CNN American Morning Thinking of buying a new car? 'Cash for clunkers' might be ending but there's still some cash out there...

Ariel Segall, Lets look at the results :

1 ) Neither GM's nor Chrysler's cars made the top ten cars sold under this program.

2 ) Most likely the ones who traded their car for a new one are the ones who should not be taking an xtra payment in their budget ...

3 ) 467,000 cas times whatever their impact would be in the manufacturing figures is not even close to a sparkle on the jump start of our recovery

Can anyone help me to see the positive side...???

Where are the Empire States, Hoover Dams and other great structures that will become the icons of this recession ?
5 hours ago

Paul MacLean, @Ariel...one question then, where do you suppose we start with this recession crisis?...,Im NOT saying that "Clash for Clunkers" was the answer, but IT was something, that got something started, perhaps the days of "Hoover Dams" and "Empire States" are really over, either we depend on the new Baby Boomers to upstart something OR we have have to start saying "NO" to all the luxuries we've lavishly enjoyed in the past....credit? wot's credit...perhaps we should start with that, maybe that's how the big car companies got themselves into trouble the first time 'round...question is, have they learned anything?...Mmm, maybe bailing out those companies and banks wasn'y such a great idea after all!!...,but wot do I know right?!!
44 minutes ago

CNN President Obama just re-nominated Ben Bernanke http://bit.ly/R4Gc6. Do you think Bernanke deserves another 4-year term as Federal Reserve Chairman?

Paul MacLean, Um....NO, wot has he significantly done in his previous and short tenure....but I guess to be fair, Greenspan was in this post for a dinosaur's age!!.....Give Bernanke a chance, but he really needs to sit down and work globally with other countries, obviously wot ever the US is doing, it is NOT working, so thus being said, the US need to look beyond.. although "clash for clunkers" was a good start...now, they need to look to Canada, Germany, France and Spain for other ideas to see howthey stimulated their economy(s), Mr Bernanke, you need to do your part for your country....the US doesn't want just numbers, the US needs answers and success, and there's nothing wrong in asking for help from others....and not for money!!

Rony Smith-Ghelerter, No! Bring Greenspan back.
42 minutes ago

Paul MacLean, I agree with Rony...PLEASE bring back Greenspan!!

Wow...Ihaven't written anything for a while...and no Im noy dead yet!!

CNN American Morning Trapped on a plane all night. We spoke to a passenger who told us his nightmare experience... Watch:Trapped on a plane all night – amFIX - CNN.com Blogs
Source: amfix.blogs.cnn.com
Summer thunderstorms can mean airport delays. But how about this? Forty-seven passengers trapped on a plane that wasn’t moving on a runway… all night...! The Continental Express jet was flying from Houston to Minneapolis when storms hit. Then their... nightmare began. Link Christin was one of those pas...Read moreRead more
Yesterday at 12:37

Daniel Shalik, The airlines need to give those passenger FREE airline passes for LIFE and FREE Hotel passes also if they want to make it right.
Yesterday at 12:44

Ryan Hannay, This is awful, I was stuck on a plane for 4 hours once idling and all they did was give us some water. ahh the marvels of air travel.
Yesterday at 12:49

Paul Morrone, This is completely unacceptable. You cannot trap passengers in a confined space and have them just sit there for hours on end. There definitely need to be some regulations put in place...whatever happened to the Passenger Bill of Rights that everyone was talking about the last time something like this happened?

Carole Nickerson, Could have been worse.. there could have been snakes
5 hours ago

Paul MacLean Thats wot happens when a countr like the US has too many planes and airships up in the sky all at once!!..(rolling eyes)
@Daniel...maybe free airfare or ticket of choice in Continental US, as a ONE-time reparation offer for the inconvenience they've caused everyone!!...but not for life...you Americans would then be bitchin about no airlines in service!!
about a minute ago

Henry A. Kissinger - The Policy Fallout From Bill Clinton's Trip to North Korea - washingtonpost.com
Source: www.washingtonpost.com
The long term implications of Bill Clinton's trip to save two journalists.

Paul MacLean, Mr Kissenger really needs to be quiet at this moment..shall we start listing all failures and lies that he`s kept durin AND after his tenure...We`ll call Mr Clinton`s stint a cable boost to rebalance the Dem`s ratings and grades!!...LOL!!
Yesterday at 13:38

Washington Post posted a link to a news story.
Yesterday at 15:57. Obama's Domestic Policies Are Having Immediate Effects on Race for Va. Governor - washingtonpost.com
Source: www.washingtonpost.com
The coffee was still brewing when Chris Ann Cleland got her first reminder of the day that voting for Barack Obama might have been a mistake.

Candace Witte, the man 's been in office 6 months... come on folks...you gave the idiot that he preceded 8years wake up and smell the coffee
8 hours ago

Stacey Remick-SimkinsOne of the most amazing things about this is that after the Bush Administration nearly destroyed us financially, morally and culturally -- a mess that he spent eight years making-- everyone wants Obama to fix the mess in less than six months. This is a staggering level of impatience. I am a little stunned. At least Obama is trying...as any of us would find ourselves in this untenable situation.....how about giving him a term at least? No wonder we are in so much trouble.

What is equally troubling is that a new trend towards hateful rhetoric is flaring....I just heard a comment this morning from "fiscal conservatives" arguing that those who are seriously ill should give up and die so we can free up funds. Is this what our country is becoming? Truly the worst of itself?
8 hours ago

Kelley Zanfardino, Not only does everyone what everything fixed in 6 months - they want it for free. Correct the mess that was created over the past 8 years will cost some money. We've been deficit spending too long and the bill has finally come due!

Bob Thompson, Unfortunately the idiot that destroyed this country still has cronies in power and in influential places doing their best to stall and blame (kinda like a reverse shock and awe). It will unfortunately take time so stop sharpening your "blame finger"
8 hours ago

Lisa Gay Greer, Yep, it's staggering that so many W. voters-- especially two time ones-- even have the gall to open their mouths about Obama... within weeks, not even 6 months as they were and are. I could care less what they think about any of it since they are to blame for the attitude and lack of sense that got us into all of this. I guess endless war, trillions in tax cuts, and idiocy was much better than what we have now. Keep watching FOX; I know it makes you feel better...
5 hours ago

Paul MacLean Hey, the folks here, in Canada and the UK seem to really like President Obama!!...Like most viewers and readers have indicated or agreed on...it's only been six months, but dont expect to get "lunch" for free folks!!...so why not just back off on the poor guy, and give him a chance...Im dure he'll do fine, considering the hellhole he's in...healthcare crisis, fledgling economy, and two really useless wars..go figure!!
3 minutes ago

CNN American Morning posted a link.
Yesterday at 12:31. Health care hecklers: Can we talk – civilly? – amFIX - CNN.com Blogs
Source: amfix.blogs.cnn.com
This August, lawmakers on summer break are holding town hall meetings so voters can ask questions and get answers about health care reform. Except, as some describe it, in some districts those town hall ...

Eather M Greene Henry, The debate is how the Right Wing can't stand the fact that Obama is the president. They refuse to see theor role in their defeat and will do anything to see him fail so they can" ride to country's rescue" with their selfish, racist, creationist agenda.
11 hours ago

Ryan Hannay, RABBLE RABBLE RABBLE
11 hours ago

Daniel Shalik, The only people who are against health care reform are the ones that already have health care and could care less about the people who don't.
10 hours ago

Paul MacLean, @Eather...why do you keep bringing up race..you're beating a dead horse...let the GOP think wot they want to think, like..,who really cares, right? right!! The US healthcare system, just like any other country, as we know it, is in a deep recession (as it has been for the past 20/30 years)...this involves EVERYONE, regardless if you're black, whit, disabled, woman, etc...Obama knows and is well aware of all that, and so do the ALL the rest of the members of the house....but YOU do have your right to opinionize, but you also need to do wot is best...,all Im saying, is to move on, and concentrate on wot is really at stake here for you and your family(s)...re-evaluate your health insurance to see if it's right for you..if not, switch or talk to your senator and other state govenment bodies...
10 hours ago

Paul MacLean, @Daniel...I agree!!...the only ones who don't want anything to change are those who ALREADY have a good thing going... and couldn't give a rat's ass for the 47 million who DON'T have anything...maybe it is time, that caps are discussed a little more deeply...perhaps the US can somehow, discuss or debate, on a possibility OF implementing a similar idea of universal healthcare, obviously for those just can't simply afford a bandaid....there are always options that can be tested, tried and voted on, but it has to happen NOW!!...no more stupid town hall meetings or public surveys/polls..it HAS to change NOW!!...Why is the US so stubborn?...
10 hours ago

Shannon Stafford, amercians don't give a shit about their fellow americans that need this health plan bad. how about the U.S. just elimanate health care altogether so no one will cry about it.
10 hours ago

Paul MacLean, @Shannon...LOL!!..,I guess that's one way to look at things!! ;)
10 hours ago

CNN American Morning Join us for the 'most news in the morning' Monday-Friday 6-9 AM ET.

