Next generation leaning left

So much for what the old folks think. A new poll of 17- to 29-year-olds foreshadows an America with government-run health care, legalized gay relationships and legal possession of small amounts of marijuana, with 62 percent supporting the first, 68 percent the second (44 percent gay marriage, 24 percent gay civil unions) and 58 percent the third. More immediately, 54 percent in this younger generation said they plan to vote for the Democrat for president next year. But who knows — maybe these youngsters will mature into Republicans, as so many of their boomer parents did.
Posted by Rhonda Holman

281 Comments

  1. Posted June 29, 2007 at 1:18 am | Permalink

    The young’uns appear to be headed in a good direction. They’re WAY media savvy, and trend Democratic in a big way. And given the disastrous example set by the current “Administration,” here’s hoping they continue to see the world in such clear-eyed terms.

  2. Posted June 29, 2007 at 1:24 am | Permalink

    “Mature into Republicans”? You mean when they get older they’ll learn to hate gays, minorities and the poor? Or will they mature into disregarding science, embracing huge oil companies, and lose their sense of morality? Rhonda must think self-centered selfishness is a sign of maturity, it’s actually the other way around.

    The “boomers” were raised in an age of prosperity and self-indulgence. Their liberal parents made it through the Great Depression and world wars thusly they embraced socialism and the New Deal. I guess when your only concern is hedonism and greed you become as Rhonda suggests, Republican. The rest of us who have matured and became knowledge about how healthy societies function remain liberal. Someday Rhonda will mature and distance herself from only thinking about herself.

  3. Jon
    Posted June 29, 2007 at 1:36 am | Permalink

    The GOP as we know it now will not survive in the next 20 years under the current stances it takes. A newer GOP in 20 years can easily consist of less government, but its going to be a given that better health care and benefits are going to have to be a priority or the GOP will become a 2nd rate party for decades. The reason I say this is think back to 30 years ago when companies gave benefits for very little if not free. Now when you land in a job, you have to pay a rather large size of your check to get health insurance.

    To add to this, The GOP is in trouble because once these boomers start retiring, or even think about planning it out, they are going to think about Social Security crashing and Medicare and then they will realize how these are both in trouble. More often then not, this is considered a democratic stronghold.

    Now to add to all that, you have a very unpopular president and an unpopular endless war, mostly brought on by the GOP, things dont look too good.

  4. RD
    Posted June 29, 2007 at 1:49 am | Permalink

    Once we boomers retire, there will be more jobs available for the new generation. Maybe unemployment will really be lower then, instead of the fake low we have now. Oh, sorry, that’s UNDERemployment.

  5. Jon
    Posted June 29, 2007 at 2:01 am | Permalink

    RD,

    That is why Bush and some members on both sides pushed so hard for the Immigration bill, when all the Boomers retire, we are going to have a shortfall for tons of jobs in this country.

  6. mrbill
    Posted June 29, 2007 at 2:35 am | Permalink

    And…..? Whats new here…?

    All young people think this …until they get mortgages, other kids to take care of et al.

    we boomers thought the same stupid shit in the 60’s. Remember anti-war, free pussy, perky tittys in halter tops, chicks ironing their long tresses, stupid clothes and hair….just like today. Except the Tatoos wont come off as easy as the bell bottoms and hair did.

    Although a kid told me recently the tattoos will make it easier for them to find their grandma at the home when todays hot mamas get old.

  7. Kansas Meadowlark
    Posted June 29, 2007 at 2:36 am | Permalink

    But didn’t CNN’s Glenn Beck today say on his TV show that this survey had a 4% margin of error, with the left leading the right by 1% point?

  8. Chas.
    Posted June 29, 2007 at 3:06 am | Permalink

    And you would believe Glenn Beck, for what reason?? That he is afflicted with ADD, and by his own words, a sick, twisted freak?? Or is it his likeable (Ahem) personality?? Give me a break!!

  9. Kev
    Posted June 29, 2007 at 5:31 am | Permalink

    I agree. Not only are the young ones leaning left, the boomers now facing retirement are also leaning left which is a major reason why they forced the GOP to cave on Medicare Part D. I think that soon everybody will be leaning left except for the southern white male who cannot seem to get rid of his ignorance.

  10. Posted June 29, 2007 at 6:13 am | Permalink

    Great post, Doug.

    60’s radicalism was never what it was cracked up to be.

    For every kid wearing a Che Guevera beret, you had 1000 others who wanted nothing more than a Corvette Stingray.

    Anti-materialism is never going to sell in this country.

  11. political_mom
    Posted June 29, 2007 at 6:25 am | Permalink

    Now if only the younger people were more reliable when it comes to voting and getting involved in the political process. I’m actually surprised that the numbers in this poll aren’t far higher.

    I bet if Bush reinstated the draft you’d see many more young people getting involved. Probably why that hasn’t happened.

  12. XXX
    Posted June 29, 2007 at 6:38 am | Permalink

    P_mom, you’re on top of it this morning!

    The draft is something every young person should be thinking about considering BushCo’s eternal war plans. Tour extensions and multiple tours won’t fill the need for fresh cannon-fodder forever. Eventually the need for more soldiers is going to require a draft.

    It may be a moot subject considering the rate we’re losing military equipment in Iraq and what it costs to replace it.

    How long did it take the Soviet Union to go broke in Afghanistan?

  13. The Phantom
    Posted June 29, 2007 at 7:03 am | Permalink

    If Bush hadn’t outsourced 50% of the military work in Iraq, we either would already have had the draft, or pulled out by now. Downside is it’s bankrupting the Nation even if he keeps it off budget.

  14. delores
    Posted June 29, 2007 at 7:36 am | Permalink

    “The “boomers” were raised in an age of prosperity and self-indulgence. Their liberal parents made it through the Great Depression and world wars thusly they embraced socialism and the New Deal.”

    Way to generalize!!! My parents were Republicans, my father hated JFK and cheered when he died.

  15. delores
    Posted June 29, 2007 at 7:54 am | Permalink

    >…….the boomers now facing retirement are also leaning left which is a major reason why they forced the GOP to cave on Medicare Part D…….<Posted by Kev

    Selective memory or are you rewriting history Kev?

    For Immediate ReleaseOffice of the Press SecretaryDecember 8, 2003

    President Signs Medicare LegislationDAR Constitution HallWashington, D.C.

    Video (Real)AudioEn Español

    In Focus: Medicare

    11:10 A.M. EST

    THE PRESIDENT: Good morning, thanks for the warm welcome. In a few moments I will have the honor of signing an historic act of Congress into law. I’m pleased that all of you are here to witness the greatest advance in health care coverage for America’s seniors since the founding of Medicare. (Applause.)

    With the Medicare Act of 2003, our government is finally bringing prescription drug coverage to the seniors of America. With this law, we’re giving older Americans better choices and more control over their health care, so they can receive the modern medical care they deserve. (Applause.) With this law, we are providing more access to comprehensive exams, disease screenings, and other preventative care, so that seniors across this land can live better and healthier lives. With this law, we are creating Health Savings Accounts — (applause) — we do so, so that all Americans can put money away for their health care tax-free.

    Our nation has the best health care system in the world. And we want our seniors to share in the benefits of that system. Our nation has made a promise, a solemn promise to America’s seniors. We have pledged to help our citizens find affordable medical care in the later years of life. Lyndon Johnson established that commitment by signing the Medicare Act of 1965. And today, by reforming and modernizing this vital program, we are honoring the commitments of Medicare to all our seniors. (Applause.)

    The point man in my administration on this issue was Secretary Tommy Thompson, and he and his team did a fabulous job of working with the Congress to get this important piece of legislation passed. Tommy, I want to thank you for your leadership. (Applause.)

    This bill passed the Congress because of the strong leadership of a handful of members, starting with the Speaker of the House Denny Hastert. Mr. Speaker — (applause.) Mr. Speaker was joined by Senator Bill Frist, the Senate Majority Leader of the Senate, in providing the leadership necessary to get this bill done. I want to thank you both. (Applause.)

