Thinking Right

By Barbara

May 14, 2007 8:30 AM | Link to this

Jim, you forgot:

Fourth, once this program rolls out nationally, the libs will deem all of the requirements to be unfair or racist. After all, it’s not fair to expect the kids to have to (gasp!) work, and keep their grades up. And it’s certainly not fair to expect kids not to do drugs, or alcohol, or commit crimes; after all, they’re teen-agers. I can hear it now…..

By Howard

May 14, 2007 8:54 AM | Link to this

Jim…what did you expect from the “Breck Girl” John Edwards…a trial lawyer who has the brains of a gtnat and gets $400 haircuts (must have leanred that from the der schlickmeister Bill Clinton), lives in a huge mansion and owns a lavish beach home while claiming to represent the “poor” in the USA…and works and receives ample compensation as a “consultant” for a sub-prime mortgage company, while he rails in public about such companies?? Oh, he explained he didn’t know his sub-prime company did such a thing and that he was working there to only do research about the poor and middle class! What a complete arrogant boor!!! This educational entitlement would be in existence about one year…until most of this country would figure out how to “take it for every thing it’s got.” John Edwards is a complete moron.

By Redneck Convert

May 14, 2007 8:54 AM | Link to this

Well, this Edwards program is a pure waist of tax money. All you get from people that go to colledge is a bunch of pointy-headed libruls that don’t respect our good Southren way of living and thinking. All I know is I never made it out of the 5th grade and it never hurt me none. But I sure didn’t turn into no librul like my cousin. He went off to colledge and pretty soon was spouting librul junk and got disowned by his family. You can’t be a true Georgian and be educated. If everybody went off to colledge it wouldn’t be long till fine people like Sonny and Casey couldn’t get elected and us rednecks would lose control of this state. I say use our tax money for war and tax breaks for business and rich people. Its the American way and its the GA way. We could turn into a bunch of commies if we sent too many people to colledge. And Those People would just take over. I’m awful glad UGA don’t do too much educating. Their people come out of colledge and still drive pickup trucks with “3” stickers on their rear window.

It was a real good mothers day. My boy and my girl and little Sonny Zell George got her a roll of Copenhagen and a new spitoon and took her out to Ryans for dinner. By the time she finished that place looked like it was hit by one of them Kansas tornados. She was the happiest woman I ever seen. It was wrote all over her face. She had gravy and pudding all over it. She couldn’t quite finish off all the steak and roast beef in the place but she give it a good try. Anyway she had fell off to skin and bones. I bet she didn’t even weigh 300 pounds before we took her to dinner.

Well, its back to the beer run for me. The Baptists put down a lot of booze this weekend after church and all the bars and stores are putting in extra orders. Us GA people must be the champion drinkers and church goers of all time.

By Rod

May 14, 2007 9:06 AM | Link to this

Jim - what an a$$ again.

You call all scholarships vouchers? Let’s see, the kid who has perfect grades and gets a scholarship to Princton is actually just getting a voucher? You have incorrectly labeled the word “voucher” to mean “evil use of tax money by democrats”.

The kid who plays football at UGA on scholarship is actually on a voucher (evil use of tax money)?

How stupid can you be. You didn’t even address the merits of the program (of course you didn’t - you to biased and one-sided to look at both sides).

Let’s see: it reduces teen drug and alcohol use (which lowers suicide and DUI deaths), reduces crime, keeps kids in school, and increases public good with volunteer work.

Yeah, sounds like the country will go straight to hell if those things happen!

Jim - not everyone is rich like you. You think the poor family that’s living paycheck to paycheck has money to set aside for Johnny’s education? They just pray that he’ll be able to get a “scholarship” somewhere so he can better his life.

Jim Wooten = rich white man who spits on poor people.

By Dave

May 14, 2007 9:12 AM | Link to this

It will become high school part 2. With all the cheating scandals and ends based test coaching, we will then have college graduates that cannot read. Then the PhD will become the same as a college degree is today.
People who do not need to pay for their education do not appreciate it and take it for granted. Coming from a poor family myself, I was able to pay my own way and now I am somewhat successful. You need to work to make education be worthwhile.

By DebbieDoRight

May 14, 2007 9:16 AM | Link to this

Hmmm must be a slow news day. Either that or Jim conveniently forgot to mention the September deadline for a ‘real” progress report in Iraq that is now whole heartedly supported by all those republican senators in Washington; well it’s supported now that they know that they won’t have a Bush Zombie in a position of power just repeating word for word what the administration told them to say.

I wonder why our good friend Jim doesn’t want to talk about that? Maybe because those republicans are now “defeatists” or “cut and runners”? I wonder who’s “Thinking Right” now?

In just a week or two, once-solid Republican insistence on staying the course plotted by President Bush in Iraq has crumbled. Dismissive talk of the Democrats as Defeatocrats has been noticeably muted. Suddenly, everything has changed. Last week, 11 Republican congressmen went to the White House, carrying an unwelcome message that they later made sure to share with the American public as well. “Members really told the president in, I think the most unvarnished way that they possibly could, that things have got to change,” Rep. Ray LaHood (R-Ill.) said afterward, citing a progress report due in September from Gen. David Petraeus as a coming moment of reckoning. “We want a very candid report in September,” LaHood said. “We don’t want politics mixed into it. And the way forward after September, if the report is not good, is going to be very, very difficult.”

By Mid-South Philosopher

May 14, 2007 9:18 AM | Link to this

Good morning, Jim,

I have been tremendously busy the past few days and have not contributed anything. Things have settled down a bit, so I am back.

The issue of education reform and, more especially, No Child Left Behind (No Teacher Left with One)first brought us together as Internet friends.

John Edwards’s proposal is but a logical step in the applicaton of the illogical philosophy that holds that all students, with the exception of the most severely mentally impaired, with the proper instruction can achieve and perform at an arbitrarily established level of proficiency. You know, like every player should be able to dunk a basketball!

Moreover, we, in the United States, have taken the position that a college education is necessary for all good and productive citizens. To wit: All of our candidates for political office from dog catcher to President of the United States has an education policy or position. Invariably in their speeches, they will say something like this…We want American families to have good jobs and to be able to send their kids to college…

I challenge any of you to cite a politician who will say…*We want American families to have good jobs and to be able to send their kids to learn how to install septic tanks.”

We equate educated citizens with college trained citizens.

It ain’t necessarily so!

But, of course, we are dealing with politicians, who, by definition, are among the lowest on the change of intellectual proficiency.

As to financing a college education, I know an old, short, fat fellow (who never could dunk a basketball), who when he was in college worked when others were partying There were some loans involved, which he paid off in two years on a teacher’s salary and a bit of government money that he feels he more than earned given a two year service he rendered to his country.

Whatever happened to that scenario?

By themecca

May 14, 2007 9:19 AM | Link to this

Jim, you are a real CAC.

By Mid-South Philosopher

May 14, 2007 9:22 AM | Link to this

Should have been lowest on the chain.

By getalife

May 14, 2007 9:36 AM | Link to this

“BOXER: I don’t know anyone who opposes this war that ever said our troops are losers. Our troopers are winners.

GRAHAM: Harry Reid did.

BOXER: Excuse me. He never said our troops are losers. Now, Lindsey, just be careful what you say. The bottom line here is, the losers are the ones who have, you know, engineered this war, made a huge mistake, Dick Cheney, we’re in the last throes, the war will last six months, and all of you who have supported this escalation and have turned us away from fighting al Qaida into putting us in the middle of a civil war.

Boxer: “The loser is the Commander in Chief who has not lead our country well.”

Down goes Graham.

KO’d after one punch.

Look for the lying losers to blame it all on the Iraqi government and they will vote for us to leave to end this illegal occupation.

By harold

May 14, 2007 9:47 AM | Link to this

“social security will eventually bankrupt this country.” hmm.

isn’t social security just an elderly subsidy? that’s where we pay old people not to do anything anymore, right?

dont we need more soldiers to go get blowed up in iraq?

retirement should mean mandatory military service! you dont wanna work anymore? fine! you go to iraq. nobody wants old people lingering around forever anyway

iraq cant be any worse than most nursing homes, and honestly if you are just gonna get blowed up in a Hummer who cares if you are 19 or 91?

Isnt’ it better for the 91 year olds to get blowed up? THey had their lives already. We should stop shortchanging our youths.

How much more would’ve been paid into social security over the lifetime of the dead US soldiers had they not become dead?

Support our YOUTH, force RETIREES into the military

By harold

May 14, 2007 9:53 AM | Link to this

and if the elderly got captured by al qaeda, woudl they even know they were being tortured? probably not, so who cares! wins all around!!

By Dusty

May 14, 2007 9:53 AM | Link to this

DebbieDoRight@9:16

Maybe Jim Wooten didn’t mention the September deadline in Iraq because it is now the month of May. Also, a suggestion by some Republicans that a report that does not sound good may cause difficulties is NOT saying “retreat”.

As to a Zombie President, how about the Dummie Democrats who sound like the DNC is their ventriloquist? How about the Democratic governor of Kansas repeating her instructions from Dr. Dean? How about continued “investigations” by Democrats that result in absolutely nothing but a waste of time?

If you accuse Jim of “thinking right”, have you ever called yourself Debbie-Do-Left? You should.

Those little derogatory names for the President are real cute. You are doing your part for the Democrats as usual, the “white flaggers” of this country.

By Mid-South Philosopher

May 14, 2007 9:58 AM | Link to this

To Harold,

Interesting perception as to the value of retirees.

Of course, if the idiot Congresses that we have elected over the past 70 years had not raided the Social Security Trust Fund from time to time, the system would be in better shape.

As to the value of using retirees in the war, you might be surprised. I suspect the American people are not ready for the level of killing that some of these folks could do. Of course, we are not supposed to kill these Islamist brethren…we are supposed to love them to death aren’t we!

By Dennis

May 14, 2007 9:59 AM | Link to this

Mr. Wooten expresses his real fear; “… Congress will levy the taxes to cover the entitlements it creates, no matter the burden on that dwindling percentage of Americans who actually pay federal income taxes.”

Ah!, the “dwindling percentage of Americans who actually pay federal income taxes.”

I wonder if Mr. Wooten can explain just why there is a dwindling percentage of Americans who “actually pay federal income taxes”?

Could it be because the rich are getting richer and the poor are getting poorer?

Are the rich working harder and the poorer working less hard?

Are the numbers of the poor growing faster than the numbers of the rich?

Do the poor pay a greater percentage of their incomes to taxes of all sorts than do the rich?

