text:
You may have heard that just the other day our President, Barack Hussein Obama, was caught saying these words; "If you've got a business, you didn't build that, somebody else made that happen." Proof(!) that he is some foreigner socialist who despises success and needs to learn how to be an American (per the Romney campaign).
It's true. He said those exact words. He also said a bunch of other words that you may not have heard that contain the context of those exact words. Here are some of those other words:
"If you were successful, somebody along the line gave you some help. There was a great teacher somewhere in your life. Somebody helped to create this unbelievable American system that we have that allowed you to thrive. Somebody invested in roads and bridges. If you've got a business, you didn't build that, somebody else made that happen."
Now there were a lot more words both before and after that further enrich the context, but from just that bit the President's meaning was clear. America's greatness isn't all about "me and mine." It's more about "us and ours." Everything we have as a nation we built together. Some even gave their lives so that together we might be free to prosper.
We the people. A more perfect union. One People. We mutually pledge to each other our Lives, our Fortunes and our sacred Honor. All men are created equal. Common defense. General welfare. To ourselves and our posterity. All of these words appear in our founding documents. From these words it is just as clear that our founding fathers imagined that together we could build a great nation.
President Obama has never discouraged or denigrated success, or successful people, in any way. He does believe successful people, including himself, should give back their share to the system that allowed them to prosper. A system built on the blood, sweat and tears of generations of Americans.
These aren't socialist ideas. They're American ideas. This cult of selfishness that pervades today's political discourse must end if our union is going to survive. We didn't get where we are today by just looking out for ourselves. What a preposterous notion.
Listen to the President's full remarks here:
2:40 pm on Wednesday, July 18, 2012
People hear what they want to hear. Unfortunately, the FoxBOTS heard this and ran with it.
Its amazing how many people are simply brainwashed by that channel and never seem to want to explore anything other than what the liars on that channel spread as truth.
Brian Crawford
2:49 pm on Wednesday, July 18, 2012
Agreed. The Romney campaign has also been using this on the stump, they seem to think it's their "Joe the Plumber" moment. I've been bombarded with it through email and on FB as well. That's why I wrote the post.
North Georgia Weather
2:46 pm on Wednesday, July 18, 2012
I hope someone can refute this video
Brian Crawford
3:03 pm on Wednesday, July 18, 2012
It's garbage Steve, research it yourself. What does that have to do with this post?
North Georgia Weather
4:06 pm on Wednesday, July 18, 2012
Because I put it in the wrong post. Did I hijack your post? I'm so sorry.
Brian Crawford
4:15 pm on Wednesday, July 18, 2012
Hahaha...no problem.
Wait, no comment for me? I think you hurt my feelings.
Jessica Eng
4:31 pm on Wednesday, July 18, 2012
What President Obama is missing in his understanding of the Conservative point of view is not that one might think we did anything on our own. We are completely aware that it takes help from others. As a conservative, If I start a business I do it for me, not for someone else. I'd be following my dreams not someone elses and if someone gets something out of that good.
Brian Crawford
4:59 pm on Wednesday, July 18, 2012
Right, and President Obama strongly supports entrepreneurs and entrepreneurship. Unfortunately Congress has blocked many of his proposals to help small businesses in these tough economic times.
Cheryl Miller
4:08 am on Wednesday, July 25, 2012
If you start a business for you, then you likely will not be a sucess because you cannot possibly be your only customer. To have a successful business, you must do it because you see a need and you think others will appreciate what you have to offer that will fulfill that need. Then, you provide what you think they want and hope you can convince them to buy from you. There are a lot of if's that are necessary and a lot of other people along the way that you might be overlooking. You described how someone like Steve Jobs (that was his quote, right?) who was rich beyond measure might describe his fascinations and inventions which hardly qualify as the conservative's approach to a business model.
North Georgia Weather
5:05 pm on Wednesday, July 18, 2012
And that's your proof? Something directly off of the Obama propaganda site? Ask any small business owner what they think. Any of them.
Brian Crawford
5:13 pm on Wednesday, July 18, 2012
It's all verifiable Steve. If you don't believe it, research it. If you can disprove any of it have at it. It would be pretty stupid for the President to publicly post something on a government website that wasn't factual. Good luck with that.
Racer X
8:57 am on Sunday, July 22, 2012
It's all BS. These initiatives are to help "high growth" companies only. I have had a small business for 7 years based on the craftsmanship of myself and two employees. I only want to grow by a few more employees and have no interest in being bigger than that. Why does everybody assume that a small business wants to become huge when, often, that very thing destroys the reason we started the business in the first place? We want quality, not quantity. If Obama were a real American he would not have a problem understanding that.
It is not us who needs to thank the government for our success', it is the government who should be thanking us for it's success'. We, after all, are funding the government. The government is not funding us. The government is not funding Welfare and other "social programs". The government is funding NOTHING. Tax paying Americans are funding the whole shebang. The government only spends our hard earned money and does a piss-poor job of doing that effectively. The government needs to STOP giving money to people, START making them earn what they get in the private sector and let them feel the satisfaction of being paid for a job well done.
North Georgia Weather
5:14 pm on Wednesday, July 18, 2012
I don't know... I see things on that page that I would question. Very bottom center blue box from the first link for one.
Brian Crawford
5:19 pm on Wednesday, July 18, 2012
That's actually my second link, "We Can't Wait". Did you follow and read it? What exactly would you dispute?
Brian Crawford
5:36 pm on Wednesday, July 18, 2012
Yes, that link, middle blue box at bottom of the page is a link to "We Can't Wait", I'm still not sure what your dispute is. In the mean time here's another great link: http://www.sba.gov/content/fact-sheet-tax-breaks-small-businesses
North Georgia Weather
6:23 pm on Wednesday, July 18, 2012
Well... I wasn't aware of any people going back to work, much less the economy being strengthened. It's all just slick marketing. You don't believe everything on the web do you Brian? ;-)
lee kellogg
6:23 pm on Wednesday, July 18, 2012
I'm absolutely freaking sure Steve has asked ALL small business owners how they feel and speaks for ALL of them. Except the ones that want their employees to have decent health care, but can't afford to pay part of it, so are thrilled that a conservative judge has made that possible.Just like Mittens speaks for "the American people." The ones with Cayman Island tax dodges anyway. Disprove the facts? Conservatives retro actively self deport facts and principles.
Brian Crawford
7:23 pm on Wednesday, July 18, 2012
You do realize that all of those sources have a decidedly anti-Obama bias, don't you?
Brian Crawford
7:30 pm on Wednesday, July 18, 2012
Did you even read the Forbes piece? I actually found it quite positive towards the ACA. The writer was basically shooting down all the bluster about how it's going to cost jobs and close down businesses.
North Georgia Weather
6:31 pm on Wednesday, July 18, 2012
And where in the world do you think this money is coming from to subsidize this nonsense?
Sharon Swanepoel
6:32 pm on Wednesday, July 18, 2012
As the wife of a small business owner, Steve does speak for me. My husband has downsized and has no intention of upsizing again because it was tough enough before all this coming down the pike. As someone who had to mess with government compliance before, my advice to him was go small and stay small. There is no way he could comply with what is expected of him in the future. I'm guessing many more small business owners feel the same way.
Brian Crawford
7:21 pm on Wednesday, July 18, 2012
Sharon, I'm sincerely curious to know what specific policies of the Obama administration have caused your husband problems. It's my understanding that they have taken steps to try and ease burdensome regulations on small biz.
Racer X
9:12 am on Sunday, July 22, 2012
Ditto Sharon. I am a small business owner and Steve speaks for me as well. We in the trenches, actually doing the work, producing, resent being abused by the people who do nothing but stuff their faces and spew self righteous rhetoric while sitting on their butts. We won't support it, we refuse to grow, we no longer have any desire to feed the beast. If you support Obama, you have left traditional American values behind and damned those of us who have not.
North Georgia Weather
8:02 pm on Wednesday, July 18, 2012
The point is that he was belittling the efforts of every small business owner, whether he intended that or not. Perception is everything.
Brian Crawford
10:57 am on Thursday, July 19, 2012
I just don't see how anyone could possibly conclude that from the full context of Obama's quote.
North Georgia Weather
4:38 pm on Thursday, July 19, 2012
Then why would he say anything like what he said then?
8:38 pm on Wednesday, July 18, 2012
The insinuation was that whatever success a business owner has achieved, wasnt his, he owes some measure of it to 'someone else'. It plays right into the meme that the rich arent paying their fair share, and justifies the attempt to raise taxes on those very business owners. And you Obamabots fall all over yourselves trying to rationalize it.
Brian Crawford
9:47 pm on Wednesday, July 18, 2012
I'm sorry Jimmy but I have to disagree with that. No one thinks a business owner doesn't deserve the rewards of his effort, but the reality is none of us achieve anything in life without somebody, somewhere, paving the way. The tax increases suggested by the President only effect the top 3% of earners. If that includes you, congratulations on your success. That extra 4% were asking for will help others reach their potential and ultimately pay dividends as more people are able to buy your goods and services. Paying customers are the real job creators.
Sharon Swanepoel
9:40 pm on Wednesday, July 18, 2012
Brian, I decided that when the 1099 for purchases over $500 was implemented. I know there was an outcry and it was reversed, but it was implemented for a reason and I have no doubt it will come back in the future - as are many of the other taxes etc. that are necessary under the health care plan. As an engineer, my husband builds large saws for cutting granite - there are so many purchases at around the $500 mark it would have been a nightmare. Since the downturn, sadly most of his work has been re-installing his saws that were repossessed by the banks so he hasn't been manufacturing. He built and sold 83 nationwide and two overseas from 2001 to 2009. In the last three years he hasn't manufactured one. Also, all the talk of VAT - I've worked with VAT before, as has he - another paperwork nightmare. As any small business owner knows, complying with regulations is one of the most difficult parts of a business, payroll, inventory, sales tax - the cost of managing it is an absolute burden. Now there is going to be health care with more returns, and fines and dealing with the IRS. Not worth the effort. Downsize to a single contractor and there is not the same risk of incurring debt just to have to fold when it gets too expensive. Sorry, but for me that is the reality.