    I appreciate the hard work of the House Majority Leader, Tom DeLay, in seeing that this bill was passed. I also appreciate the hard work of the Chairman of the Ways and Means Committee, Chairman Bill Thomas, for his good work. (Applause.) The Chairman of the Finance Committee in the Senate, Senator Chuck Grassley, did a noble job. (Applause.) And he was joined in this task by the Ranking Member of the Finance Committee, Senator Max Baucus of Montana. (Applause.)

    And the entire Senate effort was boosted by the efforts of a man from Louisiana, Senator John Breaux. (Applause.) And speaking about Louisiana, Billy Tauzin of the House of Representatives did great work on this bill. (Applause.) Senator Orrin Hatch from Utah made a significant contribution. (Applause.) Nancy Johnson, the House member from Connecticut, did a great job. (Applause.) Mike Bilirakis from Florida worked hard on this piece of legislation. (Applause.) I want to thank all the other members of the Congress and the Senate who have joined us. Thank you all for taking time out of your busy schedules to share in this historic moment.

    I appreciate Tom Scully, the Administrator of the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, for his good work. (Applause.) The Director of the CDC, Julie Gerberding, is with us today. Julie, thank you for coming. (Applause.) The Food and Drug Administration Commissioner Mark McClellan is here. (Applause.) Jo Anne Barnhart, the Commissioner of the Social Security Administration, is with us. Thank you for coming, Jo Anne. (Applause.) Kay James who is the Director of the Office of Personnel Management, is with us. Thank you for coming, Kay. (Applause.)

    Strengthening Medicare: A Framework to Modernize and Improve Medicare

    A lot of this happened — this bill happened because of grassroots work. A lot of our fellow citizens took it upon themselves to agitate for change, to lobby on behalf of what’s right. We had some governor support around the country — Governor Craig Benson from New Hampshire is with us today. Governor, thank you for coming. (Applause.)

    But the groups that speak for the elderly did fantastic work on this legislation. See, there was a lot of pressure not to get something done — for the wrong reasons, I might add. But Bill Novelli, the CEO of AARP, stood strong in representing the people he was supposed to represent and he worked hard to get this legislation passed. And, Bill, I want to thank you for your leadership. (Applause.) You were joined by Jim Parkel, who is the President of the AARP. Jim, I want to thank you, as well, for doing what was right, for focusing on the needs of the seniors of our country. (Applause.)

    Jim Martin, the President of 60 Plus Association, worked hard. Charlie Jarvis, the Chairman and CEO of United Seniors Association, worked hard. Mike Maves, the Executive Vice President and CEO of the AMA, worked hard on this piece of legislation. (Applause.) Mary Martin, the Chairman of the Board of The Seniors Coalition, worked hard. The truth of the matter is, a lot of good people worked hard to get this important legislation done, and I thank you for your work. (Applause.)

    Medicare is a great achievement of a compassionate government and it is a basic trust we honor. Medicare has spared millions of seniors from needless hardship. Each generation benefits from Medicare. Each generation has a duty to strengthen Medicare. And this generation is fulfilling our duty.

    First and foremost, this new law will provide Medicare coverage for prescription drugs. Medicare was enacted to provide seniors with the latest in modern medicine. In 1965, that usually meant house calls, or operations, or long hospital stays. Today, modern medicine includes out-patient care, disease screenings, and prescription drugs.

    Medicine has changed, but Medicare has not — until today. Medicare today will pay for extended hospital stays for ulcer surgery. That’s at a cost of about $28,000 per patient. Yet Medicare will not pay for the drugs that eliminate the cause of most ulcers, drugs that cost about $500 a year. It’s a good thing that Medicare pays when seniors get sick. Now, you see, we’re taking this a step further — Medicare will pay for prescription drugs, so that fewer seniors will get sick in the first place. (Applause.)

    Drug coverage under Medicare will allow seniors to replace more expensive surgeries and hospitalizations with less expensive prescription medicine. And even more important, drug coverage under Medicare will save our seniors from a lot of worry. Some older Americans spend much of their Social Security checks just on their medications. Some cut down on the dosage, to make a bottle of pills last longer. Elderly Americans should not have to live with those kinds of fears and hard choices. This new law will ease the burden on seniors and will give them the extra help they need.

    Seniors will start seeing help quickly. During the transition to the full prescription benefit, seniors will receive a drug discount card. This Medicare-approved card will deliver savings of 10 to 25 percent off the retail price of most medicines. Low-income seniors will receive the same savings, plus a $600 credit on their cards to help them pay for the medications they need.

    In about two years, full prescription coverage under Medicare will begin. In return for a monthly premium of about $35, most seniors without any prescription drug coverage can now expect to see their current drug bills cut roughly in half. This new law will provide 95 percent coverage for out-of-pocket drug spending that exceeds $3,600 a year. For the first time, we’re giving seniors peace of mind that they will not have to face unlimited expenses for their medicine.

    The new law offers special help to one-third of older Americans will low incomes, such as a senior couple with low savings and an annual income of about $18,000 or less. These seniors will pay little or no premium for full drug coverage. Their deductible will be no higher than $50 per year, and their co-payment on each prescription will be as little as $1. Seniors in the greatest need will have the greatest help under the modernized Medicare system. (Applause.)

    I visited with seniors around the country and heard many of their stories. I’m proud that this legislation will give them practical and much needed help. Mary Jane Jones from Midlothian, Virginia, has a modest income. Her drug bills total nearly $500 a month. Things got so tight for a while she had to use needles twice or three times for her insulin shots. With this law, Mary Jane won’t have to go to such extremes. In exchange for a monthly premium of about $35, Mary Jane Jones would save nearly $2,700 in annual prescription drug spending.

    Hugh Iverson from West Des Moines, Iowa, just got his Medicare membership. And that’s a good thing, because he hasn’t had health insurance for more than three years. His drug bills total at least $400 a month. Within two years, with the $35 a month coverage, he will be able to cut those bills nearly in half, saving him about $2,400 a year.

    Neil LeGrow from Culpepper, Virginia, takes 15 medications, costing him at least $700 a month. To afford all those medications, Neil has to stay working. And thanks to this law, once he is enrolled in the drug benefit, he will be able to cut back his work hours and enjoy his retirement more because he’ll have coverage that saves him about $4,700 a year.

    I promised these seniors when I met with them that we would work hard to give them the help they need. They are all here today. So I am happy to report to them in person — Mary Jane, Hugh, and Neil, we are keeping our promise. (Applause.)

    In addition to providing coverage for prescription drugs, this legislation achieves a second great goal. We’re giving our seniors more health care choices so they can get the coverage and care that meets their needs. Every senior needs to know if you don’t want to change your current coverage, you don’t have to change. You’re the one in charge. If you want to keep your Medicare the way it is, along with the new prescription benefit, that is your right. If you want to improve benefits — maybe dental coverage, or eyeglass coverage, or managed care plans that reduce out-of-pocket costs — you’ll be free to make those choices, as well.

    And when seniors have the ability to make choices, health care plans within Medicare will have to compete for their business by offering higher quality service. For the seniors of America, more choices and more control will mean better health care. These are the kinds of health care options we give to the members of Congress and federal employees. They have the ability to pick plans to — that are right for their own needs. What’s good for members of Congress is also good for seniors. Our seniors are fully capable of making health care choices, and this bill allows them to do just that. (Applause.)

    A third purpose achieved by this legislation is smarter medicine within the Medicare system. For years, our seniors have been denied Medicare coverage — have been denied Medicare coverage for a basic physical exam. Beginning in 2005, all newly-enrolled Medicare beneficiaries will be covered for a complete physical.

    The Medicare system will now help seniors and their doctors diagnose health problems early, so they can treat them early and our seniors can have a better quality life. For example, starting next year, all people on Medicare will be covered for blood tests that can diagnose heart diseases. Those at high risk for diabetes will be covered for blood sugar screening tests. Modern health care is not complete without prevention — so we are expanding preventive services under Medicare. (Applause.)

