Home > Thinking Right > Archives > 2007 > September > 06 > Entry
DEL.ICIO.USSame-sex marriage; foreclosures
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Thinking Right’s weekend free-for-all. Pick a topic:
• One day before Hurricane Dean hit Mexico, Texans were being urged to prepare for possible evacuation. We’re now up to Felix and from one day to the next, scientists cannot speak with certainty on the path of a hurricane. But the computer models that predicts global warming’s catastrophic future are taken by many as the gospel. But of course mass starvation was to be our future too before the Green Revolution.
• In a world where doing nothing is not an option, doing a little is the next best thing. President Bush proposed a modest federal program to aid credit-worthy homeowners — not investors — with adjustable-rate mortgages to refinance. “It’s not the government’s job to bail out speculators or those who made the decision to buy a home they knew they could never afford,” said the president. True. But Congress is back in session. Methinks the Dems will see it differently.
• There’s bound to be a dark cloud behind the silver lining good news that the percentage of Georgians living in poverty dropped slightly. Ah, yes, here it is: “We are one of the high-poverty, high-uninsured states,” responded Alan Essig of the Georgia Budget and Policy Institute, a group that advocates more social spending. “Many are struggling,” he said, while “the economy is supposedly booming.” That old liberal staple. The real story, as Newsweek columnist Robert J. Samuelson reported, is that America is importing poverty. Between 2000 and 2006, the number of poor Hispanics increased from 6 million to 9.2 million. Among whites and blacks, poverty declined.
• Yes, it’s true. Decatur, Ga., is the center of the universe. And occasionally the rubes in Marietta and Stockbridge come to marvel at the restaurants, festivals and other gathering places that exist nowhere else on the face of the Earth — and certainly not in you-know-where. “The ‘burbs are nothing like this” marveled one of the travelers from afar.
• A company that has manufactured utility poles in East Point for more than 80 years is being sued by neighbors, at least some of whom have just moved there, over “noxious odors and dangerous chemicals.” Yet the company, William C. Meredith Co., has no air pollution violations. Once again: You move in on an existing “nuisance”; it’s your problem. The nuisance, an airport for example, moves in on you; it’s theirs. Verdict here is to the company, including legal fees.
• Iowa offers a reminder of why Georgia passed a constitutional amendment defining marriage as one man/one woman. A county judge there declared the state’s one man/one woman law invalid, setting the stage briefly for same-sex unions. It’s stayed pending a hearing before the Iowa Supreme Court. A judge always exists somewhere willing to write the laws he wants from the bench.
• It’s no surprise that Democrats are having “second thoughts on surveillance,” as the headline says. They’ve never liked the Protect America Act provision allowing electronic surveillance of phone calls and e-mails originated from suspected terrorists abroad to American citizens. They passed six-month authority in August because they knew the majority in this country would react badly if they didn’t. But second thoughts? The second thoughts were their first.
• What has this world come to? Former U.S. Rep. Bob Barr is praised by House Judiciary Chairman John Conyers (D-Mich.) and Rep. Maxine Waters (D-Calif.) for his testimony expressing his “second thoughts” about surveillance authority. Waters praised him for standing up to the White House and, to quote the reporter, “his conservative brethren to oppose the law.” He’s a man of principle, but his “conservative brethren” are Libertarians and it’s unlikely his position is at odds with theirs.
• Sooner or later a responsible General Assembly will step in and provide local governments the guidance they need on rezonings, waivers and other invitations to high-density development that exceed the carrying-capacity of roads. It is insane to continue worsening traffic congestion without plans in place to add capacity. The Sembler Co. is proposing to put 1.5 million square feet of retail space, 300,000 square feet of offices and 3,700 housing units on 100 acres on already-congested North Druid Hills Road in DeKalb. And why in the world would the school board sell schools in an area projected to get 3,700 more units of housing?
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Comments
By Charles
September 7, 2007 8:05 AM | Link to this
I guess the AJC is asleep again at the newsroom wheel (and maybe the Socialist Editors are forbidding Jim from bringing up some subjects that might hurt Hillary). Norman Hsu, a major fundraiser for Hillary Rodham is now a fugitive from the law.
Kathleen Willey, who was groped in the Oval Office by Bill Clinton, had her Virginia home burgularized over the weekend and only had her manuscript stolen about the incident. It seems the Clinton/DNC “Win At All Costs” Campaign is in full swing with their associates in the Liberal mainstream press more than happy to cover or bury any stories that might make THEIR candidate look bad.
God Help President Bush or any Republican who would have these kind of stories tied to their names. They would be splashed all over the front cover of every major Left newspaper in the nation!
By Planner
September 7, 2007 8:07 AM | Link to this
But the computer models that predicts global warming’s catastrophic future are taken by many as the gospel.
The computer models placed southern Texas within the “cone” where Dean might make landfall. Texas was on the edge, meaning the likelihood of being hit was relatively small, but a possibility nonetheless. Dean hit Mexico pretty much exactly in the middle of the cone, proving that the model worked as well as could be expected. I also seem to recall the models predicting Felix could mushroom into a Category 5 storm before making landfall, which is precisely what happened. Does that mean the models will always be dead-on accurate? No, but they’re fairly reliable and are getting better every year.
The models on global warming also show ranges of possibilities. While it’s foolish to claim that global temperatures will rise by an amount accurate to two decimal places by a specific year, the models are all in agreement that temperatures are indeed rising. Exactly how drastic the change will be is fair game for discussion, but the scientific debate over whether or not it’s happening is over. To dismiss climate change as a reality simply because the models can only predict within a range merely validates that your viewpoint is uninformed, idealogically driven and socially negligent.
A judge always exists somewhere willing to write the laws he wants from the bench.
This argument is so tired and specious that it’s degenerated into little more than background white noise (I have an image in my head of Jim Wooten being the voice of Charlie Brown’s teacher). To conservatives everywhere, please quit brainwashing the American public into believing that the judicial branch is “writing” law simply by striking down those which are deemed unconstitutional. There is a tremendous and fundamental difference between establishing law and interpreting law. Anybody who fails to understand that needs a refresher course in high school civics. The judge did not explicitly say that same-sex marriage must be legalized, he simply ruled that to restrict the social and economic benefits associated with marriage to a man and a woman is discriminatory. The ruling did not legalize same-sex marriage any more than it banned marriage between a man and a woman. It merely pointed out that the playing field needs to be leveled. The issue now reverts to legislators (appropriately) to determine how best to make this happen.
And why is it that judges are never branded as renegade activists when their rulings strike down laws that conservatives disagree with? A lack of consistency results in hypocrisy, an area in which firebrand conservatives have excelled at lately.
By jbmlaw
September 7, 2007 8:09 AM | Link to this
Good morning all. Jim’s advisory, comparing “global warming” to a lower-case “gospel” for its believers, is apt. Not to be challenged, not to be questioned, and certainly not to be doubted. And further, thou shalt not raise the possibility that warmer weather worldwide could be beneficial for all.
As to the housing bubble, our solons are about to prove again my belief, that there is no problem in society that Congressional Democrats cannot make worse.
As one who advocates for the free-immigration of Latinos but opposes socialized medicine, I think it only fair for me to acknowledge that a government takeover of the health industry, coupled with universal guarantees of health coverage, would act as a powerful economic incentive for people all over the world to come to the US, “legally” or otherwise.
“Center of the universe” is not the phrase that crosses my mind when I think of lovely Dekalb (yes, I recognize bemused sarcasm when written, I simply choose to play along.). “Armpit of Georgia” maybe. An unpublishable body-orifice “anal”ogy also flits by. I can see why Sembler Co wants to be there; remind me to sell any stock I have there.
As to the Meredith case, I assume an intelligent judge will dismiss the case after awarding sanctions to the defense for the bad-faith case. (For the uninformed, that is truly sarcastic language – judges hardly ever award sanctions for bad-faith filings.)
As to “surveillance” I yield to nobody’s credentials on libertarianism. So long as “surveillance” remains inadmissible in court and otherwise non-disclosable without permission of the “surveilled,” I could not care less about “surveillance.” Other than the money wasted. I perceive “wasted money” is not applicable in monitoring the potential terrorist activities of non-Americans, and I recognize “wasted money” is never an issue for Congressional Democrats anyway. (Funny story on Congressional Democrat earmarks today http://www.opinionjournal.com/columnists/kstrasselpw/?id=110010574.)
By Mid-South Philosopher
September 7, 2007 8:10 AM | Link to this
Good morning, Jim,
With respect to the truth about Global Warming, we may get an answer sooner than I thought. When the Ice Road Truckers begin to take notice, the conservatives better re-think their thunk!
Well, it seems that we will have a lot of listening to do over the next few days. General Patraeus and Ambassador Crocker are due to report to Congress within the next week. If their appraisals are favorable to President Bush’s strategy, they will be great Americans…heroes…and patriots. If they criticize the Texas wonder, they will suddenly become cut and runners among the Hannity, Bortz, Lamebaugh crowd.
Seems that Usama bin Laden is planning on issuing a report to the American people on or before September 11, the sixth anniversary of the sneak terror attack by fanatical Islamist. Seems as though I remember the Texas wonder pledging to bring Usama to justice sometime ago. Guess he must have made a wrong turn somewhere along the Tigress River.
Fred Thompson has finally entered the political fray. He is no Ronald Reagan, but he may change the landscape for the Republicans in the coming months.
I like Thompson’s position on strengthening the military. Our adventure in Iraq has strained our conventional military forces. Bush’s lack of military competence (even though he did study tactics and strategy in Alabama) and Rumsfeld’s (we can do it on the cheap) idiocy have weakened our ability to respond to a secondary front opening in some other part of the world….like South or Central America!
I suspect Fred, if elected, will fix this.
Quite honestly, the 2008 election comes down to the issue of which candidate will protect the United States.
As to domestic issues:
If the Democrats get in, we will experience higher taxes and more governmental control…in other words more socialism.
If the Republicans get in, we will experience more governmental regulation of our private lives and corporate welfare…in other words more corporatism (capitalistic communism).
With both parties, the lobbyists and special interest groups will dominate the political spectrum, while the average citizen will need to reach for the Vaseline bottle.
By DebbieDoRight
September 7, 2007 8:33 AM | Link to this
Wooten: But the computer models that predicts global warming’s catastrophic future are taken by many as the gospel.
It amazes me that some repuglicans still put party mandate over common sense!! We live in Atlanta, we have “smog alert days” 165 out of 365 days a year; certain sections of the world have been in serious drought trouble for the past decade; the Antartic is melting at an alarming rate, yet they don’t believe in global warming!!! But, and get this, this is the real funny part — they believe in George W. Bush and think he’s intelligent!! Amazing!
Wooten: * A judge always exists somewhere willing to write the laws he wants from the bench.*
This sentence should really say “activists senators, florida governors and Presidents”. Remember Terri Schiavo anyone?
Wooten: Yes, it’s true. Decatur, Ga., is the center of the universe
Huh? I have no idea what the heck you’re talking about there ^^ — are you jealous of Decatur or something? Did you write that part before your medication kicked in? Help me out here.
By Starwood
September 7, 2007 8:36 AM | Link to this
Your comment, “‘Many are struggling,” he said, while ‘the economy is supposedly booming.’ That old liberal staple.” is not necessarily true. My salary has risen only 3% in the last 20 years, considerably less than the cost of living! It’s not a liberal issue, it’s an economic issue - what are the working poor supposed to do?
By Wooten's an Idiot
September 7, 2007 8:37 AM | Link to this
Is your world flat? Still living in the 1200’s? Come join us in the 21st century and recognize the same science that now saves your life in the operating room and propels your uber-SUV down the highway also forecasts global warming. Personally, I hope all you knuckle-draggers move your “compassionate” carcasses to a beach and wait for the rapture to take you all away pronto.
By DebbieDoRight
September 7, 2007 8:46 AM | Link to this
Charles — Who cares? We have a war on two fronts, Iraq and Afghanistan and we’re loosing both badly. We are trillions of dollars in debt to China. Thirty out of 50 states are failing our children in the public schools. Bushies conveiniently forgot to arrest or even look for Bin Laden, and now we hear he’s risen from the dead to taunt the US again. AND Dumbya has single handedly restarted the cold war with Russia — but you care about someone’s manuscript and who gave campaign money to whom!
Are you one of those people who keep up with Britney Spears’ life too? Perhaps you should leave the “news” talk to the grownups.
By Analchord
September 7, 2007 8:50 AM | Link to this
Methinks?
By Jeff
September 7, 2007 8:53 AM | Link to this
Global Warming advocates need to read today’s “Pearls Before Swine” comic strip and heed Rat’s warning…
By Ray
September 7, 2007 8:57 AM | Link to this
Amen, Jim. Those poor Hispanic, Democrat, Libertarian, homosexual scientists from Decatur continue to muck it all up. What’s a conservative, Republican, straight white male got to do to get a break now a days?
By Charles
September 7, 2007 9:00 AM | Link to this
DebbieDoClinton (I’m sure you’re one of the women who would) - it was YOUR sexual deviant President who let Bin Laden get away while in the Oval Orfice. But please don’t apologize for Slick Willy’s actions while in office.
You are such a typical Liberal - you only want to hear good things about your Socialist Party and anything to make the Right look bad.
By the way, Britney and the Left Coast are predominently Democratic sickos like you. The Right doesn’t care about them like you. :)
By Goldie
September 7, 2007 9:09 AM | Link to this
“Armpit of Georgia” maybe. An unpublishable body-orifice “anal”ogy also flits by. I can see why Sembler Co wants to be there; remind me to sell any stock I have there.
Wooten and jbmlaw: typical Repugnant snobs!
As a long-time resident of DeKalb, I know personally of it’s beauty, such as Stone Mountain, Decatur and Arabia Mountain… may all of you snobs not only “sell any stock I have there”, but you’re welcome to not ever visit there either — who needs snobs like you?!!!
By Chris
September 7, 2007 9:10 AM | Link to this
After the Petraus report is relased on September 15, 2007, look for Conyers, et. al. to launch articles of impeachment against Vice President Cheney. There are already 19 co-sponsors on this, including six in the House Judiciary Committee. Against President Bush, there are fourteen co-sponsors. House Judiciary Chariman Conyers is looking for 17. Look for three more to join the crowd. Mark may words!
By Bosch
September 7, 2007 9:14 AM | Link to this
“It’s not the government’s job to bail out speculators or those who made the decision to buy a home they knew they could never afford”
That’s true. AND, it’s also not the government’s job to bail out the mortgage companies that are going bankrupt. These mortgage company a***** need to loose their jobs, and their homes right along with the people who are losing their homes due to the adjustable rates.
Wooten, Come on. It’s not a judges place to write a law, it’s his job to interpret the law, everyone knows that. Your “activist judge” take is simply boring and old.
Maybe you can answer this for me: Where in the Constitution is marriage defined? What does it matter if a man gets married to a man? Or woman to woman? Don’t they deserve the pleasures of a mother-in-law just like the rest of us?
When I read about Bob Barr being praised by Democrats, coupled with the fact that I agreed with Barr over what he was doing, I was sure that hell had frozen over, and that I would look out my window to see pigs flying around everywhere.
By RCH
September 7, 2007 9:14 AM | Link to this
Once again the voter I.D. bill passes tests in court. Its about time.
I have not heard any comment about the stolen vote on services to illegal aliens. I can tell you that you will hear it loud and clear as it gets closer to the elections.
By WTF
September 7, 2007 9:15 AM | Link to this
Did I miss something? What did Decatur do to Jim to get his panties in such a wad?
