Chawlk: Last 35 Notes and responses

Is Smoking In Films Good, Or Bad?

liza — Sun, 07 Sep 2008 03:47:29 +0000

I agree it happens in real, so show it!

Universal Health Care in the US: A Good Idea?

RightOn — Sat, 06 Sep 2008 23:26:20 +0000

Article19... I completely agree, and that goes right along with the PILE of response letters I have in the filing cabinet under my laptop.

I write and call those representing me constantly.

Problem is, I feel the machine of Washington seems to put blinders on these people who have made a career out of this "civil servant" responsibility.

Honestly, I think the BEST way possible to "change" the machine would be to slap tight restrictions on how long someone can represent the people... and restrict the abilities of ALL the branches of government to those granted to them by the Constitution.

Universal Health Care in the US: A Good Idea?

fuscom — Sat, 06 Sep 2008 22:39:25 +0000

Tyme --

I just ran across this article from Alan Greenspan, which I believe addresses your scenario to some extent.

Universal Health Care in the US: A Good Idea?

Article19 — Sat, 06 Sep 2008 22:18:33 +0000

i think the main problem is voters and activists backing off when the election is over. if you want them to keep their word, then keep on them. there are a lot more voters than there are politicians.

Universal Health Care in the US: A Good Idea?

RightOn — Sat, 06 Sep 2008 20:50:24 +0000

The ONLY problem I have with that is that it sounds all well and good coming out of his mouth... but based on what the "change" Democrats have done since 2006 when they took control of Congress it is laughable to even remotely think that that will actually take place.

The American public voted in a wave of replacements into congress on a tide of "hope and change" very similar to that which Obama is riding now and they have failed miserably to enact this "change" they spoke of.

I will be shocked if more than a quarter of either parties election rhetoric comes to pass.

Universal Health Care in the US: A Good Idea?

Article19 — Sat, 06 Sep 2008 14:13:54 +0000

quote from Obama 08 Fiscal Policies:

End Tax Haven Abuse: Building on his bipartisan work in the Senate, Obama will give the Treasury Department the tools it needs to stop the abuse of tax shelters and offshore tax havens and help close the $350 billion tax gap between taxes owed and taxes paid.

Close Special Interest Corporate Loopholes: Obama will level the playing field for all businesses by eliminating special-interest loopholes and deductions, such as those for the oil and gas industry.

It's not just about blanket tax increases it's also about closing loopholes, which is also a big problem here in the UK that the Government has failed to address.

If that first policy in the quote is successful and just $100billion is re-directed toward healthcare then that goes a long way to fixing a lot of problems. Gnorb has also pointed out that allowing the government funded health care system in the US to negotiate drug prices would bring down costs massively for Medicare/Medicaid.

Making the system more efficient and cheaper will mean the the actual service doesn't suffer, the treatment is available to the poorest and most in need of care.

With regard to jobs being shipped overseas. Here in the UK there is a backlash against customer service jobs being shipped out. So much so that some banks are even boasting about the fact there customer service centers are in the UK in advertisements.

A company shipping jobs out may save money in the short term but there will be push back eventually and that might cost them a lot more money. It's not a simple black or white issue (no pun intended).

A call for moderation.

jensized — Sat, 06 Sep 2008 11:55:08 +0000

This election has been a polarizing one. I've been surprised by things I've learned about a lot of people. Who knew my high-school boyfriend, the well-read and compassionate punk-rocker, would be so afraid of people whom they *heard* might be Muslims? Or that my own cousin voted for a candidate based on her anatomy?
These issues are personal to many of us and when things get personal, feelings inevitably get hurt.

Let's remember, we can agree to disagree without being hateful. We owe it to one another to discuss our differences respectfully; otherwise we won't get anything done.

Universal Health Care in the US: A Good Idea?

Tyme — Sat, 06 Sep 2008 08:25:33 +0000

I wasn't thinking of raising taxes. Instead paying a moderate tax with the foundation of reasonable spending in place (and I realize that is playing pretend at the moment). I do not agree with raising taxes because I feel it will just be thrown away. I can burn my own money more effectively. :) My initial reasoning was if responsible spending was in place the need to pay high taxes would not be there.

This is exactly what I'm talking about. From the quote below this could cost taxpayers an additional $25B. Realistically, it doesn't matter what McCain or Obama says about what they are going to do about taxes - they can't accurately speak on the matter until after Bush is out of office. When they made their plans this latest move (article) wasn't in the picture. In the short time Bush has left in office between the weather, banks closing up, etc. the government can take on billions that were completely unexpected. Honestly, the promises they make today might not (most likely cannot be) withheld.

The government is expected to take over Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac as soon as this weekend in a monumental move designed to protect the mortgage market from the failure of the two companies, which together hold or guarantee half of the nation's mortgage debt, a person briefed on the matter said Friday night.

