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Thought
Bumped
Monty's got a big Doom post for tomorrow [since posted], and while I don't have anything to add to it per se, I have a related thought.
I grew up on the East Coast. For a while, I lived in California. I was blown away to learn that people could just start bonfires on the beach, whenever they liked. Now, to be honest, I learned on this when the government was trying to crack down on the practice, but I was blown away at the idea that a private citizen could, in this country, previous to changes in this law at least, simply create a bonfire on the beach and enjoy it. Just because he wanted to. Then I started to think like this: What kind of a mind-screw did they do on me when I should be surprised that people would be allowed to do this? You see what I mean? My default mental state, thanks to the more statist area I grew up in (at least as far as bonfires) was that of course I wasn't permitted by The State to build a bonfire and enjoy it. I internalized that. My default belief, absent any external stimulus, was that of course that would be an Illegal Act, and of course I should not Break the Law. And this is where I begin to get angry: How much of each of our current mental landscapes are shaped by government such that we internalize the idea that the basic right to be left alone (presuming you're not destroying other's property) doesn't exist? How much of we come to accept such restrictions as "just normal"? If you try to open a shop, how many licenses and inspections and certificates do you need? And we all of course accept that. Of course we cannot perform a lawful trade without first securing the go-ahead of a half-dozen bureaucratic agencies. I mean, that's just normal, right? That's just how it is, right? Sixty years ago, would we have thought that was normal? Or would we have said, "I'm sorry, are you attempting to tell me I cannot pursue a lawful trade without your... permission that I do so?!" To what extent have we internalized that the "normal" situation of our life is to be unfree, to the extent that a simple pleasure, like building a bonfire on a beach and (get this!) drinking wine while watching it burn, seems like a bizarre indulgence of a malfunctioning anarchy? I'm angry that someone put into my head the reflexive thought: Of course you mustn't do that; you aren't Allowed. And once you've accepted that basic regime of requiring permission and licensing to do most everything in your life-- that makes it quite easy for the state to simply begin forbidding you to do whole categories of things altogether. After all, you've accepted you need a license to do this or that, and that license can only come from the government. And if the government then refuses-- well, it's up them, isn't it? They have the right to deny you, right? But did they? When did they accumulate this power? Just over the course of long decades, as a result of a thousand laws passed For the Public Good, and millions of decisions that it just wasn't worth fighting over.Comments
(Jump to bottom of comments)1
Legislators measure their productivity by the amount of legislation they create.
Guess what's been in all those tens of millions of pages of the Federal Registry?
Guess what's been in all those tens of millions of pages of the Federal Registry?
Posted by: aquaviva at February 16, 2012 12:59 AM (hkXlB)
2
>>>Just over the course of long decades, as a result of a thousand laws
passed For the Public Good, and millions of decisions that it just
wasn't worth fighting over.
Not if Rick "Get That Dick Out Of Your Wife's Mouth Right This Instant" Santorum has anything to say about it.
Because *then* we'll finally have a fight about it.
passed For the Public Good, and millions of decisions that it just
wasn't worth fighting over.
Not if Rick "Get That Dick Out Of Your Wife's Mouth Right This Instant" Santorum has anything to say about it.
Because *then* we'll finally have a fight about it.
Posted by: Jeff B. at February 16, 2012 01:00 AM (hIWe1)
3
And this is why people in Texas are so pissed off. We don't have a lot of this bullshit. But I think this is where public school comes in and conditions kids to be accept this insanity.
Posted by: Lana at February 16, 2012 01:00 AM (NVU7p)
4
Cali has the "Spare the Air" law whereas you cannot grill or BBQ in the summer. Insane but true, and they accept it
Posted by: I'm a pyro at February 16, 2012 01:01 AM (XiUAh)
5
And Los Angelas just outlawed footballs, and frisbees, on the beach... but only during certain times of day and times of year...
Its impossible now to keep track of what is legal, and what is not...
Its impossible now to keep track of what is legal, and what is not...
Posted by: Romeo13 at February 16, 2012 01:01 AM (lZBBB)
6
>>>Cali has the "Spare the Air" law whereas you cannot grill or BBQ in the summer. Insane but true, and they accept it
well I guess I left before they put an end to this regime of people doing what they wanted.
well I guess I left before they put an end to this regime of people doing what they wanted.
Posted by: ace at February 16, 2012 01:02 AM (nj1bB)
7
"Just over the course of long decades, as a result of a thousand laws
passed For the Public Good, and millions of decisions that it just
wasn't worth fighting over."
Yep because we've been conditioned to be nice, to avoid fighting
cause fighting is viewed a a bad thing. If a woman fights for something
well of course it means she's a biotch.
"Just over the course of long decades, as a result of a thousand laws
passed For the Public Good, and millions of decisions that it just
wasn't worth fighting over."
Yep because we've been conditioned to be nice, to avoid fighting
cause fighting is viewed a a bad thing. If a woman fights for something
well of course it means she's a biotch.
Posted by: jeremy lin fan at February 16, 2012 01:02 AM (oZfic)
8
Politicians meddle because they are allowed to.
There's been an awful lot of money spent buying those guys up there. Should Americans make the unlikely choice to do something about it, all the influence peddlers would not simply allow common sense to waltz in and take over. They know instinctively that the modern American culture in total doesn't hunger for liberty as it once did. If they have a bad election, they just have to hold out for the next one, and then move the ball forward some more.
America is in decline.
There's been an awful lot of money spent buying those guys up there. Should Americans make the unlikely choice to do something about it, all the influence peddlers would not simply allow common sense to waltz in and take over. They know instinctively that the modern American culture in total doesn't hunger for liberty as it once did. If they have a bad election, they just have to hold out for the next one, and then move the ball forward some more.
America is in decline.
Posted by: CausticConservative at February 16, 2012 01:08 AM (gT3jF)
9
Its impossible now to keep track of what is legal, and what is not...
Posted by: Romeo13 at February 16, 2012 01:01 AM (lZBBB)
"Prosecutorial discretion" is just another way of saying "rule by fiat."
Posted by: Romeo13 at February 16, 2012 01:01 AM (lZBBB)
"Prosecutorial discretion" is just another way of saying "rule by fiat."
Posted by: cthulhu at February 16, 2012 01:08 AM (kaalw)
10
I left Cali 20 years ago and haven't looked back, except of course when I visit my parents, it is sad, all of the ranches where we had high school keggers all gone now strip malls
Posted by: I'm a pyro at February 16, 2012 01:09 AM (XiUAh)
11
This!
I say to my liberal friends things like, sure, it's nice to build the senior center, but what underlying principle gives them the right to do so, to take someone's money and use it to build a senior center! They just stare at me. But they're thinking.
SF gave out 400 tickets on Christmas because people were having fires in their fireplaces! On a pollution day. Of course, the enforcement dues drove around in Priuses to catch the malefactors.
I say to my liberal friends things like, sure, it's nice to build the senior center, but what underlying principle gives them the right to do so, to take someone's money and use it to build a senior center! They just stare at me. But they're thinking.
SF gave out 400 tickets on Christmas because people were having fires in their fireplaces! On a pollution day. Of course, the enforcement dues drove around in Priuses to catch the malefactors.
Posted by: PJ at February 16, 2012 01:10 AM (DQHjw)
12
*kids to be accept this insanity.* And this is why I shouldn't type on my phone. Gah!
But seriously, I remember when my two youngest kids went to school in junior high after being home schooled their entire lives. Same kind of *what the hell* epiphany that Ace had in Cali, with regard to people being able to ask things, require things, demand things that were unreasonable. The kids came home every day with "horror stories" about adults that were...perfectly reasonable if you went to public school, but suddenly sounded ridiculous if you thought about it.
My favorite was my daughter: This guy asked me where I'm going in the lunch room? To the bathroom. Like its any of his business. What IS his problem??
It shapes your life in ways you don't realize.
But seriously, I remember when my two youngest kids went to school in junior high after being home schooled their entire lives. Same kind of *what the hell* epiphany that Ace had in Cali, with regard to people being able to ask things, require things, demand things that were unreasonable. The kids came home every day with "horror stories" about adults that were...perfectly reasonable if you went to public school, but suddenly sounded ridiculous if you thought about it.
My favorite was my daughter: This guy asked me where I'm going in the lunch room? To the bathroom. Like its any of his business. What IS his problem??
It shapes your life in ways you don't realize.
Posted by: Lana at February 16, 2012 01:10 AM (2cVan)
13
Same here, grew up in Cali, moved to Ohio at age 24 in the late 80's and first job I had, I was told to take the trash (99.9% paint booth filters) out to the corner of the property and burn it.
Wait, you want me to what! Damn.
Same here, grew up in Cali, moved to Ohio at age 24 in the late 80's and first job I had, I was told to take the trash (99.9% paint booth filters) out to the corner of the property and burn it.
Wait, you want me to what! Damn.
Posted by: Jimmah at February 16, 2012 01:11 AM (845uI)
14
flinging that Overton Window open wiiiiiiiiiiiide...
Posted by: Filly at February 16, 2012 01:13 AM (u6ZqI)
15
In California for a long time we just ignored the stupid laws, found more isolated areas to be free from interference. Unfortunately we now have so many rangers, cops, enforcers of every kind all looking to fine us to death for having fun that it's getting harder and harder to just relax and enjoy the nature pleasures of California. Fines have gotten so heavy and enforces so zealousness that your chances of having to pay 500 bucks for a little fun is very high. Unless your an illegal. Illegals don't have to pay jack in this state. Cops don't even bother giving them tickets. It's a bum deal.
Posted by: Red at February 16, 2012 01:13 AM (7us0J)
16
nature = natural
Posted by: Red at February 16, 2012 01:13 AM (7us0J)
17
13
Same here, grew up in Cali, moved to Ohio at age 24 in the late 80's and first job I had, I was told to take the trash (99.9% paint booth filters) out to the corner of the property and burn it.
Wait, you want me to what! Damn.Posted by: Jimmah at February 16, 2012 01:11 AM (845uI)
I'm pretty sure that the EPA would have that as illegal now even here in ohio. Privately burning trash, barring town ordinances, and campfires/bonfires though, that's still allowed.
13
Same here, grew up in Cali, moved to Ohio at age 24 in the late 80's and first job I had, I was told to take the trash (99.9% paint booth filters) out to the corner of the property and burn it.
Wait, you want me to what! Damn.Posted by: Jimmah at February 16, 2012 01:11 AM (845uI)
I'm pretty sure that the EPA would have that as illegal now even here in ohio. Privately burning trash, barring town ordinances, and campfires/bonfires though, that's still allowed.
Posted by: buzzion at February 16, 2012 01:14 AM (GULKT)
18
Posted by: Red at February 16, 2012 01:13 AM (7us0J)
Its because they won't pay the fines... and the FINES are now the only reason for those laws.
Fines are not Taxes... ergo they can spend them where they want... with no real oversite from the Taxpayer....
Its like the stupid Lottery (which is a Tax on those who don't know math)... somehow it became OK for the Government to put on Gambling... but not OK for a normal citizen...
Its because they won't pay the fines... and the FINES are now the only reason for those laws.
Fines are not Taxes... ergo they can spend them where they want... with no real oversite from the Taxpayer....
Its like the stupid Lottery (which is a Tax on those who don't know math)... somehow it became OK for the Government to put on Gambling... but not OK for a normal citizen...
Posted by: Romeo13 at February 16, 2012 01:15 AM (lZBBB)
19
Best thing I've read in a long time.
Posted by: Lauren at February 16, 2012 01:17 AM (/E6lO)
20
>>>Just over the course of long decades, as a result of a thousand laws passed For the Public Good, and millions of decisions that it just wasn't worth fighting over.
That paragraph is the sh*t
That paragraph is the sh*t
Posted by: MikeTheMoose at February 16, 2012 01:18 AM (GE1+K)
21
Hey Jeff B,
What about all the other clowns who are in every other room of my house besides the bedroom, in my car, in my workplace and in my yard?
And, since you aren't married yet, IIRC, the only person who keeps a wife from smoking the pole is the wife, and let me tell you, they are far more relevant to that discussion than Rick Santorum.
What about all the other clowns who are in every other room of my house besides the bedroom, in my car, in my workplace and in my yard?
And, since you aren't married yet, IIRC, the only person who keeps a wife from smoking the pole is the wife, and let me tell you, they are far more relevant to that discussion than Rick Santorum.
Posted by: A Balrog of Morgoth at February 16, 2012 01:18 AM (K0jnH)
22
Women were burning bras in the 60's. Would that be legal now considering the EPA laws?
Posted by: I'm a pyro at February 16, 2012 01:19 AM (XiUAh)
23
17
13
Same here, grew up in Cali, moved to Ohio at age 24 in the late 80's and first job I had, I was told to take the trash (99.9% paint booth filters) out to the corner of the property and burn it.
Wait, you want me to what! Damn.Posted by: Jimmah at February 16, 2012 01:11 AM (845uI)
I'm pretty sure that the EPA would have that as illegal now even here in ohio. Privately burning trash, barring town ordinances, and campfires/bonfires though, that's still allowed.
---
Yeah, the EPA did eventually show up. Combed through the place with a fine tooth comb. He must have been tipped off, because suddenly the burn barrels were gone and the dirt under them covered up with new dirt.
He ended up getting fined for having a rock outside that was painted blue.
Quite a difference from California though, fire wise.
17
13
Same here, grew up in Cali, moved to Ohio at age 24 in the late 80's and first job I had, I was told to take the trash (99.9% paint booth filters) out to the corner of the property and burn it.
Wait, you want me to what! Damn.Posted by: Jimmah at February 16, 2012 01:11 AM (845uI)
I'm pretty sure that the EPA would have that as illegal now even here in ohio. Privately burning trash, barring town ordinances, and campfires/bonfires though, that's still allowed.
---
Yeah, the EPA did eventually show up. Combed through the place with a fine tooth comb. He must have been tipped off, because suddenly the burn barrels were gone and the dirt under them covered up with new dirt.
He ended up getting fined for having a rock outside that was painted blue.
Quite a difference from California though, fire wise.
Posted by: Jimmah at February 16, 2012 01:20 AM (845uI)
24
>>>And, since you aren't married yet, IIRC, the only person who keeps a wife from smoking the pole is the wife, and let me tell you, they are far more relevant to that discussion than Rick Santorum.
Elect me and I'll god-damned pass a law to do something about that.
Elect me and I'll god-damned pass a law to do something about that.
Posted by: ace at February 16, 2012 01:21 AM (nj1bB)
25
Grew up on Conn coast. till about 20 years ago you go have a fire on the beach.
But I agree with the point you are making. It's amazing just looking at the zoning laws. I need a permit just to replace my roof tiles. In other states you don't even need a permit to build in some areas.
But I agree with the point you are making. It's amazing just looking at the zoning laws. I need a permit just to replace my roof tiles. In other states you don't even need a permit to build in some areas.
Posted by: Rocks at February 16, 2012 01:22 AM (19AIg)
26
Ace said: How much of each of our current mental landscapes are shaped by
government such that we internalize the idea that the basic right to be
left alone (presuming you're not destroying other's property) doesn't
exist?
--------
This is so very true.
Consider a point brought up by 'The Last Psychiatrist.' A 1st grader (Devastator) is a bully and slide tackles another boy in soccer. he does it again. A girl stands up for him, the bully then tries to attack her, to shut her up.
What happens? He writes:
"The girl tells her story, and the teacher responds, "just don't go near
him. I'll talk to him. Go play a different game, I don't want him
hurting you."
Later, the girl tells her mother, who calls the
school. The teacher tells the mother that they have had a lot of
trouble with that boy already, they are handling the problem, but in the
meantime it's best if the girl simply stay away from him. "She was
really brave, but we don't want her to get hurt or for him to fixate on
her, so it's best if she stays out of it...."
"...This girl stood up to the bully not to protect herself but for the sake
of others-- and rather than supporting this behavior, the school crushed
it in the interest of expediency and "safety.
If there is any
value you do want to encourage in kids, it's looking out for each
other. The girl had it; the boy who tried to snag Devastator also had
it. Those were reflexes, they didn't plan this out over morning
waffles, but whatever was going on at home and in their heads lead them
to have, and to follow, those impulses.
But the school
fostered the reverse value: "don't get involved, take care of yourself,
let the Watchers handle it. That's their job." Note that the school
didn't inadvertently teach her not to look out for others, it specifically instructed her not to look out for others. "We'll handle it."
I'm
not saying she should have fought him (and I'm not not saying it,
either), but what kind of school doesn't want a kid to stand up to a
bully, especially when they're doing it to help someone else? What kind
of crazy school wants you to back down-- and get someone else to
protect you? What kind of school indoctrinates kids that power is only
possessed by a) bad people; b) the state?
Oh. All of them."
We never had a chance...
NB: Always clever TLP's whole post at http://tinyurl.com/388mkcs
government such that we internalize the idea that the basic right to be
left alone (presuming you're not destroying other's property) doesn't
exist?
--------
This is so very true.
Consider a point brought up by 'The Last Psychiatrist.' A 1st grader (Devastator) is a bully and slide tackles another boy in soccer. he does it again. A girl stands up for him, the bully then tries to attack her, to shut her up.
What happens? He writes:
"The girl tells her story, and the teacher responds, "just don't go near
him. I'll talk to him. Go play a different game, I don't want him
hurting you."
Later, the girl tells her mother, who calls the
school. The teacher tells the mother that they have had a lot of
trouble with that boy already, they are handling the problem, but in the
meantime it's best if the girl simply stay away from him. "She was
really brave, but we don't want her to get hurt or for him to fixate on
her, so it's best if she stays out of it...."
"...This girl stood up to the bully not to protect herself but for the sake
of others-- and rather than supporting this behavior, the school crushed
it in the interest of expediency and "safety.
If there is any
value you do want to encourage in kids, it's looking out for each
other. The girl had it; the boy who tried to snag Devastator also had
it. Those were reflexes, they didn't plan this out over morning
waffles, but whatever was going on at home and in their heads lead them
to have, and to follow, those impulses.
But the school
fostered the reverse value: "don't get involved, take care of yourself,
let the Watchers handle it. That's their job." Note that the school
didn't inadvertently teach her not to look out for others, it specifically instructed her not to look out for others. "We'll handle it."
I'm
not saying she should have fought him (and I'm not not saying it,
either), but what kind of school doesn't want a kid to stand up to a
bully, especially when they're doing it to help someone else? What kind
of crazy school wants you to back down-- and get someone else to
protect you? What kind of school indoctrinates kids that power is only
possessed by a) bad people; b) the state?
Oh. All of them."
We never had a chance...
NB: Always clever TLP's whole post at http://tinyurl.com/388mkcs
Posted by: Uriah Heep at February 16, 2012 01:22 AM (JdSQO)
27
Hell a ranger tasered a guy walking a dog off his leash the other day in an area that's been aside for off the leash dog walking for 20 years in northern cali. They just recently changed it to requiring dogs on a leash when the land was transfered to the feds. The dog owner refused to take the ticket so the ranger tasered him into submission when he tried to walk away.
Posted by: Red at February 16, 2012 01:22 AM (7us0J)
28
4
Cali has the "Spare the Air" law whereas you cannot grill or BBQ in the summer. Insane but true, and they accept it
Posted by: I'm a pyro at February 16, 2012 01:01 AM (XiUAh)
Not true. Spare the air does ban wood fires, but grilling is not affected. They're still a bunch of Nazis, but they haven't got those kind of balls. At least not yet.
Cali has the "Spare the Air" law whereas you cannot grill or BBQ in the summer. Insane but true, and they accept it
Posted by: I'm a pyro at February 16, 2012 01:01 AM (XiUAh)
Not true. Spare the air does ban wood fires, but grilling is not affected. They're still a bunch of Nazis, but they haven't got those kind of balls. At least not yet.
Posted by: Anon Y. Mous at February 16, 2012 01:23 AM (IN7k+)
29
Mark Steyn had a post up on his blog about a woman in San Francisco who has been trying for 2 years to open up an ice cream shop.
Read what she's been dealing with to believe it:
http://tinyurl.com/77f8hmx
That's right. $11,000 just to turn on the water. You read that correctly.
Read what she's been dealing with to believe it:
http://tinyurl.com/77f8hmx
That's right. $11,000 just to turn on the water. You read that correctly.
Posted by: manofaiki at February 16, 2012 01:24 AM (iGKkt)
30
They still burn pallets on the entire waterfront of Fiesta Island in San Diego every weekend?
Posted by: Jimmah at February 16, 2012 01:25 AM (845uI)
31
Oh, wow. I thought we were going to talk about why we accepted or ignored government overreach instead of Rick Santorum and his puritanical views. My bad. Let me know when you start that Mitt Romney thread regarding Mormons and their very interesting beliefs regarding the black man and baptism for the dead relatives who just wouldn't commit while they were alive. Should be awesome in the general. Which I guess? Is when you'll be talking about why it doesn't matter.
Posted by: Lana at February 16, 2012 01:26 AM (2cVan)
32
@31 Are you drunk? WTF are you talking about?
Posted by: A Balrog of Morgoth at February 16, 2012 01:27 AM (K0jnH)
33
Anon, how do they enforce the "Spare the Air"laws?
Posted by: I'm a pyro at February 16, 2012 01:29 AM (XiUAh)
34
At least in NY I bet a farmer can raise chickens in a normal sized coop.
Posted by: dudeinsantacruz at February 16, 2012 01:33 AM (4LfPM)
35
@29, YES!! Building codes, no matter the state or city are or are becoming absurd. I noticed this at first when I went to work 5 years ago for a builder, but I've maintained a special interest since. These things are small business killers, cost multipliers and yet the average person doesn't even have that on their radar screen. Typical stealth overreach that strangles the economy and job creation.
Posted by: Lana at February 16, 2012 01:34 AM (2cVan)
36
Does anyone remember Richard Dreyfus' line in jaws? "They eat and make little sharks. It's WHAT THE DO!" Kinda reminds you of government. It grows, takes your moneyand wants more control. IT'S WHAT IT DOES!
Posted by: Ohoh Dan at February 16, 2012 01:35 AM (JKNDp)
37
>>>Anon, how do they enforce the "Spare the Air"laws
Cops see smoke expect a knock on the door. Yes they can F*ing enter at that point the smoke gives them probable cause.
Cops see smoke expect a knock on the door. Yes they can F*ing enter at that point the smoke gives them probable cause.
Posted by: MikeTheMoose at February 16, 2012 01:36 AM (GE1+K)
38
I posted back on Christmas day how we had a "spare the air" day here in the Bay Area, meaning no yule logs... on friggin' CHRISTMAS DAY.
Posted by: Average guy at February 16, 2012 01:37 AM (JGXZ3)
39
@pyro. Damned if I know. I had to google spare the air to find out what it was. But, if you think about it, it has to mostly be enforced courtesy of informants. How else would they find out that you are running a wood fireplace in your home on the "spare the air" days? I suppose they could have helicopters in the air with infrared looking for excessive particulate matter, but that seems a little far-fetched to me.
Although the thought of a fleet of helicopters burning a shitload of fuel in an attempt to find out if there are any citizens engaged in an unauthorized form of air pollution has a certain perverse symmetry to it.
Although the thought of a fleet of helicopters burning a shitload of fuel in an attempt to find out if there are any citizens engaged in an unauthorized form of air pollution has a certain perverse symmetry to it.
Posted by: Anon Y. Mous at February 16, 2012 01:38 AM (IN7k+)
40
@35
I only know a bit about ADA stuff because we're trying to bring a building up to code (so we don't just get sued), and its crazy what we would have do. Even things which were made to be ada 10 years ago are completely disallowed now. Its bullshit.
@35
I only know a bit about ADA stuff because we're trying to bring a building up to code (so we don't just get sued), and its crazy what we would have do. Even things which were made to be ada 10 years ago are completely disallowed now. Its bullshit.
Posted by: dudeinsantacruz at February 16, 2012 01:39 AM (4LfPM)
41
Anon, Wow! Are No Cal or So Cal
Posted by: I'm a pyro at February 16, 2012 01:39 AM (XiUAh)
42
The incremental theft of freedom is the left's calling card.
Posted by: Soap MacTavish at February 16, 2012 01:40 AM (vbh31)
43
Ace,
Come up to WA, we will build a big fire on the beach, cook the crabs we just cought and drink beer I made in the basement.
They have voted a bunch of libs here but they don't fuck with our freedom too much unless you live in Seattle. Our republican secretary of state is 9 points up in the polls for Gov. I hope Santorum doesn't fuck that up.
Come up to WA, we will build a big fire on the beach, cook the crabs we just cought and drink beer I made in the basement.
They have voted a bunch of libs here but they don't fuck with our freedom too much unless you live in Seattle. Our republican secretary of state is 9 points up in the polls for Gov. I hope Santorum doesn't fuck that up.
Posted by: robtr at February 16, 2012 01:40 AM (MtwBb)
44
There are states where red light cameras, and fire bans, and regulatory excesses of this type are culturally unacceptable. Let's just call them "red states."
People from states where it is uncommon to have a government regulator or nosy neighbor looking over their shoulder probably still have some sense of individual rights that someone from Massachusetts or California could not have from their experiences.
People from states where it is uncommon to have a government regulator or nosy neighbor looking over their shoulder probably still have some sense of individual rights that someone from Massachusetts or California could not have from their experiences.
Posted by: CausticConservative at February 16, 2012 01:42 AM (gT3jF)
45
I only know a bit about ADA stuff because we're trying to bring a building up to code (so we don't just get sued), and its crazy what we would have do. Even things which were made to be ada 10 years ago are completely disallowed now. Its bullshit.
Posted by: dudeinsantacruz at February 16, 2012 01:39 AM (4LfPM)
I build for a living, ADA is a tough bunch of laws. Thank George HW Bush.
Posted by: dudeinsantacruz at February 16, 2012 01:39 AM (4LfPM)
I build for a living, ADA is a tough bunch of laws. Thank George HW Bush.
Posted by: robtr at February 16, 2012 01:43 AM (MtwBb)
46
@32 Um, no. I noticed Jeff B and ace's comments as you did yourself.
Posted by: Lana at February 16, 2012 01:44 AM (2cVan)
47
The HW is for huge whackjob
Posted by: dudeinsantacruz at February 16, 2012 01:44 AM (4LfPM)
48
All kidding aside, this is one of the most perceptive observations I've seen on this blog. It's why we come here.
Posted by: poe at February 16, 2012 01:45 AM (UjZou)
Posted by: Blacque Jacques Shellacque at February 16, 2012 01:45 AM (TsNVA)
50
I'm with you on this one Ace although growing up in a small town it came to me as kind of opposite when I went to college "what do you mean we can't just have a barbecue in the park?, its public property" "not in the city son, you need a permit and pay a fee"
But one just recently hit me, that most won't think is a big deal, why do I need a hunting license to carry a rifle through the forest? I had never ever questioned it growing up, you get a license you can walk in the forest with a gun. But I'm not hunting right now, why the hell do I need a license?
ok rant off.
I'm with you on this one Ace although growing up in a small town it came to me as kind of opposite when I went to college "what do you mean we can't just have a barbecue in the park?, its public property" "not in the city son, you need a permit and pay a fee"
But one just recently hit me, that most won't think is a big deal, why do I need a hunting license to carry a rifle through the forest? I had never ever questioned it growing up, you get a license you can walk in the forest with a gun. But I'm not hunting right now, why the hell do I need a license?
ok rant off.
Posted by: Guy Mohawk at February 16, 2012 01:45 AM (o8Ahx)
51
ADA gone amock: http://www.ohcroo.com/galehead_trek.cfm
Posted by: fluffy at February 16, 2012 01:46 AM (Lpgtj)
52
Damn Straight Ace! I have thought the same thing, nice to see someone articulate it so well.
Right now I find myself in Zimbabwe, and in someways they are free'er to do a number of things here. For example they are free to stand in the back of a truck as it goes down the road. Just one of many...
Right now I find myself in Zimbabwe, and in someways they are free'er to do a number of things here. For example they are free to stand in the back of a truck as it goes down the road. Just one of many...
Posted by: Mjim at February 16, 2012 01:50 AM (UP39r)
53
@44 I can only go along with let's call them "red states" so far. The red states are starting to slide into this regulatory mindset much faster than I would have thought possible and without even being aware. If your business doesn't encounter it, your kid isn't in public school and your personal life doesn't bump into these encroachments, it can be quite easy to be blissfully unaware until it is too late.
Posted by: Lana at February 16, 2012 01:51 AM (2cVan)
54
51
There is a hut in the White Mountain Nat'l Forest in NH that has a wheel chair ramp. You have to walk 4 1/2 miles, gaining 2200 feet of elevation to reach it.
There is a hut in the White Mountain Nat'l Forest in NH that has a wheel chair ramp. You have to walk 4 1/2 miles, gaining 2200 feet of elevation to reach it.
Posted by: fluffy at February 16, 2012 01:51 AM (Lpgtj)
55
Ace, did you get all the forms submitted and fee paid per the correct schedule for blog operations by yourself or did you hire a lawyer to do it for you?
Posted by: Jean at February 16, 2012 01:52 AM (WkuV6)
56
California went to shit after the 80's tech boom, granted that it was already a shit hole, the escalation was stunning. How else could Barbara Boxer, a theater major get into government, rich hubby, yeah
Posted by: I'm a pyro at February 16, 2012 01:52 AM (XiUAh)
57
good post ace.
Posted by: Clubber Lang at February 16, 2012 01:53 AM (BXqkH)
58
But one just recently hit me, that most won't think is a big deal, why do I need a hunting license to carry a rifle through the forest? I had never ever questioned it growing up, you get a license you can walk in the forest with a gun. But I'm not hunting right now, why the hell do I need a license?ok rant off.
Posted by: Guy Mohawk at February 16, 2012 01:45 AM (o8Ahx)
You don't have to here unless you killed something but you can carry a gun without a license. We have pretty open gun laws here.
Posted by: Guy Mohawk at February 16, 2012 01:45 AM (o8Ahx)
You don't have to here unless you killed something but you can carry a gun without a license. We have pretty open gun laws here.
Posted by: robtr at February 16, 2012 01:56 AM (MtwBb)
59
oh thats the other one, freaking seat belt laws. yes, i wear em, have the kids wear em either way, but WTF, the govt should not fucking care about this, it is only to give a ticket and get a fee. Ridiculous.
oh thats the other one, freaking seat belt laws. yes, i wear em, have the kids wear em either way, but WTF, the govt should not fucking care about this, it is only to give a ticket and get a fee. Ridiculous.
Posted by: Guy Mohawk at February 16, 2012 01:59 AM (o8Ahx)
60
And that's why, sometimes, I want out.
Posted by: Uniball at February 16, 2012 02:00 AM (OzdLu)
61
@40@45 Yes ADA is ridiculous, frankly so is OSHA, but so are local building codes and standards that stifle small business and big business for that matter. We make the mistake, sometimes, of worrying about federal overreach while not paying attention to local and state overreach which is just as detrimental to business creation. At least I do sometimes.
I realize that it's much more difficult right now in CA than TX, but it's happening everywhere and it's a killing us by large and small degrees. And the creep continues because we don't know it's happening until we bump up against it and wonder, what the hell?
I realize that it's much more difficult right now in CA than TX, but it's happening everywhere and it's a killing us by large and small degrees. And the creep continues because we don't know it's happening until we bump up against it and wonder, what the hell?
Posted by: Lana at February 16, 2012 02:00 AM (2cVan)
Posted by: DaveA at February 16, 2012 02:02 AM (qazvp)
63
John Stossel does a lot of stuff like this on his show, I have to admit he has had influence and moved me to be more libertarian, although I am not as far down the path as he is.
John Stossel does a lot of stuff like this on his show, I have to admit he has had influence and moved me to be more libertarian, although I am not as far down the path as he is.
Posted by: Guy Mohawk at February 16, 2012 02:05 AM (o8Ahx)
64
Hunting and fishing license? Yes, and even on your own land a game warden can drive up and check your papers to find if you've broken any hunting or fishing laws. On. Your. Own. Land. In. Texas. Would love to have a beer with Franklin or Jefferson and tell them about that, since they were so upset about that tyrant King George.
Posted by: Lana at February 16, 2012 02:06 AM (2cVan)
65
The #1 industry in the U.S. is rentseeking.
At least that's the way it appears, what with all these stupid-ass laws and regulations hedging one about to the extent one needs to hire an adviser just to be in compliance when one does nearly anything.
Why, it almost seems like there is a built-in constituency for making the regulatory burden ever more heavy.
At least that's the way it appears, what with all these stupid-ass laws and regulations hedging one about to the extent one needs to hire an adviser just to be in compliance when one does nearly anything.
Why, it almost seems like there is a built-in constituency for making the regulatory burden ever more heavy.
Posted by: A Balrog of Morgoth at February 16, 2012 02:08 AM (K0jnH)
66
Ace,
I have had this same kind of epiphany lately -- and more and more frequently.
I wonder if other people are also having these epiphanies.
I would like to think so, and that perhaps we're moving toward a "critical mass" or tipping point, similar to the "preference cascade" phenomenon that you've often described.
I have had this same kind of epiphany lately -- and more and more frequently.
I wonder if other people are also having these epiphanies.
I would like to think so, and that perhaps we're moving toward a "critical mass" or tipping point, similar to the "preference cascade" phenomenon that you've often described.
Posted by: Kathy from Kansas at February 16, 2012 02:08 AM (F0o5k)
67
And don't get me started on the Diversity Bullies..well, that's CDR Salamander's beat anyhow.
Posted by: A Balrog of Morgoth at February 16, 2012 02:09 AM (K0jnH)
68
When I was a tween we went to Chicago from Pittsburgh sub-suburb. Couldn't believe cousins that jay-walking was an actual "rule" not to be broken. We actually played kill the pedestrian back on the hill. 1/2 the bunch riding bike around in circles other 1/2 running back and forth across it.
Posted by: DaveA at February 16, 2012 02:10 AM (qazvp)
69
When did they accumulate this power?
When people who cared enough to write and enforce each little regulation sought and won positions of political power... and everyone else slept soundly or focussed on their hobbies.
Same way a former community organizer is poised to win a second presidential term, while a more conservative alternative is being dragged down and savaged by his own party for not being ideologically pure enough.
Sorry to beat this dead and decaying horse on an ostensibly political blog, but after four years of hearing incessant whining about the "Commie-in-Chief", only to see an election thrown away over a hissy fit... well... I guess people really do get the government they deserve.
Anyway, back to the delightful banter. Good thing it isn;t an election year. Sure hope Andrew Bretibart reads this!!! Eleventy!
Fuck, people...
When people who cared enough to write and enforce each little regulation sought and won positions of political power... and everyone else slept soundly or focussed on their hobbies.
Same way a former community organizer is poised to win a second presidential term, while a more conservative alternative is being dragged down and savaged by his own party for not being ideologically pure enough.
Sorry to beat this dead and decaying horse on an ostensibly political blog, but after four years of hearing incessant whining about the "Commie-in-Chief", only to see an election thrown away over a hissy fit... well... I guess people really do get the government they deserve.
Anyway, back to the delightful banter. Good thing it isn;t an election year. Sure hope Andrew Bretibart reads this!!! Eleventy!
Fuck, people...
Posted by: BC at February 16, 2012 02:11 AM (xhEok)
70
Grew up in a very small rural town, one of my grandfathers had a small farm, every fall people would burn leaves.. now you need to buy a permit to do it. The countryside is very lush, if you leave a yard for 10 years and come back you will have a forest sprouting up. I just think the people that make these laws and 90% of the hardcore environmental crowd live in cities and just don't understand how everything we do is tiny even when put together compared to the durability and the regenerative abilities of the planet.
Posted by: Drew in MO at February 16, 2012 02:11 AM (BDGkt)
71
Why, it almost seems like there is a built-in constituency for making the regulatory burden ever more heavy.
Posted by: A Balrog of Morgoth at February 16, 2012 02:08 AM (K0jnH)
Heh, walk into the building department in Kirkland or Seattle and count heads there. There are hundreds of thousand people accross theUS that are employed to make sure you follow that latest rule.
Posted by: A Balrog of Morgoth at February 16, 2012 02:08 AM (K0jnH)
Heh, walk into the building department in Kirkland or Seattle and count heads there. There are hundreds of thousand people accross theUS that are employed to make sure you follow that latest rule.
Posted by: robtr at February 16, 2012 02:12 AM (MtwBb)
Posted by: Ricky Saintorum at February 16, 2012 02:14 AM (o8Ahx)
73
They've already moved on from forbidding things. They're now at forcing us to do things. C'monAce,they're making the Catholic Churchpay for knocked-up skanks. Pay attention.
They've already moved on from forbidding things. They're now at forcing us to do things. C'monAce,they're making the Catholic Churchpay for knocked-up skanks. Pay attention.
Posted by: Javelina Bomb at February 16, 2012 02:15 AM (jgFS4)
74
Anyway, back to the delightful banter. Good thing it isn;t an election year. Sure hope Andrew Bretibart reads this!!! Eleventy!Fuck, people...
Posted by: BC at February 16, 2012 02:11 AM (xhEok)
Ha, you go that right but we will lose this year with honor though. Kinda like Custer or something.
Posted by: BC at February 16, 2012 02:11 AM (xhEok)
Ha, you go that right but we will lose this year with honor though. Kinda like Custer or something.
Posted by: robtr at February 16, 2012 02:17 AM (MtwBb)
75
I have heard a lot of people here say exactly the following, but when this guy thinks it, its not just conservatives anymore:
>>>
Bill O’Reilly told his audience tonight that if Barack Obama wins reelection in November,
“You’re not going to recognize this country in four years.”
Needless to say, Bill is not a fan of Obama’s big government policies that have bankrupted the nation.<<<<<<<<
>>>
Bill O’Reilly told his audience tonight that if Barack Obama wins reelection in November,
“You’re not going to recognize this country in four years.”
Needless to say, Bill is not a fan of Obama’s big government policies that have bankrupted the nation.<<<<<<<<
Posted by: Guy Mohawk at February 16, 2012 02:18 AM (o8Ahx)
76
Anybody watching American Guns on discovery? They built a shotgun for the guy that owns Shotgun Willy's in Denver. I used to live in Denver. Shotgun Willy's is the biggest strip club in Denver.
Posted by: robtr at February 16, 2012 02:21 AM (MtwBb)
77
Needless to say, Bill is not a fan of Obama’s big government policies that have bankrupted the nation.<<<<<<<<
Posted by: Guy Mohawk at February 16, 2012 02:18 AM (o8Ahx)
I saw that, he can see we are losing this thing too.
Posted by: Guy Mohawk at February 16, 2012 02:18 AM (o8Ahx)
I saw that, he can see we are losing this thing too.
Posted by: robtr at February 16, 2012 02:23 AM (MtwBb)
78
There's a pilot project here in Germany, in the city of Hamburg to be exact, forbidding the consumption of alcohol on buses and subways! The federal government in Berlin is monitoring the situation but has shied away from any open endorsement. Wow, pretty radical government intervention. They are even talking about imposing a maximum speed limit on the autobahns! GASP!!
Posted by: dave at February 16, 2012 02:25 AM (c4KPz)
79
Off this topic, but to the Santorum popularity growth ... http://bit.ly/ykBoDN . Yeah, the dems could be pushing this, and making the poll numbers crazy. Wouldn't be a shock at all. The master of idiocracy himself has this to say http://bit.ly/xiGHWk .
