LETTERS: NCT, Sept. 10, 2008
By Readers of the North County Times | ∞
Further thoughts on month's names
Re: Clay Northcote's letter regarding the names of the months ("Some month names are misnamed," Sept. 1): The letter was mostly correct, however, Janus (January), the two-faced God, looking back at the past and forward into the future, was always the correct name, as was February.
The two months instead (not added) were not January and February, but July (Julius Caesar) and August (Caesar Augustus), which moved the last months into incorrect positions, as was stated in his letters. These two Roman leaders called themselves "gods" who then deserved to have months named after themselves. The Romans divided the year into ides and similar parts as being so many days before/after such points!
Jack Fulton
San Marcos
Carlsbad un-preserved
Plans are in the works for constructing "official" trails through Lake Calavera and the Carlsbad Preserve. Recently, I encountered the biologists from Fish and Game and Preserve Calavera roaming around doing whatever it is they do to waste money. The ongoing debate over trail usage, and seeing these so-called environmentalists (driving their vehicles in the preserve) is driving me crazy. I honestly don't believe they have a clue about what is best for the lake, native species, or usage of the trails. Nature, and those who use the trails, build the best trails –– naturally. The roads/trails built by these environmentalists have all but eroded away, yet nature's trails remain, and have for more than 50 years. Most of the negative environmental impact on the area is directly a result of the actions of these biologists and environmentalists making poor decisions.
Also, there is no point in creating rules or regulations or usage plans unless you are prepared to enforce each. The planned construction will be nothing more than destruction, and like the newly constructed skate park (huge cement drainage bowl at Lake Calavera), will create more problems than solutions.
Margie Layes
Oceanside
A democracy is what we are becoming
I don't often write letters that are printed outside the Faith & Values pages (not my choice), but when I see dogma and world view to the extent that right and wrong, ethics and morality and history have become reinvented to the ultimate destruction of our republic, I must answer.
We are a democratic republic, not a democracy, but a democracy is what we are becoming. When asked what kind of government the Founders had given us, Benjamin Franklin said, "We are a republic, ma'am, if you can keep it." Changes in that form of government, the Constitution, are not determined by the public fancy of the moment. Both Jefferson and Madison agreed.
I wonder whether the writers of the North County Forum have given any thought to that of which they write. The agendas that they promote: homosexuality, church and state separation, abortion, gun control and the removal of God from public places and schools, is often whimsically directed from this forum. That direction is toward humanism and Communism, but if this is not their goal, which is probable, they should rethink what they write. If it is their goal, then only God can help us; and he will.
Irvin Forbing
Escondido
Prop. 8 a knee-jerk reaction based on fear
Do Californians really believe in changing our Constitution to limit the rights of a whole group of citizens? Proposition 8 would do just that. Changing the Constitution is an awfully big step, and it's not something we should do as a knee-jerk reaction out of fear. What will happen to all of the couples who have married in the past few months? Will their marriages dissolve, simply because a powerful group has the money to mount a campaign against them? Don't we have bigger things to deal with in this country without trouncing the civil rights of our fellow Californians?
I'll be voting no on Prop. 8 come Nov. 4.
Rachel Rott
Vista
NCLB punishes schools that are improving
The No Child Left Behind Act needs revision because it punishes schools that are making steady progress in spite of significant cultural and language challenges. Some of the best teaching and learning is going on in these schools.
Grant/Mission Middle School in Escondido raised test scores 74 points, a tremendous achievement, yet is labeled a failure and is to be sanctioned. This injustice only stifles energy and effort and is simply unfair. My hat is off to the students and staff at Mission Middle School for a job well done!
Lucinda Milks
Escondido
Democrats reflect diversity of country
The most striking difference I saw between the two political conventions was the level of delegate diversity. Democratic delegates more closely represented the diversity of the nation. Half of them are women and half are men; 65 percent are white, 23 percent black and 11 percent Hispanic. These numbers come directly from the Democratic Party's convention Web site.
In contrast, a New York Times survey of Republican delegates showed that men accounted for 68 percent, up from 57 percent in 2004; 93 percent of the Republican delegates are white, 5 percent Hispanic and 2 percent black. The other impression I had was that Republicans seem to be suffering from amnesia. They talked like they were the party on the outside. They took no responsibility for starting a war that should have never been started, running up the biggest national debt in our history and suggesting that tax breaks for hedge fund managers are the only solution to every domestic problem.
Republicans talked about change, but a review of the party platform shows they still want to "stay the course." I want to see a big change in our country's direction. I will be voting for Obama/Biden and every Democrat on my ballot. It's time for a change.
Pete Babich
Poway
Voters, not politicians, should be in charge
I'm sure I'm not alone in being less than enthusiastic about the way the California legislature does business. It is evident that the politicians are more interested in serving their own interests rather than those of the public.
We need reform to correct a process that allows the politicians to draw their own weirdly shaped districts, resulting in 99 percent of incumbents being re-elected by their chosen voters but leaving many people without a political voice. The "Voters First Act" will bring about the needed reform by establishing the Independent Citizens Redistricting Commission, made up of an equal number of Republicans and Democrats, who will do the redistricting in open public meetings.
We voters, and not the politicians, should be in charge, but that will only happen if we make the effort by supporting the amendment of Article XXI of the California Constitution in the upcoming election.
Ray Raino
Carlsbad
Our youth need adequate playing areas
Twenty-nine years ago this month, my son played his first organized soccer game on the minuscule pot-holed field at Cardiff Elementary School. I recently observed several teams sharing practice time on that same field. Twenty-five years ago, my daughter participated in her first organized softball game on a true sandlot field, which has since been developed into two cramped youth fields known as the Cardiff Lake Drive Sports Complex, along with two adult fields, which dangerously overlap each other.
Those NIMBYS who state that Cardiff/Encinitas has more than adequate playing fields are seriously circumventing the truth! If they wish a passive sitting or walking park, let them go to Quail Botanical Gardens or stroll along the ocean at Moonlight Beach. The hundreds of thousands of dollars that the city of Encinitas has been forced to spend in order to fight lawsuits and conduct various studies could certainly have been better spent developing the Hall property sports park by now.
I urge the city to create as many full-sized lighted playing fields as possible so youth can reach their potential. Don't force them to continue to play on deficient areas.
George Hejduk
Cardiff-by-the-Sea
Sarah Palin: Just another hypocrite
For all of the developed nations, the U.S. has become a role model of "how not to do it" in every arena of human development –– except in the art of how to justify the invasion of other countries. Teenage pregnancy is not an exception. The U.S. is one of the worst, with unwanted teenage pregnancy rates of 44 (per 1,000, age 15-19). The cost for the U.S. taxpayer in 2004 for related expenses was $9.1 billion alone (National Campaign to Prevent Teen Pregnancy).
