May 2011
FightingBob.com readers talk back
Letter on: God's gift
“Just maybe we should follow Mao Tse Tung.”
-Dole O'Mite | Oconomowoc,WI | May 31, 2011
Letter on: Truth Seekers on the job!
“John.
First of all, you have no idea of what I have done, or tried to do.
My contempt of the so-called liberals comes not from a conservative bent of mind but rather from trying to work with them.
Run for office. Put yourself on the line. Tell us how it all works out later. I have known your type my whole life and talk is about all you are good for.
I write and comment under a fake name to keep you from personalizing any small sucesses or failures I may have had. Suffice it to say I have been there, got the T-shirt, and had my fill. Modern liberals are talkers and Fighting Bob would tell you the same.”
-Griebnotz Doerkpfester | (Glad) I Escaped, WI. | May 31, 2011
Letter on: Fright right
“As much as the current Repugnican Party disgusts me on this particular issue they continue to make all kinds of political hay, and has people like myself holding our noses and voting for them.
An ongoing/ perennial Achilles Heel of the Progressive Political Movement.
Your objections are entirely based on your emotions
not actual reason or logic.
In States that have enacted concealed carry legislation (it was at least 38 States last time I checked) Violence on the part of concealed carry permit holders is essentially non existent statistically, and violent crime against strangers
is shown to decrease up to 40%, the idea of being shot by a victim becomes a primary concern to criminals.
Anyway I've learned this stuff is virtual religion to you morons so I wonder why I even bother expressing my opinion.
Keep up the good work ;-)
Regards Frederick Jihnston”
-Frederick Johnston | Beloit WI, 53511 | May 31, 2011
Letter on: Truth Seekers on the job!
“Griebnotz Doerkpfester, you are the jackanape. If ever the word "naysayer" took embodiment in human form you would surely get the prize. All you do is endlessly gripe and take snipes at every effort people make to bring about change. You run away from Wisconsin when the weather gets tough and then attack those of us still fighting. I have *never* heard you offer any positive suggestions, yet you feel some sort of compulsive need to attack anyone else's efforts. I say "no" to Griebnotz Doerkpfester.”
-John E Davey | Kendall, WI | May 31, 2011
Letter on: Truth Seekers on the job!
“I guess Hightower is better than highrollers. I still think Bob Fest needs to recruit viable candidates who will actually run. Put these folks on your podium so we can hear and support. The only way progressives will take back their state is through good people who will do more than just WANT to run for office. We need those who actually WILL run.
Bob Fest must become a venue for our future. Bring on the candidates and let's hear what they have to say. Let us grill them and get them ready for their campaigns.”
-Franz Fripplfrappl | Madison | May 31, 2011
Letter on: Truth Seekers on the job!
“Wow. Ten years for FightingBob Fest. All in the face of 8 yrs of Bush II and two years of Obungle, the non-progressive who fooled you all.
If Bob himself had taken this long to change things Walker would be selecting Herb Kohls replacement.
Liberals. To name them is to condemn as nothing more than yappers, gawpers, whiners, and do nothings. All in the face of two illegal wars, a new third front of same, bankruptcies, Bankster Gangsters, foreclosures, increasing poverty and homelessness, and out and out grasping greed of the plutocracy.
And all you jackanapes can do is hold another break out session and write clever protest signs.
In my book that is a ten year program of failure.”
-Griebnotz Doerkpfester | I Escaped, WI. | May 31, 2011
Letter on: Truth Seekers on the job!
“The country is NOT broke. The wealth is just in the wrong hands. To end war, we must prove to the wealthy that they can make money with a cleaner environment, a healthier workforce, a solid health care system, public education, family-supporting wages, higher standards of living. There is profit in waging wars. There is greater profit in a nation where people are content and productive.
Good luck explaining this one to those with all the wealth and fossilized brains.”
-Pietr Haikuu | Hurley | May 31, 2011
Letter on: God's gift
“And the North Koreans claim they are one of the most important countries in the world. Inept leadership there does its best when brainwashing the people. Is it any wonder why inept leaders here do the same to us? The North Koreans don't have to ask for God's blessings. They have the Dear Leader. We ask for God's blessings because we have no leaders. We have puppets of the oligarchs. Paul Ryan cites Ayn rand because he is incapable of an original thought for which he wants to be responsible.
This nation would be in real trouble if we didn't have wars and tragedies to guide our leaders and to distract us from what is important. Why is it easier to spend billions of dollars waging wars, cleaning up after disasters and incarcerating citizens than to have no wars, tackle climate change and being there for citizens when they are in trouble or need?”
-Maria C | Middleton | May 31, 2011
Letter on: Obama promises to help Joplin
“You Go, Ed. Because there is no bigger issue in this world than global warming. Everything else must take a back seat. Screw the wars we are in, screw the political politicians. We need to focus on the possibility that the planet we are living on is about to die.
I don't doubt global warming, and even if I am wrong(which I am not)what kind of short-sighted lunatics would be willing to risk non-action on this-the only issue that exists. It is totally unbelieveable that we-the human race-are actually debating our impending self-extermination.
Mr. Gates, Turner, Buffet, Slim, Koch, and most of all-Obama, the House, the Senate, State governments, and legislators. Can't you see how many jobs are here? Jobs that will surely solve the world's climate problem and unemployment problem. Are you people totally blind? Did we as humans come this far to suddenly dismiss the existence of science. Did we educate ourselves in orded to kill ourselves?
The world as a whole has got to come together if we are to save ourselves. No more Chinese, American, Brazilian, Russian people can continue to exist. Only humans will exist-if, indeed, we do continue to exist.
It has got to be very, very soon, and its got to be a project of such enormity-the world cannot even comprehend it's size. I've got my money on Ted Turner.”
-Ty O'Mara | Grayslake, IL | May 30, 2011
Letter on: Jim Crow replaces Bucky
“The only racism I see is you people. You think so little of minorities that you believe them to be incapable of getting a ID. Then college students who are smart enough to get into a college are to dumb to get a ID. If that's the case then our higher education standards are a bigger problem. If my 85 year old aunt can figure out how to get a ID I'm pretty sure the rest can too.
I have to show a photo ID to buy alcohol,cash a check, or buy cold medicine. Not rights you say? I have to show photo ID to exercise my 2nd amendment right every time I purchase a firearm. This is so the government can do a background check on me before I'm given permission to then exercise that right. If the firearm is a pistol I must wait 72hrs before the government will allow me to have my property. If I would like to purchase or build a short barreled rifle, silencer or other NFA weapon or device I need a photo ID ,a set of my finger prints, check for the $200 TAX to exercise my 2nd amendment RIGHT and I need the chief law enforcement officer to sign off on me owning it. After that get to wait 4 to6 months. You think those are reasonable restrictions to exercise a persons 2nd amendment right and your really trying to argue a photo ID to vote is just to much?”
-SW | Waukesha WI | May 30, 2011
Letter on: Fright right
“I also agree the above views of Bob & Maria. I started more closely following the gun-control issue after John Lennon's murder, but it's to the point where the inmates are running the asylum, so there's no point in even discussing the legal/historical precedents that favor sane gun control (there's plenty of places on the Internet to find that info anyway). Personally I can NOT recall a personal/social incident in the last 55 yrs of my cognizant life where a firearm in the hands of a private, non-uniformed individual would've have been of ANY assistance in the situation I was in. However, I can recall PLENTY of instances where drunken guys did & said things that they were regretful (or should've been) for the next day, and it's too easy to envision how a concealed firearm could well have lead to tragedy in some of those instances. Unfortunately, now is apparently NOT a politically viable time for rational humane policies - - - the majority of the electorate seems to literally DEMAND crazy, irrelevant, greedy political acts and they're steered even further that way by manipulative characters in the Neo-con wing. Hard to see how things are going to improve anytime soon...”
-Big Em | Milwaukee, WI | May 30, 2011
Letter on: Obama promises to help Joplin
“I have often dreamed how glorious and free our waterways if only the damn Army Corps would let them be. Mess with the planet long enough and soon Mother Nature will respond in kind. The earth's day is coming as is ours when the downtrodden take back their democracy.”
-Maggie | Muscoda | May 30, 2011
Letter on: Obama promises to help Joplin
“Be wary of those who look upon Joplin as an opportunity to make a quick buck. Disaster capitalism is alive and does quite well in spite of those who object. As for expecting people to wake up and do something about climate change, this will never happen until the wealthy figure out how to make their profit. For now, the present system works quite well in supporting those with more than the rest of us. When they suffer, then we may start to see change, but don't count on it.”
-Pietr Haikuu | Hurley | May 30, 2011
Letter on: Jim Crow replaces Bucky
“While there may still be some weight to the phrase, "All politics are local" I believe that it is more accurate to say "All politics are racial". There can be no other reason for requiring (1) showing "your papers" in order to vote, (2) allowing all the "law abiding", aka white residents, to go around armed to protect themselves from all of the law breakers, aka people of color.”
-blurondo | Wauwatosa, WI | May 29, 2011
Letter on: Rick Perry might be the answer
“Conservatives and libertarians want nothing to do with government. When it comes to handouts, they are usually first in line. Show a good conservative how to make money off government and he/she will. Once the money dries up, they'll move to dismantle what government is left or modify it in such a way that government once again becomes a cash cow for them. Instead of photo ID's for voters, maybe we ought to have mandatory registration and ID's for those who prefer to tear our nation apart.”
-Maria C | Middleton | May 29, 2011
Letter on: Concealed weapons
“Concealed carry is a bit strange since it is legal in this state to "open carry" -- it is perfectly legal to carry a gun as long as it is visible on three sides (holsters are not concealment). So, whatcha got to hide if you conceal one?”
-Randy Lee | Rdigeland WI | May 29, 2011
Letter on: Jim Crow replaces Bucky
“Photo I.D. to vote must be against our constitution.They didn't have photos back when it was adopted.But they did have Witches.This must be a new Witch hunt by the right wing.
Most of these chicken hawks have avoided serving our country to protect our constitutional rights.
On this Memorial Day lets resolve to expose all those cowards for what they are. Lets pay tribute to the brave men and women who have served and those who are now serving our country especially those who gave their lives for us.”
-Joe Gruber | Campbellsport,WI | May 29, 2011
Letter on: Jim Crow replaces Bucky
“Have you ever seen a good looking image on a driver's license or any other ID? Some of those make us look like criminals. So, now we have to have these damn ID's to vote. Can we be denied the right to vote if our ID's make us look like felons?”
-Pietr Haiku | Hurley | May 29, 2011
Letter on: Jim Crow replaces Bucky
“Conservative republicans are perhaps the most fraudulent group of people I have ever seen. They lie, cheat and steal to get and hold onto what they want. The only consolation is, when they die, they can't take it with them. The rest of us can't wait that long. Photo IDs are an impediment to exercising our right to vote. This nation has survived nearly 240 years without IDs. Why the all-of-a-sudden rush to mandate photo IDs now? It's but one more mechanism conservative republicans have devised to control us. Why do so many of us sit by so idly? If we take our voting rights to heart, we'd storm the capitol and stay there until the nonsense stops. Unfortunately the state remains split with nearly half believing the conservative republicans are the answers to our prayers.”
-Maria Caliente | Middleton | May 29, 2011
Letter on: Jim Crow replaces Bucky
“Republicans are right to worry about voter fraud, they commit so much of it.”
-Griebnotz Doerkpfester | I Escaped, WI. | May 29, 2011
Letter on: Fright right
“How do we make fear go away? Twenty years ago I went for a hike through the Nicolet National Forest with a male friend who was also a gun enthusiast. I am not. He packed a handgun. The reason? To protect us from the unknown. The unknown? Feral animals? Shooting stars? Wild ideas? No, from other humans we may encounter. We chanced upon a porcupine and he offered to dispatch it. I convinced him not to.
It's a very sad day when we cannot conquer fear without being armed. Guns don't solve problems, they create them. Our republican politicians don't seem to solve problems either. They create them whether real or imagined. A good republican seems to be all about controlling others whether it be economically or socially. Turning us against one another is one more tactic to accomplish the republican dream.
I have read and reread the second amendment many, many times and it certainly doesn't say what the gun toters claim. I bet if you read the state constitution, much of what the republicans are doing or have done in Wisconsin is equally suspect.”
-Maria Caliente | Middleton | May 29, 2011
Letter on: Rick Perry might be the answer
“Sure, give Texas back to Mexico. Or, better yet, kick them out and let them decide what they will do. But first strip all the military bases and the Johnson Space Center and anything else the federal government paid for and keep the material and money.
Living in New Mexico we see more than our share of Texans. Usually a shady lawyer with a $250 hat, $500 dollar boots, and a $35 law degree. Happiness is a Texan headed home with an Arizonan under each arm!”
-Griebnotz Doerkpfester | I Escaped (and you didn't) WI. | May 28, 2011
Letter on: Rick Perry might be the answer
“I say lets give Texas back to Mexico then Texas voters can have the low wage, no regulation, free market, owned by three families paradise they seem to crave.”
-nonheroicvet | Bye Bye, WI | May 28, 2011
Letter on: Judge Sumi rules
“Attended Bob Fest in Chippewa falls - it was great. Do it again.”
-nonheroicvet | Happyville, WI | May 28, 2011
Letter on: Rick Perry might be the answer
“Like most conservative republicans Ayn Rand is a hypocrite. Republicans talk big of stoping "government handouts", yet they all wait in line for their's. Tax cut's, favorable legislation, free healthcare for themselves but not their constituants. Ayn Rand received social security disability payments and medicare under her married name of Ayn Conners. Her worshippers are too ignorant, blind or payed off to know the truth. If rapture were to happen, I'm sure America would be skipped over, we worship at the alter of the money lenders, murder women and children for profit, torture, break laws(open meeting and have our Justice dept. Fight for an overturn).......”
-Dole O'Mite | Oconomowoc, WI | May 28, 2011
Letter on: Downhill fast
“Thank you Mark for Downhill fast article. I was born in Wisconsin and have lived here for all my sixty-five years. Except for the service time during the Vietnam War.
Your writing fit in with my thought. "Why Grandpa isn't voting for Republicans." I don't want my daughter or grandaughters to live in Scott Walker world. It's bad enough they are attacking Seniorcare and Medcaid. But, when you attack public education, Badgercare and Planned Parenthood. It affects my grandaughters futures and lives. There's a reason I came home to Wisconsin and not to a place like Texas. I never thought we would have our own village idiot. Who would in one short time destroying over 50 years of clean government and Progressive movement. It will take years to recover from the damage being done.
We must be on the offense against these bought and paid for puppets. Get involved in the recall elections. Don't kid yourself, these people have no feelings for this state or it's citizens. Educate your neighbors, friends and fellow citizens. Expand their knowledge of places you can get some straight informations. Know your facts, the truth will always win lies. If you spent time on the square protesting, 20-30 hours for example. Spend that much time working on the Senate re-calls. A 100,000 people being involved
for 20-30 will give us a clean sweep.
Then we will do the same thing for removing the village idiot. Once we accomplish that were not done. We must continue with more recalls and elections to gain the whole state back. Other states will follow our example.
This is a wonderful State to live in and it will be it again. But we must stay involved and not get lazy. Join your local democratic party . Keep your leaders honest. Know your local legislator and your federal representive. Let them know what you think and that you expect them to represent our Wisconsin. With our Wisconsin values.”
-Steve Schoch | McFarland, WI | May 27, 2011
Letter on: Judge Sumi rules
“OMFG did you SEE THIS !?????!
http://crooksandliars.com/heather/clinton-ryan-backstage-peterson-foundatio
I feel like I just watched Bill Clinton raping a Teddy bear. What in the name of god is Bill Clinton doing sucking up to Ryan? It just does not matter to any of these people what all of us think. People can work and work and puke and bleed to make change and then in the end it just is all about the arrogant handshake between two pampered men in a marble and velvet room.
Yeah you two boys have a nice phone call. That's just swell”
-Annie K. | Eau Claire, WI | May 27, 2011
Letter on: Judge Sumi rules
“The system seems to work for now. How much longer before those Republicans "fix" it so what's left of the system is more in tune with their agenda?”
-Maria Caliente | Middleton | May 27, 2011
Letter on: Judge Sumi rules
“Next up, the legislative demise of the open meetings/open records laws.
They have the votes, you know, and they're not afraid to use them.
Seriously, I wouldn't be one bit surprised.”
-noblejoanie | Madison, WI | May 27, 2011
Letter on: Judge Sumi rules
“Life is good. Walker is going to sign another useless piece of legislation allowing for culling of fish during bass tournaments. He thinks this will be an economic boost to communities. As with most economic boosts, some business owners might make more money, but only if those businesses are what tournament participants want or need.
Will the "economic boost" translate into new jobs? Doubtful. Tournaments last a few days. We need jobs that will last years.
Will new jobs, if any are created at all, pay family supporting wages? Doubtful. If you can get folks to work for less, why give them more?
Will current workers get paid more based on imagined profits? Doubtful again. Why would any business owner share HIS/HER profit with workers?