Now think about it. How or why would a non-Romney with little to no money, no real viable chance against their man, suddenly surge to the top, for no real reason, unless the numbers were being gamed by them, for the exact purpose they indicate they want?
If they get there way, we have 4 more years of ass-clown-dom for us.
Santorum isn't rising because he has appeal to us. He is rising because the nutroots want to make trouble. And if Santorum should win, we are screwed. If Santorum gets any power out of this, we are screwed.
Remember, lefties will use our rules against us to corrupt our processes. This is what they do. They respect no one and nothing.
/sigh
Now think about it. How or why would a non-Romney with little to no money, no real viable chance against their man, suddenly surge to the top, for no real reason, unless the numbers were being gamed by them, for the exact purpose they indicate they want?
If they get there way, we have 4 more years of ass-clown-dom for us.
Santorum isn't rising because he has appeal to us. He is rising because the nutroots want to make trouble. And if Santorum should win, we are screwed. If Santorum gets any power out of this, we are screwed.
Remember, lefties will use our rules against us to corrupt our processes. This is what they do. They respect no one and nothing.
/sigh
Posted by: John Galt at February 16, 2012 02:27 AM (e9rXK)
80
Tocqueville is nodding from heaven and saying, "see, that's what I was talking about with that soft despotism stuff."
It's like a teenager under helicopter parents saying to himself, "wait, I CAN do that?"
It's like a teenager under helicopter parents saying to himself, "wait, I CAN do that?"
Posted by: Fabius at February 16, 2012 02:28 AM (Uqu/g)
81
Ace, you attended a bonfire on the beach and drank wine? I've already reported you to the Truth Team. No need to thank me... I know you will, tearfully, once they're done with you.
Posted by: theCork at February 16, 2012 02:29 AM (MsYz6)
82
This is a great column. One of the better I have read in a while.
Posted by: Sammy316 at February 16, 2012 02:30 AM (yuOjJ)
83
I think some 10,000 new state laws went into effect around the US on January 1.
It is politicians engaging in "busy work" to justify their paychecks and each law passed chips away out our rights. We don't NEED any new laws, we have too damned many of them as it is.
It is politicians engaging in "busy work" to justify their paychecks and each law passed chips away out our rights. We don't NEED any new laws, we have too damned many of them as it is.
Posted by: crosspatch at February 16, 2012 02:35 AM (ZbLJZ)
84
Ace, glad to see you are recovering your sense of liberty. Conditioning is a powerful force with all people. We have to counter it daily to keep our perspective.
Not a day goes by that I don't see the creeping totalitarianism drawing more power. I ask older people what things were like when they were young and the world they describe seems like an individualists paradise. They can articulate the loss of freedom but they all seems to accept it well enough.
But I can't accept it. It's more stressful to resist, but, well, resist we much.
I haven't mentioned this here yet but my wife and I are in the process of immigrating to Australia. We don't know yet if we can get out but we are really hoping we have the option. I want to be as far away as possible, in the middle of nowhere and out of reach of the enforcers when the money runs out.
We have arable land with a little house on it in SD as a backup. But I often think that wont be far enough away.
Not a day goes by that I don't see the creeping totalitarianism drawing more power. I ask older people what things were like when they were young and the world they describe seems like an individualists paradise. They can articulate the loss of freedom but they all seems to accept it well enough.
But I can't accept it. It's more stressful to resist, but, well, resist we much.
I haven't mentioned this here yet but my wife and I are in the process of immigrating to Australia. We don't know yet if we can get out but we are really hoping we have the option. I want to be as far away as possible, in the middle of nowhere and out of reach of the enforcers when the money runs out.
We have arable land with a little house on it in SD as a backup. But I often think that wont be far enough away.
Posted by: runninrebel at February 16, 2012 02:39 AM (N/1Dm)
85
This is the "default Liberal" you wrote about Ace, and now we look reflexively over our shoulders. Is it allowed? Always, is it allowed? Where did that foreclosure of freedom begin? And where will it end?
Posted by: LexisTexas at February 16, 2012 02:41 AM (Cn396)
86
this is what happens when you decide that there is no hill worth dieing on.
so all of you guys that think republicans should pick their battles while democrats fight everything, remember this post when you are wondering why we have nothing.
so all of you guys that think republicans should pick their battles while democrats fight everything, remember this post when you are wondering why we have nothing.
Posted by: Lifeisdeath at February 16, 2012 02:43 AM (90C1z)
87
If's for the Greater Good.
Posted by: Neighbourhood Watch Alliance at February 16, 2012 02:46 AM (kTTiP)
88
@84 Is it really any better in Australia? Are not a bunch of numbnut Greens part of the governing coalition there?
Not a day goes by that I don't see the creeping totalitarianism drawing
more power. I ask older people what things were like when they were
young and the world they describe seems like an individualists paradise.
They can articulate the loss of freedom but they all seems to accept it
well enough.
Not to get all George Orwell or anything, but the scene where the protagonist of 1984 questions the old prole in the pub sure comes to mind.
Not a day goes by that I don't see the creeping totalitarianism drawing
more power. I ask older people what things were like when they were
young and the world they describe seems like an individualists paradise.
They can articulate the loss of freedom but they all seems to accept it
well enough.
Not to get all George Orwell or anything, but the scene where the protagonist of 1984 questions the old prole in the pub sure comes to mind.
Posted by: A Balrog of Morgoth at February 16, 2012 02:46 AM (K0jnH)
89
@86 Who are these "you guys" to whom you refer?
Posted by: A Balrog of Morgoth at February 16, 2012 02:47 AM (K0jnH)
90
Where did that foreclosure of freedom begin? And where will it end?
Posted by: LexisTexas at February 16, 2012 02:41 AM (Cn396)
It began in the 60's with the civil rights act which I and most people agree with. The government found they could make you do things you didn't want to do with your own property though without an armed insurrection. Then Nixon took it a step further establishing the EPA and it's snowballed from there while we sat and watched.
Posted by: LexisTexas at February 16, 2012 02:41 AM (Cn396)
It began in the 60's with the civil rights act which I and most people agree with. The government found they could make you do things you didn't want to do with your own property though without an armed insurrection. Then Nixon took it a step further establishing the EPA and it's snowballed from there while we sat and watched.
Posted by: robtr at February 16, 2012 02:51 AM (MtwBb)
91
One of my complaints about the agitation for immediately cutting all govt programs and forcing those utilizing them to find gainful employment is that it blithely ignores the fact that thousands of other laws and programs make seeking one's own fortune without government aid almost impossible anymore without aid from somewhere.
The entire system would have to change. And at one stroke. which is why I pretty much ignore the demogoguing by Reps and their fans on how they're going to get the country back on track with just a few moves.
Hows that going to happen? Unless we have the Congress held by the Reps and a Rep President, hows that going to happen? And even if those conditions occurred, does anyone really believe that the entire Congress would go along with that program?
Plus we HAD that setup for 8 years and they DID NOTHING. In fact they made things worse which is why they got booted out in '06.
So don't talk to me about how Romney or Santorum or whoever will do this or that to revert the country to some past freer condition. They can't do shit and they know it. They just want to be in charge for awhile and their adherents want to feel like winners for awhile and thwart the Dems for awhile.
This is what a slippery slope is like folks and we're on it up to our ears. There's NO WAY BACK (besides violent revolution or a benevolent dictatorship) and anyone telling you different is selling snake oil.
The entire system would have to change. And at one stroke. which is why I pretty much ignore the demogoguing by Reps and their fans on how they're going to get the country back on track with just a few moves.
Hows that going to happen? Unless we have the Congress held by the Reps and a Rep President, hows that going to happen? And even if those conditions occurred, does anyone really believe that the entire Congress would go along with that program?
Plus we HAD that setup for 8 years and they DID NOTHING. In fact they made things worse which is why they got booted out in '06.
So don't talk to me about how Romney or Santorum or whoever will do this or that to revert the country to some past freer condition. They can't do shit and they know it. They just want to be in charge for awhile and their adherents want to feel like winners for awhile and thwart the Dems for awhile.
This is what a slippery slope is like folks and we're on it up to our ears. There's NO WAY BACK (besides violent revolution or a benevolent dictatorship) and anyone telling you different is selling snake oil.
Posted by: Opening for Bubonic Plague at February 16, 2012 02:51 AM (CP+yl)
92
Sure is Ron Paul in here
Posted by: l-train at February 16, 2012 02:56 AM (dHqot)
93
Things really began to get worse when government was allowed to withhold taxes. This along with payroll taxes removed their incentive to hold down spending and people's incentive to complain about their tax bill.
Also the income tax was never supposed to be on all income. It was supposed to be levied on income OVER THE COST OF LIVING.
That's why there's exemptions. Those exemptions haven't kept up with the cost of living so deductions came to the fore.
The lobbying for and granting of deductions became big business in Congress and the Members lapped it up.
Why does anyone suppose that anyone becoming a Congressman shortly becomes a millionaire? This is proven that most Congressmen become millionaires AFTER they get to Congress.
I wonder why that is?
Also the income tax was never supposed to be on all income. It was supposed to be levied on income OVER THE COST OF LIVING.
That's why there's exemptions. Those exemptions haven't kept up with the cost of living so deductions came to the fore.
The lobbying for and granting of deductions became big business in Congress and the Members lapped it up.
Why does anyone suppose that anyone becoming a Congressman shortly becomes a millionaire? This is proven that most Congressmen become millionaires AFTER they get to Congress.
I wonder why that is?
Posted by: Opening for the Bubonic Plague tour is SMOD at February 16, 2012 02:59 AM (CP+yl)
94
I went to grad school in England. I threw a party for the 4th of July (heh!) and about a six pack into the night grabbed a shovel, dug a pit, grabbed some tree limbs out of the woods and lit a bonfire. Brits thought I'd gone mad. We even got visited by some local authorities who didn't quite know what to do. It never even occurred to me that it was illegal. Where I'm from it is not considered a party until something is burning. Still we had a drunkenly good time. 12 years later whenever I run into one of my old classmates we still laugh about it.
Posted by: Mr Fever Head at February 16, 2012 02:59 AM (SzAZ7)
95
Australia is only better because the government has shorter arms and the people to land ratio is such that one can live in relative freedom. Although, it's still just an illusion of freedom.
Fundementally the trend toward statism is the same throughout the western world. There really is nowhere to escape.
Fundementally the trend toward statism is the same throughout the western world. There really is nowhere to escape.
Posted by: runninrebel at February 16, 2012 03:00 AM (N/1Dm)
96
No, Australia is fast becoming another progressive liberal nanny state.
Run by busy bodies and weak sisters who desire nothing more than to be able to tell everyone else what they can and cannot do.
Run by busy bodies and weak sisters who desire nothing more than to be able to tell everyone else what they can and cannot do.
Posted by: Opening for the Bubonic Plague tour is SMOD at February 16, 2012 03:10 AM (CP+yl)
97
"They have voted a bunch of libs here but they don't fuck with our
freedom too much unless you live in Seattle. Our republican secretary of
state is 9 points up in the polls for Gov. I hope Santorum doesn't fuck
that up."
Sure you don't mean Attorney General? I thought Sam Reed was hanging it up already.
freedom too much unless you live in Seattle. Our republican secretary of
state is 9 points up in the polls for Gov. I hope Santorum doesn't fuck
that up."
Sure you don't mean Attorney General? I thought Sam Reed was hanging it up already.
Posted by: T.J. at February 16, 2012 03:13 AM (j3kxS)
98
Ace: 20 palin posts a day, and you will be fine. Take a lesson from Hot Gase.
Posted by: cvb at February 16, 2012 03:16 AM (HRFxR)
99
Cali has the "Spare the Air" law whereas you cannot grill or BBQ in the summer. Insane but true, and they accept it
Posted by: I'm a pyro
Um, you don't live in CA, do you?
Posted by: I'm a pyro
Um, you don't live in CA, do you?
Posted by: weft cut-loop at February 16, 2012 03:17 AM (+Jr2Z)
100
This is what a slippery slope is like folks and we're on it up to our ears. There's NO WAY BACK (besides violent revolution or a benevolent dictatorship) and anyone telling you different is selling snake oil.
End withholding, let people see the cost of government -- then vote how they value it
End withholding, let people see the cost of government -- then vote how they value it
Posted by: Jean at February 16, 2012 03:17 AM (WkuV6)
101
Then Nixon took it a step further establishing the EPA and it's snowballed from there while we sat and watched.
Posted by: robtr
I love baiting liberals with Nixon was the worse President --- he set-up the EPA.
Posted by: robtr
I love baiting liberals with Nixon was the worse President --- he set-up the EPA.
Posted by: Jean at February 16, 2012 03:23 AM (WkuV6)
102
Oh, brother -- http://tinyurl.com/82mpoml
Posted by: cthulhu at February 16, 2012 03:33 AM (kaalw)
103
People who make these restrictions and accept them are simply afraid.
They forbid fires on the beach because they are afraid that somebody will start a fire irresponsibly.
They forbid fires in fireplaces because they are afraid that these tiny fires will cause Gaia to be angry.
They forbid football playing on the beach because they are afraid that some young person will bump into them.
They forbid guns in cities because (and they just love hearing this) they are afraid young black males will shoot them.
A free person tends to think of dealing with a problem when it becomes a problem, a frightened person will cocoon himself to protect against the danger.
All of the expansions of government have been about fear: Social Security, Medicare, Obamacare, the EPA. It's all about fear.
They forbid fires on the beach because they are afraid that somebody will start a fire irresponsibly.
They forbid fires in fireplaces because they are afraid that these tiny fires will cause Gaia to be angry.
They forbid football playing on the beach because they are afraid that some young person will bump into them.
They forbid guns in cities because (and they just love hearing this) they are afraid young black males will shoot them.
A free person tends to think of dealing with a problem when it becomes a problem, a frightened person will cocoon himself to protect against the danger.
All of the expansions of government have been about fear: Social Security, Medicare, Obamacare, the EPA. It's all about fear.
Posted by: AmishDude at February 16, 2012 03:35 AM (T0NGe)
104
Bill O’Reilly told his audience tonight that if Barack Obama wins reelection in November,
“You’re not going to recognize this country in four years.”
Yeah, thanks Bill. We told you.
“You’re not going to recognize this country in four years.”
Yeah, thanks Bill. We told you.
Posted by: AmishDude at February 16, 2012 03:40 AM (T0NGe)
105
103
People who make these restrictions and accept them are simply afraid.
Posted by: AmishDude at February 16, 2012 03:35 AM (T0NGe)
I wish I could believe that, but I don't. They're not afraid -- they want to lord it over people. They don't want to admit them as equals, they want them to be puppets. Having made nothing of their own lives, they want to move others around as pawns to their will so that they can feel superior.
And their enablers are trying to avoid conflict. They may be pacifist, they may be distracted, they may not feel like it's their hill to die on....but they're enablers.
People who make these restrictions and accept them are simply afraid.
Posted by: AmishDude at February 16, 2012 03:35 AM (T0NGe)
I wish I could believe that, but I don't. They're not afraid -- they want to lord it over people. They don't want to admit them as equals, they want them to be puppets. Having made nothing of their own lives, they want to move others around as pawns to their will so that they can feel superior.
And their enablers are trying to avoid conflict. They may be pacifist, they may be distracted, they may not feel like it's their hill to die on....but they're enablers.
Posted by: cthulhu at February 16, 2012 03:42 AM (kaalw)
106
@32 Um, no. I noticed Jeff B and ace's comments as you did yourself.
Posted by: Lana at February 16, 2012 01:44 AM (2cVan) Since you say you're not drunk, I guess you're just a fucking nitwit.
Posted by: Lana at February 16, 2012 01:44 AM (2cVan) Since you say you're not drunk, I guess you're just a fucking nitwit.
Posted by: Dumb_Blonde at February 16, 2012 03:47 AM (v9uAT)
107
great old one - your link had a better story on the page, Naked Bondage Sex Game Mistaken For Kidnapping -- http://tinyurl.com/7tddvfg
Posted by: Jean at February 16, 2012 03:52 AM (WkuV6)
108
Don't you worry ace, libertarismo grande Mittens will make you free again.
Posted by: Psychonanalyst at February 16, 2012 03:54 AM (5hFF+)
109
It is not an inexorable decline in freedom but the attacks are relentless and coming from all quarters. A couple of reversals are the repeal of Prohibition and the removal of the national speed limit. They are exceptions to the trend though.
Really the best way to combat it is to vote with your feet. That is what the blue models like CA are painfully discovering right now. My personal solution was to move to an unincorporated area of a red state. There was a reduction in income but it is worth it.
I can't even imagine living in a place like NYC. It does not compute.
Really the best way to combat it is to vote with your feet. That is what the blue models like CA are painfully discovering right now. My personal solution was to move to an unincorporated area of a red state. There was a reduction in income but it is worth it.
I can't even imagine living in a place like NYC. It does not compute.
Posted by: GnuBreed at February 16, 2012 04:18 AM (BhuDE)
110
Great way to put it Ace!
My moment was watching Tipper Gore Etc, trying to censor traditional liberals, and them fighting back!
Zappa, Dee Snider, etc. It was the first time I watched CSPN too, iirc..
My verification of capitalism came at the Grateful Dead shows I went to lol..
My moment was watching Tipper Gore Etc, trying to censor traditional liberals, and them fighting back!
Zappa, Dee Snider, etc. It was the first time I watched CSPN too, iirc..
My verification of capitalism came at the Grateful Dead shows I went to lol..
Posted by: JarvisW at February 16, 2012 04:20 AM (8yPsP)
Posted by: In Exile at February 16, 2012 04:57 AM (0401c)
112
The NEXT bonfire started should be with all the dumbass laws and regulations.
Keep only basic laws and do NOT add.
As for my perspective...instead of being conditioned on what I could or couldn't do, I always look for a way to do what I WANT regardless. Rules are meant to be broken, right!?
Keep only basic laws and do NOT add.
As for my perspective...instead of being conditioned on what I could or couldn't do, I always look for a way to do what I WANT regardless. Rules are meant to be broken, right!?
Posted by: Knightbrigade at February 16, 2012 04:59 AM (zZ51c)
113
You think that's bad- wait'll you realize what liberals did to your history.
I was watching the History channel back when they actually talked about History and they said something I couldn't believe. I later when back and looked up the actual history, and they were right!
We WON the Vietnam War.
I don't mean that ironically, hypothetically, or conditionally. We beat the shit out of the North Vietnamese, destroyed something like 90% of his regular forces (which, turns out,made up the majority of Ho Chi Minh's fighting force, btw - he didn't actually have broad popular support) and then forced him to sign a peace treaty. Then, over the course of something like a year, we drew down our forces out of the country. The war ended with the Paris Accords, and we LEFT. In PEACE. That is very much the definition of winning a war. Six months after the last of our war time troops had left, he violated the treaty and reinvaded. Now, maybe you believe we shouldn't have believed him, or maybe we should've invaded North Vietnam and "nation built" or whatever. But you can't say we lost the Vietnam War.
But that's how liberals teach it. You get lines like from War of the Worlds: "Occupations always fail! History's taught us that a thousand times." They believe that crap! They teach you that crap! Guess what? Occupations rarely fail. Especially when the occupiers don't give a crap about human rights, as they haven't for the majority of human history.
When I realized that I had, generally speaking, been lied to by every history teacher ever, it kind of pissed me right off. Changed me. Can't go back now, turns out. Sort of like exiting the Matrix. Once you're out, you can't really go back.
You think that's bad- wait'll you realize what liberals did to your history.
I was watching the History channel back when they actually talked about History and they said something I couldn't believe. I later when back and looked up the actual history, and they were right!
We WON the Vietnam War.
I don't mean that ironically, hypothetically, or conditionally. We beat the shit out of the North Vietnamese, destroyed something like 90% of his regular forces (which, turns out,made up the majority of Ho Chi Minh's fighting force, btw - he didn't actually have broad popular support) and then forced him to sign a peace treaty. Then, over the course of something like a year, we drew down our forces out of the country. The war ended with the Paris Accords, and we LEFT. In PEACE. That is very much the definition of winning a war. Six months after the last of our war time troops had left, he violated the treaty and reinvaded. Now, maybe you believe we shouldn't have believed him, or maybe we should've invaded North Vietnam and "nation built" or whatever. But you can't say we lost the Vietnam War.
But that's how liberals teach it. You get lines like from War of the Worlds: "Occupations always fail! History's taught us that a thousand times." They believe that crap! They teach you that crap! Guess what? Occupations rarely fail. Especially when the occupiers don't give a crap about human rights, as they haven't for the majority of human history.
When I realized that I had, generally speaking, been lied to by every history teacher ever, it kind of pissed me right off. Changed me. Can't go back now, turns out. Sort of like exiting the Matrix. Once you're out, you can't really go back.
Posted by: BoB at February 16, 2012 05:23 AM (bw34S)
114
"Just over the course of long decades, as a result of a thousand laws passed For the Public Good, and millions of decisions that it just wasn't worth fighting over."
This is why I've drawn a line in the sand. I will fight for every inch. I am tired of conservatives saying that "this isn't the hill to die on." I am here to say, that I am out of hills.
This is why I've drawn a line in the sand. I will fight for every inch. I am tired of conservatives saying that "this isn't the hill to die on." I am here to say, that I am out of hills.
Posted by: Texan Economist at February 16, 2012 05:32 AM (TC/9F)
115
The funny thing is that even those who CAN'T make laws try to get away with this stuff through social pressure. I bought a pistol. One of my friends has this phobia that gins are always bad news and that they change people and that anyone who wants one is basically being possessed by evil and is destined for madness and besides that it's in bad taste. he tried a one man intervention, either I get rid of the gun or he's gone. I told him to enjoy his life. So then he tries to convince me with scary scenarios that made him sound like a loon. Finally he did the 'explain to me why you need a gun, and how can a handgun that holds nine rounds of .357 magnum be useful for any legitimate purpose? ' line. And I had to tell him that he DOESN'T get to give or rescind permission. I don't CARE if he's happy with it. I don't care if he's scared. I don't CARE if he feels that I'm out of control and should be fixed, and I don't owe him an explanation, an apology, any changes in my behavior whatsoever, or anything else. He just could not understand that. It was sad watching him fail to understand again and again that my owning a gun was not his decision. He could deal with it or leave.
Posted by: cackfinger at February 16, 2012 05:51 AM (a9mQu)
116
I live in Pennsylvania, on a couple acre heavily treed lot. Branches drop all the time. Up until two years ago, I could cut the large stuff up, drag the rest out onto the back lawn, toss a match at them and get rid of them.
No more, a telephone number must be called, permission must be requested, then possibly granted. My own property, and I must get permission to burn some branches.
If you looked back at the early days of our country, politics was a part-time job. Important laws got written and they had no time for bullshit. Now every two-bit bureaucrat wants to get some new law written with his name on it.
No more, a telephone number must be called, permission must be requested, then possibly granted. My own property, and I must get permission to burn some branches.
If you looked back at the early days of our country, politics was a part-time job. Important laws got written and they had no time for bullshit. Now every two-bit bureaucrat wants to get some new law written with his name on it.
Posted by: Just Me at February 16, 2012 05:52 AM (phlKA)
117
Ok, but only if you are married and call it making love.
Posted by: Ricky Saintorum at February 16, 2012 02:14 AM (o8Ahx)
---------------
And you're trying to conceive. Otherwise it's not perfect and you've diminished the act by reducing it to mere pleasure ... you, you sinner!! you and your slutty wife!
Posted by: Ricky Saintorum at February 16, 2012 02:14 AM (o8Ahx)
---------------
And you're trying to conceive. Otherwise it's not perfect and you've diminished the act by reducing it to mere pleasure ... you, you sinner!! you and your slutty wife!
Posted by: I can't believe we might actually do this at February 16, 2012 06:07 AM (wwljb)
118
This is a great post btw. The last four years have finally caused conservatives to become aware of and really think about the greatest liberty we're supposed to have - the right to be left alone.
We just don't have that any more, and it isn't coming back. And God forbid you push back ... the absolute worst thing that can happen to someone these days is to wind up on the radar screen of some governing body, whether it's as benign as the homeowner's committee or as terrifying and all powerful as the IRS. Your ass will conform or they will take you down. The days of giving authority the finger are long gone.
We just don't have that any more, and it isn't coming back. And God forbid you push back ... the absolute worst thing that can happen to someone these days is to wind up on the radar screen of some governing body, whether it's as benign as the homeowner's committee or as terrifying and all powerful as the IRS. Your ass will conform or they will take you down. The days of giving authority the finger are long gone.
Posted by: I can't believe we might actually do this at February 16, 2012 06:12 AM (wwljb)
119
continued...
Either, or, a combination of the two:
Erosion of freedom
Explosion of government size
Which came first?
I'd venture that as the country became more prosperous and tax revenue, which was based on x% of income, began to skyrocket, freedom began to erode. I don't know who to attribute the expression, 'expenditures rise to meet income' to, but it is definitely in play.
In my case, they now probably have half a dozen well paid county 'workers' who sit behind a desk at a call center and make the important decision as to whether Joe Smuck can burn some tiny branches on his lawn.
Starve the beast, it's the only way to restore freedom.
Either, or, a combination of the two:
Erosion of freedom
Explosion of government size
Which came first?
I'd venture that as the country became more prosperous and tax revenue, which was based on x% of income, began to skyrocket, freedom began to erode. I don't know who to attribute the expression, 'expenditures rise to meet income' to, but it is definitely in play.
In my case, they now probably have half a dozen well paid county 'workers' who sit behind a desk at a call center and make the important decision as to whether Joe Smuck can burn some tiny branches on his lawn.
Starve the beast, it's the only way to restore freedom.
Posted by: Just Me at February 16, 2012 06:16 AM (phlKA)
120
Back to the next hill! We'll fight for that one.
Posted by: Guy with salt water up to his knees at February 16, 2012 06:21 AM (cmNty)
121
Posted by: Just Me at February 16, 2012 05:52 AM (phlKA)
i live on 14+acres in central va, we have the same thing, we had hurricane damaged trees that fell or needed dropping before they did and it all had to set and be houses for animals because i couldn't open burn until december...
i have a small fire pit i made, just feel defeated every time i have to use it, the wife and kids love to roast marshmallows and hotdogs in the summer.
i live on 14+acres in central va, we have the same thing, we had hurricane damaged trees that fell or needed dropping before they did and it all had to set and be houses for animals because i couldn't open burn until december...
i have a small fire pit i made, just feel defeated every time i have to use it, the wife and kids love to roast marshmallows and hotdogs in the summer.
Posted by: trailortrash at February 16, 2012 06:22 AM (xllDV)
122
When I was a kid the older ones with pickup trucks would drive to school and park in the lot with shotguns and hunting rifles in the gun rack. This was in the South in a major city. Our neighbors had a really big yard and kept a burro. The kid across the street collected rattlesnakes and moccasins and such and kept them in terrariums in his garage. We would go to the beach and shoot rifles, build bonfires and stay in tents over the weekend.
Posted by: Daybrother at February 16, 2012 06:24 AM (1eLab)
123
I grew up in Illinois and was an indoctrinated liberal. I thought I was republican because my parents told me I was. But, I voted for Jimmy Carter, so you see, the Illinois system of indoctrination had completely claimed me. Totally. As I think back, I remember of all of the school movies we watched about the wonderfulness of the Kennedys. I think back on the slant taught for everything ... and it was liberal. Everyone I was in grade school with IS A FLAMING liberal. But, luckily, I married this conservative guy from Montana who eased me into Rush Limbaugh. I can still remember the moment when the scales fell from my eyes. I would also like to say, Ace, regarding this post, I would have had the same reaction as you had regarding bonfires as burning was a no-no in Illinois way back when I was girl in the 60's-70's - you had to have a permit or there were certain days when you could burn stuff in garbage cans etc. I bet you can't even do that anymore. I am trying not to despair. But, liberals are fierce, mean fighters. On facebook, they swarm me like demons if I so much as hint I am conservative. I wish you had a like button so I could have liked this post very subtly just to drive them nuts. For professional reasons, I have to lay low...
Posted by: Janetoo at February 16, 2012 06:27 AM (R+fMx)
124
They do this because nothing is, in their minds, and for all intents and purposes, yours.
This is why on a land that I supposedly own
I can't burn leaves. It s not really my land.
This is why on a land that I supposedly own
I can't burn leaves. It s not really my land.
Posted by: McLovin at February 16, 2012 06:30 AM (vlruQ)
125
Tale of two states:
In New Jersey I pulled my boat up on an island and walked around barefoot in the hot sand with my son and daughter. Only to have some Fed drive up and start yelling about pipping plovers building nests in the sand and how they were almost extinct. I said, 'there's your problem, a stupid bird that builds its nest in the sand with 10,000 sea gulls around deserves to become extinct'. It got nasty. He threatened me with some couple hundred dollar fine.
You drop a potato chip on the beach in NJ and you'll have a pair of gulls fighting over it in seconds.
In North Carolina years later on the Outer Banks I asked a resident about piping plovers, and he said, 'they're here, but tourists are more important to us -- enjoy the beach'.
In New Jersey I pulled my boat up on an island and walked around barefoot in the hot sand with my son and daughter. Only to have some Fed drive up and start yelling about pipping plovers building nests in the sand and how they were almost extinct. I said, 'there's your problem, a stupid bird that builds its nest in the sand with 10,000 sea gulls around deserves to become extinct'. It got nasty. He threatened me with some couple hundred dollar fine.
You drop a potato chip on the beach in NJ and you'll have a pair of gulls fighting over it in seconds.
In North Carolina years later on the Outer Banks I asked a resident about piping plovers, and he said, 'they're here, but tourists are more important to us -- enjoy the beach'.
Posted by: Just Me at February 16, 2012 06:41 AM (phlKA)
126
Thanks for sharing Ace.I've often pondered this myself.
Posted by: tracy at February 16, 2012 06:45 AM (OzZMX)
127
This is all about the psychotic need for one human to control another. The reason is actually irrelevant, the control's the thing. It empowers the ego, inflates it and gives it a sense of worth, when the opposite is actually true. Notice how those who would control you are often the poorest excuses for human beings: boorish, shallow, void of any real intellect, arrogant, condescending, the list goes on (hmm, sound like any politicians we know?).
This is the struggle of the ages. Are we to be free to follow our conscience as responsible adults, treating others as we would want to be treated,or will we be subject to the whims of other people? Our form of government was designed to keep us free, but has been corrupted and overrun by people who have lied to us in order to sieze the power which their rotten ego compels them to seek.
And we have allowed it to happen.
This is the struggle of the ages. Are we to be free to follow our conscience as responsible adults, treating others as we would want to be treated,or will we be subject to the whims of other people? Our form of government was designed to keep us free, but has been corrupted and overrun by people who have lied to us in order to sieze the power which their rotten ego compels them to seek.
And we have allowed it to happen.
Posted by: BackwardsBoy at February 16, 2012 06:47 AM (d0Tfm)
128
#95 Fundementally the trend toward statism is the same throughout the western world. There really is nowhere to escape.
And not just theWestern world, Russia, China and most of Asiaare alreadyengulfed. The islamic countries are beyond statism and into complete obliteration of free will.
That said, I am not a pessimist and believe that pendulum is swinging away from freedom but it cannot sustain the momentum for long and will swing back. Human nature is prone to rebellion and the human spirit, particularly when oppressed, will choose freedom.Nil desperandum.
#95 Fundementally the trend toward statism is the same throughout the western world. There really is nowhere to escape.
And not just theWestern world, Russia, China and most of Asiaare alreadyengulfed. The islamic countries are beyond statism and into complete obliteration of free will.
That said, I am not a pessimist and believe that pendulum is swinging away from freedom but it cannot sustain the momentum for long and will swing back. Human nature is prone to rebellion and the human spirit, particularly when oppressed, will choose freedom.Nil desperandum.
Posted by: Decaf at February 16, 2012 06:51 AM (QB5T2)
129
I think you can still have bonfires on the beach if you're burning American flags....
Posted by: Unruly Human at February 16, 2012 06:52 AM (rIP0z)
130
Protestant churches have changed from worrying about salvation to enforcing social justice.
You go to church and you enter a lib rally for grievances.
libs are angry, all the time
You go to church and you enter a lib rally for grievances.
libs are angry, all the time
Posted by: doom am I, full-ripe, dealing death to the worlds, engaged in devouring mankind. at February 16, 2012 06:53 AM (hfngH)
131
It happened very quickly--in the space of one long lifetime. Our lifetimes, regrettably.
So, what do we do about? Storm the ballot box? Ain't working, boss.
So, what do we do about? Storm the ballot box? Ain't working, boss.
Posted by: some dolt at February 16, 2012 06:54 AM (+kznc)
132
It would be nice if ace bumped this thread to the top.
Posted by: Vic at February 16, 2012 06:56 AM (YdQQY)
Posted by: Just Me at February 16, 2012 06:59 AM (phlKA)
134
I am continually amazed at how much private information people give up about themselves online just because they are directed to do so by a website. You do it because you are asked to do it, an immediate genuflection to "authority".
Posted by: bon_savoy at February 16, 2012 07:01 AM (1MdIw)
135
Gov Snyder in MI will endorse the Better Candidate to Defeat Obama today.
Posted by: soothie at February 16, 2012 07:02 AM (052zE)
136
95
Australia is only better because the government has shorter arms and the
people to land ratio is such that one can live in relative freedom.
Although, it's still just an illusion of freedom.
Fundementally the trend toward statism is the same throughout the western world. There really is nowhere to escape.
Posted by: runninrebel at February 16, 2012 03:00 AM (N/1Dm)
So, how's that whole gun owning thing going there?
Australia is only better because the government has shorter arms and the
people to land ratio is such that one can live in relative freedom.
Although, it's still just an illusion of freedom.
Fundementally the trend toward statism is the same throughout the western world. There really is nowhere to escape.
Posted by: runninrebel at February 16, 2012 03:00 AM (N/1Dm)
So, how's that whole gun owning thing going there?
Posted by: Unclefacts Out Of Commenting Retirement Just For This One Thing at February 16, 2012 07:03 AM (6IReR)
137
see comment 135 for a quick take on how we got here.
Posted by: some dolt at February 16, 2012 07:05 AM (+kznc)
138
The entrenched bureaucracy will never go away. It will only get larger and hungrier.
Burn it down.
Burn it down.
Posted by: Daybrother at February 16, 2012 07:06 AM (1eLab)
139
The less people the fewer rules. People suck. Well, 52% of them anyway. And most of those 52% live in blue states. And most of those blue state 52% live in large cities. And evidently most of the 52% can be talked into anything.
Posted by: Case at February 16, 2012 07:08 AM (FD6YW)
140
The regulatory environment started with the rest of the liberal crap at the beginning of the "progressive era".
Posted by: Vic at February 16, 2012 07:08 AM (YdQQY)
141
More info needed on Australia. Wife and I have been talking about that.
Its over, here. The peeps kinda like their big gubmint. Thats why it can't be fixed at the ballot box.
Its over, here. The peeps kinda like their big gubmint. Thats why it can't be fixed at the ballot box.
Posted by: some dolt at February 16, 2012 07:10 AM (+kznc)
142
It actually is.
Posted by: Just Me at February 16, 2012 06:59 AM (phlKA)
-----------------------------------
Sorry wasn't clear. I meant after everyone gets here later this morning or afternoon.
Posted by: Just Me at February 16, 2012 06:59 AM (phlKA)
-----------------------------------
Sorry wasn't clear. I meant after everyone gets here later this morning or afternoon.
Posted by: Vic at February 16, 2012 07:10 AM (YdQQY)
143
This goes to the heart of what Reagan was saying in the other thread in regards the tension inherent between Libertarianism/Conservatism.
How much freedom should we be allowed to have?
It would seem to me that government of the people , by the people and FOR THE People has indeed perished from the earth.
How much freedom should we be allowed to have?
It would seem to me that government of the people , by the people and FOR THE People has indeed perished from the earth.
Posted by: McLovin at February 16, 2012 07:12 AM (j0IcY)
144
Government at all levels needs to have it's power reduced. Conservatives who say we need to give state and local more power are nuts. None of them need to get more power.
The way local zoning works around here is the opposite of how the law should work. If something is not specifically permitted in a zone, it's prohibited by default. Things should be legal until the government specifically outlaws them, not everything is prohibited until they grant the dispensation to do it. I've never figured out how that is proper and legal, but it holds up because people are more interested in controlling their neighbors and stifling development than they are in their own freedom and private property rights. It's pathetic.
Then they act shocked when they want to develop their own land and it gets shot down.
The way local zoning works around here is the opposite of how the law should work. If something is not specifically permitted in a zone, it's prohibited by default. Things should be legal until the government specifically outlaws them, not everything is prohibited until they grant the dispensation to do it. I've never figured out how that is proper and legal, but it holds up because people are more interested in controlling their neighbors and stifling development than they are in their own freedom and private property rights. It's pathetic.
Then they act shocked when they want to develop their own land and it gets shot down.
Posted by: forest at February 16, 2012 07:14 AM (yCT6Q)
145
Yeah, I'm no lawyer, so I have limited scope of the legal aspects of this, but it seems to have started with the civil rights stuff. However good intentioned, it seems to me when they started telling businesses what they had to do regarding customers served and who could rent a place and all that, it was the government's in.
I always figured the right to peaceably assemble would have covered that, but apparently I'm wrong... for reasons I can't quite understand.
I always figured the right to peaceably assemble would have covered that, but apparently I'm wrong... for reasons I can't quite understand.
Posted by: BurtTC at February 16, 2012 07:15 AM (Gc/Qi)
146
>> Just over the course of long decades, as a result of a thousand laws
passed For the Public Good, and millions of decisions that it just
wasn't worth fighting over.
Even now we don't seem to be able to pick a hill worth dying on. Runaway spending and ballooning debt? Why, let's just kick the can down the road like we always do.
passed For the Public Good, and millions of decisions that it just
wasn't worth fighting over.
Even now we don't seem to be able to pick a hill worth dying on. Runaway spending and ballooning debt? Why, let's just kick the can down the road like we always do.
Posted by: Andy at February 16, 2012 07:16 AM (XG+Mn)
147
>>>Yeah, I'm no lawyer, so I have limited scope of the legal aspects of this, but it seems to have started with the civil rights stuff. However good intentioned, it seems to me when they started telling businesses what they had to do regarding customers served and who could rent a place and all that, it was the government's in.
I agree with this but I would put it like this.
The civil rights corrective powers were *extraordinary.* They were only *barely* permissible because of the deep, dark original sin of the nation founded on liberty-- Slavery. They were ONLY justifiable due to the moral seriousness of that sin (and the subsequent difficult history of de-slavification of the country), and only scarcely so.
HOWEVER, the Agents of Government Power have not viewed this episode as an extraordinary (and extraordinarily limited) grant of power to correct a single extraordinary evil.
Rather, they have taken this as their basic template going forward, to be used on any and all problems and causes that might catch their eye.
One could make a potent case for the necessity of the civil rights corrective -- along with a potent case for the absolute necessity of bracketing off as non-precedential and limited to that one situation.
This should never have been a general license to go fishing for new and exciting ways to reduce liberty.
I agree with this but I would put it like this.
The civil rights corrective powers were *extraordinary.* They were only *barely* permissible because of the deep, dark original sin of the nation founded on liberty-- Slavery. They were ONLY justifiable due to the moral seriousness of that sin (and the subsequent difficult history of de-slavification of the country), and only scarcely so.
