Is Georgia’s economic decline cause for action?
NOTE: This column has been updated with new state-level unemployment numbers for August, released at 10 a.m. by the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Since 2002, median household income in Georgia has fallen by 14.4 percent. While the national unemployment rate has fallen to 8.1 percent, here in Georgia it stands at 9.2 percent, unchanged since January. It is significantly higher than in Alabama, Florida or Tennessee.
In fact, Georgia’s unemployment rate has now exceeded the national average every month for the last five years, a string of 61 months that shows no sign of ending soon.
And while I don’t have numbers to support it, the data cited above and anecdotal evidence suggest that ambitious, educated young Georgians are today being forced to look outside their state to pursue their dreams. We have long been a net importer of young talent to help drive the Georgia economy; there’s good reason to believe that we have now become a net exporter.
So it seems fair to ask: What’s the plan?
The trends are all in the wrong direction, and as a state and as a metropolitan area we are underperforming the nation and many of our peers. So where’s the plan to reverse those trends? Where’s the vision?
Ten years ago this fall, Sonny Perdue became the first Republican elected governor of this state since Reconstruction. In his eight years in office, he was content to act as a caretaker, more interested in leveraging his office into personal business success than in undertaking any major initiatives. The state Legislature and much of the state’s business community seemed perfectly content to follow his lack of leadership.
Gov. Nathan Deal, elected in 2010, has been more pro-active than Perdue and to his credit took a risk in backing the proposed transportation sales-tax referendum across the state. But since the defeat of that proposal Deal has all but washed his hands of the transportation crisis that continues to threaten economic development. Unless I’ve missed it, there is no sense of urgency, vision or direction coming out of the governor’s office. Like Perdue, he is perfectly comfortable trying to advance the economic interests of individual Georgians, such as the campaign contributor to whom he steered a $4.8 million grant to drill a well at state expense. But a more broad-based prosperity program is apparently not in the works.
Part of it is undoubtedly ideology. Deal, Perdue and their fellow Republicans distrust an activist government (although again, it is interesting to note the occasions in which they manage to set that distrust aside). That ideology also instructs them to put great faith in the power of repeated tax cuts and less aggressive enforcement of regulation to draw growth.
That philosophy has had its impact. Taxes are lower. Per student, inflation-adjusted state spending on education is down 14.8 percent since 2008, the seventh-biggest drop in the country. We have little money to spend on transportation, and the Ogeechee River suffered the biggest fishkill in state history last year, and state officials have yet to act decisively against the culprit.
But after almost a decade of talk about the economic nirvana such a strategy would produce in Georgia, it seems fair to ask: Is it working? Is it — dare we ask — actually counterproductive in a modern economy? And even if we set that politically volatile question aside, is it time for this state’s elected leadership to take an active role in trying to reverse its economic decline, or is the passive attitude of the last 10 years the best we can do?
– Jay Bookman
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0311/8541/5811/1811/1801
September 21st, 2012
12:03 pm
BOTH:
“Why did that gentlemen leave the military?
Did it have anything to do with is unwillingness to follow the rules and regulations he signed up to adhere to?”
Probably for the same reason I didn’t re-up in the Marines. I saw too many good men die for bad reasons including inane orders and tactics eminating from the Commander in Chief (Johnson used to actually pick inidividual targets) on down.
Nothing has changed:
For example ……….. Fallujah.
Do you know the Marines had to take that city THREE times? How many extra Marine lives did that cost. All because of inane policies.
It’s happening right now over there in the same old ways.
St Simons - (ab)original Georgian
September 21st, 2012
12:03 pm
and how did a thread about Georgia’s economic trainwreck get hijacked
into the latest troll droppings from the heritage foundation?
does ajc get a commision for leaving that crap up in the comments?
if they don’t, they should…..
trickle-down-on-bubba, heheheh
Steve Shamrock
September 21st, 2012
12:04 pm
100 Days Until Taxmageddon
Sunday will mark the start of the 100-day countdown to “Taxmageddon” – the date the largest tax hikes in the history of America will take effect. They will hit families and small businesses in three great waves on January 1, 2013:
First Wave: Expiration of 2001 and 2003 Tax Relief
In 2001 and 2003, the GOP Congress enacted several tax cuts for small business owners, families, and investors (later re-upped by President Obama and Democrat Congress in 2010). The following tax hikes will occur on January 1, 2013:
Personal income tax rates will rise on January 1, 2013. The top income tax rate will rise from 35 to 39.6 percent (this is also the rate at which the majority of small business profits are taxed). The lowest rate will rise from 10 to 15 percent. All the rates in between will also rise. Itemized deductions and personal exemptions will again phase out, which has the same mathematical effect as higher marginal tax rates. The full list of marginal rate hikes is below:
-The 10% bracket rises to a new and expanded 15%
-The 25% bracket rises to 28%
-The 28% bracket rises to 31%
-The 33% bracket rises to 36%
-The 35% bracket rises to 39.6%
Higher taxes on marriage and family coming on January 1, 2013. The “marriage penalty” (narrower tax brackets for married couples) will return from the first dollar of taxable income. The child tax credit will be cut in half from $1000 to $500 per child. The standard deduction will no longer be doubled for married couples relative to the single level.
