifying the use of "that word" ever being used. But I find it
hypocritical of Senator Obama's supporters who continue to show up
at his campaign rallies with t-shirts using "that OTHER word" to
describe Governor Palin. Some would consider "that other word"
just as hurtful to women as "that word" is to African Americans.
.SIG BC
.POST 10/29 9:03am
Something to think about in the upcoming elections. This happened in
2007 at KP to our kids. Some say that Senator Scott Brown abused his
power. What do you think?
[Globe article]
.SIG PRB
.POST 10/28 10:25pm
.I [Personal anecdote about bigotry in the family removed on request - Wm.]
.POST 10/27 11:05pm
MyFairElection is a project to help make the vote fair and accessible
this November 4th. To participate, simply sign up (instructions below)
to rate your experience of voting this year.
Did you encounter specific problems such as long lines, confusing
ballots, broken machines, or closed polling places? Or, was the
process of voting quite pleasant and easy?
As thousands of citizens rate their voting experiences, MyFairElection
will produce a real-time "weather map" of voting conditions across the
country. This map will allow viewers to see where it is easy to vote,
and where people have encountered obstacles. Journalists, advocates,
officials, and citizens can use this map to address obstacles to
voting in real time.
So, go to this link:
myfairelection.com
and sign up, and then
rate your voting experience on election day.
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[. . . continued]
.SIG DR
.POST 10/27 2:26pm
And in a twist to the shocking news that the Boston Globe endorsed Sara
Orozco the Boston herald has endorsed Scott Brown. If fiscal responsibility
is what you are looking for, please continue to send Scott Brown to Beacon
Hill.
scottbrown.com,
scottbrown4senate.com.
[Herald article]
.SIG PFD
.POST 10/27 9:50am
The Boston Globe today weighed in on just a few state election races,
endorsing Sara Orozco for State Senator in our district. While
acknowledging that Scott Brown "knows this serpentine district" that
stretches from Wayland to North Attleboro, the Globe Editors believe Sara
Orozco is more committed to the "fiscally responsible course" to
successfully represent our district in the next few years. Please read for
yourself what the Boston Globe says about Sara Orozco, and go to her website
at www.Saraorozco.com to learn more about this exciting opportunity to have
great representation in the Massachusetts State Senate.
[article]
.SIG MHC
.POST 10/25 9:15pm
DA - I think you are afraid that you don't know what to ask. You have
just absorbed the Republican talking points and blame Congressman Frank
and the Democrats. Study up and I'll see you in Sherborn. I'll wear a
blue carnation.
.SIG MJD
.POST 10/25 5:14pm
Can I bring tar and feathers to Barney Frank's forum?
Why the Sherborn Community Center? Wasn't the Peace Abbey available?
.SIG DA
.POST 10/25 10:30am
One skill needed for a leader is that of organization. Judging
by the focused, smart and extremely effective campaign he's waged,
Obama has the makings of a tremendously able chief executive.
"He has the best political organization for a presidential campaign that I have ever seen here [Florida]," Tom Slade, a former state Republican chairman, said of Mr. Obama. "Bar none. He has run a phenomenally good campaign.".SIG AR .POST 10/24 3:41pm PJT and DA -Please see the invitation to meet with Congressman Frank on the main page. If you are not satisfied with his letter to you, go speak to him in person in Sherborn on Tues the 28th and tell him that. I am pretty sure he will be returning to Washington whether or not you cast your vote for him so best if you voice your opinion to him face-to-face. .SIG MJD .POST 10/24 2:01pm Sounds like a bit of CYA from Barney on CRA and the subsequent malfeasance on behalf of government and corporate entities. He won't be getting my vote on November 4th nor will John Kerry for that matter. Time to break out the brooms and sweep the floor of the House and Senate clean. .SIG DA .POST 10/24 1:45pm Hi JC, I got the same form letter when called to voice my displeasure with his poor performance... twice .SIG PJT .POST 10/23 9:09pm For what it's worth, the following is a letter I received from Representative Barney Frank in response to letter I sent him via email voicing my opposition to the bailout. Having read it, the problem is much deeper than the Community Reinvestment Act(addressed by Frank in the letter) referred to by PJT's post today. Here it is.
[NYT]On Wednesday, a top Republican campaign official told ABC News' George Stephanopoulos on the condition of anonymity that the Obama campaign is on a roll. "This is the greatest ground game they've ever put together," he said. "It's scary."
[ABC]
I am writing in response to your comments about the financial crisis facing this country, and the economic stabilization legislation Congress recently passed in an effort to address those difficulties. [...].SIG JC .POST 10/23 5:46pm Apparently there is a far more reasoned and reasonable attempt to explain the sub-prime mess, the mortgage crisis, and the related crash, and it has nothing to do with the Community Reinvestment Act of 1977, Jimmy Carter, a past or present partner of Barney Frank, ACORN, minorities, progressives, liberals, or the many horrors of creeping socialism as described in the Boston Herald.Because this is such an important topic, I thought it would make sense for me to send the following comprehensive explanation of my views and actions, and what I believe we should do going forward. [...]
[. . . continued on this page]
Lobbying, the resulting
deregulation, and the delusion that a free unchecked market corrects
itself were the green lights that led to the rampant greed, unrestrained
aggressiveness, and flat-out irresponsibility of mortgage brokers,
realtors, real estate attorneys, appraisers, and thousands of related
industry executives. Period! I really wish people would stop implying or
suggesting that the borrowers are at fault here. Stop blaming the
victims. For those who insist, however, I ask that you try to tear
yourself away from all those right-wing blogs and read this article:
[article here]
.SIG TEM
.POST 10/23 5:45pm
Talk-show-host economic theory...
It omits any mention of collateralized debt obligations,
which seem to be a critical central component of the crisis.
Let me see if I got it:
"The Democrats passed laws that forced banks to
lend to people they knew couldn't repay the loans, which
was really hugely profitable for them but they got carried
away and went bankrupt!"
.SIG AR
.POST 10/23 9:24am
An intersting bit of insight into how tactical decisions shape history...
[In 1959 Fidel Castro came to power and the US] was hostile towards the Cuban revolutionaries' victory from the very start ... At that time Castro was neither a communist nor a Marxist. It was the Americans themselves who pushed him in the direction of the Soviet Union. He needed economic and political support and help with weapons, and he found all three in Moscow. [Burlatsky 1991, page 169]as quoted by Martin Hellman (yes, the famous cryptographer) in Asia Times .SIG AR .POST 10/23 9:22am Interesting insight into campaigning philosophy... why facts don't matter, why mud-slinging works, and why completely bogus campaign claims nevertheless sway voters: [from the WSJ]by Fyodr Burlatsky, one of Khrushchev's speechwriters and close advisors
here are the words of Ronald Reagan's pollster, Richard Wirthlin, as recorded in one of the main Reagan strategy documents from 1980: "People act on the basis of their perception of reality; there is, in fact, no political reality beyond what is perceived by the voters.".SIG AR .POST 10/23 9:16am Hi Fellow Norfolk residents. I just read this piece on newsbusters.org I hope you all will read it.
Dear Friends:.SIG PJT .POST 10/23 9:15am A Democrat-Housing timeline. Please read.My name is Joe Porter. I live in Champaign, Illinois. I'm 46 years old, a born-again Christian, a husband, a father, a small business owner, a veteran, and a homeowner. I don't consider myself to be either conservative or liberal, and I vote for the person, not Republican or Democrat. I don't believe there are 'two Americas' but that every person in this country can be whomever and whatever they want to be if they'll just work to get there and nowhere else on earth can they find such opportunities. I believe our government should help those who are legitimately downtrodden, and should always put the interests of America first.
The purpose of this message is that I'm concerned about the future of this great nation. I'm worried that the silent majority of honest, hard-working, tax-paying people in this country have been passive for too long.
[. . . the full version is on many web sites and forums, for example this one - Wm.]
1977: Pres. Jimmy Carter signs the Community Reinvestment Act into Law. The law pressured financial institutions to extend home loans to those who would otherwise not qualify. The Premise: Home ownership would improve poor and crime-ridden communities and neighborhoods in terms of crime, investment, jobs, etc.If you doubt any of this, just click the links below and listen to your lawmakers own words. They are condeming! [youtube] [youtube] [youtube]Results: Statistics bear out that it did not help.
How did the government get so deeply involved in the housing market? Answer: Bill Clinton wanted it that way.
[. . . continued; has been posted to many forums, like this one]
Postscript: ACORN is one of the principle beneficiaries of Fannie/
Freddie's slush funds. They are currently under indictment or
investigation in many states. Barack Obama served as their legal
counsel, defending their activities for several years.
.SIG PJT
.POST 10/21 11:46am
Well, it does seem like Obama will win this election, and that is ok. I like
him, but am wary about his inexperience and ``wealth re-distribution'' plan.
I suppose, if you don't have any wealth, you have nothing to lose. Others
feel differently. We will see if it really helps America. I hope it does.
I am also a little concerned about the Democrats controlling everything. I
always thought that some balance was a good thing, and no one group should
have absolute power. That scares me a little. Pelosi scares me a lot.
I am also trying to educate myself on Obama's tax plan to see how it will
affect my family and me. I keep hearing 95% of Americans will get a tax
rebate. Well, 44% of Americans do not pay taxes, yet they still get a tax
rebate. Huh? This tax plan is not so great for our family, but at least we
are ``patriotic'' in Joe Biden's eyes. Gee, I thought all of the monetary
donations and volunteer work I have done made me somewhat patriotic. Now
that he is taking care of that for me by taking my money, then I guess I won
't have to donate and volunteer anymore. I need a rest anyway. Maybe I
will spend a portion of the money we usually donate and take a warm vacation
to Tortola or lovely Paris, it is beautiful in the spring. Hey, they love
Obama in Paris. I will redistribute my wealth there on some good French wine
and pastries. Oh, and shoes. I am so exhausted after this election
campaign cycle that has lasted, what, 2 years now, that a spa trip may be in
order as well. Perhaps I will put it all on credit, then cry poor and let
someone else carry that burden for me. Working hard and paying off all
those pesky bills on time is so 2003, isn't it! It never dawned on me that
I could simply not pay. Now, that is something new I learned.
Oh, and Ben Bernanke has endorsed Obama.
[article]
Oh, good. Sucking up so that he
can stay and mess everything up again for 4 more years. I hope Obama gives
him the boot, I mean, really.
Well, this article from the Wall Street Journal was helpful (I don't like
the title of the article, but I didn't write it) to me to help me understand
the tax stuff Obama and Biden have been speaking about.
WSJ.com - Opinion: Obama Talks Nonsense on Tax Cuts [fixed link]
.SIG JN
.POST 10/20 2:56pm
DA: Ironically, isn't it W who put this country on the socialist path?
Granted, it's just socialism for the rich, but...
.ISG TC
.POST 10/19 9:30pm
Over 100,000 in St. Louis to see Obama. I heard he had to
pull a loav es and fishes miracle to feed the multitudes who hunger
for change. As Colin Pwell said, Obama is a "transformative"
candidate. Let's hope that a triumvirate of Pelosi,
Obama, and Reid don't transform the country into a socialist
workers paradise.