HOWEVER, the Agents of Government Power have not viewed this episode as an extraordinary (and extraordinarily limited) grant of power to correct a single extraordinary evil.
Rather, they have taken this as their basic template going forward, to be used on any and all problems and causes that might catch their eye.
One could make a potent case for the necessity of the civil rights corrective -- along with a potent case for the absolute necessity of bracketing off as non-precedential and limited to that one situation.
This should never have been a general license to go fishing for new and exciting ways to reduce liberty.
Posted by: ace at February 16, 2012 07:22 AM (nj1bB)
148
>>Where I'm from it is not considered a party until something is burning.<<
Mr Feverhead: I'm laughing my ass off.
That's exactly how we were in So Cal in the 50s when I grew up.
"Let's have a party."
"Cool. I'll go steal some wood for the fire."
"Who has a decent fake ID for the beers?"
and, so on.
The day after, we'd go back to the scene of our youthful indescretions, clean stuff up. Collect empty returnable bottles for gas money for the week, restore the place as new, apologize to Mr. xyz for taking wood from his stash, work off the penalty, plan for the next party. Even then, not all beach cities in So Cal allowed fires on their beach.
Kids always find a way to subvert the system. Adults are, if fact, normalized as Mr Ace has observed in his most excellent post.
I nominate Mr. Aces' post for Post of the Year.
Thanks, Mr. Ace.
Mr Feverhead: I'm laughing my ass off.
That's exactly how we were in So Cal in the 50s when I grew up.
"Let's have a party."
"Cool. I'll go steal some wood for the fire."
"Who has a decent fake ID for the beers?"
and, so on.
The day after, we'd go back to the scene of our youthful indescretions, clean stuff up. Collect empty returnable bottles for gas money for the week, restore the place as new, apologize to Mr. xyz for taking wood from his stash, work off the penalty, plan for the next party. Even then, not all beach cities in So Cal allowed fires on their beach.
Kids always find a way to subvert the system. Adults are, if fact, normalized as Mr Ace has observed in his most excellent post.
I nominate Mr. Aces' post for Post of the Year.
Thanks, Mr. Ace.
Posted by: Hammersmith Police can't go to sleep at February 16, 2012 07:22 AM (Onw8c)
149
in fact
Posted by: Hammersmith Police can't go to sleep at February 16, 2012 07:24 AM (Onw8c)
150
I think obeying laws is highly overrated.
Posted by: Random at February 16, 2012 07:24 AM (YiE0S)
151
These are the places where those of us with opposition/defiance disorders (a problem created by the state no doubt) come in handy.
Any of you east coast morons go to the outer banks? Duck, or libtards by-the-sea, is so engrossed and pleased with itself over all of it's regulations above those of the state and county that it proudly posts them on its Welcome to Duke (libs-by-the-sea) sign. Makes you want to set bonfires and then hide in the dunes just to make them sputter.
Any of you east coast morons go to the outer banks? Duck, or libtards by-the-sea, is so engrossed and pleased with itself over all of it's regulations above those of the state and county that it proudly posts them on its Welcome to Duke (libs-by-the-sea) sign. Makes you want to set bonfires and then hide in the dunes just to make them sputter.
Posted by: dagny at February 16, 2012 07:25 AM (Pnnbc)
152
>>> And this is why people in Texas are so pissed off. We don't have a lot of this bullshit.
You used to --- before Lawrence v. Texas
You used to --- before Lawrence v. Texas
Posted by: Random at February 16, 2012 07:26 AM (YiE0S)
153
>>>It would be nice if ace bumped this thread to the top.
I'll bump it later. Let people talk about some headlines for a spell.
I'll bump it later. Let people talk about some headlines for a spell.
Posted by: ace at February 16, 2012 07:27 AM (nj1bB)
154
#122 In 1956 my grandpa was the faculty sponsor for the school's Sportsmen's Club. You couldn't belong unless you owned a rifle or shotgun, which you WOULD BRING TO SCHOOL and then they would go hunting for rabbits or pheasants in the fields around the high school, using my grandpa's Irish setters as field dogs.
This is the same high school which I attended and is now a very large high school in suburban Indianapolis. I tell people this story and they refuse to believe it. My brother-in-law belonged to the club and we laugh about it often.
This is the same high school which I attended and is now a very large high school in suburban Indianapolis. I tell people this story and they refuse to believe it. My brother-in-law belonged to the club and we laugh about it often.
Posted by: Miss Marple at February 16, 2012 07:28 AM (GoIUi)
Posted by: 21st Century Proggs at February 16, 2012 07:28 AM (hO8IJ)
156
Ace is awake?
Posted by: Andy at February 16, 2012 07:29 AM (XG+Mn)
157
>>>This is all about the psychotic need for one human to control another. The reason is actually irrelevant, the control's the thing. It empowers the ego, inflates it and gives it a sense of worth, when the opposite is actually true. Notice how those who would control you are often the poorest excuses for human beings: boorish, shallow, void of any real intellect, arrogant, condescending, the list goes on (hmm, sound like any politicians we know?).
+1000
and the enlistment of the government as a recruitment or enforcement tool demonstrates the insecurity and lack of confidence of the party enlisting it.
A man with a popular restaurant needs no government law forcing citizens to eat at his tables.
+1000
and the enlistment of the government as a recruitment or enforcement tool demonstrates the insecurity and lack of confidence of the party enlisting it.
A man with a popular restaurant needs no government law forcing citizens to eat at his tables.
Posted by: ace at February 16, 2012 07:30 AM (nj1bB)
158
ace tried to sleep and only slept for 20 minutes.
I'm going to stay up a while, try to crank out some posts in draft, and then go to sleep around 4 pm.
I'm going to stay up a while, try to crank out some posts in draft, and then go to sleep around 4 pm.
Posted by: ace at February 16, 2012 07:31 AM (nj1bB)
159
I thought about something similar a long time ago. I've spent most my life in Oklahoma and Texas. I'm used to meeting up with teh boyz out in the country with dozens of weapons and a couple of eight or ten foot long, custom-made barbecue smokers and then enjoying a day of smoking and plinking.
I wondered what that would be like in CA or in the northeast. Would I have to get a permit to smoke two racks of ribs, a couple of briskets, and a couple dozen thighs and drumsticks? Would someone call a fire marshal because of the delicious barbecue smoke? Would there be some kind of pollution rule that covers savory pork butt roasts? Would someone call the cops because we were shooting on our own land (outside of a city)?
Where I'm from, we pretty much don't have to check with anybody on anything. And people get along just fine.
I had a buddy in Oklahoma who bulldozed a number of trees to build a house, and this was within city limits. We had a giant bonfire and party. In that city, I think it was regarded as backyard burning, and as long as there wasn't a burn ban in effect (occasionally, during dry times), we didn't have to check with anyone.
People don't need to be watched all the time. People are smart enough to self-monitor. We never needed a government half-wit checking up on us. We didn't need someone to make sure we were being safe.
So. I'd have a hard time in nanny-state areas of the country. With busybody neighbor-monitoring types watching your every move. I'm sure I'd run afoul of something.
I wondered what that would be like in CA or in the northeast. Would I have to get a permit to smoke two racks of ribs, a couple of briskets, and a couple dozen thighs and drumsticks? Would someone call a fire marshal because of the delicious barbecue smoke? Would there be some kind of pollution rule that covers savory pork butt roasts? Would someone call the cops because we were shooting on our own land (outside of a city)?
Where I'm from, we pretty much don't have to check with anybody on anything. And people get along just fine.
I had a buddy in Oklahoma who bulldozed a number of trees to build a house, and this was within city limits. We had a giant bonfire and party. In that city, I think it was regarded as backyard burning, and as long as there wasn't a burn ban in effect (occasionally, during dry times), we didn't have to check with anyone.
People don't need to be watched all the time. People are smart enough to self-monitor. We never needed a government half-wit checking up on us. We didn't need someone to make sure we were being safe.
So. I'd have a hard time in nanny-state areas of the country. With busybody neighbor-monitoring types watching your every move. I'm sure I'd run afoul of something.
Posted by: rdbrewer at February 16, 2012 07:31 AM (Iyg03)
160
And don't get me started about walking through the woods with a gun.
"Oh I am so sorry Mr. Officer. I didn't know I needed a permit to walk on My
Own Fucking Property."
"Oh I am so sorry Mr. Officer. I didn't know I needed a permit to walk on My
Own Fucking Property."
Posted by: Hammersmith Police can't go to sleep at February 16, 2012 07:31 AM (Onw8c)
161
>>>Would I have to get a permit to smoke two racks of ribs, a couple of briskets, and a couple dozen thighs and drumsticks?
Generally not yet but it's coming. as someone mentioned above, you can't bbq in California during the summer.
so dumb. Is bbq really a significant contributor to smog? Or is it yet another Forced Tithe at the Church of Governmental Good Feelings?
The only saving grace to that is that due to california's year-round good weather not bbqing over the summer is not a complete shut-out. You can still do it 9 months.
Generally not yet but it's coming. as someone mentioned above, you can't bbq in California during the summer.
so dumb. Is bbq really a significant contributor to smog? Or is it yet another Forced Tithe at the Church of Governmental Good Feelings?
The only saving grace to that is that due to california's year-round good weather not bbqing over the summer is not a complete shut-out. You can still do it 9 months.
Posted by: ace at February 16, 2012 07:33 AM (nj1bB)
162
Ace have you tried those ometraprozal thingies for acid reflux yet?
Posted by: Vic at February 16, 2012 07:34 AM (YdQQY)
163
Winning post Ace.
Posted by: dogfish at February 16, 2012 07:35 AM (N2yhW)
164
Coerced virtue is not virtue. It is only compliance. Further, it fosters a disrespect for actual virtue.
Cynicism rises as rules become stifling. When there is a rule on everything, people disregard them, because they must, and also stop obeying the rules they ought to.
Cynicism rises as rules become stifling. When there is a rule on everything, people disregard them, because they must, and also stop obeying the rules they ought to.
Posted by: ace at February 16, 2012 07:36 AM (nj1bB)
165
>> and the enlistment of the government as a recruitment or enforcement
tool demonstrates the insecurity and lack of confidence of the party
enlisting it.
Stealing from your neighbor: Bad
Enlisting the government to tax the hell out of him, diminish his property rights, etc.: No problem
tool demonstrates the insecurity and lack of confidence of the party
enlisting it.
Stealing from your neighbor: Bad
Enlisting the government to tax the hell out of him, diminish his property rights, etc.: No problem
Posted by: Andy at February 16, 2012 07:36 AM (XG+Mn)
166
>>.Ace have you tried those ometraprozal thingies for acid reflux yet
no I have to read all that stuff again. I frankly avoided the emails people sent me because one guy wrote the words "precancerous" and I employed my typical strategy of problem-avoidance.
no I have to read all that stuff again. I frankly avoided the emails people sent me because one guy wrote the words "precancerous" and I employed my typical strategy of problem-avoidance.
Posted by: ace at February 16, 2012 07:36 AM (nj1bB)
167
>> I wondered what that would be like in CA or in the northeast.
RD, here's a glimpse: http://tinyurl.com/7e5oqvh
RD, here's a glimpse: http://tinyurl.com/7e5oqvh
Posted by: Andy at February 16, 2012 07:37 AM (XG+Mn)
168
Okay, on that CA "spare the air" rule? The thing is, there isn't a shitload of people barbecuing all the time. This is like that gov't agency that came down on movie popcorn. People don't go the movies every day. Whey even bother looking at movie popcorn? Movie popcorn isn't a factor in people's diets.
In the same way, a few people barbecuing isn't a factor in pollution.
In the same way, a few people barbecuing isn't a factor in pollution.
Posted by: rdbrewer at February 16, 2012 07:46 AM (Iyg03)
169
check out how this guy, Glenn Morton, running against Steny Hoyer (who is nearly unassailable, except Prince George County is like 75% black, as Morton is) endorses his ad at the end, here:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=vBLAMcyjxYw
http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=vBLAMcyjxYw
Posted by: ace at February 16, 2012 07:48 AM (nj1bB)
170
This post is the Tits. Well articulated and just long enough.
This post is the Tits. Well articulated and just long enough.
Posted by: Empire of Jeff at February 16, 2012 07:49 AM (DiqH3)
171
>>162 Ace have you tried those ometraprozal thingies for acid reflux yet?
Posted by: Vic at February 16, 2012 07:34 AM (YdQQY)
Try 3 days with no sugar, alcohol, wheat, corn, rice, fruit. Just low fat proteins and vegetables. No acid! It's magic.
Posted by: Vic at February 16, 2012 07:34 AM (YdQQY)
Try 3 days with no sugar, alcohol, wheat, corn, rice, fruit. Just low fat proteins and vegetables. No acid! It's magic.
Posted by: dagny at February 16, 2012 07:50 AM (Pnnbc)
172
Full disclosure: I now have one of those situations where I have to say that people I know are involved with this guy.
But of course I'd support him anyway, duh.
But of course I'd support him anyway, duh.
Posted by: ace at February 16, 2012 07:50 AM (nj1bB)
173
On the 'civil rights" score I support most of the laws. But where I draw the line is the blatant infringement on private property rights in the CRA and the blatant unconstitutional aspects of Section V of the VRA that was supposed to be "temperary".
Stupid Republicans afraid of the perpetual race card voted to extend it to another 25 years. It is now used by Democrats to hamper Republican efforts to control voting fraud and redistricting. One wonders if Congress would have voted for this law originally if it applied to EVERY damn State instead of most all in the South. And if they would have continued to extend it.
Stupid Republicans afraid of the perpetual race card voted to extend it to another 25 years. It is now used by Democrats to hamper Republican efforts to control voting fraud and redistricting. One wonders if Congress would have voted for this law originally if it applied to EVERY damn State instead of most all in the South. And if they would have continued to extend it.
Posted by: Vic at February 16, 2012 07:50 AM (YdQQY)
174
>>>Try 3 days with no sugar, alcohol, wheat, corn, rice, fruit. Just low fat proteins and vegetables. No acid! It's magic.
atkins, basically? Yeah. Well that's how i cured it the first time. So yeah I have to start being serious about atkins again.
atkins, basically? Yeah. Well that's how i cured it the first time. So yeah I have to start being serious about atkins again.
Posted by: ace at February 16, 2012 07:51 AM (nj1bB)
175
Try 3 days with no sugar, alcohol, wheat, corn, rice, fruit. Just low fat proteins and vegetables. No acid! It's magic.
Posted by: dagny at February 16, 2012 07:50 AM (Pnnbc)
-----------------------------------------
I tried that when I had problems and it didn't help. But I was also smoking then.
Posted by: dagny at February 16, 2012 07:50 AM (Pnnbc)
-----------------------------------------
I tried that when I had problems and it didn't help. But I was also smoking then.
Posted by: Vic at February 16, 2012 07:51 AM (YdQQY)
176
did anyone watch that vid?
it's very on-point with the topic of this thread.
Okay, if you didn't watch it, he looks at the camera and points with an angry finger: "My name is Glenn Morton, and I endorse this ad, because I do not *exist* to *serve* the *state*"
it's very on-point with the topic of this thread.
Okay, if you didn't watch it, he looks at the camera and points with an angry finger: "My name is Glenn Morton, and I endorse this ad, because I do not *exist* to *serve* the *state*"
Posted by: ace at February 16, 2012 07:53 AM (nj1bB)
177
How about a marriage license? The government has a say on who I marry? Must be a holdover from Jim Crow era to prevent miscegenation. Kind of like seeking the permission of his Lordship, hoping he doesn't want a shot at her first.
We need laws governing How post marriage asset splits happen and to protect kids and custody. The notion that government can define and regulate marriage is abhorrent to my libertarian sensibilities.
We need laws governing How post marriage asset splits happen and to protect kids and custody. The notion that government can define and regulate marriage is abhorrent to my libertarian sensibilities.
Posted by: Brian Dennehy at February 16, 2012 07:55 AM (wsPYX)
178
Prilosec OTC cured my acid reflux, and it was BAD. You can't get it over the counter in Canada so my in-laws smuggled some to me.
Posted by: Empire of Jeff at February 16, 2012 07:55 AM (DiqH3)
179
That's why we need to get back to examining the social contract. It exists only in that it provides "mutual aid" and frees man up to specialize in work in order to produce more. It is now having the opposite effect.
Think about the bonfire for a moment. If you wanted one, you could build it, enjoy it and put it out. To keep you from having it there have to be laws passed and those laws have to be enforced. You now have police and firemen whom YOU pay for available to put out your fire and arrest your ass where you go to a jail YOU pay for to await your day in court that YOU pay for (or bail) to pay a fine to the state that YOU pay for. The specialization here is the state that infringes on YOUR freedom and yet YOU pay for it. Did they provide public good? Maybe if the dunes were dry and they were afraid of fire but most likely no. You pay to have your liberty impeded because of safety?
Think about the bonfire for a moment. If you wanted one, you could build it, enjoy it and put it out. To keep you from having it there have to be laws passed and those laws have to be enforced. You now have police and firemen whom YOU pay for available to put out your fire and arrest your ass where you go to a jail YOU pay for to await your day in court that YOU pay for (or bail) to pay a fine to the state that YOU pay for. The specialization here is the state that infringes on YOUR freedom and yet YOU pay for it. Did they provide public good? Maybe if the dunes were dry and they were afraid of fire but most likely no. You pay to have your liberty impeded because of safety?
Posted by: dagny at February 16, 2012 07:57 AM (Pnnbc)
180
I love that whole ad concept of Ladd's, and the close was spot on.
I'm trying to get him and Bielat hooked up again.
I'm trying to get him and Bielat hooked up again.
Posted by: Andy at February 16, 2012 07:57 AM (XG+Mn)
181
Good vid. I like that guy.
Posted by: rdbrewer at February 16, 2012 07:58 AM (Iyg03)
182
How about a marriage license? The government has a say on who I marry?
Must be a holdover from Jim Crow era to prevent miscegenation. Kind
of like seeking the permission of his Lordship, hoping he doesn't want a
shot at her first.
-------------------------------------
State regulation of marriage has been around since Rome.
Must be a holdover from Jim Crow era to prevent miscegenation. Kind
of like seeking the permission of his Lordship, hoping he doesn't want a
shot at her first.
-------------------------------------
State regulation of marriage has been around since Rome.
Posted by: Vic at February 16, 2012 07:58 AM (YdQQY)
183
Doom! That is why Conservatism will fail in the Republic. Our mindset is already corrupted too far. Since childhood, our public education has corrupted our morals. Some of us are taught "Thou shalt not steal." But then we are taught that Social Security is a good thing, when it is, in actuality, theft. I could go on and on, but it's almost 8:00 am. Time for a cocktail.
Posted by: Jimbo at February 16, 2012 07:58 AM (O3R/2)
184
frankly, I think (and I think you think) he didn't do a good ad for Bielat the first time around.
They can't all be winners, I guess.
I like this new one.
They can't all be winners, I guess.
I like this new one.
Posted by: ace at February 16, 2012 07:58 AM (nj1bB)
185
Prilosec OTC cured my acid reflux, and it was BAD.
You can't get it over the counter in Canada so my in-laws smuggled some
to me.
Posted by: Empire of Jeff at February 16, 2012 07:55 AM (DiqH3)
--------------------------------------
Omeprozal is Prilosec under its generic name.
You can't get it over the counter in Canada so my in-laws smuggled some
to me.
Posted by: Empire of Jeff at February 16, 2012 07:55 AM (DiqH3)
--------------------------------------
Omeprozal is Prilosec under its generic name.
Posted by: Vic at February 16, 2012 07:59 AM (YdQQY)
186
certain things, like marriage, are inherently creatures of the state (at least as far as the legal aspect) so that doesn't worry me.
if you want a state certified marriage, you need to go the state.
if you want a state certified marriage, you need to go the state.
Posted by: ace at February 16, 2012 08:00 AM (nj1bB)
187
did anyone watch that vid?<<<
Yeah, that's Ladd Ehrlinger's video. Morton doesn't look like a guy with a big war chest. Glad to see he's making it affordable to conservative candidates.
did anyone watch that vid?<<<
Yeah, that's Ladd Ehrlinger's video. Morton doesn't look like a guy with a big war chest. Glad to see he's making it affordable to conservative candidates.
Posted by: Empire of Jeff at February 16, 2012 08:00 AM (DiqH3)
188
I tried that when I had problems and it didn't help. But I was also smoking then.
Atkins but lower the fat in everythingand do egg whites instead of eggs. The fat in Atkins is bad for the acid. I can completely cure it doing this.I fell off the wagon and right now am back beating the reflux down with deli turkey and non-fat vanilla yougurt.
When I get to heaven the first thing I'm going to do is have a cigarette. Chain smokin' angel, that'll be me.
Atkins but lower the fat in everythingand do egg whites instead of eggs. The fat in Atkins is bad for the acid. I can completely cure it doing this.I fell off the wagon and right now am back beating the reflux down with deli turkey and non-fat vanilla yougurt.
When I get to heaven the first thing I'm going to do is have a cigarette. Chain smokin' angel, that'll be me.
Posted by: dagny at February 16, 2012 08:01 AM (Pnnbc)
189
I see someone took the red pill last night.
Well done Ace. Keep pushing this line of thought. We are all moral free agents with rights bestowed upon us by God, not men.If we are acting morally and ethically, what sort of man mayprevent us from acting at all? Only the tyrant or the bully - both immoral, and unethical. The moral response to such men? Destroy them by any means necessary. War always follows such men, and italways will.Presentday included, and usually because the tyrantwill have it no other way.
Money post dude.
Well done Ace. Keep pushing this line of thought. We are all moral free agents with rights bestowed upon us by God, not men.If we are acting morally and ethically, what sort of man mayprevent us from acting at all? Only the tyrant or the bully - both immoral, and unethical. The moral response to such men? Destroy them by any means necessary. War always follows such men, and italways will.Presentday included, and usually because the tyrantwill have it no other way.
Money post dude.
Posted by: JQ Public at February 16, 2012 08:02 AM (NBj0d)
190
>> frankly, I think (and I think you think) he didn't do a good ad for Bielat the first time around.
Agreed. The Bielat people kind of screwed that up too by waiting so late.
Agreed. The Bielat people kind of screwed that up too by waiting so late.
Posted by: Andy at February 16, 2012 08:03 AM (XG+Mn)
191
The anti-smoking movement is the issue I have a problem with.
If I want to smoke in the smoking section, non-smokers can vote with their feet.
They are free to make like geese and get the flock out of there.
F#ck big government.
The anti-smoking movement is the issue I have a problem with.
If I want to smoke in the smoking section, non-smokers can vote with their feet.
They are free to make like geese and get the flock out of there.
F#ck big government.
Posted by: sTevo at February 16, 2012 08:05 AM (8NxiE)
Posted by: Empire of Jeff at February 16, 2012 08:07 AM (DiqH3)
193
Not to pile on, but I got the impression on the Bielat video he wasn't clear on what the most important, useful issues were.
Posted by: rdbrewer at February 16, 2012 08:08 AM (Iyg03)
194
>>>The anti-smoking movement is the issue I have a problem with.
I do as far as nanny state stuff but seriously we all should quit.
Let's not make some kind of Working Class Rebel Hero out of a fucking cancer stick.
I do as far as nanny state stuff but seriously we all should quit.
Let's not make some kind of Working Class Rebel Hero out of a fucking cancer stick.
Posted by: ace at February 16, 2012 08:08 AM (nj1bB)
195
On the diet thing I would rather take the Omeprozal and eat what I want. I already have to watch so much in diet because of the heart problems. The Omeprozal is cheap and I have had zero side effects from it, unlike a LOT of the other prescribed drugs I take.
On the fire thing. We used to be pretty lose here in SC on that. But twice in the past few years idiots have nearly burned Myrtle Beach down by burning brush and letting it get out of control. The last one entire neighborhoods were burnt to the ground because the fire got into the underground loam and spread in manner that was almost impossible to control.
So they have enacted tough new controls this year. And I can't bitch because I have had fires get away from me twice here and had to call the fire department.
I now look at those laws as needful because my right to build a fire can not supersede another's right to keep me from burning his house down.
On the fire thing. We used to be pretty lose here in SC on that. But twice in the past few years idiots have nearly burned Myrtle Beach down by burning brush and letting it get out of control. The last one entire neighborhoods were burnt to the ground because the fire got into the underground loam and spread in manner that was almost impossible to control.
So they have enacted tough new controls this year. And I can't bitch because I have had fires get away from me twice here and had to call the fire department.
I now look at those laws as needful because my right to build a fire can not supersede another's right to keep me from burning his house down.
Posted by: Vic at February 16, 2012 08:08 AM (YdQQY)
196
What's your point?
---------------------------------
Just info, didn't know if you knew that or not, and the generic is a lot cheaper.
---------------------------------
Just info, didn't know if you knew that or not, and the generic is a lot cheaper.
Posted by: Vic at February 16, 2012 08:10 AM (YdQQY)
197
"A Long Train of Abuses and Usurpations". Where have I heard that before?
I wish I knew of a way this changes in any meaningful way without spilling a lot of blood. Neither did our Founders.
Then what?
I wish I knew of a way this changes in any meaningful way without spilling a lot of blood. Neither did our Founders.
Then what?
Posted by: Jaws at February 16, 2012 08:14 AM (4I3Uo)
198
My problem with the anti-smoking Nazis is when they dictate to private businesses that they can not allow smoking in their own buisness.
Now that they have succeeded in that they have moved on now to banning it in public.
This is how the regulatory State advances.
Now that they have succeeded in that they have moved on now to banning it in public.
This is how the regulatory State advances.
Posted by: Vic at February 16, 2012 08:17 AM (YdQQY)
199
When did they accumulate this power?
School, Ace. We were all indoctrinated for 18+ years. Bell rings, go here. Next bell, go there. Ask permission to go to the bathroom. Do work for the approval of your superiors, not for the joy of working and discovery. Try to conform as closely as possible to your peers. Swim in rules, tread water to keep your head above the level of acceptance, allow liberty and individualism to drown slowly.
School, Ace. We were all indoctrinated for 18+ years. Bell rings, go here. Next bell, go there. Ask permission to go to the bathroom. Do work for the approval of your superiors, not for the joy of working and discovery. Try to conform as closely as possible to your peers. Swim in rules, tread water to keep your head above the level of acceptance, allow liberty and individualism to drown slowly.
Posted by: Gabriel Syme at February 16, 2012 08:20 AM (g84Si)
200
I agree with all that but I'm just saying let's not make the murderous cigarette, giver of emphysema and cancer and heart attacks, into a symbol of defiance.
Just saying, that's how the cigarette has always wounded up being promoted, as some kind of symbol of sexiness or urbanity or Upper Class breeding (now) working-class defiance of the upper class.
Agree with the sentiment of politics, but just want to remind everyone cigarettes suck.
And I say that as a hypocrite/addict.
Just saying, that's how the cigarette has always wounded up being promoted, as some kind of symbol of sexiness or urbanity or Upper Class breeding (now) working-class defiance of the upper class.
Agree with the sentiment of politics, but just want to remind everyone cigarettes suck.
And I say that as a hypocrite/addict.
Posted by: ace at February 16, 2012 08:20 AM (nj1bB)
201
A guy wrote a book two years ago about how we all commit Three Felonies A Day.
That was two years ago.
I bet we're up to 5 a day now.
That was two years ago.
I bet we're up to 5 a day now.
Posted by: jjmurphy at February 16, 2012 08:20 AM (xjEAl)
202
Since we've all stopped smoking, nobody carries a lighter anymore. You can't start beach bonfires on a whim nowadays. And it gets awkward at children's birthday parties when everyone is standing around and waiting while the host can't find matches to light the damn candles.
It's too traumatic; it's high time we outlaw birthday cake candles.
It's too traumatic; it's high time we outlaw birthday cake candles.
Posted by: DamnFino at February 16, 2012 08:21 AM (IG5KL)
203
Nanny-statism started with Progressivism.
Before that, there were monarchies, the theory of which is "I own your ass, peasant." The monarchical system declined with the Napoleonic Wars, since Napoleon was a commoner, who kicked everyone's ass for decades, and installed his friends and relatives on the thrones all around Europe.
Then in 1815, the blue-blood monarchs got together in Vienna to sort out the problems of post-Napoleonic Europe. It was their last chance to hang on to power, so they had to accept a lot of free market ideas, like letting the peasants choose where to live, and letting merchants do their thing, since all the monarchs were broke because of the aforementioned Napoleonic Wars.
So, from about 1815 to the 1870s, the economy grew faster than at any time in all of human history.
Then the Old Guard aristocracy saw that this new system meant a rise of the bourgeoisie over the aristocracy, who were dwindling and dying out and going broke. The big push-back for the old monarchical system of command and control came from Bismarck, the Iron Chancellor, who used the last vestiges of aristocratic privilege to create a kind of corporate version of the old monarchical system. He centralized the government of Germany, which was formerly quite decentralized. Lots of guns and butter programs. And, of course, that kind of system eventually needs a war to keep the people voting and loyal, so they attacked France in 1870.
That system -- monarchical absolute power, but run in a corporate form, by middle-class administrators and a bureaucracy -- was essentially Progressivism. In the US, it took off in the last quarter of the 1800s, and has been going full-steam ever since.
Fast-forward a century or so, and you have things like unionism, land use planning, telecommunications cartels, drug wars, price-fixing, Solyndra, corn subsidies, and all the rest.
Before that, there were monarchies, the theory of which is "I own your ass, peasant." The monarchical system declined with the Napoleonic Wars, since Napoleon was a commoner, who kicked everyone's ass for decades, and installed his friends and relatives on the thrones all around Europe.
Then in 1815, the blue-blood monarchs got together in Vienna to sort out the problems of post-Napoleonic Europe. It was their last chance to hang on to power, so they had to accept a lot of free market ideas, like letting the peasants choose where to live, and letting merchants do their thing, since all the monarchs were broke because of the aforementioned Napoleonic Wars.
So, from about 1815 to the 1870s, the economy grew faster than at any time in all of human history.
Then the Old Guard aristocracy saw that this new system meant a rise of the bourgeoisie over the aristocracy, who were dwindling and dying out and going broke. The big push-back for the old monarchical system of command and control came from Bismarck, the Iron Chancellor, who used the last vestiges of aristocratic privilege to create a kind of corporate version of the old monarchical system. He centralized the government of Germany, which was formerly quite decentralized. Lots of guns and butter programs. And, of course, that kind of system eventually needs a war to keep the people voting and loyal, so they attacked France in 1870.
That system -- monarchical absolute power, but run in a corporate form, by middle-class administrators and a bureaucracy -- was essentially Progressivism. In the US, it took off in the last quarter of the 1800s, and has been going full-steam ever since.
Fast-forward a century or so, and you have things like unionism, land use planning, telecommunications cartels, drug wars, price-fixing, Solyndra, corn subsidies, and all the rest.
Posted by: Phinn at February 16, 2012 08:21 AM (KNtHw)
204
I grew up in Warwick, RI in the 70's and every fall all us neighborhood kids would rake leaves just so we could watch the fire that night as the men sat around drinking beer. That was back when summers meant you were kicked out of the house in the morning and told to go find something to do and to not come back until supper. A long time ago in a galaxy far, far away.
Posted by: Jaynie59 at February 16, 2012 08:22 AM (4zKCA)
205
What is the compelling public interest in the state having the "right" to sanction, or prevent my marriage? I was thinking about this prior to the whole gay marriage debate, and that certainly impacted my thoughts also.
Not to go all Stephanopoulous on you, but should the state have the right to outlaw marriage between Scandis, or a black woman and an Asian man? Almost everyone would say no. So what purpose is served by forcing me to seek government approval of my prospective coupling?
I understand that my church may want to define and sanction it, but I choose that association. And a church doesn't have the authority to imprison, kill or take my property if I disobey. At least not here.
My point is consistent with your observation about ceding freedoms incrementally and unwittingly. I'm sure there are lots more examples once you start questioning the initial premise. We codified a feudal practice without questioning the state, or kings right to control that aspect of our lives.
Thanks for letting me participate
Not to go all Stephanopoulous on you, but should the state have the right to outlaw marriage between Scandis, or a black woman and an Asian man? Almost everyone would say no. So what purpose is served by forcing me to seek government approval of my prospective coupling?
I understand that my church may want to define and sanction it, but I choose that association. And a church doesn't have the authority to imprison, kill or take my property if I disobey. At least not here.
My point is consistent with your observation about ceding freedoms incrementally and unwittingly. I'm sure there are lots more examples once you start questioning the initial premise. We codified a feudal practice without questioning the state, or kings right to control that aspect of our lives.
Thanks for letting me participate
Posted by: Brian Dennehy at February 16, 2012 08:22 AM (wsPYX)
206
I am convinced that we loose these freedoms by a thousand cuts. That is, when we view them one at a time they don't seem overwhelming but when you look at them in aggregate you see individual freedom lost. Once you get to a tipping point the losses become bigger and harder to repeal. By then it is too late.
That is what scares me about Obamacare. When the Government is responsible for your health eventually they will try to regulate everything that affects your health. Since all behavior effects you, everything you do becomes a target of regulation. What you eat, drink, who you live with, who you sleep with, what you drive, how often you exercise, what you teach your kids at home, it's all fair game to a law in which rules are being made up on the fly by faceless asshole-a-crats.
Obamacare is another step towards the complete death of American freedom.
That is what scares me about Obamacare. When the Government is responsible for your health eventually they will try to regulate everything that affects your health. Since all behavior effects you, everything you do becomes a target of regulation. What you eat, drink, who you live with, who you sleep with, what you drive, how often you exercise, what you teach your kids at home, it's all fair game to a law in which rules are being made up on the fly by faceless asshole-a-crats.
Obamacare is another step towards the complete death of American freedom.
Posted by: Mr Fever Head at February 16, 2012 08:24 AM (SzAZ7)
207
Hey, fatguy, the government interest in gay marriage is my shtick...
Posted by: Jean at February 16, 2012 08:24 AM (WkuV6)
208
>>>What is the compelling public interest in the state having the "right" to sanction, or prevent my marriage?
Well ultimately as I remind you marriage is a creature of state law. It is a special contract created by the state.
If you wish to contract with a partner privately and specify all the duties and obligations (and termination clauses and so on) you may do so. With no state involvement. You may call yourself married (though you will not qualify for benefits specifically requriing a formal state certified wedding).
Well ultimately as I remind you marriage is a creature of state law. It is a special contract created by the state.
If you wish to contract with a partner privately and specify all the duties and obligations (and termination clauses and so on) you may do so. With no state involvement. You may call yourself married (though you will not qualify for benefits specifically requriing a formal state certified wedding).
Posted by: ace at February 16, 2012 08:26 AM (nj1bB)
209
Strongly recommend those who are thinking of moving to Australia to do some serious research and talk to some Aussies. I have relatives who have lived there since the late 40s. They loved it, but now, not so much. It has turned into a socialist/muslim shithole. LOTS of government handouts to illegals (who are flooding the country) and no gun rights. Another possible safe haven taken off the list.
Posted by: AttackWatch.com at February 16, 2012 08:27 AM (WUWb9)
210
3And this is why people in Texas are so pissed off. We don't have a lot of this bullshit. Posted by: Lana at February 16, 2012 01:00 AM (NVU7p)
I'm so glad our legislators only meet for a few months EVERY OTHER FRICKING YEAR. Too bad the Disctrict of Criminals doesn't work that way.
3And this is why people in Texas are so pissed off. We don't have a lot of this bullshit. Posted by: Lana at February 16, 2012 01:00 AM (NVU7p)
I'm so glad our legislators only meet for a few months EVERY OTHER FRICKING YEAR. Too bad the Disctrict of Criminals doesn't work that way.
Posted by: TexBob at February 16, 2012 08:31 AM (51Nv7)
211
>>Agree with the sentiment of politics, but just want to remind everyone cigarettes suck.
And I say that as a hypocrite/addict.
Yeah, but, but, I'm a cigar girl.
And I say that as a hypocrite/addict.
Yeah, but, but, I'm a cigar girl.
Posted by: Monica at February 16, 2012 08:32 AM (8NxiE)
212
I am convinced that we loose these freedoms by a thousand cuts.
---------------------------------------
We are losing these freedoms because every day some new group of whores like MADD want to control your lives with stupid regulations that do NOTHING but limit your freedom.
The wore politicians see it as a low cost way to gain some votes from another stupid group. It doesn't raise taxes or spends money (although some of them indirectly kill the economy but they can hide that).
So MADD whores demand lowering DUI level to 0.8 with zero credible evidence and get it mandated by Washington. Most people yawn and go back to American Idol and don't see the big picture.
Hey, I don't drink so why should these people drink and drive.
The the smoking Nazis. Hey I don't smoke and hate to smell it. Lets not let people smoke in their own car or house. Lets do it for the children.
---------------------------------------
We are losing these freedoms because every day some new group of whores like MADD want to control your lives with stupid regulations that do NOTHING but limit your freedom.
The wore politicians see it as a low cost way to gain some votes from another stupid group. It doesn't raise taxes or spends money (although some of them indirectly kill the economy but they can hide that).
So MADD whores demand lowering DUI level to 0.8 with zero credible evidence and get it mandated by Washington. Most people yawn and go back to American Idol and don't see the big picture.
Hey, I don't drink so why should these people drink and drive.
The the smoking Nazis. Hey I don't smoke and hate to smell it. Lets not let people smoke in their own car or house. Lets do it for the children.
Posted by: Vic at February 16, 2012 08:32 AM (YdQQY)
213
>> Well ultimately as I remind you marriage is a creature of state law. It is a special contract created by the state.
Right. The marriage license isn't really an opportunity for the state to approve or deny your right to marry so much as it is a starting point for this contract, which uniquely impacts property rights, probate, taxation, and countless other things.
Right. The marriage license isn't really an opportunity for the state to approve or deny your right to marry so much as it is a starting point for this contract, which uniquely impacts property rights, probate, taxation, and countless other things.
Posted by: Andy at February 16, 2012 08:33 AM (XG+Mn)
214
>> Strongly recommend those who are thinking of moving to Australia to do some serious research and talk to some Aussies.
Read Tim Blair's blog. They have the same issues there as we do here.
Read Tim Blair's blog. They have the same issues there as we do here.
Posted by: Andy at February 16, 2012 08:34 AM (XG+Mn)
215
I have this same anger -- anger at this whole "I must get permission" mindset -- when I talk to people about homeschooling.
I've had multiple people (usually very nice, openminded people, who are trying to be encouraging, including my FIL) say something to the effect of: "Who will tell you what you are supposed to teach them?"
I am so flabbergasted by this attitude that I can't even wrap my mind around it.
I've had multiple people (usually very nice, openminded people, who are trying to be encouraging, including my FIL) say something to the effect of: "Who will tell you what you are supposed to teach them?"
I am so flabbergasted by this attitude that I can't even wrap my mind around it.
Posted by: elizabethe only loves Rick Perry more at February 16, 2012 08:34 AM (WZsNm)
216
I've only seen bonfires on a beach in the movies.
Posted by: hmfearnt at February 16, 2012 08:34 AM (+KcvN)
217
Marriage predates 'the state' by roughly 4300 years, in terms of recorded history. It is a cultural religious artifact, not a governmental program. I think the fact that 'the state' gets 'a say' in it is part an parcel of the problem you describe. It's an intrusion into an area the government has no business in, but has been intruding in for so long, no one even notices or knows any better. 'Qualifying for benefits' is a sign of that, as 'benefits' implies a benefitting constituency. Why should they have any say at all in what proceeded for several thousand years unimpeded without them? Why should there be 'benefits' for them to bestow on any who makes the choice to 'marry?' These things do not by necessity go hand in hand. They are only a question because of a long accepted governmental intrusion.