The disgusting truth in regard to McCain's VP is that the overwhelming majority of Americans do not care how much better other countries are, but yearn for some idol of their own. Palin exploits this, lashing out at her critics, who point to her failure in this respect, and tells us all in the same breath that I should tell my daughters not to have sex –– since it worked so very well with hers! She personifies a Republican Party gone from its core, from small government to huge government that wants to sneak into our bedrooms with their failed abstinence platform.
P.S: My three daughters (21-29), none pregnant, knew about condoms since 14.
Klaus-Peter Meinhard
Solana Beach
McCain, Palin are genuine
What kind of woman chooses to keep an unborn child with Down syndrome? And what kind of mother encourages her pregnant, unwed teen to choose life? Clearly, the alternatives would've been quick fixes. But Sarah Palin is a woman who makes sacrifices and accepts exceptional challenges. Brave. Intelligent. Tenacious. She's the kind of woman we need for vice president. Unlike her opponents, she speaks with strategic insight and strong convictions. Answers questions, despite her pay grade. But she's inexperienced, some whine, as if career politicians make a difference.
And about McCain's age –– have you seen his 96-year-old mother? As for Obama, who needs a candidate who runs on half his heritage? Or attended a church that hates white Americans? Is this the kind of president we want? Interestingly, McCain and his wife have a multicultural family. And Palin is married to a man with Alaskan Indian ancestry. Yet they don't obsess over race. That's because they don't need to. Indeed, their lives are stories of love and sacrifice set apart. Not stories activated in activist settings.
McCain and Palin are absolute delights. Funny. Fearless. Genuine. I haven't seen anything so refreshing and resolute in years.
Kim Oakley
Valley Center
Just say no to drilling off our coast
Congressman Brian Bilbray is misguided in his support for drilling off America's coastlines. We need a comprehensive clean energy plan that will make America more energy-independent and offer consumers relief at the pump. Opening our nation's coastline to destructive drilling will only add to the billions in profits already being made by Big Oil, do little to lower gas prices and will keep our nation dangerously dependent on fossil fuels.
The honest answer to our oil problem is to use less of it, and that means more energy-efficiency, clean energy and better transportation policy. By investing in real solutions, we can protect our coastal resources and economies. We need sensible solutions now for consumer relief, stronger fuel economy standards and real investment in energy efficiency and renewable energy, not more of the same business-as-usual policies to benefit the oil companies.
David Grubb
chairman, North County Coastal Group, Sierra Club
Cardiff
Cruisin' Grand is grand again
I'm new to North County. When I moved here, I brought with me a modified '58 Chevy. My understanding was that U.S.-built, pre-'74 cars and trucks were to cruise and park on Grand. I went to Escondido on a Friday night and could not park or cruise because of newer-than '74 and non-U.S. cars cruising or parking on Grand. Now, with the new format, I can and did.
Gary Ogard
Vista
Obama now running against McCain's VP
Regarding Jan Fisher's letter (Sept. 4) that VP candidate Sarah Palin's ponytail "shows lack of judgment": Is she serious? Her hairstyle is the only problem Fisher has with her? No problems with her lack of experience, her 17-year-old daughter pregnant, her being in the pocket of the oil companies, etc.? Fisher really stayed on point with that statement. She is right about her being no Hillary Clinton, and thank God for that.
Personally, I have no political party affiliation. I try to wade through all the BS and vote for whom I hope is the best candidate. Fisher's guy, Barack Obama ... ain't the one. I think we all understand that Democrats don't like her while people with any sense do. Interesting how Obama ... is now running against McCain's VP.
Christopher Gese
Escondido
Dems overspend while GOP takes us to war
Re: George Bush's $1 billion aid package to Georgia, no, not the state, the country ("Bush announces $1B in aid for Georgia," Sept. 4). Yikes. Buried under all the convention news is this aid package. Umm, just a couple of questions. Isn't the EU in on this? Aren't they closer (distance-wise) to Georgia? I just don't get it.
OK, the election debate is this: Democrats like to spend and increase taxes and in some cases make government bigger. The Republicans cut taxes, give rebates, shrink government at times and pick fights (WMDs). Oh, where did they go? So what is worse? The Republicans, who seem to want to also run the world? Or the Democrats, who may overspend, yes, but at least they spend it here in the U.S.? God help us.
Mark Andruss
Vista
Where is the money coming from?
Where is that $1 billion that President Bush is giving to Georgia coming from ("Bush announces $1B in aid for Georgia," Sept. 4)? Is it from taxes or is it being borrowed?
Lester Krause
Fallbrook
Will the NCT ever learn?
I find it ironic that the paper has offered me a very reasonable rate to come back and continue delivery of the paper with the promise of change.
After reading the Letters portion of the paper on Sept. 4, I am reminded of why I canceled. The letters on Sarah Palin are so mean-spirited that everyone knows where they stand politically. So herewith, nothing has changed. They will defend this by mentioning that the readers author this hate-filled babble, but where is the balance? There is none.
I don't feel confident that this will see the light of day; however, they do give me justification for canceling once again. With paper subscriptions falling like a hot rock, it would seem to me that they would, at the very least, try to be fair and balanced.
Judith Anderson
Valley Center
Laws should protect all of us
Not all Christians believe the same. My faith is grounded in the belief that we are all equally the children of God. I think it's wrong to single some people out to be treated differently, and particularly denying them rights by a change of the state constitution. The constitution of California should protect us and not discriminate against anyone. That's why I am voting no on Proposition 8.
Betty Lou Fox
Carlsbad
Intellect and capability trump experience
The media and politicians are making a huge deal about who has and who has not got the experience to be president of the U.S.A. There are very few people alive with experience in running a country like ours. That is the wrong criterion to be looking at. The question should be, who has the capability and intellect to lead us?
What does capability and intellect mean? They mean: 1. initiative and ability to define objectives; 2. ability to build and motivate teams to meet objectives; 3. ability to acquire, analyze, evaluate and utilize information; 4. ability to arrive at conclusions and make decisions based on the broadest possible perspective; 5. ability to acquire, organize and allocate resources needed to meet objectives.
I know firsthand that these statements are true and not idealistic blather. During my 39-year career in the aerospace industry, I have seen case after case of capable managers successfully being thrown into leading positions with zero experience in the technical fields they needed to manage. My intent here is to stress the point that intellect and capability trump experience by far.
Morris Shechet
Oceanside
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Judith is like whats wrong with Conservatives wrote on Sep 10, 2008 12:46 AM:"Wah, Wah, Wah, I want "Fair and Balanced" on the letters page, or I'm gonna cancel my subscription!"
There's a couple of problems with your lamentations. First of all, its called the Opinon Page. There is no requirements for "fair and balanced", except in reporting hard news.
