Paul Ryan to Rally at Walsh University Thursday

Glinda Smith August 20, 2012 at 01:20 pm

It's amazing to me that all of sudden, the Republicans are against having the government save money on a government program. How can this be? The Republicans now say they are against the government saving $716 billion with cost containments to the Medicare program. I bet you though the Republicans want to the government to save money on programs - so did I - but apparently we are wrong! Another funny thing - Why are the Republicans against "Obamacare" when it is almost identical to the program Romney developed in Massachusetts, aka "Romneycare?" How odd. Oh, wait - I bet the Republicans are doing this because it's an election year and they just want to oppose everything Obama's done and make him look as bad as possible so they can win the election. Now I get it!

Glinda Smith August 20, 2012 at 01:27 pm

MZ and Phyllis - There is no truth to allegation that increases in Pell Grant funding results in increases in tuition:
"The House budget plan also claims that federal financial aid is responsible for increasing college tuition and cites a 2007 study conducted by University of Oregon economists showing that increases in Pell Grants are matched by increases in tuition at private nonprofit schools. But this study found no evidence that higher Pell Grants drive tuition increases at public universities, where 75 percent of all college students are enrolled. The House Republican budget also cites the work of economist Richard Vedder as support for the notion that college prices are driven up by federal student financial aid. Yet Vedder’s own Center for College Affordability and Productivity recently released a paper that reexamines the link between federal aid and tuition, concluding that aid directed at low-income students does not, in fact, increase tuition. Since the Pell Grant is a program for low-income college students, even the research of Rep. Ryan’s favored scholars would not support cutting the program as a way to control tuition." The cause is the decrease in state funding to public universities that continues as state budgets are hit hard by repeated recessions and decreases in aid from the Federal govt. http://www.americanprogress.org/issues/labor/news/2012/03/21/11216/middle-class-college-dreams-take-serious-hit-under-ryan-plan/

MZ August 20, 2012 at 03:46 pm

Massachusetts is hardly a bastion of conservative governance or populous. Additionally, it is a STATE. The states were intended to be able to act independently, to make their own laws, to serve as petri dishes for the rest of the nation. The key is at the state level if you disagree, you can move to a different state. It is also much easier to hold an elected state level official accountable. Further, what Massachusetts wants to try doesn’t impact me one bit.
What makes you think a large all-encompassing Federal Government is a good idea? As a side note, I would bet that RomneyCare is the single biggest issue conservatives have with Romney. It is unlikely conservatives will run to the polls because of RomneyCare, rather in spite of it.

Phyllis Stager August 20, 2012 at 04:08 pm

Another point...Romney care doesn't rob anything from Medicare in order to be deficit neutral. And the IRS is not involved in Romney care. And there is not a board of bureaucrat/non medical'advisors' who decide whether you get that by pass or have to live with a pill to save $. There are some major differences.
Each state should have the right to adopt a health care plan or not. During and after the passage of the ACA all the polls showed a majority of USA opposed the ACA. It was crammed down our throats as a result of that and many pols paid in the elections after that.

MZ August 20, 2012 at 04:17 pm

Glinda, you failed to include Federal Loans in your analysis.
Regardless, based on your sited study I would have to assume you are completely ok with others paying for your education. If the true cause is as you state, a decrease in state and federal funding, then you must be ok with having others pay your way (or at least a piece of it). Before you answer, please keep in mind that the government cannot give to you (in the form of subsidized education) what it has not taken from someone else first. What about the hypothetical family that lived next door to you while you were growing up who couldn’t afford to send their kids to college? Is it fair to them that some portion of the taxes they paid may have went to send you to college? Why does anybody think the federal government needs to be involved in all of these activities?