By Goldie
September 7, 2007 9:17 AM | Link to this
This sentence should really say “activists senators, florida governors and Presidents”. Remember Terri Schiavo anyone?
Debbie @ 8:33— and let’s not forget about those convenient “activist” judges on the Supreme Court in 2000… apparently it’s only good to have those “activist” judges whenever they’re ready to step in on private matters like Terri Shiavo, or whenever they might be able to appoint the next Repugnant president!
By Bosch
September 7, 2007 9:20 AM | Link to this
Charles, Clinton let OBL go? Well, that’s news. Have you ever heard of Tora Bora?
AND -
“Honestly, I think we should just trust our president in every decision that he makes and we should just support that” —Britney Spears
Gee, that doesn’t sound like something a “lefty” would say, does it?
By time for the harsh truth
September 7, 2007 9:23 AM | Link to this
BLOG WANKER RED (as in commie scum) ALERT
Poor old peeping tom has had its long awaited family reunion ruined by a number of tragic deaths en route.
Our deepest commiserations peeping tom.
http://www.wsbtv.com/news/14057898/detail.html
By DebbieDoRight
September 7, 2007 9:25 AM | Link to this
Charles: At least I had the pleasure of “doing” a sitting president of the United States. You on the other hand, only “did” so-called straight senators in bathroom stalls. EEEwwwwww!!
By Goldie
September 7, 2007 9:28 AM | Link to this
Maybe Charles @ 9:00 would like to explain the reason that his guy Bush chose not to pursue Bin Laden in Afghanistan, at the exact time that our troops had him in their bulls-eyes??? Or why his guy Ray-gun loved Bin Laden so much that he himself armed Al-Qaida with MILLIONS OF $$$ of weapons in the ’80s???
Apparently Charles doesn’t want his fascist right-wing guys taking any credit at all for Bin Laden being on the loose today with his jihad against America growing stronger every week?
By Bosch
September 7, 2007 9:33 AM | Link to this
I just read an article about the parents of the missing English girl are now suspects in her disappearance.
Can anyone hear say they are surprised by this news?
By DebbieDoRight
September 7, 2007 9:35 AM | Link to this
OK I can’t get over this remark:
it was YOUR sexual deviant President….
OK Clinton is sexually deviant for getting a BJ in the oval office. However, five repuglican US Senators are not considered deviant for wanting to pay for sex in a public bathroom, (then claiming he was scared he’d be raped), calling and texting little boys for “flings”; wearing diapers, having illicit anonymous sex in men’s bathrooms — all these characteristics are NOT considered deviant; but getting a BJ is!
I wonder if it’s deviant to Charles because no one wanted to give him one before. I suggest he goes into a Florida bathroom at a local park and wait on one of those “Conservative” senators to show up.
By getalife
September 7, 2007 9:36 AM | Link to this
Charles has the wingnut mental disease really bad
Poor guy, that donor was on the news and returned the money stupid.
OBL is coming out with a video to show he is still out there because your hero cut and run to invade Iraq.
These are historic facts and you need to deal with it loser.
By DebbieDoRight
September 7, 2007 9:40 AM | Link to this
Goldie: The 2000 election!! I still haven’t gotten over that!!
I was a neophyte when this happened and actually believed that the people of the US picked the president!! That election REALLY opened my eyes!!
By lozen
September 7, 2007 9:43 AM | Link to this
What tired, old, rehashed over and over tight a—ed ideas this man has.
By I love Decature
September 7, 2007 9:45 AM | Link to this
Hey Jim and Jbmlaw…glad you don’t care for Decatur…nor Dekalb in general…please, please stay away..it’s hard enough to get a nightime table at Watershed. I’m sure there are enough Denny’s, Pizza Huts, and Wal Marts near you to fit your needs.
By Goldie
September 7, 2007 9:45 AM | Link to this
Debbie @ 9:40— I know, FLA 2000 was certainly my wake-up call!
By getalife
September 7, 2007 9:49 AM | Link to this
I have great news on the swiftboater attempt to steal California for the gop:
“It reeks of a loser’s mentality. It’s like saying you’re going to lose unless you change the rules.”
“This in response to the GOP initiative to change the allocation of electors in California to guarantee the GOP a percentage, instead of the traditional winner take all.
Arnold, you’re a little less frightening today than yesterday.
And I believe that puts a lid on that pathetic idea.”
By Goldie
September 7, 2007 9:50 AM | Link to this
Do the Repugs really consider “same-sex marriage” the biggest affront to the sanctity of marriage, or do they consider DIVORCE an even bigger challenge?
Hmmm…. why don’t we hear any of their extremist religious leaders making divorcees the object of their wrath, for really destroying the “sanctity” of marriage?
Are the Repugs able to just pick and choose who should be discriminated against these days?
By CJ
September 7, 2007 9:51 AM | Link to this
Jim, you are such a self-centered person! Georgia passed a constitutional amendment defining marriage as one man/one woman because of people like you who somehow think it affects you! If you are a heterosexual and only want to date women, why are you worried about who us gay people want to marry? I will never, ever choose to marry a woman because I am biologically, genetically made to be with a man. What we do in our own lives and in our own house is none of your business! I certainly have NO desire to know what goes on in your bedroom! GROSS! Stay out of my business, give me equal rights as a US Southerner tax-payer, and worry about some real issues. That’s all I ask!
By Chad
September 7, 2007 9:51 AM | Link to this
“Debbie @ 9:40— I know, FLA 2000 was certainly my wake-up call!”
Yeah, next time the dems will try a little harder to throw an election.
By DebbieDoRight
September 7, 2007 9:54 AM | Link to this
I just read an article about the parents of the missing English girl are now suspects in her disappearance. Can anyone hear say they are surprised by this news?
I’ve been keeping up with that too. I’m really confused about the timeline of the incident, (gleaned from the Parent’s statements). The whole thing just didn’t add up. So to answer your question, NO, I’m not even surprised by the fact that the parent’s are now suspects.
By DebbieDoRight
September 7, 2007 9:59 AM | Link to this
If you are a heterosexual and only want to date women, why are you worried about who us gay people want to marry?
That’s the funny part CJ. They say, publicly, that they are against gays marrying but secretly they envy the fact that there are people out there who choose to be happy and live their lives their way. The people who decry gays so openly, are secretly gay themselves. The repuglican party is the poster child for closeted, bitter, depressed, unhappy, sexually frustrated, repressed men.
By Jeff
September 7, 2007 10:02 AM | Link to this
CJ:
You have a piece of your anatomy that has no place to go on another man. Only females have the proper biological receptacle for this particular male anatomical feature.
Now, if you were a worm and could reproduce on your own, you could possibly have a case for “biological” homosexuality - since you (still assuming you’re a worm) have the processes of both male and female, you could at that point choose which one you identify with regardless of what other people saw you as.
HOWEVER, since you are human, you do not have that right.
By Bosch
September 7, 2007 10:03 AM | Link to this
Goldie, I’ve always thought the same thing about divorce. IMHO, people who are opposed to gay marriage are simply prejudiced homophobes.
I know people who’ve been divorced three, four, even six times, but somehow that’s okay?
I’ve always wondered how people can be so self-centered and arrogant to assume that because two gay people get married, that somehow affects them personally. It is completely mind-boggling to me, but then again, those people are usually in with the conservative ilk and that typically describes them anyway: self-centered and arrogant.
CJ, It’s amazing to me that a conservative state like Iowa (I mean we’re talking Iowa here folks) will allow gay marriage - I wonder if you can buy beer there on Sundays too?
By Captain Freedom
September 7, 2007 10:05 AM | Link to this
Re: Charles @ 9:00 AM
My stalwart brother in True Belief Charles has made a grievous error. The once-and-future-Godly Miss Spears is in fact a staunch supporter of Our Leader. Further, she was born and raised in Kentwood, Louisiana, and I defy Charles to find any semblance of anti-American Islamoliberalism in this quintessential Red State bastion. It simply is not so.
So True Believers, we must embrace young Britney — complete with her prominently displayed and shaved hoohah — as the Right Thinking Capitalist Icon that she is.
As to the rest of Charles’ point…yes, in fact, it is all the Clintons’ fault. God help us if Mr and Mrs Clenis should extend their dynastic grip on Our Nation. That Priapic Commie and his Sapphic Socialist Harpie will surely lead us into sexual slavery and will quickly demonstrate who their owner is by sucking up to the Chinese Commies and attending their Olympics. Any President who would kowtow to the Yellow Commie Horde is simply not worthy of Common Sense Conservative Support.
By getalife
September 7, 2007 10:08 AM | Link to this
Wow, people still read Jim’s drivel.
Folks, Jim has the credibilty of w and should of retired many moons ago.
These are me generation issues that are not issues at all. Just government sticking their nose where it never belongs.
Ron Paul is right about shrinking government and minding your own business.
Government is not a solution it is a problem.
Geez.
By Bosch
September 7, 2007 10:08 AM | Link to this
“HOWEVER, since you are human, you do not have that right.”
HOLY S**!!!!!
Now, we have a freak telling people what they have the right to do!
HOLY S**!!!!!
Jeff, my God, “if you were a worm?”
HOLY S**!!!!!!
How can you be so simple minded?
By Bosch
September 7, 2007 10:11 AM | Link to this
DDR, Cases like that just creep me out. When I read they had left their 4 year old and two 2 year old children alone and went out to eat, that just didn’t sound right. Who does that (except stupid people of course)?
By time for the harsh truth
September 7, 2007 10:11 AM | Link to this
so crackpipe debbieturd now FINALLY admits its a w hore that swallows Arkansas white trash!! so NO surprise at all there!!
what ever is next??
Sick (little) Willie KKKlinton admitting its a pardon selling rapist? The giant treasonous DUI killer KKKennedy admitting its a cowardly snake bellied killer? Bwarney Fwank admitting its a vile queeralicious predator? … well one out of three aint bad for perverted venal liberal scum!!
hilarious to see the PIGignorant ebonics spoutin’ slapper crackpipe brainlessly confuses hear with here … aint bein’ a sullenlardarsedghettobitchabitch?
By getalife
September 7, 2007 10:12 AM | Link to this
Jeff is a moron.
Play God much?
Geez, what an idiot.
By AmVet
September 7, 2007 10:17 AM | Link to this
Guess he must have made a wrong turn somewhere along the Tigress River.
Very funny, MSP! Sad, but nonetheless funny! And it goes to the very root of the ineptitude of this decider.
CJ, well said, especially your last sentence. But I’m not holding my breath. Ever since the birth of neo-conservatism in 1980 but especially since ‘94 this new Republican Party just doesn’t seem to get it.
The American electorate is hopefully never again going to enable this right-wing zealotry and insane desire to legislate peoples private lives.
ESPECIALLY from the ultra-hypocritical and essentially extremist GOP, which has to some large degree become inundated, if not practically defined by immorality and religious and “family values” frauds and their supporters.
Last night, to his credit Glenn Beck, during a very interesting interview with Mary Matlin, referenced the shameful laughter by the GOP candidates whenever Ron Paul spoke during the debate the other night.
He broached the question that I spoke out loud. This is the type of behavior from the men some want to “lead” this nation?!
By and large we’re talking about a bunch of pompous egotists who don’t want ANY REAL exchange of ideas that disagree with theirs. Only McCain shows a modicum of class.
By getalife
September 7, 2007 10:18 AM | Link to this
And of course, time for the toilet has escaped his toilet to spew his hate filled rhetoric.
Should of flushed that turd.
This guy is an illegal immigrant tossed out of an English mental facilty and dumped on our shore.
Deport this wanker.
Geez.
By Goldie
September 7, 2007 10:18 AM | Link to this
Yeah, next time the dems will try a little harder to throw an election.
Yeah Chad— we’ve learned a LOT about how to throw an election, the same way that your criminals Jeb and Katherine Harris did in FLA…
By time for the enormously amusing truth
September 7, 2007 10:18 AM | Link to this
whereas getaturd is a slimy greasy treasonous cowardly snakebellied illegal immigrant ageing f aggot Cuban leech and a festering pile of wormy dogsqueeze!!
jeeeeeeez … what an almost walking upright long overdue far leftist abortion!!!
By Dusty
September 7, 2007 10:19 AM | Link to this
Do Democrats lose their reasoning ability when they get “politicized”?
Seems like it. Jim Wooten cannot say anything practical without some loon screaming an off the wall comment.
So libs want N. Druid Hills packed to the gills with immovable traffic?
So judges are OK as long as they vote along Demo lines?
So we didn’t win in Afghanistan and NATO take over and Afghans have their own government? No we didn’t? Why? Because Osama is hiding or dead in a mountain cave? (In case you haven’t noticed, we did win!)
Wooten mentioned that homeowners with bad mortgages might get some help from the government. Immediately some lib thinks that is helping the mortgage company more than the homeowner.
Libs should refrain from over emphasizing “bathroom” incidents when Clinton pulled the most publicized bathroom activity to ever make the news. Doesn’t matter what kind. Dirt is dirt no matter who is doing it.
Poor ol getalife thinks all decisions are made by listening to the radio or some commentator. I guess he never had a thought without someone else supplying it. Geez for the geezer.
I guess RedNeck Convert will be here next. That is if he has gotten out of jail for DUI, open container and lying about being a Southerner. Funny how these “northern” Southerners want to be real Southerners but just CAN’T pull if off.
Southerners don’t go for big time PHONIES like Redneck, Captain and other imposters. But they keep trying. Just wanted to keep you up to date.
By Tim
September 7, 2007 10:21 AM | Link to this
talkin about dui killing people… she wasnt charged with a dui but Mrs. W ran a stop sign and killed a boy when she was in hs… it doesnt matter if there is an “R” next to their name or a “D” they are on both sides
By Daniel
September 7, 2007 10:22 AM | Link to this
hahaha….sad Debbie you ROCK! We don;t try and brighten their bitter and negative lives so stop trying to bring us down. There is nothing wrong with your misery just keep it to yourself!
By time for the enormously amusing truth
September 7, 2007 10:22 AM | Link to this
this rabid twisted and really really sick anally obsessed far left b astard that pompously calls itself amvet is one of the filthiest, sorriest excuses for a worthless treasonous snakebellied dogturd on here!!
By Tim
September 7, 2007 10:23 AM | Link to this
talkin about dui killing people… she wasnt charged with a dui but Mrs. W ran a stop sign and killed a boy when she was in hs… it doesnt matter if there is an “R” next to their name or a “D” they are on both sides
By getalife
September 7, 2007 10:25 AM | Link to this
Now, dumber than dusty chimes in with lying about being a southerner is against the law.
My goodmess, they make laws on the fly.
Geez.
By time for the enormously amusing truth
September 7, 2007 10:27 AM | Link to this
Best thing to with this proposed N Druid Hills is to swiftly complete it, dump all the maggotridden cut and run leftist vermin from the metro area in the tunnels etc and then bomb the F out of it!!
On second thoughts - why waste the money - just round up the local leftist vermin now and bomb the F out of them!! Also real good practice for the USAF in Iran!!
By Jeff
September 7, 2007 10:27 AM | Link to this
We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights
So begins the second paragraph of the a document that IS the CORE of this country. With its signing, those who signed it and those who accepted it became traitors to their country, and if they failed in the endeavor they were embarking upon, they would all be hung as such. Thousands of men died for those words, and thousands more - BILLIONS even - lives were touched.
Since the CREATOR did not CREATE men to be with men or women to be with women, these are NOT amomg the “Unalienable Rights” endowed by the CREATOR.
Therefore, homosexuals DO NOT have the right to marry - or, truly, even have homosexual sex for that matter - and that FACT is at the CORE of this country, even more so that the Constitution which came a decade later.
By Goldie
September 7, 2007 10:28 AM | Link to this
Southerners don’t go for big time PHONIES like Redneck, Captain and other imposters.
No, Dust-Brain, Southerners only go for PHONIES like GW, Ray-gun, Freddie and Rudy, et al… you’re obviously very proud of your “Southerners” and their desires to remain in the mindset of the 1860’s.
By jm
September 7, 2007 10:28 AM | Link to this
I wonder if Mr. Wooten considers those who bought the AAA rated (the safest) bonds back by sub-prime mortgages to be speculators. The real crime was committed by those who rated those bonds AAA in the first place. Of course, nothing will happen to them because of the $$$$ they contribute to both parties.
Maybe if we decided to enforce the law and go after those companies that are hiring the immigrant labor illegally, they would stop hiring. Again, that is bad for business so the only thing that will be done is to b*tch and moan.
By Bosch
September 7, 2007 10:29 AM | Link to this
Thanks for the update Dusty and exposing RedNeck Convert and Captain Freedom. I had NO IDEA those guys were fakes! What would we do without you?
AND
“Immediately some lib thinks that is helping the mortgage company more than the homeowner”
FOR TELLING US WHAT WE ARE THINKING! You and Jeff might need to sort this out - it seems he’s God too and we know there can be only one.
AND
“Jim Wooten cannot say anything practical without some loon screaming an off the wall comment.”
I know what you mean, Dusty! Just like some loons scream at Luckovich too! How dare they?
(good lord) -
By Dusty
September 7, 2007 10:30 AM | Link to this
getalife 10:25
Phony Southerners, geezer, should be unlawful. But being from Louisiana, the land of swamps and senility, YOU wouldn’t understand.
By sct
September 7, 2007 10:31 AM | Link to this
My Decatur home is beautiful! My 2 acre lot is home to Shoal Creek and more wildlife than you can imagine. My neighborhood is filled with 1/3 acre lots, and lots and lots of trees. I live 1 mile from quaint little downtown Decatur with all those nice little shops and restaurants. Great balance. Oh and the schools are excellent.
Of course what my neighborhood has is some good black folks, some lesbians and gay couples too, and of course some liberals. We have conservatives also!
I myself will be celebrating 20 glorious years with my partner on Oct 1. (The longest lasting relationship in my family!)
If people like Jim and Jeff want to pretend this is destructive I could really care less. In the last couple years if have seen the total destruction of their “family values” fantasy.
The examples of the melt down of their little fantasy world would be too many to list right now. But I understand, you people really need a boogie man in your lives to make you feel better about yourselves. Oh well.
By getalife
September 7, 2007 10:32 AM | Link to this
Hey Jeff,
Women did not have the right to vote, now one will be President.
There is one constant and it is change.
Deal with it wingnut.
Geez.
By Captain Freedom
September 7, 2007 10:35 AM | Link to this
THE Captain wishes to amend his prior post, in light of the following:
SYDNEY, Australia, Friday, Sept. 7 — President Bush has accepted an invitation from President Hu Jintao of China to attend the 2008 summer Olympics in Beijing, a move that drew condemnation from eight Republican members of Congress, who are calling for a boycott of the Games.
Clearly, THE Captain miswrote. It is clear that any President with the wisdom and foresight to engage the Chinese in this fashion is the Smartest, Strongest, and Most Best Leader in history.
At least we will not have to endure the shame of missing the Olympics under this President, as we did under Peanut Boy Jimmy.
Thank God that Our Leader will ensure the freedom of Our Warrior Athletes to compete for Glory on the field and the God-Given right to become highly-paid spokespersons for athletic drinks, wheat-based cereals and Disney-owned resort properties. It is what makes Our Nation the greatest in the history of Our World, verily even Our Universe, and all other universes not yet discovered.
THE Captain apologizes for his inadvertant apostasy, and will report for re-education directly. Until then, I leave you in the capable bony hands of Sister Dusty, who despite her shriveled and bitter outward appearance is in fact a True Believer of the Highest Order. Her Faith is pure and utterly resistant to the predations of fact and reason. God Bless her dessicated hide.
By Dusty
September 7, 2007 10:35 AM | Link to this
Thanks, Bosch, for verifying my comment about off the wall comments. I see you are TRYING to think. Got any cute jokes for us today?
By getalife
September 7, 2007 10:35 AM | Link to this
crusty the redneck,
White flour!
I was born out west so I am not a southerner, just pretend to be.
Bwa.
By Jeff
September 7, 2007 10:37 AM | Link to this
On a related note to my post regarding the DI:
Note that NOWHERE * in it (or the Constitution for that matter) is *marraige (or anything of the sort) **EVER defined as a RIGHT.
Legal recognition of a marraige is a PRIVELEGE. NO ONE has a “right” to have their marraige legally recognized by the government.
Why are gays demanding special treatment??
By DebbieDoRight
September 7, 2007 10:38 AM | Link to this
OMG Jeff!! I can’t believe you said that!! That is so unlike you to make a judgement on a whole set of people!! DANG!! Get away from the repuglican party, they’re turning you into someone else!!
By Bosch
September 7, 2007 10:40 AM | Link to this
Jeff, your logic is truly disturbing and your b******* of the Constitution, well, very disturbing.
Ever hear of the old phrase “separation of church and state?” I believe the Founders believed in that as well.
So, let me get this straight, how do you make that leap from quoting the Constitution to talking about the creator and who he created and what we are supposed to do with what he created?
If homosexuals do not have the right to marry or have sex, do they also not have the right to feel love or any emotion for that matter? Do they even have the right to exist?
I’m warning you here a bit, I know my Bible pretty well, and as others here can tell you, I’m ALWAYS up for a religion debate.
By Commander Guy
September 7, 2007 10:43 AM | Link to this
In our world, if you are a fouktard moron, people will not listen to a word you say. You will rightly be ignored as a gasbag whose head is wedged far up the poopchute, despite God not having designed the body for such contortion.
Yet Jeff expects us to pay attention to his pig-ignorant rants.
Why does Jeff demand special treatment?
By PCinDuluth
September 7, 2007 10:43 AM | Link to this
Will some of you left wing loonies please, please explain the ICE AGE that occurred 10,000 years ago? By the way,IF there is any global warming it sure as hell didn’t begin with the election of George Bush. There is no president, no party at fault as much as it is the entire world. We all are part of something going on. By the way, can anyone substantiate any other time in history that “Global Warming” may have existed? Didn;t think so; George Bush was not president at that time - if there was one.
By getalife
September 7, 2007 10:44 AM | Link to this
Sure w will attend the olympics.
Never mind the commie pinkos have poisoned our dogs, our children and us with their products and threatened to nuke our economy.
Amazing leadership from the worst President ever.
Unbelievable.
Geez.
By sct
September 7, 2007 10:44 AM | Link to this
The next right to be taken away from gay couples should be the right to pay school property tax. After all nothing in the constitution says I should pay for your child’s education. Right Jeff?
By Bosch
September 7, 2007 10:45 AM | Link to this
Dusty, Why do you try? What keeps you going day after day?
It seems that Jeff’s God power is prevailing over yours, you better get busy or he’s going to “dust” you out! Get it? “Dust” you out!
Ha ha ha ha ha!!!!! Just for you Dusty. Today’s joke brought to you by the letter “B” for Bosch.
Oh and Jeff one more thing - Are you a Christian?
By getalife
September 7, 2007 10:47 AM | Link to this
Jeff,
Why does it bother you so?
Methinks thou protest too much.
Geez.
By HillaryCan SuckIt
September 7, 2007 10:48 AM | Link to this
It is funny to hear all the griping about the elections, and I remember when people elected the President. Fisrt People HAVE NEVER elected the president at least not since the 1800s, so suck it.
As for the sub-prime mortgage issues, the people are being held accountable for living beyond their means…like it should be. However, we should also hold the governmetn and creditors for even allowing someone making $35K a year to buy a $250K house with no money down! We place WAY too much on Beacon scores instead of can this person afford it or not.
By HillaryCan SuckIt
September 7, 2007 10:48 AM | Link to this
It is funny to hear all the griping about the elections, and I remember when people elected the President. Fisrt People HAVE NEVER elected the president at least not since the 1800s, so suck it.
As for the sub-prime mortgage issues, the people are being held accountable for living beyond their means…like it should be. However, we should also hold the government and creditors for even allowing someone making $35K a year to buy a $250K house with no money down! We place WAY too much on Beacon scores instead of can this person afford it or not.
By HillaryCan SuckIt
September 7, 2007 10:48 AM | Link to this
It is funny to hear all the griping about the elections, and I remember when people elected the President. Fisrt People HAVE NEVER elected the president at least not since the 1800s, so suck it.
As for the sub-prime mortgage issues, the people are being held accountable for living beyond their means…like it should be. However, we should also hold the government and creditors for even allowing someone making $35K a year to buy a $250K house with no money down! We place WAY too much on Beacon scores instead of can this person afford it or not.
By Jeff
September 7, 2007 10:49 AM | Link to this
Debbie:
No one is turning me into anything. What you have seen over the past couple of years on this blog is the evolution of a teenage idealist neo-con into a man of principle who tries to align his religious beliefs as closely as possible to the Original Church (the one founded at Pentacost) and his political beliefs to those of the Founding Fathers.
Unfortunately, so much of what we see in the news today - from both sides of the aisle - is so far away from those bases and the original beliefs have been twisted so much that most only know a very perverted version of the original message.
The reason I support Ron Paul so much is because - as I have said before - he holds to the same message as I: that of the Original Church and the Founding Fathers. I believe he is the ONLY man currently running for President that can return this country to the very values that made it worthy of defying the most powerful nation in the world at the time. (The phrase “The Sun Never Sets on the British Empire” was never more true than at the time the DI was signed.)
By Dusty
September 7, 2007 10:51 AM | Link to this
getalife,
You were born in Sicily and the Mafia raised you. Are you still selling “white flour” or just using it all yourself?
By AmVet
September 7, 2007 10:52 AM | Link to this
OK, time to “fess” up.
It is true that I use this forum to consistently hammer on the what I call the “new” Republican Party. And until major changes are made, I will continue to.
But yesterday I was completely dismissive of Thompson throwing his fairly large hat in the ring. (Is it just me, or does he look like Peter Boyle? Now that would have been one helluva candidate!).
But watching an interview with him last night, actually revealed that he deserves a closer look.
To me, the GOP holds THE promise of restoring the nation, not the Democrats, who will always be a two-edged sword, and who can, I believe, move back toward a moderate or centrist position. Their leadership and some of their platform planks need to go, but it is doable.
But it is the Republican Party, which also has been effectively hijacked, that MUST show some ability to do the same and return to their roots. Offer us some candidates who can promote and adhere to traditional American conservatism, and the ability to swear off this neo-conservative intransigence and learn to compromise/be real statesmen and good days could be ahead.
A strong, non-corrupted, sensible GOP is essential for this country to remain strong and a true world leader.
By Goldie
September 7, 2007 10:53 AM | Link to this
On second thoughts - why waste the money - just round up the local leftist vermin now and bomb the F out of them!! Also real good practice for the USAF in Iran!!
Another example of Andy-DUH’s version of “Christianity”… lookout — before the day’s over, he’s gonna be inviting everyone here to join him at his church to worship his Savior!
Andy-DUH is a great example of why Christianity has such a bad rep these days… he, and Ted Haggard and the Pope, of course.
By Redneck Convert
September 7, 2007 10:56 AM | Link to this
Well, if it gets hotter because of global warming just turn down the thingy on your air conditioner. Only a dumb librul wouldn’t know that.
I spent a month one night in Decatur. I never seen so many one-way streets in my life. And men walking around holding hands with other men.
I see Wooten won’t write about the most important thing in the news. A activist court has said its OK to make people show photo ID before they vote in GA. There goes my election day trip to Rome to vote twicet. I guess I’ll have to ask for a absentee ballot now. They don’t check IDs for those and I got a cousin that collects my mail up there so they don’t take me off of the voting roll. I think its pretty sneaky of this Karen Handel to send out notices of the photo ID law to voters and then just wait till some of them come back undelivered so she can cut people off of the rolls. Well, I outsmarted her.
I see Sister Dusty is already on the sauce. I ain’t been attacked like that since the missus got wild with the frying pan a couple years ago. I didn’t do nothing to Sister Dusty. Now she’s saying I’m a Northrener and just like this crazy Captain Freedom and been in jail for DUI and all that. Maybe one of Sister Dusty’s big lug sons that has been in the army can break in and take the bottle away from her.
Anyway, I don’t use public bathrooms no more. I just go by the side of the road. If I go in one of them things the next thing I know some godly Republican will be in there next to me by mistake and trying to tap my shoe and run his hand under the stall wall. I think its all a big mistake. The godly Sen. Craig probly thought he was going in the womens bathroom and got all mixed up. Leastwise he wasn’t dropping his pants in front of some girl in the White House. Just remember, Clinton done it first.
Have a good weekend everybody. And when you start draining the first six-pack after church on Sunday you can thank me for letting you drown the memory of that dull sermon.
By Bosch
September 7, 2007 10:56 AM | Link to this
Jeff, I think you’ve got a little ways to go before you can stop calling yourself an idealistic neo-con.
Just what was that Original Church? Just curious?
And Jeff did you know? Our Founding Fathers weren’t too up on the religion thing - so why do you try to bring them together? It sounds a bit to me like you are actually going AGAINST the wishes of the Founders.
What about all men are created equal? Do you just conveniently leave out a few? I don’t think that’s what our Founders or Jesus would have wanted.
By getalife
September 7, 2007 10:56 AM | Link to this
Good one dusty but dead wrong as usual.
There is no mafia and I was born in Vegas.
By Goldie
September 7, 2007 10:58 AM | Link to this
A strong, non-corrupted, sensible GOP is essential for this country to remain strong and a true world leader.
Good luck with your vision, AmVet — you may be waiting about 100 years or more to ever see the terms “strong”, “non-corrupted”, and especially “sensible” as descriptions of the Repug Party…
By RamblinLonghorn
September 7, 2007 11:02 AM | Link to this
What the hell is you people’s problem with lowering pollution levels. Even if it isn’t fair…even if China and India don’t. We only stand to benefit from a cleaner environment.
But then again, we know why, because you think your precious market economy can’t absorb the shock caused by a sudden shift to cleaner methods. Yet health care costs continue to rise, energy costs continue to rise. Hurricanes seem to get stronger and stronger (2 cat5 make landfall in 1 season is scary). At what point are the economic damages that the Climate Change Luddites fear outweighed by the costs of not doing anything about our current energy production processes?
PCinDuluth: There are many possible causes for the Ice Age. Among them a decrease in Solar Output in that period, a variation on the Earth’s Orbit, taking it farther away from the sun. A sudden decrease in Atmospheric CO2 in response to a saturation in the previous epoch. Believe it or not, the earth is a homeostatic system that regulates itself.
By DebbieDoRight
September 7, 2007 11:02 AM | Link to this
Sure w will attend the olympics
He has to; China is holding our debt hostage. So Dumbya has to make “happy” faces and pretend.
By Dusty
September 7, 2007 11:02 AM | Link to this
Bosch 10:45
You sure are hitting the ale early. That joke (you said it was) was so bad I almost wish you would stay with your childish moose ones.
So you know the Bible “pretty well”? Figures. Your wife goes to seminary so that makes you an expert.
That’s the Bosch ego forevermore. Just name it and he will tell you.
He’s the EXPERT.
By Commander Guy
September 7, 2007 11:04 AM | Link to this
Does Jeff ascribe to the Original Original Church, as defined by the teachings of Jesus in the Gospels (all of them, not just the canonical cherry pick); to the Original ORIGENAL church, the one that denies the concept of equivalence of Jesus with God in Heaven; to the Original Nicene Creed Church that foisted the philosophically unsupportable (pace Augistine) doctrine of the Trinity; the Original Church of Rome as exemplified by the Renaissance Popes of the 1500s; the Original Protestant Church as defined by Luther; or any of the subsequent schismatics that flowed from Luther’s nail to the door, including the corrupted “fundamentalist” churches of our day?
Which Original Original is it Jeff? Or are you just repeating what your Pastor filled your empty head with?
You style yourself as an independent thinker, arriving at your positions over time by way of your own intelligence. Yet you come off as nothing more than a cheap dictation machine. Garbage in, garbage out.
By getalife
September 7, 2007 11:05 AM | Link to this
Jeff,
I hate to burst your bubble but Paul will never win the nomination.
The church going wingnuts love their blowing up babies, the death penalty but hate abortion.
Weird huh?
By Goldie
September 7, 2007 11:06 AM | Link to this
Therefore, homosexuals DO NOT have the right to marry - or, truly, even have homosexual sex for that matter - and that FACT is at the CORE of this country, even more so that the Constitution which came a decade later.
Ooh, Jeff— next you’re gonna be stating that our Founding Fathers were using the King James Bible as a basis for the new government? Really?
You sound creepily like a religious theocrat, trying to equate our gov’t with the “rules” and superstitions of your Bible…
By getalife
September 7, 2007 11:08 AM | Link to this
Debbie,
Very true and they will keep borrowing billions for the failed Iraq occupation. The young will be forced with the bill and probably a draft.
Incredible leadership.
Geez.
By time for the enormously amusing truth
September 7, 2007 11:09 AM | Link to this
getaturd is a slimy little whining cut and run America hating w op who needs to STFU and bend over for the lastest greaseball mafia hitman to hit on him (geddittt??? getaturd!!!)
I see goldielocks has been severely abused by the three bears again and is getting even more rabid than usual.
I AM NOT A SODDING CHRISTIAN you sad demented lying crackw hore!!!
I am a proud RIGHT WING completely SECULAR lefty despising CONSERVATIVE!! Now put that in crackpipe’s crackpipe and smoke it dooh dooh doofus!!
WTF is this Andy chap all U worthless long streaks of stagnant liberal yellow streaked p!ss are so endlessly obsessed with???
We kill our towel head fascist enemies with NO compunction … so why not our equally evil fascist liberal enemies!!!
huge lets rid America of the sick liberal cancer within smirk
By AmVet
September 7, 2007 11:10 AM | Link to this
It is truly comforting that I bother the English misanthrope so.
It is encouraging that he despises me and I would be extremely concerned about my own humanity and mankind’s shared ethos if he didn’t. I know his hatred for me is a very, very good thing.
Goldie, I make no claims that a restored GOP is coming soon. It is going on thirty years that they have made this incredible mess of their party and it will take some serious time to undue it.
But they made these abrupt changes essentially with one charismatic figure and though I doubt there is an anti-Ronnie coming down the pike soon, they may be compelled to make those changes anyway, if they think that again they are going to be on the outside looking in for forty years.
By DebbieDoRight
September 7, 2007 11:11 AM | Link to this
What you have seen over the past couple of years on this blog is the evolution of a teenage idealist neo-con into a man of principle who tries to align his religious beliefs as closely as possible to the Original Church (the one founded at Pentacost) and his political beliefs to those of the Founding Fathers.
There is a separation of church and state in the constitution, deliberately put in by the Foundings. They knew first hand, (coming originally from England), the power the church held over governments and didn’t want to see the same thing happening here.
I think that seeking your way religiously is a wonderful thing; and i commend you for your efforts. However, the church shoudl always be separate from the state. The taliban is a prime, more updated example of the reasoning behind the Foundings mandating religions and goverment become separate.
By Dusty
September 7, 2007 11:12 AM | Link to this
Goldie @10:58,
Poor baby! Luckovich is on vacation and Goldie has to post the pure Democratic line here.
Goldie wants us to know that the Democratic Party is as pure as the driven snow and therefore you should ALWAYS vote Democratic. If you don’t, the Dem Party is going to cut Goldie’s activist pay that supplements her welfare dole.
By SteveO
September 7, 2007 11:12 AM | Link to this
Yes, it’s true. Decatur, Ga., is the center of the universe
Take it easy, Jim. I know it must suck to live in Hickton, but we don’t think poorly of you. In fact, we’re not actually thinking of you at all.
By Bosch
September 7, 2007 11:13 AM | Link to this
Oh Dusty, you flatter me too much. I’m all agog!
I know the Bible because I’ve actually READ it, not because my wife went to seminary.
By Jeff
September 7, 2007 11:13 AM | Link to this
Bosch:
Virtually every single one of the Founding Fathers believed in God - even Jefferson. In fact, you truly can’t read very many of their writings - either official speeches or even letters to their wives - without some knowledge of the Bible.
The Original Church - the one founded at Pentacost where Peter preached. The one that was intially called “The Way” until certain believers in a town called Antioch were bestowed the title “Christian”. The one where the major intial conflict was whether this salvation and the message of the Christ was for Jews only or was it for every man - Gentiles included. The one that Paul spent most of his life in prison for, and in the process wrote the letters that would become the major source of doctrine for hundreds of years. The one that Peter would eventually be crucified upside down for because he would not recant and did not feel himself worthy of the honor of dieing in the same way his Master had. The one that John would be sent to Patmos over. The one that Martin Luther eventually stood up for in defiance of the major political power of his day - the Roman Catholic Church.
NOT the one that was later corrupted by its entangling in the government of the Roman Empire. NOT the one that for centuries was led by a succession of corrupt “popes”. NOT the one that even today preaches that men may be saved by ANYTHING other than the shed blood of Jesus Christ of Nazareth.
By time for the enormously amusing truth
September 7, 2007 11:14 AM | Link to this
amvet = peeping tom … a double dose of treasonous lies and supercilious rancid commie afterbirth!!
By Dusty
September 7, 2007 11:18 AM | Link to this
getalife was born in Vegas under a gambling table.
He’s been losing his chips ever since.
By getalife
September 7, 2007 11:26 AM | Link to this
toilet,
wop?
I was born in this country you bloody wanker.
Do you have your papers?
dusty,
You are a hater from Decater.
I cashed in my chips at 14,000.
Being informed pays dividends.
Green will make green.
There, I tossed you a bone.
By jbmlaw
September 7, 2007 11:27 AM | Link to this
Dear CJ @ 9:51, you may be horrified to learn that I mostly agree with you, excluding only your disparagement of Jim Wooten’s beliefs. I start from a perspective that government has almost no interest in the issue of marriage; “almost” only because of the issue of progeny. The tradition of government management of the marriage contract arose only because of legal disabilities (imposed by legislatures) on married women; those limitations (including, by way of example only, the right of a woman to own real estate in her own name) finally dissipated early in the 20th century. Since then there has been no rational reason for government intrusion into the private contract of marriage for a childless couple. (I agree there is a theoretical role for government in the protection of a child, but let’s not sidetrack into abortion.) Similarly, the government has no rational interest in the marriage contract of a homosexual couple.
I argue that the heterosexual’s interest in restricting homosexual marriage derives strictly from a selfish, if rational, interest in healthcare. The theory behind health insurance is that our risks are all equal, and that by agreeing to share those expenses we protect ourselves from personal financial disaster. The “horrible” that heterosexuals fear is AIDS – a horrendously-expensive disease, mostly acquired through voluntary albeit traditionally “repugnant” behavior. Heterosexuals resent subsidizing those who flout the traditional relationships, and seek to constrain their own personal financial injury by limiting the behavior they attribute as causative. I think it no coincidence that there was no anti-gay marriage movement before AIDS. I have ambivalent attitudes toward my perspective, as I fully understand both sides of the argument.
Dear AmVet @ 10:17, Peggy Noonan makes the same argument in tomorrow’s WSJ, http://www.opinionjournal.com/columnists/pnoonan/?id=110010568 Strange that I find myself generally opposed to the only professed libertarian in the Republican race, and truly I like Paul on almost every issue except the big one, but that is too big for me to ignore.
By Dusty
September 7, 2007 11:28 AM | Link to this
Bosch 11:13
You are not “agog”. You are in the NOGgin and it’s full and bubbly.
I am glad you read the Bible. Keep reading and you might end up a fine upright conservative. Republicans even let in ….Episcopalians!!
By Bosch
September 7, 2007 11:28 AM | Link to this
Jeff, I hate to burst your church bubble here, but your “Original Church (?)” those weren’t all one church.
So, I’m confused, are you a Catholic or a Baptist preacher?
The “church” was initially called “The Way?” Now, that’s news to me, where’d you get that from?
“The Way?” That sounds like a bad daytime TV show.
From your post, it appears you know very little about church and Christian history. It wasn’t all that simple.
By Commander Guy
September 7, 2007 11:31 AM | Link to this
As with most fundamentalists in history (regardless of which of the great traditions they emerge from), a blind certainty as to the purity of their own belief in opposition to the heresies of everyone else is the key ingredient. It is apparent in every strain from the Taliban to the Lubavitchers to the imams of the Robertson/Falwell strain of “Christianity”.
You are a pea in a pod with the Islamic terrorists, with the Hindu terrorists, with the witch burners of Salem, with the Eric Rudolphs and the Osamas of the world.
That your head is up your a$$ makes you more dangerous, not less.
By getalife
September 7, 2007 11:34 AM | Link to this
They have the new OBL tape.
He has gained weight, looks healthy, trimmed and died his beard brown.
If he asked for a cease fire, they will not show it.
By Josh
September 7, 2007 11:34 AM | Link to this
Jim,
On the whole Decatur thing…let me puncture the mirage that people from the ‘burbs see:
Typically they see only the Decatur Square area, which is admittedly cute and cozy. But, beyond that….what does Decatur have? Traffic is horrible during the weekdays. Property taxes are extremely high, which basically means the rest of us live in Apts, unlike the richer white folks (I’m sorry but there is a racial and economic component to my point of view, that go hand in hand. Folks, plz trust me on this one — normally I don’t like to see things from the lens of race but in this case, it is justified). The part of Decatur that you see (zip 30030) is somehwat more tony and cutesy and hip. I would however request your readers to go near Memorial Drive (near zip 30032) — extremely high crime rates, lot of poverty and disillusionment exists. That is somthing the (predominantly white)progressive, coffee drinkers and grunge music lovers of Decatur downtown, somehow conveniently overlook. Plus, apart from the couple of blocks in downtown, I would urge your readers from the ‘burbs to step outside that circumference, esp near West POnce de Leon — believe me, we have public housing in some parts very close to downtown Decatur that are like Compton. So, this whole illusion that white, liberals have created for themselves in the downtown area is a farce — there are most parts of Decatur that are unsafe and uninhabitable. The parts of Decatur that they live in are Norman Rockwellian (and very limited in square area) but when you cross the rail tracks (literally and metaphorically), it is a whole different story. I would urge readers in Marietta, Smyrna, etc to not be carried away by this liberal illusion. Be thankful for your low taxes and your patriotic denizens, unlike a lot of looneys that we have to deal with in Decatur and/or DeKalb county.
By AmVet
September 7, 2007 11:34 AM | Link to this
Though a previous poster already did an excellent job of exposing yet another of your intentional deceptions, this one regarding the judge in Iowa, as a Midwesterner, I would like to speak to the general differences between Iowans and Georgians, in other words the difference between conservatives and neo-conservatives.
I admire the farmers, ranchers, etc there, as they wear their faith quietly and actually try to walk the walk. They are not in the least concerned about what other people do in the privacy of their own homes, etc. Essentially they are too busy living their lives to be concerned about imposing their beliefs on others.
Here in the Deep South we have an abundance of rabid evangelicals and fundamentalists, and though they are not representative of most Christians, they wield extraordinary power and influence over elected leaders with smallish spines and a sizable portion of whom undeniably wish to shove their god and their beliefs as to how to live your life in everyone’s face every time an opening presents itself.
Witness Judge Moore in Alabama as proof.
By Grampus
September 7, 2007 11:36 AM | Link to this
The “rubes” probably come to Decatur to gawk at the world’s ugliest town square. The Decatur sophisticates screwed up and let MARTA pave it over back in the ’70s and the recent renovation has only made it look cheesy. Who approves this crap?
By Bosch
September 7, 2007 11:39 AM | Link to this
Dusty, oh, yes, I am agog with your flattery. Do you know what that word means?
Jesus Christ was no conservative - he wanted change which is a liberal ideal. IMHO, true Christianity involves the tolerance for all people.
People like Jeff are not true Christians no matter what they may call themselves. They b@stardize the Bible for their own convenience.
Just so you know, there are lots and lots of Republicans and Democrats at my church. We even let it lost souls like you.
By Dusty
September 7, 2007 11:40 AM | Link to this
getalife,11:26
I’m not a hater but do have a bit for Decatur.
MY DENTIST IS IN DECATUR. If there is anything I hate, it’s that drill buzzing away while the masked man holds the torture instrument.
Actually my dentist is a fine fellow. I just don’t like his “tools”.
Glad to know that you are “in the green”, getalife, and not completely into “white flour”.
By Jeff
September 7, 2007 11:40 AM | Link to this
Debbie:
Go back and read your copy of the Constitution. I did. Just yesterday, in regards to a post I was about to make here (it turned out I was wrong, so I did not post said response).
NO WHERE in it does the phrase “separation of church and state” appear.
The First Ammendment states that “Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof…”
Again, NO MENTION of the words “separation of church and state”.
The earliest I have noted mention of those words in the official American lexicon is in a letter that Thomas Jefferson wrote to a Baptist church in Connecticut as he is respectfully informing them that he cannot attend an event they had invited him to. (A Thanksgiving day meal, unless I am mistaken - which I could be, in regards to this particular detail.)
HOWEVER, I HAVE heard that there MAY be another mention of the phrase in question in some other area of the official American lexicon BETWEEN the writing of the Constitution and Jefferson’s 1802 letter. (You have a 15 year window to examine.)
Interesting notes, as I have once again read passages of the Consitution for this post:
1) The signers of the Constitution believed in 1787 that it was the TWELFTH year of “Independence of the United States of America”. That puts the founding of the country - in their eyes - as 1775, not 1776 as we celebrate it.
2) Although I’m sure I’ve known it existed (or possibly I didn’t and it is in fact new knowledge), I just re-discovered for myself (or perhaps discovered) that there is a Preamble on the Bill of Rights.
The first paragraph of which reads:
THE Conventions of a number of the States, having at the time of their adopting the Constitution, expressed a desire, in order to prevent misconstruction or abuse of its powers, that further declaratory and restrictive clauses should be added: And as extending the ground of public confidence in the Government, will best ensure the beneficent ends of its institution.
Interesting….
(Note: All quotes from the Constitution in all of my posts today come from NARA - a website of the National Archives of the United States of America
By Yahoo
September 7, 2007 11:41 AM | Link to this
A judge always exists somewhere willing to write the laws he wants from the bench.