    Fourth, the new law will help all Americans pay for out-of-pocket health costs. This legislation will create health savings accounts, effective January 1, 2004, so Americans can set aside up to $4,500 every year, tax free, to save for medical expenses. Depending on your tax bracket, that means you’ll save between 10 to 35 percent on any costs covered by money in your account. Our laws encourage people to plan for retirement and to save for education. Now the law will make it easier for Americans to save for their future health care, as well. (Applause.)

    A health savings account is a good deal, and all Americans should consider it. Every year, the money not spent would stay in the account and gain interest tax-free, just like an IRA. And people will have an incentive to live more healthy lifestyles because they want to see their health savings account grow. These accounts will be good for small business owners, and employees. More businesses can focus on covering workers for major medical problems, such as hospitalization for an injury or illness. And at the same time, employees and their families will use these accounts to cover doctors visits or lab tests or other smaller costs. Some employers will contribute to employee health accounts. This will help more American families get the health care they need at the price they can afford.

    The legislation I’m about to sign will set in motion a series of improvements in the care available to all America’s senior citizens. And as we begin, it is important for seniors and those approaching retirement to understand their new benefits.

    This coming spring, seniors will receive a letter to explain the drug discount card. In June, these cards, including the $600 annual drug credit for low-income seniors, will be activated. This drug card can be used until the end of 2005. In the fall of that year, seniors will receive an information booklet giving simple guidance on changes in the program and the new choices they will have. Then in January of 2006, seniors will have their new coverage, including permanent coverage for prescription drugs.

    These reforms are the act of a vibrant and compassionate government. We show are concern for the dignity of our seniors by giving them quality health care. We show our respect for seniors by giving them more choices and more control over their decision-making. We’re putting individuals in charge of their health care decisions. And as we move to modernize and reform other programs of this government, we will always trust individuals and their decisions, and put personal choice at the heart of our efforts. (Applause.)

    The challenges facing seniors on Medicare were apparent for many years. And those years passed with much debate and a lot of politics, and little reform to show for it. And that changed with the 108th Congress. This year we met our challenge with focus and perseverance. We confronted problems, instead of passing them along to future administrations and future Congresses. We overcame old partisan differences. We kept our promise, and found a way to get the job done. This legislation is the achievement of members in both political parties. And this legislation is a victory for all of America’s seniors. (Applause.)

    Now I’m honored and pleased to sign this historic piece of legislation: the Medicare Prescription Drug Improvement and Modernization Act of 2003. (Applause.)

    (The bill is signed.) (Applause.)

    END 11:35 A.M. EST

    http://www.whitehouse.gov/news/releases/2003/12/20031208-2.html

  16. Jed
    Posted June 29, 2007 at 8:17 am | Permalink

    Dolores,Considering it was an election year coming up, it was caving, republican style. Even then, the bill was more whoopla than substance, since many seniors’ coverage stops by the end of summer, due to that hole in the doughnut.

  17. delores
    Posted June 29, 2007 at 8:19 am | Permalink

    “But didn’t CNN’s Glenn Beck today say on his TV show that this survey had a 4% margin of error, with the left leading the right by 1% point? Posted by Kansas Meadowlark

    You got your polls mixed up or Glenn Beck does.

    Fox Poll: More Americans Trust Dems to Handle World War III Against Islamofascists!By Eric Kleefeld | bioThis has to be a first. In its new poll, Fox News asked what may well be the ultimate in jingoistic, rally-around-the-flag questions — and the Democrats came out on top.If there is an all-out war between the United States and various radical Muslim groups worldwide, who would you rather have in charge — Democrats or Republicans?Democrats 41%Republicans 38%Both the same(not listed) 9%Don’t know(not listed)

    ——————————–Next generation leaning left poll information:

    http://graphics8.nytimes.com/packages/pdf/politics/20070627_POLL.pdf

    http://www.nytimes.com/2007/06/26/washington/27cnd-poll.html?pagewanted=1&_r=2

  18. fleettwood
    Posted June 29, 2007 at 8:21 am | Permalink

    “others who wanted nothing more than a Corvette Stingray.”

    That is still my Lottery car.One of these days.

  19. delores
    Posted June 29, 2007 at 8:21 am | Permalink

    The Medicare Prescription Drug Plan was payback to the insurance and drug companies for all those millions in campaign contributions.

  20. GMC70
    Posted June 29, 2007 at 8:35 am | Permalink

    Of course. Tne “next” generation ALWAYS leans left.

    As it’s been said: If you’re young and not a liberal, you have no heart. If you’re old and not a conservative, you have no brain.

    ‘Twas always so.

    Then jobs, mortgages, taxes, kids, etc. etc, - in other words life - hits full force, and many grow up.

  21. Mary Caruso
    Posted June 29, 2007 at 8:43 am | Permalink

    Fleet, I have had a ‘68 stingray sitting in my garage for the last 15 yrs waiting to be restored…If I die I’ll will it to you.

  22. Posted June 29, 2007 at 8:44 am | Permalink

    Ah the Liberal Left re-writing history once again to suit their ideology. Must be hard to live with lying everyday having to remember increasing amounts of lies.

  23. JWink
    Posted June 29, 2007 at 8:52 am | Permalink

    Delores: I agree with you the fairly new Part D prescription drug program appears to be a monstrous crime against senior citizens.

    As a senior citizen in good health, I was signed up against my will by a nefarious nameless telemarketer posing as a representative of my health care insurance company. I had to consult an attorney and write perhaps 50 letters to extricate myself from the tenacles of this convoluted program.

    The nature of the program is that it discourages consumers, the patients, from searching for less costly pharmaceuticals. It lets doctors prescribe prescription drugs without any regard for costs.

    I’m sure pharmaceutical companies, already the richest in the world, are making even higher profits with this Part D program riding on the backs of senior citizens.

  24. ksfarmgrrl
    Posted June 29, 2007 at 8:54 am | Permalink

    Hey Mary, I have a nice big empty shop where you could restore it!

    Not that you would owe me or anything…

    heheheheheheh

    My dream car? The 69 Camaro RS (silver with a black top and stripes up the CENTER of the hood) that I had in high school.

    Cue Springsteen’s “Glory Days”

  25. littlejohn
    Posted June 29, 2007 at 9:02 am | Permalink

    As the DPOA for two senior citizens, I cannot disagree more about the medicare part d program. This program has saved hundreds of dollars for those I am advising and helping with the medical care choices. Once you look past all the hype, and poor explanations, this program was relatively easy to compare suppliers, given the history of both my recipients, and their financial status, easy to choose plans. I think that however, it is an incredibly costly plan to the government that just adds to the the cost of the nanny government. Is that a conflict? Maybe. But it is there, it is legal, and it saves my family members money. The government is practically begging them to do it. Good service for them

  26. fleettwood
    Posted June 29, 2007 at 9:04 am | Permalink

    “If I die I’ll will it to you.”

    I’m not sayin’ nothin’, but, how are you feeling today? Do you have a cough? Maybe a fever?I only wish you the best, but …

  27. sam
    Posted June 29, 2007 at 9:05 am | Permalink

    Must be hard to live with lying everyday having to remember increasing amounts of lies.

    Posted by: Republican

    You and your beloved little emperor king and his gang should know all about lying.

  28. fleettwood
    Posted June 29, 2007 at 9:06 am | Permalink

    “The 69 Camaro RS”

    A friend of mine bought that car, barely used. The posi-track rear end transmission got away from him and he wrecked it in a week.Dope.

  29. ksfarmgrrl
    Posted June 29, 2007 at 9:12 am | Permalink

    I also had a 68 Camaro SS with a bored over 350, hurst shifter, four bolt main and positrac rear end. Yikes.

    You could NEVER put your foot to the floor because it would spin out of control in a heart beat.

    heheheheh. All the guys in Trego county hated me. Go figure.

    Glory Days…

  30. BirD
    Posted June 29, 2007 at 9:16 am | Permalink

    So the young are strongly Democrat; social security collapse is the Republican’s fault; Republicans hate gays, minorities and the poor? And everything that is wrong with the world is simply that anything good is bad and everything bad is good. Gosh, I wish I could reorganize my thinking so I’d not have to think logically—I could therefore conclude that the frailties of this world are always someone else’s fault.