Middle Class Death Tax returns on January 1, 2013. The death tax is currently 35% with an exemption of $5 million ($10 million for married couples). For those dying on or after January 1 2013, there is a 55 percent top death tax rate on estates over $1 million. A person leaving behind two homes and a retirement account could easily pass along a death tax bill to their loved ones.
Higher tax rates on savers and investors on January 1, 2013. The capital gains tax will rise from 15 percent this year to 23.8 percent in 2013. The top dividends tax will rise from 15 percent this year to 43.4 percent in 2013. This is because of scheduled rate hikes plus Obamacare’s investment surtax.
Second Wave: Obamacare Tax Hikes
There are twenty new or higher taxes in Obamacare. Some have already gone into effect (the tanning tax, the medicine cabinet tax, the HSA withdrawal tax, W-2 health insurance reporting, and the “economic substance doctrine”). Several more will go into effect on January 1, 2013. They include:
The Obamacare Medical Device Tax begins to be assessed on January 1, 2013. Medical device manufacturers employ 409,000 people in 12,000 plants across the country. This law imposes a new 2.3% excise tax on gross sales – even if the company does not earn a profit in a given year. Exempts items retailing for <$100.
The Obamacare Medicare Payroll Tax Hike takes effect on January 1, 2013. The Medicare payroll tax is currently 2.9 percent on all wages and self-employment profits. Starting in 2013, wages and profits exceeding $200,000 ($250,000 in the case of married couples) will face a 3.8 percent rate.
The Obamacare “Special Needs Kids Tax” comes online on January 1, 2013. Imposes a cap on FSAs of $2500 (now unlimited). Indexed to inflation after 2013. There is one group of FSA owners for whom this new cap will be particularly cruel and onerous: parents of special needs children. There are thousands of families with special needs children in the United States, and many of them use FSAs to pay for special needs education. Tuition rates at one leading school that teaches special needs children in Washington, D.C. (National Child Research Center) can easily exceed $14,000 per year. Under tax rules, FSA dollars can be used to pay for this type of special needs education. This Obamacare cap harms these families.
The Obamacare “Haircut” for Medical Itemized Deductions goes into force on January 1, 2013. Currently, those facing high medical expenses are allowed a deduction for medical expenses to the extent that those expenses exceed 7.5 percent of adjusted gross income (AGI). The new provision imposes a threshold of 10 percent of AGI. Waived for 65+ taxpayers in 2013-2016 only.
Third Wave: The Alternative Minimum Tax and Employer Tax Hikes
When Americans prepare to file their tax returns in January of 2013, they’ll be in for a nasty surprise—the AMT won’t be held harmless, and many tax relief provisions will have expired. These tax increases will be in force for BOTH 2012 and 2013. The major items include:
The AMT will ensnare over 31 million families, up from 4 million last year. According to the left-leaning Tax Policy Center, Congress’ failure to index the AMT will lead to an explosion of AMT taxpaying families—rising from 4 million last year to 31 million. These families will have to calculate their tax burdens twice, and pay taxes at the higher level. The AMT was created in 1969 to ensnare a handful of taxpayers.
Full business expensing will disappear. In 2011, businesses can expense half of their purchases of equipment. Starting on 2013 tax returns, all of it will have to be “depreciated” (slowly deducted over many years).
Taxes will be raised on all types of businesses. There are literally scores of tax hikes on business that will take place. The biggest is the loss of the “research and experimentation tax credit,” but there are many, many others. Combining high marginal tax rates with the loss of this tax relief will cost jobs.
Tax Benefits for Education and Teaching Reduced. The deduction for tuition and fees will not be available. Tax credits for education will be limited. Teachers will no longer be able to deduct classroom expenses. Coverdell Education Savings Accounts will be cut. Employer-provided educational assistance is curtailed. The student loan interest deduction will be disallowed for hundreds of thousands of families.
Charitable Contributions from IRAs no longer allowed. Under current law, a retired person with an IRA can contribute up to $100,000 per year directly to a charity from their IRA. This contribution also counts toward an annual “required minimum distribution.” This ability will no longer be there.
Mary Elizabeth
September 21st, 2012
12:04 pm
Fred,
“You are trying to reason with unreasonable people ME. It doesn’t work. So they will attack you.”
====================================
Thanks, Fred. I learned that what you have said to me is true, long ago, especially through this blog. But, I will continue to speak truth here, for those who read my posts, looking for that truth, as I see it, to be stated forthrightly.