.SIG DA
.POST 10/19 12:54pm
This was a good weekend for Barack Hussein Obama (Hussein; get used to it) --
General Colin Powell's endorsement, a really huge turnout in St. Louis,
and $150 million contributed in September from over three million individuals
putting their money where their mouth is.
.SIG AR
.POST 10/19 12:52pm
Interesting observation on how the nation and Wall Street fare
under the two parties --
During the 20th century, the Dow Jones industrial average rose 7.3 percent per year on average under Republican presidents. Under Democrats, it rose 10.3 percent - which means that investors gained a whopping 41 percent more. And the stock market declined further during George Bush's two terms.[article] .SIG AR .POST 10/17 10:15pm TC - A classic democratic response when challenged, Whine race, gender, homophobe, or any other crazy eight card. I didn't attack anyone's race, sorry you're so sensitive. I didn't pick either as my governor (neither did the Norfolk majority) or as a Presidential nominee. The fact both happen to be people of color (can I say that) is inconsequential to me, sorry - I'm color blind. But brood anyway. I am attacking their lack of credentials, experience, and record (do either have one - Obama was "present" a lot and Patrick wasn't present at all, must be out campaigning). Nothing can explain Barney Frank's US bankrupting actions - he's just not that dumb - but a lot of campaign money certainly came his way from his then domestic partner's employer FNMA. Stop drinking the Kool-Aid. And, by the way I love Jay Severin (sorry I exceeded my limit). .SIG PC .POST 10/17 9:52pm For people interested in the accomplishments of Gov. Deville. devalpatrickwatch.comMoreover, according to research from Professor Larry Bartels of Princeton, real middle class wage growth is double when a Democrat is president, contrasted to that growth under a Republican president.
Since World War II, Democratic presidents have increased the national debt by an average of 3.7 percent per year, and Republican presidents have increased it an average of 10.1 percent. During the same time period, the unemployment rate was, on average, 4.8 percent under Democratic presidents; it was 6.3 percent under Republicans.
I give him credit for getting rid of most police details... and
that's it.
Everything else on that list, either he didn't do, such as gay marriage,
a judge did it. Or won't be done, no money.
Yes we can... bla bla bla
.SIG PJT
.POST 10/17 5:02pm
PC: Wow! In under 100 words you managed to convey racism, hatred, and
homophobia. Not to mention an alarmingly oversimplified view of our
current circumstances, locally and nationally. There must be some sort
of recognition for such concise communication. Perhaps the "Jay Severin
Award for the Most Offense Conveyed in the Fewest Words."
.SIG TC
.POST 10/17 10:05am
PC - Here is a list of the top 20 accomplishments of the Patrick
administration. I am very proud of our Governor and the things he has
managed to accomplish in a short span. I assume, based on your past
posts, that you will be less impressed than I but for the record, here
goes...
1. Making Massachusetts a national leader on clean energy. ....SIG MJD
2. Marriage equality for all Massachusetts residents ...
3. $1 billion life science initiative ...
4. The readiness project ...
5. Civic engagement ...
6. Successfully implemented health care reform... ...
7. Closed corporate tax loopholes ...
8. Increasing access to state government ...
9. Foreclosure prevention initiatives ...
10. A concerted commitment to job creation ...
11. Instituting real reforms and long-term change ...
12. Making our communities safer ...
13. After 16 years of neglect, made long-term investments in our roads and bridges... ...
14. First-ever five-year capital spending plan... ...
15. Governor of the whole state ...
16. Passed parts of the municipal partnership act... ...
17. Appointed reform-minded leaders... ...
18. Moving an agenda to affirm human dignity ...
19. Investing in the state's DC office... ...
20. Governor's role as the state's chief salesperson... ...
People inside and outside of the Patrick-Murray Administration were asked to offer the top three accomplishments of the Patrick-Murray Administration to date -- this is a compilation of the top 20.- Wm.] .POST 10/17 12:40pm TC - Do not defend a useless governor. Deville Patrick is the same kind of creation as Barry Hussein Obama. Its the new Democratic model. Find someone with less experience (or history) than your average weak-kneed state rep and "create a story". You were sold a story by "Yes We Can". He has done nothing - name one accomplishment, other than some "swell" campaign promises. By the way once we wind down Fannie and Freddie the Iraq and Afghan wars are going to look like a bargain - thanks Democratic Hse Chmn Barney Frank and FNMA boyfriend Herbie his love bug .SIG PC .POST 10/16 10:16pm PC: Isn't everyone saying, "No I can't" to at least some expenditures right now? Whether or not you agree with his cuts, Patrick is doing the responsible thing and tightening the state's budget given the current economic circumstances. Too bad Bush hadn't had the courage to say "No I can't" a few times these past eight years. Maybe then we would not have a $10 trillion dollar deficit. Just a thought. .SIG TC .POST 10/16 9:25pm Wait, let me see if I follow: backers and opponents alike do not dispute that it will result in better wages and benefits and will grow the middle class. One candidate believes this is a good thing, the other doesn't.
I have to agree, that's a striking difference.
.SIG AR
.POST 10/16 8:54am
With all of the talk in Massachusetts regarding unions lately, here is
something that is a striking difference between our presidential candidates:
The Statement: In a speech Monday, Oct. 13, in Virginia Beach, Virginia, Republican presidential candidate Sen. John McCain took on Democratic opponent Sen. Barack Obama's stance on unions. "Senator Obama is measuring the drapes (in the White House), and planning with Speaker Pelosi and Senator Reid to ... take away your right to vote by secret ballot in labor elections," he said. Get the facts!.SIG JN .POST 10/16 1:08am I guess Gov. Deval "Yes We Can" Patrick should change his name to "No I Can't." .SIG PC .POST 10/13 6:42pm American Paul Krugman wins economics Nobel Princeton economist and New York Times columnist Paul Krugman won the Nobel economics prize on Monday for his analysis of trading patterns. [article]The Facts: McCain is referring to a plan supported by labor unions. Currently, workers must get at least 30 percent of their colleagues to sign an authorization form to ask for union representation -- then hold a secret-ballot vote to finalize it. The change Obama supports would let a union be recognized by the National Labor Relations Board immediately after the majority signs the authorization. Supporters of the change, including the AFL-CIO and other unions, say it would cut down on the ability of employers to pressure their workers to vote against a union. Business groups, meanwhile, say the opposite -- that the secret ballot allows workers who don't want to unionize to publicly sign off on the plan, pleasing union leaders, then privately vote against it. The change is part of the so-called Employee Free-Choice Act, which Obama co-sponsored. The plan is designed to make it easier to create unions in the workplace, and both supporters and opponents agree it would increase the number of union members in the United States. Backers say it will lead to better wages and benefits for workers and grow the size of the middle class, while opponents say it will hurt businesses by costing them more at a time when profits for many are already thin. The bill passed the House last year by a vote of 241-185. It was also supported in the Senate, 51-48 -- but that didn't reach the 60 votes that would have been needed to survive a filibuster on a final vote. That's also not enough to override a veto by President Bush, who is against it. Obama and running mate Sen. Joe Biden voted on June 26, 2007, to move the bill forward, while McCain voted against it.
Verdict: True. McCain accurately represents Obama's stance, although the candidates disagree on the merits of the plan. Organized labor backs Obama's position, while business groups and some non-union workers support McCain's.
In the article, note this quote:
Krugman has been a harsh critic of the Bush administration and the Republican Party in The New York Times, where he writes a regular column and has a blog called "Conscience of a Liberal.".SIG RH .POST 10/7 10:58am There was an interesting recent New York Times Op-Ed column by Paul Krugman titled "Health Care Destruction" at [article]. It isn't really a comparison of the Obama and McCain health care plans. It makes passing references to the Obama plan, but primarily it focuses on the McCain plan. The assessment of McCain's plan is positive, if you believe that we shouldn't have a health care system. It is negative if you believe that health care should be available to everyone including low income people and people with health problems. .SIG DR .POST 10/7 10:56am AR: Yes, under the McCain health care plan, any employer-supplied health care benefits (such as health insurance) would be reported as W2 wages. If someone is slightly below the threshold for the AMT (alternative minimum tax), the McCain health care plan might force them over the threshold and make them file and pay AMT taxes. .SIG DR .POST 10/7 8:25am Here is an interesting editorial from the Wall Street Journal this morning: [article]He has come out forcefully against John McCain during the economic meltdown, saying the Republican candidate is "more frightening now than he was a few weeks ago" and earlier that the GOP has become "the party of stupid."
According to the media, the sky is falling, the stock market is crashing,
soon everyone will be hungry and homeless and without healthcare, and the
world may implode. Meanwhile, I think I will go for a walk!
.SIG JN
.POST 10/7 8:24am
So if McCain makes health benefits count as taxable income,
would that add to the reported W2 wages and push those
upper-middle-class earners on the threshold of the AMT (alternative
minimum tax) into its much higher bracket?
Gee, thanks; just what we needed -- another tax-and-spend conservative.
.SIG AR
.POST 10/7 8:23am
The 10/16 issue of Rolling Stone has an in-depth look at the
character and backgrond of John McCain, including insights
from his contemporaries and fellow Vietnam War POW's.
[article]
The John McCain his peers know is a very different man
than the one projected by his campaign; an unprincipled,
womanizing spolied brat; a foul-mouthed and ill-tempered
bully; a reckless gambler and inside-dealing influence peddler; a zealous
new convert to Neoconservatism and one of the strongest agitators
for the attack on Iraq; a man wined
and dined by Charlie Keating
in the Bahamas and whose wife and father-in-law invested
$350,000 in the 1980's in a Keating real estate venture;
a man whose fierce ambition forced him to make a bargain with the
Devil and turn his back on the principles he trumpeted
throughout most of his career.
In the end, the essential facts of John McCain's life and career -- the pivotal experiences in which he demonstrated his true character -- are important because of what they tell us about how he would govern as president.It's quite long, but a fascinating read. .SIG AR .POST 10/5 12:15pm DA: Sometimes neither "yes" nor "no" is the right answer. Needing to say "yes, but ..." or "no, but ..." isn't being noncommittal. As AR pointed out, when McCain voted against funding for the troops, he probably would have wanted to vote "yes I'm for the funding, but no I'm against the timetable for withdrawal" if he could have.
Clearly, there has to be middle ground between thought and action.
Someone who thinks all the time and never acts will never accomplish
anything. Someone who acts impulsively and never thinks about
alternatives or consequences will get us into a disastrous mess, just
as Bush has (yes, I agree with you that Bush's stewardship has been
sorely lacking).
I fear that McCain's temperament is too impulsive. (A very recent
example is injecting himself into the debate about the bailout. When
he arrived, he didn't seem to know what was going on and his "help"
had the effective of disrupting the negotiations. When he got out of
town, the negotiators were able to get back to work and strike a deal
that he supported.)
Obama certainly has a bias for action, but it is action taken after
considering alternatives and evaluating consequences. I don't agree
with all of Obama's decisions and positions, but I feel a lot more
comfortable with someone who thinks about what he is doing rather
than just shoots from the hip.