    Fact is there’s nothing right about either party; I wouldn’t give you a plug nickel for either Democrat or Republican party; they are both responsible for the division extant in this country. The dems voted for the war so did the repubs.

    The air-head cry of the day: “Just take care of me please, the government owes me.” Dumb, everything the government spends comes out of your pocket. You want free health care? You personally will pay tons of money for the privilege of putting yourself in an inferior medical system.

    Now I see “Chas” has some very intelligent things to say about Glenn Beck. It’s OK for Chas to have a definite opinion but not OK for Beck. You want freedom to speak YOUR point of view but everyone who doesn’t agree with you has to shut up, is that it?

    BirD

  31. fleettwood
    Posted June 29, 2007 at 9:17 am | Permalink

    The younger generation leans left.

    Sounds like a story from the desk of Rick Romero.

  32. Chas.
    Posted June 29, 2007 at 9:38 am | Permalink

    “The “boomers” were raised in an age of prosperity and self-indulgence. Their liberal parents made it through the Great Depression and world wars thusly they embraced socialism and the New Deal.”

    I didnt see who posted this first, and I dont know if it matters… The fact is, it is just WRONG…

    “Boomers” werent raised in an age of prosperity or self indulgence… And as far as I can recall, their parents were anything but Liberal!!

    The self-indulgent ME generation I think, was in the ’70’s… Boomers were in that era by then… And yet, most of us Boomers were just getting families started in the ’70’s…

    Wherever that quote came from, it’s got the wrong time frame…

    All I ever heard from MY parents was how HARD it was growing up with the Great Depression, and the Wars… WW I(backlash) and WW II(for real)… One of my fahter’s Uncles, committed suicide after the Crash of 1929… Mother lived HERE during the dust bowl days… And neither Mom or Dad ever came close to embracing The New Deal… In fact both of them voted for Hoover, and were damned proud of it too… LOL…

    I mean, we barely had TV in this house when I started Kindergarten, and then it was only because mother’s sister and her husband had one… had to think about how the other family folk would think if we still had just the old radio.

    Dad didnt get his first Credit Card until I was in College… and that was a mistake… he signed something in a mailer, and sent it in because he thought it was part of Bill… and next thing he knew, he had a credit card… the one before Visa… And that was about 1973…

    So, I dont know where the poster gets the idea that the Boomers were raised by a bunch of liberal democrats, and new deal socialists.

  33. Chas.
    Posted June 29, 2007 at 9:39 am | Permalink

    And by the way, BirD, all I said about Glenn Beck is what HE says about himself every day on his own show… He is ADD, former alcoholic, and a sick twisted freak… HIS words… not mine..

  34. RD
    Posted June 29, 2007 at 10:01 am | Permalink

    Chas,

    Being a Boomer, I agree with you and disagree with Doug. My mouthed dropped open when I read his.

    If we want to talk self-indulgence, let’s take a look at the current “younger generation”. When I was in high school in the ’60’s, very, very few had cars. Television in your bedroom? LOLOLOL I was one of the few who had a phone, but it was an extension, not my own number. Long distance calls were NOT allowed without permission (and a request for “time and charges” made to the operator.) If I wanted to type, I used my mother’s typewriter, not my own and definitely not my own computer that hooked me up to the world. Granted, technology has paved the way for some of the things available to kids, but what I see is marketing geared TO those kids. Watch TV. Watch commercials.

    If you want to see self-indulgence in action, look at your kids and ask yourself why.

  35. RD
    Posted June 29, 2007 at 10:03 am | Permalink

    KFG, I had a 69 Camaro, too. Not quite so fancy as yours. A 307. My idiot ex parked it out behind the old chicken house when we bought our first 280Z, and the bottom completely rusted out of it.

    Glory days, indeed!

  36. Tony
    Posted June 29, 2007 at 10:14 am | Permalink

    Yea RD, but if you take that same description and put it toward your parents, i doubt they even grew up with a telephone or typewriter or tv or electricity for that matter… Its called evolution.

    As I keep saying, i cant wait for all of these oppressive old fogies die so my generation can fix all of the crap your generation has FUBARed for us.

  37. delores
    Posted June 29, 2007 at 10:26 am | Permalink

    But didn’t CNN’s Glenn Beck today say on his TV show that this survey had a 4% margin of error, with the left leading the right by 1% point?Posted by: Kansas Meadowlark

    Do you go to Glenn Beck for the “truth” that you don’t get from the Eagle Kansas Meadowlark?———————————Joe Klein is TIME’s political columnist and author of six books, most recently Politics Lost. His weekly TIME column, “In the Arena,” covers national and international affairs. In 2004 he won the National Headliner Award for best magazine column.

    June 27, 2007 10:14″I come home to this?”The world is a bit of a mess right now and CNN gives us Glenn Beck? Please, Mr. Parsons, sir, is this any way to show respect for your–our–viewers? Can’t we, like, try a week of smart? See how that works? Just asking. Your Devoted Employee, Joe Klein

    I got a good laugh from this.

  38. delores
    Posted June 29, 2007 at 10:26 am | Permalink

    But didn’t CNN’s Glenn Beck today say on his TV show that this survey had a 4% margin of error, with the left leading the right by 1% point?Posted by: Kansas Meadowlark

    Do you go to Glenn Beck for the “truth” that you don’t get from the Eagle Kansas Meadowlark?———————————Joe Klein is TIME’s political columnist and author of six books, most recently Politics Lost. His weekly TIME column, “In the Arena,” covers national and international affairs. In 2004 he won the National Headliner Award for best magazine column.

    June 27, 2007 10:14″I come home to this?”The world is a bit of a mess right now and CNN gives us Glenn Beck? Please, Mr. Parsons, sir, is this any way to show respect for your–our–viewers? Can’t we, like, try a week of smart? See how that works? Just asking. Your Devoted Employee, Joe Klein

    I got a good laugh from this.

  39. haha
    Posted June 29, 2007 at 10:29 am | Permalink

    Tony - not ALL of us boomers FUBARED things; it is just the Righties among us who did. And, I might add, it was our now-gone predecessors who created the massive divide in our country that haunts politics today.

    Unfortunately, we have created such a divide all over again that will haunt politics for another generation.

  40. Tony
    Posted June 29, 2007 at 10:32 am | Permalink

    And because of people like Bush, Brownback, and the political preachers cause that divide to widen today and shut my generation off from politics.

    People like the preacher from Spirit one Church who got arrested for attacking people at the gay parade downtown… Guys like that are good role models? U think that guy ever read the bible? doubt it.

  41. Joe Williams
    Posted June 29, 2007 at 10:33 am | Permalink

    When you’re dependent, you lean towards Democrat, when you’re independent, you lean towards Republican.

  42. Ben
    Posted June 29, 2007 at 10:40 am | Permalink

    Joe! I am 100% independant. I pay taxes. I support my family. And I lean Democratic. Almost all Democrats I know are independant. Your simplistic declaration is bogus.

  43. Long Time Poster, First Time Lurker
    Posted June 29, 2007 at 10:40 am | Permalink

    In its new poll, Fox News asked what may well be the ultimate in jingoistic, rally-around-the-flag questions — and the Democrats came out on top.

    “If there is an all-out war between the United States and various radical Muslim groups worldwide, who would you rather have in charge — Democrats or Republicans?”Democrats 41%Republicans 38%Both the same(not listed) 9%Don’t know(not listed) 12%

    Granted, the result is within the poll’s three-point margin of error, so we can’t say with certainty that the Dems have a lead here. But really, this bespeaks truly terrible times for the GOP.

    The question of which party the people would trust more to lead World War III against a global coalition of Islamofascists should have been a gimme for the Republicans. But they couldn’t even manage to get a plurality.

    Pathetic.

  44. Tony
    Posted June 29, 2007 at 10:45 am | Permalink

    Joe,

    I believe im about your age, after seeing you on TV, and i have been independent for years. I have 3 kids, and yes, i lean more left… But, i dont like either party. Dems dont have the balls to stand up to the idiot republicans…

    This is why i cant wait for my generation to take over after the oldies die off…

  45. Mary Caruso
    Posted June 29, 2007 at 10:51 am | Permalink

    Fleet, it’s actually my husband’s car…if he dies, it’s yours at a bargain. I just want my garage cleaned out. It would take me a lifetime to get rid of all the junk he’s collected for the past 36 yrs!