Secondly, how is it NCT's fault the letters section is not "fair and balanced". Perhaps Judith thinks if letters received on any given day are onesided, none should be published, or perhaps the editor should write and publish fake letters to balance things out?
Jeeez!
Chuck wrote on Sep 10, 2008 4:41 AM:>>>Where is that $1 billion that President Bush is giving to Georgia coming from ("Bush announces $1B in aid for Georgia," Sept. 4)? Is it from taxes or is it being borrowed?>>>>
I asked the same question when he forked over $46 billion to the AIDS racketeers in Africa.
Chuck wrote on Sep 10, 2008 4:46 AM:>>>The No Child Left Behind Act needs revision because it punishes schools that are making steady progress in spite of significant cultural and language challenges>>>> Awww, too bad. The goal should be math, english, the social and physical sciences and history. Cultural sciences like your rights under SB777 and fitting condoms to cucumbers can be left for the "special clubs" after school, where it belongs
She Said wrote on Sep 10, 2008 5:57 AM:Re: Mr. Babich's letter...I hate to give any kudo's to GWB after his dismal record as President. However, no matter how little diversity we saw in the delegates to the Republican convention, Lonesome George did increase diversity in appointments far beyond any previous president.
Chuck wrote on Sep 10, 2008 6:21 AM:Today, there is a report that a genetic disorder makes goats faint and fall over when startled.
There is the same disease at Husseins speeches. He waves his staff, and the paid women go into the swooning and fainting mode, and just by chance, there is someone with water just steps away to revive the women
Chuck wrote on Sep 10, 2008 6:24 AM:The news is reporting a disorder that makes goats faint and fall over when startled. If I were the media, I wouldnt put that in the SanFrancisco or Sacramento newspapers. Booo.
Caro Hussein Cogitatus wrote on Sep 10, 2008 6:56 AM:Mark Andruss must have been asleep during the 6 years in which Bush and his GOP-led enablers in Congress took a $250 billion surplus left behind by supposedly "tax and spend liberal" Bill Clinton, and turned it into a $450 billion deficit (not including the costs of the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, which were and still are counted as "emergency" funding).
Bush' very first priority was tax cuts for the investor class, on the theory that more factories means more jobs. He got his wish, to the tune of $1.3 trillion over 10 years.
Now, if you've been paying any attention whatsoever, you know that the economy is in the toilet. More factories will just sit empty if consumers don't have money in their pockets to buy factory-made widgets. Trickle Down economics is a proven failure.
Both candidates promise a middle class tax cut. Obama promises to pay for his by increasing taxes on the wealthy. McCain promises to pay for his by the magic of Trickle Down economics.
No McCain wrote on Sep 10, 2008 7:16 AM:The McCain camp has sunk to the lowest tactics imaginable in their latest attack ad against Obama. After campaigning under the slogan "Straight Talk Express", promising a civil campaign, they are now anything but civil or honest.
The latest ad accuses Obama of supporting "comprehensive sex-education" for kindergarteners!? WHAT? That is the most offensive, dishonorable attack I've ever heard from a presidential campaign in my life. It is a deliberate distortion of the facts. The bill they are referring to is designed to PROTECT Kindergarteners from child molesters. As the father of a Kindergartener, I'm greatly offended by the what McCain is inferring. Shame on you John McCain.
My wife once lived in Arizona and voted for McCain to the Senate several times... but something has happened to the once honorable man. NO MCCAIN!
Yokozuna wrote on Sep 10, 2008 7:20 AM:Even though we all seem to enjoy this forum (or we wouldn't be coming back unless to straighten out someone else) at least there is some actual knowledge that can be gained from almost every participant even though in some cases determination of the poster's psyche is the most interesting aspect. I realized the lack of knowledge of some when my neighbor yesterday said "I haven't decided who to vote for yet. I like Obama's free healthcare plan but I'm worried about him being a muslim." That statement was so incredulous I couldn't respond Ah... one of those informed citizens that will be actually voting. Anyway, it gave me thought to thank all of you that keep us up to date on real facts (both sides).
Lucinda is right wrote on Sep 10, 2008 7:30 AM:No Child Left Behind is horrible. I know of a Middle School in Oceanside with the some of the best scores in North County is also labeled as failing, simply because some Special Education and ESL students are expected to score the same as the rest of the students. While "No Child Left Behind" is an admirable, it is not realistic in many of its goals.
And Chuck: the only subjects that matter for NCLB are English and Math. Everything else takes a back seat, and many kids no longer take core subjects like Science as a result. And forget about classes in Music, Drama, Art, or any other electives. I would advocate for a well rounded education, but that isn't what NCLB is delivering. And the condom on a cucumber comment of yours is a myth. It is not typical of sex education in our schools to teach the subject in that matter.
Republican Socialist wrote on Sep 10, 2008 7:31 AM:The best example of what Irvin Forbing's warns about - a pure democracy - is the vicious attempt by the majority Christians to force their personal religious views and practices onto the non-Christian minority, without regard for the rights specified in the Constitution.
Then, as often happens when one is unable to discuss issues on their merits, he labels anyone who disagrees with him as "Communism," with no link between the economic philosophy of Marx and the litany of complaints that have him so upset. Yet he ignores the real socialist threat in this country, which comes from the Red state of Alaska and its growing influence over the national Republican Party.
1. Republican nominee selects as his running mate the governor of the only Sociliast economy in the U.S. (Alaska, financed by the commercial oil ventures it owns [and if there was any doubt about that, Ron and Raoul, CSPAN rebroadcast last night a debate from her 2006 gubernatorial campaign in which there was extensive discussion of managing the commercial oil operations THEY OWN - also, I got to actually watch her express support for that "Bridge to Nowhere." The debate obviously occurred while she was still for it before she was against it].
2. The Republican Administration went way beyond financial bailouts and guarantees and private corporations yesterday. Shades of Harry Truman and the steel industry!
3. THIS JUST IN: The current issue of Newsweek (cover date 9/15, page 30) cites REPUBLICAN Governor of Alaska Wally Hickel (who also served as, ironically, Secretary of the INTERIOR under REPUBLICAN Richard Nixon, as advocating an "economy of the commons."
Commons? As in Communism?
Hickel was referring to the state ownership and operation of the communal oil business.
Failed Experiment wrote on Sep 10, 2008 7:35 AM:Trickle down economics works as long as those at the top aren't greedy. Case closed.
Govt for the people wrote on Sep 10, 2008 7:39 AM:" ... intellect and capability trump experience by far."
Maybe.
Did not see other points that are important: ethics, honesty, truth, flexible, professional, think out of the box, plan beyond 5 years, able to take criticism, work with a melting pot of dedicated educated people, able to say 'no' to authority based on facts and science, etc.
