Reardon wrote on Mar 19, 2008 7:25 PM:Re: The letter from Jim Dooley -- Although I was not using AFS, I strongly urge those who can to work with and host foreign students – many have a very skewed concept of the United States. I had a dark-skinned student who LITERALLY thought that he would see Blacks hanging on corner lampposts! You have an opportunity to increase real world knowledge of our culture – although I did try to impress on all three of my exchange students that San Diego is NOT the United States. (Iowa, or Kansas, or even Illinois is the United States!)

Pluto wrote on Mar 19, 2008 7:36 PM:
Gary Walker lives in his own little reality, and I do mean little. He makes it sound like there is a huge uprising against “the massive illegal invasion from Mexico”. (Oops, I thought they were supposed to be against all illegals, but Mexicans are only about 60%. What are the other 5 million, chopped liver?) There is no massive uprising, only some loudmouths like Lou Dobbs, Fox News, the Minutemen, and a few pandering politicians in Arizona, Oklahoma and Escondido. Tom Tancredo and Duncan Hunter went nowhere fast (among the GOP!) with their anti-illegal Presidential campaigns. Most of the public knows that “illegals” contribute at least as much to the economy as they use in education and health services, the only ones for which they are eligible. Most of the public knows that most are hard working and law-abiding, and probably commit fewer crimes than native-born and naturalized citizens.

Gary’s attacks on the North County Times are further proof that he is out of touch with reality. They aren’t perfect, but the North County Times reports on all the tragedies Gary listed in his letter, and they generally quote all sides in news articles. The Union-Tribune bashed Jeff Schwilk big-time in an editorial on 9-22-07 (Yeah!), but the North County Times has not. And the North County Times doesn’t give “a complete pass to the myriad illegal alien criminals”. Whatever does that mean? If somebody does something wrong, they report it. Gary Walker needs a vacation.

Pluto wrote on Mar 19, 2008 8:00 PM: I am not a Christian, but I agree with Rev. Murphy's important point. In order to conduct this war we have brainwashed ourselves and twisted reality. Other countries do the same thing, but that doesn't make it OK. Weren't we supposed to be better? Wasn't that what this war was about? We need to wake up from this "we're better than everyone else" fantasy. Our country is just another empire, holding on to power by any means necessary. We all have blood on our hands. That's not OK with me.

sdraoul wrote on Mar 19, 2008 8:12 PM:Classsic. Once again, Gary Walker blames everything on illegals from Mexico.

First, he equates a murder in New Jersey with a traffic accident in Minnesota because the murderer in New Jerset was an illegal alien. Of course, another one of the murderers was a native-born citizen.

In Minnesota, the woman driver was an illegal alien. The question is, however, did she causew the death of four people because she was an illegal alien or a careless and inexperienced driver.

Wonder what he has to say about the professional American truck drivers, many of them Teamster Union members who kill 5000 Americans every year on our highways.

Then, he blames a $143-million worth of beef recall on illegals. Let's see, do we know by a court adjudication that the workers involved at the Chino beef processing plant were illegal aliens, Mr. Walker?

Do we know if the supervisors of the working men were illegal aliens, as adjudicated by a court of law? Do we know if the officers and executives of the beef company were even Mexican much less illegal aliens from anywhere including Mars, Mexico or Mozambique, as adjudicated by a court of law?

We, of course, do not know these things. Gary Walker does know these things. It must be the aluminum foil hats he wears. Semper Fi, Mr. Walker.

As for Mr. Michael Spencer's tale of the Border Field State Park, no one else remembers such a thing happening like he says.

Question, Mr. Spencer did your group walk from Smuggler's Gulch or drive to Border Park? Inquiring minds want to know.

sdraoul wrote on Mar 19, 2008 8:14 PM:Mr. Spencer, entering the United States "illegally" is not a crime, it is an administrative violation of a civil not criminal law.

Zorro wrote on Mar 19, 2008 8:33 PM:Temerity of the NCT Gary just go read a different newspaper and get with it. Oh yeah, I guessthey have the temerity too not to kow tow to the minutemen.

Pluto wrote on Mar 19, 2008 8:34 PM: Michael Spencer’s letter says Tina Jillings “weighed in on an incident she knows nothing about”, but he fails to give a clue about what she said that was wrong, if anything. Nice little story, tho. Enrique Morones had a "large, loud rally . . on both sides of the border fence”. Good for Enrique!

Best Laugh of the Day wrote on Mar 19, 2008 8:45 PM:One can only wonder what David Perrine is smoking if he thinks he can advise the Democratic Party to ditch either candidate and choose Condoleeza Rice instead. Can you spell: HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA and so on.

to David Perrine wrote on Mar 19, 2008 8:58 PM: Yes the Democratic candidates have problems, but they're nothing compared to McCain's problem - the Bush Years. Whoever the candidate is, Democrats will be more active, give more money, and vote in greater numbers than ever before. Lots of Republicans and independents will join them in sweeping the sordid neocon regime off the stage of history. The world will celebrate.

Help me here wrote on Mar 19, 2008 9:29 PM:So, again, I keep forgetting: why, exactly, are Pastor Wright's worst comments over the years of such importance to the decision about the American presidency. I know you guys repeat it, but I still don't get it. Try it logically for a change. Just superimposing faces and sound bites over and over doesn't somehow stick in my mind as sensible. Thanks in advance.

To Michael Spencer wrote on Mar 19, 2008 10:15 PM:To much yapping!! Why the need to explain if Jillings was not informed why worry about the effect her letter had on people. Why are you so concerned about what people think? I know that Jillings has lots of credibility and respect in the community but you trying to explain away what happened that day seems like you have something to hide. Do you?

Apollo wrote on Mar 19, 2008 10:22 PM: Re: David Perrine (letter)
There goes another Republican, so unhappy with the pathetic choice of a McBush clone put up by his party, he fantasizes about trying to slip into the White House the ultimate Washington insider who exhibited the worst insider judgment in devising the failed foreign and miitary policies.
Yes, Condoleezza Rice along with Bush and Cheney and Rumsfeld brought tremendous insider experience. McCain would be more of the same.
Democrats will bring fresh ideas and real change. And it won't be someone with an oil tanker named after her.

OBAMACAN wrote on Mar 19, 2008 10:33 PM:-
In response to the letter from "Help me here" at 9:29:
There is desperation to besmirch a man like Barack Obama who can't be touched on issues or character.
But he has turned this against them with his stunning speech. Unlike Romney's phony, insincere waffling to try and parse his Mormonism (while almost completely avoiding saying the M-word), Obama spoke with candor, depth, sincerity and confronted the issue directly.
He answered and defused the issue of his pastor, who feels the anger and frustration of an earlier generation while preparing the way for Barack's fresh, younger generation.
And he reminded all of us that every single one of us has beloved relatives and cherished friends who say things that make us cringe, and whose opinions and advice we may value on other subjects, yet who don't speak for us on the matters where they drift to anger or extremism.
Obama gave a speech that will rank with the great speeches of the last hundred years: "Four Freedoms" and "Day of Infamy" by FDR; "Ask not what you can do..." and "Ich bin Ein Berliner" by JFK; RFK's stunning impromptu remarks on the assassination of Martin Luther King, and of course "I have a Dream" and many others by King himself.
Hmmm, notice that almost all the great classics are from Democrats?
Oh yeah, Nixon had "Checkers" and "I am not a crook" and, well, then there's Dubya.
'Nuff said.

