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    Smoking Ban


    Mr. Clinton, apparently the arguement was not a clear as the nose on your face. The smoking ban was not against smokers, it flew straight in the face of private owners and private businesses who chose to have smoking available at their establishments. Your arguement is like walking into a door time after time and then demanding a ban on doors. Non smokers made the choice to EAT at places they full well knew smoking was an option. Now, where should the blame really lie? They kept walking into the door and blamed the door. But, since smoking is the flavor of the month, it was an easy pass by weak-kneed politicians and publicly paid employees to get their way by strong arm government confescation of private property rights. If you don't like the smoke, don't actively enter a place that has the RIGHT to make it available. And don't give me the "but what about the kids" arguement until you control the smokers' home and private life. Too bad those for the ban cannot be intellectually honest and seek to abolish freedom for a meal. If it's really about health then BAN TOBACCO (but then, you lefties can't do without the $'s can ya)

    For it or Against it


    Mr. Kucinich: Spineless. Gutless. Unprincipaled. Thank you for not letting us question our expectation of our leaders.

    No Hope No Change


    So, the desperate, washed up libs are set to go with "Deem and Pass". Michelle is chastising grocers for what they put on the shelves and how they market their items. The Obama administration releases a "10% unemployment! Get used to it!" update. Bin Laden is now no longer an issue. The feds are forced to keep rates low. Pepsi pulls out of schools. Studies released showing those on food stamps tend to be more obese. CBO monkey's with numbers (remember, no health care in the first 4 years but we pay for it anyhow). But, take comfort dear people. Uncle Sam knows what's best for us.

    rdelot


    Judge Executive Townsend needs to read the KY statutes which clearly state: 6. Provide access to the public for no less than twenty-four (24) hours in one (1) week, with the hours that the facility is open to the public posted in a visible location; When he makes a statement like this: "There are no set hours people interested in looking at a dog can drop by, but they can call the pound to set up an appointment, according to Townsend. If the warden is not in, people can either contact the road department or police dispatch and they will get in touch with Dunn, he said."

    Wear theirs smoke


    I see the Health Departments #1 Enemy has made the paper again. Then, today's letter from Rene Gamblin was printed. I don't know if she intended but she bascially tripped over the fact that the smoking ban was not about stopping smoking, but about government exercise over private busiensses. Ms. Gamblin properly explained what the normal free market does: If patrons like a place, they can go there. If not, stay away (or use the drive thru). The people responsible for the children's welfare aren't guilty in the eyes of the Health Department or they would have chosen to pass a resolution to inspect each and every home to see if a child's constitutional right (as this paper has put it) has been violated. So the children deserve a meal without second hand smoke, but not a home free of that same smoke? Bottom line, this was a witch hunt and another example of government vs. freedom. Period.

    Somebodys Shoveling


    Airon, first of all: Deep breath, brother. Switch to decaf. There, feel a little better? Probably not, most libs are hard wired to overreact at those poking fun at their leaders. The fact is, the government is screwing with this country's money not their own private checkbook. No private business in America could operate the way the Feds to or report the numbers the way they do. As far as satire goes, it's every bit as plausible as what they report. You couldn't get two economists to agree on what constitutes a saved or created job especially since there is no professional measuring standard. The private sector creates job. The government creates siphoners. I don't want to raise your poor blood pressure higher than it already is (if you don't have health insurance, I'll say a prayer for you). Earlier this week, we heard 45000 people a year die because they don't have health insurance. Question? How many die with health insurance? Pretty much, the rest of them. The stupid, tear jerking logic of the left is exactly the stuff we should be making fun of to illistrate it's absurdaty. Again: Deeep breath. In with the good...out with the bad.

    hopkins.kyschools


    The High School Diversity Leadership Conference was very inspiring & motivating for the students. It simulated a real-world Leadership Conference with excellent speakers and numerous college representatives to talk with students before, during, and after sessions. The Leadership Conference was also very eventful, rewarding, an educational learning experience for all and enjoyable as well; a conference I wished ALL high school students could have attended.

    Airon Later


    RE: Someone's Shoveling. It's comments like yours that make it nearly impossible to hold any form of rational discourse with conservatives. While there were data entry mistakes concerning the use of Stimulus dollars, I challenge you to prove to me that you have never once made an error in your check registry - after all, that's YOUR money. Have you ever misplaces important receipts, lost your wallet? One can point out one mistake made regarding the "bookkeeping" of the Stimulus but the reality is that there are jobs being created and saved. The problem is that the media ( primarily Fox"News" ) that are praying for administration errors so they can report on them for 7 or 8 news cycles and overinflate their actual relevance. But here's a response to the debt statement. It's a provable fact that over 80% of our national debt is due to Republican spending. Where was this "outrage" prior to Jan. 20th 2009? Where is your proof that this country is somehow "doomed" to failure now? If you listen to Rush Limbaugh and Fox, you'd think that we were all plummeting into the 9th circle of Hell, but that simply isn't the case.

    No Hope No Change


    I think Dan Rather and Obama need to have a beer. Blather's recent racist comment is getting zero airplay yet Fuzzy Zoeller was crucified for basically uttering a similar statement about a black person. Even NBC's own "Black History Month" menu, which was equally racist, received a similar yawn in the State Controlled Media. Where's the good Bishop when you need him. Forgive me, I'm about to make a racist statement: I won't support any candidate that voted for Obama. Time to go. I have to get back to bleaching Senator Byrd's wardrobe.

    To Airon


    How on earth do you dismiss the fact that we are $14T in debt? The previous poster may not say it but we are indeed more damned than ever before in history. Back in my day, we had nuclear drills where we hid under our desks during the cold war. The left had ginned up the public that Reagan's finger hovered over the "launch" button daily. Now, in your day we are totally crippling our country; a country that can't act because it can't afford to and is set to implode on itself.

    Somebodys shoveling


    Stimulus reports: Mowed grass on courthouse: 30 jobs created or saved. Install new A/C at ACORN: 200 jobs created or saved. Road paved in Kentucky: 1000 Jobs created or saved. Not to mention the creation of state districts in this country that don't exisit. All from the Whitehouse. Couple that with the floating "uninsured" numbers (is it 20, 30, 40, or 50million) and you have a legacy of false information coming from Obama. However, I suppose you factor in inflation and we actually have created 8million jobs and gotten this country out of debt and are running a surplus. You should sign out as "Charles Schultz" because your "facts" are comical and nuts.

    Airon Later


    Your seemingly endless preamble is a wonder signifier of what the conservative narrative has done to the country. If you opinion ( not facts, mind you ) were true, then this country would be far more damned than you foolishly believe it is now. I'm not going to debate the laughably false allegations that liberals/progressive actually celebrated the deaths of soldiers, that conservatives somehow "love" the troops or this country more than anyone else. People like you love the troops like Micheal Vick loves dogs - to borrow a very true phrase recently used. You people love this country but want to rewrite it's history in order to cover up for your own ideologies mistakes. I'm not entirely sure where you are getting your finanicial figures when it comes to Republican leadership versus the Obama administration, but they are patently and provably wrong on all fronts. Counting for inflation, the spending Obama is doing literally pales in comparison to what the most precvious former Republican leadership did. But back to this whole war thing. Obama most certainly isn't running this just like Bush as a plurality of the Taliban leadership have been captured in the span of 3 months while Bush couldn't accomplish that in the sum of his 8 year occupation of the White House. Hate to burst your bubble, but that is a fact as well. And perhaps you should travel around your own state in order to see projects that are being funded by the Stimulus. just between Bowling Green and Louisville this past year I saw 3 highway projects in full swing with that pesky little "this project is being funded by" sign that conservatives complain about. They can't stand to see their rantings disproven so they have to find some inoccuous aspect of it to complain about instead. Even in the face of their own ideological failings, you conservatives will never even consider that maybe your deregulation, your torture, your anti-science stance, and your insistance that there is some malevolent "liberal media bias" were all wrong and pushed this country that you claim to love has actually put us precisely where we are today.

    Airon Later


    You made an interesting point regarding "perspective" and what the liberal "perspective" is on certain things in life. Contrary to popular conservative narrative, liberals/progressives are NOT ant-capitalists. The American Dream is still the same for us, although those within the corporate elite favor profit over the well-being of the consumer. That isn't capitalism, that is economic slavery. Secondly, we do not advocate nor condone "abortion on demand" as many claim. We believe in "choice" and that legislating the female reproductive system into the stone age is wrong. Just look at what is going on in Utah. Women will be seen as murderers if they have a miscarriage. If a woman you know faces death or her unborn child will die, would you not prefer there to be that choice available? The mythos behind abortion has been so contorted that the subject is almost undebatable with many. I understand that there is a need for "balance" within all things, but for the life of me I can't accept willful ignorance as balance to anything.

    Airon Consider This


    Airon - I believe it takes both Liberals and Conservatives to keep our nation in balance. The truth is we need each other. Even though you may rail against the simple-mindedness of those of us who cling to our guns and religion, we cannoth fathom the Liberal perspective on abortion, fetal stem cell research, gay marriage and what seems to be a real animosity toward capitalism - what used to be called the American Dream. Please don't move out of Kentucky, as some have suggested, but also, please recognize that this State needs each of us to keep balance and perspective. Your Friend, A Thoughtful Conservative Republican

    Mustang


    Businesses pay millions if not billions of unemployment taxes each year to cover unemployment for workers. That is where the money is to pay for this. With years of prosperity prior to the recession, where is the reserve?

    Ice


    GREAT JOB SHALARA! Hope everyone who can contribute to this AWESOME young lady....will! She's the FUTURE and we need to support that! God Bless You Shalara & Have Fun!

    Mor-on Later


    Thank you for your response. Global Warming: First, it isn't science and hasn't been based on science. It's a money and power grab. Even the IPCC had to admit that it hasn't warmed since 1995 and is now actually cooler than it was before man was on the Earth. If it is "global" as you put it, then why does your seudo-science actually use the singular events you cite as their own evenidence of man-made warming? Public schools have a well documented history of not teaching judeao christian values. Again, nothing to worry here. The Bible will be rendered sufficiently useless in these classes. Your comments on previous administration spending vs. Obama's is proof of your willing ingnorance of the facts. Obama has spent more than EVERY PREVIOUS administration added together. Bush, Bush and Reagan are pikers compared to this guy. You talk about the 1/2T deficits we used to run? We could only wish that's all we owe. The interest on Obama's debt is approaching that figure alone. Candidate Obama couldn't wait to end the war, now he celebrates the fact that he's prosecuting it exactly how Bush and Cheney did. Fact is, this greenhorn didn't want to know what it took to run a war and now shouldered with the resonsibilities had to face the facts that it was handled how it should have been. Again, you don't defend your side but cite "what about them, what about them". Well, what about them? Your guy's doing the SAME THINGS! Obama's reconciliation stance can be chalked up to one thing: He is a weak leader who can't even bring his own party together to pass legislation after being handed clear and decisive majorities to do and pass EVERYTHING he wanted. Explain that. Now, he's forced to talk to republicans but that only a show. Dems only reach across the aisle to make sure the knife is stuck squarely in our backs. That is why republicans are telling him we'll have no part in his sabotage of this country. Mr. Kerry was proud of his "I actually was against reconciliation before I was for it". Your loser side created that stupid rule in the first place and when republicans tried to use it for confirmations (which it was created for) the left threw a hissy, girlie fit "what about the minority". Well, what about it? American overwhelmingly wants healthcare scrapped and started over. Nope. Obama has no desire to legislate on behalf of the governed. He wants to legislate in spite of them. Over a year ago we had to HAVE the stimulus. As you pointed out, it wasn't stimulus, just a money grab. No shovel ready jobs. No job creation. Nothing. If it was "death or die" then, why is the money not being spent??? Maybe it's because you can't take money from me and hand it to you and get results. When you take the ketchup from my refridgerator and place it in yours, everyone goes hungry and I don't have any incentive to keep my fridge stocked for non-producers. Remember, this all started when deadbeats bit off more than they could chew. Mortgages they couldn't afford approved by banks FORCED to make the loans. Idiots all over this country in houses triple what they should have had with no ability to repay using government loans forced on banks to comply with CRA. CSPAN. Again, if the republicans can be shown in bad light, don't you think Obama would display that everytime he could? Do you also think the president has trouble booking airtime? He promised open and transparent debate. This is the first time I heard mention of how difficult it is to get something aired on CSPAN. You must have a colorful employment history to know that the president of the US has difficulty getting on TV. Jobless rate. First of all, it isn't falling and won't. When the next unemployement figures come out, guess what? They'll be higher than they are now. (I'll eagerly await your apology for being wrong). In an odd way you even prove how government spending doesn't create jobs. Republicans have never celebrated unemployment. Liberals celebrated every soldier death when Bush was in office. Each day we were treated with the new "body count" but now, you wouldn't know soldiers are still dying under Obama. Hillary Clinton celebrated the new patriotism as those that debate and disagree with any administation. Why don't you congratulate us on ours? OH, that's right! It's because we're effective and against you. Can't have that. We actually love this country. Can't say we have many friends that actually blew up the pentegon. We actually champion the success of all "57" states.

    AL Ursich


    I am the maker of the Tag System and enjoyed working with Chris in developing the System. Pictures of the system being made can be seen at my website. www.AccountabilityTag.com digitalwoodshop@aol.com 570-685-9663 Pocono Digital Woodshop Shohola, PA 19458

    Airon Later


    I'll address the comment urging my exit from the state in a moment, but first, let's get to this conclusive proof that apparently exists that I am wrong on everything and that certain things I have discussed have been proven wrong. If there is proof - then show it. Simply saying somethiing "is" doesn't make it so. Global Warming is real, and even though the "hockey stick graph" and hacked/stolen emails with no contextual background can be questioned, there is no denying the science. Global Warming is just that - GLOBAL. It's not about one snowstorm in DC or record temperature increases in Vancouver on the same week, it's GLOBAL. Preaching the Bible in schools hasn't been disproven, as the new legislation has yet to take effect. I expressed my concern because of what could ( and more than likely will ) happen. The spending of this administration pales in comparison to Republican rule in America. Reagan tripple the national debt in 8 years while Bush Sr. and George W. Bush virtually double it during their tenure. W ran near 1/2 Trillion dolloar deficits EVERY YEAR he was in office. Spending alone on Iraq occupation could have paid for healthcare coverage already, but conservatives wanted to "nation build" instead. Obama's reconciliation stance can be chalked up to his willingness to let both parties have their voice heard. He knew that it was an option, and also that we are a country built on majority rule, and he foolishly thought people would meet him half way. So now we, as Democrats, are going to take advantage of Reconciliation that Republicans once favored. In point of fact, 34 out of the currect 41 Senators now seated were behind using reconciliation to pass major domestic policy during George W. Bush's stay in office. If you think that Stimulus is an object failure. then you need to really do your research. Only a little over 1/3 has been spent and Republicans all across the nation have got their hands out for it. Before Palin decided to be a quitter, she took some, as did Bobby Jindal, Mark Sanford, and newly elected Governmor Bob McDonnell just to name a few. I will concede that the use of CSPAN for Healthcare debates didn't exactly happen like we all wanted it to. However, considering the way Republicans acted during the Healthcare Summit ( which DID appear on CSPAN ) I'm guessing it wouldn't have been much different. That being said, it's not always easy to get EVERYTHING on CSPAN. Ultimately, this was a mistake by the Obama administration and a fairly clever talking point generator for conservatives. As far as unemployment, that is something that any administration has limited control over, unless there is some form of stimulus distributed. Economists have been saying since the start that the current Stimulus isn't nearly big enough. Yes, unemployment went to 10%, and conservative were seemingly overjoyed with this fact, something I find utterly bizzare but predictable. However, we are at 9.7% and jobless claims are dropping. Despite conservativess insistance that Democrats view Obama as a "saviior" and "miracle worker", we know that the reality of this is that we are in a very unique economic situation and different steps have to be taken to solve the problems. Now, to the person that thinks I should leave. To them, I would say - why should I? I have been fighting people like you my whole life. People that think liberals/progressives are some beast bent on destroying this country. I've been challenging the stereotypes of Kentuckians for as long as I can recall, but I'm certainly not going to give anyone the satisfaction of me leaving. I love my state - it's the overwhelming number of willfully ignorant people and the fact that they think they rule this state are what I am ashamed of

    Mor-on Later


    Airon, I know you're smater than everyone posting here so please continue to defend: Global Warming (proven false). School Proseltyzing (proven false). Government spending restraints (proven false). Obama against, now for reconcilliation. The stimulus package creating jobs (proven false). The most corrupt congress in history. Record unemployment. Record Deficits. Congress' inability to do without 10B. Government confiscation of the private sector. AIG bonuses bad but GM bonuses fine and dandy. CSPAN hearings (never happened). Obama's string of broken promises (remember unemployment would never see 8%+) We bow to your amazing intelect. The sad part is how defiant you continue to make your stand. The flood is coming and the rain is falling sir, yet you refuse to get on the boat but instead say you're dry and fine. Sad sad sad

    Airon Later


    If you are ashamed to call Kentucky your home, please feel free to move.

    Cross Words 2


    I still hate the new cross word format, please readers, post your views, if no one says anything then no one cares

    Airon Later


    While watching Fox"News" ( and yes, the quotation marks are needed when using those words in conjunction ) I see a great deal of people talking about "ramming healthcare legislation down our throats". However, considering that polls from Gallup, Public Policy Polling, a variety of papers ranging from USA Today to Washington Time, on down to ABC an CBS show that a plurality of American WANT healthcare legislation and there are at least 58% of Americans that favor a Public Option. So, when are conservatives going to stop lying to their audience? My guess is no time soon, as they can't afford to admit their mistakes.

    Airon Later


    It is truly a shame to see people on this message board actually praising the grandstanding, out-of-touch, fame-hungry tactics of Jim Bunning. Reading comments lauding Bunning's ignorance of his own state makes me realize that these are words spoken by those that have no idea what it's like to be unemployed. I can honestly say without equivocation that I am truly ashamed to state that Kentucky is my home. We have Mitch McConnell AND Jim Bunning. They are disgrace to this state and this nation.

    Bill Patterson


    I find the Saturday format and layout of the paper is the most ridiculous mess for a daily paper I've every seen, I know things have changed and the paper is at the mercy of Owensboro, but find a consisent layout. What's wrong with a 12 page paper and Tab.

    Thank you Jim


    Mustang, PAYGO was signed into law by Obama. Our government simply didn't want to abide by that law. Bottom line is they couldn't forego the equivalent of $10 against a $1000. Half of the bail out isn't spent. Why couldn't they tap a meger portion to shore up loose ends? Stop defending those idiots and crooks. Our government is harsher on home-grown businesses than terrorists and you cite Mr. Bunning for being a hypocrite? Turn on your curly-q light bulb and wake up: We're broke and broke for decades to come. Mr. Bunning was making a brilliant point of how our government wants US to sacrafice but not them!

    Mustang


    Bunning says no to the $10 billion to help folks who are laid off and gets a commendation from the GOP. Perfect. Why didn't he say no to the $700 billion for the rich folks on Wall Street?

    Bunning Was Right


    Senator Jim Bunning has taken a lot of pot shots from Democrats for his stand against the ever-increasing federal deficit. Instead of spending less somewhere else, the Democrats chose once again to reach for the credit cards that are already maxed out. Senator Bunning's courageous stand should be applauded by families everywhere - I don't want my kids and grandkids to be saddled by an even heavier debt load. If we give them the opportunity the Democrats will use your "Taxpayers Express Card" to completely bankrupt our country and believe me - they never leave home without it. It is time for change.

    Kick Em While Theyre Down


    House Bill 530, which cleared the House yesterday in a vote mostly along party lines indicates one of two things: 1) Greg Stumbo and the rest of the reps who voted for the measure intend to punish businesses who are suffering through the worst economic downturn in our lifetime or 2) Greg Stumbo and the rest of the reps who voted for the measure intend to punish those who did not support the Governor's call for expanded gambling. Either way it seems that the House has passed a bill that will punish Kentucky workers by driving more jobs out of the state. It could be an attempt to provide "cover" for Democrats in the certain spending cuts that will be required to balance the State's budget - this way they get to blame the Republicans and the sole Democrat who stood up for Kentucky's workers. Stumbo has already pledged to punish those who voted against the ill-conceived measure. "House Speaker Greg Stumbo indicated soon after the 64 to 36 vote on House Bill 530 that those who supported the revenue measure will be rewarded with job-producing building projects in their districts." If the bill was meant to plug leaks in the State's budget then why is it translating into building projects in districts that voted for the bill? Democrats have accused the Republican party of being the party of "NO" - in this instance we should be proud of those Republicans and the lone Democrat who voted "NO". They didn't crumble to Stumbo's bullying and neither should Kentucky businesses. Please contact your State Senator today - this bill needs to be DOA when it reaches the State Senate or else the Kentucky businesses who are hurting the most will be forced out of business or at least out of our State.

    Giant Sucking Sound


    If the state legislature manages to pass the bill discussed in today's (Mar 5) Messenger that prevents businesses from deducting losses - keep your ears tuned for the giant sucking sound as what businesses we have left in the state leave for more supportive territory. Recession is when your neighbor loses his job, Depression is when you lose your job and Recovery is when most of those clowns lose theirs.

    To Vanessa


    Depending on what job the employee is being considered, a credit report is a valuable resource to aide in the determinantion of the character of the person. Not everyone incapable of paying bills has been subjected to forces beyond their control. Many dug the hole themselves and kept digging. Your argument could be applied to banks using a credit report to deny the extension of credit. How is a poor soul to drive to a job if they can't get a car loan? Should a bank be required to overlook credit history? Certainly not. What weight would you place on a fincancial planner who can't keep his own house in order? It would be like Liz Taylor becoming a marriage counselor or Megan Fox teaching an abstinance class or Obama providing debt counseling. Bottom line is Companies don't exisit to provide jobs.

    Voice or Wheezin


    Bout time the Nortonville Council had teh guts to get rid of Noel, Noel is not a bad guy, he's just older and set in his ways, I dont think he's a crook by any means, and I dont think he stole a nickle from the city, I think he is just got too much going on for a man that should by age rights be retired, Most of his employee's are still there after 12 years, he cant be THAT hard to get along with, can he? Come on people , step back and look at yourselves first then speak, the man has a good heart, he's just confused sometimes on how to use it properly. and you cant forcr a stubborn man's hand if he don't wanna do somthing a certain we he int gonna do it. Remember Step bak.......................Take a look..............brainstorn......................then act, just don't let it get out of hand up there with the media, because they are only going to print what they want to.

