Latest Blogs

Time...

Rebecca — Sat, 04 Sep 2010 10:50:35 +0000

For disappearing acts, it's hard to beat what happens to the eight hours supposedly left after eight of sleep and eight of work.
By:Doug Larson

We need to update this, to our time....

For disappering acts, it's hard to bet what happens to the four hours supposedly left after six hours of sleep, twelve hours of work, two hours of driving....Let's see, 1 hour of cooking and eating, cleaning, 45 min in the shower, 15 min of laundry, 30 min of cleaning the rest of the house, 30 min.running kids around, 30 min to fall asleep, knowing your tired, and you have to get up.....30 min of free time...tv????? Weekends... do everything you dont have time for in your 30 min left.... mow grass, pull weeds, wash the car(not mind; it would fall apart.), and all the other great stuff there is to do : )

Dr. Laura Schlessinger's None Racial use of the N-word. Who is right?

Attitude — Sun, 29 Aug 2010 21:12:01 +0000

AUDIO OF: Dr. Laura Schlessinger's None Racial N-word rant

On August 10, Dr. Laura Schlessinger launched in to a non-racially charged education of a caller, in the coursework of which Schlessinger -- in her own words -- "articulated the 'n' word all the way out -- over two times." Among other things, Schlessinger also told an African-American caller that he had a "chip on [her] shoulder."(Which she did by the way she acted)Schlessinger has since apologized for her remarks, but audio from the discussion appears to have been excised from the recording of that day's show that appears on Schlessinger's website. Not taking sides here, but for petes sake! Schlessinger was just trying to set the record straight on things and their was no racial intent there what so ever. Just a clear cut example that you cannot say the n word in any context without someone saying ah ha! got you now you stinking rasist! Read the transcript or listen to it yourself. I Would also like to know everyones opion on this. Please feel free to comment.

On Tuesday, Schlessinger took a call from a female caller during the second hour of her show and had the following discussion:

SCHLESSINGER: Jade, welcome to the program.

CALLER: Hi, Dr. Laura.

SCHLESSINGER: Hi.

CALLER: I'm having an issue with my husband where I'm starting to grow very resentful of him. I'm black, and he's white. We've been around some of his friends and family members who start making racist comments as if I'm not there or if I'm not black. And my husband ignores those comments, and it hurts my feelings. And he acts like --

SCHLESSINGER: Well, can you give me an example of a racist comment? 'Cause sometimes people are hypersensitive. So tell me what's -- give me two good examples of racist comments.

CALLER: OK. Last night -- good example -- we had a neighbor come over, and this neighbor -- when every time he comes over, it's always a black comment. It's, "Oh, well, how do you black people like doing this?" And, "Do black people really like doing that?" And for a long time, I would ignore it. But last night, I got to the point where it --

SCHLESSINGER: I don't think that's racist.

CALLER: Well, the stereotype --

SCHLESSINGER: I don't think that's racist. No, I think that --

CALLER: [unintelligible]

SCHLESSINGER: No, no, no. I think that's -- well, listen, without giving much thought, a lot of blacks voted for Obama simply 'cause he was half-black. Didn't matter what he was gonna do in office, it was a black thing. You gotta know that. That's not a surprise. Not everything that somebody says -- we had friends over the other day; we got about 35 people here -- the guys who were gonna start playing basketball. I was going to go out and play basketball. My bodyguard and my dear friend is a black man. And I said, "White men can't jump; I want you on my team." That was racist? That was funny.

CALLER: How about the N-word? So, the N-word's been thrown around --

SCHLESSINGER: Black guys use it all the time. Turn on HBO, listen to a black comic, and all you hear is nigger, nigger, nigger.

CALLER: That isn't --

SCHLESSINGER: I don't get it. If anybody without enough melanin says it, it's a horrible thing; but when black people say it, it's affectionate. It's very confusing. Don't hang up, I want to talk to you some more. Don't go away.

I'm Dr. Laura Schlessinger. I'll be right back.

After taking a commercial break, Schlessinger resumed her discussion with the caller:

SCHLESSINGER: I'm Dr. Laura Schlessinger, talking to Jade. What did you think about during the break, by the way?

CALLER: I was a little caught back by the N-word that you spewed out, I have to be honest with you. But my point is, race relations --

SCHLESSINGER: Oh, then I guess you don't watch HBO or listen to any black comedians.

CALLER: But that doesn't make it right. I mean, race is a [unintelligible] --

SCHLESSINGER: My dear, my dear --

CALLER: -- since Obama's been in office --

SCHLESSINGER: -- the point I'm trying to make --

CALLER: -- racism has come to another level that's unacceptable.

SCHLESSINGER: Yeah. We've got a black man as president, and we have more complaining about racism than ever. I mean, I think that's hilarious.

CALLER: But I think, honestly, because there's more white people afraid of a black man taking over the nation.

SCHLESSINGER: They're afraid.

CALLER: If you want to be honest about it [unintelligible]

SCHLESSINGER: Dear, they voted him in. Only 12 percent of the population's black. Whites voted him in.

CALLER: It was the younger generation that did it. It wasn't the older white people who did it.

SCHLESSINGER: Oh, OK.

CALLER: It was the younger generation --

SCHLESSINGER: All right. All right.

CALLER: -- that did it.

SCHLESSINGER: Chip on your shoulder. I can't do much about that.

CALLER: It's not like that.

SCHLESSINGER: Yeah. I think you have too much sensitivity --

CALLER: So it's OK to say "nigger"?

SCHLESSINGER: -- and not enough sense of humor.

CALLER: It's OK to say that word?

SCHLESSINGER: It depends how it's said.

CALLER: Is it OK to say that word? Is it ever OK to say that word?

SCHLESSINGER: It's -- it depends how it's said. Black guys talking to each other seem to think it's OK.

CALLER: But you're not black. They're not black. My husband is white.

SCHLESSINGER: Oh, I see. So, a word is restricted to race. Got it. Can't do much about that.

CALLER: I can't believe someone like you is on the radio spewing out the "nigger" word, and I hope everybody heard it.

SCHLESSINGER: I didn't spew out the "nigger" word.

CALLER: You said, "Nigger, nigger, nigger."

SCHLESSINGER: Right, I said that's what you hear.

CALLER: Everybody heard it.

SCHLESSINGER: Yes, they did.

CALLER: I hope everybody heard it.

SCHLESSINGER: They did, and I'll say it again --

CALLER: So what makes it OK for you to say the word?

SCHLESSINGER: -- nigger, nigger, nigger is what you hear on HB --

CALLER: So what makes it --

SCHLESSINGER: Why don't you let me finish a sentence?

CALLER: OK.

SCHLESSINGER: Don't take things out of context. Don't double N -- NAACP me. Tape the --

CALLER: I know what the NAACP --

SCHLESSINGER: Leave them in context.

CALLER: I know what the N-word means and I know it came from a white person. And I know the white person made it bad.

