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Letters to the Editor: Oct. 5, 2008
‘Roadless rule' was a ruse
Rocky Barker's article in Monday's Opinion section did not address that much of the opposition against Clinton's roadless plan was simply the general public. When the average person hears the phrase "protect America's roadless areas," he or she feels that suggestion is entirely reasonable. Unfortunately, roadless did not mean roadless nor meet the definition of wilderness.
When citizens examined the proposed maps or actually visited the newly designated roadless areas, they would find that the lands in question actually contained many roads, most of which have existed for years. And they are used by hunters, campers, hikers and, yes, those darn off-highway vehicles. The new "roadless" designation would effectively eliminate most of that use while reducing maintenance costs and management responsibility, which I believe was the main goal.
Fortunately, if you were a proponent of this great initiative you are in luck.
The U.S. Forest Service has started a new process called "route designation." And upon examination, you will find eerie the similarities. One can only imagine the future court battles. Public lands are and always should be open and available to all. Management is required, but mass blanket land closures are not nor ever should be accepted.
Randy Mitchell
Bella Vista
OHVs are good for the economy
When times are tough and the county needs ways to make money, we shut down some of the ways.
In 2007, the California State Parks' Off-Highway Motor Vehicle Recreation Division published a report describing OHV recreation as "an important element to the state's economy" that contributes an estimated $9 billion annually. This is just one example of how the counties up here can make extra money. But the Forest Service wants us off their land. Don't we pay the taxes? Is it not our land also?
Small towns can pull money from the OHV community. But no, let's cut off another way of making money for the county.
Verne Freeman
Lewiston
Remember: It's 45 on 44
Recently, while traveling with my family down Highway 44, a pickup came up fast behind us while we were approaching the I-5 overpasses, weaved in and around us, barely missing us in his frantic attempt to get ahead of us. The line of traffic in front of the overpasses was slowed significantly and he ended up directly in front of us, having risked all our lives for a single car length's space ahead.
The posted speed limit for this stretch is now 45 mph, during the construction to widen Highway 44. What is alarming is that not only are people not following the new 45 mph speed limits, but they are tailgating, screeching around, and sticking their heads out their windows to scream obscenities at those of us who are following it.
I feel that these drivers are risking not only all drivers, but the Caltrans workers who are there doing their job.
I sure wish a few more CHP officers could be posted on both sides to aid those of us who are trying to follow the law.
April Forward
Redding
Greyhound depot gets a bad rap
Recently I decided to take a short trip on the Greyhound bus. After some of the recent publicity about conditions in and around the depot, I was a bit hesitant. To my surprise, I found the depot open and clean. The attendant at the desk was courteous and most helpful. It was a pleasant surprise and thanks for the great service.
Beverly Rouse
Redding
Herger's bailout vote blows it
I don't vote for Republicans and never even thought of voting for Wally Herger. But the vote on the bailout bill was important enough that I was prepared to think about voting for Herger in November if he got that right.
Sadly, Herger blew it again. He voted to give taxpayers' money to Wall Street millionaires, even though he knew the public was solidly against this giveaway. Even most of his Republican colleagues got this one right.
Let's hope that on Nov. 4 we can finally say so long to Wally — the guy who wouldn't perceive the public interest if he tripped over it.
Gregory Marshall
Palo Cedro
Congressman has lost touch
I see that Rep. Wally Herger voted aye on the bailout bill. Who are you representing, Mr. Herger? I know that 91 percent of the e-mail and calls you received told you not to vote for the bailout, yet in arrogant defiance of the voters in your district you cast an aye vote for HR 3997. I never thought I would be saying this. I have voted for you every time you ran, but since you voted for the bailout of Wall Street, I will vote for Jeff Morris. I am a Reagan Democrat and have voted for Republicans since he took office in California until now. I think you have been in Washington too long and forgot who put you there.
After researching who your campaign donors are, I found that you align yourself with big business. You, sir, have become part of the problem not the solutions in Washington, so pack your bags and get ready to retire. You will lose your seat in Congress with every other incumbent in the 110th Congress.
Bill Betts
Redding
The Mitchell plan just might work
Beginning with the Carter administration, the subprime market has been popular with those in office who were determined to help what were considered the underserved. Unfortunately, emotional goals outstripped the market's procedures and administration after administration fought to continue supporting those who did not have the ability to pay for housing to continue home ownership.
The Mitchell proposal is that all legislators, Congress and Senate, as well as the elected officials of the White House, will forfeit all pay and benefits until they resolve this problem to the satisfaction of the majority of the American people represented by a majority of the national vote, whether "yes" or "no" on the solution to this crisis.
The vote should be the same day as the presidential election. There is no reason this cannot occur; it is the American people speaking. All congressmen/women and senators should take heed. Power and greed will no longer be allowed to prevail in this country. The people require honesty and integrity in their representatives, and the time is now.
Mary Mitchell
Cottonwood
Deregulation has ruined us
John McCain's deregulation polices are hurting American families. He is trying to portray himself as the rescuer of the present mess. But look at his record. He has been against regulation of financial institutions. He also wants to apply his deregulation ideas to the health care industry — "as we have done over the last decade in banking."
It is obvious from the turmoil of the last few days that the banking industry needs to be regulated more than it has been. Barack Obama supports a strong and responsible recovery. His plan includes demands for independent accountability and oversight. His plan will also reform our regulatory structure — the faulty groundwork laid by John McCain's policies that made this economic crisis possible in the first place.
Dorothy McKay
Redding
Republicans are at fault
Ann Albertson (letter, last Sunday) claims the "path to the crash" was bipartisan. I definitely see her point in that the design of Freddie Mac and Fannie Mae did not take into consideration the complete economic meltdown of the United States economy, and have now become part of the list of problems.
The reality, however, is that due to a falling dollar, and the second failure on the second try of trickle-down economics, and of course the idea that oil is a viable energy source for the rest of the 21st century, we are faced with a hill we might honestly not be able to climb.