    Vanessa H.


    I toltally agree with this legislation, i wish all states would adopt this. It is just unfair to refuse to hire some one based on a fica score or because they are unable to pay their bills. I mean isn't that why they are trying to get a job in the first place. These employers do not understand what a person goes through when they can't pay their bills, and knowing that the only reason why you are not getting the position that you are applying for is because you can not pay your bills. Really can the powers that Be, see the irony in this. You apply for a job, so you can pay your bills, but you can't get the job because you can't pay your bills,hmmm!!! this is not rocket science.....

    No Hope No Change


    So, the history is out. Obama has a clear, consitent on the record stance of supporting super majorities before passing "major" legislation. Now, after having a super majority and not being able to get anything done, he's all for recon-silly-ation. What a joke and 3rd-stringer this guy is turning out to be. Historic election? You bet! He's making us pine for the good old Carter days. Another cigarette Mr. President?

    GM Recall


    So, GM has to recall 1.3 Million cars and not one exec is called up to Washington. Wait, all the GM owners are already IN Washington. No news on this. No hearings. Nothing. Their assault on Toyota is frightening. Just because a company hasn't bowed to the almight Unions, Washington feels the need to shake down and embarass it's owners for a problem that hasn't been proven to exist. Grandma steps on the gas and not the brake and it's Toyota's fault. Driver error. Extra floor mats. Crumpled floor mats. Not a phantom "electrical malfunction". I hope Toyota has a stellar year while GM continues it's slide to irrelivancy.

    Cell-you-lites


    Thank you Ms. Poliszczuk for saying what I have been feeling for a long time. Well put.

    Thank you Jim


    Hats off to you Senator! Thank you for your stand. Congress needs to abide by the very laws they pass. At the first sign of trouble, rules that apply to every constituant's check book, our government runs to the hills seeking to exempt themselves from the very (PAYGO) laws they pass. A recent, unbiased (ahem!) AP called you a "lame duck". Wear that title proudly. You sir, are showing these lame brains for what they are: Elites who should not, must not and will not abide by any rules. When our bank accounts reach zero, we HAVE to stop spending but not the government. You are truly a Hall of Fame-er! Thank you.

    Rightside


    It is amazing to see how invested people are in the Obama administration. No matter what music they play on the deck, this Titanic continues to, and will, sink. After one short year with majorities to pass anything they wanted, the party of "no" couldn't agree on a single thing, with the minor exception to place that label squarely on Republicans. Against the will of the very people who elected him, Obama "knows" better. Whatever it is that America wants, Obama's reply is "no". It's his way and you'll learn to like it. Afterall, every other bankrupt and failing nation has it so why shouldn't we? The Republicans stood in the interest of the majority of Americans and this President held his fingers to his lips with the underlying message "read between the lines". Talking points? You bet! America wants its points heard over and over and over until this failure gets it. We are tired of more government. We are tired of the intrusion. The coersion. The confiscation. The corruption. After shutting us out for a year, Obama now reaches across the aisle. But that hand was only extended to ensure more go down with him and can be there to take the blame. Sorry Mr. President. We're giving America a life raft. Tell Davey Jones "hi" without us.

    No Hope No Change


    I didn't realize how many times I've violated the separation of Church and State. Sunday, I grabbed my Bible and walked to my car. I had to step on a sidewalk that was laid by City employees. Public dollars funded that sidewalk and I used it to access my car. Then, I drove my car, Bible in tow, on (gasp) public streets! When I got to church, I discovered that the electricity was, again, provided by the City. Public dollars used to spread religion. From now on, lest I offend, Christ needs to stay home and off anything financed, funded and supported with public dollars. Unless it's a church that Obama needs to visit to campaign in. (Forgive me Bishop)

    God Forbid


    Airon, Airon, Airon..puh-lease. Can't discuss the Bible in an elective course? Schools, using my public money, discuss all types of crap that have nothing to do with education and your worried about teachers making disciples of children? Why do you fear that book being opened and discussed? Perhaps an elective on "Heather has two mommies" would suit your public dollar better? Why must you seek to censor that which is good and right, let alone a class to discuss it and open up young minds? I'm certain the teachers will not have any access to holy water or communion waffers.

    Airon Later


    State representatives have made the first step toward proselytizing to our children in shcool. A recent vote has now allowed for The Bible to be part of an "elective" set of courses at high schools across the state. I take issue with this not because it wasn't expected ( already Texas and Tennessee have enacted simular legislation ) but because who is going to be the one that determines what "valvues" and "traditions" from The Bible are to be discussed. And while the language within the legislation dictates that the cirriculum must follow State precident in regards to religious neutrality and diversity, the very fact that The Bible will be preached ( and that's exactly what is going to happen ) in school should have negated this legislative push to begin with. I will not deny anyone's freedom to practice the religion of their choice, but it does not belong in a place that is funded by public money.

    Just Let Them Go


    Basham and Fulks. Don't know what Basham is doing but have been reading that Fulks is trying to wiggle out of his death sentence that he plead to. (Yes, plead to). Here's an idea; just let them go! But, before letting them go, make an announcement in SC and/or WV when and where they going to be let go to. Say high noon on a Saturday at the respective town square. Have official drop them off and all law enforcement officials suddenly get busy with something else. Then they can be consumed by the monsters they created.

    Racist Motive Questioned


    Bishop Marion - from my understanding of the speech in question, David Jackson was only pointing out the fact that Mayor Cox supported candidate Obama over other Democratic candidates even after candidate Obama made it clear that he does not support coal. Should Mayor Cox be held accountable to the hundreds of families in our community who depend on coal for their living? Is it true that when Bill Clinton came to Madisonville to speak on behalf of his wife's candidacy that he refused to meet with Mayor Cox due to his outspoken support of Obama? Is Bill Clinton a racist? Bishop one of the things that makes America great are the rights we have that allow for disagreement and dissent. Without those rights, the great accomplishments achieved by Martin Luther King would not have been possible. Why do you want to deny someone else those very rights by labelling anyone who has a differing political viewpoint as a racist? I believe the Bible you preach and represent speaks very strongly about those who bring false witness against another.

    College Bound


    Getting emotionally invested will not solve the matter. Beyond the fact that you don't know me at all, or what I've had to endure in my life is irrelvant because my beliefs still stand. Is public transportation in general bad? Certainly not, but the tax payers have to pay for it. Merely suggesting "I wish..." because of an individual, temporary circumstance does nothing more than elicite emotions that ignore reason. Here are some suggestions of people I've known and even myself: Quit school temporarily - work a lot of hours - save money to buy a car - go to school part time while working - keep saving money (no cable, cell phone, eating out). The list can go on and on. You cannot tell me that people haven't deferred higher learning before or endured hardships. (It doesn't snow here every day either). You thought my "suggestions" were aimed at the student when in fact they were aimed at the entitlement mindset. Should I too provide a list of issues I feel "the public" should help me with? If we had public transportation, the public would find something to complain about. If we gave them a free car, they wouldn't like the color etc. If we give them a check each month to sit at home, they'd complain it's not enough. Let me say this: I can relate to said student's hardships and because of that I can also offer: Stand fast, stay strong, endure and you'll come out a better person.

    PJ Woodside


    Regarding public transportation and the "College Bound" respondent who thinks it's too much to ask: The dedication of a student who will walk across town to go to class should be commended, not ridiculed. Most cities HAVE public transportation -- she is not out of line to suggest it. Have you trudged across town in the snow and back every day? Have you noticed there are few sidewalks in town, and none along College Drive? Have you ever walked along that stretch with traffic flying by? Owning a car and paying auto insurance is expensive, and if you don't have transportation it makes it tough to keep a job to pay for those things. Having worked with low income students, I know this is a REAL difficulty, a real impediment to people moving up and becoming independent. I am appalled someone would make fun of it. Have YOU walked a mile in their shoes?

    College Bound


    In light of Ms. Chandler's letter in this morning's paper, perhaps a better suggestion is for all college students to be given a car outright. After all, no one should work hard to acheive anything in life; it should be handed to them....for free. Maybe colleges should just go ahead and hand out degrees. It's not like college teaches anything important other than the false premise of global warming, sensitivity training and "how the rich should dutifully pay your freight". (Watch out for employees denied tenure though). After they've given cars and degrees, I also feel that students be given the equivalent of 3yrs salary while they try to job hunt during the remaining years of the Obama administration. God (sorry), forbid that one take a transition job while working toward a goal. If that can't be done, maybe the college should mandate all students watch the movie "The Pursuit of Happiness". But then again, we're talking about public universities. "Constitutional" talk isn't typically welcome there.

    Death Penalty


    This is where the arguement gets convaluted. On one side, the death penalty is imoral and the only sentence should be life. But for what do we hand out a life sentence? Where is it's morality? Charles Manson was never convicted of killing a person first-hand yet he serves a life sentence (and he's up for parole every few years). People kill everyday and the "law" has developed various degrees for dealing with the taking of a life. Those degrees only cheapen the life that was taken. In cases of accidental death, the law judges the intent and circumstances. If it was indeed an accident, then freedom is obtained. A gun going off in the heat of an arguement might be considered on the same level as a hunting accident but the two differ enormously. The same thought process applies to abortion, at least those who disagree with it. Rape=fine but a one night stand is not ok. Either way, a baby dies. The death penalty is extreme for just that reason: Taking another person's life puts the taker in the position of a judge. In war, both sides have already relinquished their life to their respective country. In public people have not placed their lives in anyone's hand but their own. Extreme? Yes. Death Penalty proponets value life above all else. The taking of it should be held to that same standard. Recent posts about Mr. Yonts don't differ. That young man took a life (without intent I'm certain) but he carelessly took a life. For that act he'll pay only 8 or 10yrs. It's comforting isn't it that the "state" valued that young woman at only 3650 days. We could argue case-by-case all day long but the bottom line is when we de-value life, the certainty of our own existance becomes questionable.

    Tom Clinton


    The death 20 years ago was determined to be accidental at the time. Whether it was or not, no court would impose the death penalty or even try someone for firing a gun in an "accidental death." I have never advocated turning convicted murderers loose, nor do I believe the state (us) has the right to kill in the name of life. A life sentence ought to be just what the name implies.

    Death Penalty


    Mr. Clinton, you've expressed your disagreement with the death penalty many many times. Often you cite that a long, languishing prison sentence is more "punishment" than a quickie execution. I'm sure I can find 3 people in Alabama that would disagree with you. Had captial punishment been mete after her first killing 20-some years ago, 3 lives would have been spared today, let alone the countless emotional issues for the injured and deceased family & friends. The death penalty is extreme for a reason. It exemplifies the highest value a moral (even under Obama) society has in valuing life.

    Family Ties


    Jay, exactly my point. What Harrison did was despicable and hideous. The issue was only exacerbated by Fletcher caving in and commuting over half of his sentence. When an attorney has a conflict of interest, the attorney recuses him/herself from the case. When a politician has a conflict, they call in favors that no one publicly has access to. Rep Yonts is a disgrace to his office. That is by no means a reflection of his feelings for his son, but to use his influence to superceed the judicial process is unforgivable. His care for the prisoners will end once the sentence is served and Harrison is back behind the wheel.

Dan Buie wrote on Dec 31, 2008 12:25 AM:

" Hopkins County should mourn the passing of Larry Rogers. Although Larry and I were members of different political parties, we saw a lot of things alike. Larry was one you could talk to about a lot of different things. I want to say that Larry was not the magistrate of my district he was my magistrate as he was to every one in the county who called him. Larry took the time to listen to peoples’ problems and was sincerely interested in how he could help. I venture to say that Larry and I talked almost every month at the court house, at his place of business, or where ever we ran into each other. Most of those talks centered around what was happening in Hopkins County and what he thought could be done to make it a better place for everyone. I will miss Larry as a friend and as an elected official who held Hopkins County foremost in his work on the Fiscal Court. Dan Buie "

Tony wrote on Jan 7, 2009 11:06 AM:

" Regarding letter on Sewage prices... I also live on a very tight budget. For this reason I have my MMU & Atmos bill set up on Budget billing. I live in a home with 2200 square feet and our heat is gas. Would you believe that our budget bill for Atmos is half what it is for MMU!!! Now, to me, something is very wrong with this picture! "

JNC wrote on Jan 13, 2009 5:32 PM:

" In response to S QUALLS rant. First of all, nice puncutation. You basically stated that all nonsmokers should avoid all public areas because smokers are entitled to those places. You're putting the smokers on the high and mighty shelf now. That idea is absurd.
Its been proven that second hand smoke is dangerous so if you're not smart enough to quit smoking and damage your own body then please have the common decency of not passing on the dangerous smoke to others.

Ponder this, you ever noticed that when smokers smoke in the car that they crack the window? Well if smoking is so wonderful then they should keep them rolled up and take in all the wonderful poisons smoking has to offer. "

Teva wrote on Jan 15, 2009 9:05 AM:

" First of all, smoking is a choice not a right. I do not want to die from second hand smoke because of your choice to smoke. "

Tommy wrote on Jan 15, 2009 4:59 PM:

" I think that it is wonderful that you can go to a restaurant and not have to worry about the stench of smoking . It is a true pleasure . You can go to any eatery and the crowds are just the same. Great job Health Department and public officials keep it up. "

Brenda wrote on Jan 16, 2009 6:46 AM:

" Smoking is a right if you so choose it. I do not smoke but understand you do have rights. All i ask i that you be more courtious to those around you who do not smoke.. just think about where you are. If its not smoky there, please don't light up. Just be more aware of the people around you who choose to have clean, healthy lungs. "

Me wrote on Jan 16, 2009 1:22 PM:

" Oh my goodness! Get a grip people! Can we not come to an amicable agreement between everyone? This is ridiculous. And I would also like to know, how did this all of a sudden make every smoker look like a dirty trashy smoker? When did Hopkins County become so Snobby? Let's just shove every smoker outside in the cold, who cares? We don't have to smell their disgusting filth... Why don't you just quit selling cigarettes all together??? I understand the health risks, I was not born yesterday. However, what are we doing to prevent every other health risk out there as harshly as this one? "

Von wrote on Jan 17, 2009 10:55 AM:

" I smoked 3 packs a day and my husband smoked 2 packs a day for years. We were always mindful of those around us when we smoked. I often complained about the inconsideration of others. My husband quit smoking 8 years ago because of his health and there was some improvement in his health. I quit smoking 4 years ago and there was a greater improvement in his health than there was when he quit smoking.
I think smoking is a choice. We prefer not to smoke for health reasons. Believe me I liked to smoke!
I think it is great when public places provide us with a place where we can be or eat without the smoke.
I think smokers should be allowed to smoke. Don't isolate them! Don't Make them go into another room! We are willing to be isolated. But by the time we walk through a restaurant full of smoke my husband is out breath, even using his oxygen and I'm looking for my inhaler. I do get tired of eating at Burger King and McDonald's (Smoke-free restaurants).
I have friends that smoke, we don't go visit with them any longer because of the smoking and I won't ask them not to smoke when we are there. They complain that we don't come around anymore and keep on smoking.
Someday some of these smokers will be able to understand what it is like not to be able to breath. I hope by then, THEY will be able to go to the places they would like, because it is so boring staying at home where there is no smoke and I do get tired of my own cooking. Sometime I feel like my house is a jail. Freedom for everyone! "

just a thought wrote on Jan 23, 2009 10:20 AM:

" Paul Harvey said it all a few years back. If you want to kill someone the place to do it is in Hopkins county KY.Where else can a person get 16 years spitting but a murderer gets 8 years and yes when she got behind the wheel thats what she became .What kind of messsage is that.!!!! "

CJ3 wrote on Jan 24, 2009 8:40 PM:

" I think you may have it wrong about Paul Harvey. It is Webster County that he mentioned years ago and if I'm correct, the Evansville Courier said the same thing and that is this......if you want to kill anyone, do it it Webster County because you will surely get away with it! And.....that has been the truth time and time again. Just a few years ago, a 21 yr old young man was responsible for 2 of his best friends burning up alive in an accident due to drinking on his birthday. BUT.......because his family had money, did he spend even one SECOND in jail, NO.............that's Webster County for ya! And what money will do as well. "

Jim GatlinJacksonville Fl. wrote on Feb 3, 2009 5:46 AM:

" I subscribe to The Messenger online but I would like to thank them for the free access anyway. It was a nice gesture in this time of crisis. One thing I missed & would like to see in the future is coverage on the various senior centers when there is a breakdown in communications. I know they are the first taken care of but it would be nice to be reassured in print for us out-of-towners. No one could call in or out the first few days of THE ICE STORM OF THE DECADE & I got several calls inquiring about senior center info coming out in The Messenger. There was none listed specifically.. Finally I was able to get through on the phone & was able to get info & report back. It's nice to know your friends & family are doing well in these times of crisis. Otherwise, I woulld say a job well done. "

Susan wrote on Feb 3, 2009 1:04 PM:

" I live in Deland Florida, and subcribe to the Messenger online, I am so grateful for the news I received online due to the ice storm, my family lives in Hopkins and Webster counties, and I couldn't call them for several days. I was able to receive updates online through The Messenger! Thanks Again! "

J H wrote on Feb 4, 2009 12:07 AM:

" I agree with Marie H. The column that got me on the "Doings in Dawson" was the one last year when we were all told about the wealth that the Bruch family when they stayed at the Opryland Hotel in Nashville. I don't if you'd call it wealth or stupidity but, I don't believe I would tell anyone that I paid nearly $30 for a bagel and some orange slices for a room service breakfast for one person. Also, to make matters worse, she was running her friends down for parking in the free parking lot and having to walk while she and her family "enjoyed" the valet parking as she said. I have pretty much quit reading it since all she wants to talk about is her luxurious vacations or a few folks on Oak Heights. You never did read about the common people in Dawson Springs. I believe she should recognize the volunteers that have been there to help others in times of need. I won't read it anymore and I am happy to see that there are others out there who feel the same way. I do wish her luck in school, but watch out, Bob! Good luck! "

Maddie wrote on Feb 5, 2009 9:53 AM:

" If you take smoking out of the public,why not drinking? I Quit smoking 6 months ago but still thank it takes away our rights as americans. I don't see anyone smoke a cigerette and wreck the car and kille anyone, but you see drunks all the time do it. I watch people every week drink beer after beer at the bowling alley then get in their car & drive home. But you better not smoke! Does this make sense? It just shows how many politicians drink. "

Brad wrote on Feb 5, 2009 11:59 AM:

" This is in response to Maddie's previous comment.

The reason they should ban smoking is not because people have to look at the smoker, it's because non smokers have to breathe smokers second hand smoke. Some people make a living bar tending and/or waiting tables. Should they have to be exposed to smoke all day long? Not to mention that I can't/won't take my children into a smoking restaurant on a weekend night because of the smoke cloud that lingers far into the non smoking section. Would you take a child into an asbestos factory? That’s the way I feel about taking a child into a smoke filled restaurant.

As for the drinking and driving, drinking a bear next to someone has no negative impact on them and last time I checked it was illegal to drink and drive. If you see someone drunk getting into a car and drive then you are just as guilty as they are. Call the police and report them. "

Scotty wrote on Feb 7, 2009 1:31 PM:

" I don't smoke. I wish that my mom would quit. Smoking is a right, just like drinking is. If smoking gets banned then drinking should be banned too. I'd rather have smoke in my face rather than be laying on the roadside dead because some non-smoking drinker had one too many "

Scottys View on Kenergy. wrote on Feb 7, 2009 1:38 PM:

" I live in Coiltown which is in Hopkins County.

Guess what?

Our line goes to Providence.

Should I be mad that they are forgetting about Hopkins County? Should I be mad that they told us it will be 3 to 4 weeks before we have power? Our neighbors down the road have power.

I know what I SHOULD do. When Kenergy sends out the reminder cards for their elections. I'm gonna go and vote those idiots out of their positions and elect people who give a damn about ALL of their 14 counties. "

For Brenda and Tommy. wrote on Feb 7, 2009 1:42 PM:

" I don't like the smell of beer. Don't chug one while I'm trying to enjoy my meal. The smell can ruin my appetite. "

In response to JNC and T Menser wrote on Feb 7, 2009 1:49 PM:

" Are you saying that smokers are stupid?

Discrimination.

1. an act or instance of discriminating.

2. treatment or consideration of, or making a distinction in favor of or against, a person or thing based on the group, class, or category to which that person or thing belongs rather than on individual merit:

3. the power of making fine distinctions; discriminating judgment: "

Scotty wrote on Feb 7, 2009 1:53 PM:

" If I'm in my car in Walmart's parking lot and I'm smoking. A car pulls up next to me and they are a non-smoker, should I have to put it out? "

Mr. As response to FOR BRENDA AND TOMMY wrote on Feb 9, 2009 1:22 PM:

" Be observant at a restaurant, and when you see someone about to "chug a beer" do either of two things:

Get up and walk off OR don't inhale.

People have the freedom to drink.

