debate said:
A young woman was about to finish her first year of college. Like so many others her age, she considered herself to be a very liberal Democrat, and was very much in favor of the distribution of wealth.
She was deeply ashamed that her father was a rather staunch Republican, a feeling she openly expressed. Based on the lectures that she had participated in, and the occasional chat with a professor, she felt that her father had for years harbored an evil, selfish desire to keep what he thought should be his.
One day she was challenging her father on his opposition to higher taxes on the rich and the addition of more government welfare programs. The self-professed objectivity proclaimed by her professors had to be the truth and she indicated so to her father.
He responded by asking how she was doing in school.
Taken aback, she answered rather haughtily that she had a 4.0 GPA, and let him know that it was tough to maintain, insisting that she was taking a very difficult course load and was constantly studying, which left her no time to go out and party like other people she knew. She didn't even have time for a boyfriend, and didn't really have many college friends because she spent all her time studying.
Her father listened and then asked, "How is you friend Audrey doing?"
She replied, "Audrey is barely getting by. All she takes are easy classes, she never studies, and she barely has a 2.0 GPA. She is so popular on campus, college for her is a blast. She's always invited to all the parties, and lots of times she doesn't even show up for classes because she's too hung over."
Her wise father asked his daughter, "Why don't you go to the Dean's office and ask him to deduct a 1.0 off your GPA and give it to your friend who only has a 2.0. That way you will both have a 3.0 GPA and certainly that would be a fair and equal distribution of GPA."
The daughter, visibly shocked by her father's suggestion, angrily fired back, "That wouldn't be fair! I have worked really hard for my grades! I've invested a lot of time, and a lot of hard work! Audrey has done next to nothing toward her degree. She played while I worked my tail off!"
The father slowly smiled, winked and said gently, "Welcome to the Republican Party."
She was deeply ashamed that her father was a rather staunch Republican, a feeling she openly expressed. Based on the lectures that she had participated in, and the occasional chat with a professor, she felt that her father had for years harbored an evil, selfish desire to keep what he thought should be his.
One day she was challenging her father on his opposition to higher taxes on the rich and the addition of more government welfare programs. The self-professed objectivity proclaimed by her professors had to be the truth and she indicated so to her father.
He responded by asking how she was doing in school.
Taken aback, she answered rather haughtily that she had a 4.0 GPA, and let him know that it was tough to maintain, insisting that she was taking a very difficult course load and was constantly studying, which left her no time to go out and party like other people she knew. She didn't even have time for a boyfriend, and didn't really have many college friends because she spent all her time studying.
Her father listened and then asked, "How is you friend Audrey doing?"
She replied, "Audrey is barely getting by. All she takes are easy classes, she never studies, and she barely has a 2.0 GPA. She is so popular on campus, college for her is a blast. She's always invited to all the parties, and lots of times she doesn't even show up for classes because she's too hung over."
Her wise father asked his daughter, "Why don't you go to the Dean's office and ask him to deduct a 1.0 off your GPA and give it to your friend who only has a 2.0. That way you will both have a 3.0 GPA and certainly that would be a fair and equal distribution of GPA."
The daughter, visibly shocked by her father's suggestion, angrily fired back, "That wouldn't be fair! I have worked really hard for my grades! I've invested a lot of time, and a lot of hard work! Audrey has done next to nothing toward her degree. She played while I worked my tail off!"
The father slowly smiled, winked and said gently, "Welcome to the Republican Party."
Dubya said:
Haha..I've heard that one before, but still funny. I can only imagine the furious typing going on across Wichita at this very moment... :)
~Dubya
~Dubya
lindainks55 said:
No furious typing -- some things are too stupid to deserve any response.
If anyone still thinks the Republican party is financially conservative or responsible after the spending habits shown for the 12 years Congress was majority Republican and the six plus years of a Republican president they aren't paying any attention. All that shows is how partisan some people can think. Not too smart IMO.
I am more liberal in my thinking and also much more financially conservative and responsible than the current Administration! If that's what Republicans stand for they should be hanging their heads. Of course, some aren't well informed enough to know how bad it is now and will be for generations to come.
If anyone still thinks the Republican party is financially conservative or responsible after the spending habits shown for the 12 years Congress was majority Republican and the six plus years of a Republican president they aren't paying any attention. All that shows is how partisan some people can think. Not too smart IMO.
I am more liberal in my thinking and also much more financially conservative and responsible than the current Administration! If that's what Republicans stand for they should be hanging their heads. Of course, some aren't well informed enough to know how bad it is now and will be for generations to come.
rm6046 said:
Boris Yeltzin ... dead at 76? That's certainly going to change MY plans for the day. Is there any reason whatsoever to care, one way or the other?
debate said:
Linda,
So have you enjoyed the extra money in your pocket allowed to you by the tax cuts us irresponsible Republications passes? On average those tax cuts amounted to about $2600 dollars per middle class household last I read.
How about the tax cuts for the millions of small businesses that will go away when these tax law's don't get passed by the Dems'.
Our economy is doing the best it's done in decades, the stock market is booming, jobless rates are low. The republican tax cuts are responsible for creating 100's of thousands of jobs. You think that's not being conservative and responsible?
So have you enjoyed the extra money in your pocket allowed to you by the tax cuts us irresponsible Republications passes? On average those tax cuts amounted to about $2600 dollars per middle class household last I read.
How about the tax cuts for the millions of small businesses that will go away when these tax law's don't get passed by the Dems'.