Shoot the tyrant. You're going to have to anyway - eventually.
Shoot the tyrant. You're going to have to anyway - eventually.
Posted by: JQ Public at February 16, 2012 08:35 AM (NBj0d)
218
What is the compelling public interest in the state having the "right" to sanction, or prevent my marriage?...
Posted by: Brian Dennehy at February 16, 2012 08:22 AM (wsPYX)
Are you thinking of marrying your sister?
It should be obvious that the state has a compelling interest in regulating marriage.
Whether gay marriage should be prohibited is another question entirely.
Posted by: Brian Dennehy at February 16, 2012 08:22 AM (wsPYX)
Are you thinking of marrying your sister?
It should be obvious that the state has a compelling interest in regulating marriage.
Whether gay marriage should be prohibited is another question entirely.
Posted by: Mr Fever Head at February 16, 2012 08:38 AM (SzAZ7)
219
...you have just come to the realization that "it's only shadow's on the cave wall"and reality is a figment of your imagination, conveniently provided you by your governmental guiding light...
Posted by: Pilar Church at February 16, 2012 08:38 AM (8ZF+X)
220
>>>I've had multiple people (usually very nice, openminded people, who are trying to be encouraging, including my FIL) say something to the effect of: "Who will tell you what you are supposed to teach them?"
it's this whole mindset that the proper role of the state (and the public, acting through the state) is to assume everyone is incompetent and stupid and create foolproof bureaucratic structures and paperwork to make sure they're not screwing up.
Of course paperwork cannot possibly ensure competence, except perhaps at filling out paperwork.
But that's the default assumption -- You Might Do Something Wrong!!!
Yeah, and?
Get this: Some days, I PLAN on doing shit wrong!!!
How does that blow your fucking mind, Helen?!*
* Just thought "helen" would be a good name to address this to.
it's this whole mindset that the proper role of the state (and the public, acting through the state) is to assume everyone is incompetent and stupid and create foolproof bureaucratic structures and paperwork to make sure they're not screwing up.
Of course paperwork cannot possibly ensure competence, except perhaps at filling out paperwork.
But that's the default assumption -- You Might Do Something Wrong!!!
Yeah, and?
Get this: Some days, I PLAN on doing shit wrong!!!
How does that blow your fucking mind, Helen?!*
* Just thought "helen" would be a good name to address this to.
Posted by: ace at February 16, 2012 08:39 AM (nj1bB)
221
Santorum isn't rising because he has appeal to us. He is rising because
the nutroots want to make trouble. And if Santorum should win, we are
screwed. If Santorum gets any power out of this, we are screwed.***Galt
Right. It could not possibly be that people just. don't. want. Romney.
the nutroots want to make trouble. And if Santorum should win, we are
screwed. If Santorum gets any power out of this, we are screwed.***Galt
Right. It could not possibly be that people just. don't. want. Romney.
Posted by: Kerry at February 16, 2012 08:44 AM (a/VXa)
222
Posted by: Vic at February 16, 2012 08:32 AM (YdQQY)
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Exactly what I mean by a thousand cuts. On the face each of these laws isn't so bad but once you add up all the little "can't do that" laws then you get this monster loss of freedom that once accepted makes the next monster loss of freedom more possible. I am afraid we've gone down this path to far already.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Exactly what I mean by a thousand cuts. On the face each of these laws isn't so bad but once you add up all the little "can't do that" laws then you get this monster loss of freedom that once accepted makes the next monster loss of freedom more possible. I am afraid we've gone down this path to far already.
Posted by: Mr Fever Head at February 16, 2012 08:46 AM (SzAZ7)
223
Adam Carolla mentions the NRA when discussing this thought. He says he doesn't completely agree with them, but likes their tactics. People want to ban "cop killer" bullets, which might seem reasonable, but the NRA says no, because it just opens the door.
He goes on to compare it to smoking bans. "Um, we're going to need you to sit in a different section." "Okay" and smokers moved. "Uh, you're going to have to just smoke at the bar." "Okay" and again they move. "I'm sorry, but we need you to smoke outside." Again the smokers move. "Now we can't have smoke in front of the restaurant. Going to have to have you move 50 ft from the building." "Okay"
Adam Carolla mentions the NRA when discussing this thought. He says he doesn't completely agree with them, but likes their tactics. People want to ban "cop killer" bullets, which might seem reasonable, but the NRA says no, because it just opens the door.
He goes on to compare it to smoking bans. "Um, we're going to need you to sit in a different section." "Okay" and smokers moved. "Uh, you're going to have to just smoke at the bar." "Okay" and again they move. "I'm sorry, but we need you to smoke outside." Again the smokers move. "Now we can't have smoke in front of the restaurant. Going to have to have you move 50 ft from the building." "Okay"
Posted by: BishopWash at February 16, 2012 08:48 AM (liT8W)
224
205
What is the compelling public interest in the state having the "right"
to sanction, or prevent my marriage? I was thinking about this prior to
the whole gay marriage debate, and that certainly impacted my thoughts
also.
Not to go all Stephanopoulous on you, but should the state have the
right to outlaw marriage between Scandis, or a black woman and an Asian
man? Almost everyone would say no. So what purpose is served by forcing
me to seek government approval of my prospective coupling?
I understand that my church may want to define and sanction it, but I
choose that association. And a church doesn't have the authority to
imprison, kill or take my property if I disobey. At least not here.
My point is consistent with your observation about ceding freedoms
incrementally and unwittingly. I'm sure there are lots more examples
once you start questioning the initial premise. We codified a feudal
practice without questioning the state, or kings right to control that
aspect of our lives.
Thanks for letting me participate
Posted by: Brian Dennehy at February 16, 2012 08:22 AM (wsPYX)
I agree with you, but I think we have seen that government isn't quite comfortable with a live and let live philosophy for religious institutions when it comes to dealing with moral questions. We have seen it clearly in the most recent case, where the federal government plans to force religious institutions to provide contraception against their moral objections to doing so. Do we really think that a government willing to do this on a small matter would hesitate much at a later date demanding the same of abortion coverage, or gay marriage? Of course they will do it, despite it being a direct contradiction of the free exercise clause.
I see lots of people here who want to grouse and claw at their faces over Santorum's appeal. Let's just say that those criticisms generally tend to be pretty narrow. But Obama has injected big government into your bedroom, your pew, your hospital room, your kid's lunch bag at school, and countless other places.The libs are telling us where they are going with this. It's time to say "stop!"
What is the compelling public interest in the state having the "right"
to sanction, or prevent my marriage? I was thinking about this prior to
the whole gay marriage debate, and that certainly impacted my thoughts
also.
Not to go all Stephanopoulous on you, but should the state have the
right to outlaw marriage between Scandis, or a black woman and an Asian
man? Almost everyone would say no. So what purpose is served by forcing
me to seek government approval of my prospective coupling?
I understand that my church may want to define and sanction it, but I
choose that association. And a church doesn't have the authority to
imprison, kill or take my property if I disobey. At least not here.
My point is consistent with your observation about ceding freedoms
incrementally and unwittingly. I'm sure there are lots more examples
once you start questioning the initial premise. We codified a feudal
practice without questioning the state, or kings right to control that
aspect of our lives.
Thanks for letting me participate
Posted by: Brian Dennehy at February 16, 2012 08:22 AM (wsPYX)
I agree with you, but I think we have seen that government isn't quite comfortable with a live and let live philosophy for religious institutions when it comes to dealing with moral questions. We have seen it clearly in the most recent case, where the federal government plans to force religious institutions to provide contraception against their moral objections to doing so. Do we really think that a government willing to do this on a small matter would hesitate much at a later date demanding the same of abortion coverage, or gay marriage? Of course they will do it, despite it being a direct contradiction of the free exercise clause.
I see lots of people here who want to grouse and claw at their faces over Santorum's appeal. Let's just say that those criticisms generally tend to be pretty narrow. But Obama has injected big government into your bedroom, your pew, your hospital room, your kid's lunch bag at school, and countless other places.The libs are telling us where they are going with this. It's time to say "stop!"
Posted by: CausticConservative at February 16, 2012 08:48 AM (gT3jF)
225
Adam Carolla mentions the NRA when discussing this thought. He says he
doesn't completely agree with them, but likes their tactics. People want
to ban "cop killer" bullets, which might seem reasonable, but the NRA
says no, because it just opens the door.
-----------------------------------
The other part of that coin is there never has been any such thing as a "cop killer" bullet. Supposedly these were "black talons" that somehow defeated body armor.
That was always a bullshit lie.
doesn't completely agree with them, but likes their tactics. People want
to ban "cop killer" bullets, which might seem reasonable, but the NRA
says no, because it just opens the door.
-----------------------------------
The other part of that coin is there never has been any such thing as a "cop killer" bullet. Supposedly these were "black talons" that somehow defeated body armor.
That was always a bullshit lie.
Posted by: Vic at February 16, 2012 08:50 AM (YdQQY)
226
You still have the right to kill your unborn child. Quit yer bitchin'.
Posted by: Empire of Jeff at February 16, 2012 08:51 AM (DiqH3)
227
The only time I have ever copped an attitude with a cop was when one followed me home to ask, rudely and without pre-amble, if "that kid in the front seat has a seat belt on". "That kid" was twelve and thus legally seated though small and yet I got a lecture about airbags. My son was in the center seat so as to avoid the airbags.
I was so in the right that even with my attitude filled responses, the cop drove away.
BUT AN AGENT OF THE STATE FOLLOWED ME HOME TO HARRASS ME ABOUT THE CARE OF MY CHILDREN WHILE LEGALLY GOING ABOUT MY BUSINESS!
I was so in the right that even with my attitude filled responses, the cop drove away.
BUT AN AGENT OF THE STATE FOLLOWED ME HOME TO HARRASS ME ABOUT THE CARE OF MY CHILDREN WHILE LEGALLY GOING ABOUT MY BUSINESS!
Posted by: kdny at February 16, 2012 08:52 AM (vrYVY)
228
Did you own the land?
Posted by: Y-not on iphone at February 16, 2012 08:54 AM (5H6zj)
229
Supposedly these were "black talons" that somehow defeated body armor.<<<
Black Talons aren't armor piercing. They expand like hollowpoints, but with sharp hook-like petals. You can still find them at gun shows but they're very expensive.
Supposedly, it was the "Teflon coated" bullets that were cop-killers. Which I've never seen proof of.
Supposedly these were "black talons" that somehow defeated body armor.<<<
Black Talons aren't armor piercing. They expand like hollowpoints, but with sharp hook-like petals. You can still find them at gun shows but they're very expensive.
Supposedly, it was the "Teflon coated" bullets that were cop-killers. Which I've never seen proof of.
Posted by: Empire of Jeff at February 16, 2012 08:56 AM (DiqH3)
230
Teflon Coated Killers. Three stone cold killers get coated by teflon in a lab explosion, then kill people. Teflon Coated Killers.
Posted by: ace at February 16, 2012 09:02 AM (nj1bB)
231
So isn't 'cop killer' just a show-biz name for 'armor-piercing' rounds - which have been around for quite a while? I mean a shot from a .50 Cal sniper rifle is going to go right through an engine block from 1000 yards. I would assume a kevlar vest isn't going to prove much of an issue, no?
Posted by: JQ Public at February 16, 2012 09:02 AM (NBj0d)
232
#230 - LOL. You have the gift. So...I'm seeing a tense scene where two CSI types are getting frustrated because they can't find so much as a trace of the killers. Overwrought and poorly acted of course. And....scene.
Posted by: JQ Public at February 16, 2012 09:06 AM (NBj0d)
233
I thought the Black Talons were the teflon coated ones. Memory problems here. I have never had any of those so going by folklore too.
Posted by: Vic at February 16, 2012 09:11 AM (YdQQY)
234
When a leftist points at the moon, keep your eyes on his hands.
The ostensible policy objectives contribute nothing to the motivation to regulate and control. The acts of regulating and controlling *are* the objective.
Some people get off on making other people jump through hoops. If *you* don't get off on that shit, don't project your preferences (or self-restraint) onto those leftist fuckers--they may as well be a different species.
When a leftist points at the moon, keep your eyes on his hands.
The ostensible policy objectives contribute nothing to the motivation to regulate and control. The acts of regulating and controlling *are* the objective.
Some people get off on making other people jump through hoops. If *you* don't get off on that shit, don't project your preferences (or self-restraint) onto those leftist fuckers--they may as well be a different species.
Posted by: FRONT TOWARD LEFT at February 16, 2012 09:11 AM (p7SSh)
235
I mean a shot from a .50 Cal sniper rifle is going to go right through an engine block from 1000 yards.
-----------------------------
They are trying as hard as they can to get those banned now. But a 30-06 will whistle through police armor with no problems. Some versions of military armor will stop one but that is the very heavy type that most ground pounders don't like to hump around.
I am sure out of shape cops would never wear any of that shit.
-----------------------------
They are trying as hard as they can to get those banned now. But a 30-06 will whistle through police armor with no problems. Some versions of military armor will stop one but that is the very heavy type that most ground pounders don't like to hump around.
I am sure out of shape cops would never wear any of that shit.
Posted by: Vic at February 16, 2012 09:13 AM (YdQQY)
236
I hate to say it, because I know what the reaction will be around here... but if you actually give a shit about this individual liberty non sense, at this point you really have to vote for Ron Paul in the remaining primaries. He won't be the nominee, and I know all the stuff about the news letters, earmark hypocrisy, foreign policy stuff, and even the casual association with conspiracy theorists of various ilks... I have to look past all that right now. The individual liberty stuff is paramount right now, and with Obama, or Santorum, or Romney, or Gingrich they will only be eroded further.
I wanted Rick Perry's campaign to succeed in the worst way, and there are others that might have joined the race that didn't, but right now I have to vote for Paul on Super Tuesday, and pray for a brokered convention. Because we are staring at a second Obama term right now, these three morons just aren't going to get the job done.
Maybe someone will come out of the convention that we can rally around, I've been arguing with some that the confusion of it all will turn off voters... what is turning this voter off right now is the prospect of having to vote for Santorum or Romney in the general election (gingrich needs a miracle). I'll pull the lever for them if you put a gun to my head, but it will be with the same sick feeling I had in 2008, when I did so for McCain knowing he was going to lose, and I would be nursing a severe hangover for the next week.
I wanted Rick Perry's campaign to succeed in the worst way, and there are others that might have joined the race that didn't, but right now I have to vote for Paul on Super Tuesday, and pray for a brokered convention. Because we are staring at a second Obama term right now, these three morons just aren't going to get the job done.
Maybe someone will come out of the convention that we can rally around, I've been arguing with some that the confusion of it all will turn off voters... what is turning this voter off right now is the prospect of having to vote for Santorum or Romney in the general election (gingrich needs a miracle). I'll pull the lever for them if you put a gun to my head, but it will be with the same sick feeling I had in 2008, when I did so for McCain knowing he was going to lose, and I would be nursing a severe hangover for the next week.
Posted by: Dr. Shatterhand at February 16, 2012 09:14 AM (OisKx)
237
I now look at those laws as needful because my right to build a fire can not supersede another's right to keep me from burning his house down.
But isn't there already a law about risking a catastrophe on the books?
Here in my part of Pennsylvania the rainfall averages are pretty amazing. Four inches per month, every month of the year. A week without rain is pretty unusual. The ground seldom dries out. It is so unusual an event that the television stations will announce an advisory. When I go to Weather dot com in the morning it's a red banner splash to great me if those conditions exist.
It pisses me off that we have to have a roomful of government 'workers' manning a phone bank 24/7 and 365 days a year for what is at best an extremely rare event.
We started out with no regulation, could burn whenever we wanted, then we had to stay within some radius of the fire with a garden hose while burning. I didn't have an issue with that. Once they opened the door, they saw that no one complained, so they turned it into another gov't jobs program, so that now we have to call a number and say, "Please benevolent government, in your PhD in fire conditions opinion, is it acceptable for me to strike a match and burn my pile of twigs?"
What the public needs to be educated about though, is never, ever, burn poison ivy. That shit gets in the air, gets in your lungs or on your body, you'll be feeling it. Just toss it on the grass, let it dry out, and run over it with a lawnmower.
But isn't there already a law about risking a catastrophe on the books?
Here in my part of Pennsylvania the rainfall averages are pretty amazing. Four inches per month, every month of the year. A week without rain is pretty unusual. The ground seldom dries out. It is so unusual an event that the television stations will announce an advisory. When I go to Weather dot com in the morning it's a red banner splash to great me if those conditions exist.
It pisses me off that we have to have a roomful of government 'workers' manning a phone bank 24/7 and 365 days a year for what is at best an extremely rare event.
We started out with no regulation, could burn whenever we wanted, then we had to stay within some radius of the fire with a garden hose while burning. I didn't have an issue with that. Once they opened the door, they saw that no one complained, so they turned it into another gov't jobs program, so that now we have to call a number and say, "Please benevolent government, in your PhD in fire conditions opinion, is it acceptable for me to strike a match and burn my pile of twigs?"
What the public needs to be educated about though, is never, ever, burn poison ivy. That shit gets in the air, gets in your lungs or on your body, you'll be feeling it. Just toss it on the grass, let it dry out, and run over it with a lawnmower.
Posted by: Just Me at February 16, 2012 09:21 AM (phlKA)
238
>>>o isn't 'cop killer' just a show-biz name for 'armor-piercing' rounds - which have been around for quite a while?
no, cop killer rounds were supposedly these new rounds that combined two previously uncombinable properties -- armor piercing (which requires a full jacket and keeps the bullet intact, producing a deep but narrow-gauge wound) and expanding round (which requires an unjacketed round and scoring ot make sure the bullet expands upon entry, producing a wider, nastier wound).
The supposed breakthrough here was that you could have both in one bullet.
I'm not sure these things existed outside of an ammo company's claims and several Hollywood screenplays and dozens and dozens of panicky news stories urging you to get involved.
no, cop killer rounds were supposedly these new rounds that combined two previously uncombinable properties -- armor piercing (which requires a full jacket and keeps the bullet intact, producing a deep but narrow-gauge wound) and expanding round (which requires an unjacketed round and scoring ot make sure the bullet expands upon entry, producing a wider, nastier wound).
The supposed breakthrough here was that you could have both in one bullet.
I'm not sure these things existed outside of an ammo company's claims and several Hollywood screenplays and dozens and dozens of panicky news stories urging you to get involved.
Posted by: ace at February 16, 2012 09:21 AM (nj1bB)
239
But isn't there already a law about risking a catastrophe on the books?
------------------------------------
Not here. As I said, it was pretty lose. No more though.
------------------------------------
Not here. As I said, it was pretty lose. No more though.
Posted by: Vic at February 16, 2012 09:25 AM (YdQQY)
240
Let's not make some kind of Working Class Rebel Hero out of a fucking cancer stick.
Posted by: ace at February 16, 2012 08:08 AM (nj1bB)
Why not?
Maybe your boundaries on freedom are still tighter than you think.
Posted by: ace at February 16, 2012 08:08 AM (nj1bB)
Why not?
Maybe your boundaries on freedom are still tighter than you think.
Posted by: eman at February 16, 2012 09:26 AM (DTX4S)
241
ace, I think you should increase your water intake during the day. Maybe you problem with acid isn't so much related to food as it is related to being nervous about all this stuff coming at you. Maybe you stomach is creating too much acid as a response to stress. So maybe drinking more water all day will dilute the acid all day and you might feel a little better. If the thought of drinking more water revolts you then get yourself a nice glass with different colored straws or a kewl water bottle, a new toy for the new idea of drinking more water so it will be a pleasant experience.
Posted by: jeremy lin fan at February 16, 2012 09:31 AM (oZfic)
242
Born and raised in NY, Long Island. I just came back from a two week visit with friends and family and was amazed at how many more restrictive signs that have gone up everywhere since my last visit a couple of years ago. No this, No that...This prohibited, That Prohibited, Absolutely no This or That. Government sign making seems to an excellent career choice there. Place sucks and I dread a return trip.
Posted by: Cast Iron at February 16, 2012 09:32 AM (EL+OC)
243
Best post I've read on your site Ace, and I stop by every day.
I've been running my own business of one kind or another since I got out of school in 1988. Most people have no idea how conditioned they are to governmental control over their life, and no idea how much that control adds to the cost of doing business.
Great post. Keep up the good work.
I've been running my own business of one kind or another since I got out of school in 1988. Most people have no idea how conditioned they are to governmental control over their life, and no idea how much that control adds to the cost of doing business.
Great post. Keep up the good work.
Posted by: Bill Smith at February 16, 2012 09:32 AM (mu10O)
Posted by: jeremy lin fan at February 16, 2012 09:33 AM (oZfic)
245
Welcome to the party.
Posted by: Better than the rest at February 16, 2012 09:36 AM (nu5tm)
246
Let's not forget the response from the tyrants.
Which essentially is "If don't want things to be the way they are now, then you want little kids working in coal mines."
We have been herded like sheep for decades.
Sadly, voting will not set us free. It is too late for that.
Which essentially is "If don't want things to be the way they are now, then you want little kids working in coal mines."
We have been herded like sheep for decades.
Sadly, voting will not set us free. It is too late for that.
Posted by: eman at February 16, 2012 09:37 AM (DTX4S)
247
#238. Awesome. Liberals gin up 2nd amendment angst? No way. I should have known. There's always a unicorn in the story.
Posted by: JQ Public at February 16, 2012 09:41 AM (NBj0d)
248
I went through this bullshit with my son's school, and it is why we homeschool.
My son has a genetic condition that affects his growth and looks a lot like autism. He started Kindergarten and all hell broke loose.
Technically a child in my district does not have to start school until 6, but of course most start at 5.
My son started at 5. Immediately, he was struck down with a nasty viral infection that required steroids to clear up. He gave it to his younger siblings, and my 3 month old baby ended up hospitalized for 2 days. My son was tardy because I couldn't get away from the hospital (baby was on a fucking breathing machine) until 9am. I was told that such a tardy was unexcused, and if he got another we would feel the wrath of the district.
Things went down hill from there. My son woke up with a fever 2/5 days a week. He got every bug you can imagine. I schlepped him to the doctor to dutifully get a doctors note each time.
My doctor finally told me, straight up, that my son was getting sick because other idiot parents were sending there kids to school.with fevers. He would continue to get sick. There was nothing I could do to stop it except pull him out.
We kept trucking along, and I started to get threatening letters from the state about 5 year olds "truency". Meetings were held, where the local school assured me that everything was fine, but those letters were automatic. Nothing they could do to stop them. They didn't have the authority.
Meanwhile, the school didn't have a fucking clue what to gp with my son. He spent the majority of his school day wandering the halls with a vp, or screaming and rocking on the floor. IEP meeting after meeting led to no progress.
After Christmas, we decided that enough was enough. We sent the required letters announcing out intention to homeschooling, and washed our hands of the situation.
Then came the home visits. Some vp/counselor combo showed up at my doorstep to discuss her "concerns" and invited me to another meeting. I went, and reasserted that e planned to.homeschool. They set up another meeting, which I told them I would not attend. The decisions, I explained, was already made.
On the day of that meeting I looked out my door to see 3 cars full of school officials outside my window. They had, without my permission or consultation, brought the meeting to me.
I refused to open the door. They left, after standing out there for a good 30 minutes. I will never enroll another child in the public school system.
My son has a genetic condition that affects his growth and looks a lot like autism. He started Kindergarten and all hell broke loose.
Technically a child in my district does not have to start school until 6, but of course most start at 5.
My son started at 5. Immediately, he was struck down with a nasty viral infection that required steroids to clear up. He gave it to his younger siblings, and my 3 month old baby ended up hospitalized for 2 days. My son was tardy because I couldn't get away from the hospital (baby was on a fucking breathing machine) until 9am. I was told that such a tardy was unexcused, and if he got another we would feel the wrath of the district.
Things went down hill from there. My son woke up with a fever 2/5 days a week. He got every bug you can imagine. I schlepped him to the doctor to dutifully get a doctors note each time.
My doctor finally told me, straight up, that my son was getting sick because other idiot parents were sending there kids to school.with fevers. He would continue to get sick. There was nothing I could do to stop it except pull him out.
We kept trucking along, and I started to get threatening letters from the state about 5 year olds "truency". Meetings were held, where the local school assured me that everything was fine, but those letters were automatic. Nothing they could do to stop them. They didn't have the authority.
Meanwhile, the school didn't have a fucking clue what to gp with my son. He spent the majority of his school day wandering the halls with a vp, or screaming and rocking on the floor. IEP meeting after meeting led to no progress.
After Christmas, we decided that enough was enough. We sent the required letters announcing out intention to homeschooling, and washed our hands of the situation.
Then came the home visits. Some vp/counselor combo showed up at my doorstep to discuss her "concerns" and invited me to another meeting. I went, and reasserted that e planned to.homeschool. They set up another meeting, which I told them I would not attend. The decisions, I explained, was already made.
On the day of that meeting I looked out my door to see 3 cars full of school officials outside my window. They had, without my permission or consultation, brought the meeting to me.
I refused to open the door. They left, after standing out there for a good 30 minutes. I will never enroll another child in the public school system.
Posted by: Lauren at February 16, 2012 09:41 AM (/E6lO)
249
Here's a set of Principles for the Recovering Republic.
1) No government has the right to tax your income.
2) No government has the right to know how much wealth you have.
3) No government has the right to know how much money you make.
4) No government has the right to know where your money comes from.
1) No government has the right to tax your income.
2) No government has the right to know how much wealth you have.
3) No government has the right to know how much money you make.
4) No government has the right to know where your money comes from.
Posted by: eman at February 16, 2012 09:41 AM (DTX4S)
250
Sorry, didn't mean for that to get so long.
Posted by: Lauren at February 16, 2012 09:42 AM (/E6lO)
251
This is one of the reasons I like Rick Santorum. Some of the most odious Obama abuses may be rolled back.
Will Mitt Romney get rid of some of the Global Warming nonsense?
Will Mitt Romney change the TSA pornoscanner policy?
Will Mitt Romney stop thekidlunch inspections?
Will Mitt Romney completely repeal Obamacare?
I think Rick Santorum is more likely to do these things, and, in exchange Planned Parenthood will lose some funding and the morning after pill may get hard to get. It seems like a worthwhile trade.
Will Mitt Romney get rid of some of the Global Warming nonsense?
Will Mitt Romney change the TSA pornoscanner policy?
Will Mitt Romney stop thekidlunch inspections?
Will Mitt Romney completely repeal Obamacare?
I think Rick Santorum is more likely to do these things, and, in exchange Planned Parenthood will lose some funding and the morning after pill may get hard to get. It seems like a worthwhile trade.
Posted by: Sad Dad at February 16, 2012 09:43 AM (Rwrs+)
252
Sorry, didn't mean for that to get so long.
Posted by: Lauren at February 16, 2012 09:42 AM (/E6lO)
It wasn't.
Posted by: Lauren at February 16, 2012 09:42 AM (/E6lO)
It wasn't.
Posted by: eman at February 16, 2012 09:44 AM (DTX4S)
253
Ace's post reminds me of a Garrison Keillor (yeah, yeah, I know) story about growing up in a Plymouth Brethren family (very religious) and once they went to a diner after church on Sunday, sat down, got water served, and noticed there was alcohol on the menu. And the waitress was real "worldly" and a bunch of other things made them uncomfortable so their dad said, "We're leaving." And they got up real nervously because they didn't know protocol for leaving a restaurant or, as he put it, "If it was even legal."
Posted by: MaxMBJ at February 16, 2012 09:45 AM (deaac)
254
I used to have trouble with acid reflux. Did a little research on the whole acid/base thing in the human body. Blood ph is normally in the slightly acidic range a little less then 7ph, which would be neutral. Most beverages we drink are in the 2 to 3 range on the ph scale -- which is pretty damn acidic.
Then I began upping my consumption of foods with diuretic properties and haven't had a problem since. I already had a natural diuretic list, and when crosschecking against 'folk remedies' for acid reflux I noticed that a lot of the same foods were on the list. Anyway, here's some popular foods with diuretic properties (plus it doesn't hurt to shed water weight -- and it might just be a symptom that you're not consuming some foods you should):
apple cider vinegar (small amount on salad)
tomato
green tea - replace coffee with this
celery
lettuce
carrots
oats
horseradish
parsley
onion
cranberry juice
The funny thing is, a lot of those foods are acidic. Sometimes things work counter-intuitively.
Then I began upping my consumption of foods with diuretic properties and haven't had a problem since. I already had a natural diuretic list, and when crosschecking against 'folk remedies' for acid reflux I noticed that a lot of the same foods were on the list. Anyway, here's some popular foods with diuretic properties (plus it doesn't hurt to shed water weight -- and it might just be a symptom that you're not consuming some foods you should):
apple cider vinegar (small amount on salad)
tomato
green tea - replace coffee with this
celery
lettuce
carrots
oats
horseradish
parsley
onion
cranberry juice
The funny thing is, a lot of those foods are acidic. Sometimes things work counter-intuitively.
Posted by: Just Me at February 16, 2012 09:48 AM (phlKA)
255
You went to the beach?
Posted by: jeremy lin fan at February 16, 2012 09:33 AM (oZfic)
Not this visit. There were too many signs telling me to GTFO...LOL
Posted by: jeremy lin fan at February 16, 2012 09:33 AM (oZfic)
Not this visit. There were too many signs telling me to GTFO...LOL
Posted by: Cast Iron at February 16, 2012 09:50 AM (EL+OC)
256
One other thing about acid reflex. I imagine you're at a desk, get up once in a while. Pull your shirt up and take a look across your stomach. Do you have an indent from pants or belt buckle cutting a line? If so, wear something with some stretch and/or adjust the height of your desk so that you don't bend over so much. Sometimes it's little stuff that adds up.
Posted by: Just Me at February 16, 2012 09:57 AM (phlKA)
257
Halle-Fuckin-lluleh Ace. I've been thinking of this for years. It's interesting when you have to explain all the stupid shit you have to do to kids. I swear once my kids grow up I'm moving to the fucking middle of nowhere, building a fence and telling the busybodies to fuck off and leave me alone...
Posted by: Hedgehog at February 16, 2012 10:06 AM (3jGS1)
258
@228 "Did you own the land?"
That's another thing, no one owns their land, that is a myth.
No man can be free unless he can outright own the land he stands on with no other fees due.
We have lost our freedoms, this has happened slowly over the last 120 years or so. We are now in high gear in freedom loss.
We will not fix this overnight nor in this election, we will have to have a majority of like minded people in this country to start to get them back and it will take a long long time for that to happen.
Chances of this happening are probably slim to none.
Some think a collapse will fix the problem, I doubt that will work either because what comes out the other side of a collapse will most likely not be pretty.
The future of this country is grim, unless we can get a majority of the people to wake up.
That's another thing, no one owns their land, that is a myth.
No man can be free unless he can outright own the land he stands on with no other fees due.
We have lost our freedoms, this has happened slowly over the last 120 years or so. We are now in high gear in freedom loss.
We will not fix this overnight nor in this election, we will have to have a majority of like minded people in this country to start to get them back and it will take a long long time for that to happen.
Chances of this happening are probably slim to none.
Some think a collapse will fix the problem, I doubt that will work either because what comes out the other side of a collapse will most likely not be pretty.
The future of this country is grim, unless we can get a majority of the people to wake up.
Posted by: MarkC at February 16, 2012 10:07 AM (Kf68R)
259
A friend and I were talking about this the other day; we could remember in high school how some of the students would drive to school with shotguns and rifles in gun racks in their trucks, and just about every male student carried a pocket or buck knife. And nobody got shot, and there were never any knife fights. But today,bringing those items onto a school campus would result in the SWAT team showing up.
I don't know; it seems like our freedoms and rights have slowly been whittled away, all in the interest of "the public good" or "the children". I keep thinking about the preamble to the Declaration of Independence, wherein Jefferson says "We hold these truths to be self evident that all men are created equalthat they are endowed by their Creator with certain inalienable rights that among these are life liberty and the pursuit of happiness. That to secure these rights Governments are instituted by Men deriving their just powers from the consent of the governed..."
Consent of the governed... what if (much like our forefathers did with King George) we just withdrew our consent? I am not advocating armed rebellion here, but what if people just said "no" to these rules and regulations that stifle our freedom? What if (for instance) when a judge rules that people cannot hang a banner in their high school that says "Our Dear Heavenly Father" the people did it anyway? What if, when a judge says no, you cannot hand out pro-life literature on a public sidewalk in front of an abortion clinic people did it anyway? If 5 or 10 people did it, or acts similar to that, they might be locked up. But what if 1000 people did it? What if 1000 people showed up at the beach, and each built a bonfire?I think we are seeing a bit of this with the Occupy crowd...they are told they can't camp out in public parks and on public property, but they are doing it anyway.I am not supporting them mind you, just pointing out that they (in their own mindless way) are withdrawing their consent and exercising their freedom.
Apologies for the length of this comment, but this is a subject that I find rather fascinating. Great post, Ace. One of the best I have read on this blog.
A friend and I were talking about this the other day; we could remember in high school how some of the students would drive to school with shotguns and rifles in gun racks in their trucks, and just about every male student carried a pocket or buck knife. And nobody got shot, and there were never any knife fights. But today,bringing those items onto a school campus would result in the SWAT team showing up.
I don't know; it seems like our freedoms and rights have slowly been whittled away, all in the interest of "the public good" or "the children". I keep thinking about the preamble to the Declaration of Independence, wherein Jefferson says "We hold these truths to be self evident that all men are created equalthat they are endowed by their Creator with certain inalienable rights that among these are life liberty and the pursuit of happiness. That to secure these rights Governments are instituted by Men deriving their just powers from the consent of the governed..."
Consent of the governed... what if (much like our forefathers did with King George) we just withdrew our consent? I am not advocating armed rebellion here, but what if people just said "no" to these rules and regulations that stifle our freedom? What if (for instance) when a judge rules that people cannot hang a banner in their high school that says "Our Dear Heavenly Father" the people did it anyway? What if, when a judge says no, you cannot hand out pro-life literature on a public sidewalk in front of an abortion clinic people did it anyway? If 5 or 10 people did it, or acts similar to that, they might be locked up. But what if 1000 people did it? What if 1000 people showed up at the beach, and each built a bonfire?I think we are seeing a bit of this with the Occupy crowd...they are told they can't camp out in public parks and on public property, but they are doing it anyway.I am not supporting them mind you, just pointing out that they (in their own mindless way) are withdrawing their consent and exercising their freedom.
Apologies for the length of this comment, but this is a subject that I find rather fascinating. Great post, Ace. One of the best I have read on this blog.
Posted by: DaveinNC at February 16, 2012 10:10 AM (boNGU)
260
"I was so in the right that even with my attitude filled responses, the cop drove away."
And, no offense, there's another good example of how we've been conditioned to think.
You were legally in the right. You were on your own property and committing no crime, not even by the absurdly broad standards of our current laws. The cop was factually wrong, unprofessional, obnoxious, and acting completely outside the authority you and your fellow citizens have entrusted to him.
You responded appropriately. Police are public servants, not our superiors. Respect is a courtesy extended from one person to another, nothing more.
And yet we're often surprised and relieved when the police officer does not abuse his power to retaliate against us for...being angry? For being spoken to harshly?
No. That officer should have apologized to you. Then he should have gone away worried that you might report his bad conduct, and spent some time thinking very hard about his role in society and how he does his job in the future.
Instead, we've come to expect public servants to hurt us when we disrespect them. To invent a pretext to take our property, our freedom, or even our kids. To punish us for pointing out when they're in the wrong. And then we've been conditioned to make excuses for them, to the point where we realign society to suit the whims of law enforcement and civil bureaucracy.
That's terribly, terribly wrong.
And, no offense, there's another good example of how we've been conditioned to think.
You were legally in the right. You were on your own property and committing no crime, not even by the absurdly broad standards of our current laws. The cop was factually wrong, unprofessional, obnoxious, and acting completely outside the authority you and your fellow citizens have entrusted to him.
You responded appropriately. Police are public servants, not our superiors. Respect is a courtesy extended from one person to another, nothing more.
And yet we're often surprised and relieved when the police officer does not abuse his power to retaliate against us for...being angry? For being spoken to harshly?
No. That officer should have apologized to you. Then he should have gone away worried that you might report his bad conduct, and spent some time thinking very hard about his role in society and how he does his job in the future.
Instead, we've come to expect public servants to hurt us when we disrespect them. To invent a pretext to take our property, our freedom, or even our kids. To punish us for pointing out when they're in the wrong. And then we've been conditioned to make excuses for them, to the point where we realign society to suit the whims of law enforcement and civil bureaucracy.
That's terribly, terribly wrong.
Posted by: GalosGann at February 16, 2012 10:15 AM (T3KlW)
261
So we can't do bonfires and football on the beach like in "Point Break?" California is going to ban their whole 'California' style right out and lose a lot of tourists and locals will leave too.
Posted by: Schwalbe: The Me-262© at February 16, 2012 10:22 AM (UU0OF)
262
My eldest brother lives up in New Jersey, and I go to visit him and his family fairly frequently.
We went to the Jersey Shore, my brother, me, and his kids, who are 7 and 5. The kids wanted to go boogie boarding. Their little feet had barely touched the water when the shrill whistling began. You can't swim there, it's outside the designated area. (The designated area being the 100 foot area where people were pressed in like cattle on a train car.)
Whistle!
You can't boogie board there, it's a wading area only.
Whistle!
You can't use a boogie board there, the boarding area is for surfboards only.
Whistle!
The State of New Jersey had ZONED THE ATLANTIC OCEAN.
When questioned on it, the brain-dead college drop-out lifeguard could not begin to explain who had made these rules, nor by what authority they had done so. THEY said you couldn't do it, ipso facto it was forbidden.
Who are they?
Whistle!
We went to the Jersey Shore, my brother, me, and his kids, who are 7 and 5. The kids wanted to go boogie boarding. Their little feet had barely touched the water when the shrill whistling began. You can't swim there, it's outside the designated area. (The designated area being the 100 foot area where people were pressed in like cattle on a train car.)
Whistle!
You can't boogie board there, it's a wading area only.
Whistle!
You can't use a boogie board there, the boarding area is for surfboards only.
Whistle!
The State of New Jersey had ZONED THE ATLANTIC OCEAN.
When questioned on it, the brain-dead college drop-out lifeguard could not begin to explain who had made these rules, nor by what authority they had done so. THEY said you couldn't do it, ipso facto it was forbidden.
Who are they?
Whistle!
Posted by: DKS at February 16, 2012 10:22 AM (r+34Y)
263
Link to a local politician who wants to ban pajama pants in public.
http://preview.tinyurl.com/7l8qto9
http://preview.tinyurl.com/7l8qto9
Posted by: Mama AJ at February 16, 2012 10:25 AM (XdlcF)
264
258
@228 "Did you own the land?"
That's another thing, no one owns their land, that is a myth.
No man can be free unless he can outright own the land he stands on with no other fees due.
I can't remember who said it, Walter Williams I think, but if you want to find our who really owns "your" property, stop paying your property taxes. SMOD take me now!
@228 "Did you own the land?"
That's another thing, no one owns their land, that is a myth.
