What “should not be taken too seriously" is Barry’s ability and willingness to address the deficit/debt problem that will bankrupt this country.

Obama Plays Down S&P Outlook Change

Reuters

| 18 Apr 2011 | 11:16 AM ET

The Obama administration moved swiftly Monday to downplay ratings agency S&P's downgrade of its U.S. credit outlook, calling the decision a political judgment that should not be taken too seriously.

The timing of S&P's announcement was unwelcome for the White House, coming just as President Obama tried to regain the initiative on the deficit debate in Washington.

Last week Obama laid out his plan to reduce the budget deficit by $4 trillion over 12 years, trying to give markets confidence that he was serious about tackling U.S. fiscal woes.

Standard & Poor's downgraded the outlook for the United States to negative, saying it believes there is a risk U.S. policymakers would not reach agreement on how to address the country's long-term fiscal pressures by 2013.

So much for market confidence.

The White House strategy:

1) Pan S&P.

"I don't think that we should make too much out of that," top White House economist Austan Goolsbee said on MSNBC, referring to the S&P downgrade.

"What the S&P is doing is making a political judgment and it is one that we don't agree with," he said on CNBC.

2) Praise Moody's.

The rival ratings agency said it viewed the direction of U.S. fiscal policy as "credit positive."

"It appears to me that Moody's and some others did not agree with that judgment," Goolsbee said.

3) Express optimism.

White House and U.S. Treasury officials said they believed lawmakers would be able to come up with an agreement to reduce the U.S. deficit. S&P's skepticism of that influenced its decision on the downgrade.

Joe,

Didn't Moody give all of those housing market / Fannie and Freddie packages the thumbs up too?

Democrats were very optimistic about the housing markets and Wall Street.

How'd that all work out for America?

(Why are these guys still in business?)

Aw, come on Joe. That debt rating thing-y isn't too terribly important, is it?

So Feisty old gal, what are yu thought on the debt rating change? Think that might be something Obama and the congress [all of them] really ought to try to tackle?

And Fiesty, do you think raising the debt ceiling will help or hurt the debt rating? And do break you your response into a short and long term outlook.

Feisty,

It wasn't door knocking by you munchkins at $10 - $20 a door that got Obama elected.

It was UC Berkley @ $1,591,395; Goldman Sachs @ $994,795; Harvard @ $854,747; Microsoft @ $833,617; Google @ $803,436; General Electric, Citigroup, J.P. Morgan Chase @ $700,000 ....... throw in all the unions .........

Bob - if it is, as you say, only big money that won the election - why didn't the Republicans win? They certainly have the ability to raise HUGE sums of money.

Vermont,

Obama got Wall Street money by a 4 - 1 margin. Obama got 93% of big union money. Obama got 61% of ideological money. Obama got 73% of all other.

Obama got 52% of business money. That will certainly change in the next election. GE and many of the crony buddies will hang, but business now realizes Obama is an economice idiot.

Still, the rich liberal schools like UC Berkley, Harvard; the unions etc will always be there for the Dems.

spanky

it's laughable to see rebulicants trying to teach or discuss economics. i know one thing for sure.....he's done 3x better than any republicants president.

I know your going to come up with the usual rants lacking in facts and statistics.

issue of dept ceiling..... i dare republicants to vote against raising it.

I hear you Pius. Feisty seems to be "LOL" about the debt, debt service, and I am now sure the credit rating.

I do concur with you - Obama has incurred debt of at least a factor of three.

And I'm guessing they will raise the ceiling. It's what politicians do. But see my man, that pesky credit rating will have huge consequences down the road. And that is what you are focusing on, right? Not the tree that is the ceiling, but the Forrest that is the fall-out of the debt itself.

Consequences can really suck, right Pius?

Spanky,

I appreciate your efforts to fight the good fight... but hey man... all of your words are just carried off with the wind. You see, These clowns just don't get. Never have. Never will.

pius - you mean like obama wanted to NOT raise the debt ceiling in 2007?

So pius, if republicans know nothing about economics why can't you elaborate for us? I will respectfully be LMAO as I await your erudite discourse.

Bob--Junior (Numbers)

You have no idea of the size and significance of the Obama campaign ground troups. It was using the priniciples of community organization that turned Red states (like Indiana) blue. Yes, there were big donors, but thousands and thousands of small donors went to the ballot box and voted. Seeing the likes of Jan Brewer (Az), Rick Scott (Fa), Chris Christie (NJ), Scott Walker (Wi) Mitch Daniels (In) we will match and beat Tea Party workers. GOP/TP immigration policies, taxing the middle class while the wealthy pay less taxes, and union breaking tactics are all activities that will dearly cost the GOP/TP. Obama will again get approximately 53% of the vote.

Bank on it.

I'm sure Pius simply mis-spoke and does not look to any politician for economic advise.

That would be foolish.

Me I look to accountants for "economic" advise. What is the bottom line.

And SOB - I am all about the education of Feisty. And Bev., who I think may be figuring out that MoveOn and Media matters are somewhat less than objective.

Right Bev.?

Sickofthe bickering - we know that, we do it for the others coming to this site to read our words of wisdom or to seek a chuckle. Attending a site with the same views as your own is not learning or expanding ones horizons.