Our economy is doing the best it's done in decades, the stock market is booming, jobless rates are low. The republican tax cuts are responsible for creating 100's of thousands of jobs. You think that's not being conservative and responsible?
Dubya said:
I would imagine Linda is referring to the trillions spent on the war and huge trade deficet.
I think?
~Dubya
I think?
~Dubya
lindainks55 said:
WOW, debate! You are more deeply partisan than I first recognized. Your expenses haven't increased far more than the promised "about $2600 dollars per middle class household" you quote? You are very lucky! In the first place, it's presumptuous to decide what income bracket I fall into, secondly it's naive to believe that figure. No debate, I haven't enjoyed what I didn't receive.
You're correct, Dubya.
Debate, I recognize partisan talking points easily -- most people here are well informed and fewer each day fall for misinformation.
By the way, I've never seen you post before. Welcome!
You're correct, Dubya.
Debate, I recognize partisan talking points easily -- most people here are well informed and fewer each day fall for misinformation.
By the way, I've never seen you post before. Welcome!
Dubya said:
correction: Deficit :) Re-learning to spell this monday morning.
And yes, welcome to the playground, Debate. I actually received your Friend request, but for some reason the website is not letting me accept any at the moment (hence, I have no friends!!)
I'll get you plugged in when its fixed.
~Dubya
And yes, welcome to the playground, Debate. I actually received your Friend request, but for some reason the website is not letting me accept any at the moment (hence, I have no friends!!)
I'll get you plugged in when its fixed.
~Dubya
debate said:
Thanks Linda, I am new here. I've been lurking for a while. My wife got tired of my comentary of what I was reading and told me to sign up so she didn't have to hear me any more...LOL
I am curious about your comment. Are you saying I'm misinformed?
I know one thing. I'm a middle class american with a family I've had the same job for 7 year, I get a 4% raise every year. Before that, I had the same job for 4 year, with a 5% raise every year, but at both jobs, my deductions were the same. Always have been. From 1997 to 2002, I had to pay at the end of every year. Since 2003, I've gotten a refund every year. I wonder why? I know I enjoy the extra cash from the tax cuts.
I've got colleagues and family member that are in the same tax bracket, that are in the same boat as me. So i'm speaking from experince when I say these tax cuts help.
I am curious about your comment. Are you saying I'm misinformed?
I know one thing. I'm a middle class american with a family I've had the same job for 7 year, I get a 4% raise every year. Before that, I had the same job for 4 year, with a 5% raise every year, but at both jobs, my deductions were the same. Always have been. From 1997 to 2002, I had to pay at the end of every year. Since 2003, I've gotten a refund every year. I wonder why? I know I enjoy the extra cash from the tax cuts.
I've got colleagues and family member that are in the same tax bracket, that are in the same boat as me. So i'm speaking from experince when I say these tax cuts help.
Vaughn Tolle said:
Wondering, debate, if it is the tax cuts that are benefiting you or the indexing of bracket rates for inflation (begun in the Reagan years) or some combination thereof? Anyway, it looks like you are overwithholding at the moment; you should look at your W-4. Just a suggestion.
BTW, you didn't mention whether you're a Kansas resident; if so, I suspect you are paying more annually in state income taxes.
BTW, you didn't mention whether you're a Kansas resident; if so, I suspect you are paying more annually in state income taxes.
debate said:
Good Advise, VT, I'll have to take a look at that. Its nice to get some money back, but that money would perform much better elsewhere.
lindainks55 said:
I don't even know you, debate. How could I decide whether you are misinformed? I see that you think differently than I do. I can go out onto the "internets" and find something to support every position I may chose to take. I'm sure you can too. I mentioned that you are lucky.
The tax cuts have not helped me.
You posted: "Our economy is doing the best it's done in decades, the stock market is booming, jobless rates are low. The republican tax cuts are responsible for creating 100's of thousands of jobs." I do not think that is true!
The tax cuts have not helped me.
You posted: "Our economy is doing the best it's done in decades, the stock market is booming, jobless rates are low. The republican tax cuts are responsible for creating 100's of thousands of jobs." I do not think that is true!
debate said:
Don't get upset Linda, I was just asking if that was pointed at me.
I guess the point I'm trying to make is, the jobless rate is low, stock market is high, yet people still accuse President Bush and republican's of bad economic's. I don't get it.
We'll agree to disagree on this one.
I do know that when it comes to the trade deficited and unbalanced budget, I would have no idea how to fix it. First instinct is to raise taxes to get the income up to start working on a blanced budget, and paying it down, but everyone will scream that taxes are to high. (that would include me) I know we need to get that trade deficit down so the dollar stays strong and all of that to ensure a strong economy in the future. I'm not sure how it all works, but it sometimes seems like a no win sitution, unless someone is willing to take the sacrafice to eventually make it right.
I guess the point I'm trying to make is, the jobless rate is low, stock market is high, yet people still accuse President Bush and republican's of bad economic's. I don't get it.
We'll agree to disagree on this one.
I do know that when it comes to the trade deficited and unbalanced budget, I would have no idea how to fix it. First instinct is to raise taxes to get the income up to start working on a blanced budget, and paying it down, but everyone will scream that taxes are to high. (that would include me) I know we need to get that trade deficit down so the dollar stays strong and all of that to ensure a strong economy in the future. I'm not sure how it all works, but it sometimes seems like a no win sitution, unless someone is willing to take the sacrafice to eventually make it right.