The many failures of the Bush administration, and the $10 trillion soon to be $11 trillion debt that Bush and the Republicans have given us over the last eight years, keep me from thinking this mess was bipartisan. Even now with a Democratic majority in congress, the majority is not enough to accomplish anything other than blocking legislation, and most of the legislation is being presented in ways that require passing for the government to carry on. The Republicans are handing the Democrats a poison pill every day and the Democrats have refused to take it because they know any change that they want will only come with victory in November.
My solution is vote Democrat across the board. Give the party that changed the economic fortunes for the United States in the ‘90s a chance to do it again. But remember this time that it is up to the American people to keep the spend-and-spend Republicans out of office.
Rob N. McDonald
Redding
State cuts are squeezing seniors
I am very unhappy with the governor's decision to eliminate the homeowners or rental rebate this year for senior citizens over 62 who are low income. We depend on the money to help pay for our groceries, gas and heating bills in the winter.
I live in a mobile home park where the rent has been raised $120 a month since the new owners bought it a year ago last July. Most of the tenants are low income and over 62 and can really use the money. My heating bill one month last year was over $200.
When there is money to be saved, it seems to be on the backs of the senior citizens who worked hard for this state, paid their taxes and then have to decide whether to go hungry to pay for their medications or heat.
Shirley G. Palmer
Shingletown
Try standing up for the whole Bible
Christian churches are united in asking parishioners to vote yes on Proposition 8. These same churches speak of religious liberty, the separation of church and state, and civil rights for all people. We Christians who desire these privileges for ourselves do not seem to be willing to grant these to the homosexual community.
The Declaration of Independence states: "We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable rights, that among these are life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness." We cherish those words for ourselves. Are we willing to grant them to all people, even to those with whom we disagree?
Amendments to the Constitution give freedom to all people and all areas of our lives. Our state constitution grants these same freedoms.
Proposition 8 will take away freedom from a minority group, without adding any freedom that the majority don't all ready have.
We need to remember the words of Jesus, "Love your neighbor as you love yourself," and treat others as you want to be treated. When we stand up for what we believe is right, we need to be sure we are standing for the truths of the whole Bible, not just a few texts taken out of the full context.
I urge a no vote on Proposition 8.
Barbara Ellquist
Redding
Keep politics out of pulpit
On Sept. 28, a number of pastors around the country made direct political endorsement speeches in an effort to challenge IRS rules that prohibit such politically overt actions if 501(c)(3) organizations wish to retain their tax-exempt status.
One great strength of this nation's freedom of religion is the separation of church and state. Now a very vocal and highly organized minority of conservative churches is taking on the IRS and its rules against direct (or indirect) political campaigning by clergy in their sermons, claiming a violation of their First Amendment right to free speech, among other things. Their stated goal is to challenge IRS court prosecutions all the way to the Supreme Court.
As a senior citizen who's been a member of a Christian church for over 60 years, I fervently hope that the IRS vigorously prosecutes both the churches and the organization (Alliance Defense Fund) promoting this effort. We do not need churches and the individuals supporting them receiving tax deductions. Rules for 501(c)(3) organizations clearly state that "organizations, including churches and religious organizations, are absolutely prohibited from directly or indirectly participating in, or intervening in, any political campaign on behalf of (or in opposition to) any candidate for elective public office."
Nothing in the IRS rules prohibit a clergy person from personally endorsing a political candidate or cause.
If a church wishes to become politically active, then it just has to surrender its exempt status. There is no infringement of its right to be politically active. It simply loses its right to be exempt from taxes, and those making contributions would also lose their exemptions. Seems fair to me.
Darrell Burrell
Redding
Soldier bracelet is just a pose
Did anybody catch it or even care that during the debate the most disrespectful and faked display came from Barack Obama when he could not remember the name of the dead soldier's bracelet he wears? He said, "I also wear a bracelet for Sergeant uh … his mother's name is uh…" He finally had to look at the bracelet for the name of the soldier.
Incredible! This man's faked attempt at trying to appear to honor one of our fallen heroes turned out to be one of the biggest displays of disrespect toward our military from a presidential candidate I have ever witnessed. He should remove the bracelet and give it to somebody who will truly wear it with compassion and pride.
Jo Vayo
Redding
I'm proud to be ‘white trash'
No, I don't like being called white trash. It felt like a stomach punch when the Canadian Broadcasting Company's columnist called Republicans white trash, even though I knew it was just another lie. It reminded me of how, when the Clintons were desperate to discredit Paula Jones when she revealed how Bill Clinton has propositioned her, they called her white trash. That felt like a stomach punch too. Unfortunately, it's the kind of thing Republicans hear all the time from liberals. Actress Janene Garofalo said that Republican Christian women were "self-haters." And liberals often say that Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas is a "self-hating" black man because he doesn't fall in line with other blacks.
Am I white trash? Well, let's see. I pay my taxes. I donate a great deal of money to various causes. I volunteer time to an animal charity every single day. I believe in and try to live by the Golden Rule. I'm active in my church. I try to encourage people when I can by pointing out good things and I try to help people save face when they're embarrassed, if it's appropriate. I'm far from perfect, but also, far from white trash.
I take politics seriously because it affects the daily lives of my family and every other American. I ponder, evaluate and investigate, and I've decided that Republicans are more like me than Democrats are, so I'm a Republican.
If standing up for what I truly believe makes me white trash, then I will be proud white trash. But no matter how vile I find another person to be, I would never stoop so low as to call them that name.
Mercedes Hale
Anderson
Palin: More than ready to be VP
Everybody seems to be concerned about Sarah Palin's ability to assume the presidency, if need be, with her supposed lack of experience upon going into office. However, the chances of that are remote at present, as John McCain does seem to be healthy for the foreseeable future. And we are talking about the second position, not the immediate first position for Palin.