.SIG DA
.POST 10/4 9:52pm
DR - so you are substituting pensive/contemplative ("thoughtful") for
casting a vote that signals being noncomittal? Are
we looking for a philosopher king a la Plato's Republic? Or a
decisive, down to earth leader? Just curious. I think
we'd both agree that Bush's stewardship has been sorely lacking.
.SIG DA
.POST 10/4 9:41pm
It seems to me that McCain's healthcare plan approaches the issues
a little differently but in the end I think we end up in the same
place, with the emergency room as primary healthcare for the nation's
poor.
Currently, the average family insurance plan costs about $12K a
year. At that rate, the family that's making $30K is not going to
be able afford health insurance. The $5K tax credit they will get
at the end of the year, is not going to help with the up-front costs
or the $7K that they have to come up with out-of-pocket.
McCain wants to tax employer-based health insurance as income, and
remove the incentives for employers to offer health insurance to
their employees. It stands to reason that employers will stop
offering health insurance as a benefit, forcing everyone to buy
private health insurance, or live without. This will result in
higher costs and fewer options for the poor, the old, and the sick.
You know, the people who need health care. Young, healthy, people
with good incomes won't be affected--until they get old, sick, and
subsequently poor.
.SIG MJD
.POST 10/4 12:21pm
A reader pointed out that I'm incorrect in stating that
the McCain health care plan would not tax health benefits.
I double-checked, and under the proposal the benefits would
remain tax deductible for corporations, but not individuals.
[article]
I must have misunderstood the analyst being interviewed.
My apologies.
.SIG Wm.
.POST 10/4 10:22am
Voting "present" requires just as much thought voting "no" --
no indecision there. It's a way of saying "I don't disagree
in principle, but I don't support this specific bill."
It can be a useful synonym. For example, had the option been
available in the US Senate, McCain could have used it to
indicate his dislike for the withdrawal timetable
without having ended up voting "no" to funding the troops.
.SIG AR
.POST 10/4 10:19am
I must tell you all that I am not one that is typically interested in
politics. I find it stressful and I don't pretend to be versed on all
the issues that you are discussing in this forum. However, I must share
that I was dissapointed with Gov. Palin's performance at the vice
presidential debate. As a "hockey mom" who is married to a "Joe six
pack", I was embarrassed for her. She seems to me like the prototype for
Vice Presidential Barbie. Is she a real meteorologist? or just the
bombshell weather girl? I realize that her supporters admire her for
her "folksy ways". I am one of those regular Jane's and I personally did
not enjoy listening to her dumb down the debate. I may just be a
SAHM... but I am not an idiot. When I ever heard her use the
terms "Soccer moms and Joe six pack", she completely lost my
attention. After I picked my jaw off the floor, I burst out laughing
(not in a good way)... Utterly classless. Who talks about beer and
soccer at the vice presidential debate?
Who cares about Todd her "first dude"? He sounds like a clown!
It gives me the impression that she is not taking this seriously.
She fits right into that woman stereotype. She is not helping our cause.
I just went backwards with my 16 year old son.
He has made negative comments about women in the White House.
How can you teach them that there are strong, intelligent, capable women
out there when we are listening to this? It was not a presidential
debate, it was a pageant. I'm suprised her answer for everything was not
"World Peace" (reference to that wonderful Sandra Bullock movie). If
Gov. Palin is really knowledgable and capable... she sure doesn't show
it. People are saying that she didn't embarrass herself? What low
expectations! She embarrassed me as a woman! It seems as if they hired
her to be just a media distraction from the real issues.
OK... now I will
shut up about politics issues since I really do know nothing about it
all (I'm serious). I just thought that I would share an opinion from a
regular Jane Hockey Mom. Not all of us have fallen under her "adorable"
spell. I think her biggest downfall is that she doesn't know when to
"turn it off "and be serious. She's over the top. I bet she'd be fun to
hang out with though...
.SIG MW
.POST 10/4 9:15am
I was interested in this business of Obama voting "present" in the
Illinois State Senate (129 times out of roughly 4,000 votes he
cast). This is what I found out. To register a vote in the Illinois
General Assembly, lawmakers have a choice of three buttons on their
desk. The "yes" button is green. The "no" button is red, and the
"present" button is yellow. "To insinuate the 'present' vote means
you're indecisive, that you don't have the courage to hold public
office, that's a stretch" said Illinois State Rep. Bill Black
(Republican), a 22-year veteran of the House and his party's floor
leader. Voting "present" is used for several purposes. It's most
important use is as a signal - to the other party, to the governor,
to the sponsor -- to show a willingness to compromise on the issue if
not the exact bill, to object to certain parts of a bill, even though
you may agree with its overall purpose, to question the
constitutionality of the bill, because you have a conflict of
interest on the bill, or because you have you have unresolved worries
about the bill.
The "present" vote is used, especially by more thoughtful
legislators, not as a means of avoiding taking a position on an
issue, but as a means of signaling concerns about an issue.
.SIG DR
.POST 10/3 10:57pm
AR - Obama voting "present" in the Illinois State Senate is merely a
matter of appearances? It would appear to be indicative of no
commitment either way on an issue. In this neck of the woods, that is
called "sitting on the fence" or "having it both ways."
.SIG DA
.POST 10/3 10:50pm
AR - Voting "present" may be a legitimate vote, but I have to disagree
with your analysis that it shouldn't garner attention. I think it
speaks volumes about the candidate. It exemplifies an inability to make
a decision. There has been countless times during the campaign, dating
back 18 months now, where his stance on issues has been delayed. He
constantly has taken a step back, stuck a finger in the air to test the
winds, and, after judging popular opinion, finally commits to a
position. I do agree on one part of your statement...it is indeed a
reflection of our times. It appears that politics have become so
partisan, especially in an election year, that our representatives at
every level of government wait to see what direction their party (or the
media) is leaning and then fall right in line. Both sides are guilty.
On another note...By living in Massachusetts, we are not the focus of
the candidates for the presidential election. That's not to say our
vote doesn't count or doesn't matter, but Senator Obama has
Massachusetts wrapped up. So unfortunately, we won't have the benefit
of both candidates campaigning here. We are removed from the battle
ground and we must depend on the media to report how things are shaping
up in the battle ground states. (Although we do get a small glimpse
from New Hampshire, but neither candidate is terribly focused there)
However, we have the unique benefit of living in Norfolk, which happens
to fall in the 4th Congressional District of Massachusetts. We have an
opportunity to let our voice be heard loud and clear across the entire
country. We can do so by not rubber stamping a 15th consecutive term to
Barney Frank. His actions of the past several weeks are completely
reprehensible. As Chairman of the Financial Services Committee he has
blood on his hands for the melt down on Wall Street. His arrogance and
lack of accountability are embarrassing to our congressional district.
So I propose the people of Norfolk to let your voice be heard. 28 years
in office is enough. Let's truly vote for "Change" and elect Earl
Sholley to represent us in Congress. If not Sholley, then I suggest
sending another message to Barney Frank. When casting your ballot for
Congress, leave it blank. Don't vote for either candidate. After all,
isn't that equivalent to voting "present"? And isn't that a
"legitimate" vote? Either way, I think the message would be delivered
loud and clear to Barney Frank that his constituents are fed up.
.SIG BC
.POST 10/3 10:42am
Interestingly, in IL voting "present" is a legitimate vote,
and counts toward the outcome. Thus voting "present" instead of "no"
is just a matter of appearances. That this has gotten so much
attention, for so little cause, is a reflection of our times I suppose.
.SIG AR
.POST 10/2 11:51pm
TC - you are hung up on Palin's qualifications for the #2 spot? By the
same logic, why aren't you troubled by the dearth of experience at the
top of the Democratic ticket? Granted Obama is a US Senator, but he
hasn't spent a full term in Washington, and he has spent most of his
time in that office waging a campaign. When he was in the Illinois
State Senate he had a propensity to vote "present" rather than a clear
Yes or No. Prior to his political posts, he was a community organizer,
which, while laudable, hardly gives one the budgetary skills of say a
mayor or governor. This preoccupation with Palin is myopic - the
likelihood that Biden or she would become the president in the next four
years is slim. If you don't like McCain's positions that's one thing,
but I'm baffled at your logic here. Look what putting a neophyte at the
top of a ticket did to the Commonwealth.
.SIG DA
.POST 10/2 9:44am
TC: Didn't mean to put you on the defensive, but you really were beginning
to sound a little crazed. I do not disagree with anything that you said. I
guess we can never really know how anyone will act once they are placed into
a position of power. Sometimes they are great, and many times, not so much.
I don't think it always depends on a resume or an elite education.
Sometimes it just takes someone who is willing to listen and to simply get
things done. That is not an endorsement of Palin, this is just the way it
is, in my opinion. I also do not have anything for or against Nancy Pelosi;
I was just making a point.
This election will soon be over and then the real work begins. I hope that
that is not the time that the American public decides to start watching
Dancing with the Stars and the media goes back to Britney reporting and
other nonsense. After the election is over is when we all should be paying
closer attention, especially to what our Senators and Representatives are
doing. And we really have to start focusing on what affects us here at home.
If the state tax is repealed, what does that mean for our schools, public
safety, etc.? This will be an important ballot question that could in fact
put us in a position of higher property taxes, which will place the burden
directly upon us; it really does not matter who the President is regarding
that particular issue. I do not hear any chatter about this at all. I find
that interesting.
.SIG JN
.POST 10/2 12:39am
JN: I don't really have an opinion about Nancy Pelosi. Nor is Palin's
pro-life position my main objection to her. I don't share her views,
but I am a middle-aged woman who knows that issues of choice are very
personal, and I don't fault anyone for their personal beliefs. I do
believe in a right to privacy, and choice, but honestly, I am pretty
pro-life myself. I just don't presume to know what is right for
everyone in every situation. Is it a visceral hatred? I hope not. It
sounds so horrible and mean-spirited. But, perhaps it is. I am so
deeply offended by her selection that I find it hard to get past it. It
is so preposterous and reckless. I simply can't believe it. I am sure
she's a bright, ambitious, able politician. And I can imagine she'd be
a gas to have a glass of wine with. She's funny, and can deliver a
great line. So, I guess I'd find her interesting to be in a book club
with, or to have as a neighbor, or even as a mayor. But VP? Now? No
way. She's in over her head, and the stakes are too high. It isn't
about Barney Frank, Nancy Pelosi, or really even Barack Obama. It's
about her. She's not up for the job, and putting her in it could be a
devastating mistake.
.SIG TC
.POST 10/1 6:37pm
TC: It is obvious that you have some sort of visceral hatred for Governor
Palin. However, I would bet that you think that Nancy Pelosi is just great.
Have you ever checked out her rise to Speaker of the House? I may add that
she, Pelosi, is only two heartbeats away from the presidency--and everyone
wants to kill George Bush and Dick Cheney has had like 7 Myocardial
infarctions and has an ACID implanted, so her chance of getting the top job
these past two years was probably statistically higher than McCain's
hypothetical demise.
Nancy Pelosi only has a BS degree. She was appointed to a political position
after someone died. She never really ran anything in her life. So what
makes her, beyond her experience, after all, she is 24 years older than
Palin, so special? My guess is that it is the pro-life agenda that Palin
has and is not afraid to talk about that has everyone up in arms. I wish
people, instead of running her down, would just admit that.