WSClark said:
Welcome to the "Debate" Golfie. It was nice of you to post an old contrived story. Thanks.
Now explain how you are going to pay off the National Debt. It is now $9 trillion and will be at least $11 trillion by 2012, when the most optimistic projection say that we will first have a balanced Federal budget since Clinton.
Tax cuts are great - if we could afford them - but the war has cost at least $677 trillion OFF budget and the deficit is expanding every day.
Even if the budget is balanced in 2012, we will still have $11 trillion in actual debt to pay and $39 trillion in entitlement obligations.
How will your tax cuts pay for those?
Remember, the balanced budget in 2012 is the MOST OPTIMISTIC PROJECTION. Real economists expect that the budget will be deficit spending until at least 2016, if not longer.
So, enjoy for tax cut, DEBATE, your children's, children's, children will have to pay for it.
Got any answers or are you just trolling?
Now explain how you are going to pay off the National Debt. It is now $9 trillion and will be at least $11 trillion by 2012, when the most optimistic projection say that we will first have a balanced Federal budget since Clinton.
Tax cuts are great - if we could afford them - but the war has cost at least $677 trillion OFF budget and the deficit is expanding every day.
Even if the budget is balanced in 2012, we will still have $11 trillion in actual debt to pay and $39 trillion in entitlement obligations.
How will your tax cuts pay for those?
Remember, the balanced budget in 2012 is the MOST OPTIMISTIC PROJECTION. Real economists expect that the budget will be deficit spending until at least 2016, if not longer.
So, enjoy for tax cut, DEBATE, your children's, children's, children will have to pay for it.
Got any answers or are you just trolling?
debate said:
Well, hello to you too WSClark. Maybe you ought to read a bit better. I already said I don't know how to fix it. See right above your little post where I said "...I would have no idea how to fix it"
I don't see anwsers from you either, so I guess I'm here trolling just like you...
Just curious, in your opinion what is a acceptable tax rate? 40% of your income, 50%? 60%. Would you pay 60% of your wages to help pay off the national debt?
I will enjoy my tax cut, as will my kids. They will go to college that will be partly paid for by the tax cuts.
I don't see anwsers from you either, so I guess I'm here trolling just like you...
Just curious, in your opinion what is a acceptable tax rate? 40% of your income, 50%? 60%. Would you pay 60% of your wages to help pay off the national debt?
I will enjoy my tax cut, as will my kids. They will go to college that will be partly paid for by the tax cuts.
WSClark said:
Yeah, I agree DEBATE, just leave the deficit, debt and entitlement obligations for ANOTHER generation - just like Reagan did, just like Bush I did and just like Bush II is doing.
There has NEVER been a tax cut during a time of war - ever in the history of the USA - but Bush seems to think that someone else should pay for his War of Choice.
I have previously answered the question, but let's start with rescinding the Bush tax cuts that overwhelmingly favored the rich. The let's remove corporate welfare from the equation. Then let's rescind grants to the oil and natural gas companies.
That is just for starters.
Then let's levy a 95% tax on income greater than $100 million per year, with no deferred salaries.
How is that for starters?
Leaving massive debt and unfunded entitlements for future generations is immoral.
There has NEVER been a tax cut during a time of war - ever in the history of the USA - but Bush seems to think that someone else should pay for his War of Choice.
I have previously answered the question, but let's start with rescinding the Bush tax cuts that overwhelmingly favored the rich. The let's remove corporate welfare from the equation. Then let's rescind grants to the oil and natural gas companies.
That is just for starters.
Then let's levy a 95% tax on income greater than $100 million per year, with no deferred salaries.
How is that for starters?
Leaving massive debt and unfunded entitlements for future generations is immoral.
debate said:
Now there's a plan. A bad plan. Tax the rich so much they get fed up and leave. Hmmm, I wonder why the rich celebs from Europe move to America?
Let's tax the corporations and Small business much they can't afford to hire new employees, let's create some more unemployment so there are FEWER tax payers. Good idea.
I never once Said leave a deficit, and I'm not proposing a way to fix it. I'm not an Economist, so I'm not qualified to make those decision. All I do know, is I work hard for my money, I enjoy having more of it and my future generations will thank me and the tax cuts for helping them pay for college.
Thanks for proving the story I posted originally correct. Take from the rich....
I don't envy and hate the rich like you lib's do, I say tax everyone equally
Let's tax the corporations and Small business much they can't afford to hire new employees, let's create some more unemployment so there are FEWER tax payers. Good idea.
I never once Said leave a deficit, and I'm not proposing a way to fix it. I'm not an Economist, so I'm not qualified to make those decision. All I do know, is I work hard for my money, I enjoy having more of it and my future generations will thank me and the tax cuts for helping them pay for college.
Thanks for proving the story I posted originally correct. Take from the rich....
I don't envy and hate the rich like you lib's do, I say tax everyone equally
debate said:
BTW, before you start swearing at me a calling names, which is the usual next step with you lib's in a debate like this, I do agree with you that current and past administration spending has and is out of control. I don't think the problem overall is the tax rates, I think it's the stupid spending.
http://www.heritage.org/Research/Taxes/wm327.cfm
http://www.heritage.org/Research/Taxes/wm327.cfm
WSClark said:
I still don't see your plan to fund entitlements and pay down the debt, DEBATE.
No answers? Not qualified?
You were qualified enough to criticize my plan, so what is yours, chump?
Still no answers?
No answers? Not qualified?
You were qualified enough to criticize my plan, so what is yours, chump?
