Disqus - Latest Comments for Joel_101

Re: Basic, Quality Care for Women is at Stake

Joel_101 — Sun, 21 Sep 2008 04:08:46 -0000

I'll have to research - but if true - I will scream

Doctors are doctors - they are not supposed to have a choice once they take their oath - hmmm, have to check and see it there still is an oath... That would be bad too

Re: Have We Covered the “Angry Woman” Stance Enough Yet?

Joel_101 — Sat, 20 Sep 2008 00:00:13 -0000

Not really, McCain's temper was covered several times by O'Reilly during the primaries. It's kind of a dead issue as everyone knows he has one :)

O'Reilly even called McCain a liar on his spanish ad today.

As fo sexism - O'Reilly has plenty of strong, smart women from both sides of the political fence on his show - almost daily.

He is deffinately a "contact sport" journalist - but I do not see any sexism - As for this particular incident - he had been told by call ins to his radio show that she was angry - he was just trying to see what others thought. Hillary's campain even stated that his interview of her was the most fair of all her interviews.

Fox is no way perfect, but I do see more balance as compared to, let's say - Anderson Cooper.

Regardless - I probably have a different view of media anyway - you know - seek the truth and don't take anything at face value.

Re: Have We Covered the “Angry Woman” Stance Enough Yet?

Joel_101 — Fri, 19 Sep 2008 20:14:30 -0000

Am I blind?

Where is the sexism and racism?

Sarah Palin is strong, educated and accomplished, yet you ran her under the bus. I would bet that if Palin were a liberal Dem and Obama was a right wing rep - you would run her under the bus too.

You are of course entitled to your opinion, as I am also - but where oh where is there any objectivity here?

Re: Obama’s Record on Protection Against Sexual Assault

Joel_101 — Thu, 18 Sep 2008 18:15:48 -0000

First I want to say that I support education and legislation that protects anyone against abuse or violence.

Second, I do not agree with any parties ads that have even the slightest bit of deception included in them.

This particular ad:

The bill never went anywhere – how can it be an accomplishment?
I read the bill.
http://www.ilga.gov/legislation/BillStatus.asp?...
It was intended to amend already existing laws.

“Synopsis As Introduced
Amends the School Code and the Critical Health Problems and Comprehensive Health Education Act. Changes and adds criteria that sex education classes and comprehensive health education programs must satisfy. Amends the State Mandates Act to require implementation without reimbursement. Effective immediately.”

One passage that I assume the ad is based upon:

7 (a) If any school district provides courses of
8 instruction designed to promote wholesome and comprehensive
9 understanding of the emotional, psychological, physiological,
10 hygienic and social responsibility aspects of family life,
11 then such courses of instruction shall include the teaching
12 of prevention of unintended pregnancy and all options related
13 to unintended pregnancy, as the alternatives to abortion,
14 appropriate to the various grade levels; and whenever such
15 courses of instruction are provided in any of grades K 6
16 through 12, then such courses also shall include age
17 appropriate instruction on the prevention of sexually
18 transmitted infections, including the prevention,
19 transmission and spread of HIV AIDS. However, no pupil shall
20 be required to take or participate in any family life class
21 or course on HIV AIDS instruction if his parent or guardian
22 submits written objection thereto, and refusal to take or
23 participate in such course or program shall not be reason for
24 suspension or expulsion of such pupil.

I also read what age appropriate sex education is to some:
http://firstread.msnbc.msn.com/archive/2007/07/...
http://www.siecus.org/
http://www.siecus.org/_data/global/images/Right...
http://www.siecus.org/_data/global/images/guide...

One will have to make up their own minds on what is considered “age appropriate”.
-------------
Senators can not pass laws.
-------------
How a Bill Becomes a Law – similar for state legislature
Introduction:
Member of Congress introduces legislation. The official process begins when a bill is numbered, ("H.R." signifies a bill originating in the U.S. House of Representatives and "S." signifies a bill originating in the U.S. Senate) referred to a committee and printed.

Step 1. Referral to Committee:
A bill is referred to standing committee in House or Senate. The referral is determined by which committee, or committees, has jurisdiction over the issues addressed in the bill.

Step 2. Committee Action:
When a bill reaches a committee, it is placed on the committee’s calendar. If the committee chairperson decides not to hear a bill, or act upon it in some other way, it is the equivalent of killing it.

Step 3: Subcommittee Review:
Often, bills are referred to a subcommittee. Hearings held at the subcommittee or committee level allow the views of the executive branch, other public officials, experts, supporters and opponents to be put on the record.

Step 4. Mark Up:
After hearings are held, the subcommittee may "mark up" the bill (make changes or add amendments) prior to recommending it to the full committee. If a subcommittee votes not to report the bill to the full committee, the bill dies.

Step 5. Committee Action:
After receiving the subcommittee’s report on the bill, the full committee can conduct further hearings, or it can vote and "order the bill reported" to the respective chamber where the bill originated: House or Senate.

Step 6. Written Report:
After the bill is reported, committee staff prepares a report on the bill describing the intent and scope of the legislation.

Step 7. Scheduling Floor Action:
The bill is placed in chronological order on a calendar. The House keeps several legislative calendars, and the Speaker of the House and the Majority Leader largely determine if, when and in what order bills come before the House. In the Senate, there is only one legislative calendar.