Work for the people (country), not for the politicians and big business.
liberaljim wrote on Sep 10, 2008 8:04 AM:Ron served a big plate of baloney at 8:28 last night in response to my post to him yesterday morning. He insists that the army changed regulations and now permits asthma sufferers like his son to serve. He dishes out AR4-501 as proof. AR4-501 covers the proper disposal of FOUO documents (for official use only) and has nothing to do with medical evaluation. Apparently this is another example of Ron pulling made up facts off the top of his head. As a grandfather with an asthmetic grandson, I also also asked the name of the medication that is so effective in preventing asthma attacks that it permits his son to serve in very dusty Iraq. I need this information for my grandchild's doctor, who is unaware anything like this exists. So far Ron has been silent on this matter.
He Said wrote on Sep 10, 2008 8:13 AM:to Govt for the people, 7:39 AM: We would have to look long and hard to find someone to fit those criteria.
nate wrote on Sep 10, 2008 8:19 AM:TO KIM:
You do not understand. It is not your fault though. For you to say Obama is running on half his race is simply beacause you are probably white and never had to deal with anything like it. That is how this country sees him. That is how this country views all interacial americans. Also Palin would never run on being indian. It would not help her with "white women" vote. Obama has NEVER ONCE brought up anything about his race. He was raised by his white mother and grandparents. But NONE of this matters. I hope his color doesnt to you. What matters is economy, war, education, etc.... Not the personality attacks. In the end of the day we are not repubs or dems, but AMERICANS!!!! WHO ELSE IS TIRED OF HEARING ABOUT LIPSTICK,FAMILIES, AND FALSE ASSOCIATIONS????
Chuck wrote on Sep 10, 2008 8:21 AM:>>>The McCain camp has sunk to the lowest tactics imaginable in their latest attack ad >>>
Gee, its funny you didn't mention Husseins ad that McCain put lipstick on a pig
Chuck wrote on Sep 10, 2008 8:25 AM:>> I like Obama's free healthcare plan but I'm worried about him being a muslim." That statement was so incredulous>>> Whats incdredulous about it? Liberals want all the free stuff that socialism has to offer, but this person doesn't want to have to pick it up at a mosque
Lemme get this straight wrote on Sep 10, 2008 8:36 AM:I'm confused. Kim Oakley says about Sarah Palin, QUOTE Unlike her opponents, she speaks with strategic insight and strong convictions. Answers questions ENDQUOTE Answers questions? Kim, Sarah is the first candidate for her office that has ever been whisked away after her scripted speech and kept OFF the talk shows. The only candidate who has refused to converse with a journalist. The party says that she is not ready to answer questions. We know about some of her strong convictions, but I've not heard a word out of her that could be called a strategic insight, have you? What in the world was it? Sorry, Kim, you, like so many, are flying right now on the phenomenon of Sarah Palin. I get that. The fun, the enthusiasm, the energy. It's a trip, alright. As you say, she's "fresh" (McCain, too? I don't know about that. Sarah seems to be a big fresh distraction from McCain) If this mania lasts into November, we'll all get to see what happens. You are betting that the surge of excitement you feel right now will last for at least four years. That would surprise me. Obama's freshness and mania is wilting and that guy actually talked to us! Time will tell.
Republican Socialist wrote on Sep 10, 2008 8:37 AM:Chuck at 8:25 a.m. talks about how "liberals want all the free stuff that socialism has to offer."
You mean like the free oil dividends from the COMMUNAL OIL BUSINESS owned and operated by the Republican-dominated Red State of Alaska?
Just ask former REPUBLICAN governor Wally Hickel, who praised the "economy of the commons" or the current governor, Sarah Palin, who increased the amount of the free dividend returned to each resident of Alaska - the only state with no sales or income taxes, as it is financed by socialism.
Yokozuna to Chuck wrote on Sep 10, 2008 8:39 AM:If you're as creative with the tax codes as you are responding to bloggers, perhaps we should get together after the first of the year. :)
Karl wrote on Sep 10, 2008 8:50 AM:To whoever said my golf buddies were conservatives, oh contrar. Two of them are ultra left wing liberals who have great disdain for even the word republican. I look past these beliefs as both are stand up gentlemen. One coached a local college baseball team for 33 years and has a baseball stadium named after him (look it up). I credit his career in academia for his political bent. While distrusting anything and everything republican, this gentleman has a sense of humor and can see political satire when presented. I sent your response to him calling him a conservative (for laughing at Chuck's posts) and he may respond in this forum. I certainly hope he does.
As for me, I am currently not affiliated with any political party but you are correct in assuming that I am conservative for the most part (mostly fiscally).
Write in Ron Paul please.
Peace
Another sad lesson wrote on Sep 10, 2008 8:52 AM:McCain's campaign was running on empty. He fired his campaign chief, and the new guy fared no better. So he, too, was canned. Then the miracle happened: McCain chose a new chief who'd worked and trained with Karl Rove. Suddenly the campaign changed. Attacks on Obama got uglier. McCain's speeches started indicating he had changed his stance on many things he's believed in for decades. He appointed a vp to pull in the fanatical religious right. Commercials stopped being about issues and started the familiar guilt-by-association tactics. And McCain's poll numbers have surged. No matter who you like in this race, this is bad news for America and her democratic processes. And it speaks unkindly about the American voter, who apparently can be easily won over by the sleaziest political techniques. We saw, in 2000 and 2004, how this worked, getting so many Americans to vote against what has been, apparently, in their best interests. (I say this assuming that most people would agree that the country is in lousy shape right now.) Marshalling the worst kinds of emotions, fear and hatred, often based on lies and innuendo, the Rovian philosophy is that people are easily manipulated via these emotions. And furthermore that they feel good and will remain loyal as long as these are stoked. Even as they lose their jobs, their savings, their homes, their kids, their health care. Not a proud era in the history of this great nation. And Rove is not the problem in the least. We are.
Still waiting Karl wrote on Sep 10, 2008 8:54 AM:Where we left off yesterday, Karl was asked what his opinion was of Sarah Palin's use of per diem travel money. Karl had, earlier, pretended to answer this question by saying that who knows, maybe Joe Biden did similar things. Hardly an answer. So, Karl, simple question: what do you think about Sarah's use of tax money for per diem while she was at home? thanks in advance
sdraoul wrote on Sep 10, 2008 8:56 AM:All of Palin's critics can let out their breaths now, the Wall Street Journal's editorial today puts them away.
Not only is Palin Commander-in-Chief of the 4000 soldier Alaska National Guard, she is governor. Read this and weep, critics, Obamacan and Obama Mama and Ms M:
Running Alaska
September 10, 2008; Page A14
One rap on Sarah Palin's qualifications to be Vice President is that she governs one of our least populated states, with a budget of "only" $12 billion and 16,000 full-time state employees. On the other hand, it turns out that the Governor's office in Alaska is one of the country's most powerful.