Barack Obama is vying for the immediate first position with no more experience than Palin has. He has to be ready from day one. If it became necessary for Palin to assume the presidency at some future date, every day that she serves as vice president will further fill in the gaps of what she does not have, in order to do the job.
It is pretty obvious what the better choice would be. Do the math!
Marty Carrick
Redding
Posted by hailstone on October 5, 2008 at 6:31 a.m.
Gov. Palin has taken a hard stance against the Native Americans in her state. It is her desire to remove their fishing rights and hunting rights, we all know its ungodly to eat natural food you've been eating for thousands of years. The Gov. also wants to remove their native language from use, we all know God only speaks English! (Our so Gov. Palin believes)
Palin is only following the old path that led to the near destruction of the Native American. (Between 10-14 million killed by military action and disease) Who said this woman isn't tough enough to be president if needed.
Posted by NuttinButTheTruth on October 5, 2008 at 6:41 a.m.
Marty Carrick-
You need to return to school for basic math if you truly believe that Obama has "no more experience than Palin." Your fundamental life skills do not add up.
REASON #1 to vote against McCain-Palin:
They are endorsed by James Dobson, that unwavering bastion of truth, who believes that god never changes and truth is truth. Except, of course, he was against McCain and would never support him. Until now. Or is he against McCain and for Palin. Never mind: vote NO to the Dobson ticket!
Obama 08
Posted by NorthStateBicyclist on October 5, 2008 at 6:50 a.m.
My gosh, white trash and proud. Let me define it for you, Mercedes: these are ignorant, uneducated, filthy poor folks who don't wear shoes, never paid any attention to dental hygiene, dropped out of High School by choice, got into drugs, steal for a living and live off of the welfare system. Did I miss anything?
Posted by NuttinButTheTruth on October 5, 2008 at 6:52 a.m.
Jo Vayo-
"This man's faked attempt at trying to appear to honor one of our fallen heroes turned out to be one of the biggest displays of disrespect toward our military"
Really? More disrespect that signing up soldiers to one tour of duty, then telling them it is going to be lengthened and they have no choice?
When they return home and don't want to re-enlist, they are signed up again involuntarily... and that is not disrespectful?
Yanking away their signing bonuses if they get injured and cannot return to duty before their tour is up... no, that's not disrespectful is it? Telling the troops "Mission accomplished" and then dragging it on for how many more years?
Yanking basic care benefits from veterans with brain damage injuries because those conditions were "pre-existing" before they went over...
And you think a pause of less than 5 seconds and tugging at a bracelet is more disrespectful than all of this. Wow. No wonder people with common sense are so tired of the republican't party control. There are real issues to deal with and so far the best the right wingers can do is complain about the lack of a flag lapel pin, the lack of a flag painting on a plane, tugging at a bracelet, and the future president's "funny" name. Yea, that is real mavericky for ya' gosh gee.
*wink wink*
Obama 08
Posted by christinehackman on October 5, 2008 at 7:56 a.m.
"Give a man a fish, feed him for a day.
Give a man religion, watch him starve to death praying for fish."
Posted by Zebrareader on October 5, 2008 at 8:02 a.m.
I have to applaud Barbara Ellquist's letter for following the spirit of the Bible which does not happen enough. Thank you.
Posted by radical1 on October 5, 2008 at 8:03 a.m.
in response to NuttinButTheTruth
Am I to understand that you dont like Dobson?
If he likes someone, they MUST be evil?
Posted by radical1 on October 5, 2008 at 8:05 a.m.
in response to christinehackman
I am religious and I am, by no means starving.
I pray for fish every day, but all I get is steak.
Posted by canaan on October 5, 2008 at 8:06 a.m.
John McCain does NOT seem healthy in the foreseeable future. He is hiding something. He allowed a handful of reporters 3 hours to pore over 1,200 pages of his medical records. The pages were unnumbered so they did not know if pages were taken out. Why?
He has had 4 bouts of skin cancer, the last melanoma at stage 2b and maybe 3 on the left side of his face. This is serious. Combined with his erratic behavior of late, the msm needs to be asking these questions since our country would crash under a President Palin.
Watch this recent video of McCain and ask youself if you think all is ok with his health. His left eye collapses a couple of times and right afterwards, McCain becomes confused and cannot find his way off the stage.
Something is going on with his health. His comprehensive health records need to be released with no conditions.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=haIAN02tlLM
Posted by MontyPython on October 5, 2008 at 8:08 a.m.
Sarah Palin ready for VP? Me thinks not! Why does she support Alaskan secession from the good ol' US of A? Why, did her own State Supreme Court say that "Troopergate" must continue due to the "merit of facts"? How can we have a VP that banters already disproven lies and misquotes our beloved generals that she can't even name correctly? Above all, can we have a VP that has a severe nervous twitch in the left eye!
Posted by richsteele on October 5, 2008 at 8:17 a.m.
Fannie and Freddie were regulated right into near bankruptcy Dorothy McKay. Before you quote the mainstream media hype just look at who was running it, who took home huge bonus's from it, who has used it for campaigning, who has pushed it to spend more on acid loans and who has threatened other banks to cooperate.
Carter, Clinton, Reno, Franks, Dodd, Pelosi, Reid and those two wonderful economic advisers to Obama who were executives with Fannie and Freddie. All Democrats and all out for another Socialistic experiment that has failed.
Posted by pv96087 on October 5, 2008 at 8:21 a.m.
April Forward, you wrote:
"The posted speed limit for this stretch is now 45 mph, during the construction to widen Highway 44. What is alarming is that not only are people not following the new 45 mph speed limits, but they are tailgating, screeching around, and sticking their heads out their windows to scream obscenities at those of us who are following it"
I could not agree with you more, I hope it will not take somebody getting killed before they patrol with a little more vigilance. They certainly could make some money since fines are double in construction zones. This is a tragedy waiting to happen.
Come on people slow down and stay off other's a$$e$, lest you be the a$$ in hospital or worse!