  46. XXX
    Posted June 29, 2007 at 11:01 am | Permalink

    Mary, you sound like my wife, lol! She hasn’t had to deal with it for 36 years, tho. Still, she has difficulty understanding how there’s not room for her car in our 2 car garage. (I was here firsties!)

  47. fleettwood
    Posted June 29, 2007 at 11:09 am | Permalink

    “…if he dies, it’s yours at a bargain.”

    Sounds good, Mary. Please tell your husband, BOO!!! See if that does anything.

  48. XXX
    Posted June 29, 2007 at 11:12 am | Permalink

    Back to topic, I guess it’s easy enough for the 17 - 29 generation to TALK liberal, but does that translate into votes? I work in hi-tech, so I deal with a lot of that generation. They’re bright, intelligent, and intuitive. They’re also lazy as hell and they dress funny. They don’t seem to value much besides their cell phone, X Box, Ipod, and computer. Most that I know don’t have the gumption to go to the polls.

  49. Tony
    Posted June 29, 2007 at 11:19 am | Permalink

    XXX

    U ever thought that maybe our generation has been shut out of the political arena and been told that your opinion doesn’t count because we are just a kid that we just dont care any more? we know that the old generation will die soon and we can go fix it later?

    Who cares if it looks like we dress funny, i bet your parents thought you dressed funny and so on and so forth…

    Every generation is smart as hell, lazy has hell, etc.. etc… etc… when they are in college and single years…

    I also have ask, what else do these guys have other than their phone, xbox ipod and computer? probably not much.

  50. fleettwood
    Posted June 29, 2007 at 11:24 am | Permalink

    “Most that I know don’t have the gumption to go to the polls.”

    That’s a good thing. Keep it down, we don’t want it to change.

  51. brian
    Posted June 29, 2007 at 11:27 am | Permalink

    Tony,Don’t you think it is funny how the same people who’s parents told them their rock-n-roll was the Devil’s music and way too loud, are now telling us, 30 years later, the same thing (figuratively, mostly).

  52. Chas.
    Posted June 29, 2007 at 11:29 am | Permalink

    and even not so figurativewly…

  53. Tony
    Posted June 29, 2007 at 11:30 am | Permalink

    yea… can we say double standard???

    But whats more amusing? i already do it with my kids… I try not to, but i dont let my kids eat candy for breakfast, even though i did it every once and a while when i was a kid…

    I think to get our generation more involved, we have to be invited to be involved. We are so often told that we dont know anything because we didnt fight in a war or we are old enough, or what ever else…

    There is so much age discrimination in business, politics is so much worse…

  54. Chas.
    Posted June 29, 2007 at 11:31 am | Permalink

    emember something else, too… it wasnt until Afer the Boom Boom generation that 18 yr. olds got the vote either…

  55. brian
    Posted June 29, 2007 at 11:32 am | Permalink

    “That’s a good thing. Keep it down, we don’t want it to change.

    Posted by: fleettwood | June 29, 2007 at 11:24 AM ”

    Of course you don’t, that is why you are Conservative!

    http://www.thefreedictionary.com/conservativecon·ser·va·tive1. Favoring traditional views and values; tending to oppose change.2. Traditional or restrained in style: a conservative dark suit.3. Moderate; cautious: a conservative estimate

  56. Tony
    Posted June 29, 2007 at 11:32 am | Permalink

    I bet if we surveyed all the posters here on the blog, i bet the average age would be in the 40-50’s… I bet there are less than 10% of people here that are under 30 and of those people under 30, i bet 90% have kids.(Joe being the exception, hes being paid by someone to be here)

  57. Chas.
    Posted June 29, 2007 at 11:32 am | Permalink

    I ate candy for breakfast when I was a kid… we called it sugar crisp, and frosted flakes… we were the Tony the Tiger generation!!

  58. Tony
    Posted June 29, 2007 at 11:34 am | Permalink

    Change, Change Change, we need change!

    And yea, that’s not me… I dont wear a suit, except to my friends wedding… I refuse to allow myself to be buried in a suit. I want to be buried in Jean Shorts and a White T-Shirt.

  59. Chas.
    Posted June 29, 2007 at 11:34 am | Permalink

    You mean somebody gets PAID to be on this Blog?? Wow what a job!! Where do I sign up?? LOL

  60. Tony
    Posted June 29, 2007 at 11:35 am | Permalink

    lol, i just ate some frosted flakes… ;-)
    I’m talking about snickers bars and cotton candy for breakfast…

    Its proven that today’s frosted flakes are healthier than frosted flakes 20 years ago.

  61. littlejohn
    Posted June 29, 2007 at 11:35 am | Permalink

    Tony-

    You were invited. It’s called the Constitution of the United States

  62. Chas.
    Posted June 29, 2007 at 11:36 am | Permalink

    I’m not a conservative, but power colors, like dark blue suits, gray suits, black suits, hey, those are not reserved just for the conservatives….

  63. brian
    Posted June 29, 2007 at 11:36 am | Permalink

    Damn Tony, I must be the odd man out then.<30, no kidsOh well!

  64. Tony
    Posted June 29, 2007 at 11:36 am | Permalink

    Find some special interest group to pay you to sit around, blog and go to city council and county commission meetings to support white elephant projects…

  65. Tony
    Posted June 29, 2007 at 11:37 am | Permalink

    no, u are that exception…

  66. Chas.
    Posted June 29, 2007 at 11:37 am | Permalink

    Well, gee Tony… I think i will pick up some of those frosted flakes at the store later, when my car gets fixed…

  67. Chas.
    Posted June 29, 2007 at 11:38 am | Permalink

    Hmmm my elephants arent usually white, when I have any at all… usually pink or blue, actually!! LOL

  68. brian
    Posted June 29, 2007 at 11:38 am | Permalink

    “I’m not a conservative, but power colors, like dark blue suits, gray suits, black suits, hey, those are not reserved just for the conservatives….

    Posted by: Chas. | June 29, 2007 at 11:36 AM ”

    Some advice I was once given, which I feel is true:Dress for the job you want to have

  69. Chas.
    Posted June 29, 2007 at 11:40 am | Permalink

    Yep… OR for the one you already have brian… As for burial, I dont have much say on that one… Tradition kicks in on that…

  70. brian
    Posted June 29, 2007 at 11:41 am | Permalink

    Yeah, death mostly ends one’s ability to rebel.

  71. Chas.
    Posted June 29, 2007 at 11:42 am | Permalink

    well, somebody upthread said he wanted to be buried in jeans and T Shirt… which would be nice… but clergy are traditionally buried in full vestments, if your denomination uses them…

  72. Chas.
    Posted June 29, 2007 at 11:44 am | Permalink

    I never have figured out why we always want to bury people in full dress suits, etc., for the Big Sleep…. LOL

  73. littlejohn
    Posted June 29, 2007 at 11:48 am | Permalink

    Chas.

    It makes little sense, but funerals are for the living, not the dead. I think they just want them to look good for the funeral.

  74. brian
    Posted June 29, 2007 at 11:49 am | Permalink

    Can anyone imagine how much politics would change if Everyone in America that was able to vote did?

    I do not think either party would benefit, most likely it would be quite the opposite.I in no way believe there is a conspiracy to keep that hypothetical from happening, but I do think both major parties would recognize it would not be in their best interest.

  75. Tony
    Posted June 29, 2007 at 11:49 am | Permalink

    yea, but my family would appreciate me in jeans and a t-shirt…

    I plan on having a kegger for my dad when he dies… I just have to make sure to invite all of his AA friends… ;-)

  76. fleettwood
    Posted June 29, 2007 at 11:50 am | Permalink

    “Of course you don’t, that is why you are Conservative!”

    That has nothing to do with anything. I don’t want dumb asses going to the polls.They stay home, that’s what I don’t want to change.