Just my thought. Not trying to fight with you. I agree that she has not
been very impressive in her interviews.
.SIG JN
.POST 10/1 4:59pm
Our Congressman,
[article]
He makes me so proud
.SIG PC
.POST 10/1 2:38pm
DA: I regret the sexist tone of my earlier post. I forget that this is
anonymous and that I am speaking to people who haven't a clue about me.
I am not a sexist. Far from it. If you knew me, that thought never
would have crossed your mind . Clearly, I should have been more
careful. I am a genuine feminist. And as wonderful as it would be to
have a woman President/VP, I think Palin would be an unmitigated
disaster as vice president. She simply is not qualified. In general, I
am not a supporter of Affirmative Action, especially for the second most
important job in the country.
As for Barney Frank, I really haven't looked in to all these allegations
about him. But I will now.
.SIG TC
.POST 10/1 12:24am
PJT's youtube link seems to make a more salient point concerning a
cancer far more dangerous to the body politic than melanoma - the
failure to heed calls for regulatory oversight of Freddie and Frannie.
Barney Frank was literally and figuratively in bed with these entities -
check out his relationship with Herb Moses. Furthermore, trace the
history of Franklin Raines, a key Obama advisor who has been sullied by
this mess. Who needs William Ayers or the Rev. Wright to derail Obama's
ascendancy? Looks like this issue involves a round of Molotov cocktails
not beers at the local tavern. Tomorrow is October 1st - perhaps the
proverbial "October Surprise" came a tad early in this election cycle.
Stay tuned.
.SIG DA
.POST 10/1 12:23am
TC - the sexism is palpable in your derisive post on Palin. As
governor and mayor, she had to make fiscal decisions. In
contrast, community organizers don't have experience in such
matters, but I'm sure they are vociferous advocates of
affordable housing (and the junk mortgages that are the end result
of social engineering run amuck.) On the subject of McCain's
previous bouts with cancer, you need to look at the life insurance
industry's actuarial tables to determine the longevity of man his
age and with his health history. You might be surprised to find
that he is not the ticking time bomb you fear him to
be. Ageism seems to be the root of your paranoia here.
.SIG DA
.POST 9/30 8:39pm
DA: Please, with all due respect... You must be referring to Palin's
presumed knowledge of how to grocery shop and balance her checkbook.
Despite her years as Governor and Mayor, she seemed shockingly unable to
discuss the economic crisis in anything resembling common sense. In
fact, she revealed a complete lack of mastery over the issues, let alone
even an understanding. My 88-year-old mother did a far superior job of
articulating what was happening, and she is still shocked that a cup of
coffee costs more than .50! Why is it that people want an average Joe
running the country? Would you hire an average Joe to perform your
heart surgery? Do your estate plan? Don't you want someone who knows
more than you about things you aren't qualified to handle, or at least
someone who has the intelligence to access the information when needed?
Conservatives are dismissing their own Palin detractors as
"intellectuals." OHMYGOD! They're actually proud of the fact that they
have such disdain for people who think? No wonder no one gives a damn
about education in this country. We hate smart people! They're too
uppity. We prefer to have our beers with people who don't challenge us
or make us feel insecure.
JN: Immigration has slipped off the radar, and it too is important. So
has education, environment, social security, and lots of other things.
But, Paris is burning. There is no perfect plan out there for health
care, just like there is no perfect bailout plan. What we should be
looking for in a leader is someone willing to try to find one, not
someone refusing to admit it's broken. Trickle down economics has
failed the majority of Americans. That philosophy applied to health
care, education, Wall St., and other the other urgent problems facing
this nation will fail as well.
As for Dan Quayle, well, now I actually
miss him!
Lastly, while it is impolite to be discussing McCain's health
so publicly, the facts are what they are. He's 72 years old, and has
had melanoma. It is relevant. He himself said he'd only seek one
term. Do you really think Palin should be President in four years, or
worse, sooner? It is a reckless, irresponsible thing for him to have
selected her. It alone should deem him unfit.
.SIG TC
.POST 9/30 8:33pm
To all good people of Norfolk who might cast their vote for Barney Frank
this November.
Please view this.
[youtube link]
Earl Sholley for Congress.
.SIG PJT
.POST 9/30 8:19pm
DA - During the debate, John McCain did not address his opponent by his
first name because he could not remember who his opponent is as
demonstrated by this video
[youtube link]
.SIG MJD
.POST 9/30 8:32am
Correction to my post: Re: Shonda Schilling, she had stage II melanoma, same
as McCain. Not stage 4. That was a typo.
.SIG JN
.POST 9/30 8:28am
This current administration proposed and nearly passed the biggest tax
increase in U.S. history.
The proposal was a bandaid. It may have gotten credit flowing again but
only until borrowers hit their credit limit again.
Money will flow again when energy prices come back down to earth. At a
cost of getting gas to the pump in the area of 1.45 +- including taxes,
it's grand larceny what the consumer is being charged.
Maybe they should focus on the oil market as well as the securities
market. Oh, I forgot, Jethro & Jed are free market guys.
.SIG JC
.POST 9/29 10:37pm
TC - Palin might be the only one of the 4 candidates with a grasp on the
economics of "everyman." Her work as mayor and governor dealt with
budgetary decisions we all make, especially in these tough times. That
should comfort you not scare you (unless you've been reading the
outlandish witch hunt story swirling about Gov. Palin). Do think Biden
will call her "Sarah" like Obama dissed McCain with his addressing him
as "John"? I hope she goes for the kill and "field dresses" Biden on
Thursday night. (Why hasn't SNL done a Biden skit? - his gaffe about
FDR going on TV in 1928 is ripe for parody).
.SIG DA
.POST 9/29 10:36pm
TC:
Here is a link to a nursing web site that reviews each candidate's health
plan from our perspective. Most nurses and some MD's that I know think that
both plans fall short. Obama's health plan, similar to what we have now in
Massachusetts that Romney enacted (which is MUCH more expensive than anyone
thought, and may not be sustainable), is better for the uninsured. McCain's
plan works well for those already insured.
[page]
Considering what is happening now with the bail-out plan, there isn't going
to be much money for anything promised by either candidate. I remember when
Hillary was going to give us a better healthcare program. That failed and I
am sure that any other attempt at socialized medicine in this country will
fail as well. So, really if you look at that way, it has been 16 years of
failed health care policy.
Also, people seem to not mention the effect that illegal immigration has on
healthcare costs. I will tell you from my own experience, illegal
immigrants get primo healthcare and it is all free to them. That is
absolutely the truth. You would be amazed. Here I have a patient who has
insurance, but has to pay, pay, pay. And one who is from Brazil, who is
free care. I am not saying they do not deserve healthcare, they do and we
treat them the same. I am simply saying that it costs a lot of money. We
also need immigration reform in this country as well.
I am still at a loss to understand why you think that it matters to many
people that Palin is under qualified. The vast majority of her supporters
do not care. You said that you were upset that McCain never mentioned the
middle class. Well, Palin is the middle class. The middle class
republicans like that. They also voted for Bush Sr. when he had Dan Quayle
a heartbeat away. And you know how that worked out.
BTW, as a hospice nurse, I was appalled at the commercial regarding McCain's
melanoma. He has released data on that. Melanoma is not always fatal. Just
ask Curt Shilling's wife--she had stage 2. I can see going after him on his
policies and promises, but scaring people onto thinking he may die is way
over the top.
BTW, our state's congressmen were divided on the bail out vote. I was sure
it would pass today. Now they all left because of Rosh Hashana? What? They
just leave? Unreal.
.SIG JN
While I am grateful for the break from the 24/7 news of Sarah Palin, it's
seems very dangerous that people might forget this woman could really be a
72-year-old heartbeat away from the presidency. Her candidacy is
entertaining, but she is a menace! I know some will say I am being a snob,
or a liberal elite, but this woman is not smart enough to be a heartbeat
away from the presidency. As funny as all the Tiny Fey/SNL skits are, this
is quite serious. She knows nothing about foreign policy, nothing about the
economy, nothing about health care. This election will decide if we spend
the next 20 - 30 years at war in the Middle East. It will decide if, and in
what style, us 40-somethings retire. It will decide how we will afford
health care as we age. I do hope people wake up. I thought once the sky
was actually falling they might, but apparently that hasn't done it either.
.SIG TC
The healthcare plans that both candidates are suggesting are not a panacea.
The healthcare insurance companies are gouging us. Charging more and more
and giving us less services. And most people do not even know what benefits
they are entitled to, until they are ill and need them. Then they find out
they are not covered. It happens all of the time. They are not talking
about this, either. It was really mind-blowing to be at the home of a
patient listening to CNN talk about this huge bailout for wall street, while
they cannot afford to pay for needed healthcare services. It really puts
things into perspective.
.SIG JN
.POST 9/29 12:19pm
JC: You raise a very important point, and one that,
surprisingly, has been left out of the equation. Of course people are going
into foreclosure when the cost of heating their homes has quadrupled, food
prices have skyrocketed, property taxes are making up for lost and/or
inadequate funding for schools, roads, and infrastructure, and wages have
declined (once inflation is factored in). I am dismayed that, once again,
the level of discourse has been dumbed down to sound bites, and huge factors
impacting our economy are being ignored. While this bailout, er rescue, may
stablize the markets in the short term, it will do little, if nothing, to
address the underlying economic disparities that have been institutionalized
during this administration.
I realize that each campain in the race for the White House using any and
every little thing to batter their opponent, and sometimes it is quite
ridiculous. But, I think it is telling that McCain didn't mention the
middle class once during Friday night's debate. He's admitted himself that
he is "divorced from the reality" that everyday people face, but to not even
acknowledge the burdens most people are shouldering is truly offensive.
And, shortsighted, as JC points out. That hate-radio jocks were all over
the bailout this morning, blaming Barney Frank and Nancy Pelosi, and,
unbelievably, claiming that deregulation and lack of oversight had nothing
to do with this financial meltdown. Once again, a crisis that will impact
our lives, and the lives of our children, for generations to come, has been
hijacked by political extremists and used to further polarize an already
horribly divided nation. If there ever was a time for change, this is it.
.SIG TC
.POST 9/29 8:24am
The bailout really only takes into account one aspect of this economic
downturn, bad loans associated with mortgages. "W" had nothing but praise
for those loans, made possible under his administration's keen oversight,
a few years ago and noted how those loans had brought home "ownership"
to an all time home high.
I will argue that energy prices can not be ignored during the talks.
The following compares fuel costs in 2004 (gas 1.65/gal, heating oil
1.30/gal) vs those of 2008 (gas 3.90/gal, heating oil 4.30/gal).
It now costs Americans somewhere around an additional 10 cents per mile
to get to work than it did in 2004 (based on 22.5 mpg). Americans drove
1.4 billion miles less (1.8%) in April 2008 (77.8billion miles driven)
than April 2007 (79.2 billion miles driven) based on Department of
Transportation figures. At 10 cents/mile, Americans spent an extra 7.8
billion dollars on gas in April 2008 vs equivalent miles in 2004. That
works out to 94 billion dollars annually. In addition to gas prices,
prices for fuels to heat and/or cool the 115.9 million homes(2000 US
census)in America have also escalated. Thats an additional 139 billion
dollars based on the average household spending an additional $1200
annually (400 gal at $3/gal additional cost) for heating and/or
cooling. In total, Americans have in the vicinity of 233 billion
dollars less annually in their pockets as a result of out of control
energy costs. Is it any wonder houses are going into foreclosure?