Whether it's Walker or the Fitzgerald boys, Wisconsin's one-party system is not a one-size-fits-all system. It's biased to paying back supporters and to keeping political scum like Walker and the Fitzgeralds in power.”
-Pietr Haikuu | Hurley | May 27, 2011
Letter on: Concealed weapons
“Ed: You are too late inquiring about a proposal to "require" concealed carry. A while back Rep., now Senator Frank "Loony" Lasee from the Green Bay area wanted to require teachers to carry while teaching in an effort to control school violence. Thank good that didn't go anywhere. I just couldn't picture sweet Mrs. P., the K-5 teacher at our school packing heat..”
-Rana sp. | Abrams, WI | May 27, 2011
Letter on: Downhill fast
“I cheered when I read Steve's comments. I think he is exactly right, especially about the lameness of most local Democratic Party events. The meetings and dinners I've been to are less interesting than watching paint dry. And you could count the number of people under 25 on half of one hand.
The other side has been successful at framing pensions, decent health care and other basic rights as privileges, thus nourishing a resentment among the growing majority of workers who don't have these things. The union leaders who negotiated for these things for public workers need to use that experience to help private sector workers win the same things.
Annie's right too. Organizing transportation to DMV offices to get that silly photo ID would be a great first move, and a very symbolic one. I can just picture dozens of retirement home residents lining up in their wheel chairs at the counters. Talk about a great photo op! Another great image is that of buses or vans parked in downtown Milwaukee to transport homeless people. Bring a lawyer along to assist with the paperwork.
Now's a great time for some creative thinking. I'm no rabble rouser, but I'm willing to help and I've got the time (thanks to long-term unemployment). I bet there are more of me out there waiting for a call to action from the next Paul Wellstone.”
-Nanette | Elkhart Lake, WI | May 26, 2011
Letter on: Downhill fast
“While I like the idea of organizing lower income voters, I'm not so sure about how. I think Annie's idea of getting people to the DMVs is more practical. This operation should be started soon, especially in selected areas. July 12th is very close.
I have to appologize, I'm more of a "I'm willing to drive." than a "I'll organize this."
I hope some persons or organizations will step up soon.”
-Linda | Wisconsin Rapids,WI | May 26, 2011
Letter on: Downhill fast
“Annie,
You should crank the cynicism up a notch. There's still a tiny glimmer of optimism in your writings. :-)”
-Steve Carlson | Trego, WI. | May 26, 2011
Letter on: Concealed weapons
“"The questions remains how many elected officials will now carry firearms and how many will pull them to make their point or when democracy threatens them."
-Franz Fripplfrapp
The answer to your question Franz is the same amount as they have in the other 48 states that have concealed carry,none. The only place that happens is in WI liberals fantasy land.
"Do we want real Americans serving our courts or do we want minorities? I bet this is the very thought of those who object most. When will racism and prejudice cease to exist?
-Maria Caliente"
How come Maria I find it hard to beleive you found the fillabuster of GW's minority apointees just as troubling? You know when the Dems where doing the exact same thing to Estrada.”
-SW | Waukesha | May 26, 2011
Letter on: Downhill fast
“Oh dear. Time to apologize for a totally misdirected rant. I'm tired, or too ADHD, or (insert weenie excuse here).
In reading I apparently fused the actual remarks of Rep. Pocan and a commenter (Steve Carlson) in my mind. Obviously a Dem Assemblyman would NOT have suggested local party socializing is lame and pointless, or have implied fiefdoms exist. LOL What the heck was I thinking?
So, STEVE yes I guess I am agreeing with some of your remarks, with reservations.
And yeah, Go Democrats and all that Happy Horsestuff, but also there's more than one way to be disenfranchise voters and, well, you already know the story.
Again - sorry for the mis-fire but as you know Annie got her gun but don't need no trainin' under the new CC law, so sometimes she cain't hit the side of a barn.
Yee ha!”
-Annie K. | Ridin Dirty in EC, WI | May 26, 2011
Letter on: Downhill fast
“Hey Mark,
Nice thoughts at the end there, but....hmm.
Well, I guess now that we have CC we can bring a piece to the Party meeting. Implement change that way. But in spite of well-phrased and well-meaning words, it's pretty hard to re-arrange a fiefdom that is quite happy the way it is. Local parties can so often be that way. Particularly if those active in it hope to perhaps run it as a personal de facto campaign headquarters should the opportunity arise. It's been done with success here in WI, it will be done again. I'm not getting into that, nor the whole Chicken-feed social club mentality.
It's an interesting indication of how the 2 parties differ - the Repugs are so eager to embrace their "fringe" and disenchanted elements if that gives them a leg-up on power. The Democrats, not.
Yes, the Teas were largely manufactured, but it's still an amazing contrast to see them so welcomed as opposed to the cold shut-out of Greens or left leaning and mavericky Independent folks by the IMO too exclusive Dems. I am NOT a Green. But I do say that the Democrats have found their own marginalized voters to be embarrassments and political liabilities rather than a possible source of new numbers. A result of the Big Shift Right, but, I say there's a price to be paid for that choice.
I personally left all Dem party involvement after seeing too many examples of shut-outs, actual internal destruction of "new energy" or talented person(s) with potential to re-enliven.
I agree with what you're saying, but also not personally ready to impale myself on the spears of the local party.
I still have a vote and a voice (to a tiny tiny degree) and I do think it's time people whether in parties or Independents, start thinking of ways to perhaps offer volunteer shuttles to DMV for voters who might be disenfranchised etc. There are probably people with vehicles and a willingness to sit and wait while some voters get their IDs. People like that have probably been wondering when the Democrats are going to coordinate an effort like that, which is much better than bloviating. Also I hope the Democrats who are in power to any degree now can do something to get increased hours of business at DMV. Sure an approach can be to tie it up in court. But that chews up time that can't be gotten back if that effort fails. The OperationID might be too late to start.
If that happens (if people help others get IDs), I think there needs to be some thoughts to personal safety of volunteers also. Even if just having pairs rather than single volunteers. Interpersonal hostility is on the rise, even in towns far from Madison. And the local Republican leader is CERTAINLY willing to do what it takes on his end.”
-Annie K. | Eau Claire, WI | May 26, 2011
Letter on: Concealed weapons
“Dear Ed, Reading your last 2 posts and Mark Pocan's together reinforces my deeply held belief that when the time comes to officially collect the signatures to recall Gov. Walker--which will be successful--and to choose a candidate to oppose Walker in the recall election, the most effective candidate will be a man who will likely not seek to be the candidate. Yet I also believe that he will respond to a clarion call from Wisconsin voters to oppose Walker because of his demonstrated love for Wisconsin and its great traditions.
Of course I refer to "The Man In Black" at the recent Bob Fest. The proud Wisconsinite who has served his beloved State for 48 years--Dave Obey. It will likely be difficult to convince Dave to give 3 more years of service to uphold everything we value about Wisconsin but in his announcement he can declare that he is running to complete the current Governor's term and will not be a candidate for re-election in 2014, leaving that election to the younger generation of leaders that have grown so rapidly this year in the face of the attempts by Walker and the Fitzgerald brothers and their enablers to destroy our heritage and principles.
I hope that others share my belief that Dave Obey will be our strongest candidate to oust Walker from office next year and that together we can elect Wisconsin' greatest defender of Wisconsin's traditions and progressive heritage, and even brighter future.And that together, as soon as we prevail in the Senate recall elections,we can turn our attention to the recall of Walker and the election of Governor Dave Obey.”
-Bill Dixon | Monona,Wisconsin | May 26, 2011
Letter on: Concealed weapons
“Do we want real Americans serving our courts or do we want minorities? I bet this is the very thought of those who object most. When will racism and prejudice cease to exist?”
-Maria Caliente | Middleton | May 26, 2011
Letter on: Concealed weapons
“The questions remains how many elected officials will now carry firearms and how many will pull them to make their point or when democracy threatens them.”
-Franz Fripplfrappl | Madison | May 26, 2011
Letter on: Downhill fast
“Good thoughts, Mark! Our side thinks the other side is dumb and they think we are dumb. It's all about the dumbest winning, and right now that would be the other side.”
-Pietr Haikuu | Hurley | May 26, 2011
Letter on: Concealed weapons
“My dear Ed, the scanners are for screening school children so the capitol doesn't become infested with young minds and untainted hopes for the future.”
-Pietr Haikuu | Hurley | May 26, 2011
Letter on: Downhill fast
“Thank you!”
-Franz Fripplfrappl | Madison | May 26, 2011
Letter on: Downhill fast
“In going forward the most important thing progressives and democrats can do is to organize low income people. There's never been a better time.
There are almost 800,000 people on Badgercare. Several hundred thousand of them are probably of voting age. Many of them may not vote, or may have voted against their own interests in the past due to social issues. Many of them may not know what is about to happen to Badgercare.
This demographic could be the margin of victory in a gubernatorial recall election, and instrumental in taking back the Assembly in 2012.
There's no time to waste on this. We're going to need every vote we can get going forward.
There is a Dem party in almost every county in Wisconsin. Most of them meet once a month and go over mundane things, debate resolutons, host a speaker, or start planning annual events like Ice Cream Socials and Chili Feeds. This has got to change.
These county parties need to start figuring out how to reach these new voters, and in anticipation of the barriers put up by the new voter ID bill. This might mean meeting twice a month and scrapping the annual event,(which is often a singing to the choir, social affair)in favor of more focused and productive organizing.
It isn't a question of whether or not we can take back our state government. The numbers are on our side. It's a question of whether or not we're willing to do what it takes.
And if we're not willing to do what it takes then we have nothing to gripe about.”
-Steve Carlson | trego, WI | May 26, 2011
Letter on: Fighting Bob Fest North exceeded all our hopes!
“So how big was this party? Was it bigger than a Tea Party? Bigger than a Tea Party with Sarah Palin headling it?
I look forward to a future FightingBobFest-Fox Valley. Sure, it's a Republican area but Fighting Bob was a Republican too, back in the days when Republicans stood for individual rights and clean government. Fighting Bob Fest is an opportunity to have some fun and reinforce Wisconsin values while discussing citizen concerns. It should be popular anywhere in the state.”
-Sheila | Madison, WI | May 26, 2011
Letter on: Shame on Wisconsin
“The 2010 election was a shame. People in Wisconsin and throughout the nation were worried and even frightened. They were worried about the national (and state) debt, they were worried about losing their house or their job. They wanted change. Thus the Republican landslide.
Republicans promised jobs and debt reduction. Sounded good to a little over 50% of Wisconsin voters. In came Walker and his minions.
The rest is a brief, but shameful history of a radical agenda being foisted upon the unsuspectinng people of Wisconsin.
It is difficult for people to admit to making a mistake. It may be more difficult if other people rub their noses in it. The fault was not the voters, but the candidates who promised debt reduction and job production but delivered a beloved state that is now unrecognizable.
It would be a shame on Wisconsin if this is allowed to stand. It could take years to undo what has been done in months, but traditional political processes (tools) do exits. It starts with recall elections and continues through the 2012 elections and beyond. Wiconsin is home, and we're in it for the long haul.
If Republicans remain in power and continue with their repressive agenda, then the people of Wisconsin have indeed changed. It would truly be "Shame on Wisconsin."
My heart cannot believe it.”
-Linda | Wisconsin Rapids,WI | May 25, 2011
Letter on: Shame on Wisconsin
“I agree with your assessment of WI's downward political turn. It's sad to see, especially after the relatively progressive WI politicians I remember growing up with (ie; Proxmire, Nelson, John Reynolds had his moments, Obey, etc) and the mostly positive political changes we saw in the 60's & early 70's. Unfortunately that seemed to start changing in the mid-late 70's, nationally/statewide and eventually locally. Now we're headed back to the 1890s type of political ethos -- but we DON'T have the vast natural resources and relatively small population that we had back then, so the 'growing-our-way-out-of-it' like we so often did back then just won't work in today's world. These mean solutions that the Walker-ites and friends are foisting off on us bode poorly for a state (and country) that will probably see declining growth in the near future as it deals with peak oil/climate change/'free' trade/population pressures/etc. If we continue down this path, it's not too hard to get cynical and envision a Mad-Max apocalyptic world in another decade or two.”
-Big Em | Milwaukee, WI | May 25, 2011
Letter on: Shame on Wisconsin
“Didn't Kloppenburg just tell us about wide spread anomalies and problems win the last election?”
-Dohnal | wauwatosa, wi | May 25, 2011
Letter on: Truth
“I once heard Pawlenty in Duluth,
and I'm convinced he speaks nothing but the truth.
Sure is tootin', hollerin' and hootin',
As he empties another bottle of vermouth.”
-Sven Larsen | Duluth | May 25, 2011
Letter on: Shame on Wisconsin
“We're all confused here in the northwoods. I see where Walker has signed some kind of thing that will deregulate the phone industry. He is quoted as saying this will create jobs and help consumers. None of us can figure out how this will create jobs. What kind of jobs and what will they pay? We are skeptical that any jobs associated with the phone industry will be family supporting ones unless everyone in the entire family has to work to make ends meet. And, just how will deregulation help consumers? With no one watching out for our interests, will the phone industry do this automatically?
We took a vote and all of us think Walker sleeps with a different corporation each night. Is his wife for real, or is she also a for-profit entity pulling his strings and waiting her turn?”
-Pietr Haikuu | Hurley | May 25, 2011
Letter on: Fighting Bob Fest North exceeded all our hopes!
“Darn, I missed Fighting Bob North because of the Rapture. Several friends invited me to join them across the street from Art's First Church of the Used Pontiac to watch the congregants head skyward come 6 pm.
Geez Louise, they had the lawn chairs all lined up, the charcoal grill honking away, lots of Hoesly's brats, a cooler full of Lake Louie's finest brews, sunblock and their signs "can we have your stuff when you're gone?" at the ready for the big moment. And nothing.
Even the helium filled inflatable dolls floated up on fishing line as a lure couldn't draw the wrath of the Rapture. Oh what the heck, someone on Craigslist must want a matching set of inflatable dolls really cheap.
Darnedest thing, none of them really wanted much. One hoped for a 13" digital TV to replace her analog TV, another hoped for a better car to replace the 94 Toyota with 271,000 miles. Would have been happy with a solid 73 Pinto wagon.
And had the gas tank exploded it would have been undeniable proof that good old Wierd Harold Camping was actually correct about the Rapture. Well, there is always next year for Fighting Bob North.”
-Kim Tschudy | New Glarus, WI | May 25, 2011
Letter on: Shame on Wisconsin
“Yes, yes, we all know how dire it is now in Wisconsin. No one seems to talk much about how evenly split our state has become and how politicians who win by a few mere points believe they have clear mandates from us voters.
How did Wisconsin become so divided? Why are politicians using this division to make radical changes to our state and our way of life by ramming radical and destructive agenda through what now appears to be a single-party system of state government? We can demonstrate ad nauseum at the capitol in the most bitter of Wisconsin weather, but we cannot effect change that rids us of these fascists quickly and completely.
There should be a way to stop these folks in their tracks without having to wait a full year to recall. What prevents them from damaging the Wisconsin we know even further?
Maybe we ought to dissolve the legislature totally and make every bill a referendum voted upon by us voters.
Maybe representation based on the number of people in a district has become ineffective. How about each of our 72 counties having a single vote, a system that would put all counties rich and poor on the same footing.”
-Maria Caliente | Middleton | May 25, 2011
Letter on: Shame on Wisconsin
“Hey, don't paint us all with the same brush. This should not be "shame on Wisconsin" - it should be shame on Scott Walker, his cronies and their radical right agenda sponsored by ALEC.”
-Sarah | Stevens Point WI | May 25, 2011
Letter on: Here comes the heat
“How can this be you elected Barry? At that moment the seas stop rising, the polar ice caps stopped melting, and peace across the world was seen by all.”
-SW | Waukesha WI | May 24, 2011
Letter on: A problem and an opportunity
“I agree with Annie K - - - I'm not sure what Mr Kraus' columns are doing here... they seem more appropriate for the 'centrist' forums like the MJS or the Jon Stewart show. You know, where there's first a false equivalency postulated (ie; the US left is just as bad and powerful as the US right) and then the writer either stakes out a place in between the two so as not to offend either one too awfully much (and they're seldom too worried about offending the mythical left wingers they've created), OR goes off into a fantasy/wish-it-were-true world, a 'why-can't-we-all-get-along' mantra, in both cases ignoring the fact that one party is --- by any modern historical standards --- corrupt, megalomaniacal and is strictly interested in venial political power, NOT trying to really solve any of the pressing problems the world (local -> international) has, but just manipulating them for electoral gain. That party will NOT change their modus operandi simply because Mr Kraus or others come up with some good, plausible ideas for things like campaign reform, since this party has CREATED most of the corrupt practices and has FOUGHT any attempts at reforms since day one and continues to this day to do it.”
-Big Em | Milwaukee, WI | May 23, 2011
Letter on: Here comes the heat
“Baton Rouge will be under water. A country that is willing to spend trillions of dollars and kill/murder countless innocent women, children and their own citizens for access to cheap oil certainly dosen't give a damn about Global Warming. Capitalism is an unsustainable, outmoded 19th century economic system that has no place in the 21st century.”