Posted by richsteele on October 5, 2008 at 8:23 a.m.
Rob N. McDonald turn off NBC, ABC, CBS. Quite reading the New York Times and Washington Post. Their market share and stocks are in the tank for a reason. For the sake of sanity don't Google into MoveOn.org. Use the common sense God gave you and find out the true facts and not the doctored sound bites that the Liberal Media spews forth.
They have an agenda and if it is yours then fine. But don't be a media parrot. Make it your educated and informed view point.
Posted by NuttinButTheTruth on October 5, 2008 at 8:25 a.m.
in response to radical1
Well, radical1,that is a great question about Dobson's flip-floppiness!
My response: “I may not answer the questions that either the moderator or you want to hear, but I'm going to talk straight to the American people.”
Sarah Palin’s answers seem confusing to those of us who do not “speak in tongues” like she does. For example, on climate change:
“With the impacts of climate change, what we can do about that, as governor, I was the first governor to form a climate change subcabinet to start dealing with the impacts.” This goes with the answer she gave Katie Couric: “You know, there are man’s activities that can be contributed to the issues that we’re dealing with now, with these impacts.”
And, you know, there is the Iran-healthcare thing too.
Just say NO to speaking in tongues!
*wink wink*
And that’s the truth, the whole truth and nuttin but the truth, so help me gosh!
OBAMA 08
Posted by radical1 on October 5, 2008 at 8:58 a.m.
in response to NuttinButTheTruth
In a way, I like flip floppers.
It proves they have an open mind.
Willing to listen to both sides.
Think things through before making a final decision.
Posted by jrdsmiles on October 5, 2008 at 9:05 a.m.
in response to NorthStateBicyclist
yes you did....the men shave their heads and grow a goatee, the women grow a goatee and mustache but don't shave their heads.
Posted by jrdsmiles on October 5, 2008 at 9:12 a.m.
Once again the question has to be addressed concerning Sarah Palin taking over for a, heaven forbid, seriously ill or deceased John McCain. Close your eyes envision this seriously flawed and questionably competent politician and ask yourself, do you want Sarah Palin representing the United States of America to the rest of the WORLD? This is not the glass half empty, or half full, it is the glass all the way empty.
Posted by rock on October 5, 2008 at 9:15 a.m.
There's still time for McCain to choose a new VP running mate.
I'm sure Tina Fey would accept, she has the looks and makes more sense than Palin.
Posted by bikeegirl on October 5, 2008 at 9:16 a.m.
Hooray for Greyhound in Redding! Hopefully things will stay positive for them and the restrooms will stay safe and clean.
Posted by Buzz_Fledderjohn on October 5, 2008 at 9:20 a.m.
Mercedes,
Sorry......I'm not feeling your pain.
Want to feel like you've been punched in the stomach? First, hold the belief that the invasion of Iraq is a mistake. Then, turn on Fox News and listen in as Sean Hannity and Ann Coulter refer to you as a "traitor."
That's right. Have a belief that's contrary to the GOP's agenda, and it makes you a traitor. In other words, you desire the destruction of your own country.
"White trash" is a pinprick of a wound compared with being called a "traitor," which Ms. Coulter went on to say is someone who deserves to be shot or hung. Hear any liberals on major network TV tell you lately that you deserve to be shot? No? Just Ms. Garofalo saying that you don't like yourself?
Buck up, Mercedes.
Buzz
Posted by Buzz_Fledderjohn on October 5, 2008 at 9:29 a.m.
I'm shocked -- SHOCKED! -- that Wally did what he always, always, always does, and voted in accordance with what his Republican leadership puppet-masters told him to do.
Wally has an established history of voting to bring home the pork......to the congressional districts of his masters, not his own. A sure "yea" when they want yeas. A sure "nay" when they want nays. He's a useful tool to the Republican leadership.
And he'll never be anything more than a GOP tool.
Posted by worthlessvet on October 5, 2008 at 9:30 a.m.
in response to hailstone
Did you take your steer manure supplements this morning??? Must have, because you seem to be full of it...
Just because they are native americans doesn't give them the right to overfish the salmon, or kill off the whales and seals when there are alternatives. As a Liberal, you should understand that they must "Save the Whale", and as humans face natural extintion as a result. This the "Tree-hugger way".
Let's not forget also, that English is the "Offical" language of the USA. Instead, though, we should be teaching them Spanish, to give them the edge for future Presidential elections, as that would also be the liberal way.
Posted by worthlessvet on October 5, 2008 at 9:32 a.m.
in response to NorthStateBicyclist
You forgot to mention that that makes them all Democrats...
Posted by bikeegirl on October 5, 2008 at 9:37 a.m.
How true Barbara. Also the abortion debate: While attending therapy yesterday the speaker said that Roe Verses Way has created 49 million aborted babies. 49 million people since 1973. We have a hard enough time feeding people on this planet and where to house them and providing for those less fortunate. Roe verses Way needs to stay in place. Just my opinion. Palin doesn't mind shooting wildlife on this planet or having baby wolves shot to death, so makes her not perfect as well. Apparently humans and animals cannot coexist in her young thinking.
Posted by NuttinButTheTruth on October 5, 2008 at 9:40 a.m.
in response to radical1
OK, radical1 -
In all seriousness this time:
I also believe people with an open mind can change their minds, and it shows growth and maturity as a person.
Here is my real beef with Dobson and his kin.
He says there is no way he would endorse McCain, for any variety of past "sinful actions" or whatever. He would rather sit out the election and vote for no one.
Yet now McCain is OK and he endorses him.
Dobson and others proclaim over and over the unchanging nature of God. They assail us that "truth is always the truth." Yet in such a simple, easy "conviction" like a presidential endorsement, he is quick to change his mind. How can you then trust him with the real weighty matters he professes to guide you in? Things like eternal damnation?