Shannon Stafford, Americans are self centered. Canada, Great Britian, and the rest of the common wealth and most of Europe pay higher taxes so everyone can have health care and other basic needs. All americans care about is me me me and me. one day america will catch up with the rest of the world.
4 hours ago

Paul MacLean, @Shannon..,Yes, it is true that Canada and the UK do pay MUCH higher taxes so that we can get some sort of healthcare. It may not be the quickest, and may not even be the best, but who knows...In the past 20 to 25 years, a trend of some sort has taken place, a couple of our provinces have actually adopted US style of health care, 2nd tier, or better yet known as privatized healthcare, obviously for those who can afford it. Canadian reisdences, as a whole, is hoping that the government will consider in taking steps to allow ALL provinces to adopt all choices of healthcare that one can choose from...but there's a really stupid catch-22 to all of this...Those who have pre-existing conditions or illness(s) will have to stick with the old universal plan...and that probably accounts for 60% of our medical seeking patients here in Canada...In the UK, it's different, they just don't have enough specialists...their healthcare plan(s) just won't cover the high costs for specialists...
4 hours ago

Mark Owenby, The Health care system is in a recession! We need to instead of bailing out all the auto company's , Spend the money on a health care system that will actually work and help the people of the United States. If are sick or dying , we want be able to buy a car anyway ! let's get our Citizens healthy and working again , then less start worrying about bailing out the auto company's or who ever is on that list . Thanks
2 hours ago

Wess Webbgood ole canada with free health care haha
about an hour ago

Washington Post Terror Suspect Daniel Boyd Seemed to Have Typical Suburban Life - washingtonpost.com
Source: www.washingtonpost.com
Daniel Patrick Boyd, once a defensive lineman at T.C. Williams High School, is an unlikely symbol of...

Paul MacLean, Is this considered treason?
Yesterday at 10:20

Phillip Wilson, yes
Yesterday at 10:22

Paul MacLean, A question, if anyone can answer..Does treason also warrant the death penalty?...I suppose it depends on the individual case...,right?...Canada and the UK don't have the dealth penalty..treasonists/treasoners (wot ever you wanna call them) just get life without parole...
Yesterday at 10:56

Paul MacLean, Wow..death penalty....sheeesh!! a debate I normally don't want to discuss...but it gets my blood pumpin'..BTW..Im against the death penalty...but, with wot some of the things that people do and its frequencies (criminal acts) these days, it kinda makes me wonder...but about roughly 25/30 years ago both houses of Parliament (Canada and UK) have had numerous discssions and debates of and about reinstating the death penalty...obviously, not much has come out those talks, in either houses...and the rule of law still stands as..NO DEATH PENALTY of any sort is nor will be permitted til further dicussion and debate...
Yesterday at 13:20

Misty Jones Budzinski, Where is the Evidence?????? He was jailed because he had a mind of his own....no evidence what-so-ever that he has commited anything illegal, unless our freedoms are being challenged.....wow
Yesterday at 13:38

Paul MacLean, @Misty..,there's a big difference between just speaking your mind and blatantly lying to authorities about recent overseas' trips and reasons..
1)...it NOT against the law to tell or write to people about his feelings towards the Muslim Faith and how he wants to convert, in fact, its NOT even against the law to say that he would like to join the Jihad...personally not my idea of a "boy scout weekend meeting"
2)...IT IS against the law to conspire against anyperson or persons, or country(s)of any wrong doings to cause harm or fatalities...the FBI were pobably tipped off, somtime in the past few hyears(in which WE do not have full details of)...unfortunately..Mr.Boyd just doesn't know how to lie properly and more than likely, he eluded authorites when questioned...thats all....he JUST may be a person of interest for that matter...
3)...Like I said, sometimes the media doesn't ALWAYS tell you everything..which is probaly the reason why we're quick to jump on everything the way we do.
Yesterday at 15:01

Misty Jones Budzinski, @Paul....I may be a person of interest...and you may be also, but where is the evidence? There is a reason the media does not tell every detail or may leave details out....I wont even go there....but I am CONCERNED, however, that the man may only be guilty of being a radical, which as far as I know, is NOT illegal.
Yesterday at 15:14

CNN American Morning “Experimental vs Standard of care” If an individual is put on public plan, would many common treatments not be covered? Who gets to decide what’s standard, versus what’s not. Is that what’s going to keep people already insured from jumping ship to the public plan? Tune in Tuesday from 6-9am ET for the 'Most news in the morning.'Yesterday at 14:08

Ryan Hannay, I agree, even if the government health care is crappy it's better than nothing which is what a lot of people are stuck with.
Yesterday at 14:46

Ryan Hannay, Use old people for fuel!
Yesterday at 16:11

Paul MacLean, Wow....,in Canada and/or the UK, free health care is a recipe, made with long waitng lists, doctors and nurses you can't understand, smelly wait rooms, and mix those with dashes of drunks (on a Friday and/or Saturday night) gettin preferential treatment over a 50/60 yr. old guy who just chopped off his finger, while cuttin' firewood in own backyard (Ive actually seen that happen...how sad!!)...Heck, it works for me...(rollin' eyes)...
17 hours ago

Ryan Hannay, I have a job and have good healthcare. fuck poor people(things republicans won't admit)
7 hours ago

Tom Gervasi, Ryan, you don't realize the money you're losing in salary because of the cost of health care in the US, and Paul the republicans prefer to confuse the issue so their friends in the HC industry can keep their hands deep in our pockets....

Ryan Hannay, @Tom I make plenty of money and always will thanks to being smart. But that doesn't mean I want poor people to go without healthcare so I can save a little money
6 hours ago

CNN American Morning Henry Louis Gates’ 911 caller “didn’t act on race, she acted on behavior.” – amFIX - CNN.com Blogs
Source: amfix.blogs.cnn.com
As the president tries to cool temperatures between the Cambridge police department and Harvard professor Henry Louis Gates, the woman who called the police and said there might be a robbery at the professor’s home is now speaking out. ...

Ryan Hannay, Wow an asshole cop arrested an asshole black guy. NEXT!
3 hours ago

Carole Nickerson, You said it Ryan.
3 hours ago

Ryan Hannay, I have all the facts I need. Henry Louis Gates is an asshole and so is the stupid egomaniac cop who arrested him. NEXT!
3 hours ago

Laura Harris, Ryan! LOL!

I'm trying to see both sides of the story, & I've come to the same conclusion as you, except the Harvard prof is clearly much smarter since I suspect this news firestorm & White House visit is exactly what he wanted.

Paul MacLean, Yeah...,Give it up Mr. Gates!!....the President apologized, the police department stated their case...and I agree fully with the police department and the officer that he acted on behaviour of Mr. Gates an NOT race...good God people, GIVE IT UP!!!..wot does Mr. Gates really want, other than a stupid tour of the White House...and a robbery? of wot?..is this gonna end anytime soon? I think not, unfortunately....Im sure Mr Rob Glen (our other colourful contributor) is gonna wanna weigh in, with his 2 cents....,sometime today...
2 hours ago

CNN American Morning St. Cloud Mayor Stormy over stimulus – amFIX - CNN.com Blogs
Source: amfix.blogs.cnn.com
Four months ago, Vice President Joe Biden took a stimulus road trip to St. Cloud, Minnesota to tout the prospects of recovery program jobs. Now the Mayor of St. Cloud, Dave Kleis, is one of the nation’s most outspoken stimulus critics.

Carole Nickerson, Biden is hot.
3 hours ago

Laura Harris, Cheney is not.

Hey, if the mayor of St. Cloud doesn't like the stimulus funding, he doesn't have to accept any.
3 hours ago

Paul MacLeanWell..After reading the article, it comes to me as no surprise, that you basically can't please everybody all of the time, yes I agree that smaller towns across the country have somewot been ignored over the past 20 to 30 years. Once again, I do applaud the Obama Administration and its strive to make the economy more tolerable and manageable..there's always going to be someone or some/group/company that will just bitch and complain (and some will even use the race card to help their cause)..Heck, there's about 725 billion dollars (and more to come) that has to be distributed (mostly to banks and other financial institutions and car/vehicle companies, just to name a few)...basically the amount above mentioned, and its actions will take a minimum of two to three years to take into action...Im not sure if VP Biden or Obama are actually stating or disclosing any detailed info, such timelines as to when people can expect anythng...Healthcare and economy both have to be tackled, but QUICKLY!
2 hours ago

CNN American Morning Commentary: Maine’s lobstermen are not making enough money to survive – amFIX - CNN.com Blogs
Source: amfix.blogs.cnn.com
Some of the 32,000 lbs of Maine lobster served during the Port Of Los Angeles Lobster Festival sits October 05, 2001 in San Pedro, CA.

Ryan Hannay, I deleted my comment and will add this: at least they can eat lobster every night for dinner. No one else can afford it.
2 hours ago

Paul MacLean, @Ryan..dont' delete your comments!! I always appreciate your comments..they'e funny and somewot insightful...not sure wot you said in your earlier comment...but, like everyone else, you DO have a right to your own opinion..I always enjoy a good laugh!!
@the fisherman/lobster catchers, just do wot everyone else is doin'...get a second job, for God's Sakes!!
2 hours ago

Ryan Hannay, Yeh whoever runs this page deleted some of my comments in the past but I think they gave up.
2 hours ago

Carole Nickerson, Mine get deleted from time to time. I don't care. Fuck 'em if they can't take a joke.
about an hour ago

CNN American Morning 16-year-olds allowed to strip in Rhode Island...as long as they're home by 11:30 on school nights! Check out this interview on the legal loophole a lawmaker wants fixed...Legal loophole allows Rhode Island minors to strip – amFIX - CNN.com Blogs
Source: amfix.blogs.cnn.com
While teens can’t pump gas or climb ladders on the job because of protections in workplace laws, there is nothing on the books keeping 16- and 17-year-olds from stripping – as long as they’re home by 11:30 on school nights.