Phyllis Stager August 20, 2012 at 04:18 pm

As I have said before, I will vote for Howdy Doody if that is my only option vs Obama. Check out the latest 'Newsweek' cover article. I am more of a Libertarian than anything. I am disappointed that our first Black President has failed this nation so miserably.

linda August 20, 2012 at 04:50 pm

Many prospective students don't have a college support system to rely on, that's where subsidized loans step in. If you think that is a burden on the US to have college educated people, that's backwards. In President Barack Obama's State of the Union speech in 2011, he said science, technology, engineering and math will guide the country's future, and education improvements are needed.
"Maintaining our leadership in research and technology is crucial to America's success ... if we want innovation to produce jobs in America and not overseas, then we also have to win the race to educate our kids..". We already lag globally in STEM majors so if government subsidized loans get more people into college and hopefully more into the STEM programs, then I'm all for it!

Glinda Smith August 20, 2012 at 06:04 pm

MZ & Phyllis - remember the Civil War? That's when we determined that the Federal govt. trumps "state's rights." Even so, that's a pretty weak argument for being against a plan that is almost exactly the same as the one your candidate developed - LOL! As for me being ok with others paying for my education - that completely sidetracks the issue which is the increase in pell grants had nothing to do with the increase in tuition for public universities. As for the college tuition issue - I did pay ALL of my own expenses for college and I am currently paying for ALL of my daughter's expenses except for her scholarship. But, that is because I was/am able to do so. I am concerned about the large numbers of Americans who cannot do so as the cost has risen astronomically. As linda points out, it is important for our nation's security and economy that we have a well educated population. We're already lagging in STEM, and it's only going to get worse if this continues.
Phyllis - as for the Newsweek Article by Niall Ferguson - there were many, many errors. Since Newsweek doesn't have a fact-check dept. (can you believe that), The Atlantic graciously did so. So here are the corrections: http://www.theatlantic.com/business/archive/2012/08/a-full-factcheck-of-niall-fergusons-very-bad-argument-against-obama/261306/ I doubt that you'll read it as I'm sure you don't want any facts to cloud your judgements, but there are probably other people on The Patch who are interested.

Phyllis Stager August 20, 2012 at 06:27 pm

Glinda...I just find all this stuff fascinating. I am trying to figure out whether people's political leanings are strictly self serving or what. Is it more important to have a government to provide every thing possible for their citizens, even at the risk of economic collapse or to have a beloved nation to continue to survive and protect liberties which no other nation in history has ever guaranteed.
Fo me that is what is at stake. Self interest or nation longevity. God Bless America.

MZ August 20, 2012 at 06:41 pm

Whether I am for or against a candidate for any office does not mean that I fully indorse every stance they take. I do realize that they are politicians and can't walk on water. Should I assume that you support each and every position that Barack and Joe take? Are you willing to admit that you are fully, 100% behind them in every way? If so, please indicate that so we can really have some fun.
As for the college tuition, your sited articles conclusions are spurious at best. I don't think that I sidetracked any issue at all. Let's be honest here. You think the Federal Government should have more power than I think it should. You think that the Federal Government can solve a whole assortment of problems, which I don't think it should be involved at all. You are for a big all-knowing and all caring Federal Government made up of fallible humans. That scares the you know what out of me. Bye the way, why have college costs gone up 500% in the past 30 years?

Glinda Smith August 21, 2012 at 12:20 am

Oh, Phyllis, I knew the facts would be too much for you and you'd steer the conversation away from that. First of all, I don't think caring for other American's is "self serving." I myself have, according to your logic, taken very little from the federal govt. in benefits. I'm one of those who pays the taxes that supplies those benefits to others and I am happy to do so. I feel so blessed that I am financially able to do so. I consider taking care of my country and taking care of my fellow Americans to be the very height of patriotism. We Americans must take care of each other - no one else is going to do it, that's for sure! I consider neglecting my country and my fellow Americans to be the height of ignorance and depravity. I consider selling out my country to corporations and big banks, who currently control our Congress through their campaign donations and lobbyists to be a grave error that we must rectify and I don't think electing a millionaire with Swiss bank accounts is the answer to that. I guess we have very different ideas about what patriotism is and I think your version is the self-serving one - not mine.
MZ - I really don't want to discuss your paranoia.