-Dole O'Mite | Oconomowoc, WI | May 23, 2011
Letter on: Here comes the heat
“Imagine how our ecosystem will change! Wisconsin, Minnesota, the UP will all lose flora and fauna unique to our region. Along with the heat will be new species and critters, some of which bite. We will also see new plant diseases.
Are you ready for lakes and rivers that look like they belong in Arkansas or Mississippi?
Once the environment changes or disappears, so will our jobs and economy. Climate change will also affect our healthiness. For those who complain about health care today, just wait. There probably won't be any in the future.
But, does anyone really care? Those in positions to change will be long gone by the time climate change really comes to Wisconsin. Their kids and grandkids won't care because they will have never known a "better" Wisconsin.
Gee, now I sound like a Republican't with all this fearmongering stuff.”
-Franz Fripplfrappl | Madison | May 23, 2011
Letter on: Fighting Bob Fest North exceeded all our hopes!
“Fighting Bob Fest North was a great event. We appreciated the opportunity to meet with so many progressives in one place and talk about what they are doing in their communities. Now we need to amplify those efforts and continue the effort. Looking forward to Bob south and next years Fight'n Bob North.”
-Alternative Media Project | Eau Claire WI | May 23, 2011
Letter on: Here comes the heat
“How do we get people to move beyond their imagined fears and panic? Conservatives are consistently successful in feeding the fear and the panic. Once people are convinced of they "have" fear and panic, it is so easy for conservatives and their corporate interests to take charge and have their devious ways with us. How do we break this cycle?
Interestingly, if this were a child or woman being abused, all society would come down hard on the evildoers. When society is the victim, no one seems to care.”
-Pietr Haikuu | Hurley | May 23, 2011
Letter on: A problem and an opportunity
“Okay wow. I read somewhere you are a friend of Ed's and I know you want to keep the issue you work on in the forefront and relate it in various ways to a wide variety of situations because you feel it is key.
BUT OH MY GOD
Sir, you could not be MORE wrong.
And frankly I'm a bit shocked that anyone (except a Fitzgerald boy or that type who um, well... talk about having a dog in the hunt)
Anyways.
That these recalls, or the public outrage is over SCOTT'S PERSONALITY and not what he has done- I just am flabbergasted.
That is actually some of the most extreme pro-Walker spin I have read. And here on GarveyBlog?
Didn't see THAT coming.
Okay, people are not annoyed at his haircut, they haven't gotten up off their couches because Walker "lacks charm" or a proper bedside manner.(and as an "active person" you yourself know it takes a 9-11 or a years supply of Free Beer to get people up and out)
"The bumper strips "Recall Walker" say it all" I'm not sure that even rates as an observation with any kind of meaning or depth. Yes, they say that many people want to recall The Governor. It's a pretty simple message, there is no big conspiracy theory behind it, no "dog-whistle" meaning like the words "birth certificate" have. (I am not an Obama fan, just sayin')
"Recall Walker" means - Recall Walker
and the reason for that is because people feel upset at what he is doing, feel he is dismantling or destroying institutions and long-held traditions in ways he NEVER campaigned on, or even hinted at and doing this at a record pace and in an abusive manner that also tramples on individuals and the fundamentals of statesmanship.
IF it had been just "Scott is not a guy you'd have a beer with" then that would have been more of a tone in the campaign. It was not.
Outrage and shock flared AFTER he won, and when he started DOING THINGS.
I actually am an "independent" type on many issues. I do not react as a lock-step liberal in politics or in my personal life. And (even though I act ridiculous on blogs) I do feel and live that one HAS to take responsibility for what they DO. Own Your Own B.S.
I would call that a "conservative value", to not say my "environment was at fault", to draw a strong line between "compassion" and excuse-making, and buck-passing, and just plain shirking of responsibility for the choices you have made, and how you have chosen to act.
I am where I am in my life due to decisions I made AFTER my formative years and "environment" was over with. In my life I have to own my behavior.
It's time Scott Walker owns HIS own behavior.
NOT a victim.
Recall Walker.”
-Annie K. | Eau Claire, WI | May 23, 2011
Letter on: Fighting Bob Fest North exceeded all our hopes!
“I am delighted to report that I made it to Bob Fest North, thus breaking a record of failure to make it [http://fightingbob.com/article.cfm?articleID=1045]!
Organizing a Bob Fest up north was a great move, and much appreciated.
I am especially thrilled that my exchange student from Kosovo, a bright young man named Nik Deliu, was able to attend with me. He is a future leader of the world's youngest democracy - three years old in February! - and is really excited about learning from our system. I am convinced that he will be successful, and that his nation will benefit from his efforts!
Thanks to everyone who worked so hard to make this such a great event... I'm ready for next year already!”
-John Smart | Park Falls WI | May 23, 2011
Letter on: A problem and an opportunity
“I watch what goes on in the capitol and wonder at the wasted time energy and resources that go to waste as time goes on. I'd support a unicameral system here for state government, non partisan in nature, much like county boards run here. The lawmakers could get everything done, and still be citizen legislators working part time.
I'd be a candidate on that issue alone if I could get the support. But anyone running on that basis would be a lone ranger. No establishment political group would support this change as they have too much at stake in the status quo. Maybe we can recruit Bob candidates around the state to support the idea.”
-Jim Joiner | janesville, wi | May 23, 2011
Letter on: A problem and an opportunity
“Until money is totally removed from the formula, nothing will change. Elected office is all about power and money. It rarely has anything to do with the public's needs or welfare.”
-Maria Caliente | Middleton | May 23, 2011
Letter on: Fighting Bob Fest North exceeded all our hopes!
“No one said there would be beer. Damn, I had to work anyway. Just wondering, is there a BobFest South? Did I miss it already? Where is BobFest south held?”
-Ty O'Mara | Grayslake, IL | May 23, 2011
Letter on: Fighting Bob Fest North exceeded all our hopes!
“FightingBobFestNorth Brings Clarity of Purpose to West Central WI
I spent yesterday listening to some brilliant progressive voices at FightingBobFestNorth in Chippewa Falls.
As many speakers made clear, the state of Wisconsin and our nation suffer from a less-than-one-percent problem. Unfortunately, less than one percent of the super powerful have successfully convinced millions of voters to support them.
Mike McCabe said, "I don't care what your number one issue is ... you're not going to get anything for your issue with our current less-than-one-percent model of campaigning." Our fight against monied politics is not as daunting as I thought. According to McCabe, "Five percent would do. Five percent of the population making contributions of no more than $100 could collectively match or exceed the total amount given by the tiny segment of society giving vastly larger sums."
A common idea that speakers emphasized at BobFest can be captured in a simple question: "What kind of state do we want?" Do we want a state that passes voting restrictions reminiscent of Jim Crow laws?
One of the goals with voter ID legislation, according to McCabe, is to make it too expensive for working people to participate in the political process. The Republicans arguments to prevent voter fraud and abuse cannot be supported by any meaningful facts. Dave Obey said, "The fraud is in their argument to pass this legislation."
The less-than-one-percent club loves Wisconsin's new voter ID legislation because it is one more step in silencing the voices of reason. But as our courageous Senator, Kathleen Vinehout, declared in her FightingBob speech, "We will be heard ... The corporate elite fear the people, fear the protests ... and fear the bright light being shined on them."”
-Joel Raney | Eau Claire, WI | May 22, 2011
Letter on: Fighting Bob Fest North exceeded all our hopes!
“Bob Fest North was terrific! The enthusiasm, dynamic speakers, and mix of people all contributed to an event that was tops. I so hope this gets to be an annual event.
I want to thank all those who made Bob Fest North possible.”
-Glory | Eau Claire, WI | May 22, 2011
Letter on: Fighting Bob Fest North exceeded all our hopes!
“re: no mention of the event "anywhere"...It was covered from a heavy "we know who Dave Obey is" angle in the Chippewa Herald. The Herald is as quirky as any private blog, covering what they want, when they want, and in the way they want.
By local standards BFN got nice enough coverage.
The gloom of the day was a perfect foil for the brilliance of the event.
If I were to write a critique (and it looks like I'm about to), I'm not sure I know enough "glowing words" to even use. Several things are clear however:
- First, these people (whoever all of them are) certainly know how to serve up an event. Very well-managed without losing a humble "home-made" feel. Neither Hick nor Slick, just right.
- I was really pleased to see the obvious presence of black-shirted serious-looking Security. CF has that "Mayberry" reputation, but the times they are changing.
- A (nasty) commenter here had said "you're just taking the same old freak-show with you to BFNorth." Well, no. It is of enormous value for people to see this kind of event in their own community, not because some of their own are brought up on the stage, that already happens often enough, but to see people we may know or have seen around town mingling about as equals in this type of environment. More immersive, eliminating the disconnect of us all passively watching movers and shakers on TV, in Madison or Milwaukee. It's the difference between thinking "I agree with those guys over there" and feeling "Hey! this is us!"
- In a similar way the Nichols wrap-up speech was superb, his rant on the awesomeness of Wisconsin was a thing o' beauty and so true! Most wonderful was that the Great Wisconsin viewpoint did NOT exclude conservative values, nor truly conservative persons. It just excludes the canned rhetoric, the lies, and the bullshit. BFN reminded us that kind of propogandist stuff, whether from the Left or the Right, Is Not Us.
So ultimately I would say the main value of the event was not that we were handed a bit of new info, more snark, a website address, or that we all passively took in some Killer Talking Points. And thank god there was no super-calculated "strategist speak" for a few hours of our lives! The great thing about BFN was that some guy actually threw up that Really Big Tent that so many people like to bloviate about and we all mingled around under it. Fully aware, as we recognized this or that person in the crowd, that many of us have SERIOUS disagreements on many things, but (as Ed said) making that Choice.
Small-d Democracy + Big-D Damn Fine Event = Rapture!”
-Annie K. | Eau Claire, WI | May 22, 2011
Letter on: Fighting Bob Fest North exceeded all our hopes!
“I think the most impressive aspect of yesterday's BobFest in CF is that all but one of the speakers, John Bonifaz, were from Wisconsin. It was a truly homegrown event with homegrown folks, and did they ever light it up! Many thanks to the people who made this happen.
Of all the great speakers there I think maybe Tony Schultz was the most inspiring. His Wisconsin farm boy blend of humor, spontaneity and passion for justice is a potent mix.
Can you get him back for BobFest in September? I sure hope so.”
-Steve Carlson | Trego, WI. | May 22, 2011
Letter on: Looking for fraud in all the wrong places
“When and if Walker is able to lift income limits for the school choice program, I can't help but wonder how many of those rich people receiving state aid (welfare) will be buying steaks.”
-Dole O'Mite | Oconomowoc, WI | May 22, 2011
Letter on: Fighting Bob Fest North exceeded all our hopes!
“Republican'ts had some sort of state convention in the Dells over the weekend. Both the Madison and Milwaukee papers covered the event. No mention anywhere about Fighting Bob Fest in CF.
How do we get the media involved enough to report some facts and to give readers alternative views? Can we get press coverage for BF in September?
Sorry that rapture didn't occur. I really was hoping that Walker and his sort would have been sucked right off planet Earth. If rapture can't do it, we'll have to try come next January 4.”
-Franz Fripplfrappl | Unraptured in Madison | May 22, 2011
Letter on: Looking for fraud in all the wrong places
“"The targeting of FoodShare by right-wing Republican governors in Wisconsin, Texas and Indiana demonstrates how mean-spirited and extreme Republican leadership has become in recent years.
The food stamp concept was initially shaped by the populist presidencies of Democrats Franklin Roosevelt and Lyndon Johnson."
Based on these facts, it seems quite apparent that Paul Wyrich and ALEC are the creators of these efforts. It would appear that anything that ALEC can trace to Roosevelt and/or Johnson is targeted for removal by them. In ALEC's world, the common good is pure evil.”
-blurondo | Wauwatosa, WI | May 22, 2011
Letter on: Looking for fraud in all the wrong places
“What would happen if we did not have any political parties? Coalitions of people sharing the same values can do more harm than good. Which is worse, a politician or a political party with too much power? Neither necessarily speak for the rest of us. If the truth were known or told, would anyone bother to even vote?”
-Maria Caliente | Middleton | May 22, 2011
Letter on: Looking for fraud in all the wrong places
“When politicians like Walker act badly, why do we have to wait for the next election or another 7 months to begin a recall? Politicians seem to have more privileges and safety nets than the rest of us. This is NOT what democracy should look like.”
-Pietr Haikuu | Hurley | May 22, 2011
Letter on: No tomorrow!
“When you gonna learn Ed? This is SOP for Obungle. Pawn off a problem to a group or committee, let them make a hash of it, then sign the bill with reluctance and mumble something about bi-partisanship. That bi-partisanship thing is SOOO yesterday now that the GOP has shown their true colors.
If Hillary lost a testicle and donated it to Obungle they would both have a full set. He is the Pathetic Pettifogger. And there is no challenge from the left. That is even sadder than the goofball GOP.”
-Griebnotz Doerkpfester | I Escaped, WI | May 21, 2011
Letter on: No tomorrow!
“Not only do the delusional have a right to vote in this country, they sometimes even get elected. Hallelujah! Praise the lord! Pass the plate.”
-Maria Caliente | Middleton | May 21, 2011
Letter on: No tomorrow!
“The Rapture? End of the world? Tomorrow? On a Saturday at six o'clock pm?
Yeah, right! Like my weekends aren't ALREADY way too short!”
-Jeff Pieterick | Waterloo, WI | May 21, 2011
Letter on: No tomorrow!
“Stupid me.I filled up my gas tank today.”
-Joe Gruber | Campbellsport,WI | May 20, 2011
Letter on: No tomorrow!
“Rapture is what happens when people start hearing voices and claim their god is telling them how to screw up his planet and creation. So happy I am not one of "them". Whew!”
-Franz Fripplfrappl | In Madison and hiding from the wrath of the Almighty | May 20, 2011
Letter on: No tomorrow!
“If we are lucky, all those self-righteous, born-again fascists like Walker, the Fitzgerald boys, Ryan, Johnson, Newt and Sarah will get sucked up into heaven tomorrow.
This rapture nonsense is sort of like a recall, ne c'est pas?
Does anyone know the hour? I want to make sure I have some popcorn made and the beers chilled.”
-Pietr Haikuu | Hurley | May 20, 2011
Letter on: No tomorrow!
“re: Celebrating The Rapture at Pinky's Fairgrounds in CF, yes, quite possibly I will see YOU. But you will not see ME.
1.) I'm Anonymous and 100%Fictitious
2.) I actually own an Invisibility Cloak.
Oh, here's something. If you get bored, you can drive around Chippewa Falls asking people who's families have lived there since it was actually TWO towns (Frenchtown got absorbed by the more Upper Crust group on the north side of the river specifically so that the West Hill-er lumber barons and their ilk would actually have people to officially look down on) Anyways you can ask a surprising number of residents "Where's the Falls?"
And enjoy some really blank stares.(hopefully no one reads my drivel,and goes and looks it up)
but -
Fun! Ed! yee ha, go have some!!!”
-Annie K. | EC, WI | May 20, 2011
Letter on: No tomorrow!
“If you care about your pets after the rapture go to: http://eternal-earthbound-pets.com/”
-Bob Menamin | Verona, WI | May 20, 2011
Letter on: Who should be your senator?
“Maybe we could just vote from home by phone like American Idol. More people vote on that show than go to the polls. Maybe we could get a better turnout and the competition would be limited to one hour a week.
I always look forward to Annie K.”
-BigBug | Madison | May 20, 2011
Letter on: Who should be your senator?
“Ah, home computers: brains for the brainless, power for the powerless. With regard to online surveys, polls, petitions, recalls, tripe... need we say more?
How unfortunate we don't have legislative seats hardwired to the electric grid. Imagine our fun turning on/off the power via the Internet! Don't like Walker? Then, it'd be ctrl-alt-del. If only it were that simple.”
-Franz Fripplfrappl | Brainless in Madison | May 19, 2011
Letter on: Who should be your senator?
“Lol
Theoretically you have more to do than spend time on "social media", which is the latest self-pleasuring distraction for the party(s?) Who doesn't want a magic bullet that (allows you to tell yourself that you) will rally folks in a way that
a.) ensures you don't have to get out among people more, and
b.)ensures you don't have to do any serious re-examination of how you have been doing things in general
It's all about the pageviews. And an illusion of re-vitalization. A situation that will not necessarily result in any changes in the pols, and really just stirs the waters that contain the same small group of fish.
I'm not on Facebook, the servers of which are obviously kept on the Twelfth level of Hell, but have been on a lot of other net communities for about 10 years, to a level that is frankly and embarrassingly obsessive at times. I learned a lot, really did, about human nature and "other stuff", but not all of it was "good". And a lot of it was worthless.
Web-culture so often spirals into a meaningless page-view numbers game. This gets confused with actual content of value, and also is a substitute for real action and real discussion and genuine exchange. A virtual form of looking busy. A series of closed loops are set up. The web, initially heralded as a "pure meritocracy" is not.