Ryan Hannay, 16 is the new 18!
Yesterday at 12:47

Carole Nickerson, Well, times are tough and everyone needs to pitch in.
Yesterday at 13:03

Carole Nickerson, In socialist Canada, we let 'em start stripping at 10.
Yesterday at 15:04

Laura Harris, Carole, I guess that's OK as long as they get free health benefits. ;)

Carole Nickerson, Laura, Healthcare here is free but it sucks. Last time I went for a pap test, some geeky guy in a suit with big glasses and a clipboard came in and stood right between me and my doctor waving his finger.
Yesterday at 18:03

Sakura Ito, Whatever gets them through college, i'd say.
about an hour ago

Paul MacLean, My God...wot has this world come to?...16 and stripping, but home before 1130p...doesn't make much sense, but then again, I could just be old fashioned...I was working in a bloody fast food restaurant when I was 16, mobiles were JUST coming of age, no texting, no digi cams, no bells and whistles, that we all have today (my God I think Im gettin'old...lol)....but Im not complaining about those, but my real concern is how local and state assemblies (depending in which country you live in) pass laws and bills that seem to be taking a bunch of steps back, instead of forward...especially when it comes to protecting children...but this really shoulnd't shock me anyway...Children back home in the UK have been strippin n' teasin for years, for that extra quid....Children in Russia, parts of Southeast Asia, Africa have done this for years, but as a necessity....but their definition of necessity, obviously, differs from the one here in North America....is America REALLY poor?
2 seconds ago

Washington Post posted a link to a news story.
Today at 13:08. N. Korea Escalates War of Words, Calls Clinton Vulgar, Unintelligent - washingtonpost.com
Source: tr.im
PHUKET, Thailand, July 23 -- The war of words between North Korea and the United States escalated Thursday, with North Korea's Foreign Ministry lashing out at Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton ...

Timothy Hughes, The Foreign Ministry folks are just Loony Toons... And seemingly they're totally bent on pushing for a nuclear weapon's program...

This is getting really scary...

Paul MacLean, Just looking at this ailing images of this "great leader" is scary enough...BUT, once again we need to remind oursevles, that we do NOT want another IRAQI crisis...But niether the liberals or conservatives are able to sit down and commmunicate with this nuke trigger-happy fella..hate to say this, but it looks like the only we can do is just sit ...back and wait for him to die on his own...are the people of NK so brainwashd or wot?...Im not sure wot Hilary Clinton really has in store to entice this nut-bag..but I do know, for a fact, that sanctions and embargoes are obviously NOT working..invading the country is definitely not the answer...It sounds like Kim Il Jung (wot ever this guy's name is) really wants it to be brought to another and a higher level (when push comes to shove)..he's dong nothing more than just taunting..but his day is coming..just not sure when though. Perhaps he will meet his "Waterloo" when his children decide to turn against him or they die before he does....
7 hours ago

Rhenae Nunez, The world is watching and we are not impressed with the way Iran is behaving. I support the Obama administration's strategy of trying to talk at all times. War is primitive and costly and it does not bode well for our intelligence as human beings. Not confusing the two scenarios, for North Korea to characterize Mrs. Clinton portrays their immaturity and their unintelligence and their vulgarity.
7 hours ago

Paul MacCuish, Kudos for N.Korea having the tenacity to stand up to the vulgarity of the fat and bloated McDonalds eating franchise called America.

Paul MacLean, @Paul....Umm, not sure as to where you're going with this or wot your point is...first off, who is NK REALLY standing up to?..mmm more like the WHOLE world...not exactly America (NK is bored of America), in fact, if anything, America has sanctoned and embargoed a lot of resources and monies on NK...sure, NK has no fear of anyone, because their so-... Read morecalled "great" leader needs, less to nil amount of time, to point and aim his stupid nukes, which alot of them are pointing in the direction of the western world...but don't kid yourself, I think he suffers from paranoia-schizophrenia anyway, or at least has that Jeckyll and Dr. Hyde syndrome thing goin'...,maybe Hilary should just flash herself to him, while she's on tour...you know...just to distract him for at least a couple of minutes...lol
6 hours ago

Kevin Cromer, The problem Paul is that their Nukes can hit Japan and Hawaii. We have a vested interest in both
4 hours ago

Paul MacCuish, The North Korea issue has been around since the 1950's.Your media placates this issue over and over again.America loves it antagonists,it's like an addiction.Everyone is going to have nukes in the next couple of decades, except Iraq! Can their nukes hit Hawaii? Who's the scientist here to prove it. Like Noam Chomsky says 'Americans are passive North Koreans'...you'll rant,they'll rant...Hawaii eh,it's great place to vacation.There's no nukes flying over head there or ever.
4 hours ago

Paul MacCuish, And by the way your American Imperialist President Bush Jr. never did anything to stop NKorea,Slick Willy Clinton just laughed at Kmi Il Jung Jr, Bush Sr never gave a thought to them,Reagan probably didn't know who they were...and the beat goes on! And here's a thought why not trade Lou Dobbs & Bill O'Reilly for the 2 journalists Euna Lee & Laura Ling...a very fair deal.
4 hours ago

Angela Oddone, Secretary Clinton can so totally handle her own with this one.
2 hours ago

Paul MacLean, By doing wot Angela?...shootin' the breeze?, drinkng Black Oolong Tea?, and eatin' stale cookies with a half-crazed lunatic, with a really bad hairdo?!!....SERIOUSLY..,wot other type of sanctions or embargoes can be applied to his country..but he doesn't care, cos he knows that he's got nothin to lose!!...although he could make an unfortunate ... Read moremistake and accidentally aim and shoot at Canada, via Russia, and Alaska...,right through Sarah Palin's front window...lol)....Great!!..., a Korean Nuke shoved up my ass!!
2 seconds ago

CNN American Morning In Black in America 2, CNN's Soledad O'Brien reports on the innovative and unexpected ways people are transforming the black experience by confronting the most difficult issues facing their community.

Jake Fronckowiak, Sorry, but if people really want to stop racism, there shouldn't be a "Black in America" or a "White in America", or a "Latino in America", etc... Get it!!! How about "People in America"

Eather M Greene Henry, Obviously, Jake, you don't know what you are talking about. It's not us who don't want us to be a part of America.

Jake Fronckowiak, All I ask is be a true american. I don't care what color your skin is, but if minorities keep singaling themselves out, no one will ever see them as the same or equal. And shows like this single out the AMERICAN- AFRICAN race. Notice AMERICAN is first. And for the American-African race, if you don't like the word nigger, don't use in every other song!!! You don't hear the guys from Nickelback singin' "I'm a cracker, Where's all my crackers???"
about an hour ago

Karen Wildner Gray, Jake, it's not the word; it's the intention behind the word.

And what the hell is a "true American"? If you want to cut the labels, there's a good start.
about an hour ago

Michelle Wearren, hi Jake, i've read all your posts. don't want to attack you, but want to point something out to you: you said don't use the word in every other song, i'm not writing songs w/the word in them, don't know anyone that is. are we all in this box you've built? many of our baby boomers can't stand the word. they're not using it. i'm not using it, many people i know (black people) don't use the word. so i think you're painting us all w/the same brush. and btw-jim foxworthy has made millions w/ "you might be a redneck" marketing.
also, you don't define black people. you have a right to an opinion, but that's all it is. realize that no matter your qualifications, you don't decide how we should call ourselves, or speak. to think that you do, is the same kind of arrogance that we've dealt w/for centuries. our blood, sweat, tears built this country just like yours, and ours was for FREE.
about an hour ago

Jake Fronckowiak, Point well taken Michelle. I don't know where you live but I hear the N word used by a lot of American-African people, not all, but a lot. I also enjoy a lot of American-African comedians who make fun of themselves and their culture, just like Jeff foxworthy. I have no problem with that!! BUT, when I'm walking down the street with my 4 year- old nephew and we hear a bunch of kids " Yo, what's up my nigga??" and then my nephew gets in trouble for repeating it IN A INNOCENCE CONTEXT, because he sees it as just another type of greeting, like Hello, that's bullshit! IF you can't see that if you don't like a word,especially a word that for centuries has referred to your whole race in a derogatory manner, you don't use it, IN ANY CONTEXT, then you're always gonna hear it. Not from me, but you'll hear it.
IT would be nice if everything was "How It Should Be",but what we have to deal with is Reality!!!
I think we both want to same thing, but just differ in our view on how it should be done.
40 minutes ago

Michelle Wearren, @jake: you could explain to him that they're "cursing". i don't allow my children to say the word (or any other "slurs/curse words" in my presence (even though they're grown). those same kids you're talking about, have no problem using other "grown folks" language that your son shouldn't say. when he's older, if you REALLY wanted to be culturally sensitive, you could explain to your son why HE shouldn't use the word. if he was made to understand our mutual history (in the proper context) he would understand WHY black people become hurt and angry when/if he says it. just like you hear a hundred (or even a thousand) people say something and assume all of us do it....we hear one (or a thousand) white people say it, and assume that that same hatred and potential for violence is within many of YOUR race. just because someone uses it, doesn't make it acceptable.
21 minutes ago

Jake Fronckowiak, Great comments Michelle and others.
Believe me, I explained after the fact. Didn't know he picked it up until his Mom and Dad told me what happened at pre-school. I certainly will explain things like this as they get older.
I just hope for a world where we don't even have to have this conversation. Wish you all the best!!!
Let's remember...We all bleed red and we all cry salty tears, and we all have eyes that light up when we smile. So smile today!!!