Obamamania wrote on Mar 19, 2008 11:29 PM:Barak Obama has been given a pass by the lame stream media because of his race.
Those who were most impressed by his speech on race were those who least analyzed its content, e.g. he threw the grandmother that loved and raised him under the bus to save the most racist reverend Wright. Just as they are ignorant of black liberation theology, voters know little or nothing of Senator Obama's record, his political philosophy or his agenda. Save those who are far left extremists, they will be in for a rude awakening, should he be elected president in 2008.

Vet for PEACE - wrote on Mar 19, 2008 11:54 PM:- Escondido Peace Vigil fantastic! -- Such a lively and large gathering of peace Patriots in Escondido I have never seen as last night in front of City Hall, with signs and candles and burgeoning esprit. Well over 100 patriots gathered at 6:30 pm, to mark the start of the 6th year of the Bush War. The honking approbation of motorists was astonishing. The only fingers I saw were thumbs up. This a 180 degree turn from two and three years ago.
I’ve been to half a dozen peace demonstrations in Escondido since 2001, but have never seen such a large, or united assemblage as this. Even demonstrations protesting the villainy of former Congressman Duke Cunningham (now serving an eight-year six-month prison term) in front of his office in downtown Escondido did not draw half the response as last night. This all says one thing: The people in North County are sick to the soul with this abominable Bush war. One wonders at the chutzpah of Mr. Bush, who on the same day extolled the merits and successes of his war in a harangue that was demeaning to the office of the presidency and disparaging of the moral principles of our nation.
The most heartwarming moments for me was watching a little 7-year old boy, accompanied by his mother, choosing the largest sign available, and waving and displaying proudly its message: “Support the troops -- Bring them home.” I watched the boy manning his prominent position at the corner dutifully for over an hour, never faltering, always concentrating on making contact with motorists. This level of dedication I seldom see even with strong willed activists. My heart swelled with pride that a mother understood the importance of bringing up her child with a sense of civic duty and patriotism. Doubtless this kid will always remember this event. This is teaching true love and patriotism for one’s country.

Peter wrote on Mar 20, 2008 1:24 AM:No doubt it was a well written speech and well given. Unfortunately, it put me back 140 years in race relations. It reminded us of the deep seated hatred of the white race as preached by Wright in Obama's church. Not one speech but a constant for 20 years. What Obama did not tell us, after describing the problems were his solution. He never said as did JFK that he would never let his religion color his Presidential decisions.

jvc wrote on Mar 20, 2008 5:13 AM:Thank you so much, blog writer vet for
peace, your sentiments are beautiful!

jvc wrote on Mar 20, 2008 5:21 AM:With all due respect for the office of the presidency of the United States,
Bush's speech about defending the war in Iraq, is a speech from insanity!

Focal Point wrote on Mar 20, 2008 6:47 AM:Peter: You mean like God whispering to GWB?

Pluto wrote on Mar 20, 2008 7:00 AM: During Obama's speech I couldn't help comparing him to Dubya, who is totally incapable of that level of speech, analysis, sophistication, intelligence. What a terrible joke he's been.

Ms M wrote on Mar 20, 2008 7:09 AM:Obamamania wrote on Mar 19, 2008 11:29 PM ....he threw the grandmother that loved and raised him under the bus to save the most racist reverend Wright. No he wasn't throwing his grandmother under the bus he was saying how hurtful it was to hear her say derogatory things about blacks, and it would be very hurtful to hear hate against his race spewed from someone as close to him as his grandmother. That's all. It is bad for racist things that are said - but from a family member. I am not defending just explaining.

Still waiting wrote on Mar 20, 2008 7:21 AM:A couple of you have stepped up to slam Obama but you've not answered my question from earlier. His minister on occasion over the years has screamed out his anger at America. This does not sound unreasonable to me. But even if it did, I don't logically see how his anger or beliefs determines a single thing about Obama, who, in everything he's said and done, has shown us that he has quite different beliefs. How does "he has an angry pastor" mean a thing about him? As for setting race relations back 40 years, whoever said that has been asleep and in a dream. To think that race issues were solved and done with is to live in a bubble. If you were shocked by Rev Wright's anger at times, you are incredibly ignorant about the real world of others.

Pluto wrote on Mar 20, 2008 7:42 AM: For those paying attention to history, Rev. Wright's comments echoed back to a famous speech by Frederick Douglass, "What to the slave is the 4th of July?" This is a long and understandable tradition in the Black community, but still not acceptable in "polite" society. In polite society, we must pretend that America is nothing but wonderful. Obama's candidacy must exits within those constraints, and he could be ruined by the appearance of stepping outside the great American mythology.

Ron wrote on Mar 20, 2008 9:05 AM:I understand the feelings of The Rev. Timothy Murphy of Pilgrim United Church of Christ. I really do. I honestly feel the same way, that Engaging in war reveals our human failings and inability to find creative, nonviolent solutions to conflicts between people.
But I think he, like many, fail to see the historical nature of the battle we wage today. It is essentially a revisitation of an eariler era.
The Crusades in the 12th century, was effectively a push back of a Muslim conquest, a Caliphate, and an effort to recapture territory lost to Muslims.
At the time, the Muslims had pushed the Caliphate by warfare up into Spain. The holy war was seen as a legitimate need and response by both religous & secular leaders in order to maintain the security of Europe.
We again saw this same battle in 17th century at the founding of our own country.
No better view of this Muslim sentiment can be seen, than by the response of Sidi Haji Abdul Rahman Adja, the ambassador to Britain from Tripoli, to Thomas Jefferson in regards to Barbary states priracy of American trade ships, and the enslavement of American sailors. QUOTE:
"It was written in their Koran, that all nations which had not acknowledged the Prophet were sinners, whom it was the right and duty of the faithful to plunder and enslave; and that every mussulman who was slain in this warfare was sure to go to paradise. He said, also, that the man who was the first to board a vessel had one slave over and above his share, and that when they sprang to the deck of an enemy's ship, every sailor held a dagger in each hand and a third in his mouth; which usually struck such terror into the foe that they cried out for quarter at once." END QUOTE
How do you speak with a man, who does not consider you a man? When his religion tells him that it is his holy right that all other men are to be taken as slaves, killed, or converted?
I don't believe that leaves much room for discussion. Do you?

OBAMACAN wrote on Mar 20, 2008 9:16 AM:Ms M at 7:09 is right on.
Obama was not throwing his grandmother under the bus at all.
He reaffirmed his love for her and that she had been a wonderful grandmother.
He used it as an example of how one can love and treasure one's close relationships even when we cringe at the points where they are not only wrong but horribly insensitive. And we can even accept guidance and counsel from them in other areas.
He used it to explain why he can still love and be close to a former pastor, and take guidance from him on ecclesiastical matters, while cringing at (and explicitly repudiating) the statements that hurt and offend (and can also understand where those statements come from, to explain not justify, same as with his grandmother).
Who among us will claim to have no close relative or loved one who has not made terribly offensive statements.
I, too, had a cherished grandmother who I loved dearly and who I lived with during my teenage years. She gave much wise counsel and was a loving, caring person. But, like so many from her generation, she did say some things and hold some opinions I found very offensive. I could understand fully what Obama was saying.
Be honest. Is there anyone out there who can't relate to this?