No man can be free unless he can outright own the land he stands on with no other fees due.
I can't remember who said it, Walter Williams I think, but if you want to find our who really owns "your" property, stop paying your property taxes. SMOD take me now!
Posted by: Hedgehog at February 16, 2012 10:28 AM (3jGS1)
265
"It’s one thing to come to Las Vegas and do gaming and participate in
the shows and that kind of thing as entertainment, it’s another thing to
sit in your home and have access to that it. I think it would be
dangerous to our country to have that type of access to gaming on the
Internet."
Guess who.
I reckon a weekly poker game is dangerous to our country too.
Who knew?
the shows and that kind of thing as entertainment, it’s another thing to
sit in your home and have access to that it. I think it would be
dangerous to our country to have that type of access to gaming on the
Internet."
Guess who.
I reckon a weekly poker game is dangerous to our country too.
Who knew?
Posted by: Nicholas Kronos at February 16, 2012 10:28 AM (zL1lf)
266
If the no bonfire rule was implemented in order toremove fromsome dumbass the opportunity to accidentally allow a two inch diameter hardwood ember to be carried miles away by the Santa Anas, I can see the prudence in it. The rights of one endangering the rights of many. Kinda sucks for the non dumbasses that wouldn't allow that to happen, but (if preventing cataclysmic out of control fires in SoCalis indeedthe reason, which is doubtful), I can appreciate the contingecy prevention behind it.
That being said, I doubt the framers of that law foresaw the potential for a sleeper cell to execute such a destructive attack on purpose. And, iflaw enforcementsaw such a group in the act of making an insanely gigantic bonfire in SoCal, they'd be hard pressed to stop it before it was too late. If they did mange to stop it, they'd likely get sued and some special interest group would have exlusive rights to build bonfires, courtesy of the Diversity Police.
I guess I'm okay with it due to the unintended potential disaster prevention it might possibly have created. Let me eat some pancakes before I make my final ruling on this affair.
That being said, I doubt the framers of that law foresaw the potential for a sleeper cell to execute such a destructive attack on purpose. And, iflaw enforcementsaw such a group in the act of making an insanely gigantic bonfire in SoCal, they'd be hard pressed to stop it before it was too late. If they did mange to stop it, they'd likely get sued and some special interest group would have exlusive rights to build bonfires, courtesy of the Diversity Police.
I guess I'm okay with it due to the unintended potential disaster prevention it might possibly have created. Let me eat some pancakes before I make my final ruling on this affair.
Posted by: johnny flapjacks, progoticator of prognosticating contingency planners at February 16, 2012 10:30 AM (gMONh)
267
we live in northern westchester, and wanted to get a little Costco plastic shed to hold our yard machines. We were told that we'd have to have an envrio-engineer come out to do an impact review, and if he ok'd it, then we'd have to get permits, and surveys all for a 10 sqft plastic shed. And of course we'd have to pay for all the inspectors. Needless to say we said "fuck it."
Posted by: Iblis at February 16, 2012 10:31 AM (hLGVM)
268
#262 I have lived in southeastern PA for 7 years now and I won't go to the Jersey Shore because of all the overregulation. It's like freaking New York City with sand.
I had my own battle with little tyranny a few years back when I lived in the People's Republic of Aleandria, Virginia and applied for a zoning variance to add on to my tiny little house. Because I had a corner lot, the code required a 30-foot setback on both sides. I was turned down twice for a variance - after I hired the chairman of the zoning appeals board as my architect and paid him $10,000 - because the bureaucrats in the zoning department said our proposed addition would mess up the view of people driving up the hill. They told us we could add on in the rear all the way to the lot line, or go up to three stories, both of which would have been prohibitively expensive, but we couldn't go 12 feet to the side to add on one room and expand the kitchen. So we left that town.
I had my own battle with little tyranny a few years back when I lived in the People's Republic of Aleandria, Virginia and applied for a zoning variance to add on to my tiny little house. Because I had a corner lot, the code required a 30-foot setback on both sides. I was turned down twice for a variance - after I hired the chairman of the zoning appeals board as my architect and paid him $10,000 - because the bureaucrats in the zoning department said our proposed addition would mess up the view of people driving up the hill. They told us we could add on in the rear all the way to the lot line, or go up to three stories, both of which would have been prohibitively expensive, but we couldn't go 12 feet to the side to add on one room and expand the kitchen. So we left that town.
Posted by: rockmom at February 16, 2012 10:35 AM (NYnoe)
269
Iblis at February 16, 2012 10:31 AM (hLGVM)
Did the engineer immediately leave your property and travel to Costco headquarters to further pursue righting thisconspiracyagainst Gaiaperpetrated onAmerican Soil? If not, I hope you have his badge number.
Did the engineer immediately leave your property and travel to Costco headquarters to further pursue righting thisconspiracyagainst Gaiaperpetrated onAmerican Soil? If not, I hope you have his badge number.
Posted by: Nature Police, loyal Servant to Gaia Badge Number 420 at February 16, 2012 10:36 AM (gMONh)
270
I laughed when someone quoted o'really. He doesn't even realize it, it's part of the fabric of his life but, the very town he lives in has all kinds of regulations about what he can and can't do with his house. And within that town their are small fiefdoms where they actually can tell you if you can cut down a tree in your own front yard (if they say no and you do, $500 fine) if you can paint your house a certain color or if they want you to paint it another color. That's why I laughed when Newt said a panel of locals. That panel of locals would make the entire system worse.
Posted by: jeremy lin fan at February 16, 2012 10:37 AM (oZfic)
271
So we can't do bonfires and football on the beach
like in "Point Break?" California is going to ban their whole
'California' style right out and lose a lot of tourists and locals will
leave too.
Posted by: Schwalbe: The Me-262© at February 16, 2012 10:22 AM (UU0OF)
---------------------------------------------
Meanwhile they will leave the bums and druggies in Venice Beach pissing on the sidewalk and shitting in people's yards.
like in "Point Break?" California is going to ban their whole
'California' style right out and lose a lot of tourists and locals will
leave too.
Posted by: Schwalbe: The Me-262© at February 16, 2012 10:22 AM (UU0OF)
---------------------------------------------
Meanwhile they will leave the bums and druggies in Venice Beach pissing on the sidewalk and shitting in people's yards.
Posted by: Vic at February 16, 2012 10:39 AM (YdQQY)
272
The rights of one endangering the rights of many.
Laws and regulations are mostly like that. Just one more rule to follow and we'll be a little closer to perfection. A million little threads tying you down and there's always a reason why you dare not break any of them. Power and the notion of utopia are very seductive that way.
Laws and regulations are mostly like that. Just one more rule to follow and we'll be a little closer to perfection. A million little threads tying you down and there's always a reason why you dare not break any of them. Power and the notion of utopia are very seductive that way.
Posted by: Heorot at February 16, 2012 10:40 AM (Nq/UF)
273
My friend sent me an email about this morning's glenn beck show. I can't listen to it but my friend said that they were discussing the secretary saying that "it's not a tax" and the president grabbing the power when it comes to abortion/birth control. He said in the email he thinks that the power grab is all part of thwarting the Supreme Court case as they may be losing with their original defense but if they can say that the president already has the power since he grabbed it and no one stopped him from grabbing it, that this might be what the Supremes can hang their hat on. Hmmm.
Posted by: jeremy lin fan at February 16, 2012 10:45 AM (oZfic)
274
I live in a little town of 300 or so. I can go on my porch and fire off a few rounds and nobody will come see what I'm up to. It is still very live and let live.Secede. The Union needs Texas more than Texas needs the Union.
Posted by: Mr. Dave at February 16, 2012 10:47 AM (OBDWE)
275
Appropriate Firefly/Serenity nerdery:
"People don't like to be meddled with. We tell them what to do, what to think, don't run, don't walk. We're in their homes and in their heads and we haven't the right. We're meddlesome. "
"People don't like to be meddled with. We tell them what to do, what to think, don't run, don't walk. We're in their homes and in their heads and we haven't the right. We're meddlesome. "
Posted by: Jaws at February 16, 2012 10:49 AM (4I3Uo)
276
This is a great thread but I feel like I just read a Mark Steyn book.
What needs to happen so we can roll back the nanny state? If the whole chimichanga implodes, will that not probably lead to more tyranny and not less?
What needs to happen so we can roll back the nanny state? If the whole chimichanga implodes, will that not probably lead to more tyranny and not less?
Posted by: PJ at February 16, 2012 10:50 AM (DQHjw)
277
"That's another thing, no one owns their land, that is a myth."
You pay ransom to the govt and get to use it for another year.
You pay ransom to the govt and get to use it for another year.
Posted by: Purple Avenger at February 16, 2012 10:52 AM (h6cnQ)
278
If the chimichange implodes, odds are that tyrrany will take root in the ashes. I maintain that it was a freaking miracle we came out of 1782 and 1865 as free as we did. Going back to that well again? Who knows?
Posted by: Jaws at February 16, 2012 10:54 AM (4I3Uo)
279
Ace, a lot of this can be traced straight back to government run compulsory school.
"What??? You think you know what you're interested in and want to study that? You're only eight, how could you possibly know what interests you. Now sit down and shut up and do this math that you mastered six months ago while little Johnny catches up to you. You can decide what you like and what you want to do with your life when you're released from this prison in 10 years."
The conditioning starts a age 5, lasts for 13 years and pretty much f-s everybody up in that time.
"What??? You think you know what you're interested in and want to study that? You're only eight, how could you possibly know what interests you. Now sit down and shut up and do this math that you mastered six months ago while little Johnny catches up to you. You can decide what you like and what you want to do with your life when you're released from this prison in 10 years."
The conditioning starts a age 5, lasts for 13 years and pretty much f-s everybody up in that time.
Posted by: rockhead at February 16, 2012 10:58 AM (ZMHGo)
280
In 1950, a kid could save up his money and buy his first shotgun at the hardware store or gas station. The government didn't even have to know about it. One generation - that's all it took to get to today.
Posted by: Sad Dad at February 16, 2012 10:59 AM (MNWe/)
281
"Sixty years ago, would we have thought that was normal?"
60 years ago was our socialist high-water mark. We had been rationing food and metal within recent memory.
So probably yes.
60 years ago was our socialist high-water mark. We had been rationing food and metal within recent memory.
So probably yes.
Posted by: Knemon at February 16, 2012 11:00 AM (u1+3w)
282
In 1950, a kid could save up his money and buy his
first shotgun at the hardware store or gas station. The government
didn't even have to know about it. One generation - that's all it took
to get to today.
Posted by: Sad Dad at February 16, 2012 10:59 AM (MNWe/)-----------------------------------------
Up until the mid 60s he could order an M1 Garand from Sears for $75, NIB packed in cosmoline.
first shotgun at the hardware store or gas station. The government
didn't even have to know about it. One generation - that's all it took
to get to today.
Posted by: Sad Dad at February 16, 2012 10:59 AM (MNWe/)-----------------------------------------
Up until the mid 60s he could order an M1 Garand from Sears for $75, NIB packed in cosmoline.
Posted by: Vic at February 16, 2012 11:06 AM (YdQQY)
Posted by: Entitlement kid at February 16, 2012 11:06 AM (LYwCh)
284
a thousand laws passed For the Public Good, and millions of decisions that it just wasn't worth fighting over
You sound like you want to leave the country club. Think carefully about this. You won't leave, ultimately.
You sound like you want to leave the country club. Think carefully about this. You won't leave, ultimately.
Posted by: pragmatic Republicans at February 16, 2012 11:07 AM (AZGON)
285
America 2030:
My wife and I snuck into Texas and there were *Gasp* more than 3 people assembled in the street!.....*Gasp**Gasp*....after 10 PM!
I didn't know they could do that!
This is how it happens. Frog - Water blah blah
My wife and I snuck into Texas and there were *Gasp* more than 3 people assembled in the street!.....*Gasp**Gasp*....after 10 PM!
I didn't know they could do that!
This is how it happens. Frog - Water blah blah
Posted by: scroos at February 16, 2012 11:16 AM (2NM8t)
286
My father was a WWII vet. Before the war, he ran a small landscaping company in SoCal.
When he returned from the war, he started his business back up only to find out that he now needed licenses and permits. He got thrown in jail for doing what he had always done before, freely pursuing the American dream. Needless to say, he never looked at the government as anything but an enemy from that point on.
His quote is, "We left the country to fight for freedom, but while we were gone they took it all away from us. They never would have dared if we were here. They had to wait until we were distracted by war."
This shit has been a long time coming.
When he returned from the war, he started his business back up only to find out that he now needed licenses and permits. He got thrown in jail for doing what he had always done before, freely pursuing the American dream. Needless to say, he never looked at the government as anything but an enemy from that point on.
His quote is, "We left the country to fight for freedom, but while we were gone they took it all away from us. They never would have dared if we were here. They had to wait until we were distracted by war."
This shit has been a long time coming.
Posted by: A Monkey on Crack at February 16, 2012 11:26 AM (O7Q1u)
287
So,booger eating in public is socially unnaceptable. I wonder if there are people with some politcal clout that can help me make a buck and become the latest model to grace the cover of Vogue. I Win/You Win!
Seems like Federalist 10 has been studied in earnest and taken to hearttocapitalize onthe power of factions in order to fundamentally change America.
I wonder if the radical progressives did just that, and are using Federalist 10 as their blueprint, knowing that Madison was a political genius.
Seems like Federalist 10 has been studied in earnest and taken to hearttocapitalize onthe power of factions in order to fundamentally change America.
I wonder if the radical progressives did just that, and are using Federalist 10 as their blueprint, knowing that Madison was a political genius.
Posted by: Booger Eaters Have Rights Too at February 16, 2012 11:27 AM (gMONh)
288
Leads me to recall Dear POTUS SOTU 2012 when he falselyinvoked Lincoln (as a brilliant constitutional scholar bipartisan compromising and reasonableDemocrat): “I’m a Democrat. But I believe what Republican Abraham Lincoln believed: That Government should do for people only what they cannot do better by themselves, and no more.”Surprise, surprise, surprise!History records that Lincoln actually said: “The legitimate object of government is to do for a community of people whatever theyNEED to have done,but cannot do at all, or cannot so well do, forthemselves in their separate and individual capacities.”
Let me be clear here... ahhhh, let's not nitpick about our differnces, people... Hope Change! We NEEDS it. While we're at it, let's tell everyone that they NEED $250,000 homes.
Right smack dab in the SOTU, and the fucker got away with it. Are they arming themselves with every volatile faction they can? It appears so upon honest examintion. Does the premise behind "punish our enemies" yet the GOP must halt the vitriolic political speech immediately crapring a bell? I can't believe people do this, being naive. I only chalk it up to powers and principalities pulling strings and making incredibly ingenious chess moves. But there is certainly a glaringstunning ignorance of what our Federal Republic isNOT (as demonstrated by a PhD in Constitutional law or some shit) involved if not an active pursuit of division, regardless of my personal naivete.
The first African American President Using Federalist 10 AND mis-quoting Lincoln to divide the USA? I am getting dizzy.
Let me be clear here... ahhhh, let's not nitpick about our differnces, people... Hope Change! We NEEDS it. While we're at it, let's tell everyone that they NEED $250,000 homes.
Right smack dab in the SOTU, and the fucker got away with it. Are they arming themselves with every volatile faction they can? It appears so upon honest examintion. Does the premise behind "punish our enemies" yet the GOP must halt the vitriolic political speech immediately crapring a bell? I can't believe people do this, being naive. I only chalk it up to powers and principalities pulling strings and making incredibly ingenious chess moves. But there is certainly a glaringstunning ignorance of what our Federal Republic isNOT (as demonstrated by a PhD in Constitutional law or some shit) involved if not an active pursuit of division, regardless of my personal naivete.
The first African American President Using Federalist 10 AND mis-quoting Lincoln to divide the USA? I am getting dizzy.
Posted by: Booger Eaters Have Rights Too at February 16, 2012 11:50 AM (gMONh)
289
Ace, coincidentally, I've been thinkingabout this same type thing off and onduring the past few weeks. Just try to think of something the government doesn't regulate. Other than a few things one can do on private property--say, pull weeds or dig a small hole, Ihaven't come up with much ofanything.
I've posed the question to others: Can you think of something the government doesn't regulate? The only response so far? Silence.
I've posed the question to others: Can you think of something the government doesn't regulate? The only response so far? Silence.
Posted by: EyeTest at February 16, 2012 12:02 PM (ReC4P)
290
say, pull weeds or dig a small hole, Ihaven't come up with much ofanything.
------------------------------------
But the government does regulate puling weeds and digging small holes. That falls under the endangered specie act and clean water act.
------------------------------------
But the government does regulate puling weeds and digging small holes. That falls under the endangered specie act and clean water act.
Posted by: Vic at February 16, 2012 12:06 PM (YdQQY)
291
I had this same thought process while watching Criminal Minds last night. I live on the beach in NE Florida and would never think that it would be ok for me to build a fire by the waves because of the BIG HUGE SIGN that says "No Fires."
Posted by: flsprtsgod at February 16, 2012 12:09 PM (MnObW)
292
I live in Kansas, you know Little House and pioneers and all that.
You'd think it would be different here, yeah right.
Wanted to replace the hot water tank in the house so I went to Home Depot, they had the right size tank and would install it.
Started to write up the sale and oh by the way, there is a $40.00 city fee for the pleasure of getting a hot water tank installed.
What, you are kidding right? Nope.
Told them to forget it, so I hired a guy in Missouri, he bought it and installed it for me with no City fee.
Looking to buy land away from the city, you know how hard it is to find
land even in Kansas where they do not have building codes, I am talking
out in the sticks with nothing but farm land around you.
Yeah you might be able to build it without being caught but then you are breaking the law and could be fined.
Want one hen in your backyard for some fresh eggs? NOPE not allowed.
I hear in some states its against the law to collect rain water.
I guess they think they own the rain now.
You'd think it would be different here, yeah right.
Wanted to replace the hot water tank in the house so I went to Home Depot, they had the right size tank and would install it.
Started to write up the sale and oh by the way, there is a $40.00 city fee for the pleasure of getting a hot water tank installed.
What, you are kidding right? Nope.
Told them to forget it, so I hired a guy in Missouri, he bought it and installed it for me with no City fee.
Looking to buy land away from the city, you know how hard it is to find
land even in Kansas where they do not have building codes, I am talking
out in the sticks with nothing but farm land around you.
Yeah you might be able to build it without being caught but then you are breaking the law and could be fined.
Want one hen in your backyard for some fresh eggs? NOPE not allowed.
I hear in some states its against the law to collect rain water.
I guess they think they own the rain now.
Posted by: MarkC at February 16, 2012 12:23 PM (Kf68R)
293
Maybe it started when public schools became mandatory and students were told to "fear" that any infraction would be in their permanent record which would then magically ruin the rest of your life.
I really piss off my kids high school principal when I ask them what they're going to do when the students realize that the school is nothing but a bunch of petty dictators manipulating them, are nothing but BS and have absolutely no impact or control on how their lives turn out after they graduate..... In fact, graduating is not even required to go to college if you're willing to take the back door.
I really piss off my kids high school principal when I ask them what they're going to do when the students realize that the school is nothing but a bunch of petty dictators manipulating them, are nothing but BS and have absolutely no impact or control on how their lives turn out after they graduate..... In fact, graduating is not even required to go to college if you're willing to take the back door.
Posted by: 2nd Amendment Mother at February 16, 2012 12:25 PM (L4CWX)
Posted by: GalosGann at February 16, 2012 12:29 PM (T3KlW)
295
"How much of each of our current mental landscapes are shaped by
government such that we internalize the idea that the basic right to be
left alone (presuming you're not destroying other's property) doesn't
exist?"
You're getting there. When you start asking, "How many of those 'matters of vital national interest' that have bagged and tagged so many of our best so young, and squandered so much treasure, were actually matters of vital national interest?"
(Note that I do not and would not say "none of 'em.")
government such that we internalize the idea that the basic right to be
left alone (presuming you're not destroying other's property) doesn't
exist?"
You're getting there. When you start asking, "How many of those 'matters of vital national interest' that have bagged and tagged so many of our best so young, and squandered so much treasure, were actually matters of vital national interest?"
(Note that I do not and would not say "none of 'em.")
Posted by: Ken at February 16, 2012 12:29 PM (7yb9x)
296
eman@249 FTW.
You may collect your complete set of Internets for February 16, 2012 in the lobby.
You may collect your complete set of Internets for February 16, 2012 in the lobby.
Posted by: Ken at February 16, 2012 12:33 PM (7yb9x)
297
In Mass, someone's been running commercials about second hand smoke coming into your dwelling from your neighbors' apartments. What could the aim of this possibly be but to outlaw smoking in your own home? (To be fair, the ad doesn't say anything about that. It's just a "raising awareness" kind of ad, but why would you raise someone's awareness, if you didn't want them to do something about it?)
Posted by: Farmer Joe at February 16, 2012 12:46 PM (HKPNm)
298
I was homeschooled in grades 6-8. Two months into the first year, my Mom received a call from the truant officer at the public middle school where I was "supposed" to be enrolled. He could not find any records of me being enrolled at any public or private school. My Mom told him that I was being homeschooled. After a bit of questioning, the truant officer told my Mom that his wife was homeschooling their three children as well.
Posted by: Book Geek at February 16, 2012 01:07 PM (ny/5i)
299
Ace, think about the kind of person you would have to be to want the job of inspecting a 4 year old's lunch. There lies the problem.
Posted by: madamex at February 16, 2012 01:14 PM (5+Fw+)
300
Letter from Hell. My dearest Morons, this freedom thing of which you speak is, how you say?, overrated. Please forget such backwards thoughts as it leads to mental instability.
Your friends ever truly,
Uncle Joe Stalin
Chairman Mao
Pol Pot
Benito Mussolini
Kim Jung Il
Your friends ever truly,
Uncle Joe Stalin
Chairman Mao
Pol Pot
Benito Mussolini
Kim Jung Il
Posted by: jr at February 16, 2012 01:18 PM (uzbYw)
301
PS Hitler wanted to join in, but we couldn't stand him when we were alive so we told him to stick it!
Posted by: jr at February 16, 2012 01:19 PM (uzbYw)
302
301
PS Hitler wanted to join in, but we couldn't stand him when we were alive so we told him to stick it!
Posted by: jr at February 16, 2012 01:19 PM (uzbYw)
Field of Dreams reference. Nice.
PS Hitler wanted to join in, but we couldn't stand him when we were alive so we told him to stick it!
Posted by: jr at February 16, 2012 01:19 PM (uzbYw)
Field of Dreams reference. Nice.
Posted by: CausticConservative at February 16, 2012 01:33 PM (gT3jF)
303
Late to the party here, but my 2 bits of inflated currency.
As a pilot I suffer the fools the FAA entrusts to lord over me as I am or am not smart enough to decide for myself what is safe or not. A cursory reading of the air regulations shows that. One subsection of FAA is charged with assessing risk in all things. From this a 1% rule is derrived, if the risk is less than 1%, it is acceptable. Except when it is not as determined "by the admistrator" kind of like the healthcare law.
They will say 1% is arbitrary and naive, then say that any risk at all is unaceptable. Two offices, two "adminstrators" and opposite opinions. Such is the outline of the problem in small scale.
As a pilot I suffer the fools the FAA entrusts to lord over me as I am or am not smart enough to decide for myself what is safe or not. A cursory reading of the air regulations shows that. One subsection of FAA is charged with assessing risk in all things. From this a 1% rule is derrived, if the risk is less than 1%, it is acceptable. Except when it is not as determined "by the admistrator" kind of like the healthcare law.
They will say 1% is arbitrary and naive, then say that any risk at all is unaceptable. Two offices, two "adminstrators" and opposite opinions. Such is the outline of the problem in small scale.
Posted by: TLC, no really it is. at February 16, 2012 01:37 PM (6oRNa)
304
It started with the passage of the 17th amendment and the following explosive growth of the federal government.
Posted by: Stormy at February 16, 2012 01:54 PM (D8yYE)
305
ace, your output today easily surpasses your output for the last several weeks. I am reminded why I love coming here so much.
Posted by: Truman North at February 16, 2012 02:07 PM (I2LwF)
306
Your government is smarter than you, knows what's right for you and can live your life better than you can.
It's just a fact so you should just accept it.
Isn't that right Michelle?
EAT MooR Arugula!!!!!
It's just a fact so you should just accept it.
Isn't that right Michelle?
EAT MooR Arugula!!!!!
Posted by: Supreme Commander Clusterfuck at February 16, 2012 02:07 PM (UK9cE)
307
Taxes sent out a letter about two years ago telling me it had just come to their attention we had an in door bathroom, The law's about being taxed for an indoor bathroom had been enacted in 1973, the house was built in 1978 so we would have owed back taxes to that year but out of a good heart the government would forget that back debt but add the tax on to the next tax bill. The same letter cancelled our homestead exemption. Meanwhile the potholes in front of my house are so deep I can hear folks speaking Chinese at night.
Posted by: HEP-T at February 16, 2012 02:09 PM (fmiu9)
308
>>think about the kind of person you would have to be to want the job of inspecting a 4 year old's lunch.
I just want to help children be healthy. *simper*
I just want to help children be healthy. *simper*
Posted by: HeatherRadish knows Womyn with "Human Ecology" degrees at February 16, 2012 02:10 PM (ZKzrr)
309
Can't think of the last time I emailed links to two different posts to Mrs. North on the same day.
Posted by: Truman North at February 16, 2012 02:10 PM (I2LwF)
Posted by: HeatherRadish knows Womyn with at February 16, 2012 02:11 PM (ZKzrr)
311
That is the stupidest taxing system I have ever heard of. I would build an outhouse. plumbed of course but it would be an outhouse.
Posted by: Vic at February 16, 2012 02:12 PM (YdQQY)
312
I still remember when I expected to buy my own rubbers, and notfor it to be paid for - as a medical neccessity.
Posted by: Roy at February 16, 2012 02:12 PM (VndSC)
313
What is this irrelevant Doom bullshit?
Let us concentrate on the real issue: Karen Santorum is a dirty slut!
Let us concentrate on the real issue: Karen Santorum is a dirty slut!
Posted by: AoSHQ severe meme generator at February 16, 2012 02:12 PM (5hFF+)
314
I think Ace just figured out a way to fill up a slow day: bump previous posts up!
Pretty soon, we'll be seeing some "Johnny Coldcuts" posts show up as filler material. heh
Pretty soon, we'll be seeing some "Johnny Coldcuts" posts show up as filler material. heh
Posted by: EC at February 16, 2012 02:12 PM (GQ8sn)
315
I rarely (never?) comment, but this post struck very close to home. As a homeschooler, the number one question I used to get asked was, "They LET you do that?" Now that I'm back in Texas, I rarely get asked, but in Virginia it was almost always the first question. Add to that the fact we homeschooled under religious exemption and therefore the state had NO "oversight" of our family: minds blown everywhere. They wouldn't "let me" if they could help it, but fortunately, it's not "their" decision. For now.
Posted by: April at February 16, 2012 02:13 PM (/b1FX)
316
say, pull weeds or dig a small hole
So, you've never been cited for grass that was too long in your backyard? "Pull weeds, citizen!"
Same with digging a small hole. You have to fully cover the hobo.
So, you've never been cited for grass that was too long in your backyard? "Pull weeds, citizen!"
Same with digging a small hole. You have to fully cover the hobo.
Posted by: t-bird at February 16, 2012 02:13 PM (FcR7P)
317
Raaaaacist.
Posted by: HeatherRadish knows Womyn with at February 16, 2012 02:11 PM (ZKzrr)
That's what they keep telling me. Every day. Just for being alive. And white. In America.
Raaaaacist.
Posted by: HeatherRadish knows Womyn with at February 16, 2012 02:11 PM (ZKzrr)
That's what they keep telling me. Every day. Just for being alive. And white. In America.
Posted by: © Sponge at February 16, 2012 02:14 PM (UK9cE)
318
When Blue Staters wander into Red States, it can be funny. Imagine a New Yorker in Walmart looking at the gun case. You can do that here?
That whole concept of liberty and tyrrany is what drives the Tea Party. It isn't just about deficit spending.
Used to be back in the day there was a Western state agenda that Republicans needed to pay attention to. But the California diaspora has put a bunch of Commies out where they don't belong.
But just like the "hey you can't just go setting a bonfire" feeling, there is the "you can't just go keeping your money" one.
That whole concept of liberty and tyrrany is what drives the Tea Party. It isn't just about deficit spending.
Used to be back in the day there was a Western state agenda that Republicans needed to pay attention to. But the California diaspora has put a bunch of Commies out where they don't belong.
But just like the "hey you can't just go setting a bonfire" feeling, there is the "you can't just go keeping your money" one.
Posted by: blaster at February 16, 2012 02:14 PM (7vSU0)
319
Now we have a gubmint tool telling a four year old girl that the sandwich her mother sent to school for her lunch, wasn't healthy and forced chicken nuggets on her. And then billed the mother $1.85 for the damned lunch.
And OMG!!!11111!!!!!!!
Debbie Wasaman-Scrunt is on my TV!!!!111!!!!!
Now we have a gubmint tool telling a four year old girl that the sandwich her mother sent to school for her lunch, wasn't healthy and forced chicken nuggets on her. And then billed the mother $1.85 for the damned lunch.
And OMG!!!11111!!!!!!!
Debbie Wasaman-Scrunt is on my TV!!!!111!!!!!
Posted by: Jane D'oh at February 16, 2012 02:15 PM (UOM48)
320
Pretty soon, we'll be seeing some "Johnny Coldcuts" posts show up as filler material. heh
I don't think we've been good enough to get a Johnny Coldcuts post.
I don't think we've been good enough to get a Johnny Coldcuts post.
Posted by: alexthechick - SMOD 2012 at February 16, 2012 02:16 PM (VtjlW)
321
Of course here if you own a boat they tax it to frakin death. I had thoughts of getting small fishing boat when I retired but after checking taxes I gave up.
Boat with 6 hp motor = $3,000. sales tax $240. Property tax every year on boat alone $150, property tax on motor $150, property tax on trailor every year $75. tag fee for trailer $45.
Even a john boat is a hole in the water to throw money into. Mostly taxes.
Boat with 6 hp motor = $3,000. sales tax $240. Property tax every year on boat alone $150, property tax on motor $150, property tax on trailor every year $75. tag fee for trailer $45.
Even a john boat is a hole in the water to throw money into. Mostly taxes.
Posted by: Vic at February 16, 2012 02:16 PM (YdQQY)
322
Glad to see this bumped.
Posted by: Jaws at February 16, 2012 02:17 PM (4I3Uo)
323
On December 28, 2009, RTP [Richmod Tea Party] applied to become a 501(c)(4) organization. After nearly ten months, the IRS finally responded with a letter (dated September 17, 2010), requesting detailed documentation to satisfy 17 questions, giving RTP only a two-week window in which to finish. (As the response was curiously due on the opening day of the inaugural Virginia Tea Party Convention, for which RTP was a central organizer, we requested and received a two-week extension.) We fully complied, providing over 500 pages of documentation. We received no response for over a year. Eventually the IRS sent a letter dated January 9, 2012, thanking us for our “complete and thorough responses” from the first request, but then asking us to answer 12 additional questions in 53 separate parts, including the totally inappropriate request for a full list of our donors and volunteers. We were given the same two-week timeframe for completion. It should be noted that this most recent letter was issued on the same day that the IRS issued a new 45-section bulletin regarding applications for tax-exempt status.
Posted by: Dewey, Cheatem & Howe at February 16, 2012 02:17 PM (e8kgV)
324
Adam Carolla constantly brings up the example of the NRA fighting tooth and nail every single firearm and ammunition ban that the left tries to push.
Yes, it sounds like a good idea to ban 'armor piercing bullets' or 'assault weapons'.
But it never stops there.
Good intentions, road to hell, etc.
Yes, it sounds like a good idea to ban 'armor piercing bullets' or 'assault weapons'.
But it never stops there.
Good intentions, road to hell, etc.
Posted by: El Kabong at February 16, 2012 02:17 PM (sBkx9)
325
4
Cali has the "Spare the Air" law whereas you cannot grill or BBQ in the summer. Insane but true, and they accept it
Posted by: I'm a pyro at February 16, 2012 01:01 AM (XiUAh)
Good luck to the leftists with enforcing that in South Central.
Cali has the "Spare the Air" law whereas you cannot grill or BBQ in the summer. Insane but true, and they accept it
Posted by: I'm a pyro at February 16, 2012 01:01 AM (XiUAh)
Good luck to the leftists with enforcing that in South Central.
Posted by: baldilocks at February 16, 2012 02:17 PM (T2/zQ)
326
Anyone listening to Rush?
He's shocked that some bloggers are so naive about dem tactics around this birth control thing. He's going to talk about specific posts in a moment.
He's shocked that some bloggers are so naive about dem tactics around this birth control thing. He's going to talk about specific posts in a moment.
Posted by: dagny at February 16, 2012 02:18 PM (7w+6S)
327
Kill me now. Debbie Wasaman-Scrunt is arguing with Megyn about the Catholic church and birth control.
Isn't she a Jooooo?
Kill me now. Debbie Wasaman-Scrunt is arguing with Megyn about the Catholic church and birth control.
Isn't she a Jooooo?
Posted by: Jane D'oh at February 16, 2012 02:18 PM (UOM48)
328
I don't think we've been good enough to get a Johnny Coldcuts post.
Johnny Coldcuts was a sandwich from the future, right? What does it tell us that he hasn't been back?
I think that's strong evidence SMOD will win in 2012.
Johnny Coldcuts was a sandwich from the future, right? What does it tell us that he hasn't been back?
I think that's strong evidence SMOD will win in 2012.
Posted by: blaster at February 16, 2012 02:19 PM (7vSU0)
329
>>>I was blown away to learn that people could just start bonfires on the beach, whenever they liked.
Now we know why Malibu burned down a couple of years ago. Ace was living here.
Now we know why Malibu burned down a couple of years ago. Ace was living here.
Posted by: mike at February 16, 2012 02:19 PM (IlskE)
330
I can understand why they banned frisbee and football on the beach: because asshole were trampling people and kids sitting there.
Posted by: mike at February 16, 2012 02:20 PM (IlskE)
331
What if the kid was being raised vegan?
What if the kid had a peanut allergy and the nuggets were fried in peanut oil?
Or couldn't handle the gluten in the breading?
If a parent actually takes the time to prepare their kids lunch, fuck off.
What if the kid was being raised vegan?
What if the kid had a peanut allergy and the nuggets were fried in peanut oil?
Or couldn't handle the gluten in the breading?
If a parent actually takes the time to prepare their kids lunch, fuck off.
Posted by: supercore23 at February 16, 2012 02:20 PM (bwV72)
332
Also, that picture of John Kennedy III on Drudge - he looks kind of creepy.
Posted by: blaster at February 16, 2012 02:20 PM (7vSU0)
Posted by: soothsayer at February 16, 2012 02:21 PM (G/zuv)
334
327
Kill me now. Debbie Wasaman-Scrunt is arguing with Megyn about the Catholic church and birth control.
Isn't she a Jooooo?
----
Suddenly contraception costs 800 a year according to Debbie Downer. So her president's solution is to take it off the invoice so its "free".
Kill me now. Debbie Wasaman-Scrunt is arguing with Megyn about the Catholic church and birth control.
Isn't she a Jooooo?
----
Suddenly contraception costs 800 a year according to Debbie Downer. So her president's solution is to take it off the invoice so its "free".
Posted by: John McCain at February 16, 2012 02:21 PM (845uI)
335
But it never stops there.
Good intentions, road to hell, etc.
Posted by: El Kabong at February 16, 2012 02:17 PM (sBkx9)
When have you ever heard of the government repealing a law? I think prohibition was the last one.
But it never stops there.
Good intentions, road to hell, etc.
Posted by: El Kabong at February 16, 2012 02:17 PM (sBkx9)
When have you ever heard of the government repealing a law? I think prohibition was the last one.
Posted by: © Sponge at February 16, 2012 02:21 PM (UK9cE)
336
Whatevs.
Posted by: blaster at February 16, 2012 02:21 PM (7vSU0)
337
The news from the Daily Caller website is surprising: David Brock, the founder of Media Matters, had a
personal assistant illegally publicly carry a concealed handgun in the
District of Columbia in order "to protect Brock from threats.” Few
organizations have declared their opposition to gun ownership or
concealed carry laws as strongly as Media Matters.
The group's opposition to guns has largely
been a “scorched earth” approach, demonizing supporters of gun ownership
and concealed handgun laws.
personal assistant illegally publicly carry a concealed handgun in the
District of Columbia in order "to protect Brock from threats.” Few
organizations have declared their opposition to gun ownership or
concealed carry laws as strongly as Media Matters.
The group's opposition to guns has largely
been a “scorched earth” approach, demonizing supporters of gun ownership
and concealed handgun laws.
Posted by: Dewey, Cheatem & Howe at February 16, 2012 02:21 PM (e8kgV)
338
These thoughtful pieces are the second best thing about this blog. The best part is the humor, of course.
Posted by: Shooter McGavin at February 16, 2012 02:22 PM (8/Edb)
Posted by: Cast Iron at February 16, 2012 02:22 PM (EL+OC)
340
Cali has the "Spare the Air" law whereas you cannot grill or BBQ in the summer. Insane but true, and they accept it
I had to look that up. It appears to be a law in the Bay Area only. It's accompanied by free transit days -- on the days you can't grill, you can ride the bus (or subway) for free.
So California as a whole is not screwed by this one. Just San Francisco.
I had to look that up. It appears to be a law in the Bay Area only. It's accompanied by free transit days -- on the days you can't grill, you can ride the bus (or subway) for free.
So California as a whole is not screwed by this one. Just San Francisco.
Posted by: Meiczyslaw at February 16, 2012 02:22 PM (bjRNS)
341
I can understand why they banned frisbee and
football on the beach: because asshole were trampling people and kids
sitting there.
Posted by: mike at February 16, 2012 02:20 PM (IlskE)
So, punish everyone instead of taking the asshole out of the equation.
GENIUS!!!!
That logic just escapes me.
football on the beach: because asshole were trampling people and kids
sitting there.
Posted by: mike at February 16, 2012 02:20 PM (IlskE)
So, punish everyone instead of taking the asshole out of the equation.
GENIUS!!!!
That logic just escapes me.
Posted by: © Sponge at February 16, 2012 02:23 PM (UK9cE)
342
Yes, you can BBQ in California in the summer. I don't know where some of you are getting this shit. They may suspend it in some areas when there is a high risk of fires which is not something to not take seriously.
Yes, you can BBQ in California in the summer. I don't know where some of you are getting this shit. They may suspend it in some areas when there is a high risk of fires which is not something to not take seriously.
Posted by: mike at February 16, 2012 02:23 PM (IlskE)
343
Who would want to eat anything a San Fran Freakiscan would grill anyway?
Posted by: Truman North at February 16, 2012 02:23 PM (I2LwF)
344
That logic just escapes me.
"Why, only a jerk would want to throw a football on the beach!"
Yeah, I thought it was insane when I heard it, too.
"Why, only a jerk would want to throw a football on the beach!"
Yeah, I thought it was insane when I heard it, too.
Posted by: Meiczyslaw at February 16, 2012 02:24 PM (bjRNS)
345
"Suddenly contraception costs 800 a year according to Debbie Downer. So her president's solution is to take it off the invoice so its "free"."