0311/8541/5811/1811/1801
September 21st, 2012
12:05 pm
Debbie:
“Kept by better men (women) than yourself”
0311/8541/5811/1811/1801
September 21st, 2012
12:06 pm
Aquagirl:
I thought you posted yesterday that Pakistan was “all better” now ……………………..
(
“Pakistan explodes in protest; 17 killed…”
http://www.aljazeera.com/news/asia/2012/09/20129219618263113.html (Nice booties he’s wearing)
EJ Moosa
September 21st, 2012
12:07 pm
“In his radio show yesterday Clark Howard talked about the thousands of jobs in Georgia that are unfilled because the workforce lacks the necessary skills and training”
If those jobs really existed, you don’t think the companies would be training themselves?
When did it become the role of the public sector to train all workers for the private sector.
For those that are against “corporate welfare”, here’s a good place to start.
They BOTH suck
September 21st, 2012
12:08 pm
Scout
I thank him for his service, however he was unwilling to follow the rules and regulations that he signed up to adhere to.
He was generously offered the choice of resigning or getting dishonorably discharged.
0311/8541/5811/1811/1801
September 21st, 2012
12:08 pm
Now here’s an idea !
Headline: “France bans protests over Prophet Mohammad cartoons”
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4K1q9Ntcr5g
Fred ™
September 21st, 2012
12:10 pm
Erwin’s cat
September 21st, 2012
12:00 pm
Fred…I link it on page 2
http://www.gwinnettdailypost.com/news/2012/jan/13/georgia-ranks-no-7-nation-new-education-report/
+++++++++++++++++++++++++
Thanks Erwin’s Cat. Unfortunately that ranking is not based at all on student learning or performance………….
Erwin's cat
September 21st, 2012
12:11 pm
Matti – GA ranks 7th in quality of education…the best we can do is provide a quality education, the rest is up to the students, parents, and community to take advantage of that quality of education
thanks for the gold star, but I’d rather have opposable thumbs
DebbieDoRight - A Do Right Woman
September 21st, 2012
12:12 pm
Matt — too funny!! Question : If Limpballs pecker is shrinking, how can anyone tell?
====================================
Georgia Rankings in Education:
On-time graduation rate: 65%, Rank 46th
Fourth Grade Reading Proficiency: 29% proficient or above, Rank 36th
Fourth Grade Math Proficiency 34% proficient or above, Rank 38th
Eighth Grade Reading Proficiency 27% proficient or above, Rank 37th
Eighth Grade Math Proficiency 27% proficient or above, Rank 38th
http://www.educatedgeorgia.org/how-does-georgia-rank-on-education/
Now some on here are going to say – It’s because of MINORITIES that those numbers are low. I’m going to go ahead and give you that one. Why? Well when the state cuts education funding to the districts, the districts that seem to suffer the most from the funding cuts usually just happen to be in heavy “Democratic and/or minority districts”. Just saying…..
================
Keep @ 11:46 — too funny!!
Georgia, The " New Mississippi "
September 21st, 2012
12:12 pm
Georgia will continue to reap what it has sown. Johnny Reb Economics rules the the day at the State Capitol. Combine that with the lack of integrity and low morals our elected leaders possess and Georgia is getting what it voted for.
Erwin's cat
September 21st, 2012
12:12 pm
Fred – I have been trying to see how those metrics stack up as well, but that data has been easy to track down….so far
Erwin's cat
September 21st, 2012
12:13 pm
Fred – I have been trying to see how those metrics stack up as well, but that data has not been easy to track down….so far
Fred ™
September 21st, 2012
12:13 pm
Doomy@ 12:02: I’m disappointed in you. OJ was innocent to I guess you would say………….
Erwin's cat
September 21st, 2012
12:14 pm
DDR…thanks for the link
Wilbur
September 21st, 2012
12:14 pm
Strange that Jay won’t ask his big question “Is it working” of the disaster that is Obamanomics.
Perhaps it’s because the answer is so clear that Obama has failed utterly.
DebbieDoRight - A Do Right Woman
September 21st, 2012
12:14 pm
How many protests are happening HERE scout? Or do you think that the US should ban other countries citizens from their “freedom of speech”?
Williebkind
September 21st, 2012
12:15 pm
“Posted by
CNN’s Dana Davidsen”
Then I stopped reading! I heard that song before. If its about Obama then its all praises regardless of truth or consequences
Thulsa Doom
September 21st, 2012
12:15 pm
“Rejected. Find me another Middle Eastern country that gets $3+ billion in annual aid and access to US intelligence assets. There’s one, but I don’t think you’ll be happy when you figure out which one it is.”
Counter rejected. Egypt alone gets 2 billion per year and is still getting that money despite what just happened to our embassy. How much does Iraq get sir? Haven’t looked it up but I’ll bet its in the megabillions. Collectively the Arab states as a whole get far more aid than Israel so right there your argument is done.
“At least with the Israelis we are getting something for our money.”
Like what? Specifics, please.