And bigots like you and your ilk will always attempt to enact your prejudices and narrowness as law. (How conservative is that??) Thank goodness for judges who read and apply the constitution. If it was up to you and your brethren I am sure only landed white males would be allowed to vote. Of course, it is entirely likely that you are another Sen. Craig, railing about gays for readers and nailing them in your free time.
By Camus
September 7, 2007 11:43 AM | Link to this
jbm -
Regarding the idea that homesexual unions woudl lead to higher health care costs…
Consider that HIV/AIDS is spread primarily by people who have sex with multiple partners, regardless of orientation. Perhaps encouraging committed gay and lesbian relationships is a way to reduce the spread of AIDS, thereby lowering the spread throughout the entire population. It is important to recognize that HIV doesn’t care whether its host is straight or gay.
None of this will stop the married philanderers and airport bathroom dabblers, but it is a step in the right direction. Financial and social benefits have for years encouraged the longevity of even the most loveless unions among the heteros. Perhaps it would work for the gay/lesbian community as well.
And as to the Taliban-esque Jeff: gays are not asking for any special treatment, just equivalant treatment.
By Bosch
September 7, 2007 11:44 AM | Link to this
Jeff’s ranting reminds me of one of Bumper Sticker’s sayings from yesterday
“Whose God Do You Kill For?”
By Yahoo
September 7, 2007 11:45 AM | Link to this
A judge always exists somewhere willing to write the laws he wants from the bench.
And bigots like you and your ilk will always attempt to enact your prejudices and narrowness as law. (How conservative is that??) Thank goodness for judges who read and apply the constitution. If it was up to you and your brethren I am sure only landed white males would be allowed to vote. Of course, it is entirely possible that you are another Sen. Craig, railing about gays, et al. for readers and wearing a skirt in your free time.
By AmVet
September 7, 2007 11:45 AM | Link to this
Hi jbmlaw. I gather by the “big issue” you mean Iraq?
Though I too from before the beginning, said I thought this President’s moves on Baghdad was a disaster waiting to happen, I am now saddled with the idea that the neo-conservatives have America exactly where they want it.
The argument now goes - Mistake or not, we have to make things right there. I. E., We broke it, we fix it.
Extremely clever.
But Paul’s point about their utter lack of credibility and the not-that-much-to-ask-for ability to demonstrate basic competence is, for me, very compelling.
From the libertarian Ron Paul a blunt argument against the war: We never should have gone in and we should get out. “The people who say there’ll be a blood bath are the same ones who said it would be a cakewalk… . Why believe them?”
His foreign policy: “Mind our own business, bring our troops home, defend our country, defend our borders.”
The guy makes a lot of sense to me, and even though he may make some verbal gaffes in these debates (eliminate the CIA and FBI?), it is still very refreshing to see a man of passion who doesn’t have to rely on media-savvy PR and marketing people to spin his message to make it more palatable.
By DebbieDoRight
September 7, 2007 11:45 AM | Link to this
jbmlaw: Heterosexuals resent subsidizing those who flout the traditional relationships, and seek to constrain their own personal financial injury by limiting the behavior they attribute as causative
That won’t play out in 2007. There are more cases of new heterosexual HIV cases in the past 10 years than homosexual.
So, if your theory is correct, then the “heterosexuals” have no reason to “resent” homosexuals for their lifestyle. Hence, there really shouldn’t be anymore reactionary tactics to the advent of a legal, court upheld, homosexual marriage. If anything, the pendulum should swing the other way.
By Goldie
September 7, 2007 11:46 AM | Link to this
The “horrible” that heterosexuals fear is AIDS – a horrendously-expensive disease, mostly acquired through voluntary albeit traditionally “repugnant” behavior.
No-law, Please do share with us all how you believe that women who’ve been infected with HIV by having sex with men are considered “repugnant”, or children who are born with HIV during childbirth are “repugnant”… where the hell do you get your sick opinions???
And your attempts to equate the healthcare crisis in this country with the AIDS “fear” is just pathetic. What a sick person you must be if you’re posting your true feelings today.
By Decatur Rarity
September 7, 2007 11:48 AM | Link to this
I am a straight, white, male, 6-figure-income, doctorate-degreed Republican who doubts a lot of the current global warming thinking AND I live in Decatur. Stay the course - there is hope.
By Goldie
September 7, 2007 11:50 AM | Link to this
I would urge readers in Marietta, Smyrna, etc to not be carried away by this liberal illusion. Be thankful for your low taxes and your patriotic denizens,
Oh good grief — no wonder there is no hope for GA with “right-thinking” persons like Josh and other Wooten-heads… such snobbery!
By Jeff
September 7, 2007 11:52 AM | Link to this
Bosch:
The one of us that “b@stardizes” the Bible for his own convenience, dear friend, is YOU.
Jesus was NOT “tolerant” of all. He ACCEPTED all, but there is a HUGE differene in the terms!
And note that those who turned to Him turned AWAY from their sin. Not because it was easy. But because they loved Him that much.
I’m not saying that turning away from homosexuality is easy. It is just as hard as a straight person not having premarital sex - which is EXTREMELY hard in today’s society. What I AM saying is that when your eyes are on Jesus exclusively, you can’t be looking at your sin as well.
Sink, or walk on the water. In one, you are in your sin. In the other, you are in His arms.
THAT is the choice we ALL face, daily.
By getalife
September 7, 2007 11:52 AM | Link to this
Decater Rarity,
This is not match.com and hope is not a stategy.
Geez.
By No laughing matter
September 7, 2007 11:52 AM | Link to this
Jim, does the fact that two Category 5 hurricanes have hit this year mean anything to you? The last one was 15 years ago, and now two in 30 days. But you have to nitpick on the fact that the computer models can’t precisely determine where the hurricane will make landfall. Talk about not seeing the forest for the trees. Jim, I also remember a column you did a couple of years ago assailing J. Harold Murphy for overturning the voter ID law and lambasting the opponents of the law for “forum and judge shopping”. Can I put you down for a complete change of opinion on the Honorable Judge Murphy, who didn’t deserve the attack in the first place? I imagine he’s now an honorary member of your “band of conservatives” instead of a partisan Democratic hack. I guess ruling as you think he should removes the activist tag from his description. Jeff, you are just scary.
By Decatur Rarity
September 7, 2007 11:53 AM | Link to this
I am a straight, white, male, 6-figure-income, doctorate-degreed Republican who doubts a lot of the current global warming thinking AND I live in Decatur. Stay the course - there is hope.
By Dusty
September 7, 2007 11:57 AM | Link to this
Amvet @11:34
You are so full of it!! Your last post shows it.
You want to talk about rabid evangelicals etc. etc. in the South and I bet you came here from somewhere else and started complaining.
Rabid evangelicals are not the ones filling jails anywhere. It is the rabid thugs who were never taught morals or ethics and never put a foot in a church. You are such a fool!
As to spineless politicians, I guess you are trying to claim that Bush is spineless. I guess you had rather have Kerry or Gore?
Bush is a world leader against terrorism and if you don’t won’t to fight terrorism, just say so. Spinelessness is the hallmark of Democrats. Southerners have never been equated with lack of backbone.
Don’t try to drag religion into your politics. You are as misled there as you are in most of your lengthy expositions.
By DebbieDoRight
September 7, 2007 11:58 AM | Link to this
Jeff: Gotta go; but I will be back later; armed with historic references to the “separation” issue.
AmVet: It is still very refreshing to see a man of passion who doesn’t have to rely on media-savvy PR and marketing people to spin his message to make it more palatable
To me, all those debates are just one big PR promotion for each candidate. Have you ever noticed how they don’t even take a breath to think about the questions being asked to them before they answer? They just start spouting off data and statistics almost as if they know before hand what their opponent’s question is going to be. It’s just one big stage with a bunch of pompous, egomaniacal performers on it.
(And I’m talking about both parties)
By Bosch
September 7, 2007 12:05 PM | Link to this
Jeff, How do you KNOW what Jesus was? He could have been gay for all we know.
I know that you might find the word “tolerant” a little hard to handle, but in my opinion, Jesus Christ was tolerant and accepting of all people, kind of like a Socialist.
By Bosch
September 7, 2007 12:07 PM | Link to this
Dusty, Why do you hate us so much?
By Goldie
September 7, 2007 12:07 PM | Link to this
Ron Paul has the right idea about the need to get our troops out of Iraq NOW, but that’s not enough reason to elect him our next prez… he also has ideas about every American citizen’s rights being determined solely by the state in which they live, in addition to his feeling regarding abolishing the CIA and FBI.
Imagine what Georgians lives would be like today if we had no fed. gov’t to grant our inherent civil rights as American citizens! Imagine not having a federal system of inspecting our food products that the agri-businesses would be putting on our grocery shelves… much less imagining what products get imported from China and who knows where! Imagine not having an interstate transportation system or no one overseeing our airline industry… the list goes on and on.
If we went from George W in the White House to another Repugnant (or even Ron Paul) in 2008, where would we be making any progress in correcting the disastrous mistakes made for the past 7 years?
By Camus
September 7, 2007 12:09 PM | Link to this
I remember fondly a time in this nation when fundie lunatics like Jeff were met with polite yet nervous smiles, and when politicians could safely ignore their superstitious nonsense. A day when “faith” was a matter of personal conviction and practice, and not a bludgeon to harangue people into humoring your insane worldview.
Alas, we are now faced with a gaggle of politicians (both parties) who are forced to genuflect to the self-appointed arbiters of faith and morality.
We live in a world where hucksters like Pat Robertson and TD Jakes and Charles Stanley and Rev Weeks and his weepy wife Juanita are not only not disdained for their buffonery, but are actually given a seat at the table to help define our agenda and social structure.
Our Constitution guarantees the right to worship according to your own faith, without governmental interference. It certainly does not confer the right to impose your theocratic whims on the rest of us.
You people are more dangerous to the “American Way of Life” than al Quaeda could ever dream of achieving.
By Goldie
September 7, 2007 12:10 PM | Link to this
Jesus was NOT “tolerant” of all. He ACCEPTED all, but there is a HUGE differene in the terms!
Please do continue with your wisdom, Jeff— we’re all awaiting your assessment of what Jesus REALLY meant when he said “love thy neighbor”… tell us all about the HUGE difference, in your humble wisdom.
By time for the enormously entertaining truth
September 7, 2007 12:10 PM | Link to this
Self serving snouts in the trough politicos are the norm these days. The sickening thing is that its liberals/lefties that systematically deny the laundry list of historical facts that show they are actually worse at doing this than conservatives.
This is a superb article that wonderfully distills the liberal elites’ mindset and venality of Nu Labour and (at least by implication) their poisonous demoNcrat acolytes - surprisingly occasionally even numbering a few turncoat Tories over in Old Albion.
But beyond that the article exposes the cosy accomodating venality of the ruling elites which apply on both sides fo the pond and seemingly to (western) politics in general nowadays.
This is obviously pitched at a much higher literacy/conceptual level than most simpleton demoNcrats are used to engaging, so best if the lefties don’t overtax (clever pun - smirk) what little passes for their brains.
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/pages/live/articles/news/news.html?inarticleid=479478&inpageid=1770
a website that appeasing, pandering leftie scum have very recently tried to block access to.
http://www.jihadwatch.org/
By jbmlaw
September 7, 2007 12:11 PM | Link to this
Dear Debbie @ 11:58, “It’s just one big stage with a bunch of pompous, egomaniacal performers on it.” Careful with your language there, that hits close to home.
By Jeff
September 7, 2007 12:14 PM | Link to this
Bosch:
You, dear friend, are WRONG.
Case in point:
A) The only Pharisee we have record of Him being overly “nice” to was Nicodemus, who had come to him seeking truth about salvation.
B) We have record of Jesus physically man-handling the money-changers and those selling doves in the temple. In the words of the KJV, he “cast them out”. In the NIV, it is translated as “drove out”. In either case, the picture is a man very capable of physical harm who is about to show these people just how capable he is.
By jbmlaw
September 7, 2007 12:14 PM | Link to this
Dear Camus @ 12:09, it’s not exactly on your point, but I think you would enjoy another WSJ article from today, http://www.opinionjournal.com/taste/?id=110010572
By AmVet
September 7, 2007 12:18 PM | Link to this
“Guessing” Dusty, please read my post at 11:10 to your English chum and take it to heart.
DDR, unfortunately we are in a “dumbed down” age where substance is not essential. Look at the past two elections for evidence that the American people, by and large, are not overly concerned whether our President has the demonstrable competency, knowledge and relevant experience to lead the free world effectively. Rather they are obsessed whether his “character” and manicured appearance is pleasing. Style is paramount and logic and reason are to some large extent trivialized.
And the debates perfectly showcase this “staged” leadership. Sound bites and chest pounding do not a great President make.
By Jeff
September 7, 2007 12:30 PM | Link to this
Where have I once called for the United States of America to become a theocracy?
I have stated that I want a return to the political beliefs of the Founding Fathers, nothing more.
One starts talking about his religious beliefs in a political context, and suddenly people charge him with trying to start a theocracy.
And yet the hypocritical Democrats a) campaign in churches (and say that a church’s tax-exempt status should be stripped if the church disagrees with the Democratic Party) and b) call the Republican Party the “Party of Fear”. Are you not playing on peoples’ fear of theocracy???
Admit to THAT, democrats.
By AmVet
September 7, 2007 12:32 PM | Link to this
Imagine what Georgians lives would be like today if we had no fed. gov’t to grant our inherent civil rights as American citizens!
Though I don’t like speaking for anyone else, i think this an issue that is very hard for many of us - states rights vs. federalism.
And it goes to the very root of our balanced system. But it has been my experience that many of us dance on both sides of this issue whenever it suits our political beliefs.
Gun control, abortion, gay marriage, legalized marijuana and blue laws have all been in the news for this very reason.
Pick your poison - the professional crooks in Washington or the amateur crooks in Atlanta!
By Bosch
September 7, 2007 12:34 PM | Link to this
Jeff, Oh am I? It’s funny how you can be so absolute about things.
Did I read your post right? “The only Pharisee we have record of”
Do you mean to tell me that YOU have THE record - the actual record? Damn, that’s some sh!t there isn’t it.
Let’s see, don’t you think that if the Pharasees were to have dropped to their knees and begged for forgiveness - don’t you think JC would have forgiven? I think the answer to that question is yes.
I really thought my comment about the possibility that Jesus may have been gay would have made your head explode. You disappointed me.
By Camus
September 7, 2007 12:35 PM | Link to this
Interesting article jbm.
It is true that religion has often been a spur behind reform movements for years. Certainly, the successes of Dr King in the 60s, and the abolitionists of the 1800s, owe a great deal to the Scriptural arguments they used to press their case.
One great difference between these examples (and the couple in your cited article) is that they were not trying to impose their religious beliefs on people. It is an important distinction.
The aim of fundamentalists everywhere is to impose their beliefs on the rest of the world. The activist Christians like Dr King were asking people to live up to what they professed to believe in the first place.
Gandhi is another good example. While he used the power of religious rhetoric to gain social change (again, by using the professed beliefs of the British to demonstrate how their policies failed to live up to their alleged ideals). But he was quite insistent that Hindus should not prosletyze people of other faiths.
By getalife
September 7, 2007 12:37 PM | Link to this
Jeff,
Your hero w and cheney trampled the Constitution.
They think it is just a piece of worthless paper.
Admit that wingnut.
Geez.
By Grampus
September 7, 2007 12:37 PM | Link to this
Decatur Rarity,
There are other non-liberal members of society besides yourself living in Decatur and even my neighborhood, nearby Druid Hills.
I love putting Republican campaign signs in my yard during election years - even if I don’t plan to vote for the particular candidate. Nothing brings out the worst in a liberal more than the sudden realization that everyone in their progressive enclave doesn’t necessarily think like them. When asked at neighborhood functions which house is mine, the expression on their face’s tells it all when they hear the answer. I’m that guy. Makes me laugh every time. Which only disturbs them more.
Have a great day, go home, and annoy a liberal. You’ll thank me.
By jct
September 7, 2007 12:40 PM | Link to this
Wow, where to begin…
N Druid Hills - I am so glad that I have changed employment so I don’t have to be in that traffic anymore. In seven years that I worked in that corrider, it took 25 minutes to get home to Stone Mountain. When I switched postions last year the communte was 45 minutes to get home. I feel sorry for the homeowners in that area.
How come the media only talks about Osama around 9/11? You know this could be the year the Bush decides to put some resources into finding him. He would go out of office as a hero.
Marriage - it’s a personal and private contract. Whether you are hetro or homo, the contract is a private matter where the government has no business.
By Bosch
September 7, 2007 12:41 PM | Link to this
Jeff, You really need to get out more. You are being a horrible un-Jesus like hypocrit to even begin to imply that….
wait….Democrats have churches? When did that happen?
But I digress…….are you really going to sit there and type that Democrats campaign in church? Jeff, my mother’s freaky fundamentalist church gave them VOTING CARDS during the last election with WHO THEY WANTED THE CHURCH MEMBERS TO VOTE FOR! Guess what? Surprise! NO DEMOCRATS ON THAT CARD!!!!
I almost vomited right there on the spot when my mother showed me that card.
I am scared of theocracy - think Taliban - they rape little boys for fun.
By Corey
September 7, 2007 12:42 PM | Link to this
Boy, what a horrible summer we had. Mike Vick was fighting his dogs on the bridge, and it fell down. The ground shook and a mine collapsed which caused a stallwart, conservative Republican to fall out of the closet.
By Jeff
September 7, 2007 12:42 PM | Link to this
getalife:
Bush has NEVER been my hero. I supported him (I was too young to vote - by 3 months) in 2000 as “the lesser of two evils”.
I voted for him in 2004 because John Kerry is a complete idiot. (There are only four worse Democrats than John Kerry: Hillary Clinton, Roy Barnes, Ted Kennedy, and MArk Taylor.)
Again, in neither situation did I support the guy I really wanted. This time, I’m involved early enough to get to support the guy I really want.
By AintSo
September 7, 2007 12:44 PM | Link to this
and say that a church’s tax-exempt status should be stripped if the church disagrees with the Democratic Party
no, a church’s tax-exempt status should be stripped, period.
By getalife
September 7, 2007 12:46 PM | Link to this
Grumpy old man,
The are probably disgusted with your mind set idiot.
Annoying people to get your thrills. Get a life.
Geez.
By Goldie
September 7, 2007 12:47 PM | Link to this
Pick your poison - the professional crooks in Washington or the amateur crooks in Atlanta!
AmVet— you might add to that “the professional cop-crooks with their hoses and dogs in the streets”… admit it — the entire South would be different today if the Feds had not stepped in.
By M-orris Hames
September 7, 2007 12:49 PM | Link to this
Jeff - If you are looking for a guy to support, he probably lives in Decatur somewhere.
By getalife
September 7, 2007 12:50 PM | Link to this
Jeff,
So you are a young wingnut eligible for the draft.
Kerry was the right choice and we would not be wasting lives and billions in Iraq.
They are sticking your kids with bills and good luck with the draft idiot.
By Curious Observer
September 7, 2007 12:51 PM | Link to this
My dear Jeff,
It might or might not interest you to know that Jefferson was a Deist, not one of your fundamentalists who believe in direct intervention of God in humankind’s affairs. For that matter, so was Ben Franklin. All tended to snicker at the evangelistic bible-thumpers, regarding them as curiosities, although Franklin had a certain bemused admiration for the persistence of Whitfield.
Any notion that the Founding Fathers saw government as a means of promoting religion or religious values is ludicrous.
However, they had seen what state-sponsored religious persecution could do—first in looking back at how the Anglicans had gone after the Puritans and others, and later at how the Puritans in turn, once in North America, had turned government into an intolerant religious state. Ever hear of what the Puritans did to Roger Williams when he failed to adhere to the prevailing religious beliefs?
You are welcome to believe in any religion you choose. You are not free, however, under the Constitution, to impose your religion on others or to use government to do so. It is precisely this kind of desire to enforce a rigid orthodoxy on everyone that has led the Republican Party to fall from grace with the majority of American voters.
Greetings to my friend TFTT. I assume that its absence yesterday was for some salutary mental health treatment, although the beneficial effects were evidently not long-lasting.
By Bosch
September 7, 2007 12:52 PM | Link to this
“There are only four worse Democrats than John Kerry: Hillary Clinton, Roy Barnes, Ted Kennedy, and MArk Taylor”
Hmmmmmmm………let’s see………
Are there any worse Republicans than Bush/Cheney?
By Goldie
September 7, 2007 12:53 PM | Link to this
We have record of Jesus physically man-handling the money-changers and those selling doves in the temple.
Jeff— I read those stories about Jesus and it makes me realize just how human he really was. Sometimes his frustration level would be too much even for him.
Imagine what a liberal, free-thinking person like Jesus had to live through during HIS day… it would take a really special person to rise above all of the stupid superstitions and myths that they were living with in those days, yes?
By harold
September 7, 2007 12:56 PM | Link to this
Decatur is the center only of DeKalb County. DeKalb is the huge BUT that Decatur carries with it. Too bad Decatur is in the middle of such garbage.
By jct
September 7, 2007 12:59 PM | Link to this
@Bosch
Rove the puppetmaster!
By jct
September 7, 2007 12:59 PM | Link to this
@Bosch
Rove the puppetmaster!
By Camus
September 7, 2007 12:59 PM | Link to this
“There are only four worse Democrats than John Kerry: Hillary Clinton, Roy Barnes, Ted Kennedy, and MArk Taylor”
Really!? Only four, in the whole world, only four?!? You’ve checked ‘em all, eh? What a busy boy.
Wow. Such certainty. Such absolutism. Such an imbecile. Go play with your Jesus action figures.
By Goldie
September 7, 2007 12:59 PM | Link to this
I voted for him in 2004 because John Kerry is a complete idiot.
Jeff— as opposed to your guy Bush who is an infantile failure at life? How many businesses did John Kerry drive into bankruptcy and then have his father bail him out? How many times did John Kerry ask his father to pull some strings to get him out of serving in Vietnam?
Your party has been in bad trouble since back in the ‘70’s, but putting your man-child into the White House in 2000 was the worst mistake ever!
By DecaturDweller
September 7, 2007 1:00 PM | Link to this
Why pick on Decatur? Maybe he’s upset that he didn’t get an appearance at the AJC sponsored book festival in Decatur last weekend.
I’m a fan of the City of Decatur; it’s 4.5 square miles encompass my ‘hood on the ‘wrong side of the tracks.’ I don’t mind paying property taxes for public schools to serve our very diverse group of kids (and taxes are not high compared to states with good schools), or to pay our very good police and fire forces,… but I thought this rave about why it’s chosen for the book fest was a bit obnoxious: (from the FAQ section of decaturbookfestival.com)
Why Decatur? The Atlanta area—the economic and cultural center of the Southeast—has long needed and greatly deserves a successful, viable book festival. And no part of Atlanta offers a better cross-section of book lovers and experienced festival organizers than Decatur.
Only four square miles in size, Decatur is home to history (older than the city of Atlanta), academia (Emory and Agnes Scott Universities), and a long-standing appreciation for arts and books (the Decatur Arts Festival, the Georgia Center for the Book).
With the cultural perks of a university town (local book clubs, art galleries, and music) and access to the resources of a major city (press outlets, public transportation), Decatur is the perfect setting for the vibrant book festival Atlanta so desires.
Another reasons Decatur was chosen to host the AJC DBF is its proven track record for hosting fun, successful, and well-attended events.
From its very first organizational meeting, the Decatur Book Festival has been modeled on the Decatur Arts Festival, the city’s premiere celebration of the arts. Drawing over 50,000 attendees each Memorial Day Weekend, the Decatur Arts Festival proves year after year that downtown Decatur is one of the best venues in greater metropolitan Atlanta for family-friendly events.
By Legaleeeze
September 7, 2007 1:03 PM | Link to this
JCT - If marriage is “a personal and private contract” as you say, then why do we have to get licenses in order to marry? Why do we have to go to court in order to divorce? Why do we have custody battles? Why can’t we have as many spouses as we want at one time? Why do we have a zillion other legal things to contend with stemming from the very government sanction and public institution of marriage?
By getalife
September 7, 2007 1:03 PM | Link to this
Jeff,
Your church should be saving souls not destroying them.
You chose the wrong path and should repent like the Catholic nuns who called for the impeachment of w and cheney.
They chose the right path.
By @@
September 7, 2007 1:04 PM | Link to this
Jim, Did you know that Mexico’s President Calderon was secretly hoping that Hurricane Dean would devastate their fast-depleting and state owned oil fields? It would seem that constitutional restrictions forbid outside oil investors from drilling in their deep water fields where billions of barrels are waiting to boost Mexico’s economy. He wants that opportunity for his people. If Hurricane Dean had succeeded in shutting down their existing fields, his argument for amendment would have had merit.
While the DNC’s “Hurricane Dean” wants to restrict America’s financial prosperity by placing it in the hands of a Democrat-led government, President Calderon was hoping that global warming’s Hurricane Dean would deliver his people from the poverty that is being forced upon them by their government controls. One country’s catastrophe is another country’s road to prosperity. Go figure!
Well Hillary’s on the campaign trail, not in Washington, but she’s already promising the “reckless” homeowners a bailout on mortgage woes. Just think about it, if Hillary succeeds, I’ll always have a place to stay no matter where I go. I’ll own a piece of everybody’s “rock”, the foundation on which irresponsible homeowners houses sit.
Cool!!!!! No more hotel bills but lots of new toothbrushes.
Just how many of those uninsured are reckless young workers who choose to opt out of their employer’s insurance because they think they’re immortal and would rather spend their money on more important things?
I thought Decatur WAS a “burp”. Excuse me if I was mistaken.
Dang, I can file a lawsuit if the nuisance moves in on me? I’m off to see a lawyer. I’ll just skip the middle man and go straight for the makers of Colt 45 Malt Liquor. Their cans litter the right-of-way in front of my home.
Why can’t gays just be “civil” about this issue and go for unions? The majority of Americans are not adverse to those.
I read that Jim. “The ACLU Takes Up the Banter” in defense of privacy rights. To be more specific “they resume the banter”.
So what happened with the first go round? According to a senior legal advisor on the issue, “I think what actually happened is that many of the privacy activists took such an extreme, unyielding position that the president should yield his constitutional authority to conduct military intelligence during wartime, that they lost the battle in Congress and are now trying to recoup their losses.”
In other words, the privacy activists are too rigid. Afraid we might found out what’s NOT going on in their bedrooms and they hate it when you point that out.
I will accept Bob Barr’s argument (not support it), but only because he’s a Libertarian. I will not accept that same argument from a Democrat since their political platform is built on invading my finances.
By jct
September 7, 2007 1:07 PM | Link to this
There is no one I ‘hate,’ however their is one Republican who scares me sh@@l@ss, Pat Robertson.
By Decatur Rarity
September 7, 2007 1:11 PM | Link to this
Thanks, Grampus. I’m looking forward to the upcoming elections and will have the signs ready. Let’s see - 8 years of Bill Clinton followed by a terrorist attack on the U.S. within a year that was obviously planned all during the Clinton administration; 6 years of George Bush without even a fender-bender. I’ll take my chances with the Conservatives.
By BS Aplenty
September 7, 2007 1:13 PM | Link to this
Just stopping by to offer kudos to TFTT who can bi_tch slap the opposition as well as anyone - worldwide. JBMLaw your knowledge, reasoning skills and moderation always impress. Dusty you’re a girl after my own heart - we don’t always agree but I do admire your “spit.” Jeff Christianity at its best makes for some of the finest souls in humanity, but it’s a two-edged sword, friend - I wish you only the best side of the blade.
To all you Liberals - keep the faith, communism may be back in fashion if Hillary’s elected.
BTW - the re-make of 3:10 to Yuma is terrific.
By JohnF
September 7, 2007 1:15 PM | Link to this
Jbmlaw,
In the first place, there was no pro-gay marriage movement at the advent of the AIDS crisis either…so your statement about anti-gay marriage movements before AIDS appeared is kinda dumb.
Also, are you implying that allowing gays to legally wed would increase HIV infections? If so, have you thought that through? Ignoring the fact that AIDS is virtually absent in lesbians, I will point out that the risk of HIV infection is increased with the number of partners…so wouldn’t encouraging monogamy actually help decrease HIV infection?..usually people who enter into a marriage are (at least for awhile anyway) only interested sexually in one person. It seems that encouraging gay marriage would actually be in the best interest of everyone…at least from the point of view of a health crisis.
By AmVet
September 7, 2007 1:16 PM | Link to this
…the entire South would be different today if the Feds had not stepped in…
Very true, Goldie.
I am not advocating that the federal government is some big freedom-eating bogey man like our right-wing cousins do.
To many of them EVERYTHING that comes out of Washington is the root of all evil and thus we have this inane spin about “decreasing the size of government” pablum that has been popular since Reagan.
There is no doubt that the bureaucracies are bloated and their budgets almost unfathomable.
But I have said before that the more rational of us Americans are not so concerned with the dollar amounts as we are for the VALUE, or lack thereof, that we get in return.
And yes the idea that, especially given the “uneven” history of the Deep South and here in Georgia, the “locals” having ultimate power is extremely frightening!
By Goldie
September 7, 2007 1:19 PM | Link to this
I will not accept that same argument from a Democrat since their political platform is built on invading my finances.
Boobs, you obviously have no problem supporting your party that invades your “finances” by wasting a TRILLION $$$ in that quagmire in Iraq… you’re still believing that your party knows what they’re doing with not only your “finances” but for your grandchildren’s children’s finances??? Sorry to see you’re that brainwashed to only think of “your” finances and no one else’s…
By getalife
September 7, 2007 1:19 PM | Link to this
The odds you will get killed by a terror attack is worse than winning the lottery cowards.
Here is OBL
Boo!
Geez.
By Goldie
September 7, 2007 1:25 PM | Link to this
6 years of George Bush without even a fender-bender. I’ll take my chances with the Conservatives.
I’m sure you don’t think of our occupation of Iraq as just a “fender-bender”, do ya???
That’s OK — I’ll take my chances with ANYONE other than who the Repugnants are supporting… that would be the same as supporting fear, terrorism and never-ending war right here in America!
By Bosch
September 7, 2007 1:27 PM | Link to this
The other Bosch is from Decatur, hasn’t lived there in about 25 years, but still had relatives down there until about 10 years ago.
I have a question? Is Glenwood Rd. still as gross as it once was? I remember this one place though, that I always wanted to eat at, but never did, it was called The Beautiful Restaurant or something like that. Looked like a fun place. Is it still there? I have heard they are doing some “fixing up” in that area, but years ago, when we would go and visit relatives, it was plain pathetic.
I haven’t been in that area in about 10 years since the relatives left, just curious.
