GoldenDogs

Hawaii Lawmakers Pass Bill to Create 'Islam Day' Hawaii's state Senate overwhelmingly approved a bill Wednesday to celebrate "Islam Day" -- over the objections of a few lawmakers who said they didn't want to honor a religion connected to Sept. 11, 2001. http://www.foxnews.com/politics/2009/05/06...eate-islam-day/ What the HELL? Somebody remind me... ...what country as I living in?

Mostly for Greg, but for everyone to comment on please... D.C. Council member Marion Barry (Democrat-Ward 8), the only council member to vote against the bill today to legalize same-sex marriages performed elsewhere, predicted today there could be a “civil war” in the District if the Council decides to take up a broader gay marriage bill later this year. “All hell is going to break lose,” Barry said while speaking to reporters. “We may have a civil war. The black community is just adamant against this.”… Although he has been a longtime supporter of gay rights, Barry said he voted against the bill to satisfy his constituents in Southeast Washington. “What you’ve got to understand is 98 percent of my constituents are black and we don’t have but a handful of openly gay residents,” Barry said. “Secondly, at least 70 percent of those who express themselves to me about this are opposed to anything dealing with this issue. The ministers think it is a sin, and I have to be sensitive to that.”

Okay, Steve... let's you, me, and UCLAN start our own third political party to address the issues we care about that NOBODY is addressing today. I nominate UCLAN as President, you as VP... I'll be some mid-level staffer or something. I'll be the guy who reads letters from the public. Or something.

Could BECOME? Some would argue we're already there. Anyway, you're preaching to the choir, brother. I'm far more radical than you, though. I have had enough of ALL American Presidents shoveling cash around the world to fix problems that are beyond our ability to fix. And I totally agree... fix it all here first.

Wow... I couldn't have said it all better myself. I was interested in some of your points... because portable buildings, overcrowding, etc. has been happening in our schools here for over 20 years as a result of this issue. At first, only people in border states experienced this problem. I think it is safe to say now that others are finally getting a piece of the action. It isn't pleasant. Whether educators in California want to admit it or not (I briefly discussed money issues for schools with UCLAN in this thread), but a good deal of budgetary education issues in California have to do with illegal aliens. This is why I bristle at the thought of throwing more money to the schools... I believe some in education rely heavily on taxpayer dollars for the classroom, asking for more in some backwards attempt to solve the problem of educating illegal immigrant children. Bond issues are staple of elections here, with more money requested by school districts... and they often get it, resulting in much higher taxes in specific neighborhoods (of course, whether you have an elementary school-age child attending a district school or not). This is part of the issue of higher taxes that some Dems don't get... We get slammed from all sides. But I'm now moving off-topic... This issue is one reason why I was upset with George W. Bush, and why my support of John McCain was tepid at best. No candidate addressed this issue in an honest way... and so far, Democrats lean heavily to blanket amnesty, which would force us to openly absorb the problems we already have -- and common sense states that if you so much as mention the possibility of amnesty, more will rush in to make it under the gun. It happened during the Reagan era and it will happen again. I'm for productive immigrants melding into the American fabric... proper legal channels, all that. Those who crowd the line or don't even bother to get IN line -- no sympathy at all. I'm sorry their home country is a shithole... it should be fixed. President Obama should be helping third-world country leaders getting their houses in order rather than slapping them high fives and jokie-joking around with them.