Mr.Wooten continues; “…“scholarships” is the politically correct word for vouchers….” But do you call it that, Mr. Wooten, when you are promoting vouchers (“entitlements”) for private schools?

And Mr. Wooten comments on, “FDR’s bright idea in creating the Social Security program that will sooner or later bankrupt this country. FDR called his entitlement “insurance” and the payroll taxes levied “contributions” that were to be socked away in a “trust fund” for old age. He knew if he called them what they were — taxes for a pay-as-you-go entitlement — the country would balk. Labels matter.”

The rich cannot enjoy what they enjoy unless the poor do the jobs the rich hire them to do. Nor can a corporation enjoy its huge profits without paying low salaries and no benefits to its workers.

And you wonder, Mr. Wooten, why there is a “dwindling percentage of Americans who actually pay federal income taxes?”

If this kind of “God, bless me, my wife, my son John, his wife, we four, no more” thinking is the best conservative christanity can offer, I think I’ll pass.

That kind of thinking, Mr. Wooten, kind of thinking is pure hypocracy.

Anyone who works all of his or her working years and contributes to the good of this country is “entitled” to, by a share of its bounty when their working days are over- whatever the title, “entitlements”, “social security”. Whatever.

(But the correct title is “profit sharing”).

You don’t have to be a blind conservative not to see it, just an ignorant one to deny it.

By PiedmontPark

May 14, 2007 10:05 AM | Link to this

Just a dumb question, how much does it cost to attend UGA or GT for one semester (tuition, room, board, books)? Could it be possible that the costs for attending college have risen somewhat astronomically in the past several years?

By Richard

May 14, 2007 10:10 AM | Link to this

Mid-South Philosopher, you stated: “I have been tremendously busy the past few days and have not contributed anything. Things have settled down a bit, so I am back.”

After reading your comments, you still have not contributed anything.

By PS

May 14, 2007 10:14 AM | Link to this

Suppose that every day, ten men go out for beer and the bill for all ten comes to $100. If they paid their bill the way we pay our taxes, it would go something like this:

So, that’s what they decided to do.

The ten men drank in the bar every day and seemed quite happy with the arrangement, until one day, the owner threw them a curve.

“Since you are all such good customers,” he said, “I’m going to reduce the cost of your daily beer by $20.”Drinks for the ten now cost just $80.

The group still wanted to pay their bill the way we pay our taxes so the first four men were unaffected. They would still drink for free. But what about the other six men? The real paying customers? How could they divide the $20 windfall so that everyone would get his ‘fair share?’
They realized that $20 divided by six is $3.33. But if they subtracted that from everybody’s share, then the fifth man and the sixth man would each end up being paid to drink his beer. So, the bar owner suggested that it would be fair to reduce each man’s bill by roughly the same amount, and he proceeded to work out the amounts each should pay.

And s o:

Each of the six was better off than before. And the first four continued to drink for free. But once outside the restaurant, the men began to compare their savings.

“I only got a dollar out of the $20,”declared the sixth man. He pointed to the tenth man,” but he got $10!”

“Yeah, that’s right,” exclaimed the fifth man. “I only saved a dollar, too. It’s unfair that he got ten times more than I!”

“That’s true!!” shouted the seventh man. “Why should he get $10 back when I got only two? The wealthy get all the breaks!”

“Wait a minute,” yelled the first four men in unison. “We didn’t get anything at all. The system exploits the poor!” The nine men surrounded the tenth and beat him up.

The next night the tenth man didn’t show up for drinks, so the nine sat down and had beers without him. But when it came time to pay the bill, they discovered something important. They didn’t have enough money between all of them for even half of the bill!

And that, boys and girls, journalists and college professors, is how our tax system works. The people who pay the highest taxes get the most benefit from a tax reduction. Tax them too much, attack them for being wealthy, and they just may not show up anymore. In fact, they might start drinking overseas where the atmosphere is somewhat friendlier.

By Van

May 14, 2007 10:15 AM | Link to this

Whoa, wait a minute.

Where is it written that EVERYONE is entitled to a free college education?

Have we become such a whiny country that if little Johnny and Suzie don’t get a free college education they will be ruined forever?

College is a privilege that has to be earned, not handled to anyone. I guess now instead of dumb bell classes, they will start teaching at the high school level, like first year high school, just to get them ready for college level work.

By getalife

May 14, 2007 10:17 AM | Link to this

All the billions stolen in Iraq mutes the entitlement rhetoric.

The neocon wet dream to end entitlements and bankrupt our country is pathetic and Jim subscribes to this idiotic mind set.

By Curious Observer

May 14, 2007 10:17 AM | Link to this

We already have a college entitlement program. It’s called the Hope Scholarship Program. It has debased the value of a high school education by virtue of grade inflation. Teachers are terrified of awarding any grade lower than a B, lest they disqualify little Johnny for a Hope scholarship and thus incur the wrath of parents. The syndrome is working its way up the educational chain. Soon, college teachers will feel the pressure to avoid awarding any grade lower than a B, so that little Johnny can continue to receive Hope funding. Besides, college administrators who are in a funding pinch don’t want to lose a revenue stream by virtue of Johnny’s flunking out.

I will go along with Harold’s suggestion to put the elderly in the military just as soon as Harold and the legion of other draft-dodgers complete their military service. Until then, this tired old ex-Marine intends to avoid donning any uniform.

It figures that Wooten would take yet another slap at Social Security. Those business people he supports just can’t stand matching the contributions of their workers. If only they could foist this obligation off on the workers alone, why, profits would soar and we could have more gated mansions and lots of stock dividends.

Give it up, Wooten. Social Security is here to stay, and your party isn’t exactly topping the national charts in popularity. We could solve the long-term funding problem easily by making employers double the contributions of workers and by removing the cap on earnings requiring contributions to the fund.

By Mid-South Philosopher

May 14, 2007 10:19 AM | Link to this

To Richard,

With respect to your preception of my comments, I eagerly await your views on the issue I addressed. Doubtless, you will be able to enlighten me and improve my grasp of the matters. I am all eyes!

By Voucherman

May 14, 2007 10:20 AM | Link to this

If it’s a voucher, how come you’re not all for it?

By JohnD

May 14, 2007 10:23 AM | Link to this

Dennis,

You blather on without thought and propose some of the more ignorant ideas on the blog.

“The rich hire the poor”. Now there is an enlightening statement. How many jobs have been created by the poor?

The poor pay virtually nothing in taxes. I hereby give you the chance to go on about sales taxes, etc. You are just another entitlement junkie who is not disciplined enough to contribute to the welfare of others so you want the government to do your job for you.

“Nor can a corporation enjoy huge profits…” - just another jealous government employee. Now all corporations “enjoy” huge profits. You are clueless.

The Christians you liberal guttersnipes so like to abuse are the most giving of any segment of society. The Christians are those who help anyone, even Muslims, in time of need. Then the social parasites like you Dennis, can say what a great giving country the US is - all without lifting a finger to even write a check.

No person is “entitled” to retirement for simply working. You plan for, save for and then have the opportunity to retire. Retirement is not one of the inalienable rights.

You HAVE to be an ignorant liberal to support Dennis and just about anything that rolls off his keyboard.

By Mark

May 14, 2007 10:25 AM | Link to this

Let’s see… George Bush can lie us into a war on to whip up a false sense of insecurity so that Republicans can win state and local elections and he’s some how a hero to a (ever dwindeling) segment of society… but John Edwards promotes a scholarship program that might actually be good for America (of course to win votes, too) and he’s some how evil? George Bush’s vote-getting scheme has cost hundreds of thousands of lives (3,300 or so of them American military) and about $1 trillion dollars. John Edwards vote-getting scheme might actually educate people, make some lives better and not cost nearly as much. Who’s the evil one here?

IMPEACH BUSH NOW!!!! (and Dick “Darth Vader” Chaney!!!!)

By Craig

May 14, 2007 10:26 AM | Link to this

Come on don’t be so tough on Wooten. It’s got to be tough shilling for the Bushies nowadays. The Republicans - at least the ones who aren’t brain dead - are finally beginning to tell Dubya they won’t support his little play war in Iraq much longer. And just today, Rupert Murdoch, owner of Fox News, has announced that he and his company are concerned about global climate change and are going to do their part to help fix the problem.

By JK

May 14, 2007 10:38 AM | Link to this

Do the poor and the middle class save for college anymore?

Well, I’m trying to save for my kids’ college, Mr. Wooten, but the price of gas to get to work (where MARTA does not go) is eating up more and more of my mostly stagnant paycheck these days. Of course, I’m grateful to still have the paycheck, as my job has not been outsourced YET. Keeping the kids in activities (and out of trouble like good little citizens) costs a FORTUNE! And with the cost of insurance rising every year, and my little raises not coming close to keeping up with inflation, I barely have enough for emergencies, let alone the cost of tuition that’s increasing even faster than inflation.

But then, the important thing is that oil companies can rape us and reap astronomical profits without paying too many taxes, RIGHT? BTW, is there good money in being a one-sided hack “journalist” who offers no pretense of objectivity whatsoever? What disgusting, immoral things would I have to do to whom to get that gig? Do tell.

By Van

May 14, 2007 10:53 AM | Link to this

Curious Observer,

Great idea, I’ll go. I am not yet 60, but close, but if they would let me back in, I would serve again - gladly.

Just think, 3 meals a day, good pay and a great new uniforms, better than the old green utilities I wore 40 years ago.

Yep, sign me up.

By Dennis

May 14, 2007 10:56 AM | Link to this

By JohnD May 14, 2007 10:23 AM “The Christians you liberal guttersnipes so like to abuse are the most giving of any segment of society.”

If I go by your overall post, I hear your Christianity and your Islamic beliefs complaining about the poor.

“The Christians are those who help anyone, even Muslims, in time of need.”

I agree that a true Christian or true Muslim will help those in time of need. However, I don’t think it’s the true Christian or the true Muslim who is complaining about the poor, or begrudging the poor a living wage or begrudging the poor what they are unable to pay for themselves in time of need.

Interesting that you would call me a “liberal guttersnipe”. I wonder how you lable yourself?

But the Christianity and the Islamic belief I prefer is this; Anyone who works all of his or her working years and contributes to the good of this country is “entitled” to, by a share of its bounty when their working days are over- whatever the title, “entitlements”, “social security”. Whatever.

(But the correct title is “profit sharing”).

I don’t know why a good Christian or a good Muslim would complain about that.

You don’t have to be a blind conservative not to see it, just an ignorant one to deny it.

By ATC

May 14, 2007 11:00 AM | Link to this

By Dennis

May 14, 2007 10:56 AM

“The Christians are those who help anyone, even Muslims, in time of need.”