SCHLESSINGER: All right. Thank you very much. Thank you very much. Can't have this argument. You know what? If you're that hypersensitive about color and don't have a sense of humor, don't marry out of your race. If you're going to marry out of your race, people are going to say, "OK, what do blacks think? What do whites think? What do Jews think? What do Catholics think?" Of course there isn't a one-think per se. But in general there's "think."

And what I just heard from Jade is a lot of what I hear from black-think -- and it's really distressting [sic] and disturbing. And to put it in its context, she said the N-word, and I said, on HBO, listening to black comics, you hear "nigger, nigger, nigger." I didn't call anybody a nigger. Nice try, Jade. Actually, sucky try.

Need a sense of humor, sense of humor -- and answer the question. When somebody says, "What do blacks think?" say, "This is what I think. This is what I read that if you take a poll the majority of blacks think this." Answer the question and discuss the issue. It's like we can't discuss anything without saying there's -isms?

We have to be able to discuss these things. We're people -- goodness gracious me. Ah -- hypersensitivity, OK, which is being bred by black activists. I really thought that once we had a black president, the attempt to demonize whites hating blacks would stop, but it seems to have grown, and I don't get it. Yes, I do. It's all about power. I do get it. It's all about power and that's sad because what should be in power is not power or righteousness to do good -- that should be the greatest power.

Facebook sues, Thinks it owns the word "Book"

Barbie — Sun, 29 Aug 2010 12:51:58 +0000

In case you are not familiar with the story, Facebook is suing a company called Teachbook, which operates a social networking site for teachers, apparently because it's "book" in its name and "competes" with Facebook. Teachbook is described as "a professional community for teachers".

"We were unaware the Facebook owned the Net or the term 'book,'" Teachbook Managing Partner Greg Shrader says "We think that they are wrong on the merits of their case, because the United States Patent and Trademark Office approve our trademark application for Teachbook and informed us that 'book' is a generic term which cannot be trademarked. They think this is why they chosen to file a suit in federal court and take their opposition out of the trademark office. They basically cannot win on the merits of their trademark objection."

"Teachbook is a suite of productivity tools for teachers," Shrader explains. "It allows teachers to design and share lesson designs, instructional videos, online courses. It also allows teachers to keep online gradebooks, communicate with parents, and share ideas with one another."

"In short it is designed to permit teachers to improve teaching and learning in the classroom," they continues. "We don't know why Facebook or Mark Zuckerberg need to get in the way of that."

"And they don't think that potential Facebook users who are looking to share pics and socialize with their elderly high school buddies could be confused by a site designed for teachers," they concludes.

Based on the responses we have gotten from our earlier article on the subject, it would appear that the general public (for the most part) agrees. What do you think? Comment here

Also, read some comments below.

Teachers and Books
Seems like Teachers' use of the term "book" in a domain certainly makes more sense than any claim facebook has. What could be more valid and natural than teachers and books?

By Random Guest Fri, 08/27/2010 - 20:42
Sue me?!
Don't sue me, I'm just excising my human right of free speech and freedom of expression, I'm not inn it to help teachers help children, or the "tell me what your interested in, and I'll sell you what you want"

Just passing time

By Random Guest - Fri, 08/27/2010 - 07:43
Teachbook vs. Book
Two Faced - The arrogance of a company that is claiming to protect their rights and integrity when the success of their whole business is based on deceit, lies and manipulation.

What about the rights of the internet user who gets continuously spammed by faceb..k through the farce of its members who are forced to do so on faceb..k's behalf in the name of creating 'friends'

When the spammed recipient eventually responds they are forced to become a faceb..k member to continue. This new member now responds back to the 'friend' and is notified that the message can not be sent because the recipient finds it offensive. Firstly how can they find the message offensive when they have not received it yet? A blatant lie! It’s then discovered that the offensive language is the new member’s website address stated in the message.

Now the new member decides that they no longer want to be part of this manipulating BS and they request that their account be permanently deleted from faceb..k and are informed that it takes two weeks. Two weeks later it has not been removed. After many request (8 months later) it still has not been removed! So any membership number claims from faceb..k is pure BS

ANYONE who conducts business in this way, in my view, has no rights at all and should be banned.

Hi , Please don't sue me I did not use your word 'b..k'

Fri, 08/27/2010 - 03:34
TeachBook Vs FaceBook
I think Facebook is the biggest waste of time ever created, I the case of teach book an online product that helps the education system I think its brilliant and can help grow a stable community.

In the case of facebook, the world is fast becoming more dependant on online communities forums and things like facebook that allow people to share photos and events and the feelings how they day is going, What happen to talking to a person face to face.

People need to wake up and start going outside to see what a beautiful world we live in.

Random Guest - Fri, 08/27/2010 - 04:43
You're 100% right, few
You're 100% right, few months ago we were talking how facebook put all in prison blocking them from doing something useful, and when the time came that someone did something good & useful, guess who stood in the way facebook!

I cannot believe it! my boss at work who is the second man after the CEO was so angry when I gave orders to block the facebook in the company, my wife stays late at night surfing facebook, that day I was shocked when an old relative just came to visit us from abroad asked us if he can collect his farm vegetables, I thought the old man is loosing focus, so he asked for the internet when I just knew there was a game called Farm in facebook which the only aim for it is keeping you stucked...

This is going too far my friends...

Random Guest - Thu, 08/26/2010 - 23:07
facebook sues teachbook
How arrogant can big US corporations get? I think that we should all close our facebook accounts in protest. By the way, the US patent office is not absolved of all guilt either. They have a long history of allowing people to patent and trademark common knowledge.

Random Guest - Thu, 08/26/2010 - 20:42
Facebook's comment
The problem is not merely that they use the word “book.” You’ll notice that we have no complaint against Kelly Blue Book or Yellowbook or others. However, there is already a well-known online service with “book” in the brand name that helps people connect and share. Of course the Teachbook folks are free to create a similar service for teachers or whomever they like, and we wish them well in that endeavor. What they are not free to do is trade on our name, create confusion, or dilute our brand while doing so. Additionally, it’s important to note that where there is confusion or brand dilution as there is with Teachbook and Facebook, we must enforce our rights to protect the integrity of our trademark. I encourage you to consult a trademark expert about this last point or any of it for that matter.

Sun, 08/29/2010 - 08:08
You're absolutely right
Kelly Blue Book and Yellowbook should sue YOU. Especially since they've been around FAR longer than your ridiculous time-waster site.

Way to waste OUR tax payer dollars by having to defend our teachers in court.

Thank you for clearly showing us what a complete a$$hole and moron you are, .

Perhaps we should start a BOYCOTT FACEB**K movement? Think of all the advertising $$$ they'll lose. Hitting 'em right in the wallet works every time

Fri, 08/27/2010 - 20:32
You don't need to be a judge to judge against your argument, ask yourself the question: 'what would a reasonable man say?', NOT 'what would a corporate money hungry web business, who wants to collect data about everyone so that they can sell ads to them, say!?'