But there's pressure, to be or find that latest "web star" who can function as a party hack without supposedly appearing to be one, to (haha) appeal to the youth, all of that garbaggio.
Makes you seem "vital" oops! the word is "VIRAL" lulz
I don't even pay attention anymore to who's jockeying that site, but they want traffic. And that traffic will be used to show who ever is cutting the check to whoever is running the site that the person is worth the expenditure.
End of story
BUT!!! if they wanna know what will really get 'em over there they need to publish a "Ten Secret Things You Don't Know About Me" journal. or maybe "3 Things That Turn Me On" post.
Or they could go the "Ask Me Anything" route or maybe have those little dragon egg pets your friends click on and help them to "grow" in the sidebar
Play lists?
ID pix of the lead bloggers in Push-up bras with red plastic beer cups?
Oh I know, maybe their next poll can be about slash pairings - which is the hottest "across the aisle" pairing?
Vinehout-Grothmann?
Erpenbach-Fitzerald?
Kapanke-Baldwin?
PLUS!!! if you submit a fan art to our group gallery you might win a seat on a Net experts' panel.
Ed, pimp this site. Don't be full of Lose. Get some merch. Make some references to Naruto in your posts. Srsly.
KTHXBAI”
-Annie K. | Netizenville, Golden Tomorrowland | May 19, 2011
Letter on: MONEY MONEY MONEY
“I remember running as an Independent for the Assembly in the year 2000 on the same issues as Ralph Nader. The immediate measure of whether I was a legitimate candidate was, "How much money have you raised?" I was asked about, "why are you running as an independent? You will be a spoiler." When Gore lost the election, Ralph Nader was thrown under the bus by the Democrats and blamed for Gore's loss.
Is something wrong with that 2000 picture? Are the same factors present? Is their a need for a broader constituency than the Democrats. Maybe we need a grouping with a larger banner. Something like, "The party of the greatest good for the greatest number." Or Democratic Socialists! Seems like they say in Academe, we need a new paradigm. As the saying goes, "we live in the worst of times and the best of times". Let's meet the challencge!!”
-Bob Menamin | Verona, WI | May 19, 2011
Letter on: MONEY MONEY MONEY
“What has P'd me off about this whole thing in Madison is how the Republican led Senate and Assembly has gone on without any regard to their constituents. I have heard comment after comment that people have called their representatives, and have not been able to get through, or been completely blown off. What is it with these asses? They are elected to serve the people of their districts, but completely ignore them. It is now time for publically funded elections. No more big money! Each representative gets X dollars, and 60 days to campaign. End of big money in the state, and make them work for the job.”
-Lloyd Granberg | Whitehall, WI | May 18, 2011
Letter on: MONEY MONEY MONEY
“I've always wanted to tell "outstate" Wisconsin, while Madison is wacky sometimes, we do watch the sausage getting made. Don't discount our point of view by saying we don't live in the real world. We know what your representatives do when they come to Madison and where the real corruption and bureaucratic roadblocks exist. We've got the behind-the-scenes view of state government. We need to take each other seriously. When you see upset among state employees, trust me, something is very wrong.”
-janeofdane | Madison | May 18, 2011
Letter on: MONEY MONEY MONEY
“Grieb: He who hesitates loses. Any wonder why Dems and Progs never make it?”
-Maria Caliente | Middleton | May 18, 2011
Letter on: MONEY MONEY MONEY
“Pietr, you have to understand todays liberals.
They want to "hold peoples feet to the fire" but won't run on their own for fear of getting burned.
They want aspirational candidates who speak to their hopes but always say third parties are a hopeless effort.
They hate big money in campaigns but won't donate $25 to another candidate because he can't raise the money. They also like self funded millionaires like Kohl and Kagan.
They want to educate the public but can't do it without talking down to them.
They insist that we need to "fight" but have none, not when it counts. Fight for them is a protest sign, a protest song, and a nice glass of wine later on.
IF they actually met Fighting Bob in his full voice they probably wouldn't like him because he was a bit "too angry".
Forget about today's liberals. They are talk, they are the comfortably concerned, they are the revolutionaries of the mouth.
You are just going to have get those 200 nomination signatures, file the proper paper work, and run on your own. You and about 99 others.”
-Griebnotz Doerkpfester | I Escaped, WI. | May 18, 2011
Letter on: MONEY MONEY MONEY
“I hope this weekend's Bob Fest is more than the usual bursts of rhetoric. Bring on the candidates who will run a progressive campaign instead of just jabber the progressive talk. Give the podium over to those who wish to present themselves as progressives. Let us listeners hear them, engage them, encourage them and then support them.
We're not going to see change happen unless we make it happen. Change doesn't just happen through talk. It happens through action.
If all you do is bring in the usual cast of characters to preach to the choir, then Bob Fest will never become more than what it is.”
-Pietr Haikuu | Hurley | May 18, 2011
Letter on: MONEY MONEY MONEY
“I've never had more questions about how government really works than during our Wisconsin spring. Maybe some of these will get discussed at FightingBob Fest North.
Can an elected representative refuse to represent? Can he or she refuse to meet with constituents, take phone calls or emails or listen to the constituents in any other way and listen only to non-constituent campaign funders?
What would happen if most voters, angry about the disenfranchisement of other voters, refused to vote in an election? Does an election need a quorum or can someone win in an election in which only one vote was cast?
How do we separate elected officials who vote in lock-step with their corporate funders from their cash? Is there anyway to shame them? Is there any way to divide them from each other?
If we don't strike, how do we effectively resist the Walker agenda?
How can citizens sitting quietly get thrown out of open meetings in the Capitol while Walker toadies get escorted in through an off-limits tunnel and are allowed to clap and cheer from the gallery?
Can a governor really privatize public offices, a public university, public power plants, and strip elected officials (such as the Secretary of State) of their duties?
I am aghast.”
-Sheila | Madison | May 18, 2011
Letter on: Question: When do Democrats fight?
“For Peter and Steve. The people are out there but our politics discourages many from running. First, there is the money chase. Second, there is the petty inside game of the parties.
Progressives have totally dropped the ball with their blind allegiance to the Dems. This past winters protests in Madison were a prime opportunity to enlist members in forming a progressive third party but it was not done.
Given the current mood and the facts I have to wonder if people running for state assembly and senate might not be able to be elected as progressive independents. 200 or 400 signatures get you on the ballot. The rest is up to you. If ever there was a time to shake up the works it is now. If someone like this comes knocking on your door pay attention. It might well be worth you while.”
-Griebnotz Doerkpfester | I Escaped, WI. | May 18, 2011
Letter on: Question: When do Democrats fight?
“The people who can really make change happen are all in South America and the Arab Spring. All we have here are internet petitions and anonymous blog commenters..”
-Steve Carlson | Trego, WI. | May 18, 2011
Letter on: Question: When do Democrats fight?
“We all know the problem. Now, give us a solution. We are weary of the talk. We need action. Where are the people who can really make change happen?”
-Pietr Haikuu | Hurley | May 17, 2011
Letter on: Question: When do Democrats fight?
“Well, for once Annie and I are in agreement, it is just that I would cast it a bit differently. She portrays the Dems as the abused wife and I would cast the Democratic party as political wife beaters. Honest honey, this time I will do better. If anyone is the victim it is the brain dead voters who keep expecting the Dems to change. Talk about Stockholm Syndrome. I see the Obamaplogists are still at it. Everytime Obungle shows even the least spirit they say "see, he can do it, just wait, he will, he has only been in office etc. etc.etc." Hell, FDR did more in 100 days than this guy will in 100 yrs.
I still say the protestors in Madison missed it when they failed to recruit and organize a third and liberal party. The 14 Dems who skipped the state did the right thing but if the Dems had been on their game all these years it would never have come to this to begin with. Now that I am in New Mexico I watch from afar but I still feel for the state of my birth and 61 yrs of living. Wisconsin has REALLY gone down the tubes.”
-Griebnotz Doerkpfester | I Escaped, WI. | May 17, 2011
Letter on: Question: When do Democrats fight?
“Sucks when the shoe is on the other foot doesn't Ed?”
-SW | Waukesha, WI | May 17, 2011
Letter on: Question: When do Democrats fight?
“I recently received this in a reply from U.S. Senator Dick Durbin regarding questions I had regarding decisions made by the Supreme Court.
"Upon confirmation, federal judges and Supreme Court justices serve lifetime appointments. From time to time, we disagree with the judicial decisions made by those serving on the federal bench. I disagreed strongly with the Citizens United v. Federal Election Commission. I also accepted its outcome. We are a nation ruled by law, and the courts are our final arbiters on questions of law.
Congress's legislative authority allows us to consider particular court decisions and other judicial acts. For instance, Congress may amend statutes that may have been misinterpreted by court cases or propose amendments to the Constitution that would rectify erroneous constitutional decisions."
In reading the full text of the correspondence it is apparent that this is not a battle Senator Durbin is willing to conduct. It is very troubling that the judiciary is the activist component of government and there appears as though there are no checks or balances on their powers.”
-Richard Kanak | Cherry Valley, Illinois | May 17, 2011
Letter on: Question: When do Democrats fight?
“Really good points. And I'll add the Democrats (Obama and his various Heads of Things)don't fight to keep Monsanto accountable and our food supply safe. Or fight to do something about the stupid No Child Left Behind but instead build on it. Don't fight Climate Deniers while at the same time working furiously to nab control of the melted North Pole for US business. You know, the Pole that ISN'T MELTING? They wanna grab the rights to the new shipping lanes and newly accessible resources up there before the Russians etc. Using force if necessary.
So they CAN'T go to the mat for common people when they got the new Wild West opening up in the far north. They'll fight like Valkyries with PMS for stuff like that.
So when will they fight for "small people"? If/when the recalls and the "backlash" reset the balance in favor of the Democrats, what will they do with it?
And then, when they do the Nothing Different that we all know they will, I have really serious concerns about the aftermath of that. What happens to the state of the union when checks and balances just do not hold up. Massive demoralization certainly. But what else? I can't think it will be anything good.
This is like a terrible marriage. The my-way-or-the-highway bullying husband, and the conciliatory wife, giving false assurances to the kids who depend on her that she'll "think of something" and things will "get better" just be quiet for now because it's complicated and hard for kids to understand. Don't make too much noise and make Daddy angry, if you have to sleep on the floor at grandma's for a while just don't complain. And don't, you know, talk about things too much with your friends and the neighbors. It makes us look bad. Maybe tomorrow after school we can go for some ice cream, won't that be nice?
Kids in abusive families hate the non-abusing non-protecting parent more than the abuser in a lot of cases. And IMO deservedly so. The non-abuser presents to the children as The One Who Gets It, who knows what is right and wrong, and encourages the children to trust. The abuser seems to just have truly skewed values, seems insensitive and oblivious to the kid's feelings. They see that AND understand it. The abuser is really just being himself (or herself)
The non-abuser who wants the kids' love but does not stand up for them, there is the serious betrayal.
Extremists in any culture who truly view others without empathy are just "not capable" and are being what they are. People get hurt. Okay.
People who promise "protection" and "deliverance" and then just set you up for more sucker-punches while telling you to not cry....
Hottest spot in Hell available yet? Plenty of Betrayers to fill it...”
-Annie K. | Eau Claire, WI | May 17, 2011
Letter on: Question: When do Democrats fight?
“Democrats are bumfuzzled, no two ways about it. Why in the hell would any Dem care what the GOP Senator from Wisconsin cared about in regard to a nomination to the court.
Part of the problem is the culture of the Club of 100. Leahy should have his head knocked, but good!
Drought in China. Hey Ed, it isn't just there. Down here in the borderland we are going on 100 days without any precipitation and folks are looking at all the water in the Mississippi and wondering why we can't have a water pipeline. Farmers in the lower Rio Grande here in Las Cruces NM are reduced to acre inches instead of acre feet but they still have to pay the same irrigation charges to keep their water rights. Acres are going unplanted because of it and the pecan groves will be stressed. Nice that you are worried about China but...
Seeing news that Baldwin may run for Herb Kohl's seat. Good news. Herb may have been a good behind he scenes guy but the times have often demanded more. I can't think of one single activist thing he ever did or hard stand that he ever took. Doing what is expected is not cause for high praise, it is just duty. Such are the times we live in that his drone like service brings forth words of high praise from some. In my day doing what was expected was just that and only served as a baseline marker. It was the least, not the best.”
-Griebnotz Doerkpfester | I Escaped, WI. | May 17, 2011
Letter on: Angel hunt
“Thank you for this article. Please print more articles that deal with issues of U.S. foreign policy, especially in the Middle East, which really are of extreme relevance to our domestic politics since so great a share of our national treasure is being squandered there, and the power of the special interest groups (like the Israel lobby) who benefit from this spending is very detrimental to the rest of us.”
-Barb Olson | Madison, WI | May 16, 2011
Letter on: Liars and outliers
“Bill -- Way to go. It's one of the best pieces I've seen yet on the health care issue, especially the Canadian statistics. I have a right-leaing friend who tells me his Canadian friends hate their system and that most Canadians also hate it. He says ours is the best. I know that's not true, and so do you. Keep truckin' and don't forget, "Recall Walker."”
-Frank Ryan | Middleton, Wisconsin | May 16, 2011
Letter on: Angel hunt
“Excellent article on a decidedly divisive issue. I worry about the human capacity for polarization. As our choices become more divergent, our selections become necessarily more extreme, e.g. "you are with us or against us."
So few choices encompass the entire beauty of the world upon which we live and the miraculous humanity with whom we share it. Let's think of some...”
-Lex Tinker-Sackett | Eau Claire, WI | May 16, 2011
Letter on: Instant recall
“It's easy, perhaps, to recall and replace. What will not be easy is fixing the mess the Republican fascists have made. To undo the Walker agenda, we will need a nearly bombproof legislature, one with courage.
Good luck on recalling the scumbags. We'll need more than luck to change guard and to bring back our Wisconsin.”
-Franz Fripplfrappl | Madison | May 16, 2011
Letter on: Flood water is coming! Or is it?
“The economy is the game of the wealthy and connected. It belongs to them and not us. The rest of us are simply the pawns, used and abused. For those of us with good jobs and pay, we are content to stumble along from paycheck to paycheck. Some of us can manage money and others cannot. Those who can, buy more than they need. Those who cannot, buy more than they can afford. The ones who benefit most will be the wealthy and connected. The rest of us live duped lives thinking we have it made while living the elusive American dream.
The economy rises and recedes and sometimes even crashes. The wealthy who are cautious survive and create more wealth for themselves. Those who are less careful join the masses switching diets from gourmet to what's affordable.
For us, does the economy really matter? Probably no, for it is not ours to have. Why is this? How and why did we ever let it become the tool of the wealthy? We give the wealthy our time, our talents, our sweat and sometimes our blood, and all we get are the crumbs they haven chosen to sweep off their tables. Why do we spend more time lamenting and wishing than we do acting and taking back what really ought to be ours? We not only lack membership in the economy the wealthy own and control, we also lack the guts to do anything.
Shut down the whole damn mess regardless the consequences. This is perhaps the only remedy. Why don't we? We are afraid. Perhaps it's the same reason so many vote conservatives into office. It's fear.”
-Pietr Haikuu | Hurley | May 16, 2011
Letter on: Coal--Florida State--Koch--Martin
“Ed, two friends on the Gulf Coast have written and illustrated an anti coal power coloring book. They also write and sing as Sassafrass. I will send you a copy of the book when the publisher releases it and a copy of their soon to be released CD. Maybe the coloring book merits listing here in the bookstore. It would take less than a whisper to get them to Wisconsin to perform at Bobfest.”
-Jim Limbach | Stevens Point | May 16, 2011
Letter on: Save us Newt! Save us!
“Hmm, I am reminded of the sign in Madison: "Free spellcheck for tea party."”
-Jim Limbach | Stevens Point Wisconsin | May 16, 2011
Letter on: Flood water is coming! Or is it?
“I do not understand this at all. I don't mean "I disagree with what is happening and am confused why my less-intelligent fellow humans are behaving as they are"
I mean, I don't get it at all. Don't understand all this debt ceiling stuff, don't understand how payments are going to stop, and how Ed is freaked out.
And, while I thankfully still have a (very tiny) backyard, I do not HAVE "good silver". I have an ugly stainless steel set from the low-income, low-quality mail order company called "Fingerhut". A set that was purchased by a farm-dwelling relative back in 1986 along with some other housewares, shipped in a huge box, she kept a bunch of it and tossed the forks and spoons in my direction. Manna from heaven.
I also have a few Dixie cups that I glare at regularly, wondering if the Koch Brothers realize that Poor Starving Dirt-Poor Homeless people DO NOT buy Dixie Cups, or name-brand brats. Or any brats at all for that matter. Brats and Dixie cups are not on poor folks shopping lists. So I don't understand the Koch Bros either.
But I guess I can assume all those factors that add up to my Life, personal situation and "social class" also indicate that if Ed-the-famous-Lawyer is screwed and worried, Me and Mine will be the like The Black Guy in a scary movie - the first to go.