Good luck "

Response to Mr. As Response wrote on Feb 9, 2009 5:46 PM:

" Do the same if someone is smoking. "

Charlotte wrote on Feb 18, 2009 7:47 AM:

" Why is this so difficult to understand? Second hand smoke is harmful. Someone having a martini beside you at a restaurant isn't going to hurt you. And don't bother throwing in the drinking and driving....obviously that is a separate issue, and it involves not only breaking the law, but alcohol abuse. If the person beside my table at a restaurant is drinking a beer, ONE beer, this doesn't harm my 12 year old asthmatic son. However, second hand smoke DOES harm him, and everyone else in the restaurant. And no, you don't have to put out your cigarette if someone pulls up beside you in a parking lot. I can walk away from you in a parking lot.....I cannot escape breathing in second hand smoke indoors. Yes, there are many other health issues in our society, but here's the bottom line: the obese person beside is not causing me DIRECT harm....get it? The person having a beer beside me is not causing me DIRECT harm. The person smoking in a restaurant IS causing me direct harm. There is such as thing as responsible drinking, and eating, but there is no way to responsibly smoke in restaurants and not hurt others. "

Mr. Franklin wrote on Mar 2, 2009 4:42 PM:

" Smoking is not a right. Rights are guaranteed by the constitution and I have searched it for any hint of a right to smoke. I haven't found it. Does anyone believe we have a right to **** in the street just because it isn't banned by the constitution? 'Nough said... "

you have no rights wrote on Mar 3, 2009 10:59 AM:

" Rghts what are they ? Did you know your rights are taken away when you go to the ER under police custody? "

ME wrote on Mar 6, 2009 12:51 PM:

" I have smoked for years. I have always been courteous of others while dining out, I usually choose to wait until I am finished and outside before lighting up. I agree with the smoking ban to an extent. My office was a smoking office, has been since it opened up 16 years ago. The majority of employees here smoked up until just a few years ago. The people "new people" that are here with me and most of the originals knew it was a smoking office when they started. This office is not open to the public. After the non smokers came on, I bought an air filter to keep the smoke from bothering them so much, so I was still considerate. Anyway, I feel offices not open to the public should have the freedom to choose smoking or non. "

carolyn wrote on Mar 12, 2009 4:08 PM:

" I'm not a smoker or a drinker .what i am wondering is why are they only targeting smokers .why not tax liquor,i myself have never seen a pack of smokes .cause a bad accident or kill innocent children,cripple people for life like alcahol has.i'm sorry i don't understand much about laws .but smokers should have a rights to smoke.next they will come in your house and say you can't smoke.they should really look at the liqour again .maybe they should raise a bottle or a six pack like they are doing cigarettes .maybe it would cut back on accidents and innocent people getting killed or mamed for life.my spelling my not be right and my comment might not make no sense.but i believe freedom of speech is stiil free,i hope that i did'nt offend anyone GOD BLESS YOU ALL. "

Smoker wrote on Mar 14, 2009 4:08 PM:

" This is absolutely crazy! The price of diggs is nuts! They keep taxing smokers to make money but then they tell us when and where we can smoke!!! Pretty soon they are going to monitor us in our own homes! People are going to start robbing places to get ciggs if they keep this up! I mean for real...I feel like my rights are slowly getting taken away from me. "

LOL wrote on Mar 21, 2009 10:01 AM:

" One thing we can count on from Earlington's mayor: No apologies for anything. That would mean taking ownership of making a mistake. He thinks he's perfect and that he's the only one in Earlington who knows anything. To acknowledge making a mistake would mean having to climb down off his high horse. "

Hmmmm wrote on Mar 26, 2009 6:54 PM:

" are only certain people allowed to post here? I submitted a post but it never appeared. It was a true story but maybe i stepped on someone's toes??? "

JT wrote on Mar 28, 2009 3:09 PM:

" To HA HA
There are hundreds, probably thousands, of childless couples and singles who want to adopt a baby. They have to go overseas and to other North, Central, and South American countries to find babies to adopt because in America it is legal for a mother to kill an unborn child out of convenience. The speech might go something like this:
"Oh, I changed my mind. I am 7 mos pregnant now and I decided I don't want this child, so I have a right to kill it. After all, it is all about me, right?" In most cases, private adoptions will financially benefit the mother of the baby, since the reported reason for the rise in abortions is a lack of resources to care for the baby. There is always another "choice." The basic problem, again, is selfishness, greed, and covetousness- AKA "MY rights". What about "MY responsibiities"? It's not as popular a topic, huh? Everyone wants to play the victim. "oh, woe is me!" because it is a more dramatic role. "

LOL wrote on Apr 1, 2009 10:36 AM:

" AIR IN THE WATER LINES CAUSES FALSE READING? Several others, including current mayors of neighboring towns, have suggested the same as a possible explanation for this otherwise unexplainable problem. Hmmmm... now let's wait and see; will this be given consideration by our mayor and will he issue an apology for the unnecessary trouble he's caused? "

kris wrote on Apr 10, 2009 9:41 PM:

" Whatever happen to being innocent until proven guilty??? At the beginning of all this Trover Foundation stated they were behind Mr. Lynn 100%. Now that they are being sued everybody says well he had to have done it. I personally think its crazy. Mr. Lynn is not threatening in any way and I know the truth will come out eventually!!! "

Jo Ann wrote on Apr 26, 2009 10:40 PM:

" My question is why did the Messenger gloss over the audit done on the Hopkins County School System. Look on the Board of Ed Web site and read the real audit. I would like to see a real article about what that report really shows.... ! "

Curious wrote on Jun 8, 2009 12:26 PM:

" I am curious about something. A 15 year old jumps another 15 year old and hits him numerous times before the one hits him back using a weapon. The one who started the fight admitted to starting it and he also received stitches. My opinion is that both should be in trouble. One for starting the fight and the other for using a weapon. What do you all think? "

LOL wrote on Jun 16, 2009 8:22 AM:

" When will Mayor Seiber stop skirting the issues and give direct answers to direct questions. He's the mayor who ramrods anything he wants if the council does not embrace without question. The Buck Stops with Mayor Seiber! When is he going to admit to making a mistake and stop trying to blame every snafu he makes on a previous administration? "

macsdad wrote on Jun 18, 2009 12:21 AM:

" Mike Seiber wants to blame everything on the previous administration. He has been in office for 2 1/2 years and has only made the financial situation worse for Earlington. If you don't believe it, look at the last audit. The 2 1/2 years in office is 2 1/2 years spent illegally in office. Seems funny Mr. Everly managed to pay the bills for 8 years without a problem and the town was cleaner and safer. You could drive through town and see what had been done. Mr. Seiber needs to get over himself! How many lawsuits has Seiber caused against the city and how much has that cost them? I guess enough that their insurance carrier finally got tired of it and decided they were not going to pay for his arrogance any longer. The city is not a private for profit company and you can't run it like a private business. Oh I forgot, he could not even keep his private business going. He can say what he wants but as much as he likes himself and being his own boss, he would never have gone to work for someone else and closed his business if he was making as much money as he wanted everyne to believe. He stated in his deposition that the ice storm clean up cost the city of Earlington more than it cost Madisonville.
Read what it cost Madisonville and then read what Seiber said. WHAT A JOKE!! "

Mayor Seiber wrote on Jun 18, 2009 10:13 PM:

" To Mr macsdad, as I sat here, somewhere in the Gulf of Mexico, I find it very funny how someone is willing to criticize another under a "sign on name". What elected office have you been elected to. The people who elected me to bail the city out of a mess,that was left behind by another exmaoyor, likes what I have done so far. I can only assume you are visually impaired. Just drive thru our city and see the improvements. I can only hope that the citizens who voted for me the first time (aprox 300) will show up again in 2011. I will be elected again.
Thank you for your time. If you wish to extend this conversion please call me . I will take for granted you can use a phone book. ......Mayor Seiber "

Don wrote on Jun 20, 2009 5:07 PM:

" Funny Seiber will not talk to the newspaper when they call him and tells them he is a pharmacist and hangs up on them. But he sure reads the paper and signs everything Mayor Seiber. BTW, I don't think anyone cares that he is "somewhere in the gulf of Mexico". He should run again, we need the entertainment. "

Patricia Wiles wrote on Jun 23, 2009 8:59 AM:

" In all fairness, I believe it should be mentioned at this point in the discussion that in the past few months, Mayor Seiber has been more willing to respond to questions from The Messenger.

In a blog post dated May 21, which may be read at http://www.the-messenger.com/local/blogs/ I write that the paper has been receiving more information from the city, and that the Mayor has been responding in a timely manner to calls and e-mails. "

Mike Hunt wrote on Jun 25, 2009 12:37 AM:

" I wish everyone would get off Mayor Seibers back, it is plain to me that he is doing the things he does for the betterment of the city, Yeah..sure... the water and sewer rates went up , but only after an independant auditor went over the cities financial shape and decided that was the only way to (possibly) In a few years get the city back in the black. Mayor Seiber didn't snap his fingers and get it done, the city council voted as a whole to do it, I haven't heard or seen one person complaining about them, just the mayor, guess what????? Dawson's water and sewer rates are going up this year too, I don't see everyone bashing that mayor in the paper or in this gossip column. Our water and sewer rates are right in line with every other city that offers water/sewer and trash pickup services, and there, as here if you pay for one, you pay for them all. Move to Madisonville and get a high reading on your water meter, they don't even post door hangers that I've ever seen notifying residents of high usage of water ( I may be wrong and I'm sorry if I am) If you live in Madisonville and the water goes through your meter, you pay for it regardless of the situation. And of this lawsuit nonsence, I personally know both plantif's and they are reasonable people, just like the mayor, I think this lawsuit will resolve itself because there is nothing there from what I have read, Madisonville does the same thing and they get away with it, why not Earlington? People have to realize that just because Earlington is a small community where "everyone knows your name" that doesn't mean that it has to be run like a flea market or a swap meet instead of a municipality, and the "good ole boy" way of running the city about bankrupted it. I have no problems at all with Steve Everly, but according to the auditor he did leave the city broke when he left office, I realize the "road to nowhere" could have been Earlington's saving grace but it's what has sunk us into this hole that were in today. GIve Seiber a fair shake and put all your grudges aside, take a look around and attend a council meeting, you will see that he is very interested in the city and not the tyrant you people are making him out to be. Thanks for your time. "

Just wondering wrote on Jun 25, 2009 12:46 PM:

" I just read where the Hopkins County Jail shooting team placed 3rd. in some competition somewhere. Does anybody know why they have a shooting team, where this competition was held or what the cost was as far as travel, lodging, meals and entry fees? Better yet, if someone can answer these questions, can anyone say who paid for all this? Just wondering if our 10 (sorry 11.5%) insurance tax funded this. "

concerned wrote on Jul 9, 2009 7:03 AM:

" agree with several of the above comments.....we need a new party for the u.s. and new leaders instead of the ones who get to be there 20 yrs plus and get nothing done....and the school system hopkins co is a JOKE....60% is nothing to be proud of but at least "the teacher" does not have the child anymore to deal with....heard these statements made before...can not figure out why you go to college to be a teacher and then feel the way go do about children....oh it is the MONEY..... then i say find a different JOB...i just feel hopkins co needs alot of repairs all over the county no matter what the job or person.....and slot machines need to be at track.....because ky people are goin spend the money in other states... "

lol wrote on Jul 15, 2009 6:40 AM:

" that just goes to show how people do not know anything about hopkins co ky because if you look and listen long enough you see that our school system is messed up and we have several employees that do not care all they want is a pay check....sad so sad that children are the one who suffer.....wake-up people......it is kid future here....and the adults of tomorrow we are talkin about.........if you only knew..... "

Jay wrote on Jul 16, 2009 12:58 AM:

" Seiber did not mention where the cemetary money was being paid from at the last meeting because it took him from last meeting to this one to come up with what he thought was a reasonable response. It's about time the council not only stand up to him because they are adults, but because until they do, they are not representing the people who elected them. The Earlington council changed members more times than I have ever seen anywhere between elections (2007-2008) because Seiber was trying to get his hand picked people in there to let him do what ever he wanted without question. Did not work out so well!! He said he will get 300 votes again in 2011? I don't think so. If I am not mistaken, the election is in 2010. Of course, he never has been up on the election laws. And he tells the council to read the KRS? If the citizens of Earlington elect this guy again, they get everything they deserve and should never complain about anything again. This guy has some serious issues. Maybe he should go back to "somewhere in the Gulf of Mexico" It's obvious he was not concerned with the budget issues when he went to Gulf Shores Alabama. "

veteran teacher wrote on Jul 16, 2009 2:53 PM:

" This is specifically for "neighbor". Do not speak about what you do not know! I AM affiliated with the Hopkins Co. School System and we ARE the laughingstock of the state! Our central office is not where old teachers go to die, it is where old administrators go to get rich doing NOTHING! And nothing will improve until we have a major housecleaning on Seminary Street! "

lmao wrote on Jul 16, 2009 3:51 PM:

" this is for veteran teacher i am so glad someone finally knows what i am talkin about this school system is a MESS if people only knew and cared. our children are doomed....they are our future and we are not gonna have one in hopkins co ky...thank you thank you
bless you.....come on people lets do something for the children "

CommonSense wrote on Jul 17, 2009 6:01 PM:

" If students at our church are asking for prayer for our high schools, not just for safety, but for the changes in administration, this stupid thing called a trimester schedule, and all these "supposed" changes for the good of No Child Left Behind (yeah, right), then you KNOW something bad is happening. It is not just affecting teachers, but it is heavily affecting students. They feel just as helpless as the teachers.

Does the school board have any clue about what is going on? And what is the TRUE reason why these administration changes are happening? Don't say NCLB because thats a bunch of bull. There is some underlying stuff happening.

If you say there is nothing wrong with our school system, then you HAVE drunk the kool-aid! "

Mike Hunt wrote on Jul 18, 2009 2:50 AM:

" Jay,

You know what they say, opinions are like buttholes, everyone has one and most of them stink. Oh yeah, A little information for you, the mayor cant remove a council member, it's up to the city council, and everyone that has been appointed to a vacant seat since Seiber has been mayor has been brought before the council for a vote, the mayor has nothing to do with that. You must have went to a Hopkins County School. "

Jay wrote on Jul 21, 2009 9:50 PM:

" To Mike Hunt,

You must have not gone to school at all. You must have "went" to a Hopkins County School? I believe that should be you must have "gone" to a Hopkins County School.
And for I voted 4 Seiber, How much money do they have in the bank? There was an audit done over a year after Seiber took office that showed the city was worse off finacially than when he took office. And I know for a fact the payroll was made every week up until the last day of the previous administration. And as I said before, THE ELECTION IS IN 2010. I could argue these points with you al day long but it is obvious you only see it one way and that is your right. I don't blame anyone for voting for Seiber in 2006. No one knew what kind of person he was at that time and that is everyone's right who is a registered voter and citizen of the city of Earlington. What I said was that anyone who votes for him a second time gets what they deserve. I know he can't get rid of anyone on the council but he sure can run them off and create positions for them within city employment to get them to resign and then reward them for being yes men and bowing down to him. You are right about one thing Mr. Hunt, everyone has their opinion and I respect yours as well as everyone elses. I don't disrespect any ones opinion and neither should you. And by the way, everything I have stated is not just an opinion, it can be verified for anyone who cares to investigate. "

KYEducator wrote on Jul 22, 2009 3:20 PM:

" It is important to note that there are more employees at the office on Seminary Street than there are at either high school in Hopkins County. It is also important to note that we have one of the highest paid Superintendents in the state. Change is needed and the best change always starts at the top. "

gran wrote on Jul 22, 2009 5:32 PM:

" i would like to say how proud i am of my granddaughters
morgan and mollie babbs who are gonna be in the pageant and i wish them both luck and love.....
you go girls...... "

lmao wrote on Jul 22, 2009 5:34 PM:

" when are we ever gonna do anything about hopkins co school and board besides talk and write on here???
why do we not get busy and find out what to do about it ???? almost like
the gov ...pres...sen...and reps in the world...... "

Mike Hunt wrote on Jul 23, 2009 12:43 AM:

" Jay,
That was a little bit of humor poked at the shrews bashing the school system, but I’m glad you caught it, Bravo my friend. By the way, how do you "run someone off" the council then reward them with a job for being a "yes man"? Is that not a contradiction of terms? And since you’re on point for grammar correction you spelled financially wrong, and who is "al" that you are arguing with? "

Mike Hunt wrote on Jul 23, 2009 12:48 AM:

" Jay,
I'm sorry sir I forgot to say this in my last posting, I did not disrespect your opinion, I merely stated that everyone has an opinion and allot of them stink. Your opinion is what it is. It's yours. "

Jay wrote on Jul 23, 2009 10:45 AM:

" Those were typo's Mike. There is a difference between typo's and bad grammar. Maybe run them off the council was a bad choice of words. I should say that he encouraged them to resign and or got his ckick (only takes 3 members and he breaks the tie) to over ride their vote to the point they are discouraged enough to resign or not file for re-election and then you reward those in the click with paying jobs within city employment. They know who they are even though some of them have seen the light. But thanks for the apology. I Never claimed to be the best typist. Perhaps we will both proof read our material better in the future. "

Mike Hunt wrote on Jul 23, 2009 2:03 PM:

" Jay,
Touche, A tout le monde. "

fedupteacher wrote on Jul 24, 2009 7:16 PM:

" FINALLY!!! Finally people are talking about what a disaster this school system is!! No teacher or staff person would dare speak out by name for fear we, too, could be "reassigned"!! It's all about power, not money, as some writers have indicated. The students never figure into the equation anymore. I've taught here for a long time and I've never seen such a mess as we have now. I could NOT believe it when HE was given a contract extension last week!! How out of touch are our board members?? "

bud wrote on Jul 25, 2009 1:07 PM:

" I would like for someone to explain why the city of Earlington has money to pay for the officer to mow the cemetery,but according to the code enforcement person they cannot pay their fees to the landfill. I recieved a letter saying I would be fined for the trash (couch ,matteres, box springs) I put out that the city had said they would pick up, but they changed their minds saying they could not do that now. Why should I be theartend with a fine for not moving it myself ( I explained to the code enforcement I have no truck to haul the stuff) when the city should have paid their bill and we would not be having this problem. I did say I would pay their fee to remove the stuff so I feel they should pay what is owed and remove the trash. "

a sullivan wrote on Jul 26, 2009 8:31 PM:

" I agree with fedupteacher. Something does need to be done about the school system. They hit it on the nose when said that some are only there for the paycheck. maybe the state needs to check into the high paid positions at the schools. I have seen at one school the principal and the title I teacher, which are both higher paid positions than others in the school, sitting around just chatting for long periods of time. There people need to be replaced and am sure that the central office could "create" a job for them. I would also like to bring up the fact that the kids in the high school do not have enough classroom books in some of their classes. this means that they do not have books for each child to have one and be able to bring one home when needing to study for a test or do homework. Where does all the school taxes that are paid go? i suppose it is used to help pay the high salaries for those who actually do nothing. It is the teachers that do the hard work. A school could probably run without a principal and the school board could probably do away with some of its high paying positions. "

a smith wrote on Jul 26, 2009 8:42 PM:

" I agree with Ky educator. Why does the Board of Education need more employees that either of the high schools? Does not make sense to me either. What will it take for the State school board to come and investigate all that has been mentioned about the Hopkins county school board? Does one need to send their letter to them? Maybe the letters that you print need to go to the state. Then maybe the state would start " cleaning house" at Hopkins co. Board of education and at any school that needs "reorganization" , which I am sure everyine could name a few. "

Concerned Citizen wrote on Jul 26, 2009 10:31 PM:

" I am getting really sick of hearing of the No Child Left Behind excuse. It is on its way out and the Hopkins County School system needs to tell the truth about what actually goes on instead of making excuses like this. Anyone who knows what is going on can see that it is a terrible excuse. Also, I think it is time for a change in Hopkins County. The school board members are the ones to blame. They are elected officials and allow these things to continue to happen. This reorganization is going to cost the district somewhere around $200,000. The school board keeps talking about cutting back and saving money and this is wasted money. Faculty and staff are being cut and we are adding useless jobs. Use that money to keep teachers in place and other staff members in place. This is about the kids!!! Wake up people and stop allowing the school board to have a free reign of power! They work for you, the PUBLIC! "

Reasonable wrote on Jul 27, 2009 12:18 PM:

" Earlington "Facts"......

Base on the facts, It is my opinion the citizens of Earlington deserve better.

For the past two and a half years Earlington's problems have been in the news due to the constant bickering, disrespect for the law and disrespect for the citizens who, BTW own the city. Therefore, I feel compelled to mention the followng facts that I personally know and have observed.

In the past the city has always paid its bills and no employee of the city has NOT been paid on their payday even when the city was considered to be broke. The current mayor's constant reference to the city being broke is nothing more than a scare tactic to get the council's approval to borrow more money for his out of control spending habits. Thankfully, the council has caught on to his charade and hopefully not too late.

The city has never been a for-profit nor savings institution. It is there to provide the citizens with services at the least possible cost to them. However, at present the citizens of Earlington are in severe debt, which was not the case when the current mayor took office. This is due to his lack of management skills and the hundreds of thousands of dollars he has borrowed.

In addition to the borrowing, the city has received two hundred thousand dolars that the previous mayor applied for that was earmarked to place water and sewer lines on property behind Loch Mary Lake. To date, the lines have not been placed on the property. You should be asking where this large sum of money has gone.

Moreover, the city has lost one lawsuit and likely two more. The downtown area looks worse than iit has in many years. The Christmas lights are still on the poles from last year. I could go on but I think the problems are so obvious that anyone can see them. The facts speak for themselves.

In conclusion, Earlington has a lot of wonderful people and they deserve better. You may like Seiber or you may be a close friend of his but any reasonable person could only conclude based on the evidence that Seiber is not cut out to be mayor. In his own words he's just a Pharmacist.

As a disclaimer, I'm not a politician, never have been and never will be. "

Fuzzy Wuzzy wrote on Jul 27, 2009 12:55 PM:

" Bud,
I had junk outside too that made the neighborhood look pathetic, not nearly what you have stacked up in your front yard however, but I got a visit from the code enforcement officer too, I have no truck either but you know what I do have? I have a phone and a friend with a truck, so instead of complaining about something that has no significance to your pile of junk stacked up out front like the "officer mowing the cemetery" why don't you just call a friend with a truck and take all your junk 6 blocks over to the landfill, it's free for you but would cost the city $75 per truckload, that’s not hard to understand for me, you can throw a rock and hit the landfill from your house, get real. "

educator wrote on Jul 27, 2009 5:31 PM:

" this is an anonymous public forum, think about it "

Angry Nortonville Citizen wrote on Jul 27, 2009 7:33 PM:

" I am angry and appauled at how our city council members in Nortonville have thier thumbs up thier butt...

Our mayor in Nortonville appears to have no concern for the improvement of our little town...

When you ride through downtown Nortonville all you see is run down ragedy houses and one of them is our own mayors so called "business" pure JUNK!!!!!

We don't have decent sidewalks... the grass is hardly mowed at the park... there is only one tornado siren and if you have the tv on you won't hear it so you might as well be dead... why is it that our town isn't fixed up and looks nice like our other surrounding smaller towns.

There are water leaks in the city limits and they haven't been fixed... one leak is on the lot next door to me and has been leaking for 3 months now and has not been fixed but then they want to increase our water rates... this makes absolutely no sense to me...