The funny thing is , a reasonable person would also say that Facebook diluted YellowBook to the detriment of the latter... Perhaps it is Facebook who should sued after all

Monkeys in suits, hay, monkeys in suits

By Random Guest - Fri, 08/27/2010 - 09:09
Similar Service
Mr. Schmitt,

I wasn't aware that Facebook had applications for grade-score keeping, databases of pupil information and course study, databases of teaching materials, and the like. It seems a bit of a stretch for you to claim that Facebook provides a "similar service" to that of TeachBook.

I learned of this issue through which I receive because I do web design and brand marketing. I also have a fairly well-rounded legal education, although I've opted not to be lawyer. You're going to have to formulate your argument better to show that the use of "book" dilutes your brand name. Yellowbook has existed long before Facebook--both online and in print, yet they have not sued you for diluting their brand.

Teachbook's existence isn't going to reduce the number of facebook pages in existence, even if it were a competing social network--which it isn't. And if Yellowbook doesn't dilute the Facebook brand with its connecting of people together, how can you argue that a professional niche network like Teachbook would? I don't know of anyone who would be confused, and few folks outside of the teaching profession would even be aware of Teachbook's existence. Facebook reigns supreme in recognition for being what it is. Yellowbook also retains its well-known brand recognition, and has not been damaged from Facebook's cheeky use of "book". Show me the damage?

What I think I am hearing Facebook claim is that any network service, whether it be professional or social, that uses the word "book" in its name causes damage to Facebook's brand. I believe a judge with a rudimentary level of reasoning "faculties" will rule that your claim is not only a reach but that one would need a time-collapsing wormhole to reach that conclusion.

Good luck with suing, and I hope all the lawyers enjoy the profits they extract from Facebook's silliness.

"Best",

Random Guest - Sat, 08/28/2010 - 12:57
FACEBOOK thinks it owns the world
I would like to know who you are please ?
I have some things I have come to realize

Please tell if you know teach book
It appears you want to help them I say it sounds good
GET BACK ASAP

By Random Guest - Fri, 08/27/2010 - 01:48
"book" is not your name, "Facebook" is.
, I started reading your comment with great interest. But I was completely put off when I read "they are not free to do is trade on our name, create confusion, or dilute our brand while doing so". Seriously speaking "book" is not your name. The word "book" was there before Facebook came into being and it will surely still be there after Facebook. After all the use of "book" makes more sense in the case of "Teachbook" than in your case because teachers and students are heavily linked with books.

By Random Guest - Fri, 08/27/2010 - 02:36
Hmmm...
I think I know what is referring to. Teachbook sounds like Facebook. They might have a case after all.

By Random Guest - Thu, 08/26/2010 - 22:54
Fork Orf
WHILST Facebook are big and powerful they do not own the rights to common words or phrases in the English language and they should be told in no uncertain terms by the courts to fxxx off and stop being a litigious bunch of pricks.

By Random Guest - Thu, 08/26/2010 - 22:52
Are you serious Schnitt?
I was led to believe that Facebooks Mission Statement was "To give people the power to share and make the world more open and connected." But apparently in their view of the world are the unwritten words "..but only on our platform"

Schitt Director, Policy Communications says "..we must enforce our rights to protect the integrity of our trademark. I encourage you to consult a trademark expert about this last point or any of it for that matter..." and I agree with that as an overarching concept.

Shit then goes on to say "..where there is confusion or brand dilution as there is with Teachbook and Facebook.."

Are you for real ? The only confusion out there in the marketplace is why you bozo's would even think that anyone would be confused about what Facebook is and what Teachbook is.

Maybe you can break through the confusion and enlighten us all as to exactly where on Facebook we can find the URLs that will do any of the following things. And please be specific with the URL's that Facebook owns that you claim Teachbook is creating "..confusion or brand dilution.."

When you join Teachbook, you can:

* Manage your professional profile and all information in your account by choosing to share with administrators, colleagues, parents or public

* Create and search lesson plans, instructional videos, and other teaching resources

* Manage your classroom communications with secure parent-teacher communication tools, such as a gradebook, events calendar, classroom newsletter, and homework space

* Communicate and connect with colleagues though discussion, chat, blogs, and more

* Gain new teaching knowledge and insights from like-minded professionals in groups

* Create and manage online courses and instructional modules

* Enable teachers to manage their student grades by recording, calculating, and sharing them in a secure online Gradebook.

Thu, 08/26/2010 - 23:00
Teachbook
Teachers are not allowed to use Facebook for professional interaction so why would they consider it a facebook dilution? How do I know? I know quite a few teachers.

By Random Guest - Thu, 08/26/2010 - 22:14
RE:
Thank you for commenting with Facebook's side.

By Random Guest - Thu, 08/26/2010 - 18:22
See...
This lawsuit against Teachbook is like arguing with a woman, you'll lose no matter what. What I mean is that Facebook's Mark is really stupid for attacking a site for teachers. They are going to lose in the court of public opinion which is worse than Federal court. I can see people saying, Facebook is against education of our children and shit like that. If I were Facebook's Mark, I'll look at her straight in the eyes, back up slowly, turn around and run.

Thu, 08/26/2010 - 18:32
Like this one.
Here, just like this one: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BggUuMcfaYw

By Random Guest - Thu, 08/26/2010 - 17:26
filed its trademark
filed its trademark infringement lawsuit in U.S. District Court in San Jose last week, asserting that the "book" part of its name is "highly distinctive in the context of online communities and networking websites."

How about reading some more, I can see all info needed above.. cant you?.
PS: You will also find this info in the lawsuit PDF file that is open for anyone to view.

Thu, 08/26/2010 - 17:02
facebook sues teachbook
From what I can tell, this is PR stunt by someone that has an interested in teachbook. First, facebook wouldn't sue. They would send a letter to teachbook claiming copy right infringement. The word book is too broad of a term for anyone to claim copy right infringement. The only way they can claim copy right infringement is if the name was something like FACEBOOKS.com. Second, I look into to teachbook.com and it looks like they don't get to many visitors to their website, But they are trying to get visitors with this article. Third, there is no mention of where the law suit was filed. So, if someone wanted to see if this law suit is real, they can't because they wouldn't know who to call.

I could poke more holes in this story very easily, but I will quit, while I am ahead. Also, if webpronews.com keeps posting stories like this then I will unsubscribe.

Thu, 08/26/2010 - 17:22
RE:
The document is here. While we haven't received comment from Facebook yet, the company has already acknowledged it. Poke away.

Thu, 08/26/2010 - 18:07
Where, did you learn to
Where, did you learn to write? Those facts should have been in the original article or at the very least, links to any facts should have been at the bottom article.

By Will - Fri, 08/27/2010 - 05:15
Defensive?
Where did you learn to read?

The facts were in the original article, just not the exact details. If you truly want to 'poke holes ' in something don’t' just sit there and go "oh where's the proof GIVE IT TO ME". You could easily have found this yourself, or taken it as read that had checked their sources.

Not that you should always assume that but basically, don't whine that you don't trust a story if you're too lazy to do basic checking of publicly available facts - and definitely don't whine that it’s someone else’s fault that your baseless assumption was proven wrong.