Step 8. Debate:
When a bill reaches the floor of the House or Senate, the chamber must vote on the rules determining the amount of time allocated for debate on the bill.

Step 9. Voting:
After debate and approval of any amendments, the chamber votes. Votes may be recorded electronically or by voice vote. A recorded or "roll call" vote contains the names of members who vote for or against the bill, or who did not vote at all. A voice vote is a simple "aye" or "no" and the presiding officer in the chamber determines the result. If a bill is non-controversial, or has been reviewed sufficiently by each member of Congress before even reaching the floor, it can be voted on without scheduling any debate. This is called "unanimous consent" or "suspension of the rules."

Step 10. Referral:
When the House or Senate passes a bill, it is referred to the other chamber which may approve the bill, reject it, ignore it or change it through the same committee or subcommittee action as described above.

Step 11. Conference Committee:
If the opposite chamber only makes minor changes, the legislation goes back to the originating chamber for approval of the changes. However, if the bill has been significantly altered, a conference committee with members from both chambers is formed to reconcile the differences. If the conferees can reach an agreement, a conference report is prepared, if not, the bill dies.

Step 12. Presidential Action:
After a bill has been passed in identical forms through the House and Senate (or reported out of a conference committee), it is sent to the President who may either sign it into law or veto (reject) it. If Congress is in session and the President takes no action, it automatically becomes law. If Congress has already adjourned its second session and the President takes no action, it is called a "pocket veto" and the bill is rejected.

Step 13: Overriding a Veto:
Congress may attempt to override a presidential veto, which requires a two-thirds majority roll call vote.
----------------------------
Q: What does it mean when I ask my legislators to "co-sponsor" a bill. Is this really important?
A: A co-sponsor is a representative or senator who joins the primary sponsor(s) in supporting a piece of legislation. Although it is not necessarily true that a bill needs many co-sponsors to pass, a large amount of co-sponsors indicates the bill has widespread support.
----------------------------

Obama Passed Law to Help Combat Violence Against Women. [109th, HR 3402 (S. 1197), Passed by Unanimous Consent, 12/16/05; PL 109-162, 1/5/06]
http://www.govtrack.us/congress/bill.xpd?bill=s...

Obama Passed A Law To Create The Victims Economic Security And Safety Act. [93rd GA; HB 3486; 3R P 58-0-0, 5/20/03; Signed into law 8/25/03, PA 93-0591; Chicago Tribune, 8/20/03; University Wire, 8/22/03]
http://www.ilga.gov/legislation/billstatus.asp?...

Obama Passed Law To Increase Penalties For Repeat Domestic Offenders. [92nd GA; HB 4081; 2002; Signed into law 8/22/02, PA 92-0827]
http://www.ilga.gov/legislation/legisnet92/stat...

Obama Passed Law To Increase Penalties For Committing Battery In Or Near A Domestic Violence Shelter. [92nd GA, SB 0175, 3/29/01, 3R P; 55-0-0; P.A. 92-0516, 1/1/02; 91st GA, SB 1406, Session Sine Die, 1/9/01]
http://www.ilga.gov/legislation/legisnet92/stat...
http://www.ilga.gov/legislation/legisnet91/stat...

Obama Passed Law Improving "No Contact" Court Procedures in Domestic Abuse Petitions. [93rd, HB4395, 3R: 57-0-0, 5/5/04; PA 93-0811, 7/26/04]
http://www.ilga.gov/legislation/BillStatus.asp?...

Obama Passed Law Requiring Clear Language be Included in Emergency Orders of Protection. [93rd GA, SB2495, 3R: 57-0-0, 3/25/04; Concurrence: 53-0-0, 5/26/04 PA 93-0944, 8/17/04]
http://www.ilga.gov/legislation/BillStatus.asp?...

Obama Passed Law Raising Standards Related to Domestic Violence. [91st GA, SB0850, 1999, PA 91-0163, 99-07-16]
http://www.ilga.gov/legislation/legisnet91/stat...

Obama Passed The Dru Sjodin National Sex Offender Public Database Act of 2005. [109th, S. 792, Passed by Unanimous Consent, 7/28/05; Referred to House Subcommittee, 9/19/05; Aberdeen American News, 10/6/06]
http://www.govtrack.us/congress/bill.xpd?bill=s...

Obama Passed A Bill To Protect Children From Known Sex Offenders. [109th, S. 1086, Passed by Unanimous Consent, 5/4/06; Held at desk, 5/8/06]
http://www.govtrack.us/congress/bill.xpd?bill=s...

Obama Passed Law Expanding Rights Of Alleged Victims of Sexual Assault. [93rd, HB4771, 2004, Third Reading: 5/19/2004, PA 93-0958 8/20/2004]
http://www.ilga.gov/legislation/BillStatus.asp?...

Obama Passed A Law To Make Administering A Date Rape Drug Aggravated Battery As Well As An Aggravating Offense To Criminal Sexual Assault. [90th GA, SB 1224, 3R P 54-0-0, 3/24/98; HA 1 Concur P 55-0-1, 5/20/98; PA 90-0735, 8/11/98]
http://www.ilga.gov/legislation/legisnet90/stat...
http://www.ilga.gov/senate/transcripts/strans90...