There is federal money available and our town never sees a dime of it because our goofy mayor cannot and will not take out the time to fill out the paperwork...

The citizens of Nortonville is tired of his non concern that he has for the city and we will be so happy when he gets is behind out of office. "

HIKE MUNT wrote on Jul 28, 2009 8:30 AM:

" WHILE DRIVING THROUGH THE EARLINGTON CEMETARY RECENTLY I OBSERVED CHILDREN WHO APPEARED TO BE LESS THAN 18 YEARS OF AGE OPERATING MOTORIZED EQUIPTMENT, WORKING IN THE CEMETARY. APPARENTLY THE "CONTRACTOR" HAS HIRED THEM. REGUARDLESS OF WHO THEY WORK FOR, THE BOTTOM LINE OF RESPONSIBILITY WILL BE LAID AT THE CITY'S FEET IF THERE IS A MISHAP. "

Mike Hunt wrote on Jul 29, 2009 12:01 AM:

" Mr. or Mrs. Munt,
I would not reply to your imbecilic remark except for the fact that you decided to use a version of my screen name as your own. Now on to the issue you have, If you knew what you were talking about you would know that "liability" falls at the feet of the “organization” or “contractor”, if you will, that has hired a person or persons to do a job, regardless of their age. Case in point, lets say that for arguments sake that The City of Madisonville bids out a job to, umm several hundred tree trimmers that come into town and help to clear debris an ice storm, now lets say that one of these workers gets hurt while doing his job, which many of them did, at least one fatally, now what you are saying is that The City of Madisonville should or would be held liable, you sir are WRONG. This bit of information can be found in the Independent Contractor’s agreement and Indemnity clause that I would have to assume the city signed with this “contractor”, and yes I know what assuming does, but if you like you can find a “generic” version online by searching for (independent contractor agreement). Also if you knew what you were talking about you would know that children 14 thru 17 years old may be employed in Kentucky, however, there are hour and other restrictions that I wont list here for brevities sake, however, you can find them easily by doing a search on (Ky Child Labor Laws), Finally in summation of the issue you seem to have with the children whom appear, to you, to be “less than 18 years of age operating motorized equipment”, they, that is the two young men and young lady are in fact 16, they can not be employed as a motor vehicle driver, they also cannot be employed as forklift operators, they can not operate power driven wood working machines, they don’t, a weed eater is a motorized piece of equipment but you don’t drive it, you swing it you see where I’m going with this? Just like the last guy “Reasonable” get your facts straight before you come in here and run your mouth about something without any real facts and make yourself sound stupid. I personally (In my opinion, yes, I have one) think it's admirable of these young men and young lady to get out and work in the summer heat when most kids are out stealing things, partying, having sex or doing drugs or whatever kids do these days. If you haven’t gotten the point of my paragraph sir please let me be blunt with you, Shut your mouth! Stupid………… Mike Hunt has spoken………… Peace. "

concerned wrote on Jul 29, 2009 7:48 AM:

" it seems like we are gettin more and more who agree about the school system so why can WE not get something done here???we are not afraid of these are we???they are humans just like you and there should be something we could figure out to do...i have been involved with school and have sit in some of these breaks rooms and heard the talk the people dealing with our children and grandkids are in this business for wrong reasons it is like "oh no i have him or her this year how did you deal with them and the parents??" this is what teaching is about you took on this job knowing that children are in it it is a school people ...did you think it was gonna be easy money...???not when kids are in it "

concerned wrote on Jul 30, 2009 3:47 PM:

" it is only me again...can someone tell me how come unknowns never win in the pageants???it seems if the girl is not from the north end of the county she is not in....they could at least have them in the top 10.....north hopkins james madison browning springs...are these the only 3 schools in hopkins co???yes i am from the south end you know people we also give our money to madisonville business also...so the girls from south and central sould also be part of the fair....and it has been this way for 30 plus years...... "

Mike Hunt wrote on Jul 31, 2009 12:42 AM:

" A Hopkins County Grand Jury decided that Dr. Trover isn't guilty of negligence? I say well done people! I’m truly sorry that the lady passed away, and I am in NO WAY a fan of Dr. Trover, I have lost loved one’s to cancer and it’s not pretty, but maybe now health insurance premiums won’t go up, that’s a stretch though I’m afraid. I'm really surprised that the insurance company didn't offer to settle out of court like they do in every other case like this. Mike Hunt has spoken…………….Peace "

Thomas wrote on Jul 31, 2009 10:15 PM:

" Why do people still Litter?
All fast food restaurants have trash can, all service station,car washes and even your home has trash cans.
So why throw your trash out of your car windows into some one's yard? "

Educated Reader wrote on Aug 1, 2009 9:30 PM:

" Who ever said that the library does not care about downtown Madisonville doesn't know what they are talking about... I am an avid library user and supporter and am sick of everyone wanting to "dump" on the library. As far as what was stated previously about there being plenty of parking... have you ever tried to park downtown on a weekday afternoon? It is nearly impossible to find a spot! As an older person with a bad knee I don't think I should have to cause myself pain just because I want to check out books. I think it is time that citizens along with City AND County officials start caring about our local library. It is truly the "heart of downtown"... can you imagine what this county would be without a library? We would turn out an even larger amount of ignorant, illiterate, undereducated populace. I guess that is just what the wonderful drug lords of Hopkins County want to see. Support your library, support education! "

RA wrote on Aug 6, 2009 11:50 AM:

" As far as teachers paying for supplies. I think it is sad that teachers every year spend their money. Many teachers spend more than $1,000 per year. Yes, parents are asked to bring several things each year and yes, I am sure over time your child used kleenex or whatever else is requested. To me what is a shame is that teachers are out all the money while the board of education has nice nice cell phones for most of their upper management. The money is there it is just not allocated to teachers and their rooms. No I am not a teacher nor do I work for the board of education. "

Joy wrote on Aug 6, 2009 12:00 PM:

" Good Afternoon,

My comments are directed to the school board member and James Lee. I first off all am shocked that the School Board exteneded another year to James Lee. Did you all not read the reports that came out about our schools. If you read closely mostly of them were the responsibility of the board and James Lee's responsibility. Yes, teachers certainly need direction. But maybe James Lee they are following your lead and going in the WRONG direction ! I forsee a whole new school board coming very soon and many many people running for the School Board Members positions. It seems that all we have right now is a bunch of YES MEN !

Feed up with Hopkins County Schools.... "

Joy wrote on Aug 6, 2009 12:02 PM:

" This is too Commonsense a.k.a. Wade

Like your opinions... keep them coming... "

concerned wrote on Aug 7, 2009 8:35 AM:

" what is the deal with the drug situation???you can turn inpeople and they never investigate...knowing it is going on all over W.P.K.Y. and nothin ever done need to do something real bad ...the area is loaded someone could really have a big bust here if they would only heed the tips get with people in charge...get with it.... "

Don Perryman wrote on Aug 7, 2009 2:09 PM:

" The following comment has been edited to delete an offensive phrase. The Messenger welcomes participation in the Sound Off section. However, inappropriate language is prohibited.

MISS ANOTHER HOPKINS COUNTY TEACHER WELL I'VE NEVER KNOWN A TEACHER TO GIVE BACK ANYTHING AT THE END OF THE SCHOOL YEAR, AND I HAVE 5 CHILDREN IN THE PUBLIC SCHOOL SYSTEM . AND WHEN YOU THINK ABOUT IT THAT IS A LOT OF MONEY THAT MY HUSBAND AND I SPEND EVERY YEAR BUYING THE SUPPLIES THAT YOU ALL SAY THEY NEED! AND YOU ALL WANT THE EXPO MARKERS SO WHY SHOULDN'T YOU HAVE TO PAY FOR THEM! THIS IS THE PROFESSION YOU CHOSE SO YOU SHOULD MAKE SURE THAT YOU HAVE THE TOOLS NECESSARY TO DO YOUR JOB! IT IS NOT UP TO ME TO PROVIDE YOU WITH YOUR SUPLIES!! AND AS FAR AS THEM WIPING THERE NOSES IS THERE NOT TOLIET PAPER IN THE BATHROOMS ! THEY CAN GO THE WHOLE SCHOOL YEAR AND NOT EVEN NEED A TISSUE SO THERE YET AGAIN MY MONEY WASTED OR SPENT ON SOMEONE ELSES CHILD! AND AS FAR AS PUTTING NAMES ON CRAYONS AND ALL OTHER MATERIALS I DO EVERY YEAR BUT IT STILL DOES NOT MAKE A DIFFERENCE! AND WHAT (offensive phrase deleted) ME OFF MORE THAN ANYTHING IS WHEN MY CHILD COMES HOME AND HAS HOMEWORK AND IS NOT ABLE TO CO!
MPLETE IT BECAUSE ALL THERE SUPPLIES HAVE BECOME COMMUNITY PROPERTY AND THEY CANT BRING ANY OF IT HOME .. NOW IS THAT NOT RIDICILOUS!! I THINK THAT IT SHOULD BE THE WAY IT WAS LIKE WHEN I WAS IN SCHOOL SIMPLE... A BOOKBAG ,PAPER, AND PENCILS !!!! AND TO THE ONE BEFORE YOU THAT LEFT THE COMMENT ABOUT MAKING MY CHILDREN PRODUCTIVE MEMBERS OF SOCIETY.. EXCUSE ME BUT YOU DONT I DO!! REMEMBER IT STARTS AT HOME!! "

Someone else with CommonSense wrote on Aug 8, 2009 10:58 AM:

" I am affliated with the Hopkins County School system and we experence the politics of creating new jobs and assignments on a regular basis. An additional assistant principal to help with No Child Left Behind is ludicrous! If you want to help NCLB and test scores, then hire two-three teachers for the same salary you are paying the administrator! (By the way, creation of new positions at board office increased teacher work load instead of giving teachers more time to teach). Neighbor, I hate to inform you, but there are fewer "sweet grapes" than "sour grapes". You need to listen to majority of educators that are actually in the trenches. "

another hopkins county teacher wrote on Aug 8, 2009 2:37 PM:

" All I can say to your hateful comments with the profanity about teachers is bless your heart that you feel that way. Do you teach your kids about the government? Do you teach your kids to socialize with others and to be respectful? Do you teach your kids to work with others on a team? Do you teach others to be accepting of other people and their beliefs? Do you teach your children about other cultures? Yes you may start that teaching at home but we do try to help and reienforce those morals that you teach your children. I do have the best interest of those children at heart all the time and that was the reason I became a teacher. I do buy lots of expo markers and other supplies. I even buy the children extra things that I know they would like to have like games to play when it is raining outside. I don't have to do that but I do that because they are children and enjoy playing games. To be honest your post really annoyed me because you are obviously mad at a particular teacher. The purpose of my post is to let you know that all teachers are not like the negative view in which you are speaking in your postings. And again when you come across things you cannot or do not want to buy on your childs list DON'T BUY IT!!! Just buy your kids the usual backpack, paper and pencils but then you shouldn't complain when the teacher has your child to do a project and they don't have the necessary supplies. "

Another Hopkins County Teacher wrote on Aug 8, 2009 2:42 PM:

" Neighbor

I agree with you I have not heard about any media saying that Hopkins County is the laughing stock of the state. There are some employees and other community members that are aggravated at how our schools are being ran. No system is going to be perfect and as you said there is always going to be a few sour grapes within any organization or companies. "

Citizen wrote on Aug 8, 2009 9:09 PM:

" Mrs. Walker, a fireman chooses his profession. Would you expect the fireman to furnish his own hose if your house were on fire? "

FeeExplanation wrote on Aug 9, 2009 11:19 AM:

" Citizen....excellent point....

Please, someone find me a job where someone does not spend their own money in order to do their job better.

As for the fees that parents pay at the high school, well, you can complain about that or higher property taxes, take your pick. When the money from property taxes falls short, it falls on the parents who have kids in the schools to make up the difference.
Locker fees help pay to keep the lockers in working order and provide the locks on them so when your child brings cell phones, IPODs, etc. to school and put them in their locker, they are safe. Textbook fees pick up the slack when the allotment from the Board of Education runs out (If that makes you mad, complain...the officials at the board can call you back on the IPhones they just purchased this past year, and then watch the complaint on the news on their new TV's) Parking Fees pay for the tags in the cars and help to pay to repave and paint the parking lot....
and when your child goes to college....they will have a parking tag fee as well...only instead of $5.00 it will be $50.00...but tuition was already paid for so why pay more right? That is the logic I am hearing....

Get over it, no matter how tough economic times are, it is always tougher for someone else. "

Mike Hunt wrote on Aug 10, 2009 12:31 AM:

" Citizen,
Even though your comment is well said and prophetic, you might as well save your breath, these types don’t understand logic. She indeed will say she expects the fireman to buy his or her own hose, that's why they became firemen, right? And to you Another Hopkins County Teacher, I applaud you on your tact in the face of ignorance, please, I need lessons. "

concerned wrote on Aug 10, 2009 7:15 AM:

" ok enough with the school already nothing is happenin over there and is not gonna...lets fix the drugs problem which will not be fixed either..it is just hopkins county and that ia that...we can all talk and post but what do we do about any of this ..school is where it is and we are not gonna fix it like i said before our youth r doomed.... "

granma wrote on Aug 10, 2009 6:10 PM:

" here we go again with the school stuff... I cannot believe that we cannot feed our children ... my kids pay for lunch but what if some cannot ... that is the only meal some of kids in hopkins co get ... this is very cruel to do a child this way... what is the worls coming to ????
i know for a fact that alot of the eating holes around pitch out enough food to feed an army it could be taken to school and given away free instead of in the trash ben outside of eating hole.....i know that sounds really far fetched but it could be done.. I would luv tosee a program like this for people who do not eat well or get enough to eat.....food helps the mind to learn oh i forgot we are in hopkins co school system.... "

Mike Hunt wrote on Aug 12, 2009 7:41 AM:

" Well...........Well..........Well.......The City of Earlington is not as bad off financially as everyone (ASSUMED) it was, I laugh in your faces naysayers, Although this is a positive story on Earlington and I doubt anyone will pick up on it because of that, I have an opinion of this situation and it follows, After the city was out all of that cleanup money from the ice storm that none of us will ever forget (Over $100,000 out of it's own pocket) For it to come out with a $10,000+ surplus in the budget from last year is phenomenal, The man knows what he is doing obviously, lets see if someone can find a flaw with where this extra money has come from, I’m sure that’s the topic of discussion around the coffee tables of Hopkins County this morning, not the fact that there is a surplus, but where did it come from?, Might I add that figure also survived the gasoline situation when it got to $4+ a gallon. Maybe now some of you Anti-Seiber's will get off your self-appointed high horses and SHUT YOUR MOUTHS!!!!!!!!!!!!
Mike Hunt has spoken........................Peace. "

Amy wrote on Aug 12, 2009 1:46 PM:

" Seiber himself is the one who has constantly yelled for the past 2 1/2 years they were broke. Which is it? Are they not as bad off as he has claimed all this time which would mean he was lying just to make the previous administration look bad? Well I guess we all know the answer to that. I know a surplus is a surplus any way you look at it but $10,000? I would like to see where they were out over $100,000 for storm clean up. They only paid 12% or less out of pocket. If you add 88% to that, that would mean it cost more to clean up Earlington than Madisonville. You can do the math. And by the way Mike Hunt, since you brought it up, where did the money suddenly come from if Earlington was as broke as Seiber has claimed for years? There has not been any new growth or jobs in Earlington. And he has spent more and borrowed more than ANY previous administrations. Maybe Obama could ttake some lessons from Seiber. Give me a break. "

Jay wrote on Aug 12, 2009 5:11 PM:

" A budget is only a projection of revenue and expenditures. As we all know, it is not money in the bank that you can count. I know how much money I make in a year, therefore I know how much I can spend. Does not mean I have money in the bank. "

another hopkins county teacher wrote on Aug 12, 2009 7:47 PM:

" I am so glad that this school year has started off very well and in the positive as far as within the school buildings. The community should be proud of their children and how they come in and roll with everything and show their willingness to be great kids. I applaude the parents who care and keep their children's education a top priority. Thank you very much!!! "

fedupeven more wrote on Aug 12, 2009 11:22 PM:

" I can't believe the school system has hired so many people not certified for postitions when qualified people, and in several instances with solid experience. The old addage "it isn't what you do but who you know" happens more often than not around here. (You shouldn't even ask why it is so difficult to relieve people of their position!) "

concerned wrote on Aug 13, 2009 6:04 PM:

" totally agree with you on the who u know not what or qualifications....it all on the buddy system in hopkins co school and else where in the co no one else can get a JOB ... and the lunch thing again is so out of order....let the kids eat they throw away enought to feed them waste not want not says the lord..... "

Mike Hunt wrote on Aug 13, 2009 8:39 PM:

" Thank you for posting my last comment for half of a day, I suppose it made too much sense to someone and they had to pull it, if it had an offensive phrase in it you could have slapped my hand like you did Mrs. Walker and edited it. So much for "open forums." This is the last you will hear from me because you don’t even publish half of what I submit, and THAT, messenger is why this paper is a joke, even in a silly little column like this you pick and choose what you want people to read, Enjoy being the person that you are, and I’m talking to you Don Perryman because I know you’re the dunce monitor here. If you ever have the guts to have a true battle of wits just let me know, I will continue to monitor this bastion of idioticy and I will gladly hand your backside to you if you dare allow me to be heard, until then good day fleebs. "

Response to board wrote on Aug 14, 2009 7:23 PM:

" Can't wait to see what the new assistant principals bring to the high schools...more former/retired administrators and coaches with great academic backgrounds! Glad we have applicants with good character and expertise...now let's hire some of them! "

Beth get real wrote on Aug 14, 2009 7:26 PM:

" Not sure where your kids eat lunch but my extremely active teenage son needs no more than $15 a week...no where close to $10 in two days! "

guest wrote on Aug 21, 2009 6:34 AM:

" The chamber wants to promote local shopping.Why not buy local products?Goldenrod milk is made local.Prairie farms is not local.They just park trucks at old Sureway building.The milk is transported and loaded to the delivery trucks.Goldenrod is made in Madisonville! "

sandy wrote on Aug 23, 2009 2:49 PM:

" Our humane society is not operating 24/7/365.I have called them several times to pick up strays.They won't unless the animal is a threat.And our shelter needs a makeover!It's disgusting the shape it's in.We do need a web site for the shelter.Someone is willing to set it up and see to it for free.Judy said no-she would quit before web site set up.So resign already!Dr Edington is only looking out for the animals and trying to get them good homes!Way to go Susan!! "

Richard Heading wrote on Aug 23, 2009 6:35 PM:

" All you bleeding heart animal lovers need to focus your anger where it belongs, on the stupid people that don’t take care of their animals and let them roam free to fornicate at will. The workers at the pound don’t enjoy killing all those animals, they do it because they have to, I don’t see any "concerned citizens" donating money for food or space for storage of these animals, so what options do you suggest? The city and county aren’t paying any more money to provide any more services so who is going to fund this rescue mission? I want to hear answers to this then maybe I’ll brush off a seat on your bus, believe it or not I am an animal lover myself, but until then a humanly killed animal is a better off animal than one running wild or stray and fending for itself. "

dog lover wrote on Aug 25, 2009 9:20 AM:

" What is going on with the local shelter? Ms. Lacy it is time to change. Our shelter is run down, smelly and etc.. Volunteers are needed to take some of the load off of the workers. A new building is way past due. Other towns use inmates to help at their shelters, and Joe Blue is offering help. Go for it!!! Ms. Lacy if you don't want to change the way things are then I suggest you resign. "

calculator wrote on Aug 25, 2009 1:21 PM:

" Our Humane Society put down 13 animals per day
in 2008. Every day they were open, they euthanized
13 animals. A sad state of affairs. Change is surely
going to happen. Judy Lacy has to go! Surely our
County Gov. will not allow this to continue. Lacy's head should roll. "

CARE wrote on Aug 26, 2009 1:09 PM:

" Concerning Rick Pitino.... it was stated "who cares if he cheated on his wife and family..... well, I do. He broke one of the most sacred vows there is... The vow of marriage... If he can not be trusted tin this, he can not be trusted in any other affairs. He had a responsibility to his family, U of L, the fans. He was suppose to lead a lot of young people by setting athe example. He failed miserably...
Be good coach or not, that's not what is important. Tell me, is this the first time or will it be the last time?
How you can trust him? I don't.......I do care...
Mr, Pitino is not a real man. A real man puts the one he loves the most before himself and carefully study the consequences of his action so not to bring shame on himself and surely on on his family. a real man does not betray his wife's love or her trust in him.
I care....enough to put on a one man boycott of all U of L games until Pitino is replaced.
I do care...........We all should "

Richard George wrote on Aug 26, 2009 2:51 PM:

" I think it's time to put Miss Lacy out to pasture and move in a more positive direction. "

An Annoyed Hopkins County Citizen wrote on Sep 1, 2009 11:28 PM:

" I cannot understand how these people keep escaping from the Hopkins County Jail... what are they doing over there? They are supposed to be keeping these people locked up because they don't know how to act. My goodness do we need to pay more taxes so they can get better locks or do we need to do some hiring and firing over there. I am very annoyed about the situation because I pay taxes which helps to run the so called jail and they keep having people escape. I think the Hopkins County Jail needs to do some extra training on how to house the inmates. "

Jay wrote on Sep 7, 2009 5:07 PM:

" To Earlington councilman Ricky Hughes and Jim Hicks,
How will putting a basketball court downtown near the police station deter anything when there is only one policeman who is hardly ever on duty. You say that vandals will not come downtown becasue they will be seen. You just had an alleged drunk driver kill a pedewstrian on Main Street (I believe this is where the basketball court is going), the former drug store on the corner across from the police station (Main Street)was allegedly broken into twice and the bank across the other corner (Main Street)was robbed. Don't get me wrong, I think it's great that money was raised for this project without cost to the taxpayers but you know as well as I do that the place will be nothing but a hangout for the drug dealers and the younger children will not be able to use it. What about insurance on the property? The former skate park had to be closed because the liability insurance was going to cost too much. (it too was donated). Mr. Hughes, do you remember when there was another hangout on the corner of US 41 and 112 (the Fern Stokes mini park). It was so bad that single females driving through at night going to or from work were running the stoplight because if they stopped, their car was surrounded by the people drinking and doing drugs. This too was in the middle of town. Great concept but if you want to blow smoke, blow it in another direction! Everyone knows that the state police and sheriff department take most of the calls over here anyway. Did you see Mr. Proctor mentioned in the article about the fatal pedestrian accident that occurred Sunday Morning? It was past his bedtime. "