Brian Crawford
10:04 pm on Wednesday, July 18, 2012
Wow. Your husband has a fascinating business. I can understand how the downturn must have effected it. I'm sure the demand for custom granite fixtures must be way off with the lack of new construction. I'm glad they rolled back the 1099 requirements but I'm not familiar with the VAT talk. As far as the ACA goes, it wouldn't impact your business unless you have more than 50 employees. That only includes about 4% of small business owners nationwide.
9:46 am on Thursday, July 19, 2012
At least we have the IRS and not SARS to deal with :-p
Kind of like the difference between Romney and Obama.. Same thing with different names..
Racer X
9:30 am on Sunday, July 22, 2012
RL- They would actually have to have jobs in order to get back to work.
Jeff Haas
7:10 am on Thursday, July 19, 2012
I suspect that everyone posting here pays their taxes and doesn't have offshore bank accounts. The same cannot be said about Mitt Romney. It seems to me that paying your taxes to support your country, which includes our men and women in uniform, is a fundamental American responsibility, and that tax cheats like Mitt Romney really are the ones who are unAmerican. The future of the Republic cannot be left to people who play games with money.
7:44 am on Thursday, July 19, 2012
Jeff - Romney paid 3 million in taxes last year. Is that not enough?
Brian - the business owners (like me) give back through the onerous tax burden we are subjected to.
All you guys stop your whining and go to wok.
Brian Crawford
11:04 am on Thursday, July 19, 2012
Romney paid less than 15% of his income in taxes last year RL, hardly seems fair to me. Just curious, what kind of business are you in? I would love to hear more detail on what specifics of the tax code are such a burden to you?
North Georgia Weather
7:28 am on Thursday, July 19, 2012
Obama is playing games with money, you don't see that?
Jeff Haas
7:45 am on Thursday, July 19, 2012
For forty years, Republicans have been running on the Big Lie that you, too, can become part of the 1% if you work hard and vote for them. Maybe it's time for Americans to stop believing that Big Lie, make the 1% pay their fair share, and start working together for the common good. That's not socialism, it's democracy.
North Georgia Weather
8:02 am on Thursday, July 19, 2012
IRS data shows that in 2004, the richest 50% of the taxpayers paid 96.7% of all income taxes. From 1986 to 2004, the share paid by the richest half increased from 93.5% to 96.7%, and the share paid by the richest 1% increased from 25.75% to 36.89%. At the same time, the amount paid by the poorer half decreased from 6.5% in 1986 to 3.3% in 2004. While the poor's contribution was cut in half, the richest Americans saw their contribution increase by nearly 50%. When you get past the propaganda, for the last two decades the rich have been paying more and more while the poor have been paying less and less.
To put it simply, of the $832 billion in personal income taxes collected in 2004, the richest half of the country paid $804 billion while the poorest half only paid $27.4 billion.
8:18 am on Thursday, July 19, 2012
Thanks Weatherman! To expound a little further, according to the IRS, in 2009 the top 1% of income earners earned 17% of the total income and paid 36.7 % of all the taxes.
If thats not fair, then maybe Jeff can tell us what is? GIve us a number. What percentage should they pay?
Problem is, liberals wont give a number. All they say is 'more'. Because they know that if they put a number on it, and we actually get to that number and its still not enough, they wont be able to say anything after that. Their argument will collapse.
PS- We are not a democracy. Never were, never were intended to be.
Karsten Torch
9:14 am on Thursday, July 19, 2012
The telling part of Jeff's comment is what I've been saying for a while - liberals believe that government is the end-all, be-all because they think people are incapable of surviving on their own. People must be too stupid and worthless to get by on their own, and if they do get to be successful, then it must be because they were either just lucky or they were dishonest. What a crock.
A large majority of millionaires are first-generation, like 80% of millionaires. So much for the idea that people can't get ahead. You know who can't ahead? Those that believe that they can't . Those that get used to being taken care of and have no desire to work.
Brian Crawford
11:14 am on Thursday, July 19, 2012
Do you folks not understand that the reason that 50% of wage earners pay no federal income tax is that they are living in poverty? The top few percent pay so much in taxes because they've rigged the system to accumulate all the money. To them the world is one giant Monopoly game.
Brian Crawford
11:22 am on Thursday, July 19, 2012
Karsten, that is not at all what liberals believe, and least none that I've ever known. That is what Republicans want you to believe but it simply isn't true. Take the article you liked to for example, do you really think the person who wrote that was writing from a remotely objective point of view or was the least bit interested in the facts?
Karsten Torch
11:58 am on Thursday, July 19, 2012
Absolutely he was interested in facts, it's chock full of them. It may have been written from a particular viewpoint, but it is what it is. People make their own futures, and live and die by the choices they make. Jeff calls it the Big Lie (even putting it in caps) that you, too, can become part of the 1%. What else does this mean than he thinks this is not possible, despite all evidence to the contrary? So, ergo, the thought that people are too stupid to make it honestly on their own. Which, again, is not even close to the truth.
7:45 am on Thursday, July 19, 2012
Sorry - that should be WORK.
Unless your hungry for wok.
7:57 am on Thursday, July 19, 2012
Jeff - working hard and making some money is preferable to doing nothing and whining about it. You guys and your "fair share" whine is getting old. Take all of the 1% wealth. How long will that run the country? It is nothing more than a distraction from the disaster called the Obama administration. By the way, you democracy advocates are getting your way - the majority (the whiners) out-number the producers. Mob rule, baby! do your research on our type of government.
Jeff Haas
8:07 am on Thursday, July 19, 2012
I submit that you might want to ask yourself this fundamental question: should democracy fuel capitalism, or should capitalism fuel democracy? I believe the latter.
Who do you think is paying the taxes on the money that big corporations and wealthy individuals are hiding in offshore accounts? You and me, that's who. For those constantly complaining about their tax rate (which, btw, is low compared to most industrialized nations), maybe you wouldn't have to pay so much if big corporations and wealthy individuals actually paid their fair share.
Now, I've got to get back to work so Mitt Romney can ride his jet ski.
Karsten Torch
9:18 am on Thursday, July 19, 2012
Wow. Even after knowing that the rich pay a far higher percentage of taxes compared to their percentage of revenue, you're still going to use the term 'fair share.' Really?
8:01 am on Thursday, July 19, 2012
One other item, Jeff. Why is always the people with wealth that is the problem?
If you want all Americans to work together for the common good, than why don't you advocate everyone pitch in with hard work and pay something in taxes. Why don't you encourage everyone that depends on income redistribution for their livelihood to do their "fair share" and work? It works both ways.
Jeff Haas
8:10 am on Thursday, July 19, 2012
I do. It just seems hypocritical to me to blame poor people for not paying their taxes when wealthy people legally hide their money offshore and then rig the laws to penalize poor people.
Brian Crawford
11:39 am on Thursday, July 19, 2012
Wealth itself is not a problem, the disparity of wealth and the power it wields in America today most definitely is. Almost every American pays taxes. Even the poorest wage earners pay payroll and sales taxes. Other than the disabled, those receiving welfare are required to work. So where's your beef?
North Georgia Weather
4:53 pm on Thursday, July 19, 2012
Who's rigging the laws? It's not the wealthy, it's the stupid politicians. Everyone wants to blame the rich for everything and why? Are they jealous? If they are playing a big monopoly game Brian, it's a game everyone can play. You just have to know, everyone doesn't win the game, some end up with more and others less, and more often than not, it's a personal choice as to the effort that's made to win the game.
I live one house away from a childhood friend named Robert Hagstrom. Robert ended up doing very well, writing the Warren Buffet Way and several other books, as well as being a principal in a Philadelphia investment firm. He played the game better than I did and whose fault is that? I could have done the same thing if I had the same drive... I guess I didn't.
According to Obama, I guess I have to blame the government...
Jessica Eng
6:16 pm on Thursday, July 19, 2012
Personally, I agree with your point. I have heard so much about Norway from many people on the left on how wonderful their social system was. I did some research and found that everyone there pays something in taxes. I'm thinking that we should have something similar here because I do believe that if everyone pays something into the system, they have more of a vested interest to see that it works and is sustainable.
Brian Crawford
6:31 pm on Thursday, July 19, 2012
Jessica, even the most poverty stricken worker pays payroll taxes (Social Security and Medicare) so by definition everyone is paying "into the system"
Jessica Eng
6:41 pm on Thursday, July 19, 2012
But Brian, the payroll is easily negated by getting money back through earned income credit. And this is speaking as someone who is poverty stricken.
8:23 am on Thursday, July 19, 2012
First - if you were mega-rich, would you not look for ways to keep as much as possible? With that said, these wealthy do pay quite a bit in taxes. Might not be as high of rate as you would like, but they still pay large sums. If the Obama (and other) administrations were serious about stopping the off-shore practice, the tax code should be cleaned up to encourage these folks to bring their capital back into the country. Same goes for corporate taxes - they need to be lowered similar to other western countries. Until incentives are put into play, the banks in the islands will do well.
Also - how are the laws "rigged" to penalize poor people?
Jeff Haas
8:30 am on Thursday, July 19, 2012
I agree with your first paragraph. Who do you think is more likely to do that, Obama or Romney.