By Random Guest - Thu, 08/26/2010 - 18:27
Guys what's the issue here?
Guys what's the issue here? The documents are there for you to see! The lawsuit is as real as a heart attack! The original article being referenced to by Chris had the links too.

By Random Guest - Sat, 08/28/2010 - 09:57
Facebook used the word integrity
I cannot see that Facebook HAS any integrity to speak of.

Also, I have to keep deleting spam from Facebook at work. you are filling my inbox with junk. I think you'd better stop before the Feds notice!

Also we have noticed spam from an outfit that calls itself f...book. Now that sounds much close to facebook, so why not sue them? Going after teachers instead? Makes no sense.

Federal health care is about 94 years overdue

Barbie — Sun, 29 Aug 2010 11:44:44 +0000

We've all heard and read the comments about a federal medical care act. It costs too much. It's too complicated. And it puts medical decisions in the hands of someone else. Sound familiar?

Well this is what the Democrats were saying in 2004 about the Medicare Part D prescription drug program, and those Democrats were warning that the cost of the program would break the budget, seniors would reject it because it was too complicated, and it put insurance companies in the middle of decisions that one and one's doctor should make.

Now that same screed is being repeated by the Republicans today. The common denominator is that it was the other party that passed it. I, for one, according to those Democrat Party politicians, should have vehemently opposed Medicare Part D. because many pensions was too high to allow people to participate.

Well, I don't think that way, but all too many do. If it pays them money, they're all for it. If it doesn't, they're against it. If their party sponsored it and passed it, they're for it. If the other party sponsored and passed it, they're against it. This shows how badly skewed their priorities are.

So we are supposed to repeal ''Obamacare?'' And, as one letter writer proposed, replace it with something called HEMA Health Emergency Medical Assistance? He compared the idea to FEMA? And does he mean the FEMA as it was before Bush and 9/11, or the relatively ineffectual FEMA it became afterward? I fail to see how anything like that HEMA would do any real good, especially since many medical emergencies do not happen suddenly, but creep up on a person over a span of time.

As far as I am concerned, the plan characterized as ''Obamacare'' is 94 years overdue. If it is expensive, no one should be surprised. It could have been exponentially less expensive if it had been put in place years ago, and will be exponentially more expensive if it is put off again. Playing catch-up is always expensive. At least, it is like Theodore Roosevelt's foot in the door.

What are the results of the mish-mash existing before the new law? I know a person. He is single. He has also been fighting a extremely crippling migraine that had him on total disability. He is now off disability, and is working full time again, but those Relpax pills cost $26 each, and it took four years to find a doctor that could and would help.

He currently works for a company with no benefits, and pays $3,000 a year out of his own pocket for the New York-state sponsored health insurance plan.

Then how about those who have a company health insurance plan of sorts, but are trapped in that job because they can't take it with them?

I suggest all nay sayers to read Matthew 25:31-46. It was not added to the Bible by the Roosevelt administration or by President Obama. It has been there for centuries.

GOP control led to poor economy

Barbie — Sun, 29 Aug 2010 11:38:32 +0000

There has been a lot of talk about the Bush tax cuts. They were touted that they would help the lower and middle class by trickling down to the working population.

They culminated in a recession and destruction of the American economy. Greed has won out and I am still waiting for my share. To allow tax reduction to continue will not help you and me, but the rich again will gain a windfall, which they will horde for themselves.

The Republicans were in office for eight years and what did we get? Our jobs shipped overseas. We lost homes due to poor bank management. Before getting caught up in the Tea Party, remember the party that cost people their jobs. They can't be taxed on no wages. This administration is trying to get people back what they lost in those eight years. But that can't happen without the people's help.

All those who are hopeful for a better future should let their voices be heard. Don't be intimidated by the minority. Some people feel that he who yells loudest is right.

I say, speak softly and carry a big stick. The greedy few need to be taken to the woodshed. See you at the polls.

You have to acknowledge Obama’s policies are working

Barbie — Sun, 29 Aug 2010 11:36:45 +0000

In this day and time we hear a lot of negative political commentary on television. Very rarely do you hear a public figure boldly assert that President Obama's policies are working.

In the case where White House Press Secretary Robert Gibbs said very positive things about Obama's accomplishments, he found himself in trouble explaining to The Hill newspaper what he meant when he said liberals who likened Obama to former President Bush on many policies should be drug tested.

An article appearing in one newspaper Aug. 11 was titled, ''For his sake, Obama needs to see signs.'' In brief, the author said that a grassroots rebellion against Obama's policies is in progress and if he doesn't respond to it, he will possibly be a one-term president.

How Obama is being treated is reminiscent of how Harold Washington was treated during his first term as the first African-American mayor of Chicago (1983-87). A group of city council members led by Alderman Ed Vrdolyak opposed everything he did. Had you witnessed some of the ugly, racially polarized political battles unveiled through Chicago's news network, you would have concluded unequivocally that there was no way Washington was going to be elected for a second term. On April 7, 1987, the same political base of black, brown and white voters who elected him for his first term, re-elected him for a second.

It is my belief that all the negative political commentary that we read and hear is not representative of most Americans. This grassroots rebellion and this mosque-building controversy that we've been hearing on the news lately will have little effect in the 2012 general election. Just like in Harold Washington's case, the political base that elected Obama is still out there.

I agree with Press Secretary Gibbs. If you can't adknowledge one positive thing coming out of the Obama administration, perhaps you should consider being tested.

People need to educate themselves about candidates

Barbie — Sun, 29 Aug 2010 11:33:17 +0000

With all the political scandals we see in the media nowadays, it's no wonder our valley is in its current economic shape. The process of electing individuals based on who raises and spends the most money for self-promotion brings us again and again to where we are today. Buying influence has to stop before anyone ever views us in a positive light.

What happened to electing individuals with similar views and life experiences? What happened to electing those who worked with and alongside the people they represent to achieve mutual goals? What happened to knowing that every voice is heard and respecting differences of opinion?

This does not mean that every wish needs to be granted, but rather knowing what needs should be met first. Lastly and most importantly what happened to electing individuals who put faith in God and in return receive the guidance to know right from wrong in their decisions?

People need to educate themselves on who the candidates are and what they represent because the results will be a reflection of the Country now and the direction of our future.

Are Fox News reporters paid actors?

Attitude — Sat, 28 Aug 2010 12:30:27 +0000

Are Fox News reporters paid actors? I was really wondering this as they all seem to be really good at spreading propaganda and lies. They even look at you right in the camera and keep a straight face as if they really believe for themselves what they are telling you. They might even look at them self in the mirror and believe themselves.

Want to know what is really sad? What is sad is that they have got the people that I call followers with no sense of direction and cannot think for themselves to watch this tabloid network. Ever see their Model reporters and so called contributors? For one their not even old enough to even know what the hell their talking about. They are just there to get rating. Most watching just mute it and look at the air come out of their heads. SWOOSH!

What is really clear is that they are living very dangerously by what is very clearly racist trends. Look at Glenn Beck holding a rally at the same place and on the same anniversary as the I have a dream speech by Dr. Martin Luther King.