For more than two decades Thad Beyle, a political scientist at the University of North Carolina, has maintained an index of "institutional powers" in state offices. He rates governorships on potential length of service, budgetary and appointment authority, veto power and other factors. Mr. Beyle's findings for 2008 rate Alaska at 4.1 on a scale of 5. The national average is 3.5.
Only four other states -- Maryland, New Jersey, New York and West Virginia -- concentrate as much power in the Governor's office as Alaska does, and only one state (Massachusetts) concentrates more. California may be the nation's most populous state, but its Governor rates as below-average (3.2) in executive authority. This may account in part for Arnold Schwarzenegger's poor legislative track record. The lowest rating goes to Vermont (2.5), where the Governor (remember Howard Dean) is a figurehead compared to Mrs. Palin.
In Alaska, the Governor has line-item veto power over the budget and can only be overridden by a three-quarters majority of the Legislature. In 1992, the year Arkansas Governor Bill Clinton was elected President, his state budget was $2 billion and among the smallest in the country. Compared to that, Sarah Palin is an executive giant."
Still waiting for Ron wrote on Sep 10, 2008 8:56 AM:Yesterday (or was it the day before) Ron was asked to explain, in a clear fashion, what he meant when he accused liberals of being bad, somehow, for criticizing Palin. I say "somehow" because Ron was so unclear. Ron says liberals love working women until they turn out to be conservatives, or something like that. Does Ron mean that a liberal or a feminist must agree with everything someone says if that someone is a woman, or else be a hypocrite? That makes no sense. Ron, we're still waiting for your clarification of what's wrong with a liberal disagreeing with Sarah Palin. Thanks in advance.
Focal Point wrote on Sep 10, 2008 8:57 AM:Irvin Forbing: Please send a certified letter to God requesting assistance for our nation. Then, permit us to see if it was deliverable and if so the receipt with signature.
Focal Point wrote on Sep 10, 2008 9:00 AM:Kim Oakley: McCain's mom is 96. What about his Dad? Oh yeah! Died when he was 70. Americans really need to pay attention to who is the Vice President of this country.
Karl wrote on Sep 10, 2008 9:04 AM:Still waiting Karl @ 8:54 AM:
You will have to forgive my lapse in memory (it's an age thing). Yesterday is long gone for me. as far as the answer to your question, if you are correct in your allegations it absolutely, unequivocally sucks.
Clear enough?
Marlowe wrote on Sep 10, 2008 9:11 AM:It's a cliche that America has, over the past 5 decades or so, changed from a nation of producers and creators to a nation of consumers who are primarily attuned to entertainment. The current election year is more evidence of this. Obama went through a long period of fantastic popularity, and the only metaphors people could come up with for this was "rock star" and "messiah". In other words, he was, for a while, the American Idol. Now we have a new one. We know very little about Sarah Palin but no matter, she's the new star, and we project onto her whatever moves us. Americans either don't care about, or are no longer capable of understanding, the actual issues of the day that affect every aspect of our lives. As long as we can stay glued to the tube and wait for the next cleverly crafted image or innuendo to push our reptilian buttons, we're good to go. I hate to say it more than you can imagine, but it's looking like the Founders' great ideas have turned out to be wrong. I think, folks, it's time to schedule a funeral for America and her ideals. I think such an event would garner fabulous media coverage, don't you?
Chuck wrote on Sep 10, 2008 9:20 AM:>>>If you're as creative with the tax codes as you are responding to bloggers, perhaps we should get together after the first of the year. :)>> Gee, I'd say you found the right guy
Republican Socialist wrote on Sep 10, 2008 9:25 AM:Appreciation to SDRaoul at 8:56 a.m. for pointing out that, although Alaska is one of the smallest in population, it has a very large budget PER CAPITA.
Of course, this is how Socialist (RED) states operate:
Large per capital spending volumes.
Big government.
Republican socialists want Sarah Palin to bring the socialist prosperity of her "economy of the commons" to the nation as a whole.
The Cheese Stands Alone wrote on Sep 10, 2008 9:32 AM:"Karl
[-] wrote on Sep 10, 2008 8:50 AM:
As for me, I am currently not affiliated with any political party but you are correct in assuming that I am conservative for the most part (mostly fiscally)."
Well, there goes your only supportor, Nick. Sorry.
Chuck wrote on Sep 10, 2008 9:38 AM:>>Americans really need to pay attention to who is the Vice President of this country.>> I am. I don't want an asthmatic, who might need to have his finger on the button, trying to find an oxygen bottle to suck on at that critical moment
raoul the expert wrote on Sep 10, 2008 9:39 AM:Since you are so well-informed on the qualifications of Sarah Palin to be CIC, would you be kind enough to answer some questions for us, since the media isn't having so much luck getting the answers?
Your service to America would be much appreciated.
1. What is Palin's position on Iraq? Iran? Pakistan? Russia?
2. What is Palin's position on the economy?
3. What is Palin's position on healthcare?
4. What is Palin's position on religion in government?
5. What is Palin's position on education?
6. What will Palin do about our debt to China?
7. What is Palin's plan to defeat terrorism?
8. What is Palin's position on the Constitution?
9. What is Palin's position on Illegal Immigration?
10. What is Palin's position on wire-tapping?
That is just for starters. Thanks in advance for your assistance, sdraoul.
We look forward to finally getting some answers.
The News Is Reporting wrote on Sep 10, 2008 9:43 AM:GUTTER POLITICS
ABC: McCain's 'Truth Squad... Full Of Half-Truths'...
Time Mag: McCain "Responsible For One Of The Sleaziest Ads I've Ever Seen"...
Washington Post: "Untrue Accusations, Rumors Have Started To Swirl ... They Become Regarded As Fact"....
MSNBC: Evidence Palin, McCain Not Telling Truth About Bridge To Nowhere...
AP: Fact Check... McCain Ad About Palin Is Misleading...
Focal Point wrote on Sep 10, 2008 10:04 AM:Chuck[-] wrote on Sep 10, 2008 8:21 AM:
Why mention it. Its accurate. Sorry if the truth hurts.
Waaaa Waaaaa Waaaaa wrote on Sep 10, 2008 10:57 AM:Why is McCain hiding behind a woman's skirts? What's all the McCain Camp whining about lipstick???
Oh yes. Putin, Armenidijhad, Chavez and Jong (if he survives) are so very polite, they will most certainly give Sarah Palin the respect she so richly deserves.
Ron, Bill and sdraoul are now defending the most embarrassing party I have ever heard of. Our enemies are peeing their pants laughing about now. Thanks a lot.
Bill One wrote on Sep 10, 2008 11:00 AM:To Raoul The Wxpert, I would love to see Obama's possition on the same items. At least his possition today.