There are two sets of laws -- one for rich people, and the other for the rest of us. The reason people like Romney can get exponentially richer is that they're not playing by the same rules as us (let alone poor people).
Karsten Torch
9:30 am on Thursday, July 19, 2012
What we need to do is eliminate corporate income taxes. If you really stop and think about it, they're the dumbest idea ever. They encourage companies to figure out loopholes. They take money out of a company, rather than allowing it to be reinvested. Think about it - what is a company going to do with money they're allowed to keep? Infrastructure, software, hardware, wages. That's it. And taxes would be paid when they do any of those things. And it would encourage companies to come to this country. I see no real downside. I mean, other than allowing those evil, evil companies to keep some of their own money. What a silly idea.
8:35 am on Thursday, July 19, 2012
There are not two sets of laws.
All Americans are subject to and beholden to the same laws. We are a country of law. That is why your democracy argument is flawed. Anyway, I agree the wealthy (and not so wealthy) will take advantage of the tax code to keep as much wealth as possible. Your argument should be with Congress and not the taxpayer.
Jeff Haas
9:28 am on Thursday, July 19, 2012
In the immortal words of Michael Corleone, "Who's being naive?"
My argument with the taxpayer is that he continues to elect Republicans against his own best interests.
Racer X
9:39 am on Sunday, July 22, 2012
RL- There are two sets of laws. They are not different from rich to poor though. The only group in America that has it's own set of laws are Congressmen.
Karsten Torch
9:31 am on Thursday, July 19, 2012
I do find it interesting that in Obama's world, business owners couldn't have possibly done anything on their own. But he got Bin Laden. All by himself. Just ask him....
9:33 am on Thursday, July 19, 2012
What do you expect?
Republicans tend to have the same view of thing s that taxpayers do.
Why do you think democrats are growing in popularity? They want to reward people for poor their decisions and poor work ethic.
10:11 am on Thursday, July 19, 2012
When has context mattered in politics? Especially in the "instant information age" of sound bytes?
It was a monumentally stupid thing to say and the other side naturally pounced on the quote. Politics as usual. If they can use your own words against you they will
10:16 am on Thursday, July 19, 2012
So if I understand President Obama correctly, if someone owns a business and it fails. The owner did not fail but everyone else failed the owner including the government. Am I correct?
Karsten Torch
10:36 am on Thursday, July 19, 2012
Of course not, that would be worse for the owner, since he got all that 'help' and failed anyway. What a loser he must be....
Jennifer Silas
10:36 am on Thursday, July 19, 2012
Brian's columns and the comments after it give me hope that Georgia is not lost to the extreme conservative right.
When I was in Savannah the Memorial on River Street says "Freedom from Want" among all the freedoms listed for America. There was actually a day in our history when we took pride in the idea that American's did not want. That we took care of our own. Today the theme seems to be, "I earned this and I don't want to pay for someone else." And this from the same people that claim America is a Christian nation.
I just want to add that it is so important that we get out and VOTE, and help someone else get to the polls too. I heard on the radio this morning that democrats out number republican's nationally by 7%. But Republicans have a higher percentage turnout at the polls.
Its all well and good to voice our opinions on line. But we aren't going to change anyone's mind. The only thing we can do is get out the vote, and prove them wrong by the success of the policies we are endorsing.
Brian Crawford
11:10 am on Thursday, July 19, 2012
Thanks for the kind words Jennifer and thanks for being part of the discussion. More progressives, and moderates for that matter, need to speak up. It's the only hope we have of drowning out the Republican outrage machine.
Karsten Torch
1:25 pm on Thursday, July 19, 2012
"There was actually a day in our history when we took pride in the idea that American's did not want." You're right. Now they just want more and more and want to do less and less for it. There was a day when it was considered something to be proud of that you were successful, rather than being pitted against the poor by class warfare politics. When it was considered bad to be on the government dole, and actually were encouraged to get off it as quickly as possible. Now, thanks to the ever-increasing nanny state and a strong pervading sense of entitlement, that day is fading fast in the rearview.
And the Christian train of thought doesn't include the idea of forcibly taking from others at the point of a gun and distributing. It's founded in the idea of voluntary contributions, which we do very well as a nation. It's also probably why those that align themselves with the Right give to charity far more, from a standpoint of both total dollars and percentage of income, than the Left. So you're right, we do believe in a Christian nation. And, as a whole, practice it pretty well. Thanks for noticing....
Karsten Torch
1:28 pm on Thursday, July 19, 2012
And one more thought to your post - of course Dems outnumber Republicans. You already have 47% of the nation that doesn't pay any income taxes. They're not going to go against the party that is responsible for their good fortune. My surprise is that with that number, that the difference isn't higher. Who was it that said the Republic is dead when people figure out they can vote themselves money from the national coffer?
Racer X
9:57 am on Sunday, July 22, 2012
Jennifer, -- Wake up. "Although liberal families' incomes average 6 percent higher than those of conservative families, conservative-headed households give, on average, 30 percent more to charity than the average liberal-headed household ($1,600 per year vs. $1,227).
-- Conservatives also donate more time and give more blood."
Liberals have all these high ideals as long as someone else is actually paying. Liberals harp about how things SHOULD be while conservatives actually make it happen. When was the last time you gave blood?
11:14 am on Thursday, July 19, 2012
Romney's income is derived from capital gains. What is the current capital gains rate?
Why isn't it fair? Is 3 million not enough?
I own a sales rep agency. Sub S. Everything passes through to my personal. I pay a hell of a lot in taxes. I'm tired of people wanting more.
12:19 pm on Thursday, July 19, 2012
I believe President Obama mis-spoke, he meant to say " If you are a politician..."
lee kellogg
12:35 pm on Thursday, July 19, 2012
So Sharon, you are objecting to a tax that no longer exists, but might, so it's the President's fault? The economy collapsed, as it always does, with a Republican in the White House. And Republicans mismanaging Georgia. Then the Commies are coming for your guns? Pay your taxes Steve, or maybe post the name of the country you prefer that has lower taxes, less regulation, and more freedom. For lower US taxes you could self deport 40-50 years, I guess. CSA could retroactively secede and attack again. But that terrorists tactic didn't work that well.
R++ - One of the famous "Dacula Crew"
12:04 am on Friday, July 20, 2012
@Lee did you FORGET Jimmy Carters term so quickly?
That was just ONE simple example of government tendency for policies that drive up cost in small business operations. Policy makers with on call staff support sometimes forget the nature of life outside the beltway where massive staffs aren't always available at the press of a button.
EPA rules are another case where good intentions go way overboard in the regulations, great for big law firms though I guess.
As to whats happening under the DOME here you are CORRECT to some extent, because quite a few of those newly minted Rs are really just retreaded Ds.
Sharon Swanepoel
12:39 pm on Thursday, July 19, 2012
Lee, I didn't say anything about which office or president I hold responsible. Just gave the facts, as per my tax returns. However, anybody who tried to implement that 1099 nightmare didn't understand much about how small business operate. The good news is the objections from those who did caused them to rethink it. Let's hope it stays that way.
Sharon Swanepoel
12:43 pm on Thursday, July 19, 2012
What I do see here, from both sides of the aisle, is nobody is quoting personal experience - just talking points. Shows just how successful these propaganda machines can be. Instead of going to personal experience, people would rather listen to arguments from political spin instead of applying their own life experiences.
lee kellogg
4:11 pm on Thursday, July 19, 2012
Anecdotal evidence can be manipulated pretty easily. But the Dow Jones numbers, GDP, housing starts, corporate profits, and the end of the war to find atomic bombs are not anecdotes. They are facts. And they all are better than they were in 2008. Oh, and taxes are at a 50 year low. If there is another country with a brighter future, conservatives should show us all where it is. By the way, the data on climate change is pretty easy to find. One June in Georgia is an anecdote. The five hottest summers on record in the last ten years, receding ice sheets and glaciers, rising sea level, and fluctuations between extremes are facts.
North Georgia Weather
4:31 pm on Thursday, July 19, 2012
The whole point or argument about climate change is whether it's man made or not.
It's my opinion that it's not man made, but that's whole different discussion.
Shripathi Kamath
3:03 am on Monday, July 23, 2012
Nope. That is the whole point *now* of many of the former deniers. They have moved from "climate change is not real" to "anthropogenic climate change is not real".
Here, two bros. who have the most at stake funded their own study. They picked scientists who were skeptics/deniers.
But these were honest scientists.
So the next step is "yes, climate change is real, and caused by man, but really should we not discuss what to do instead of rushing off and overreacting?"
Tammy Osier
5:48 pm on Thursday, July 19, 2012
The bottom line is this: No one trusts the administration to say or do anything that isn't politically expedient. He is in campaign mode. Pure and simple. The end.
Sean Gilley
6:13 pm on Thursday, July 19, 2012
Interesting discussion. I'll go with personal experience. I have never felt so broke in my life. I didn't feel this way in any year before 2009. In fact, since 2009, it seems my situation has gotten worse. Almost every dime of my net income goes toward household expenses and nothing more.
I don't mind that people in poverty don't pay income taxes, but, I DO MIND that money is taken from me to give to them. I keep hearing "redistribution of wealth." I have NO wealth, I only have income, which is not the same as wealth. Romney has wealth--even Obama has wealth. But me? not so far, anyway
Brian Crawford
6:42 pm on Thursday, July 19, 2012
Right, so why do people keep electing those whose failed ideology (lower taxes on the wealthy and deregulate) got us in this mess? Obama can't do it alone. After two years of beating his head against the Republican filibuster in the Senate (still managed to get much done) we gave him an intractable House determined to destroy him. For the last two years Republicans have twiddled their thumbs running out the clock letting the economy fester and then blaming Obama for getting nothing done. They have held 33 votes to repeal Obamacare for cripes sake. Are we going to reward such irresponsible behavior?