As feared wrote on Mar 20, 2008 9:16 AM:Showing how the best thing a candidate can be is invisible, the latest polls show that (I think for the first time) McCain would beat Clinton or Obama. Americans are strange creatures. Year after year they complain about politicians, scream about throwing them all out of office, voting against the incumbent, etc. And then they vote in the same people again and again. The polls say that a plurality of us want four more years of Bush policies. And then they sure enough get reasons to complain again until the next election. LOL

Ron wrote on Mar 20, 2008 9:16 AM:We live in very perilous and troublesome times when illegality and lawbreaking are celebrated was done by these illegal alien activists, Tina Garcia Jillings, and Enrique Morones.
How is it possible for people to celebrate for the third year, a celebration of illegally crossing the border? The world has completely fipped upside down, when the lawbreaker is celebrated, and the law abider is demeaned. Incredible.

Asteroid to the moderator wrote on Mar 20, 2008 9:31 AM:I notice 5 or 6 posts by Pluto and several others by the usual throng of liberals that congregate here. I’m just wondering if it’s the same moderator on duty today as on the 18th when I had 3 submissions rejected because the moderator didn’t agree with my opinion on the myth of “rampant racism” in this country. I might have some time to waste; and I do mean WASTE here today, but I’m won’t even bother if some myopic hypersensitive liberal is going to exclude me from the process. How bout it, are you the same person?

Ron wrote on Mar 20, 2008 9:35 AM:I'm with Beth Tibbs! It's time to get creative in the schools. It's time to start thinking about how to make our schools work with the money we have to spend, and not what they want to spend.
Couple of ideas...
First, let's get rid of all the buses.
The public schools have made it abundantly clear to parent's, that what happens in school's is none of their business. They are the teachers, and we, as parent's, have no rights inside the classroom. They will teach, what THEY decide to teach. Period. And if you want your kid to attend, they will teach them what they want to teach them. They have made this fact abundantly clear. The classroom is their's, and you can man the Halloween booth, or bake some cookies. But other than that, it's their's, so stay out. Fine, I get that.
So, If the classroom is their's, and we need to make sure most of the money we do have is spent inside the classroom, let's get rid of the buses. Make the parent responsible for getting the child to school. That will surely cut back on more than 10% of any district's budget.
Two, feed your own kid. Feed them breakfast, and pack their lunch.
That should cut down on extra expenses and employees that are spent each and everyday.
So, if they will do ALL the teaching, and your ok with that. Then, as parent's, man the Halloween booth, bake some cookies, drive your kid, feed him/her breakfast, and pack their lunch.
Simple. See? This isn't rocket science.

Yokozuna wrote on Mar 20, 2008 9:52 AM:I have to question the constant criticism of the NCT editors for these blogs.
1. I have never seen another newspaper which includes so many Letters to the Editor. Without them there would be fewer subjects to review
2. In the newspaper industry subscriptions are diminishing and we are lucky the NCT feels that continuing this forum is worth the expense incurred.
3. Many contributors get upset when their posts are not published. That smacks of egos elevated beyond reality.
Most posts reflect "I gotcha" or "I again have to straighten you out". Not much really new or couldn't be missed.
Let's enjoy the fun, get off their backs, and be grateful for what we have - not what we don't have.

Ron wrote on Mar 20, 2008 9:55 AM:It's just sooo juicy, isn't it.. David Perrine?
Sen. Clinton, as it now turns out, was behind NAFTA as she heads into economically hard hit blue-collar unionized Pennsylvania.
I wonder how that's gonna play? Surely, between the two, Obama & Clinton, the toss up is whether, NAFTA is more offensive than the hate monger Obama has listened to for the last 20 years.
With a population that is 87% white, that's gonna be quite a problem. Certainly with union workers, that's going to be an equally hard question to answer.
If your wondering how I know the population of Pennsylvania is 87% white. You know... that's the funny thing. I heard it from a Democrat stratagist. You know.. from the people who supposedly don't see color?

Veronica O. wrote on Mar 20, 2008 10:01 AM:Shame on the North County Times!!!I am disgusted that you would print the letter written by Michael Spencer. The very first line in his letter should have made this letter not fit for printing. This line in his letter is a attack on Tina Jillings personal appearance. Of course he will deny it but of all the terms he could have used ie...commented on, remarked about, reported on, responded on, no he has to use weighed in on. When they are constantly making rude remarks regarding her weight. This does not surprise me as they are the most judgemental group I have ever seen. It's too bad they can't stick to the issues and must attack one personally rather than their position on the issues.

Nick wrote on Mar 20, 2008 10:03 AM:Since "SD Raoul" is making up his own facts as usual regarding traffic deaths, I will give you some "real" facts from "real" studies:
(1)A study by the Highway Safety Research Center at the University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill was based on information from law enforcement agencies. It states that 7.04 percent of Hispanic drivers involved in crashes in 2005 were intoxicated, compared with 4.87 percent of Native Americans, 2.82 percent of whites and 2.28 percent of blacks.
(2)The California Department of Motor Vehicles estimates that the state has 1 million unlicensed drivers, compared to 22.6 million license-holders.
A study by the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety, released in February, found that 21 percent of all fatal crashes in California between 1993 and 1999 involved drivers who lacked valid licenses.
The report said many of the state's unlicensed motorists are either undocumented aliens or drivers who cannot afford often-costly car insurance, which is required in California.
(3) In 2004 alone, police arrested 4,242 people on DUI charges in San Joaquin County, according to the California Department of Justice. Latinos accounted for 46.8 percent of the arrests but only 33.1 percent of the county's population. In Stockton, 59 percent of the 883 DUI arrestees that year were Latino men, the highest percentage of any city in San Joaquin County.
If you would like to read a very eye opening study with facts and graphs, just Google "Unlicensed to Drive". It is a study and report done by AAA. These should help clear up the non-sense espoused by "SD Raoul".
Cheers, Nick.

Nick wrote on Mar 20, 2008 10:19 AM:Hey Mr Ed, What is up with the type set and the "bold" lettering in the letters section? It is really hard to read. Is there something you guys can do to fix it please? I'm sure I'm not the only one who has a problem with this. What was wrong with the old format?
Cheers, Nick.

Karl wrote on Mar 20, 2008 10:26 AM:Peggy Hart's letter today is the perfect example of a party sheep. Baa Baa whatever my party of choice says it is gospel and the other party are out to get us. While she finds fault with people that object to Barack's association with some questionable characters she completely gives the democrats a pass. Peggy's letter has no merit whatsoever because the people on the right could make the same point about one of their candidates. A large percentage of our politicos smear and slime the opposition and where doing it before most of us were born. I am really sick and tired of the sheep of the Democrat and Republican parties. The following of their party blindly is what got us to where we are today. Obama's big point is change. Between Barack, Hillary and John I see very little to hope for change. Certainly some things will change but as looked at in the big picture frame they will be minute. I look forward to seeing how the Democrats handle Iraq, it should be interesting. In past elections I have given no thought to any party other than the Dems and Reps. I will guarantee that with all future elections I will take a long hard look at all candidates that are not affiliated with these two parties and I urge everyone else too do likewise. I use to think a vote for an Independent was a wasted vote but now believe it has to start somewhere. The only way we will see significant change in this Country is to end the Dem/Rep bickering amongst us lowly voters. I hope to hell for the sake of my grandkids that the Dems control the Government for 8 years and the electorate is so pissed at both parties after the dems reign that a majority of voters look to other options. I urge every one of you to take a close look at independents in coming elections especially at the local level, it has got to start somewhere.