If passed as proposed without energy policy and energy market reforms
the bailout will be short lived. It doesn't take long to burn through
700 billion dollars.
Americans can not be productive if they can't get to work nor businesses
be productive operating on a shoe string. Any American can understand
that. To paraphrase John McCain, Americas strength is in its workers.
If only our leaders understood the importance of energy pricing vs cost.
.SIG JC
.POST 9/27 10:36pm
Just to inject some political humor, David Letterman's top ten surprises in
the Presidential debate.
[article]
.SIG JN
.POST 9/27 6:04pm
Quick impressions from the McCain / Obama presidential debates:
- Obama came across as having a nuanced understanding of the topics,
McCain as repeating rough outlines
- Obama needs to dumb down his sentences to have them penetrate.
"They dropped the ball" works better than "insufficient attention
was paid to the mission objectives"
- I was surprised how hawkish Obama sounded; he seemed ready to go
bomb Iran himself
- I was completely dumbfounded that McCain doesn't know the
difference between "strategy" and "tactic". Steps taken to achieve
short-term objectives are tactics
- and finally, it's a tax credit, not a dividend. Now, McCain
may be personally more familiar with dividends than tax credits,
but that doesn't make them interchangeable
.SIG AR
.POST 9/24 7:49am
Well AR, no, I am a Hillary supporter, so you figure it out. I also like Ron
Paul. But let's be fair. McCain and Palin are not treated the same as
Obama/Biden. That is a fact, my friend. I am simply pointing that out.
Sorry to make you feel that I was baiting you or anyone else.
I was home sick yesterday and watched C-span. I don't think that the
``winner'' of this election gets any prize. Of course, on the bright side,
things couldn't get worse, could they?
Warren Buffet just bought 5 billion dollars in Goldman Sachs stock, reminds
me of the scene in ``It's a Wonderful Life'' when Potter is buying everything
because everyone is panicking. Except of course the old savings and loan.
Where is Jimmy Stewart when you need him?
.SIG JN
.POST 9/23 10:40pm
JN, does this mean it's time-in, end of the plea for peace and harmony
and everyone may bait people once again?
For someone who professes to like both candidates, you seem to spend a
lot of energy defending McCain/Palin and reporting uncomplimentary things about
Obama/Biden. Would it be safe to assume you're getting closer to deciding how
you're going to vote? :-)
.SIG AR
.POST 9/23 10:38pm
60,000! A big crowd. Or maybe 25,000. A lot of people at any rate.
Mike Tucker, a local fire marshal, estimated 60,000. But reporters on the ground, including AP's Brendan Farrington and my colleague Ken Vogel, would only say "tens of thousands," suggesting the marshal's estimate was on the high side. The St. Pete Times's Adam Smith had another fire official in the crowd say it was about 25,000..SIG AR .POST 9/23 8:15pm Here is a link to Katie Couric's interview with Biden in which he incorrectly states Franklin Roosevelt went on television to explain the problem to the American people. [cbs news page]
[source]
Yikes.
I'm not in corner of Obama, but I assume many of his supporters are
disappointed he didn't tap Sen. Clinton to run with him.
.SIG BC
.POST 9/23 8:03pm
Here's the link.
[Biden blunder article].
You left out the end of my post:
By the way, Hoover was in office then and his VP was Charles Curtin. Guess
who the Secretary of the Treasury was then? Allen Mellon. My dad always
talked about the great depression. He talked about it a lot, so I have
always been an avid reader of that particular time in history. It is
fascinating and scary that we are now living through perhaps a similar
moment in history. Bet McCain wishes he had Romney as his VP now instead of
Caribou Barbie. And Biden is no prize either, Blundering Botox Bob.
.SIG JN
Anyway, here is what Biden said. Talk about a dope.
Biden garbles Depression historyBy the way, Hoover was in office then and his VP was Charles Curtin. Guess who the Secretary of the Treasury was then? Allen Mellon. My dad always talked about the great depression. He talked about it a lot, so I have always been an avid reader of that particular time in history. It is fascinating and scary that we are now living through perhaps a similar moment in history. Bet McCain wishes he had Romney as his VP now instead of Caribou Barbie. And Biden is no prize either, Blundering Botox Bob. .SIG JNJoe Biden's denunciation of his own campaign's ad to Katie Couric got so much attention last night that another odd note in the interview slipped by.
He was speaking about the role of the White House in a financial crisis.
"When the stock market crashed, Franklin Roosevelt got on the television and didn't just talk about the princes of greed," Biden told Couric. "He said, 'Look, here's what happened.'"
(Several bloggers) point out and say : "And if you owned an experimental TV set in 1929, you would have seen him. And you would have said to yourself, 'Who is that guy? What happened to President Hoover?'"
[article]
Hillary Rodham Clinton ridiculed Democratic rival Barack Obama on Tuesday for his contention that living in a foreign country as a child helped give him a better understanding of the foreign policy challenges facing the U.S. ``Voters will have to judge if living in a foreign country at the age of 10 prepares one to face the big, complex international challenges the next president will face,'' Clinton said. ``I think we need a president with more experience than that, someone the rest of the world knows, looks up to and has confidence in.''.SIG JN .POST 9/22 10:09pm TEM - An article from the Huffington Post on Palin - please. Arianna Huffington's organ of liberal outrage isn't exactly a balanced forum. Even if some of the vitriol (quite offensive stuff from supposedly "progressive" folk who heretofore claimed the moral high ground with regard to the feminist fight) spilled at a protest in Anchorage is from local Alaskans and not from out of state zealots using frequent-flier mileage to land in Palin's backyard, the people who matter reside in the lower 48 states - specifically those high population swing states where people "cling to religion and guns." Furthermore, the politicized rants on display at last night's Emmy Awards only further alienate these key swing voters. It's all about electoral college math. .SIG DA .POST 9/22 8:47pm TEM: Sorry to burst your bubble. ``Palin Draws Crowd of 60,000 in Florida.'' [article]
Just FYI. This does not reflect my opinion of her, just thought it was
interesting.
.SIG JN
.POST 9/20 10:08am
The inevitable backlash of women rallying against Palin is growing
nationwide. Check out this protest in Palin's very own backyard. It has
been described as the biggest political rally in the history of the
state.
See
[article]
.SIG TEM
.POST 9/19 8:09pm
JN - My high school actually offers Mandarin Chinese. We live in a
global economy.
AR - Some labeled the purchase of Alaska as Seward's Folly. Similarly,
some may think that Palin is only fool's gold; however, if Obama loses
in November, will the silver-tongued Community Organizer be known as
Dean's (as in Dr. Howard Dean) Debacle?
.SIG DA
.POST 9/19 5:40pm
AR:
Obviously, you choose to ignore my pleading for peace and harmony and
continue to bait people. Focus needs to be on domestic issues now, not
foreign, or we will all be speaking mandarin soon. So stop it.
.SIG JN
.POST 9/19 3:19pm
It's not Sarah Palin's limited experience that's the problem, it's the
demonstrated and repeated abuse of her power when entrusted with authority.
Though I must admit it is odd for a politician running for national
office to not be familiar with at least the fundamentals of
our foreign policy; it makes them appear ignorant.
Sunni? Shia? What are those?
.SIG AR
.POST 9/17 9:15pm
TC:
I was only surprised at the clip I heard because Obama has always seemed
like such an eloquent speaker. That is all. I am not talking about
substance here, only style.
I think that there is way too much nastiness going on in this election.
Politics is so personal and I think that this particular race has brought
out some pretty intense emotions for everyone. I mean we are confronting
head-on, really, for the first time, topics that we normally dance around.
We are confronting race, working women vs. stay at home roles; we are
addressing elder issues and patriotism. We are not just blue states and red
states. I am tired of labels. We are individuals with our own ideas of
what is right and wrong. Some people firmly believe the wealthier should
give some of their money to the folks making less. The wealthier say I have
gotten here by working hard, so why should I give it to people who do not
want to work hard. But I think somewhere there is a middle ground, and we
all know that. The women say we should have equal rights as men, others say
we should be taking care of home and hearth. But we still try to do it all
and I must say that we have come a long way, baby. But the fighting
continues and is fueled by ten-second sound bites that pose as real news
that are clearly out of context because they want to make a candidate look
bad and to achieve good ratings. There is no real news anymore. Just
``gottcha'' moments. (I am now strictly watching the food network and HGTV
and may soon be posting some recipes.) This election and all of its ``reality
TV'' nonsense has me wishing that it were all over already. (Tune in tomorrow
so you can witness the latest humiliation we have captured on tape!!!)
So here we are in a financial crisis and what are our ``leaders'' of both
parties doing? They are pointing fingers at everyone else and no one seems
to know the real answer. Some say---okay, many say, that Sarah Palin is not
experienced enough to be president (even though she is not running for
president, but I digress). Well, my goodness, I think at this point any one
of us can do a better job than some of these jokers in Washington. I am
sorry, but where the heck did common sense go? Does anyone in Washington
have any common sense anymore?
Anyway, we all need to take a deep breath and stop attacking one another. At
the end of the day, if you are having a tough time, who really comes through
for you? Your government? No. That is laughable. I will tell you who. It
is your neighbors and your friends and your family. So let's stop all the
nonsense and remember that this is an election to select a new President.
We do it every 4 years. Let's not make this into more then it is. It is
not a fight to the death. We all worry about global warming, we all want the
war to end and we all want the economy back on track. We all hate poverty
and the fact that many have no health insurance. But we all still have to
get up each morning and get dressed, get our kids off to school and
ourselves to work and worry about dinner and our kid's homework and who they
are having a playdate with and life still goes on. When the election is
over, do you really want to have alienated your friends and neighbors? What
ever happened to agreeing to disagree? Whatever happened to civility? I
know that people feel strongly and that is okay. Everyone is entitled to
their opinion. And everyone gets to vote. So why are we all fighting?
[article]
.SIG JN
Yesterday I had the privilege of explaining to my nine-year-old why the
man on the radio was being so "mean and nasty." We were in a store, and
the owner was listening to the Jay Sevrins show. His delivery was
excellent, very compelling, authoritative, full of enthusiasm and
energy. What he was actually saying, however, was chilling. He was
telling a caller that Democrats are really all poor people. The kicker
was him saying, and I quote, "These people want our stuff! They want us
to work and make money, and then give them all our stuff." My child
asked, "What stuff, like our TV? Who is he so mad at?" It would have
been funny, except for the fact that this fool caller was yes-ing him to
death, as if he were some religious figure leading her to enlightenment.
Given the popularity of this show, there are many callers like her,
entertained or riled up by what amounts to a crazy rant disguised as
some insightful advocacy. Look at what this guy is actually saying!
It's the most ridiculous stuff! I know, what he means, of course, is
that he is against taxes, government programs, universal health care,
regulation, etc. But, the fact that he dumbs it down and people still
eat it up and think it's brilliant because he delivers it well is damn
scary!