Ten where have all the “christians” gone? Doesnt seem to be a lot of “christianity” floating around out there anymore.

By Hands off my money

May 14, 2007 11:06 AM | Link to this

Yes, I said it … keep your HANDS OFF MY MONEY. We need the Fair Tax and forget about all entitlements. Let me decide how I want to spend MY MONEY. I will send my kid(s) to college, and you (government) won’t have to be involved. This is just another way to keep them in our lives - forever. Leave me alone and get out.

It is too much to ask for individuals to be responsible for their (and their families) financial future? I think the Democrats are scared that financial Darwinism will take over!

By Dusty

May 14, 2007 11:11 AM | Link to this

Entitlements?

Four of our five children now have seven degrees among them with an eighth soon to be achieved. We are a middle income family.

Our children were always encouraged to to go college. They made the decision whether to go. Some worked before moving to higher education. Some worked while achieving their education. One got financial help from his military service. All went to state universities. When “ends” didn’t meet, the family then paid. We were fortunate to live in Atlanta with great schools. MARTA was available. Cars were not necessary.

One of the best entitlements I can think of is the great desire to achieve a good education.

By The Truth Hurts

May 14, 2007 11:21 AM | Link to this

Woot asks do the poor save money for college? Stupid question. Heck, they’re just trying to live. Having money for college is the least of their worries. They’re just worried how they are going to afford the gas to get back and forth to work.

And I see Dusty is all up in arms because the Kansas Governor dared to mention her state’s National Guard supplies have dwindled due to the war. Let’s blame Howard Dean.

And those “investigations”? It’s called checks and balances. Get used to it. Did you complain when $40 Million was spent on Whitewater? Somehow I doubt it.

By the way, Dusty, we’ve lost 45 soldiers the first 13 days of this month - in case you’re not keeping up. Two of them were 19 years old, including a girl named Katie. Wonder how many of those should have already been home, but were still there because their tours were extended?

Wooten is worried about $8 Billion? We spent that in the last 30 days in Iraq.

By Outsource Wooten's Column to India

May 14, 2007 11:24 AM | Link to this

Who is this Dusty person who is so proud of her childrens’ many advanced degrees?

One got financial help from his military service.

i.e., government subsidy (handout)

All went to state universities.

supported by tax money, ergo a government subsidy

When “ends” didn’t meet, the family then paid.

Completely self-reliant then, right? at least when the governmental $$$$ t!t dried up.

We were fortunate to live in Atlanta with great schools.

um, paid for how? government subsidy?

MARTA was available. Cars were not necessary.

and who pays for Marta??

Shorter Dusty: Taxation and government subsidies are bad things, except when they benefit me and mine, because WE are all completely self-reliant, like all good conservatives.

By melo

May 14, 2007 11:26 AM | Link to this

Jim Wooten = rich white man who spits on poor people

Jim wooten Rich??Dont think so.

He works for ajc,a liberal institution and he is a Right Winger,but how can he be rich.He has a pension and insurance, but Rich? Hell NAW!!

By Van

May 14, 2007 11:27 AM | Link to this

Dusty,

I agree. My daughter and son decided to enter college via different paths, very different.

One is a RN and the other is a tech with Nissan. Both have degrees.

Mine was never completed, got kicked out of a couple of places of higher learning, but then again, not all knowledge is taught at college. Between the military training and Company training, I got along fairly well.

By Dennis

May 14, 2007 11:28 AM | Link to this

By ATC

May 14, 2007 11:00 AM | By Dennis May 14, 2007 10:56 AM “The Christians are those who help anyone, even Muslims, in time of need.”

“Ten where have all the “christians” gone? Doesnt seem to be a lot of “christianity” floating around out there anymore.’

Please note that I was quoting JohnD May 14, 2007 10:23 AM, who seems to be critical of my views.

You don’t have to be a blind conservative not to see it, just an ignorant one to deny it.

By DebbieDoRight

May 14, 2007 11:29 AM | Link to this

DebbieDoRight@9:16 — Maybe Jim Wooten didn’t mention the September deadline in Iraq because it is now the month of May.

SURE. That’s the reason he didn’t mention it……

Also, a suggestion by some Republicans that a report that does not sound good may cause difficulties is NOT saying “retreat”.

No, what it’s saying is prepare for retreat. Pack your bags, fill up the tank, open the door, put one foot out the door and prepare to get the h3ll outta dodge.

As to a Zombie President, how about the Dummie Democrats who sound like the DNC is their ventriloquist?

Actually I didn’t call Poor Little Georgie a name; but it’s kinda “freudian” that you’d automatically think I’d call him a zombie…….that comment was very telling……..

How about continued “investigations” by Democrats that result in absolutely nothing but a waste of time?

You mean like how the Republicans did with that WhiteWater scandal thingy? How many millions of tax payer dollars were wated on that for how many years?

Those little derogatory names for the President are real cute. You are doing your part for the Democrats as usual, the “white flaggers” of this country.

White Flaggers, canaries in the mines, people who have common sense, the people who can actually walk and chew gum at the same time, people who can think for themselves and don’t need Hannity and Homeboy to do it for them, people who know that the emperor, (Bush) has no clothes and is not afraid to say it, people who believe that we should try to catch Osama Bin Laden instead of pretending we forgot his name and address, people who want accountability — not corruption In government……. Yep! That’s me, like Redneck Convert says I’m one of THOSE people!

By rnm

May 14, 2007 11:30 AM | Link to this

Without arguing the merits of Senator Edwards’ plan, I would just like to say that if someone has the desire to go to college then they can go to college. My parents were hard-working but couldn’t afford to pay for me to go to college, so I got a student loan, applied for student aid, got a job, and lived at home while commuting to school. Was it the “ideal” college experience? No. But that’s life. It worked out fine for me. If someone says they can’t go to school b/c of finances, etc. then they are just not willing to find a way to make it happen.

By Dennis

May 14, 2007 11:33 AM | Link to this

By The Truth Hurts May 14, 2007 11:21 AM “Woot asks do the poor save money for college? Stupid question. Heck, they’re just trying to live. Having money for college is the least of their worries. They’re just worried how they are going to afford the gas to get back and forth to work.”

This is not something that a conservative like Mr. Wooten wants to admit. If they do, their whole conservative philosophy is shot to hell.

(And Mr. Wooten would have nothing to write about).

You don’t have to be a blind conservative not to see it, just an ignorant one to deny it.

By Billy

May 14, 2007 11:40 AM | Link to this

Wooten wrote, “Do the poor and the middle class save for college anymore?”

My Grandpa and Grandma raised my Mom and her three siblings on a milkman’s income. They had health insurance for the entire family, sent all four children to private Catholic schools and to college on a milkman’s salary. In 15 years, they paid-off a three bedroom, two bath house with a basement and a garage on a one acre lot on a milkman’s salary. Supplemented by Social Security, Grandpa and Grandma were able to afford a comfortable retirement until they both died in the early eighties on a milkman’s pension. They accomplished all this without credit cards or home equity loans or lines of credit.

Today, I’m a college-educated software developer and my wife is a college educated architect. Our combined income puts our household in the top fifteen percentile of all household incomes in America. Yet we can’t afford the lifestyle that my Grandpa provided for his family without going deeply into debt –- not even close.

Over the 35+ years since my grandpa retired from driving a milk truck, the rising cost of housing, health insurance, prescription medicine, medical expenses, gasoline, food, college education and other necessities have grown far faster than low and middle class incomes.

My question for Mr. Wooten is, where, pray tell, does he expect poor and middle class workers to get the money to save to send their children to college, when most barely make enough to save for retirement?

By getalife

May 14, 2007 11:41 AM | Link to this

The lying loser

By DebbieDoRight

May 14, 2007 11:46 AM | Link to this

If Mr. Wooten is so worried about the exorbitant cost of “funds for education”, why haven’t we ever heard a word about the misuse and missing Iraqi reconstruction war dollars? Being the good fiscal conservative that he is, I’m just a wee bit surprised that he has never mentioned one word about this!! I guess he’s worried that someone may think he’s anti-Bush if he ever mentions the word “misuse” when speaking about the Republicans!! Better just use that word when mentioning Democrats….

A new audit of American financial practices in Iraq has uncovered irregularities including millions of reconstruction dollars stuffed casually into footlockers and filing cabinets, an American soldier in the Philippines who gambled away cash belonging to Iraq, and three Iraqis who plunged to their deaths in a rebuilt hospital elevator that had been improperly certified as safe.

By RCH

May 14, 2007 12:03 PM | Link to this

In the Constitution it states” the pursuit of happiness”’ not the guarantee.You are not entitled to a college education,just like I am not entitled to a Ferrari. As for “stealing” the money from profits of big oil,where was everybody 10 years ago when a barrel of oil sold for $30 and oil companies where barely surviving.And all they will do is pass off the tax to the consumer anyway. That is why the Lottery works so well. It is a “self imposed” tax.If you don’t want to pay you don’t have to play.

By melo

May 14, 2007 12:04 PM | Link to this

Civilians are dying like flies in Iraq!! DUMB and deputy HUMPTY only count the American soldiers.Those are the only ‘people’ they know.

What a sad legacy for the BUSHWACKS!!!

We are in our last throes, hang on. By the way, Humpty was in Bagdhad on a surprise visit a month ago and they welcomed him with a gun salute that shook the Green Zone. And he rushed to get out of there!! No candie and ululation for the ‘liberator’. And they still have their Heads in the Sand!!

By Katie

May 14, 2007 12:11 PM | Link to this

RCH wrote, “You are not entitled to a college education…”

In a representative democracy we are entitled to whatever the voters decide we are entitled to. This voter believes that any American who wants a college education ought to be able to attend college for free. We all benefit from an educated society, and in my opinion, the benefits would far exceed the costs.

By Realist

May 14, 2007 12:14 PM | Link to this

Jim rightly calls this idea a voucher or entitlement, because that is all it is. To compare it to a football or academic scholarship is false. In those cases, the student has worked and earned, let me repeat, EARNED, thier way to college.

This is another attempt to socialize private education, and have the tax payers pay the way for those who dont, and who dont save for thier kids futures.

By Dusty

May 14, 2007 12:14 PM | Link to this

Ah yes Debbie Do Left,

Prepare!! Are you wrapping Christmas presents in May? This war is not over yet so don’t get too excited over a hasty exit. We are going to win first.

But you are correct on one thing. When you said “Bush Zombie in position of power” I somehow thought you were referring to Bush. It was not Freudian. It was the usual “atmosphere” I expect from you.