Thanks to Steve for clarifying the "pay to work" tax break mess!! Like you guys, Steve, we are kind of prepared for it. My wife had reworked her withholdings last fall after we got married so we shouldn't be bit too badly by it... Tax codes, etc., are something the government can't just blindly make changes to! Hell, if the government can't figure it out, we definitely can't! Hell no! They should be zinged hard! I'm tired of America being sold up the river... same reason I buy American grown vegetables instead of Mexican or Chilean grown ones! I'm sorry you're hurt by my stance... but you should't be because my stance is actually a non-stance. I sound contradictory because I'm not firm either way in my opinion. I'm torn about it. I'm really passionate about this particular issue. I suppose Roman will call me a bigot because of that. But I see the damage being done financially to our country... but it is more than we realize. Education suffers... neighborhoods suffer... the mortgage crisis has been made so much worse by this issue, too. And I wish you all could see the problems from my eyes living here in California. My wife and I have endured TWO car accidents in the past MONTH and in both cases, we were dealing with unlicensed, uninsured and most likely illegal residents. No wonder insurance rates are through the freakin' roof. Good cuz I think the world of you... and value your friendship! <<hugs>>

Why, you needn't be insulted, my good friend... It is, after all, debate -- and we have both taken good jabs at each other. I expect that to continue... I would be insulted if it didn't. I read about the Obama tax dodge plan and my immediate reaction was bad, then my reaction was positive. Now, I'm not sure. I mean, how far does our government's sphere of influence go? I see good and bad here and I want so badly to ding companies that have moved jobs overseas. I don't like calling customer service and end up talking to someone in South Korea! Lovely people, those South Koreans... they try mightily to help, but are a little hard to understand sometimes. Keep American jobs in America, damn it!!! But can our government demand taxes from a business that is brick and mortar in an entirely different country? I'm concerned about Obama's "pay to work" tax incentive. Sure, I've an extra $50 a month... my wife, too. However, I'm hearing that the IRS will take back my wife's portion next year. Fortunately, our withholdings already are such that it won't hurt us... but I see where some people are going to have a surprising tax bill next spring. Is this really a wise thing to do to people? Yes, they don't want couples "double-dipping". But, wait... why is receiving a tax rebate or refund "double-dipping"... yet it isn't "double-dipping" when a couple both working has taxes taken out of both their checks? Hmmm... Could someone explain it to me? With regard to your question on gay marriage, my gut instinct is to not support it. But my gut instinct is also to not really care what other people do; not my business. In the end, I'm certain gay marriage will make the cut. Whatever you personally want to do, Greg, is your business... I'm basically non-responsive to the issue. It's not something I'm going to get worked up over either way. Not sure if this the answer your expected or hoped for from me... As for other "Republican" values issues... I feel as if the party has abandoned their core beliefs on many of these sorts of issues and they no longer represent my personal beliefs and values. One issue they have abandoned and left unresolved is that of illegal immigration. I live in California... 'nuff said.

All issues are relevant and should be discussed. Why hasn't President Obama addressed the issue you clearly wish to see at the forefront of political debate? I wouldn't dream of defending them. Why would I? But, Greg, do you really believe there is no bigotry left in the Democratic Party? I'd stake money that there are just as many bigots in the Democratic Party as there are in the Republican Party... Maybe more bigoted Democrats when you consider the hate they throw at middle America... LOL... Not EVEN. I'll say all hands are equally covered in [!@#$%^&*]. The problem is, the focus always falls on the party in power. And, right now, they have complete control. And there is absolutely no reason in the world why Democratic pet issues shouldn't be dealt with in a manner satisfactory to the Liberal wing of the party. Greg, there is no reason at all why a federal amendment recognizing gay marriage and making possible all rights recognized for straight couples be granted to gay couples. Right? I think this very point... this very debate... hinges on whether or not President Obama and the Democrats with full power over both houses, can make that happen... If they fail to deliver, Greg, will you stand by President Obama and the Democratic party? >>HUGS!!!<<

Nice dodge, my friend. And you know it isn't worth my time to reconstruct the dialogue and point out the obvious. Well, Greg... I HAVE heard nice things about you, and... ummm... When they change the tax laws... Or when they pass a new tobacco tax... Or when they redistribute my wealth and give it to someone else... Or... Shall I go on? When Senator Byrd was Grand Dragon, perhaps? What about when Mayor Newsom in San Francisco declared marriages would be performed in San Francisco, despite a law suggesting otherwise? You think he did it in liberal 'ol California for the fun of it? Dude, Dems claimed G.W. was endangering America from the very start of the freakin' War on Terror!!! I deny your furtive assertion that Democrats have their hands clean when it comes to all of these things. In an election year, Democrats are as good as anyone else in stirring up the politics of hate and fear! It would seem YOU need to research history, my friend... ...but you still rock.