Obama Passed A Law to Expand the Definitions of "Sex Offender" and "Sex Offense" and Mandate Offender Disclosure. [92nd GA, HB 5874, 3R P 55-0-0, 5/7/02; Adopt CC Report P 54-0-1, 5/31/03; PA 92- 0828, 8/22/02]
http://www.ilga.gov/legislation/legisnet92/stat...

Obama Passed Law to Require EMS For Sexual Assault Survivors To Include Coverage For Emergency Contraception. [92nd GA; SB 0114; 2001; Signed into law 7/25/01, PA 92-0156]
http://www.ilga.gov/legislation/legisnet92/stat...

Obama Passed a Bill Eliminating Good Behavior Time For Sex Offenders. [91st GA, SB 0485, 3/11/99, 3R P; 54-1-2; P.A. 91-0117, 7/15/99; Senate Floor Transcript, 3/11/99, p. 74]
http://www.ilga.gov/legislation/legisnet91/stat...
http://www.ilga.gov/senate/transcripts/strans91...

Obama Passed Law to Extend Statute Of Limitations On Certain Sexual Offenses. [91st GA; HB 0329; 1999; Signed into law 8/11/99, PA 91-0475]
http://www.ilga.gov/legislation/legisnet91/stat...

Obama Sponsored Illinois Senate Version Of The Bill That Would Seal Sexual Assault Victim's Records. [91st GA, SB 943, 1999, 3R P 58-0-0, 3/23/99, Total Veto Stands, 11/18/99]
http://www.ilga.gov/legislation/legisnet91/stat...

SB 943 Was Amended To Include The Exact Bill Language Of HB 854 Before Obama Signed On As A Sponsor. [91st GA, SB 943, 1999, 3R P 58-0-0, 3/23/99, Total Veto Stands, 11/18/99]
http://www.ilga.gov/legislation/legisnet91/stat...
http://www.ilga.gov/legislation/legisnet91/stat...

Obama Passed Equal Pay Act In Illinois To Give 330,000 More Women Protection From Pay Discrimination. [93rd GA; SB 0002; 2003; Signed into law, 5/11/03, PA 93-0006; AP, 5/11/03; Chicago Tribune, 5/8/03; Chicago Tribune, 5/12/03]
http://www.ilga.gov/legislation/BillStatus.asp?...

Obama Passed A Law To Create The Victims Economic Security And Safety Act. [93rd GA; HB 3486; 3R P 58-0-0, 5/20/03; Signed into law 8/25/03, PA 93-0591; Chicago Tribune, 8/20/03; University Wire, 8/22/03]
http://www.ilga.gov/legislation/BillStatus.asp?...

Obama Passed Into Law a Requirement that Women And Minority Scientists/Engineers Be Represented And Consulted on Specific Technology and Science Efforts. [S.Amdts. 923, Agreed to by unanimous consent, 4/25/07; S. 761, Incorporated into H.R. 2272, which became P.L. 110-289, 8/9/07]
http://www.govtrack.us/congress/bill.xpd?bill=s...
http://www.govtrack.us/congress/bill.xpd?bill=h...
http://www.govtrack.us/congress/amendment.xpd?s...

Obama Passed Into Law An Amendment Creating A Mentoring Program For Women And Underrepresented Groups At DOE. [S.Amdts. 905, Agreed to by unanimous consent, 4/25/07, S. 761, Incorporated into H.R. 2272, which became P.L. 110-289, 8/9/07]
http://www.govtrack.us/congress/bill.xpd?bill=s...
http://www.govtrack.us/congress/bill.xpd?bill=h...
http://www.govtrack.us/congress/amendment.xpd?s...

The last 2 are the same bill – Obama actually submitted 3 of the 80 amendments to the bill.

Dru’s Law was never passed by itself – It was included in the “Adam Walsh Protection and Safety Act”, which was signed into law by President Bush, 27 July 2007.
http://www.drusvoice.com/law/
http://www.govtrack.us/congress/bill.xpd?bill=h...

Re: Vote for Change: Get Out and Vote!

Joel_101 — Thu, 18 Sep 2008 18:09:09 -0000

U.S. Election Assistance Commission
http://www.eac.gov/index_html1
http://www.eac.gov/voter/Register%20to%20Vote
http://www.fabnit.com/nvra_update.pdf

McCain Site for voter registration
https://secure.johnmccain.com/ActionCenter/Regi...

Obama Site for voter registration
http://www.voteforchange.com/index_obama.php

Note – both McCain and Obama sites can be used regardless of party affiliation – includes Green, Socialist, Independent, etc….

Re: Vote for Change: Get Out and Vote!

Joel_101 — Thu, 18 Sep 2008 17:48:04 -0000

Holly,

Check the Obama issues link - doesn't seem to work for me

Re: Obama’s Record on Protection Against Sexual Assault

Joel_101 — Wed, 17 Sep 2008 04:43:05 -0000

Actually if you read the floor transcripts for that vote - you will see that obama made a mistake and requested it be changed - He pushed the wrong button

[91st GA, SB 0485, 3/11/99, 3R P; 54-1-2; P.A. 91-0117, 7/15/99; Senate Floor Transcript, 3/11/99, p. 74]
http://www.ilga.gov/legislation/legisnet91/stat...
http://www.ilga.gov/senate/transcripts/strans91...