I believe it points out the religion of convenience that he, and so many others, subscribe to. I would even go so far as to say that he is a little man seeking power over others, rather than seeking "god."
This, to me, is different than just changing your mind, being open minded and growing. Of course, I am open minded enough to admit I may be wrong here.
Posted by radical1 on October 5, 2008 at 9:45 a.m.
in response to bikeegirl
Does it still cost a dime to open the stall doors? For a dime, someone could "invadse your privacy"
:)
:(
Posted by radical1 on October 5, 2008 at 9:50 a.m.
in response to Buzz_Fledderjohn
Don't ALL politicians vote for their party line?
Answer: YES! THEY DO! EVEN DEMOCRATS!
Time for ya'll to get your head out of the hole.
Posted by jrdsmiles on October 5, 2008 at 9:54 a.m.
in response to worthlessvet
Except for Mercedes who wrote the letter proclaiming herself a "white-trash Republican"?
Worthless you get today's purple heart for once again shooting yourself in the foot!
Posted by radical1 on October 5, 2008 at 9:54 a.m.
in response to NuttinButTheTruth
In all seriousness this time:
I also believe people with an open mind can change their minds, and it shows growth and maturity as a person.
~~~
Well, sounds like you are matureing.
Even religious persons are entitled to endorse whoever theyu feel are right.
I think your big kick is he is a religious person.
Would you feel the same about him if he was an atheist?
Posted by john on October 5, 2008 at 9:55 a.m.
Hey richsteele
Haven't you been telling me for several years how great the economy was?
You told me how great the stock market was, you told me that real estate was stable.
The FUNDAMENTALS were strong.
Who else just said that?
It'll come to me.
Few people here have been as wrong on the economy as you. Your cred on the matter is as worthless as AIG.
Posted by radical1 on October 5, 2008 at 9:59 a.m.
in response to john
Darn, john. That is one nice crib you got there. Are both those cars yours?
Posted by Buzz_Fledderjohn on October 5, 2008 at 10:03 a.m.
in response to radical1
Radical1 asked: "Don't all politicians vote for their party line?"
No they don't, Zippy. The majority of GOP representatives voted contrary to President Bush and congressional leadership's direction on the bailout. So did many Democrats.
Since you're clearly a pinhead, it should be relatively easy to put your head back in the hole where it belongs.
Posted by radical1 on October 5, 2008 at 10:08 a.m.
in response to Buzz_Fledderjohn
As a rule, my friend, they vote party line.
You can always cite exceptions to rules.
Do you always call people names in a conversation?
Zippy? Pinhead? You sound like you should be running The Factor.
Posted by radical1 on October 5, 2008 at 10:10 a.m.
STIR! STIR! STIR!
Posted by radical1 on October 5, 2008 at 10:39 a.m.
Randy Mitchell
If we were to institute true roadless areas, How would the fire trucks get to fires?
How would hunters get to wilderness areas to thin the herds?
How would disabled people get to wilderness areas?
How do you think my 32 foot motorhome would get to the back lands?
BUILD MORE ROADS! Motorhomes do not fare well on dirt lanes. They bounce around and spill my beer margarita.
Posted by reacher_rules on October 5, 2008 at 10:51 a.m.
in response to NuttinButTheTruth
you need to get your facts straight. when any one enlists in the military they sign a contract for 8 years of service. some branches allow you to do 2 years of active duty then 6 years of inactive or 4 years active then 4 years inactive. what ever the combo it adds up to 8 yars. when you sign the contract its with the knowledge you may have to serve all 8 in active if called upon. so know what your talking about before you run your mouth about something you so obviously are ignorant about.
Posted by Buzz_Fledderjohn on October 5, 2008 at 10:56 a.m.
in response to mk
mk wrote: "You're a democrat, Herger votes like a democrat and you still pitch a fit."
I'm not a Democrat. I'm proudly independent. I vote to either rehire the party in power, or fire the party in power, depending on their performance. Nobody gets my vote unless they earn it.
Herger is one of the most ineffective congressmen representing California, but unfortunately he has one of the safest districts.
Posted by bikeegirl on October 5, 2008 at 10:56 a.m.
in response to radical1
not the ones I have used, radical1
Posted by Buzz_Fledderjohn on October 5, 2008 at 11:04 a.m.
in response to radical1
> As a rule, my friend, they vote party line. You can always cite exceptions to rules.
The exception that I cited, Zippy, happened to be the bailout vote that we were talking about. Duuuuuh.
> Do you always call people names in a conversation? Zippy? Pinhead? You sound like you should be running The Factor
I'm not some namby-pamby Democrat who turns the other cheek. If you make a not-too-subtle crack suggesting that I need to re-insert my head in a certain hole, prepare to get b*tch-slapped.
That's how it's always going to be with me, my friend.
Posted by Buzz_Fledderjohn on October 5, 2008 at 11:11 a.m.
Hey, fellow posters, if you haven't yet read today's column by (Ann Coulter-wannabe) Alana Marie Burke, you should.
My favorite line in that column is her suggestion that Sen. McCain needs to hit a tanning booth.
Old dude's had skin cancer. Twice.
But what he needs to do is get some more medium-wave ultraviolet in his diet.
HA HA HA HA HA HA HA!
Priceless.
Posted by stanlittle on October 5, 2008 at 11:25 a.m.
in response to richsteele
A noun, a verb and "socialistic."
Please bring something to the table that can be discussed!
Posted by stanlittle on October 5, 2008 at 11:29 a.m.
in response to mk
"When they return home and don't want to re-enlist, they are signed up again involuntarily... "
""Nominated for moron of the day comment.""
Sadly, mk, the comment is true. Don't tell me you haven't heard of the obligation to serve that's been in effect since the sixties.
People don't get discharged until after eight years. They get separated from active duty and issued a DD214.
Posted by rewoulfe on October 5, 2008 at 11:32 a.m.