Focal Point wrote on Sep 10, 2008 11:04 AM:raoul the expert[-] wrote on Sep 10, 2008 9:39 AM: These are great questions. While you are getting Palin's positions and answers, could we have the same for that guy running for PRESIDENT? What was his name. Oh Yeah. McCain.
OBAMA MAMA wrote on Sep 10, 2008 11:12 AM:RELIGION battles RATIONALITY
New revelations about Republican vice-presidential nominee Sarah Palin raise questions about how her religious views might affect her decisions on public policy. Last week MAMA saw a video of Palin telling students in Wasilla that the US invasion of Iraq is "a task from God". Her comments raise deep concerns Palin could promote some government actions as inevitable or preordained as part of a theocratic belief in "end times." Palin’s teaming up with Senator McBomb multiplies the danger of expanded war that could engulf the whole world.
This is troubling to MAMA because we know that myths and religious beliefs can lead a national consciousness to seek self-fulfillment. Nothing illustrates this better than the Zeitgeist of the Nazi state which inflamed the whole world in war because of their belief that the Aryan Fatherland was destined by God to rule the world. Racism and xenophobic hatred are a sure sign of extreme danger to a nation. And Lordy, we sure got that here in North County. It’s almost as bad here as down in Louisiana.
We are at a tipping point in our beautiful country on many different horizons. Claims of religious intent ("God told me to") should be viewed with alarm. Wars must be the last resort, not play time for so-called "experienced" officials. "Yee-Haw,is not a foreign policy". Evolution is part of science, and science is at the heart of understanding our universe, ourselves, and the very essence of life and death. If you are a believer in real Christian theology, this is all part of God's plan. We are expected to use our minds and hearts to our utmost abilities. God gave us these minds to seek that which is rational. MAMA don’t subscribe to strict Creationism. Maybe God did create all the Universe, but seems to me he did it like science tells us He did -- not like archaic myth makers say it happened.
The mind is an extraordinary thing, able even to study and contemplate its own self. We as a people need to go inside our mind and soul and do some serious studying.
Greencinitan wrote on Sep 10, 2008 11:13 AM:Dear Kim:
Sarah Palin is not honest and refreshing - she's misleading and disrespectful to others. How can you put down community organizers - they're the manifestation of what used to be Republican values - smaller government, more self-sufficiency for communities based on volunteerism. Great that she didn't abort her Downs syndrome baby, but did she ever wonder why her teen-aged daughter got pregnant? Was it lack of education about contraception and family planning? Was it to get attention from a mother who was too busy promoting her own career to pay attention? Is that really the role model we want???
Focal Point wrote on Sep 10, 2008 11:15 AM:Palin eBay Jet Sale Attempt:
Its getting better and better. Palin did not come up with the idea to sell the jet on e bay. The state of Alaska since at least 2003 attempts to sell items on ebay.
Secondly, the jet was not sold on e bay.
It was sold by an aircraft broker. It was not sold at a profit as John McCain stated. It was sold at a loss. By the way, I do not buy that "memory lapse" of John McCain McCain just shot from the hip out of ignorance or he outright lied. 1q3ci
OBSERVATION wrote on Sep 10, 2008 11:27 AM:Sen Ron Wyden D Oregon:
"The Republicans have just spent a month going completely frothy over the need to drill for oil and natural gas in every backyard in America, claiming it'll lower gasoline prices at the pump.
But did you know that in the meantime, they've been preparing to secret all that natural gas out of the country and sell it to the Japanese? "
Focal Point wrote on Sep 10, 2008 11:36 AM:SEX EDUCATION KINDERGARDEN LIE: PER FACT CHECKER:
"The McCain ad is wrong when it claims--in a voice dripping with sarcasm--that Obama's "one accomplishment" in the education field was the sex education bill for kindergartners. While it is true that Obama supported the bill, he was not one of the sponsors. As far as kindergartners were concerned, the principal purpose of the bill was to make them aware of the risk of inappropriate touching and sexual predators. Other states, including California and Massachusetts, have passed similar legislation."
Freddy wrote on Sep 10, 2008 11:41 AM:Debates: I would like to see Obama get right in the face of John McCain regarding the outright lies that have been made by him or made in his name. If he does, watch McCain closely. He will get red in the face and then lose his temper. McCain when challenged does not have self control. Maverick? That was the man of yesteryear. He is now a puppet of the right.
Bill One wrote on Sep 10, 2008 11:53 AM:To Focal Point, also check for the same inaccuracies coming out of Obama also. They both use that type of ads.
Bill One wrote on Sep 10, 2008 11:54 AM:To Freddy, I also am looking forward to the debates, Obama is at his worse when off the teleprompter.
Focal Point wrote on Sep 10, 2008 11:58 AM:JOHN MCCAIN LIE:
"LIE: John McCain said Sarah Palin has “foreign policy experience” and that “Alaska is right next to Russia.”
TRUTH: Palin has never been to Russia, and as the Sept 4th Boston Globe reported, Palin “ played no role in any territorial defense or other national defense.” While requested, the McCain Campaign has provided no proof of any foreign policy achievements."
Focal Point wrote on Sep 10, 2008 11:59 AM:JOHN MCCAIN LIE:
"LIE: At his Cedarburg, Wisconsin campaign rally, John McCain said Alaska’s plane was “sold on ebay at a profit.” TRUTH: The jet was sold by a plane broker at a $600,000 loss from the $2.7 million Ebay price."
He Said wrote on Sep 10, 2008 12:00 PM:I am like others here are old enough to remember that one of the big fear tactic questions regarding JFK, the first Catholic President, was if he would take directions from the Pope. Also, remember the questions about Lieberman perhaps not being available on Saturdays to perform his duties? Give me a break!!
Focal Point wrote on Sep 10, 2008 12:00 PM:SARAH PALIN LIE:
"LIE: Sarah Palin said that she told Congress “Thanks but no thanks,” for the earmarks for Alaska’s “Bridge to Nowhere.”
TRUTH: As the Anchorage (Alaska)Daily News reported (Aug 31), “Palin was for the Bridge to Nowhere before she was against it.” Before she became governor, Congress removed the earmark language, but Alaska still received the $223 million in Federal money to use on other projects as wished. Palin later changed her position against the Bridge."
Lazy Bill wrote on Sep 10, 2008 12:08 PM:Bill One at 11:00 a.m. asks to see Obama's positions on the same items listed by Expert at 9:39 a.m.
Bill must be awfully lazy. Every single one of these points is covered on Obama's website. AND THEY HAVE NOT CHANGED. It is true that, as a Senator, Obama has sometimes made compromises to give up some things that he supported to at least get part of it rather than nothing at all.