Paul MacLean, @Jake...I agree wth everything you have to say...,especially the part where you said "People in America" would be more appropiate instead segregating people's colour all the time, but I guess then again, we wouldn't have all these bills and laws passed through the house, if we didn't always bitch and whine about the colour of our skin, gender, sexual orientation. etc..blah blah blah...now, my real question is, aren't there actually more Asians (including Middle Easterners) than there are blacks?..I could be wrong though...it wouldn't be the first time..lol!!...In the UK ..,I guess colour is just NOT exactly the first thing we see in a person...sure there is racism and bigotry (and sometimes it does turn into violence...so don't get me wrong) in our part of the world, but not to the level it gets over here in Canada and the US...Bigotry and prejudicisms are actually more lanuage and religion related anyway...

Washington Post posted a link to a news story.
Today at 14:04. Records of Virginia Tech Gunman Discovered - washingtonpost.com
Source: www.washingtonpost.com
Virginia Tech gunman Seung Hui Cho had been treated at the college's counseling center before the shooting rampage in which he killed 32 students, contradicting earlier accounts of his psychiatric history, according to newly discovered mental health records located in the home of the center's for...


Amelia Russ, We had an opportunity to be exposed to a Virgina Tech instructor..she was just rottenly draconian ! I am not surprised by this shooters reaction at all. AWFUL!
4 hours ago

David Soliminiseriously, Amelia? That's an awful thing to say.
4 hours ago


Jennifer K Cosham, How could you say something so hurtful, crass, and callous, Amelia? Did you think it was funny?

Amelia RussNO I don't think it is funny at all! This professor had 90 ways to fail a student, and absolutely no way to pass her damn course which was the only final course needed to complete a graduate program. OBVIOUSLY non of you have ever read "Cooling out the Mark" in higher education! I suggest you get a copy.
In 1960, Burton Clark's article The "Cooling Out" Function in Higher Education (American Journal of Sociology) pointed out that the same dynamic exists in higher education. Using his observations of counselors at San Jose City College, Clark argued that education inevitably must address the gap between the promise of an open American educational system, where everyone can theoretically return to school at any time, and limited upward mobility in the labor mark, where not everyone will have a job (or a good job). In contrast to the "hard" letdown of universities that kick students out when they fail classes.
3 hours ago

Amelia Russ, Clark said that community colleges have a "soft" institutional repertoire of testing students before they can take credit courses, counseling them to take vocational programs, requiring an "orientation to college" class, and repeating the testing and advising routine if necessary until and through probation until a student is re-socialized to accept a lower fate. As he write (p. 573): Adverse counseling advice and poor test scores may not shut off his hope of completing college; when this is the case, the deterrent will be encountered in the regular classes. Here the student is divested of expectations, lingering from high school, that he will automatically pass and, hopefully, automatically be transferred. Then, receiving low grades, he is thrown back into the counseling orb, a fourth step in his reorientation and a move justified by his actual accomplishment.


Amelia Russ, Clark argued that there were several traits of an institution with a cooling-out repertoire: alternative definitions of achievement, incremental rejection, use of a paper record to persuade the mark, the existence of "agents of consolation" (academic advisors), and the dissolution of hard-and-fast standards. By diverting students without having to tell them a painful truth of limited opportunity and personal worth, community colleges had an essential role: "the cooling-out process in higher education is one whereby systematic discrepancy between aspiration and avenue is covered over and stress for the individual and the system is minimized" (p. 576).
3 hours ago

Gil Batzri, Amelia, I fail to see how the systemic problem you cite excuses someone on ANY level for going on a shooting rampage, if you actually are "not surprised by this shooters reaction at all." you might check into some counseling.
2 hours ago · Report

Amelia RussInstitutions are ROBBING! And she RUINED 35 students opportunity to graduate by failing ALL of them, unless they dropped her course and waited and waited and waited until another professor picked up the class. ASPIRATION THIEF!
2 hours ago

Amelia RussSenator Dan Patrick (R-Texas) believes that all Texas college students should have the right to carry a gun on all college campuses (for protection). I'll bet none of you even thought about that. That bill was almost passed. I didn't recommend shooting up a school, I only posted that it does not surprise me. WRITE YOUR SENATORS! Do something about... Read more the horrific changes that are taking place.

I joined GUN FREE CAMPUS- John Woods, wrote Senator Dan Patrick almost daily against his GUN happy proposal, and donated toward the Brady Bill. What are you all doing to help solve the problem??????
2 hours ago

Amelia Russ, Brady Campaign to Prevent Gun Violence (JOIN!)

Amelia Russ, Dan Patrick (senator) Friend HIM and let him know that guns do not belong in students backpacks BOOKS do!

Amelia Russ, In the end..... I AM ADAMANTLY OPPOSED to GUNS on CAMPUS and what one student did was horrific, but it will only get worse unless you get off you "assets" and DO SOMETHING! I have listed above some suggestions, now its up to you!

Paul MacLean @Amelia...Im not sure where the connection between a really bad teacher(s) and gun-toting/shooting lunatic is...Was Mr Cho not in recievership of instuctional email about lodging formal complaints about his profs. and instructors?...your interpetations of Mr Clarke's writings seemed to or at least "impressively" confusing...See, most writers (profs, etc.) tend to write and articlize their pieces for THEIR present time(s)...there was ABSOLUTELY NO WAY that Mr. Clarke could fore tell nor mention of the future of personal arms (hand guns) and psychotic humans, 40 or more years later...Can you see into the future, Amelia?..perhaps 40 or 50 years later?..Im simply guessing not...
2 seconds ago ·

CNN American Morning Debate over health care reform making you dizzy? Send in your questions for our Dr. Gupta and he’ll answer them next week on “the most news in the morning.” Click on the link below to see his message and leave your questions...Dr. Gupta: Send in your health care reform questions – amFIX - CNN.com Blogs
Source: amfix.blogs.cnn.com
Do the health care reform headlines leave you with more questions than answers? Dr. Gupta is your AM insider – and he wants to hear from you!


Paul MacLean A lot of time seems to be spent on, surveys, polls, debates and town hall meetings, and yes all on healthcare, which is all very important, but has there been any real action plan put in place, and not to disrespect Dr. Gupta, but really, what's he REALLY gonna tell us, that we don't already know?
Yesterday at 15:33

Washington Post Most Mexicans in U.S. Stay Put Despite Recession - washingtonpost.com
Source: tr.im
Despite the recession, the flow of Mexican immigrants out of the United States and back into Mexico has stayed level, according to a report released Wednesday by the Pew Hispanic Center.


Susan Parker That's because Mexico is in such turmoil now. Who would want to go back there? We should focus on fixing that country instead of so much on the Mideast. I bet if Mexico was returned to some semblance of order, its natives would head home en masse!
39 minutes ago


Dawn Lasky As long as US Welfare pays so well, why would they go back? The ONLY services not being cut these days are welfare payments to illegals. And without E-Verify enforcement, the stimulus jobs are going to lower priced illegals.
They have more rights here then in Mexico. Hell,they have more rights here then American citizens.


Franscois Jordaan Is there place in Mexico for our South Africans......or do they also kill 50 plus a day there?
9 minutes ago


Paul MacLean @Franscois..,Should we assume that there's no welfare or dole system set up in South Africa?...and if not, YIKES!!...say...Franscois, are you able tell us how the economy is doing, over in your country, perhaps you could so kindly shed bit 'o light on wot's happenin' in your part of the world...We hear a lot about the US, Canada, or the UK, I just thought it be interesting..that's all
2 seconds ago


Ian Joseph Minimal to no wellfare in South Africa with a horrendous HIV infection rate.
http://countrystudies.us/south-africa/57.htm
The SA economy is badly affected by the economic downturn.
http://www.southafrica.info/news/business/33972.htm
Unemployment is at about 23%... Read more
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/07/15/AR2009071503717.html
4 hours ago

CNN American Morning Today is the six-month mark of Obama's presidency. We have a progress report...Truth-O-Meter: Political scorecard – amFIX - CNN.com Blogs
Source: amfix.blogs.cnn.com
Editor’s Note: PolitiFact.com is a project of the St. Petersburg Times that aims to help you find the truth in politics. Every day, reporters and researchers from the Times examine statements by members of Congress, the president, etc. ...