Phyllis Stager August 21, 2012 at 11:13 am

Glinda, so your approach to 'one up' someone in a discussion is to use demeaning phrases like 'facts would be too much for you' and bestowing a DSM V diagnosis of 'paranoia' on those with whom you disagree? That MZ and I are ignorant and depraved. I see your benevolent heart and love of fellow mankind just screaming out at me.
So you are of the mind set that successful millionaires do not possess the where-with- all to run our country. Lets think about that for a minute. JFK was a millionaire. I didn't find him all that bad. And talk about buying votes, do a little research on HIS 'campaign'. Harry Reid was the farthest thing from a millionaire BEFORE he took office, as was our President. Just look at their 'worth' now. Both are multi-millionaires. I think I can conclude from your comments that you must agree with me in my resentment of the bail out money going to corporations and big banks. I would assume, also that you, like me, are angry that MF Global (John Corzine) which lost over $2billion will not be charged with any wrong doing with their investors cash. Put Maddoff in prison but let Corzine and his cronies have a free ride. Somehow, I see throwing money at failing industry and financial institutions a bit of 'selling out' by THIS administration. I am sure we have common ground in our thinking on this....or do we? LOL!

MZ August 21, 2012 at 11:57 am

I don't think I am paranoid, but I guess if I was I probably wouldn't know it anyway. Is anyone who thinks the federal government has out stepped its bounds paranoid?
Phyllis, you are correct. How much money someone has doesn't define them. There are good rich and poor people just as there are criminals on both sides. Don't let the insults get you down. Try not to get dragged into the mud even though it is often difficult. Use humor and logic and keep smiling, it will drive 'em crazy. Phyllis, just because I'm paranoid doesn't mean they're not after me!

Phyllis Stager August 21, 2012 at 12:08 pm

LOL! MZ...its just the way the left tries to demonize anyone who disagrees with them. They are THE all-loving benevolent-caring bunch. But when their preaching and doctrine doesn't win the day they are forced to toss their warm hearted, compassionate persona to the wind and come in with the 'nasties'.

MZ August 21, 2012 at 12:08 pm

Glinda, we probably have more in common than you think. It appears that we are both hard working, love our country and want what's best for the future generations. We may just have differences in opinion on the best way to get there. These differences in opinion shouldn't be reasons to hate one another, to call each other names, or to infer that anyone we disagree with must me stupid or I'll informed.
I take great pride in helping others as you do. I agree that we are participating in this American experiment together and that looking out for our fellow man is patriotic. Again, the issue that separates us is what is the most efficient way to accomplish these goals. That is all. You are my fellow American and we have some big challenges ahead in this great nation. If I came across rude or insulting to you, please accept my apologese as this was not my intent. But please recognize that the Rs and Ds in front of people's names don't make them all good or all bad. I have yet to find the politician with holes in their hands. Take care, and I'll try and seek professional help for my paranoia.

Phyllis Stager August 21, 2012 at 12:40 pm

MZ..you are a true gentleman. And for all Glinda's 'accusations' toward us, I have suffered worse. She is actually quite mild in her denigration's. Just go to the 'Mother Jones' web site and read the venom spewed by the left on those who disagree with them. These should be collated into a book and published, as the shock value of the language and epithets used there would make the best sellers list. The fallacy in the conception that conservatives want the poor to starve and die is sad.....as is the hate for those who are successful...(that is unless you are a film or rock star). My kids are all conservative-libertarians and they are volunteers in the community and in 3rd world countries. My oldest son won the "Dallas Cowboy" volunteer of the year last year. He received $10,000 for the organization he represents (which is helping single mothers with housing and career training in Dallas). My youngest son volunteers his specialized surgical skills for children, paying his own way to Kenya, Vietnam, India, Panama, and so many others I can't remember them. I can even post websites and videos of my kids and their involvement, in case Glinda thinks I am lying. LOL!