Still no answers?
WSClark said:
What spending should we cut, DEBATE? Thirty percent of the budget is just interest on the debt, so where do we go from here?
Don't want criticism? Don't make stupid statements.
Don't want to be called a name? Don't side with the folks that made a career of calling liberals names.
Can't handle the debate, DEBATE? STFU.
Don't want criticism? Don't make stupid statements.
Don't want to be called a name? Don't side with the folks that made a career of calling liberals names.
Can't handle the debate, DEBATE? STFU.
longhorn said:
Hi Clark. Sorry if I chased the crank yankers back over hear again :)
Nothing like being sought out to have your chain jerked, huh? I was going to say the same thing. How convenient to refuse to propose solutions so you can hang back and wait to trash the other guys ideas.
Some things never change, do they?
Nothing like being sought out to have your chain jerked, huh? I was going to say the same thing. How convenient to refuse to propose solutions so you can hang back and wait to trash the other guys ideas.
Some things never change, do they?
lindainks55 said:
Are you unable to make a point other than criticizing the person you disagree with? We've heard one person's ideas. Do you have any? Why do you get to decide what our income level is? Why do you think no one here is among the rich? You could use some schooling. I hope you've borrowed a bit from your children's education fund in order to take needed classes for yourself.
debate said:
Are you an econimist? What makes you qualified? Are you and elected representative of the people? Then you should have a plan. I'm neither, so I VOTE for the person that is qualified.
I'm not qualified to do brain surgery either, does that mean I'm not entitled to my opinion on the health care system?
We posted at the same time. Part of my response is right above yours. I feel like we can cut spending and keep the tax rates where they are and pay the debt down. I do know that it's been proven that cutting taxes raises revenue.
I'm not qualified to do brain surgery either, does that mean I'm not entitled to my opinion on the health care system?
We posted at the same time. Part of my response is right above yours. I feel like we can cut spending and keep the tax rates where they are and pay the debt down. I do know that it's been proven that cutting taxes raises revenue.
lindainks55 said:
What a welcome sight! A post from longhorn is always so special. Shoot, chase em all over here. They're easy. They don't even know English. Hard to look intelligent when you can't write in English. (giggle!)
debate said:
Are you kidding me linda? Where did I say I want to decide what your income level is? Where did I ever assume there weren't any rich here? Why would I care? They would agree with me.
There you go, personal attacks... The Democratic/Liberal Way...
There you go, personal attacks... The Democratic/Liberal Way...
WSClark said:
Okay, DEBATE, since you want to play that game - most real economists think that the budget will be balanced in 2016 at the earliest. Given that the Debt at that point will be at least $13 trillion and the entitlement obligations will be at least $40 trillion, do you see any way to pay down the debt and meet the obligation WITHOUT raising taxes?
Don't give me a load about the economy, yada, yada.
As a private citizen, if you overspend for years, you have to cut back and slash expenses to meet your obligations.
Why should the government be any different?
As a country we are bankrupt - what do you propose to do?
China has $1 trillion in cash reserves. Japan has nearly the same.
We are $9 trillion in debt with no end in sight.
What is your plan?
Don't give me a load about the economy, yada, yada.
As a private citizen, if you overspend for years, you have to cut back and slash expenses to meet your obligations.
Why should the government be any different?
As a country we are bankrupt - what do you propose to do?
China has $1 trillion in cash reserves. Japan has nearly the same.
We are $9 trillion in debt with no end in sight.
What is your plan?
longhorn said:
Hi Linda! Thanks for the kind words. Good to see you as well. Same ol' same ol' in the old cesspool too. I think the wingnuts are all getting lamer by the day. It's hard to be a con these days.
I keep up with you guys even if I wont help generate any hits here. I dont support the blog, but I love the bloggers here. heheheh
I'm still searching for wingnut urine or else a place we dont need it :)
I keep up with you guys even if I wont help generate any hits here. I dont support the blog, but I love the bloggers here. heheheh
I'm still searching for wingnut urine or else a place we dont need it :)
Wendy said:
Right, DEBATE, because your attacks aren't personal? WE all know that you are meaning "liberal" to be derisive...
Here's the thing, we all welcome newcomers, along with new topics to discuss. What we DON'T welcome is someone coming in here, telling us we are wrong, calling us names, and generally refusing to behave like an adult - which is exactly what you are doing... You want to talk to us, okay - but don't get mad when we call you on your crap, because we will... You don't get to introduce a topic, and then shoot down someone else's answer because it isn't the answer you like...
Here's the thing, we all welcome newcomers, along with new topics to discuss. What we DON'T welcome is someone coming in here, telling us we are wrong, calling us names, and generally refusing to behave like an adult - which is exactly what you are doing... You want to talk to us, okay - but don't get mad when we call you on your crap, because we will... You don't get to introduce a topic, and then shoot down someone else's answer because it isn't the answer you like...
longhorn said:
Clark they do love that Laffer curve bullshit dont they?
I even saw governor leadership pandering that line when she signed the kansas tax cuts into law. They completely defied all the budget projections on the "hope" that the tax cuts would stimulate the kansas economy enough to generate more tax revenue than the existing taxes would.
Right.
Silly me, but I do prefer the projections of real, bipartisan economists over the "wing and a prayer" approach of this kansas legislature and this kasas governor.
Maybe if I just wish and hope hard enough the water will come back to western kansas....