Like a trading relationship and an ally in the Middle East and someone who doesn’t routinely attack us.
“I think you need to read it in the first place, because there are still-living Liberty crewmembers who don’t believe that for a moment.”
I am aware of that. But the Israelis claimed it was an accident and I have to go with that as opposed to what someone thinks or wants to believe painful as it might be to the sailors of the Liberty.
“Big difference between a mistake as in friendly fire and intentional terrorist attacks. I’m surprised you seem to equate that with terrorist attacks.”
“As I said, you need to educate yourself on the circumstances and investigation of the attack, because there are still HUGE holes in the Israeli story.”
I did. And I don’t see much of a purpose or much that Israel would gain by attacking pretty much its only friend. But for the sake of argument even if you could prove it was a malicious attack it would tick me off but even then I still don’t see them as being a regular danger to the U.S. Now if they started sponsoring terrorism or being sympathetic to anti- U.S. operatives then I would have a problem with them. But overall its ludicrous to compare Israel’s relations to us vis a vis overall Arab hostility to us.
The last part about them wanting to participate in the war is irrelevant.
I’m stepping out but if you want to respond I may be back towards the end of the day. Good talking to ya Joe. Doomy.
They BOTH suck
September 21st, 2012
12:15 pm
Scout
In other words, he was fired in way that doesn’t reflect on his record as opposed to the boot he was going to get via a dishonorable discharge. Either way, the man was fired because he was unwilling to follow the rules and regs. You might agree with his assessments, but he is not above the US military codes of conduct he signed up for, right?
I hope he is grateful for the option he received.
stands for decibels
September 21st, 2012
12:15 pm
Erwin’s Cat, thanks for the GDP link @ noon. I did a little more digging and came up with some more source material if anyone’s interested, here:
http://www.edweek.org/media/qualitycounts2012_release.pdf
Of course it’s just one organization’s ranking, but it’s worth a look.
To be honest I have a somewhat skewed view of GA public education. I am in a part of GA where the public schools are doing pretty good work–in fact, I just recently attended a “parent involvement night” and, after speaking with my child’s teachers, feel better about my local situation than ever.
And yet I don’t see why the state as a whole is hell-bent on reducing spending in this area.
So, make of that what one will.
0311/8541/5811/1811/1801
September 21st, 2012
12:16 pm
They BOTH suck:
I don’t mean this too critically but you have not lived in that “real world”.
There are ALWAYS rules/regulations (and even direct orders) that are disobeyed. It’s just the way it is.
I will never forget after having been through the discipline of Marine boot camp, infantry training, sniper training, etc., etc. a “briefing” we received by a major just before we went to Nam. It was against everything we had been taught to date ……….. to obey orders without question.
He basically said there might be a time when as individuals we might have to disobey an order ………. and we would have to live with that decision.
That really confused me until I got to Nam where it all became very clear.
Sometimes you disobeyed (and there are many ways to do it) an order to kill someone that should not be killed (you just miss). Sometimes because a captain wanted to get a medal you “disobeyed” to put an ambush in a certain area (to just get Marines killed for his medal). I could go on and on but you get the picture ……………. you “often” do what is best for you and those under your control and to save lives.
It’s just the real world and if you don’t think it is happening “right now” in Iraq and Afghanistan you are very naive about military ground combat in particular.
Fred ™
September 21st, 2012
12:17 pm
Erwin: I know lol. I’ve been trying to find it myself. I don’t recall it being posted on Maureen’s blog (do you read that on, Get Schooled? I don’t recall seeing you post over there), and she is all over that stuff.
I think there is so much subjectivity that it’s tough to do it. It seems like whoever is doing a “ranking” can pick and choose and massage the data to get pretty much any result they want. While I keep hearing how low we are ranked, I never can seem to find it. Until you posted that link 27th was the highest I’ve seen us.
Obambarrassment
September 21st, 2012
12:17 pm
stands for decibels @ 1124,
Nice try. We too, even as Americans have contempt of court proceedings. Such isn’t exclusive even of monotheism. You won’t hear these kinds of things from the Prince of Peace.
But for the Muslims
But this is from The Prophet himself:
89. They wish that you reject Faith, as they have rejected (Faith), and thus that you all become equal (like one another). So take not Auliya’ (protectors or friends) from them, till they emigrate in the Way of Allah (to Muhammad ). But if they turn back (from Islam), take (hold) of them and kill them wherever you find them, and take neither Auliya’ (protectors or friends) nor helpers from them.
Sura An-Nisa’ Verse 89
They wish that you reject Faith, as they have rejected (Faith), and thus that you all become equal (like one another). So take not Auliya’ (protectors or friends) from them, till they emigrate in the Way of Allah (to Muhammad ). But if they turn back (from Islam), take (hold) of them and kill them wherever you find them, and take neither Auliya’ (protectors or friends) nor helpers from them.
Clear directions to kill apostates that to this day are being carried out.