Used to be cheap as hell until the government started dipping it's nose into it. Government control = price rise. Who knew?
Used to be cheap as hell until the government started dipping it's nose into it. Government control = price rise. Who knew?
Posted by: Kaitian at February 16, 2012 02:24 PM (KDM+a)
346
Who would want to eat anything a San Fran Freakiscan would grill anyway?
Posted by: Truman North at February 16, 2012 02:23 PM (I2LwF)
Thut up, bitcth.
Posted by: Truman North at February 16, 2012 02:23 PM (I2LwF)
Thut up, bitcth.
Posted by: Bay Area Vegan BBQ griller at February 16, 2012 02:25 PM (7vSU0)
347
"I can understand why they banned frisbee and football on the beach: because asshole were trampling people and kids sitting there. "
As opposed to asking people to have a little regard for their fellow beachgoers and move their game to a less crowded area. Sure. Makes perfect sense.
Can't wait until someone gets tazed or shot by the beach patrol over this.
As opposed to asking people to have a little regard for their fellow beachgoers and move their game to a less crowded area. Sure. Makes perfect sense.
Can't wait until someone gets tazed or shot by the beach patrol over this.
Posted by: Jaws at February 16, 2012 02:25 PM (4I3Uo)
348
Souless ginger Joe Kennedy III.
Because I and II weren't bad enough.
There's your movie pitch right there.
Because I and II weren't bad enough.
There's your movie pitch right there.
Posted by: Count de Monet at February 16, 2012 02:25 PM (4q5tP)
349
This is something that's been bugging me since I was a kid, why we ceded authority for so much, and to whom.
Which is why I laughwhen the socons threaten me with, "Well, if you feel that way, maybe you'd be more comfortable with Luap Nor". Know what? I think I would be more comfortable, and I do appreciate you allowing me to consider this.
This is something that's been bugging me since I was a kid, why we ceded authority for so much, and to whom.
Which is why I laughwhen the socons threaten me with, "Well, if you feel that way, maybe you'd be more comfortable with Luap Nor". Know what? I think I would be more comfortable, and I do appreciate you allowing me to consider this.
Posted by: spongeworthy at February 16, 2012 02:25 PM (puy4B)
350
>>>So, punish everyone instead of taking the asshole out of the equation.
Everyone? You mean a few. Look, you trample my kid I will fuck you up. Better to ban the frisbees/footballs than have people getting shot. It's not like there are not green areas for them to play adjacent to the beach. But noooooo! It's all about you and what you want. Spit.
Everyone? You mean a few. Look, you trample my kid I will fuck you up. Better to ban the frisbees/footballs than have people getting shot. It's not like there are not green areas for them to play adjacent to the beach. But noooooo! It's all about you and what you want. Spit.
Posted by: mike at February 16, 2012 02:25 PM (IlskE)
351
Suddenly contraception costs 800 a year according to
Debbie Downer. So her president's solution is to take it off the
invoice so its "free".
Posted by: John McCain at February 16, 2012 02:21 PM (845uI)
That's so dumb. It only costs those that make the personal choice to fuck with a lesser risk of getting pregnant.
I haven't paid for BC in 8 years and only have 1 kid to show for it.
Debbie Downer. So her president's solution is to take it off the
invoice so its "free".
Posted by: John McCain at February 16, 2012 02:21 PM (845uI)
That's so dumb. It only costs those that make the personal choice to fuck with a lesser risk of getting pregnant.
I haven't paid for BC in 8 years and only have 1 kid to show for it.
Posted by: © Sponge at February 16, 2012 02:25 PM (UK9cE)
352
When I was in Kindergarten, I blew the straw paper off the straw and it hit the soft spot of Jimmy Knudsen's skull and killed him. That's why the government makes laws.
Posted by: Average Joe at February 16, 2012 02:26 PM (NTIsk)
353
JK3 is running in my district against he awesome Sean Bielat. JK3's pitch is "fighting for fairness"
Yeah, the winner of the sperm lottery is running on "fairness"
Yeah, the winner of the sperm lottery is running on "fairness"
Posted by: Truman North at February 16, 2012 02:26 PM (I2LwF)
354
contraceptive "insurance" premiums have been removed from the insurance bill for Catholics. Oh its still there, in the total premium price, we just moved it to another line and renamed it.
60% of catholics - "OK, thanks".
60% of catholics - "OK, thanks".
Posted by: Clusterfuck at February 16, 2012 02:26 PM (845uI)
355
Anyone here prepared to go to prison over the individual mandate?
Posted by: Seriousl Cat at February 16, 2012 02:27 PM (2YIVk)
356
When have you ever heard of the government repealing a law?
How about the old "Thou Shalt Pay Taxes" law that used to apply to Cabinet members?
How about the old "Thou Shalt Pay Taxes" law that used to apply to Cabinet members?
Posted by: t-bird at February 16, 2012 02:27 PM (FcR7P)
357
Boiled frogs-R-Us.
Posted by: Natasha at February 16, 2012 02:27 PM (jU5uf)
358
>>>As opposed to asking people to have a little regard for their fellow beachgoers and move their game to a less crowded area. Sure. Makes perfect sense.
It does. People are assholes. They don't have regard for their fellow beach goers.
It does. People are assholes. They don't have regard for their fellow beach goers.
Posted by: mike at February 16, 2012 02:27 PM (IlskE)
359
Suddenly contraception costs 800 a year according to Debbie Downer
Where's my battery subsidy, bitch?
Where's my battery subsidy, bitch?
Posted by: alexthechick - SMOD 2012 at February 16, 2012 02:27 PM (VtjlW)
360
You know, I've been to a lot of beaches and parks with my 3 kids, and no one has ever been trampled. I think that risk might be just a bit overblown.
Posted by: Lauren at February 16, 2012 02:28 PM (/E6lO)
361
312
I still remember when I expected to buy my own rubbers, and notfor it to be paid for - as a medical neccessity.
Posted by: Roy at February 16, 2012 02:12 PM (VndSC)
Hey, that leads to an interesting money-making opportunity, if the birth control mandate stands: bootleg condoms. Get a bunch of "free" condoms provided by your employer's health insurance, then sell them to horny uninsured teenagers.
I still remember when I expected to buy my own rubbers, and notfor it to be paid for - as a medical neccessity.
Posted by: Roy at February 16, 2012 02:12 PM (VndSC)
Hey, that leads to an interesting money-making opportunity, if the birth control mandate stands: bootleg condoms. Get a bunch of "free" condoms provided by your employer's health insurance, then sell them to horny uninsured teenagers.
Posted by: chemjeff at February 16, 2012 02:28 PM (qVUxp)
Posted by: soothsayer at February 16, 2012 02:29 PM (G/zuv)
363
Who would want to eat anything a San Fran Freakiscan would grill anyway?
Don't know if a San Franciscan would think to do this, but I've smoked tofu before. It's actually pretty good.
Don't know if a San Franciscan would think to do this, but I've smoked tofu before. It's actually pretty good.
Posted by: Meiczyslaw at February 16, 2012 02:29 PM (bjRNS)
364
Damn. Just got off the phone with a fucking retard at the courthouse. Our kid received a Jury Summons, so I called to let them know he's in A-Stan.
The woman, who barely spoke English and I could barely understand, said they need a copy of his orders to file.
I explained that right now I have no way to reach him and don't even know where he is.
Went right over her head. "Vee needs hee's orderssss.....dis is de court....ees rule."
Now I've got a raging headache.
Damn. Just got off the phone with a fucking retard at the courthouse. Our kid received a Jury Summons, so I called to let them know he's in A-Stan.
The woman, who barely spoke English and I could barely understand, said they need a copy of his orders to file.
I explained that right now I have no way to reach him and don't even know where he is.
Went right over her head. "Vee needs hee's orderssss.....dis is de court....ees rule."
Now I've got a raging headache.
Posted by: Jane D'oh at February 16, 2012 02:29 PM (UOM48)
365
Three things:
1) When I was in college, we had a German exchange student. One conversation had her saying "I don't feel less free because I can't (insert behavior X)." My rough reply was that feelings don't override reality, one person's feelings don't override another, and of course you "feel" free, you lived across the wall from slaves. Perspective is valid, but doesn't actually matter.
2) I grew up in California. When I was young, these slave-state laws were already being made, but not well-enforced. So people ignored it. Now enforcement is nearly universal (for citizens and the politically unpopular anyway), and people wonder what the Hell happened. As has been mentioned above.
What happened is people voted for what sounded nice and then spent all their time doing their own thing - which we condemn but is roughly the point of a representative government - that all the people don't have to spend all their time on it. Unfortunately, people seeking power almost universally suck ass and lie constantly, so here we are.
The politicians here didn't say "we are going to bankrupt you and interfere constantly with your daily lives," so I have limited derision for California voters. Some, but limited, because while they chose wrong, they did do it because they were lied to (still are).
3) Two of the things I noticed first that were *wrong* about public schools were:
A) Group punishment.
B) "Don't take action on your own" trumped "don't be mean" every time - it was quite clear that when the "victim" fought back, they were punished more harshly than the aggressor, every time.
The former taught children to "herd" for safety, and shun people who were different. The latter isolated anyone who rebelled.
If you read education theorists and textbooks going back 50+ years, you will see this is not an accident. I am of the opinion the system cannot be reformed, we have to scrap it and start over. This frightens people, for some reason worse than letting the warping of young minds continue.
Once we got to the point where school officials could think they had a "right" to the power they wield (in some states, see stories above), it should have been obvious we'd gone too far in the wrong direction.
1) When I was in college, we had a German exchange student. One conversation had her saying "I don't feel less free because I can't (insert behavior X)." My rough reply was that feelings don't override reality, one person's feelings don't override another, and of course you "feel" free, you lived across the wall from slaves. Perspective is valid, but doesn't actually matter.
2) I grew up in California. When I was young, these slave-state laws were already being made, but not well-enforced. So people ignored it. Now enforcement is nearly universal (for citizens and the politically unpopular anyway), and people wonder what the Hell happened. As has been mentioned above.
What happened is people voted for what sounded nice and then spent all their time doing their own thing - which we condemn but is roughly the point of a representative government - that all the people don't have to spend all their time on it. Unfortunately, people seeking power almost universally suck ass and lie constantly, so here we are.
The politicians here didn't say "we are going to bankrupt you and interfere constantly with your daily lives," so I have limited derision for California voters. Some, but limited, because while they chose wrong, they did do it because they were lied to (still are).
3) Two of the things I noticed first that were *wrong* about public schools were:
A) Group punishment.
B) "Don't take action on your own" trumped "don't be mean" every time - it was quite clear that when the "victim" fought back, they were punished more harshly than the aggressor, every time.
The former taught children to "herd" for safety, and shun people who were different. The latter isolated anyone who rebelled.
If you read education theorists and textbooks going back 50+ years, you will see this is not an accident. I am of the opinion the system cannot be reformed, we have to scrap it and start over. This frightens people, for some reason worse than letting the warping of young minds continue.
Once we got to the point where school officials could think they had a "right" to the power they wield (in some states, see stories above), it should have been obvious we'd gone too far in the wrong direction.
Posted by: Merovign, Dark Lord of the Sith at February 16, 2012 02:30 PM (bxiXv)
366
Don't know if a San Franciscan would think to do this, but I've smoked tofu before. It's actually pretty good.
Effin A its good, dude. Effin A.
Effin A its good, dude. Effin A.
Posted by: Bay Area Vegan BBQ griller at February 16, 2012 02:30 PM (7vSU0)
367
Everyone? You mean a few. Look, you trample my kid I
will fuck you up. Better to ban the frisbees/footballs than have
people getting shot. It's not like there are not green areas for them
to play adjacent to the beach. But noooooo! It's all about you and what
you want. Spit.
Posted by: mike at February 16, 2012 02:25 PM (IlskE)
So, that law doesn't affect everyone that goes to the beach? The collective everyone?
Huh. Fine. Some douchebag tramples your kid and you whoop his ass. GOOD!!!! That's what SHOULD happen. Not passing a fucking law banning EVERYONE that should ever visit that beach from throwing a football or tossing a frisbee EVER AGAIN.
Move to China.....it's much easier to be president there.
will fuck you up. Better to ban the frisbees/footballs than have
people getting shot. It's not like there are not green areas for them
to play adjacent to the beach. But noooooo! It's all about you and what
you want. Spit.
Posted by: mike at February 16, 2012 02:25 PM (IlskE)
So, that law doesn't affect everyone that goes to the beach? The collective everyone?
Huh. Fine. Some douchebag tramples your kid and you whoop his ass. GOOD!!!! That's what SHOULD happen. Not passing a fucking law banning EVERYONE that should ever visit that beach from throwing a football or tossing a frisbee EVER AGAIN.
Move to China.....it's much easier to be president there.
Posted by: © Sponge at February 16, 2012 02:30 PM (UK9cE)
368
You know, I've been to a lot of beaches and parks with my 3 kids, and no one has ever been trampled.
Time was you took the Charles Atlas approach. Fragile beach-blossoms like Obama, however, decided to get even.
Time was you took the Charles Atlas approach. Fragile beach-blossoms like Obama, however, decided to get even.
Posted by: t-bird at February 16, 2012 02:30 PM (FcR7P)
369
"Why, only a jerk would want to throw a football on the beach!"
When they came for the jerks with the footballs, I said nothing because...
When they came for the jerks with the footballs, I said nothing because...
Posted by: Martin Niemöller at February 16, 2012 02:31 PM (QKKT0)
370
Good post ace.. and spot on.
Posted by: jewells45 at February 16, 2012 02:31 PM (l/N7H)
371
Few organizations have declared their opposition to gun ownership or concealed carry laws as strongly as Media Matters.
The group's opposition to guns has largely been a “scorched earth” approach, demonizing supporters of gun ownership and concealed handgun laws.
****
It's different when we do it.
The group's opposition to guns has largely been a “scorched earth” approach, demonizing supporters of gun ownership and concealed handgun laws.
****
It's different when we do it.
Posted by: Media Matters, David Brock, President for Life at February 16, 2012 02:31 PM (4q5tP)
372
I’ve thought about this before, and I think a large part of it has to do with discouraging, overburdening, and sometimes outright outlawing free play for kids. Things that get forbidden to children are eventually forbidden to adults, because the adults are no longer prepared to meet those situations freely.
It’s not just us as kids bringing pocketknives to school. We played with chemistry sets and rocket engines and science experiment books that would freak out any modern authority figure if seen today. If we were really geeky we talked with strangers, including strange foreigners, long hours into the night on a shortwave radio.
But the flip side is, that we were allowed to work to do these things. If our parents refused to give us the money to buy something (a radio, a computer, a gun), we had the option of working all summer to save up our own money for the purchase.
Even when I return to the small town I grew up in (population 700, I know Mr. Dave, Big City!) I don’t see kids handling the paper route, I see adults. I don’t see kids mowing the lawns either. And given the stories of kids being hit by governments for opening lemonade stands I’m not surprised I see fewer of them using dangerous equipment or biking the streets before daylight dropping papers off from house to house.
But what kids don’t do, the adult they become won’t understand.
It’s not just us as kids bringing pocketknives to school. We played with chemistry sets and rocket engines and science experiment books that would freak out any modern authority figure if seen today. If we were really geeky we talked with strangers, including strange foreigners, long hours into the night on a shortwave radio.
But the flip side is, that we were allowed to work to do these things. If our parents refused to give us the money to buy something (a radio, a computer, a gun), we had the option of working all summer to save up our own money for the purchase.
Even when I return to the small town I grew up in (population 700, I know Mr. Dave, Big City!) I don’t see kids handling the paper route, I see adults. I don’t see kids mowing the lawns either. And given the stories of kids being hit by governments for opening lemonade stands I’m not surprised I see fewer of them using dangerous equipment or biking the streets before daylight dropping papers off from house to house.
But what kids don’t do, the adult they become won’t understand.
Posted by: Stephen Price Blair at February 16, 2012 02:31 PM (QF8uk)
373
Someone else pointed out last week that this law regarding the beaches has been on the books for a long long time. It is not new. So, unwad your panties!
Posted by: mike at February 16, 2012 02:32 PM (IlskE)
374
When I was a kid, around New Years Day, we would go through the alleys of Pacific Beach and gather used Christmas trees, haul them down to the beach and burn them in the fire rings. Great fun.
Posted by: Jimbo at February 16, 2012 02:33 PM (O3R/2)
375
339 It's all part and parcel of Agenda 21.
Posted by: Cast Iron at February 16, 2012 02:22 PM (EL+OC)
That's such a recent development, the "Assholes Who Wreck Everything" movement has been around for millenia.
Posted by: Cast Iron at February 16, 2012 02:22 PM (EL+OC)
That's such a recent development, the "Assholes Who Wreck Everything" movement has been around for millenia.
Posted by: Merovign, Dark Lord of the Sith at February 16, 2012 02:33 PM (bxiXv)
376
RNC spokesman says chances of brokered convention same as 'space alien attack'
Posted by: Islamic Rage Boy at February 16, 2012 02:34 PM (e8kgV)
377
I blame the lawyers.
All of them.
For every thing.
Posted by: soothsayer at February 16, 2012 02:29 PM (G/zuv)
^ This.....
Why is healthcare so expensive?
Why is food so expensive?
Why are cigarettes so expensive?
Why can't I say "what a homo" anymore without being accused of a hate crime?
You want to regulate something that REALLY makes a difference?
All of them.
For every thing.
Posted by: soothsayer at February 16, 2012 02:29 PM (G/zuv)
^ This.....
Why is healthcare so expensive?
Why is food so expensive?
Why are cigarettes so expensive?
Why can't I say "what a homo" anymore without being accused of a hate crime?
You want to regulate something that REALLY makes a difference?
Posted by: © Sponge at February 16, 2012 02:34 PM (UK9cE)
378
374 When I was a kid, around New Years Day, we would go through the alleys of Pacific Beach and gather used Christmas trees, haul them down to the beach and burn them in the fire rings. Great fun.
--
We'd take pallets down to Fiesta Island, and burn that mother down.
--
We'd take pallets down to Fiesta Island, and burn that mother down.
Posted by: Jimmah at February 16, 2012 02:35 PM (845uI)
379
It does. People are assholes. They don't have regard for their fellow beach goers.
Posted by: mike at February 16, 2012 02:27 PM (IlskE)
Whatchu talkin' about, mang?
Posted by: mike at February 16, 2012 02:27 PM (IlskE)
Whatchu talkin' about, mang?
Posted by: Guy with loaf of bread feeding it to seagulls now flying over your head at February 16, 2012 02:35 PM (4q5tP)
380
>>When they came for the jerks with the footballs, I said nothing because...
bonk bonk on the head
>>When they came for the jerks with the footballs, I said nothing because...
bonk bonk on the head
Posted by: Dr. Varno at February 16, 2012 02:35 PM (QMtmy)
381
depressing.
Posted by: Emperor of Icecream, Cultist for Jesus at February 16, 2012 02:35 PM (epBek)
382
Throw away Prilosec, Zantac, etc. Water is the cure and it's FREE!
I was popping 10 Zantacs a day. It works - but it's terrible for your digestive system - and is very temporary.
I couldn't swallow food - the GERD was so bad. I read somewhere that drinking water before and after and throughout the day would cure it.
IT CURED ME! I haven't taken a Zantac for months now. Drink an entire quart of tap water right after you eat and any time you start feeling the acid going up your esophagus.
It's FREE and water is good for you anyway - you have nothing to lose and your life to regain.
I was popping 10 Zantacs a day. It works - but it's terrible for your digestive system - and is very temporary.
I couldn't swallow food - the GERD was so bad. I read somewhere that drinking water before and after and throughout the day would cure it.
IT CURED ME! I haven't taken a Zantac for months now. Drink an entire quart of tap water right after you eat and any time you start feeling the acid going up your esophagus.
It's FREE and water is good for you anyway - you have nothing to lose and your life to regain.
Posted by: sympleton at February 16, 2012 02:35 PM (cVYiZ)
383
I don’t see kids mowing the lawns either.
Oh, to heck with that. I can't wait until my kids are old enough to mow the lawn in the summer and use the snowblower in the winter.
Oh, to heck with that. I can't wait until my kids are old enough to mow the lawn in the summer and use the snowblower in the winter.
Posted by: Slublog at February 16, 2012 02:35 PM (0PuMV)
384
"What kind of a mind-screw did they do on me when I should be surprised that people would be allowed to do this?"
Yep, that's the world we live in, where liberty surprises us. You can't cross the city without breaking dozens of laws.
Yep, that's the world we live in, where liberty surprises us. You can't cross the city without breaking dozens of laws.
Posted by: Christopher Taylor at February 16, 2012 02:36 PM (r4wIV)
385
In Colorado a dude was arrested for not having a dog license.
Posted by: hewbert at February 16, 2012 02:36 PM (JVw4Z)
386
>>376
RNC spokesman says chances of brokered convention same as 'space alien attack'
Bwahahahahahaha.........bwahahahahahaha!
RNC spokesman says chances of brokered convention same as 'space alien attack'
Bwahahahahahaha.........bwahahahahahaha!
Posted by: SMOD at February 16, 2012 02:37 PM (Sh42X)
387
Gee, Mike. Heavily-tattooed fatasses in inappropriate swimsuits offend me and ruin my beachgoing experience. Should I try to ignore them or push for a SWAT takedown?
Posted by: Jaws at February 16, 2012 02:37 PM (4I3Uo)
388
Oh, to heck with that. I can't wait until my kids are old enough to mow the lawn in the summer and use the snowblower in the winter.
Would you let a stranger’s kid mow your lawn with your lawn mower?
Would you let a stranger’s kid mow your lawn with your lawn mower?
Posted by: Stephen Price Blair at February 16, 2012 02:38 PM (QF8uk)
389
As an adult, I never had a kid come over asking to mow, or shovel the driveway. As a kid, I would rake in the cash. $3 a yard/driveway. Couldn't even get my own kids to mow until I bought a riding mower. Then after the novelty wore off, couldn't even get them to use the rider.
Posted by: Jimmah at February 16, 2012 02:38 PM (845uI)
390
359 Suddenly contraception costs 800 a year according to Debbie Downer
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
That's a lot of 25 cent condoms to go through in a year. What a fuckin' athlete.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
That's a lot of 25 cent condoms to go through in a year. What a fuckin' athlete.
Posted by: Mr Fever Head at February 16, 2012 02:38 PM (SzAZ7)
391
You know why students have to carry 40lb backpacks?
We used to have lockers in both Junior and Senior High School. Every now an then the "authorities" would conduct a massive search.
Eventually the Supremes knocked that shit off.
So, they ripped out the lockers.
Moral of the story. Punish the 95% for the crimes of the 5%
We used to have lockers in both Junior and Senior High School. Every now an then the "authorities" would conduct a massive search.
Eventually the Supremes knocked that shit off.
So, they ripped out the lockers.
Moral of the story. Punish the 95% for the crimes of the 5%
Posted by: Jimbo at February 16, 2012 02:39 PM (O3R/2)
392
Would you let a stranger’s kid mow your lawn with your lawn mower?
If I'm paying him, he can use his own gas and mower. But I see your point.
If I'm paying him, he can use his own gas and mower. But I see your point.
Posted by: Slublog at February 16, 2012 02:39 PM (0PuMV)
393
Someone else pointed out last week that this law regarding the beaches
has been on the books for a long long time. It is not new. So, unwad
your panties!
Posted by: mike at February 16, 2012 02:32 PM (IlskE)
That doesn't keep it from being a stupid fucking overreach by the government nor does it make it irrelevant for comments in THIS POST where it was mentioned which makes talking about it perfectly relevant.
The law sucks. Carry on.
Someone else pointed out last week that this law regarding the beaches
has been on the books for a long long time. It is not new. So, unwad
your panties!
Posted by: mike at February 16, 2012 02:32 PM (IlskE)
That doesn't keep it from being a stupid fucking overreach by the government nor does it make it irrelevant for comments in THIS POST where it was mentioned which makes talking about it perfectly relevant.
The law sucks. Carry on.
Posted by: © Sponge at February 16, 2012 02:39 PM (UK9cE)
394
Well, thankfully at the state level we are beginning to push forward some of the Marijuana legislation... though, that said, not by removing laws and regulations but by adding way more.
Posted by: E.M. August at February 16, 2012 02:40 PM (zeBNm)
395
Another sign of nanny statism is how "Have a safe (insert holiday here)" has replaced
"Have a happy (whatever).
Religion is now totally offensive. All civic and martial values have been replaced by "safe" whatever.
Guess who provides the safety? Government.
Oh, and set your DVRs for tonight on TCM. They are showing Mission to Moscow, commissioned by FDR to show the glories of Uncle Joe. Who sez progs are Commies??
http://tinyurl.com/6t3moy7
"Have a happy (whatever).
Religion is now totally offensive. All civic and martial values have been replaced by "safe" whatever.
Guess who provides the safety? Government.
Oh, and set your DVRs for tonight on TCM. They are showing Mission to Moscow, commissioned by FDR to show the glories of Uncle Joe. Who sez progs are Commies??
http://tinyurl.com/6t3moy7
Posted by: PJ at February 16, 2012 02:40 PM (DQHjw)
396
Jane D'oh, there should be an admin guy stateside to whom your should forward all that crap.
Posted by: Jean at February 16, 2012 02:40 PM (WkuV6)
397
You'd be crazy to let a kid mow your lawn nowadays.
Why?
Lawyers, that's why. If the kid gets hurt, you gonna get sued.
You'd be crazy to let a kid mow your lawn nowadays.
Why?
Lawyers, that's why. If the kid gets hurt, you gonna get sued.
Posted by: soothsayer at February 16, 2012 02:41 PM (G/zuv)
398
Barack Obama is a stuttering clusterf*ck of a miserable tyrant.
Posted by: AllenG (Dedicated Tenther) SMOD 2012 at February 16, 2012 02:41 PM (8y9MW)
399
I blame the lawyers. All of them. For every thing. Posted by: soothsayer at February 16, 2012 02:29 PM (G/zuv)
HEY! I'm only responsible for like 80% of that. Max.
HEY! I'm only responsible for like 80% of that. Max.
Posted by: alexthechick - SMOD 2012 at February 16, 2012 02:42 PM (VtjlW)
400
>>>I don't think we've been good enough to get a Johnny Coldcuts post.
I can't do Johnny Coldcuts posts because Johnny Coldcuts only said basically three things.
You do that three times and it's hard to make up new ones.
Plus I can't threaten to eff people up the bee anymore as a talking sandhich.
Same with Rich "Psycho" Giamboni. Would like to do another post with him, but what would he say?
I can't do Johnny Coldcuts posts because Johnny Coldcuts only said basically three things.
You do that three times and it's hard to make up new ones.
Plus I can't threaten to eff people up the bee anymore as a talking sandhich.
Same with Rich "Psycho" Giamboni. Would like to do another post with him, but what would he say?
Posted by: ace at February 16, 2012 02:42 PM (nj1bB)
401
Thanks, Jean. I just remembered we've got a family readiness officer on Okinawa. I'll see if he/she can help.
Posted by: Jane D'oh at February 16, 2012 02:42 PM (UOM48)
402
If kids are acting up on a beach, you can't grab them by the shorthairs and shake the fear of god into them.
Why?
Lawyers. And the Law.
You'll get arrested. And then you'll be sued.
If kids are acting up on a beach, you can't grab them by the shorthairs and shake the fear of god into them.
Why?
Lawyers. And the Law.
You'll get arrested. And then you'll be sued.
Posted by: soothsayer at February 16, 2012 02:43 PM (G/zuv)
403
If you want to get even more depressed, listen to this:
The laws that offend you, that strip money from your wallet, that restrict your freedom in an obvious way? Those are only the fraction of the laws and regulations that government is enforcing.
There are many more, perhaps 100x as many laws, decades worth of legislation, "uninterpreted statuary powers," that aren't being enforced. And when the spigot starts to run dry they won't even need to make new laws to try and make up the shortage.
The laws that offend you, that strip money from your wallet, that restrict your freedom in an obvious way? Those are only the fraction of the laws and regulations that government is enforcing.
There are many more, perhaps 100x as many laws, decades worth of legislation, "uninterpreted statuary powers," that aren't being enforced. And when the spigot starts to run dry they won't even need to make new laws to try and make up the shortage.
Posted by: runninrebel at February 16, 2012 02:43 PM (N/1Dm)
404
So, thanks, to lawyers, we have to pass asinine laws such as banning frisbees on the friggin beach.
So, thanks, to lawyers, we have to pass asinine laws such as banning frisbees on the friggin beach.
Posted by: soothsayer at February 16, 2012 02:43 PM (G/zuv)
405
You better not have been having any protected sex by that campfire young man!
Posted by: Rick Sanitarium at February 16, 2012 02:44 PM (/Mla1)
406
Just got back from a lunch with Dr Tyler Cowen, http://tinyurl.com/ljn5vv.
To say his talk was depressing would be to put a good light on it.
We are so fucked. He sees Obama winning, but us taking the Senate.
He sees Greece defaulting with in three months, Portugal 90% chance of default, Spain, Italy, Ireland, 60-40 default.
Says China is not to be trusted and see a depression there in the next five years. Sees no way out of EC mess. US can expect 1% growth a year, basically what we have now, for next five years.
Oh, and Dodd-Frank bill? Says no one has a clue what it does. It is over 1000 pages and half of it has not been started.
Have a nice day.
SMOD!!!
To say his talk was depressing would be to put a good light on it.
We are so fucked. He sees Obama winning, but us taking the Senate.
He sees Greece defaulting with in three months, Portugal 90% chance of default, Spain, Italy, Ireland, 60-40 default.
Says China is not to be trusted and see a depression there in the next five years. Sees no way out of EC mess. US can expect 1% growth a year, basically what we have now, for next five years.
Oh, and Dodd-Frank bill? Says no one has a clue what it does. It is over 1000 pages and half of it has not been started.
Have a nice day.
SMOD!!!
Posted by: Billy Bob, pseudo-intellectual at February 16, 2012 02:45 PM (hXJOG)
407
Yeah. Everyone knows that frisbees are for the street.
Posted by: Jimbo at February 16, 2012 02:45 PM (O3R/2)
408
Ace, "Johnny Coldcuts" was your Tony Clifton.
You should never have told us it was you. Yeah, we kinda knew, but we didn't really know.
Ace, "Johnny Coldcuts" was your Tony Clifton.
You should never have told us it was you. Yeah, we kinda knew, but we didn't really know.
Posted by: soothsayer at February 16, 2012 02:46 PM (G/zuv)
Posted by: soothsayer at February 16, 2012 02:47 PM (G/zuv)
410
I can't do Johnny Coldcuts posts because Johnny Coldcuts only said basically three things.
I'm obviously a new guy still, because I've never seen Johnny Coldcuts.
I'm obviously a new guy still, because I've never seen Johnny Coldcuts.
Posted by: Meiczyslaw at February 16, 2012 02:47 PM (bjRNS)
411
The "Donate to Ace Of Spades HQ or I'll Shoot This Sandwich" post was hilarious, and rich.
Posted by: Dr Spank at February 16, 2012 02:48 PM (Sh42X)
Posted by: © Sponge at February 16, 2012 02:48 PM (UK9cE)
413
RNC spokesman says chances of brokered convention same as 'space alien attack'
_________________________
And yet some wonder why we are so motivated to give their candidate a black eye.
_________________________
And yet some wonder why we are so motivated to give their candidate a black eye.
Posted by: Bob Saget at February 16, 2012 02:49 PM (SDkq3)
414
The "Donate to Ace Of Spades HQ or I'll Shoot This Sandwich" post was hilarious, and rich.
I think we need an updated what kind of DD character are the candidates post.
I think we need an updated what kind of DD character are the candidates post.
Posted by: alexthechick - SMOD 2012 at February 16, 2012 02:49 PM (VtjlW)
415
When have you ever heard of the government repealing a law? I think prohibition was the last one.
Posted by: © Sponge at February 16, 2012 02:21 PM (UK9cE)
Always cracked me up that it took a Consitutional Amendment to outlaw Alcohol... but to outlaw Pot was only a Law...
My how standards changed in just a very few years..
Posted by: © Sponge at February 16, 2012 02:21 PM (UK9cE)
Always cracked me up that it took a Consitutional Amendment to outlaw Alcohol... but to outlaw Pot was only a Law...
My how standards changed in just a very few years..
Posted by: Romeo13 at February 16, 2012 02:50 PM (lZBBB)
416
I think we need an updated what kind of DD character are the candidates post.
This year, they're all Fizban the Fabulous. The tell everyone else to stand back, and cast a fireball spell targeting themselves.
This year, they're all Fizban the Fabulous. The tell everyone else to stand back, and cast a fireball spell targeting themselves.
Posted by: Truman North at February 16, 2012 02:50 PM (I2LwF)
417
Perfect real life example.
I am a general contractor that specializes in insurance restoration. The hoops I have jump thru for the just the EPA lead paint requirements. Bear in mind this is just to handle and dispose of any surface painted prior to 1979. This not for abatement.
*Mandatory 8 hour class for all project managers. Mandatory 8 hour class for all subs I employ. (The syllubus puts War and Peace to shame)
* Mandatory personal EPA certification for all project managers and subs.
* EPA STATE business certification for each state I do business in. I do two.
That's just the barriers to entry. For actual work I have to...
* Swab test each sample to be disturbed for the presence of lead. In the state of KS..... I am COMPELLED to assume lead is present unless labratory tested. $300 each location test.
* I must provide EPA lead safety pamphlet to each homeowner and obtain sigature. On multi-family structures I must provide same to EACH Tenant in the building and obtain signatures.
* Imust post "Lead Hazard" signage prominatly on work sites.
* Must install 6 mill plastic barriers between rooms not affected and instruct homeowner not to enter. I am responsible if the homeowner self exposes. I must photograph barriers and signage to save for compliance audits.
* Must bag debris in 6mill bags and gooseneck tie with red tape.
* For exterior work I must lay 6mil plastic on the ground and fasten securely to turf. (I am then in violation of OSHA if place ladders on top of EPA plastic).
* At the end of the job I must HEPA vac all affected room and wipe down, top to bottm with damp rag or swiffer.
* I must verify all horizontal surfaces are free of any dust o debris with a final clearance swiffer. The amount of "debris" on the final clean swiffer is compared to an EPA provided "Clearance Card" to determine the amount of acceptable dust. Used siffers are retained as proof of final clearance testing.
* Exterior work has no wipe down, but I must inspect grass, flower beds, etc for peeled paint. I am responsible for any previously existing peeled paint. Photographs of affected areas are kept as proof of final clearance testing.
* All final clearance results are shared with the property owner, signatures obtained and kept for audit purposes.
All pre-1978 constructed structure records are kept for audit purposes.
I have my FIRST compliance audit in 3 weeks.
Fines for non compliance are $33,000 each instance. Double if the EPA determines non-compliance is willfull.
So.... you REALLY want to be a contractor/remodeler/window installer/paiter?? Hell... this doesnt even cover the codes licensing, business licensing, on going contractor ed stuf. This is just EPA requirements for lead paint hanling and repair.
I am a general contractor that specializes in insurance restoration. The hoops I have jump thru for the just the EPA lead paint requirements. Bear in mind this is just to handle and dispose of any surface painted prior to 1979. This not for abatement.
*Mandatory 8 hour class for all project managers. Mandatory 8 hour class for all subs I employ. (The syllubus puts War and Peace to shame)
* Mandatory personal EPA certification for all project managers and subs.
* EPA STATE business certification for each state I do business in. I do two.
That's just the barriers to entry. For actual work I have to...
* Swab test each sample to be disturbed for the presence of lead. In the state of KS..... I am COMPELLED to assume lead is present unless labratory tested. $300 each location test.
* I must provide EPA lead safety pamphlet to each homeowner and obtain sigature. On multi-family structures I must provide same to EACH Tenant in the building and obtain signatures.
* Imust post "Lead Hazard" signage prominatly on work sites.
* Must install 6 mill plastic barriers between rooms not affected and instruct homeowner not to enter. I am responsible if the homeowner self exposes. I must photograph barriers and signage to save for compliance audits.
* Must bag debris in 6mill bags and gooseneck tie with red tape.
* For exterior work I must lay 6mil plastic on the ground and fasten securely to turf. (I am then in violation of OSHA if place ladders on top of EPA plastic).
* At the end of the job I must HEPA vac all affected room and wipe down, top to bottm with damp rag or swiffer.
* I must verify all horizontal surfaces are free of any dust o debris with a final clearance swiffer. The amount of "debris" on the final clean swiffer is compared to an EPA provided "Clearance Card" to determine the amount of acceptable dust. Used siffers are retained as proof of final clearance testing.
* Exterior work has no wipe down, but I must inspect grass, flower beds, etc for peeled paint. I am responsible for any previously existing peeled paint. Photographs of affected areas are kept as proof of final clearance testing.
* All final clearance results are shared with the property owner, signatures obtained and kept for audit purposes.
All pre-1978 constructed structure records are kept for audit purposes.
I have my FIRST compliance audit in 3 weeks.
Fines for non compliance are $33,000 each instance. Double if the EPA determines non-compliance is willfull.
So.... you REALLY want to be a contractor/remodeler/window installer/paiter?? Hell... this doesnt even cover the codes licensing, business licensing, on going contractor ed stuf. This is just EPA requirements for lead paint hanling and repair.
Posted by: fixerupper at February 16, 2012 02:51 PM (C8hzL)
418
But the administration announced the compromise plan before it had figured out how to address one conspicuous point:
Like most large employers, many religiously affiliated organizations
choose to insure themselves rather than hire an outside company to
assume the risk.
Now, the organizations are trying to
determine how to reconcile their objections to offering birth control
on religious grounds with their role as insurers — or whether there can
be any reconciliation at all. And the administration still cannot put
the thorny issue to rest.
Like most large employers, many religiously affiliated organizations
choose to insure themselves rather than hire an outside company to
assume the risk.
Now, the organizations are trying to
determine how to reconcile their objections to offering birth control
on religious grounds with their role as insurers — or whether there can
be any reconciliation at all. And the administration still cannot put
the thorny issue to rest.
Posted by: Islamic Rage Boy at February 16, 2012 02:51 PM (e8kgV)
419
Really, no ampersands, really?
Besides last I knew it was only contry that got DD politicians was Italy.
Besides last I knew it was only contry that got DD politicians was Italy.
Posted by: alexthechick - SMOD 2012 at February 16, 2012 02:52 PM (VtjlW)
420
liitle known fact: most regulations are dreamed up in dorm room bong sessions and are sensible, effective, productive, & efficient.
Posted by: OK, it's half true at February 16, 2012 02:52 PM (Jg7uO)
421
I live in the Michigan Upper Peninsula in a college town. Every year when the freshmen students arrive, they are shocked to learn that they're allowed to have Bon fires on the beaches. We have very few rules up here, but we stress personal responsibility. Every year it seems that somebody gets too close to the edge of a cliff (we have lots of cliffs), or falls into a waterfall, or drowns in Lake Superior, and it is sad, but all that happens is a larger sign of warning is put up. Nobody up here thinks that everybody's freedoms should be restricted because of a few people.
We have a cottage in Canada, however, and I think Canadians are even more into personal responsibility than we are up here.
We have a cottage in Canada, however, and I think Canadians are even more into personal responsibility than we are up here.
Posted by: Chilling the most for perry at February 16, 2012 02:52 PM (6IV8T)
422
If the Republicans were smart, they'd do a study on how many jobs the EPA killed since its inception.