I even saw governor leadership pandering that line when she signed the kansas tax cuts into law. They completely defied all the budget projections on the "hope" that the tax cuts would stimulate the kansas economy enough to generate more tax revenue than the existing taxes would.
Right.
Silly me, but I do prefer the projections of real, bipartisan economists over the "wing and a prayer" approach of this kansas legislature and this kasas governor.
Maybe if I just wish and hope hard enough the water will come back to western kansas....
gster said:
Longhorn- You have a "farm" background, what do you recommend for varmint control? It looks like we are starting to have that problem here.
rm6046 said:
Gster: You didn't ask me, but what sort of varmint are we talking about? They run all the way from armadillos to zebra rustlers. But I bet if you narrow down the target, somebody here will know how to get rid of them. BTW, you just shoot the zebra rustlers, then hang 'em! :)
debate said:
As much fun as this is, I gotta go take the kids to baseball practice, you all have a good night and I look forward to tomorrows topic.
longhorn said:
Hey Gster! Like rm, I need to know what kind of varmint. I generally recommend cats to kill'em and dogs to chase 'em off! Really. I had mice like crazy until I got cats. 15 cats! :) There isnt a safe spot for a mouse or a snake for a five mile radius :)
Now possums, coons, and badgers are another story. Dogs will bark and pee to scare most of them away, but badgers are bad asses and can kill or seriously injure a brave pooch. I recommend sleeping outside with a shotgun for badgers. No bag limit :) I think you can trap them too, but like Tony Soprano, I just whack 'em.
I dont grow corn anymore for obvious racoon reasons. But a couple of years ago I had both sweet corn and popcorn, and the coons just robbed me blind. Little bastards ALWAYS knew when it was perfect and would be picked the NEXT day. Some folks said to leave on a radio on in the patch, but the old timers looked at me and asked if I had a cot and a shotgun. It was good advise :)
Oh, and the only time I EVER use poison, and I hate to do it then, is with prairie dogs. Fortunately I dont have any now, but a year ago I had a couple of dozen burrows with rattlers sure to follow. So I put my scruples on hold and poisoned them. You can shoot them I think if you follow the rules, but you cant eat 'em, and I dont shoot anything I cant eat. Other than snakes. The only good snake is a dead snake. I know bullsnakes are usefull, but I have a snake phobia, ok?
I have coyotes nearby, but they dont bother me or mine. We'll see how hard they try with the chickens this summer. I might have to call Acme. :)
Skunks? If they show themselves during the day, kill'em asap. If they show up at night, remove all food and hope they leave. If they make a nest and you find it, kill 'em all. I've shot many a skunk, and it isnt too hard, but ya still have to bury them. :(
You can set traps, but then you have to remove them and kill 'em. Better to remove trash piles, garbage, cat and dog food and discourage them from snooping. I think they're gonna like chickens and eggs too, so ask me at the end of the summer. :)
So other than bobcats, who keep the kitty cat population down for me, heheeh, what varmints do you want to vamoos?
Now possums, coons, and badgers are another story. Dogs will bark and pee to scare most of them away, but badgers are bad asses and can kill or seriously injure a brave pooch. I recommend sleeping outside with a shotgun for badgers. No bag limit :) I think you can trap them too, but like Tony Soprano, I just whack 'em.
I dont grow corn anymore for obvious racoon reasons. But a couple of years ago I had both sweet corn and popcorn, and the coons just robbed me blind. Little bastards ALWAYS knew when it was perfect and would be picked the NEXT day. Some folks said to leave on a radio on in the patch, but the old timers looked at me and asked if I had a cot and a shotgun. It was good advise :)
Oh, and the only time I EVER use poison, and I hate to do it then, is with prairie dogs. Fortunately I dont have any now, but a year ago I had a couple of dozen burrows with rattlers sure to follow. So I put my scruples on hold and poisoned them. You can shoot them I think if you follow the rules, but you cant eat 'em, and I dont shoot anything I cant eat. Other than snakes. The only good snake is a dead snake. I know bullsnakes are usefull, but I have a snake phobia, ok?
I have coyotes nearby, but they dont bother me or mine. We'll see how hard they try with the chickens this summer. I might have to call Acme. :)
Skunks? If they show themselves during the day, kill'em asap. If they show up at night, remove all food and hope they leave. If they make a nest and you find it, kill 'em all. I've shot many a skunk, and it isnt too hard, but ya still have to bury them. :(
You can set traps, but then you have to remove them and kill 'em. Better to remove trash piles, garbage, cat and dog food and discourage them from snooping. I think they're gonna like chickens and eggs too, so ask me at the end of the summer. :)
So other than bobcats, who keep the kitty cat population down for me, heheeh, what varmints do you want to vamoos?
rm6046 said:
Yeah, I never liked poison because you can't control it. If your own don't get into it, (and if there's any water), it invariably finds its way into a ditch and poisons somebody's downstream. I lost a damned good dog when I was a kid because this moron up-ditch put poison out right next to the damned irrigation feeder. What really pissed me off was he had been specifically told not to do that less than a week earlier. I still had him "pinned down" in a corral when my Grandfather and the County Sheriff got there. I wasn't going to kill him, I just wanted to get his attention. I was 9 or 10, and by the time my Grandfather and the Sheriff got through with him, verbally, I think he would have been happier if I'd just shot him before they got there. They moved away shortly thereafter. Years later, when my Grandfather and the Sheriff were old, old men, they still loved telling that story on me.
lindainks55 said:
Ah, rm, sorry about that good dog. That's truly sad. I think I like dogs better than some people.
gster said:
Longhorn- thanks for the info. I don't know the street name of the varmint in question, but I'm told its name is "Serpetus Debatus", a particularly odious , vile being with a possum head, a serpentine body with a curious white strip down it's back! When confronted, it hisses "George Bush.. George Bush"!
Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated in removing this creature.
Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated in removing this creature.
Danny said:
Wow, between work and a myriad of errands... I dunno.
Since this one started about taxes. It seems to me, if less is going to be charged for taxes, then less needs to be spent. I'll admit, I do like the tax cuts, however I'd also like to have our debt paid off. After all, how long can one go with large debt?
At the same time, if someone is working hard and as a result of said working hard(without screwing people over) why should they be taxed abnormally high if they are successful and making alot of money.
So I see the debt as something that we all have to pay back as American's. Which likely means I don't get to see my tax break much longer, and I'll learn to live with it. I don't count on it anyway, so I'll make due with what I have.
Since this one started about taxes. It seems to me, if less is going to be charged for taxes, then less needs to be spent. I'll admit, I do like the tax cuts, however I'd also like to have our debt paid off. After all, how long can one go with large debt?
At the same time, if someone is working hard and as a result of said working hard(without screwing people over) why should they be taxed abnormally high if they are successful and making alot of money.
So I see the debt as something that we all have to pay back as American's. Which likely means I don't get to see my tax break much longer, and I'll learn to live with it. I don't count on it anyway, so I'll make due with what I have.
Predestined said:
Snakes are good for mice. Our mice population at the farm went way down when the snakes started slithering in. The problem was, I'm not real fond of finding snakes on my cabinets, floors, or window sills. Then again, every single chenille sweater I bought was shredded by mice.
Fundie said:
If I may add my 2 cents, adjusted for tax that is 1.4 cents, the real problem is that the Government gets to borrow all the money it wants at a risk free rate, that is a rate that no one except bill gates can get. If you and I were to borrow way beyond our means, as the government does, then our rate would go way up to 90% interest. Or the lender would just say no thank you and cut us off.
With the government, every one knows it will eventually pay 'cuz they can tax you me and my dog till the cows come home.
Make the government accountable with realistic interest rates, and make them pay as they go. I hate how politicians, particularly republicans (conservatives, yeah right) take liberties with my check book.
Dont give me a tax break, if you will make my kids pay the interest on that break.
on a seperate note BRING BACK THE GOLD STANDARD!!!!
With the government, every one knows it will eventually pay 'cuz they can tax you me and my dog till the cows come home.
Make the government accountable with realistic interest rates, and make them pay as they go. I hate how politicians, particularly republicans (conservatives, yeah right) take liberties with my check book.
Dont give me a tax break, if you will make my kids pay the interest on that break.
on a seperate note BRING BACK THE GOLD STANDARD!!!!
Predestined said:
Perhaps DEBATE isn't aware that unemployment compensation is taxed. In 2 months, after my daughter was laid off, they figured they would owe $500 tax on her unemployment. Thankfully, she was only unemployed for those 2 months.
Question: How many corporations and uber-wealthy have their $$$$$$$$$$$$$$ in foreign accounts? Or have moved their "business" to a foreign country to avoid paying taxes here? (cough: Halliburton)
I don't mind paying taxes. I DO mind continuing to pay for an invasion that wasn't supposed to happen. I DO mind that the U.S. imports much more than it exports. I DO mind that people are having to work two lower paying jobs to make the money they made 5 or 6 years ago working one. The "unemployment" rate may have dropped (although I doubt it), but the "underemployment rate has skyrocketed.
Danny, would a flat rate (%) make you happy? Isn't that what we're supposed to have? Say I make $50 grand a year and pay 10% in taxes, then I pay $5 grand, right? If I make $5 mil, I would pay $500 grand. But isn't that the way it should be? After all, if I'm pulling in $5 mil a year, I doubt it would be hard to put food on my family....uh, I mean food on the table for my family and a roof over their heads. I could probably put a roof over each individual head. ;) With a pool and hot tub for each!
I'm self-employed and pay the same rate in taxes each year (or at least it appears that I do...I haven't done a comparison lately), no matter how much I make. To be sure, if I was making tons of money, I'd be watching each and every item that's deductible, but I'd still pay the same rate. Now, if I incorporated, wouldn't I have even more deductions and "loop holes"?
Question: How many corporations and uber-wealthy have their $$$$$$$$$$$$$$ in foreign accounts? Or have moved their "business" to a foreign country to avoid paying taxes here? (cough: Halliburton)
I don't mind paying taxes. I DO mind continuing to pay for an invasion that wasn't supposed to happen. I DO mind that the U.S. imports much more than it exports. I DO mind that people are having to work two lower paying jobs to make the money they made 5 or 6 years ago working one. The "unemployment" rate may have dropped (although I doubt it), but the "underemployment rate has skyrocketed.
Danny, would a flat rate (%) make you happy? Isn't that what we're supposed to have? Say I make $50 grand a year and pay 10% in taxes, then I pay $5 grand, right? If I make $5 mil, I would pay $500 grand. But isn't that the way it should be? After all, if I'm pulling in $5 mil a year, I doubt it would be hard to put food on my family....uh, I mean food on the table for my family and a roof over their heads. I could probably put a roof over each individual head. ;) With a pool and hot tub for each!