AAH, that felt good letting off some steam. Peace Karl

esteban wrote on Mar 20, 2008 10:29 AM:Pluto, we all you know hate the right. We get it. You say we must "pretend that America is nothing but wonderful". So does that mean you are a USA hater like so many bloggers in here? Everyone knows US has done some things that we aren't proud of...the same goes for every country...but you still are an AMerican and you should still love your country...the place that gives you freedom, the place that gives you a home and a life. If not, please feel free to leave. That's another great freedom afforded to us great Americans...the freedom to leave here if you don't like it!!!!!

Karl wrote on Mar 20, 2008 10:36 AM:Can someone tell me what the icons below the letters are and why they are there? Blinklist,Digg, Fark etc.

Olaf wrote on Mar 20, 2008 10:49 AM:To all those who defend Obama: He has chosen his own political death. He was voted in many states by all people of differing colors (as if it didn't matter any more) to be the nomination. He has now slapped those people with the fear that race does matter to him by not denoncing what HIS pastor preaches. HATE. If you say the "White Man" gave blacks aids are you not invoking hate? If you hate jews period id that not hate? People, myself included, liked and hoped that Obama would bring change but now he has either shown his true beliefs or just decided it is better to stand by his minister. Either way all one has to say is if McCain or Hillary had a precher who stated blacks invented aids to kill white people what would happen. OUTRAGE. Double standards are not good when preaching equality, and change.

Concerned-1 wrote on Mar 20, 2008 11:10 AM:Herbert Pairitz is right. It is about the economy. Last night I had a thought. What if we investigated the Bush Administration for illegal activities associated with the war. Start with the corporations that have made the most profits in the past five years. How were they connected to the White House? I bet if we followed the money, we would find out the truth behind our current fiscal calamity. Maybe I'm dreaming...C-1.

Question for legal eagles wrote on Mar 20, 2008 11:10 AM:I've always been puzzled by something in civic law. When someone sues someone else (or a corporation, or whatever) I know that the payoffs are "reparatory" and "punitive", the first being to repay the person for his/her expenses and costs as a result of the problem, the second as a way of punishing the one at fault so that a lesson is learned. These make sense to me. The reason you see enormous settlements and decisions is because for, say, a large corporation, it would take a very large amount to be punishing. What I absolutely do not get is why the punitive damages go to the plaintiff. The plaintiff has done nothing to earn that money and the only difference between a plaintiff who was hurt by a regular person and a corporation (imagine someone tripped on your steps versus the steps of Exxon) is the size of the pocketbook of the one sued. Shouldn't the payoff be to society in some way or another? This would be much more logical and fair, and it would reduce the incentive for people to sue (and for commission-based attorneys to persue cases). I know there are readers who are knowledgable in the law. Why is it this way? Thanks in advance.

esteban wrote on Mar 20, 2008 11:23 AM:Jillings and Morones can spew their anti American pro illegal hatred all they want. The fact is, the majority of Americans DO NOT support illegal immigration or anything Jillings does. That's why I laugh at her.

Asteroid to the moderator wrote on Mar 20, 2008 11:26 AM:2nd attempt: I notice 5 or 6 posts by Pluto and several others by the usual throng of liberals that congregate here. I’m just wondering if it’s the same moderator on duty today as on the 18th when I had 3 submissions rejected because the moderator didn’t agree with my opinion on the myth of “rampant racism” in this country. I might have some time to waste; and I do mean WASTE here today, but I’m won’t even bother if some myopic hypersensitive liberal is going to exclude me from the process. How bout it, are you the same person?

Nick wrote on Mar 20, 2008 11:33 AM:My other posts Mr Ed?

Reardon wrote on Mar 20, 2008 11:39 AM:Yes, Nick � but the studies by Highway Safety Research Center at the University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill, the California Department of Motor Vehicles, the California Department of Justice, and the AAA are NOT PEER REVIEWED! Further, you are discussing drunk driving, and THAT presumes all of the driver are using FINITE FILTHY FOSSIL FUELS! And, the subjects of the studies are consuming alcohol-based drinks, which should have been used only for propelling their POWERFUL POLLUTING vehicles! Please get your act in order, because you are obviously incapable of intelligent thought, have no research capability, cannot understand what you read, and further�..

Olaf is confused wrote on Mar 20, 2008 11:45 AM:Obama, at least in the speech I heard, very clearly disagreed with his pastor's comments that were so notorious. Not only did he disagree with them, he explained where those comments came from and why he, Obama, finds them wrong. But for Olaf, the model of politics is more like professional wrestling: if you want to show you disagree with something someone said, don't try to understand it, don't try to deal with it intelligently, don't try to view it in light of all that person is, just pick that person up and slam him in no uncertain terms. There are only good guys and bad guys, plain and simple, and once Wright said some of those things, he became a bad guy, plain and simple, and Obama should have treated him that way or else become a bad guy himself. Sadly, the Olafs far outnumber those of us who admire intelligence and skill. Welcome to the White House, Mr McCain. Happy now, Olaf?

Reardon wrote on Mar 20, 2008 11:45 AM:A Democrat calling for a tax increase is hardly news, but I was just wondering if there is much support among the local Democrat Bloggers for a $0.50 a gallon tax on gasoline, as proposed by Congressman Dingle of Michigan?

Simple, Ron wrote on Mar 20, 2008 11:47 AM:If W and Cheney can celebrate 5 years of Iraq chaos as a success, then celebrating mere border crossing to get work (as opposed to killing people) is a piece of cake. Ask raoul! LOL

Ron wrote on Mar 20, 2008 12:13 PM:I see we are again having a problem in understanding the Gold Standard of Peer Review. For those who have missed my previous posts, let me, as I always do, clairify this situation for "Asteroid to the moderator" @11:26 AM.
Pay attention, I'm educating you now...
Peer review makes the ability to publish susceptible to control by elites {and moderators} and to personal jealousy. The peer review process may suppress dissent against "mainstream" theories. Reviewers {moderators} tend to be especially critical of conclusions that contradict their own views, and lenient towards those that accord with them. At the same time, elite scientists {moderators} are more likely than less established ones to be sought out as referees, particularly by high-prestige journals or publishers. As a result, ideas that harmonize with the elite's {moderators} are more likely to see print and to appear in premier journals than are iconoclastic or revolutionary ones.
Peer review failures occur when a peer-reviewed article contains obvious fundamental errors that undermines at least one of its main conclusions. Peer review is not considered a failure in cases of deliberate fraud by authors. Letters-to-the-editor that correct major errors in articles are a common indication of peer review failures. Many journals have no procedure to deal with peer review failures beyond publishing letters. Some do not even publish letters. The author of a disputed article is allowed a published reply to a critical letter. Neither the letter nor the reply is usually peer-reviewed, and typically the author rebuts the criticisms. Peer review assumes that the article reviewed has been honestly written, and the process is not designed to detect fraud. Thus, the readers are left to decide for themselves if there was a peer review failure.
Class is over.

to Ron@ 9:16am wrote on Mar 20, 2008 12:14 PM: "We live in very perilous and troublesome times when illegality and lawbreaking are" accepted practices in the Executive branch, tolerated by Congress and the electorate. Our leaders are supposed to set an example, and these leaders have set an example of flagrant lies and lawlessness. They have driven our country into recession, disrepute, and 4,000 killed so far, not to mention those injured physically and mentally. Support our troops? All you can think about are a few desperate working people maybe raising your taxes a few cents...pathetic!