Critics say the open-ended nature of the rescue package could expose taxpayers to billions of dollars of potential losses.

Supporters, however, argue the Bush administration had little choice but to support Fannie and Freddie, which together hold or guarantee $5 trillion in mortgages — almost half the nation's total.

A government takeover could cost taxpayers up to $25 billion, according to the Congressional Budget Office.

Regarding corporate taxes being business focused I cringe when I hear that but the plan is also to stop offshore incentives so companies stay in the US. That combination will lead to companies closing up period yet people are struggling (overall) and the funds cannot come from them either.

The problems are so deep-rooted I don't see them being resolved in our life times. Yet I see sites like AfriGadget and become inspired.

Universal Health Care in the US: A Good Idea?

fuscom — Sat, 06 Sep 2008 08:04:00 +0000

Yes, I do mind -- at this juncture.

Here's why. As I think we have proven, there are a myriad of things which are contributing to the healthcare crisis we find ourselves in today. To raise taxes even slightly to address this is merely throwing hard earned money at the problem to float around uselessly in the wind.

When I start seeing some measurable action toward actually solving even one of the issues contributing to the mess, then yes I might be a little more open to the idea. But for right now, even the mere suggestion of raising taxes (even for corporations) feels like some bureaucrat is reaching in to my pocket and tossing my money out in to the street.

Frankly, whenever I hear about how Obama's plan is going to cut taxes for "95% of the middle class" but raise taxes on corporations, I feel like I'm being spun on high cycle right into the money pit. Corporations are legally required to protect the financial interests of their investors. You start taking away more and more of their income in the way of taxes, guess what? They're going to start shipping off more and more jobs offshore, and taking away more and more of your benefits -- which includes reducing your healthcare benefits to make up for their losses.

That's when you come to this state of affairs --

Saying everyone should have a job is unrealistic because the jobs aren't there. I live in an area where people would love to work and can't - no jobs. So they relocate and what happens? The place they move to ends up getting messed up in time.

Throwing money at the wind...thanks but no thanks.

Universal Health Care in the US: A Good Idea?

Tyme — Sat, 06 Sep 2008 07:34:56 +0000

Bringing things back on topic - to me I don't mind paying moderate taxes. I do not mind helping others that are less fortunate than me. What I do have a problem with is that the monies collected from taxes aren't spent irresponsibly. And I wonder if that is the root problem that everyone has.

Realistically saying the amount we don't spend in taxes is enough to have hospitalization and pay for medical bills across the board....it's not realistic. Saying everyone should have a job is unrealistic because the jobs aren't there. I live in an area where people would love to work and can't - no jobs. So they relocate and what happens? The place they move to ends up getting messed up in time. The problem isn't being resolved - it's just a bandaid.

Would you guys have a problem with paying a moderate tax IF the money was spent responsibly? And yes, getting the government to spend responsibly might be like taking a trip to Oz...

The government(s) has to make money to maintain things - there is no getting around that. Military has to be paid. State/city workers have to be paid. Incentives for businesses to stay in areas must be given...there are tons of things these funds go to outside of hospitalization. Without taxes, where does it come from?

Universal Health Care in the US: A Good Idea?

Tyme — Sat, 06 Sep 2008 07:11:24 +0000

And do not try to pressure me into doing a damn thing (I deleted that new thread - don't try me). Do I make myself VERY clear? You're messing with the wrong one....

Universal Health Care in the US: A Good Idea?

Tyme — Sat, 06 Sep 2008 07:09:12 +0000

You're so predictable, I was waiting for it...and that is something I don't understand. If someone bans you why on earth would you create another account?

So let me be very clear before I start blocking IPs: you're not going to agree with what I'm saying because your mind is shut.

You cannot come to THIS SITE and call people liars.
You cannot come to THIS SITE and toss sarcasm around like people change their clothes.
You cannot come to THIS SITE and be disrespectful to others.
It is OKAY to disagree on THIS SITE but it does matter HOW it is phrased.

Again, you're not going to see yourself being offensive, abrasive, irritating, annoying (insert adjective here) but it isn't that people didn't try politely to point it out. You don't see it.

That's not my problem or anyone participating here. Heated debates have happened here but we do try to maintain respect.

Have a good one. I'm sure you'll be just fine not posting here. Life goes on....

Universal Health Care in the US: A Good Idea?

Anonymous — Sat, 06 Sep 2008 07:01:13 +0000

Wtf is that? What rule did I break to justify the ban?

Universal Health Care in the US: A Good Idea?

Tyme — Sat, 06 Sep 2008 06:53:34 +0000

And I hope you have a nice life TJenkins. I'm sure your sarcasm will be missed.

Haha, I won't miss it but maybe someone will.

Deuce.