All you other liberals sqawking about my children’s education at state universities,

We pay taxes like everybody else and that includes state tax. I don’t call taxes vouchers. You can call them anything you want. Education still requires money at state institutions but much less.

Are you angry because my children have and are getting advanced education? Why?

‘Tis true that I am very proud of them. Besides that, this mother’s day weekend was great. I am “stuffed”, smell sweet with perfume, and have some pretty flowers. Cheers to mother’s day!!

By getalife

May 14, 2007 12:18 PM | Link to this

The exit stategy is to blame the Iraqi government and the Iraqi government will vote on withdrawal.

BTW, if the wingnuts have not admitted they are losers by now, we will have to keep reminding them.

LOSERS!

By Jake

May 14, 2007 12:18 PM | Link to this

Realist,

No football player ever earned his way into college by playing footbal. Athletic scholarships for academic hacks (not all athletes fall into this category) is a perfect example of our society’s misplaced priorities.

By Why?

May 14, 2007 12:20 PM | Link to this

Why does Jim Wooten hate regular folks so much?

By RCH

May 14, 2007 12:21 PM | Link to this

Katie, We can only vote for what is defined in the framework of the Constitution.Many laws are passed by Congress and then thrown out as unconstitutional. That is the point. By the way Katie, please vote for a Ferrari for me.Much appreciated

By getalife

May 14, 2007 12:24 PM | Link to this

Dusty is one of the losers who fall for the preachers scams ( I cast thee illness out of your body, send money) and the Nigerian email scams (send thousands to get millions).

Loser

By Realist

May 14, 2007 12:27 PM | Link to this

Jake, You obviously never went through four years of two-a-day practices in 98 degree temps. You obviously never left school at 3pm and watched your friends go to the mall and go swimming, while you went out to the field to get pounded on and run your a* off, then go home and sit up until 1am getting homework done, only to do it all over again the next day.

Yes, for the most part, they do earn it.

By Outsource Wooten's Column to India

May 14, 2007 12:34 PM | Link to this

Dusty,

I doubt anyone with a lick of sense is jealous of your situation.

But your response is perfect…you again proclaim the wonderfulness of your children, add a dash of patriotic rah-rah, and refer to mother’s day for an added dash of rhetorical flourish. yet you fail to address the several ways that government programs helped you get your kids raised and on to their many degrees. I realize how difficult it must be for you to admit that you are not the bootstrap lifting titan of Conservative myth, to acknowledge that the reason you and yours have succeeded in life is because the society you live in has a social compact that offers opportunity via a redistribution of capitol by way of taxation and governmental expenditure. But you and all your Wootenesque pals still pat yourselves on the back for your pluck and courage, and tout your ability to overcome against all odds with no help from anyone. All while barely hiding your sneering disdain for those who are “beneath” you.

I am glad that your children were afforded opportunities to achieve. I wish that every child of talent and potential were given the same opportunities. Granted, college is not the best choice for everyone. But for those that could benefit, and could in turn benefit society at large through their enhanced ability to contribute, it is a senseless waste of resource to deny the avenues to education.

By Jake

May 14, 2007 12:35 PM | Link to this

Realist,

If you’re talking about the athletes who got their “homework done” and learned a thing or two (as evidenced by their grades) then we’re on the same page. If you look again, I limited my criticism to providing scholarships to academic hacks simply for their athetic skills (I don’t care how hard you got pounded).

We both know that many, if not most, athtletic scholarships are given to athletes who haven’t cut it academically.

By JR

May 14, 2007 12:35 PM | Link to this

OK folks. You want to go to college for free. It is very simple. Serve your country in the Military and after your successful tour of duty, you can attend college for free.

If John Edwards has his way, no one will go into the military because they are all going into the ‘free’ colleges. If we have no military, who will defend your ‘right’ to go to college?

Oh wait, I forgot. Those who use drugs, don’t graduate or get into trouble with the law can’t go to college. I guess they are the ones who will join the military and defend our country. Now that’s something to look forward to!!!

By Realist

May 14, 2007 12:39 PM | Link to this

Jake, Why do you hate athletes? Georgia and most states have minimum grade requirements to even participate. Let me guess, you think the athletes are given special treatment and their grades are fixed right?

Like I said, if you havent walked in their shoes, or cleats as it were, then dont spout off out of resentment.

Back on topic, nobody should be shocked at Edwards $8B entitelement. It will only be the tip of the mutli- trillion dollar tax and spend iceburg should the dems take the oval office, which thier current shameful actions thankfully gaurantee that they will not.

By DebbieDoRight

May 14, 2007 12:41 PM | Link to this

Ah yes Debbie Do Left

Please not the name!! It’s a tribute to my hubby, whom I call Dudley, (as in Dudley Do Right of the Canadian Mounted Police, the reference may be too old for you; I guess it was a show that came on back in the 70s).

Prepare!! Are you wrapping Christmas presents in May?

Sure do!! Cheaper than waiting until December when the costs go up 50%!! See I have an “exit strategy”; plan now, save money for later, no last minute rushing around, etc. I know you republicans never heard of that!

But you are correct on one thing. When you said “Bush Zombie in position of power” I somehow thought you were referring to Bush. It was not Freudian. It was the usual “atmosphere” I expect from you.

SURE……whatever you say……(wink wink)

By RCH

May 14, 2007 12:45 PM | Link to this

Realist; Don’t bank on it.Its easy to take the money and give it to those who have not earned it. And then they will want more just like a drug addict,the role of drug supplier John Edwards will play gladly to stay in power.

By DawgBite

May 14, 2007 12:46 PM | Link to this

OWCTI, the thing that Dusty can attribute her “success” to is called HUSBAND.

By Katie

May 14, 2007 12:47 PM | Link to this

RCH,

You wrote “We can only vote for what is defined in the framework of the Constitution…” Excellent point, but can you help me out here?

Where in the Constitution does it say that college education cannot be paid for by the taxpayers? Is Social Security and Medicare unconstitutional too? If so, how so?

Do tell. Unless you can clear this up for me, I’m voting for the entitlements I support (free college for any and all who want it) and against those I don’t support (sports cars for idiots).

Isn’t our representative democracy grand?

By jbmlaw

May 14, 2007 12:48 PM | Link to this

OWCI, your baseless rhetoric used to attack my friend Dusty is typical of leftist worship of the government teat. Her tone may be whimsical, but her points are based on unassailable logic.

By Outsource Wooten's Column to India

May 14, 2007 12:48 PM | Link to this

JR:Those who use drugs {…} or get into trouble with the law can’t go to college.

This is an interesting point that comes up over and over with the Law&Order conservatrons. A sort of “one strike and you’re out” approach to deterring drug use and other crime, the idea here is that “they should have thought of that before they made that decision!” Yeah, serves the little $h!ts right.

Yet the conservatron cause is so tied up with the Christianist crusade, and this “one strike” position seems at odds with the Christian ideals of redemption and forgiveness. Any good Christianist Conservatrons care to untangle this contradiction between desired-policy and professed-belief?

But perhaps JR feel’s my partial quote does not do justice to his thoughts. So, the full pull:

Those who use drugs, don’t graduate or get into trouble with the law can’t go to college. I guess they are the ones who will join the military and defend our country. Now that’s something to look forward to!!!

I think you are describing the current recruitment dilemma quite nicely. And it is interesting that you believe that only criminals, dropouts, and addicts would choose military service. Because your implication is that only those who do not have “better things to do” might actually serve in the military.

But it is at least a policy with teeth…anyone who ever makes a mistake is condemned to do the jobs no sane person would ever undertake unless forced. Though why JR has such a low opinion of military service is a puzzle. Perhaps a tour of duty would change his tune.

By DebbieDoRight

May 14, 2007 12:50 PM | Link to this

OK folks. You want to go to college for free. It is very simple. Serve your country in the Military and after your successful tour of duty, you can attend college for free.

Unless you’re gay. Don’t ask don’t tell!! !!

By Todd

May 14, 2007 12:51 PM | Link to this

High school should not even be an entitlement. Sorry, but when 50% of the freshmen in high school do not even make it to their senior year and 50% of the freshmen in college do not even make it to their sophomore, does that not tell you something?

I teach middle school, and we have two 17-year olds and I can’t tell you how many 15-and 16-year olds. I had a 15-year old 6th grader sent before the tribunal just the other day. Too much babysitting. No one should be entitled to anything with education. If you are smart, then fine—get accepted and get a scholarship. Otherwise take out a loan or hopefully get a grant. Loans are always available. Maybe you can’t afford the top private universities, but any in-state school is affordable unless you are one of my students who have popped out babies their freshmen year of high school after getting pregnant in middle school.

Stop the babysitting and start real life. Too much communism ever encroaching—and we think we won the Cold War?

By DawgBite

May 14, 2007 12:53 PM | Link to this

Don’t you have an ambulance to chase jbmlaw?

By DebbieDoRight

May 14, 2007 12:55 PM | Link to this

Bring back the DRAFT. That’ll make all those good little republicans (Young Republicans of Georgia), put their money where their mouths are!! You want war! FINE! Your local recruiter wants to talk to you about a land rich in oil……

By Disgusted

May 14, 2007 12:55 PM | Link to this

Whatever we do, let’s not support anything that will promote a higher level of education in the nation. With an educated citizenry, we will no longer be able to play on fears and start wars in order to get reelected. College-educated geeks are more likely to question the correctness of political actions. Let’s keep Georgia—and the rest of the nation—dumb as a box of rocks and in the hands of the rednecks. It’s the only way to keep Sonny Perdoofus and other Dubya wannabes in office. Billions for war, but not one red cent for education.

By jbmlaw

May 14, 2007 12:56 PM | Link to this

Dawgbite@12:53 _ My friend Dusty has never had one flaw in anything she has posted on this blog, yet she draws an inordinate amount of grief from the barely conscious pondscum leftists here. I will defend her always.

By DawgBite

May 14, 2007 12:57 PM | Link to this

Maybe we should deport rednecks and keep the Mexicans. We would have a better class of people that way.

By Jake

May 14, 2007 12:58 PM | Link to this

Realist,

You’re only being dishonest with yourself by implying that I hate athletes and that I’m talking about all athletes.

You suspected that I think the athletes are given special treatment and their grades are fixed. I don’t suspect — I know that many (not all) athletes are given special treatment. You know it too, and you’re making an a$$ out of yourself by arguing facts that are common knowledge.

By JR

May 14, 2007 12:59 PM | Link to this

To Outsource Wooten’s Column to India:

I really feel sorry for people who can’t or don’t read well. If you read my post you would have seen that I said there is already a free college system in place. If you join the Military and serve your term, you can then go to college for free. By the way, I did serve in the Navy from 73-77, then got my education free from Uncle Sam.