Paul MacLean @Rob..you're comment(s), ABSOLUTELY holds no substance wot so ever..Wot on earth does some entertainment channel 'ave anything to do with one's success, you've yet to prove or even say anything in your rants...We (as a global community) adore your President and everything he's done so far, not only for your country, but also in Europe, and the rest ...of the World...Just his presence speaks volumes, I wish I could say the same for our Prime Minister, Gordon Brown (frankly, he's rather borng to listen to...lol)..sure, maybe the economy is a little slow climbing back up, an there's still lots of unanswered questions about the stimulus package(s), etc., but I applaud him for his tremendous efforts, and that he doesn't blame his failures, because he's black, or white people are not giving him a fair enough chance!!....just absolute rubbish Mr. Glen!! you ought to be poud of who you are and wot you do, instead of playing yourself, like a card...risky!!
3 hours ago

Washington Post posted a link to a news story.
Today at 15:06. Student Loan Programs Offer Income-Based Repayment and Debt Forgiveness - washingtonpost.com
Source: www.washingtonpost.com
Suzie Dundas is at that stage of life when student loans loom larger than car leases or electricity bills. The $390 monthly payments seem to stretch into perpetuity. They are her largest monthly obligation aside from her rent, which Dundas has decided she can no longer afford. ...


Paul MacLeanIn Canada we have wot is "popularly" known as the "interest relief" program, if one qualifies, it simply means wot it states, an interest-free repayment plan...BUT HALT!!...not so fast!!...the Canadian govrnment (both provincial and federal) make it very difficult for anyone to qualify for this...again, redtape and other political bullshit creates...more confusion and chaos...so whch brngs me to this particular matter..."does this really work? and if so, who REALLY qualifies? and does this affect future admittance to any school or college?....yikes!!
55 minutes ago

CNN American Morning posted a link.
Today at 12:41. Is affirmative action still necessary? – amFIX - CNN.com Blogs
Source: amfix.blogs.cnn.com
With the election Barack Obama, some people are taking a second look at affirmative action. After all, they say, if an African-American can become president, does the nation still need a government policy to address the effects of past discrimination?
What do you think... Is affirmative action still necessary? Join the conversation...


Heather Bradford Turnage at 13:29 on 17 July
I've noticed that most of the people vocally in favor of affirmative action have capitalization, grammar and spelling errors in their comments. Again, educational equity is the problem. No one wants to hire someone who can't spell or whose sentences are difficult to understand!


LaMonica Williams at 14:56 on 17 July
@ Heather ..Your quasi insult in regards to people using CAPITALIZATION , PUNCTUATION , & GRAMMAR MECHANICS didn't go unnoticed. Are you saying if you are IN FAVOR it is because you are "DUMB" and uneducated. I think you should know two factors. This is the internet. This is a heated issue..People type fast and make mistakes, Cps are used to bring ... Read morea point to your attention...and many people try to express themselves using everyday verbiage. But don't make the mistake that online dialogue is a proper way of accessing a person's ability to do a job.


Paul MacLean at 15:37 on 17 July
@Lamonica...yes, we see your point and understand, but I REALLY don't think that Heather wasnt exactly saying that people who use caps and punctuation(s) inappropiately or just plain simply different, are necessarily "dumb"...In her defence, she was just simply stating that people may read and understand another one's comment/opinion or note ... Read moredifferently..and that's not insulting to anyone at this point...Perhaps you could always ask Heather, politely, for her definition and terminology of her previous comment or note(s), instead of lashing out at her and accusing her of militously insulting others (especialy to other minorities or anyone for that matter)...Im quite sure she has a plausible reason, or explanation...


LaMonica Williams@ Paul.. I never "lashed out" as you put it. I simply pointed out the fact that her comment did not go unnoticed. And Paul..TRUST ME, when I say, I know a quasi insult when I see one. As I am very well known for making them myself. So I never miss them. I have been nothing but polite, and I don't know where you saw different, or if that's just what... Read more YOU WANT to see. You obviously missed the point that many think that affirmative action is put in place for the less educated, the less intelligent and the less capable at the expense of the opposite end. Eluding to the notion that the people who speak in FAVOR for it have many spelling, punctuation & grammatical errors is her way of reiterating a false notion, when we all know that online jargon , verbiage and expression differs from speaking to a person face to face. I don't need anyone to tell me what she meant.Just like you see my directly pointing it out as "lashing Out", I see her comments as snarky. Which it was .And you know it.


LaMonica Williams@ Paul also..before you try to Correct me in my response to Heather..you need to know, that you spelled the word "DEFENSE" as "defence" and the word "Maliciously " as "mitlitously"...So you should know that when she is talking about people who shouldn't get jobs because of spelling errors..She is TALKING ABOUT YOU!


Laura Harris @LaMonica, relax, I think we're all agreeing here. I'm guessing Paul is from Europe, where defense is spelled with a "c."


Paul MacLean@Lamonica...Oops!!, I do apologize for my poor spelling/grammatical errors...but at the sametime...I guess, I did misread your comment towards Heather, and I'm sorry if you feel any indifference towards the way I see things...but I will point out though, just as you had advised before, it is only FaceBook, and the internet, and these are somewhat ... Read morecandid opinions and views....Everybody is entitled to their opinion, but I guess, it's just how others read and understand things...but Im still not sure if she was really TALKING about people like myself, and if so, then she needs to jump in explain or clarify her thoughts to us...Again, I apologize if you feel diffrently, but, initially, that's how I read and understood your view, on wot Heather had to say..that's all!!


Joseph VicencioNo more affirmative action! Race isn't an issue the way it used to be anymore. Race is only an issue to those ignorant enough that don't pay attention to the way the world has changed in the last few years.
On the flip side, affirmative action is still important to those who keep viewing themselves as victims. These groups of 'complainers' need to... Read more come to grips with the fact that 'moving up' in your careers isn't a matter of black or white...or even male or female. It's a combination of hard work, EDUCATION, and being in the right place at the right time.
There are those who want things handed to them because of what their ancestors went through, or because of what the perception of their culture may be. Get over it!
The truth is that we set our own stereo-types in our own cultures. It seems like a joke to most, but certain stereo-types are true ONLY because there are those of us who prove it to be! Change the perception through accomplishment! We can ALL do it!


Paul MacLeanThank you Laura!!
Yesterday at 16:55


Paul MacLean I agree with Joseph V....I think he's really made a point, when he said "race isn't an issue, the way it was many years ago!!"...One's own actions AND words will influence one's own progress AND advancement in any job or school, and which is why, in my earlier comment, I've suggested that, Affirmtive Action ought to be re-examined and repassed as a... Read more different act all together...,times have changed, and so have people (at least the way they thinki)...Mind you though, Im still very proud and honoured to live in the times where black people have actually progressed and advanced, from being teachers, lawyers, doctors, to even being a President...It seems to me, that Affirmtive Action has been somewot abused....and by all, including Whites, Blacks, Asians, Hispanics, etc..Im just all about the quality and quantity of skills that one may possess in order to get them through life...Im surpirised that colour (for example), gender, sexual orintation, are even an issues nowadays....
Yesterday at 17:32


LaMonica Williams @Rob...It sounds like your city SUCKS.Although I believe the whole firefighter issue was a SUCK A$$ decision , NO WAY those scores should have been thrown out, you don't pass what is put in front of you, you shouldn't penalize the people who did well. The white firefighters were dealt a raw deal, and their grievance was reasonable and valid. But ... Read moreyou have been expressing either some very blatantly racist sentiments, or a very "rosey colored" view of the world.

@ Paul-An apology is not wanted or warranted.My point was to address the attempt to have a very snarky, demeaning and insulting comment that she thought flew under the radar. My thing is, if you are racist, have the gumption to be proud of it. But I can assure you, you can't through out a passive /aggressive comment and believe one is too stupid to know when you are doing it.
Yesterday at 18:45

CNN American Morning posted a link.
Today at 12:41. Is affirmative action still necessary? – amFIX - CNN.com Blogs
Source: amfix.blogs.cnn.com
With the election Barack Obama, some people are taking a second look at affirmative action. After all, they say, if an African-American can become president, does the nation still need a government policy to address the effects of past discrimination?


Paul MacLean at 14:28 on 17 July
Umm...NO!! and as it may seem odd coming from black a person, such as myself, I truly believe that Affirmative Acton needs to be redefined and reviewed before being passed through the house. We don't necessarily have this, here in Canada or the UK, and if so..it's not our priority...in Canada, Affirmative Action (I guess) is based on language, in ... Read morethe UK Affirmative Action (I guess) is based on religion. There are forms of Affirmative Action everywhere in this world, but just shown and practiced/acted in different ways. I guess wot I’m trying to say here is, (Brits and Cdns alike) are trying to figure out, is, where's the relevance in today's society (economy, education , healthcare, etc.)...everybody has the right to the same quality of life that each country has to offer, etc. and I think that's the way it should be in the US...but it doesn’t look like that’s gonna happen anytime soon!!

Washington Post Michael Gerson - Ruth Bader Ginsburg's Comments on Abortion in the New York Times - washingtonpost.c
Source: tr.im
What did Justice Ginsburg mean in her latest comments about abortion?


Paul MacLean at 13:36 on 17 July
The real problem of this whole matter on abortion is, definition...and when it was written and reviewed...Justice Ginsburg, whom I greatly admire, also stated in the article, that it is all about technicality, only because of the time frame of the last century (so Mr Gerson..please dont put words in her mouth)...all she is conveying, is that, there's a BIG difference in the wording and meaning for each case that's been presented in the past 35 years or so...Pro-lifers and pro-choicers, both, need to get off their high horses and look into this realization...that every word (such as the word "we") in every case presented, even nowadays, definitely has a different definition and meaning...so thus being said, just like anyone else, Justice Ginsburg has a right to her own opinion..whether it's candid or in a professinal setting....