North Georgia Weather
7:27 pm on Thursday, July 19, 2012
Dang Brian, quit trying to put the blame on everyone else. It's BIG GOVERNMENT that's the problem. PERIOD.
It's giving and giving and giving until no one has anything to give. It's not the fault of the people that have money and they are already paying more than their fair share. I feel the same way Sean does.
I read that in NC, someone is thinking about having a law against baggy pants. While I don't like to see pants hanging down to the knees, it's just another example of government intrusion into our lives. Soon we'll have a dress code like they have in school. It's just one thing after the other and it's an insidious creep that is slowly killing this country in mindless laws and regulations. And you know what, I blame people like you Brian. Every time I read your dribble I know what I'm going to hear, more blame. If you keep perpetuating the great divide, we'll never get anywhere. Why don't you try to to have constructive discussions instead of stirring the water with your liberal/conservative finger pointing?
Brian Crawford
10:58 pm on Thursday, July 19, 2012
I'm trying to get you to wake up and smell the coffee Steve, you're a good guy but you're betting on the wrong horse. And it's not a matter of blame, it's a matter of realizing how we got in this mess and not repeating the same mistakes.
Racer X
10:39 am on Sunday, July 22, 2012
Brian- Steve is actually making a LOT more realistic sense than you. Who are you to say he is "betting on the wrong horse"? Many of us are voting for Romney because we would vote for anyone but Obama. We are betting on any horse other than Obama. At least our horse's direct bloodline is all American and has a better grasp of the sacrifices our families have made to make this country great. No matter how you slice it, our current president is half-American at best. We/you cannot know where Obama's loyalties truly lie.
Trish Gates
6:20 pm on Thursday, July 19, 2012
It's time for a change no matter what you think.........period. CHANGE, CHANGE THE PRESIDENT.
Tammy Osier
6:23 pm on Thursday, July 19, 2012
Sean and Sharon, you're singing my song! We all know that propaghanda is easy to perpetuate since data can be manipulated. I'm not wealthy either, yet, I went and got an education so that I could get a raise, and sure as I did, my insurance premiums went up (so i make less in my paycheck), the tax cuts for the county expired too (so, less again in my paycheck). So, I now make way less than I did before (plus, school loans to pay back), yet supposedly this is supposed to help people in my bracket. I make 25k a year. Those that think that robbing the rich is going to get it, surely have their blinders on and earmuffs on tight. They dont want to hear the truth! It DOES and WILL affect the middle and lower class. It has already started.
Tammy Osier
6:24 pm on Thursday, July 19, 2012
What would be great Sharon, is to hear from business owners that are suffering or holding onto their assets for fear of what is going to happen.
Jessica Eng
8:22 pm on Thursday, July 19, 2012
And so? There really wasn't anything in the bill that would make jobs come back.
North Georgia Weather
8:26 pm on Thursday, July 19, 2012
And why didn't he propose this when he got elected instead of waiting right before elections?. Plain and simple, a campaign tactic. He's assuming he wins either way.
1. It passes and he looks like a hero
2. It doesn't and he can point the finger at the Republicans.
It's all political posturing and that's what's killing this country.
8:35 pm on Thursday, July 19, 2012
So Brian, can we now count you as a supporter of lowering corporate tax rates?
Brian Crawford
8:46 pm on Thursday, July 19, 2012
Jessica/ What do you base that statement on?
NGW/ This actually came out of the jobs legislation Obama proposed last year.
Jimmy/ In this case I think it certainly makes sense to use the tax code to reward companies that bring back good jobs. If you have a better way let's hear it.
Jessica Eng
9:00 pm on Thursday, July 19, 2012
I read the bill Brian. I base it on that and common sense, I really couldn't see how offering a tax credit on insourcing jobs is going to cause corporation that have billions of dollars at their disposal to hurry back anymore than I could see how the removal of tax credit for outsourcing will do the same. Any corporation who has the money move out of country can easily eat those costs.
Brian Crawford
12:36 am on Friday, July 20, 2012
I read it too. Far from a perfect solution but certainly worth a try. The only solutions I've seen offered by the GOP are the same stale policies that resulted in massive job losses and declining incomes for the middle class. The dirty little secret is that the billionaire bosses that own the Republican party believe out sourcing is a GOOD thing.
Jessica Eng
4:34 pm on Friday, July 20, 2012
Brian, I don't recall saying that outsourcing was good. I do think it may be inevitable in a more global environment. Again, all I am saying there was nothing in the bill that would make jobs come back.
Karsten Torch
4:46 pm on Friday, July 20, 2012
Jessica, the key there to the bill is that there is a tax credit or tax penalty for doing something. Lowering taxes across the board to spur growth isn't the way the left wants to go, because it takes control out of government hands. Of course lowering or eliminating corporate income taxes would be the best way to go, but they can't do that. Can't let go of the reins. Ever.
I do find it funny, though, that the left will tell you in one breath that tax increases for the wealthy or for corporations wouldn't hurt anything, but somehow their solution to increasing hiring or job growth in the US is to offer tax cuts as incentives. Sounds like pretty serious doublespeak to me.
Jessica Eng
2:30 pm on Saturday, July 21, 2012
@Karsten I appreciate your response. I understand what is supposed to happen on paper, but I don't see how it will work off of paper. But for the most part I think I agree with what you are saying.
Shripathi Kamath
3:06 am on Monday, July 23, 2012
"It's all political posturing and that's what's killing this country."
Yes, like repealing ObamaCare thrity three times. Because, once is not enough, and thirty seven times? Why that is just silly.
What exactly is the point? We get it. You want to repeal it. It will not be possible with this Congress and this President.
Tammy Osier
7:57 pm on Thursday, July 19, 2012
NGW, you said something that struck a chord. I heard something the other day in effect that when the givers give all, there's nothing left to give-or something like that. I wish I had written it down. I found a few quotes that bring to light what conservative are trying to say. Here's one on government control from a founding father- "To compel a man to furnish contributions of money for the propagation of opinions which he disbelieves and abhors, is sinful and tyrannical." – Thomas Jefferson
"Socialist governments traditionally do make a financial mess. They always run out of other people's money." -- Margaret Thatcher
"In capitalism wealth is created faster than it's consumed; in socialism it's the other way around." -- Rick Gaber
" You cannot legislate the poor into freedom by legislating the wealthy out of freedom...You cannot multiply wealth by dividing it."
The "blame game" makes me laugh. It's not just Republicans that filibuster everything etc... Even a large number of Democrats in congress blocked the health care bill.
Also, speaking of the nanny state- What's scary is that people will toe a party line (espousing everything they hear as gospel even when it isn't) to their destruction even if everything is falling all around them as proof. How 'bout a chicken in every pot? Sound familiar? When you have more consumers than producers, you have to rely totally on the government.
Sharon Swanepoel
9:53 pm on Thursday, July 19, 2012
I have this kitten, or really young feral cat, outside that my neighbor spoke me into helping her feed. Apparently my food is good, because after three days, he or she began coming to the back of my house at sundown to wait for the food. Anyone who read some of my columns when I was at the Walton Tribune will remember Tigger, the feral kitten that I did the same with - until he trusted me enough to trap him. He now lives inside my house and is never allowed out, but I comfort myself with the fact that he has a warm bed and good food to make up for the freedoms he lost. My son refers to the new feral cat as my next welfare kitty. My husband would probably move out if I ever brought another one inside, but I do see the analogy.
Brian Crawford
11:09 pm on Thursday, July 19, 2012
My wife, a single mother, was on both food stamps and welfare when we met. She put herself through Georgia State and has gone on to become one of the best teachers I've ever known. Any parent would be blessed to have her teach their child. I never once thought of her as a feral cat.
R++ - One of the famous "Dacula Crew"
12:20 am on Friday, July 20, 2012
COME ON Brian, even I saw the intended parallel of easy comfort resulting in the loss of long term freedoms here, some could also call trading freedoms in the name of "security" gets us there too, but that's another topic.
It was NEVER intended to be taken as a direct comparison.
May I suggest viewing the movie I ROBOT for a further understanding on the topic?
After-all, it is for all our benefit that the transition will and MUST occur...
(I remember using USR modems back in the day too - just a little creepy)
Brian Crawford
12:27 am on Friday, July 20, 2012
You got me there R. I don't know how you get from temporary financial assistance for the poor to I Robot. The movie was terrible by the way...read the book.
R++ - One of the famous "Dacula Crew"
1:06 am on Friday, July 20, 2012
Temporary assistance is a GOOD thing when needed.
But we aren't discussing "temporary" functions are we?
In business, the one single truism is nothing is more permanent than "temporaries".
The movie?
A simple parallel, because if you substitute ever the growing LONG TERM government programs for the "robots" at some point, after everyone is feeling "safe", the "assistors" will BECOME the ruler - for our own safety and protection of course...
Alas I didn't read the book so it probably was better - they often are.
Karsten Torch
4:53 pm on Friday, July 20, 2012
And Brian, your wife didn't do all that because the government was supporting her. She did that because she met you and could do it, and found the motivation. That's my point to what I say - the government doesn't really help by giving handouts. There needs to be incentive to change. We all need to feel like we want something more. That's the American way, and what we're losing by being coddled from womb to tomb.
I have no problem with temporary assistance, but it needs to come with strings attached. Job programs, training, whatever. We need to get back to people having to do something productive in order to receive our money. Don't care what it is, but simply reading a motivational book shouldn't count. Pick up trash, volunteer, whatever. But simply getting handed my money for breathing is not my answer.