.SIG TC
.POST 9/17 11:34pm
As I was driving home tonight, I was listening to talk radio and they were
playing an audio clip from a county fair in Colorado where Obama was
speaking. He had no teleprompter and I was stunned to hear how poorly he
spoke. I was embarrassed for him. No wonder he needs a teleprompter all of
the time, even when stumping in small towns, and refuses to do any town hall
meetings with McCain. He is really bad at the off the cuff stuff, so it
seems.
.SIG JN
.POST 9/17 7:10pm
TEM - Your comment about the bogus Obama quote being mean spirited and
racist is quite a reach. The poster accurately captures
a typical unscripted Obama "moment." You might be
offended by the caricature because of your affinity with the
candidate, but there isn't anything implicitly or explicitly
racist about this. It merely reflects the inverse
of his opponent's presentation skills - McCain doesn't shine
in speech mode, but he is more comfortable in an
extemporaneous town hall meeting exchange.
Barack's mellifluous MLK speech delivery stands in stark
contrast to his stilted on the spot responses. In a similar vein,
I laughed at the SNL sketch of Tina Fey as Sarah Palin, but never once
did I express outrage that it was anti-feminist assault. In
short, don't reach for the race card when it's not even in the deck.
.SIG DA
I now get my news from the BBC. The news here is either biased, completely
wrong or poorly written. I just want the facts, please. I am sick of
blathering nincompoops telling me how I should think.
Although I do watch Jon Stewart. He is perhaps a bit biased, but it is
funny. And when he called Charles Gibson, in his interview with Palin,
``Gepetto'', I laughed so hard, I cried.
Here is what The Independent and the NYT says about Jon Stewart:
Mr Blair is booked to appear on Comedy Central channel's flagship programme. He will be interviewed by Jon Stewart, the man recently described by The New York Times as the most trusted man in the American media. Despite the comic bent of The Daily Show's reporting, its producers have proved to be remarkably incisive jokers, keeping a close eye on the often ridiculous machinations of American politicians and the press corps that covers them.Intersting, isn't it? He has more foreign policy experience than both Palin and Obama. .SIG JN .POST 9/16 7:06pm PJT: True, the Bush Doctrine has been used to describe several different aspects of Bush's foreign policy, but in almost all instances the phrase describes the go-it-alone, my-way-or-the-highway, bring 'em on, reckless cowboy behavior of the Bush administration. That said, the phrase most often refers to his preemptive war philosophy, and Palin was clueless when asked. You're being way too kind to suggest she was seeking clarification of a nuanced concept, although another might have deserved that leeway.Stewart's satirical programme has become so influential in the United States that many viewers claim it is their first port of call for news coverage. He has interviewed five former or current heads of state, among them Bill Clinton and Jimmy Carter, the Bolivian President, Evo Morales, and the former Mexican president Vicente Fox. In September 2006, Pervez Musharraf, then president of Pakistan, was the first sitting head of state to appear on the far side of Stewart's expansive desk.
The Bush Doctrine has as much, if not more, obvious meaning than
"liberal elite" or "media elite." Who on earth are we really referring
to when we say that? People who read and watch news other than
FOX?? This whole "liberal media" business is infuriating. The media
was asleep at the switch for the past 7 years, regaling us with tales of
Brad and Angelina's ever-expanding brood while the country was going to
hell in a hand basket. The fact that the press is starting to stir is a
good thing, but if you ask me, the "media elite" (liberal or not) are as
responsible for the multitude of problems we are facing as is the
government.
I am not going to try to sing the praises of Obama's resume. I agree
it's thin. But, he's got the smarts to understand complex problems, and
his overall outlook on government is to put it to work for all the
people, not a select few. Clearly, McCain is the same old, same old.
His anti-regulation stance will do little, if anything, to reign in the
greed that has sent the entire world into a financial tailspin. This is
what happens when you let the markets dictate unchecked, and he will do
nothing to change that.
.SIG TC
.POST 9/16 7:06pm
PJT:
Right, O'Reilly. My second error of the day!
Re: Ross. I was just hoping to hear about Rep. Ross from people who have
been directly affected by what he has done or not done for the town. I am
attempting to be open-minded. I much prefer to vote based on performance.
And I have not heard all good things. Nor have I heard all bad. But, I do
think that Thomas Roache deserves to be heard. And Ross did not vote for the
seniors regarding protection from overrides. That bothered me. He should be
questioned about that. What has he done, specifically, that earns him your
vote? Besides being Republican? I am asking to learn, not to seem like I am
criticizing or baiting you. I am trying to learn all that I can so that I
can make an informed decision.
.SIG JN
.POST 9/16 5:11pm
Oops. Detroit wasn't a state last time I looked at a map. My bad. I meant
Michigan.
.SIG JN
.POST 9/16 5:08pm
Foe all those good citizens looking to cut through the media bias try
reading this website on a daily basis:
[newsbusters.org]
And there is media bias, 80% are in the tank for Obama.
.SIG PJT
.POST 9/16 5:07pm
TC: Which Bush Doctrine do you subscribe to?
Maybe you should read this:
[article]
This was written by the guy who first used the phrase "The Bush
Doctrine" as noted in the Wikipedia entry you enclosed on your post.
Don't get started on experience. Obama has less than Palin in terms of
executive experience. Besides, she is not on the top of the ticket.
Obama should try and focus. I'll use his words,
Oh, um, oh, well, you see, I have um, experience um but you know uh well, I bee a Senator for uh almost 4 years know, spent 2 running for an office I know idea how to run, uh um oh uh um. Where is the teleprompter when you need it?When it comes down to it, Obama is a socialist, nuff said.
JN: You mean Ed O'Reilly right? Not O'Brian. Rep Ross is a fine public
servant, unfortunately he is fighting an uphill battle at the State
House, this being a 1 party state. But we need a Republican voice.
Please support him, as well as Senator Scott Brown.
Retire Kerry, he is useless.
.SIG PJT
.POST 9/16 5:02pm
TC:
One additional thought. I also read the article this morning by David Brooks
of the NYT. If you look at it differently, it is not only speaking about
Palin, but also of Obama and his lack of experience. He doesn't say it, but
it is implicit.
I also read the news from my old hometown in Pennsylvania. Make no doubt
about it, we can go on forever arguing over Sarah Palin, failed Bush
policies, Obama, McCain, Biden, the elite vs. the everyman. But the truth
is, it doesn't matter what we think. Massachusetts will of course go into
the Democrats' win column. It will be states like Pennsylvania, Florida,
Ohio, and Detroit that decide this election. Not us.
I really do think we would be better served to look at how, even if Obama
wins, we will be saddled with the prospect of higher property taxes in the
coming years. Our schools will still need more money. So will our town.
There is no panacea offered with this presidential election, regardless of
the outcome. Not really. So, we need to try to solve this locally. There
is no Easter bunny coming to fill our baskets with everything we need. We,
the taxpayers of Norfolk, have to get to work to try to solve our own
issues. First thing is to look at who is representing us and if they are
doing what we elected them to do. That is a good start. Then we must look
for ways to raise revenue for our town. Yes, even the dreaded earmark. We
need to attend Town meeting so that we can vote on issues that impact our
every day lives. We need to go to school committee meetings. We need to pay
attention to what our Selectmen are or are not doing. We pay a lot of lip
service to these things, but we are really not rolling up our sleeves and
getting to work. We let a few people willing to volunteer their time to
helping our community, and then we sit back and complain, without offering
any actual service or advice. It is time to get involved ourselves. Our
elected and appointed officials need to hear from all of us on issues that
are important to us. And we need to be able to have full disclosure and a
healthy dialogue.
`` No one pretends that democracy is perfect or all-wise. Indeed, it has been
said that democracy is the worst form of government except all those other
forms that have been tried from time to time.'' -Winston Churchill
.SIG JN
.POST 9/16 9:07am
PJT:
I agree about O'Brien. No one is even paying attention to the local
politics here. Too much focus on the national scene. We need to pay
attention to our state issues as well. No one has responded on this blog
regarding my questions about Rep. Ross. Some have emailed me personally.
Most think he has not done a good job and that Thomas Roache, running as an
independent, should be given serious consideration.
TC: I can remember all the fuss the democrats made when the elder Bush chose
Quayle. They called him inexperienced, ``a heart-beat away'', and tried to
make him look stupid all the time (it wasn't hard). But look at that
outcome. I think the Obama campaign should focus on McCain. Remember him?
He is actually running for President. Today, as America continues to reel
from the horrible financial news, Obama is off to California for a
multimillion-dollar love fest with the Hollywood elite. I like Obama, but
think he is making a huge mistake here. He wants to win over votes from the
``everyman'', this will not do it. This will only make Palin seems more
appealing to them. Why can't he see that?
I am starting to take another look at Ron Paul. Both candidates are making
me sick.
.SIG JN
.POST 9/16 9:05am
PJT/DA: Very insightful article by David Brooks, a conservative, in
today's NYTs. He makes some timely observations about the liberal
elites v. populist everyman division, and its impact on governing.
While admiring and praising her for all of her strengths, he barely
stops short of saying Palin isn't ready. You don't have to work hard to
get the point he's making. And he's right. Check it out. It's a
well-reasoned and interesting perspective from an otherwise reliable
Republican apologist.
[article]
.SIG TC
.POST 9/15 11:07pm
PJT: Yes, I do know what the Bush Doctrine is, as do most people who
have paid attention to this administration's foreign policy. In case
you think it's just the imagination of us crazy leftists, visit any of
these sites for a short description of it.
[boston.com]
[AIE.org]
[wikipedia]
Gibson didn't have to edit to make Palin look bad; she did that all by
herself. Editing, in fact, would have helped. Didn't those seconds
while she searched her mind in vain for an answer seem to last a
painfully long time? I hardly think it's asking a lot for our VP to be
versed in the overriding foreign policy philosophy of the past eight
years, particularly one that represents such a radical departure from
our historic foreign policy and one that has costs 4500+ American lives
and billions of dollars. You wouldn't hire a surgeon who hadn't
mastered basic anatomy, would you?
DA: I wasn't meaning to be derisive of religion per se. Hardly. I
respect all religions and one's inalienable right to worship as one
pleases. Call me crazy, but that old concept of separation of church and
state is one of the American values I am particularly fond of. I don't
believe in a "Christian litmus test" for public office. We're no better
than other religious fanatics when we invoke God to justify a war, or
pray for a pipeline. It's just wrong. Obama's resume may be thin, but
he's demonstrated a genuine and complete understanding of the
complexities facing the nation, and the world. Palin, not so much.
And for a good Christian, she lies a lot.
.SIG TC
.POST 9/15 8:51pm
TC - how is it that we should be questioning McCain's judgment on
the Palin pick for the VP slot (you label her as a neophyte) when
Sen. Obama's record of accomplishment is as thin as the topsoil on
the Moonscape downtown?
Charlie Gibson's probing of Palin on the Bush doctrine is yet another
attempt to paint this ticket as the 3rd term of GW - well it isn't.
Much to moveon.org's chagrin, the "Hitlerian" regime isn't running
this time around.