  77. Chas.
    Posted June 29, 2007 at 11:51 am | Permalink

    Oh, I know all of that LJ I am sort of in the business of that sort of thing… It’s just that sometimes I think we get our priorities all mixed up in times of death/grief and loss… Sometimes my profession doesnt do so good working with folks in that process…

  78. littlejohn
    Posted June 29, 2007 at 11:52 am | Permalink

    I did go to one funeral where the guy was dressed in a western shirt, no jacket.

  79. Tony
    Posted June 29, 2007 at 11:52 am | Permalink

    hey fleet…

    Just because i don’t believe what you do doesn’t justify name calling which it seems is all you can resort to when you have no real point.

    I hate to break it to you, you are in the minority of public thought…

  80. Chas.
    Posted June 29, 2007 at 11:53 am | Permalink

    Hang in there Tony!! Kegger sounds great!! (not sure about the AA folks though - might want to have diet cokes for them) and your jeans and T Shirt… sounds like a real hoot… I actually enjoy conducting funerals like that… ones that leave their own message!!

  81. littlejohn
    Posted June 29, 2007 at 11:54 am | Permalink

    Chas.You are right, some don’t do well working with folks through that. Though not clergy, I have helped plan funerals. I am absolutely no good at it. But, I still think dress em up to look good, whatever your definition.

  82. Tony
    Posted June 29, 2007 at 11:55 am | Permalink

    hey chas? u clergy or in the funeral business???

    The best funeral i ever went to was for a friends dad who died, needless to say, we were all drunk before 11.

    Thats what HE wanted and HE wrote out exactly what HE wanted.

  83. Chas.
    Posted June 29, 2007 at 11:55 am | Permalink

    Well, see LJ… some folks get the message… That guy would have probably looked totally out of place in a suit and tie… But looked normal in a western shirt… The younger generation, and half of the boomers are making some very good statements in funerals… clothing, and the style of services as well…

  84. Chas.
    Posted June 29, 2007 at 11:56 am | Permalink

    Clergy Tony… I have worked with several funeral directors over the years as well… as a grief counselor…

  85. littlejohn
    Posted June 29, 2007 at 11:56 am | Permalink

    THe one I want to stay home are the idiots that say, (probably not truthfully) I will make up my mind in the voting booth. (sigh)

    By the way, isn’t oddly quiet here? After yesterday, could there be a boycott, or lesson, going on?

  86. Chas.
    Posted June 29, 2007 at 11:58 am | Permalink

    L J — some of the best in the business here are the guys at Cochran’s… if you ever run into a snag, and dont know what to do, go talk to those guys… I’ve known them for YEARS!!

  87. Chas.
    Posted June 29, 2007 at 11:59 am | Permalink

    Could be they are all on another thread, L J… Some boomers dont like talking about themselves… cant lie to each other about what we have all been through together LOL

  88. littlejohn
    Posted June 29, 2007 at 12:02 pm | Permalink

    Could be, and boomes hate to think that they are approaching that age where some people start dying off, but almost ALL the threads are quiet. Something is up

  89. Chas.
    Posted June 29, 2007 at 12:03 pm | Permalink

    Hmmm — well, the right wing radio talkers are all crowing about how they defeated the Senate vote yesterday… and how they won their bid to stop the House from “picking on” poor old Dick…

  90. littlejohn
    Posted June 29, 2007 at 12:03 pm | Permalink

    oh no, i figured out what happ

  91. Chas.
    Posted June 29, 2007 at 12:03 pm | Permalink

    ALSO, it’s Friday….

  92. Chas.
    Posted June 29, 2007 at 12:04 pm | Permalink

    What’s that L J??

  93. littlejohn
    Posted June 29, 2007 at 12:10 pm | Permalink

    Slight joke sorry. still, it is waaay to quiet. That thread yesterday about work and blogging. Have to wonder if there is a little something going on here. This groups is way to raucous to just stop. Of course, some say I’m a paranoid delusional

  94. littlejohn
    Posted June 29, 2007 at 12:12 pm | Permalink

    Chas? Chas? Oh my god, they got him too!

  95. Chas.
    Posted June 29, 2007 at 12:12 pm | Permalink

    Wellllll that thought had crossed my mind, since GMC doesnt seem to be around today, along with a few others… But, you might b right on the money, too…

  96. Chas.
    Posted June 29, 2007 at 12:13 pm | Permalink

    I like the one about the paranoid dyslexic… He just KNEW he was following somebody!!

  97. Chas.
    Posted June 29, 2007 at 12:14 pm | Permalink

    I gotta go for now… neighbor has some tools so i can fix my car… See ya all later!! TGIF!!

  98. Tony
    Posted June 29, 2007 at 12:17 pm | Permalink

    Chas,

    Cool, glad to have you here…

    I bet you really enjoy watching some of the religion debates… ;-)
    What do you think about the younger generation tending to accept things like Abortion, Gay rights, Embryo Research, and the rest of the hot button issues?

  99. brian
    Posted June 29, 2007 at 12:18 pm | Permalink

    “we don’t want it to change.““con·ser·va·tive …tending to oppose change.”

    Hmmm“That has nothing to do with anything. I don’t want dumb asses going to the polls.They stay home, that’s what I don’t want to change. Posted by: fleettwood | June 29, 2007 at 11:50 AM”

    I am sure it has something to do with many things.

    Who, pray tell, are the dumb asses you want to stay home?

  100. Chas.
    Posted June 29, 2007 at 12:21 pm | Permalink

    I think the younger crowd sees what is ahead, and it isnt division, it is unity, and progress… for health care, and in changing family structures, and a woman’s right to reproductive choice… Also, I think the younger crowd isnt as scared of “hell” whatever that is, as older folks… Later Tony!!

  101. Tony
    Posted June 29, 2007 at 12:41 pm | Permalink

    Thanks Chas…

    I agree with that statement wholeheartedly..

  102. Posted June 29, 2007 at 12:44 pm | Permalink

    Don’t all young people lean left until they have to starting paying real taxes, making mortgage payments, and saving for retirement?

    Let’s check their leaning again when they hit 35.

  103. fleettwood
    Posted June 29, 2007 at 12:56 pm | Permalink

    “Who, pray tell, are the dumb asses you want to stay home?”

    Anyone who will cancel my vote.

  104. The Phantom
    Posted June 29, 2007 at 1:01 pm | Permalink

    The 70’s generation was a reaction to the Republicans screwing everything up, history is just repeating itself.

  105. Posted June 29, 2007 at 1:11 pm | Permalink

    How exactly is my paying a mortgage, taxes and saving for retirement supposed to make me a conservative? There appears to be a lot of assumptions on the part of conservatives here. Fiscal responsibility isn’t exactly the forte of conservatives since they did vote for the fiscally irresponsible Reagan, Bush Sr. and Bush Jr.

  106. Rage
    Posted June 29, 2007 at 1:17 pm | Permalink

    The ‘time factor’ keeps me outta this one (and many other threads here), but I just gotta say “maturing into Republicans” really cracked me up.

    Maybe living in a action comic book is “mature” to some people, but I prefer the real world.

  107. Tony
    Posted June 29, 2007 at 1:39 pm | Permalink

    “Don’t all young people lean left until they have to starting paying real taxes, making mortgage payments, and saving for retirement?”

    Umm… Lets see here, i bought my house at 20. Ive been paying those taxes and yes, i don’t like paying them but i also see the big picture in the fact we as citizens need to pay for things our government does…

    The problem is that our irresponsible government is spending more than it takes in. How is that good for our economy to have a 10 Trillion dollar debt?

    Half that to China for that matter.

  108. Ben
    Posted June 29, 2007 at 1:48 pm | Permalink

    And I’ve been paying mortgage and taxes for decades; and setting aside money for retirement. Like you, Tony, I object to STUPID spending and fiscal irresponsibility but not ALL spending. And I have seen more of that in the last 6 years than in my preceeding entire life!

  109. Posted June 29, 2007 at 2:26 pm | Permalink

    Most people when they are in those young years will say and do stuff just so they can belong. Some people stay in that age longer than others (up until their 50s.)

    Today’s media driven youth know a lot, but they don’t usually know the history behind of the stuff they have.