Wally Herger favors a 700 billion dollar Wall Street bailout, farm subsidies for millioniare growers, federal subsidies for the Iraq goverment (Iraq has 80 billion dollar surplus), but opposes public dollars for Shasta County residents. He voted no on unemployment extensions, no on lowering student loan interest rates for 2cd district students, and no on health care for poor Shasta children. He also opposes earmarks, so Doolitte one district over got his earmarks. Herger opposes public dollars for his district, but loves seeing others get federal money - like the Iraq goverment. Herger, after 22 years on the job, hasn't figured out his job is to get public dollars for his district. He's the dumbest congressman in the House. That's why I'm supporting Jeff Morris for Congress. He'll roll up his sleeves and go to work for Shasta County residents.
Posted by stanlittle on October 5, 2008 at 11:40 a.m.
in response to mk
A rose by any name.....
Posted by runningfree on October 5, 2008 at 11:48 a.m.
in response to worthlessvet
Wow, my first thought when reading your post was China and the Tibetans, also England and the Irish.
In you mind "Americans" are larger as a group then the native Indians and as such we have the right to strip them of of their language and culture?
What wrong view. That same thinking, (if I am understanding your choice of username "worthlessvet" you more than most should have awareness) has led America to wars, and to covert practices to impose OUR way on people and country's where we should not be.
I say let the native tribes of Alaska continue there cultural ways. I don't think they are making huge global changes to the whale population, or the other natural sources they have been eating for a thousand years.
Better to put your efforts towards Greenpeace to support the practice of Country's that Are raping the sea's population without regard for future.
Posted by thehermit on October 5, 2008 at 12:03 p.m.
in response to stanlittle
When I signed up for duty you served 4 years "active duty" then you were on "inactive duty" for the rest of the eight years...and had a chance of being called back into duty in case of an emergency...people know this when they sign up so why whine about it...
Posted by yellowhak1 on October 5, 2008 at 12:17 p.m.
CEEJAYCAM: i see you haven't joined the fray. its unfortunate you'd put them all to shame. not enough individual thinkers here in redding with the compassion and intellect to match. its always the same oppressive people. and you all know who you are.
Posted by stanlittle on October 5, 2008 at 12:19 p.m.
in response to thehermit
Not me!!!
"mk" was the whiner. I was calling him on it.
Posted by thehermit on October 5, 2008 at 12:22 p.m.
in response to stanlittle
I was thinking about the people who sign up then whine about the rules...see a lot of that to day.
Posted by NuttinButTheTruth on October 5, 2008 at 12:34 p.m.
in response to radical1
radical1:
"I think your big kick is he is a religious person."
No, it is that he is a hypocrite, telling others what to do and how to live their lives, trying to tell some their lives are sinful and others that they need to rise up against the so-called "ungodly."
"Would you feel the same about him if he was an atheist?"
Yes, for the same reason.
Posted by NuttinButTheTruth on October 5, 2008 at 12:38 p.m.
in response to reacher_rules
Reacher says, "you need to get your facts straight...before you run your mouth about something you so obviously are ignorant about."
Well, reacher_rules in response to your post: “I may not answer the questions that either the moderator or you want to hear, but I'm going to talk straight to
I can see Mexico here from my home state of California, and you know, the drug cartels rear their heads over and look at us, and what they see is here in my home state of California, and there is Canada also, which I have been there before. I am, therefore at least as qualified if not more so to be president as Palin…
- EXCEPT -
I am less delusional and do not really think that living in a state, even a state way more populous than Alaska, which borders on a foreign country, makes me qualified to be president.
Shoot, gosh darn it, Ken Murray has more and longer experience with government, people and budgets than Sarah Palin, and you don’t see him running for VP. Maybe he should. What is that famous spanking from the debates a couple elections ago?
“Gov. Palin, I know Ken Murray, and with all due respect you, Gov Palin, are no Ken Murray!”
McCain-Murray 08!
*wink wink*
And that’s the truth, the whole truth and nuttin but the truth, so help me gosh!
OBAMA 08
Posted by ceejaycam on October 5, 2008 at 1:24 p.m.
in response to Buzz_Fledderjohn
"My favorite line in that column is her suggestion that Sen. McCain needs to hit a tanning booth."
I am hysterical with laughter on that one..Good call..Whatever was Alana thinking? The worst possible thing for skin cancer..would be frying in a tanning bed...
My God the man should stay as far away from any form of tanning as possible! He should be wearing sunscreen 2000 along with long sleeves..a hat and gloves after sun up!
Perhaps it would be to his advantage to do his campaigning after the sun goes down?
Maybe a spray on tan would help? Of course that might turn his skin orange..but at least he would have some color..
It clear that he is not the picture of health, physically nor mentally! Not only is he wan...but he's a little testy and frazzled..these days..
Posted by ceejaycam on October 5, 2008 at 1:31 p.m.
in response to yellowhak1
Thanks for the vote of confidence...but I have no idea where to start on this thread..Too many topics..it is hard to choose...all very debatable...
I'm getting a kick out of reading the letters and the comments! Good stuff !
Posted by nitesweep67 on October 5, 2008 at 1:31 p.m.
in response to St_James7
Question, are you homophobic or just concerned that it may be contagious? It would seem to me that whatever happens in this arena would in no way would have any effect on you if neither were the case.
Posted by reacher_rules on October 5, 2008 at 1:45 p.m.
in response to NuttinButTheTruth
nothngbutthelies
talk about avoiding the question. my response to your post was about the lies you told about the military not sure were your rant about mccain-murray came from. but again if you have no response cause your wrong people like you dont admit it you just make something eles up to avoid the truth.
Posted by yellowhak1 on October 5, 2008 at 2:03 p.m.
in response to ceejaycam
Let it not be said, that we did nothing. Let not those who love the power of the wealthy or warfare state label the dissenters of authoritarianism, as unpatriotic or uncaring. Patriotism is more closely linked to dissent than it is to conformity and a blind desire for safety and security-Ron Paul
I pulled this off my sons myspace page. You kind of remind me of him.