Actually the Black Guy is usually the SECOND to be eaten. Or if the director is a Liberal with a lot of White Man's Guilt, BlackGuy gets it Third. The weird, maladjusted horny guy who hits on the Hero's love interest and has no regard for the overall safety of the group gets it first... then... The Black Guy
Gee, I wonder what's in this dark, flooded room that has weird noises coming out of it. I think I'll wade in regardless of all Common Sense and survival instincts.
Uh-oh. Something just brushed past my submerged leg. Was that.... The DEBT CEILING???!
aaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaah!!!”
-Annie K. | R.I.P in EC, WI | May 16, 2011
Letter on: Instant recall
“My State Senator Lasee R-1st could not be recalled this year since he just got elected. But wait till next year, he will be in the same predicament. This is not over yet.”
-WisconsinLiberal | Fox Valley, WI | May 16, 2011
Letter on: Instant recall
“:)
Sorry, I guess I'm not up on Obama's recent menu choices. I followed you until that last sentence. Aside from Obama's brief snack on bin Laden, I thought the Oil Men and Wall St. were chewing on HIM. But no problem. I'm sure I'm just being slow this evening.
re: Walker's persistent Kamikaze behavior,
The other day I was reading up a little on David Koch, and the Kochs in general, and I saw a mention of who some of their favorite and "inspirational" people are. Supposedly DK admires Calvin Coolidge a lot. So it occurred to me - maybe Walker WANTS to really keep the pressure on and the atrocities and the anger flowing. Even if it ruins a few fellow Republicans careers, it may be good for his own.
Maybe it's all a bunch of bear-baiting. Maybe he (and the Kochs) had hoped the Public Unions/Teachers would become so shocked and enraged that they'd strike. If so, they must be really peeved that they have not. Yet.
Maybe Team Koch hasn't given up hope on that yet.
If there was a strike, then Walker could get all Iron-willed like Coolidge did during the Boston Policeman's strike, Walker could refuse their right to strike and fire the lot of 'em like Coolidge fired the striking Policemen. That was bad for union morale/publicity while propelling Coolidge to the center of the national stage cuz he was SO manly and heroic and stood up the UNION THUGS.
So if he can orchestrate that kind of situation, Walker can ride the wave of notoriety like Coolidge did and become Prezident of These Here Yoo-Nited States. He'd be happy, cuz he'd feel all-powerful, yet he'd still be the Koch's willing servant, so they'd be happy too.
So it does seem that no matter how heinous the Walkerisms get (and it looks like they'll continue to be heinous), protesters/unions had better not take the bait and get into a replay of the Coolidge-Strike scenario. They SAY they disapprove of the protests, but who knows? Maybe they really love it and still have hopes something bad will ignite.
Final Thought: Speaking of Political Meals - does anyone else have trouble with Walker still mentioning his "Brown bags"?
Those don't seem like lunch bags anymore - they're barf bags. We all know what's in 'em because we all blow chow every time we hear the News, he really should stop referring to those bags.”
-Annie K. | EC, WI | May 15, 2011
Letter on: No slice ball
“Between now and the Special Elections in July we need to spend all our time working to salvage what we can of this session of the legislature.Number one issue going forward is the required reapportionment of our districts.We do this by regaining a majority in our state senate.All our efforts should be there.
Lets all work together and next year we will have some bigger fish to fry.
And Ed, How come you never showed me how to do the Hogan fade? Is it because I can never get my drives off the ground and all I do is burn worms on my way to each hole?”
-Joe Gruber | Campbellsport,WI | May 15, 2011
Letter on: Save us Newt! Save us!
“I'm wondering how many will greet Newt on his Wednesday visit to Holmen...?”
-Curt of MisLeadingWisconsin | West Bend, WI | May 14, 2011
Letter on: Save us Newt! Save us!
“Spening money was not a problem when feingold out spent Steve Michels by over $2,000,000. You can spend all the money you want to on trying to recall Gov Walker it will never happen. Even when you go to Eua Claire you just drag the same freak show from Madision along.”
-Mark | Slinger | May 14, 2011
Letter on: Save us Newt! Save us!
“Newt must have written part of Sean Duffys election night victory speech. Duffy told the assembled crowd that the greatest generation, (WW II ) defeated tyranny on the world stage, and that the great task of Duffys generation was to defeat the creeping socialism taking over America.
But given the GOP's mean spirited nationwide attack on everyone from working families to children and the elderly, I think the great threat to America is embodied by Newt and Duffy, namely, a decidedly anti-social creepism.”
-Steve Carlson | Trego, WI. | May 14, 2011
Letter on: Coal--Florida State--Koch--Martin
“One of the mandates of the Koch Bros' agreement with FSU is that its economic teachers be required to teach Ayn Rand's collectivist novels. This is as much a crime against education as anything else. Her writing is so awful that students will never want to read another book.
Also, get ready for some uninvited guests at your neighborhood schools this fall. http://motherjones.com/politics/2011/05/tea-party-constitution-week-skousen
These are scary times indeed.”
-msreason | Elkhart Lake, WI | May 14, 2011
Letter on: Coal--Florida State--Koch--Martin
“Do you recall the pontificate of John Paul II? For 25+ years he ruled with an iron fist and a kindly smile. He undid Vatican II, stressed orthodoxy, appointed only those who toed the company line. Seminaries became indoctrination zones for the conservatives. The church now leans far, far to the right. There are a couple generations of kids who have grown up believing this is all correct.
The brainwashed have become leaders of the brainwashed.
We're seeing the same thing happen throughout the country. Conservatives are taking over the people by taking over our institutions. They're tossing out accomplishments of the past 50-70 years as they brainwash the present generations of kids to assure their future.
Why are conservatives more successful in winning over people than those who are not? It can't be that we don't make sense. Perhaps they are better convincers that we are threats and hindrances to what the world should be.”
-Maria Caliente | Middleton | May 13, 2011
Letter on: Coal--Florida State--Koch--Martin
“This is America, everything is for sale. The leaders of government, industry and education provide favors for money not unlike a common whore.”
-Dole O'Mite | Oconomowoc, WI | May 13, 2011
Letter on: Coal--Florida State--Koch--Martin
“Oh Ed, Walker DO like education when schools and universities can be used to form the mind of the people now and into the future. That is why a University that seeks the truth no matter where the path may lead must be neutered. Better yet, such a university must be changed into a "right thinking" propaganda machine.
Still better, get the chillens. Their minds are more easily formed. Works even better when schools are forced to "teach to some test" and aren't encouraged to teach "thinking skills."
Wait. Ed, you're right. Walker don't like "education."”
-Linda | Wisconsin Rapids,WI | May 13, 2011
Letter on: Coal--Florida State--Koch--Martin
“Ed, as a lawyer, do you find this weird? (I don't really expect an answer, just sayin')
Apparently they (Republicans?) want to change the WI law so that defendants in criminal cases can't request the one Judge substitution anymore. You just get who you get and live with it.
http://nxt.legis.state.wi.us/nxt/gateway.dll?f=templates&fn=default.htm&d=indxauth&jd=A54
There can't be THAT much time lost on re-scheduling, why would changing that law (and ending yet another right of a citizen) be worth legislative time and effort?
Also, there's a weird one re: OWIs.
It looks like if you're pulled over and they give you the standard test, and then you're later found guilty, they want to be able to pass the costs of that test on to the drunk driver. (Way to nickel and dime it) Anyways, since there is already a statute on the books that you are legally able to request an alternate test at no cost to you, you still can. I guess they assume no one knows about that alt. test provision.
So the law re: testing will be weird (if I read this correctly) If you drive drunk and get tested, BE SURE to request the Alternate test (whatever that is, maybe an Anal Probe by Scott Fitzgerald) and you can't be charged for it if you're later found guilty! LOL Everybody remember that when driving back from the CF fairgrounds. Especially since Daddy Fitz lost all the revenue while State Patrol was at the capitol, they are recouping those losses heavy now, and will be trollin' for Dirty Libs with Leinie's on their breath next weekend!!
But in the larger picture, IMO it's really too bad WI bloggers just repeat each other's crap ALL day and ALL night. There seems to be plenty to talk about. O_o And no one's ever going to.
There's TONS of bills pending, tons. Who knew...
(probably a safe bet that paid Journalists aren't going thru this list of proposed Bills either)”
-Annie K. | Eau Claire, WI | May 13, 2011
Letter on: Coal--Florida State--Koch--Martin
“Looks like the right wing is out for a Total Information Takeover. Not content with just owning the opinion leading think tanks they have moved into high gear.
First it was bajillionaires funding an erstwhile populist movement known as the Tea Party. Now they are after education from the grade school level all the way up to post-graduate level.
Any resemblence between this and early Nazi Germany is purely coincidental. The Nazi's moved faster and shut down the presses. Here they are a little more subtle because they already own the major media outlets.
Still think all those protest signs are going to do you any good?”
-Griebnotz Doerkpfester | I Escaped, WI. | May 13, 2011
Letter on: Coal--Florida State--Koch--Martin
“The question seems to be whether Walker is out to balance budgets or to destroy the Wisconsin way of life. I would suggest he leans more to the latter than to the former. Dismantling what is ours seems to be his way of governance. His agenda is whatever it takes to advance Scott Walker. It has nothing to do with moving us forward as a state or a people.
Still frightening to read that this state is nearly split 50-50 with the Republican'ts presuming they have a clear mandate from us, which they do not.”
-Franz Fripplfrappl | Madison | May 13, 2011
Letter on: Catholics arise! Garvey invites Boehner
“Ah SW: You missed the point yet again...the real news is that some religious establishment (S) will step outside the hired "use" that has been designed successfully for them, from time to time by Devos-Koch type groups to justify or support, or indoctrinate or propagandize the GOP position on "preemptive" wars for clean up or preparation for Wall Street expansion, or for proposed robbery of the majority of US citizens for corporate and high income earners' welfare. "You betcha" baby. It's news!”
-hmj | madison, wi | May 13, 2011
Letter on: Catholics arise! Garvey invites Boehner
“Finally something I can agree with coming from the Catholic establishment (still not the hierarchy). This is not a matter of pro-choice, pro-life, or anti-life. It's not a matter of liberal or conservative. It is a matter of morality. Where has the Catholic Church been? What about the "Catholic" Paul Ryan? His "Path to Poverty" is immoral according to the New Testament of the Bible.”
-Linda | Wisconsin Rapids,WI | May 12, 2011
Letter on: Catholics arise! Garvey invites Boehner
“Well of course not SW!
That would be silly.
Not only has Fox News had several stories debunking the Liberal Myth that the Earth orbits the Sun, Donald Trump has recently called for the Earth to produce Official Orbitational Trajectory papers - and NOT the short form. So, not surprisingly Earth is dragging it's feet. Thank God that Trump has vowed to keep holding Earth's feet to the fire - the fire of the SUN hahahaha!
Sarah Palin has also Tweeted numerous times, twice each day in fact- at sunrise and sunset, as she collects empirical data that any gosh-darn mavericky American can also observe from their back porch YES! The SUN ORBITS THE EARTH
Dag Nab it! You tryin' to hornswoggle the Amer'cun peeple? Before SW pulls the wool over all our eyes you all run out and have a look-see. I'm telling ya, you'll see what I mean, the sun goes clear round each day. Up on the one side, and down on the other.
So just stop all that Liberal nonsense, and keep that Astronomy Mythology test-tube-y stuff at your secular humanist grade schools. Communists, they sneak up on ya when you least expect it, don't they. Gol durn.
p.s. Don't let your kids watch Bill Nye the Socialist Guy!”
-Annie K. | Eau Claire, WI, Flat Earth, Center of Universe | May 12, 2011
Letter on: Catholics arise! Garvey invites Boehner
“What earth shattering news they have liberal professors at catholic colleges. What's the next big story Ed earth is a planet that orbits the sun?”
-SW | waukesha wi | May 12, 2011
Letter on: Nevermind
“I find it interesting that there no longer needs to be any truth in statements made by politicians even when not campaigning.
The retractions of bold false statements are followed by softly uttered retractions.
It reminds me of the utterances of a former U.S. President.”
-Richard Kanak | Cherry Valley, Illinois | May 12, 2011
Letter on: Academic freedom for sale!
“Update:
Well. After a bit of a gab-session with an Undisclosed-and-Knowledgeable Source, apparently the initial reaction within the UW ranks to Biddy's plans WERE alarm, fear, and some outrage.
A little time passes and...
dun dun dun
Various folks are now seeing ways that their own "hopes, dreams and visions" can be worked into the cracks as the U system breaks apart and then restructures.
People in comfortable chairs are seeing AND LIKING "options" and possibilities for "creative change", more local control, and what not.
I seem to have been enlightened to the fact that Biddy hate is just not there. Maybe some resentful folks here or there, people who cling to a particular set of values. But (this is sad IMO) it seems likely that lots of UW employees and leaders are really okay with all of this.
When I was a child both my parents had hokey UW banners on the walls of the "Rec Room", (remember those?) Bucky Badger junk around, sweatshirts, stuff on the desk. It was, I realize now, not unlike a religion. We didn't have a Dashboard Jesus, we had a Dashboard Bucky.
As I read about Sally, Dick, and Jane, there was no question I was working towards my UW career.
My parents, who agreed on virtually nothing, both felt unquestioningly that the UW system was not a bunch of buildings or a frathouse party opportunity, but really were "hallowed halls".
And there was snobbery too, the outlying schools were great, but NOTHING compared to the flagship in Madison. Nothing.
With all the stuff in society that desperately needs changing, I think that beginning a process of un-hallowing those halls is one that really doesn't need to begin.
But it does seem that only fringe people who have a frame of reference similar to mine (naive, backward, and quasi-poetic as it is) are going to object to Biddifying the UW system
I KNOW now that any University is really a business. Just like a church is(yeah, I said that) but something is lost when that cold reality stomps on the intangibles.
I'd argue that the "Hallowed Halls" bubble or illusion creates an environment that is removed from the daily grind of the Real World and allows for the birth and growth of new ideas. Ideas that may not have immediate cash value.
It's a big, grandiose version of Virginia Wolfe's room of one's own, that's needed to really think, learn or create. Innovations and giant Human leaps forward don't happen with guys like David Koch and shareholders looking over your shoulder.
Poor Biddy, she doesn't get it, doesn't know what she's hitting with her wrecking ball. Yay for those of us who do.
And finally, I realized JUST WHO Biddy really is!!! She's really Dolores Umbridge and she's been sent to ruin Hogwarts !!!!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=97yfaoYNz8Y&feature=related”
-Annie K. | Eau Cliare, WI | May 12, 2011
Letter on: Academic freedom for sale!
“Academic freedom has been compromised by the desire for economic advancement. I do not believe that people enter the education field for economic advancement it offers but they soon learn that many of their peers are compensated not for their skill but for their politics and unfortunately succumb to the allure of money and compromise their own values.”
-Richard Kanak | Cherry Valley, Illinois | May 11, 2011
Letter on: Biddy is tired!
“As a member of a faculty governance group at UW Madison who has followed the 'privatization' of UW at meetings with the administration very closely, and who is also packed with left wing credentials and views, I would like to suggest to you (and followers) that the kind of knee-jerk populist response to the UW Public Authority and by inference (or direct allusion) to Biddy Martin as a member of the ruling elite has probably managed to do a huge disservice both to UW Madison and to the State system.
In fact, if there was assiduous reading, and listening, it would have been discerned that 'privatization' is a great misnomer. UW Madison would still be part of the University of Wisconsin, and indeed, still its flagship. It would have freedom within large range to set tuition, and to set salaries of all its workers (not only top line professors). All workers have suffered severely under the present system. In all of the papers that have been written since the Public Authority became a model Martin has emphasized in the strongest possible terms two key principles. One of these is that rising tuition will not be allowed to negatively impact on the ability of Wisconsin residents to obtain an education at UW (via monies freed up for aid via the new freedoms) AND, that all arrangements with state campuses, including colleges and extension, will remain intact and will in fact grow. This has been crucially important to us in faulty governance and is very clearly integral to "Biddy's" thinking.
A flowering IUW Madison, with the ability to move out ito experimental education and superbly advanced research would benefit everyone and would benefit the state campuses which, despite the very negative vibes from System administration will still be part of the very same UNIVERSITY OF WISCONSIN. In the public authority model we have not been talking about a separation of Madison from System; they are still the University of Wisconsin. We are talking about different ways to manage different components of the University. It is not a spiritual break. It is a pragmatic solution to the differing needs of the different components of the university. All faculty, and administration people here are, I believe, overwhelmingly committed to educate the people of Wisconsin, and particularly those in most need.
I fear greatly that myopia, and self interest, of system administration and the Regents, and thoughtless bandwagon jumping by the left (yes I am being provocative!) has served to scuttle what could have been a wonderful thing for Wisconsin.
This is not to be polyanna, there are of course problems in implementation etc..but what a terrific chance we may have squandered, for all the wrong reasons.”
-Peter Lipton | Madison Wisconsn | May 11, 2011
Letter on: Academic freedom for sale!
“Go Annie! However, no matter what the job from the lowest paid service sector to the unreasonably paid CEO, all need one important quality to get the support of real people....and that is a lack of insane greed at the moral expense of others. If they are fair and ethical, and economically moral, it would be possible for opportunities to continue for many....not just a few.”