Karl wrote on Mar 20, 2008 12:14 PM:Excellent question Reardon, short and to the point. What are the odds that you get a simple yes or no? Speaking of odds has anyone noticed that Tiger is a 3 to 2 favorite to win this weeks tournament? Against 100 or so golf professionals? That is simply amazing. What a stud, athletic skills beyond compare and a head on his shoulders to match.

DD Wiz wrote on Mar 20, 2008 12:27 PM:The post from "Reardon" (yesterday 3/20 -10:41pm) continues his tendency to jump to conclusions and get it wrong, when he dismisses my earlier reply to him with the snippy, "Educated people know Von Mises."
Going beyond my well-known reputation as a practically illiterate third-grade dropout who claims no expertise that can't be independently documented, I did not say that I was not familiar with Von Mises. On the contrary, no one who engages modern conservatives on issues of economics can avoid Von Mises.
What I said was that all you did was drop his name, not discuss anything of his ideas; YOU did not indicate any familiarity whatsoever with his ideas. I am not saying you don't have any; you just didn't engage on that level, and still haven't. And thus you have given me nothing to respond to. I am not going to post a response to his entire voluminous compendium of economic theory; people already complain that my posts are too long.
At best, your comment could be interpreted as showing a differentiation between Adam Smith and Ludwig Von Mises, which was my point exactly. Modern Neocons who love to throw Adam Smith in the faces of liberals (note that it was not me who introduced Smith to this forum) prove they know nothing of what he actually wrote, since he notes that capitalism requires a framework of regulatory protection of workers and consumers to succeed, and he also endorses progressive taxes. The fact that Von Mises differs does not undermine that claim; it shows how far Neocon economics has strayed from true liberal capitalism.

To Ron wrote on Mar 20, 2008 12:48 PM:"Ron [-] wrote on Mar 20, 2008 9:16 AM:We live in very perilous and troublesome times when illegality and lawbreaking are celebrated was done by these illegal alien activists, Tina Garcia Jillings, and Enrique Morones."
Get the story straight, man. Michael Spencer is complaining because Jillings was not there and wrote a letter about the happenings. It is just like you... people to make up stories to fit your agenda.

Focal Point wrote on Mar 20, 2008 12:49 PM: wrote on Mar 20, 2008 1:24 AM: Constitution guarantees that there will be on religious test. Obama renounced the racial statements of Rev. Wright. Obama's religion is Christianity. Does every American who is is a white Anglo Saxon protestant have to give you or the American people assurance about their religious beliefs?

Ms M wrote on Mar 20, 2008 1:12 PM:Olaf wrote on Mar 20, 2008 10:49 AM: If you say the "White Man" gave blacks aids are you not invoking hate? Olaf do you remember the Tuskegee experiment. That's when our government purposely infected black folks with syphyllis for experimental purposes. Our government admitted this. So it would not be so far fetched that they did the same with AIDS.

MS M wrote on Mar 20, 2008 1:19 PM:Reardon wrote on Mar 20, 2008 11:45 AM:A Democrat calling for a tax increase is hardly news, but I was just wondering if there is much support among the local Democrat Bloggers for a $0.50 a gallon tax on gasoline, as proposed by Congressman Dingle of Michigan? I am a liberal who is against taxes. I am a liberal who also believes that you should not spend without a way to pay for it as in being in war and giving tax CUTS. This administration has spent us into debt for decades to come and we still don't know how deep the mess is. How do you propose we get on top of things?

Concerned-1 wrote on Mar 20, 2008 1:24 PM:In regards to the letters on illegal immigration, I agree whole heartedly with estaban that main stream America is adamantly opposed to illegal immigration. We desperately need to stop subsidizing this element with free babies, healthcare, education, etc. And the clause in the 14th Amendment needs to be deleted. No other country allows these things to happen. I believe I speak for a majority of citizens that we are fed up with this policy and would look forward to a public vote on the matter. And no, Tina/Tom/SDR illegals can not vote!

Suzie wrote on Mar 20, 2008 1:26 PM:Although I read these blogs everyday, I rarely get involved in the political discussions here, however today I thought I would add my 2 cents on Obama's speech. I thought he was impressive, he was loyal to both his pastor and his grandmother, while using them to explain where our fears come from, both white and black. I thought he intellegently summarized the "whole picture" of race issues in our country. I couldn't help but think to myself how insightfull this man was, and how benificial someone who sees the "whole picture" could be. I will be listening to him, I have an idea that this man might be exactly what we need. Someone who really has the capability to understand our problems and find rational solutions to them.

Ron wrote on Mar 20, 2008 1:46 PM:OK, let's say your right.. "OBAMACAN"
@9:16 AM.
That the Obamaman didn't throw his grandmother under the bus.
And that He reaffirmed his love for her, while cringing at her supposed insensitivity. This is family, you do not have the choice of choosing family.
This is why "the Crazy Uncle argument" anit working with most normal Americans.

He can not possibly use the same argument to explain a non-family, non-blood person he has choosen to participate with for nearly 20 years.
The analogy simply does not wash.
They are not parallels. In fact, I would say a lot of people, and certainly me, would limit the amount of time I did spend with these types of family members when I found their speech or actions so offensive. I've done it.
And let me ask you this...
If you are as brilliant, as they say Obamaman is, then how can he believe he can separate between the pastors
ecclesiastical views, when they are a part of his political views. Apparently, you do not understand the "Black Social Gospel", as they preach it. It is, one in the same.
And let's then venture to say that, Obamaman is as brilliant as they say he is, but what about "other's" within the fellowship? Are they as equally brilliant, and able to separate the differences? I don't think so.
Inciting speech by this "reverend", is so over the top, I think he should be considered part of the source of any violence that might spill out of his preaching. In the same way, that Tom Metzger & WAR were sued for speech that incited three non-affiliated white supremacists who then violently beat to death Mulugeta Seraw.

jvc wrote on Mar 20, 2008 1:51 PM:Reardon! Quit with the one liners!

Or, in a nutshell wrote on Mar 20, 2008 1:55 PM:Ron's post about peer review, his "lesson" to us is simply this: the peer review process is not perfect. Wow, Ron, thanks so much. I might also add a similarly profound statement to this: looking out the window, I see there is weather today. Class dismissed.

jvc wrote on Mar 20, 2008 2:04 PM:Reardon! I hope you will use your great arts of persuasion to serve the underprivileged!

Still waiting wrote on Mar 20, 2008 2:05 PM:Obama stated clearly and firmly that he disagreed with those statements of his pastor. Then he explained how statements like those (and similar ones by some white people) come to exist. Then he explained exactly why he thought Wright was mistaken. None of this is enough for the ideologues. They come back with accusations that he didn't walk away from the man completely. He didn't renounce the man fully enough or forcefully enough. What bunk! Listen: he took the entire issue up at least one notch, and you won't go there with him...it's your problem entirely. To repeat: as a member of the Black community, Obama has reflected a great deal on the experience of his peers; he has come to a rather deep understanding of the complicated nature of their feelings about being American; through understanding and empathy, he has (as we all do via honest compassion) replaced simple good/bad name calling wiht knowledge and sympathy. So, for a million good reasons, he has come to love Rev. Wright, even though he fully disagrees with him about certain things...not only that, he can tell you and Wright where the errors of the Reverand's thinking are. You guys could care less, of course. Your only goal is to attack him. First he was a muslim. Now, given the occasional words of the pastor, he's a Christian all right, but the wrong kind. First, you accuse him of being too politically savvy and smooth. Now, when he tosses politics as usual away, you accuse him of not doing what any smart candidate would do, denouncing his pastor. We see through this, of course. Nothing he (or Hillary) would or could do would escape your criticism. Hence, you trivialize yourselves.