Earlington Citizen wrote on Sep 9, 2009 6:08 PM:

" To Jay,
If Earlington had a 24 hour police department that still doesn't mean one of them would have been sitting there watching that street at that particular moment, Madisonville has about 50 police officers and Earlington has 1, this same thing happened in Madisonville a few months ago, I didnt hear anyone complaining because the police werent there watching to prevent that one, The sheriff''s office and State Police take the majority of calls in all towns with a Police Department consisting of one man, How many hours can a man work in a week? How many hours do you work each week Jay? There are 168 hours in a week and most people just work 40. How can 1 man be everywhere all the time? answer that, when you figure it out let us know. As for Mr. Proctor I see him all the time , day, night, weekend, holidays, but he is just 1 man and can not work 24-7-365. And another thing when the fern-stokes park was still active there wasn't even a stop light, it was a four way stop, brilliant research. "

Jay wrote on Sep 10, 2009 11:31 AM:

" To Earlington citizen,

Good research on your part. The intersection was a 3 way stop as it is now and yes it was a flashing red light which still means you had to stop. It was just stop and go. A woman alone surrounded by thugs I don't believe would care if the light was flashing red or steady red. Ask your friend Mr. Proctor and I think he wil tell you if someone runs the light the way it is now or if it is a flashing red stop and go, the penalty is thet same. Yes you are right, crime does happen everywhere, in that we agree. However, as I stated in my previous article, police presence is a DETERRENT. My whole point was that had there been someone on duty or his schedule was not so predictable, it may have been a deterrent and may have avoided THIS tragedy. You did not address the issue of the basketball court and how the location will deter crime since this tragic accident happened right in front of the city hall and the new court. No one said the police should or can sit and watch everywhere but I think we all agree that presence and visiblility are a deterrent. After all, Earlington is a lot smaller than Madisonville and you can sit in certain areas and see most of the town which is a big advantage over Madisonville.And by the way, the tragedy that occurred in Madisonville did not happen right in front of the police department. I see Mr. Proctor a lot too. Nortonville, Mortons Gap, Ilsley and other areas of the county since he cjhooses run all over the county to calls with the Sheriff Department. They have I think 14-16 deputies. Why should the tax payers of Earlington pay Mr. Proctor to be everywhere but Earlington. We pay his salary and we already pay county taxes for the Sheriff department. Mr. / Ms. Earlington citizen, either you do not care about where your tax dollars go and how they are being spent or you are not a citizen of Earington at all. Yes I do work more hours than Mr. Proctor and yes the state and county do take calls in all towns with one policeman, but compare the number of those calls in each town and see where most of them are. You don't have to take my word for it. Check with those departments and see how many calls they take in Earlington compared to the other incorporated towns in Hopkins county. "

Earlington Citizen wrote on Sep 10, 2009 2:28 PM:

" Jay,
It would seem to me you have a personal issue with Proctor, I’m not going to go round and round about it, I will say this, If you don’t like it try to get it changed, run for mayor or council, or do what your doing here,.....which is nothing. "

Hopkins County Citizen wrote on Sep 10, 2009 10:03 PM:

" In reference to Jay and Earlington Citizen... your discussion is one that needs to be talked about. I live in Nortonville and the Sheriff's department's deputies help in our area all the time. If the police from Earlington wants to help someone in need then I really don't see any harm in it. I would think that if you were in a car accident and Mr. Proctor was closer to you than a Sheriff I don't think you would turn down his assistance. Well at least I know I wouldn't. I think a lot of concern and disgust is flowing because of the two senseless deaths that have occurred in our area. I was just saying the other day how it is so sad that people around here have nothing to do which results in the drinking and such. I feel like the park in Earlington is a great idea. Maybe it would deter some of the things that we don't like going on around here. "

Rightside wrote on Sep 12, 2009 10:16 AM:

" In light of Mr. Lowrey's recent "card game", I feel he should provide a list of acceptable criticisms that can be leveled against Obama. Since the election, any question or critique has ultimately been met with "racism". I encourage him to be specific. I'd also like to invite him to a marriage seminar hosted by Mr. Pitino. He obviously cares more about the message than the messenger. (since Pitino is white, I can say that) "

Patricia Wiles wrote on Sep 14, 2009 8:43 PM:

" "When Doves Fly" wrote concerning the dove release during West Hopkins School's 9-11 ceremony:
"I am dissapointed in the adults that organized tthe event for the release of the doves. These are birds that were bred in captivity and now have been released into the wild only to meet an untimely and unfortunate death."

The doves were not released into the wild to suffer the fate you describe. The birds used during the ceremony have an inbred homing instinct and are trained from a young age to return to their loft, which incidentally is in the county. They were placed in no danger whatsoever. The owner takes good care of his birds and has used them in hundreds of ceremonies, including weddings and funerals. I've interviewed the owner extensively and we will be publishing an article about him and his birds in an upcoming edition of The Messenger. I believe you'll find it interesting and educational. It will put your mind at ease concerning the birds' welfare. "

When Doves Fly wrote on Sep 16, 2009 7:21 AM:

" Ms. Wiles,

I am encouraged to hear that in the case of the local dove release that homing doves were used, since that is not the case in most of these types of dove releases.

However, that would seem to have been an important part of the story that should have been included in the original story.

Just curious, did an impartial party look at the leg bands on each of the doves and then go to the owners property and verify that they all returned to their rightful owner? If not, then that should have been done to verify that all these birds did indeed return.

Too often even with homing doves, much like homing pigeons, these birds get lost, disoriented, or just do not return home. The most common reason is that any animal bred in captivity looses its natural instint to survive in the wild. "

Sandy wrote on Sep 16, 2009 7:22 AM:

" I agree with the letter by Mr.Toney! He is exact and to the point. I also think there are more prejudice african-americans than caucasians.I was raised not to be prejudice and raised my children that way.My grandchildren are also being raised that way.They don't see color! "

Fed up with stupid comments wrote on Sep 16, 2009 11:15 PM:

" In regards to Sandy... you say that you have encountered more prejudice african americans that caucasions... um excuse me but i don't understand your logic and reasoning behing that. Let me make my point... have you ever went to the store and people clutch thier purse at the sight of a person of color... have you ever watched people stand at their car and click the alarm numerous times thinking you are going to steal something... have you ever worked somewhere and people try to do black jokes and then tell you oh i don't mean it any harm... try being called the N word and you not do anything to anyone... try walking home from sunday school as a girl and the KKK is at the four way stop... try working at your job and the KKK comes in and laughs in your face because you get nervous and then they point and make fun of you outside of the store... have you ever experienced someone say "those people" in your face... How about a child telling another child that he couldn't like them because they were black (happened last week at a local school in this county) ... Have you ever been followed in a store just because you have darker skin... Well I have experienced those things. In my opinion that is stereotyping and PREJUDICE!!!!! If you have came across an angry african american you need to think about what their day might have been like... Try walking in my shoes for one day working in a place where I know for a fact I work with people who don't like me or respect me because of the color of my skin not because of my character. Stereotyping and saying that african americans are more prejudice than caucasion people is silly to say. Now I am not saying that there aren't prejudice black people because I know that there are quite a few that have a hatred for caucasion people because of history but you should think about the ratio of people in the united states and then rethink your comment... I am not trying to be hateful but your comment just got all over me. Remember all the experienced listed at the top that have happened to me and my family and tell me who is more prejudice. "

Richard Mgee wrote on Sep 17, 2009 6:38 PM:

" Uh oh, someone opened up a can of worms on this one. "

Rightside wrote on Sep 18, 2009 6:58 PM:

" First: Elected Officials do NOT have "government run" health care. They have "government funded" care and can pick and choose their options. Second: Ancidotal evidence does not prove or disprove racism. What is a fact is due to the recent memory of American slavery, "racism" is the easiest cry to make people squirm and back down. Every race has experienced its share of racism. Third: Mmmmm. Doves. Pass the salt please. "

Rightside wrote on Sep 23, 2009 12:31 PM:

" You know what, I think I'll change my postion about everything. In light of the (miss) informed letter from a local student and the recent posts here I feel the governement should pay for everything! My home. My car. My cell phone & internet. My doctor bills. My sodas so I don't get caffeine headaches. My tissues when I cry from watching sad movies (or reading sad, talking point left-ist letters to the ed). Come on Uncle Sam! Iron my shirt! "

Richard Mgee wrote on Sep 23, 2009 6:07 PM:

" Im with Rightside on this one, come on government, pay my bills, feed my children, I need some new rims for my SUV too, come on Washington hook it up! "

Rightside wrote on Sep 30, 2009 1:41 PM:

" I feel public school's free lunch program should be extended to year-round, not just when school is in session. Why should compassion end just because school does. Furthermore, the lunch program should be made available to every taxpayer. It is the DUTY of government to make sure we eat right and have healthy choices! Oh, please don't make me walk to a school to get my free lunch. Delivery would be better. "

Rightside wrote on Oct 3, 2009 9:17 AM:

" Face it, all news is biased in some manor. This bias doesn't mean the news is necessarily false but whether expressed or implied, the way stories are recounted, presented or even staged point toward the news agency's bias. Our local Messenger has an obvious bias: against the Humane Society and for Obama. By this paper's own admission, The HS's problems began after a "series of articles" were published. Perhaps our "neo-salem" town would have the same outrage if The-Messenger would run a series on the Board of Ed, it's hiring, interviewing, promotion policies vs. realities and it's budget problems juxtaposed to its historical average bank balance. "

County Citizen wrote on Oct 6, 2009 7:52 AM:

" Best wishes for a speedy recovery go out to Judge Carroll, I think he is one of the good guys. "

Get A Life wrote on Oct 6, 2009 11:41 AM:

" To the woman who wrote a letter to the editor about women's underwear, Woman, please get a life. In the same paper that day on page 2, there was a small story about 8 service people being killed in Afganistan. Two pages over there was a paragraph about a woman who had passed away at RMC after living in a local nursing home most of her life. She had no one -- no family, no one to claim her body. And then, on the editorial page, the letter appears from the woman who is freaked out about woman's panties and thongs. Honestly, why don't you use your time more wisely? Instead of writing ludicrous letters such as yours, why not do something, anything, that would be more productive and sensible. One reason our society is in such a mess is because of weirdos like you. "

Randy Savage wrote on Oct 9, 2009 3:47 PM:

" Maybe if Everet would have given the lunch room lady a elbow from the top-rope they could have gotten along. I get knocked down but I get up again.................My daddy he sweeps the streets. "

Rightside wrote on Oct 9, 2009 5:27 PM:

" Bwah ha ha! Obama gets the Peace Prize!? If there is any proof that the award has gone totally political this has to be it. He was in office 2 weeks and is nominated based on words, aura and platitudes. Heck, he hasn't even proved he CAN walk on water. Maybe David Letterman should get the next one. No...wait, it would have to be spelled differently. "

Jimmy Gatlin wrote on Oct 11, 2009 1:49 PM:

" Comments are slow, we need another animal article. That seems to be where all the interest lies. "

Jimmy Gatlin wrote on Oct 14, 2009 2:53 PM:

" As most of you know the Senate Finance Committee passed the Healthcare Bill which will look nothing like the one that the Senate will eventually vote on. There was a provision to not put the bill on the internet because it is to complicated. It seems those people who work for us in Washington think we are to stupid to understand what they have not even read. Be sure & let your people in Congress know how you feel about this bill whether it is pro or con. Just remember how every other thing run by the government has went downhill when they get their grubby little hands on it.. "

Rightside wrote on Oct 14, 2009 9:12 PM:

" The constant moving target of "racism" is getting very old. From Mr. Pitts to Mr. Watson to Mr. Lowry, the charge of "racism" at every conservative idea, movement or statement does nothing but exhibit the contempt they hold for themselves and every minority supposedly oppressed. Why, if it weren't for racisim, we could do xyz. If it weren't for racism, Obama could get this/that done. Couldn't be his policies! Couldn't be opposition to leftist, fascist, socialist ideas and policies. Nope. Just racism. Mr. Gatlin, the reason they won't post the Bill is because opposition is racist. "

Jimmy Gatlin wrote on Oct 15, 2009 7:44 AM:

" Have you heard this one? Rep. Michele Bachmann(R) from Minnesota just revealed that the corrupt ACORN will again start receiving government money after Oct. 31. Are you outraged yet? Let Congress know how you feel!! "

Jimmy Gatlin wrote on Oct 15, 2009 10:23 AM:

" Riightside, I hope what I am detecting is a bit of sarcasm. We all know the holdup on the bill is due to disagreement in the democrat party. The bluedogs know if they vote for the government option they will be walking the plank. Come next election they are out of here. Rohm Emmanuel is in amongst the democrats now putting in Obama's 2 cents worth in for the real writing of the healthcare bill. We will see the government option emerge. It seems everyone will be thrown under the bus by the White House. It appears the honeymoon is about over. "

An Annoyed Hopkins County Citizen wrote on Oct 16, 2009 11:04 AM:

" I am completely annoyed at how Rightside always complains about everything that everyone else says. You come up with no solutions to the problems that you complain about and are quick to shoot anyone down who feels differently that you do. To me it seems that you don't want insurance / health care reform. So you want people to continue to get Medicaid and pay a $2 copay because they don't have insurance and then your tax dollars picks up the bill for them. Personally I don't feel it is fair for me to work everyday and then take care of all these lazy bums in Hopkins County who have no job and are on food stanps and aren't trying to get a job. I get angry because these are the people who go to the doctor numerous times a week and get mad because they have to pay a $2 copay with an iphone in hand. I feel that better provisions need to be made and that people should have to get a job with resonable insurance made available. I am tired of seeing people my age (27) without jobs and no ambitions or drive to find one. You should also be tired of taking care of able bodied people too. So do you disagree with my view that we need insurance/health care reform? "

No Hope No Change wrote on Oct 17, 2009 12:26 PM:

" I'm not certain I understand Annoyed's comments. I see Rightside's, as well as others, opinion is that no government provides solutions. The Health Care reform currently discussed only deals with how to make everyone dependant on Government. It will not force people into employment (Quite the opposite). It will most certainly not change the minds of those with no ambitions. It will definitely re-enforce a welfare mentality and entitlement mind-set. The front page of The Messenger had an alarming headline of Obama's deficit: $1.42 Trillion!!! Hold the salt; my pork is fine. Since Annoyed wants solutions, here are two: STOP Government Spending. Lower our TAXES. "

Jay wrote on Oct 18, 2009 10:51 AM:

" What is that, three lawsuits he has lost in less than three years? My my my. "

Rightside wrote on Oct 23, 2009 12:22 PM:

" Hey, Obama! Where's our vaccines? While you're handing out money in Michigan, we're dying out here. You promised 120M and only delivered 10%. This ain't church, man! Give us our vaccine; For free too! Protect us from all evil. Lead us not into temptation. We have no other one before you. Maybe what happened is Bush created a more virulent strain than your Docs can cure. (And then I woke up). Whoa. I just had a dream that everyone thought the government helps and protects us. "

Gold wrote on Oct 25, 2009 9:01 PM:

" I had a great time reading around your post as I read it extensively. Excellent writing! I am looking forward to hearing more from you.

Regards,
Gold "

Jay wrote on Oct 26, 2009 6:23 PM:

" Sure does send a bad message that the person who has control over the police department would do something like this. Kinda makes you wonder what orders he has given his police chief about enforcing ( or not) the law in Earlington. Also makes you wonder who is paying his high dollar lawyer(s). Maybe Seiber is just a compassionate person ha ha ha. I bet his new employer relishes the attention he will bring them. "

Get it right or shut up wrote on Oct 26, 2009 6:51 PM:

" It was a cash bond not a surety bond, if your gonna stir the pot then stir it in the right direction. "

Earlington Citizen wrote on Oct 26, 2009 10:35 PM:

" You're right something does stink....and it's your capability to comprehend and understand the moral values of a man with integrity and character.

If you had your facts straight you would know that Mr. Seiber isn't just that one guy that is highly criticized and critiqued on every single move he makes as mayor BUT, he is the bearer of another profession. Incase you forgotten, it's a licensed pharmacist.

Since you apparently didn't know about this part of his life, then you also wouldn't know that by Google'ing the starting salary of 1st year Pharmacist is $100-$110k. (The "k" stands for thousand incase you didn't know.)

One can imagine Mike's annual paycheck especially since he's been in the profession as long as he has been. What I'm getting to is, that if anyone has the ability to help a LIFE-LONG FRIEND of theirs then, one would. I'm referring to Mr. Seiber's reply to The Messenger's email that has been posted on this website. You should check it out sometime.

Now to your inability to understand the thing that we know as morals...

I'll make this simple for you, the definition of a MORAL is a principle of rights and wrongs that one self-holds and chooses to live their daily lives by. NOWHERE in that definition does it say anything about conforming to society or ignorant individuals such as yourself, just to please everyone. Mr. Seiber chose his actions based on his morals and NOT by YOURS.

Quite honestly, I do not think Mr. Seiber cares what society says about his actions. Because in his mind they are RIGHT and in this situation....thats the ONLY thing that matters. "

Figures wrote on Oct 27, 2009 11:22 AM:

" Might have known that "Jay" would bring the Police Department into this. You are as predictable as the sunset. "

Do What Is Right wrote on Oct 27, 2009 11:50 AM:

" Alot stinks in earlington other than the mayor posting the bond. Look at the run down houses in town that nothing is being done about. Looks like someone should be concerned where some of these children are living. "

Something stinks wrote on Oct 27, 2009 12:29 PM:

" To Earlington citizen (if you are),

While you are looking up definitions, why not look up the definition of accident. Seiber stated this was a tragic accident. An accident is an unavoidable event. I vbelieve this "accident" could have been avoided by Mr. Hamilton not drinking and getting behind the wheel and speeding down Main Street at 30-40 miles over the speed limit. Also just so you can comprehend (maybe), 100k is not that much money this day and age, especially for the lifestyle Seiber maintains. So you say Seiber and Hamilton are life long friends. Lets see, if you look at the difference in their ages, then when Seiber was graduating high school and going on to his pharmacy college, John Hamilton was like in the 4th grade. And by the way, just because it is right in his mind, does not make it right. Prison and the grave yards are full of people that thought the same way. And one final thought, you should NEVER EVER use the words Seiber,integrity and mnorals in the same breath. If YOU knew the definition of those words, you wouldn't. "

Sickened wrote on Oct 27, 2009 12:43 PM:

" Hey Earlington citizen, If it had been your child that was killed by a drunk driver(who had enough compassion to leave the scene) maybe you would like for someone to bond the killer out of jail. Maybe you could have some compassion for the killer too since you seem to know all about morals and compassion. I think Mr. Seiber also said that Hamilton is a good guy. Yeah, he left someones child lying in the street, what a great guy. Maybe he should get a nobel prize too!!! "

Earlington Citizen wrote on Oct 27, 2009 7:09 PM:

" Who are you to judge someone? Last time I checked, God was the only one that could judge us. And unless that has changed, your opinion of Mr. Seiber means absolutely nothing. Sorry to burst your bubble. "

Figures wrote on Oct 27, 2009 7:51 PM:

" What town in Hopkins County doesn't have run down houses that childrn live in? Can't you blame that on the police or the mayor or the fire department or somebody? C'mon "Do what Is Right" lets use our thinking caps. "

Rightside wrote on Oct 31, 2009 8:59 PM:

" Has anything Obama promised come true? Beyond the promises to re-make America in his own image, return its wealth to the rightful owners, push a single-payer healthcare system; has anything he said come through? This man is completely and utterly dangerous for you, me and America. We have lost over 3 Million jobs since this cult of personality took office and he has the audacity to claim he’s saved/created 650K jobs. The government only knows how to create debt and save its own skin! This has been the most scandalous administrations ever: Tax cheats, socialists, racists, population controllers, euthanasia supporters and statutory rape proponents make up his cabinet, czars and advisors. Obama can't even smoke publicly (be a man!) so as to not to offend various fringe elements on the left. However, now that pot is basically legal in California, he should light up that fatty he's been hold'n on to…I’m sure there are some supporters out there that need to see Obama stand up for them. Next topic: Does the public even comprehend how much money our government is awash in? "

Rightside wrote on Nov 1, 2009 6:03 PM:

" Linda Winstead is at it again. Her 11/01/09 diatribe is not the first time she insults and demeans those who chose to peacefully protest the Dixie Chicks. She equates some nut taking a shot at Dobbs with those partaking in the Tea Parties or Town Halls. Certainly the AIG execs, who’s lives have been similarly threatened, are expendable. The fact of the matter is the leftist hatred has been on full display since Nov 4, 2008 (actually, since 9/12/2001). This is now Obama’s turn to stick it to everything he’s been indoctrinated to hate: Capitalism. Freedom. Individualism. Religion. Ms. Winstead lacks the capacity of rational thought and intellectual honesty. Her obvious hatred of Conservatism is divulged in her miss-quotes, out-of-context applications and willful ignorance of the facts. Please folks, look it up yourself. The left cannot be truthful about their agenda and destroy those who disagree or expose them. Oh, and invest in Kraft Foods; 69Million Kool-Aid drinkers are about to make you rich. Never mind. They’ve spent us into 2050...No jobs. Depression. Lost wages. High gas prices. No war strategy. Troops dying. Soup lines. Unemployment extensions. Beer Summits. Welcome to Obama’s New America. "

Curious wrote on Nov 2, 2009 3:20 PM:

" Saw where there was another wreck in Earlington Sunday where a drunk driver ran a stop sign in the middle of town and hit another car causing it to completely overturn. Elderly lady driving down the road minding her own business. Seems it is not safe to walk OR drive in Earlington these days. Maybe Seiber will stand on his principles and bond this guy out of jail too! What about it Mikey? "

Just the facts wrote on Nov 3, 2009 3:15 AM:

" There have been 639 fatal traffic ACCIDENTS to date in the commonwealth of Kentucky, 4 just this past weekend, Maybe we could go to each and every crash location and make the mayor or county judge executive accountable for those accidents. With those numbers it's not safe to walk, ride, drive, or bike anywhere in the state. "