Re: Do You Agree with the Bush Doctrine? Well, Do You?

Joel_101 — Sun, 14 Sep 2008 22:29:41 -0000

Here are some more diverse links –right-center-left

http://zfacts.com/p/677.html
http://www.sourcewatch.org/index.php?title=Bush...
http://www.motherjones.com/commentary/columns/2...
http://www.perrspectives.com/blog/archives/0001...
http://www.tompaine.com/articles/the_new_bush_d...
http://www.brookings.edu/opinions/2006/12diplom...
http://www.slate.com/id/2200090/
http://www.harrybrowne.org/articles/BushDoctrin...

What exactly is the Bush doctrine? Those references in Wikipedia existed before Palin was interviewed. Unless of course there is a conspiracy to define that doctrine that has lasted for almost 7 years and has involved left/right media sources and many authors.

I do not consider myself right or left. I don’t make decisions based upon any party or that parties views. Nor do I base my decisions on the spew that comes forth from much of mass media and biased blogs on the internet. I am an equal opportunity questioner of all things and when I see someone being trampled unfairly, I usually say something. That includes defending you and your right to have and voice your opinion.

As for propaganda, what was this original post about?

You seem to have no problem slinging propaganda that you agree with, but when a different view, opinion, or thought provoking statement is made that is contrary to your own, it is wrong because you do not agree with it.

I do not sulk and quite frankly I thought you were bigger, better, and more intelligent than that.

Re: Do You Agree with the Bush Doctrine? Well, Do You?

Joel_101 — Sun, 14 Sep 2008 14:48:09 -0000

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bush_Doctrine

Re: Obligatory 9/11 Post: The 9/11 Myth

Joel_101 — Fri, 12 Sep 2008 17:52:27 -0000

Holly,

I can't count the number of these videos and so called evidence I have examined over the past several years. So yes, I watched it. My best friend, a fellow veteran, and I debated this for almost 4 years, digging real deep to find truths. After it was all said and done, we could find no conclusive evidence to support a government conspiracy. I suggest to you that no one has or will find conclusive evidence and if you would please take the time to check the link I posted on this, you may understand why.

So I can not in good conscience attribute any guilt at this time.

Re: The Rise of Sarah Palin is Like a Really Bad Disney Movie

Joel_101 — Fri, 12 Sep 2008 17:04:04 -0000

No more upsurd or scary than electing a president with less credentials?

Re: Obligatory 9/11 Post: The 9/11 Myth

Joel_101 — Fri, 12 Sep 2008 16:57:25 -0000

I did say thought provoking. Like you and many others I question our government. I can see dangerous waters if eyes are removed from this legislation. 9/11 was just the impetus for this legislation. After almost 7 years I still do not see any significant evidence that big brother is usurping the powers under that act to do anything except what was intended, to combat terrorism. Are mistakes made? Yes.

I applaud speaking up and questioning issues, even if I do not agree. I do not want to watch our civil liberties abused. Unfortunately I understand the need for certain portions of this legislation. Apparently, so did a majority of our elected officials, not just the President. Both candidates support the act.

This legislation was and is a tough decision. Critics of anything like this would be just as critical if it did not exist and people lost lives because of it. Where do we find the balance of protecting our liberties and protecting lives? I do not know the answer.

Innocent until proven guilty is something many of us like to say when we or others are confronted with legal issues. Unfortunately, many think otherwise when it’s an issue where they are the victim. To be fair to our government as well to its citizens, I believe that all are innocent until proven guilty. If we are going to be for something, it should not include exceptions, or should it?

Some more provoking thought

Re: The Media’s Ignorance Towards Violence Against Women & Honor Killings

Joel_101 — Fri, 12 Sep 2008 06:53:46 -0000

A perfect example of why we all should be afraid of the worldwide spread of sharia law.

Re: Obligatory 9/11 Post: The 9/11 Myth

Joel_101 — Fri, 12 Sep 2008 03:54:10 -0000

The following is my opinion. It may include links to sites that may provoke thought and challenge others opinions. In no way am I trying to say or imply that I am right or wrong.

I too will give you something to think about.

The first thing I want everyone to think about is what would happen in many other countries if we expressed contrary views, thoughts, and opinions (factual or not)?

Regardless of gender, our doors would be kicked in, we and our families would be beaten, raped, tortured (drilling of body parts, flaying, electrocution, amputations, breaking of bones, and many other things), imprisoned or killed without a trial. Ask yourself why many people who protest the actions in their countries do it from another country. The people in those countries without any kind of rights know the true meaning of fear.

“There is no excuse…..”
---
Maybe, maybe not, but there are explanations.

9/11 – we were attacked by Islamic terrorists.
Iraq/Afghanistan – The U.S. and other countries are fighting a global war on terrorism. Although those two countries seem to maintain or make the news media headlines, they are not the only countries around the world that the U.S. and other nations are waging that global war on terrorism.

People usually die in both. Friends and family of the deceased are affected by their passing. Survivors are usually traumatized. Observers can also be traumatized.