Unlike McCain who was against torture before he was for it, or earmark queen Palin who was for the Bridge to Nowhere before she was against it.
And at 11:54 a.m., he complains about the fact that Obama actually takes the time to think through nuanced, in-depth answers to spontaneous questions instead of ducking them altogether like Palin or shooting from the hip (or lip) like McCain. I do understand that this is a phenomenon many conservatives are not familiar with.
Ms M wrote on Sep 10, 2008 12:13 PM:Bill One
[-] wrote on Sep 10, 2008 11:54 AM:...obviously you have never seen his interviews and town hall meetings. Bill, even if you did, you would not see anything positive while looking through your rose colored glasses.
To Bill One wrote on Sep 10, 2008 12:20 PM:Please direct yourself to Obama's website where those answers are all clearly spelled out.
And would you be kind enough to direct me to Sarah Palin's website where she discusses these issues? I can't seem to find it.
Thank you.
OMG wrote on Sep 10, 2008 12:24 PM:Without a doubt, the Republicans are going to win the "most accomplished liars" award in this election. They are so brazen about their lies that they sound to me like he Habitual Liar character Jon Lovitz used to play on Saturday Night Live. Yeah, that's it, sexism, yeah.
BushFellForItAgain wrote on Sep 10, 2008 12:27 PM:The news is reporting that North Korea has built second, larger long-range missile site. Bush and America got suckered again. What is it? The third or 4th time. The North Koreans sucker the world to flood North Korea with economic and humanitarian aid in return for promises they never intend to keep. If I were Bush, the B Brothers would already be in the air. The B-1's, B-2's, B-52's, and even the B-24's and 26's. Chin Li and Jung Il must be expecting it, because they've been underground for days
Bill One wrote on Sep 10, 2008 12:29 PM:To Ms M, I did see most of them, he was on a teleprompter. He, like other canidates, only give interviews to people who will give them the questions 1st ahead of the interview. But when you get him off the prompter, you get ummm, welll, I meannnnm, 57 states, my muslim faith.....it goes on and on. Just like yesterday, his lipstick on a pig comment and fish in a newspaper, that was a clear shot at Palin and McCain. And don't tell me it was a joke refering to something else, I listen to the speach in it's context. And the croud loved it. Obama is starting to unravel. I may have rose colored glasses, but you need to remove your blinders.
Ms M wrote on Sep 10, 2008 12:35 PM:Bill One
[-] wrote on Sep 10, 2008 11:53 AM:...yes Bill, some canditates may tend to stretch the truth a tad bit - and other just outright LIE. They stand in front of folks and CONTINUE to make statements (as the bridge to no where) that are known lies that have been totally debunked by fact checker after fact checker. The media IS paying attention.
hardtack wrote on Sep 10, 2008 12:36 PM:“Failed Experiment” ( Sep 10, 2008 7:35 AM ), may have it exactly backwards when he/she says: “Trickle down economics works as long as those at the top aren't greedy” – assuming that “at the top” means successful entrepreneurs and not successful politicians. It is precisely entrepreneurial “greed” ( I prefer “ambition” or “self-interest” ) that makes the economy work – and it inevitably trickles down, just as melting snow in the mountains brings life-giving water to the lowlands.
As Adam Smith wrote: "It is not from the benevolence of the butcher, the brewer, or the baker that we expect our dinner, but from their regard to their own interest.”
To put it another way, this is how H. L. Mencken explained the “trickle down” principle:
"The extraordinary progress of the world since the Middle Ages has not been due to the mere expenditure of human energy, nor even to the flights of human genius, for men had worked hard since the remotest times, and some of them had been of surpassing intellect. No, it has been due to the accumulation of capital. That accumulation permitted labor to be organized economically and on large scale, and thus greatly enhanced its productiveness. It provided the machinery that gradually diminished human drudgery, and liberated the spirit of the worker, who had formerly been almost indistinguishable from a mule." That’s what “trickle down” means in the free market world.
In the political world of “trickle down,” government uses tax dollars or borrowed money to bail out corporations they deem “too important” to fail, such as Chrysler or Fanny and Freddy, on the premise that it will save existing jobs and keep reckless investors, possibly misled by bad government policy, from going bankrupt.
Genuine “trickle down,” i.e. “capitalism” is a theory of producing wealth. When an individual accumulates wealth by producing something that satisfies a popular demand, or by discovering new markets for existing products, a "rising economic tide" is created that "lifts all boats." On the other hand, government taxing, borrowing, and regulating markets, lowers the standard of living and increases poverty because government's taking from one group to give to another group is a true zero sum game – where one boat is lifted by sinking another.
Bill Me Later wrote on Sep 10, 2008 12:45 PM:Bill One at 11:00 a.m. asks to see Obama's positions on the same items listed by Expert at 9:39 a.m.
Anyone who is not too lazy can easily find these answers online. Every single one of these points is covered on Obama's website. AND THEY HAVE NOT CHANGED. It is true that, as a Senator, Obama has sometimes made compromises to give up some things that he supported to at least get part of it rather than nothing at all.
Unlike McCain who was against torture before he was for it, or earmark queen Palin who was for the Bridge to Nowhere before she was against it.
And at 11:54 a.m., he complains about the fact that Obama actually takes the time to think through nuanced, in-depth answers to spontaneous questions instead of ducking them altogether like Palin or shooting from the hip (or lip) like McCain. I do understand that this is a phenomenon many conservatives are not familiar with.
Focal Point wrote on Sep 10, 2008 12:46 PM:Bill One
[-] wrote on Sep 10, 2008 11:53 AM: That is your job. Typical conservo deflection tactics unacceptable at least to me.
Richard wrote on Sep 10, 2008 12:48 PM:It's great to see Bush finally flip-flopping in a good way by removing some military from Iraq to Afghanistan as Murtha and manyothers have asked for a long time. The big difference though between McCain and Obama is that if violence goes back up after our forces substantially left, it would take very unusual circumstances for McCain not to go back into Iraq, while it would take very unusual circimstances for Obama to go back into Iraq. A huge difference.
Focal Point wrote on Sep 10, 2008 12:50 PM:Chuck
[-] wrote on Sep 10, 2008 9:38 AM: I do not want one who will sell the Air Forc on ebay. You already have one that is an admitted alchaholic but was sitting around drinking beer with the German prime minister. Joe Biden will do just fine.
Focal Point wrote on Sep 10, 2008 12:52 PM:He Said
[-] wrote on Sep 10, 2008 12:00 PM: We need to worry. Palin is no Jack Kennedy.
Chuck wrote on Sep 10, 2008 12:55 PM:>>>they're the manifestation of what used to be Republican values - smaller government, more self->>>
None of which Hussein stands for
Chris wrote on Sep 10, 2008 1:14 PM:Judith Anderson's letter is pathetic. She complains that there are too many letters against Sarah Palin and then asks the most asidine question possible. She say's where is the balance. Does that mean that the letters editor should put in her own aditions in the form of a letter praising Palin in order to balance out the anti-Palin letters. Quite frankly Anderson should just go back to the soap operas.