Your derisive dismissal of Gov. Palin's religious beliefs (TC, why
don't you burn your money - after all, it proclaims "In God We
Trust"?) and her culture (hunting like our forefathers did) are
where the Obama-Biden ticket could run into trouble. Those folks
who "cling to guns and religion" are a key swing constituency. This
election will be won or lost in the heartland where salt of the
earth types, not liberal elites, will voice themselves at the ballot
box. Don't be surprised if Obama wins the popular vote but loses
the electoral vote. (And don't forget the states that Hillary
Clinton won in the final months of the primary season. McCain-Palin
never was going to convert entrenched right to choose liberals, but
enough moderate Democrats and Independents could very well come
their way to make a difference.)
Finally, I find it deliciously ironic that women in the post feminist
era recoil at someone who has such a well-rounded life experience
in the public and private arena. The venom directed at the Republican
VP choice has reached the hysterical level of Howard Dean's famous
howl in 2004.
.SIG DA
.POST 9/15 8:11pm
Hey TC,
Do you what the Bush Doctrine Is? Where is it written? Are there several
media versions of it? Gov Palin was 100% correct to ask Gibson to
clarify his question. That interview was edited to make the Governor
look bad. ABC should have done an interview with no edits, like Bill
O'Reilly did with Obama last week.
BTW, please vote tomorrow and vote for Ed O'Reilly, time to retire
Kerry.
.SIG PJT
.POST 9/15 10:14am
Interestingly, the taxpayers are not bailing out the home buyers, just
the corporations that made the bad loans. The home buyers are getting
only a short-term moratorium on foreclosures.
As to responsibility -- it is impossible for borrowers' inability to say no
to cause a mortgage crisis. That's not how
the market works -- too many foolish consumer purchases never force the
store to go bankrupt.
.SIG AR
.POST 9/13 12:46am
My husband and I were very disappointed to find out from our children
that 9-11 was not mentioned in their schools (both F/C and HOD).
Children were not encouraged to remember the significance of the day
during the moment of silence nor did their teachers talk about the
importance of the day. Remember the statement "We shall never forget"?
How will we remember when we don't teach, acknowledge and remind our
children of this terrible day in our nation's history. Hundreds of
firemen and thousands of innocent civilians perished that day from this
act of terror. This attack on our country was what prompted our troops
to being sent to Iraq and Afghanistan. Isn't this important for our
children to know why we are in a war for the past 7 years? Does this
bother any other parents?
.SIG JM
.POST 9/12 6:09pm
So, the savior of the Republican ticket, the person who could become
president should her 72-year-old, cancer-surviving boss pass away in
office, has no idea what the Bush Doctrine is? No big deal, just a pesky
little detail about whether or not the U.S. should invade other
countries without provocation, destabilize regions of the world, send
young enlistees to their deaths, and potentially cause death and
destruction around the globe.
Perhaps that's for God to worry about, not the potential vice president
of the U.S. Iraq was God's task, after all. She doesn't presume to know
his will, or speak his words, unless of course, it suits her. (In a
email Palin wrote to her friends and family after the birth of her last
child, she said ``Children are the most precious and promising ingredient
in this mixed-up world you live in down there on Earth.'' She signed it,
"Trig's Creator, Your Heavenly Father." Was she having an out-of-body
experience?)
So, it seems experience does count, as does one's ability to master
information. Judgment is high on the list of qualifications, too.
Despite his many years in the Senate, McCain demonstrated not only a
lack of judgment putting this neophyte next in line to lead the free
world, but managed to insult women at the very same time. Are us gals
really supposed to be satisfied that she's an attractive, well-spoken
beauty queen who can bring home the bacon after hunting it too than we
are concerned that she hasn't a clue what a VP does, hasn't really
thought about Iraq, and has never met a head of state? McCain dumped his
first wife for Cindy, a rich trophy wife who he has slandered and
verbally abused in public. Now he demonstrates that same shameless lack
of respect for all women by thinking Miss Alaska is going to be enough
for us. This is sexism at its worst. Women should be outraged.
.SIG TC
.POST 9/12 12:45am
Not to change the subject away from the delightful and warm-hearted
discussion regarding our national election; but did you all receive a visit
from a campaigner for Thomas Roache running as an independent for State Rep
against Richard Ross? Since this affects our town directly, I am curious to
hear anyone's support/scorn/whatever of Richard Ross or anyone's thought on
this particular race. What has Ross done in the past two terms (he is now
running for a third, was he unopposed last election??) for us here in
Norfolk and is it likely we need a change? I am just asking. I really have
not followed exactly what Ross has done here. I have met him and he is very
nice. I know that he runs a funeral home in Wrentham; I have called that
funeral home in my work as hospice nurse, they are very nice and
professional there, I might add.
No one is running against him as a Democrat. Interesting, as this seems
like it would be the year of the Democrat.
I am not trying to bait anyone; nor do I have an opinion either way, yet. I
am just curious to know what people think. Please do not attack me.
Thanks.
And a sad and sincere bow and, yes, prayer, to all of those innocent victims
and heroes that lost their lives on this day 7 years ago. I get chills
every time I think about that new mom who was from Wellesley that went on
her first business trip after the birth of her child. I was haunted by what
she must have been thinking while stuck on that doomed flight. How sad for
all of them; but this one struck me to the core, my daughter being only 2 at
the time.
.SIG JN
.POST 9/10 2:33pm
Wm: A valid story, true, but not worthy of all the attacks.
You specifically called
the author dishonest for omitting the next day's back-pedaling.
I disagreed; if quoted accurately the unrehearsed off-the-cuff
Wednesday comments stand stand on their own,
and are a fair topic for commentary.
Since she's a rather obscure political figure and the comments
fairly recent, only two years old, it's not all that dead of an issue,
either.
.SIG Wm.
.POST 9/10 7:42am
AR: I agree with what you say totally. However, peoples inability
to say no has to be taken into account as well. That is all I am
saying. The sub-prime market and the greedy mortgage companies who
took on their debt are clearly to blame, but lets not let the
consumers off so easily. If some guy making 40K thinks he can
afford a house that costs 400K because a salesman tells him he can
is a fool. Even if he is promised that he will be able to re-finance.
Financial prudence did not play a part in any of these decisions.
But take heart, the hard-working taxpayers will bail them out and
all will be well. Right? Meanwhile, they are reporting on the news
that some people who were foreclosed on are now buying new homes
that are at a much lower, bargain price. I know that many cannot
do that, but when I heard about that, I was like, what? Crazy, I
tell you.
Well, hopefully the market value of our homes will start to rise
again and there will be some regulation going forward. Just keep
chanting, January 2009, January 2009.
.SIG JN
.POST 9/9 11:46pm
JN, not quite. Foreclosures (obesity) are caused by borrowing too much
(eating donuts). Personal responsibility.
The mortgage crisis is Dunkin Donuts going bankrupt for selling its
donuts below cost.
Home mortgages are a product like any other, and pricing those mortgages
(donuts) according to their true risk (cost of production) is a
corporate responsibility. The price of a loan is the interest rate.
People signed for those loans because they were great deals; it was to
their every advantage to sign. They lost nothing -- they got a house,
and if they defaulted, they're back to renting again.
In a free market system it's not the role of the buyer to ensure the
long-term viability of the seller. Keeping the system sustainable was
the responsibility of the people who understood it and who set the rates
and sold the loans. The borrower does not set rates, and is not
expected to understand collateralized obligations or the role of
insurers or reinsurers -- the lender is.
Ironically, in the end the free market found the perfect free market solution
to the problem: someone else's money. The taxpayer's. The government has
bailed out lenders, will bail out more to come, and has just taken on
the risk of the losses from defaulting home loans. Because it's too
important not to, and they're -- well, banking on it.
.SIG AR
.POST 9/9 9:42pm
JN - Sorry to hurt your feelings. I was not being pious or mean and I do
not spit, it is impolite. I do however, feel strongly that the
Palin/McCain ticket is bad for the country for the many reasons I have
mentioned in this forum. The idea of 4 more years of the direction in
which we are currently headed horrifies me. MJD
.SIG MJD
I think that describes the increase in foreclosure
rates, which are indeed due to spending beyond personal means.
The mortgage crisis, however, was a lucrative scam beyond the
reach of individual home buyers; it was caused by lenders
knowingly extending credit to unqualified borrowers because they
knew they could in turn resell the risk, and the other investors
would be left holding the bag. As long as they could round up
more warm bodies willing to sign, they were minting money.
To have you take all the risk and I get all the reward is
generally a bad idea.
Related to this are the economic stimulus checks - many people
don't realize the magnitude of the crisis that was narrowly averted.
The stiumulus checks were to help tide over the crisis, which had the
potential to cause cascading bank failures and a significant economic
collapse like in 1929.
.SIG AR
.POST 9/9 1:33pm
Gee whiz, JN, I am so happy that you can feel better about Palin/McCain
now. I, on the other hand am worried about losing the right to
control my reproductive health. I am also concerned that Palin is
a global-warming naysayer and that we'll be living in houseboats
in the next decade or two. God's blessing of the Iraq war and the
natural gas pipeline
[youtube link],
ties
to big oil, banned books and even the suggestion of teaching
Creationism in the public schools gives me the willies. Oh and
BTW, we Protestants also believe in redemption so there is still
hope even for the most misguided social conservative.
.SIG MJD
.POST 9/9 11:33am
Wm: A valid story, true, but not worthy of all the attacks. There are so
many other issues to attack. This seems a dead issue. At least for me, if
McCain/Palin do win, I can feel better, at least where this one issue is
concerned.
.SIG JN
.POST 9/8 4:44pm
All of this talk about Palin being a creationist was disturbing to me and to
my husband, who is a scientist. So we did some digging and found this. The
media only tells us things that ignite sensationalism. Plus, I didn't think
that McCain was that stupid.
But this is going to be a point of attack for the left, as Wired Magazine's
Brandon Keim demonstrates in this article: McCain's VP Wants Creationism
Taught in School
[ref]
Republican vice presidential candidate Sarah Palin wants creationism taught in science classes.This is all true as far as it goes, but it's a bit dishonest of Keim not to quote the rest of Palin's statements in the article he linked: `Creation science' enters the race [ref]In a 2006 gubernatorial debate, the soon-to-be governor of Alaska trotted out [ref] the usual creationist education canard: ``Teach both. You know, don't be afraid of education. Healthy debate is so important, and it's so valuable in our schools. I am a proponent of teaching both.''
Teaching evolution and creationism in a scientifically balanced way is simply impossible. Evolution is accepted by scientists as driving the development of life on Earth. Creationism, which puts a (Christian) God in the engine room of life, is unsupported by science. Its arguments have been roundly dismissed by scientists -- many of whom, it should be noted, believe in God. They're just sensible enough to understand where science ends and religion begins.