The U.S. as a country, nor its government, is not consumed with war, greed, tragedy, death, oil, lack of money, foreclosures, or lost jobs. Individuals in both can be consumed or not with any of the aforementioned.
---
International terrorism is a fact, not fiction. 9/11 was not the beginning, nor the end, of terrorist attacks against the U.S. or other sovereign nations.
---
Americans should at the very least educate themselves and be aware of the threat. Hurricanes threaten coastal dwellers, but those people do not live in fear or they would move where there is no threat. I could use a sexual predator analogy as well.
---
One persons brainwashing is another’s education or awareness. See hurricane analogy above.
---
The Patriot Act, changes to the Patriot Act and other legislation that empowers the government to act quickly to threats are not sneaky. Our elected officials have to vote and the judiciary has to approve these things. Do I agree with all provisions? No. Do I think some are necessary? Yes. What I fear in the above is lack of judicial oversight.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/USA_PATRIOT_Act
http://www.aclu.org/safefree/resources/17343res...
---
I was in the Brussels IAP during the late 70’s when a group of terrorists started throwing grenades. They sure did not look like Americans to me. I could relate dozens of other first hand encounters/stories on this topic, but do not need to.
---
I check out my windows several times a day/night (seriously) – no one is spying on me. My phones can’t be tapped in the conventional sense without me knowing about it – and still no one has done it. Phone conversations have been monitored by keyword methods for a long time, particularly international calls. I would hazard that every country with the technology does the same thing. Email and internet traffic is also monitored.

Probable cause allows law enforcement to do things, it always has. Terrorism is an immediate threat and judicial delays can cost lives etc… Are mistakes made? Yes. Mistakes are made by law enforcement over probable cause in non-terror related things daily. If a friend of mine was being attacked or raped I would not hesitate to stop it – even if that meant kicking down a door. If I was in law enforcement and I had tactical (immediate) information that someone had kidnapped a child and was in house X on street Y, I would not hesitate to kick down that door either.

Terrorist watch lists have existed for a long time. Only now they are bigger and electronic, which can create mistakes. I hear this argument occasionally, but I wonder why the U.S. still has most wanted lists by the FBI and DOJ and no one complains. I also do not hear many complaints about law enforcement having data bases of criminals. I suppose the sexual predator list is also unfair. Nothing is perfect, and we can not have our cake and eat it too under any of these circumstances.

I am sorry for anyone that feels ashamed of the U.S. and my usual reply is to tell the person to go live in Somalia for two years. Or some other messed up country. It’s hard to appreciate something you take for granted, even if it’s not perfect.

I am sorry for anyone that feels ashamed of President Bush. Having spent my military career from Carter to Clinton, I was never ashamed of my Presidents, even when I did not agree with them. All of them did (remember – my opinion) good and bad things. After all, not only were they human, they had to make tough decisions that did not always turn out the way they intended. I still carry a bit of a grudge against Clinton for what happened in Somalia, but I also recognize some of the good things he did.

If anyone thinks that McCain or Obama are going to do anything to radically change the global war on terror, I would challenge you to dig deeper and to think. History is weird and like 9/11, people tend to forget things like Waco, Ruby Ridge, Desert One, and other fiascos/failures, as well as successes. Presidents have always been faced with problems and tough decisions regardless of their political party.

A site that challenges 9/11 myth/fact.
http://www.911myths.com/index.html

Terrorism attacks – Just some – too many to list here
http://www.state.gov/r/pa/ho/pubs/fs/5902.htm
http://www.johnstonsarchive.net/terrorism/wrjp2...
http://www.freerepublic.com/focus/fr/608775/posts
http://www.johnstonsarchive.net/terrorism/wrjp2...

I am always reminded of a quote from Benjamin Franklin:

“They who would give up an essential liberty for temporary security, deserve neither liberty or security.”

I always wonder if he were alive today, would he still say the same thing. I suppose if we Americans still had the same values (Religion and pro-life) and we were all armed and willing to defend ourselves and this country………………

Just some thought provoking words

Re: John McCain Doesn’t Support the Troops

Joel_101 — Fri, 12 Sep 2008 01:34:57 -0000

I am a veteran and I am not upset at McCain’s vote on this particular bill.

1. The bill did not support troops after the Vietnam era bill expired thru the present. It only addressed the post 9/11 troops.
2. McCain did not think the bill went far enough, nor did it address issues of retention or transferability to other family members.
3. McCain does support veterans. Just do the digging on his voting record.
4. No – the current GI Bill is not the same one that started post WWII. There have been a several different changes since that in particular addressed education benefits. Facts not opinion - http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gi_bill

Re: Sarah Palin is Not a Feminist

Joel_101 — Tue, 09 Sep 2008 04:34:47 -0000

I do not necessarily agree.

My parents divorced when I was 11, just before my father passed away.
My only sibling was a female special needs child.
My mother had to work.
We had no immediate family in California.

My mother made it work with supportive friends and using me to care for my sister after school.

Now:

I am a single father of 4 children, 2 of which are minors.
Their mother passed away 10 years ago this December.
I am disabled and recently (a year ago) unemployed.
I have no living immediate family beyond my children.
My oldest daughter lives close by.
I do not draw from social security or welfare.

We make it work.