It is so obvious that these media actors where hired to divide this country and has consistently pissed off the African Americans to what agenda remains unclear.

Please help free Tony the Truck stop Tiger

Daniel — Sun, 22 Aug 2010 11:47:46 +0000

Tony, a 10 year old tiger, is used as a roadside attraction at Tiger Truck Stop in Grosse Tete Louisiana. Please support efforts to give Tony the life and home he deserves at a big cat sanctuary.

It is a tragic reality that there are more tigers privately owned than there are in the wild.

For the last ten years, Tony has been one of the unfortunate ones that only know life behind bars – on display at a truckstop. His now numerous supporters have sent in letters, videos, and photos detailing the state of his condition – panting on a concrete floor, behind metal bars, in high summer heat, and losing weight.

He has also exhibited stereotypic behaviors and aggressive gestures toward the public on multiple occasions. Even though he has not known true freedom in his life, it is never too late. The more people that know of Tony’s plight, the more opposition Sandlin will have to face. Perhaps one day he will see the value in letting Tony live out the rest of his days in a sanctuary, free to express natural behaviors. Support this cause below.

http://www.facebook.com/FreeTonyTheTiger?v=info&ref=ts

http://freetonythetiger.wordpress.com/

http://www.youtube.com/user/FreeTonyTheTiger

What Americans are saying about unemployment

Daniel — Wed, 11 Aug 2010 22:23:05 +0000

anonymous source says:

If employers would stop taking advantage of the economy to pay people less than they would have 4 years ago we would have a lot of people back to work. They are using the excuse that because the economy is bad to cut wages, benefits etc.

WAKE UP AMERICA...WE ARE NOT GOING TO WORK FOR SLAVE WAGES BECAUSE CORP AMERICA WANTS TO TAKE ADVANTAGE OF AN ALREADY BAD SITUATION!

anonymous source says:

13 an hour for a machinist???? no wonder why he cant find any one.

anonymous source says:

I've done IT consulting for maybe 10 years. I often walk into a large company say (HSBC for instance)...and what do you see? rows and rows of empty cubicles (and then 5 consultants from some 9th world hell hole). Do I blame them? of course not . Do I blame these mega companies? You bet. Meanwhile the CEO's jump ship and pocket more money than most of us could ever dream of. They make shotguns for a reason.

anonymous source says:

I agree with butrfly: you go to school at your own (borrowed) expense to get knowledge certificates that qualify you for better jobs. But if you can't start out at age 20 while you are still living with your parents, or a group of friends sharing living expenses, you need 2 or more jobs to make ends meet! Throw children into the equation (often in this country, as a single parent without the benefit of spousal income) and you nearly can't win!!

anonymous source says:

Jobs that pay more than $40,000 a year go unfilled despite the slow economy.” ????

anonymous source says:

Where the hell are these jobs????

anonymous source says:

"Extending jobless benefits to 99 weeks gives the unemployed less incentive to search out new work." What a crock !!!

anonymous source says:

I was laid off in Jan. due to the economy and like many people that have been laid off that earned between 40K and 80K everyone is looking for a job, even willing to take less then what they were making.....but how much more then “less” does one take? Just because a 57 year old can get a job flipping hamburgers next to a High School kid doesn't constitute a middle class job. If unemployment pays more then the jobs that are being offered why would anyone work for less? Does no incentive to search out work that pays less then half of what I make in unemployment make me lazy? I paid into unemployment for over 40 years, and although I’m not an illegal, does that mean I shouldn’t get what is rightfully mine? People want and need to work, but people want to work for something that will eventually shine a light on what was once believed to be the American dream. Don’t keep me unemployed; show me the middle class jobs. I would be happy to land a 40k job in central Illinois, especially when I got laid off from a 63k job, yes I’m more then willing to take a 23k reduction, but guess what, the ghost jobs you’re talking about, the ones that can’t be filled, well, they’re not really there.

anonymous source says:

I am so sick of these crybaby employers. Clearly if that machinist shop owner paid more, he could find and keep employees and grow his business. He is just being unrealistic about the cost of living and what is a living wage for that work. The employer who can't find employees with the right certification to remove asbestos just needs to pay for that training and then offer a living wage as well. These 'let-them-eat-cake' crybabies are just dreaming about getting something for nothing, to maximize their own short-term profits. It is called supply and demand, folks - part of free enterprise. Too bad this article does not even mention any high-paid, high-skilled jobs going vacant, jobs that those unemployed middle-skilled people could train for - that would be a real employment solution. Instead it scolds people with college degrees for not taking waitress/waiter jobs at truck stops and blames unemployment for letting people search for a living wage job. Wow - real Marie Antoinette stuff. What has happened to our American democracy? We really are turning into a third-world country.

anonymous source says:

I too am a victim of this economy in more than one way. I received multiple letters of accomodation over the years abd was often used as an example for new hires on how to be timely to show up for work. As soon as my company realized they had an abundance of job applicants for every position. The next step was no more raises and were bold enough to even say if you don't like you can leave. When I went to our head quarters as I worked in a satellite office I did not recognize anyone, all the senior people had been replaced with entry level pay people. I knew I would be next and then the person I was working with graduate Paramedic school and less the following month they , said they received a complaint that was worthy of firing me...These people also thought if they made up a big enough story that they would not have to pay unemployment tax...I had a hearing and they did not have one piece of evidence surprising right ! I know several that this has happened to in Florida and large companies across the country. The other thing is people who have good jobs are'nt retiring who would normally retire and do part time jobs because there are no part time jobs or they lost their retirement in the stockmarket. The very very fortnate thing for us is my wife is in healthcare and there is no end to her job her mother was sick and we had to move our house went into foreclosure and we had to buy another house and the foreclosure is unresolved... oh well these are many reasons about why companies have opted to screw us over if you don't recognize anyone your next>>>...

anonymous source says:

I searched the internet for job opening at Long-Stanton, Ohio. Nothing came up. I looked on their website - no openings listed - they don't even have on their web site a link for job openings. What I found out is that they have a huge facility in China - is that where they are looking for employees??? Do they expect American unemployed to move to China???

anonymous source says:

The manner in which these republicans assert their erroneous contentions are interesting, yet laughable!

anonymous source says:

One moment they say "there are no jobs due to Obama being President." The next they say to the unemployed, "there are many good jobs, you just don't want to work, that's all!" Even in the quantum realm these two contradictions can't exist simultaneously, folks

anonymous source says:

It's not the unemployment benefits that are the problem, it's the companies themselves. Where are these jobs. I, as a college educated professional currently searching, see job postings with such specific and over-the-top requirements for a role with no scope. They're robbing Peter to pay Paul. They know that with so many people out of work the can shoot the moon for someone with decades of experience and pay them and entry-level salary, if there is a salary at all!! And what a surprise when no one that submits is qualified. Duh, it's all about the money you idiots!! You get what you post for.

anonymous source says:

I'm sure none of the jobs posted, are AGE specific.... Until you show up for the interview that is. I've had two interviews and both times it was pretty obvious that they wanted someone younger to GROW with their company... I just turned 60 a month ago..... The positions were for construction supervisor / project manager, a position I've held for over 25 years, and completed countless projects... most in the million plus range... In one interview, the year 1974 came up, the year I completed my apprenticeship in a construction trade... The interviewer thought that was funny... "Oh My God.. I was still in school then"... the next interview.... this question... How would you communicate with the office while in the field..? Have you ever used a computer..?? I was dumb founded... err... I guess they didn't read my resume.. where I explained that I am qualified in ACAD and MS Office... I guess they figured at my age I must of used.. Cave man skills "hammer chisel" to communicate...
As far as turning jobs down in the article above, most all of us have bills and obligations that require us to make more money than these positions offer. Also, to get your foot in the door for an interview, try not to give any information that would give away your age.... such as... military service? Yes.. U.S. Army... not, U.S. Army 1968 to 1971... Then when you show up for your interview, your age may be less of a negative and can be used to your advantage... ( well at least in some interviews...)...LOL

anonymous source says:

Maybe these businesses should consider hiring us old guys on a part-time basis. It has been my experience however,that not many if any of them will do it. I worked a 40 + hr week for most of my adult life and really don't want to go back to that.It seems that it would behoove employers to hire say two seniors for a job and give them 20 hrs. a week than to go wanting for more business??

anonymous source says:

We intellectual people should support one another and collectively unite our brilliant minds to resolve the unemployment issue. I too am out of work for 9 months to date and faced everyone of the above mentioned obstacles. I have certificates/licenses and experience,but when I do the math the praticality of it just won't add up. Living everyday with anxiety,I help those that are least fortunate with home repairs or meals. We are the smartest people in the world and we can figure this one out. We really need to look to each other and not wait for the Government to FIX this. Remember that one voice in a crowd many may be a disraction,but entire crowd simply speaking is power and strength and will cause changes

anonymous source says:

Thats a funny one, we can't find anyone without a brain that will work for $47K to oversee asbestos clean up-LOL That should be on the Discovery Channel as the most dangerous job. Thats the kind of job that shoul pay much more. These are all speciality jobs that require someone with special skills that may already have a job

anonymous source says:

There are also people like me, my husband walked out on the kids and I two weeks ago. We have no clue where he is, I havent worked in 7 1/2 years because I was a stay at home mom. So now I have to find a job that will support my kids and I, and sorry but 7.45 is not going to cut it!

anonymous source says:

I don't want to get into the policital "sides" on this one......but these companies outsourced to save money/make profit, and now that the "global" economy is tanking or going downwards and they want to schootch back to their "homefield advantage".....well they don't have one!! Unless companies put back INTO this country the training and money they took OUT of it, and that they used in order to reap in the profits from while still outsourcing; well, they will never, EVER be able to have an AMERICAN workforce the likes that our forefathers CREATED. Corporate America's creed is greed. But that greed is coming at a price too steep for regular "I don't need a McMansion folk to live on". KARMA IS A @#$%, AIN'T IT?????

anonymous source says:

couldn't agree more! I completed my Bachlor's Degree of Science in Legal Studies last year. These employers are posting job ads saying, "Must have at least 3 - 5 years experience." Well, I don't have that hands on experience because no one will give me the opportunity to get it! And even if someone did hire me, they want me to start out as a receptionist instead of a paralegal making close to minimum wages that won't even pay my rent, much less put food on the table for my three children or pay for my now severly past due, $60,000.00 student loan debt that I now have!

anonymous source says:

So now what are the middle class supposed to do? Hell no people aren't going to waste their time or gas money to go to work for cheap labor that doesn't even come close to getting them by financially! Wake up employers!!!!

anonymous source says:

Our department had several positions open for over 1 year and eventually the HR closed them because nobody wanted them. 60K-80K engineering jobs.

anonymous source says:

I agree that the more benefits you give people the easier it is to sit around and soak them up without working.

What people are saying about the gay marriage dilemma

Daniel — Sun, 08 Aug 2010 11:36:25 +0000

Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger asked a federal judge Friday to allow same-sex marriages while an appeal over the struck-down law that banned them makes its way through the courts.

If he lifts his stay, officials in California could immediately be allowed to perform same-sex marriages again. They were able to do so, briefly, before the Proposition 8 ban passed in 2008.

Here is what some people are saying about this gay marriage dilemma.
Do not forget to vote on whether you approve of this or not at http://bit.ly/9PU4Ee

"Good. They will be remembered favorably in the future for their decision. Well done."

"It's amazing how people show boldness for the hell fire. God destroyed the city of Saddam & Gamorah because men were sleeping with men and women were sleeping with women. This is Filthy! and a Disgrace! Keep spreading AIDS will you? Aids is the curse for such Filthy Evil."

"The voters said thay don't want it and a judge said you got-to and Arnold sided with the judge ? Way to stand with the people Arnold . Gladly you will not "be back".

"As the judge noted in his opinion, no state inquires about the ability or willingness of hetros to reproduce in order to obtain a marriage liscense. While reproduction is sometimes a result of marriage, childless hetro couples are still considered "married." That means a gay couple can still have ...
As the judge noted in his opinion, no state inquires about the ability or willingness of hetros to reproduce in order to obtain a marriage liscense. While reproduction is sometimes a result of marriage, childless hetro couples are still considered "married." That means a gay couple can still have a marriage even if no offspring are produced."

"We can split hairs all day. It's not going to change the opinion of anyone in here. Everyone has already made up their minds. That's why this argument is pointless."

"It's just a liberal pattern. If the vote does not work, call a judge but never be stopped because the majority went against you. You know better. You have these deep feelings. Noise and money, that's all you need."

"Right, wrong? Gimme a break. What is right or wrong is 100% opinion. Everything comes down to power and popularity."

"the majority is not always right - this is why we do not directly vote for laws but for representatives that so.i suggest you look through history - lots of things that are considered common sense now, such as the abolishing slavery were not supporte by the majority of americans at the time."

"But wait! Gay marriages cant produce children! Oh I have an idea! Lets deny them the right to get married.. then all the gay people will turn straight and become baby making machines! Marriage isn't about love, its about churning out babies!"

"Anyone who gets treated differently will gripe about it. The reasons do not matter. People are different, physically, mentally, and spiritually. Trying to make everyone even and equal is a futile and endless quest. There will always be something "else" that will differ. Eventually someone wont l...
Anyone who gets treated differently will gripe about it. The reasons do not matter. People are different, physically, mentally, and spiritually. Trying to make everyone even and equal is a futile and endless quest."

"There will always be something "else" that will differ. Eventually someone wont like it and will try to put some moral rationale into changing it."

"The argument that homosexuality is immoral is just as good as the argument that discrimination based on sexual preference is immoral. It all comes down to what society is willing to agree with. So IT DOES eventually fall into the hand of the majority. Don't kid yourself."

"So...anyone get out of the house today? Have some fun with people you love? See a movie? Read a book? Plan a holiday with friends? I love living my own life."