Washington Post

Recession Lesson: Share and Swap Replaces Buy and Grab - washingtonpost.com
Source: tr.im
The recession is reminding Americans of a lesson they first learned in childhood: Share and share alike. They are sharing or swapping tools and books, cars and handbags, time and talent.


Paul MacLean at 13:02 on 17 July
Ok..so not to get confused here (of course it doesnt take me a whole lot to get me confused), and mind you that these little "lessons", such as goin to the library, isnt such a bad idea, neither is renting or borrowing (perhaps the word "borrowing" needs to be redefined...rolling eyes)...but seriously though, how does this revamp the country's economy?...or do we just keep it at a stalemate?..but the real question is "how do you get citizens to reinvest in their own country's economy again?"...Im quite aware that some American companies have had to pullout of foreign countries...basically to save money...but definitely to get the jobless rate on a downturn...but another thought to ponder is, here in Canada and the UK, we have the same problems...but in some ways (quarky as it may seem) we've figured out that there is no such thing as "credit" anymore...globally speaking, we as people, from everywhere, have abused it...so thereore, it's being taken away!!...sigh!!

Is There Hope for the American Marriage?
Source: www.time.com
Buffeted by affairs and ennui, the intact, two-parent family is under assault. What America needs to get over its commitment issues. (Hint: it isn't love)
Read this week's cover story: Is there hope for the American Marriage?


Paul MacLean at 10:50 on 06 July
Ok, Im not a reborn Christian, nor am I the anti-Christ, but hey, I do believe that the term marriage NEEDS to be redefned...mmm...,maybe not exactly wot it it used to be back in the 50's, 60's, 70's, or even the 80's, the question that should be asked really, is, wot DIRECTION are we yearning for, once a couple (hetro or same-ex) decide to commit ... Read moreto each other?...Does God and the church REALLY play a role anymore in today's society, especially when it comes to marriage? maybe, or maybe not... the times have changed, AND so have people, with the thriving pace of technology, and the economic rollercoaster ride with today's economy, etc. Maybe we just neeto figure out wot roles are being played and should be played for married couples these days...you know, mix the old with the new...compromise...nothing really loses hope or opportunity, til all options and definitions have been exhausted...so my answer to this is yes, there is still a little hope for marriage!!, redefine and compromise.


Virginia Jimenez at 11:29 on 06 July
As Paul mentioned in his comment above times have changed and so everything else changes as well. There are more women working as well. I think that parents can still be good parents without legally being married. Marriage is the union of two individuals and parenting is the commitment you make to your kids. In some cases people stay married ... Read morebecause of the antiquity idea that it is better for the kids, but I know personally that two unhappy parents does not equal happy offsprings. It can feel like a miserable existence.

washingtonpost.com
Source: www.washingtonpost.com
The Supreme Court today narrowly ruled in favor of white firefighters in New Haven, Conn., who said they were denied promotions because of their race, reversing a decision by Judge Sonia Sotomayor and others that had come to play a large role in the consideration of her nomination for the high co...


Demeach Green at 18:47 on 29 June
Of course, look at whose on the bench, old white men and one dumb Negro. Hello?


Demeach Green at 19:00 on 29 June
How ignorant are you if you don't ask questions Carsie? Did you even know why the state threw out the test? It would have been reverse discrimination IF they promoted the Black guys and didn't promote the White guys. They wanted to review the test, AND NO ONE got promoted over the other so from what you call as ignorance seems to go on your end. How is it reverse discrimination if no one was fired or promoted? I would have done exactly what the judge concluded.


Mark Foye at 19:04 on 29 June
To the person's shallow comment about old white men and the dumb Negro: what a tasteless and racist remark. The judges on the court are smarter and better educated than most of us. I bet that that "dumb Negro" and those old men could vaporize your arguments in a flash and leave you talking gibberish.


Demeach Green at 19:16 on 29 June
Of course, another white man feeling sensitive. The story is about WHITE firefighters as it reads in the story. So let's look at who is on the bench. Old white men and a Negro are on the bench. And in my opinion, Clarence Thomas is dumb - point blank. I know how he votes, and his judgement is rediculous. I don't speak "gibberish" but I tell ... Read morethe truth. Sotomayor's conclusion was that the state had the right to throw out the results of the test. Since we're talking about reverse discrimination, ask yourself this, Mark. If all of the BLACK men passed the test, and the WHITE guys failed, are you saying that the state has no right to throw out the test and investigate what happened?


Paul MacLean at 19:46 on 29 June
I agree fully with Mr. Mark Foye!!


Demeach Green at 20:02 on 29 June
Well Paul, since you agree with Mark, did you know Clarence Thomas voted against the Voting Rights bill, and all of his collegues voted for the Voting Rights bill? Simply play the reverse card: If all of the BLACK men passed the test, and the WHITE guys failed, are you saying that the state has no right to throw out the test and investigate what happened?


Paul MacLean at 20:04 on 29 June
Mr. Green....where on earth did you go to school? Wot you've said and wrote was absolutely absurd...racist and shallow as Mr Foye puts it...have you any bloody shame or a little bit of self respect?..here in Canada and the UK...the foolishness you're talking, is called "gibberish" ...reversed prejudices....


Phillip Wilson at 20:48 on 29 June
there is no such thing as "reverse discrimination" discrimination is just discrimination.


Phillip Wilson at 21:01 on 29 June
i kinda find it hard to believe someone sat in an office and some how some way figured a way to create a test that would only enable one race of people to pass. (maybe they wote it in an ink that only white people can read) i mean please...do you really think that anybody even has that ability EVEN IF THEY TRIED? and what would the purpose be?because they like to not have enough people? they like to be streched thin?


Demeach Green at 21:10 on 29 June
Well everyone is proving the point of how in the world could it have been that ALL THE WHITE FIREFIGHTERS passed and ALL THE BLACK FIREFIGHTERS failed. Shouldn't the state have a right to throw the results out until an investigation has occured?


Kathy McLeroy Nance at 21:03 on 29 June
I've read that the panel that heard the oral part of test had one caucasian, one black, and one hispanic so that they could come up with a test that wasn't discriminatory. I wish someone could give an example of a test question that is discriminatory so I can understand this argument better. I've been in college classes with all races and all of... Read more passed, we all had the same text books, sat in the same class room and took notes....I want to understand this argument. I don't care what color my doctor, police officer, CPA, etc. is...I want the best and most qualified person.


Demeach Green at 21:10 on 29 June
Well everyone is proving the point of how in the world could it have been that ALL THE WHITE FIREFIGHTERS passed and ALL THE BLACK FIREFIGHTERS failed. Shouldn't the state have a right to throw the results out until an investigation has occured?


Kathy McLeroy Nance at 21:35 on 29 June
That's not what they did...they threw them out in fear they would be sued by a minority...it's all political and financial. That's what the Supreme Courts ruling overturned today....Knowing your facts is best.l


Paul MacLean at 16:38 on 30 June
I agree wit Roger, Susan, and Phillip....it's all how you act and react under pressure, yeah...I think a burnin house with kids, adults and animals constitutes pressure....but SERIOUSLY for Mr. Green though..is your ranting over this a note of personal experience when applying for any job or school?

CNN American Morning Judge Sonia Sotomayor confirmation hearings continue Wednesday. Watch coverage and analysis on the most news in the morning. 6-9am ET.


Paul MacLean at 23:37 on 15 July
I think Sotomayer will do just fine, maybe she is poised to take up any challenge of any case given to her, heck...her 17 years in the law pofession has already just proved that. Her remark (re: "wise Latina woman") was probably nothing more than just a misunderstood statement that caused a bit of confusion for everyone...but it certainly woke ... Read moreeveryone up...Questions that are being put in front of her though, are REALLY generic, the Sens do need to be a bit more creative...or just be more specific...just like Sotomayer said herslf ...I REALLY hope she gets in!!

Economist: Obama’s stimulus doomed to fail – amFIX - CNN.com Blogs
Source: amfix.blogs.cnn.com
It’s been five months since President Obama signed his stimulus plan in to law. It includes more than $250 billion of government spending and tax breaks meant to create jobs. Yesterday, the president said unemployment may get worse before things turn around.

Paul MacLean at 23:19 on 15 July
Im with Suzanne on this...Doesn't anyon know how to listen anymore...what were you guys looking at on the ballot sheet when you voted, sucess in the long run, or doom and failure in the shortem...because your memoris seem to follow just that "SHORTERM"....President Obama and company are doing the best that they can...there's a stimulus package ... Read morebeing worked on, restoration for the rest of the world's respect is being worked on, a healthcare system, that's just about to implode, due to Bush's lack of attention is being worked on..like c'mon...I think some of you need to stop and think just for a moment and remind yourselves that YOU helped put yourselves in the predicament that you're in right now...when bad choices are made, expect bad consequences, and that's just simply wot Obama is trying to say...Dont worry, Canada and the UK have to go through the same punishment as well..so you're not alone!!

CNN American Morning Hillary Clinton called "Obama's other wife"Commentary: Let Clinton ‘take off her burqa’ – amFIX - CNN.com Blogs

Rumian Reza at 12:48 on 14 July
Are people calling Clinton 'Obama's other wife", or just CNN?