If the Republicans were smart, they'd do a study on how many jobs the EPA killed since its inception.
Posted by: soothsayer at February 16, 2012 02:53 PM (G/zuv)
423
I was driving down the road with my brother (45 years old is he) the other talking about firearms, musing on buying a carbine. He asks me "how many guns can you legally own?" It was one of those moments when it all becomes very clear. WTF.
Posted by: TheGarbone at February 16, 2012 02:53 PM (N2svL)
424
I dont think bonfires are the best example but I get your point. The various need for licensing and permitting is getting out of hand.
Posted by: polynikes - Texan for Romney at February 16, 2012 02:53 PM (1GkGT)
425
So many of the regulations we are burdened with are laughable on the surface. Take the school lunch fiasco from yesterday; a little girl has to give up her turkey sandwich and fruit for a chicken nugget lunch that her mom has to pay for. This is the exact same beuracracy that says spaghetti sauce counts as a vegetable! I swear Mel Brooks couldn't write this stuff. Dig below the surface and it makes you want to run away, but there's really nowhere to run to. Honestly, is there anywhere on Earth that has it better? I can't think of a place.
The only real solution is repeal, and we all know that will never happen. Can you hear the talking heads,"The evil Rethuglicans want to take nutrition standards out of the schools! They want to poison your precious baby!"
So many of the regulations we are burdened with are laughable on the surface. Take the school lunch fiasco from yesterday; a little girl has to give up her turkey sandwich and fruit for a chicken nugget lunch that her mom has to pay for. This is the exact same beuracracy that says spaghetti sauce counts as a vegetable! I swear Mel Brooks couldn't write this stuff. Dig below the surface and it makes you want to run away, but there's really nowhere to run to. Honestly, is there anywhere on Earth that has it better? I can't think of a place.
The only real solution is repeal, and we all know that will never happen. Can you hear the talking heads,"The evil Rethuglicans want to take nutrition standards out of the schools! They want to poison your precious baby!"
Posted by: Dax at February 16, 2012 02:53 PM (FYaj9)
426
When I was in grade school one of my favorite books was a big book on chemistry with color drawings. One experiment showed how to create chlorine gas and was illustrated with drawings of soldiers in WWI gas masks.
I think you'd go on a watch list for owning something like that today.
I think you'd go on a watch list for owning something like that today.
Posted by: Mr Fever Head at February 16, 2012 02:53 PM (SzAZ7)
427
Great post. Oops, am I allowed to say that here?
Posted by: jon at February 16, 2012 02:54 PM (cgOkw)
428
A lot of people here aren't familiar with Johnny C., as he likes to be called, so you could throw them a bone.
Posted by: Dr Spank at February 16, 2012 02:54 PM (Sh42X)
429
Suddenly contraception costs 800 a year according to Debbie Downer ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ That's a lot of 25 cent condoms to go through in a year. What a fuckin' athlete.
***
Seems about right.
***
Seems about right.
Posted by: Will "Sacred Honor" Folks at February 16, 2012 02:55 PM (jUZRg)
430
So lawyers make up the lion's share of the members of fed/state/local legislators and theywrite the voluminous, unreadable, incomprehensible lawsthat generally require the use of otherlawyersfor us to understand. Sweet!
Posted by: Jaws at February 16, 2012 02:55 PM (4I3Uo)
Posted by: Dr. Varno at February 16, 2012 02:55 PM (QMtmy)
432
One big thing that annoys me is that we allow the left to control the debate in a big way by our assumption that an executiveposition has to be filled. A Republican president would do well to announce that he is not appointing say, a Secretary of Education or any subordinate political appointees for that department.
Posted by: Alex at February 16, 2012 02:57 PM (GgXZc)
433
This is just EPA requirements for lead paint hanling and repair.
Ah feel yer pain.
I'm currently prepping my house to sell, and had a guy out to switch out my front door* and he had to do the whole lead thing. My painter thinks it's all insane, because California hasn't allowed lead paint since the '50s.
(And I've still got wood replacement to do because of the termites. Grrr... )
*Geniuses who put the house together in the first place put the dryer vent right there, so you get all sorts of condensation on the door. Wood peels, metal rusts ...
Ah feel yer pain.
I'm currently prepping my house to sell, and had a guy out to switch out my front door* and he had to do the whole lead thing. My painter thinks it's all insane, because California hasn't allowed lead paint since the '50s.
(And I've still got wood replacement to do because of the termites. Grrr... )
*Geniuses who put the house together in the first place put the dryer vent right there, so you get all sorts of condensation on the door. Wood peels, metal rusts ...
Posted by: Meiczyslaw at February 16, 2012 02:57 PM (bjRNS)
434
Red State and Hot Air are reporting that Mitt will skip the Georgia debate.
Posted by: Y-not hasn't read the comments at February 16, 2012 02:58 PM (5H6zj)
435
So lawyers make up the lion's share of the members of fed/state/local
legislators and theywrite the voluminous, unreadable, incomprehensible
lawsthat generally require the use of otherlawyersfor us to understand.
Sweet!
Yep. Pretty much it.
Which is why I am supporting the No More Laws for Lawyers amendment. In my amendment, no Lawyer, nor any person who has pursued, for more than one semester, a law or pre-law degree, may be eligible to be a US Senator or Representative.
legislators and theywrite the voluminous, unreadable, incomprehensible
lawsthat generally require the use of otherlawyersfor us to understand.
Sweet!
Yep. Pretty much it.
Which is why I am supporting the No More Laws for Lawyers amendment. In my amendment, no Lawyer, nor any person who has pursued, for more than one semester, a law or pre-law degree, may be eligible to be a US Senator or Representative.
Posted by: AllenG (Dedicated Tenther) SMOD 2012 at February 16, 2012 02:58 PM (8y9MW)
436
Thanks, Jean. I just remembered we've got a family readiness officer on Okinawa. I'll see if he/she can help.
Posted by: Jane D'oh at February 16, 2012 02:42 PM (UOM4
-----------------------------------------------
Jane you should tell the stupid idiot who called that active duty military is not subject to jury call period. Also tell her that you have nothing at all do do with official orders from the Marine Corps and that iof she has something she needs in that order she should contact the Marine corps and leave you alone.
And if she calls back you will seek legal help to sue for harassment. The only thing most of these officious idiot local bureaucrats understand is a 2x4 upside the head.
Posted by: Jane D'oh at February 16, 2012 02:42 PM (UOM4
-----------------------------------------------
Jane you should tell the stupid idiot who called that active duty military is not subject to jury call period. Also tell her that you have nothing at all do do with official orders from the Marine Corps and that iof she has something she needs in that order she should contact the Marine corps and leave you alone.
And if she calls back you will seek legal help to sue for harassment. The only thing most of these officious idiot local bureaucrats understand is a 2x4 upside the head.
Posted by: Vic at February 16, 2012 02:58 PM (YdQQY)
437
A Republican president would do well to announce that he is not appointing say, a Secretary of Education or any subordinate political appointees for that department.
Hehe, your presumption is the Republicans are less interested in advancing statism than Democrats.
Hehe, your presumption is the Republicans are less interested in advancing statism than Democrats.
Posted by: Truman North at February 16, 2012 02:59 PM (I2LwF)
438
A Republican president would do well to announce that he is not
appointing say, a Secretary of Education or any subordinate political
appointees for that department.
{{Cheers}}
appointing say, a Secretary of Education or any subordinate political
appointees for that department.
{{Cheers}}
Posted by: AllenG (Dedicated Tenther) SMOD 2012 at February 16, 2012 02:59 PM (8y9MW)
439
As of last week, a resident of my suburban city may not shoot varmints threatening our homes.
My dad, 2 mi. away, just spent a whopping 5 grand to rid his attics of squirrels and repair the damage.
My boy is soooo hopping mad. He cannot even go in the backyard and shoot targets with his air soft guns unless he is 150 yards away from neighbors, structures or pets.
The formerly nanny-free Chesterfield, MO.
My dad, 2 mi. away, just spent a whopping 5 grand to rid his attics of squirrels and repair the damage.
My boy is soooo hopping mad. He cannot even go in the backyard and shoot targets with his air soft guns unless he is 150 yards away from neighbors, structures or pets.
The formerly nanny-free Chesterfield, MO.
Posted by: Justamom at February 16, 2012 02:59 PM (Sptt8)
440
What's the difference between govt-provided contraception and govt paying an annual stipend to men for hookers?
I mean, we all gots to get laid, right?
If the women absolutely must have sex and doesn't want to get pregnant, sure, let's provide her with 'free' contraception and abortion (just in case).
A man, then, too, must have sex but has no woman. So shouldn't the govt provide the man with a hired sex surrogate? If not, the man must abstain.
And abstinence is behind-the-times, unrealistic, discriminatory, and some might even think it equals imposing religious morals on others.
What's the difference between govt-provided contraception and govt paying an annual stipend to men for hookers?
I mean, we all gots to get laid, right?
If the women absolutely must have sex and doesn't want to get pregnant, sure, let's provide her with 'free' contraception and abortion (just in case).
A man, then, too, must have sex but has no woman. So shouldn't the govt provide the man with a hired sex surrogate? If not, the man must abstain.
And abstinence is behind-the-times, unrealistic, discriminatory, and some might even think it equals imposing religious morals on others.
Posted by: soothsayer at February 16, 2012 03:00 PM (G/zuv)
Posted by: Y-not hasn't read the comments at February 16, 2012 03:00 PM (5H6zj)
442
412
Says China is not to be trusted
Gee. Thank you Captain fucking Obvious.
Posted by: © Sponge at February 16, 2012 02:48 PM (UK9cE)
He was talking about their economic numbers and debt numbers, not general shit, which is pretty obvious. Said providences are running up unreported debt that the Central government is hiding.
Says China is not to be trusted
Gee. Thank you Captain fucking Obvious.
Posted by: © Sponge at February 16, 2012 02:48 PM (UK9cE)
He was talking about their economic numbers and debt numbers, not general shit, which is pretty obvious. Said providences are running up unreported debt that the Central government is hiding.
Posted by: Billy Bob, pseudo-intellectual at February 16, 2012 03:01 PM (hXJOG)
443
Posted by: fixerupper at February 16, 2012 02:51 PM (C8hzL)
In 10 years, your last bullet point will be "or bribe the inspector." This is how corrupt, third worldism starts.
Posted by: fixerupper at February 16, 2012 02:51 PM (C8hzL)
In 10 years, your last bullet point will be "or bribe the inspector." This is how corrupt, third worldism starts.
Posted by: PJ at February 16, 2012 03:01 PM (DQHjw)
444
A Republican president would do well to announce that he is not
appointing say, a Secretary of Education or any subordinate political
appointees for that department.
See, that was one of the advantages to Rick Perry. If he didn't like a department, he'd just forget to appoint its Secretary.
appointing say, a Secretary of Education or any subordinate political
appointees for that department.
See, that was one of the advantages to Rick Perry. If he didn't like a department, he'd just forget to appoint its Secretary.
Posted by: Meiczyslaw at February 16, 2012 03:01 PM (bjRNS)
445
The formerly nanny-free Chesterfield, MO.
Posted by: Justamom at February 16, 2012 02:59 PM (Sptt
Think of the red tape involved if the squirrels spilled old paint on themselves.....
Posted by: Justamom at February 16, 2012 02:59 PM (Sptt
Think of the red tape involved if the squirrels spilled old paint on themselves.....
Posted by: fixerupper at February 16, 2012 03:01 PM (C8hzL)
446
Oh sweet jeebus.
Mars is going to stop making their large Mars Bar, and is aiming too make their candy bars "healthier" by limiting the calories in one to 250.
Thanks, Moochelle.
Mars is going to stop making their large Mars Bar, and is aiming too make their candy bars "healthier" by limiting the calories in one to 250.
Thanks, Moochelle.
Posted by: Jane D'oh at February 16, 2012 03:01 PM (UOM48)
447
There was a time when this place was fun to hang out.
Now it's just a constant, irritatingbitchfest.
I'm out.
Now it's just a constant, irritatingbitchfest.
I'm out.
Posted by: ErikW at February 16, 2012 03:01 PM (omTvU)
448
I had something of an epiphany on the way to lunch today.
We aren't going to win the White House, are we? It just isn't going to happen this time around.
We won't win the white house, we won't really stop the march to socialism. We will hit a major fiscal crisis. Perhaps later than most other countries, but we will hit it.
And it will be terrible, won't it?
And there really isn't much we can do about it, is there?
We aren't going to win the White House, are we? It just isn't going to happen this time around.
We won't win the white house, we won't really stop the march to socialism. We will hit a major fiscal crisis. Perhaps later than most other countries, but we will hit it.
And it will be terrible, won't it?
And there really isn't much we can do about it, is there?
Posted by: MrShad at February 16, 2012 03:02 PM (Xqfwb)
449
@391
I don't visit many schools but I have been in a couple a year over the last few yearshere in the Seattle area and they all had lockers. Are you describing a local thing or are you saying it's nation wide. I doubt it's nationwide because on both iCarly and Hannah Montana the schools ahd lockers are I refuse to believe that the Disney corporation is lying to me.
I don't visit many schools but I have been in a couple a year over the last few yearshere in the Seattle area and they all had lockers. Are you describing a local thing or are you saying it's nation wide. I doubt it's nationwide because on both iCarly and Hannah Montana the schools ahd lockers are I refuse to believe that the Disney corporation is lying to me.
Posted by: CBHJ at February 16, 2012 03:03 PM (9VSWS)
Posted by: JQ Public at February 16, 2012 03:03 PM (NBj0d)
451
You know, only a certain number of persons are allowed
to specialize in certain areas of medicine per year.
So why do we have do many friggin' lawyers?
When the ambulance chasers advertise during kiddy cartoon shows, you know there's too many friggin' lawyers!
to specialize in certain areas of medicine per year.
So why do we have do many friggin' lawyers?
When the ambulance chasers advertise during kiddy cartoon shows, you know there's too many friggin' lawyers!
Posted by: Justamom at February 16, 2012 03:03 PM (Sptt8)
452
The various need for licensing and permitting is getting out of hand.
Agreed... it's also a great way for local, state and federal agencies to make a buttload of money. Sometimes it's not always for the "greater good".
Agreed... it's also a great way for local, state and federal agencies to make a buttload of money. Sometimes it's not always for the "greater good".
Posted by: jewells45 at February 16, 2012 03:03 PM (l/N7H)
453
Posted by: Justamom at February 16, 2012 02:59 PM (Sptt
What are you complaining about?
I live in New Jersey!
What are you complaining about?
I live in New Jersey!
Posted by: CharlieBrown'sDildo (NJconservative) at February 16, 2012 03:03 PM (nEUpB)
454
I heard that they were also gonna eliminate the "fun size" candy bars.
Because kids were associating fun with junk food.
They're renaming them the "you're already fat enough size" size.
I heard that they were also gonna eliminate the "fun size" candy bars.
Because kids were associating fun with junk food.
They're renaming them the "you're already fat enough size" size.
Posted by: soothsayer at February 16, 2012 03:04 PM (G/zuv)
455
And it will be terrible, won't it?
And there really isn't much we can do about it, is there?
There's a reason that the wife is reading survivalist websites. And why we're moving to a place where we can put in a farm.
Anybody in San Diego got chickens that I'll be able to barter the eggs from?
And there really isn't much we can do about it, is there?
There's a reason that the wife is reading survivalist websites. And why we're moving to a place where we can put in a farm.
Anybody in San Diego got chickens that I'll be able to barter the eggs from?
Posted by: Meiczyslaw at February 16, 2012 03:05 PM (bjRNS)
456
Welcome to the Thread that WOULD NOT DIE!!!
Posted by: © Sponge at February 16, 2012 03:05 PM (UK9cE)
457
Sometimes it's not always for the "greater good".
Posted by: jewells45 at February 16, 2012 03:03 PM (l/N7H)
-----------------------------------------
99 out of 100 it is nothing more than a tax under a different name.
Posted by: jewells45 at February 16, 2012 03:03 PM (l/N7H)
-----------------------------------------
99 out of 100 it is nothing more than a tax under a different name.
Posted by: Vic at February 16, 2012 03:05 PM (YdQQY)
458
They also want to name another version the "fairness size" candy bars.
Just to train the kids about fairness and shit.
They also want to name another version the "fairness size" candy bars.
Just to train the kids about fairness and shit.
Posted by: soothsayer at February 16, 2012 03:06 PM (G/zuv)
459
And there really isn't much we can do about it, is there?
Invest in guns, ammunition, food, and water. And a good knife and/or hatchet.
Invest in guns, ammunition, food, and water. And a good knife and/or hatchet.
Posted by: AllenG (Dedicated Tenther) SMOD 2012 at February 16, 2012 03:06 PM (8y9MW)
460
455, better go in with a bunch of friends you trust. If you can't defend your farm, you won't last.
Posted by: Dax at February 16, 2012 03:06 PM (FYaj9)
461
Where da Huckabee at?
Posted by: Phillip Champion at February 16, 2012 03:07 PM (nEvyg)
462
I had lockers. My kids didn't. Some schools ripped them out. In new schools, some were never put in.
Posted by: Jimbo at February 16, 2012 03:08 PM (O3R/2)
463
Dear God. I cant tell if youre serious, soothsayer.
Posted by: Lauren at February 16, 2012 03:08 PM (/E6lO)
464
MrShad at February 16, 2012 03:02 PM (Xqfwb)
You're forcing to bring out my Civil War anecdotes. Early in the war, Grant was tasked with pursuing a group of rebel. He watched as they rode to the top of a hill. Thinking that would be a perfect placefor an ambush, Grant had his men creep carefully up the hill. When he got to the top, he saw the rebels way off in the distance. Grant cited this incident in his memoirs stating that he learned from it that they were just as afraid of him as he was of them. From that point onward, Grant won the war being offense minded, some would say too offense minded.
As it was with Grant as regards the rebels, so is it with us and McBark the Crime Dog. The race has not begun so it is not over.
You're forcing to bring out my Civil War anecdotes. Early in the war, Grant was tasked with pursuing a group of rebel. He watched as they rode to the top of a hill. Thinking that would be a perfect placefor an ambush, Grant had his men creep carefully up the hill. When he got to the top, he saw the rebels way off in the distance. Grant cited this incident in his memoirs stating that he learned from it that they were just as afraid of him as he was of them. From that point onward, Grant won the war being offense minded, some would say too offense minded.
As it was with Grant as regards the rebels, so is it with us and McBark the Crime Dog. The race has not begun so it is not over.
Posted by: WalrusRex at February 16, 2012 03:09 PM (jUZRg)
465
359 Suddenly contraception costs 800 a year according to Debbie Downer
That's over two bucks each per day for those 8"x10" DWS headshots. But, they work better than anything to prevent sex.
That's over two bucks each per day for those 8"x10" DWS headshots. But, they work better than anything to prevent sex.
Posted by: Roy at February 16, 2012 03:09 PM (VndSC)
466
"There's a reason that the wife is reading survivalist websites.
Posted by: Meiczyslaw at February 16, 2012 03:05 PM (bjRNS)"
Yeah, we have a significant amount of food storage, but we probably need to till up the lawn and make a garden out of it for any long term survival. Maybe we have enough time left that I can buy a small ranch somewhere close.
It will all come crashing down in a couple decades, and when it does, the job that I do now will seem pretty pointless.
Posted by: Meiczyslaw at February 16, 2012 03:05 PM (bjRNS)"
Yeah, we have a significant amount of food storage, but we probably need to till up the lawn and make a garden out of it for any long term survival. Maybe we have enough time left that I can buy a small ranch somewhere close.
It will all come crashing down in a couple decades, and when it does, the job that I do now will seem pretty pointless.
Posted by: MrShad at February 16, 2012 03:09 PM (Xqfwb)
467
Students aren't allowed backpacks in Chesterfield, MO for security reasons.
Yes, one of the best school districts has been overrun by progs who have turned what could have been my kids' middle and high schools into the magnet for deseg and ESL. Now it's a no-go. At least they herded them all to one county school- just too bad it's mine! I'll be joining the will-work-for-tuition moms soon.
Yes, one of the best school districts has been overrun by progs who have turned what could have been my kids' middle and high schools into the magnet for deseg and ESL. Now it's a no-go. At least they herded them all to one county school- just too bad it's mine! I'll be joining the will-work-for-tuition moms soon.
Posted by: Justamom at February 16, 2012 03:10 PM (Sptt8)
468
Meicyslaw, you can probably get some from my neighbors who have taken toraising livestock, in the back yards ofour suburban housing tract homes.
Posted by: Who Knows at February 16, 2012 03:10 PM (W+Itt)
469
Mr. Shad, you can prepare, you can do that, but as far as the country goes, you are probably right.
Mr. Shad, you can prepare, you can do that, but as far as the country goes, you are probably right.
Posted by: Guy Mohawk at February 16, 2012 03:10 PM (r+9M6)
470
couple of decades? We're less then 5 years away imo
Posted by: Truman North at February 16, 2012 03:11 PM (I2LwF)
471
honestly, I thought about whether I needed to add a j/k after the "fun size" comment because that one even had me going...and I wrote it.
But that is something the Left would do -- force them to change the name of a candy so kids don't associate "fun" with junk food.
honestly, I thought about whether I needed to add a j/k after the "fun size" comment because that one even had me going...and I wrote it.
But that is something the Left would do -- force them to change the name of a candy so kids don't associate "fun" with junk food.
Posted by: soothsayer at February 16, 2012 03:11 PM (G/zuv)
472
And it will be terrible, won't it?And there really isn't much we can do about it, is there?
Wrong. You can awaken and pursue a path of galactic enlightenment. Learn to vibrate at a higher frequency to help Gaia prepare for Acension into a 5D reality. 21.12.2012. Be one with the universe and the Galactic Federation of Light.
ascensionearth2012.blogspot.com
Wrong. You can awaken and pursue a path of galactic enlightenment. Learn to vibrate at a higher frequency to help Gaia prepare for Acension into a 5D reality. 21.12.2012. Be one with the universe and the Galactic Federation of Light.
ascensionearth2012.blogspot.com
Posted by: Count de Monet at February 16, 2012 03:11 PM (4q5tP)
Posted by: m at February 16, 2012 03:11 PM (gk6B1)
474
Anybody in San Diego got chickens that I'll be able to barter the eggs from?
Umm, if you're moving to a farm... You know about farms, right?
My wealthy, Bay Area town actually allows chickens. Thinking about it...
Umm, if you're moving to a farm... You know about farms, right?
My wealthy, Bay Area town actually allows chickens. Thinking about it...
Posted by: t-bird at February 16, 2012 03:11 PM (FcR7P)
475
Used to be: That which is not forbidden, is allowed.
Now, not so much. More like: Everything is forbidden (unless you pay some vig to the gubbmit).
Bullets, Beans and Booze futures are up lately.
Can you imagine guns and ammo sales should Preznit De-Luxe be re-elected?
Now, not so much. More like: Everything is forbidden (unless you pay some vig to the gubbmit).
Bullets, Beans and Booze futures are up lately.
Can you imagine guns and ammo sales should Preznit De-Luxe be re-elected?
Posted by: Sam Dam Ting at February 16, 2012 03:11 PM (vL/+W)
Posted by: Truman North at February 16, 2012 03:11 PM (I2LwF)
477
"As it was with Grant as regards the rebels, so is it with us and McBark the Crime Dog. The race has not begun so it is not over."
I hope you are right. I really do, I know from experience I am not really cut out for farm work. I am allergic to everything that grows.
I hope you are right. I really do, I know from experience I am not really cut out for farm work. I am allergic to everything that grows.
Posted by: MrShad at February 16, 2012 03:12 PM (Xqfwb)
478
"When the ambulance chasers advertise during kiddy cartoon shows, you know there's too many friggin' lawyers!"
My father went to a very liberal law school in the late 60s. Some of the faculty spoke about how they wanted American law schools to expand- the rationale beingif there was an abundance of lawyers, they would become accessible to everyone, including the poor.
"When the ambulance chasers advertise during kiddy cartoon shows, you know there's too many friggin' lawyers!"
My father went to a very liberal law school in the late 60s. Some of the faculty spoke about how they wanted American law schools to expand- the rationale beingif there was an abundance of lawyers, they would become accessible to everyone, including the poor.
Posted by: Matt at February 16, 2012 03:12 PM (90w0O)
479
Geez.. all this survivalist talk is making me depressed.
Posted by: jewells45 at February 16, 2012 03:12 PM (l/N7H)
Posted by: soothsayer at February 16, 2012 03:13 PM (G/zuv)
481
Can you imagine guns and ammo sales should Preznit De-Luxe be re-elected?
---------
Jebebus..... and just now I can actually find primers in stock at the local reloading shops.
---------
Jebebus..... and just now I can actually find primers in stock at the local reloading shops.
Posted by: fixerupper at February 16, 2012 03:13 PM (C8hzL)
482
They didn't even look like real cigarettes.
(They looked more like joints with a little lipstick on the end.
They didn't even look like real cigarettes.
(They looked more like joints with a little lipstick on the end.
Posted by: soothsayer at February 16, 2012 03:14 PM (G/zuv)
483
>>>>We're less then 5 years away imo
Yeah. And you don't have to be 100% self-sufficient. You need short-term supplies, long-term food/water supplementals, security, and a resources/skills to barter with.
Yeah. And you don't have to be 100% self-sufficient. You need short-term supplies, long-term food/water supplementals, security, and a resources/skills to barter with.
Posted by: runninrebel at February 16, 2012 03:15 PM (N/1Dm)
484
A lot of good people thought they could ride out the descent and crash of their societies in Zimbabwe and South Africa too. Just sayin'.
Posted by: Jaws at February 16, 2012 03:16 PM (4I3Uo)
485
Gallup has SCOAMF/T at 43% approval. Where's Erg?
Posted by: Wonkish Rogue at February 16, 2012 03:16 PM (789+D)
Posted by: Jaws at February 16, 2012 03:16 PM (4I3Uo)
487
Great post, Ace.
I wish this post would go viral. People don't have a clue about what's been lost.
I wish this post would go viral. People don't have a clue about what's been lost.
Posted by: mare at February 16, 2012 03:18 PM (A98Xu)
488
Forget bonfires on the beach. LA County just outlawed ... throwing frisbees or footballs on the beach. $1000 fine.
Also, digging holes in the sand more than 18 inches deep, unless they for a movie or TV production.
No, I'm not making this up.
Also, digging holes in the sand more than 18 inches deep, unless they for a movie or TV production.
No, I'm not making this up.
Posted by: Jay Guevara at February 16, 2012 03:19 PM (YuJft)
489
As an adult, I never had a kid come over asking to mow, or shovel the
driveway. As a kid, I would rake in the cash. $3 a yard/driveway.
Couldn't even get my own kids to mow until I bought a riding mower. Then
after the novelty wore off, couldn't even get them to use the rider.
In my neighborhood I have at least one kid come knocking on the door almost every time it snows or if they see leaves in the yard.
I prefer to do yard work myself, but there are still kids out there with something resembling a work ethic.
driveway. As a kid, I would rake in the cash. $3 a yard/driveway.
Couldn't even get my own kids to mow until I bought a riding mower. Then
after the novelty wore off, couldn't even get them to use the rider.
In my neighborhood I have at least one kid come knocking on the door almost every time it snows or if they see leaves in the yard.
I prefer to do yard work myself, but there are still kids out there with something resembling a work ethic.
Posted by: Hollowpoint at February 16, 2012 03:19 PM (SY2Kh)
490
Japan had a shitty economy for a long time, and they still have a lousy economy.
Yet they never embraced a conservative revolution. They've been trucking along with their shitty left-of-center govt.
That could be us.
Japan had a shitty economy for a long time, and they still have a lousy economy.
Yet they never embraced a conservative revolution. They've been trucking along with their shitty left-of-center govt.
That could be us.
Posted by: soothsayer at February 16, 2012 03:19 PM (G/zuv)
491
I grew up on Alaska. It is a God-given right there to be able to go shoot your guns in a gravel pit and kill pop bottles, etc. Now I'm in WI. Here, you need a permit for the gun, and you pay to use a range, during hours. Often you need to be a member of the range, sponsored by another member just to get in.
Also, I assumed I could do as I pleased with my own property. In AK, dead cars and old appliances in the front yard are considered landscaping. Here in WI, the can get you a fine, and must be hauled away, and to dispose of them you pay some exorbitant fee.
Sometimes, I think Alaska is the last true bastion of American freedom.
Also, I assumed I could do as I pleased with my own property. In AK, dead cars and old appliances in the front yard are considered landscaping. Here in WI, the can get you a fine, and must be hauled away, and to dispose of them you pay some exorbitant fee.
Sometimes, I think Alaska is the last true bastion of American freedom.
Posted by: tcn at February 16, 2012 03:19 PM (hQX3k)
492
Same with European countries.
They like their creeping socialism so much so they won't trade it in for a better model.
Same with European countries.
They like their creeping socialism so much so they won't trade it in for a better model.
Posted by: soothsayer at February 16, 2012 03:20 PM (G/zuv)
493
True story... I was in Thailand last year on the island of Koh Samui. I bought two big beers from a bar adjoining the beach and asked "can I take these out on the beach?" and the dude replied "of course, where do you think you are, America?"
Posted by: scofflaw at February 16, 2012 03:21 PM (IhBRY)
494
I would like to interrupt this thoughtful post andthe ensuing discussion to comment that the latest Kennedy the Younger looks like the evil kid Bill Mumy played on The Twilight Zone. He is sooooo ready to send somebody to the cornfield if they so much as THINK of not voting for him.
Okay. I now return you to your ongoing discussion.
Okay. I now return you to your ongoing discussion.
Posted by: MWR, Proud Tea(rrorist) Party Hobbit and ABO supporter at February 16, 2012 03:21 PM (4df7R)
495
And the majority of Californians don't seem to be worried in the least that their state and municipal govts are operating at unsustainable levels and are heading the state over a cliff.
/shrugs
And the majority of Californians don't seem to be worried in the least that their state and municipal govts are operating at unsustainable levels and are heading the state over a cliff.
/shrugs
Posted by: soothsayer at February 16, 2012 03:21 PM (G/zuv)
496
A Nigerian man on a suicide mission for al-Qaida was sentenced Thursday to life in prison for attempting to blow up an international flight with a bomb in his underwear as the plane approached Detroit on Christmas 2009.
Great? Now we gotta support this fuck for the rest of his life. Should of taken him out over the Atlantic, ala the Argentine Military, and set him free to see if he can fly
Great? Now we gotta support this fuck for the rest of his life. Should of taken him out over the Atlantic, ala the Argentine Military, and set him free to see if he can fly
Posted by: nevergiveup at February 16, 2012 03:22 PM (i6RpT)
497
Also, digging holes in the sand more than 18 inches deep, unless they for a movie or TV production.
Hey Pal, I don't make the rules.
Now step back and let me measure.
Hey Pal, I don't make the rules.
Now step back and let me measure.
Posted by: Sandcastle Police at February 16, 2012 03:23 PM (Lpgtj)
498
In many cases, it's not even the government that's making these rules, it's all the boards, agencies and commissions they create.
The Insert-Noble-Sounding-Name-Here Agency is set up, funded and given a mandate to do X. The people hired quickly figure out that they have the sweetest gig ever and move to make sure that a) the problem they're supposed to deal with never gets solved and b) they find more problems vaguely related to the original mandate so that c) lots more like-minded people get hired and d) the budget keeps getting increased.
The politicians who originally thought the INSNH Agency was a good idea may be vaguely troubled by the monstrous growth of the agency but won't do anything to rein it in because a) the local rag may run an unflattering editorial, b) the public sector unions might get all snitty and c) all those ego-stroking letters from, and photo ops with, the National Association for the Elimination of Whatever the Problem Is will dry up.
Or the politicians agree with all the regulations created but didn't have the balls to bring them in themselves. That might cause them to lose re-election so they hide behind the "but it's an arms-length agency, we can't interfere" defense.
Either way, if you or I lose our freedom and hard-earned money, well, ain't that just too damn bad, suck it up buttercup.
The Insert-Noble-Sounding-Name-Here Agency is set up, funded and given a mandate to do X. The people hired quickly figure out that they have the sweetest gig ever and move to make sure that a) the problem they're supposed to deal with never gets solved and b) they find more problems vaguely related to the original mandate so that c) lots more like-minded people get hired and d) the budget keeps getting increased.
The politicians who originally thought the INSNH Agency was a good idea may be vaguely troubled by the monstrous growth of the agency but won't do anything to rein it in because a) the local rag may run an unflattering editorial, b) the public sector unions might get all snitty and c) all those ego-stroking letters from, and photo ops with, the National Association for the Elimination of Whatever the Problem Is will dry up.
Or the politicians agree with all the regulations created but didn't have the balls to bring them in themselves. That might cause them to lose re-election so they hide behind the "but it's an arms-length agency, we can't interfere" defense.
Either way, if you or I lose our freedom and hard-earned money, well, ain't that just too damn bad, suck it up buttercup.
Posted by: Robin Banks at February 16, 2012 03:24 PM (1/6Y1)
Posted by: nevergiveup at February 16, 2012 03:24 PM (i6RpT)
500
Oh sweet jeebus.Mars is going to stop making their large Mars Bar, and is aiming too make their candy bars "healthier" by limiting the calories in one to 250.Thanks, Moochelle.
No, this is smart business (I didn't say GOOD business). People will still want to eat 500 calories, and so will buy two bars, or a bag of chips, or a soda, etc. They will lower the price slightly, but the end result is say a 30% premium on the same calorie content. This is happening everywhere: concentrated detergent, phosphate-free detergent,smaller food portions, '100 calorie packs', most 'green' initiatives, most 'healthy eating' initiatives. The whole point is to justify getting people to spend more money on less product, and protect margins.
No, this is smart business (I didn't say GOOD business). People will still want to eat 500 calories, and so will buy two bars, or a bag of chips, or a soda, etc. They will lower the price slightly, but the end result is say a 30% premium on the same calorie content. This is happening everywhere: concentrated detergent, phosphate-free detergent,smaller food portions, '100 calorie packs', most 'green' initiatives, most 'healthy eating' initiatives. The whole point is to justify getting people to spend more money on less product, and protect margins.
Posted by: Gabriel Syme at February 16, 2012 03:26 PM (g84Si)
501
Forget bonfires on the beach. LA County just outlawed ... throwing frisbees or footballs on the beach. $1000 fine.
Also, digging holes in the sand more than 18 inches deep, unless they for a movie or TV production.
No, I'm not making this up.
Posted by: Jay Guevara at February 16, 2012 03:19 PM (YuJft)
There ya go Mike. Your mentality is spreading . Good for you.
Also, digging holes in the sand more than 18 inches deep, unless they for a movie or TV production.
No, I'm not making this up.
Posted by: Jay Guevara at February 16, 2012 03:19 PM (YuJft)
There ya go Mike. Your mentality is spreading . Good for you.
Posted by: © Sponge at February 16, 2012 03:27 PM (UK9cE)
502
It's a little frustrating how many people insist on new laws for their own good.
Person A: If parents don't want their kids to be fatties, they ought feed them right instead of giving into the children's complaints to spoil them.
Person B: Parents can't be trusted to do this. Look at all the fatties already. Therefore there ought to be a law. Plus, we're sticking it to the corporations, so, yeah, actually that's the best part!
Person A: If parents don't want their kids to be fatties, they ought feed them right instead of giving into the children's complaints to spoil them.
Person B: Parents can't be trusted to do this. Look at all the fatties already. Therefore there ought to be a law. Plus, we're sticking it to the corporations, so, yeah, actually that's the best part!
Posted by: fb at February 16, 2012 03:27 PM (wQ1iq)
503
wow, ace is just a shorter, uglier, less famous version of John Stossel.
Posted by: Pete at February 16, 2012 03:28 PM (j/wD+)
504
Side point: Current reports by way of Tepid Air et al. indicate that the debate in Georgia just before Super Tuesday will be without either Romney or Santorum.
Is it possible that clues have started circulating in the GOP field?
...naaaaah, I'm dreamin'...
Is it possible that clues have started circulating in the GOP field?
...naaaaah, I'm dreamin'...
Posted by: DarkLord©, Rogue Commenter for a Rogue Planet at February 16, 2012 03:28 PM (GBXon)
505
They told CNN to shove it?? Awesome!
Posted by: jewells45 at February 16, 2012 03:30 PM (l/N7H)
506
I'll never forget: when I bought my first handgun, in a person-to-person transaction, my FIRST inclination was- 'OMG, where do I go register this thing so I won't get in trouble?'
In these transactions, you don't have to... ever. My 'insecurity' led me to do the first thing that came to me- tell the gov't. FUCK- that was the LAST thing someone should want to do.
I was living in Colorado at the time. Open carry is allowed. Concealed carry by permit.
But I had an overwhelming urge to go 'register' the thing.
I'm VERY glad I got over that...
In these transactions, you don't have to... ever. My 'insecurity' led me to do the first thing that came to me- tell the gov't. FUCK- that was the LAST thing someone should want to do.
I was living in Colorado at the time. Open carry is allowed. Concealed carry by permit.
But I had an overwhelming urge to go 'register' the thing.
I'm VERY glad I got over that...
Posted by: Mr Wolf at February 16, 2012 03:31 PM (Tv41j)
507
Sounds awesome! I'm gonna go get a homeless dude to buy me some smokes!
Posted by: 13 year old who just heard the "smoking is bad" campaigners at school at February 16, 2012 03:31 PM (wQ1iq)
508
27 The dog owner refused to take the ticket so the ranger tasered him into submission when he tried to walk away.
-----
The taser use might get a lot of support here based on some comments a few weeks ago. Particularly if the guy had long hair and was wearing weird pants.
-----
The taser use might get a lot of support here based on some comments a few weeks ago. Particularly if the guy had long hair and was wearing weird pants.
Posted by: RioBravo at February 16, 2012 03:33 PM (eEfYn)
509
No bonfires? Some beaches won't even let youbring adog. I'm not talking off leash, strict No Dogs Allowed during May to Sept.
Posted by: snowcrash at February 16, 2012 03:33 PM (w3YD7)
510
Yes, you can BBQ in California in the summer. I don't know where some of you are getting this shit. They may suspend it in some areas when there is a high risk of fires which is not something to not take seriously. Posted by: mike at February 16, 2012 02:23 PM (IlskE) It has nothing to do with fire hazards, you nitwit. It's all about "air quality". I am (sadly) tied to this state for the foreseeable future. I remember when it was a nice place to live.
Posted by: Dumb_Blonde at February 16, 2012 03:34 PM (v9uAT)
511
Checkout this classic example in my hometown: http://tinyurl.com/7zwcpp5Takeaway quote: "Clark said zoning bylaws are silent when it comes to allowing farmers markets, so they may be prohibited."
Posted by: plum at February 16, 2012 03:34 PM (h4Yoq)
512
Just happened today: A renter in an apartment we own has apparently not paid his electric bill (he has a separate meter and the lease provides that he is responsible for paying for electric). The power company turned off his power for non-payment. He called the City building inspector, and we just received a certified letter stating that if we do not restore his power immediately the entire building will be declared unfit for habitation. The rest of the building is an occupied office in good condition with no problems at all, arguably one of the nicest buildings in the neighborhood. I guess it's our responsibility (since he couldn't be bothered to pay his electric bill) to pay to have his power turned back on, pay all his back unpaid electric bills plus penalties, and keep paying his electric bill till he decides in his own sweet time he' s ready to pay for the power he uses.
No, you can't connect stuff like this to decades of increasing government control and nanny statism. Not at all. Vote Democrat 2012!
No, you can't connect stuff like this to decades of increasing government control and nanny statism. Not at all. Vote Democrat 2012!
Posted by: RM at February 16, 2012 03:34 PM (TRsME)
513
512 I guess it's our responsibility (since he couldn't be bothered to pay
his electric bill) to pay to have his power turned back on, pay all his
back unpaid electric bills plus penalties, and keep paying his electric
bill till he decides in his own sweet time he' s ready to pay for the
power he uses.
-----
Is that a complaint? Perhaps you would like to pay for his birth control as well. Greedy rich landlord.
his electric bill) to pay to have his power turned back on, pay all his
back unpaid electric bills plus penalties, and keep paying his electric
bill till he decides in his own sweet time he' s ready to pay for the
power he uses.
-----
Is that a complaint? Perhaps you would like to pay for his birth control as well. Greedy rich landlord.
Posted by: RioBravo at February 16, 2012 03:37 PM (eEfYn)
514
My son still laughs about the "No Smoking" signs posted on the beach in Bethany Beach, Delaware.
"Dad, we're outside!"
"It's for your own good, son."
"Dad, we're outside!"
"It's for your own good, son."
Posted by: Count de Monet at February 16, 2012 03:39 PM (4q5tP)
515
I had a similar revelation. Grew up on a small seacoast town in Massachusetts where as a kid you could walk ten miles of coastline and light a beach fire anywhere. Sleep on the beach? No problem. There was a remote area called "The Spit" where as teens we would drink and act stupid and have a grand time.
All gone.
Now "The Spit" is managed by bird-loving Nazis who tell you where you can and can't walk. Even a game of touch football in the sand kicked off a skirmish between townies and environmental zealots.
A few years ago I went to Homer, Alaska. And it was as if I stepped back in time. Endless coastline with no restrictions, just be courteous and use common sense. Alaska is about the only place in the U.S. where you can feel free without looking over your shoulder or having second thoughts about doing some activity, which fifty years ago would have been no one else's business.
Ironically, the freedom in Alaska does exist elsewhere, especially in the third world. The difference is that in the third world the rule of law is unenforcable, so it doesn't matter.
All gone.
Now "The Spit" is managed by bird-loving Nazis who tell you where you can and can't walk. Even a game of touch football in the sand kicked off a skirmish between townies and environmental zealots.
A few years ago I went to Homer, Alaska. And it was as if I stepped back in time. Endless coastline with no restrictions, just be courteous and use common sense. Alaska is about the only place in the U.S. where you can feel free without looking over your shoulder or having second thoughts about doing some activity, which fifty years ago would have been no one else's business.
Ironically, the freedom in Alaska does exist elsewhere, especially in the third world. The difference is that in the third world the rule of law is unenforcable, so it doesn't matter.
Posted by: Al Gore's Second Chakra at February 16, 2012 03:40 PM (e1eKc)
516
Ridiculous laws are one thing, the will to enforce them is another. For instance, my city has specific ordinances regarding car audio noise. However, in the last 5 minutes at least 3 cars passed my house with subwoofers that rattled the windowpanes (I live near a high school). The local cops won't bother ticketing them... not worth the time.
Posted by: weew at February 16, 2012 03:42 PM (ElfHn)
517
Let's not forget the recent shining example of SawStop.
A gentleman invents and patents a device that will stop a tablesaw blade immediately should it touch a finger. He brings it to several power tool manufacturers for sale or licensing and they tell him no thanks - you're too expensive.
So he builds his own saws for sale. Great! Capitalism at its finest - except the public says no thanks - too expensive...and your saw is a POS, by the way.
What does this fine capitalist do? He runs to the CPSC with a bunch of fingerless props - er - advocates. I imagine contributions were made. Voila! new regulations requiring the device are right around the corner.
The American Dream.
A gentleman invents and patents a device that will stop a tablesaw blade immediately should it touch a finger. He brings it to several power tool manufacturers for sale or licensing and they tell him no thanks - you're too expensive.
So he builds his own saws for sale. Great! Capitalism at its finest - except the public says no thanks - too expensive...and your saw is a POS, by the way.
What does this fine capitalist do? He runs to the CPSC with a bunch of fingerless props - er - advocates. I imagine contributions were made. Voila! new regulations requiring the device are right around the corner.
The American Dream.
Posted by: Jaws at February 16, 2012 03:44 PM (4I3Uo)
518
Alaska is starting to sound good. I'll get used to the cold.
Posted by: jewells45 at February 16, 2012 03:47 PM (l/N7H)
519
Little late but...
WE did this. Almost every bit of government growth was done via elections: either by lawmakers passing laws they campaigned on, or regulators implementing regulations to protect the citizens who whined about lack of protections. Add to that a few cases of judicial overreach.
We did this. American voters. It's a mistake to think it's all a grand Left Wing Scheme. It's mainly just politicians pandering to voters.
WE did this. Almost every bit of government growth was done via elections: either by lawmakers passing laws they campaigned on, or regulators implementing regulations to protect the citizens who whined about lack of protections. Add to that a few cases of judicial overreach.
We did this. American voters. It's a mistake to think it's all a grand Left Wing Scheme. It's mainly just politicians pandering to voters.
Posted by: CJ at February 16, 2012 03:47 PM (9KqcB)
520
>>>There ya go Mike. Your mentality is spreading . Good for you.
Posted by: © Sponge
It's your mentality that needs to be checked. What the fuck do you think we were talking about? And why would you want people digging hole on the beach, that others may trip in, or that won't be filled later? At leas the film people are required to clean up their mess and do so. Again, unwad your panties! This law has been on the books for decades. No one has had a tantrum over it except those who do not use LACounty beaches.
Posted by: © Sponge
It's your mentality that needs to be checked. What the fuck do you think we were talking about? And why would you want people digging hole on the beach, that others may trip in, or that won't be filled later? At leas the film people are required to clean up their mess and do so. Again, unwad your panties! This law has been on the books for decades. No one has had a tantrum over it except those who do not use LACounty beaches.
Posted by: mike at February 16, 2012 03:49 PM (IlskE)
521
We did this. American voters. It's a mistake to think it's all a grand Left Wing Scheme. It's mainly just politicians pandering to voters.
____________________
Yup. Can't have anyone even potentially suffer any misfortune, even through their own stupidity.
It's the Oprahification of America.
____________________
Yup. Can't have anyone even potentially suffer any misfortune, even through their own stupidity.
It's the Oprahification of America.
Posted by: Jay Guevara at February 16, 2012 03:51 PM (YuJft)
522
"Which is why I am supporting the No More Laws for Lawyers amendment. In my amendment, no Lawyer, nor any person who has pursued, for more than one semester, a law or pre-law degree, may be eligible to be a US Senator or Representative."
This post has had me thinking most of the afternoon ( I wonder if the title drilled its' way into my subconscious). I'm about ready to start a non-profit organization with the goal of removing as many idiotic, antiquated, goofball laws as possible, just to see what happens and to put a burr under the saddle of lefties. (Plus, I need a halfway decent job, this telemarketing shit ain't cuttin' it.)
I need a name of course, which is where you Morons come in. I started with something like, "There Oughta Be a Law" or something similar, but it really should be a catchy acronym. TOBAL ain't bad, but I'm open to other suggestions from the Moron Horde.
Proceed...
This post has had me thinking most of the afternoon ( I wonder if the title drilled its' way into my subconscious). I'm about ready to start a non-profit organization with the goal of removing as many idiotic, antiquated, goofball laws as possible, just to see what happens and to put a burr under the saddle of lefties. (Plus, I need a halfway decent job, this telemarketing shit ain't cuttin' it.)
I need a name of course, which is where you Morons come in. I started with something like, "There Oughta Be a Law" or something similar, but it really should be a catchy acronym. TOBAL ain't bad, but I'm open to other suggestions from the Moron Horde.
Proceed...
Posted by: BackwardsBoy at February 16, 2012 03:54 PM (d0Tfm)
523
Second look at Benign Military Coup / Reset Button 2012?
Posted by: Jaws at February 16, 2012 03:54 PM (4I3Uo)
524
Any government, anywhere-anytime, has coercion on their side. The threat of, and at times the actual use of, forced compliance with laws that "they" did not consult with us upon is a strong coercive force. We would have to be willing to confront the government with force, frequently, or act out our non-compliance in a non-violent ready-to-die for our rights manner. Most of the laws do not rub against most of the population. Most of the population is not starting a business or rubbing against the government machine in some other way to the extent that they become annoyed or even inconvenienced by these things. Haves hate "wrong" laws, have-nots and do-nothings just don't give a shit. This is not a solvable problem at the fine-grained level, I think. We have to remain focused upon healthcare sized laws and work down to beach fires over the really long haul. The poison is too deep into the fibers toattempt cutting, so we shall have to attempt flushing instead.
Any government, anywhere-anytime, has coercion on their side. The threat of, and at times the actual use of, forced compliance with laws that "they" did not consult with us upon is a strong coercive force. We would have to be willing to confront the government with force, frequently, or act out our non-compliance in a non-violent ready-to-die for our rights manner. Most of the laws do not rub against most of the population. Most of the population is not starting a business or rubbing against the government machine in some other way to the extent that they become annoyed or even inconvenienced by these things. Haves hate "wrong" laws, have-nots and do-nothings just don't give a shit. This is not a solvable problem at the fine-grained level, I think. We have to remain focused upon healthcare sized laws and work down to beach fires over the really long haul. The poison is too deep into the fibers toattempt cutting, so we shall have to attempt flushing instead.
Posted by: And Irresolute at February 16, 2012 03:55 PM (RC3M9)
525
Suddenly contraception costs 800 a year according to Debbie Downer.
Actually, birth control is free, but she charges me to put the bag back over her head.
Actually, birth control is free, but she charges me to put the bag back over her head.
Posted by: TGMTDWS at February 16, 2012 03:57 PM (2jQGY)
526
Tragedy of the commons.
We can't allow the (now very) few that could have a bonfire intelligently to have the freedom to do so, because of the teeming hordes that abuse the landscape, fauna, flora, and litter and then either expect it to be cleaned up (or more likely don't give a crap if it is cleaned up)!
Another direct fall out from multi-culturalism and diversity, I think so!
We can't allow the (now very) few that could have a bonfire intelligently to have the freedom to do so, because of the teeming hordes that abuse the landscape, fauna, flora, and litter and then either expect it to be cleaned up (or more likely don't give a crap if it is cleaned up)!
Another direct fall out from multi-culturalism and diversity, I think so!
Posted by: Hrothgar at February 16, 2012 04:01 PM (i3+c5)
527
526Can I get an Amen?! .... AMEN!
Posted by: And Irresolute at February 16, 2012 04:04 PM (RC3M9)
528
"Any government, anywhere-anytime, has coercion on their side. The threat of, and at times the actual use of, forced compliance with laws that "they" did not consult with us upon is a strong coercive force. We would have to be willing to confront the government with force, frequently, or act out our non-compliance in a non-violent ready-to-die for our rights manner."
This is what I just posted about. Being familiar with local and county governments, I can say it is fantasy to believe that bad laws and regulations don't come from people whining about some issue, or someone who got a lawyer and sued when an "unauthorized" bon fire tossed a spark their way.
All of this government-creep comes from citizens demanding SOMETHING to shield them from all of life's hardships. Most likely, one of those citizens is a neighbor or family member. "Government" is not the ultimate problem. It doesn't grow by itself.It has to bestroked and fed by its citizens. As long as enough voters think they need the beast to protect them, they'll keep stroking and feeding it.
This is what I just posted about. Being familiar with local and county governments, I can say it is fantasy to believe that bad laws and regulations don't come from people whining about some issue, or someone who got a lawyer and sued when an "unauthorized" bon fire tossed a spark their way.
All of this government-creep comes from citizens demanding SOMETHING to shield them from all of life's hardships. Most likely, one of those citizens is a neighbor or family member. "Government" is not the ultimate problem. It doesn't grow by itself.It has to bestroked and fed by its citizens. As long as enough voters think they need the beast to protect them, they'll keep stroking and feeding it.
Posted by: CJ at February 16, 2012 04:06 PM (9KqcB)
529
Don't know what number post was that said it better than I can...
There is no such thing as owning land/private property. Therefore there is no such thing as being a "free" man in this country.
We are all renting from the state, due to the property tax. We are all renting our lives from the state due to the local, state and federal income taxes.
Stop paying property tax and your property will be confiscated by the state after a few years or sooner.
Stop paying income taxes and you will be locked up in jail and forced to pay back taxes and fines to get out even after serving your sentance.
Of course the state (or the EPA etc... ) can also tell you what you can and cannot do on or to your supposed private property that you're renting from them so most everyone on farms or big lots that want to develope a more enjoyable living space for themselves that has dealt with the state or EPA for permits etc. are rightfully getting more and morepissed at government overreach to the extream.... at least I hope they are.
The sad fact is there are so many renters (including a couple of my good friends) in this country that have no clue about any of this and vote mindlessly for more state control over private property cause they hate their landlord or are simply fools indoctrinated into believing the state has your best interests at heart at all times. I used to be one of those fools so I know....
Don't know what number post was that said it better than I can...
There is no such thing as owning land/private property. Therefore there is no such thing as being a "free" man in this country.
We are all renting from the state, due to the property tax. We are all renting our lives from the state due to the local, state and federal income taxes.
Stop paying property tax and your property will be confiscated by the state after a few years or sooner.
Stop paying income taxes and you will be locked up in jail and forced to pay back taxes and fines to get out even after serving your sentance.
Of course the state (or the EPA etc... ) can also tell you what you can and cannot do on or to your supposed private property that you're renting from them so most everyone on farms or big lots that want to develope a more enjoyable living space for themselves that has dealt with the state or EPA for permits etc. are rightfully getting more and morepissed at government overreach to the extream.... at least I hope they are.
The sad fact is there are so many renters (including a couple of my good friends) in this country that have no clue about any of this and vote mindlessly for more state control over private property cause they hate their landlord or are simply fools indoctrinated into believing the state has your best interests at heart at all times. I used to be one of those fools so I know....
Posted by: Some guy you don't know in Wisconsin at February 16, 2012 04:15 PM (0aByc)
Posted by: Some guy you don't know in Wisconsin at February 16, 2012 04:15 PM (0aByc)
531
<i>we just received a certified letter stating that if we do not restore
his power immediately the entire building will be declared unfit for
habitation.</i>
Too bad they can't declare his apartment only unfit for habitation and force him to leave and move under a bridge.
his power immediately the entire building will be declared unfit for
habitation.</i>
Too bad they can't declare his apartment only unfit for habitation and force him to leave and move under a bridge.
Posted by: TexBob at February 16, 2012 04:28 PM (51Nv7)
532
Obama is a stuttering clusterf*ck of a miserable failure.
Posted by: steevy at February 16, 2012 04:36 PM (7W3wI)
533
Don't worry everyone, Pres. Romney will fix this
Posted by: trump at February 16, 2012 04:36 PM (M7Awp)
534
@290 >>But the government does regulate puling weeds and digging small holes. That falls under the endangered specie act and clean water act.
Posted by: Vic at February 16, 2012 12:06 PM (YdQQY)
lol. You're right. Being the rebellious witch that I am, I envisiona future of pulling weedsin the middle of thenight, wearing night vision goggles.
Posted by: Vic at February 16, 2012 12:06 PM (YdQQY)
lol. You're right. Being the rebellious witch that I am, I envisiona future of pulling weedsin the middle of thenight, wearing night vision goggles.
Posted by: EyeTest at February 16, 2012 04:37 PM (ReC4P)
535
Give me liberty...Or give me slavery. Six of one, half dozen of the other.
Posted by: Patrick Henry's modern counterpart at February 16, 2012 04:37 PM (LYwCh)
536
Nicely Done Sir....
This is the reason I visit here every day, even after 7 years.
Nicely Done.
A. Weasel
This is the reason I visit here every day, even after 7 years.
Nicely Done.
A. Weasel
Posted by: A. Weasel at February 16, 2012 04:38 PM (uuNJc)
537
Good post, ace. I had a similar experience in Colorado, where you can do essentially whatever the fuck you want up in those mountains (including kill yourself if you're a stupid idiot.)
Posted by: Warden at February 16, 2012 04:40 PM (HzhBE)
Posted by: Patrick Henry's modern counterpart at February 16, 2012 04:44 PM (LYwCh)
539
Hmm. Well give me liberty or sensible, under 300 calorie candy bars, to placate a fat-assed first lady.
http://tinyurl.com/7bwemw6
http://tinyurl.com/7bwemw6
Posted by: Patrick Henry's modern counterpart at February 16, 2012 04:45 PM (LYwCh)
540
Give me liberty, or micromanage my health, including my sex life depending on political whim and whatever ideology is in fashion at the moment
Posted by: Patrick Henry's modern counterpart at February 16, 2012 04:47 PM (LYwCh)
541
The dog owner refused to take the ticket so the ranger tasered him into submission when he tried to walk away.
-----
The
taser use might get a lot of support here based on some comments a few
weeks ago. Particularly if the guy had long hair and was wearing weird
pants.
If you don't take the ticket they have to arrest you. If you walk away from arrest you're resisting arrest. If you're resisting they taser you. So take the ticket.
-----
The
taser use might get a lot of support here based on some comments a few
weeks ago. Particularly if the guy had long hair and was wearing weird
pants.
If you don't take the ticket they have to arrest you. If you walk away from arrest you're resisting arrest. If you're resisting they taser you. So take the ticket.
Posted by: DaveA at February 16, 2012 04:53 PM (qazvp)
542
The questions I keep asking myself: When do we get to the torches-and-pitchforks stage? What form will it take? And how will it play out?
I'm serious.
I'm serious.
Posted by: tsj017 at February 16, 2012 04:53 PM (/mO04)
543
i'M SURE SOMEONE ANSWERED THIS ALREADY, BUT JUST IN CASE. (Damn caps button!) Spare the Air is not every day. Just days like July 4th and Christmas. Just random days, LOL.
Posted by: Max Power at February 16, 2012 04:58 PM (q177U)
544
There are two types of general regulations and laws. One of these is those that try to control people who are not responsible. This is the fire on the beach regs and the football stuff etc.
The other is the regs controlling property use and zoning. Under these fall a LOT of crap such as EPA, endangered specie, fire codes and a virtual endless list. These are supposed to make people safer.
A third set of laws is the criminal codes. These are designed to make people safer to by attempting to control the criminal element.
The rules and regulations have exploding in number since the 60s covering every aspect of life. They are relentlessly added to every time some ax grinding group has something they want or some political crony wants an advantage over his competition. And they NEVER ever go away once enacted.
Benjamin Franklin said it best way back in the very early days.
People willing to trade their freedom for temporary security deserve neither and will lose both.
This is where we are at now and nothing could illustrate it more than the case below. Myrtle Beach police are not investigating a child rapist from CA who served 21 years of a 41 year sentence in CA and then was released. He moved to SC, probably to avoid going on a sex offender list.
He is now a prime suspect in the disappearance of a young girl from Rochester, NY 3 years ago and another girl.
We invent all these rules and regulations and then do not have the gumption to do the things necessary to make us safe. CA should have executed this guy. They didn't. Recidivism for child molestation is nearly 100% and it gets worse as the years go by.
He is alleged now to have killed these two girls. In SC that qualifies him for the death penalty. But it is too bad that all these young girls had to pay for his ability to walk the street (if guilty).
And in the end, we have given up our freedom for a bag of beans and we have no safety.
http://is.gd/601IPK
The other is the regs controlling property use and zoning. Under these fall a LOT of crap such as EPA, endangered specie, fire codes and a virtual endless list. These are supposed to make people safer.
A third set of laws is the criminal codes. These are designed to make people safer to by attempting to control the criminal element.
The rules and regulations have exploding in number since the 60s covering every aspect of life. They are relentlessly added to every time some ax grinding group has something they want or some political crony wants an advantage over his competition. And they NEVER ever go away once enacted.
Benjamin Franklin said it best way back in the very early days.
People willing to trade their freedom for temporary security deserve neither and will lose both.
This is where we are at now and nothing could illustrate it more than the case below. Myrtle Beach police are not investigating a child rapist from CA who served 21 years of a 41 year sentence in CA and then was released. He moved to SC, probably to avoid going on a sex offender list.
He is now a prime suspect in the disappearance of a young girl from Rochester, NY 3 years ago and another girl.
We invent all these rules and regulations and then do not have the gumption to do the things necessary to make us safe. CA should have executed this guy. They didn't. Recidivism for child molestation is nearly 100% and it gets worse as the years go by.
He is alleged now to have killed these two girls. In SC that qualifies him for the death penalty. But it is too bad that all these young girls had to pay for his ability to walk the street (if guilty).
And in the end, we have given up our freedom for a bag of beans and we have no safety.
http://is.gd/601IPK
Posted by: Vic at February 16, 2012 04:59 PM (YdQQY)
545
are NOW investigating
Posted by: Vic at February 16, 2012 05:01 PM (YdQQY)
546
If you don't fight, you lose.
Posted by: Mirror-Universe Mitt Romney at February 16, 2012 05:01 PM (NtrXN)
547
#421: MTU for the win. Houghton rules.
Posted by: exanter at February 16, 2012 05:11 PM (C4CjJ)
548
480
I mean shit, the DID outlaw candy cigarettes, didn't they?
Posted by: soothsayer at February 16, 2012 03:13 PM (G/zuv)
I see them on the counter where I buy gas so..........no, probably not.
I mean shit, the DID outlaw candy cigarettes, didn't they?
Posted by: soothsayer at February 16, 2012 03:13 PM (G/zuv)
I see them on the counter where I buy gas so..........no, probably not.
Posted by: myYbj at February 16, 2012 05:11 PM (myYbj)
549
I remember a long time ago when..... aw fu*K it. Help us SMOD, you're our only hope!
Posted by: jr at February 16, 2012 05:17 PM (uzbYw)
550
Four years back my brother, terminally ill with lung cancer, told me that he would like to be buried in a "natural burial cemetery". I looked at him like he was nuts, and declared, "There's no such thing!" I was convinced that I was right. He insisted that there was one not too far from where he lived in upstate NY. I said to him, "Hey, this is NY we are talking about, there is no way NY would allow such a thing". Too many regulations - too much revenue might be lost ya know!
For those that do not know what a natural burial cemetery is, I confess that I did not know either - until that conversation with my brother. It is simply a cemetery that permits a body to be buried without any of the "usual" preparations, or even a coffin. In fact, they PROHIBIT any body that has been embalmed, or any burial container that is constructed of any material other than an unfinished wood coffin joined together by dovetails and dowels - not even any glue is allowed. The thinking is that you can just wrap your deceased up in a sheet (100% natural fiber) and chuck 'em in a hole if you don't want a coffin. Hell, you even get to dig the hole (if you want to) and save the opening fees. You even get to personally lower them into the grave and fill it in with shovels. Staff supervises.
At first I swore that NY couldn't possibly allow it - I mean - think of all the regulations that must break! Think of all of the fees and taxes they'd miss out on! I was shocked at such a radical idea, a body just buried right into the ground like that! Can that be.........LEGAL?
Yes, it is legal. And very inexpensive. Although they have since doubled the cost of the plot (once the practice became popular), it is still very reasonable.
Sadly, I had to come face to face with my "conditioning" to question things not sanctioned by The State. It gave me great frustration to realize that I was such a sheep. That I found a tiny ray of hope that such a thing, a natural burial, could still happen in a few places in this country, is a sad commentary on where we are now.
For those that do not know what a natural burial cemetery is, I confess that I did not know either - until that conversation with my brother. It is simply a cemetery that permits a body to be buried without any of the "usual" preparations, or even a coffin. In fact, they PROHIBIT any body that has been embalmed, or any burial container that is constructed of any material other than an unfinished wood coffin joined together by dovetails and dowels - not even any glue is allowed. The thinking is that you can just wrap your deceased up in a sheet (100% natural fiber) and chuck 'em in a hole if you don't want a coffin. Hell, you even get to dig the hole (if you want to) and save the opening fees. You even get to personally lower them into the grave and fill it in with shovels. Staff supervises.
At first I swore that NY couldn't possibly allow it - I mean - think of all the regulations that must break! Think of all of the fees and taxes they'd miss out on! I was shocked at such a radical idea, a body just buried right into the ground like that! Can that be.........LEGAL?
Yes, it is legal. And very inexpensive. Although they have since doubled the cost of the plot (once the practice became popular), it is still very reasonable.
Sadly, I had to come face to face with my "conditioning" to question things not sanctioned by The State. It gave me great frustration to realize that I was such a sheep. That I found a tiny ray of hope that such a thing, a natural burial, could still happen in a few places in this country, is a sad commentary on where we are now.
Posted by: GrandeMe at February 16, 2012 06:04 PM (gavWU)
551
And in the end, we have given up our freedom for a bag of beans and we have no safety.
Those who give up liberty to achieve some temporary safety will end up with neither.
That fat bastard wasn't lying, he meant it.
Those who give up liberty to achieve some temporary safety will end up with neither.
That fat bastard wasn't lying, he meant it.
Posted by: Entropy at February 16, 2012 06:12 PM (Ci0JG)
552
| The questions I keep asking myself: When do we get to the torches-and-|
| pitchforks stage? What form will it take? And how will it play out?
Do you have a RiotPermit? Besides its past your bedtime.
| pitchforks stage? What form will it take? And how will it play out?
Do you have a RiotPermit? Besides its past your bedtime.
Posted by: Mayer Bloomberg at February 16, 2012 06:21 PM (e1eKc)
553
I am almost ashamed to admit this, but I was shopping at the auto parts store a coulpa Saturdays ago while LEGALLY open carrying my G21. As I walked outside some skinny fuck walks up to me asking, "Do you have a permit for that?" I replied that yes I do, but I don't need one because Missouri is an Open Carry state except where prohibited by local ordinance, and my town, Jackson, has no such rule.
He told me that I was wrong, and that no where in MO. is Open Carry, and that as a Cape Girardeau cop he should know. I informed him that before I even purchased a sidearm that I had researched all the foremost websites and looked up all the state and local ordinances where I might be carrying to be sure I was complying with all applicable laws.
When he told me again I was wrong, I asked for some I.D.. He said he didn't have any on him, but we could call the local P.D. if I wanted to. I knew the odds were in favor of one cop backing another a cop, right or wrong were against me, so I got in my truck and went straight to the Sheriff's Office where I got the permit.
I spoke the the deputies and the MO Highway Patrol Sgt. who were there and told them my tale. The MHP Sgt. then went Cousin Vinnie on me and said, and I quote, "Everything that guy said is bullshit."
After thanking them for confirming my info, I went back to the store and talked to the Manager. I told him the guy I was talking to outside a while ago ID'd himself as a Cape PD officer and that you knew him, is that so. The Manager confirmed both facts and gave me the guy's name.
I thought about filing a complaint and raising a stink about the incident, but after I thought some more I figured that it would -
A: After promises to "Do Something" it would be swept under the rug
B: Get my tit in a wringer
C: BOTH.
Well, Morons... thoughts, opinions, advice, comments??
He told me that I was wrong, and that no where in MO. is Open Carry, and that as a Cape Girardeau cop he should know. I informed him that before I even purchased a sidearm that I had researched all the foremost websites and looked up all the state and local ordinances where I might be carrying to be sure I was complying with all applicable laws.
When he told me again I was wrong, I asked for some I.D.. He said he didn't have any on him, but we could call the local P.D. if I wanted to. I knew the odds were in favor of one cop backing another a cop, right or wrong were against me, so I got in my truck and went straight to the Sheriff's Office where I got the permit.
I spoke the the deputies and the MO Highway Patrol Sgt. who were there and told them my tale. The MHP Sgt. then went Cousin Vinnie on me and said, and I quote, "Everything that guy said is bullshit."
After thanking them for confirming my info, I went back to the store and talked to the Manager. I told him the guy I was talking to outside a while ago ID'd himself as a Cape PD officer and that you knew him, is that so. The Manager confirmed both facts and gave me the guy's name.
I thought about filing a complaint and raising a stink about the incident, but after I thought some more I figured that it would -
A: After promises to "Do Something" it would be swept under the rug
B: Get my tit in a wringer
C: BOTH.
Well, Morons... thoughts, opinions, advice, comments??
Posted by: FORGER - SMOD/Gamma Ray Burst '12 at February 16, 2012 06:41 PM (HYbYx)
554
Suddenly contraception costs 800 a year according to Debbie Downer.
Cigarettes cost about $2500 a year.
Cigarettes cost about $2500 a year.
Posted by: Entropy at February 16, 2012 06:46 PM (Ci0JG)
555
Well, Morons... thoughts, opinions, advice, comments??
------------------------------------
Never make an enemy of local cops over something minor.
------------------------------------
Never make an enemy of local cops over something minor.
Posted by: Vic at February 16, 2012 06:46 PM (YdQQY)
556
Well, Morons... thoughts, opinions, advice, comments??
I'm with Vic. From a practical standpoint, you are on the wrong side of the power imbalance.
What confounds me is: What motivated this police officer to lie to you like he did?
Some people just like to make other people jump through hoops. We don't go looking for other motives when somebody steals money. Likewise, we shouldn't go looking for other motives when people arrogate authority over other people.
I'm with Vic. From a practical standpoint, you are on the wrong side of the power imbalance.
What confounds me is: What motivated this police officer to lie to you like he did?
Some people just like to make other people jump through hoops. We don't go looking for other motives when somebody steals money. Likewise, we shouldn't go looking for other motives when people arrogate authority over other people.
Posted by: FRONT TOWARD LEFT at February 16, 2012 06:53 PM (p7SSh)
557
Again, unwad your panties! This law has been on the books for decades.
Don't you love the justification? For decades!
Mark Steyn is right, statists (left or right) are like Islamists in that once something is Islamic once, it is always Islamic forever and ever.
Don't you love the justification? For decades!
Mark Steyn is right, statists (left or right) are like Islamists in that once something is Islamic once, it is always Islamic forever and ever.
Posted by: Entropy at February 16, 2012 07:02 PM (Ci0JG)
558
555
Well, Morons... thoughts, opinions, advice, comments??------------------------------------Never make an enemy of local cops over something minor.
Sorry, but this here strikes me as the problem. We allow "those in power", even those with very little power, to push us around on ANYTHING they choose. Even when we know for a fact they are outright lying. Thus, we cede more power to them. Then they become tyrants.
Well, Morons... thoughts, opinions, advice, comments??------------------------------------Never make an enemy of local cops over something minor.
Sorry, but this here strikes me as the problem. We allow "those in power", even those with very little power, to push us around on ANYTHING they choose. Even when we know for a fact they are outright lying. Thus, we cede more power to them. Then they become tyrants.
Posted by: GrandeMe at February 16, 2012 07:11 PM (gavWU)
559
Thus, we cede more power to them. Then they become tyrants.
That battle was lost long before I was born.
The only reason I discuss this here is because one day soon, enough people will suddenly realize that we do not operate under the rule of law. It will be a race to the bottom at that point.
I recommend that people think really hard about what kinds of people and what kinds of behavior they will allow around them once everyone wakes up to the fact that we are in a might-makes-right free-for-all.
That battle was lost long before I was born.
The only reason I discuss this here is because one day soon, enough people will suddenly realize that we do not operate under the rule of law. It will be a race to the bottom at that point.
I recommend that people think really hard about what kinds of people and what kinds of behavior they will allow around them once everyone wakes up to the fact that we are in a might-makes-right free-for-all.
Posted by: FRONT TOWARD LEFT at February 16, 2012 07:26 PM (p7SSh)
560
The good news is that enforcement of all of these crazy regs will fall by the wayside as municipalities go bankrupt. A few bribes here and there like Mexico will get past any small thing the gov't doesn't like.
Posted by: Sad Dad at February 16, 2012 07:37 PM (3PHCO)
561
The "cultural creep" probably appeared in drips and drabs over the years, with no one really noticing until everything was in place.
Look at movies. The original version of "The Andromeda Strain" had an entire town killed by an alien virus, with dried blood gashes on people's foreheads; male nudity (from the back); and in the photos of victims, a long look at a pretty topless woman.
It was (and is) rated G.
"Jaws," made a couple of years later, showed graphic deaths, dismemberments and blood. It was (and is) rated PG.
All those things would probably net you an R nowadays, for both films.
Look at movies. The original version of "The Andromeda Strain" had an entire town killed by an alien virus, with dried blood gashes on people's foreheads; male nudity (from the back); and in the photos of victims, a long look at a pretty topless woman.
It was (and is) rated G.
"Jaws," made a couple of years later, showed graphic deaths, dismemberments and blood. It was (and is) rated PG.
All those things would probably net you an R nowadays, for both films.
Posted by: BeckoningChasm at February 16, 2012 08:01 PM (i0App)
562
When I was young we had a bonfire pit in the backyard under some very tall trees. Loved how the light hit the leaves a hundred or more feet upmaking a canopy.
Posted by: Reckless Process at February 16, 2012 08:52 PM (f7ylG)
563
327
Kill me now. Debbie Wasaman-Scrunt is arguing with Megyn about the Catholic church and birth control.
Isn't she a Jooooo?
----
Suddenly contraception costs 800 a year according to Debbie Downer.
So her president's solution is to take it off the invoice so its "free".
Posted by: John McCain at February 16, 2012 02:21 PM (845uI)
Oh yeah, Debbie? You, of all people, should know that masturbating is free!
Kill me now. Debbie Wasaman-Scrunt is arguing with Megyn about the Catholic church and birth control.
Isn't she a Jooooo?
----
Suddenly contraception costs 800 a year according to Debbie Downer.
So her president's solution is to take it off the invoice so its "free".
Posted by: John McCain at February 16, 2012 02:21 PM (845uI)
Oh yeah, Debbie? You, of all people, should know that masturbating is free!
Posted by: Megyn Responding In Full Blown Pissed Off Mode at February 16, 2012 09:43 PM (LCZ3l)
564
Fries my ass that Hollywood and other libruls are always nattering on and on about "artists" are admired for being "artists" because they are "transgressors".
Well, just try transgressing the idiotic/petty laws and regulations these smug assholes have imposed on us, and see how much admiration you get from them.
My dream is to see Hollywood burning like Atlanta in "Gone with the Wind".
No, make that like in the first Terminator movie.
Well, just try transgressing the idiotic/petty laws and regulations these smug assholes have imposed on us, and see how much admiration you get from them.
My dream is to see Hollywood burning like Atlanta in "Gone with the Wind".
No, make that like in the first Terminator movie.
Posted by: Jim Sonweed at February 16, 2012 10:33 PM (tVlC3)
Posted by: Flyover at February 16, 2012 11:38 PM (tOdsZ)
566
They say that the difference between the US and Europe is that in America, everything is allowed exceptthat whichis not expressly forbidden while in Europe, everything is forbidden unless it's expressly allowed. Perhaps the same concept applies to the Red States and Blue States.
Jim Webb makes the point in "Born Fighting" that the different mind set of conservative versus liberal is ultimately religious. English members of the Church of England, a hierarchical church where elites on high determined doctrine for the church members to follow, occupied the best land in thecoastal areas of New England. The Scots-Irish, who worshipped in fundamentalist churches who had no hierarchy, were not allowed to set up their churches in town, but were forced into the mountains. They had no elite church hierarchy, priding themselves on their independence.
Those habits of mind persisted. The big coastal cities of the East are liberal Blue states. Their leadership determines doctrine, like what's politically correct, which their membership slavishly follows. If Al Gore says people are boiling the Earth with their SUVs, then he's obviously a genius. And Obama is a Lightworker.
The middle flyover states became conservative Red states which pride themselves on independent thought, are contemptuous of elite doctrine, are skeptical of the claims of their own leaders.
The Blue true believers see their leaders as some sort of aristocracy, ie the Kennedys. The Red staters believe in a strict meritocracy where their leaders must prove themselves worthy of the public trust.
Blue lefties see the world through the eyes of their secular religion, demanding conformance to their idea of virtuous behavior, like paying tribute to Mother Gaia through recycling, renewable energy, and low carbon footprint. Deviations from this true faith are sins, blasphemy.
Red righties see the world as their domain, where they are free to act as they please as long as they don't harm anyone.
They say that the difference between the US and Europe is that in America, everything is allowed exceptthat whichis not expressly forbidden while in Europe, everything is forbidden unless it's expressly allowed. Perhaps the same concept applies to the Red States and Blue States.
Jim Webb makes the point in "Born Fighting" that the different mind set of conservative versus liberal is ultimately religious. English members of the Church of England, a hierarchical church where elites on high determined doctrine for the church members to follow, occupied the best land in thecoastal areas of New England. The Scots-Irish, who worshipped in fundamentalist churches who had no hierarchy, were not allowed to set up their churches in town, but were forced into the mountains. They had no elite church hierarchy, priding themselves on their independence.
Those habits of mind persisted. The big coastal cities of the East are liberal Blue states. Their leadership determines doctrine, like what's politically correct, which their membership slavishly follows. If Al Gore says people are boiling the Earth with their SUVs, then he's obviously a genius. And Obama is a Lightworker.
The middle flyover states became conservative Red states which pride themselves on independent thought, are contemptuous of elite doctrine, are skeptical of the claims of their own leaders.
The Blue true believers see their leaders as some sort of aristocracy, ie the Kennedys. The Red staters believe in a strict meritocracy where their leaders must prove themselves worthy of the public trust.
Blue lefties see the world through the eyes of their secular religion, demanding conformance to their idea of virtuous behavior, like paying tribute to Mother Gaia through recycling, renewable energy, and low carbon footprint. Deviations from this true faith are sins, blasphemy.
Red righties see the world as their domain, where they are free to act as they please as long as they don't harm anyone.
Posted by: Tantor at February 17, 2012 02:51 AM (OLxb+)
567
Forger-
Many cops, like good communists, feel justified in lying for the greater good.
My kids all attended a local Catholic school. The school brought in a "Bully Councelor" about 6 years ago. The first year, she had a local officer in to discuss bullying who told the children that there was no self defense law in the state so that self defense was treated as assualt.
When my kids, who knew this would piss of the old man, told me I immediately looked it up. Not only was it a lie, but it turned out our state is better on self defense than I had thought. You are not required to flee as in so many North Eastern states.
I informed the Councelor of the law and she checked in with the officer who told her ," I didn't want to confuse the children."
Many cops, like good communists, feel justified in lying for the greater good.
My kids all attended a local Catholic school. The school brought in a "Bully Councelor" about 6 years ago. The first year, she had a local officer in to discuss bullying who told the children that there was no self defense law in the state so that self defense was treated as assualt.
When my kids, who knew this would piss of the old man, told me I immediately looked it up. Not only was it a lie, but it turned out our state is better on self defense than I had thought. You are not required to flee as in so many North Eastern states.
I informed the Councelor of the law and she checked in with the officer who told her ," I didn't want to confuse the children."
Posted by: kdny at February 17, 2012 06:13 AM (vrYVY)
568
So late to the party here but posting anyway.
Ace, you nailed it with this.
Come live on the east coast of Iowa. You can still build a bonfire on our beaches.
Ace, you nailed it with this.
Come live on the east coast of Iowa. You can still build a bonfire on our beaches.
Posted by: creeper at February 17, 2012 09:52 AM (gre5a)
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