I think back to when I first visited. It was all sunshine and lollipops from the libs, no reason to even think about life other than to constantly whine about the right. They had no ideas on lifting up America back then as they do now. Fortunately for the conservatives posting here there are a few, a very few libs that are willing to discuss merits.

You have no idea of the size and significance of the Obama campaign ground troups.

Lets just sum up quickly the 2008 election. Obama won because 1) He was antiwar - people were tired of the wars Bush entered the country in - the wars that are still going on, plus the bonus war in Libya 2) The economy tanked - badly - and that got hung on, and rightly so, the Republicans and Bush - and the economy now continues to be tanked 3) The country was tired of GOP running the show, and while McCain brought the the same ideas, Obama brought a fresh look which has turned out to be nothing but veneer and empty rhetoric.

So you can talk about ground "troups" [sic] as much as you want, it won't matter. This time around Obama has something he didn't have in 2008, something he really doesn't want. A record. A record of failure.

And yet when looking at next year . . .

Obama's closest contest came against Mike Huckabee, whom he edged 48% to 43%. Obama also topped Mitt Romney 47% to 41%, beat Chris Christie 48% to 39%, and led Rand Paul 48% to 38%.Newt Gingrich and Sarah Palin polled further back, trailing Obama 52%-38%, and 54%-36% respectively. (TMP 04/14/2011)

http://tpmdc.talkingpointsmemo.com/2011/04/poll-obama-leads-gopers-for-reelection-despite-low-approval-rating.php

Of course this poll doesn’t include the new Teapublican frontrunner which I’m sure will beat our President, The Donald!!!

JoAnnaSmith1 - Bob up there says he won because he got all the money.

So which is it?

I mean if you guys can't agree on how he won the LAST time how the heck are you going to find anyone who can successfully run against him THIS time?

Now Dennis,

You know that polls are just for talking points. They don't really mean a thing--not until election time. And there is a whole lot of time between now and November 2012.

I will admit, that there are not too many candidates out there worth voting for--on either side in my opinion. But I am sure that a GOP will rise from the sludge and Obama will win. But I think that Congress will go straight GOP--both houses. Just because we seem to work better as a nation--and this is from my personal experiences--when we have a Dem President & GOP Congress. JMO

VG: Bob up there says he won because he got all the money

Obama did have money and was able to get his message out. And his message was of "Hope" and "Change" and "Yes We Can". Soft stuff, no? And it worked, that time. It won't next. Obama will need to spend a considerable amount of time explaining how an anti-war candidate can't end a war, and instead starts new ones. How he can spend trillions, and can not improve the economy. How he says we should raise taxes, but never did. About how he voted against raising the debt ceiling in 2006, but he's all for it now. About how he would close Gitmo, but couldn't do it. And now that Obama is part of the "Establishment", and is now a "Washington Insider", just how does he intends to "Change" things, because if things have changed they certainly haven't been for the better.

Obama has a lot of explaining to do.

BB,

“Obama will win.” “But I think that Congress will go straight GOP--both houses. Just because we seem to work better as a nation--and this is from my personal experiences--when we have a Dem President & GOP Congress.”

I tend to agree but at times we need total control by one party so we can both create change and remind us why we like a divided government.

Dennis,

I applaude your enthusiasm for your leader, but if he must run on his record, how will he be able to justify his decisions?

I don't agree with the one government theory, but one where both parties work for the common good of the nation. With the polarization in Congress today, the only way this will happen is to vote all the ruling elite out of the system.

Hi Ron Indiana

Bob--Junior (Numbers)

You have no idea of the size and significance of the Obama campaign ground troups. It was using the priniciples of community organization that turned Red states (like Indiana) blue. Yes, there were big donors, but thousands and thousands of small donors went to the ballot box and voted. Seeing the likes of Jan Brewer (Az), Rick Scott (Fa), Chris Christie (NJ), Scott Walker (Wi) Mitch Daniels (In) we will match and beat Tea Party workers. GOP/TP immigration policies, taxing the middle class while the wealthy pay less taxes, and union breaking tactics are all activities that will dearly cost the GOP/TP. Obama will again get approximately 53% of the vote.

Bank on it.

Ron here's another of little tidbit for Bob.

According to police, about 6,500 people showed up at the rally to hear Palin's speech, but many of them were pro-union forces who drowned out Palin and her backers.

Read more: http://www.adn.com/2011/04/18/1815800/palin-in-madison-was-that-a-presidential.html#ixzz1JuI21121

I can't understand why the right wing crazies would wanna listen to that squeaky voice. Moreover, there is nothing in her empty head.

The unions cow belled her.

The Pacers put up a good fight. But Da Bulls won.

Dennis -

I tend to agree but at times we need total control by one party so we can both create change and remind us why we like a divided government.

Just look at California if you want to see how not to govern.

Not sure if it will help get Obama to Ron's 53% number, but I have to wonder: How many more of us are there- the ones making over $250,000 or the ones making under $250,000. I wonder if they vote??

thetotas,

If you want to get a first-hand view of how not to run CA, move here and you will laugh. The spending party, much like the progressive/democratic party now want to see cuts now that they have run up the state budget losses past the point of being on the cust of bankruptcy. Now the idea is to cut some programs and have half of the $26B deficit while increase taxes to recover the balance. Now we are one of the most taxed states, while we pay the highest salaries to the government employees, the public service unions are out of control, and people are severly unemployed.