To Concerned 1 wrote on Mar 20, 2008 2:06 PM:Who is "Tina/Tom/SDR"? "illegals can not vote!", Duh!!!

Ms M wrote on Mar 20, 2008 2:06 PM:Ron wrote on Mar 20, 2008 1:46 PM ...Apparently, you do not understand the "Black Social Gospel", And you do - a white person? Such arrogance! You sound like you have walked in my shoes.

jvc wrote on Mar 20, 2008 2:09 PM:Bush's attempt to boast the economy with war has now been proven a failure!

Finally!!!! Thank you CONCERNED 1 wrote on Mar 20, 2008 2:12 PM:You finally admitted that ANY PERSON has rights under 14th Amendment "and the clause in the 14th Amendment needs to be deleted." You are so funny and cute!!! That will never happen. So illegals may not have the right to vote but they certainly do have equal rights. Again, thank you for your post it was very nice to know that we live in the greatest Nation in the World and it is because of our wonderful Constitution. I will vote for those who want to keep our Nation great and uphold our Constitution.

Ron wrote on Mar 20, 2008 2:19 PM:And what do I always tell you.. "to Ron@ 9:16am" @12:14 PM? Any idea? Do you remember? We stay to the letter of the Constitution. We don't have to
"tolerate" anything. Either by the President, or the Congress. WE THE PEOPLE are the electorate. Our leaders are supposed to set an example, and these leaders have set an example of flagrant lies and lawlessness, we boot their butts to the curb.
And when you say "They", I sincerely hope you are including all those who have driven our country into recession, disrepute, and 4,000 killed so far, not to mention those injured physically and mentally. And that would be the Congress as well. But, of course, in your little world, oh no.. not them... no.
Only Bush & Cheney, and Big Oil, and evil corporations.
You know, my friend... if this election goes the way I think it's going to go, you and your friends are going to have a real wake up call. Your going to find, that all this drivel, all this mindless chattering, all this slick marketing & packaging is just that. It's a commercial, designed to sell you, on them. Nothing will change, until you change them, and then.. change the next group. And perhaps the next group after that group. Only after these careerist politicians truly understand that your as mad as hell, and your not going to take it anymore, will the new one's know what their jobs are again. And it anit taking care of corporations, and it anit taking care of you, other than to provide the Constitutionally enumerated powers as in the Constitution, set forth to allow you freedom, liberty, and a right to pursue your happiness. The major problem we have is we now have a government who is trying to give freedoms while taking from other groups, providing liberty to one, by taking it from another,
and choosing happiness for all citizens, when that's what your supposed to do for yourself.
As to my supporting the troops, what do you know? Your idea of helping anybody is taking from another. In my world, I take from my own pocket, and generously give to causes I believe in.
Did I mention taxes in my post, at all?
Do you see how your mind works? It's so automatic with your guy's, it's
desperate & pathetic.
I mean.. really. How much can a can of corn cost to throw in the homeless bin @ Brother Benno's?

Focal Point wrote on Mar 20, 2008 2:43 PM:wrote on Mar 20, 2008 10:29 AM: You are basically saying love or leave it. Didn't fly in the past and it sure does not fly now. If I have to bitch, moan, complain, demonstrate,write letters, make the calls etc in order to make this great country better and worth loving, that is what I shall do. I do not intend to let George do it or leave the mess for the next generation.

Focal Point wrote on Mar 20, 2008 2:46 PM:Still waiting: Its is the Republican slime machine practicing for the election.

Concerned-1 wrote on Mar 20, 2008 3:04 PM:Tina Jillings, Tom Flores, sdraoul: The three muskateers of Mexifornia.

DD Wiz wrote on Mar 20, 2008 3:30 PM:The post from "Reardon" (11:45am) asks if Democrats would support a 50 cent increase in the gas tax.
As a Prius driver actively seeking a plug-in hybrid or full electric option, this would not harm me.
However, I am also conscious of the many working people who would find this onerous and would not want to see another tax on the middle class.
I would support it if it is phased in IN CONJUNCTION WITH more help (rebates, incentives, especially means-tested) to make alternative fuels more affordable to more middle class people.
Sorry, "Karl" (12:14pm), but not every "simple" question has an answer that fits on a bumper sticker.

Christi wrote on Mar 20, 2008 3:36 PM:esteban: Why do you make such rude remarks? How does any of this help curb illegal immigration? Making rude comments to and about those who oppose us does not help matters, actually it makes us look like idiots. Please make sensible comments or keep them to yourself.

OBAMACAN wrote on Mar 20, 2008 3:36 PM:Ron at 1:46 p.m. says Obama cannot use the same argument to defend his white grandmother as his black pastor because he was born to one and chose the other.
So what?
Those we love, respect and learn from don't have to be linked only by a common gene pool.
He chose the pastor because he is a good pastor. He loves this man. He learns from this man on specific (religious) subjects, and understands (as with his white grandmother) the tensions, angers and fears of earlier generations, and can explain them, if not justify them.
Someone cared enough to scour years and years of sermons and found four clips.
The guy has his issues. He also has his strengths.
Obama is nuanced enough to recongize and discern between the two.
Ron is not.

Pretty In Pink wrote on Mar 20, 2008 3:40 PM:Karl get this off your chest, Peg is the least of the sheep following public. Her argument is simple, if every pastor or priest makes an outlandish statement, must you go along with it? If you do, then you are a sheep. She argues the point of NOT being a sheep. Back to the therapist Karl you got it wrong again.

Nick wrote on Mar 20, 2008 3:45 PM:LOL.....LMAO, "Reardon" is "The Whizzer" getting on your nerves lately? I kinda get the feeling he is.

Must be Hillary's fault wrote on Mar 20, 2008 3:57 PM:From the AP, QUOTE: Republican John McCain's campaign suspended a staffer who sent out a provocative video linking Democratic presidential contender Barack Obama to the comments of his spiritual mentor, the Rev. Jeremiah Wright. ENDQUOTE This staffer never would've thought of this if Hillary's staffers hadn't started the practice. Yes, folks, it's another wonderful election season in the great republic of the USA, where an informed and intelligent electorate will again choose among brilliant candidates to find the wisest, bravest, strongest leader.

Nick wrote on Mar 20, 2008 4:05 PM:Is anyone watching the John Adams mini series on HBO lately? If yes, any thoughts?

Concerned-1 wrote on Mar 20, 2008 4:05 PM:Typical liberal response by the Wizz to Reardon's .50 cent question. Quote: As a Prius driver actively seeking a plug-in hybrid or full electric option, this would not harm me. EndQuote. Wiz goes on to lament with the "working people" who might be burdened, but the bottom line is Wiz and his kind don't really get it. If gas goes up .50 cents a gallon, the cost of everything goes up. It's not just about you...Wiz!

Cluck wrote on Mar 20, 2008 4:06 PM:You're right about one thing; we are definitely in for a rude awakening when Obama gets elected. That's what happens after an 8 year nightmare.

Concerned-1 wrote on Mar 20, 2008 4:12 PM:And then there's "Finally" at 2:12 PM. You can take a liberal to water, but you can't make him drink. Have a nice day with your perspective on the U.S. Constitution and don't forget to pay your dues to the ACLU.

Concerned-1 wrote on Mar 20, 2008 4:15 PM:And finally: Yokozuna is right on. NCT is giving us a super forum and we should be thankful for it. Thanks NCT!