Universal Health Care in the US: A Good Idea?

TJenkins — Sat, 06 Sep 2008 06:49:09 +0000

I'm sorry, I must have missed all those people dying because they had a broken leg, as you claimed.

The Sarah Palin Thread

TJenkins — Sat, 06 Sep 2008 06:46:09 +0000

Oh I love this insinuation that Palin's speech suddenly made this election so darn mean, as if Obama has conducted his campaign like some latter day Jesus or something.

The Sarah Palin Thread

fuscom — Sat, 06 Sep 2008 06:29:34 +0000

Yeh, my first remembrances of political curiosity was at about the same age...although for me, it was Carter's fireside chats regarding the energy crisis.

The Sarah Palin Thread

Gnorb — Sat, 06 Sep 2008 06:19:20 +0000

@fuscom: Thanks. I'd also like to thank you for your transparency. The "brochure" comment did seem like shallow bait. By further explaing (and thereby asking me to explain myself) the meaning behind that statement it showed me that I took the tone of the comment wrongly.

As far as who's running, the fact is I felt much more comfortable in this election than I have in any I've actually been able to get somewhat involved with. (My political curiosity extends back to the Bush/Clinton/Perot race of 1992. I liked Perot in that one, then Bush when he started looking kooky. Then again, I was only 12.) I like Obama, I like McCain, I've thought fairly well of Biden, and was really hoping McCain picked someone like Crist. But then, Palin was selected. After her speech, it suddenly became a much more divided, much more attack-oriented election.

The Sarah Palin Thread

fuscom — Sat, 06 Sep 2008 06:05:46 +0000

Gnorb --

Even though I don't see squarely with you on some issues, I do respect you and your, usually, well thought out opinions. As an intelligent man, I trust you know what I mean by the "brochure".

I can understand perhaps some reservations about Palin, I have them too honestly. In fact, I have serious reservations about all 4 of the folks in this political game. I'm not frightened though, it's not like any one (or pair) of these candidates can bring the country to its knees by him or herself. Not even everyone's favorite scapegoat has been able to do it.

Since I was a little kid and learned about the system of checks and balances, and the three tiers of government, I've had a faith that things would work out for this country. As corny as it sounds, some 100 years later, I still hold true to that hope.

In my humble opinion, we have four ditzes running for first or second chair in the symphony known as the US. My hope and faith lies in the rest of the orchestra hitting the right notes and tempo, more than anything else -- and for any of the 4 of them, this will be the one and only Opus they participate in. However, as in your opinion of the governor of Florida turning out to be ok -- I'll give this bunch the ~60 days or so to make their impression on me, and convince me why they need to have the big chairs.

In regards to this post specifically, I side with RightOn in that the first few replies were crap responses to Mike's post (in particular the second half). Thank you for being a bit more transparent in your most recent reply.

A call for moderation.

Gnorb — Sat, 06 Sep 2008 05:52:40 +0000

I'll presume that a good portion of the blame falls on me (and perhaps I'm Oli's inspiration for the post; or perhaps I falter myself.)

Mia culpa.

I will admit to having lost my temper, though I don't believe I engaged in personal attacks until they actually started reaching me. To one, I will admit to have been baited. Should've controlled myself better and I didn't, partially because, not having been involved in a good political flamewar in a while, I was rather enjoying letting lose. (It doesn't help that I've been under some stress recently, something which doesn't excuse the behavior.) To the other, I stopped it once the (more direct) personal attack came. I thought about firing back, but honestly it wasn't worth it.

So for any trouble I may have caused, my apologies.

The Sarah Palin Thread

Gnorb — Sat, 06 Sep 2008 05:37:40 +0000

I have no issue with what Rundle or you posted here. All I have an issue with is empty thoughts like "I'm scared". Which comes straight from the brochure.

Fact is I haven't seen the brochure. The "scared" feeling I get is that Palin reminds me completely of Bush: polarizing, party-first mentality, and prone to attack rather than present ideals. Honestly, had McCain chosen someone more like himself, I would've been almost indiferent about who won the election: both Obama and McCain are good men who have over the years earned my admiration for the work they have done. Heck, except for the war issue and taxes issue I could have seen myself easily voting McCain, since I side with him on most social issues. (And I could argue for, and honestly support, either side of the war issue.) In short, the feeling really IS an honest opinion: the fact that someone like that is "one 72-year old heart beat away" from the presidency (as has been said before by... someone, either here or a pundit, I don't remember where) is what's frightening to me. On a personal level, I like Palin, I really do. I don't know that I'd want her to be President should something happen to McCain.

Then again, she could end up being like Gov. Charlie Crist of FL, in which case I'll very openly admit that I was wrong. (Turns out he's been a far better governor than I expected.)

Universal Health Care in the US: A Good Idea?