    People my grandparents’ age were simply amazed at technology and seldom understood. People of my parents’ age tried to innovate the technology or in my Dad’s case, tried to fix it, even if it wasn’t broken. :)
    People my age, “50+”, utilize the latest technology and acknowledge that in two or three years it will be outdated and replaced by something better or newer. Also, people of my age category tend to be the movers of this technology from original invention or the improvement of the technology.

    The younger crowd, I’ll say under thirty years, have grown up with this technology and are eager to buy it, learn it and even go to school for it.

    The reason I point out technology as the standard for determining Political views, is that as each generation passes through, they will tie themselves to a political party which is the most expedient to their way of life.

    The Grandparents, Parents group tend to be conservative and have strong ties to the old ways. The group that I am in, tend to be a mix of conservative, moderate and somewhat liberal as they have had to adapt to these advances in technology the most.

    If one is a rush around all the time type of person, they tend to be liberal as they don’t want to hurt their brand thinking about issues. They rather call someone a bozo clown or just put a label on it rather than put any thinking into it, because of their busy lives. However, those with strongly tied conservative families will tend to vote the way of their Parents or Grandparents.

    Those brought up in chaos or unsupervised as children will tend to vote Liberal.

    Today’s youth are still forming their opinions as has been said before, the reality of mortgages, car loans and other expenses of life hasn’t really set in yet.

    There appears to be more attraction to “bling” with today’s youth than those of the past. I’ve also noticed that young people tend rack up huge debt more than those of the past.

    This accumulation of debt mostly comes from the “too easy” credit card policies and fraudulent loans that promise everything until the first payment starts.

    And out of all these positions, there are some that cling to their youthful political views they held 30 or more years ago. This is what you see among today’s Politicians on the Left Liberal side. They want to be “hip” rather than be realistic.

    That’s my view on the matter. :)

  110. WSClark
    Posted June 29, 2007 at 2:49 pm | Permalink

    The young people of today will recognize in their later years what the Republican agenda has done to America. They will see the massive National Debt, the bankrupt Social Security system and the faux moralizing that led to restrictions on abortion and gay rights.

    When that happens, the Republican Party will go the way of the Whigs and the Bull Moose Party.

    It will be over for the Republicans.

  111. Posted June 29, 2007 at 2:53 pm | Permalink

    Republican,

    “They want to be “hip” rather than be realistic.”

    The above opinion comes from someone who is blinded from reality by hatred and ideology.

    He inisists that humans are not causing global warming, because he hates the U.N..

    He posts lies about what caused the New Orleans levees failures, because he hates the Sierra Club.

    Just walk on by……

  112. fleettwood
    Posted June 29, 2007 at 2:58 pm | Permalink

    “He inisists that humans are not causing global warming,…”

    Humans are not causing global warming. I hate the UN. I think cosmo caused global warming by being boring.

  113. sam
    Posted June 29, 2007 at 2:59 pm | Permalink

    The younger generation might be tired of the phoney religious crap coming from the Republican party right now. And let’s not forget all the scandals that have been brought to light in the last 6 years of total Republican control.

    Many here on this blog have put down the younger generation but I think they are refreshing. As you might learn, if you took the time to listen to them, these younger voters do not care about social issues like gay marriage and abortion because they know that those issues have been hijacked by phoney religious nutjobs that want to keep power as long as possible.

    But the younger generation do know what it is like to not get a job that pays a living wage, let alone to find a job that has health care benefits too.

    If the Republicans don’t like the poll numbers, then maybe they need to clean out their own closets and get rid of the phoney religious nutjobs that have been trying to cram their crap down everyones’ throat. Enough is enough.

  114. Posted June 29, 2007 at 3:03 pm | Permalink

    “The above opinion comes from someone who is blinded from reality by hatred and ideology.”

    Substitute cosmos for the word “The” in the quote above and it fits him perfectly. :)

  115. littlejohn
    Posted June 29, 2007 at 3:06 pm | Permalink

    “But the younger generation do know what it is like to not get a job that pays a living wage, let alone to find a job that has health care benefits too.”

    One piece of advice, take it or leave it, pursure a career that actually pays money

    Current right out college salary for engineers withing the aviation business $50,000 +

    Current righ out college salary for teachers

    $24,000

    Sad, but true

  116. fleettwood
    Posted June 29, 2007 at 3:09 pm | Permalink

    “”But the younger generation do know what it is like to not get a job that pays a living wage,…”

    If you pop right out of the chute and expect a decent wage, dissapointment will be your closest friend.

  117. fleettwood
    Posted June 29, 2007 at 3:10 pm | Permalink

    “Current righ out college salary for teachers$24,000Sad, but true”

    The average pay for a teacher in Kansas is $1,000 per week.Not sad, but true.

  118. littlejohn
    Posted June 29, 2007 at 3:15 pm | Permalink

    I;m talking about right out of the box (school) teachers. Few of which make 50K/yr.

    Sad, and true

  119. XXX
    Posted June 29, 2007 at 3:16 pm | Permalink

    Tony,Note that I said “most”. That means not all. For those of you who think you’re so special that you need to be “invited”, stay home. You’ll learn one of the great lessons of life. Nobody cares. Life was going on before you got here; it’ll go on long after you’re gone. Want to see your impact on life? Stick your finger in a bucket of water and pull it out. How long did the impression last?

    But that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t try. And believe me, even though it might not sound like it, I’m waaaay sympathetic to what you’re saying. We boomers went through it. My generation gave us bellbottoms, hip-huggers, Nehru jackets, love beads, and long hair….oh long hair! How many of us remember the Monday morning after Sunday night’s Ed Sullivan show where they had The Beatles? My school administration was horrified when we all showed up with the front of our Flat Tops combed down on our foreheads. Can you youngsters imagine being threatened with expulsion for that?

    As for “nobody listens to us”. There’s a reason….you have to develop a track record, and that takes time. You may think you’ve got it figured out, but that doesn’t really cut it. You have to develop a history of being one who “has it figured out”.

    Each “next generation” is the “greatest generation”. My generation put a man on the moon. What will your generation do? There are so many possibilities out there just waiting for you. The question is, what will you do with all of those opportunities?

  120. Posted June 29, 2007 at 3:19 pm | Permalink

    http://blogs.kansas.com/weblog/2007/05/open_thread_28.html#comment-71041282

  121. XXX
    Posted June 29, 2007 at 3:22 pm | Permalink

    Tony,Note that I said “most”. That means not all. For those of you who think you’re so special that you need to be “invited”, stay home. You’ll learn one of the great lessons of life. Nobody cares. Life was going on before you got here; it’ll go on long after you’re gone. Want to see your impact on life? Stick your finger in a bucket of water and pull it out. How long did the impression last?

    But that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t try. And believe me, even though it might not sound like it, I’m waaaay sympathetic to what you’re saying. We boomers went through it. My generation gave us bellbottoms, hip-huggers, Nehru jackets, love beads, and long hair….oh long hair! How many of us remember the Monday morning after Sunday night’s Ed Sullivan show where they had The Beatles? My school administration was horrified when we all showed up with the front of our Flat Tops combed down on our foreheads. Can you youngsters imagine being threatened with expulsion for that?

    As for “nobody listens to us”. There’s a reason….you have to develop a track record, and that takes time. You may think you’ve got it figured out, but that doesn’t really cut it. You have to develop a history of being one who “has it figured out”.

    Each “next generation” is the “greatest generation”. My generation put a man on the moon. What will your generation do? There are so many possibilities out there just waiting for you. The question is, what will you do with all of those opportunities?

  122. littlejohn
    Posted June 29, 2007 at 3:26 pm | Permalink

    Okay, I was wrong

    Beginning Teacher Salary: $29,202Salaries for 2005-06 school year.

    *Computed from NEA Research, Estimates Database

  123. fleettwood
    Posted June 29, 2007 at 3:35 pm | Permalink

    “The average pay for a teacher in Kansas is $1,000 per week.Not sad, but true.”

    Like I said, don’t expect good money right out of the chute.