In an interview Thursday, Palin said she meant only to say that discussion of alternative views should be allowed to arise in Alaska classrooms: ``I don't think there should be a prohibition against debate if it comes up in class. It doesn't have to be part of the curriculum.''I think all of the players in this election should be judged on their merit. Although, I must say that I heard Biden trot out some Catholic stuff on Meet the Press this Sunday. Something about how ``we Catholics believe in redemption''. But I won't judge him on that, even though I am protestant. I did notice that his forehead didn't move---what is with all the botox heads lately. I like foreheads to move. John Kerry's doesn't move either. Do they really think it makes them look younger? Maybe they will make that the next issue in politics, plastic surgery. Does he, or doesn't he? I think it makes them look spooky.She added that, if elected, she would not push the state Board of Education to add such creation-based alternatives to the state's required curriculum. Members of the state school board, which sets minimum requirements, are appointed by the governor and confirmed by the Legislature.
``I won't have religion as a litmus test, or anybody's personal opinion on evolution or creationism,'' Palin said.
P.S. by the way, Comedy central replays the Jon Stewart show an the Colbert
Report (two of my favorites) at 8pm on channel 61 on comcast. I can't stay
up past 11 anymore.
.SIG JN
When the news came out about the young women in Gloucester and their
pregnancies, Jay Severin, Michael Graham, Laura Ingram, and other
far-right leaning talk show hosts said things like, "What happened
to shame as a deterrent for teen pregnancy?" "I am tired of paying
for the care and keeping of bastard children." "These girls go and
get knocked up and are welcomed back to school with free daycare
centers and condoms." Wow, has their tune changed in the last week!
Now, magically, it is actually a virtue to be a pregnant teen. I am
honestly surprised that they did not try to float a virgin birth
scenario.
So, Palin may be a pitbull with lipstick, but her policies and the
policies of her political pals are more akin to a putting lipstick
on a pig. Same stuff, different day. Slap a coat of paint on it, and
it's new and shiny for a while. Once that lipstick wears off, it's
Republican politics as usual. Nice try boys, but no sale! I'm a
soccer mom. I wear chapstick with SPF 50. (There's a hole in the
ozone, or haven't you heard?)
.SIG MJD
.POST 9/6 8:44pm
Regarding the energy bill: Question: On the Cloture Motion (Motion to
Invoke Cloture on the Motion to Proceed to Consider S.3335 )
Guess who did not show up to vote, leading to its defeat?
Not Voting - 6McCain and Obama. Sad, but true. For all the talk, no action, by either candidate. I will give Kennedy a pass since he has a terminal brain tumor, and John Kerry voted yes. So did Biden. Must give him credit for doing what he says he believes in.
Kennedy (D-MA)
McCain (R-AZ)
McCaskill (D-MO)
Obama (D-IL)
Rockefeller (D-WV)
Wicker (R-MS)
This is a stalemate now. I think that it may stay that way until after the
presidential election. Politics gets in the way of doing what is right.
Why doesn't the government run more like a business? Because they don't
have to. The shareholders, American citizens, do not demand it. We do not
pay attention. It is so complex that we cannot understand a lot of it, I
will say that. But for all the talk about new energy sources and drill,
drill, drill; basically, nothing is going to happen. Unbelievable that
there is no outrage about this.
.SIG JN
.POST 9/6 8:43pm
JN - As far as the economy and the mortgage crisis is concerned. I
suggest downloading an excellent podcast from This American Life with
Ira Glass. It was an amazing production that includes interviews with
banking/mortgage professionals at all levels as well as mortagees facing
foreclosure. It is a gripping explanation of the way the market was
built and how it was manipulated to make a few people a ton of money.
The episode is called, "The Giant Pool of Money" and can be downloaded
from itunes. It is the best explanation I have heard about the crisis
and how it all happened. It is absolutely worth the hour!
.SIG MJD
.POST 9/6 8:41pm
BTW, here is some info on the energy bill. We really should be paying
attention to the actual work being done on this bill.
[Senate.gov page]
Senator Domenici serves as Ranking Member of the Senate Energy and Natural
Resources Committee. The committee's jurisdiction includes oversight and
legislative responsibilities for: national energy policy, including
international energy affairs and emergency preparedness; nuclear waste
policy; privatization of federal assets; territorial policy (including
changes in status and issues affecting Antarctica); Native Hawaiian matters;
and Ad Hoc issues. The committee has four subcommittees Energy, National
Parks, Public Lands and Forests, and Water and Power.
Senator Domenici's focus has been to reform and update America's energy
infrastructure. During his tenure as Chairman, he led Congress to pass the
Energy Policy Act of 2005, which was signed into law by President Bush
during a visit to Albuquerque, NM in August of that year. This landmark bill
made significant strides to diversify America's energy supply, promote
renewable technology like wind, solar, and biomass, and promote clean
nuclear energy. It also took steps to make America's electricity grid more
reliable.
What are our senators doing to help with the energy crisis? Kerry is up for
re-election, where does he stand? How about his opponent? Will we blindly
re-elect Kerry without looking at what he has been doing for the past two
years? I know that I have not paid attention. But I am going to start.
.SIG JN
.POST 9/6 8:39pm
``Facing what seemed like a similar situation in 1992, Clinton ran on the
promise of a multibillion dollar stimulus package that would generate jobs,
mainly through public works spending. He withdrew the proposal after winning
the election, however, at a moment when employment was rising and the
unemployment rate gradually declining.'' Hmmmm.......
And now: ``The economy expanded in the second quarter at a healthy annual
rate of 3.3 percent, a response in part to families spending their rebate
checks from the first stimulus package and to a surge in exports as the
dollar weakened ``
So says the NYT.
Seems that the ``economy'' is based, sadly, on what people are willing to
spend. And people are not spending anymore. So, the answer is to give them
more money so that they can spend more and stores and services can expand
and create more menial jobs and drive the employment rates up again and then
all seems well? I don't know. That doesn't seem to work, either. I do not
think there is a perfect answer.
I grew up in a small town, in Western PA. One would think that Norfolk
could be considered a small town, but we really aren't. More like a bedroom
community to Boston. I didn't really want to believe that there is this
huge urban and small town class divide, but I see that there really is.
Growing up, my parents believed in hard work, saving money and living
beneath your means. The eschewed credit cards. They believed that if the
times were tough, you made do. People from where I grew up still believe in
the same thing. And they like to bowl and drink beer and enlist in the army
and I suppose they like hunting and fishing and they really look out for one
another. They believe that the government is there to help them and they do
cling to their religion, especially in tough times. But they still are
divided as well between these two candidates. Most of it has to so with the
same things that I mentioned before, taxes and the war. Issues like abortion
rights come into play, but not as much as in urban areas where women are
more liberal and speak out. I guess being able to put food on the table
trumps issues like global warming, gay rights and abortion.
People lose jobs all of the time, not only in election years. People
struggle even under democratic presidents. I did volunteer work for the
Grow Clinic in Boston (a clinic for malnourished children). They had their
record number of admissions to the program under Bill Clinton's watch. So
it really is a problem that we always have, poverty, and it is not really
ever addressed properly. The middle class struggles are sad, but not like
poverty. Real poverty. Which we have plenty of in the USA.
I wish the candidates would get rid of their advisors and just talk. Real
talk. Everything is so scripted, on both sides. They are just trying to win
votes. I am not sure that either one can do all they say. I am not sure
they even really believe everything they say. I think both VP picks are
simply window dressing. And I think that either presidential candidate will
be better than what we have now.
I any event, the fact that this election has interesting players may
actually cause folks to shake off their inertia and become engaged in the
process. That in itself is exciting. I know that Gov, Palin has many
shortfalls, but it really would have been politics as ``yawn'' usual if he had
picked a career Washington insider to run as VP. No one is that excited
about Biden, let me tell you. No one wants to say it, but Biden is the
``same old, same old''. (Can you tell I do not like Joe Biden?)
I do have to say that I like John McCain and I like Barack Obama. I also
liked Hillary. Too bad they cannot work together. That would really shake
things up. That would be good for America. But, party lines are party
lines. Almost makes me want to vote for Ron Paul.
However, we cannot solely rely upon the President to act as a panacea for
all of our ails. We have to look to our house and senate as well. The Dems
control both and things have only become worse in America. They hold some
blame as well. We need to pay attention to that as well. We need to
really pay attention to what they are doing, or not doing. All politics are
local, do we even know what our reps are voting for or working on? How
about John Kerry? He is up for re-election as well. Has anyone looked at
his competition? Does anyone care?
We say that we are engaged. But listening to sound bites from a pep rally
is really not tuning into what is really going on.
.SIG JN
.POST 9/6 8:34pm
JN writes:
The mortgage crisis was not only caused by
predatory lenders but also by the people who want more, more, more.
JN, I think you're describing the increase in foreclosure
rates, which are indeed due to spending beyond personal means.
The mortgage crisis, however, is a lucrative scam beyond the
reach of individual home buyers; it was caused by lenders
knowingly extending credit to unqualified borrowers because they
knew they could in turn resell the risk, and the other investors
would be left holding the bag. As long as they could round up
more warm bodies willing to sign, they were minting money.
To have you take all the risk and I get all the reward is
generally a bad idea.
.SIG AR
.POST 9/6 1:35am
How can McCain/Palin preach change with a straight face
while talking trickle-down Reaganomics at the same time?
It was change when Reagan first introduced this "Reverse Robin Hood"
scheme (tax the poor, return money to the rich),
but now, after 20 years of it, it's just the same old, same old.
I guess if the public wants change, it's called change
no matter what it is that they're selling. "Change you want,
mister? I got just the change for you, right here, brand new,
nice shiny change! Came in just this morning! Hardly used!"
Buyer beware.
Oh, and that bridge to nowhere that Palin so eloquently rejected,
"thanks, but no thanks" -- wasn't she herself in favor of the project?
And didn't she keep the pork-barrel funds the state got?
At times the more things change, the more they stay the same.
.SIG AR
.POST 9/6 12:40am
TC, your observations are extraordinary. It came as no surprise that
last night's sermonette from McCain also did not offer a single solution
or plan that addressed the enormous problems facing us all. It was all
crowd-pleasing rhetoric and patriotic fervor, containing absolutely no
proposals whatsoever. It is becoming obvious Palin was selected to do
the same and carry out the same tiresome strategy (two more months of
it). Her positions on a wide range of issues including choice, abortion,
gay rights, favoring the teaching of creationism in the schools,
opposition to cell-stem research, opposition to sex education in the
schools, privatization of health insurance, antiquated views on global
warming, and her justification for the war in Iraq are extremist and far
to the Right. To suggest as some would like us to believe (including JM
on this very site) that the "average" woman or a majority of women in
this country are in agreement with her or would toss aside their own
best interests to support her is wishful thinking on the part of McCain,
as well as being grossly inaccurate. I do believe, however, that Palin
will make the race closer (for all the wrong reasons) but, ultimately,
further exposure and debate will reveal just how extreme, rigid, and
fanatical she really is, a reality no amount of smiles or lipstick will
mask or soften.
.SIG TEM
.POST 9/6 12:29am
I really think that Americans will be focused on two things in this
election, beyond the historic significance of our candidates. Those are the
war and taxes. Seems the candidates agree on other things, like climate
change, immigration reform and the like. They disagree on Roe v Wade and
gay marriage, but those are well-entrenched party ideologies. I do not
think that those two issues will decide the election, although they are
important.
TC mentioned the Washington Post. Here is what they had written regarding
taxes:
