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Liberal and Patriotic
Author: BobR
Date: 07/06/2011 12:03:19
I never cease to be amazed at the conservatives who are surprised that I (and most of my liberal friends) are patriotic. It happens every July 4th, every Memorial Day, every Flag Day: "I can't believe YOU are celebrating this", as if to be a liberal means to hate our country. I was reminded of that mindset once again on Monday. So, let me state it clearly:
I am patriotic BECAUSE I'm a liberal, not in spite of it.
I love the fireworks displays, I love the flag, I love our history. I still feel that lump in my throat when I see the military color guard marching in the parades. When the national anthem plays, I stand and put my hand over my heart. I was raised to respect the symbols of our nation, and for the sacrifice of those that made it possible for me to and my country to survive and thrive.
Why should being a liberal change any of that?
Perhaps it's just the conservative mindset. While they rail against government, they accuse liberals of being unAmerican. While they support legislation to protect business over people, they accuse liberals of not caring about jobs. While they crow about the Constitution, they pass laws blurring the line between Church and State. Who cares more about the country? I think it's a fair question.
If I had to guess, this meme about liberals "hating America" started about the time we invaded Afghanistan. The standard line from them was "I support the troops - do YOU support the troops??" (asked accusingly). Of course what they meant was: "I support the war - do you support the war?", with the obvious implication being that if you didn't support the war, then you didn't support the troops, and you hated America, you anti-American terrorist-coddling scumbag. This was reinforced by slapping a yellow ribbon (made in China) on the back of their SUVs, and a smug smirk on their faces.
This has morphed into the meme that if you're against government spending cuts, then you must be a socialist, which is their (current) definition of anti-American. It's amazing how the Cold War hangover is still affecting the brains of people who should know better. What has made our nation great is not business, but people. Liberals are only anti-business in that they're pro-people. People come first in our book.
It was the people in the 20s and 30s that sucked it up and sacrificed during the Great Depression. It was those same people that organized into unions and changed businesses from The Jungle to the 40 hr work week in a relatively safe environment we enjoy today. It's the people that worked hard at menial jobs to make a better life for their kids. It's the people that helped their neighbors when they needed it, and pushed the government to give voting rights to women, and end discrimination against blacks.
It was business that pushed back against all of these things, and shipped jobs overseas (or south of the border) when it meant more profit. And yet Republicans specifically (and conservatives in general) support business, and are against laws that help maintain the status quo that our ancestors fought so hard to put in place.
I am angry that these anti-people pro-war conservatives have dared to claim the flag of our country as their own. I am angry that they have dared to redefine what it means to love our country. I am angry that they have dared to redefine what it means to be patriotic. They even tried to redefine "liberal" as being anti-American, something I refused to acknowledge, even when others of like mind began calling themselves "progressives" instead.
I reject their definitions - as should all liberals - and do it proudly and loudly. I am a liberal, and while I may not always love who runs the government and what they do, I love my country and all of its symbols just the same.
I am a liberal and I am patriotic. Get used to it.
I am patriotic BECAUSE I'm a liberal, not in spite of it.
I love the fireworks displays, I love the flag, I love our history. I still feel that lump in my throat when I see the military color guard marching in the parades. When the national anthem plays, I stand and put my hand over my heart. I was raised to respect the symbols of our nation, and for the sacrifice of those that made it possible for me to and my country to survive and thrive.
Why should being a liberal change any of that?
Perhaps it's just the conservative mindset. While they rail against government, they accuse liberals of being unAmerican. While they support legislation to protect business over people, they accuse liberals of not caring about jobs. While they crow about the Constitution, they pass laws blurring the line between Church and State. Who cares more about the country? I think it's a fair question.
If I had to guess, this meme about liberals "hating America" started about the time we invaded Afghanistan. The standard line from them was "I support the troops - do YOU support the troops??" (asked accusingly). Of course what they meant was: "I support the war - do you support the war?", with the obvious implication being that if you didn't support the war, then you didn't support the troops, and you hated America, you anti-American terrorist-coddling scumbag. This was reinforced by slapping a yellow ribbon (made in China) on the back of their SUVs, and a smug smirk on their faces.
This has morphed into the meme that if you're against government spending cuts, then you must be a socialist, which is their (current) definition of anti-American. It's amazing how the Cold War hangover is still affecting the brains of people who should know better. What has made our nation great is not business, but people. Liberals are only anti-business in that they're pro-people. People come first in our book.
It was the people in the 20s and 30s that sucked it up and sacrificed during the Great Depression. It was those same people that organized into unions and changed businesses from The Jungle to the 40 hr work week in a relatively safe environment we enjoy today. It's the people that worked hard at menial jobs to make a better life for their kids. It's the people that helped their neighbors when they needed it, and pushed the government to give voting rights to women, and end discrimination against blacks.
It was business that pushed back against all of these things, and shipped jobs overseas (or south of the border) when it meant more profit. And yet Republicans specifically (and conservatives in general) support business, and are against laws that help maintain the status quo that our ancestors fought so hard to put in place.
I am angry that these anti-people pro-war conservatives have dared to claim the flag of our country as their own. I am angry that they have dared to redefine what it means to love our country. I am angry that they have dared to redefine what it means to be patriotic. They even tried to redefine "liberal" as being anti-American, something I refused to acknowledge, even when others of like mind began calling themselves "progressives" instead.
I reject their definitions - as should all liberals - and do it proudly and loudly. I am a liberal, and while I may not always love who runs the government and what they do, I love my country and all of its symbols just the same.
I am a liberal and I am patriotic. Get used to it.
Comments:
Order comments Newest to Oldest Refresh Comments
Comment by 
wickedpam on 07/06/2011 12:42:49
wickedpam on 07/06/2011 12:42:49
Morning 
Comment by 
TriSec on 07/06/2011 12:50:25
I posted a similar theme over the weekend...in case you missed it.
Again, it comes down to ignorance. Tea Partyers and all manner of extremists and special interests hijack the symbols of the revolution and the country for their own nefarious purposes, and anyone that doesn't embrace them as well is the enemy, no matter how wrong or misguided the position might be.
Ms. Palin, of course, is the head cheerleader in the stupid brigade.
TriSec on 07/06/2011 12:50:25
I posted a similar theme over the weekend...in case you missed it.
Again, it comes down to ignorance. Tea Partyers and all manner of extremists and special interests hijack the symbols of the revolution and the country for their own nefarious purposes, and anyone that doesn't embrace them as well is the enemy, no matter how wrong or misguided the position might be.
Ms. Palin, of course, is the head cheerleader in the stupid brigade.
Comment by TriSec on 07/06/2011 13:07:56
TriSec on 07/06/2011 13:07:56
Comment by 
Raine on 07/06/2011 13:25:02
Bravo, Bob.
Raine on 07/06/2011 13:25:02
Bravo, Bob.
Comment by 
BobR on 07/06/2011 13:33:40
BobR on 07/06/2011 13:33:40
Once again - Atlanta representin'. Watch the Republicans use this as a rationale for school privitization.
Comment by wickedpam on 07/06/2011 13:40:04
wickedpam on 07/06/2011 13:40:04
um - again I mention that 2 of my grandparents are buried at Arlington National Cem. and Jesus and God were mentioned a bunch, so to say that you can't mention religon at a particular type of Cem is bubkiss
Comment by Raine on 07/06/2011 13:54:28
Swing State Girl found this: So I dunno, the caller may have had a point, but Iam still skeptical. especially after reading this part:
Raine on 07/06/2011 13:54:28
Quote by wickedpam:
um - again I mention that 2 of my grandparents are buried at Arlington National Cem. and Jesus and God were mentioned a bunch, so to say that you can't mention religon at a particular type of Cem is bubkiss
Swing State Girl found this: So I dunno, the caller may have had a point, but Iam still skeptical. especially after reading this part:
"However, the VA's policy is that VA-sponsored honor guards should not make recitations at committal services unless requested to do so by the deceased's survivor(s)," Taylor said in a statement.
The three local veterans groups — the Veterans of Foreign Wars District 4, the American Legion Post 586 and the National Memorial Ladies — earlier this week joined Rainey's lawsuit, accusing VA officials of discriminating against their "private religious speech and expression."
The VFW and the American Legion say that on at least four occasions in the last two months, VA officials told them that prayer and religious speech could no longer be included in burial rituals they take part in at the Houston cemetery unless families submit a specific prayer or message in writing to Arleen Ocasio, the cemetery's director.
The National Memorial Ladies, a local nonprofit that honors veterans and their families, accuses Ocasio of telling the group it could not use religious words such as "God" or "Jesus" or speak a religious message when talking to veterans' families at the cemetery. The group also said it was told it had to remove the phrase "God Bless" from condolence cards it gives to families at funerals.
The groups also accused Ocasio and the VA of closing the chapel at Houston's cemetery, removing the cross and Bible that were inside and basically turning the building into a "storage facility."
Comment by wickedpam on 07/06/2011 13:56:28
wickedpam on 07/06/2011 13:56:28
Well why would the honor guard say anything at a funeral? I don't remember then saying anything at my grandfathers (either of them).
Comment by Raine on 07/06/2011 13:56:30
Raine on 07/06/2011 13:56:30
The chapel SHOULD be non denominational.
Secondly -- They are trying to Evangelize people at the cemetary.
Secondly -- They are trying to Evangelize people at the cemetary.
Comment by 
Scoopster on 07/06/2011 14:01:42
Scoopster on 07/06/2011 14:01:42
Morning all.. 
I'm still mentally & physically exhausted from last night (long story) plus I'm crankin' away here at work.. just wanted you guys to know I loves ya!
I'm still mentally & physically exhausted from last night (long story) plus I'm crankin' away here at work.. just wanted you guys to know I loves ya!
Comment by wickedpam on 07/06/2011 14:03:27
unless they knew the deceased they shouldn't be, its not appropriate.
See know to me when you say chapel, I think it non-denom for christians - ie: Baptists, Methodist, Lutheran, Catholic, etc.
Would it be better to call it a House of Worship - that way no one could "claim" it?
wickedpam on 07/06/2011 14:03:27
Quote by Raine:
The chapel SHOULD be non denominational.
Secondly -- They are trying to Evangelize people at the cemetary.
unless they knew the deceased they shouldn't be, its not appropriate.
See know to me when you say chapel, I think it non-denom for christians - ie: Baptists, Methodist, Lutheran, Catholic, etc.
Would it be better to call it a House of Worship - that way no one could "claim" it?
Comment by 
Mondobubba on 07/06/2011 14:09:47
Mondobubba on 07/06/2011 14:09:47
Liberal. Proud. Patriot. That is me. When a friend of my who was an AOL co-worker told me he was going to become a citizen, the surge of pride I felt was amazing. He was willing to give up his citzenship of his native country to be one of us, an American; I still get all misty over it.
Comment by TriSec on 07/06/2011 14:09:58
TriSec on 07/06/2011 14:09:58
Jeez, I think the ol' BSA might be ahead on that count....most Scout Camps have a nondescript "chapel" somewhere on the grounds. Whoever is in there at the time makes it whatever denomination they want.
That said, some of the best services I've ever been to were on the cliff high above Lake Onway (NH, defunct), simply sitting under the trees looking out over the lake.
I've also been to West Point (Raine can back me up there), and there are specific churches built by the major denominations for their weekly services. I know of the Protestant, Catholic, and Jewish houses there...don't know if they have built a Mosque or not.
That said, some of the best services I've ever been to were on the cliff high above Lake Onway (NH, defunct), simply sitting under the trees looking out over the lake.
I've also been to West Point (Raine can back me up there), and there are specific churches built by the major denominations for their weekly services. I know of the Protestant, Catholic, and Jewish houses there...don't know if they have built a Mosque or not.
Comment by Raine on 07/06/2011 14:16:35
Raine on 07/06/2011 14:16:35
Quote by Scoopster:
Morning all..
Comment by Raine on 07/06/2011 14:18:39
My friend became a citizen in 2008. She had wanted to do so for a long time, but she wanted to vote.
It is something amazing to behold.
Raine on 07/06/2011 14:18:39
Quote by Mondobubba:
Liberal. Proud. Patriot. That is me. When a friend of my who was an AOL co-worker told me he was going to become a citizen, the surge of pride I felt was amazing. He was willing to give up his citzenship of his native country to be one of us, an American; I still get all misty over it.
It is something amazing to behold.
Comment by Raine on 07/06/2011 14:20:15
I am sure they have a place where people can pray in the way they choose. Even the Pentagon has a mosque... altho if I recall correctly, it is ultimately a non denominational Chapel shared by everyone.
Raine on 07/06/2011 14:20:15
Quote by TriSec:
Jeez, I think the ol' BSA might be ahead on that count....most Scout Camps have a nondescript "chapel" somewhere on the grounds. Whoever is in there at the time makes it whatever denomination they want.
That said, some of the best services I've ever been to were on the cliff high above Lake Onway (NH, defunct), simply sitting under the trees looking out over the lake.
I've also been to West Point (Raine can back me up there), and there are specific churches built by the major denominations for their weekly services. I know of the Protestant, Catholic, and Jewish houses there...don't know if they have built a Mosque or not.
Comment by Raine on 07/06/2011 14:33:53
Raine on 07/06/2011 14:33:53
This could be interesting, especially considering that Bernie Sanders is on board with the proposal.
Democrats’ Senate Budget chairman will present a spending plan to his party leaders Wednesday that seeks to cut the federal deficit through an equal split of tax hikes and spending cuts.
Senate Budget Committee Chairman Kent Conrad (N.D.) will brief Democratic leaders on a budget that significantly raises government tax revenues in order to reduce the deficit, according to Senate sources. ....
Sanders praised Conrad’s budget blueprint but declined to comment on any of its details, since Conrad wants to keep them secret until he’s met with leaders.
“I am very comfortable with his budget,†Sanders said of Conrad’s plan.
Conrad was supposed to brief his leadership on Tuesday evening, but the session was postponed because the chairman ran into travel delays returning to Washington.
Comment by Mondobubba on 07/06/2011 14:40:50
Speaking of this, did you happen to see Alexandra Pelosi's doc on HBO? It is on demand by now. It was a great way to spend the 4th
Mondobubba on 07/06/2011 14:40:50
Quote by Raine:My friend became a citizen in 2008. She had wanted to do so for a long time, but she wanted to vote.Quote by Mondobubba:
Liberal. Proud. Patriot. That is me. When a friend of my who was an AOL co-worker told me he was going to become a citizen, the surge of pride I felt was amazing. He was willing to give up his citzenship of his native country to be one of us, an American; I still get all misty over it.
It is something amazing to behold.
Speaking of this, did you happen to see Alexandra Pelosi's doc on HBO? It is on demand by now. It was a great way to spend the 4th
Comment by BobR on 07/06/2011 14:44:26
We'll have to check it out
BobR on 07/06/2011 14:44:26
Quote by Mondobubba:Quote by Raine:My friend became a citizen in 2008. She had wanted to do so for a long time, but she wanted to vote.Quote by Mondobubba:
Liberal. Proud. Patriot. That is me. When a friend of my who was an AOL co-worker told me he was going to become a citizen, the surge of pride I felt was amazing. He was willing to give up his citzenship of his native country to be one of us, an American; I still get all misty over it.
It is something amazing to behold.
Speaking of this, did you happen to see Alexandra Pelosi's doc on HBO? It is on demand by now. It was a great way to spend the 4th
We'll have to check it out
Comment by wickedpam on 07/06/2011 14:44:59
wickedpam on 07/06/2011 14:44:59
HOw is marriage a fundamental building block of society?
Comment by Raine on 07/06/2011 14:48:40
At one point so was slavery. 
Raine on 07/06/2011 14:48:40
Quote by wickedpam:
HOw is marriage a fundamental building block of society?
Comment by TriSec on 07/06/2011 14:55:52
Procreation...must make babies for the state.
So Mrs. TriSec and I are not included in that august group, I guess.
TriSec on 07/06/2011 14:55:52
Quote by wickedpam:
HOw is marriage a fundamental building block of society?
Procreation...must make babies for the state.
So Mrs. TriSec and I are not included in that august group, I guess.
Comment by wickedpam on 07/06/2011 14:59:07
wickedpam on 07/06/2011 14:59:07
Maybe I'm thinking of this differently, to me foundations of a society are moral and ethical in nature not if children are created or slaves are owned
Comment by Mondobubba on 07/06/2011 15:00:44
For me the best of the profiles were the gay Irianian, the little person from Indonesian, and the deaf woman from Russia. The common thread with them was they can be who they are in the USA with shame or fear.
Mondobubba on 07/06/2011 15:00:44
Quote by BobR:Quote by Mondobubba:Quote by Raine:My friend became a citizen in 2008. She had wanted to do so for a long time, but she wanted to vote.Quote by Mondobubba:
Liberal. Proud. Patriot. That is me. When a friend of my who was an AOL co-worker told me he was going to become a citizen, the surge of pride I felt was amazing. He was willing to give up his citzenship of his native country to be one of us, an American; I still get all misty over it.
It is something amazing to behold.
Speaking of this, did you happen to see Alexandra Pelosi's doc on HBO? It is on demand by now. It was a great way to spend the 4th
We'll have to check it out
For me the best of the profiles were the gay Irianian, the little person from Indonesian, and the deaf woman from Russia. The common thread with them was they can be who they are in the USA with shame or fear.
Comment by Raine on 07/06/2011 15:07:23
I think you have it exactly right. It's just another thing that has been co-opted, much like the subject of todays blog.
Raine on 07/06/2011 15:07:23
Quote by wickedpam:
Maybe I'm thinking of this differently, to me foundations of a society are moral and ethical in nature not if children are created or slaves are owned
I think you have it exactly right. It's just another thing that has been co-opted, much like the subject of todays blog.
Comment by wickedpam on 07/06/2011 15:10:52
darn those 70's liberal history teachers and teaching me all the good stuff and leaving out the fear and hate
wickedpam on 07/06/2011 15:10:52
Quote by Raine:Quote by wickedpam:
Maybe I'm thinking of this differently, to me foundations of a society are moral and ethical in nature not if children are created or slaves are owned
I think you have it exactly right. It's just another thing that has been co-opted, much like the subject of todays blog.
darn those 70's liberal history teachers and teaching me all the good stuff and leaving out the fear and hate
Comment by Raine on 07/06/2011 15:17:04
Raine on 07/06/2011 15:17:04
Bender is right. That is why marriage needs to happen not civil unions. I understand what Hal is saying, but as long as the word marriage is on the government law books, civil unions aren't enough.
Comment by Raine on 07/06/2011 15:18:32
Raine on 07/06/2011 15:18:32
Comment by Raine on 07/06/2011 15:21:42
Raine on 07/06/2011 15:21:42
HEre it comes: the talking point about MEdia MAtters trying to silence the right.
This has to be a paid talking point.
This has to be a paid talking point.
Comment by wickedpam on 07/06/2011 15:22:29
wickedpam on 07/06/2011 15:22:29
Beck talks about Ghandi? 
selective listening much?
selective listening much?
Comment by Raine on 07/06/2011 15:23:38
Raine on 07/06/2011 15:23:38
See? I KNEW this was were the caller was going.
Fox literally went after David Brock the other day, saying that he was sexually wanting. This is all a meme. Trust me.
Fox literally went after David Brock the other day, saying that he was sexually wanting. This is all a meme. Trust me.
Comment by Raine on 07/06/2011 15:26:52
Raine on 07/06/2011 15:26:52
Comment by Raine on 07/06/2011 15:39:02
Raine on 07/06/2011 15:39:02
I'm sure many have seen this on the book of faces.... But I am going to strongly suggest it become a bookmark.
Each one could be a base of an honest discussion. I do, however acknowledge that extreme Ayn Rand Libertarians would, well -- agree with all of this.
BTW, I direct this at you in particular Tri, When did the Ayn Rand peeps co-opt libertarianism? Or was it like that all along? I wonder if this is something worth exploring.
Each one could be a base of an honest discussion. I do, however acknowledge that extreme Ayn Rand Libertarians would, well -- agree with all of this.
BTW, I direct this at you in particular Tri, When did the Ayn Rand peeps co-opt libertarianism? Or was it like that all along? I wonder if this is something worth exploring.
Comment by BobR on 07/06/2011 16:27:45
Really? Who?
BobR on 07/06/2011 16:27:45
Quote by Raine:
The Secret Service is Hiring. I think we have one or 2 qualified applicants here!
Really? Who?
Comment by 
livingonli on 07/06/2011 16:46:34
livingonli on 07/06/2011 16:46:34
Good day everyone. It seems like the righties only want blind loyalty when their leaders are in charge and hope that if anyone who is not one of them in charge fails on a large scale (and they will take steps to insure that happens).
Comment by wickedpam on 07/06/2011 16:47:17
wickedpam on 07/06/2011 16:47:17
jeez Thom really? We're in the great depression? ugh 
I can't take this negative talk
I can't take this negative talk
Comment by TriSec on 07/06/2011 17:08:18
TriSec on 07/06/2011 17:08:18
Ah, and now my friends at East Coast Conservatives podcast are trotting out the old chestnut that "Republicans are more patriotic than Democrats".
I sent the host the links for this and the Fourth blog....I sure hope they come and visit.
Hi Hat!
I sent the host the links for this and the Fourth blog....I sure hope they come and visit.
Hi Hat!
Comment by Raine on 07/06/2011 17:36:10
Raine on 07/06/2011 17:36:10
Comment by Raine on 07/06/2011 18:05:55
Raine on 07/06/2011 18:05:55
Actually I take it back -- It is skype technology. I still won;t be likely to use it, for one: I don;t have video. and 2 there is a reason I don;t want video.
Comment by wickedpam on 07/06/2011 18:08:50
wickedpam on 07/06/2011 18:08:50
Comment by Raine on 07/06/2011 18:09:58
Raine on 07/06/2011 18:09:58
The first president to live tweet! HOW COOL!
Comment by Raine on 07/06/2011 18:11:49
@WhiteHouse in order to reduce the deficit,what costs would you cut and what investments would you keep - bo
Raine on 07/06/2011 18:11:49
Quote by Raine:
The first president to live tweet! HOW COOL!
Comment by wickedpam on 07/06/2011 18:12:54
wickedpam on 07/06/2011 18:12:54
so far the 1st 2 questions seem a bit slanted - asking about mistakes and "being realistic about jobs"
Comment by Raine on 07/06/2011 18:17:37
I see he took a swipe at Apple for making stuff in China, and to that end I agree, but don't other computer companies do tha tsame? Does anyone know computers made in America
Raine on 07/06/2011 18:17:37
Quote by wickedpam:
so far the 1st 2 questions seem a bit slanted - asking about mistakes and "being realistic about jobs"
I see he took a swipe at Apple for making stuff in China, and to that end I agree, but don't other computer companies do tha tsame? Does anyone know computers made in America
Comment by TriSec on 07/06/2011 18:22:20
TriSec on 07/06/2011 18:22:20
76 characters. Here is my opinion on the economy:
Mr pres, pls abrogate NAFTA. Perot right, sucking sound, only China not Mex
Mr pres, pls abrogate NAFTA. Perot right, sucking sound, only China not Mex
Comment by Scoopster on 07/06/2011 18:26:37
As far as parts goes, there are several factories that do the research and prototype work here. The mass production of product though is done overseas, usually in Japan, China, Taiwan or Indonesia.
Scoopster on 07/06/2011 18:26:37
Quote by Raine:Quote by wickedpam:
so far the 1st 2 questions seem a bit slanted - asking about mistakes and "being realistic about jobs"
I see he took a swipe at Apple for making stuff in China, and to that end I agree, but don't other computer companies do tha tsame? Does anyone know computers made in America
As far as parts goes, there are several factories that do the research and prototype work here. The mass production of product though is done overseas, usually in Japan, China, Taiwan or Indonesia.
Comment by wickedpam on 07/06/2011 18:30:56
wickedpam on 07/06/2011 18:30:56
good quest about housing and people who aren't underwater but stuck in homes they can't sell - wish he would answer that and not about people who are underwater
Cause at some point i might like to sell my home and buy a new one.
the boner question - the speaker needs to shut his mouth cause they haven't intro'd one jobs bills since they "took over"
Cause at some point i might like to sell my home and buy a new one.
the boner question - the speaker needs to shut his mouth cause they haven't intro'd one jobs bills since they "took over"
Comment by Raine on 07/06/2011 18:31:47
Raine on 07/06/2011 18:31:47
ROFL! 
John Boehner got a question answered -- they showed the tweet with typos and all...
What a tool!
John Boehner got a question answered -- they showed the tweet with typos and all... What a tool!
Comment by Raine on 07/06/2011 18:32:49
Thanks Scoop.
Raine on 07/06/2011 18:32:49
Quote by Scoopster:Quote by Raine:Quote by wickedpam:
so far the 1st 2 questions seem a bit slanted - asking about mistakes and "being realistic about jobs"
I see he took a swipe at Apple for making stuff in China, and to that end I agree, but don't other computer companies do tha tsame? Does anyone know computers made in America
As far as parts goes, there are several factories that do the research and prototype work here. The mass production of product though is done overseas, usually in Japan, China, Taiwan or Indonesia.
Comment by Scoopster on 07/06/2011 18:38:41
iPhone Auto-type strikes again?!
Scoopster on 07/06/2011 18:38:41
Quote by Raine:
ROFL!
What a tool!
iPhone Auto-type strikes again?!
Comment by Raine on 07/06/2011 18:39:23
Raine on 07/06/2011 18:39:23
Excellent question, one tha t IAVA and Tri have tried to hilight: encouraging people to hire VETS!
Also I love the answer to Nikolas Kristoff: The assumption part. I have to reboot, this computer is killing me. BRB.
Also I love the answer to Nikolas Kristoff: The assumption part. I have to reboot, this computer is killing me. BRB.
Comment by Raine on 07/06/2011 18:41:14
Raine on 07/06/2011 18:41:14
Ok this seems a little better.
Comment by Raine on 07/06/2011 18:44:13
Probably! 
I think someone in the Speakers office is getting a dressdown right about now. (you know, if they are actually in town...)
Raine on 07/06/2011 18:44:13
Quote by Scoopster:Quote by Raine:
ROFL!
What a tool!
iPhone Auto-type strikes again?!
I think someone in the Speakers office is getting a dressdown right about now. (you know, if they are actually in town...)
Comment by Raine on 07/06/2011 18:49:19
Raine on 07/06/2011 18:49:19
I still agree with POTUS that some people are better off renting if thier economic situation isn't quite right.
For me when the last administration decided that everyone should own was a big boo boo.
For me when the last administration decided that everyone should own was a big boo boo.
Comment by Raine on 07/06/2011 18:50:02
POTUS said internets!
Raine on 07/06/2011 18:50:02
POTUS said internets!
Comment by Raine on 07/06/2011 18:59:16
Raine on 07/06/2011 18:59:16
POTUS cannot do much about campaign financing, CONGRESS needs to act!
Comment by Raine on 07/06/2011 19:01:03
Raine on 07/06/2011 19:01:03
This part is really interesting. He's responding to comments, as opposed to questions.
Comment by TriSec on 07/06/2011 19:05:13
Ah, you know the drill on this one. With the rise of the subcontractors, there is very little the military actually teaches people to do anymore. I know a lot of people in the 80s that went through and learned mechanics, electronics, technology, repair, all kinds of useful things that would help in the civilian job market.
Now, it's little more than marksmanship and field tactics, which will do wonders in Wal-Mart. (Actually, marksmanship might help.)
And a veteran told me something I hadn't considered. I tried for a job at the Bedford VA hospital about a year ago...didn't get it. I wasn't too upset by it, since I thought a vet got it over me, but my friend piped up and said probably not; vets still need to have the skills. You couldn't do my job, for example...
So, it does come down to training and what the average Joe learns as a GI.
TriSec on 07/06/2011 19:05:13
Quote by Raine:
Excellent question, one tha t IAVA and Tri have tried to hilight: encouraging people to hire VETS!
Ah, you know the drill on this one. With the rise of the subcontractors, there is very little the military actually teaches people to do anymore. I know a lot of people in the 80s that went through and learned mechanics, electronics, technology, repair, all kinds of useful things that would help in the civilian job market.
Now, it's little more than marksmanship and field tactics, which will do wonders in Wal-Mart. (Actually, marksmanship might help.)
And a veteran told me something I hadn't considered. I tried for a job at the Bedford VA hospital about a year ago...didn't get it. I wasn't too upset by it, since I thought a vet got it over me, but my friend piped up and said probably not; vets still need to have the skills. You couldn't do my job, for example...
So, it does come down to training and what the average Joe learns as a GI.
Comment by wickedpam on 07/06/2011 19:07:23
wickedpam on 07/06/2011 19:07:23
James Dobbs - "cut welfare programs" 
cold hearted asshat 
cold hearted asshat
Comment by Raine on 07/06/2011 19:10:19
HE addressed that as well. I am quite pleased with this town Hall.
Raine on 07/06/2011 19:10:19
Quote by TriSec:Quote by Raine:
Excellent question, one tha t IAVA and Tri have tried to hilight: encouraging people to hire VETS!
Ah, you know the drill on this one. With the rise of the subcontractors, there is very little the military actually teaches people to do anymore. I know a lot of people in the 80s that went through and learned mechanics, electronics, technology, repair, all kinds of useful things that would help in the civilian job market.
Now, it's little more than marksmanship and field tactics, which will do wonders in Wal-Mart. (Actually, marksmanship might help.)
And a veteran told me something I hadn't considered. I tried for a job at the Bedford VA hospital about a year ago...didn't get it. I wasn't too upset by it, since I thought a vet got it over me, but my friend piped up and said probably not; vets still need to have the skills. You couldn't do my job, for example...
So, it does come down to training and what the average Joe learns as a GI.
Comment by livingonli on 07/06/2011 19:11:28
livingonli on 07/06/2011 19:11:28
Lizz will be on with Nicole Sandler who's filling in for Randi today
Comment by 
clintster on 07/06/2011 19:30:04
Yeah, for me this (not Nancy Grace's conniption) was the biggest news story of the day. I'm sure that we'll be hearing a lot about this in the coming weeks (especially when I go back for preplanning in a few weeks). I will say that Gov. Deal acknowledged that part of this came about from schools trying to make test scores rather than actually helping students learn. No Child Left Behind is a great name but a horrible, horrible policy.
clintster on 07/06/2011 19:30:04
Quote by BobR:
Once again - Atlanta representin'. Watch the Republicans use this as a rationale for school privitization.
Yeah, for me this (not Nancy Grace's conniption) was the biggest news story of the day. I'm sure that we'll be hearing a lot about this in the coming weeks (especially when I go back for preplanning in a few weeks). I will say that Gov. Deal acknowledged that part of this came about from schools trying to make test scores rather than actually helping students learn. No Child Left Behind is a great name but a horrible, horrible policy.
Comment by TriSec on 07/06/2011 19:38:57
TriSec on 07/06/2011 19:38:57
Oh, dear. I just noticed that Chrome is truncating the blog title in the browser tab...it looks like "Lube" if you look quick.
Comment by Raine on 07/06/2011 19:47:04
Raine on 07/06/2011 19:47:04
New low,: GOP Leaders Troll the Twitter town hall.
I am even more happy that they totally mocked Boehner now. These asshats are just so damn childish.
I am even more happy that they totally mocked Boehner now. These asshats are just so damn childish.
Comment by BobR on 07/06/2011 19:57:25
BobR on 07/06/2011 19:57:25
Quote by TriSec:
Oh, dear. I just noticed that Chrome is truncating the blog title in the browser tab...it looks like "Lube" if you look quick.
Comment by BobR on 07/06/2011 19:58:23
"Any type of discussion should be coupled with offsetting tax cuts somewhere else."
WHY???
BobR on 07/06/2011 19:58:23
Quote by Raine:
Cantor opens door to tax hikes.
"Any type of discussion should be coupled with offsetting tax cuts somewhere else."
WHY???
Comment by Raine on 07/06/2011 20:00:40
Raine on 07/06/2011 20:00:40
Comment by Raine on 07/06/2011 20:02:02
because he's Cantor and a member of the GOC(orporatists)
Raine on 07/06/2011 20:02:02
Quote by BobR:Quote by Raine:
Cantor opens door to tax hikes.
"Any type of discussion should be coupled with offsetting tax cuts somewhere else."
WHY???
Comment by Mondobubba on 07/06/2011 20:02:55
Aww Raine, the Twitter snark about The Hair-Helmeted Harpy of Headline News was pretty funny.
My take away from the article is the city of Atlanta only has 55,000 students enrolled in the school system? I must be missing something here. Raine? Bobber?
Mondobubba on 07/06/2011 20:02:55
Quote by clintster:Quote by BobR:
Once again - Atlanta representin'. Watch the Republicans use this as a rationale for school privitization.
Yeah, for me this (not Nancy Grace's conniption) was the biggest news story of the day. I'm sure that we'll be hearing a lot about this in the coming weeks (especially when I go back for preplanning in a few weeks). I will say that Gov. Deal acknowledged that part of this came about from schools trying to make test scores rather than actually helping students learn. No Child Left Behind is a great name but a horrible, horrible policy.
Aww Raine, the Twitter snark about The Hair-Helmeted Harpy of Headline News was pretty funny.
My take away from the article is the city of Atlanta only has 55,000 students enrolled in the school system? I must be missing something here. Raine? Bobber?
Comment by Raine on 07/06/2011 20:05:13
but let me make this part clear:
Raine on 07/06/2011 20:05:13
Quote by Raine:because he's Cantor and a member of the GOC(orporatists)Quote by BobR:Quote by Raine:
Cantor opens door to tax hikes.
"Any type of discussion should be coupled with offsetting tax cuts somewhere else."
WHY???
Ryan is arguing that raising taxes on corporate jet owners and others is only acceptable if the money raised is plowed back into new tax cuts, not to paying down the deficit. He is clearly more interested in cutting taxes than dealing with the deficit, and is willing to let these egregious loopholes stay in the tax code until he can best exploit their removal to lower taxes sometime in the future.
Comment by wickedpam on 07/06/2011 20:05:42
that would make it a pointless excerise - the goal is to lower the defict not keep it the same
wickedpam on 07/06/2011 20:05:42
Quote by Raine:because he's Cantor and a member of the GOC(orporatists)Quote by BobR:Quote by Raine:
Cantor opens door to tax hikes.
"Any type of discussion should be coupled with offsetting tax cuts somewhere else."
WHY???
that would make it a pointless excerise - the goal is to lower the defict not keep it the same
Comment by Mondobubba on 07/06/2011 20:26:07
Keep in mind a lot of the military still does things like logistics. Vets have tons of "soft" skills like team work, leadership, taking initative that sort of stuff
Mondobubba on 07/06/2011 20:26:07
Quote by TriSec:Quote by Raine:
Excellent question, one tha t IAVA and Tri have tried to hilight: encouraging people to hire VETS!
Ah, you know the drill on this one. With the rise of the subcontractors, there is very little the military actually teaches people to do anymore. I know a lot of people in the 80s that went through and learned mechanics, electronics, technology, repair, all kinds of useful things that would help in the civilian job market.
Now, it's little more than marksmanship and field tactics, which will do wonders in Wal-Mart. (Actually, marksmanship might help.)
And a veteran told me something I hadn't considered. I tried for a job at the Bedford VA hospital about a year ago...didn't get it. I wasn't too upset by it, since I thought a vet got it over me, but my friend piped up and said probably not; vets still need to have the skills. You couldn't do my job, for example...
So, it does come down to training and what the average Joe learns as a GI.
Keep in mind a lot of the military still does things like logistics. Vets have tons of "soft" skills like team work, leadership, taking initative that sort of stuff
Comment by Raine on 07/06/2011 20:26:45
That is why when I read the article, something went off in my head.
the article did not mention what he said on the sunday shows. He wants the money raised from tax revenue to be put back into tax cuts.
Think about that for a moment.
Raine on 07/06/2011 20:26:45
Quote by wickedpam:
that would make it a pointless excerise - the goal is to lower the defict not keep it the same
the article did not mention what he said on the sunday shows. He wants the money raised from tax revenue to be put back into tax cuts.
Think about that for a moment.
Comment by BobR on 07/06/2011 20:34:13
Raine? anyway...
They must be talking about the city limits only. The Greater Atlanta Area would be much larger.
BobR on 07/06/2011 20:34:13
Quote by Mondobubba:Quote by clintster:Quote by BobR:
Once again - Atlanta representin'. Watch the Republicans use this as a rationale for school privitization.
Yeah, for me this (not Nancy Grace's conniption) was the biggest news story of the day. I'm sure that we'll be hearing a lot about this in the coming weeks (especially when I go back for preplanning in a few weeks). I will say that Gov. Deal acknowledged that part of this came about from schools trying to make test scores rather than actually helping students learn. No Child Left Behind is a great name but a horrible, horrible policy.
Aww Raine, the Twitter snark about The Hair-Helmeted Harpy of Headline News was pretty funny.
My take away from the article is the city of Atlanta only has 55,000 students enrolled in the school system? I must be missing something here. Raine? Bobber?
Raine? anyway...
They must be talking about the city limits only. The Greater Atlanta Area would be much larger.
Comment by wickedpam on 07/06/2011 20:34:25
sounds like a shell game
wickedpam on 07/06/2011 20:34:25
Quote by Raine:That is why when I read the article, something went off in my head.Quote by wickedpam:
that would make it a pointless excerise - the goal is to lower the defict not keep it the same
the article did not mention what he said on the sunday shows. He wants the money raised from tax revenue to be put back into tax cuts.
Think about that for a moment.
sounds like a shell game
Comment by Raine on 07/06/2011 20:49:07
Raine on 07/06/2011 20:49:07
Comment by Raine on 07/06/2011 20:52:22
I wish I could find the Article that PArade Magazine did about NCLB in -- I believe it was Houston -- when W was still governor.
They touted such amazing graduation rates, when in the end -- they practically forced at risk kids out of school -- they dropped out. and they were not counted at all.
Raine on 07/06/2011 20:52:22
Quote by clintster:Quote by BobR:
Once again - Atlanta representin'. Watch the Republicans use this as a rationale for school privitization.
Yeah, for me this (not Nancy Grace's conniption) was the biggest news story of the day. I'm sure that we'll be hearing a lot about this in the coming weeks (especially when I go back for preplanning in a few weeks). I will say that Gov. Deal acknowledged that part of this came about from schools trying to make test scores rather than actually helping students learn. No Child Left Behind is a great name but a horrible, horrible policy.
They touted such amazing graduation rates, when in the end -- they practically forced at risk kids out of school -- they dropped out. and they were not counted at all.