Are Jews and Christians doing these things? No, and since modern times it has not been church policy to do so.
Trust me, you DON’T want to get into a discussion comparing the blood-lust embodied by the hero of the Quran with Christianity and ancient Judaism, and frankly I’d tire of proving you absurd.
Peace be upon him… and you.
Williebkind
September 21st, 2012
12:18 pm
“Georgia will continue to reap what it has sown”
God I sure hope so!
0311/8541/5811/1811/1801
September 21st, 2012
12:18 pm
Debbie:
My point was ………… once you start trying to ban “free speech” (even nasty anti-religious speech) then other “bans” start popping up.
Slippery slope ……………..
DebbieDoRight - A Do Right Woman
September 21st, 2012
12:19 pm
Okay so, who thinks that Rush is back on the pills and booze?
The Incredible Shrinking Penis
“I think it’s feminism,” he declared. “If it’s tied to the last 50 years — the average size of [a male's] member is 10 percent smaller than 50 years — it has to be the feminazis, the chickification and everything else.”
“Give ‘em time and they’ll blame Bush. But air pollution vs. feminazis? Ha!”
In 2009, Limbaugh worried that the Center for Disease Control was considering a proposal to encourage circumcision for all baby boys.
“If we need to save our penises from anybody, it’s Obama,” he said at the time.
Kamchak ~ Thug from the Steppes
September 21st, 2012
12:21 pm
100 Days Until Taxmageddon
Twice posted drudgey spam.
Obambarrassment
September 21st, 2012
12:22 pm
Now some on here are going to say – It’s because of MINORITIES that those numbers are low. I’m going to go ahead and give you that one. Why? Well when the state cuts education funding to the districts, the districts that seem to suffer the most from the funding cuts usually just happen to be in heavy “Democratic and/or minority districts”. Just saying…..
Just saying nonsense is what you’re saying Debbie.
If spending per pupil is the criterion for success… oh why bother you with any proof when even you yourself aren’t so daft to believe that it is!
skydog
September 21st, 2012
12:23 pm
How low are Ga. schools?
Honey BooBoo is an alumni.
Keep Up the Good Fight!
September 21st, 2012
12:23 pm
Debbie, is Mitt proposing a Penis Depletion Allowance?
DebbieDoRight - A Do Right Woman
September 21st, 2012
12:23 pm
Lunch!
Williebkind
September 21st, 2012
12:24 pm
DebbieDoRight – A Do Right Woman
September 21st, 2012
12:19 pm
You listen to Rush? Why I am impressed. You are a Do right Woman.
Fred ™
September 21st, 2012
12:24 pm
skydog
September 21st, 2012
12:23 pm
How low are Ga. schools?
Honey BooBoo is an alumni.
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
http://instantrimshot.com/
Kamchak ~ Thug from the Steppes
September 21st, 2012
12:25 pm
The Incredible Shrinking Penis
DDR — it was on drudgey for most of the day yesterday.
stands for decibels
September 21st, 2012
12:25 pm
Trust me, you DON’T want to get into a discussion comparing the blood-lust embodied by the hero of the Quran with Christianity and ancient Judaism
Well no, I don’t, because a-holes who are convinced that Muslims are by nature bloodthirsty and evil aren’t worth talking to.
They BOTH suck
September 21st, 2012
12:25 pm
Scout
Understood, but just as in every day life, if you are caught……. you must pay the price.
He was afforded a good option, that in some cases others do not get.
And if I or you come across anything to substantiate his claim, I will send the guy an email (If he has an email address that I can obtain) to apologize to him.
Until that time, imo at best he is embellishing at worst he is lying.
Regardless of how well they served their country, there are those who are in the military or have been who do lie. It isn’t something that one is automatically immune from, just because they have put their life on the line
Matti
September 21st, 2012
12:26 pm
DDR,
Rush needs to make up his mind! Does he think liberal women are “sluhts?” (Known to stimulate growth… heh… heh heh…..), or are we the cause of shrinkage? Bless his heart.
0311/8541/5811/1811/1801
September 21st, 2012
12:27 pm
“Well no, I don’t, because a-holes who are convinced that Muslims are by nature bloodthirsty and evil aren’t worth talking to.”
Not “Muslims” ………………… “Radical Jihadist Muslims”.
Big difference.
Kind of like “Christians” …………. or ………… “Radical KKK Christians”.
Get it ?
stands for decibels
September 21st, 2012
12:27 pm
the average size of [a male's] member is 10 percent smaller than 50 years
glad to see the Excrement in Broadcasting keeping his eyes on the prize.
Fred ™
September 21st, 2012
12:28 pm
Well no, I don’t, because a-holes who are convinced that Muslims are by nature bloodthirsty and evil aren’t worth talking to.
Can I have an Amen?
stands for decibels
September 21st, 2012
12:29 pm
Not “Muslims” ………………… “Radical Jihadist Muslims”.
Big difference.