Governor Moonbeam 2.0 is out speading emotion about what will happen to CA, much like Obama playing emotion on a national scale.

CA has always believed that what happens here will happen to the rest of the nation. Let's hope it doesn;t for all of us.

So?

IntheMiddle, TX

Texas has a growing population of Hispanics but most of that growth is coming from illegals. That is the one little gem no one takes into consideration

Oh please

Do you ever read b4 you open you pie hole?

Census: Hispanic Population In Texas Is Exploding

Census data released Thursday show the growth of the state’s Hispanic population is exploding.

http://www.kwtx.com/home/headlines/Census__Hispanic_Population_In_Texas_Is_Exploding_116426679.html

What you need to watch out for is Karl Rove voter caging.

Nashville,

Illegal immigrants can not vote in Texas.

Nor should they be allowed to vote in any state.

Big Bear,

I know that, but still, I don't see the point of bringing up "illegals" everytime Hispanic people are mentioned. This article ain't about that.

Nash,

Ok, I took it as something different--early Monday morning--forgot my glasses. Not seeing well.

I am guessing you survived the storms this past weekend? Hope all is well.

No problem Big Bear . . . we weathered the storms well . . . only lost a shutter . . . thanks for asking! :o)

Glad to hear you are okay.

I have been through those storms in the past. That storm dropped 13" of snow on me last Thursday. I have never seen that much snow at one time. Can't wait for the next storm--joking.

Have a great day.

Beverly in Chicago

IntheMiddle, TX

Texas has a growing population of Hispanics but most of that growth is coming from illegals. That is the one little gem no one takes into consideration

Oh please

Do you ever read b4 you open you pie hole?

What you need to watch out for is Karl Rove voter caging.

Gee Bev, have you read the COH rules for this site recently? Where is Sally with her administrative censorship brush?

safecracker-1205811

Gee Bev, have you read the COH rules for this site recently? Where is Sally with her administrative censorship brush?

What's it to you? Had I said safecracker, do you ever read b4 you open you pie hole; then I'd understand your fake outrage?

You love being in the gutter like most duds. Ha Ha only a safe cracker would be safe some where in a hole; scary cat.

Beverly:

Why don't you read before you cut n paste. There is nothing there to dispute what I said.

BTW: What the hell do you know about Texas?

While I think Pres. Obama will probably win re-election. His approval ratings among Independents have dropped sharply. This is the key to winning the election and the independents want us to address the debt and deficit.

Beverly in Chicago

safecracker-1205811

Gee Bev, have you read the COH rules for this site recently? Where is Sally with her administrative censorship brush?

What's it to you? Had I said safecracker, do you ever read b4 you open you pie hole; then I'd understand your fake outrage?

You love being in the gutter like most duds. Ha Ha only a safe cracker would be safe some where in a hole; scary cat.

Ah Bev, your attacks make me laugh at you more and more. My favorite racist is going full bore today. "Safe in a hole" "scary cat"? Without question Ms. Racist, you are ignorant. Is it possible for you to have a conversation without racist tones, or verbal attacks, or not?

Went to your link no joe . . . I don't see any lies . . . I see a whole lot of spinning. Basically, they are challenging the President's assumptions, but the only thing that have to challenge it with is other folks' assumptions, so mark me unimpressed.

The "Ryan Plan" (lol) is full of outright fantasy, but instead of saying anything about that, you post an article filled with rubbish like:

"He falsely claimed that making the Bush tax cuts permanent would give away "$1 trillion worth of tax cuts for every millionaire and billionaire." That figure — which is actually $807 billion over 10 years — refers to tax cuts for individuals earning more than $200,000 and couples earning more than $250,000, not just millionaires and billionaires."

Why clutch my pearls . . . 800 billion instead of a trillion you say . . . why that is hardly any money at all!

I'll leave you to it no joe . . . but this "fact check" is more like a "cover your a#@" check, and I hate to tell ya, but your slip is STILL showing!

Peace.

What a joke!

Actually of the 6 points they reviewed the only claim Factcheck.org called false was the trillion dollar tax cut for the wealthy, they said it is only $807 billion – it is 80% accurate.

I also followed your link to Factcheck.org, NoJo.

I read:

Obama claimed that 10 years from now, 65-year-olds would “have to pay nearly $6,400 more” for Medicare coverage. That’s an accurate reflection of what CBO estimated.

also:

It is true, according to a CBO analysis, that seniors would pay more under the Ryan plan than under current law. The Ryan plan saves the government money but shifts a greater financial responsibility to Medicare beneficiaries.

This is exactly my problem with Paul Ryan's plan to privatize Medicare when I get to retirement age. When I retire, I will have barely enough to live on, how will I afford $6,400 more a year for health care? Let's say I find the money to pay for my healthcare, no doubt I will then be poor enough to be eligible for other government assistance like housing subsidies and food stamps. It sounds like a shell game: higher profits for private insurance companies subsidized by the government in the form of higher costs for other senior services. The problem with the Ryan plan is, it won't end up lowering the debt after all.

So in other words, NJNB is continuing to post 'links' she clearly cannot comprehend! lol

This isn't the first time...

Go Figure!

Amy,

When I retire, I will have barely enough to live on,

I would start looking for a better job, get rid of your debt, start saving more, start using coupons, and pray that SS still exists.