Hey Steve, actually I don't so much consider myself a Republican as I do conservative in my thinking. I am not thrilled with the Republican party these days, however I find the tact taken by Democrats often to be more repulsive. I guess if I needed a label to apply to myself (as opposed to the one Roman and others feel they have a right to tag me with based on their rather narrow interpretation of who they think I am), I would be more independent... but I lean right and only vote Republican because their ideology is most closely aligned (or at least it used to be) with my values and principles. I would almost pay money to sit down and have dinner with Roman and just chat one on one... man to man... no bullshit. I wonder how that would go.

What an outrage! What a ridiculously long post!! Ugghhhh!!!! I don't think that's what I did. But I believe you and I are very similar in posting style, my good friend. However, a good example of twisting words and meanings? Well... I'm soooooo tired of this blanket defense for anything Roman says. Roman's point could have been made without the "color of his skin" line. He was talking to ME, not a member of the Klan. So, I'm assuming that Roman felt the line was important to include because, somewhere in his mind, he suspect I have an issue with black folks. Greg, you know as well as I do that 2+2=4 and that none of us here post so much as a word unless we MEAN it. I think it's safe to say that this forum is filled with very intelligent individuals and we say what we mean and leave little to question. Roman's implication was obvious... Dude, I wasn't born yesterday. Nor was Steve. We both have been around the block a few times. Roman is a lightweight when it comes to debating but he definitely chooses his wording carefully and purposely. You deny that, Greg? No doubt, but this fact was not part of our ongoing debate here. Again, no reason to discuss the issue of race when it had no bearing on MY feelings or STEVE'S feelings regarding his policy and performance in office. Greg, please rationalize Roman's need to bring this up while referencing and discussing MY reasons for disliking Obama. To remind you.. and please look back on the thread... Roman and I were discussing *MY* disapproval of Obama's performance, NOT anyone else. You're absolutely right! It was implied. That you can honestly say this without acknowledging how good Democrats are at this is absolutely hilarious. That has been the mantra of Democrats for as long as I can remember. In fact, it is always the mantra of the party not holding the White House.

Well, we've disagreed on a great many things in the past, haven't we? Nothing new there. With regard to the collapsing economy, McCain had lost steam long before things really disintegrated, in my opinion. I personally believe the economy wasn't the biggest stake in the heart of McCain... I believe one of the biggest was actually his stance on immigration and overall his inability to articulate his position on most any other issue put forth. The Republican party is a conservative party and McCain just simply wasn't conservative enough. With few truly conservative options available, those that voted did so while holding their noses... the rest stayed home. It wouldn't be the first time party faithful from either side of the isle protested mis- or underrepresentation by their candidate and/or party and simply did not participate. Anyway... we can agree to disagree, just as we have in the past when we didn't see eye to eye. Admittedly, you haven't always been my favorite person.

Well, Max, I totally disagree with most everything you have said. What's the difference between a moderate Democrat and a moderate Republican? Not a damn thing. A moderate is the everyperson who appeals to everyone, yet appeals to nobody. Without ideology, the political parties are void of principal and reasons for even existing. I believe John McCain lost the election because he was so ridiculously bland that nobody knew what he stood for. In contrast, Barack Obama is so boldly to the left that, despite my differences in his political philosophy, it is almost refreshing (in a twisted way) to see him so principled in his actions (even if I dislike those actions). At least the man pushes forth an agenda. Obama is a liberal. McCain is a moderate. People voted for principles and ideas of government... moderates offer nothing along the lines, in my opinion. Had the Republicans actually served up a truly conservative candidate, THEN it would have been a race. I believe that is what is causing the Republican party to falter... they have abandoned their principles and it is unclear what they stand for. I believe partisanship is very good for the country and I believe candidates should be clear where they stand on the issues... state boldly what their ideology is. How will we know what we're voting for if they don't? Just my honest opinion.