I'm self-employed and pay the same rate in taxes each year (or at least it appears that I do...I haven't done a comparison lately), no matter how much I make. To be sure, if I was making tons of money, I'd be watching each and every item that's deductible, but I'd still pay the same rate. Now, if I incorporated, wouldn't I have even more deductions and "loop holes"?
rm6046 said:
Gster: That's funny, guy! I don't think you can get rid of your varmint, but I understand that they're not really very bright and after eight years or so, they just sorta' wander off into the prairie with that glazed over look in their eyes, and are never seen again. You know how they just usually wander around somewhat unsure where they are or where they're going ... well, at the end, they just finally get lost completely. :)
Fundie said:
The flat tax is not what we have now, what we have now is a huge confusing library of tax laws, that only benefit those that can afford teams of tax lawyers to find tax shelters. I am all for a flat even tax rate, with deductions and such for low income families, with simple plain english tax breaks that the poor can use.
The problem with the current system is that we all start with a semi even tax rate, but the rich get these tax shelters that only lawyers can figure out.
When it comes to taxes Keep It Simple Stupid (KISS)
Bring back The Gold Standard.
The problem with the current system is that we all start with a semi even tax rate, but the rich get these tax shelters that only lawyers can figure out.
When it comes to taxes Keep It Simple Stupid (KISS)
Bring back The Gold Standard.
gster said:
rm- I'm thinking if we can gather them up , and bronze them, we could corner the market for doorstops!!
??
They must be good for something. huh?
??
They must be good for something. huh?
Danny said:
Pre,
We don't have a flat tax right now. Yeah basically, I think a flat tax could be the most "fair". I don't know if it could ever be successfully implemented though.
We don't have a flat tax right now. Yeah basically, I think a flat tax could be the most "fair". I don't know if it could ever be successfully implemented though.
Danny said:
I apologize about the first one there, I constantly have to change my name to Danny when I type because it seems to think it needs to use my login name all the time. Hehe.
Predestined said:
Thanks, Fundie and Danny. Paying taxes always confuses me (I'm math-challenged), so I just do it and don't think about it. Less pain that way. *grin*
Fundie said:
In that case pre- There is a Fundie tax due, you can make checks payable to...don't think about it just trust me, HAHAHAHA
darwinsdisciple said:
I consider myself middle class; we make a little over a 6 figure annual income; though I have never made such good money, I have never felt so vulnerable. Thus, I am not getting our new poster's claim that everything is wonderful. He is clearly deluded. Someone give him some meds and help, please.
Predestined said:
Sorry, but I had to bring this over here.
"We wear uniforms, we play by the rules. They don't wear uniforms and they have no rules."
RM, do you think the British said the same during the Revolutionary War?
"We wear uniforms, we play by the rules. They don't wear uniforms and they have no rules."
RM, do you think the British said the same during the Revolutionary War?
Predestined said:
HAHAHAHA, back at ya, Fundie! I'm assuming that means you'll also do my taxes for free next year? And get me a BIG refund, while you're at it. Thank you. :)
And I definitely agree with you on the current tax system. Every time the IRS makes changes for a "simpler" return, I have to spend an extra hour "simply" trying to figure them out.
And I definitely agree with you on the current tax system. Every time the IRS makes changes for a "simpler" return, I have to spend an extra hour "simply" trying to figure them out.
rm6046 said:
Pre: Yep, they probably did. They continued to play "by the rules". They lost. Hmmmmm ?
tracyaphillips said:
Yeah we're all doing so goddamned good with these tax cuts for the top 1%.
Shit, makes me wanna run out, vote repug and buy a Hummer!
Yeah, I make 6 figures too.
Only 2 of them are to the right of the decimal point.
Shit, makes me wanna run out, vote repug and buy a Hummer!
Yeah, I make 6 figures too.
Only 2 of them are to the right of the decimal point.
tracyaphillips said:
And Mr. smarty pants debater....
Why don't you tell everybody who is paying for your wonderful tax cuts?
My children.
My grandchildren.
Their children.
Fiscal responsability my ass.
What a freakin joke they have made this give away for shrub's 'base'.
And in typical repug style, they make you believe you're really benefitting, huh?
The whole genius of the GOP strategy is to get nitwits to participate in their own demise, the whole time crowing about doing great things for them.
Why don't you tell everybody who is paying for your wonderful tax cuts?
My children.
My grandchildren.
Their children.
Fiscal responsability my ass.
What a freakin joke they have made this give away for shrub's 'base'.
And in typical repug style, they make you believe you're really benefitting, huh?
The whole genius of the GOP strategy is to get nitwits to participate in their own demise, the whole time crowing about doing great things for them.
lindainks55 said:
Feed 'em the line -- it works for many. The 50% of the population who fall BELOW the average in intelligence...
Gary, I find a product called IGNORE works well.
Our roof is on and today they predict potentially nasty storms. Wouldn't THAT be a kick in the teeth!?
I have computer problems. I don't have enough knowledge to describe the problems let alone attempt a fix. Time to feed a teenage grandson. They love grandma's cooking. And, I can bake something to take home... OK, that's a plan.
Gary, I find a product called IGNORE works well.
Our roof is on and today they predict potentially nasty storms. Wouldn't THAT be a kick in the teeth!?
I have computer problems. I don't have enough knowledge to describe the problems let alone attempt a fix. Time to feed a teenage grandson. They love grandma's cooking. And, I can bake something to take home... OK, that's a plan.
Danny said:
Linda,
Isn't that what grandkids are for(or in my kid or kid-in-law). Seems I do the computer work for food from: my mom or my mom-in-law.