Ryan's plan for Senior Vouchers means each senior is on his/her own--no group discounts which means higher premiums for seniors and how many seniors are able to shop around for the best deal--they'll go with the best salesman. Also forgotten is that 20% of private health insurance premiums is NOT spent on health care compared to the 4-6% administrative cost of government run medicare.

Why clutch my pearls . . . 800 billion instead of a trillion you say . . . why that is hardly any money at all!

I'll leave you to it no joe . . . but this "fact check" is more like a "cover your a#@" check, and I hate to tell ya, but your slip is STILL showing!

LOL! Nash! I just about choked on my lunch! Ouch!

BigBear62: "I would start looking for a better job, get rid of your debt, start saving more, start using coupons, and pray that SS still exists".

BigBear, do you have any idea what kind of job Amy has now? What the job market is like in Maine? How old she is? How many people she's supporting? How much debt she has or doesn't have? How much she already saves? What her current health situation is? Her insurance? Has she ever been laid off or downsized? If so, how many times and for how long? Have there been other unforeseen emergencies that she hasn't chosen to share with everyone on this board?

Unless you have the answers to all those questions, you might want to hold off on dispensing your glib "one size fits all" advice.

I mean, seriously.......coupons???

Also forgotten is that 20% of private health insurance premiums is NOT spent on health care compared to the 4-6% administrative cost of government run medicare.

Don't forget about the $500B in waste and fraud that is in Medicare because there is little administrative money spent on fraud enforcement. Its easy to keep administrative costs down if you just pay out on a claim. Unfortunately you lose money elsewhere. You really think that Insurance companies spend 20% on administration (including wages to clerical staff not just the CEO) if it was not a positive cost benefit to them? If it was cheaper insurance companies would just get rid of their fraud departments and pay the claims. However, because they have to live in the real world they've found that it is cheaper in the long run to stamp out fraud.

JoAnne, our girl Amy laid out a tale o' woe. Sounds liked she's got big issues come retirement.

Now some [like me] would ask what type of retirement planning she has engaged in thus far, and how it is she finds herself inwhat appear to be fairly desperate straights. Based upon the end result she gave the answers to all of your questions are fairly meaningless - she is boned.

But how about this JoAnne - what happens when the government cant help? Maybe cause it's 2016 and debt service chews up $1.0 Trillion, or the debt rating is so bad no one will lend. Let's face it - current mandatory obligations are more than revenue, so if you are looking to the government for help, you may want to come up with a back up plan.

How about you JoAnne, you got a plan that does not rely on the government?

Me, I al in on the coupon approach. After watching that new coupon show I'm looking to get $1800 worth of groceries for $15.00. Now that'll get you through retirement.

Spanky...

I find it interesting that JoAnne would get so worked up over your statement. MAN! Your comment was one of common sense... if you are not making enough money to get what you want... find a way to make more money. Common sense.

Wait... THAT'S why she took such offense to your statment... IT WAS COMMON SENSE!

JoAnna in PA,

You question coupons--The average family could save about $75 a month using coupons--that is what my family of 4 saves per month in coupons.

I multiply that savings by 12 and save about $900 a year. That might not be a lot to someone like yourself, but to us, well that is a trip to see the in-laws--able to stay in nice hotels along the way. That is $25 for each kid a month into their college savings account--extra.

By the way, Amy is complaining about not being able to afford to retire--those are just helpful hints. All things that I have done & experienced. By August--outside of my home & 1 car payment--I will be debt free. No more credit cards, and I pay my taxes on time, and always pay more into the system each year. Within 10 years--home will be paid for--will always want a new car though. And I still have about 20 years until I retire. And I am not going to waiting around for Uncle Sam's handouts, I save 20% at least a month.

Do I get to eat out everyday--heck no, but I am happy, my family is happy and we live a good life. That's all a man has a RIGHT to--"life, liberty, and the PURSUIT of happiness"

Spanky,

What is the name of that show? What channel? If someone is doing it better than me--I need to know. That could cut my house note down to 5 years:)

Big Bear: Maybe Amy could also pay her doctor with chickens, you left that out of your great suggestions.

Or, maybe Amy's been fleeced like most middle class Americans, and you can only tread water 99% of the time, without ever really catching up. Maybe, Big Bear, you've been very lucky!

I find it interesting that JoAnne would get so worked up over your statement.

Sheesh, talk about getting all worked up there honey, in your frantic attempt at a snarky retort to JoAnna did you even bother to READ her comment?

It was directed to Big Bear, NOT Spunky!

Which makes it kind of hard to take you seriously - PERIOD!

Calm down sweetie & have a nice hot cup of tea! ;o)

And there it is - Feisty playing the role of "voice of reason."

You know it's going to be a good week. ;)

Plus we got the Vegas clock countdown at t- minus four day.

Cathy M,

I haven't be lucky, I have made huge mistakes and had to pay for them. I work hard, do my job, don't ask the government for help to bail me out. Even though I don't make a ton, I learned decades ago, save for yourself, don't anticipate the government being there for you.

It comes down to hard work, doing what it takes to keep your head above water. The middle class isn't getting fleeced--that is an attempt by the left to scare people--just as the right tries to scare people with paying too much in taxes. The middle class isn't paying but 15% of this nation's federal bills. That is squat--compared to the top 5% that out pay the other 95% of taxpayers. And realize that 47% of the people don't pay taxes at all, but those are the one's that use most of the social services provided by the government.