Linked to FOX News, the source is the Associated Press: FACT CHECK: Obama's Job Creation, Deficit Claims Questionable WASHINGTON -- President Obama turned the page on 100 days in office with an iffy boast about job creation and claims of fiscal prudence that are hard to square with his spending. http://www.foxnews.com/politics/2009/04/30...s-questionable/

I take FULL responsibility for everything I have posted in this forum and stand by it 100%. ABSO-FREAKIN-LUTELY. And I also believe, 100% that you ARE wrong, particularly in how you conduct yourself and relate to others with whom you disagree. YES. I have reached out to you TWICE and have been blatantly ignored TWICE. All the while, you continue to insult and disrespect. Roman, sir, it is YOU with the "problem", not I. Newsflash, oh Wise One -- I disagreed with Obama's policies before he was even elected. Dude, wake up... I felt Obama would destroy the country six months BEFORE he was elected. And you're SURPRISED?? Where the hell have you been? My opinions, which you so casually dismiss and right-wing racist fringe, have been consistent and I often provide links to CREDIBLE NEWS SOURCES to underscore my points. Like you, I sometimes post links to commentary I feel is relevant and thought-provoking... however, UNLIKE you, I don't feed the forum a constant stream of commentary from a third-party fringe blog with absolutely no connection to anything resembling a credible news organization. And most importantly, Sage-Roman... I enter into debate with respect for others in the forum I am conversing with. This has included you, DESPITE the routine attacks on my character and the belittling and ridiculing of my beliefs and anyone else here who is like-minded. I can't believe Steve or Kwing hasn't verbally bruised your ass yet, because either one could easily debate circles around you if so inspired. Thanks for listening and make it a great day!

Thanks Steve... At least I don't feel as if I'm the only one with this mindset. It's ALL about values, beliefs, and political philosophy. It is absolutely ridiculous to attempt debate in a political forum and repeatedly have someone throw out that we're racists because we don't agree with Obama's leftist policies. I would have been absolutely thrilled to see President Condoleeza Rice -- NOT because she is woman, NOT because she is black -- but because I feel she is qualified to handle things in the oval office... and more importantly, it looks as if her political philosophies are more closely aligned with mine. I still say those who play the race card most often are those with the most vile bigotry in their hearts. It doesn't have to be directed at skin color to be labeled bigotry. Roman occasionally hurls out the racist card when he has nothing else to say to underscore his point. He rarely debates passionately with logical reason... he reacts emotionally and tosses out accusations, and usually in the most hateful manner he can muster. If I had a dollar for every "Crooks and Liars" link offered up, I'd be able to pay the increased tax burden Obama's policies are creating. I don't mind reading op-ed's every now and then... but the least Roman can do is serve up the red meat of hard news occasionally! Like this one... Study: Obama's Early Popularity Only Average Among Predecessors http://www.foxnews.com/politics/2009/05/02...n-predecessors/ Now, watch... Roman will spend more time debating the source of the news rather than actually reading the article and examining the numbers. Roman... DUDE... numbers are numbers. You seem to like Gallup, right? I know, waste of time.