Focal Point wrote on Sep 10, 2008 1:18 PM:BREAKING NEWS: GIFT THAT KEEPS ON GIVING
"WASHINGTON — As Congress prepares to debate expansion of drilling in taxpayer-owned coastal waters, the Interior Department agency that collects oil and gas royalties has been caught up in a wide-ranging ethics scandal — including allegations of financial self-dealing, accepting gifts from energy companies, cocaine use and sexual misconduct."
You are not even trying today wrote on Sep 10, 2008 1:20 PM:OBAMA MAMA
[-] wrote on Sep 10, 2008 11:12 AM: Absurd, Palins history in office as a leader has already proven you wrong with that fear. She has never played that game, Try again.
To Bill One wrote on Sep 10, 2008 1:32 PM:Of course Obama uses a teleprompter, so do all politicians.
However, your point reminds me that during the Republican Convention, Sarah Palins teleprompter included phoenetic spellings of words so she would not mispronounce them.
NEW-CLEE-ER
You can actually see this several times if you look carefully at the tapes.
Guess a teleprompter is a good thing when a Republican is using one.
DD Wiz wrote on Sep 10, 2008 1:38 PM:The post from "hardtack" (12:36pm) accurately cites a few words from Adam Smith's famous 1776 classic, On the Wealth of Nations, but unfortunately misapplies the context in responding to a comment about the failure of "trickle down."
Please do not confuse CAPITALISM with DEREGULATION.
The true capitalism as originally espoused by Adam Smith included extesnsive protective regulation, progressive taxes and rent control. By seekiing to dismantle the protective regulation that make markets possible, the Neocons show themselves to be economic anarchists and the true enemies of market economies. Smith's masterpiece, On the Wealth of Nations, is now in the public domain, and the complete text is on numerous websites. Google it. Then look it up for yourself.
Just as rules of the road make possible unlimited choices in where we can drive to, or rules of sports make possible an unlimited range of choices in strategies, Smith understood that regulation is what makes capitalism possible.
Those who want to dismantle the regulatory protections of workers, consumers and the shared environment and infrastructure are the enemies of true capitalism. They support socialism for the rich and welfare for the corporations, but are the enemies of the "invisible hand" of Adam Smith.
Peace (and sunshine) to all, DD Wiz
To hardtack wrote on Sep 10, 2008 1:44 PM:No, I mean greed at the top like Ron who pays his employees minimum wage because he can. Well, he does give them a ride on his boat now and then so I guess that makes it ok.
And while you may define "greed" as "ambition" and "self-interest" and I am sure Ron would agree with you, I do not.
I say what I mean and I mean what I say.
Greed is greed. Selfish. It means taking the most for yourself and allowing a few crumbs to drop to the rest.
I own my own business and I have found that the better I treat my employees the better return I get on my money.
From the bottom up. A better way to go.
But I still like ya anyways, hardtack.
Bill wrote on Sep 10, 2008 1:45 PM:Sure the NCT has no obligation to be fair and balanced.
Then again, people have no obligation to subscribe to their paper.
No wonder newspapers are struggling to survive.
They ignore market forces to push their agenda.
Yet we should listen to them?
That is pretty stupid.
I dont buy the paper but read it online.
I wouldnt read it otherwise precisely because of crap like slanting letters.
The consumer always wins that battle.
Bills Friend wrote on Sep 10, 2008 1:46 PM:Bill finally got a half hour interview with Obama last Thursday that was recorded. Bill divided it into four sections to show on his program on Fox Cable News. The forth segment is tonight, Wednesday, at 5:00 PM and repeated at 8:00 PM. He has been showing these up at the front of his program. The interactions have been intense. Bill is asking hard questions, but does not use "gotcha questions" Obama has done real well standing up to the questions. The body language of both men is accentuated. As they lean forward while conversing intensively, with their arms and hands in motion to emphasize their verbal language, or leaning back to reflect on what is being said. Bill is impressed with Obama ability to respond and interact, although he may not agree with Obama’s positions on some issues. All of the major party candidates for the primaries had already appeared on Bill’s programs. Bill has also interviewed president Bush recently, and many sitting senators. Although some people do not like his manner of interviewing, it may take a little getting used to, Bill is in the major league
Solar Fun wrote on Sep 10, 2008 1:53 PM:We put up one of those big blow-up pools in the backyard this summer, you know, 12' x 30". Comes with it's own filter. Had a blast doing our own stay-cation this summer.
Because the weather is so mild year-round in Vista, I was considering leaving the pool up during the winter and was looking on eBay at heaters for this type of pool.
I came across some inexpensive plans to build a solar water heater for a backyard blow-up pool!
Remembering that when we sell our second house (yes, I know how many houses I own) we are going to rebuild our first home from the ground up and I want to get off the grid as much as humanly possible by going solar, wind, water, whatever we can utilize, it dawned on me that building this solar heater would be our first step in accomplishing this!
So we did. And it's great! And I can use my inexpensive pool year around! AND IT WON'T COST ME TO HEAT IT!
The materials cost under $100.00 (my husband fancied it up a bit but you could easily do it for half that price) and took him less than a day to build.
Now he is looking around for more solar projects to build and I am happy to support that!
Just wanted to report my first experience with solar fun!
GO ME!
Chris to Bushfellforitagain wrote on Sep 10, 2008 1:56 PM:Oh, yes. Let's turn the world into a nuclear desert. This is why I depise what America has become. We are alowed to go around and bully everybody else and tell them what they can do in their own country and if they don't obey us then we will just go over and kill them all. We are indeed the sorriest of the sorry.
Focal Point wrote on Sep 10, 2008 1:59 PM:Bill: The consumer does not always win. He just pays the price or the bill.
To Bills Friend wrote on Sep 10, 2008 2:01 PM:While I am not a fan of BillO, I have been impressed with his interview series with Obama. I will also say I was impressed when Bill interviewed Hillary during the primaries. I was surprised to be impressed.
Both men are at their best. Bill does ask the hard questions but he gives Obama the chance to answer. Obama handles Bill like an alpha dog and Bill gives him proper respect.
It doesn't matter that they don't agree. It does matter that Bill is asking questions that people really want to know and that Obama is getting the chance to answer them. Even Bill stated that Obama was sincere in his beliefs.
Go BillO and Obama! I am enjoying their exchange. I will even go so far as to say I would like to see BillO interview Biden, McBomb and Palin. It would be illuminating. Better than that phoney interview with Palin that will be shown on Thursday of this week.
Count Down wrote on