Any time you all want to talk solutions, instead of what ifs? I'd be happy too. I have put out solutions on here lots of times, but no one ever wants to talk those, just cut downs and excuses.

Excuses are like noses--everyone has one.

WOW! Feisty! For once you are right!

It was BigBear... not Spanky... My Bad!

(Now that's something you will NEVER hear from Feisty... no matter how wrong she is she NEVER admits it. Instead... She throws personal attacks at people to distract from the fact that she really has no clue.)

BTW... my statement was not one of a person that is 'worked up'... but yours sure sounds like one. ;-) (hon)

THANKS AGAIN!

Despite all the rhetoric from the Left about "Protecting Medicare/Social Security", if you are over 55, you better seriously rethink your retirement strategy. You might want to get with a financial adviser asap and rework the numbers, this time without the governments "entitlements" being available to you. Being angry that those entitlements may not be there for you is one thing, having a plan in place in case they are not is the prudent thing to do.

And if you are under 55, you can just forget about any of the current entitlements. If they are there when you retire, they will look very different from what they are today, and much more limited. Anyone under 55 can be considered to be on their own.

She throws personal attacks at people to distract from the fact that she really has no clue.)

Followed by:

THANKS AGAIN UGLY REDHEAD!

Girlfriend - you make this TOO EASY!

I would ask if you actually read what you write before you hit submit, but, it's painfully obvious that isn't the case!

Thanks for the laughs!

In 2009 it was 47% but for 2010 45% will owe $0 for Federal income tax included in that 45% are over 500,000 people earned over $100,000 and includes 4,000 that earned over $1 million.

http://money.cnn.com/2011/04/14/pf/taxes/who_pays_income_taxes/index.htm?hpt=T2

Before the Obama tax cuts it was 43% and before the recession with all the job losses it was 38% and before the Bush tax cuts in 2003 it was under 35%. Now this is only Federal income tax and does not include all those other taxes we pay. But don’t forget that people in poverty today is higher than at any time in over 50 years with 14.3% of citizens living below the poverty income level.

Feisty it appears that the little voices in your head are now coloring your ability to read.

"UGLY REDHEAD" while possibly accurate, does not appear in the text.

So how about taking that fine advise you just dispensed?

From July 30th 2008:

Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi responded to Bush's remarks on energy Wednesday by releasing the following statement:

"The President knows, as his own Administration has stated, that the impact of any new drilling will be insignificant – promising savings of only pennies per gallon many years down the road. Americans know that thanks to the two oilmen in the White House, consumers are now paying $4 a gallon for gas. But what Americans should realize is that what the President is calling for is drilling as close as three miles off of America’s pristine beaches and in other protected areas.

Bush has "failed in his economic policy, and now he wants to say, ‘but for drilling in protected areas offshore, our economy would be thriving and the price of gas would be lower,’" Pelosi said.

Source: http://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,394642,00.html

================

Wonder if Ms. Pelosi feels the same way now about $4/gallon gas prices with the current oilmen (Barack and Joe) in the White House. Nancy though has been silent on this issue the past few weeks.

JoAnnaSmith1

And if you are under 55, you can just forget about any of the current entitlements. If they are there when you retire, they will look very different from what they are today, and much more limited. Anyone under 55 can be considered to be on their own.

Yes Joanna if ryans plan gets signed by the president, i will have to keep any avaible cash on hand to pay for what ever His Bull SH*t plan does not cover.

As far as rethink your retirement strategy i'm 48 and did that 15 years ago and it did not include wondering how i will get any healthcare with the 5 or 6 k Ryan thinks i can buy for.

Spanky, Feisty,--What does arguing have to do with Amy in Maine needing a better job, using coupons, or saving for retirement?

We need more voices of reason--not arguing:)

A lie is an intentional misrepresentation of a known fact in an effort to deceive.

Strict definition, but the reality is that even by that very strict definition Obama lied - you guys admitted it. You just ignore it because it wasn't a big lie. What's $200 billion? That's 80% correct - too funny.

Bottom line - Obama's speech in general was an intentional misrepresentation full of gross exaggerations of the GOP plan in an effort to deceive the public and marginalize the GOP.

Fact check certainly supports that statement.

Obama's speech was nothing else but that. No plan. No leadership.

Heck of a president with all that deception, huh. Great leadership, huh.

BTW... my statement was not one of a person that is 'worked up'... but yours sure sounds like one. ;-) (hon)

What's UP with the edit job SOB?

Typical Chickensh!t!

seems that our comic relief from roselle isn't doing so well today, must have run out of her hate-r-aid this past weekend

Big Bear -

Actually, $900 is still really a lot to me, too - and trust me, I used to clip coupons religiously, until they all started to be for things I'd never buy in the first place or could buy another brand of even cheaper with no coupon. $900 would cover almost a whole month of the expenses I'm currently paying out of my own hard-earned savings to keep my elderly mother in an assisted living home - expenses that Social Security, Medicare, her pension and her own life savings aren't going to cover for much longer. And hey, my Mom used to be able to out-coupon anyone in the store!