  124. littlejohn
    Posted June 29, 2007 at 3:38 pm | Permalink

    Average Teacher Salary: $41,369J For current job openings visit http://www.kansasteachingjobs.com.Certification Requirements: Kansas State Department of Education(785) 296-8012

    Salaries for 2005-06 school year.

  125. fleettwood
    Posted June 29, 2007 at 3:47 pm | Permalink

    “Average Teacher Salary: $41,369″

    Thank you for the confirmation.

  126. littlejohn
    Posted June 29, 2007 at 3:51 pm | Permalink

    While I realize the school year is not, an actual year is 52 weeks. 41K is not 1000/week, based on a real year. So, in one sense you are correct, but you are misleading. Most people will correlate 1000/week to 52K/year=-and the sad part is, you know it.

  127. leave
    Posted June 29, 2007 at 3:55 pm | Permalink

    BA 10 Gr.Step Degree Hours2 35,507 35,9923 36,360 36,8454 37,213 37,6985 38,067 38,5526 38,920 39,4057 39,773 40,2588 40,626 41,1119 41,479 41,96410 42,817

    and just because teachers do not work 52 weeks, they do many things during their off time to prepare for the next year, in addition to taking classes to keep current on their license or keep up with technology.

    stop bagging on teachers

  128. littlejohn
    Posted June 29, 2007 at 3:57 pm | Permalink

    I am not–whatever gave you the idea that i am?

  129. fleettwood
    Posted June 29, 2007 at 4:03 pm | Permalink

    “and the sad part is, you know it.”

    I don’t know about you, but I think $1,000 per week is good money. Do you disagree?

  130. littlejohn
    Posted June 29, 2007 at 4:08 pm | Permalink

    still leaving out your little deception are we. No, I do not consider $42,000/yr “good” money Not bad, but not “good”

  131. Jed
    Posted June 29, 2007 at 4:14 pm | Permalink

    I think what Publican is trying to say in his own inimitable way is that the people who own it all want to keep on owning it all, hence they are highly resistant to change, unless it gets them even more.

  132. fleettwood
    Posted June 29, 2007 at 4:15 pm | Permalink

    “still leaving out your little deception are we.”

    ???Do you expect taxpayers to pay them while they are at the pool?

  133. fleettwood
    Posted June 29, 2007 at 4:16 pm | Permalink

    “is that the people who own it all want to keep on owning it all,”

    What would you propose different?

  134. brian
    Posted June 29, 2007 at 4:17 pm | Permalink

    I would also not consider $42K after 10 years to be good money.

    After taxes, healthcare, and mandatory KPERS withholding, most people will get around 30K to take home. That is $2500 per month. I do not consider that good.

    $1000 mortgage$350 car payment$300 utilities (water, trash, phone, gas/electric, internet)$250 food$200 gas$100 car insurance$2,200 totalNot including ‘extras’ like life insurance, charity/church giving, second car, savings, household consumable goods like toilet paper, etc.

  135. brian
    Posted June 29, 2007 at 4:19 pm | Permalink

    “Do you expect taxpayers to pay them while they are at the pool?

    Posted by: fleettwood | June 29, 2007 at 04:15 PM ”

    Most teachers are paid on a 12 month basis. This is a requirement by many districts and not a teacher choice.

    They are paid, for example, $42K, to work 9.5 months. However, that money is paid to them over 12 months.

  136. littlejohn
    Posted June 29, 2007 at 4:20 pm | Permalink

    Do you expect taxpayers to pay them while they are at the pool?

    Posted by: fleettwood | June 29, 2007 at 04:15 PM

    In a word, yes. or, take your pick. You can pay them when they take work home, you can pay them for the stuff they buy for out of their own pocket because the school system is too damn cheap, you can pay them for taking classes to keep up their skills, you can pay them ….

    Get the picture?

  137. littlejohn
    Posted June 29, 2007 at 4:22 pm | Permalink

    ANd fleetwood-

    your deception was throwing out the $1000 per week number. Most people would translate that to a 52 week year. Yet you know it was not based on a 52 week year, so you quote the “weekl” amount vs the yearly–what they actually get paid.

  138. Jed
    Posted June 29, 2007 at 4:24 pm | Permalink

    Fleetie,”What would you propose different?”

    Stealing from the rich and giving to the poor is economically dynamic. Stealing from the poor and giving to the rich is inherently static.

  139. fleettwood
    Posted June 29, 2007 at 4:27 pm | Permalink

    “Stealing from the poor and giving to the rich is inherently static.”

    The poor, by definition, have nothing to steal. It would be a fool’s game.

  140. fleettwood
    Posted June 29, 2007 at 4:31 pm | Permalink

    “Get the picture?”

    I get the picture. If you want to earn $1,000 a week, you have to do something to earn it. Taking work home? Big deal. Business people do it all the time and they make $1,000 a week.Sounds a little whiney to me. Also, it’s not my fault if somebody assumes the 52 week year. They would be dopes. Teacher only work about 39 weeks a year and many wouldn’t have it any other way. You know, they could get another job for the summer, couldn’t they?

  141. brian
    Posted June 29, 2007 at 4:31 pm | Permalink

    “is that the people who own it all want to keep on owning it all,”What would you propose different?Posted by: fleettwood | June 29, 2007 at 04:16 PM

    That is why you are Conservative!http://www.thefreedictionary.com/conservativecon·ser·va·tive1. Favoring traditional views and values; tending to oppose change.2. Traditional or restrained in style: a conservative dark suit.3. Moderate; cautious: a conservative estimate

  142. fleettwood
    Posted June 29, 2007 at 4:32 pm | Permalink

    brian-Is that it? Is that all you got?

  143. brian
    Posted June 29, 2007 at 4:32 pm | Permalink

    Fleetwood, Karl Rove would be so proud of the way you spun those numbers!

  144. sgt. slaughter
    Posted June 29, 2007 at 4:33 pm | Permalink

    I am in favor of universal healthcare and a living wage but I object to parasitism.

  145. brian
    Posted June 29, 2007 at 4:33 pm | Permalink

    fleetwood, did you have anything to add to my posts at 4:17 and 4:19?

  146. littlejohn
    Posted June 29, 2007 at 4:40 pm | Permalink

    Sounds a little whiney to me. Also, it’s not my fault if somebody assumes the 52 week year. They would be dopes. Teacher only work about 39 weeks a year and many wouldn’t have it any other way. You know, they could get another job for the summer, couldn’t they?

    Posted by: fleettwood | June 29, 2007 at 04:31 PM

    Let’s see, where do I start.1) IMHO, teachers are underpaid2)42K/year is not great money3)Yes, that can get sumemr jobs, but because those jobs are only temporary, they are usually somewhere near the bottom of the pay scale.4)People assume a 52 week year because “tada” that’s how many weeks there are in a year. Why not just quote the annual salary? You know why.5) Regardless, my original point was to learn something profitable. Hopefully enjoyable as well, but at least profitable. i just objected to your deceptions, and the fact that you knew i was talking about starting wages, and you threw in “average” wages.

  147. Ben
    Posted June 29, 2007 at 4:44 pm | Permalink

    you forget required continuing education which is done in the summer.

  148. fleettwood
    Posted June 29, 2007 at 4:45 pm | Permalink

    “anything to add to my posts”

    Sure I do. Thank you for asking.You are on the wrong tangent. If you work for 40 weeks in a year at $1,000 per week, you will make $40,000. I do not understand your complaints. Would you propose we pay them to stay home during the summer? Why couldn’t they teach during the summer and continue earning money. They knew going in what the likely pay was. Are you saying that after they have gone to skool to be a teacher, knowing full well the pay scale, and when they become teachers, it’s OK to complain about the pay scale? Didn’t they know that all ready?I understand the Libs want something for nothing. When presented with the fact that teachers, on average, make $1,000 per week for every week they work, it’s still not good enough.Libs = always with the hand out

  149. fleettwood
    Posted June 29, 2007 at 4:47 pm | Permalink

    “I am in favor of universal healthcare and a living wage but I object to parasitism.”

    And, what would be the difference?

  150. littlejohn
    Posted June 29, 2007 at 4:52 pm