By DawgBite

May 14, 2007 1:01 PM | Link to this

jbmlaw, Ken Nugent needs to keep an eye on your productivity.

By Realist

May 14, 2007 1:04 PM | Link to this

Wow Jake, its not a liberal to start all the ad hom attacks like that. Oh wait, yes it is exactly like a liberal to do that. Never mind.

If you want to blame someone or some thing for the decreased level of quality applicants in secondary education, I would say look no further than the liberal ideology of tolerence and political correctness that refuses to hold students accountable or fail them. I submit the writing of Cho at Virginia Tech. Here is a senior English major, obviosuly sailing through what I thought was a tough school, and by all accounts writes and spells on a 7th grade level. Dont blame sports and athletes for that one my friend. Thats the liberal ideology of tolerance and fairness in its purest form.

By Outsource Wooten's Column to India

May 14, 2007 1:06 PM | Link to this

Ahh, another substantive retort from jbm, the Man Who Would Be Ken Nugent.

Sir, you call fact and logic anything that supports your world view. If Dusty were a liberal, I would cringe in embarrasment at her feeble natterings. Hers are the most substance-free posts at this marshmallow roast. But I must admit that she claps louder than all you other Peter Pans put together.

Now, this post was also substance-free. It was what is called an ad hominem attack. I’m sure you and your friend Dusty recognize this type of post, as it is your sole recourse in the absence of any substantive opinions.

But I defend to the death your right to keep posting here. It is amusing to see such distinguised representation of the core 28% that still support the Miserable Failure.

By Outsource Wooten's Column to India

May 14, 2007 1:10 PM | Link to this

JR:By the way, I did serve in the Navy from 73-77, then got my education free from Uncle Sam.

It’s a shame you don’t use it. Perhaps the conservatrons here are correct…if it comes free, it must not do any good.

By RCH

May 14, 2007 1:12 PM | Link to this

Katie, I could go into great detail why these programs exist,but I do have a job. As for your vote,go right ahead.We have the Hope and you can vote for it with everyone of your dollars you would like. Don’t let me stop you. As for the idiot spots care statement;I expect more from you. Something called respect that I did have for you.

By catlady

May 14, 2007 1:13 PM | Link to this

We would see the same thing nationally we see now in Georgia, with the attendant “unintended” consequences: grade inflation, escalating college costs, lack of space for students, dropping courses, flunking out of marginal students, etc.

By JR

May 14, 2007 1:14 PM | Link to this

To Outsource Wooten’s Column to India:

Not knowing anything about me, why do you say I don’t use my education?

By Outsource Wooten's Column to India

May 14, 2007 1:17 PM | Link to this

Good News, news fans:

Pasadena Now editor/publisher James Macpherson acknowledged it sounds strange to have journalists in India cover news in this wealthy city just outside Los Angeles

But he said it can be done from afar now that weekly Pasadena City Council meetings can be watched over the Internet. And he said the idea makes business sense because of India’s lower labor costs.

“I think it could be a significant way to increase the quality of journalism on the local level without the expense that is a major problem for local publications,” said the 51-year-old Pasadena native.

It would save money AND improve the quality of the reporting. Superb. It’s a win-win!

Outsoure Wooten’s Column to India!!!!

By Jake

May 14, 2007 1:19 PM | Link to this

Realist,

You lost me entirely at 1:04. Your difficulty forming coherent thoughts probably results from being pounded one time too many at football practice.

You’ll be all right though. Shake it off.

By Outsource Wooten's Column to India

May 14, 2007 1:20 PM | Link to this

By JR

May 14, 2007 1:14 PM | Link to this

To Outsource Wooten’s Column to India:

Not knowing anything about me, why do you say I don’t use my education?

I base my opinion on your writing skills and the quality of your arguments. Same criteria as I judge anyone else on this forum.

By The Truth Hurts

May 14, 2007 1:21 PM | Link to this

Dawgbite@12:53 _ My friend Dusty has never had one flaw in anything she has posted on this blog, yet she draws an inordinate amount of grief from the barely conscious pondscum leftists here

Not one flaw?

Well, jbmlaw, that is your opinion. I find it a major flaw when someone calls another person unpatriotic because they do not agree with being at war in Iraq. She may say she does not agree with that person, but calling someone unpatriotic, or that they dislike their country, due to those beliefs is a MAJOR flaw in my eyes.

And as for her “unassailable logic” that you mention she uses? The definition of unassailable is “not subject to denial or dispute.” I’m still laughing…………

By JR

May 14, 2007 1:24 PM | Link to this

To Outsource Wooten’s Column to India:

You know, this reminds me of the old saying ‘Never get drunk and argue with a fool. People can’t tell the difference.’

No sense arguing with you. People already know you are a fool!

By JohnD

May 14, 2007 1:28 PM | Link to this

Dennis and ATC,

The Christian organizations still provide relief in any disaster situation, regardless of the nationality or the faith of those harmed. The truth hurts both of you.

Dennis,

I do not “seem” to disagree with you - I openly find your opinions to be of the “tax until they bleed” variety for which I have total disdain.

Tax the Rich is the battle cry of the losers on the left. Jealousy so permeates your being that since you are unable to put yourself into a position of self-dependence (wealth) you wish to steal others’ money through the IRS.

All of you apologists who use education as a reason to take more from the achievers in society are ignoring one simple fact. You must work hard and EARN the education for the achievement to matter. The social welfare system has already proved the fallacy of an entitlement society.

Free education and free retirement for everyone, Dennis you are the worst kind of liberal.

By Dusty

May 14, 2007 1:29 PM | Link to this

Dawgbite@12:46,

You are almost correct in one thing. My husband and I raise our children together. It is called marriage.

When my youngest was ready for kindergarten, I went back to work because I like the work I do. As a family, we can listen to each other and work things out.

I am not “PollyAnna” and there are always things “to work out” in a big family.

So much for the family. Sorry some of you don’t seem to have one.(As Mrs.Dudley said Wink! Wink!)

By Realist

May 14, 2007 1:32 PM | Link to this

Jake, Im sorry if the material outpaced your ability. I will try to dumb it down next time.

Let me guess, junior college?

By JK

May 14, 2007 1:37 PM | Link to this

Yes, having an educated, competent populace that could actually compete in the global marketplace and spearhead innovative engergy solutions would totally S-U-C-K, wouldn’t it? I mean, what good is it to be edu-ma-cated (Bama pernucication) if smart people make up more than 10% of the population? That’d take all the fun out of being an elite, swaggering former college superstar with a great job obtained through hard work and family connections. Yeah, SO WHAT if all of America is better off when more people actually know how to freaking DO something? Let them forriners beat us in technology and everything else. The important thing is to protect our gated communities, and besides, poor people s-u-c-k. Did I get that right, Big R?

By JohnD

May 14, 2007 1:44 PM | Link to this

Dennis, JK and ATC,

The “Green with Envy Crowd”.

Rich people, Christians, educated people, those who live in gated communities, those who graduate and use the “family connections” to find a job, and people who plan for their own retirement - who else will you add to your list today?

Egad, liberals are a pathetic group.

By Realist

May 14, 2007 1:45 PM | Link to this

JK, Its nice to see you again to Ms. Steinem.

What ever happened to pleasantries? After all we have shared? Im truly hurt.

Efforts to level the playing field will not result in an increased level of quality or innovation, but a lowered one, as has been proven over and over again through numerous federal programs.

By retiredteacher

May 14, 2007 1:50 PM | Link to this

Jim, Roosevelt did not require contributions so that he could get Social Security passed, many wanted it passed without contributions, but Roosevelt insisted, saying,”We put those payroll contributions there so as to give the contributors a legal, moral, and political right to collect their pensions and their unemployment benefits. With those taxes in there, no damn politician can ever scrap my social security program.” The damn politician currently in the White House learned that lesson the hard way. Had Bush really been a student of history (instead of a super-rich, privilaged do-nothing-but-get-drunk student) he would have known that and not tried to destroy something that most Americans want. A college degree is no longer an unnecessary “perk.” It is essential if one expects to be able to support a family and it is also essential if one is to be a truely informed voter. That’s what Republicans fear the most - an electorate that READS.

By Outsource Wooten's Column to India

May 14, 2007 1:54 PM | Link to this

Oh, snap, JR, you are surely the sharpest knife in the drawer. Yet you still have not replied as to how a “one strike” disqualification for higher education squares with Christian ideals of redemption and forgiveness.

Your strategic withdrawal from the debate speaks volumes.

By JR

May 14, 2007 2:01 PM | Link to this

My point was we already have a free college system in place. I have never commented about you still have not replied as to how a “one strike” disqualification for higher education squares with Christian ideals of redemption and forgiveness. Where did get the idea I was either for or against the one strike disqualification?

By Dusty

May 14, 2007 2:04 PM | Link to this

To those WHO USED THE ID of jbmlaw @ 12:56,

jbmlaw is an attorney. He wouldn’t “always” defend anyone. Each case is different. Please use your OWN ID when posting.

By getalife

May 14, 2007 2:05 PM | Link to this

Outsource Wooten’s Column to India

Now, there is a great idea.

By Van

May 14, 2007 2:06 PM | Link to this

I would rather see my tax dollars go towards “free” education than the war in Iraq.

By Aquagirl

May 14, 2007 2:09 PM | Link to this

My friend Dusty has never had one flaw in anything she has posted on this blog, yet she draws an inordinate amount of grief from the barely conscious pondscum leftists here

Oh, and don’t forget the barely conscious pondscum leftists like WestPoint75. The career military man dished out an inordinate amount of grief for you two Generals of the Fightin’ Typers Brigade.

Yeah, it’s only the pinko commies who have a dislike for Dusty.

By Outsource Wooten's Column to India

May 14, 2007 2:11 PM | Link to this

JR wrote, and I quote:Those who use drugs, don’t graduate or get into trouble with the law can’t go to college.

This is where you endorse the “one strike” disqualification, though perhaps you did so without recognizing the ramifications.

In fact, there has been a one-strike rule regarding drug offenders not being eligible for the student loan program since the Reagan years. (To date, no such restriction pertains to embezzlers, rapists, bank robbers, or drunk drivers.)

I understand that you may not wish to defend the position, JR. But you did write it.

By JK

May 14, 2007 2:13 PM | Link to this

Aw, don’t be hurt, Mr. Realist. We’re six months and one week from the big game!! I was merely trying to understand why Americans think it’s okay that the American populace becomes less educated, less capable, and less competitive relative to other developed countries with each passing decade. Maybe you don’t care about “leveling the playing field” ‘cause you got a good position out of the mud. (I did too, JohnD; BTW, your “p-nis envy” is showing.)