Laura Harris at 13:29 on 14 July
Take off her burqa?????? Is that some kind of twisted joke? Jeez, the things people will say to get some air time.



Heather Bradford Turnage at 13:54 on 14 July
No doubt. What would they be saying if Clinton were a man? That he was Obama's gay lover? Totally sexist and wrong all the way around.



Frederic A. Moritz at 14:17 on 14 July
This is foolish. Man or woman, of course the Sec of State must play backup to the Pres. It goes with the turf.


Paul MacLean at 15:59 on 14 July
Burqa?...wot?..I didnt even know she was wearing "one (rolling eyes)...but wait now, she's been speaking her mind all her life...in fact we've al wondered if it was really her that was running the country whilst her husband was at the helm...Hilary has a humungous responsibility to back up and support the President. Yes, it is most unfortunate that CNN and other media companies must fabricate some rediculous rumor or on-factual info. just to drum up business...Shame on CNN...they're stooping down to FOX's level of behaviour...sorry FOX fans...ABSOLUTE RUBBISH!!!....

Pregnant with girl or boy? At-home test may tell you – amFIX - CNN.com Blogs
Source: amfix.blogs.cnn.com
(CNN) — Expecting moms can determine whether they’re carrying a boy or a girl as early as 10 weeks after conception, according to an over-the-counter gender prediction test by a Plano, Texas, company.


Paul MacLean at 12:54 on 09 June
Wot?!!..,this is absolute bloody RUBBISH!!!...let the lawsuits begin!!!..like c'mon people..SERIOUSLY think about it...everyones's body is as different as the individual themselves..will this new "testing" notify the recipient of any short or longterm affects or complications to the body, and mind....will this determine, as well, if this baby will ... Read morerom any lifetime long genetic or biological diseaes (Diabetes, some form of cancer, Down's Syndrome, Spinal Bifida, just to name a few)....I guess really, my biggest concern, is the fact that consumers are going to be disillusioned in the long run, but are we really headed to an age or era that we get to "play" our own doctor(s)....what will we simply come up with next?...Im not just not convinced as to why the ADA has approved of this...Unfotunately, and Im pretty damn sure off it, that garbage goin to be available in Canada and in the UK...just give it time..and just think, they'll be more suckers to deal with!!

Pregnant with girl or boy? At-home test may tell you – amFIX - CNN.com Blogs
Source: amfix.blogs.cnn.com
(CNN) — Expecting moms can determine whether they’re carrying a boy or a girl as early as 10 weeks after conception, according to an over-the-counter gender prediction test by a Plano, Texas, company.


Paul MacLean at 12:54 on 09 June
Wot?!!..,this is absolute bloody RUBBISH!!!...let the lawsuits begin!!!..like c'mon people..SERIOUSLY think about it...everyones's body is as different as the individual themselves..will this new "testing" notify the recipient of any short or longterm affects or complications to the body, and mind....will this determine, as well, if this baby will ... Read morerom any lifetime long genetic or biological diseaes (Diabetes, some form of cancer, Down's Syndrome, Spinal Bifida, just to name a few)....I guess really, my biggest concern, is the fact that consumers are going to be disillusioned in the long run, but are we really headed to an age or era that we get to "play" our own doctor(s)....what will we simply come up with next?...Im not just not convinced as to why the ADA has approved of this...Unfotunately, and Im pretty damn sure off it, that garbage goin to be available in Canada and in the UK...just give it time..and just think, they'll be more suckers to deal with!!

Avlon: ‘Wingnut’ liberal calls for Obama’s resignation – amFIX - CNN.com Blogs
Source: amfix.blogs.cnn.com
Editor’s note: John P. Avlon is the author of Independent Nation: How Centrists Can Change American Politics and writes a weekly column for The Daily Beast. Previously, he served as Chief Speechwriter ...


Paul MacLean at 12:58 on 05 June
And like whatever this guy(s) are saying or however they're trying to persuade other people's way of thinking, is reall not going to change one iota of a thing, and especially the way his administration (Obama) have handle everyhing thus far. But that's why Obama is President, he doesn't respond to such bollocks 'n accusations....he knows that ... Read moreeveryone's not going to agree with his and their decisions,(whether it be the economy, global issues, or nominating Sotomayer, the stupid list goes on)...in fact, he made that very bloody clear during his election run...where were these two babbling idiots during his campaign...oh that's right, again they were too busy critizing, and judging those, who weren't...and folk, thats how you get your 15 miinutes of fame...lol

Job market takes turn for worse – amFIX - CNN.com Blogs
Source: amfix.blogs.cnn.com
NEW YORK (CNNMoney.com) – The battered U.S. labor market took a step backwards last month as employers trimmed more jobs from their payrolls in June, according to a government report Thursday.


Paul MacLean at 14:38 on 02 July
As Obama advised before, it's gonna take at least 2 years for the stimulus to actuall take into effect....He not once, ever said that this was gonna be an easy ride....this is wot happens when banks and other type of financial instiutions reduce credit limits and increase interest rates!!....you really cant even blame the former Bush and Clinton ... Read moreadministrations...the problem was, is that the former administrations (Bush and Clinton) had their hands tied, they were never able to pass any bills to stop this insanity, we're just hoping that Obama may have better luck!!...thats all. Once the stimulus starts to take action, then perhaps the jobless rate will actually start to come down....in ten years' time!!

Insurance companies, dumping sick people? – amFIX - CNN.com Blogs


Paul MacLean at 14:26 on 02 July
Well at least here in Canada and the UK, if we're gonna "dump" the sick, we dump everyone, not the selected few as you guys do in the states!!...lol...thats wot I call "universal" healthcare!!!


Jeff Kumaat at 14:30 on 02 July
here in the states, i think the worst is yet to come....:)

CNN American Morning Judge Sonia Sotomayor confirmation hearings start Monday. Watch coverage and analysis on the most news in the morning. 6-9am ET.

Heather Bradford Turnage at 18:39 on 10 July
Interesting that u didn't want to study the constitution during Bush's administration. He actually did take rights away from us, like requiring a warrant to search your house. Notice Franz doesn't say what Obama is doing against the constitution. And if someone can tell my why people think their 2nd amendment rights are being taken away, I'd be ... Read moreamazed. There's no reason to think that. The 2nd amendment doesn't guarantee your right to bear AK-47's! There has to be a limit somewhere. Should people be able to have nukes, too?


Paul MacLean at 00:24 on 11 July
@Heather...Yes I agree with you, but isn't there clause or statement in your 2nd amendment, that states a certain limit to where and how many/much arms one can own? not really sure, perhaps there's a case that might support wot Im asking...but even to this day...,wot does the average American consider as an arm(s)?...Im sure nukes were not even considered in 1787...lol



ReportNewton Campbell at 09:57 on 11 July
@Paul: "A well regulated Militia, being necessary to the security of a free State, the right of the people to keep and bear Arms, shall not be infringed."The whole theme behind the Constitution was for them to make it so elastic that they could sit back and laugh at us from beyond the grave while we argue about what they "truly" meant. lol

Hospitals Reach Deal With Administration - washingtonpost.com
Source: tr.im
The nation's hospitals agreed last night to contribute $155 billion over 10 years toward the cost of insuring the 47 million Americans without health coverage, according to two industry sources.

Dustin Von Holten at 09:35 on 07 July
Thank God Someone is doing something outside of Obama's crazy plan, -- my comment from me who has a General Health Science degree.


Paul MacLean at 10:09 on 07 July
@ Dustin..,Umm... no, Obama hasn't been President long enough to destroy anything, including America, does your GHS degree cover any info or even taught you anything about healthcare budgets for those who are unable to afford insurance. Insurance companies are REALLY to blame, present and past Presidents were never able to pass any bills regulating... Read more them...Perhaps you should reread or rethink President Obama's healthcare plan and proposal before making some rediculous remark about your degree...It's almost a slap in the face to those 47 million or so people (it's ironic how a lot of those 47 million peope have higher degrees than you


Amy Mader Williams at 10:15 on 07 July
Anyone who thinks Obama has ruined the country already after only 6 months in office has clearly been channeled in too long to Limbaugh, Coulter and the rest of the right fringe entertainers.


Justin Smith at 10:16 on 07 July
i agree w/ paul


Paul MacLean at 10:33 on 07 July
@Amy...did you really have to mention those names...I dont remember the song "Send in the Clowns" being cued up...but anyway, you're ABSOLUTELY right, and thus being said Limbaugh and company are just waiting for the right moment to pounce all over this and make some stupid mockery or comment,but in the end,...he still has to be reminded by us or ... Read moreyou, from time to time, that he IS NOT the President, and we (actually you people...Im Canadian...sorry)


Mary Smith at 10:25 on 07 July
Get back to mel Amy and Justin when we go broke because of all the spending the Government is doing, and cap -n- trade is going to be the icing on the cake.....I hope you people know how to live off the land, otherwise, your in for a tough time, because you won't be able to afford food, gas, heat or electricity- Take a good look at California and see what's coming.as sure as hell didnt vote for him...he's got balls (donkey ones) though!!


Amy Mader Williams at 11:07 on 07 July
Mary....do you not remember the spending during Bush's tenure in office or has that conveniently been erased from your mind? Under W the size of our government and its powers grew immeasurably. Fascinating how NOW the GOP is talking about spending. Where were they for the last 8 years?