Karl wrote on Mar 20, 2008 4:37 PM:To "To Ron wrote on Mar 20, 2008 12:48 PM:" and I quote " It is just like you... people to make up stories to fit your agenda."

Do you ever look in the mirror? I highly recommend it for you. If you could only see yourself from another point of view you would be very embarrassed. Just try one time to look at a situation from some one elses point of view instead of your one sided "my way or the highway" bifocals.

DD Wiz wrote on Mar 20, 2008 4:43 PM:The post from "Nick" (3:45pm) continues to exemplify conservative thinking that is more about personalities than ideas and issues.
We'll see if "Reardon" is willing to engage on the level of ideas, about Ludwig von Mises or anything else.

Not A Family Member? wrote on Mar 20, 2008 4:58 PM:You offend me Ron. I am an adopted child and I dare you to tell my father to his face that he doesn't count because we are not blood related. Try again. Oh and by the way, he is 91 years old and a gentle and respected gentleman whom I love very much. He also has made embarrassing and inappropriate remarks over the years using the "N" word because that is how it was in his time. I give him a pass because of his age; what's your excuse?

Karl wrote on Mar 20, 2008 5:03 PM:"Pretty In Pink wrote on Mar 20, 2008 3:40 PM" Thanks for straightening me out. I am not a church going person. In fact the last time I was in Church was a funeral and the time before that was a wedding. I am a little behind the times when it comes to preachers preaching to me. Let me inform you of a little secret "PRETTY". My parents moved to SoCal from St Louis Mo when I was 2 months old. The reason? They wanted to raise their children in a society without predjudice. I did not know this until I was about 25 years old. All I knew growing up was the golden rule and I live it every day of my life. As for your statement "if every pastor or priest makes an outlandish statement, must you go along with it". I will tell you this and I can guarantee whether it be a priest or any other human being, If anyone defiles any race, any fellow human being regardless of sex, religion, color the way that Mr Wright has, I would step right up and tell that person that they are wrong. I have and always will treat everyone including any living creature the way I want to be treated. For someone like Mr Wright to call me and anyone like me a racist and the enemy because of the color of my skin is absolutely so counter productive to what we as a world deserve. He needs to be called on it so that he can sit down and shut up. Have you read his sermons? Anyone with this much anger needs to be couciled by his peers. Evidently you and Peg only agree if it fit's your political beliefs.

Peace to everyone, Karl

John wrote on Mar 20, 2008 5:32 PM:Let me guess... David Perrine (writer of Democrats should ditch both candidates) is a republican. Right? OK, I'm just assuming that he is based on the fact that he suggests democrats should nominate Condi Rice for a presidential candidate. Always amusing to see one party give bad advice to another. Condi Rice is about as appealing to most democrats as passing wind in church. She has plenty of experience ruining US foriegn policy, starting bogus wars and following Bush like a puppy dog. Sorry Dave - your pipe dream is so much smoke. History will judge Condi and it ain't gonna be pretty.

sdraoul wrote on Mar 20, 2008 5:39 PM:How blessed Nick is thsi Easter Week of Redemption to prove once again his racist attitude towards all Hispanics, even legal U.s. citizens, veterans and defenders of the Constitution.

His "facts" aren't facts at all, are they? I posted that Gary Walker was brandishing his racism towards Mexicans in linking a murderby an illegal in New Jersey to a traffic accident in Minnesota of an illegal alien woman.

Somehow Nick claims I'm making up "facts" with that post. He, then, takes disparate alleged facts and states boldly that huge percentages of drunk drivers are Hispanics then implying that all Hispanics are illegal.

Well, they aren't.

Most of the phony statistics he quotes are just that, phony. The North Carolina one in particular is phony because its underlying assumption is that all Hispanics are illegals.

Nick, if the cohort of single farmwworker men in that San Joaquin County are Hispanics, their percentage of drunk drivers is going to be higher than the average of any one else because no other racial or ethnic cohort will be that single.

using the "logic" Nick fails at, oen can say that if Ted Bundy was white, and we know he was, then all white men msut be like Ted Bundy.

Nick must be an Obama fan, for Obama did to his grandmother what Nick tries to do woth Hispanics.

to Karl wrote on Mar 20, 2008 6:18 PM:I would love to think that you are as saintly as you brag to be, living the golden rule, etc. Did you approve the Iraq invasion? Well, there goes that rule. Anyhow, I did want to say that Obama clearly DID "call" Wright on the errors of his remarks. End of story, right? What would the golden rule tell you about how to treat Obama right now? If you were him, how would you wish to be treated?

Aardvark wrote on Mar 20, 2008 6:31 PM:Hey Karl - I had a client that always reminded me that the Golden Rule was - He who has the gold rules. I eventually found other clients who were more fun to work with. What is your Golden Rule?

I don't get it wrote on Mar 20, 2008 6:55 PM:Seems to be a popular phrase, that Obama "threw his grandmother under the bus". Uh, sorry, but I don't see it. How did he do this? He went on and on about how much she loved him, and then added that she said she was afraid of black men and had made some racist or stereotyped statements. So? Do you people think that "telling on" someone for some words they use is "throwing her under the bus"? Of course you don't. Unless either (a) you live in a fantasy world where you expect no one, not even people of her generation, to ever say a terrible thing, or (b) you're just inventing more exaggerated nonsense to attack Obama with. Or both. Sorry, it's pathetic. (Which means that in the USA it will work.)

You speak with forked tongue, Karl wrote on Mar 20, 2008 6:57 PM:I can think of hundreds of times that posters here have talked about others in extremely angry and inappropriate ways, Karl, but I sure can't remember all the times you stepped right up and called them on it. Can you? LOL Your post had to be a put-on, right?

esteban wrote on Mar 20, 2008 7:03 PM:Christi, my comments are insightful, witty, and humorous. And the people demand them. If you can't handle them, then this isn't the place for you toots.

Apollo wrote on Mar 20, 2008 7:15 PM:Re: Concerned-1 (4:05 p.m.)
Did we read the same message from DDWiz in response to Reardon?
Wiz noted that it would not harm him but made it clear he had concerns about how it would affect others?
In any case, the comment about the cost of everything else going up is absurd if such changes are only taken along with other measures to make alternatives available, which is what Wiz actually said.

Apollo wrote on Mar 20, 2008 7:18 PM:Re: Esteban (7:03 p.m.)
Well, I haven't exactly seen any evidence of the people rising up en masse to demand your posts, but they do serve a purpose to showcase perfect examples of "civilized" conservative thinking, so thank you for that.
Bwa-ha-ha-ha-ha-ha-ha-ha-ha!

Ron wrote on Mar 20, 2008 7:24 PM:I think you just said it better than I could.. "OBAMACAN" @3:36 PM:
>>>The guy has... issues>>>
Thanks

esteban wrote on Mar 20, 2008 7:31 PM:Apollo...you have a funny laugh. Very merry.

That settles it, then wrote on Mar 20, 2008 7:33 PM:Great comeback, there, Ron. But you got us. Obama's pastor has issues. Now there's a meaty election issue we should all chew on and digest. Um, is there anyone that doesn't have issues? Ron, do you have issues? LOL

Good one, esteban wrote on Mar 20, 2008 7:35 PM:It's good to see that you are, in your inimitable way, owning up to being a parody of the conservative mind, such as it is. Good job. Keep em coming.