Don’t tell me, tell the “Obambarrassment” thingie.
(and is it just me, or is that the lamest anti-Obama screen name ever? It’s like he’s not even trying.)
Fred ™
September 21st, 2012
12:30 pm
the average size of [a male's] member is 10 percent smaller than 50 years
I wouldn’t know. I got so fat I ain’t seen mine in three years………
0311/8541/5811/1811/1801
September 21st, 2012
12:30 pm
They BOTH suck:
I hear you as long as you understand:
1) There is a time when one has to disobey a military order in the interest of humanity.
2) He “claimed” there was a directive.
3) I posted last night that the article was “his opinion”.
I think you and I can have some great discussions (and even some agreement) if personal attacks against each other are not made.
Got to run for awhile but will check back later.
Fred ™
September 21st, 2012
12:31 pm
TBS? Who in the HELL are you talking about lol? I tried to trace the source of your convo with Scout but can’t find it.
Aquagirl
September 21st, 2012
12:31 pm
0311, I didn’t say anything was “all better” I pointed out you were complaining about a demonstration that had ALREADY ENDED with no loss of American life.
I’m sure in your world Mitt could stop those demonstrations by a forceful flip-flop of his square jaw.
Palestinians demonstrated throughout many Republican administrations, let’s write Reagan off as a pantywaist too, huh?
BTW your whining orders-optional SGT. is….well, a whiner. And a disgraceful b@stard.
Kamchak ~ Thug from the Steppes
September 21st, 2012
12:32 pm
I wouldn’t know. I got so fat I ain’t seen mine in three years………
TMI, Fred.
Just sayin’.
HamiltonAZ
September 21st, 2012
12:32 pm
This is purely opinion based upon the following facts. The ruling party has eviscerated most of the essential government agencies in the state – Department of Corrections-probation division; Department of Human Resources-Family and Children Division; Judicial Branch; Department of Natural Resources-enforcement division; and local education. For legislators and governors who want to do away with traditional public education, they fail o consider how business location decisions strongly rank the health of traditional public education . The middle school truancy rate is strongly correlated to the high school dropout rate that is strongly correlated to young adult felony crime. Rehabilitation has been non-existent because probation officers have obscene case load numbers.
The government is falling into a sinkhole because we’ve elected people who promised to send it there. These legislators cannot propose solutions because every reasonable solution involves doing things they’ve promised not to do. So they go every year and pass new criminal laws, legislate morals and generally accomplish nothing to help our economy. In a way they can’t understand, they have created such a dysfunctional government, it is just where they promised to remove it – “in the way of progress”
skydog
September 21st, 2012
12:37 pm
“the average size of [a male's] member is 10 percent smaller than 50 years”
++++++++++++
I think they are over sampling Republicans in this study.
Welcome to the Occupation
September 21st, 2012
12:38 pm
Re: the USS Liberty, Thulsa. Very well said, Joe Hussein Mama. And thanks also for the personal experience, Scout.
stands for decibels
September 21st, 2012
12:39 pm
I think they are over sampling Republicans in this study.
one of those landline-only polls?
Williebkind
September 21st, 2012
12:40 pm
“the average size of [a male's] member is 10 percent smaller than 50 years”
Wow, really, I thought my hands were getting bigger.
Granny Godzilla - Union Thugette
September 21st, 2012
12:40 pm
Ivan and Thulsa
Bless your hearts!
Kamchak ~ Thug from the Steppes
September 21st, 2012
12:41 pm
Life span drops sharply for least-educated whites…
drudgey
Williebkind
September 21st, 2012
12:42 pm
“Ivan and Thulsa
Bless your hearts!”
Be careful Ivan and Thulsa that could be a radical christain or some religious gesture putting out a hit on you.
They BOTH suck
September 21st, 2012
12:46 pm
Fred
Scout posted an article last night from an ex Navy Seal. He wrote a book while still in the Navy that was critical of Obama and how the war was being conducted. DOD said he had to resign or face a dishonorable discharge. So he resigned and released the book.
In the book he claims due to a “directive” he could not carry live ammunition. DDR and I picked up on that line and asked Scout about, plus I researched it myself.
Of course, I can’t find any directive stating such. Scout is now saying it could have been a verbal directive.
I could be wrong, but I say the guy is embellishing his story. We can all see the war in Afghanistan hasn’t been a success. Mostly due to the tribal culture that they adhere to and not from the military’s efforts.
I know the man has 1st hand experience, but when you say “directive” that is not an opinion.
Kamchak ~ Thug from the Steppes
September 21st, 2012
12:47 pm
Belgian prostitutes told to wear more clothes…
drudgey
Granny Godzilla - Union Thugette
September 21st, 2012
12:48 pm
Strangely Rush is right. He’s just got the reason wrong.