" before you get started...can I just ask you, what kind of hated and nastiness are you going to share with the class here tonight?"

"Jesus said nothing about homosexuality. The one thing in the Bible actually written by God (the Ten Commandments) says nothing about homosexuality. The rest of the Bible are opinions of men which change with the times. "The Lord is a man of war" says Exodus 15:3, but this changed to a God of love...
Jesus said nothing about homosexuality. The one thing in the Bible actually written by God (the Ten Commandments) says nothing about homosexuality. The rest of the Bible are opinions of men which change with the times. "The Lord is a man of war" says Exodus 15:3, but this changed to a God of love over time."

"It is really quite amazing what one can pick and chose to fit any ends. The truly evil people [ab]use God to further the work of the devil. Case in point, Fred Phelps."

"Jesus said nothing that I know of, people wrote a book quoting someone called Jesus. Sounds like hearsay to me."

"So American votes don't count . But some bribed judge can overturn the Law."

"Oh and of course me being me, I have more to say. The PROPER AND CORRECT place and venue for this is in the various state legislatures. Some state legislatures have stepped up to the plate, but by and large, California, they have not. It is the job of the legislature to work on just these issues....
Oh and of course me being me, I have more to say. The PROPER AND CORRECT place and venue for this is in the various state legislatures. Some state legislatures have stepped up to the plate, but by and large, California, they have not. It is the job of the legislature to work on just these issues. (Note to Democrat Gays: California's Legislature is Democrat run (again nothing from your Gay-friendly Democrat pandering politicians).) They have kicked the can down the road and refused to do their job. If the legislature had done their job, the job the voters elected them to do and the job for which they receive compensation and remuneration, then this would have been settled a long time ago. But no...now we have you here today spouting, "One judge...one ruling." God Bless America."

"This was not ONE ruling by one judge. This is a culmination of generations of all kinds of people fighting, working, and pushing for right vs. wrong. We have had slugfests over this issue. We have fought it out. This final ruling, and it pretty much is the last word really, is simply the result ...
This was not ONE ruling by one judge. This is a culmination of generations of all kinds of people fighting, working, and pushing for right vs. wrong. We have had slugfests over this issue. We have fought it out. This final ruling, and it pretty much is the last word really, is simply the result of all our efforts. It is acceptable to our society as a whole and on the main. This is the distinction about how it is right to marry someone of the same gender as opposed to you being able to marry your goat."

"Our votes don't count; never did, and never will. And this judge obviously was bribed or in some other way compromised. Dude: It is the job of judges to do exactly this: judge. Sometimes we agree with and like their rulings; sometimes we disagree and hate their rulings. In our system of...
Nope. Our votes don't count; never did, and never will. And this judge obviously was bribed or in some other way compromised. Dude: It is the job of judges to do exactly this: judge. Sometimes we agree with and like their rulings; sometimes we disagree and hate their rulings. In our system of governance the role judges play, and this judge too, is Constitutional, legal and within the scope of his authority. Heck I don't like what that judge did in Arizona. But it is the net effect of all variables and the checks and balances that keep our society together; not ONE ruling from one judge. Let me start one more post to address that notion."

"that pesky Constitution thing. What were the founding fathers thinking, setting it up to protect the rights of the minority from the will of the majority like that? Sheesh."

"If the Church you attend preaches hate (of any kind) then run. Run as fast and as far away from that place as you can. Let's review: God is a God of Love and a loving Father; Jesus' new covenant is to Love you neighbor. One law: Love. Get with the program."

"Oh and before you give that crap about the Bible says...just stop right there. Holy Scripture is Holy. Do not use the Word of the Lord to justify your bigotry and hatred and blackened heart. Jesus is alive and well today. God is a living God. God did not stop when the back end cover of the Bible was reached. Holy Scriptures on important, but it is only a part of the vastness and greatness of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Again, missing the mark. It is a sin to abuse the Word of God to twist it to fit into your view, viz-à-viz square peg in a round hole. So get with the Love program our our Lord and knock off all the nonsense hate from the devil. Look into your heart and you will find the love of Jesus"

"I never hated gay people. I honestly think this whole issue is a manufactured distraction. It was like that whole big deal about the basketball player who went to Miami. It is like one really huge fiasco after another lately."

"I have a girl friend.. she is 63 and smart as a whip..great for girl talk. never occurred to me to think of her as anything but a great friend. I am straight... can't do the gay thing at all.. just not me.
but I do understand those that are... you got to be what you are.
I know a gay female. i like her as a person. very nice. I have no fear or worries about her being gay. She is want she is... I can accept it with no problem."

" Look everyone, this is a complicated question on many levels - as evidenced by all the commentary. I really resent the Governator interfering. We need to let the courts work through this with due process."

"Here is a fight starter, and it's a conversation I would love to have. I am a Christian. I am Gay. I am a Conservative. I am a Republican. I am a low-level elected official for my county, post is called Precinct Committee Officer. I am active in my local politics. I have an open mind. I have been know to listen to the concerns of my neighbors, friends, and family. Shock to you leftist, I know, but, nonetheless, it is true. All very interesting. Ask me about my paycheck from my J-O-B and all of its withdrawals now. That is the important issue for me. What is your beef and/or major malfunction?"

Veteran ripped off by illegal aliens

Attitude — Sun, 01 Aug 2010 17:34:08 +0000

My name is d'Lynn. I'm a disabled Vietnam vet. I don't look too bad for a beat-up old fart, do I? And that's my ride. She's looking pretty good also, especially when you consider that she'll turn twenty this summer. That's right, it's a 1990 with a 1990 sidecar. I can't ride a solo bike, ergo the sidecar rig. It's my sole means of transportation - rain or shine, snow or wind, and this summer also marks a milestone in both of our lives, as I will finally be able to pay her off. Twenty years old? What? Why did it take so long? You weren't paying attention, were you? It's right at the beginning of this paragraph.

I am a disabled vet, which means I receive a veterans administration disability pension, which also means "I'm broke!" Just one step ahead of being homeless every month, and that's not an idle statement or an "Oh, woe is me" dire complaint. There’s a point to this, so hang in there a minute or two and read on.

There's a 25-year-old illegal immigrant woman living in Florida , with eight kids. Yes, eight "anchor babies" and she receives just shy of $1,500 per month per kid, plus medical, plus food stamps.

Oh, wait. I've been informed that I shouldn't call them Food Stamps anymore. That's not PC. It's all called “Social Assistance” now. You do the math on that yourself. I'd say that she was schooled early in how to make it in the system. Twenty-five years old, eight kids . . . . . yep, she started early.

You can whip out the calculator if you want, but this woman, who never has paid a dime in taxes of any kind, (and still doesn't – she's 'illegal,' remember?) is here in this country illegally. She hasn’t paid out one cent in medical for all the “anchor babies,” makes more in one month, legally, than I receive in over a year and a half in disability payments and I can't even get food stamps! Oops, I mean “Social Assistance.”