Ron wrote on Mar 20, 2008 7:38 PM:Do I detect something in your comment.. "Ms M" @2:06 PM?
>>>And you do - a white person?>>>
Now, how would you know what color I am, or what my life experience has been?
I think your response tells us all a lot more about you, than me.
I made a logical, and very simple point, and you attack... my color?
Such anger is not a way to go through life. I did not critise the man, himself. I critised the statements he made in public, to his followers. What possible example is he to them? And as I also posted, should he be responsible for anything his flock might do, after getting fired up by him?

And to "Not A Family Member?" @4:58 PM.
What the heck are YOU talking about?
Did I even mention anything remotely, that I had suggested, I ever had a problem with any of your issues?
No, I did not.

Ron wrote on Mar 20, 2008 8:02 PM:The economy is always the No. 1 issue,
Herbert Pairitz. Unfortunately, we have those on the left who believe they can indefinately take from, and beat down upon the business community.
The reason jobs are leaving the US is capitalism. If any liberal actually knew something about capitalism, and didn't abhor it, perhaps we might have a bit more of it, instead of it leaving.
There comes a point in time, where the taxes, the regulations, the moral busy bodies all have their way with every business owner, and then... they get sick of it, can't make a profit, so they leave. Afterall, if they can't make a buck, why be in business?
I think in today's environment, business owners ought to be allowed to make an even higher profit. Consider it hazard pay, for all the liberal name calling, and making them a conveinent political whipping boy.
In our own State, the majority of all income taxes {80%} are paid by those who make more than $500,000 a year. That my friend.. is small business's.
At the same time, we have nearly 10 million on Medi-Cal, out of a population of 37 million. Cost to the taxpayer every year, $40 billion.
And if your going to say: "Well, the business owner should be providing healthcare for his employees. I'll tell you the average small business in California is less than 20 workers. Kinda hard, group wise.
And beside, if Bill Moyers doesn't provide it for his, why should anyone else? Right?

Isn't this a contradiction? wrote on Mar 20, 2008 8:14 PM:Ron says: "I did not critise the man, himself. I critised the statements he made in public, to his followers. What possible example is he to them?" Ron, I think your third sentence contradicts your second sentence. I guess you have issues. Also, you are a great (though less known) example of what Obama was talking about when he said, "Talk show hosts and conservative commentators built entire careers unmasking bogus claims of racism while dismissing legitimate discussions of racial injustice and inequality as mere political correctness or reverse racism. " Yes, the predictable cheap shots, distractions, exaggerations, misinformation, and insults that we've all heard 24/7 since the Reagan years gave conservatives their macho back. Many of us (probably not enough) are really quite sick to death of this.

Well isn't this odd? wrote on Mar 20, 2008 9:02 PM:From the NY Times QUOTE The State Department has fired two employees and reprimanded a third for improperly opening electronic information from the passport file of Senator Barack Obama, State Department officials said Thursday night. On three separate occasions in January, February and March, three employees looked through Mr. Obama�s file in the department�s consular affairs section, violating the department�s privacy rules, the State Department spokesman, Sean D. McCormack, said. ENDQUOTE I'm sure this was completely innocent, aren't you? If not, it was Hillary's doing.

John wrote on Mar 20, 2008 10:32 PM:Ron is right.The economy is the number one issue. Business has a free ride since Bush was elected and thanks to Bush and the republican majority who were stewards of our nation and it's economy - no republican will be elected president this year. Karma baby!

Ms M wrote on Mar 21, 2008 12:25 AM:Ron wrote on Mar 20, 2008 7:38 PM:Do I detect something in your comment.. "Ms M" @2:06 PM?
>>>And you do - a white person? Ron there is a question mark after person. I was questioning if you where white because of your statements. It is true I don't know you personally, I can only go on what you write. And from your writings TO ME you not only appear to be white you seem to be a tad bit angry - just my observation - no offense.

Interesting point, Ron wrote on Mar 21, 2008 7:21 AM:The reason jobs are leaving is capitalism. I think that's correct. Capitalism, or the version of it in your mind, means the money goes to where the most profit is. In your good old days, pre-taxes, pre-unions, pre-regulations, that was here. We had no minimum wage or child labor laws so the money could stay home to maximize profit. Slave labor, child labor, sweatshops, and the rest of it. Your "capitalism". But, to your horror, many people felt this was wrong, morally. That profit should not be the writer of our morality. Hence came the present, or as you think of it, communistic constraints on your freedom. But capitalism needn't know national borders. Cheaper under the table labor comes here. Other money follows profit to child labor, no minimum wage, and sweatshops elsewhere. The workers there, displaced into cities, miles from their homes (their homes had long ago been bought up and converted to plantations), they are "happy" to have their buck a day jobs and crowded apartments. The corporations are happy to have their profits and their "freedom" from communist meddling. Only the vast American middle class is not so happy. Oh, well, that's your capitalism. Never would've happened if we'd kept buck a day jobs and sweatshops here.

To esteban wrote on Mar 21, 2008 8:44 AM:"my comments are insightful, witty, and humorous. And the people demand them." Do you really believe that?

Christi wrote on Mar 21, 2008 9:28 AM:I think esteban is a legend in his own mind. Good ahead keep up the insults this will only encourage decent people from buying into your horrible mindset.

Jesse wrote on Mar 21, 2008 1:31 PM:I have been replying to Peggy Hart and others about Obama. But NC Times has not printed one. Why? I said his speech, although well written and well said, set back race relations 100 years. His stereotypes obviously are colored by 20 years of Wright sermons.

Jesse wrote on Mar 21, 2008 1:34 PM:Here is another you did not print. There was an AP story and Newsmax story on these facts.......
The socialist beliefs of Barack Obama's church should be a major concern to voters because they are far out of the mainstream of American thought. Obama's connection to the militant opposition leader in Kenya and his supporting militant Islamic groups trying to overthrow the U.S.-friendly government in that country should be of concern. Al-Qaida would love to see the takeover of Kenya occur.
Obama has traveled repeatedly to his father's homeland, Kenya. He has a brother still living in that conflict-riddled country. Obama has even spoken out during his campaign about the current crisis in Kenya, where over 700 lives have been lost. The Marxist opposition leader, Raila Odinga, comes from the same tribe as Obama's late father. His older brother Roy, a militant Muslim, supports Obinga. Obinga reportedly has joined forces with an extremist Islamic group that wants to oust the presently pro-Western government of Kenya that won the recent elections. While campaigning in New Hampshire, Obama took a call from Odinga (who claims to be his cousin) and appears to have sided with him in the conflict.

Veronica wrote on Mar 21, 2008 2:15 PM:To Mike Spencer-

I think it's funny that, Mike Spencer would try to comment on Tina Jillings, personal perspective.

Who is he to denounce someone who has put forth great, positive changes in not soley the hispanic community but Vistas' community as a whole. Before he defamates someones character he should reevalute what he has done for the better. Remeber that charity mail order brides don't count.

Be humble, Mike Spencer

Never fails wrote on Mar 21, 2008 2:50 PM:Oooh, look how hard Jesse has worked to smear Obama through links to "socialist", to a tribe, to traveling to Kenya, etc. X supports Obinga, and X is of the same tribe as the brother of Y, who was Obama's father's next door neighbor, so we should really beward of Obama. Jesse: are all governments who are US friendly necessarily good? Are you saying that Obama is in fact a communist? Is that post your evidence? Do you think 6 degrees of separation is a rational way to make up one's mind about things in the world? As for Obama's speech, can you tell us where in it stereotypes are used that are similar to those of 1908? Jesse: do you expect to have any credibility here whatsoever?