Tammy Osier
10:08 pm on Thursday, July 19, 2012
Actually, if nature is a picture of realities in our world, this consumer / producer thing is a scary reality. Did you know that if consumers outnumbered producers the producers would become extinct? I was looking up economics on that principle but came across some wiki information on nature. Scary to think that could become our nation.
Tammy Osier
11:32 pm on Thursday, July 19, 2012
Brian, I too have used government assistance. I don't think that is the issue. Welfare is a temporary solution not a way of life. Sharon was talking about a large segment of society that has become dependent on welfare (encouraged by the government). We are now embarking on a second generation who is coming of age. Will it carry over into a third? That, sir is a problem and isn't helped when government makes it more profitable to do so. Reagan believed in the pursuit of success for all who strive to attain it. Government should be a cheerleader who give a leg up when needed, not a continually stream of handouts with no responsibility tied to it. It's bigger than that. The current policies, which sound good on paper, have been proven to enslave and capsize rather than liberate people to pursue their dreams.
Brian Crawford
12:20 am on Friday, July 20, 2012
Large segment of society? Where? Most states, including Georgia, have a lifetime cap on welfare benefits of 48 months. That hardly qualifies as a generation.
North Georgia Weather
6:17 am on Friday, July 20, 2012
There are more than 40 million people right now on food stamps and it keeps getting worse. There are people getting food stamps that are abusing the system and the abuse is rampant.
Sharon Swanepoel
12:33 am on Friday, July 20, 2012
Brian, your wife used welfare as it was intended and I absolutely commended her for doing so. I know many people who have done that. I also know many who have managed to stretch that 48 months - mainly through disability programs - to a lifestyle - for life. Some have even managed to pass it down to the next generation as a permanent way of life. Disability too is a great program when used for its intended purpose. The problem is, when it is handled from such a distance, these programs are so easy to manipulate.
Brian Crawford
12:38 am on Friday, July 20, 2012
Disability isn't welfare. It's an insurance program that is part of Social Security.
North Georgia Weather
6:30 am on Friday, July 20, 2012
Oh.. and here's something to read about Obama's outsourcing...
Brian Crawford
2:55 pm on Friday, July 20, 2012
Phyllis Schlafly? You're kidding. No wonder you're confused
lee kellogg
12:54 pm on Friday, July 20, 2012
Feral cats? There's a new one. People without jobs are feral cats. When the world economy collapses (don't ever ask why, ignore that it hasn't recovered yet, it's in the ancient past) and government helps those who had no part in the reason for the collapse, they are idiot wild creatures, lacking any redeeming quality. Oh, that's entirely reasonable. No Steve, the discussion among climate scientists is how much the changes are caused by man, to quantify them, and how to predict what will happen, not if.
Sharon Swanepoel
1:11 pm on Friday, July 20, 2012
Feral cats, people who still live under their parent's roofs, several analogies apply here. The fact remains, when you allow someone else to take care of you, you give up much of your own freedom of choice Sometimes it's unavoidable, I'm not arguing that, but the more people you can bring under the fold, the more control you have.
Brian Crawford
3:23 pm on Friday, July 20, 2012
So are you arguing that liberals want to perpetuate poverty by growing the welfare rolls so they can have more control?
Tammy Osier
1:15 pm on Friday, July 20, 2012
Brian, really? have you ever met people who abuse the system? I have. Been working with that popualtion for 20 years. I know what I'm talking about. I'm not talking about consecutive months. I'm talking about the next generation that was raised in it, and rathr than bettering themselves, simply jumps on the dole. Sharon asked for personal experiences. I know way too many that do this and it's sad.
Brian Crawford
3:00 pm on Friday, July 20, 2012
If you resent the poor so much perhaps you should find another line of work. I doubt they realize how much animosity you harbor against them.
Karsten Torch
5:20 pm on Friday, July 20, 2012
How is wanting people to stop abusing the system equated with hating the poor? Because I don't want to encourage their entitlement mentality that many seem to get means that now we hate the poor? That's a serious stretch even for you, Brian....
And remember, you're talking about the side that gives more to charities than your side does. How does this equate to hating the poor?
lee kellogg
3:08 pm on Friday, July 20, 2012
At least that's clear, Sharon. You will feed the real feral cats, but the metaphorical ones can crawl away to die without your help, Your own logic would indicate you should let the real ones die too.
Sharon Swanepoel
3:14 pm on Friday, July 20, 2012
I guess we're on a different plane here - and I really have been where you are. For me, however, I see things from a different perspective now and the logic where I am now makes more sense to me. However, I absolutely believe and respect everyone's point of view and welcome the healthy debate. I appreciate your contributions and wouldn't hope to change your mind to see it my way.
Georgia Democrat
8:02 am on Saturday, July 21, 2012
Sharon, you, through good intentions, imprisoned the feral cat. I've never seen a cat that could open a door. You took away its freedom of choice and substituted security, food and shelter in a controlled environment. People on welfare, most of whom are children, don't usually seek assistance because they enjoy their lifestyle of poverty. Not everyone grew up in a two-parent, two-income household. Many who did find themselves, through no fault of their own, in need of a helping hand from their fellow Americans. As Brian stated, disability assistance is not welfare. Welfare is limited. Thankfully, though, it's available for those who need it most. If some who are playing the system get in the mix, that's a small price to pay for the many who are genuinely needy to be helped.
Sharon Swanepoel
8:22 am on Saturday, July 21, 2012
Georgia Democrat, I feel sufficiently guilty about keeping the cat inside, but I do think he has learned to be happy in his captivity now. And I absolutely believe that people need a helping hand and compassion demands that we give it, I just don't believe that the federal government is the right way to do it. Disability is the govt. program, albeit through social security, that allows for a lifetime of welfare for those who live in that mindset. I work with an organization here in the Loganville area when I find people in need, and I certainly find them in this line of work. But this organization has learned the hard way to do a lot of research before taking it on even when I refer cases to them. Even at this very local level they have had people, able-bodied people, who will live in poverty just to be able to survive off the income off the one among them who qualifies for disability. At a local level these cases are much easier to find. They drain the resources of those genuinely in need.
lee kellogg
3:30 pm on Friday, July 20, 2012
Ok, I'll feed the cats out in the yard (six, shared by nine homeowners, more or less)and pay my taxes. And hope Bush III doesn't get any power at all.
Silence Dogood
3:58 pm on Friday, July 20, 2012
hey jimmy how you feeling bout that 2nd amendment now. I am all for gun control.
Karsten Torch
5:22 pm on Friday, July 20, 2012
Why would you be for gun control? And where did this statement come from?
4:10 pm on Friday, July 20, 2012
"I'm a Pro 2nd Amendment......anyone with half a brain understands that it is not the gun that decides to kill but the person...."
4:11 pm on Friday, July 20, 2012
"........And one or two people carrying concealed could have ended that problem right after it started......he targeted that theatre because it is "their policy" to allow NO GUNS in the cinema....the perp knew this......"
Tammy Osier
5:43 pm on Friday, July 20, 2012
. Brian, I do resent people like you that make assumptions without even knowing a person. Your train of thought is why no one can hold a real conversation with a liberal. Do you know me? I GO TO those people on my own time. I hold them while they cry, I feed them. You didn't know that, did you? I also talk to them as they tell me how THEY resent people who abuse the system because it makes it so much harder for them to get out of poverty. Why? Because they have family members who commit crimes and live off the system. I work (voluntarily) with the people who do NOT abuse it, and need it. Once the system has helped, I also work with people who help these people get a job. One (a Mom of five) has just started college. But, for a living, I work on the crime end where I watch people brag about how they scammed the system, and my job is to try to change the mindset of, what did karsten call it, the " entitlement mentality". Here's a direct quote from one of my charges, "they OWE me". This person committed armed robbery against an innocent person. So, Brian, until you have any experience beyond reading liberal rags, you come and talk to me. I may not know a lot about economics, but I do know people, and I do know how the system HURTS them rather than helps them when there is no incentive to do better.
Brian Crawford
6:26 pm on Friday, July 20, 2012
I think the work you do is admirable, but your words often contradict your actions. I would think you would be an advocate for the poor and for the government that attempts to help them out of poverty instead of an adversary. Yes, some people will abuse the system. So work to make it better. I would think few folks are in a better position to see how crucial safety net programs are.
R++ - One of the famous "Dacula Crew"
6:45 pm on Friday, July 20, 2012
What she posts from the perspective as one in the trenches should be given weight.
It's commonly referred to as the disconnect of the "ideal" concept vs. reality and exactly WHY fixes take so long, because no one really wants to acknowledge the need to do so…
Sharon Swanepoel
5:43 pm on Friday, July 20, 2012
Again speaking from personal experience, my stepson was given a voter ID when he turned 18. At that time he was a legal green card holder, but not a U.S. citizen. Having been through the process myself, and very concerned that nothing interfered with his ability to become a U.S. citizen when the time came, I wanted to make sure there was no ability for anybody to accuse him of perjuring himself on his citizenship application. So when he got his voter registration in the mail, I made sure we had it reversed and corrected in the records. One of the things that disqualifies you for citizenship is having voted illegally as a U.S. citizen. You have to swear on the application that you have never done so. The fact that someone incorrectly registered him as a voter put that in jeopardy. It just makes sense to ensure that everyone voting is legally in a position to do so - many are not. The Georgia Secretary of State corrected the error and he was able to honestly check that block on his citizenship application form when he became a citizen 5 years later. We don't let anyone vote in a city limit if they don't live in that city limit, but for some reason country borders are not such a big deal.