By Mara
September 7, 2007 1:28 PM | Link to this
Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof…”
Well, well, well…if we want to get down to fundamental Constitutionalism, depending on ones religion there are many things that could be declared unConstitutional.
The draconian Rockefeller drug laws, for example, infringe on the practice of several different religions including Rastafari (ganja), Hindu (soma), and almost all shamanistic beliefs.
Animal sacrifice and blood sacrifice are part of some animist, celtic, and pagan rituals. Even the prohibition against slavery and pedophilia could be said to infringe on the tenets of certain religions.
So for a strict Constitutional constructionist, the drug laws, animal abuse laws, equality laws, and probably more that I just don’t have the patience to research are ALL un-Constituional.
And btw- our Founders were, for the most part, Deist and not Christian. In fact they had some mighty harsh words about Christians and Christianity…but you can research it yourself if you like. I won’t waste my time on it since I’ve never had much luck convincing Republicans of anything using mere facts and truth.
By The World Is Bigger Than You
September 7, 2007 1:36 PM | Link to this
“There are only four worse Democrats than John Kerry: Hillary Clinton, Roy Barnes, Ted Kennedy, and MArk Taylor”
All that says is that Jeff reads way too much Republican fundraising material warning him about the evils of Senators Clinton and Kennedy….and that he is a provincial with a very small world view since he thinks the former Lt. Gov. of Georgia can rank as the “worst” of anything. I mean, c’mon, pick someone with greater name recognition who is actually known outside of GA. Someone who has had some national implication or influence. Believe it or not, there’s a great big world out there filled with people of varying experiences and opinions just waiting for you!
By Goldie
September 7, 2007 1:40 PM | Link to this
Is Glenwood Rd. still as gross as it once was?
Bosch— I don’t find Glenwood Rd. any more “gross” than driving down Cobb Parkway or Buford Hwy. in Gwinnett County… you believe there’s a big difference in lower-income neighborhoods in DeKalb vs. Fulton, Cobb or Gwinnett?
By jct
September 7, 2007 1:45 PM | Link to this
I believe that marriage is a simple contract. Two people decide to get together and share a life. (This has nothing to do with a church wedding. That to me is a ceremony where the religious establishment chooses to join folks under the doctrine, rites, etc of that establishment. Churches should only join folks together who it deems appropriate according to its views.)
We are forced to get a license because because the government wants to collect a fee. The government is looking to make sure you are not already under contract to someone else.
To end a contract sometimes you need legal help to divide assets acquired during the contract.
Custody battles happen because parents NEED to win.
You can’t have as many spouses as you want because you can only contract with one person at a time. If you disolve that contract, you should be free to enter into another contract.
The contract should be simple. Benefits should be equivilant whether it is hetro or homo relationship. The government should be a tool to facilitate the easy of creating the contract, not the terms of the contract.
Not extending marriage to gay relationships is a violation of civil rights.
There is a dual system for committed and loving relationships in this country. It ought to change.
By @@
September 7, 2007 1:46 PM | Link to this
BTW - the re-make of 3:10 to Yuma is terrific.
OMG - How was Russell Crowe? Bad in the best sorta way?
Goldie (Boob lover):
Boobs, you obviously have no problem supporting your party that invades your “finances” by wasting a TRILLION $$$ in that quagmire in Iraq
When have you ever heard me deny or complain about financing national security? That’s one of the main reasons I’m a conservative. Democrats love to cut national defense to prop people like you up for display to, well…….other people like you.
Even during times of peace, I’m willing to contribute to our national defense.
Peace time, war time…Democrats will cut it no matter what. Seems they believe in their utopian paradise. <——-Note the word “their”. “They ain’t talkin’ about YOU Goldie” They won’t allow you to live up to the dreams projected in your name.
By Bosch
September 7, 2007 1:50 PM | Link to this
No Goldie, I didn’t mean it like that. I think you are right on. I think you know me better than that.
The area where I’m talking about used to be in really bad shape, the houses were all run down, alot of abandoned homes that had been vandalized, very few businesses, trash EVERYWHERE, but I have heard through some friends that they had really fixed up the area and alot of new homes have been built around there.
By Decatur Rarity
September 7, 2007 1:53 PM | Link to this
Goldie, Sorry that you don’t understand sentence construction - the “without even a fender bender” phrase refers back to the previously mentioned “terrorist attack on the U.S.” and has nothing to do with Iraq. Here - I’ll make it clearer for you and use small words: There has not been another attack by the bad guys on U.S. soil because of the policies put into place immediately after 9/11 by the Bush folks. There. (Sorry, I did use some big words but it’s difficult for a well-educated person like me to communicate at the 3rd grade level.)
By Calm Down
September 7, 2007 1:57 PM | Link to this
I don’t really understand impetus behind the comments here implying that Democrats are anti-miltary. Plenty of Democratic leaders have served honorably in the armed forces over the years. Plenty of Democrats serve in the military now — with quite a few Iraq veterans running for office last year as Democrats. I hate to open up a pandora’s box of allegations and recriminations, but why is it that Republicans were able to so stridently criticize President Clinton for any military action he undertook, but now that there is a Republican president it is taboo for anyone to criticize his military actions? I think it’s time for everyone to calm down, take a deep breath, and realize that the world is not divided between Republicans and Democrats or conservatives and liberals. Most people fall right in the middle and love the freedoms of this nation as much as anyone else - although they will have differing viewpoints on particular issues. It’s just plain wrong, and in the end counter-productive, to always demonize anyone who thinks differently than yourself.
By MELO
September 7, 2007 1:59 PM | Link to this
But the computer models that predicts global warming’s catastrophic future are taken by many as the gospel In a world where doing nothing is not an option
U gripe and contradict yourself although you get it right in ur second sentence, without my chastising, so. its ALL GOOD!!
By Bosch
September 7, 2007 2:00 PM | Link to this
Decatur Rarity, Are you that guy who used to pop in sometimes randomly and all he would say is how much money he makes?
Degrees do not give wisdom. You can have three PhDs, make a million dollars a year and be dumb as sh!t.
Believe me, I’ve seen it.
I’m very highly educated too, I don’t brag about it - that’s very low class.
By Goldie
September 7, 2007 2:02 PM | Link to this
Bosch @ 1:50 — there’s been much “beautification” of DeKalb going on for the past decade or so, and you might find that some former “neglected” areas are showing much improvement. Glenwood Rd. itself is quite nice, especially in the area around East Lake. Of course, it’s getting too expensive for many middle-class wage earners to buy homes there now because their values have increased so much. South DeKalb is now being revitalized and lots of investment going on there — you may not think of the county as being so gross anymore… I guess old images of DeKalb are still common, based on some of the “right-thinking” snobs posting earlier today.
By YouGottaBeKidding
September 7, 2007 2:04 PM | Link to this
Charles, the right does enough to make themselves look bad. They don’t need help from Debbie.
By Bosch
September 7, 2007 2:05 PM | Link to this
Calm Down, Yes, it always amazed me how Saxby Chambliss could call Max Cleland un-patriotic when he dodged Vietname because of a “football injury.” How sad. Max got both his knees blown off, but yet pretty boy Saxby calls him unpatriotic.
And the really, really sad part of all that is - the voters here in Georgia bought it hook, line, and sinker. Like AmVet said yesterday, the brainwashed right would vote for Ghengis Khan if the people on Fox News told them to.
By Goldie
September 7, 2007 2:06 PM | Link to this
It’s just plain wrong, and in the end counter-productive, to always demonize anyone who thinks differently than yourself.
Calm— I agree with you and I believe the counter-productivity began in the 80’s with Ray-gun demonizing half of America and talking about the “L-word”… no prez before him tried to lead the country by demonizing half of its citizens.
By Decatur Rarity
September 7, 2007 2:07 PM | Link to this
Bosch, I never appeared on this blog before so, no, I’m not that guy. My original post was just to point out that not everyone who lives in Decatur is a liberal and that a lot of educated, thoughful adults have voted and will continue to vote Republican because the Democratic party offers little of substance.
By Dusty
September 7, 2007 2:09 PM | Link to this
Ah well,
Guess I better get ready to lasso, tie up and carry some people to my church. Oh yeah, our theocracy!! Those bad ol’ fundamentalists, evangelicals, all forcing people to go to church. What a shame!! Just like Osama, if you don’t go to church..it’s off with your head.
The fact is that most churches reach out in love to all who want to come. Churches invite but they do not force. (And my church has NEVER listed whom you should vote for in elections.)
If this country falls apart it won’t be from the people in church. It will be the crazies who are too weak to have a faith or a spine. They sit around all day verbally spitting on the country. They act as those who have a faith are criminal, and that includes the President.
Going to church does not make anyone an “angel”, but it usually gives you a better chance at a worthwhile and useful life of good morality and ethics. And that is a blessing whether you want to believe it or not.
By Goldie
September 7, 2007 2:09 PM | Link to this
Also Bosch @ 1:27— I’m not sure about the Beautiful Restaurant on Glenwood… I’m only familiar with the one down on Auburn Ave. and it’s excellent southern cooking! I’m guessing that if the one on Glenwood is still there that it’s equally fabulous.
By Goldie
September 7, 2007 2:13 PM | Link to this
and will continue to vote Republican because the Democratic party offers little of substance.
ROFLMAO— The jokes just keep on comin’ here!
By Goldie
September 7, 2007 2:17 PM | Link to this
“They ain’t talkin’ about YOU Goldie” They won’t allow you to live up to the dreams projected in your name.
Boobs, your boogey-man words don’t scare me. And I AM living up to my dreams, thank you very much for reminding me…
By Bosch
September 7, 2007 2:18 PM | Link to this
Goldie, Goldie, I don’t think the whole county is gross, but that certain area certainly used to be. So, is it like McMansion City? That’s too bad.
By Goldie
September 7, 2007 2:19 PM | Link to this
If this country falls apart it won’t be from the people in church. It will be the crazies who are too weak to have a faith or a spine.
You are not an overly-righteous person, are you Dust-Brain?
By WTF
September 7, 2007 2:22 PM | Link to this
Dusty, you said “They act as those who have a faith are criminal…” and unfortunately I suppose that you are correct, if perhaps overstating the issue. However, has it not occured to you that those who are without faith feel the same attitude from people of faith who are insistent that the ONLY way to live is their way? I’ve always felt that the church scares away more people with these tactics than they attract. In other words, I think you help someone who is hungry by giving them food and friendship and setting an example. If they are open to your religious viewpoint they will let you know. Actions speak louder than words. I believe that was the message of Christ — to love one another — not demonizing people and forcing them to adhere to a strict set of rules.
By the stopper
September 7, 2007 2:22 PM | Link to this
“Just like Osama, if you don’t go to church..it’s off with your head.”
This is a fascinating line of argument I hear from fundamentalist Christians these days. Essentially they’re saying “yeah, we’re narrow-minded, stupid, willfully ignorant, want to deny our fellow citizens their civil rights and all that. But we don’t cut off people’s heads!”
Do you have any idea how laughable that is?
By Southern Democrat
September 7, 2007 2:22 PM | Link to this
Decatur Rarity,
So… by your logic, the 1993 WTC bombing was clearly planned during the Reagan/Bush years, and Clinton’s wonderful planning and bombing of pharmaceutical factories prevented another attack for 8 years? Oklahoma City hasn’t been bombed lately… is that a success?
Your simpleton views coupled with your professed “intelligence” reveal quite a bit.
Jeff revealing that he was 3 months shy of voting age in 2000 told me a lot. I will be able to read his posts in the proper context now.
My friend Jbmlaw’s responses to the gay marriage question surprise me a bit. As a confessed RC (pun intended), I am constantly inculcated with anti-gay rhetoric, but personally have no problem with gays acquiring the same property rights as my wife and I enjoy. I’ve read the Hebrew Scriptures’ admonishment of homosexuality, but view it in the same lens as abstention from pork and making my wife sleep in a tent while menstruating.
By Goldie
September 7, 2007 2:25 PM | Link to this
Bosch @ 2:18— yes, there are McMansions and McCondos going up all over the place… Atlanta is busting out all over! All those hundreds of thousands moving in here year after year have to be housed somewhere… I’m just looking forward to the day of my official “retirement” and getting the heck away from this big-city living! I’m dreamin’ of the Outer Banks or that area…
By Bosch
September 7, 2007 2:30 PM | Link to this
Decatur Rarity, Oh, Okay, so that was your point? You say that there is little substance to the Democratic Party, yet brag about how much money you make and how “well-educated” you are? That’s very low class, and doesn’t speak much for your ability to determine the substance of anything.
By Decatur Rarity
September 7, 2007 2:34 PM | Link to this
OK, Southern Democrat - you got me. I guess I’ll have to abandon my conservative ways - it’s easier to be liberal anyways - you don’t need logic, just repetitive BS. I’ll be a good liberal - I’ll stop wearing deodorant and hug a tree this weekend all the while hoping there is another terrorist attack on this country so that the Republicans will look bad and Democrats will win the election.
By time for the harsh truth
September 7, 2007 2:35 PM | Link to this
Actually peeping tom yesterday I was busy reading your extensive file as I am your new senior psychiatric social worker, at least until things work themselves out acceptably, which with the new judicial rulings outlined below seems pleasingly imminent. Happily at long last the Reagan appointed federal judge in your case has - after extensive argument by the govt and fast wilting (in the face of inexorable logic) concerned ‘resignation’ by your court appointed defence lawyer -recommended immediate chemical re-castration by liquid oxygen followed by a newly developed (from a distance) lobotomy procedure which involves about a dozen hollow point teflon bullets, a state of the art suitably poorly calibrated night sight and an M16. Exciting times - for at least some of us - eh bubbaturd????
Toodle pip!!
By Bosch
September 7, 2007 2:37 PM | Link to this
Southern Democrat - You just made my day - the scripture comment was priceless.
Goldie, That’s why I don’t live in Atlanta - I personally don’t see how anybody does.
By Bosch
September 7, 2007 2:41 PM | Link to this
Decatur Rarity, Don’t you have some piles of money to count somewhere?
You are really sad. Southern Democrat just cleaned your clock and you act like a two year old.
By WTF
September 7, 2007 2:42 PM | Link to this
Decatur Rarity, have you ever considered that while from your viewpoint “liberals” just need someone to tell them what to think and they just repeat it, it seems the same way for us when “conservatives” seem to just repeat what they are told to say? You may be on to something about the “repetitive BS” but I promise you that it is not limited to just one side. And realistically, you know that both parties are offering ideas of substance even if they are ideas that some will disagree with. There needs to be a lot more independent thinking on both sides than what seems to be going on.
By Jackie
September 7, 2007 2:47 PM | Link to this
Gen. Petraeus will report to Congress next week that he expects troop withdrawals to begin in the spring of ‘08. Wonder if the neo-cons will label him as “cut-and-run?” Can’t wait for this to play out.
By moonbat betty
September 7, 2007 2:49 PM | Link to this
“Like AmVet said yesterday, the brainwashed right would vote for Ghengis Khan if the people on Fox News told them to.”
Statements like this is what makes a moonbat a moonbat.
By Decatur Rarity
September 7, 2007 2:51 PM | Link to this
WTF - you’re the only person on here that I would actually like to sit down and have a conversation with over a beer or two. I’m very much middle-of-the-road (as I suspect you are) but I had fun getting all the other folks riled up this afternoon.
By AnotherLaugh
September 7, 2007 2:52 PM | Link to this
but view it in the same lens as abstention from pork and making my wife sleep in a tent while menstruating.