Look, I'm honestly glad that you've done so well, and apparently by hard work and living within your means - you should be very proud of your achievements, especially the college funds for your kids. My point was that there are a lot of people out there who have many, many other circumstances to deal with in their lives - people who work every bit as hard as you do, if not harder - and without knowing the facts, it's really a huge generalization to suggest that everyone who's struggling financially is just sitting around waiting for some kind of handout.

I grant you, there are plenty of people in the world doing just that. But to make that assumption of me or Amy or anyone else you don't know is pretty insulting. I've read many of your posts in the past and while we rarely agree politically, you often tend to be a lot more civil than many posters on here.

So tell you what - I'll refrain from making excuses if you'll refrain from making generalizations - fair enough?

Cathy,

In my first post, I wasn't trying to make a generalization that Amy was poor. I really, honestly was giving her suggestions that have worked for me in the past. I have changed jobs, I cut coupons, and I am getting out of debt--check out Dave Ramsey--it works to a point. You have to have your own plan, using parts of his--what ever is comfortable for your lifestyle.

I know there are lots of people worse off than myself--but there are lots of people much better off also. I look for solutions to help everyone--and even with government assistance. But when does government assistance end? How about those families from the 60's that were the start of the "Great Society"? Are not some of those families still living through the Great Society--40 years later. Government gives us mandates--just no plan to end it or get off it. That is the biggest problem with government assistance.

I might need to talk to your mom, especially in the coupon area:) I pray that only good things happen for you and her.

Have a great day!

JoAnna, I am really in a Brain Gas Expelling mode today--that reply was for you, not Cathy. Sorry.

BigBear62

Feisty Redhead Roselle, IL

BTW... my statement was not one of a person that is 'worked up'... but yours sure sounds like one. ;-) (hon)

What's UP with the edit job SOB?

Typical Chickensh!t!

Another COH violation for Silly Sally to review.....will she and use her broad powers to censor?

Big Bear -

You'd probably like my Mom - she has little or no tolerance for the "handout" crowd herself. Of course, she raised me to be the starry-eyed liberal I am today. Go figure.

And by the way, you can call me Cathy any time, but please, please, PLEASE don't call me JoAnna!!! :)

Oops, sorry about the name thing.

Why is it, not only you, that JoAnne's get mad when you put an "a" at the end of their name? This is not my first encounter with that. Unless of course you don't want me to confuse you with JoAnnaSmith1:)?

Strong parents with liberal children--I am raising one of those myself:)

You guessed it, Bear! And I don't really get mad, it's just frustrating - I had one professor in college who even called me "Joan" for four years. And since we're supposed to be discussing entitlements here, Social Security seems to think I'm Jo A. (last name) even though I've tried telling them I've never had a middle name. I'm pretty much resigned to it after all these years.

Way to go with the liberal child - keep up the good work! :)

No sir... I will not lend you my 'HEARS'.

It's just hard to take you seriously after just your second sentence.

yessir soldier you have surely bought off on that everything is the republicans fault.

Simply amazing that obama embraced the republican ideology of "business is our friend" with all the tax credits, incentives and breaks he gave business in december. Why he unleashed a veritable flood of hiring when business saw that he really wasn't an enemy after all.

A shame that he blew it last week by promoting double taxation of small businesses and partisanship. Won't obama ever learn on how to bring our nation together again? Is he so smart that he is dumb?

Hey AnaBanana... How did 'mike' feel about Obama speaking into him... and what did he open for Obama to speak into?

yep, over 17months to go to to the next election and obama is more concerned about being re-elected and running against an unknown candidate. Hope he left someone behind to publish hard numbers on what he said in last Wednesday's campaign speech. We all know that biden wasn't taking notes!

Well actually it's not the links she posts that we don't trust...

Well actually it's not the links she posts that we don't trust...

Kinda hard to 'trust' someone who's a serial liar isn't it? lol

But she does it with such aplomb! At least she is good at something! Now if she would just work on her comprehension.

Steeler fan - We have been onto bev as well, or don't you read bevs links? The best thing about no jos factcheck link is how one can link obamas exagerations to his body language and speech tonality while he spoke the words. Bev is far more obtuse on linking what she writes as conclusions based on what she links.

Spin, Steeler, spin.

Follow the link to factcheck, and you find:

1. Obama cleaned that 50 million Americans would lose their health care coverage under the Ryan plan- a number based on his own speculation and assumptions,( factcheck's word). If those speculations and assumptions are anything like the speculation and assumption that his stimulus plan would produce 600,000 jobs in the summer of 2009, I suppose they are not really lies. More like pipedreams.

2. He claimed that seniors would lose their Medicare. That is a blatant, outright LIE. The Ryan plan has no impact on anyone over 55.

3. "Poor children", "children with disabilities", and "autistic children" would be left out in the cold? Another lie. States would make coverage decisions- and many already had mandates about such coverage PRE-DATING Obamacare.

4. Used the same "deceptive talking point", ( factcheck's words), that HCR reduces the deficit by $1 trillion- his estimate over twenty years. The CBO, given only information the democrats thought would be helpful, (kind of like Enron), came up with a measly $210 billion in savings over ten years. Do the math.

5. Speaking of math- we all know that Obama is mathematically challenged, which is, I suppose, the explanation for why he continually confuses $250k with one million- or one billion. In any event, he continues to spout the baloney about tax cuts to millionaires and billionaires- when the majority of the people about whom he is talk in make far less than a million- three quarters, in fact. Maybe one of you should send him a third grade math book?