-hmj | madison wi | May 11, 2011
Letter on: Academic freedom for sale!
“You know, here I'm gonna go all Private Sector Preachin', strap yourselves in.
WTF kind of alternate universe is this woman living in. If anyone in the real world was hired as people normally are, meeting, greeting, giving the so-positive impression, then... the employee is SERIOUSLY different than the hiring folks expected, causing all kinds of unrest, works hard to dismantle the system she was hired to work in, goes all renegade, no one likes her, she's the talk of the break room, diverting time and energy from REAL WORK.
Private sector... bam! she's outta there.
Lots of people won't want to hear this, but part of the "class war" that we're in is between the middle classes and the lower ones. I can tell you the lower ones are alienated like CRAZY by the amount of protection that those who are "Up there" (i.e. their own managers most of the time) but not necessarily Paris Hilton level like U professors and EVEN TEACHERS have.
In the world of the Democrat party the lowest class is the teachers. No one under that exists. Nice for them.
But I promise no one at Menard's could cause this much trouble at work, not even a fraction of this much trouble. No one who cleans toilets at Wal-mart could cause this much trouble. And yes, I know a guy who cleaned toilets at Walmart and WOW that's nasty work. Garbage men can not cause near this much trouble (yes I know some of them too, so I'm not just making stuff up here)
People in the middle class and Upper-middle AS WELL AS Wall Street folks routinely get away with amazing "you can't touch me" crapola that tons of OTHER PEOPLE can not. It's a joke.
Okay? So now we know - the people who hired this Biddy-nag were bushwacked by a person who Gives Good Interview. It happens.
Fire her.
Pay her exorbitant taxpayer-paid payoff that no one in the real world ever gets, and let's be rid of her. She's not God, she's not Queen.
She's been nuthin' but trouble. She's a waste of taxpayer money. She's going to cost more each minute she sits at her desk. Looking all scared of her makes The Regents look bad. She's not defending the UW legacy, well guess what boys, neither are you fellas shaking in your boots and not standing up to her.
Call a meeting. Sit in those plush chairs the rest of us don't have. Make a plan. Do it.
Now.”
-Annie K. | Eau Claire, WI | May 11, 2011
Letter on: Doggone! Texas beat us again!
“Drugging the elderly is a good way to keep them quiet as well as to control costs. Interestingly, if they're drugged, they cannot vote. Until the Sarah Palin death panels kick in, this is perhaps the most cost-efficient way to handle these societal leftovers.
Guess we need to enjoy life now because one day we may be those being drugged.”
-Maria Caliente | Middleton | May 10, 2011
Letter on: Doggone! Texas beat us again!
“Ah, Wisconsin! The place where it's easier to carry a concealed firearm than it is to vote.
I keep reading the Second Amendment over and over again but nowhere does it give the OK to carry a weapon in public nor does it allow for concealed weapons.
Nowhere in the constitution is there any mention about photo IDs or the establishment of hoops one must jump through in order to vote.
Why bother with a constitution if people can't read and/or understnd what it says?”
-Franz Fripplfrappl | Madison | May 10, 2011
Letter on: Doggone! Texas beat us again!
“Eat your heart out, Ed. Texas is (and I am not making this up) taking federal stimulus money to plan a high speed rail line from Dallas to Houston. There's even language in the grant that forbids Governor Perry from giving the money back,
The money quote in the Houston Chronicle was something along the lines of,
"Texas' growth is just too great for highways alone to handle,"”
-Art Hackett | Madison, WI | May 10, 2011
Letter on: I say give them guns!
“You can't just buy go out and buy a machine gun or a silencer.
It must go thru a class 3 firearms dealer and then you have to jump thru other hoops like getting your picture taken for a permit and having your sheriff sign a form that you aren't a felon or someone otherwise prohibited.”
-Michael Reinfeldt | Reedsburg WI | May 10, 2011
Letter on: Doggone! Texas beat us again!
“(hmj) I agree we are isolated. Classism is a great divider. The wealthiest do not even live in the same world as the rest of us. They have no understanding of what their desire to have it all does to real people.
I can hear the retort "class warfare." You bet. The only problem is class warfare has been going on forever. Over the long haul we appear to be losing. In fact, we have been conviced not to engage at all.
In a democracy we should have more of a chance. There are more of us. You are right VOTE. More than that we need to find a way to counter the propaganda awash on the airways that somehow convinces many people to vote against their own best interest.”
-Linda | Wisconsin Rapids,WI | May 10, 2011
Letter on: I say give them guns!
“Might I not so humbly suggest that thousands of demonstrators carrying deer rifles and shotguns might have made a bigger impression on Walker et. al. than a bunch of 60's wanna be Revolutionaries of the mouth carrying clever signs.
The only sign they should have been carrying was one saying "I'm Liberal, I'm Pissed, I'm Armed, and know how to use it!"
National Guard? Bring 'em on. Let's see if they really would fire on their own neighbors and relatives.”
-Griebnotz Doerkpfester | I Escaped, WI. | May 10, 2011
Letter on: I say give them guns!
“Lol! The classic liberal lines are all in here. We have the oldy but goody it will be the wild west. Then there is the other classic just give kids guns. Seeing as Wisconisn is only 1 of 2 states that doesn't have some form of concealed carry. I would love to see all the true stories of your irrational lefty fears in the other 48 states. You guys said the same thing 7 years ago when the sham assult weapons ban expired. Just to make your lefty heads explode you do realize it has been legal for deccades for private indivduals to own machine guns, SBR's and silencers in WI? Are you still woried about concealed carry when your neighbor has a supressed short barrled M16 in his closet?”
-SAW | Waukesha WI | May 10, 2011
Letter on: Doggone! Texas beat us again!
“(Linda) There really is great isolation: (for instance) unequal education for Milwaukee kids vs. suburbs... (defeated efforts to equalize state $ education per child with those suburbanites' kids'), health care, etc. Subtle and not so subtle isolation from all kinds of opportunities will not change while the current Supreme Court and Congress run the show for Wall Street, allowing unrestricted US company manufacturing overseas, discriminating against future generations by robbing them of Social Security and Medicare. At the same time we allow them to be pushed into wars disguised as "nation and democracy building." It is difficult to find a way to compromise very moral issues in the name of reducing polarization...just to "get along" with the immorality of the Wall Street bunch, and those that support them. By the time those still comfortable wake up, it may be too late for youth to survive safely. Sad day for those who sacrificed in the military or in our own "nation building" here at home now and in past generations. The deregulated, unethical loose business morality of our huge business interests overseas has let them down. It's just so tiring and disappointing to have to constantly work on it. Can't even believe that US citizens behave this way. Boycott and Vote!”
-hmj | madison, wi | May 10, 2011
Letter on: Doggone! Texas beat us again!
“Dear HMJ,
I suppose you're not serious, but... What about 50/50 Wisconsin? Perhaps we could divide the state leaving West Berlin (oops Milwaukee) over there on the east coast. Will they need a Berlin Wall? That actually might make the suburbanites happy.
Seriously, the polarization in this country is a dilemma that must be solved, and isolatiion from each other is no answer.”
-Linda | Wisconsin Rapids,WI | May 10, 2011
Letter on: Doggone! Texas beat us again!
“The Alumni Association push for Biddie Martin's plan to separate UW Madison from the rest of the UW System is not just missing the regents' input. It's also being done without the endorsement of the Madison faculty. Strange that: to base a campaign to change the future of the university based uniquely on administrators and fundraisers. Maybe that's what taxpayers get for paying the athletic director so much more than the chancellor.”
-Bruce Fetter | Milwaukee WI | May 10, 2011
Letter on: Doggone! Texas beat us again!
“Maybe I'm getting dementia, cuz I didn't understand that first comment AT ALL.
Anyways, when they say these drugs improve the "quality of life" do they mean for the patients? or for the staffers because the pills make the patients shut the hell up? Just a theory.
I'm not going to one of those Horror Homes, no matter what. If I can't be a burden to my children then I'm going to live in a cardboard box in the woods. Death may come sooner as a result, but my quality of life will definitely be higher than in a Nursing Home. (The box will need broadband Internet, so I can continue to heckle the Cheddarheads. Who will all be incredibly ancient yet sayin' the same stuff lol)
Guess what! There is a website where you can look up your doctor's name to see what kinds of Financial Enhancements they may be receiving from drug companies.
Not all companies report, but if your doctor shows up on the list for any particular drug it's good to know. http://projects.propublica.org/docdollars/”
-Annie K. | Eau Claire, WI | May 10, 2011
Letter on: Doggone! Texas beat us again!
“If the nation remains politically split so evenly, if we can't sell Texas and a few other like-minded, could we at least split the country so that we do not have to put up with each other? The All-American-Poltical-Divorce sounds like a more peaceful program, considering the "great political polar divide." Wouldn't it be wonderful not to have to put with people so far from fairness, ethics, and morality? However,
one politcal activitist grimly remarked that it would no doubt result in their invasion of the rest of us. That's already happened. Yuppie land is not real...it won't last. They just don't realize it yet.”
-hmj | madison, wi | May 10, 2011
Letter on: Liars and outliers
“The problem inherent in the privatized American model is this: you cannot have both increased access to healthcare and decreased cost. Why? Because the way money is saved is through the rationing of care. Sure, regulation is a useful tool that can curb the worst practices of insurance companies--rescissions, pre-existing conditions, and the like--but without a single-payer system or at least a robust public option buy-in, I don't see how we will make healthcare affordable and accessible to all.”
-John Ertl | Park Falls, WI | May 10, 2011
Letter on: Liars and outliers
“We don't have health care nor do we have health care insurance. We instead have obstacles preventing people from help when they need it most. We have reactive care instead of proactive care. Insurance companies keep raising deductibles and make us jump more hoops just to have access to the basics.
When I was self-employed, all i could get that was affordable was mediocre coverage where I had to be nearly dead for any of it to kick in, and then I'd have considerable deductibles to pay.
What we need is a health care system that treats all Americans equally and fairly. We need a system that is totally accessible to all. We need one that monitors our health as we stumble through life and enjoy old age, a system that is there when we need it most and not one that responds only when its most often too late.
In recent years, we all have taken sides. Why is it that the naysayers seem to win with their lies and the rest of us go nowhere with our facts?”
-Franz Fripplfrappl | Madison | May 10, 2011
Letter on: Liars and outliers
“Many nice points.
However, Canada, long held up as an example of a similar nation calmly doing things the way we should, is beginning to erode. Sometime, maybe soon, they will be more like us than we on the "left" will like. Bye bye easy example.
There are clear indications the the tentacles of opportunism and Randian greed are extending north.
I am not a journalist, nor do I play one on TV O_o
So I'm not providing links to authoritative sources on the things I'll mention. Interested persons can look them up and decide for themselves if I'm full of bid-nez or what.
-A recent change to the way pharmacies in Canada are subsidized or structured has been a huge shake up, alarming pharmacists across Canada. Health care people were up in arms over it. Somehow this restructuring will de-emphasize the "trusted pharmacist" professionalism model and really restructure pharmacies to be first and foremost stores. Very product and profit-driven.
-They recently had a serious overhaul of their Internet laws and charges. I know the changes suck, but sadly I could have told you more in detail a few months ago when I dropped alarmist comments on numerous WI blogs hoping the issue would catch on here before some day Ed Garvey gets a mysterious informational Secret Agent package when it's way too late, outlining laws that we'll wake up to in the morning. No one gave a crap. Say hello to the WI echo chamber. Navel observation anyone?
-More anecdotally, I understand that unemployment and severance package type situations are being clamped down on as well. Downsizing becoming more heartless and more of a "okay thanks bye" without the safety net there was before.
Like everywhere (omg that stupid royal wedding, Britain is totally screwing over their own) opportunism is striking hard and eliminating "evil socialist programs" in the name of "the bad economy".
Japan seems to have really comprehensive health care but also probably a too "aggressive" way of having it paid for and probably not a good example here in the US unless you want to scare people.
But it would be good to start noting that neo-cons and Koch-type fellas are global citizens with influence everywhere, and greedy Canadians want to start enjoying behemoth profits too.
Evidence suggests that the habit of looking over the US-Canada border to see "how they're doing things over there" works both ways.
My guess is Canadians will be doing things the American Way, long before Americans even get close to doing things the Canadian Way.”
-Annie K. | Eau Claire, WI | May 10, 2011
Letter on: I say give them guns!
“The nuns when we were 2nd graders told us that kissing spreads germs. I remember well being chased by those 2nd grade boys during recess and having to endure those boy germs. If only we had guns back then, the boys would not have been as frisky, I'm sure. Would they have been as much fun?
Born 60 yrs too soon or too late? Not sure. We had our fun in those days but I think kids today have even more fun.”
-Maria Caliente | Middleton | May 9, 2011
Letter on: Losing the audience
“Nearly 6 decades ago I often visited the political hub of Kenosha politics: Wavro's Drugstore. If you wanted to run for office in Kenosha County, Madison or for Congress Ed Wavro was a good guy to know. Those who won office often stopped by. My Father and I sat and listened to the conversations while sipping the fountain cokes Ed dispensed. I can guarantee you none in attendance would have envisioned what was to come in the neo conservative future.
Years later when republicans began representing my hometown in D.C. I was surprised, perplexed and mostly appalled. Living in Joe McCarthy territory I could understand an elitist hack like Toby Roth winning office. But KENOSHA! Holy Moly, what happened? And now Paul Ryan?? OMG, the bottom of the barrel of heartless souls!
After reading John's fine reporting I am once again proud to have been reared in Kenosha. With the 15,000 autoworker jobs now long gone I can imagine Ryan didn't fair too badly in recent vote counts. But today I think his days are numbered. A few minutes ago I read John Boehner has been tossing around the word 'arrogance'. I guess he knows a thing or two about such behavior. He's shared the podium with Paul Ryan.
Mr. Ryan seems to think that reading Ayn Rand has made him some sort of visionary and that the rest of us just aren't as intelligent or 'with-it' as he is. Reminds me a bit of Barry Goldwater. But as with Barry we of a lower class know a dead rotting fish when we smell one.”
-Jim Limbach | Stevens Point Wisconsin | May 9, 2011
Letter on: I say give them guns!
“When we can carry a concealed 6-pack or bottle of spirits into a restaurant or bar, then we will have made progress.
Have you ever wondered what Wisconsin must have been like as a territory in the 19th century? Stay tuned. The Republican majority is dragging us back to the good ol' days: One step back and 200 steps more.”
-Giorgi | Milwaukee | May 9, 2011
Letter on: I say give them guns!
“Now if only we had universal, single-payer health coverage to deal with all the gunshot wounds.
Could these concealed weapons laws be a Republican form of family planning?”
-Franz Fripplfrappl | Madison | May 9, 2011
Letter on: I say give them guns!
“These gun laws are obviously the desires and products of the emasculated American male. Surely any woman worthy of her womanhood would oppose this inaneness, and any male comfortable with his own masculinity would do the same.
Looks to me, when the wars cease abroad, we'll be all set for one here.
I don't have a firearm. I do have a broken slingshot and a water pistol. Do these count?”
-Pietr Haikuu | Hurley | May 9, 2011
Letter on: Hot button bungle
“Whatever the Democrat mouthpieces say as their official reasoning- who really believes these Republican recalls are about the individuals? I sure don't. Clearly a faction of the WI Republicans has chosen a brutish numbers approach to governing. I can't imagine they've had any open discussion about these plans they have with their own party members. They like obedience. They certainly have no desire to discuss with their Democratic fellows.
When the "other guy" uses a club instead of reason, debate, and statesmanship, you can either sit there and happily be beaten on, or you can get a club too.
It is proven (and logical) that the least "elegant" and intelligent person in a discussion controls the tenor of that discussion. You can't discuss Shakespearean sonnets when the baby is screaming, and you can't have a highly evolved debate with a guy hopped up on meth with a knife to your throat.
The tactics of Walker-Fitzgerald-Grothmann- ALEC/Koch-Ryan-Boehner-WallSt. forces anyone else's hands. It would be super-dumb to be decent anymore.
And yeah I'm pretty sure everyone is really upset that the core Republicans in this mess are dodging the bullets. I am. But people have to take what they can get. And if we're ever going to get back to core values of government and democracy it's up to The REPUBLICAN party.
Just imagine if back in the 6os and 70s "our" leftist side had usurped all gov't processes. Now Abbe Hoffmann, Farrakhan, and the most radical members of the Black Panthers and AIM are sitting in Washington right now calling shots and ramming thru their very personal ideologies, then it would be up to "our side" to re-commit to what's actually in the Constitution, and re-commit to dealing with other Americans.
That didn't happen, but something equally radical DID.
So unless your sad little "Moderates" want to strap one on and deal with what's going on in their own house I say anyone left of David Koch has to play hard, a lot harder than they have been. A helluvaLOT.
I have no compassion for folks who have stood by and seen this nation shat upon and everything I was raised to believe flushed down the bowl.