Sean Gilley
6:33 pm on Friday, July 20, 2012
So many things to address:
a) In the 1960 election, one TX precinct had more people vote for Kennedy than there were registered voters. That was not the only one. There is no evidence of an organized process of voter fraud--that doesn't mean that there isn't any. When we get a driver's license, we're asked if we want to register to vote.The same happens at the library. A noncitizen might reasonably expect that that means he can vote. IMO, one instance of fraud is too many..
b) Someone mentioned the 2nd generation on welfare--I contend it's more like 4 or 5 generations--ever since the Depression. We should be "teaching folks to fish instead of giving them fish."
c) Every time I look to see what jobs are available, I see TONS of jobs. So, I've decided that there are jobs, just not jobs for people with zero skills. Which means, those who quit school and don't try to better themselves end up with no jobs. So we need to fix something there.
d) Anyone under the age of 60 or so has no excuse for having no skills.Everyone has had the opportunity to graduate from high school and then go on. I know the schools aren't exactly equal, but a diploma does count for something, There is a culture that says school is stupid, people who go to school are stupid ... etc we need to fix that culture. Sounds like we should be teaching life skills to a lot of people who didn't get them at home or at school.
Tammy Osier
6:41 pm on Friday, July 20, 2012
Brian, you still don't understand. Throwing money at it is not the answer- just a bandaid. I do agree we need to do more to work towards better solutions. But if I see a system that is hurting people more than helping them, I am not cursing the people, I am cursing the system that needs to be changed - not eliminated (which is what I feel you are insinuating). That, I do because I do love those people. You are simply so enamoured with the system, that you seem (in my opinion) blinded to finding a better solution. I'll find the stats on how many got OFF assistance, and onto independence after Clinton's (and the Republican congress) worked together towards a better solution for welfare. One instance where the two opposing teams worked together. Btw...I worked in one of the safety nets of aftercare. Some people want help, and some do not want to change. You can't legislate people into doing right. You've got to roll up your sleeves and get in there and help them get out and stay healthy and strong once they get on their own two feet. If you want to throw gov't money somewheree, throw it at the aftercare programs. They get cut all the time. You strike me as one of those people that cry "Republicans want people to die! Republicans want dirty air and water!" Really. Dare to hear what people are saying and work WITH them instead of throwing talking points at them and refusing to budge an inch. To be continued...
Tammy Osier
6:50 pm on Friday, July 20, 2012
A reminder, if you want to talk partisanship, that it is on paper that Republicans give MORE to charity than Democrats. Prop up some of those charities and help them out sometime. The goal is to get people off assistance so they can have a renewed sense of purpose, possibly even become business owners and realize their dreams... oh wait, I've heard that before...oh yeah, life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. Ask anyone who has climbed out of that trap.They are a breath of fresh air and become the greatest contributors to society. A good solution would be something Herman Cain campaigned on. He said the problem is that gov't. makes it too easy to stay on assistance. You can make more in some instances on assistance than working. Something wrong with that. I don't have a problem with assistance, but do have a problem with a system that creates a mentality of complacency.
Tammy Osier
7:01 pm on Friday, July 20, 2012
"What she posts from the perspective as one in the trenches should be given weight.
It's commonly referred to as the disconnect of the "ideal" concept vs. reality and exactly WHY fixes take so long, because no one really wants to acknowledge the need to do so…"
Thanks R. Until you've worked in it, you don't understand it. It all looks good on PAPER. But when you deal with the actual people, you find it's like trying to change the mind of a toddler to like broccoli more than potatoe chips. It's just not that easy. Some people are so discouraged that it's easier to take the easy way out. That's where volunteer work comes in. LIFE SKILLS are both taught and caught. And that takes time. Those who have the loudest opinions are less likely to be the ones who will actually get into those trenches and be a part of the solution. Not always, but too large a segment of society. It's easier to read a liberal rag for opinions and "truth" than to be open minded and work with others towards real solutions.
North Georgia Weather
8:20 am on Saturday, July 21, 2012
Question... how did people live before welfare?
Georgia Democrat
8:27 am on Saturday, July 21, 2012
Regarding taxes, the wealthy and their fair share, the working poor and whether they pay any taxes . . . it should be considered how much one has left to live on. A millionaire or billionaire has a whole lot left after paying whatever percentage, be it 28%, 35% or less than 15% (hello Mr. Romney). The single parent, after paying whatever percentage is determined to be owed, is left running out of money between paychecks after trying to cover the basics.
9:31 am on Saturday, July 21, 2012
Nice try, but Obama's words of inciting division and class warfare are what they are. He is trying to get elected, and his main strategy is to push more and more towards making "middle class" an entitlement, and to vilify those who are successful.
Why mention millionaires and billionaires when discussing tax policy or economic policy? Even if the government taxed the rich at 75% it would not make a meaningful dent in the deficit spending. The only thing it accomplishes is to incite class warfare and division.
The problem with entitlement is it creates a larger deficit in the short term, and more people dependent on the government in the long term. Safety nets and help to the poor should be in place. There must be an incentive to work out of it, however, otherwise human nature is such that if you can get for free what you would normally have to work for you will.
Socialism and union controlled labor forces don't work in the global economy. Europe can testify of that fact. Why the Democrats want to go down that path is beyond me.
What is needed in this country is a REDUCTION in government spending, meaning a reduction in government size. Until politicians are willing to put the interest of the country in front of the interest of their parties or themselves we will continue to be in this mess.
Georgia Democrat
11:27 am on Saturday, July 21, 2012
@bobsiska, I referred to millionaires and billionaires b/c so many on this thread continue to refer to the 47-50% who don't pay taxes. Those middle and poor income folks do pay sales tax, payroll tax, ad valorem taxes if they own an auto or taxable assets, property taxes. Most taxes are, afterall, local. So is welfare, mostly. Medicare and SS are not entitlements except in the context that workers, taxpayers who paid into those programs are "entitled" to receive the benefits when they're eligible. That whole class warfare talking point is an invention of Republicans. Reduce government spending as applies to waste and duplication, don't cut education and social programs which improve the lives of American citizens. You can start with the DoD. The biggest reasons for the deficit and debt are the two unfunded, unbudgeted GWB wars, the Bush tax cuts, the unfunded Medicare Part D. I'm sure I have left something out, but those are the main culprits. When you have the Republican Congressional leadership meeting on the very night of this President's inauguration, to plot and plan how they would oppose every policy, every idea, every way to make him a one-term president, at the expense of the American taxpayer and voter, you have your answer to the state of the economy at this point in time. They were not sent to Washington to be all powerful for their own party's benefit and greed, but to work for the good of all Amercians.
Jessica Eng
2:24 pm on Saturday, July 21, 2012
@Georgia Democrat Disagree with part of your statement. As someone who is poor, I feel that even though I do pay payroll tax, anything I do pay into the system is negated by any earned income tax credit I take. Second, all politicians are not being elected to represent all Americans. If they were why wouldn't we then elect them on a Federal Level? Senators are elected to represent their state and state issues. Representatives are elected to represent their constituents and the issues facing them. The problem with politics is that people have forgotten this.
Brian Crawford
10:34 am on Saturday, July 21, 2012
Excellent recitation Bob! However, the notion of "class warfare" in today's political talk is a purely Republican construct. So Obama wants to divide the 1% and the 99%? Hardly makes sense. Obama has never uttered a word that denigrates success or the wealthy. The division in America is driven by the Limbaughs, Becks, Hannitys and other GOP mouthpieces.
What is needed in this country is a return to policies that favor the middle class and American job creation.
Brian Crawford
11:20 am on Saturday, July 21, 2012
Thanks for making my point Steve. This is what waging class warfare looks like. Just a note: none of the anti-poverty programs cited in this factually inaccurate story were initiated by the Obama administration.
North Georgia Weather
10:51 am on Saturday, July 21, 2012
I read everything, not just FOX. Your assumptions are invalid. You know nothing about me or what I know and therefore your judgement and opinion of me means nothing.
Tammy Osier
11:26 am on Saturday, July 21, 2012
Class warfare is actually a marxian term. Apparently been around for a few wars.
Georgia Democrat
11:34 am on Saturday, July 21, 2012
Sharon, if you open your door, you'll have to chase after your cat to get it back in until it's cold and/or rainy. Not saying you didn't benefit the kitty, but not an even value comparison to human beings. So, would you do away with government aid to the disabled? For people who paid into SS and find their work lives stopped short because of illness or injury? Churches and charities are not equipped to take care of all who are in need. They are funded by voluntary contributions. People have to pay their own bills and feed their families before they may be able to contribute much, if any. Some folks, no matter how well off, don't contribute to anything but their own luxury. Combined efforts of public and private dollars take care of a lot more people in need.
David Brown
1:44 pm on Saturday, July 21, 2012
Tim, if your post and Ed's post don't violate the Patch's Terms of Use, then nothing violates the Patch's Terms of Use. You're going too far. You don't publicly disrespect our President, NO MATTER WHO HE IS.
Sharon Swanepoel
1:50 pm on Saturday, July 21, 2012
Please note, while we welcome healthy debate, our terms of use to not allow for the use of offense language or personal attacks. Please review our terms of use before posting.
2:06 pm on Saturday, July 21, 2012
Perhaps it's a good thing that I didn't say what I really think about "Your President" because he certainly is not Mine!
4:37 pm on Saturday, July 21, 2012
I think it is the way he says things- lots of negative language. He needs new speech writers; the same message worded differently might have been better received by the entrepreneurs among us who were not only smart and hard-working (which a lot of people are, I agree) but also had visions and took risks many wouldn't.
Brian Crawford
6:38 pm on Saturday, July 21, 2012
Mary, you must just be catching the sound bites because the President's speeches are always positive and hopeful and full of entrepreneurial spirit. Go back and listen to the entire speech linked to in my original post.
4:43 pm on Saturday, July 21, 2012
Any Repulblican since and including Ronald Reagan.....and Mitt Romney.