Women are not the only ones in a family that are responsible for raising the children. Not to mention there are other options such as nannies, etc…

Re: Gloria Steinem on Sarah Palin

Joel_101 — Tue, 09 Sep 2008 03:56:59 -0000

It’s not about whether I am right or wrong – it’s about facts and provoking people to think. I am not opposed to others views, I actually cherish and respect them. The points “she brought up are true” are questionable. Expressing my opinions on a subject, just as you do, is not an inference of who is right or wrong. I don’t play games, nor do I consider myself right about everything. Given my age, I have been wrong about many things and 10 years from now I will have found that there is even more I have been wrong about.

“This isn't the first time a boss has picked an unqualified woman just because she agrees with him and opposes everything most other women want and need.”

“Unqualified woman”

Governors that became president:

Andrew Jackson
William Harrison
William Taft
Thomas Jefferson
James Monroe
John Tyler
Martin Van Buren
Andrew Johnson
Rutherford Hayes
Grover Cleveland
William McKinley
Theodore Roosevelt
Woodrow Wilson
Calvin Coolidge
Franklin Delano Roosevelt
Ronald Reagan
Jimmy Carter
Bill Clinton
George W. Bush

I won’t bother to list Vice Presidents – because the issue appears to be related to whether Palin is qualified to assume the duties of president.

“Palin's value to those patriarchs is clear: She opposes just about every issue that women support by a majority or plurality. She believes that creationism should be taught in public schools but disbelieves global warming; she opposes gun control but supports government control of women's wombs; she opposes stem cell research but approves "abstinence-only" programs, which increase unwanted births, sexually transmitted diseases and abortions; she tried to use taxpayers' millions for a state program to shoot wolves from the air but didn't spend enough money to fix a state school system with the lowest high-school graduation rate in the nation; she runs with a candidate who opposes the Fair Pay Act but supports $500 million in subsidies for a natural gas pipeline across Alaska; she supports drilling in the Arctic National Wildlife Reserve, though even McCain has opted for the lesser evil of offshore drilling.

“She opposes just about every issue that women support by a majority or plurality”
I can not find any supporting evidence of this claim.

“She believes that creationism should be taught in public schools”
“Teach both. You know, don't be afraid of information. Healthy debate is so important, and it's so valuable in our schools. I am a proponent of teaching both."

“disbelieves global warming”
Not at all – she, like others, question the human contribution or not to global warming. Given that there are significant numbers of scientists and climatologists that support both notions, it’s hard to hold this against anyone. It’s not a question of whether global warming exists; it’s a question of why and how that is in disagreement worldwide.

“she opposes gun control”
So?

“supports government control of women's wombs’
Is pro-life, yet has never enacted any legislation to force her belief on others.

“she opposes stem cell research”
She opposes the expansion of only one small segment of stem cell research - embryonic stem cell research.

“approves "abstinence-only" programs, which increase unwanted births, sexually transmitted diseases and abortions”
"Explicit sex-ed programs will not find my support” – she supports comprehensive sex education which includes abstinence.

“she tried to use taxpayers' millions for a state program to shoot wolves from the air”
Wolves are a predator species, and if their population is allowed to expand too fast, they will wipe out Alaska's population of moose and caribou. The state needs to keep close track of the wolf population, which is why they are offering a bounty for each head.

“didn't spend enough money to fix a state school system with the lowest high-school graduation rate in the nation”
http://www.ontheissues.org/2008/Sarah_Palin_Edu...

“she runs with a candidate who opposes the Fair Pay Act”
He has reasons to oppose the act and he is not alone.
http://www.govtrack.us/congress/bill.xpd?bill=s...
http://money.cnn.com/2007/06/04/magazines/fortu...

“supports $500 million in subsidies for a natural gas pipeline across Alaska”
Yes

“she supports drilling in the Arctic National Wildlife Reserve”
As do many Alaskans

Re: Sarah Palin is Not a Feminist

Joel_101 — Mon, 08 Sep 2008 21:52:38 -0000

Well - Having served for over 20 years - the last 12 in special operations and an additional 10 years after that as a contract employee in special operations, I do not agree.

In my opinion - your comment belittles women (and men) in the military.

I have served with women on the front lines and beyond and never once did I consider them any different. So, even though by law they can not occupy combat arms specialties, they are there. Tactical Communications jamming and interception, interrogators, medics, doctors, truck drivers, and this list could get very long.

This battlefield dynamic exposing everyone to enemy fire etc... did not start with the current conflicts. Do I need to cite historical examples ?

That argument as to why not have women in combat arms specialties is getting old - That and the other one about popular opinion when seeing dead women come home in body bags.

I respect your opinion, please respect mine.

Re: Gloria Steinem on Sarah Palin

Joel_101 — Mon, 08 Sep 2008 02:35:09 -0000

I suppose that since Gloria Steinem said it it must be true ?

Re: Target Women: The Sarah Palin Edition

Joel_101 — Sun, 07 Sep 2008 15:42:40 -0000

In my opinion, people seem to forget that campaign issues and promises can be hard to keep once elected.

I have thoroughly kept up with both sides during the last 16-18 months and have my own issues with how either will enact or do what they say. I have been through both sides voting history in office and examined their characters. I’ve watched the primary debates of both parties, interviews, speeches and both conventions. Given this, I don’t consider myself to be uninformed. To add to this, I also reeducated myself on the last several decades of party history and the economy.