6. He stated that the tax burden on the wealthiest is the lowest in 50 years. This is either a lie, or the same issue he has with math- since tax rates for the wealthiest were lower in 1986. Again, to give him the benefit of the doubt, perhaps one of you could volunteer to show up with a third grad math book, and tutor him. You would actually be doing the entire country a great service- because, it is obvious that the guy who thinks he is always the smartest man in the room cannot do math the average nine year old can master.

We are all paying for it.

no joe, no bo, nj

2. He claimed that seniors would lose their Medicare. That is a blatant, outright LIE. The Ryan plan has no impact on anyone over 55.

Not this year, but No Jo when i turn 55 in 7 years it will impact me.

Amen, Dave! AMEN!

Sorry, Dave, but I can't understand of whom you are speaking. It diminishes everyone when people cannot appreciate one's chosen career. President Obama was a community organizer for a short period of time, but he is also a lawyer and former law professor who then went into state politics as a legislator and as a Senator. One could call Sen. McCain a navy brat who ruined several planes OR one could recognize that he has been a career Navy pilot and liaison who then went into politics as a member of Congress and as a Senator. I am not sure why you would consider President Obama a "novice" at age 49, but perhaps you could describe instead the ideal career and experience of a candidate you would support as president.

This community organizer is doing quite well. Especially against the GOP, who quietly believe they themselves are going off the deep end.

Pat, lmao! Seems that obama is the one going off the deep end. Saying that he is for bipartisanship when his campaign speech and "open mike" incident last week says differently.

It does make me wonder if he was such a promoter of bipartisanship, why did he ignore his bipartisan debt commision recommendations for so long? Interesting spin the WH put on S&P's negative rating and S&P giving us a 1 in 3 chance of losing our AAA rating within 2 years all based on political gridlock in addressing our debt.

American -- where in the Rep. Ryan budget do you see evidence of bi-partisanship? Which Democratic principles or ideas have been incorporated?

kate - as in any plan, you start somewhere with your own view, bipartisanship starts when the opposition brings up points to negotiate on. Example...Obama agrees that medicare/medicaid has problems but offers no potential solutions, but diminishes ryans attempts at reform.

Obama, came right out and...

called ryans plan as attacking seniors and the poor to favor the rich. Then we have obamas rhetoric on 'why shouldn't the rich pay more'? and then ignoring ryans wanting to close tax loopholes as well in order to make the cuts revenue neutral. Remember obamas state of the union speech when obama said he would agreeto plans for tax cuts IF THEY WERE REVENUE NEUTRAL?

Later in the week he uses "an open mike" incident to further denigrate and diminish ryans abilities. Rather telling on obama as obama wasn't even part of any federal legislative process (read: no legislative experience on obamas part, other than campaigning) prior to 2005.

IE. obama just uses campaign talk to diminish a plan, not 'lets see if we can find common ground'.

Obama had his initial 10 year $1.1 trillion plan out earlier that would have had numbers substantiating his plan for cuts. Basically 2/3 in cuts or freezes, 1/3 in increased revenues. Now he presents a $4.4 trillion plan but gives no numbers?? What is up with that?

Pat,

Being from the South--I was there the day the Astrodome opened in Houston--

Can you name the 2 teams that played & who hit the first Home Run in the Astrodome.

Hint: The answers are in your statement above.

Have a great day.

BB, I don't know the answer and it has me baffled. Jackie Robinson had already retired when the Astrodome opened, and Mickey Mantle played in the AL, so it couldn't have been him. I could look it up, but that wouldn't be fair. I will if I don't hear from you within TWO minutes. lol

Actually Pat,

The Astros and Yankees played the first game in the Astrodome.

Mickey Mantle hit the first homerun in the Astrodome as the Yankees beat the Astros 2-1.

At that time they were still trying to grow real turf in the dome. Using a top that allowed light to get through. The "air conditioners" were blowing out at the time--getting a lot of home runs that first year. Then they decided to turn them around and have them blow in. Or it is reversed. The older I get, the more I have to look things up.

Also have the program from that day, and the 1965 All Star game played in the Astrodome. Priceless at my house.

Hope I got here fast enough.

Oops, Astros won 2-1. Sorry. Typo while brain expelling gas:)

BB, I answered you below. Nope, you weren't fast enough. I was so curious, and waited for about 3 minutes and went ahead and researched it. It's a great question.

Programs are really the best souvenirs from long ago baseball games. They are what I love looking at, other than old uniforms. Perhaps one day you can get to the Basehall HOFame in NY. It is really really something. We see on tv old black and white tapes of baseball games from the 20's and 30's. But to actually go to the HOF and see these authentic uniforms for real, just blew me away.

I have lots of stuff like that. I really like looking at the old Houston Oiler's Cheerleader calendars that I still have. It is amazing how their uniforms have changed also. Nothing like the Cowboys, but...

Most of my authentic stuff is from Houston, considering I lived a long time just north of there. My dad's company had season tickets to the Oilers, Rockets, and Astros. Was a great time growing up.

Now my goal is to get to every big league stadium before I did--"bucket list".

Mostly the west coast teams are where I need to go. Have not traveled that part of the country.