Technically I am eligible for “Social Assistance.” I was told it would be a walk through – a gimme – being disabled. No problem, and in the very next breath I was also informed that under the law the amount I received in “Social Assistance” would be deducted from my disability pension.

Let's say I take a great photograph. It was just luck, a one of a kind accident, in the right place at the right time shot. My local newspaper offers me fifty bucks to use the photo in a featured story. (I live in a small town and fifty bucks is all they could afford.) I have to report that fifty dollars to the VA as earned income, which will immediately be deducted from my next month’s disability check. If I don't report it I’m in violation of federal law and technically they can stop my disability pension and prosecute me under a federal felony. Pretty cool, eh? For fifty bucks.

I see no point in dealing with two federal bureaucracies, so I don't bother. What's the point?

She's here illegally and with just one kid would make over twice what I receive per month. She has eight and she’s not a stand-out case. She’s not alone. That's the way the system works. Millions of illegal immigrants know this, know how the system works and know how to use it. (Haven't you seen the pamphlet? It's handed out all along our borders, "The Illegal Immigrants' Guide to Keeping America Just The Way It Is.") and that's just the way it works.

Did you know that the federal government provides a “refugee” in this country with a monthly “stipend” of $1,890, plus $580 a month in “Social Assistance?” That’s $2,470 a month, tax-free. That's two and a half times what I’m allowed to receive as a disabled vet. And just what did they do to earn this? All you have to do is show up on our collective doorstep, raise your right hand and swear that you're a refugee and, bingo, receive $30,000 a year, tax-free. That's more than someone making $15 an hour, and they have to pay taxes to boot!

Now, in defense of the Veterans Administration, they are doing what they can with what they've got. This is precious little compared to what they should have to get the job done. At least this country has a VA.

It's the Senate that keeps passing laws, rules and guidelines, cutting their budget, denying requests for more staff and computer systems to handle the massive work flow. Their hands are tied by the very government that's supposed to give them what they need to get the job done, by the government you voted into office. Don't scream at the VA. I have. It's misguided anger.

The point to this “story?” Just why are you paying such high taxes to support this incredibly screwed-up government? Why? And I’m not proposing you stop paying your taxes. That's wrong. There are good programs and reasons to pay your taxes and support our government.

What am I proposing? It's quite simple. Vote.

The government, our government, is broken and we as the voters serve as the maintenance crew. We fix it . . . . . by voting. If your state Senator has been in office more than two terms, vote 'em out at the next election. If your state representative has been in office more than two terms, vote 'em out of office. We put term limits on just about every publicly-elected official in the country except the House and Senate.

Why? Believe me, they know this and love it! Ahhh - the power!

I don't care how much you believe your Senator or Representative is doing a good job. They're not! Look at the government you have....that we have. How can you state they are doing what you want as the voter that put them there? How?

Vote them out of office. Do it.

Change the course of this country's history by what you are granted and guaranteed under the law. Vote! And if you have the guts, the anger, the outrage, start a petition in your state for a state-wide initiative to be placed on your next state ballot. Limiting the terms of office for your state senators and state representatives to your federal government to two terms.

The federal government will never pass such a law, but you can. You can get it done. You can force it. You can make it a law.

This is the first step in “getting it right.” Just vote. It's simple. It's easy, dammit!
This first step will send a very clear message. It’ll work. It’ill put “us” back in control of “them.” As it should be. As it was intended in the first place.

Are you an American? Born and raised? Then vote!

Call Waiting!

Attitude — Sun, 01 Aug 2010 11:42:23 +0000

I really dislike call waiting-It belittles me. The person talking to you asks you wait a sec because someone is beeping in. As if that person may be more important or more interesting than you.

The worse is when they click back over and tell you that they will call you back, thus confirming that the other person is more important

I always hang up on them after 15 seconds, when they call back and ask why I hung up, I say "No, you hung up on me when you took the other call." Morons!

Appricated

Rebecca — Sun, 25 Jul 2010 15:36:52 +0000

In all of my forty some years here I have never really felt appreciated for all the honesty, hard work, cariness that I have done. I thought all the hard work that I have done had gone unnoticed, and no one was really paying attention... I was wrong. WOW. There would be other's that would knock me down and then turn around and take the credit for the work I have done, they would make me feel worthless about myself, and stupid.
I did not know I would ever experience being appreciated, It is a wonderful thing. That I feel more companies and people should share this. Two people in my life has just made me feel so great about what I do and whom I am. They say what comes around goes around, I never believed in that, again; I was wrong.
I want to Thank these two wonderful people for believing in me.

Hawaii is not what you think it is...

alan — Tue, 20 Jul 2010 19:40:40 +0000

I live in Hawaii, land of fire and ice, paradise, and everyone's dreams.
Well, let me tell you it's not what you think. been here for 10 years, and have learned alot about hawaii. it's expensive, schools don't prep students for collage or the job market, most jobs pay min. wage, and if you are white you WILL experience discrimination, and if you live in small rich towns they don't want you to live there if you do not have a 6 figure bank account, there are no jails, just one big prison system that costs the tax payers an arm and a leg, the police here are corrupt (they are protected from being sued for wrongful arrest and convictions). But one of the biggest problem is state government and state offices is that they are not transparent and accessible to the people. They pass the buck onto someone else who say's they can't do anything.

My problem...

2 years ago i was robbed at gun point. my wallet was taken. at first i pissed that they took my hard earned money, but soon i found that this was the lest of my problems.
when i went to replace my state I.D. card a problem arose. they want me to produce a marriage cert. that does not exists. I have told them that the document exists, but they insist that i produce it. so they give me the number for the main office to work it out, but the number is a "dead" number, meaning when you call all you get is a recording that say's " You have reach the state I.D. office, please leave your name and number and we will contact you at our earliest convenience."
THEY NEVER CALL BACK!!!
I've been dealing with this for 2 years. in that time I've become homeless because i could not cash checks, withdraw money from my accounts, find a job, and renew my app. for low income housing. my bank account a year ago was considered an abandoned account and was closed down because i could not make any transactions. I've lost all my savings, 12 years worth of savings.
I can't fly, do banking, get ajob, renew my low income housing. Hell, i can't even check out a basket ball at the local gym.
in this state it is illegal to NOT have I.D.. The cops ask you for I.D. and if you do not have it they will take you to "jail" for 72 hour investigation hold to find out who you are.

Anyway I could go on, but i think that you kind of have an idea of whats going on.

This whole thing is wrong. These state offices are the peoples offices and the people who work them are employees of the people. If it wasn't for our tax dollars, those offices would not be there and those people would not have a job. Not only that, but in the satellite offices, kona and hilo here on the big island, there are signs that say if the staff feel as though they have been threatened you will be arrested under the patriot act. AND THEY DO IT. All you have to do is show any kind of resistance or try to stand up for yourself and that's the end of you. forever.

I don't know what to do. I've contacted my state rep. but he just sends me back to the main office.
All roads lead to this main office. All roads are a dead end. I've called lawyers, they wont take on the state.
I don't know what to do...

I'm in paradise and I'm hating it...

If you are thinking about moving here, think again...