Given everything here is what I think:

Obama has some good ideas that may not be his own and he is weak in character. He’s an excellent speaker with charisma and appeals to target groups that he knows he can influence with his words/ideas. Obama has a voting record that would suggest he is all democrat and then some. Obama’s bipartisan record is very slim and an interesting note is that some things only appear after he decided to run for president. Obama has very little leadership background.

McCain has some good ideas that may not be his own and he is strong in character. He’s a mediocre speaker with little charisma and appeals to target groups he knows he can influence with his words/ideas. McCain has a voting record that suggests he follows something other than the Republican Party line. McCain’s bipartisan record is very large and is apparent over many years. McCain has an extensive leadership background.

The key differences above: Character, conscience, history, bipartisanship and leadership.

Both have diverse histories and backgrounds. Beyond all the slogans, McCain is no more part of the Bush administration than is Obama. Obama and McCain’s stated tax reform are both bad in the long run. Many politicians claiming pro-life, are not, they just take that stance for personal gain. Both are for equal rights for women. They both “get it”.

We need to look beyond the rhetoric of the campaigns as well as the garbage that the media slants. We need to investigate for ourselves. We as Americans need to stop being lemmings. Change is only a theme of the Obama campaign – McCain has been talking about change during this campaign and historically. Neither party thinks the American people are stupid.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/History_of_the_Uni...

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/History_of_the_Uni...

Key issues facing our country: (not necessarily in any order)

Economy – includes jobs, health care etc…
Security – Includes the war(s) and other projections of the military around the world and defense of the nation.
Education – Grades 1-12 and beyond.
Energy – includes independence from foreign energy and climate issues etc..
Government reform – I throw this in only because to address all the others effectively – this has to happen too.

I did not put equality here – why? – It’s been law for many years. Changes to those laws fall under government reform.

Big myth – the economy is the fault of the Bush administration over the last 8 years. Actually, this is very complex and much of the fault is our own, the people, as well as institutions (banking) that we trusted. The economy is so large that policy changes can take years or decades to have major influence.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Economy_of_the_Uni...

My voting decision will be based on who I know can accomplish the tasks needed to address the issues. It will be based on past demonstrations of accomplishment and sincerity. It will be based on, conscience, history, bipartisanship and leadership ability. It will be based on strength and the ability to make unpopular decisions because they are right.

http://projects.washingtonpost.com/congress/mem...

http://projects.washingtonpost.com/congress/mem...

I have issues with some people’s patriotism, although I support the fact that living in this country allows for that. One thing I do not agree with is burning or other desecration of the American flag as an expression of free speech. Anymore than I would agree that bombing anything, or physical violence against another person, would be an expression of free speech. Speech is what leaves your mouth or is printed on paper, or is electronically represented in cyber space.

http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/ar...

Abortion:

I know where I stand, what I believe and why, and I know that I respect others that have contrary views and their rights as Americans.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/History_of_abortion

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Abortion_debate

http://www.justfacts.com/abortion.asp

http://www.abortiontv.com/index.html

Re: Sarah Palin is Not a Feminist

Joel_101 — Sat, 06 Sep 2008 22:29:01 -0000

I really do not agree with your comments regarding women in the military.

Law prevents them from occupying certain specialties in the military. Many women in the military do not like this fact and someday it will change.

I've seen women bleed on the modern battlefield too and you do all military members as well as all that have sacrificed themselves for this country a disservice with that statement. Women have put their lives at risk for this country since its birth. Honor, courage, duty, and country first is not something that belongs to just men.

As for sexual harassment in the military – that statement isn’t true either. Women are no different in exploiting situations than men in the military. Many of them do get sexually harassed, even by other women.

Re: Sarah Palin is Not a Feminist

Joel_101 — Sat, 06 Sep 2008 00:56:15 -0000

What is freedom ?

How about we do not teach anything in school?
In order to be fair and free - no one should be able to push any single view on anyone else.
I respect your right and freedom to have evolution or other beliefs taught in schools.
Why then can people not accept creationism or other points of view, contrary to their own, be taught along side?

Do we consider our children stupid?
Do we consider our parents not capable of communicating their beliefs to their children?

What is it?

Why should you be any more or less free than anyone else in this country?

One persons fact may be anothers fiction.

As an educated person, is there 100% factual proof that explains how we humans arrived here on planet earth? No, there isn't - from big bang and evolution to creationism and everything in between - it's all theory or faith, not fact.

We had the right to choose for ourselves, should our children be any different?

Re: Target Women: The Sarah Palin Edition

Joel_101 — Fri, 05 Sep 2008 15:10:32 -0000

I do not agree.

Almost every comment I have heard on fox news, associates this whole thing with Hillary as well as Sarah. I can't say the same for some of the other networks. I can't count how many times over the past year plus I have heard comments on fox news about the unfair treatment of Clinton in the mass media.

And I have to agree - Hillary was severely marginalized by media and bloggers and OBAMA.

Re: Sarah Palin is Not a Feminist

Joel_101 — Fri, 05 Sep 2008 11:23:41 -0000

I am a tad confused here.