Just the facts wrote on Nov 3, 2009 10:43 AM:

" That is 639 ftatl traffic accidents so far this year, for thise of you that would be so inclined to argue. These statistics are public knowledge at http://kentuckystatepolice.org/ "

Annoyed Hopkins County Citizen wrote on Nov 3, 2009 8:33 PM:

" Oh my goodness gracious... reading the rantings of Rightside about made me throw up. I don't understand how some people come up with the things they say. First people complained about the H1N1 vaccines being produced too quickly and now you are complaining saying that they aren't being produced fast enough. Make up your mind. Everything that goes wrong is not the president's fault. He doesn't work in the CDC labs and helps to create the vaccines and such. You need to place your hostility/frustration where it belongs. Seems to me you just need to complain about something every time you turn around. You are never satisfied. So you expect OUR president to fix the mess we are in within 10 months of being in office when the mess took numerous years to create. He didn't give the go ahead to go to neither Iraq or Afganistan. You also must realize that the president doesn't make decisions on his own he is advised. You must remember that Bush was told that Iraq had weapons of mass distruction based on the information that he was given by his staff. I am not a fan of President Bush but I realize the facts and that I really have no basis to go around being hostile saying it is all Bush's fault when the fact that we are in a war isn't. If you know how the government runs you should remember the lesson your teacher taught you about checks and balances. The Congress, The Senate, The Supreme Court nor the President can pass anything without the approval of the other two branches of government. So when passing blaim and pointing your finger you need to remember that all to important lesson in Social Studies. Again I stand in saying you complain but offer no help to make a change in our country or area.
Now on to the rantings of Just the Facts... how is it the mayor's or judge's fault that some people make stupid choices about driving? If I speed down the parkway are you saying because I live in Nortonville it would be my Mayor's fault and that he needs to do something... yeah right.
Yes I feel there needs to be harsh punishments to those that harm innocent people whether it be intentional or not. A punishment that is good for one person should be good for another. And I think that passing judgment on a person for trying to help another person that needs it isn't right. You may not agree with what others choose to do but as another writer posted our ultimate judge is God and we should trust in him more. "

Just the facts wrote on Nov 4, 2009 12:23 PM:

" To Annoyed Hopkins County Citizen, my statement was being facetious toward "Curious" because he/she/it is implying that because there was another alcohol related crash in Earlington that it’s not safe to even walk or drive there. You have deciphered my ranting incorrectly. Facetious, for those of you that don’t know the definition or cant use google is defined as joking or jesting often inappropriately, meant to be humorous or funny, not serious. I am with you on judgment, for the bible says; “Judge not, that ye be not judged” also “Let he who is without sin cast the first stone.” And I doubt seriously if any writers in this forum need to have stones in their hands. But they will have their day in front of the creator and so will you and I. "

No Hope No Change wrote on Nov 4, 2009 5:45 PM:

" Annoyed, your response is very interesting: Complaining that someone is complaining. Perhaps you'll surmise that I too am complaining that you're complaining about someone you claim is complaining. "

Curious wrote on Nov 4, 2009 8:12 PM:

" Gee I wish I was as smart as Just the Facts. Looks like someone that said he was not going to post here anymore because he could not take the heat has just reappeared under a different name. And he even knows how to look up definitions in google. WOW "

Earlington Citizen wrote on Nov 5, 2009 1:19 AM:

" Then shut your mouth when it comes to judging someone, and let the creator handle that when the time comes.

geez. "

No Hope No Change wrote on Nov 6, 2009 12:33 PM:

" Thank you, Barry! 10% unemployement! Can you PLEEEEASE now explain the rush for the bailouts? You told us this wouldn't happen; that we'd avoid 10%. You are dangerous and weak. Can't speak without a teleprompter and obviously can't deliver. Since you are into government solutions why not just guarantee anyone unemployeed $45,000/yr until they find a job (yeah right). "

Land of Huh wrote on Nov 6, 2009 11:29 PM:

" Question: How does Welfare work these days? I assume it's intent was not to allow single mothers to buy their children a box of doughnuts and a Mountain Dew at 7:30am. Since the young lady's card worked, I suppose Welfare allows that kind of behavior. I don't think her cigarettes would have been covered because she paid for those with cash. Odd. You and I weren't even thanked for the purchase "

Jimmy Gatlin wrote on Nov 7, 2009 11:29 AM:

" Governor, holiday tree?? I think not. Explanation is a little weak. "

Usually an Annoyed Hopkins County Citizen wrote on Nov 7, 2009 9:30 PM:

" In response to Land of Huh... I also wonder how now welfare works. At my second job I witness people come into the store that I work at and buy all kinds of junk food (pop, chips, etc.). they rarely buy juice, cereal, or can goods to cook that would be more healthy for their children or themselves. I do believe that some people are appreciative of their assistance that they receive. it makes it bad for the others who really need assistance when there are those that dont care and just take advantage. I also feel bad for those that need the assistance but don't receive what they need because of the ones that take advantage of the system. I don't know how that problem could be fixed. but i know first hand the good that welfare and food stamps can do for a family since my mother had to recieve assistance raising me on her own. "

No Hope No Change wrote on Nov 9, 2009 12:10 PM:

" First of all, my prayers go out to all at Ft. Hood. This horrific event, planned and plotted by an Islamic extremist terrorist was fomented by a methodically indoctrinated and distorted hatred of the West and the freedom we provide to the entire world. Any advocate of Political Correctness now stands in judgment. Just as those who harbor terrorist, those hiding behind PC now have blood on their hands. Too many were afraid to speak up. Too many were told to stand down. Too many looked the other way out of fear of what would be done to them. And now Obama tells us not to rush to conclusions. In this case there is a cascading amount of evidence known long before this event. Multiple warnings. 9/11 ties. Testimonies. Thank you, Mr. Obama. Your grace is sufficient. "

Land of Huh wrote on Nov 9, 2009 12:18 PM:

" I suppose my issue is how this highlights the overall flaw in the system and why it continues to be a blackhole for funding. I remember this being an issue with the supposed Katrina survivors. Cards were given and guess what: Tattoos, TV's, Lap Dances. In my opinion, take that away. If someone needs food...DELIVER IT TO THEM. Rent? Pay it for them. Cell phone? Nope. Cable? Nope. If those on public assistance couldn't waste it directly, they'd need to create a black market for it (as they do now) or get a job. "

Jackson For Mayor wrote on Nov 9, 2009 12:36 PM:

" Very interesting. Mr. Jackson, I know you hope to represent the "lower taxes" message from the right but please don't let them define the argument. Taxes aren't a zero-sum game. If you lower taxes, you don't always have to "make it up" somewhere else. Remember, when the government raises taxes, they never ask where it will come from or how we will make adjustments. First off, you are hoping to enter a very divisive arena. Sides are drawn before evidence is presented. Self-preservation is Job ONE for ANY public entity. They never look at how to trim, cut, reduce or outsource. Good luck to you. "

Usually an Annoyed Hopkins County Citizen wrote on Nov 9, 2009 8:08 PM:

" My question is: Do you think that all people of Mulslim faith are radical and terrorists? And if so why? "

No Hope No Change wrote on Nov 10, 2009 11:57 AM:

" I wonder why people frame questions in such a manor? Fear of retaliation? Too “moderate” to make a stand? Deflecting the focus away from the issue does not remove the fact that a proven, known radical Muslim committed this horrific act. As reports continue to leak out, this nut was a terrorist from the start committed to jihad. Since some fear labels, why not ask for the Muslim community; peaceful, harmless, loveable community to step up to the mic and renounce such violence? Hasan was not a pacifist. The dead and injured deserve justice from the departments sworn to investigate and keep them from harm. The irony is so thick: Our beloved US Military, on a mission to free the world from Islamic fascist extremists was attacked by one who appears to have been shrouded and protected by the same government who authorized the war on terror. Let me ask a question: If you witness a crime and cover it up, how long a sentence should you serve? "

Rightside wrote on Nov 10, 2009 7:26 PM:

" So, Obama is considering the cost of adding necessary troops. After this man has run fast and loose with our wallets, his debts and deficits will outlive our grandchildren. I fear people have lost touch with how BIG Billions and Trillions actually are. Remember when suspending the gas tax for 3 months was such an issue? God forbid Kentucky did without $9Million. Consider this: if our state operated on a measly $1Billion per year the gas tax suspension would have been the equivalent of Annoyed denying me $9 because his savings account only had $1000. There lies liberal compassion. Obama blows through a Trillion and complains about 40,000 troops costing $50B. Again, Annoyed just denied his neighbor $50 because he only has $1000 in savings. Such compassion. Now I ask; what government operates on such a fine line that those margins are unaffordable? Even if our own City of Madisonville had red tape costs of 0.5%, that comes to over $250,000 LOST per year to bureaucracy. Does our city, let alone any government or public entity, operate above 99% efficiency? "

Annoyed Hopkins County Citizen wrote on Nov 11, 2009 12:00 AM:

" My question wasn't one to get anyone angry. I really don't appreciate the sarcasm as if I am stupid for asking a question. I just wanted the opinions of others since the horrible tradegy occured at Ft. Hood. I also asked the question to see how people have sterotypical thoughts and opinions about others. Sterotyping is what gets people angry and upset. I am not defending the man by no means. You want other people of muslim faith to step up and denounce what he did well the news that I watch did interview some prominent people of muslim faith and they did just that. They didn't want people to say or think that all Muslims act in such a manner. I can not bring myself to think that every muslim throughout the world... be it african muslims, american muslims, european muslims, or middle eastern muslims are all filled with hatred. "

working yet on welfare wrote on Nov 11, 2009 9:32 AM:

" I have worked all my life but at the moment I am receiving foodstamps. It's sad to see some people look down on the ones that have foodstamps or other welfare services. I know that some people may abuse it but think about the ones that don't. I pay taxes just like anyone else does, have children at home that depend on me and I try as hard as I can to take care of them on my own. There are peple out there that hate to be on these services but when you're in a bind, you have to do what you have to do. I certainly don't want to depend on it for the rest of my life, which I won't, but give some of these people a break. Unless you know the situation they're in, don't judge. You shouldn't be judging anyway. There is only one judge and He will take care of the ones that have abused their rights. "

BottomLieN wrote on Nov 11, 2009 11:04 AM:

" Interesting that a candidate for Madisonville Mayor espousing that he supports local buisiness and industry but chooses to hold his campaing announcement during an event that honors those entitites...and then states that Hopkins Co has a higher unemployment rate than the state while at the same time officials were releasing September Unemployment rates that refuted this assertion (Hopkins County had almost a one percent decrease in the unemployment rate as compared to the state)...please, please, please can we have a Republican candidate that isn't just a sounding board of the National Party...a party that has moved so far right that it is sleeping next to the far left "

Land of Huh wrote on Nov 11, 2009 12:26 PM:

" Working, while my issue with the individual was behavior, my overall issue with public assistance is it’s lack of effort to mitigate that type of behavior. I have said nothing against aiding those in need, however when one uses my money poorly I take issue. If someone needs food, then deliver the food. If someone needs rent, then pay the rent. If one is going to use my money for their brief (ahem) time of need then they can forego tattoos, smokes, sodas and junk food. I guarantee you if public assistance took away the option of poor choice via direct purchases less time would be spent on public assistance and the savings would be tremendous. If you are hungry, tomato soup and a glass of milk goes longer than frozen pizza, chips and a Coke. Now, many would ask about a person’s dignity if they can’t “choose”. I maintain that I’d rather be humbled and fed. I am proud of everything I’ve done from washing dishes to running a business. If you’ve never been humbled you will never learn to be a steward of what you’ve been given. Since you like the Bible, go read the thingy about the “talents”….OH, and we ARE allowed to judge someone’s fruits. That’s in there somewhere too if you look for it (or should I tell you where it is?). "

Jimmy Gatlin wrote on Nov 11, 2009 12:57 PM:

" Where was the Department of Homeland Security when all of these red flags were coming up on Hassan? When the DOD, CIA, FBI, or any other government agency sees a potential danger shouldn't they be reporting this to the DHS? I thought that's why we spent billions of dollars on the DHS, to co-ordinate the info from the different agencies. But, it's like everyone is saying, poitical correctness has talken over & we are endangering our country by letting it happen. We no longer can use logic & reason in fear of not being PC. This is the first true TERRORIST ATTACK on American soil since 9/11. What makes it so senseless is if not for PC it could have been avoided. "

local consumer wrote on Nov 12, 2009 4:19 PM:

" Oh I just can't wait to shop at the open house event. Watch out family... all of y'all are getting a six pack of beer. "

An Annoyed Hopkins County Citizen wrote on Nov 12, 2009 10:07 PM:

" my feeling is that there is a good candidate not one that has to be affiliated with a political party. I know it is tradition but i feel when we as a society are so concerned about which political party that everyone is in we soon lose focus aboout what should be done. i feel if we lose the titles of the political parties the government may be able to get something accomplished instead of always focusing on what the other party is thinking. It seems like the two major parties are more focused on how to go against the other party that they are losing sight of their objectives. "

Lisa Satterfield wrote on Nov 13, 2009 9:15 AM:

" A lot of people saw red flags where the Fort Hood shooter was concerned, before the shooting. Theyre all talking to the news media now.But, a lot of people seem strange to us. That doesnt mean they'll be killers. Some of these people hide very well. How many times have they found a serial killer and the neighbors say, "he was such a nice guy, I'm shocked." ?? It's too bad people like that don't come with signs in black and white to wear around their necks. We seem to miss the red flags. "

JAY wrote on Nov 13, 2009 9:51 AM:

" There must be a hiddeen story somewhere about the city of Earli ngton needing a security system because the employees don't feel safe. With the police department in the same building and all I can't imagine what the problem would be since they have never had a security system in their entire existence nor felt the need for one. Oh I bet I know what it is. All the people that appreciate what the Mayor has done have probably called to express that appreciation. Way to go Mayor, now you have your employees fearful in their own workplace because of YOUR actions. "

do what is right wrote on Nov 13, 2009 5:06 PM:

" Jay, your message is more than likely very close to the truth. Our wonderful mayor needs to step out and let someone in who will do something to help the town. "

Good Morning Earlington wrote on Nov 14, 2009 9:58 AM:

" Hey, Earlington: Who's on first? "

No Hope No Change wrote on Nov 19, 2009 11:30 AM:

" In light of the fact of today being "National Smoke-out", I'm going to buy a pack of cigarettes and smoke today only. Since cigarette taxes are used to pay for health care costs, I feel it's my civic duty to do my part. Why should health providers go in the "red" simply because of a national coup? "

telnitlikitis wrote on Nov 25, 2009 8:48 AM:

" QUESTION: Where on earth do the innocent sit in jail while the crimminals are free on bail?
ANSWER: The Greatest Town on Earth! "

Earlington Citizen wrote on Nov 26, 2009 2:55 PM:

" Question: If they are so innocent, why are they sitting in jail?

Answer: Because they aren't innocent...

Think before typing please. "

Rightside wrote on Nov 29, 2009 1:27 PM:

" One question that I've often asked others is: If one area of politically correct or anti-christian science is exposed as dishonest and/or fraudulent, does that cast doubt on other areas too? It should. In light of the recent emails exposing man-made global warming as a complete hoax, perhaps we can also turn our attention to evolution! The sad fact of the case is that despite the facts that man cannot do anything in his/her power to influence the climate, we'll still be forced to under go cap 'n trade, mercury laden light bulbs and solar power because "it's the right thing to do". Regardless of the fact that IT DOESN'T MATTER! So, I ask you: when science discovers (ahem!) the next "lucy" will you question it? As for me, I'm going to leave the light on for ya! "

R.I.P wrote on Nov 29, 2009 11:36 PM:

" If your out on bond for a serious crime and you get caught stealing from a store. Does that violate the conditions of the bond where you are to stay out of trouble? "

Stephen M Boyd wrote on Nov 30, 2009 1:47 PM:

" I would like to respond to the recent shoplifting charge that lead to the arrest of John W Hamilton. as we all remember Hamilton was the person that was arrested and chargedd with the murder in the death of Julie Wooten. Earlington mayor and Pharmcist Mike Seiber posted a $20,000 bond for his lifelong friend. The purpose of this letter is to address the issue that one of his conditions of his bond that he would not have any violation of the law. Since Hamilton broke one of these conditions I believe that Seiber should lose his money and that Hamilton should be transpoted immediately back to the Hopkins County Detention Center. Hamilton should remain under lockup until his trials are scheduled in the courts system. Seiber since your lifelong friend has broken a condition of his bond and thus his actions could result in the lost of your bond money would still classify Hamilton as a lifelong friend. "

R.I.P wrote on Dec 1, 2009 3:48 PM:

" In Hopkins County, it isn't what you've done that decides if you stay in jail or not, it is who you know and what you have on them. Most Corrupt Town on Earth. "

No Hope No Change wrote on Dec 1, 2009 6:22 PM:

" Fact: I just lost 10 minutes of my life reading Mustang's rant. Fact: Nothing posted in that diatribe is true. Fact: Fact check.org is a purely liberal leaning "non-partisan" organization. Fact: Every government program is designed to increase dependancy on government. Fact: There is no government program that does NOT intrude on our lives. Fact: No employer would offer insurance if his employees can get on a public option. Fact: This system will absolutely kill the American way of life and diminish our standing in the world. Fact: When you hear a government cost estimate multiply it by 10. Fact: Liberals LIE to achieve their means. They think of you and I as nothing but peons in their way. Thank you, Mustang. I'll send you your Obama dashboard "jesus" so you can worship some more. "

BottomLieN wrote on Dec 2, 2009 8:07 AM:

" R.IP. & Earlington Citiezne both have posted very similiar statements about someone being put in jail that is released because of who they know. I won't debate them on that argument. However, I would like to aski when you both use the term "Greatest Town on Earth" or "Most Corrupt Town on Earth" as a play on the Madisonville slogon "Best Town on Earth" to which actual city are you referencing? For the record, the jail and the court system are run by county and or state elected officials neither of which Madisonville, or its employess adn or elected officials, have a part in the decisions/actions that take place whithin the confines of those institutions. "

R.I.P wrote on Dec 2, 2009 12:58 PM:

" The County and the city of Madisonville have corruption in them. As do most cities, I believe. "

BottomLieN wrote on Dec 3, 2009 7:51 AM:

" R.I.P.

It is one thing to believe something is true, but quite another to actually have facts that back of the belief. Not saying that you don't have the facts to back up your belief, but if you do, why not publish them here? If there is indeed the corruption that you so speak, then the only way to change that is to publicly provide the details. I for one would be interested in your fact based information on this assertion. "

telnitlikitis wrote on Dec 3, 2009 3:34 PM:

" R.I.P. you have hit the nail right on the head! "

R.I.P wrote on Dec 3, 2009 3:36 PM:

" I'm not gonna say anything in detail on here. "

BottomLieN wrote on Dec 8, 2009 8:04 AM:

" R.I.P.,

Again I am not doubting your beleif related to corruption in local politics; however, if you do have hard physical data, and not just supposition, then please share. If the corruption exists it will not change if it is not publically brought to light backed with physical evidence. Please reconsider sharing your evidence so that we may see a change. Without sharing this information and physical evidence, your beleif remains just that, your beleif and leads to no change for the betterment of our community.

If you don't have any evidence, bu only a supposition, you do more harm to the community by espousing falsehoods, that lead to apathy and no real change on how local elected officials operate. You also disparage many a good folk that are hired by these organizations that go to work each day and offer their service to the benefit of individuals like you and me with very little in the way of public gratitude and for a nominal paycheck. "

R.I.P wrote on Dec 8, 2009 1:57 PM:

" I t isn't a belief, I just don't want to say no more. "

Bottom LieN wrote on Dec 10, 2009 8:03 AM:

" R.I.P.

Not to beat a dead horse, but your just throwing out statements and then not wanting to back them up can only lead the logical person to certain conclusions:

1) You do not in fact have any physical evidence that supports your assertion, and thus just want to throw stones;

2) You are one of the corrupt inidividuals that you so speak of, and are having remorse for your ill deeds of wich you are alluding to in your posts in this forum. However, your remorse has not risen to a level that you wish to "out" yourself and others and take the public backlash that would come from the revelation;

3) You receive some perverted pleasure in offerring up misinformation, or even falsehoods, in this forum to make your self feel better and to put others down;

4) You do in fact have information, not just supposition, on the misdeeds of which you refrence. However, you are afraid to present the eveidnece in fear of backlash to you or your family;

5) Yo are just apathtic to the situation that you infere is occurring and just don't want to get involve.