Isley Adams
5:09 pm on Saturday, July 21, 2012
Oh, so reality doesn't impede on your definition of President of the United States of America. I see. Why stop at a dead past preseident, or a man never elected to the office? Why not say Superman is your president? Or John Wayne?
Sharon Swanepoel
5:25 pm on Saturday, July 21, 2012
We really appreciate all the civil discussion here, but do strictly enforce our user terms. Rather than inhibit the discussion, we will suspend users whose comments continue to violate our terms. Please remember that when posting.
Tammy Osier
6:15 pm on Saturday, July 21, 2012
I've decided to quit while I'm ahead (hopefully). One thing you can say about Brian is that he brings a "lightening rod" with him when he chooses his discussion matter lol He should win for most reponses!
Sharon Swanepoel
6:38 pm on Saturday, July 21, 2012
Yea, we probably owe him a luncheon for keeping our discussions interesting. :)
North Georgia Weather
7:06 pm on Saturday, July 21, 2012
It's all garbage. No one is ever going to agree, this discussion could go on forever and nothing would be accomplished and this is the very problem in our country now. No one wants to do what's right for this country, it's all about politics. Point fingers, point blame, make accusations, stab someone in the back. I've totally lost faith in this country and the people that run it. This is nothing like the country I grew up in and never will be again.
Brian might be sitting back smiling at all the stuff he stirred up but all he did (does) is further divide this country each time he post. Brian, the way you say things is no different than the way Obama says things.
And please don't talk to me about disrespecting our President. THAT my friend is one of OUR RIGHTS and you won't take that away from me. And no, he doesn't represent me, never has represented me, and never will represent me.
Brian Crawford
2:55 pm on Sunday, July 22, 2012
Tell that to the Dixie Chicks. And I am definitely not smiling about how divided our nation is. Go back and read every article you've ever posted here and then tell me who is dividing America. Hint; It's not our President.
Isley Adams
9:08 pm on Saturday, July 21, 2012
We must have entirely different definitions of rights. As far as I know, no one has the right to disrespect anyone. I can't imagine you'd be so accepting of me using my "right" to disrespect your mother. And what exactly is so awful about President Obama that makes him unable to represent you? Is it his growing up without a father? Is it his mother's death at a young age? Is it his being raised by his grandparents? Is it his abality to overcome these events and attend one of the most respected schools in our nation? Is it his faithful and loving relationship with his first and only wife? Is it his polite and loving daughters? Why would you not want someone so accomplished and respectable representing you? Take the name "Obama" off of the things I listed, replace it with one with an (R) after it, and you'd be proud to be represented with by this person. Tim already said as much when he said his president is "Any Repulblican since and including Ronald Reagan.....and Mitt Romney." That's so childish. Whatever happened to "If you don't respect the man, respect the office"? Whether you like it or not, President Obama does represent you, and the American dream. He cam from humble beginings and worked hard to achieve something never done before. I thought that's what our country was all about. It's sad that it takes events like 911 to make people forget such petty political division and remind us we are all Americans and more similar than different.
North Georgia Weather
9:35 pm on Saturday, July 21, 2012
It's called freedom of speech Isley... and I do respect the office, just not the person.
I'm done with this conversation.
Isley Adams
10:28 pm on Saturday, July 21, 2012
I know what it's called, North Georgia Weather. However, I still find your respect for freedom of speech to be extremely situational. If you value freedom of speech so much, I could call your mother some awful names, to her face, in front of you, and you'd simply say, "Come along, Mother, it's his freedom of speech." I don't know you, North Georgia Weather, but I really doubt that would be your response. You still haven't explained why you don't respect President Obama. I think you're right, perhaps you should be done with this conversation. There have been presidents I have not voted for, but I never went out of my way to disrespect them. Show me someone who truly believes a man/woman can run for president and not have the nation's best interest at heart, and I'll show you an immature individual prone to conspiracy theories. People from opposing political parties do not want to destroy America, make people dependent on government, take away your guns, or any of the other bizarre notions people seems to float. They simply have a different opinion of what/how things need to be fixed to improve the nation. They get their time in office, then someone else gets thier turn at tackling the same problems. That's democracy. If you don't like that, I recommend finding a nation that has a monarchy or dictatorship. For those of you that want religion to play a central role in government, lower taxes, and strong conservative values, I suggest you check out Afghanistan.
John B
10:51 pm on Saturday, July 21, 2012
"Show me someone who truly believes a man/woman can run for president and not have the nation's best interest at heart, and I'll show you an immature individual prone to conspiracy theories."
Ahem.....that covers just about every poster in this thread on each side of the aisle. I do however like your fair and balanced post Isley and I think you're spot on.
North Georgia Weather
7:20 am on Sunday, July 22, 2012
First, I never saw the post someone made that obviously was taken down so I have no idea what as said.
MY POINT is I have the right to free speech. If I don't like my president, I have the right to say that. If I don't believe in my president I have the right to say that. If I don't like what my president does, I have the right to say that.
If you want to bow down to your supreme leader, go to Syria.
Georgia Democrat
7:39 am on Sunday, July 22, 2012
This thread discussion is very long, and I'm not trying to keep it going, just reply to someone who addressed me directly. There was no reply button after her comment: @Jessica Eng...so, if you're poor, you probably need that earned income federal tax credit to help with your local and state sales tax, auto tag/tax, property tax (maybe), to pay basic living expenses for your family. If you don't need it or don't think you deserve it, don't want it, then don't keep it, but most others are grateful. Our Senators and Representatives are elected on the local/state level to go to Washington to run the business of this nation, not just for their own states' interests - the United States of America. They're sent there to represent their constituents but also to work TOGETHER on the nation's problems - you know, because we're the UNITED States of America. We have many common issues. They don't just get to go there for pork and earmarks for their home states. Well, they do that, which is a huge part the problem. For too many, it's me, me, me and mine, mine, mine.
North Georgia Weather
7:51 am on Sunday, July 22, 2012
You just talked out of both side of your mouth. POLITICIANS are the problem. They forget who they represent once they get elected and start playing the political game. At that point they forget about you and I and and jump on the Democratic/Republican politics train and so long.... I'm sure they all start with good intentions but it doesn't last for long.
Racer X
10:42 am on Sunday, July 22, 2012
North Georgia Weather speaks the truth. Anyone who does not believe it has their heads in the sand.
Georgia Democrat
3:51 pm on Sunday, July 22, 2012
@ NGW: Huh? That makes no sense. Who do you mean is talking "out of both side (sic) of your mouth."? Generalities are what make no sense to me, such as your comment above. Anyway, weren't you done with this conversation last night at 9:35? lol
lee kellogg
8:27 am on Sunday, July 22, 2012
Politicians are exactly who gave you freedom of speech. You have the freedom to offer nothing but, "I don't like Obama." There is some truth to what you post. Politicians lie. They always have, it's one of the tools they use to get elected. Unless they are named Jefferson Davis, who was not elected. Politics isn't perfect. Neither is life. Each person picks the side they think lies the least. That's why Brian bugs you, he picked well and can defend his pick.
North Georgia Weather
8:32 am on Sunday, July 22, 2012
No, what bugs me is that everyone picks a side and neither side is 100% correct. THAT's what bugs me. And I also believe that this president has done more to divide this country than bring it together.
And I don't have to defend my position for president to anyone.
Georgia Democrat
3:58 pm on Sunday, July 22, 2012
There you go again, NGW, with your generalities. Everyone doesn't pick a "side"; there are lots of independents. You saying the President "has done more to divide this country than bring it together" is your opinion, not a fact. My opinion is that Fox "News", Rush Limbaugh, Sean Hannity, Glen Beck and Sarah Palin (blame that one on John McCain-so, him, too), and their ilk have done the dividing and polarizing.
North Georgia Weather
8:34 am on Sunday, July 22, 2012
And one more thing... my freedom of speech was given to me by our FOUNDING FATHERS, not our politicians.
10:02 am on Sunday, July 22, 2012
Certainly was.....the Constitution...and I'll criticize any politician or president and there is nothing anyone can do about it.....period.
lee kellogg
8:52 am on Sunday, July 22, 2012
Any elected officials among those FF's? You don't have to criticize the President just because he's president either. There may just be a "can't" in there somewhere.
Racer X
10:46 am on Sunday, July 22, 2012
So, Lee, what do you do for a living? I would bet you work for us. When was the last time you gave blood? When was the last time you gave time or money to charity? What are you doing for the common good?
Isley Adams
11:16 am on Sunday, July 22, 2012
So, Mike, you believe President Obama would run for president, open himself and his family up to all of the scrutiny, death threats, and hatred such a decision involves, to lead a nation he is not loyal to? Really? Doesn't that sound a little ridiculous when said out loud? If it doesn't allow me to play your game, too. I believe Mitt Romney, who's Mexican father was born and raised on a polygamist commune, wants to become president so he can force us into Mormonism. He wants us to have multiple wives and wear Mormon underwear. If this weren't true, he would release his taxes, but he won't because he has been donating large sums of money to the secret Mormon army. An organization bent on making Americans follow the Mormon doctrine from the barrel of a gun. Vote for Obama, convert to Mormonism, or die! Those are your choices this election. You don't believe me? Well you should, I'm a small business owner!
Racer X
1:09 pm on Wednesday, July 25, 2012
Whoa Isley. He, like you, is only loyal to some Americans, but not the ones who are footing the bill. Religion has nothing to do with it.
Your whole Mormon argument is absurd.
What is the name of your business, so I may avoid it?