Posted by nitesweep67 on October 5, 2008 at 2:22 p.m.
What difference does it make what the definition of the word is, or,for that matter,who it may pertain to. Does it in any way change the rights and privileges granted to you? The only thing happening is that, at this time ,the act of marriage is all inclusive.As I see it, nothing in my world has changed since "Barb & Betty" have become one.
Posted by NuttinButTheTruth on October 5, 2008 at 2:24 p.m.
in response to reacher_rules
Well, reacher_rules in response: “I may not answer the questions that either the moderator or you want to hear, but I'm going to talk straight to the American people.”
Back to MY talking points and cue cards.
Not too smart, are ya? (Just being folksy here)
First off you totally miss the point of my response to Jo Vayo. Go back and read that letter, and you tell me straight faced that Obama pausing a couple seconds is the WORST disrespect to our military. And then take the time to think about my response to him: so I mis-worded on small part. The rest of it doesn't count? Or is that all just typical GW Bush respect for our military?
Second, I have been replying in the republican't way today, which is change the subject if it just gets inconvenient to answer the question. After all, that is what Palin does, and everyone praises how great she did in the debate. So you should be comfortable and indeed in admiration of my responses, not complaining that I am avoiding your question.
Or is all this smarty-pants thinking just a little to “mavericky” for you?
Got'cha, by golly, by geez.
*wink wink*
And that’s the truth, the whole truth and nuttin but the truth, so help me gosh!
OBAMA 08
Posted by ceejaycam on October 5, 2008 at 2:25 p.m.
in response to yellowhak1
"Patriotism is more closely linked to dissent than it is to conformity and a blind desire for safety and security-Ron Paul"
Yes I totally agree with that...and I feel strongly that we are in this mess because so many Americans have been in a patriotic coma for the past 8 years..
Our leaders have used fear to strip us of our rights under the Constitution..
They used the fear of terrorists until it lost it's affectiveness...Now they are using our failed economy as a fear tactic..to keep us in line and continue stripping us of all our rights!
All Americans have to snap out of it...and demand that our representitves work for our best interets for a change. If they don't..then we must..send them packing...
Posted by rocks4me on October 5, 2008 at 2:28 p.m.
in response to St_James7
“Vote Yes on Prop 8 ! Whether You Like It Or Not !”
If that being the case what is the point in having a vote, if you have a DICTATOR telling you to vote on something “whether you like it or not.”
What happened to "FREE WILL" that GOD gave to us? I suppose "FREE WILL" only applies to Religious Right Nutcases, the same NUT CASES that think they know the will of GOD, as if they are mouthpieces for GOD ALMIGHTY HIMSELF.
Matt: 6:1 “BEWARE of practicing your righteousness before men to be noticed by them; otherwise you have no reward with your Father who is in heaven.
Matt: 6:2 “When therefore you give alms, do not sound a trumpet before you, as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and in the streets, that they may be honored by men. Truly I say to you, they have their reward in full.
In America, the land of the free, the adults in a family should decide on their private relationships just as they - and not the government - should decide what church they attend, what they read and who they vote for.
Prop. 8 favors government intrusion over personal freedoms.
Prop. 8 would affect thousands of children who deserve the security and protection that comes with having their family legally recognized. All children - no matter who their parents are - deserve the same protection under the law.
It is religious fanatic NUT CASES that give TRUE CHRISTIANS a bad name. Next, we will be told to vote for McCain/Palin, "whether we like them or not."
Example below: To use St. James analogy by telling people how to vote "whether they like it or not."
Vote for: OBAMA-BIDEN '08!
"Whether you like them or not!"
Posted by Buzz_Fledderjohn on October 5, 2008 at 2:42 p.m.
in response to mk
> Congressman Herger has been reelected because he represents the best interests of the majority.
Congressman Herger has been reelected because he presides over one of the most Republican-safe gerrymandered districts in California. He's a given.
> Your 'independent' nature leans pretty much left as I see it.
Because I'm a moderate Independent, I stand to the left of far-right-wing conservative Republicans. Guilty as charged.
Posted by ceejaycam on October 5, 2008 at 2:45 p.m.
in response to rocks4me
Very well said ...I am in agreement 100%...AMEN!
P.S. I am voting for Obama..."like it or not"! In my case..it is based (only) on the need for our country's survival!
Posted by rocks4me on October 5, 2008 at 2:47 p.m.
These religious fanatics NUT CASES are the same kind of people who sent CHRIST to the Cross. They would not know Christ if HE was standing next to them.
Posted by ceejaycam on October 5, 2008 at 3:08 p.m.
in response to mk
I think you know that I am a liberal and consider myself to be left of center on almost everything...
Obama is not as liberal as you think he is...Take the FISA Bill for instance..There is no way in hell that I would have ever considered voting for that!
Take the bailout plan...Obama voted for it as well..without hesitation...and there is no amount of fear and arm twisting that would have ever made me vote for that idiotic rip off...
So when you say he is too far left..I must totally disagree with you..
Posted by ceejaycam on October 5, 2008 at 3:46 p.m.
Well...looks like I joined the party too late...and everyone has bailed...I have to get some things done..so will catch up later...Have a good afternoon-evening all!
Posted by GW on October 5, 2008 at 4:03 p.m.
"The Declaration of Independence states: "We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable rights, that among these are life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness." We cherish those words for ourselves. Are we willing to grant them to all people, even to those with whom we disagree?. . ."
Nobody is trying to take away the lives, liberty or happiness of those choosing to practice a deviant lifestyle. Californians have merely voted in the past (prop 22) to limit marriage to man and woman. So have a majority of other states.
If living a degenerate lifestyle brings homosexuals happiness, they have the liberty to continue living that way. They just can't equate their lifestyle choice with marriage. Just like pedophiles can't call their relationship with children marriage and those who enjoy beastiality cannot call their relationship with animals marriage.