So she believes that – until she tries to force her belief on me – IT DOESN”T MATTER. There are pro life and pro choice people in both parties. This issue is highly polarizing and divisive and I find it hard to believe (regardless of words) that anyone would try to change it. To overturn Roe vs. Wade would not be simple, nor would it be something achieved in a short amount of time, and it would be fought tooth and nail all around this country. Although I do not believe in abortion for convenience, I do believe in our freedom, consequently, I and many others would protest such action. I have not found any evidence that leads me to believe that she pursued such a thing in the Alaskan legislature over the last two general sessions. There were two bills she might have supported if they made it off the floor. One was for minor children under 17 to require parental consent, and one dealt with partial birth abortion.

Where can I find information besides media rhetoric that says she won’t fund sex education? The only thing I can find is that she supports teaching comprehensive sex education (abstinence as well other) and she opposes explicit sex education. As for me I believe that my children should be presented with everything, allowing them to think for them selves. If my school system leaves something out or adds something I did not already communicate, my children know that they can discuss those matters with me. Interestingly enough, all the non biased surveys of parents in several western countries show that a majority do not approve of explicit sex education. I’ll provide links if necessary.

Where can I find information besides media rhetoric that says she doesn’t support equal pay? Actually – Equal pay is supposed to be covered under The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commissions, equal pay act. http://www.eeoc.gov/types/epa.html

If you are referring to guilt by association with John McCain and his absence and subsequent statement about not signing the bill that would kill the 180 day limit in the Ledbetter supreme court ruling, then you should research why he would not sign it. I found lots of evidence that McCain supports equal pay (even though there is a law already) but does not support some of the consequences of an open ticket on time limitations. Rationally this makes sense, our court systems are already jammed with junk.

---snip---
http://theeprovocateur.blogspot.com/2008/09/equ...

“I think the same goes for the concept of equal pay for equal work now championed by Barack Obama. Barack Obama says that if a woman does the exact same work as a man, she should be paid the exact same amount. In theory, I agree with the Senator. In practice, equal pay for equal work is a nebulous concept that is difficult to determine, even more difficult to legislate, and a total nightmare to enforce. No two employees are the same. Even if they are doing the same job description, they bring different experience and qualifications to the job. There are many reasons why two employees are not paid the same. Yet, government is going to mandate that if one is a woman and the other is a man, they are paid the same.

Obama's idea is yet another well meaning idea that in practical terms will increase government bureaucracy, government intrusion in private business, and worse government corruption. This is exactly the sort of law that those with connections get a pass from and those without one get scrutinization. Barack Obama champions equal pay for equal work but he never says how he will implement such an idea.”
---snip---

If the current labor laws do not work – which include equal opportunity, pay, discrimination, etc… Then lobby to reform the laws.

Here – I’ll get you started. Research, on the internet, for any non-profit groups that already advocate/support your position and get involved with them. If you can’t find any, don’t like the one(s) you find, or just want to start something yourself, research starting a non-profit and get involved. Or you could just start a web page dedicated to the topic. Maybe include links to Congress persons by state etc…. The internet can be your friend, but the key here is to get involved. Misplaced rhetoric and dogma presented as facts won’t get anything accomplished, with the exception of polarizing people that you may want to convince to support the cause/issue etc..

Re: Dirty Old Man

Joel_101 — Wed, 03 Sep 2008 14:22:29 -0000

I never claimed to know more than you – I thought I clearly stated that I could not say. However, I am not unaware of Denmark. I try to base much of what I say upon personal observation/experience as opposed to other sources, not that education/knowledge/research does not impact my thought process.

But you did say “By the way, in Denmark men and women participate almost equally in the workforce.” Which is what prompted my remark about pay scales.

Yet now you say “The numbers stem from the fact that the welfare state milks men to support single mothers and their illegitimate children.” If this is the case your first statement is in error and I retract my remark. I am not trying to attack you, but trying to clarify what exactly it is that you are trying to say here?

The solution to the problem will not be solved here, but I do suggest that there is a solution that could be fair and equitable for all.

In other posts I have referred to individual responsibility. Here in the U.S. there is a similar issue and it is not gender specific, but revolves around the welfare state in general and how it teaches individuals to shirk individual responsibility and rely on the state to be responsible. Why not use the welfare state to empower individuals to take back that responsibility? These are interesting times for developed countries. Virtual work might just be the key to getting dependant individuals back into a workforce. One problem we face in order to do that is to convince business from outsourcing services beyond our nation. This is by no means the only solution to this issue. I once proposed many years ago to a group of people that recipients of welfare that could physically work are forced to earn that welfare check by participating in local workforces to clean up pollution, trash, sweep streets, and/or participate in other local community programs that help others. It was not well received by some, others started to think. Getting people to think about solutions was the intended result. Empowering individuals costs money to – but the end result is different.

Thank you, but I would suggest that many people around the world have diverse life histories and that labels as well as generalizations can be dangerous when one is trying to communicate an idea, point or thought.

I hear a note of frustration and perhaps anger in the tone of some of your words. I do not know you , but I would also suggest (if you haven’t already) that you consider using that for a constructive purpose. Your nation is facing similar problems and issues just like many others, and Denmark has done some remarkable things for the world to see, particularly with wind energy. I can not oppose a welfare state for any nation due to the fact that world population and longevity leads one to the conclusion that ultimately all states/nations may be welfare states/nations. However, I firmly believe that done right, all may benefit and contribute. Will it ever be 100% fair? Never in another 1000 years (prediction). Can we as human beings make it better than it is? I believe we can.