James Murphy August 21, 2012 at 12:51 pm

glinda 9 talking points in one post >>>>>great job

MZ August 21, 2012 at 02:08 pm

God bless you and your family. I hope I can raise my kids to be the outstanding citizens that yours clearly are.
You book idea is great.

James Thomas August 21, 2012 at 02:15 pm

MZ,
I'm with Phyllis.

Phyllis Stager August 21, 2012 at 02:21 pm

MZ...I didn't mention, however that my daughter's mission in life is to 'save' cats. LOL! She is a magnificent gal who has authored a text book which is in demand for junior colleges. She was an abandoned child whom I adopted from the 'welfare'. Raising my kids was the best time of my life. I wish I were young enough to take in more children and raise them.

Dan Marol August 21, 2012 at 06:01 pm

Ugh...this love affair between MZ and Phyllis is getting a little bit scary.

MZ August 21, 2012 at 07:28 pm

Ouch.

Phyllis Stager August 22, 2012 at 12:46 pm

Oh Dan, LOL! I am old enough to be ALL your-all's grandmother. Talking about values in a positive manner is a lot better than calling people stupid and paranoid.

TaterSalad August 25, 2012 at 06:31 pm

Billboard of the Year!
http://weaselzippers.us/2012/08/25/billboard-of-the-day/

MZ August 26, 2012 at 01:10 am

Like^

Wanda Minor August 26, 2012 at 02:22 pm

lol!

TaterSalad August 27, 2012 at 11:30 pm

The President for life (he wishes), Barack Obama has high hopes to get the "Moron Vote" in his re-election bid for another 4 years! Will he succeed?
http://www.independentsentinel.com/2012/08/obama-is-winning-the-moron-vote/

TaterSalad August 27, 2012 at 11:31 pm

The President for life (he wishes), Barack Obama has high hopes to get the "Moron Vote" in his re-election bid for another 4 years! Will he succeed?
http://www.independentsentinel.com/2012/08/obama-is-winning-the-moron-vote/

Colter95 November 4, 2012 at 04:20 pm

I saw Obama yesterday claiming the new job numbers are proof that his policies are working and that we are in an economic recovery... Fact is, that is not the truth, or even close to the truth...
First, the unemployment rate ticked up to 7.9% and the year-to-date monthly average of 157,000 payroll jobs is barely enough to keep up with population growth -- much less make up for the 8 million jobs lost during the Great Recession. Second, the so-called real unemployment rate (U6) remains elevated at 14.6%, albeit down from 14.7% the prior month. Similarly, the labor participation rate is at 63.8%, up from its multi-decade low but still incredibly weak. Third, average hourly earnings fell a penny in October and average hours worked fell to 34.4 from 34.5 in September. Stagnant wages means "we're not generating income," Reinhart says. "That's a problem in terms of the durability of an economic expansion, which is usually fueled by consumption. To get consumption you've got to generate income." Also, just look at your checkbook. We are paying a lot more for everything now than we did in 2008. The price of gas has doubled. At the same time, wages have gone down, and that's if you're lucky to have a job. In 2008, 25 banks went out of business. In 2012, 48 banks have gone out of business. Almost double the amount. Does that sound like recovery to you? Don't believe the Obama lies!! Romney/Ryan 2012

Colter95 November 4, 2012 at 04:21 pm

Wrong on the economy, wrong on Benghazi, and wrong on the auto bailout... The time for real change is NOW!!
http://www.policymic.com/articles/14285/obama-lies-obama-auto-bailout-did-not-rescue-detroit http://www.factcheck.org/2012/06/obamas-outsourcer-overreach/ http://twitchy.com/2012/10/23/obama-lies-about-romneys-position-on-auto-bailouts-conservatives-hit-back/ http://newsbusters.org/blogs/jack-coleman/2012/10/26/letterman-slams-obama-auto-bailout-lie-followed-maddow-parroting-same- Romney/Ryan 2012