Eliza Isgro Martin at 11:19 on 07 July
Paul, many folks don't like hearing the truth. It IS easier and less provoking for you to live in your leftist pretend world. GW has little to do with any of this! In just six months time, the Dems have begun the 'end of the world' as Americans know it. Period. And sure, that absolutely does includes THIS president who promised "CHANGE..." His change is causing the collapse of America as we 'knew' it, the worst since the recovery began in the late 1930's. Like it or not, it's NOT GW causing the horrific downturn of this economy. It's the bad policy instituted by the current regime. ... Read moreGO Obama, the sooner you fail, the quicker you'll be gone. Unfortunately, this will hurt ALL Americans.Rush, keep up the great work, forward-thinking, ferreting out the innards of deals and shabby dealing, presenting the truth to Americans who know the value of being pre-warned.


Robert Hussein Fellows at 11:43 on 07 July
Mary's really hung up on this cap and trade thing, and she has absolutely no understanding of what it does. We've already done it with acid rain back in the 90's and it worked beautifully. Is it too much to ask to know what you're talking about before you go online and say stupid things?


Paul MacLean at 12:20 on 07 July
Eliza, I thank you kindly for your thoughts, but let's be frank here: A President cannot tank his nation in six months, it took Bush eight years to do that with the Iraq issue(s), and it's still going on...We have to remember that these are plans AND proposals to sometwot curve the healthcare woes...Look back at the Clinton era, that Administration... Read more had well exceeded the 200 billion mark during his term, and it still hasn't work...but at it least it was a plan...Wot Mr Obama is saying, is that he wants to protect EVERYBODY...over the next 10 to 15 years, and it WON'T be an easy job, as he had already stated during his campain...It is really up to the hospitals, insurance companies and pharmacies, etc, to implement wot is suited best, in the interest for all Americans, but at the sametime, yes, his administration needs to regulate them better (whatever is given to them), which past Presidents have failed or unable to do....EVERYBODY IS RESPONSIBLE...that is the truth....


Stephanie Flessert at 15:14 on 07 July
Paul and Amy - good points, well made. Eliza, read more diverse materials, more thoroughly. Tracie, you are right. Doctors are not overpaid; entertainers (which include athletes playing major sports) are overpaid.

CNN American Morning Judge Sonia Sotomayor confirmation hearings start Monday. Watch coverage and analysis on the most news in the morning. 6-9am ET


Paul MacLean at 00:24 on 11 July
@Heather...Yes I agree with you, but isn't there clause or statement in your 2nd amendment, that states a certain limit to where and how many/much arms one can own? not really sure, perhaps there's a case that might support wot Im asking...but even to this day...,wot does the average American consider as an arm(s)?...Im sure nukes were not even considered in 1787...lol


Heather Bradford Turnage at 18:39 on 10 July
Interesting that u didn't want to study the constitution during Bush's administration. He actually did take rights away from us, like requiring a warrant to search your house. Notice Franz doesn't say what Obama is doing against the constitution. And if someone can tell my why people think their 2nd amendment rights are being taken away, I'd be ... Read moreamazed. There's no reason to think that. The 2nd amendment doesn't guarantee your right to bear AK-47's! There has to be a limit somewhere. Should people be able to have nukes, too?

“We could end up like Canada” – amFIX - CNN.com Blogs
Source: amfix.blogs.cnn.com
The Senate’s top republican, Mitch McConnell is sounding a warning about a Democratic plan for government-run health insurance. He says “the U.S. could wind up like Canada.” So is that so bad? CNN’s Dana Bash traveled to Ontario, Canada to find out.


Laura Harris at 17:42 on 06 July
I think it's official. Republicans have now managed to piss off every country in the world.


Paul MacLean at 19:28 on 06 July
@Laura....I tink you've hit right on th nose...Im a Canadian, and I LOVE you American people, I think you guys are smart and funny but for the love of God though, can't your Republicans, just for once, praise us for something, instead bitch and complain about how we do things...besides which...the key to this whole universal healthcare issue is, ... Read morePOPULATION...we're a tenth of your size in population...sure, in the end we do have to pay a bit more in taxes at the end of the year, but at least we know, a lot of it's going to healthcare, education, and public services (that also includes our military)...And it all WORKS out in the end!!Hey, we're quiet, we dont cause problems for you or other countries (cuz we're just too laid back and love to have fun), and we like our hockey...most importantly, we value each others friendship, and thats why we wanna help you!!

Palin: ‘I am not a quitter; I am a fighter’ – amFIX - CNN.com Blogs
Source: amfix.blogs.cnn.com
“I am not a quitter. I am a fighter,” Palin told CNN on Monday while on a family fishing trip, on the heels of her Friday bombshell announcement that she was resigning as Alaska’s governor


Paul MacLean at 11:39 on 07 July
I agree with Carole...wot on God's green earth is she really fighting for?...I seriously dont think that she'll be running for Prez...voters will ALWAYS remember this...,voters dont like secrets and/or hidden agendas...Not sure if I find Mr. Hannay's comment amusing or not. Then I guess, it's how you read it....those kids are (or at least I would ... Read morehope) her most loved people in HER world, to suggest that her children don't support her in anyway, shows a level of shallowness and somewot, a true lack of compassion...sure, maybe we didnt like Ms. Palin as Govenor, and maybe some of her choices were questionable, BUT please...those are her own kids and family, they're the ones that TRULY supported her from beginning to end...Wouldnt you want your family to support you in any which way they could?, from beginning to end?...I would think so....

CNN:

Wal-Mart making its debut in India – amFIX - CNN.com Blogs
Source: amfix.blogs.cnn.com
(Getty Images) Managing Director of India's Bharti Enterprises Rajan Bharti Mittal (L) shakes hands with President of US Wal-Mart's operations in India, Raj Jain during a press conference in New Delhi,

Paul MacLean at 14:30 on 08 July
Is Wal-Mart having money problems...if so they should probably look to thier own country for bailout money, so...why on earth is Wal-Mart setting up shop in a country that is steeped into their own tradition(s) and history?...Wal-Mart is absolutely shameless in their words and actions....they cant even treat people here with dignity or respect, I can just imagine the "fork" that they'll stick in that country....mmm...who's next? Ethiopia?...c'mon give your heads a good shake!!!!

A Viewer's response:
Heather Bradford Turnage at 14:55 on 08 July
It's not about $ problems, dude. They wouldn't be able to do it if they were having $ probs. Although I'm not a big fan of Wal-Mart, either. They've already done this in other countries and cater to what the people there want. They didn't get that big by being stupid. Just greedy.

And another blog for CNN
Source: amfix.blogs.cnn.com

"Economy could make Obama, and Democrats vulnerable in 2010:"
Former President Ronald Reagan and current President Obama are incredibly popular, and both faced rising unemployment early on.


ReportPaul MacLean at 13:07 on 09 July
Oh please, just give it up!!...the economy, believe it or not, is at least, "stable", if anything....All those pundits, nay-sayers, and the rest of the clowns and buskers out there, can say all they want, heck why not just come out say it?.."President Obama has finally tanked the country in less than a year and ran away with Palin!!"...ok, so, back... Read more to reality, and SERIOUSLY though, Obama and company have no intentions on giving up on a country that yearns for change, a change for the better, and for the past 20 or so years (Clinton wasn't that bad)...,ok so wot? jobless rate is high, but not goin any higher, housing has gone down, but not completely out, etc...BTW, Who's the vulnerable one here?...NOT President Obama and Co., the rediculous critics out there...I dont care if the Prez is Rep or Dem...he or she's President because they're UP TO the challenge, and when things go wrong..there's always a plan "b"...lol...not running and hiding (in ref. to Bush and Cheney=Katrina Fiasco)

For example, here's reponse to a viewer or reader, in reference to CNN/American Morning, about breach of trust the nation's highest security dept...CIA

Paul MacLean at 14:01 on 09 July
@Heather...,unless he worked as a shift supervisor at MacDonlads during his tenure, now that's dangerous,....I dunno wot to think...BUT you're right, I just read the piece or article myself (I almost went to sleep)...yep, no mention of "minimum wage" jobs...like.., wot the hell?...In Canada and the UK, there's always somebody leaking something from... Read more thier nation's top securityy dept., Nothing but scare tactics so that they can get the public going a little bit, perhaps even to distract them from wot's really goin on...Hey..CSIS and New Scotland Yard have been playing this game for YEARS...it's not really news...people learn to catch on to these stupid shananaghans (I think thats how you spell it)....Craig, here's a tissue...you're cryiong over nothing my friend!!

My opinion doesn't count...

Well...really dunno wot to say here...but Im hoping this is right place...Ive recently discovered blogging, on FaceBook...basically just sharing my opinions with others here at home and from around the world, just about on topic given. I like to view others, it gives me a chance to take glance into other people's world and their thoughts and opinions. Perhaps some people do think like me, but for the most part, mmm...not really and that's OK. The most important thing to remember about my blogging is, that they don't really count, unless, for some strange and quarky reason, they happen to change the way other people think, not change the world, but change the way they see themselves...help get them a better understanding of who they really are, and perhaps even figure out why they think the way they do. People ARE interesting..you can really get taste of someone, just through their writings, and even how they write...anyway, gotta run...but HAPPY BLOGGING!!!