Gnorb — Sat, 06 Sep 2008 05:27:02 +0000

But anyway, your lie/exaggeration doesn't take into effect the myriad private organizations that will help individuals with their medical care.

The sad part is that I do take that into consideration. But it's not enough.

Sadly, this brings our tete-a-tete to a stop. I don't take kindly to being called a liar.

A call for moderation.

TJenkins — Sat, 06 Sep 2008 04:23:51 +0000

what "line"? Not blindly following the desired slant of the thread?

A call for moderation.

Oli — Sat, 06 Sep 2008 04:00:12 +0000

Well I wasn't going to quote or name people directly, but if people are going to stand up and say they're not involved when I think they are... Well that's something else.

James: "I'm not even going to bother addressing the crap in here" - It's not losing your cool but it's hardy "tact 101". There are better ways to start a rebuke. If you didn't mean what we had written before you comment, you should have phrased it better. You might argue that it's not your responsibility to spell out every nuance of your thinking but that depends on how much you want to be understood.

TJ: If I was being really critical, I'd cite most of your posts in the Palin thread as non-constructive or plain inflammatory. You swept in on fuscom's coattails and said we got all our opinions from dailykos. The rest of the thread is a spiral into "you said this" and "you said that"; something that wasn't purely your fault, but you've kept it alive and off-topic.

While I realise neither of you will see directly eye-to-eye with me on this little review, I'm not looking to develop this into another all-out-thread-meltdown. You're not the only people I've thought crossed the line; just the only two who've said they're not responsible. It is just coincidence that you're both Republican so try not to read this reply as politics. This is all Oli.

A call for moderation.

TJenkins — Sat, 06 Sep 2008 02:05:58 +0000

I don't recall just saying "you're wrong" or not respecting anyone.

A call for moderation.

Tyme — Sat, 06 Sep 2008 01:57:33 +0000

@RightOn - I should? *Tyme frantically goes to hunt through email*

Edit: I see it - responding.

Carry on.....

A call for moderation.

RightOn — Sat, 06 Sep 2008 01:57:03 +0000

I don't recall losing my cool anytime recently... I like coming here because people with polar opposite views were able to converse about the most hot button issues without acting like children.

As of late it seems like that ability has left many people here.

McCain's Strange Image

RightOn — Sat, 06 Sep 2008 01:55:23 +0000

I don't see what the big deal is... it's an image.

I highly doubt McCain "checks his slides" and if it was a big deal then I'm sure the guy in charge of it is finding something else to do by now.

A call for moderation.

Oli — Sat, 06 Sep 2008 01:55:20 +0000

You certainly haven't helped abate the flames but many people on both sides of the fence have lost their rag at some point recently.

We can talk about these things respectfully.

People have different fundamental beliefs on what is right and what government should be. With that in mind, you (to all of us) have to respect that just saying "you're wrong" probably isn't going to get your argument across.

If you want your view understood, you have to explain yourself. If you don't care, you might as well not post.

A call for moderation.

RightOn — Sat, 06 Sep 2008 01:41:43 +0000

Tyme should already have my opinion on things as of late in her inbox. :)

A call for moderation.

TJenkins — Sat, 06 Sep 2008 00:40:34 +0000

TJenkins - sorry to let you down, but you're not the only one I'm talking about. You're not even the person that prompted this note. I don't know you - or at least I don't remember you.

Well considering you mentioned today's active threads prompting this, and of the 4 active threads today I've been active in all of them as a kind of counter push to the prevailing liberal opinion I assumed you meant me.

A call for moderation.

liza — Sat, 06 Sep 2008 00:39:05 +0000

I enjoy reading everyone's comments most of the time. I agree we are not going to all agree with each other and this is also true in everyday life. I am very opinionated when it comes to most subjects, but when talking to someone I normally will respect their views without getting nasty about it. It seems that people are not always so respectful when they are writing something from the comfort of their home or cubicle.

McCain's Strange Image

TJenkins — Sat, 06 Sep 2008 00:37:47 +0000

Maybe they wanted the school in there, you ever think that might be a possibility or or have the Kostards not given you your opinion on the matter?

Universal Health Care in the US: A Good Idea?

fuscom — Fri, 05 Sep 2008 23:54:17 +0000

So I'd like to hear what the problem with LESS taxes are. I mean, if Bob had less taxes to pay, he might be able to afford to pay his medical bills. On the same had, if corporations had less taxes to pay, they'd have more to spend on Bob's benefit package.

I don't see how raising taxes, or adding new taxes helps anyone, really. And yes Oli, I think when you look at it from that perspective, it's equivalent to theft.

Universal Health Care in the US: A Good Idea?

Oli — Fri, 05 Sep 2008 23:38:41 +0000

Is all tax theft? Should you just be allowed to donate to what you like?