Will someone explain WHY IS IT OKAY that foreigners are BEATING US in science and technology, and in the implemetation of workable solutions, and that we owe THEM money, at least in part due to the fact that millions of Americans simply don’t know SQUAT? Frankly, I don’t think this dumbing-down trend is working for us!

If you don’t think bettering educational opportunities for all Americans is the answer, then please elighten me to your oh-so-brilliant insights! (Or perhaps we have some foreign-born intellectuals here that can fill us in.)

By Curious Observer

May 14, 2007 2:15 PM | Link to this

His name was Forrest Watts, and the lonely hilltop grave in which he was buried had been burrowed into by an animal, releasing a horrid smell. The cheap pine box in which he was buried at county expense had collapsed quickly.

Even in his last years, he had worked in menial jobs. At age 77, though dying of cancer, he was still serving as a janitor at the local school, where older students called him Frosty. He had come along too early for Social Security, and a school board that forced all high school boys to take four units (of 16)of vocational agriculture and all girls to take four units of home economics in order to qualify for a federal grant, thus relieving taxpayers of a lot of the burden of taxes to support education, wasn’t about to spring for pensions. The Eisenhower years weren’t that much different in philosophy from the current neocon period.

Save for retirement? Not when largely uneducated people walked for miles over rugged mountains just to earn a dollar a day in lumber camps that sprang up from time to time. Christians helping out? No one helped or even offered to help Forrest. If someone like him got sick, well, too bad. It was up to his family (Forrest had none)to take care of him. And so we had the ultimate in oxymorons: Republican Christians.

Spare me the lines about privatizing Social Security and getting rid of entitlements. I have known first-hand the kind of world you want to return us to. As an 8-year-old, I smelled that stink coming from Forrest’s abandoned grave.

By Dusty

May 14, 2007 2:24 PM | Link to this

Outsource to India,

Oh my, another disgruntled liberal.

Is it possible, dear India, that we could neuter your natterings down to plain old complaints? You know: “Impeach Bush” and that sort of thing.

I realize that we, meaning everybody, could never reach your self-implied etheral level of mental competency. You have made that crystal clear.

But a few will try and others don’t care. In other words, most people have little use for a snob.

Did you come for discussion or just to insult the serfs? Nevermind. We already know the answer.

By Realist

May 14, 2007 2:25 PM | Link to this

It would seem to me JK that all the ferners(alabama pernunciation) are fighting tooth and nail to be educated here, so I dont see your point.

By fake jbmlaw

May 14, 2007 2:26 PM | Link to this

It wasn’t really him. But Aquagirl, you recall the exact episode that inspired my imitation of ol’ jumbo bowel movement. He was at his arrogant best/worst that day.

By Dennis

May 14, 2007 2:29 PM | Link to this

By JohnD May 14, 2007 1:28 PM Dennis, I do not “seem” to disagree with you - I openly find your opinions to be of the “tax until they bleed” variety for which I have total disdain.”

I agree that “Christian organizations” (by whatever faith’s names those deeds are called) provide support during disasters. Although I don’t understand how that “hurts” me.

“Tax the Rich is the battle cry of the losers on the left. Jealousy so permeates your being that since you are unable to put yourself into a position of self-dependence (wealth) you wish to steal others’ money through the IRS.

“All of you apologists who use education as a reason to take more from the achievers in society are ignoring one simple fact. You must work hard and EARN the education for the achievement to matter.”

JohnD, I don’t know where you think I came from. But I’ll share a little of me here, my parents worked in a cotton mill. I earned my degrees, they were not provided free to me, nor did my parents send me to college.

I don’t know where the hell you’re coming from, but I have not, nor do I, promote “free” anything for those able to help themselves.

Now, if that makes me the “worse kind of liberal”, I accept the title.

As to “envy” of whatever “green” you might have, I’m comfortable with what I have. I don’t need or want what’s yours. (Nor of Jim Wooten’s).

All I have said is, Anyone who works all of his or her working years and contributes to the good of this country is “entitled” to, a share of its bounty when their working days are over- whatever the title, “entitlements”, “social security”. Whatever.

(But the correct title is “profit sharing”).

And your statement, “The social welfare system has already proved the fallacy of an entitlement society” hasn’t “proved” anything. You are merely barking what you’ve heard someone else say.

But, here’s a thought for you;

“If you should rise from Nowhere up to Somewhere, From being No one up to being Someone, Be sure to keep repeating to yourself, You owe it to an arbitrary god, Whose mercy to you rather than to others, Won’t bear too critical examination.

“Stay unassuming. If for lack of license, To wear the uniform of who you are, You should be tempted to make up for it, In a subordinating look or tone, Beware of coming too much to the surface, And using for apparel what was meant, To be the curtain of the inmost soul.”

You don’t have to be a blind conservative not to see it, just an ignorant one to deny it.

By Mid-South Philosopher

May 14, 2007 2:33 PM | Link to this

Well, Richard @ 10:10 A.M. must be relishing in his criticism of my literary shortcomings. I notice that he has chosen not to respond to my suggestion @10:19 A.M. that he address the issues upon which I so ineptly commented. I was so looking forward to being enlightened by (his) intellectual brilliancy, and I have waited patiently on the posting of his dissertation on the matter. Oh, well, sometimes there are folks who shine and there are others who just flicker. Anyway, I have to go now. Have a good rest of the day, Bloggers.

By James (P.E.)

May 14, 2007 2:34 PM | Link to this

Will someone explain WHY IS IT OKAY that foreigners are BEATING US in science and technology, and in the implemetation of workable solutions, and that we owe THEM money, at least in part due to the fact that millions of Americans simply don’t know SQUAT?

Too many liberal arts degrees given out to college grads. If your major was history, english, art, “pre-law” anything, philosphy, journalism, and any degree that you need a master’s just to get a job…then you have attributed to the fall of American supremecy in science and technology.

By Aquagirl

May 14, 2007 2:36 PM | Link to this

Yes, who could forget the fatherly advice jbmlaw offered to that West Point grad…that he should observe Dusty and learn how to debate, as if he had slept through his years of education. And this was after she accused him of supporting the enemy by not bowing at the altar of Bush. Gag.

No wonder I mistook fake jbmlaw for the real one. He’s such a staunch defender of such a losing cause.

By Dusty

May 14, 2007 2:38 PM | Link to this

Aquagirl @ 2:09

I think you are copying a post that was offered by someone other than jbmlaw. My 2:04 mentioned that.

Also, run your own popularity contest. I am not in one.

Maybe you know what pinko commies like and dislike. I don’t.

By Dusty

May 14, 2007 2:43 PM | Link to this

Thanks for the advice. I think I will use my own ID when posting.

By jbmdust

May 14, 2007 2:46 PM | Link to this

I think Musty is Mrs. Jumbo Bowel Movement.

By Venom

May 14, 2007 2:46 PM | Link to this

Dusty,

You mean one of your many IDs,e.g.Buy Danish and @@.

By Outsource Wooten's Column to India

May 14, 2007 2:47 PM | Link to this

No dusty, this liberal is far from disgruntled. I look around and see a nation that has awakened to the con that has been pulled over the past six years, a nation that turned control of both chambers of Congress over to the Democratic Party. A nation that offers the current President a whopping 28% approval rating, and that overwhelmingly, in every legitimate poll, demands that we end the occupation of Iraq and brave the remainder of our brave troops home safely.

I happily look around and see a Republican Party in utter disarray, with many of its most prominent members in or on their way to jail (DeLay, Cunnigham, etc.), and chasing madly around for a presidential candidate that will satisfy the Christianist Crusaders yet has a hope in hell of passing muster with the larger American electorate. Hey, but don’t worry, I’m sure Fred Thompson will be Mr. All That and More. LOL

Yes, there are so many things that the clusterfooc{kers of the Republican Party have soiled with their greed and incompetence, messes that We the People will be left to clean up. And yes, we have lost thousands of our best and brightest to the greatest foreign policy bungle of our 200+ year history. Thousands of good young men and women who are coming home maimed and shattered, if they make it home at all. People that will need our help and REAL support, something more that proud displays of made-in-china magenta ribbons on our cars. These are facts that bring me despair.

Yet on the whole, I am hopeful. Hopeful that the disgrace that this administration and its cheerleaders have wrought has brought about a wake up call for Real Americans who love liberty, who value community, and who recognize that flag waving and cheerleading the Miserable Failure does not make you a Patriot.

No, Dusty, I am filled with hope. Now come on back with another “flawless” post, filled with your clever little alliterations, yet bereft of anything resembling fact or reason.

Because if I do “look down” upon anyone, it is upon self-satisfied pseudo-thinkers who puke the pablum of talk radio spin points as though they had actually reasoned something out on their own. People like you, Dusty, who through your mindless sycophancy in support of the fictive creation of George Bush, Leader, has enabled the corruption and devastating mistakes of the past six years. For you and your ilk, their could never be enough scorn.

Patriots my a$$. You are a scoundrel, even if you are nice to your kids.

By Realist

May 14, 2007 2:51 PM | Link to this

“No dusty, this liberal is far from disgruntled. I look around and see a nation that has awakened to the con that has been pulled over the past six years, a nation that turned control of both chambers of Congress over to the Democratic Party. A nation that offers the current President a whopping 28% approval rating, and that overwhelmingly, in every legitimate poll, demands that we end the occupation of Iraq and brave the remainder of our brave troops home safely.”

The only problem with this arguement is you neglect the fact that the polls also show the large majority of Americans disapprove of the current House and Senate. These dems have mistaken the sentiment of the American people and will soon learn this the hard way. We wanted a new direction, not isolationism and abandonment and cowardice. Even the weakest of us Americans know that UN Sanctions and peace talks with Pelosi is only going to get us bombed all to hell one day.

By Dennis

May 14, 2007 2:51 PM | Link to this

JohnD, I might add that you are correct that there are some wealthy people, Christians, who share their good fortune.

You don’t have to be a blind conservative not to see it, just an ignorant one to deny it.

By James (P.E.)

May 14, 2007 2:52 PM | Link to this

Off topics advice: Parents with small children (<3 or 4) who attend the World of Coke museum’s 4-d theater should sit in the back in the static movement seats. I was pre-warned by an attendee and took heed, and my daughter and I watched as countless of others filed to the back or out the theater with panicking children. The water and burts of air did not seem to bother, though. WOC opens for the public May 24.