It's a tired and old line, Roman... If those of us who disagree with Obama's politics were as bigoted as you yet again try to paint us, we just couldn't be successful at all and function in the world day to day. I don't give a jolly hot [!@#$%^&*] about President Obama's skin color. Irresponsibility fiscal policy? Yes. Insane foreign policy? Yes. Inability to speak without a teleprompter? Not so much... but it is fun to watch. Drop the whole "You guys hate Obama cuz he's black" routine. It truly weakens whatever argument you attempt to put forth. Try responding to me or guys like Steve or Kwing with facts we can't refute or some sort of evidence that discounts the points we offer rather than simply rattling off (and in a shockingly witless way, I might add) the same old rants and vanilla attacks. Seriously, Roman. I have tried to chat and debate with you using so many different tactics, approaches, etc., and you seem to want none of it. I have attempted to befriend you with an invite for private messaging which you have blatantly ignored. The truth is that I don't give a crap anymore. You are a partisan hardass who chooses friends based on their ideology and political party affiliation. I wish it could be different because, I'll bet politics aside, we'd have an otherwise pleasant and enjoyable chat. I can disagree with people like Greg and UCLAN and not dislike them or exchange insults wit them. Why can't we do that, Roman? I try to chat with you... and get called a racist. Go figure. Or don't. Who cares?

When the Obama administration crashes and burns, with approval ratings that fall through the floor, political scientists can trace its demise to its first hundred days. While Americans are careful not to consign a presidency they desperately need to succeed to the dustbin of history, the fact is that this president has moved - on issue after issue - in precisely the opposite direction of what the people want him to do. http://www.realclearpolitics.com/articles/...ise__96245.html Stay tuned, Roman...

WASHINGTON – Millions of Americans enjoying their small windfall from President Barack Obama's "Making Work Pay" tax credit are in for an unpleasant surprise next spring. http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20090501/ap_on_...R7iGyz761QD5gcF Niiiice.

But... You, my friend, are behaving like the close-minded one. I laud Mr. President when I feel he has done something good. If you will take a moment to refer back several pages in this forum, there are two recent instances where I applauded President Obama for action he had taken. Did you miss those, Greg? I'm not interested in watching a speech... As countless election cycles and every President in my lifetime has underscored, it isn't words or a planned agenda that means much -- it is actually legislation passed and policy acted upon that impresses me. Forget a 100 day benchmark, let's sit down and talk at, say, the 1,000 day benchmark. What will an entire term tell us about a President's performance? For shame, Greg, judging my words and presuming my actions! As for the Cocoa Pebbles... they were damn good! I love it when the cereal is gone and milk turns all chocolatey!! YUM!!!

I had no desire to watch. Rather, I did the dishes. My wife cooked, so I did the dishes. When I cook, she does the dishes. Then we went for a walk. Upon returning, I enjoyed a bowl of Cocoa Pebbles, then the three of us watched Mythbusters.

Great post, Steve... and I agree with most everything you have said. Unfortunately, there is a left-wing fringe that feels that certain ends justify certain means... and they are selective about which civil rights they desire to honor and which they desire to take away, depending upon who gets and who gives. But there is a pattern of selling America up the river, so to speak... and that pattern not only continues but is reinforced by the President day in and day out.

I see a little good... a lot of bad. Our credibility on the world stage has been severely damaged. I'm waiting for the next Obama misstep... perhaps ice skating with Putin? Speaking of torture, watching all of this HAS been torture! And I see no hard-hitting analysis has been forthcoming regarding the two posts I dropped above. Interesting...

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/...ioning-law.html Thoughts on this? UCLAN? Roman?

Hi Roman, What I would love to see is some thoughtful analysis regarding those poll numbers, the 11% spread, and the obvious lean by AP and others. I'm perfectly fine "standing" the fact that many feel Obama is doing a good job. However, please forgive me for desiring accurate numbers and fair representation of the mood and opinions of those in America today. I would hope you aren't threatened by honest analysis. http://hotair.com/archives/2009/04/24/rasm...-natl-security/ There is another poll. Is this one accurate, Roman, or does it get cast aside because it doesn't favor Obama? I'm still waiting to see someone post someone about Obama, favorable coverage of Obama by NBC News, and General Electric's stake in wind energy... Perhaps a Google Search might turn something up... Piecing all of these things together right now...