These "moderates" have been happy to stand by while their fellows rape and pillage, and the moderates benefit from these harsh tactics tangentally.
I cry not 4 them.
I used to vote for Republicans too, about 25 percent I'd guess. Going for character when I had knowledge that the Dem in question was a creep. Happens a lot more than I like. Now I WILL NEVER vote for these extremists ever again.
Today's Republicans all have made alliances, made choices, made their beds- now it's time they were tucked in nice and tight.
(side note: boo-freakin-hoo for Randy Hopper, a liability to ANY party on any planet)”
-Annie K. | Eau Claire, WI | May 9, 2011
Letter on: I say give them guns!
“Ed, are you goin' off the deep end again? Looks like the JS truth-o-meter is going to have to take you back out to the woodshed.
I'm pretty sure that "Constitutional Carry" just means they wanna carry the Constitution around, then when a difference of opinion arises we can all whip them out and debate in the Socratic style.
You really need to dial down that rhetoric!!
FYI if I go to BobFest I WILL be packin'. I just can't decide what yet. A gun, Mace Magnum Heavy-duty Bear repellent (have some in the cupboard), or a rolled up be-ribboned parchment. Whatever matches my outfit I guess.”
-Annie K. | Eau Claire, WI | May 9, 2011
Letter on: I say give them guns!
“I will now be forced to carry a weapon, for self protection, when I would prefer not to.
I plan to wear it on my hip with the holster straped down in plain sight.
My Trauma Nurse Wife is thinking "overtime" on the weekend and midnight shift, where the big bucks are.”
-Guido | Little Chicago, WI | May 9, 2011
Letter on: Hot button bungle
“Recalling state senators in an effort to change senate dynamics is essential in slowing down the Walker agenda and legislative process. There is something wrong with state government when bills can be introduced, passed and signed into laws within days. There is also much wrong with any government when both sides refuse to cooperate and discuss the merits of bills before passage. When legislators vote strictly on party lines, our system is in trouble. This is not the way we want our policy makers to behave or work. Our system of government is about checks and balance. Under Walker-Fitzgerald-Fitzgerald-Prosser there are none.
The recall petitions are perhaps a knee jerk reaction to fascism a la Walker and the Fitzgerald boys. I would not get so bent out of shape over this. What should concern each and every one of us is how evenly split our state has become on issues. Even more disturbing is how Walker and the Republican'ts have taken their marginal wins and interpreted them as clear mandates from the people of this state. Not a single legislator or party has any mandate from any of us!
Corporate money and marketing techniques are targeting the ignorant who still want to believe the country and state are headed down the drain. Republican'ts are masters at using language and catchphrases that work to keep the ignorant motivated. Remember Walker's "Wisconsin is broke!"? Combine this with unemployment and low wages and you all of a sudden have voters that side with Walker.
When elections are so close, are they elections at all? Should the ignorant even have a right to vote? Are we getting representative government like we demand?”
-Franz Fripplfrappl | Madison | May 9, 2011
Letter on: The worst government money can buy
“Watch the movie "Inside Job" and then explain to all of us why these perps are not in jail. We all know the problem. We know who is doing what to whom, yet we do nothing but complain.
I'm not convinced this country has ever been our country. The rich and connected have always controlled it and us. It's no different than the typical high school where one group runs the show while the rest struggle just to get through school.
Maybe this is the plight of being part of humanity. The game is the same but it's now all about money.”
-Maria Caliente | Middleton | May 8, 2011
Letter on: The worst government money can buy
“For those in power it is the best government money can buy.
How unfortunate it is that in the great revision to educational goals government is no longer included in the curriculum. How else can the mean spirited government currently in power be explained?”
-Richard Kanak | Cherry Valley, Illinois | May 8, 2011
Letter on: The right to vote
“Mr. Garvey, I thought I was somewhat savvy as to what is going on in politics, but I must admit that I never thought that the Koch brothers might actually be funding Democrats. It certainly would be a diabolical stategy for wealthy people, who feel that their billions don't measure up to other people's billions, to make an extra billion by hedging their bets by funding both sides when it is cost-effective. I think you are a phophet.”
-Ty O'Mara | Grayslake, IL | May 8, 2011
Letter on: Food crisis?
“Gary, According to all know climatic cycles we are supposed to be entering another Ice Age, The fact that global temperature averages indicated the opposite is what sparked research in to the cause and lead to the Global Warming Hypothesis, which in turn lead to the developement of the Global Warming Theory. All atmosphereic models show that an increase in CO2 lead to exactly what is happening. Climate alarmist are living in reality has opposed to WMD alarmists”
-Dole O'Mite | Oconomowoc, WI | May 7, 2011
Letter on: Food crisis?
“The most serious mistake made in looking at trends is confusing correlation with causation. No serious scientist would claim that a cause results in a specific effect without testing it and eliminating all other explanations. This standard of scientific inquiry is grossly lacking in the field of climate alarmism.
At any given time we are either entering into an ice age or recovering from one. Hopefully, we are currently recovering and would expect a general warming trend. Even with a statistical increase over the last century there are also extended periods with decreasing temperatures at the same time that there are increasing CO2 levels. This would eliminate CO2 from being the main driver of climate change and would indicate that the climate cannot be manipulated by human CO2 output.”
-Gary Glonek | Montreal, Wi | May 7, 2011
Letter on: Food crisis?
“Okay, just one more teeny-weeny little thing re: discussing how to save democracy at FBFestN on the 21st.
Looks like it's gonna be a busy day for everyone -
http://www.wecanknow.com/”
-Annie K. | Eau Claire, WI | May 7, 2011
Letter on: The gods are crazy!
“Annie K.
Eau Claire is not the northwoods of Wisconsin, and we up here don't much like it when you city slickers say it is. :-)”
-Steve Carlson | Trego, WI. | May 6, 2011
Letter on: Food crisis?
“You are forgetting something else... the wealthy, the very ones who control our government and us, probably don't give a rat's ass about climate change, food supply or any other trivial concern of ours. They have the means to get what they want and price is no issue.
They would rather we stay broke, enslaved to poorly paying jobs, hungry, in want. As soon as we would be satisfied, we then would become a threat to their existence.”
-Franz Fripplfrappl | Madison | May 6, 2011
Letter on: Food crisis?
“I suspect that besides the very serious climate situation there is also speculation in commodities that plays a role in prices. I noticed the other day that oil dropped quite a bit because of sell off of futures. Apparently the speculators read the news reports that high prices were causing people to drive less. That only warranted a passing notice in the press. Hmmm. Guess the BS machine rolls along as always.
In the meantime we see that 33 Dems voted with the GOP (Gas and Oil Party) to continue subsidies to the Oil Giants. With the "Party of the People" on our side what is there to fear. Do me a favor Dems, don't call me for your vote at election time. Get your own house in order first and show some internal discipline and adherence to your stated values first. If you want my vote you are gonna have to earn it.”
-Griebnotz Doerkpfester | I Escaped, WI. | May 6, 2011
Letter on: The gods are crazy!
“Sorry about peppering your site with BS. I'll back off. However I have a really serious request. Could you please go all inflammatory over the Internet Deregulation stuff? I don't think the Dem echo-cheddars are going to.
I also think they don't get it. They use blog software yes, but I don't think they understand jack.
Okay - so they like to make the point (after Maddow did) that hitting Unions will erode the support for the Dem party. Choking up the Internet as we know it will do the same - but much worse than you can imagine. Unions are dying, dinosaurs, but ppl do not communicate that way. Internet is exploding and going higher and higher all the time. More likely to be used by younger and younger people (liberal) and they all use Internet to express politically FAR more than the Republicans do or will for the foreseeable future.
So in this proposal (which is overseen by Montgomery - ALEC man-of-the-year, and R.J. Pirlot from WMC) if they get what they want they will be completely free to operate with NO supervision and they will have the ability to DENY SERVICE as they please to anyone, OR large blocks of people.
Finally they will be able to use deep packet-sniffing technology. Talk to a person who is tech savvy about packet-sniffing. People don't mention it when this Internet issue hits the news, but it's phenomenal.
Packet sniffing "detects items" that pass over the Internet. You can set it to search for a single word, groups of terms, topics etc. You can "sniff out" and "listen in on" any conversation that passes thru your servers. You can weed out who uses the word "Democrat" in their emails. Anything. Like listening in on every phone conversation everywhere. Also able to store all data away from public eyes or regulators, to be used for commercial purposes or political suppression (there would be nothing stopping them from putting all "progressive" conversation in a "slow lane", or monitoring opponents' private net-based campaign communications, any application they want)
They also can deny common forms of Peer-to-peer exchanges. What bloggers do is peer-to-peer content. Packet sniffing can be used legally and legitimately in private networks, I worked where it was used. No one knew it was being done, the admins did not tell the 500 employees their files on the network could be viewed, or that all their emails could be read, or what sites they looked at while on the job would be logged. Back ups of all this data was made at least twice a day. How much storing you want to do of data is up to the boss. Imagine that capability in the hands of megalomanic corporations.
When they say "the revolution will not be televised" (or talked about) it sure won't be if these guys win.
It's not about "thousands of jobs".”
-Annie K. | Eau Claire, WI | May 6, 2011
Letter on: Confronting the tax attack
“I would like to respond to Steve from Waukesha, but I don't think I could be civil (or coherent).
I have been thinking for some time, that in the spirit of "shared sacrifice," ALL of the Bush tax cuts should be allowed to expire. Since people in the higher income brackets received larger cuts, they will pay more. I know this sacrifice will be more apparent in the daily lives of people in the middle class. However, since this is an income tax it is supposedly (check the spelling Steve) progressive and based on ability to pay.
We all benefited from the tax cuts. When the tax cuts were enacted, our country was fighting one, two, (now three) wars on credit. We were never asked to sacrifice anything to pay for the wars. The only people who have sacrificed for these wars are soldiers and their families.
Every time I pass a gas station, I think I'm crazy for suggesting this. Still, it is time to be responsible. The country needs to pay current bills as well as its increasing debt. EVERYONE needs to sacrifice. EVERYONE needs to pay his fair share.
I for one do not feel that it is moral to demand the poorest to be the ONLY ones to sacrifice. It may not be fair to ask ONLY the rich to pay a little more. We have been lauding "shared sacrifice." Let's mean it.”
-Linda | Wisconsin Rapids,WI | May 5, 2011
Letter on: Losing the audience
“Lest we think Ryan is an honorable fellow, check out this from Mother Jones: http://motherjones.com/politics/2011/04/paul-ryan-labor-unions-wisconsin
Why doesn't mainstream media pick up on this little morsel about Paul Ryan? Not only is he a hypocrite, he puts his family business before that of his constituents and the American people.”
-Franz Fripplfrappl | Madison | May 5, 2011
Letter on: The gods are crazy!
“I think a lot of people might be looking for a sense of empowerment and just plain old safety when they are attracted to handgun ownership.
For some, it also seems to be a lot of macho posturing. I don't see how we can all look out our doors or at our TVs and not get the idea that a lot of people (trying hard not to say "men") really care about power.
How many marriages are ruined by - power struggles. So to me this issue goes deeper than the talking points we hear.
Personally I have a friend who carried a gun in her purse for a time. She has been single for decades. Lives alone. She had to travel for work and because she has friends flung around the country.
As a female, I can tell you that there are areas and situations where you just get a cumulative effect, feeling uneasy snowballs. You just get sick of it.
Who's to say that there isn't a lot of people who feel all this generalized anxiety and heightened threat all over and just "feel better" thinking they can own a gun. Probably a lot.
I'm annoyed by the Osama Bloodlust, but on the other hand, if I let my paranoid delusions about Walker and martial law run wild and I visualize people throwing my city council to the street- I would feel like "the time has come"
I also got sick of living in "Rape City" (Madison) I moved. Had I stayed I would have been sick of the constant feeling of threat. Would I buy a gun? I don't know.
I got sick of the feeling of constant nervousness and personal danger as a female walking around NYC also. I have wished I had a gun, but not because I wanted to "kill", because I hoped people might be more likely to leave me alone. Yes, you also realize the same gun can be used against you etc.
Then there's the Kids issue. Getting killed by accident.
Was I "afraid" of my friend with the gun in her purse? Not at all. In fact I once had to travel alone and asked her to come with me. By then she had gotten creeped out by her own gun, got rid of it and brought an "alternate weapon" on our trip. I don't like guns and all this "threat" all over. I hate the gun lobby, they stink. But it's a Thelma and Louise World. So the issue resonates with people.
I actually would like to shoot a gun before I die. (Hopefully much later) Those little shot up target guys look cool. I'd like to be able to say "I did that". I would not however like to go on TV giggling about how Osama's eyeballs are shot out. Very self-contradictory.
Anyway, living in the north-woods I always felt concealed carry was a matter of time.”
-Annie K. | Eau Claire, WI | May 5, 2011
Letter on: Losing the audience
“Linda could be on to something here. That old GOP trick of divide and conquer along with the "self sufficiency" doctrine works. Thing is, this is the party that has made gains on the "family values" stuff too.
Kind of makes you wonder. What family would tell one member, say the kid brother or kid sister, that they are "on their own" when they get the measles, or break a leg at the playground. What family would excuse one member of joint responsibility while making others pick up the burden?
Also makes you wonder when the Dems will find a narrative that translates into electoral victory. I mean, honestly, how bad does the GOP have to get before the Dems get a clue? Just the other day 16 Dems in House voted against private insurance paying for an abortion. Platform? What platform?”
-Griebnotz Doerkpfester | I Escaped, WI | May 5, 2011
Letter on: Losing the audience
“Paul Ryan retooled after Kenosha and remembered the divide and conquer strategy. This strategy, as well as an understanding that older voters vote and have voted Republican lately, was embedded in his budget proposal.
In later listening sessions Ryan would begin with the quip "Raise your hand if you are over 54." He spoke with a smile to those who raised their hands, telling them that the changes in Medicare did not apply to them, that their benefits would remain the same. This seemed to satisfy many of the seniors who didn't seem to worry about those under 54 years of age.
OK. Many people are mostly worried about themselves. Many people who are under 54 are too.
Let's think this through. How long do you suppose the "younger group" will be willing to pay taxes so "the old ones" can receive benefits that they themselves no longer enjoy? What happens to "your benefits will not change" then?
This speaks to the morality of "me first" (the Rand philosophy). While this works well for two year-olds, it is a sorry way to promote social well being.
Where is "American Exceptionalism?" Where is "the United States is a 'christian' country?"”
-Linda | Wisconsin Rapids,WI | May 5, 2011
Letter on: The gods are crazy!
“Some folks want to run government like a business. What do you think of licensing criminals and then setting up a private review board to make sure they aren't doing anything wrong?
This certainly would seem like the Walker approach. Silly, you say? Just as silly as not giving prosecutors the resources they need to get their jobs done on our behalf.”
-Pietr haikuu | Hurley | May 5, 2011
Letter on: The gods are crazy!
“The whole concept of firearms and self-defense makes me wonder. The only purpose of a gun seems to be to kill something whether it be a person, a deer or a stop sign. Most people are not qualified or trained to even own a firearm let alone use one. Now we are going to have people running around armed and ready to shoot.
The formula for possessing and using a gun is twofold: The possessor has to be of the mindset to kill another human being, and how many of us really want to do that? The other part of the equation is that the possessor also has to accept the possibility he/she might be killed as well, if not first. How many out there are willing to die and call it "self-defense"? Once you're dead, you're dead. There's no rising from the tomb 3 days later. The perp with the weapon will always have the element of surprise on his/her side.
The NRA and its paid-for politicians, particularly the Republican'ts, want to make us more scared than we already are. They want to keep us suspicious and want us to live our lives in distrust.
I already distrust these policy makers... now I'm supposed to distrust my family, friends and neighbors?”
-Franz Fripplfrappl | Madison | May 5, 2011
Letter on: The gods are crazy!
“How many of our Congressional leaders are concealing and carrying into Congress? Is this a return to the old west as shown on TV where all disputes must end with a shootout?
I really believe that at the price of handguns only the wealthy will be able to afford to carry. I must therefore presume they wish to be prepared for the revolt of the masses over their draconian measures proposed by their Republicon friends.”
-Richard Kanak | Cherry Valley, Illinois | May 5, 2011
Letter on: Losing the audience
“Like the Fighting Bob Fest the fiasco of Paul Ryan's liars tour got too little public exposure.
It is something which should have garnered as much press as when he pontificates from Washington.”
-Richard Kanak | Cherry Valley, Illinois | May 5, 2011
Letter on: Confronting the tax attack
“Let's see Ed 51% of tax payers now pay no federal income tax. I highly doubt in your mind what's fair is they actually do. Your obsessed with the wealthy paying for your liberal progressive utopia while no one else is supose to. That's your idea of fair? Besides why do we need more revenue any way? Obama care was supose to save us billions if not trillions? Even you liberals are not buying the BS any more. You guys also seem to forget Doyle rasied taxes a billion dollars in the middle of the night. No one ran away like children having a temper tantrum yet it still isn't enough. The truth is you lefties would confiscate all money and it still wouldn't be enough for your socialist dream state.”