By jm

May 14, 2007 2:55 PM | Link to this

well, to quote vice President Cheney (in a conversation with then Treasury Secretary Paull O’Neill): “You know, Paul, Reagan proved deficits don’t matter”. So I am surprised to see Mr. Wooten actually worrying about paying for something.

By Hey Realist

May 14, 2007 2:56 PM | Link to this

Got anymore of those Va. Tech massacre jokes? Yeah, you really showed your quality that day. Still stinks in here.

By James (P.E.)

May 14, 2007 3:00 PM | Link to this

Got anymore of those Va. Tech massacre jokes? Yeah, you really showed your quality that day. Still stinks in here.

Id stealer I believe. That did not sound like Alabama Realist.

By Nope

May 14, 2007 3:02 PM | Link to this

No, Realist made the joke, then I stole his ID to poor gas on his sorry burning hide.

By Fun Facts

May 14, 2007 3:03 PM | Link to this

Spending by Americans accounts for 20 percent of the global economy.

By Dusty

May 14, 2007 3:03 PM | Link to this

AquaGirl@2:36

You should be a little more accurate in your recollections. I have never asked anyone to worship President Bush. I do like a little respect for our elected president.

Westpoint ‘74 and I discussed that and he commented that he did what he was commanded to do when he was in the military under the Commander-in-Chief. Now he is making his decisions of his own choice. Obviously, he is a Democrat. We disagreed.

I value those who have served in our military and told West Point that. I also value President Bush’s military service and his education,two degrees from top line universities including a Masters degree. That is more advanced than the education of the West Pointer.

If you are gagging, it is on your own obfuscation, not mine.

By Realist

May 14, 2007 3:04 PM | Link to this

Yeah, wasnt me. I havent been in in a long while. Tax time kicked my rear end and nearly put me under. Had to scramble to keep afloat. But hey, us “rich” business owners get all the breaks right? Whatever.

By Aquagirl

May 14, 2007 3:07 PM | Link to this

It may not have been jmblaw, but it sure was a good summary of his thought. Defend his little wingnut Dusty when she gets in over her head in an inch of water!

What popularity contest? You mean the one that you claim to have won since you are the only supporter of the troops, way above actual troops? Well, I guess that’s not really a popularity contest. You just think you’ve already won the “Golly, The Troops Just Love Me” contest.

I’m familiar with Pinko Commies. I was in the Cold War, getting to know your enemy is good strategy, not that your so-worshiped Dud-In-Charge gets that. Pinko Commies like people who undermine our country by inordinate accusations of anti-Americanism for those who show a brain wave pattern. That way we can reinforce our image as arrogant cowboys who like to shoot first and ask questions never. It inspires future waves of pinko commies and jihadists. Of course, you think we can just bomb ‘em all out of existence, it would be UnAmerican not to create more hatred of our country instead of acknowledging we have an idiot who launched this war.

By Realist is a liar

May 14, 2007 3:07 PM | Link to this

Easy to rest under that blanket of plausible deniability? Uh huh. Coward.

By Outsource Wooten's Column to India

May 14, 2007 3:13 PM | Link to this

Realist -

The latest Ipsos poll (May 7-9) shows Pelosi’s approval rating at 45%.

As recently as February, a Washington Post poll found that 54% of respondents trust Congress to get Iraq right, while only 34% trust Bush.

People may not like Congress, but they disapprove of the Miserable Failure even more.

By Realist

May 14, 2007 3:23 PM | Link to this

I will concede that Outsource. But 45% and 54% isnt exactly anything to boldy hang thier hat on. They are getting it wrong I beleive. But so is the stubborn Bush admin.

By Genius of Dusty

May 14, 2007 3:24 PM | Link to this

“I also value President Bush’s military service and his education,two degrees from top line universities including a Masters degree.”

Classic Dusty. Ignorant, but classic.

By Aquagirl

May 14, 2007 3:28 PM | Link to this

No, Dusty, you accused him of being dense, disloyal, supressing free speech (by disagreeing with you that he didn’t support the troops) and speaking out of both sides of his mouth. What a lovely tone of “discussion” you adopted. You sure did value his service by accusing him of such things, rather than just disagreeing on points.

That, Dusty, is why you get zero respect. You can’t argue a point, you just start whining about how you’re the Great American Supporter of the Troops.

KeyBoard Warrior.

memory refreshment moment!

By Dusty

May 4, 2007 3:44 PM | Link to this

westpoint75,

My, my, you preach about the right to free speech yet claim my free speech is nothing but proselytizing (which is the correct spelling by the way) You speak out both sides of your mouth. You fight for free speech but you don’t want to hear my opinion, just yours.

It is not free speech that is the problem. It is the disloyal people of this country who use it to tear the country apart. People who support the troops by telling them they are fighting for nothing.

That is what I fight against. I fight against this verbal non-support of our troops while claiming they support them. What absurdity! Or even worse, to think that this does not harm the country. That is the depths of density.

West Pointer, how did you ever get there? Of course, your mother was a dissenter. She didn’t want you killed. I bet she was not out in any protest parade. She was probably praying and hoping you would get home as soon as possible. I know ‘cause my oldest son was in the military many years. My husband and father were in the military. I supported all of them. I did not feel the need to preach against my country to do it.

I also feel that I have the right to free speech as much as any citizen, even if I did not go to West Point.

By Van

May 14, 2007 3:30 PM | Link to this

I love how people get in these back and forth arguments on a blog. Do you really think you are going to change the opinion of others with your brilliant opinion? The next time you finish writing a 3 paragraph treatise on how everyone else is an idiot, my advice is to highlight what you have just written, hit the delete key, and then go do something else.

By But Van

May 14, 2007 3:32 PM | Link to this

C’mon Van, pharting into the wind is fun.

By hollie a. ryder

May 14, 2007 3:49 PM | Link to this

No! No!! No!!! No!!!! No!!!!! No!!!!!!I am so tired of proposals by someone else to spend my money for programs that just buy votes for them. Work, beg, borrow, go part time, or whatever to legally pay for and earn a college degree. College should only be for the mentally elite individuals who will contribute positively to society. Generally, anything GIVEN to a person holds little value compared to that which is earned.

By GodHatesTrash

May 14, 2007 4:03 PM | Link to this

Of course we knew you didn’t go to West Point, Dusty.

It is not a school for the retarded.

Stupid trash.

By JK

May 14, 2007 4:04 PM | Link to this

I’m still waiting for someone to explain why better opportunities for education — at least for the students who care enough to want it — is a bad thing, when “ferrners” are beating us out in math, science, technology, solutions, and the economic benefits from being better at these things. YES, they come here to fill many of the top educational spots for which, sadly, too few American students are actually qualified.

We certainly DO have the most brilliant minds and the best universities here! Let’s work toward having MORE by making these top rate schools more accessible to more qualified American students. How could success for American students NOT be a good thing for the nation as a whole? Anyone?

By Realist

May 14, 2007 4:05 PM | Link to this

So what ever happend to TFTT? Doesnt seem the same around without him….

By GodHatesTrash

May 14, 2007 4:07 PM | Link to this

Debating morons like Dusty or jbmlaw is an exercise in futility.

One would have as much success debating with a rock or a cinderblock. They are both worthless idiots, with absolutely nothing to say of any tuth or import.

Trash.

By RCH

May 14, 2007 4:10 PM | Link to this

hollie a ryder, Your forgetting. Its easier to take the money at the point of a gun (IRS) than it is to get people to work for it.

By Realist

May 14, 2007 4:11 PM | Link to this

JK, You operate under the assumption that qualified American students are being denied access to universities today, and that simply isnt true. If someone is being denied access today, its because they either do not qualify, or simply arent trying hard enough to get in, because its not very difficult if you can fill out forms and put a stamp on an envelope. But wait, that takes effort and determination, which todays youth are sorely missing. It has to be handed to them or else they are being deprived by the system. What a load JK. A big smelly one.

By Lauren

May 14, 2007 4:13 PM | Link to this

holly a. ryder wrote, “*I am so tired of proposals by someone else to spend my money for programs that just buy votes…”

Yes! Yes!! Yes!!! Yes!!!! Yes!!!!! Yes!!!!!! I am so tired of voters who don’t see that we all benefit (financially and otherwise) when everybody’s kids have access to higher education, not just his or her kids.

Also, holly obviously has no idea how much it costs to get a college degree these days and how long it takes to get it paid off (with interest). Because of the cost of college education, people are struggling for years after graduation (reducing the incentive to go in the first place and reducing their ability to make economic contributions [i.e. spend] to society).

I think the phrase you’re looking for is “price gouging”.

Unless we find ways to get more of our population college educated, then we can start saying our good-byes to the American middle class and hello to the Indian and Chinese middle classes.

By Dusty

May 14, 2007 4:15 PM | Link to this

AquaGirl at 3:23.

You may reprint anything I post. I don’t mind.

Since you posted my answer to a lengthy post of West Point’s, maybe you should also post his original comment. His postings were straight Democratic mindthink and post-service military. Kinda like you, aggressive and truly liberal.

As I mentioned, much of my post to West Point was a rebuttal to his post. Such things as mentioning his mother was a “dissenter” to war.

If you want to present only one side of an argument to make a point, you are not being objective.

West Point and I were having a debate. You jumped in the middle to put in your two cents worth.

If there is anything else I can assist you with, let me know. Always glad to help.

By Aquagirl

May 14, 2007 4:15 PM | Link to this

JK, We don’t need better opportunities, we need better students. The “ferrners” are beating us because their primary education prepares them to learn difficult subjects in depth. They don’t spend K-12 slopping along as threadbare literates, being rewarded by the moneymaking “B” average for doing nothing except for working the system.

If you want to feed the current system steroids you’re not necessarily advocating the path to success.

By Outsource Wooten's Column to India

May 14, 2007 4:17 PM | Link to this

One point that was tossed about today that I’d like to address, and that is the idea that free college tuition leads to grade inflation.

Well, this is in fact true. My wife is a professor at a state university, and the pressure on faculty to sustain HOPE level grade averages is intense. It really is not pretty, and it is apparently a force in high schools, too.

But there is a flip side…by virtue of making the in-state school option economically reqarding, the HOPE scholarship has had a positive impact on retaining many high-quality university applicants who otherwise would have gone to UNC, Duke, or elsewhere. The rising standard for admission to UGA (from which I graduated c. 1982…and no way I could get in now with the grades/scores I had then) has in turn put upward pressure on the admission standards to the second tier Georgia universities and colleges such as Kennesaw, Ga Southern, etc. These schools are now attracting more and higher quality students. All this makes it easier for the University System as a whole to attract better qualified faculty. This in turn makes our schools attractive to people from elsewhere.