So, since you were the one that started us down this road , by publicly stating there was corrruption in local government but not presenting evidence to back up your assertment, please let us know whcih of the 5 scenarios above is related to why you will not share the evidence of this corruption so thecorruption can be outed and addressed. "

No Hope No Change wrote on Dec 10, 2009 8:16 PM:

" Ok, I've got to know how much anti-Smoking Czar Lisa Miller makes? Run around town to find out if someone has lit up in a private business? I hope our tax dollars aren't shelling out more that gas money for this! More people die crossing the street than from second hand smoke, so ban THAT! The felons who brought their children in to the smoking establishment probably packed their kids in the car and burned a few before they got home. I'm surprised the Czar didn't track them down, have them cuffed and thrown in the inner dungeon. The whole, laughing notion of a smoking ban equating to better health is about as ridiculous as Global Warming (or cooling?). Junk science that even the WHO said was not a factor in lung cancer. Cigarettes may stink, but taking away public rights smell worse. So do the medical/science field in selecting and reporting only data that fits their template. Put that in your pipe and smoke it. "

Rightside wrote on Dec 13, 2009 11:53 PM:

" I remember when the liberal's coined the phrase "Decade of Greed". The misnomer was generated to besmirch one of the greatest growth and prosperity periods this nation has ever seen in order to steal the reigns of governance from the true stewards of our country. Now, in this "Decade of Need", Obama seeks to solidify a growing dependence on government at the sake of this country's wealth, stature and foundation. In his reckless abandonment of Constitutional law and precedent, his decisions and ideals tear the fabric of this country at the expense of individual liberty and freedom. Beyond the physical cost ($11T+), the destruction of the individual is far more costly. When a person can't rise out of bed without seeking government assistance, the very soul of this country is lost. Our rights and freedoms are not bestowed upon us by Lord Obama. But, to think otherwise is an objective they seek to crush in each and everyone of us. People need a leader. And they need a leader that respects the word "no", the individual and freedom. Obama's disdain for this country's origin and foundation are on full display. Will you hold out your hand to receive the crumbs from his table, or close it to fight for freedom? "

No Hope No Change wrote on Dec 14, 2009 9:56 PM:

" Today I cashed my welfare check and bought a #4 at McDonalds. Would you believe it? They forgot to super size it! Then, at the convenience store, after purchasing a 6 pack, chips and a frozen pizza, the clerk almost forgot to give me my scratch off ticket! As I entered the free health care clinic, I had to put out my half-smoked cigarette (what a waste). Then, I got a call on my I-phone that the cable guy was going to be running 30 minutes late! After all of that, my brother gave me an earfull for borrowing his car all day and not filling it up. it's HIS car! "

Warning Label wrote on Dec 15, 2009 11:00 PM:

" 50 Million Blinds recalled. What has this world come to? How has this country survived so long? From knee pads, to bike helmets to warning labels it seems that the public is incapable of protecting itself from itself. Thank Obama (god) that the government is there to protect us from all the evil companies designing products to harm its consumers. I took inventory of my home and found the following: My bath tub didn't contain a warning label about drowning but my toaster says don't operate near a bath tub. My stairs don't contain a warning label about gravity, but my refridgerator says "don't tip". My coffee cup didn't say anything about removing the lid while driving, but my bed sheet says to not remove the tag. My couch didn't contain a label warning me to lift with my legs and not my back, but my aspirin bottle remains unopened because they've made it impossible. I have to wear a seatbelt when I drive a car but not a helmet or leathers when I ride my motorcycle. I've got plug caps on all of my outlets in the event one of my kids decides to play "hide the fork". My cigarettes say smoking may cause low birth weight, but that may not be bad for smaller women. My keyboard warns about carpel tunnel, but my spatula does not. My SUV is killing polar bears but we've not outlawed volcanoes. My anti-depression medication warns against suicidal thoughts, but there is no such warning on CNBC, CNN, or Obama speeches. I can't lick the walls in my home because of lead paint, but I have to use government mandated light bulbs containing mercury. I can't have a mammogram because I'm not 50 but I can have all the CAT scans...oops that will kill ya too. I should floss more because gum disease can kill, but there is no strangulation warning on the floss packet. WAKE UP people! This is getting out of hand. "

LOL wrote on Dec 16, 2009 10:07 AM:

" OUT OF $53...do you still a tv? You were given money specifically for a tv and what you got should have been trashed instead of being given to Salvation Army. The fact that you are poor does mean you cannot or should not have a tv. People who think ill of you for wanting/buying a tv are much poorer than you are. Pray for them! "

Op Poor tunity wrote on Dec 16, 2009 12:27 PM:

" LOL, this has nothing to do with a "poor" person owning a TV or not. This has to do with the "poor" making "poor" decisions. There are reasons why the poor don't rise out of poverty. It's all about "the now" and entitlement. No one can seem to make a sacrifice today for a better tomorrow. If a poor person decides to buy a $53 TV instead of banking it for a rainy day, then I don't want to hear about the TV not working. If you need to watch TV that bad, go to any local bank downtown and hang out. You won't be disturbing anyone. "

No Hope No Change wrote on Dec 21, 2009 9:36 PM:

" I've decided to employ the Obama Doctrine. In light of my mounting debt and that of my immediate family, I'm going to start spending money I don't have and, most certainly, money my kids don't have now. I need a new car: Write a check. Medical bills piling up: Write a check. Fridge is empty: Write a check. Mortage debt compounding: Write a check. In fact, I'm planning on spending only $5 Trillion this year of money I don't have yet to get out of debt and get caught up. I'm sure my bank will understand. All this will ensure personal growth and rebound. I will be creating and/or saving over 600,000 jobs. My spending will be deficit neutral. I will invest only in those things that come from "green" sources or invest in the like. My spending will be offset by saving money on more expensive items I would have otherwise purchased had I not spent money I didn't have in the first place. I will not seek out corporate "Fat Cats" or things that benefit them. I will only work for poor people. Too long, I've neglected to give them the opportunities stolen from this country's rightful owners. It's all so clear. "

What gives wrote on Dec 23, 2009 8:05 AM:

" Wow, a cop that is accused of beating his wife, AND likes marijuana, maybe I will move to the Gap, I hate paying for my satellite service. "

Fact Checker wrote on Dec 23, 2009 8:43 AM:

" Hey Mustang: regarding your comment about IU and Ralph Sampson. You might want to get your facts straight! Do a Google/Bing search. "

Huh wrote on Dec 23, 2009 7:21 PM:

" Is it standard procedure to obtain a summons for someone for assaulting their wife That is domestic violence and I thought you were arrested for that unless the person who committed the crime can not be found in which case you would have to go to the county attorney for charges. Was Herron there when the deputy investigated the crime? Did he allow him to leave or stay in the home? Did he flee the scene before the deputy arrived? I would think that the police chief would not be hard to find. It appears that this means he was never arrested and his charge will be amended and he will be given probation and or suspended jail time which means he will never go to jail much less spend any time in jail. Seems to me he was given preferential treatment. Also why is it that the Mayor will not suspend him for fear of a lawsuit? Any other department would at the minimum suspend him pending the outcome. On one hand I applaud the Sheriff Department for charging him but on the other hand, it appears they either have 2 sets of standards or they do not have a written policy regarding domestic violence arrests as required by law. If they do, does it say you should get a summons and not arrest the individual if he is a law enforcement officer or part of the criminal justice system? This may sound critical to some, and maybe it is. But hopefully this paper will allow this letter will be posted because I think there are several issues here that people need to think about and discuss. "

veteranteacher wrote on Dec 24, 2009 4:45 PM:

" I thought Ralph Sampson went to Virginia! I remember being a little ticked when he didn't go to Kentucky! "

Belle wrote on Dec 27, 2009 3:32 PM:

" Sad when a policeman is getting accused of spose abuse, i wonder what he would say to someone he arrests for the same crime? " I understand why you did it?" Shamefull to keep a rotten egg in with all the good ones, throw it out Mr. Mayor. Good day "

JT wrote on Dec 28, 2009 8:36 AM:

" This Chirstmas will go down in our family album as the Chinese Gifting. Everything, I mean everything we got or gave came primarily from China. Yes, even the Goodyear floor mats for the truck- made in China. No wonder we have such high unemployment. Hey, Obamamites on Capitol Hill! You want to create jobs here in the US? Bring back our jobs from China, Mexico, and other countries. Remember: if we aren't working, we aren't paying taxes and if we aren't paying taxes, where will your raises come from next year? Oh, yeah. BTW, my dad, who is on SS retirement, says thanks for the BIG RAISE for SS this coming year. Right- the cost of living didn't go up? Where in the world did you get that info? Right- gotta give those illegals their free medical care and practice pre-birth genocide with what little tax money is coming in. "

Morality gone too far wrote on Dec 29, 2009 1:08 PM:

" Re: Mary Sanchez article 12/29: I have long enjoyed the moral relativism displayed by the left. If there is a belief or set of beliefs based on Christianity, you can bet that liberals are against it. Long have we heard "you can't legisilate morality", yet in the absence of moral laws, immorality reigns and is celebrated. Sanchez's recent rant about Ugandan legislation is a prime example. While I am no Rick Warren apologist, his efforts in foreign aid, especially in politically correct Africa, are huge. She's basically against him using his resources coupled with his belief system. Regardless of what a nation imposes as law, and whether or not we agree, how dare SHE determine what's right and moral? I don't recall any articles from Sanchez on Muslim denegration of women? I don't recall any articles of Christian persecution in China, Korea or Russia? I don't recall any articles against Man-Boy Love Assoc. I don't recall any articles on any other national attrocities; nope. Just those who feel homosexuality is a sin or those who express beliefs based upon Christian tenets. Laws don't create morality. They exemplify it. Now, you may disagree with one's version of right and wrong but that doesn't diminish the fact that there is indeed a RIGHT and a WRONG. If Mr. Warren believes homosexuality is a sin AND wants to help countries afflicted with the ramifcations of that sin so be it. Sanchez doesn't have to accept his belief in order to observe the benefits of his generosity. For her benefit, ALL sin is evil. That includes gossip (Hello, MADISONVILLE), adultery, pride, lust and hatred, not just "sanctioned" sexual activities. Perhaps if Uganda said ALL SEX IS GOOD SEX she'd be ok with it. Animals, pedophiles and anything else sanctioned by a governement. No? Then could it be just because something is legal it may not be right? In fact, chafing against societal shifts is completely consitutional, Mssssss Sanchez. "

Airon Later wrote on Dec 30, 2009 9:31 AM:

" It will never cease to amaze me that the bulk of conservatives have little to no sense of even recent history. In light of the failed terrorist attack on Christmas Day, conservatives are literally falling over one another to claim that Obama didn't come out with a statement in time, that his words aren't forceful enough, that his actions - or lack thereof - are emboldening the terrorists. I would like to remind these people that George W. Bush took over a week to make a statement regarding Richard Reid ( The Shoe Bomber ) and that was nothing more than a two sentence statement during a Q&A at Crawford during one of his many "vacations" during his first year in office. But this type of complaint from the reactionary Right is not suprising more-so because they had become accustomed to the theatrics of a Bush administration official statement. So to them I would ask - would you rather a President show calm resolve in the face of terror or have one that displays rabid, cowboy, ferver and shouts "Bring 'em On"? "

To Airon Later wrote on Dec 30, 2009 4:56 PM:

" Huh? Can you guys get off of Bush? Ever? Obama is president, unfortunately and what did he do in this particular case? Zip, Zero, Nada. Personally, I don't care if he even mentioned the attempt at all. He continually displays child-like qualities of indecision, fit throwing and "blame the other guy"-ism's. Obama's only redeeming quality is that he can read a teleprompter like no other before him. Off script, he's worse than Porkie Pig. And boy, oh boy does he love pork! It's the only avenue he has to get votes and support. The economy is ruined because of HIS policies and beliefs. This country is headed to its demise under his watch precisely because of HIM. And make no mistake: It's all about him. This community rable rouser grew up on festered hatred of this country and what made it great. Not what he, supposedly, inherited from Bush. All you lefties can say is "...but Bush, but Bush, but Bush." When are you going to defend anything Obama's done (or undone) without running to mommy and daddy (i.e. the American public) and saying "but Bush".... "

No Hope No Change wrote on Dec 30, 2009 7:13 PM:

" Now that Hopkins County has cured second-hand smoke related cancer by outlawing smoking in privately owned buisnesses (that the public voluntarily went to on their own accord), when is the Health Dept going to address the permanent threat of Radon gas? According to all the health material available, this is the second leading cause of lung cancer and the Health Dept remains conspicuously silent on the matter. How do we know if the establishments we are voluntarily going to are Radon free? Can't smell it? Can't taste it or see it? Certainly can't fine someone (yet) for blatently exposing the public to needless, avoidable levels of Radon and its cancer killing agents! I wonder if public businesses are secretly amping up Radon exposure now that the public can't smoke in their etablishments...voluntarily. According to the Health Dept, the impression given was local business owners didn't care for the public's health. If it's not too much to ask Ms. Miller, please have her test all the public and private businesses and post a nice smiley face on all safe places to go. All violators can then be frog-marched to the Hopkins Co Jail. One other suggestion is for Ms. Miller to drive around in the "dog van" from Dumb and Dumber since it's her job to "sniff out" violators. "

Smart Skooling wrote on Jan 5, 2010 7:27 PM:

" Let's see the savings our tax dollars will bring by purchasing a $12000 software to change bus routes. Perhaps it'll be re-couped in the same time the curly-q light bulbs go in reducing energy costs. As far as Dr. Dan's crusade against fat kids, let 'em walk a bit to a single bus stop! Or just straight on to school. I figure the board will have to hire 10 more administrative people to run the new software too. They've been known for their frugality. "

Frozen Education wrote on Jan 5, 2010 8:35 PM:

" The building are a "little cool" Mr. Stevens? Our children are wearing coats and gloves in the classroom. No one can learn in a 50-60 degree environment. Please fix it!!! "

To Frozen wrote on Jan 6, 2010 5:37 PM:

" Maybe they'll by a $20,000 program on how to heat and cool the buildings in a way that saves money! Perhaps one of the new (recycled) hires can use their new phones to call an HVAC guy in the meantime. "

You say Osama I say Obama wrote on Jan 6, 2010 5:44 PM:

" Well, well, well. Thank you Mr. Systemic Failure. Your administration is proving to be one of the most incompetent and dangerous in history. Can't connect the dots? Missed red flags? I thought that's what you all were skewering Bush over? What about the stupid 911 report that should have solved everything that liberals like you created!? Hope you had fun in Hawaii on our dime! P.S. Say goodbye to Chris Dud and Byron Dorken for me "

No Hope No Change wrote on Jan 6, 2010 9:41 PM:

" In light of the left's "go-to" charge against conservatives, that being racism, I'd like to make one open statement to the President: Dear Mr. Barack Hussain Obama, mmm mmm mmm: It's not the darkness of your skin we have issues with. It's the shroud of darkness you and your administration has and continues to hide behind. During the campaign you were all about "take it to the people", "Everything will be debated openly on CSPAN". Well, we are waiting for you, the "one we were waiting for", to live up to your promise. You told us that everything you'd say and do was "yeah and amen" so we await. Also, since there are more Americans without access to CSPAN than health insurance, we await your plan to provide CSPAN to the nation so we can see all of your promised and open and tranparent debates. We KNOW you want us to see how your, ahem, administration operates. "

Mustang wrote on Jan 14, 2010 8:35 PM:

" Freudian slip....meant to say Kelvin Sampson.....not Ralph Sampson...thank you for setting me straight..... "

Library Board READ THIS wrote on Jan 16, 2010 1:25 AM:

" The recent article about the library board wanting to move the library back to the money pit belonged on the comic page. It totally figures that our governing bodies would want to make sure the taxpayer's money goes to waste cultivating pet projects or preserving the job of a local grant writer making $60000 too much a year. If the library board's goal is to reduce access and traffic, move it back downtown. If the library board likes wasting limited money on a "sinking" building, move it back downtown. If the library board wants to reduce the number of visitors, move it downtown. If the libary board wants to punish the mall, move it downtown. The current location has been the best move they have had to reluctantly agree to. Single-handedly, age of the old structure forced the hand of the board to revitalize the visability and life of the library. Downtown Madisonville as a "gathering place"? That is absolutely hillarious! Get the net people: OLD does not equal HISTORIC. If you have some fondness for nestalgia take a picture of the structure and let Madisonville move into the 19th century for crying out loud. Myopic visions like these do nothing but ensure zero growth and population stagnation. This is why we need change in leadership at all levels. New blood. Not local "legacies" bent on moving backwards instead of forward. "

No Hope No Change wrote on Jan 16, 2010 6:57 AM:

" ....this message board brought to you by The Messenger: Light-skinned, with no Negro dialect (unless it wants to)....
I know the "Filters-that-be" don't feel "all news is fit to print". Hopefully, we can discuss the following: After the paper sucessfully ran their biased anti-smoking campaign, there is now sudden silence on other forms or cancer causing agents. The paper and the Health Department is ingoring the on-going threat of Radon. Their head in the sand attitude is allowing countless deaths to ocurr because they refuse to enforce codes that could save lives. Perhpaps if Radon smelled like a Marlboro we'd see some action. I'm going to request the Copenhagen powers to make sure that Radon starts to stink to raise awareness. The problem is you can't tax a public buisness and regulate Radon. Government hates imposing things when they can't tax the be-jesus out of it, but with the rising cost of health care there is a true delima: Who can they stick it too and how can they enact more legislation. Secondly, the Health Department needs to immediately look into "second-hand parking lot dust". The US Geological Survey has found cancer-causing substances used in sealing parking lots. Here we are. Minding our own business walking in and out of public places and then tracking this killer back to our homes to kill countless millions. Parking lots and driveways across the US contain a coal tar sealant that is being tracked into our homes. The board and our highschool students are silent! Where is the petition? Come on Government! SAVE US "

Bow How wrote on Jan 19, 2010 12:32 PM:

" Why should vets have to be forced into something at all? Regardless of how you feel about little Fluffy or Spot getting the needle, a vet's choice to perform services or not should be completely up to them! There ought to be an investigation? C'mon! Get the heck out of people's private lives and businesses. Do you not understand this is why we are in such a mess now? People wanting the government to enforce something on people. If you're so broken up about this DONATE THE DIFFERENCE YOURSELF. "

What say you wrote on Jan 20, 2010 12:45 PM:

" Well it was just a matter of time until a defense attorney argued (successfully)that his client who is charged with murder should have his bond lowered and released from jail because another person who is charged with a similar crime was released on a much lower bond. After all, the Commonweaelth Attorney admitted that he only recommended a $20.000 bond for John Hamilton because he did not think he could make it. And then, he attempted to get it raised to cover his political backside(unsuccessfully) after it was temporarily revoked. The result of his actions will cause a ripple effect that will see more and more people charged with serious crimes released to roam the streets. I am all for a reasonable bond comparable to the crime committed but don't recommend a bond just because you THINK it is high enough that the defendant can not post it and then try to cover your tracks when it backfires by attetmpting to get it raised. All Mr. Masssamore has done is slap the face of the hard working law enforcement officers who every day work to make our neighborhoods safer as well as the citizens who elected him. I have no doubt that he probably had good intentions. But you know what they say about good intentions.
Remember this when it comes time for him to run for re-election. "

BuyLocal wrote on Jan 20, 2010 1:53 PM:

" I'm not sure if local businesses are "feeling the love" from Mayor Cox since he approved the purchase of six police cruisers from Freedom Dodge in Lexington for the state contract purchase price of $20,185 each.
With the economy the way it is, car dealerships have become quite scarce here in Madisonville and one might think he would be doing everything he could to keep our hard-earned tax dollars in our local economy. I don't know much about state contract prices, but one thing I do know is that Lexington businesses aren't helping out Madisonville's taxpayers. Local dealerships mean local jobs. Please don't just preach "Buy Local", Mayor Cox, we need you to practice it too!! "

Bye Local wrote on Jan 20, 2010 10:09 PM:

" Don't you understand? This is the way of all Government: Do as I say! Without a doubt there are endless excuses why they were bound to purchase out of town and on the surface they'll sound reasonable. But make no mistake, it boils down to they make the rules for US to follow, not them. Even our own Chamber of Commerce has contracted non-local companies for projects that should have been handled locally. The real Q to Mr. Cox is will he fight to change the machine? Nope. "

Can ya HEMI wrote on Jan 21, 2010 1:26 AM:

" To buy local, It would help if the local dealers would try to obtain the state contract on certain items. The cars the police department ordered would cost around 26,500 each without the state contract, would you rather they spend 37,890 more and buy them local? Of course thats your tax dollars they are spending, so they might have to increase the water/sewer rates or electricity or something like that to make up the difference, so why don't you research the resaons behind an entities actions first before comming on here and blowing off at the lip about it? Makes sence to me. "

bleeding heart wrote on Jan 21, 2010 5:39 PM:

" In regards to Sarah Teague's letter to the editor. Yes help our youth, help our teens. There is a drug problem. One of them is slapping adults on the wrist when they commit a crime that is related to drugs. Help them yes, but the criminal should still be punished for committing the crime! We're sending our youths the wrong signal. I'd like to know what your son's charges were, how much time he got, and if he's actually a teen? I hope your son saw the light because Jesus doesn't need the wealthy to do it all. Money isn't going to fix the problem. Being too lenient just gives a lot of people a reason to go to rehab. To STAY OUT OF JAIL...PERIOD, they go right back when they get out, they play the system.I say jail. anybody that truly wants help will seek it. "

Can ya HEMI wrote on Jan 22, 2010 12:28 AM:

" And #3 they are superior police vehicles to the Ford Crown Vic. "

David Jacksons response to Buy Local wrote on Jan 22, 2010 8:40 AM:

" While I can appreciate your concern about the purchase of the police cruisers from an out of town dealership and after speaking with dealership personnell, I believe that the Mayor and City Council have been supportive of local dealerships in the purchase of vehicles and commend them for this. I believe that our support for local businesses should not be politically motivated and should be a guiding principle in every purchase decision. "Buy local" is not just a good slogan - our economic future depends on it. Let's all try to practice it more.
David Jackson, CPA
Mayorial Candidate "

Bye Local wrote on Jan 22, 2010 1:07 PM:

" Support for businesses in general is not the issue, the issue is being guilted into making purchases locally just because they are "local". If our own government can "shop around" for the best deal, then you can bet the tobacco farm that its citizens will, and should, too. In fact, that's why I support our local Wal-Mart and Lowes. But know this, if any local busienss wants to retain or attrack they must be competitive. If not, my purchases move elsewhere which has ZERO impact on City of Madisonville taxe revenue. "

No Hope No Change wrote on Jan 22, 2010 1:17 PM:

" When will Obama admit to failure? Over 60% of the population wants him to flat-out drop healthcare reform. Negative job growth. Record deficits and debt. Wah Wah Wah blame Bush speeches. Dead-end war effort with no exit strategy. Bin Laden still at large. No peace in the Middle east. Sea levels rising. Polar bears dying. Ice caps melting. 50 degrees in January. Carter-like misery indexes. Obsesive about government roles in personal lives. Messianic complex dwindling. Loosing seats. Bless your poor heart Obama. History was made, but not due to your race. It's been made on how fast a president can fail and turn to trash everything touched or attempted. You-da man! "

Rightside wrote on Jan 23, 2010 1:36 PM:

" Leonard Pitts' recent column is a classic. Liberals frequently use tactics like these to distract and intimidate. Of course he totally glosses over the fact the events in Haiti ARE being exploited and used for political posturing. Tragedies always bring out the politicians. They emerge from their thrones, put on their recently purchased "work duds", cop a local accent and smile for the camera. In Obama's case, he also adds the obligatory references to the mistakes in Katrina or the generic "past 8 yrs". Mr Pitts is pathetic. When someone is accused of racism if they express a disagreement over POLICIES, the same applies here: This is politics at the expense of a tragedy. As for me, not a penny will be dontated to relief efforts that are government funded. I will support only faith-based efforts. At least then I know that the "helped" isn't also being "recruited". "

The People wrote on Jan 24, 2010 5:39 PM:

" We the people of Hopkins County would like the latest news on our Humane society. "

Theraflu wrote on Jan 24, 2010 6:05 PM:

" Regarding the letter to the editor addressing the repeat offenders not going to jail. Right on! "

Winsteads Wrong wrote on Jan 24, 2010 7:11 PM:

" Opinionist Linda Winstead's assertion that the Massachusettes voters voted against a Democratic candidate because they believed the pace of change was too slow, is just another Liberal rationalization. American voters, Massachusettes or otherwise, have thoroughly rejected the Obama, Pelosi, Reid hard left they have forced upon the American public. From his embracing of abortion and stem cell research to the pork-barrel blue state attempt to buy votes they called "stimulus" to their totally unpopular health care takeover attempt - Obama, Pelosi and Reid are out of step with mainstream America. While the far left Liberals and radical homosexuals may be displeased with their perception of the "slow" pace of change, real America is truly glad that, for the moment at least, the brakes have been applied and common sense has prevailed. Liberals would serve themselves better to stop rationalizing and start accepting that we, the American voter, are returning to traditional values and common sense government.
Additionally, the only difference between the Supreme Court decision and the Obama, Pelosi, Reid attempt to buy the votes of various "blue-dog" Democrats is that corporations will be using their own money to try to influence elections, not ours.
Good luck Ms. Winstead, the future does not look too bright for Liberals. "

Theraflu wrote on Jan 25, 2010 9:53 AM:

" I did not know that there was a 'Ted Kennedy seat' in MA. The senate seat belongs to the state, not the late Kennedy (or any person). This seat was held by Kennedy for many years, not owned by him. "

michellemalkinfan wrote on Jan 25, 2010 10:55 AM:

" Winstead should be happy, house, senate, white house. Got them all. Everything should be perfect no?
Remember when the democrats took over both houses, we got $4 gal. gas, inflation, stock market tumble. What did they do? blame Bush even though they said they could make it better. What do they do now? blame Bush.