Love Boston's stadium, had a blast at Chicago's Wrigley, spent lots of summers at Grandma's and Detriot's old stadium. Ah, for the good ole days--no wife, family that I had to buy tickets for too:)

BB, a lot of my teenage years on were spent @ Fenway. Especially Friday nites during the summer. I remember going to see Vida Blue v. Sonny Siebert. It was my very first Standing Room Only game. If I remember correctly it was a Friday nite in May. You couldn't move. We stood behind home plate. I've not traveled to many parks - Yankee Stadium, Shea Stadium and Baltimore I think is about it. Down in Baltimore we visited Babe Ruth's house - it was terrific.

Tiger Stadium. What memories. Turns out Tiger Stadium opened the same day Fenway Park opened back in 1912.

Cobb's Lake was an area in front of home plate that was always soaked with water by the groundskeepers to slow down Ty Cobb's bunts.

Pat,

Vida Blue--now there is a name that I almost forgot.

Well, my best stories come from watching Nolan Ryan pitch in the Dome & then in Arlington. I have actually seen 2 of his no hitters. Those are amazing. That guy is incredible.

Also, have a signed baseball from Nolan & the entire 86 Astro team--with Mike Scott, Bob Knepper, & Jose "can you see" Cruz. I loved it when ESPN finally came out--especially with all the nicknames for players.

Hopefully, I get out west for a couple of weeks this summer. Need to hit Oakland & San Francisco to catch a game.

I do love Fenway though--Awesome stadium!!!!!!

Great trivia on Cobb's Lake--love it.

'86. Baseball playoffs in the NL. Incredible incredible playoffs. I remember rooting for the Astros.

p.s. - I remember in '09 I believe it was sitting here @ home watching the Red Sox on tv while reading a book. It was late in the game and we had a huge huge lead. But the lead started to dwindle away. So I put the book down and just watched the nightmare unfold, with the mute button on. I remember thinking - well, isn't this just lovely. Of course, we ended up losing the game.

The following morning Ron, Indiana, brought up the game. I told him I was too mad to look it up to see whether or not we had broken the record for losing a game after such a lead.

Someone answered me that there was another similar game involving Ty Cobb/Tigers way back when. And whoever this person was, used the name "Baseball Historian". Both Ron and I were thinking the same thing - was this Keith O? Who else would know such a thing?

So whenever I think of Cobb, I think of this "Baseball Historian" whoever it may be. Ty Cobb, my #2 favorite player, after Pedro. Noland Ryan, another great great player.

Well, my four days off from work are history. Bummer. No more staying up until 2, 3 in the morning reading or chatting on the web.

Nice talking to you about bball and your memories. It's a subject I never tire of.

Pat or BigBear62:

Either of you remember who the last person was to literally THROW a baseball over the outfield roof at Tiger Stadium in Detroit?

Either of you recall the circumstances around baseball's first strike? An account of it is included here. Apparently, Ty Cobb's violent response to a taunter in the stands is what precipitated it. The guy insulted Cobb incessantly,....until he called Cobb a racial epithet. That did it.

In a few bounds he was into the stands and had pulled the one-armed man up to whip the living crap out of him. Park policemen were required to get Cobb off the guy as Cobb spiked the man named Claude Lueker.

Cobb was suspended, and the remaining Tigers struck to secure Cobb's reinstatement,....even though nobody on the team particularly liked Cobb. They struck for him because they knew he was the greatest player in the game at the time.

I didn't know about "Lake Cobb". Never heard that one before.

http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/vault/article/magazine/MAG1092763/index.htm

TX Rick,

What else can the man do? He's a community organizer, and falling back to his core. What else can he do? Can he debate his policy decisions when the debate time in the election cycle happens? Can he articulate his position when someone asks those difficult questions rather than the softballs currently being thrown at him?

I want to hear about his energy policy. Where is the outrage for $4+ gallon of gas? I recall Bush being drilled when it hit $3 during his administration. What is his policy on controlling the grocery bill?

And now the average 401K is going to decline again.....my we all will have a .401K value.

Oh, but it is good to be King!

Rick - amazing what a negative rating can do isn't it? But of course we all know it is bushes fault! lol!

Wanna take bets that obama calls up boehner and tells him the house has to come up with a plan a month earlier?

Some traders think that if the S&P doesn't end up below 1290 at the close we will be fine.

PS. The Middle Class in not destroyed--Just left wing scare tactics.

A few facts

2009--the top 1% paid more in tax dollars than the bottom 95%

in 2009--47% of the people in this nation had "zero" tax liability--didn't pay taxes.

Leaving 53% of the people to pay for 100% of the tax bills & 1% pays 40% of the bills. While the top 5% pays over 60% of the federal income tax dollars. --leaving 48% of the people or 95% which ever you like, picking up 40% or less of the federal income tax dollars. The percentages might be higher, but the rich already pay their "fair" share.

I just call "phooey" on your middle class being destroyed.

The rich pay their "Fair" share of the interest on the debt. None of us are paying down the debt, yet.

...c'mon now...leave George Bush out of this!

Mad,

"Relax Francis"

If you need a job, they have them in North Dakota, one of the states that has been recession proof.

And government shouldn't create jobs, private businesses should create jobs. Government should allow for businesses to have a chance, not restrict them to the end of time.

Who was in the White House keeping us safe on 9/11 ? Not George "W" Bush............... Cheney. FAIL.