All in all, it’s hard to see where HOPE is a bad thing (though the question of state-sponsored gambling to fund it is another matter).

By getalife

May 14, 2007 4:18 PM | Link to this

From Bartcop:

“Billions in Stolen Oil:

Are they really going to state the obvious?

NYWTimes

Excerpt:

“Between 100,000 and 300,000 barrels a day of Iraq’s declared oil production over the past four years is unaccounted for and could have been siphoned off through corruption or smuggling, according to a draft American government report. At $50 $65 a barrel, the discrepancy is $5 million to $15 million daily.

That’s crazy math and I’ll tell you why: The only people who know how much oil is being pumped are the people stealing it. Whoever did this “audit” got their figures from Bush’s cronies.

…unless you think a team of auditors drove around Iraq in Jeeps taking measurements.

No, that didn’t happen so all these numbers are “Bush supplied.” They’re covering all bets and laying the groundwork for the future.

If they get caught “big time,” they’ll say, “Our own audits showed some oil was missing so there’s no neeed to go over old ground again. It was hectic - there was a war going on.”

The findings are sure to reinforce longstanding suspicions that smugglers, insurgents and corrupt officials control significant parts of the country’s oil industry.

See? The smugglers stole that crude oil, because they have smuggler refineries, smuggler tankers and smuggler pipelines, not to mention millions of smuggler gas stations.

The insurgents stole that crude oil, because they have insurgent refineries, insurgent tankers and insurgent pipelines, not to mention insurgent gas stations.

The corrupt Iraqi officials stole that crude oil, because they have corrupt official refineries, corrupt official tankers and corrupt official pipelines, not to mention corrupt Iraqi gas stations.

So the BFEE starts out with, “There’s no crime here,” and they’re backup plan is, “IF there was a crime here, somebody other than the people with the refineries, tankers, pipelines and millions of gas stations must have stolen that crude oil.”

These oil men, with unlimted money and power teamed up with Halliburton to legally rape Iraq.

First, Cheney illegally sold Saddam oil field equipment so he could upgrade his pumping capacity. Then they invaded and used the majority of troops to stand guard while Halliburton built the new pipeline to Kuwait. At the same time they installed state-of-the-art oil pumps that run non-stop 24/7.

Remember in the early days - all the looting and ransacking? Our soldiers were guaring the Ministry of Oil and Bush’s precious new pipeline.

Cheney stole 300,000 barrels a day? Don’t make me laugh. Why invade an oil-rich nation if you’re not going to aggressively steal the oil?

One expert says they could be pumping 10M barrels every day - that’s $650M per day. Where is all that money going? What are the official US Government figures on this 3500-dead-soldiers question?

$650M per day makes Exxon profits look tiny by comparison.”

Nailed it!

By rnm

May 14, 2007 4:21 PM | Link to this

I think it’s important to note that it’s not necessary to have a college education to be successful or happy. While I went to college myself, I know that there are plenty of people who have a trade and make a lot more money than I do. Besides, college isn’t for everyone. I’m not sure of the specifics, but I know that in some European countries students don’t really go through 12 years of school and then off to college or work. I think sometime around our 9th/10th grade those who are “college material” are prepped for that while those who may not be up for the rigors of academia (but who are no less intelligent or full of potential) begin to work toward successul careers in a trade. If I’m wrong about how this works, I’m sure someone here will feel free to correct me, but it sounds like a good and reasonable approach to me.

By Stepford Voters

May 14, 2007 4:22 PM | Link to this

RCH wrote, “Your forgetting. Its easier to take the money at the point of a gun (IRS) than it is to get people to work for it.”

RCH (Dittohead),

You’re forgetting — it’s easier to repeat nonsensical platitudes that you hear on talk-radio than it is to think for yourself.

By Van

May 14, 2007 4:32 PM | Link to this

Lauren,

Question for you - If everyone has a college education, how many liberal arts majors are going to be serving coffee at Starbuck’s?

How many MBA’s will there be doing hourly paid jobs?

How many journalists majors will be waiting tables?

And do not forget, we need many more lawyers in this country.

College is not for everyone. Not everyone needs a college degree in this life. College is a reward for the hard working students. If you have to take a whole bunch of college prep courses in college, then maybe you should not be there yet.

Another question. If finances are no object, how will the colleges decide who attends and who doesn’t? The first 10,000 each year? Highest GPA’s? One reason for the increasing cost of a college education, is it is so easy to afford it now. With HOPE, student loans and other programs, didn’t have such stuff 40 years ago, the colleges can raise fees and earn greater profits per student. Too much demand without enough of supply of classroom seats.

By TW

May 14, 2007 4:37 PM | Link to this

C’mon Jim, this is all about the exit polls linking higher levels of education to the Democratic Party. I mean, face it pal, aside from those making over 1.5 mil, the Foley Freepers ain’t exactly the ones on the honor role…look at you leader, for cryin’ out loud.

By Aquagirl

May 14, 2007 4:39 PM | Link to this

Well, gee, Dusty, since you asked…here’s that aggressive and truly liberal straight post-military Democratic mindthink. Which seems to consist of pretty much telling you to shut your flapping lips about who’s a patriot and who’s not.

I’ve already recapped your “rebuttal” (“butt” being the operative word there), which was to accuse him of being unpatriotic. Fighting for his country wasn’t enough, disagreeing with Dusty the Dependent is what makes one UnAmerican.

In the interests of staying on topic, I will spare everyone else further recap of Jim’s May 3rd blog, much to your relief. It’s available to anyone who wants to read it, like we need a reminder of how often you get spanked on this blog.

If I can assist you in any other way, (except for your disgusting bashing of the troops), let me know!

By WestPoint75

May 4, 2007 12:29 PM | Link to this

I’m a West Point Grad and spent 21 years serving this country Dusty. Sometimes in places that you can’t imagine from the shelter of your keyboard. This war is the biggest mistake a U.S. president has ever made. Now question my patriotism from behind that keyboard Dusty. The guy sitting directly to my right is a former Army Ranger and Iraq vet whose brother is on his 2nd tour there. He is against this war. Dusty, you are not qualified to question our patriotism or the patriotism of any other dissenter in this country.

By aquaspew

May 14, 2007 4:48 PM | Link to this

Well, gee who gets you stupid people dressed in the morning? Why don’t you lazy nutcases do something intelligent for a change, like me? I went all the way to the eigth grade and I can spank any blogger out there anytime any place. I’m Aquaspew and you’re not!

By Lauren

May 14, 2007 4:53 PM | Link to this

Van,

Your first questions present problems that we should be happy to have.

Also, the idea is to provide access to a college education — not to hand out degrees like condoms at a Brazilian Carnival festival. I agree that college isn’t for everyone. People would still have to earn their degrees — those that don’t have what it takes won’t graduate or won’t try in the first place.

With regard to your question about who gets in — I say anybody with a GED or a high school diploma ought to be able to attend any college he or she wants for free. No entrance exams required. If it’s too hard…then they’ll drop out. As the demand grows, the number of institutions and classrooms should grow (in other words, supply should grow with demand).

Your comment that college education is affordable, even with HOPE, shows that you’re completely out of touch with the cost of a four-year education (especially for children from low and middle income families). Georgia just raised tuition 15 percent — yet again — for students who begin their freshman year next fall. There’s no reason for that except to pay college presidents and football coaches and others who are well-connected more than they deserve.

By GetAGrip

May 14, 2007 4:58 PM | Link to this

Why’s Jim complaining? Our fine governor, Mr. Sonny, wants to give a tax break to those earning over $100,000 for college education savings accounts. Why do they need that kind of break?

By Dusty

May 14, 2007 4:58 PM | Link to this

Aquagirl @4:29,

Why didn’t you post the whole comment by WestPoint 75? Because you were afraid to. You gave us only the first paragraph. Not the rest about his mother being a war dissenter, etc. etc.

Nobody really cares about this but you. I disagreed with a liberal retired West Pointer and you wanted me to bow down in deference. Forget it.

I support the troops and their Commander-in-Chief as I always have. I will waste no more time on rabid rants to the contrary.

By JK

May 14, 2007 5:08 PM | Link to this

Aquagirl, thanks for addressing my question, at least regarding the state of the average American student. I agree that the dumbing-down of America begins way before time to take the SATs and apply for student loans. The state of primary public education never gets a decent discussion around here, because too many people care only that their own kids succeed, and don’t see the value to all of us, of living in a society full of capable, educated adults.

Mr. Realist doesn’t answer my question, but thinks if you ask a question, you’re delivering a big stinking pile of something. That must be what they taught him at Bama: “Asking how to improve something is a stinky thing to do. Caring is for losers.” Apparently there are no stupid questions, only pompous A-HOLES who will call you names and insult you if you dare to ask one.

By Aquagirl

May 14, 2007 5:13 PM | Link to this

Dusty, that WAS the whole 12:29 post. I’m done with the topic, but do care about your flat-out lying about my editing someone else’s post.

Wow, you really are a wannabe Shrub…lying to try and win, and doing a bad job of it because you’re stupid. You’re gonna have to eat dinner while standing again, you dingbat. Way to go!

By Another Day, Same Dusty $hit

May 14, 2007 5:18 PM | Link to this

You can take any single post ever made by Dusty, copy it onto this blog six or nine times a day, and you’d get the exact same drivel that Dusty post all day, every day without all the typing:

Of course, jbmlaw will pop in from time to time to tell us what a genius Dusty is, thereby destroying any possiblity of gaining credibility lost with his never ending “leftist moonbat” accusations.

What a pair.

By Aquagirl

May 14, 2007 5:30 PM | Link to this

JK, a college degree doesn’t magically confer the ability to be a productive citizen in this century. Learning (and more importantly, the ability to do so) is what counts.

Our educational system is full of busywork and what’s-my-grade focus. Parents crow about their kids making B’s or A’s even when their kids are dumb as rocks. They equate a good grade with being smart.

From listening to my friends who are in teaching, grades don’t mean a thing. Hey, Dexter Manley had a college degree.

By GodHatesTrash

May 14, 2007 6:01 PM | Link to this

God hates trash.

God hates Dusty.

By JK

May 14, 2007 6:02 PM | Link to this

Aquagirl, good point. Haha! I totally agree. Kids today spend weeks of each school year in repetitive drilling and memorization for standardized tests. Less and less it seems are they learning to think, analyze, and solve problems. Maybe… and I’m just postulating here… children just aren’t motivated by the mindless memorization and the pressure to conform, hence they tune out to the real possibilities of what they could accomplish. That being said, I wish we could actually have productive discussions about education and opportunities. But “stupid is a stupid does,” I suppose.