Posted by rocks4me on October 5, 2008 at 4:07 p.m.
in response to ceejaycam
Thank-you!
A-men!
It is these Religious Right Fanatic, NUT CASES, which gives CHRISTIANITY, such a bad name.
They turn more people away, who would come FREELY, if they did not feel they were being forced with the “or else the Highway”, ATTITUDE from wholly, than Thou, mindset cults and their FALSE DOCTRINE and DOGMA.
Posted by GW on October 5, 2008 at 4:12 p.m.
"It is obvious from the turmoil of the last few days that the banking industry needs to be regulated more than it has been. . ."
Dorothy
It is obvious to me that Americans need to learn how to take out loans they can afford and quit playing the victim role. The only thing more foolish than gullibly putting all of one's faith in a suit and tie wearing loan officer, is putting all of one's faith in a suit and tie wearing politician.
Neither snake oil salesman has your best interest at heart and each of them have a creative financing plan they would like to get you to pay for.
Posted by GW on October 5, 2008 at 4:17 p.m.
"Barack Obama supports a strong and responsible recovery. His plan includes demands for independent accountability and oversight. . ."
Uhhhhhhhhhhhh, duhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh actually Dorothy--his plan involves bailing out banks by giving them hundreds of billions of taxpayer dollars, despite the objections of Americans across the fruited plains, from sea to shining sea.
Wake up Dorothy, you aren't in Kansas any more.
Posted by GW on October 5, 2008 at 4:25 p.m.
"Even now with a Democratic majority in congress, the majority is not enough to accomplish anything other than blocking legislation, and most of the legislation is being presented in ways that require passing for the government to carry on. . ."
Boooooooooooooooooooo hooooooooooooooooooooooo........
Leadership takes courage Rob. Good leaders get things done. They don't point fingers and complain about all of the obstacles preventing them from doing their job. Nancy Pelosi and Harry Reid shoved the recent bailout bill down the throats of Americans across the nation, despite the unpopularity of the legislation. They proudly rammed it through the Senate and House, crammed it full of pork and hailed it is a proud accomplishment.
Come on Rob--it's time for you to acknowledge the proud accomplishments of your very unpopular heroes on capitol hill. When it comes to leading, Rob and his heroes should quit pointing fingers and learn to lead, follow or get out of the way.
Posted by Zebrareader on October 5, 2008 at 4:37 p.m.
in response to GW
"Uhhhhhhhhhhhh, duhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh actually Dorothy--his plan involves bailing out banks by giving them hundreds of billions of taxpayer dollars, despite the objections of Americans across the fruited plains, from sea to shining sea.
Wake up Dorothy, you aren't in Kansas any more."
The bail out is not Senator Obama's bailout, it's congress and Bush's bail out. Obama is not president yet.
P.S. THE WIZARD OF OZ was a documentary not a movie.
Posted by Zebrareader on October 5, 2008 at 4:45 p.m.
in response to GW
You wrote: "Nobody is trying to take away the lives, liberty or happiness of those choosing to practice a deviant lifestyle."
It is a "deviant" lifestyle because it is not what you consider a "normal" lifestyle.
You wrote: "If living a degenerate lifestyle brings homosexuals happiness, they have the liberty to continue living that way. They just can't equate their lifestyle choice with marriage. Just like pedophiles can't call their relationship with children marriage and those who enjoy beastiality cannot call their relationship with animals marriage."
The above paragraph can be listed under homophobia and is engineered to generate hatred and anger towards a group of Americans and have already caused some to be murdered and physical harm. It is no different than what the KKK said about the different races.
Posted by Zebrareader on October 5, 2008 at 4:52 p.m.
in response to St_James7
"Proposition 8 is NOT an attack on gay couples and does not take away the rights that same-sex couples already have under California's domestic partner law. California law already grants domestic partners all the rights that a state can grant to a married couple. Gays have a right to their private lives, but not to change the definition of marriage for everyone else."
Yeah right. Why not change the definition of marriage to mean just two adults who are available to be married? Churches can refuse to marry same sex partners if they want. Why are you so dang upset about it? No one is forcing you to marry someone you don't want to. Why are you insisting on getting into the business and bedroom of your neighbor. It is none of your business.
Posted by Tipsy on October 5, 2008 at 5:37 p.m.
in response to St_James7
"Gays have a right to their private lives, but not to change the definition of marriage for everyone else"
Total non-issue.
So far, I think Miriam-Webster, dictionary.com, etc have done a fine job of defining marriage to meet traditional criteria. Why does the state need to get into the dictionary business?
Posted by Zebrareader on October 5, 2008 at 5:49 p.m.
in response to St_James7
"The Father, Son, and Holy Spirit all say NO to the Homosexual lifestyle, why cant you figure that out ? "
I have just talked to God and they did not mention that at all. Who are YOU talking to? All I heard was love and compassion. Hmm......
Posted by Tipsy on October 5, 2008 at 5:57 p.m.
in response to Zebrareader
I didn't fell like talking, but I did send a text message. All I got back was "wtf r u talkin about?"
Posted by Harold on October 5, 2008 at 6:12 p.m.
Jo Vayo,
That's because Obama's making a fake attempt at the presidency....and 1/2 of America is buying it. Completely sad.
Anybody ever wonder why Obama's own vice candidate is never heard in any of his speeches saying what a great president he will make? HMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMM!
Posted by csm on October 5, 2008 at 6:44 p.m.
Hey Rob, If everyone votes for a Dem (Communist), they will tax everyone out of a job. Unless of course you work for the government. How many Libs (communist) work for the government? The Libs (communist) gain by having a big and bigger government. A vote for a Dem in Nov is a vote for being a slave of the government. Just remember who was in charge of Congress the last 2 years and they control the purse stings. What was the price of everything then and what is it now!!!!!!! Give the Communist the Presidency and Congress, and the Great Depression will seem like Utopia for the working people. :(