I have posted this info previously.
http://www.dailykos.com/story/2006/05/01/206661/–Penis-Size-Shrinking-Due-To-Environmental-Pollution-Poll-Rated-R-for-Mature-Subject-Matter
They BOTH suck
September 21st, 2012
12:52 pm
Fred
Conversation (argument) started during last night’s thread: Truman
Granny Godzilla - Union Thugette
September 21st, 2012
12:54 pm
Willibkind
Those two blustering powder puffs?
Ain’t likely.
Kamchak ~ Thug from the Steppes
September 21st, 2012
12:55 pm
What is the unemployment levels for THE SONS OF CONFEDERATE VETERAN! ?
TaxPayer
September 21st, 2012
12:56 pm
So, the bottom line with Georgia’s education system apparently is that we spend a lot of money to get results that may be adequate and to fix that, our Republican leaders want to give the state the ability to further cut funding to the local schools and use that money to create state chartered schools run by the likes of Phoenix so they can suck the life out of more people than they currently have access to. Or something like that.
ken
September 21st, 2012
12:57 pm
It’s not just Georiga with job problems.
WASHINGTON (AP) — Unemployment rates rose in more than half of U.S. states last month, the latest evidence that hiring remains tepid across the country.
Fred ™
September 21st, 2012
12:58 pm
Fred
Scout posted an article last night from an ex Navy Seal. He wrote a book while still in the Navy that was critical of Obama and how the war was being conducted.
++++++++++++++++++
Oh THAT traitorous scumbag POS. He is lower than whale dung. One hard firm rule in Spec Ops is what happens in Spec Ops STAYS in Spec ops. That “SEAL” is a cowardly turd who has lost the respect of his peers. only someone like SCOUT who is ate up with irrational hatred for our President would show any “respect” for him. He should have been courtmartialed and tossed in jail like the scum he is.
TaxPayer
September 21st, 2012
12:59 pm
And what’s all this talk about Rush becoming less of a dick.
They BOTH suck
September 21st, 2012
12:59 pm
Fred
He surely was offered an option that many are not afforded
Williebkind
September 21st, 2012
1:00 pm
I was told size does not matter!
Fred ™
September 21st, 2012
1:00 pm
Kam: I think the SONS OF CONFEDERATE VETERANS are a shiftless lot so their employment rate is close to zero………….
Fred ™
September 21st, 2012
1:01 pm
Williebkind
September 21st, 2012
1:00 pm
I was told size does not matter!
++++++++++++++++++++
I’ve been told that you “little” guys are told that a lot. It’s a lie.
Fred ™
September 21st, 2012
1:01 pm
Dang Willie. i forgot the
sorry.
Erwin's cat
September 21st, 2012
1:02 pm
Actually TP
GA was ranked something like 28th to 30 something on money spent per student, thats why, like stands, I don’t understand the cuts on education….I’m okay with charter schools thou
skydog
September 21st, 2012
1:02 pm
Kam – You talking about ol Wild Bill up here in Kennesaw? He`s still employed.
http://www.flickr.com/photos/thepawproject/6130063014/
Williebkind
September 21st, 2012
1:03 pm
“Those two blustering powder puffs?
Ain’t likely.”
Oops guess size does matter!
skydog
September 21st, 2012
1:05 pm
I had 3 independent girl friends nick named me tripod.
I am only 5′ 6″ tall, but Hey!
Williebkind
September 21st, 2012
1:05 pm
“I’ve been told that you “little” guys are told that a lot. It’s a lie. Sorry.”
Dang, I guess I better get an education.
Erwin's cat
September 21st, 2012
1:08 pm
10%….so what, that’s only a couple of inches
Granny Godzilla - Union Thugette
September 21st, 2012
1:09 pm
Isn’t it time for a comedy blog?
Something like this perhaps:
Herman Cain is saying he’d be way ahead of Obama at this point if he were the nominee because he has “some depth to my ideas.”
H/T to TPM
Kamchak ~ Thug from the Steppes
September 21st, 2012
1:10 pm
skydog
Bookman blog lore has it that by posting “Sons of Confederate Veterans”, is enough to bring about a new thread — kinda like saying “Bloody Mary” or “Betelgeuse” only with less consequences.
willie lynch
September 21st, 2012
1:10 pm
Obambarrassment
September 21st, 2012
12:17 pm
4:89 They long that you should disbelieve as they have disbelieved so that you might be on the same level; so take not from among them friends until they flee (their homes) in Allah’s way. Then if they turn back (to hostility), seize them and kill them wherever you find them, and take no friend nor helper from among them,
4:90 Except those who join a people between whom and you there is an alliance, or who come to you, their hearts shrinking from fighting you or fighting their own people. And if Allah had pleased, He would have given them power over you, so that they would have fought you. So if they withdraw from you and fight you not and offer you peace, then Allah allows you no way against them.