Isn't that what grandkids are for(or in my kid or kid-in-law). Seems I do the computer work for food from: my mom or my mom-in-law.
tracyaphillips said:
Sorry for the snarky tone of my comments as of late.
But for a hard-core GOP to come around and talk about this nation's fiscal responability, well....
that's enough to get me started.
I wonder if Mr. Debate wants to talk about the S&L scandal that the shrubies cost the taxpayers BILLIONS with?
Can we 'debate' that?
But for a hard-core GOP to come around and talk about this nation's fiscal responability, well....
that's enough to get me started.
I wonder if Mr. Debate wants to talk about the S&L scandal that the shrubies cost the taxpayers BILLIONS with?
Can we 'debate' that?
tracyaphillips said:
The grandkids must just be more disposable humanity to the present admin.
Why else would we cripple them with our debt?
Why else would we cripple them with our debt?
lindainks55 said:
I don't see any indication there is much more than the party line and talking points behind that poster. Well, plus an attitude. Like I said yesterday if that's what s/he thinks is financial responsibility and accountability and fiscally conservative... There is no (use) arguing -- and arguing, not debate, is what the posts indicate. Someone who truly wants to discuss, banter around points and counterpoints doesn't begin with those kinds of posts. S/He and Nathan have much in common so maybe they'll find one another.
tracyaphillips said:
Linda, I've resigned myself to being poor and mediocre in all things.
My only wish is that my children and grandchildren have the same chance at success that my parents had.
My only wish is that my children and grandchildren have the same chance at success that my parents had.
Danny said:
Tracy,
You said, "Linda, I've resigned myself to being poor and mediocre in all things.
My only wish is that my children and grandchildren have the same chance at success that my parents had."
I do not know what kind of computer you have, or operating system you have. However, if you are interested and willing to try, might I recommend looking into KPL(with this my 8 year old neice made a pong game) or Visual Studio express editions(especially C#) and learning a computer language for the fun of it. Doing something similar for me while in highschool was what made me decide that I should also major in computer science.
I only say this, because I've done things on for the fun of that I'll never make money on(most likely), but I absolutely enjoy and those who use it like some of the things I've written also. For instance, I've made my own sudoku program, and I've also made a multiplayer collection of card games. At the same time, I've made some money on the side writing applications for specific purposes(a little Windows Mobile app that tracks gas mileage and oil consumption and graphs that data to help the user predict if something is starting to go wrong with a vehicle for instance).
Thing is, I know anybody can do it. It just takes a little time understanding the sematics of the language of choice and reading a few fun websites online. :D
If you are interested in something like this let me know, I'll point you to any and all resources I've used to teach myself concepts and good websites that have lots of examples.
I only mentioned the above programs because they are free. The one I used in highschool wasn't bad, and if you linux I also know of free tools that can be used there also.
I think one of the co-creators of this website, on his blog also talks about some interesting programming concepts. (Though he doesn't seem to like Windows, and I don't know why that is at all... ;) )
You said, "Linda, I've resigned myself to being poor and mediocre in all things.
My only wish is that my children and grandchildren have the same chance at success that my parents had."
I do not know what kind of computer you have, or operating system you have. However, if you are interested and willing to try, might I recommend looking into KPL(with this my 8 year old neice made a pong game) or Visual Studio express editions(especially C#) and learning a computer language for the fun of it. Doing something similar for me while in highschool was what made me decide that I should also major in computer science.
I only say this, because I've done things on for the fun of that I'll never make money on(most likely), but I absolutely enjoy and those who use it like some of the things I've written also. For instance, I've made my own sudoku program, and I've also made a multiplayer collection of card games. At the same time, I've made some money on the side writing applications for specific purposes(a little Windows Mobile app that tracks gas mileage and oil consumption and graphs that data to help the user predict if something is starting to go wrong with a vehicle for instance).
Thing is, I know anybody can do it. It just takes a little time understanding the sematics of the language of choice and reading a few fun websites online. :D
If you are interested in something like this let me know, I'll point you to any and all resources I've used to teach myself concepts and good websites that have lots of examples.
I only mentioned the above programs because they are free. The one I used in highschool wasn't bad, and if you linux I also know of free tools that can be used there also.
I think one of the co-creators of this website, on his blog also talks about some interesting programming concepts. (Though he doesn't seem to like Windows, and I don't know why that is at all... ;) )
lindainks55 said:
The last few posts are perfect examples of how the same words can be read and interpreted differently.
Danny read Tracy's last post to indicate he wanted better computer understanding / capabilities for his children and grandchildren.
I read Tracy's last post as a comment on the high debt burden being left to future generations.
Danny read Tracy's last post to indicate he wanted better computer understanding / capabilities for his children and grandchildren.
I read Tracy's last post as a comment on the high debt burden being left to future generations.
Danny said:
Linda,
I read it differently, but I also skipped to the bottom really fast, and then went back up and re-read some things. And boy was I ever off base. However, I think I interpreted what he said as applying to everything, and so I am willing to help improve something I can, that could affect him personally, and anybody else who wants to listen to the ranting of a CS and CJ major. LOL
I read it differently, but I also skipped to the bottom really fast, and then went back up and re-read some things. And boy was I ever off base. However, I think I interpreted what he said as applying to everything, and so I am willing to help improve something I can, that could affect him personally, and anybody else who wants to listen to the ranting of a CS and CJ major. LOL
Loading....