So I guess my purchase of your 12-year-old daughter to be my slave girl(wink wink) is out of the question?
Since I think that is in there somewhere as well. I have only read the book of Leviticus twice so I cannot quote an exact verse.
By AmVet
September 7, 2007 2:56 PM | Link to this
WTF, as regards your 2:42, here is a somewhat funny story about the last election.
I sent an e-mail to the person who was running for the Georgia Congress from my district. It was regarding the potential opening up of Sunday beer sales in Georgia. And as she was a former head of the Ga. RNC, on the surface, she was not someone I would altogether be inclined to vote for.
To my surprise, she wrote me back! We exchanged a couple of more emails and in one, she joked about how drinking liberally was probably more fun than drinking conservatively.
Guess who I ended up voting for?
When we get to know people as neighbors and fellow citizens it is much easier to cut through the political fog and baloney that tries to dictate how we should make our decisions.
By eagle
September 7, 2007 3:00 PM | Link to this
It’s too bad that so many who have responded to the above column must result to name-calling rather than sticking to the issues. It’s easier to call someone a liberal or radical right (and other hot-button labels) than to argue/discuss/debate the issues on their merits.
By Dusty
September 7, 2007 3:01 PM | Link to this
WTF,2:22
I don’t think that you have been in a church in sometime. In fact you seem brain washed about people in church. There are all kinds and I haven’t heard of anyone checking them out to see if they are “behaving”.
If you want to become a member of our church, there are a few sessions about the creeds and beliefs of our denomination. If you don’t want to join, you can still come. Baptism is a prerequsite to communion. But you can still take part in everything else.
Since nobody in church is perfect, nobody is “reviewed”.
What you are getting confused about are personal convictions. People make their own convictions from their experience and studies in life. The church presents what it thinks is best. But YOU alone are really the final decider in what is “right”.
Our country offers us freedom of religion. If you think that religion invades your rights under law, then you must work for what YOU think is justice. I can only hope that you will one day see that almost all churches are working for your welfare and hope.
By eagle
September 7, 2007 3:02 PM | Link to this
It’s too bad that so many who have responded to the above column must result to name-calling rather than sticking to the issues. It’s easier to call someone a liberal or radical right (and other hot-button labels) than to argue/discuss/debate the issues on their merits.
By AmVet
September 7, 2007 3:02 PM | Link to this
Actually betty, the quote of mine was slightly different, but I hold Bosch harmless.
Like some of your more strident brethren here, he doesn’t intentionally mislead and speak for others.
BTW, I’m finally curious. What exactly is a moonbat? And as you seem to be such a font of knowledge, what is a wingnut?
By getalife
September 7, 2007 3:04 PM | Link to this
Jackie,
They will have to draw down unless they extend their tour of duty again.
I am guessing they will, still trying to get the Iraq government to do something.
The wasted lives and a trillion will be a certain outcome.
By time for the very harsh truth
September 7, 2007 3:04 PM | Link to this
Presumably this snivelling fetid leftist lying vainglorious arsewipe arseholevet was referring to the News Corp renumerated far left likes of the feminazi hatepig Ferraro, A Colmes, B Beckel, Greaseball Rivera, numerous Bush hating demoNcrat ‘consultants’, the deranged d ike E Clift of the pinko rag Newsweek, Wesley cut and run Clark and the execrable Kneel Gabler. ALL OF THESE SCUM - and sadly many many more are paid FNC contributors/presenters.
HOW MANY OVERTLY CONSERVATIVE paid talking heads are there on cnn and pmsnbc? From my occasional persuings these appeasing scum see to have very very few actually paid permanent centre-right contributors.
FAIR AND BALANCED ON FOX - UNREMITTING BUSH HATE EVERYWHERE ELSE!!
By @@
September 7, 2007 3:06 PM | Link to this
Goldie @ 2:17:
And I AM living up to my dreams, thank you very much
No!!! Thank you for proving that I and others aren’t necessary to accomplish individual dreams through government entitlements.
Can I assume that you will be making no demands on behalf of yourself or others because “dreams” are accomplished through one’s perception of reality?
I’ll hold you and everyone else to your statement of truth.
By getalife
September 7, 2007 3:08 PM | Link to this
wingnut=dusty.
moonbat=betty or Michelle Maulkin.
By Kevin
September 7, 2007 3:13 PM | Link to this
Wooten, if you were a true journalist (and not just a grumpy old man) you’d be more careful to not use the old Republican standby line of “issuing laws from the bench”. A judge is responsible for interpreting the law based on case precedence. Tell me, honestly, that you have equally reviewed so-called conservative opinions and found them to be any less legislative? You can’t. All judges legislate. But it makes for a nice rally-call for the small government crowd (which, by the way, voted in twice for the largest increase in Federal Government growth in years). Way to go, Jim! Way to rally the troops, you old coot.
By Dept of Slogans
September 7, 2007 3:17 PM | Link to this
Decatur Rarity-“Republicans good, Democrats bad?”
Thats all you have said here, where is the substance you keep talking about?
By time for the very ironic harsh truth
September 7, 2007 3:19 PM | Link to this
It’s too bad that so many who have responded to the above column must result to name-calling rather than sticking to the issues
BOLLOCKS … simpleton tw attish little goody goody anal control freak wankpigs like your worthless retarded self drag everything down to their own simpering puerile ultra bland level … now F OFF!!!
By Sandy
September 7, 2007 3:21 PM | Link to this
Why is everyone so down on Dekalb County and in-town Atlanta? I’m moving from a nice part of Dekalb (Brookhaven) to another nice part near Decatur. There are too many McMansions in Brookhaven so I’m moving into a McCondo (hadn’t heard that one before). Why are Atlanta and Decatur’s attempts (successful I will add) to become more livable met with such hostility from you folks in the hinter regions. I’ve lived in and around Atlanta for 20 years and it is definitely nicer now. There’s more to do, more good places to eat and it’s quite easy to get around. And many of the nasty places mentioned on this blog aren’t so nasty now.
In fact, most of the complaints about metro Atlanta I read about actually do come out of Gwinnett and (West) Cobb. I also prefer a little intown traffic to taking an hour to go two miles trying to get on 400 in Alpharetta.
By AmVet
September 7, 2007 3:22 PM | Link to this
Geez, thanks Bosch!
An inadvertent misquote that mistakenly included Fox and now I get flamed twice!
You know better than to rile up the natives with poking fun of that network!
BTW, I watch it quite a bit to get a different perspective as well as to watch how the die-hard Bush fans there are reacting these days.
OK, outta here!
Have a great weekend all!
By WTF
September 7, 2007 3:23 PM | Link to this
Dusty, I will admit I haven’t been to church lately, but I have spent many a Sunday morning, Sunday night, and Wednesday night at church and am very familiar with how it all works and for the most part I think it is a force for good in society. I wasn’t implying that all persons of faith are the same and have some evil intention. I was, I thought obviously so, referring to those persons of faith who take an antagonistic stance toward those with whom they disagree. You said “But YOU alone are really the final decider in what is “right”” and I couldn’t agree with you more — that was exactly my point.
By Dept of Slogans
September 7, 2007 3:27 PM | Link to this
Substance like:
Mission accomplished? Last Throes? Kill ‘em there? Dead or Alive? Stay the Course? Turned the Corner? Stand Up Stand Down? Stay the Course? Axis of Evil? Slam Dunk? Compassionate Conservative? Weapons of Mass Destruction? Democracy?
By WTF
September 7, 2007 3:28 PM | Link to this
Decatur Rarity - It is a beautiful Friday afternoon - knock off work early and go have a couple cold ones for me!
By Goldie
September 7, 2007 3:36 PM | Link to this
I’ll stop wearing deodorant and hug a tree this weekend all the while hoping there is another terrorist attack on this country so that the Republicans will look bad and Democrats will win the election.
WHA’??? You’re not describing anyone I know — well, besides the “hug a tree” thing. I know a few tree-huggers and they all wear deodorant, so I guess you’re just all about bullsh!t, aren’tcha?
And your “hoping there’s another terrorist attack” certainly sounds like what the Repugs have been talking about lately, just so they can scare all you party members to death, destruction and war-mongering again! Pretty sad.
By MoreSlogans
September 7, 2007 3:36 PM | Link to this
Don’t forget:
Yuze edder wit us or agin us
and the classic:
we’re on a crusade.
By Goldie
September 7, 2007 3:49 PM | Link to this
I also prefer a little intown traffic to taking an hour to go two miles trying to get on 400 in Alpharetta.
Sandy @ 3:21— I’m with you! I live close to my work so that the commute time is minimal. I used to commute from Decatur over to the Perimeter Mall area, and that was in the 80’s when Spagetti Junction was still being worked on! I swore when I left that job that I would live closer to work, and now I have that worked out.
I work with several people who commute from the Athens area into Atlanta each day, and I’m sure glad that I’m not dealing with that every weekday. I have a few more years to go before retiring, and then I’m looking at non-city living!
By jbmlaw
September 7, 2007 3:51 PM | Link to this
Dear Southern @ 2:22 (and Camus @ 11:43, Debbie @ 11:45, and John F @ 1:15,) I see that my clipped writing introduced more confusion than clarity. I should have double underscored my core belief government ought not be in the business at all – I fully agree with the argument by our friend jct @ 1:45 (excluding her two line conclusion, which I think does not flow from her impeccable logic.) I understand that our friend Southern views marriage as an example of the goodness of government; I magnify the private contract. (And a quick and necessary-for-perspective addition, I will celebrate, and Mrs. jbmlaw will probably lament, our 30th anniversary of government blessing on our church wedding in six weeks.)
On to what upset all, I should not have buried (in my last line) my own ambivalent feelings on all of this. I failed to adequately highlight “perception” (vs. proven fact) as the primary element of heterosexual opposition to homosexual marriage. I think the hetero view is that by blessing homosexual union one encourages the underlying “activity” that has the perceived (although arguably unproven) effect on health costs; I lack sufficient info to affirm that either view is correct. However, I strongly believe that if the costs of insuring AIDs were off the table, there would be only de minimis opposition to homosexual unions from heterosexuals. With the perceived economic issue removed, the political issue would be generally meaningless. My original purpose in writing was to try to analyze not-entirely rational thought on both sides of the debate.
By Bosch
September 7, 2007 4:03 PM | Link to this
AmVet - I’m sorry about that. Yes, it’s my fault.
Have a great weekend everybody!!!!
By Lily Toad
September 7, 2007 4:11 PM | Link to this
I’ll be retiring in a few years, too, and I plan to stay in my in-town neighborhood. Atlanta is great - organic food, feminist bookstore, progressive churches, many great theaters, lots of cultural activity, universities, a vibrant lesbian community. No boon docks for me.
By Lily Toad
September 7, 2007 4:19 PM | Link to this
jbmlaw, I got what you were saying — the first time. I’ve heard people say companies can’t afford to pay for gay people’s partners’ health care which I assume means AIDS. Otherwise, it wouldn’t make sense. If all employees were married heterosexuals, the spouses would be covered, so what’s the big deal about covering gay spouses?
By A libertarian
September 7, 2007 4:29 PM | Link to this
jmblaw, are you EVER going to advocate a libertarian position?
You sound like the typical Bush apologist Republican type that is too embarrassed to admit to being a Republican these days.
You give libertarians a bad name. Almost all libertarians I know would never kiss Bush’s azz like you do.
And none that I now would use the lame excuse you use to deny rights gays.
I have not met a libertarian that loves Bush and his policies like you seem to.
By Southern Democrat
September 7, 2007 4:34 PM | Link to this
A Happy Anniversary to you and Mrs. Jbmlaw! Mrs. Southern Democrat and I will toast you both at our weekly pizza and movie night tonight.
I understand your political and economic views regarding homosexual marriage, I just happen to disagree. Perhaps I’m being far too soap-boxy and/or hyperbolic, but I truly believe that the Gay Rights movement is an extension of the Civil Rights movement. Many of my friends (who are still my friends) were on what I consider the side of evil during the 50s and 60s and said some terrible things about those who thought it might be a good idea to give equal rights to blacks. It took time, but, absent some terrible jokes now and again, they have come around, and their children are remarkably prejudice-free. I feel (optimistically?) that the same will happen regarding gays. I don’t see any reason, economic or otherwise, why civil unions should not be instituted.
My candidate for president, Mayor Bloomberg, has been making some more rumblings about running… stay tuned!
By InquiringMindsWantTo Know
September 7, 2007 4:56 PM | Link to this
Is it really true that right wing conservative republicans are closet homosexuals that really don’t care about privacy in their own homes as long as the government respects the sanctity and privacy of the bathroom stall? Just asking. And by the way. Is it also true that they think it is alot more fun to have promiscuous public sex and that is why they fight against gay marriage?
By getalife
September 7, 2007 5:12 PM | Link to this
Lets get real, why in the hell is OBL on the news today?
Iraq.
w cut and run from OBL to invade Iraq for his buddies to rob your money.
Debate that.
Geez.
By jbmlaw
September 7, 2007 5:37 PM | Link to this
Dear Southern 4:34 and Libertarian @ 4:29, I fear I still do not write clearly. I hold no bias against homosexuals - I could not care less. Rather than add a layer of government to their lives, I would remove it from the rest of us.
My analysis does not betray my beliefs - I really hold a neutral attitude toward homosexuals. If they want to couple and move into my neighborhood, go for it. After looking over my homeplace, I am certain they could only improve property values. I simply believe there is no reason to involve the government.
Also, Southern, I fear I did not know which month we were in - my anniversary, Nov 23, is still 11 weeks away. Don’t celebrate yet, Mrs. jbmlaw could justifiably determine to rid herself of her albatross before then. However, perhaps we could invite you and Mrs. Democrat to celebrate with us that evening, my treat. She’ll probably favor Pitypat’s Porch.
By jbmlaw
September 7, 2007 5:51 PM | Link to this
Dear Libertarian @ 4:29, I cannot possibly envision what you think a libertarian believes. I think you confuse America First isolationism with libertarianism. If you believe in freedom, sometimes you have to kill those who would take it from you.
Or maybe you isolationists think OBL is just joking when he commands you to convert to Islam. It is time to kill as many Islamists as it takes, wherever they are found, and spend as much as necessary to accomplish the task. I don’t know why we tolerate the existence of the government of Iran.
By @@
September 7, 2007 6:00 PM | Link to this
Just a couple of questions here.
Will same-sex marriage rights extend to transvestites?
Will health insurance providers be expected to pay for sex change operations on psychological grounds?
This could get messy.
By getalife
September 7, 2007 6:24 PM | Link to this
If you believe in freedom, sometimes you have to kill those who would take it from you.
You just threatened to kill w and cheney idiot.
By Shirley U Jest
September 8, 2007 10:25 AM | Link to this
Pesky judges writing laws from the bench which are contrarty to the will of the people? You mean like those guys who wrote Brown v. Board of Education? Right? Jim?
By East Point
September 11, 2007 2:15 PM | Link to this
I have lived in East Point for 15 years and am sick of the stench that Meredith Company floats through our neighborhoods. Imagine a cauldron of boiling creosote out in the open and filtering through our neighborhoods. There is proof that the toxins they emit are dangerous, so Wooten needs to get his facts straight. It is time for this plant to relocate out of our neighborhood. There is no other plant like it anywhere in the U.S. that is located next to a residential area.
When this fight goes to trial, what jury made up of my Fulton County peers is going to side with Meredith on this? Very doubtful if any will. And Jim will cry.