This is from the Maulana Muhammad Ali translation. As you can see the placement of a word here or there can greatly change what might be gotten from reading a verse. For instance,
The King James Version reads: “Thus saith the Lord, Learn not the way of the heathen…. For the customs of the people are vain: for one cutteth a tree out of the forest, the work of the hands of the workman, with the axe. They deck it with silver and with gold; they fasten it with nails and with hammers, that it move not.”
Is this a condemnation of the practice of adorning Christmas tree’s? The point is without context one cannot think reading selected verses will provide an accurate assessment of any subject. Just saying
willie lynch
September 21st, 2012
1:13 pm
Skydog @12:23 pm that’s hilarious. I haven’t seen the show but I did see a short interview with the family. Hilarious!!!!
Williebkind
September 21st, 2012
1:13 pm
“Is it time for a comedy blog”
Jay’s blog has always been a major comedy.
GG I dont get your 1:09
Kamchak ~ Thug from the Steppes
September 21st, 2012
1:13 pm
Three guys standing on a bridge micturating.
1st guy: “Boy, that river sure is cold.”
2nd guy: “Deep, too.”
3rd guy: “Yeah, with rocks on the bottom.”
skydog
September 21st, 2012
1:15 pm
I got you on the SONS thing Kam.
I figured Bookman just waited until we evolved into penis jokes.
Finn McCool (The System isn't Broken; It's Fixed)
September 21st, 2012
1:17 pm
We could replay the Herman Cain interview about Egypt or Libya for laughs.
“ummmm….ummmmmmm….ummmmmmm”
Fred ™
September 21st, 2012
1:19 pm
micturating
Really? Now what did I tell you about us Rednecks and them three dollar words?
I been called Eldin ENOUGH times………..
Williebkind
September 21st, 2012
1:20 pm
Willbmusen poll has Romney up by 67%. I guess that Obama excretion has no effect on Romney!
Granny Godzilla - Union Thugette
September 21st, 2012
1:20 pm
Williebkind
That so sad! Maybe this will help dear.
http://www.behavioralinstitute.org/Partners/Dr%20Humor/Partner_NationalAssnforHumorImpaired.htm
Finn McCool (The System isn't Broken; It's Fixed)
September 21st, 2012
1:21 pm
A guy drops into a pub in Scotland and takes a stool at the bar next to an old timer. He tells the old timer his name is Tom.
The old timer sizes him up for a second a replies: “See that boat out there in the bay? Built it m’self. So do they call me Seamus the Boat Builder? Nooooooo.”
“See the pictures hanging in this pub? I painted them with my own hands. So, do they call me Seamus the Painter? Noooooooooooooo.”
“That glass yer drinkin’ out of. Blew that glass m’self. Do they call me Seamus the Glass Blower? Noooooooooooooooooooo.”
The old timer leans in close and whispers “but you eff just ONE goat…..”
Pizza
September 21st, 2012
1:21 pm
We were hoping we would be able to sell our house when we leave, rather than abandoning it.
Williebkind
September 21st, 2012
1:22 pm
micturating
I have learned the word of the day! micturating!
Williebkind
September 21st, 2012
1:23 pm
Granny Godzilla – Union Thugette
September 21st, 2012
1:20 pm
that is too cute!
Regnad Kcin
September 21st, 2012
1:24 pm
“If spending per pupil is the criterion for success… oh why bother you with any proof when even you yourself aren’t so daft to believe that it is!”
See how he did that?
Normal Free...Pro Human Rights Thug...And liking it!
September 21st, 2012
1:24 pm
Scout,
About the USS Liberty. It happened on June 8, 1967. The Six Day war had started June 5, 1967. I’m not choosing sides here and you know I hate any loss of life in the Military, but with the fog of war, the Liberty just might have been an accident like they said. I’m giving Israel a pass on this one.
Jm
September 21st, 2012
1:25 pm
End the GA income tax
Broaden the base for sales tax
Sales tax is progressive
And more revenue means more money to invest in transportation
Or just start tolling
DebbieDoRight - A Do Right Woman
September 21st, 2012
1:26 pm
Embarassment: If spending per pupil is the criterion for success… oh why bother you with any proof when even you yourself aren’t so daft to believe that it is!
Well, if you have any — proof that is — I’d LOVE to look at it……
Keep : Debbie, is Mitt proposing a Penis Depletion Allowance?
HA!
skydog
September 21st, 2012
1:27 pm
I worked/lived in Charleston, SC about 5 years ago. These guys at work wanted to know would I play some drums for them. I asked what type band they had? They said they did`nt have a band, but they needed a drummer for civil war reenactments.
They said I would have the best job in the unit. Just dress up in a wool suit and slog though the Francis Marrion swamp in 100 degree heat!
They would have had a better shot of getting me to join their Barry Mantilow tribute band.
gtt
September 21st, 2012
1:29 pm
Just wait long enough and it’ll all work itself out.
Normal Free...Pro Human Rights Thug...And liking it!
September 21st, 2012
1:29 pm
Willie,
http://www.religioustolerance.org/xmas_tree.htm