-Steve | Waukesha WI | May 5, 2011
Letter on: Relax--all will be well--Kyl is on the case!
“Ed; There is a lot to address in this post, so may I address one. Even the Chinese know that unsustained population growth is not desired. The unfortunate aspect of this, with the availability of ultrasound is that the Chinese would rather abort females instead of males. This goes back to the concern that the family name continues. I personally believe as the President does that abortions should be infrequent. However, it should be in control of the person that owns the reproductive organs that creates this additional life, and feels comfortable that this additional life will get the support needed by a complete family unit. Men do not carry any of these children to term and as far as I'm concerned should recuse themselves from any vote.”
-Lloyd Granberg | Whitehall, WI | May 4, 2011
Letter on: Relax--all will be well--Kyl is on the case!
“Oh, to be filthy rich and to live in a gated community with easy access to exquisite shopping, the country club and the finest of schools! I then wouldn't have to worry about climate change or population growth. I'd have it made and could then live in harmony with my world.”
-Maria Caliente | Middleton | May 4, 2011
Letter on: Relax--all will be well--Kyl is on the case!
“If you want something done that defies logic, call on the Army Corps of Engineers. They have messed up more waterways than they have improved.”
-Pietr Haikuu | Hurley | May 4, 2011
Letter on: Relax--all will be well--Kyl is on the case!
“I'm happy we have Republican'ts running our lives in Wisconsin and Republican't wannabes in the White House capturing thugs like OBL. All this gives me warm and fuzzy feelings of better times.
I'm happy that those who speak Palinese think bin Laden was caught because W. was president.
Why isn't anyone discussing what all the last 10 years has cost us in resources, lives and money? We ought to be demanding an end to it all. Ten years and how many more to go?
What amazes me is the ineptness of the Obama administration in broadcasting that it has taken all sorts of things from the bin Laden estate which might be used to get a jump on al Quaeda. It would seem a wiser choice not to say a word of what was taken. Keep the other side guessing and sweating. Now we have given them fair warning and they can adjust before we can pounce.
I bet those making these stupid decisions make more than $10 and hour that we get and they probably have health insurance, too.”
-Franz Fripplfrappl | Madison | May 4, 2011
Letter on: Relax--all will be well--Kyl is on the case!
“The whole chest-bumping "we sacked their quarterback" BS re: bin Laden is driving me nuts. Can.We.Have.Some.Gravitas.Please.
Like, I've dropped all my blog subs but 2. Idiots.
TV is outta the question. This is not the World Cup.
We see video of THEIR people parading bodies and dancing and Ululating (?).
What do we think? "Look at those primitive bloodthirsty extremists! That's barbaric". It looks terrible. Our people start ululating over a dead enemy (sounds personal doesn't it?) and it's NOT barbaric? AND by golly, we wanna see that body!!!
Another thing. Mocking people who might think the government has lied about something relating to bin Laden. Dead? not dead? This is all a campaign kick-off event for Obama? who knows. I don't care if you're conservative or what, to say "the government might lie" seems just to show you have 2 or more brain cells.
All the government does is lie. But... we hear only a stupid person might think the government might lie. O_o LOLwhut?
If Bush said "Hey guys guess what! I killed bin Laden. Is that awesomesauce or what? But um.. heh heh I kinda dropped the body on the way home. But still, yay me!"
We'd all be going nuts. Right?
re: Planned Parenthood and global decline in all ways possible and no one caring.
I saw a Rich Guy commenting really frankly (rare) once. Not just the usual talking points, but what he really thought. He was all on about Malthusian catastrophe and apparently feels we're heading for that. The idea is we Po' folk die off to a suitable level. The remaining population learns to eat a lot of dirt. The key to it is we all start living at a minimal subsistence wage. Meaning just enough to maintain minimum health so we "laborers" are not too sick/starved/filthy/stupid to work.
Planned Parenthood and the like (education too I suppose) are things you need if you have a society in which people self-actualize. We won't be doing that anymore.
Maybe they're (the Rich Peeple) shoring up massive wealth for "later", maybe they think it's time we started dying off. Lowering expectations, getting ready for the new subsistence lifestyle. I don't know. The guy sounded really refined, educated, intelligent and privileged, but creepy as hell.
Look up that Malthus guy. Maybe the Powers are picking and choosing from his ideas like they are from Rand's.
Before Ed had asked - don't they have kids, don't they need to breathe air? etc
They (the mega-rich) must have SOME plan. Maybe a private Shangri-la. Who knows.
But somehow everyone but the ultra-elite being at subsistence wage is the key to this theory.
So...Anybody else miss Nixon? LOL I remember when he seemed like the Ultimate Evil Dude. These new improved models sure can wear ya down.”
-Annie K. | Eau Claire, WI | May 4, 2011
Letter on: Relax--all will be well--Kyl is on the case!
“ZPG is the issue.
In fact a population over 2 billion is unsustainable according to those who know.
Two issues make it improbable anything will change, reproductive rights take priority over survival of the species and economic growth that is predicated on increased demand by way of increased population.
In other words capitalism, not a world wide natural disaster, may extinguish our species.”
-Vincenzo | Little Chicago, WI | May 4, 2011
Letter on: Choosing greed
“A few random thoughts re: what has been said above -
A third party can never "own" the system. What would happen is that the third would have to form a coalition in order to get numbers. This means compromising, melding and changing - moving to the "center" and becoming what you were not. My "penpal" was active in the early German greens, I've heard at length about how the Party is not at ALL the party it was (whether for better or worse now is not the point)
In addition, any American Green I have ever talked to seems to have an underlying belief that "their" party and candidates will somehow be more "pure", more moral etc. That's not how it would go. People are slaves to Human Nature, we do not learn from history, we do not advance emotionally.
If the system of laws etc we have in place here in the United States can become corrupted anything will.
It's a rare, rare person I have seen who can attain Power or significant influence and not change, corrupt, gleefully buy their own BS, and become a slave to some form of Greed, whether greed for cash, power, or just plain MORE.
Also, people who try to be "Independent" get the schiesse beat out of them daily and twice on Sunday. (I have no explanation for the survival of Bernie Sanders. Possibly he is a Lizard Person with a personal force field) Stuff gets ugly. Few can take it, too many who can do so by virtue of simple narcissism, and that's what we have already.
Do you socialize with avowedly political people? Lots of them are not nice. Okay maybe nice to their own or people they like, but they are not nice to boat-rockers. I have rocked a boat or two in my time, and they were really small boats. Almost killed me each time. Ever been close to a campaign? Takes money, money people don't have as individuals. Then there's vandalism to your yardsigns or whatever. To take hits like that as a non-party member would be untenable.
Ever gone door-to-door? people will talk your EARS OFF! Forget having a family a job or even personal hygiene needs!! If you think you are building totally grassroots on your own with no support - really try to canvass on an issue or raise the "neighborhood" once. Go around talking to Jane and Joe Average armed with a smile, a gift o' gab and good intentions. THEN decide about running for some office as a big ol' maverick.
Oh, wait. It was SOME OTHER GUY who was supposed to get up front, get those "only 200 signatures". mmmhmmm
And some other guy is supposed to come up with candidates, arraying them nicely like beauty contestants at BFNorth. LOL.
Anyway, Ed is 100% right EXCEPT that Greed drives the entire world now, not just politics. IMO it's become a full religion.”
-Annie K. | Eau Claire, WI | May 4, 2011
Letter on: Recount or guilt trip?
“Never read your blog before...you must be a lefty grad from one of our brainwashed state schools. In case you weren't watching, "the people" voted in two more conservatives tonight and you got one. Thank God for Walker and him stopping folks like you spending our money. Never has any recount taken place with this wide of a margin in the U.S. but your "rights" to do it always trump sensibility and reason. You never have problems spending other tax payers money so you can feel better about yourself...congrats, at least you are consistent. Can't wait till Walker or Ryan run for President some day and watch your head explode with fury if they pull it off. I pray that vouchers become a reality to stop the poison that our state schools continue to push creating a mockery of our elections and Republic. I suppose you consider the vandels of the state capitol heroes as well. Sleep well though because conservative folks like me would never harass and threaten libs like you like your side regularly does. We actually care about our fellow man and respect your right to disagree without shouting you down and screaming "this is what democracy looks like." Just one question though...if there wasn't a Waukesha botch with Brookfield not being counted, would you still favor a recount? I haven't figured out if that is what is driving this and was looking for your thoughts. Take care and love ya!”
-Tony | Oconomowoc, WI | May 4, 2011
Letter on: Be careful Bishop
“It takes a troubled time to raise heroes (and saints). The heroes are out there. Soon they WILL arise. It is the way of human history. It is not often swift. It is not always pretty. It is a time for prayer.”
-Linda | Wisconsin Rapids,WI | May 3, 2011
Letter on: Choosing greed
“Greed? I sort of like the Seven Deadly Sins.
Start naming progressive candidates and let's start promoting them. Talk is cheap. We are at a point where we need action. We need people gutsy enough to run and put an end to corporate elections and purchased offices.
At Bob Fest Chippewa Falls, give us some names and get the candidates up to the podium.
Like we say down on the farm, s**t or get off the pot.”
-Franz Fripplfrappl | Madison | May 3, 2011
Letter on: Choosing greed
“If U.S.Senator Bernie Sanders can run and get elected as an Independant in Vermont, where they have lots of cows, why can't people run here in Wisconsin as an Independant, where we have a lot of cows too?”
-Joe Gruber | Campbellsport,WI | May 3, 2011
Letter on: Be careful Bishop
“I nominate John Gilman, Father Groppi and Father Dismas Becker for Sainthood.
With all that they accomplished while they were here on earth, just think what could happen if the 'Good Lord' cut them loose to right the wrongs here on earth!”
-Joe Gruber | Campbellsport,WI | May 3, 2011
Letter on: Choosing greed
“Time for a third party? Discuss? Gimme a break! As long as discussing it all that is in play there will be no third party.
Don't talk, do. It is easy to get on the ballot in Wisconsin when you run for State Assembly or Senate. 200 or 400 valid signatures do it. Any party, or no party.
The two major parties are brain dead,each in their own and different ways but brain dead all the same.
As to changing the parties from within you can forget it. The old hands and old farts will grind you down. What is everyone afraid of? Running and losing? I have news for you. You are losing now.”
-Griebnotz Doerkpfester | I Escaped, WI. | May 3, 2011
Letter on: Be careful Bishop
“Why are so many of the world's institutions, governments, leaders, businesses, corporations, etc, so conservative?
What does conservatism offer that progress and moving forward do not? Are humans innately afraid of any future that they cannot control? As a race, are we so fearful of any idea which is not ours? Are men and women by nature control freaks?
Perpelexed, as usual.”
-Pietr Haikuu | Hurley | May 3, 2011
Letter on: Be careful Bishop
“You are one of the heroes. Stay well. We need you.”
-Pat Nelson | Three Lakes, Wisconsin | May 3, 2011
Letter on: Choosing greed
“When neither of two parties of a two party system is on your side, do you continue to "try" to influence the party that traditionally professes ideas closer to your own? If that party continues to move closer to the center of political discourse while the opposing party moves further in the other direction moves the "center" further from your belief system, do you continue to support either party?
Even in a two party system in which third parties do little more than assure that the party you do not prefer will be the winner, there must be a tipping point. When do you receive so little from supporting one of two parties that you are willing to risk the county being dragged farther in the "wrong" direction?
Is the time now? Is it time to form a serious third party? I do not know. I have no answers. I am open to discussion.”
-Linda | Wisconsin Rapids,WI | May 3, 2011
Letter on: Sordid history
“Nice overview. I'd like to mention something, that no one seems to mention, it's unpleasant but IMO quite true.
It's true that private sector ppl face "terror" tactics on the job, and are unable to do anything about that. My guess would be that Public Sector unions were well aware of that, and have seemed very very content to only protect their own.
This led to a "I've got mine, I don't care what's going on with you" image of Public Union employees.
During the time period that the private employees were in rapid decline it was VERY common to pick up the newspaper, turn on TV, and hear laments about how hard the Publics had it. How they deserved more and many (at least locally here) very inflammatory talking points about how if you don't (when your own employment "rights" are in the toilet) raise your contribution to the Public's income levels then you just do NOT care about children at all. I always marveled at this rhetoric. Aimed at Privates, the Public accused them of not caring about kids if they wouldn't/couldn't cough up more taxes.
People were losing homes, and still we heard the same accusation from Publics.
The remaining (Public) unions did not seem to choose to challenge the political structure that was allocating the resources, nor did they seem to shed a tear for the decline of those folks who (in essence) paid their salaries and benefits.
This social rift, caused by the behavior of the PEOPLE (not just the corporations and politicians) had a direct bearing on laying the groundwork for enough support for union-busting in a big enough portion of the US population to getaway with this crap now.
People under siege too often to NOT stick together, they protect their little tribe and call it good. "Labor" was fractured by outside forces, but it worked against itself just as much.
I am not at all anti-union but I am disgusted by the tactic of unions buying up politicians to ensure payback and protection. That's a game-changer. Then Democrats, when campaigning, could focus on Teachers and act as if the rest of (private) labor simply did not exist. If you do not show up on campaign contribution lists, you DO not exist.
Private labor COULD NOT fight. They were hurting - dying. Too many fellow Americans walked on by. People become bitter, tired of hearing about public sectors having that "sweet deal" and then hearing how it's apparently not enough. I guess they always compare the Public v. Private wage "disparities" with doctors and lawyers maybe? But the vast majority of Americans are not doctors and lawyers.
To justify the worklives endured by the people working the Kwik-Trip or driving forklift at Menards by believing they "should have made more of their lives, so...yes, they are struggling" is heinously unjust self-serving Social Darwinism too.”
-Annie K. | Eau Claire, WI | May 3, 2011
Letter on: Lawyers, lawyers every where but not even one to help poor Scott!
“No wonder Dear Leader says "Wisconsin is broke"... He's wasting our money on lawyers that will fulfill his agenda.
How many more days for recall? I can hardly wait.”
-Maria Caliente | Middleton | May 2, 2011
Letter on: Sordid history
“John Ertl did a great job in research for his letter. Great to see one of America's youth out there on the front lines in the fight to save union bargaining rights. It is the youth that will benefit mostly from a strong labor movement regardless the course he or she takes in work life be it business or public service. History must be remembered as John Ertl wisely reminds us. At another time in labor history's dark days of worker's struggle took place in the Robber Baron era. There was one particular Robber Baron, Industrialist Jay Gould, who boasted at the time he could "hire half the workers to kill the other half". Could that be what the ultra right is working toward today? No doubt, it has gotten rough out there for workers and their families over the past 30 years and the new Robber Barons are the ones who destroyed our economy and are dead set on destroying labor unions just like the Robber Barons of old. Besides enlisting many members of congress on their side they now have a slew of governors working for them too. Young people are a big part of the answer to the challenge being laid at the feet of working Americans. I'll put my money on the workers so long as workers have the youth standing at their side, ready for the long difficult struggle to prevail and preserve and build a strong middle class America as did our brothers and sisters of old.”
-Charlie Williams | San Diego, California | May 2, 2011
Letter on: Lost ground
“We should be encouraging farmers, through monetary incentives, to farm using "Organic Methods". Look at the research and it becomes obvious we should be farming to protect the environment, encourage diversity of crops, and help to sequester carbon. All of this is done with "Organic Farming". It is a lie that Organics cannot grow as much. Rodale Institute has done sixty years of research and found similar yields, but during drought organic methods produce better yields. Use your pocketbook power and "Go Organic".”
-Barbara Barton | Montello, Wisconsin | May 2, 2011
Letter on: First some good news!
“Regarding stem cell research: some of the drug companies may not want to find the cure for some diseases. Take diabetes for example; an entire industry has been created to support diabetics: insulin, meters, food for diet plans, the works. Why should the drug companies eliminate a market for their products by curing the disease? While cures for certain diseases may be found through stem cell research, don't rely on corporate profitability as being a motive. Work on the cures because it is the right thing to do.”
-Paul Gorski | Cherry Valley Township, IL | May 2, 2011
Letter on: Sordid history
“I'd like to point out that when John was a high school student, he had one of the winning essays in the Wisconsin Labor History Essay Contest for Wisconsin High School students. His sister, Melissa, won first prize in this year's contest.
And, you all might have guessed that both parents are union members. A truly union family.”
-Ken Germanson | Milwaukee WI | May 2, 2011
Letter on: To gerrymander or not to gerrymander
“How can we do this, Bill?”
-Kathleen Hart | Muskego, WI | May 2, 2011
Letter on: To gerrymander or not to gerrymander
“Geeeeeez.
Why would there be a lack of trust and enthusiastic bandwagon-jumping these days.
Thar's a head-scratcher for ya.”
-Annie K. | Eau Claire, WI | May 2, 2011
Letter on: You must be kidding!
“Hey hey Annie K. I carry none but myself. If you meet the Buddha on the road, kill him. That from the sage himself.
The last thing the world needs right now are two hit philosophers and the comfortbly concerned queens of amateur psychobabble.
Bye bye”
-Griebnotz Doerkpfester | I Escaped, WI. | May 1, 2011
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