Brian Crawford
3:06 pm on Sunday, July 22, 2012
Truthfully, this discussion has rattled on long enough. Let's talk about something else. Join me at The Sunday Liberal Reader (shameless self promotion):
Brian Crawford
10:00 pm on Tuesday, July 24, 2012
Update: To put a cap on this, the Romney campaign continues to lie shamelessly about what Obama said. The brazenness of this boggles the mind as Ezra Klein points out here: http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/26315908/vp/48294948#48294948
And as if any further evidence was needed that FOX has shed all pretense of being an objective news source and become a 24/7 mouthpiece for the Romney campaign, they are now using little girls to attack the President: http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2012/07/24/fox-and-friends-lemonade-stand_n_1697665.html
North Georgia Weather
10:47 pm on Tuesday, July 24, 2012
LOL!!! Little girls know more than the president! HAHAHAHAHA!!!!
10:06 am on Wednesday, July 25, 2012
So, the snotty nosed brat Ezra Klein and MSNBC are a more reliable AND non-biased news source than Fox. Brian, why do you make such sophomoric comments?
Brian Crawford
12:39 pm on Wednesday, July 25, 2012
Hahaha...you're just jealous 'cause the kid's only 28 and writing a column for both the WaPo and Bloomberg. He's already one of the most respected policy wonks in Washington.
Racer X
1:14 pm on Wednesday, July 25, 2012
"...........most respected policy wonks in Washington." Really, by whom?
Racer X
10:25 am on Wednesday, July 25, 2012
RL, you make a good point. Brian, any parent knows children look at things more simply and therefor, in my opinion, sometimes more clearly.
Parents are the key to successful Americans, not teachers, not the government. Teachers should not be burdened with raising a child, parents should. Teachers should only be asked to enrich minds. Work ethic should come from home, not expected to be taught in school.
Are there crappy parents, heck yes. Why, because the government has taken the burden of being good parents off the public's back. There are no consequences for being a crappy parent. Any two idiots with a penis and a vulva can create life, that, my friends, is the problem.
Brian Crawford
12:42 pm on Wednesday, July 25, 2012
Horsman...those kids were thoroughly scripted and well rehearsed. Give me a break. You're not that gullible are you?
Racer X
1:11 pm on Wednesday, July 25, 2012
The point is that this is an issue even a child would understand.
1:08 pm on Wednesday, July 25, 2012
Brian - Klein is "respected" - by fellow liberals.
This guy is a huge lib. What do you expect him to say?
Policy wonk in DC = he drinks lots of liberal kool-aid.
Start using more "respected" sources.
1:15 pm on Wednesday, July 25, 2012
LOL.....thanks for the link Brian. It just truly shows how childishly, stupid and desperate Fox is with their political propaganda...they should be so ashamed. This just truly puts an official seal on Fox's stupidity...seriously "Lemonade Stand"? Can we start a petition to stop allowing other human beings to put such shame on the human race. These poor children are simply following their parents...it's so sad. One little girl's comment "It's rude" LMBO..what little girl really cares? The only thing this is worth is providing great content for a parody..


text:
Connect with PHIL
PHILanthropy plays an important role in the UNCW experience - providing critical funding for:
Library Resources
Updated Technology
Cultural Experiences
Research Opportunities
And so much more!
For information contact:
Lauren King
Assistant Director of Annual Giving
(910) 962-2661
Who is PHIL?
PHIL stands for philanthropy at UNCW and represents the thousands of alumni, parents, faculty, staff and students who give back to UNCW each year.
The Get to know PHIL campaign created by the Office of Annual Giving is designed to raise awareness among the campus community about the importance of private support and the resources that are available because of UNCW's generous family of donors.
Faces of PHIL
- ALUMNI! Approximately 3,600 alumni contributed over $700,000 last year.
- Businesses! Contributions from corporations and foundations totaled over $4 million for a variety of academic, research and community outreach programs.
- FACULTY & STAFF! Approximately 400 faculty and staff at UNCW participated in this year's Grow It Your Way campaign, raising over $217,000.
- PARENTS! Over 3,800 parents contributed more than $990,000 to support cultural opportunities, safety initiatives and other campus programs.
- STUDENTS! Over 540 seniors participated in the Senior Class Gift Campaign raising over $12,500 for academic programs, student organizations, the UNCW Fund and other areas of campus.
Play UNCW's new matching game to discover how annual gifts create unique learning opportunities.

subset: commoncrawl


text:
Please note: Kaplan Business and Law School is now part of Kaplan Holborn College. Find out more.
If you find yourself without a University place after 15 August 2013 you will be able to look for places available at institutions in the UK via UCAS Clearing.
If you visit the UCAS website during this time it will have a list of all of the courses and institutions that are not yet full, and you can approach them one by one to find out whether they will accept you with the grades you have.
Although you can speak to many universities at once, you can only apply formally to one University at a time using your UCAS Track account. This means that you need to assess all of your options before then applying formally via your UCAS Track account to the institution of your choice.
The Clearing process may sound scary, but don't rush and don't panic. There are lots of options out there for you to consider and every year more than 100,000 students find themselves in Clearing, so you are not alone!
Any vacancies available at Kaplan Holborn College for 2013 will be listed here by July 2013.


text:
Call Now to Book It - Sales Open 24/7:
The US Virgin Islands are a favorite among American travelers, because no passport is required to visit. Not only that, this area of the Caribbean has gorgeous beaches, exciting nightlife, and an array of outdoor activities to satisfy the adventurous traveler. The isolated beaches are perfect for relaxing in the sun, or snorkeling with the wildlife. The area is also a fantastic place for kayaking, diving, and hiking. The cuisine alone makes this area worth visiting, with its Cajun influence, the spicy mix of ingredients will leave you wanting more. Come see what the US Virgin Islands have to offer. Book your US Virgin Islands hotel or vacation package with BookIt.com today and save big!


text:
Thursday's Featured Stories
By: Laura Kellerman
Updated: October 22, 2008
The presidential race of 2008 seems a little like déjà vu.
Click the picture of Ike to see who the "Obama girl" of 1952 was.
Astronauts have a whole new code of conduct to follow, after Lisa Nowak's scandal. Watch what those new rules are, and what Nowak has to say to the woman she went after.


text:
Coupons can not be applied to all brands, in some cases our agreements with manufacturers do not allow the use of Cymax coupons. If you have tried to apply a coupon to your cart, it could be that the manufacturer has chosen to restrict retailers from offering coupons for their products.
In other cases, the coupon you are trying to apply may have a price or category restriction, or both. Coupons from cymax.com have an expiry and many can only be used on certain products or categories. For more information about coupons, please call us toll free 866-740-9830, and talk to an expert.
This waterproof 1" changing pad will fit in any DaVinci changer or on top of dressers to provide wetness protection and comfort for your baby. Easy to wipe clean with damp cloth.
(based on 1 review)
Ratings Distribution
5 Stars
4 Stars
3 Stars
2 Stars
1 Stars
Reviewed by 1 customer
Displaying review 1
Back to top
(1 of 1 customers found this review helpful)
great product
By Grammy Patty
from Stuart, FL
About Me Grandparent
Best Uses
Comments about Da Vinci DaVinci White Changer Foam Pad:
I was having trouble finding a pad to fit an older changing table and this one is perfect.It is flat and not too thick, so it's easy to handle the diaper change.
Simply fill out the form below to let your friend now about :


text:
Pat Ogden |
Scott Miller |
Kenneth Hardy |
Mary Jo Barrett |
View All 125 Presenters: |
Featured Speakers
Search by Presenter
Registration Instructions
General Information
Getting There
CE Credits
As our work as professional therapists has taught us, change and growth don't come overnight. But we can use the growing science of expertise to move to the next level of our clinical leadership and proficiency. We'll use discussion and group exercises as we explore the research-based principles for growth developed by consultant Jim Collins
Are you stumped by the ins and outs of making your website friendlier? Scratching your head about how to interact more easily with the latest social networking tools people are talking about? Confused about how to phrase an online search query to get a trustworthy answer? Or just plain intimidated by the bells and whistles of over-engineered websites?
The ethical rules for therapists used to be straightforward and unambiguous: no gifts, no self-disclosure, no dual relationships, no out-of-session contact, and, of course, no sex. But today the rules against boundary violations aren't so straightforward anymore, nor do the old prohibitions always seem clinically useful. Compassion fatigue also can impede
Just starting out? Welcome to the New Professionals Community---our instant confidence-booster, dedicated to helping you feel comfortable within the therapy community. We'll have interactive discussions, led by a senior therapist and national business coach, that'll expand your understanding of clinical issues and provide an overview
Attachment disturbances begin imprinting in the body and nervous system before infants have the benefit of words or concepts. It's this preverbal, subpsychological aspect that highlights the importance of emphasizing bottom-up interventions to help shift deeply held patterns in the body that talk therapy can't cure. Somatic Attachment processing
What are the specific skills and qualities that distinguish effective therapists from less successful practitioners? In this workshop, you'll discover the answers, gleaned from the latest research. You'll learn three specific strategies that separate the good from the great. We'll discuss the importance of getting regular client feedback and the most efficient methods
We all want to do what's ethically right--not to mention avoid getting sued!--but slogging through most ethics courses can be a tiresome bore. Not this time! This workshop---back by popular demand from the 2011 Symposium---features a game show that's so entertaining, engaging, and high spirited that you'll learn more, and have a better time,
We know someone has presence when we see it. But what is it, really, and how do you coach someone to develop it? This workshop will provide you with an experience of presence both as a resourceful inner state and an extension of that inner state to others that invites them to feel freer, more comfortable, and more alive in our company. In this workshop, we'll focus
It's good for a therapist to be an accepting, empathic listener, but getting stuck in the "nice" gear can restrict your ability to ask challenging questions, set limits, provide reality checks, or speak important truths. This workshop will teach you how to expand your clinical repertoire beyond nice. We'll address the discomfort, fears, and desire to be liked