Well, he may have had a hand in a lot of it, but guess what, he is no longer president and hasn't been for over a year.

It is time for democrats to claim ownership, good or bad. "

BIG on Girl Scouts wrote on Jan 25, 2010 1:10 PM:

" I may not have come across the paper's recent article on obesity or Dr. Dan's letter to the ed on said subject, but am anxiously awaiting them decrying the purchases of Girl Scout Cookies. Obesity kills and It shocks me this organization has failed to heed Mrs. Obama's warnings as well as our local Health Department. I know the Scouts don't intend to promote obesity but how are we to say "no" to these little purveyors of useless, nutrition-less so-called foods. Just as the cartoonish "Joe Camel" spawned generations of underage smoking, how are we to turn down a cute little 7yr-old, batting their eyes in their little uniforms squeaking "would you like to buy some cookies?". Next year's shake-down should drop the cookies for celery stalks and tuna fish (at $6 per box). Or just have the girls ask for cash. "

Re Winstead wrote on Jan 25, 2010 1:19 PM:

" Only add one thing: Many of American Voters voted this clown in the oval office either A) Knowing full well what they were getting B) Hoping they were going to get what they heard but totally ignored the warnings because "it was about time" or C) Were flat out ignorant. Groups B & C may be converting but they are represent a large population of people who aren't grounded in any core beliefs: Re: Moderates! Conservatism flat out stayed home. They figured they'd be voting for a White-Obama and didn't wanna go there. "

No Hope No Change wrote on Jan 25, 2010 1:33 PM:

" "People", don't you get it? No more articles are necessary. The Messenger accomplished its goal in a similar fashion to the smoking ban. They don't care about any other cancer causing agents and now that Lacy is out all is well: No more deaths. Adoptions at all time high. Financial integrity restored. Every kitten is "hair ball" free. Every doggie petted 8 times per day. It's all sunshine and raninbows. "

guest wrote on Jan 25, 2010 1:38 PM:

" What's with these high school kids smoking at the bus stops? "

Barky wrote on Jan 25, 2010 3:32 PM:

" What I wonder is why did it take articles in the paper to get anything done?
If all this was going on, and our elected leaders didn't want it to go on, they should have done something sooner.
Seems like an election year ploy. "

Guest what wrote on Jan 25, 2010 5:32 PM:

" It's because they can't smoke in school. "

No Hope No Change wrote on Jan 25, 2010 5:38 PM:

" Barky, now you're getting it. It shows the power of those in the media and how they shape public opinion under the guise of "informing" the public. Not one media outlet, with the exception of FOX, states who they are and what they are about. It would be like, oh I don't know, expecting a politically left-leaning columnist teaching history "objectively". "

Christmas wrote on Jan 26, 2010 12:45 AM:

" Christmas 2009 has come and gone but there is still a house on highway 62 east right past highway 112 that still has their Christmas lights displayed please turn these lights off. I cannot understand why the owners would have them on at the end of january "

Bow Wow Yippee Yo Yippee Yah wrote on Jan 26, 2010 7:23 AM:

" Bow How,

You misinterpreted my request for more investigation of local vets not participating.in helping with Spay Neutering program. My suggestion for more investigation was to actually investigate if local vets have indeed refused to participate and not just take the word of the Humane Society Board, I mean to actually call local vets and personally ask them if this information is true.

You alos missed the point that I made that if it was about $$$ then use the money that is going to be spent transporting the animals 90 miles roundtrip to pay the local vets (so they are not loosing money).

No where did I say that the local vets should be made to participate. But I do find it quite unusual that every single local vet apparently said that they can't participate do to the local cost.

Another question that should be asked, "Did the local Humane Society apply for a grant like the one Evansville received?" If not, why not. If so, is there a possibility that they could receive funding in the next cycle, or are they even looking?

Just seems to me that there are still many questions to be asked and answered about the issue and would love to see addittional reporting on the matter. "

TO Library Board Read This wrote on Jan 26, 2010 7:41 AM:

" Maam/Sir,

Please check your facts before ranting on this space.

Fact - The County hires a grant writer and the City employess a Community Development Director that has the duties of securing grants for City projects. Niether make anywhere near $60,000 a year. As public employees their salary are public record, look them up for yourself.

Fact - The downtown buildings that the Library ownes have not had a specific proposal submitted for their repair, but only an estimate of a ballpark figure that it amy take to repair the buildings. They were not forced to relocate from those building but chose to do so.

Fact - One of the ballpark figures received by the library board to secure the foundation of the building, was for only $50,0000 and the City offerred to make a grant application on the library's behalf for almost half of that total.

Fact - foot traffic numbers (by visitors per month) is less at the library's current location than when it was downtwon. Library Director has publicaly confirmed this sseveral times.

Fact - Library could choose to renovate existing structure that they own for about 1/3 of the cost of building a new structure.

Fact - Library personnel have stated publicaly that they don't have enough space at the mall.

Fact - Have you been to the summer concert series Friday Night Live? From attending this event last summer, several thousand people gathering downtown several times throughout the summer seems like the definition of a gathering place to me.

Fact - Library Director has been pushing for a library tax to be enacted for several years and the Fiscal Court has failed to do so.

City and County contribute nealry $500,000 combined to support the library (direct appropriations and coal severance dollars), why shouldn't they have a vocie in any decisions to relocate?

To quote the analgy that was used in the paper, "If your truck has a flat tire, you fix the flat and don't go looking for a new car" "

No Hope No Change wrote on Jan 27, 2010 6:27 PM:

" Tonight you are going to hear the Party of No. No jobs. No debt reduction. No plan. No reduction of spending. No recovery. Nothing. You will hear a soaring speech about "working harder than ever", "over coming the challenges of the past 8yrs", false promises of spending freeze in one hand and more stimulus spending in the other. I've got to go now. The soup line is getting full and since I've been on hold to renew my unemployment benefits I need to make sure I'm home in time to watch my TV purchased from Goodwill. Welcome to the Unemployed States of America. "

Miranda where are you wrote on Jan 27, 2010 6:28 PM:

" Somewhere in the Middle East, a little boy is dreaming of Jihad with the right to remain silent.... "

Rightside wrote on Jan 28, 2010 1:09 AM:

" Mr. Obama, you have the White House, Senate and House. WHY should the republicans vote with your side on anything? Liberals won. Use your own side to pass your job and American-killing legislation and do it without us. It seems funny when your own side of the aisle doesn't tow the line it's somehow our fault. Get the net: You shouldn't need our votes for anything. Enjoyed your show last night. You read well. "

Hope Miller wrote on Jan 28, 2010 1:30 PM:

" How fitting The Messenger printed another diatribe from another typical, closed minded and uninformed liberal on the day after His Majesty's speech. The Supreme Court's decision has been one bright spot in an otherwise dismal 12+ months. It's funny how she decries a 5-4 decision when it didn't go her way. Also funny was the citation of "no precedent" when this space is way too small to cite numerous ruling that had no precedent (abortion anyone???). The question if they'd ever read the Constitution was a great add-on. I would ask the 4 illiterates who voted "no" the same question. The best part is when she posted some quirky website so you can join other voices. Sounds like a group of people coming togther to voice a comon concern; the very thing she decried in the first place. Hope, how is your $-donated any different? Is not your $ being donated to acquire influence or show support? I don't understand this at all: You don't mind an individual giving money (voice) to a candidate but you totally abhor a group pooling their money to unite many voices together. What gives you the right, or anyone like minded, to determine who can donate and support? Corporations are owned by people. Those people have a right to voice their concerns and support any candidate they wish. The NEA is no different. They lobby and throw money at candidates too. Also, money doesn't equal a "win" either. You have generations of Hopkins Countians who hate Democratic and Liberal agendas but will forever blindly vote the "D" ticket. While you remain silent, I'll enjoy my free speech. "

No Hope No Change wrote on Jan 28, 2010 11:28 PM:

" There are those that are ignorant and those that are willingly ignorant. The latter defines the Democratic Party and liberals in general. To think that tax cuts caused the financial meltdown is a display of sheer ignorance. To think that there was no accountability when it was in fact government oversight forcing banks to make bad loans. What defines irresponsible government spending? Unfortunately Bush gave the left everything they wanted. Ted Kennedy wrote No Child Left Behind and the left cried he didn't spend too much. Taxes create poverty. Spending future generations of money ensures decline and decay. Government intervention ensures chaos and havoc. Banks used to be allowed to say "no" but the left cried racism and red-lining. The GOP demanded oversight and investigation of Freddie and Fannie but your beloved liberals told us all was fine. NCLB demanded teacher accountability but the teachers unions pushed back claiming burdensome "oversight". Obama promised unemployment of no more than 8%. Obama promised no lobbyist in his administration. Obama promised transparency. Obama promised no pork. Obama promised CSPAN hearings. Obama promised Caterpiller would hire again. To parapharase Joe Wilson's profound statement: He lies. "

No Hope No Change wrote on Jan 28, 2010 11:38 PM:

" Dear Senator from Exxon Oil. Now that the tape has been removed from your mouth thanks to the Supreme Court, can we please drill for our own oil now? You can even sell some to Mustang. "

Airon Later wrote on Jan 29, 2010 8:18 AM:

" The movement that continually espouses "accountability" doesn't seem to understand that that applies to them as well. Conservatives, with every ounce of their reactionary breath, leap to defend George W. Bush each and every time a factually accurate statement is made regarding his administration policies. This isn't surprising in the least, considering Obama's widely accepted State Of The Union address. It was proprietary for the conservative movement to diminish, in any way possible, this very pedagogical address to our nation. Not once in the address did Obama mention Bush by name, but there were moments where he mentioned the state of the economy that he was left with. This, no matter what ideological bent you ascribe to, is fact - period. There is no dismissing or removing the fact that conservative policies ( or lack thereof ) were absolute failures for our nation. Massive deregulation and turning a blind eye to Wall Street's activities were all part of the Republican platform throughout the bulk of the Bush occupation of the White House. Of course, conservatives are all too eager to claim that all the ills that plague this country were due to the Democrats taking control of The House Of Representatives in 2006. A convenient talking point, but it doesn’t reach much further than that. I will offer this caveat - simply defaulting to blaming George W. Bush for the problems of this country without provide any form of supplemental information to back up your assertion isn't a very intelligent form of socio-political discourse. Within that context, conservatives should think twice before verbally attacking Barack Obama. No one with even a partially functioning brainstem could even believe that Obama should have been able to fix everything within 12 months - no one can do that. If conservatives are going to preach accountability, they need to understand that it applies to everyone. "

Tom Clinton Pro Life wrote on Jan 30, 2010 7:23 AM:

" Mr. Clinton - thank you for standing for life. While I disagree with your premise that capital punishment values the life of the victims more than the life of the murderers. (It would seem that lack of capital punishment would value the life of the murderers more than the life of the victims). Your stand for the lives of the unborn, the elderly and infirmed is heroicm, much needed and very much appreciated. Thanks and Peace to you too. "

New Messenger Electronic Format wrote on Jan 30, 2010 7:40 AM:

" I love the new electronic format - it's is really awesome. Thanks for all you do to cover news and events in our town and for allowing our voices to be heard in the Soundoff! forum. "

Mor-on Later wrote on Jan 30, 2010 11:14 AM:

" The movement that continually espouses "accountability" doesn't seem to understand that that applies to them as well. Liberals, with every ounce of their reactionary breath, leap to defend Obama each and every time a factually accurate statement is made regarding his administration policies. This isn't surprising in the least, considering Obama's dismal State Of The Union address. It was not surpristing for the liberal movement to wishfully enhance, in any way possible, this very messianic address to our nation. Not once in the address did Obama mention any broken or un-kept promises, but there were moments where he falsely characterized the state of the economy that he was left with. This, no matter what ideological bent you ascribe to, is fact - period. There is no dismissing or removing the fact that liberal policies (coupled with House and Sentate majorities) were absolute failures for our nation. Massive regulation, turning a blind eye liberal insider activities while taking Wall Street campaign monies were all part of the Democratic platform throughout Obama's very limited Sentate term and his entire campgaign further ensconsed at the White House. Of course, liberals are all too eager to claim that all the ills that plague this country were due Bush, ignoring the fact of the Democrats taking control of The House Of Representatives in 2006. A convenient talking point, but it doesn t reach much further than that. I will offer this caveat - simply defaulting to blaming George W. Bush for the problems of this country while ignoring all forms of factual information that prove your opposition's assertion isn't a very intelligent form of socio-political discourse. Within that context, liberals should think twice before verbally attacking George Bush. Liberals, defined as those with a partially functioning brainstem, believed that Obama should have been able to fix everything within 12 months - despite conservatives warning everyone he couldn't but in fact would ruin the economy and country faster than anyone could imagine. If liberals are going to preach accountability, they need to understand that it applies to everyone. "

No school wrote on Jan 30, 2010 1:24 PM:

" The county called off school for Friday on a prediction. A prediction! This is the second time I can remember in the last couple of years this has happened. Also, let us not forget the missed day because it was windy. What is all this about? "

No courthouse wrote on Jan 30, 2010 1:27 PM:

" To KC: Don't worry. There will not be a new courthouse. The county has to show X amount of progress or they will lose their funding. If you have driven by you know they will not make it. Great leadership. "

No Hope No Change wrote on Feb 1, 2010 6:41 PM:

" So, Nancy "more botox please" Pelosi gets to spend $2Mil of our money to fly around her family. Obama increases spending this year in order to lock it in and call it a spending freeze. I remember back in the good ol' days when Conservatives ran things, we were rail-roaded for trying to eliminate automatic budget increases; the libs would say we were "cutting" this or that (remember the school lunch programs?). The deal was, from a Liberal's twisted mindset: If a budgeted line, school lunch, was to get a 3% increase year over year, the suspension of that increase was called a "cut". Obama, name the nation that taxed its way into prosperity? 17% realized unemployement. No hope but certainly a lot of change for people. At least turn some water to wine so people can drown their sorrows. "

Un Planned Parenthood wrote on Feb 1, 2010 9:24 PM:

" Darn Christian Extremists! How dare they try to preach to us using the Super Bowl. Everyone knows Mr. Tebow should have been aborted. After all the risks to the mother and the fact that the Supreme Court found "choice" somewhere in the Constitution. This is going to cause needless and countless maternal deaths (we don't consider it life IN the womb or partially extracted). Not everyone turns out to be a quarterback headed for millions. Yes, this is the same group that says ABSTAINING from something doesn't work. "

Rightside wrote on Feb 1, 2010 9:57 PM:

" Can anyone explan to me how rasing taxes on the "rich" has improved their lives? The poor don't pay taxes at all, get more cash benefits than anyone, subsidies abouding and yet they still maintain this "stick it to the man" mindset with nothing ever trickling down to them. My taxes don't benefit Joe Sixpack. In fact, my tax increases ensure that I won't be able to hire Joe. I have to re-group just to make sure my company is viable to weather the next 3 - 7 years. I'm sure I have employees who envy my car and house having no clue as to where I came from and what I had to do myself in order to create the very company that employs them. They'll complain to the bank about my greed while cashing their payroll or bonus check. They'll vote for policies that make it tougher and more expensive for me to offer benefits. They'll work 38 hours and try to claim 40. They live on credit while I've worked, saved and done without for a majority of my life. They'll stand in the unemployement line for hours on end but won't work one hour of overtime. They get a $7000 tax credit and a $8000 check back from Uncle Sam while I pay 40% of my income in taxes. Then they sit there, like a deer in headlights, when the layoffs start happening...wondering what hit them and still blame me. "

Saving Gas wrote on Feb 1, 2010 9:59 PM:

" Hey, No School. The new bus program said to call off school in order to save on gas. I wonder if the same program will have them drive to Henderson to save an additional $0.30/per gallon? "

Airon Later wrote on Feb 2, 2010 8:09 AM:

" Re: Mor-on Later

That's very clever, rearranging the context of my piece without once showing an ounce of intellectual integrity, honesty, or quite frankly originality. But this is part and parcel for conservatives. This style of "plug and play" political discourse essentially proves a very valid point - conservatives have not one plan for this country other than to demonize those that would dare speak the name of George W. Bush in less than reverent tones. They have to healthcare plan, no energy plan, no plan for financial regulation, and they never had a War On Terror plan other than "stay the course". The only change that has been made within this country is one of mere speculation. I challenge any conservative to name one freedom you have lost, one liberty that has been taken from you. The realities of our current economic climate are direct reflections on this "party of no" that conservatives look up to as saviors of the nation. From the housing bubble, to tax cuts that literally provided a break for 1% of the population and cost twice what proposed healthcare reform will, to deficit increases the likes of which have never been seen ( considering Bush did so much "off the books" spending ) I am literally embarrassed to see people defending not just George W. Bush, but the conservative movement. All these faux-populists that have cropped up across the country, claiming that they aren't Republican or Democrat are nothing more but sore losers that are afraid to admit that they were wrong in 2000 and 2004. They amount to nothing but ill-informed reactionary creatures created by Frank Luntz talking points, bused across the country by Dick Armey and FreedomWorks, and have their message broadcast daily by Fox"News". These fringe conservatives have fractured the GOP and are now even becoming internally divided. Though their message machine is powerful, one has to be able to separate the "truth" from the "message". This is something that conservatives simply lack the ability to do - separate fantasy from reality. One can't but look at people like Glenn Beck, Sarah Palin, and Rush Limbaugh and wonder exactly when they lost the plot. They are pushing a faulty message and motivating people out of fear. Conservatives need to stop being afraid and own up to their past mistakes, realize that this country is still free and can put back on track - and we're already seeing signs that a recovery has started. Conservatives need to stop allowing themselves to be lied to by those claiming to have their better interests at heart, because you are all too eagerly distributing these lies to everyone else and your fear grows until you get to the point we are at now. Stop living the lie - it's the first step to being taken seriously. "

Mor-on Later wrote on Feb 2, 2010 1:03 PM:

" ...Uh, ok. Looks like I've been put in my place. You appear to be very disturbed at how easily your words were turned on you with factual accuracies sprinkled in. You, sir, conveniently ignore facts (gun ownership rights removed), make up your own (tax cuts for the top 1%) nor cannot face the fact that Obama is purposely distroying this country. Conservatives will welcome you to our side of the aisle and do so without saying "I told ya so" once you've woken up from your kool-aid stouper. "

Trover Priorities wrote on Feb 2, 2010 4:12 PM:

" Trover Health System sure has it's priorities in order. In an article in The Messenger 2-2-10 it reports that RMC (which is part of Trover) is purchasing an Otis Spunkmayer machine will will be used to bake cookes "with someone assigned to oversee it."
HHmmm. That is an interesting use of manpower.
In an article dated 1-5-08 in The Messenger regarding Trover Health System eliminating forty jobs, a Trover official was quoted as saying "Officials examined operations, then cut jobs deemed as not necessary to get the work done."
I guess at that time they did not need to bake cookies.
So next time you call to make an appointment with a doctor and they don't have enough phone operators working so you get placed on hold for a significant amount of time, just take solace in knowing that at least the cookies are being overseen. "

RE Mor-On Later wrote on Feb 2, 2010 4:14 PM:

" Interesting that you feel you can determine my emotional state from text on a screen. But that aside, please allow me to educate you on the reality of The Bush Tax Cuts. Here is some relavent data - you know "facts".

They cost more than proposed healthcare legislation:

http://www.politifact.com/truth-o-meter/statements/2009/jun/24/paul-krugman/bush-tax-cuts-health-care-probably/

http://crooksandliars.com/susie-madrak/study-bush-tax-cuts-cost-more-twice-m

http://thinkprogress.org/2009/02/07/recovery-v-bush-tax-cuts/

They benefited top 1% in this country:

http://www.nytimes.com/2007/01/08/washington/08tax.html

http://www.cbpp.org/4-14-04tax-sum.htm

And your laughable claim that the right to gun ownership has been taken away, I would have to ask you to provide some verifiable source, as I am a gun owner and my brother recently purchased two.

Of course, if you are refering to the completely discredited notion that Obama is proposing legislation to have all guns registered and taxed this fiscal year, that meme has been around since Clinton's first term. It was a lie then and it's a lie now.

You also appear to be taking your economic cues from the likes of Glenn Beck and Rush Limbaugh. I would take great care before aligning yourself with those two, as they are paid to be as inflammatory as possible. But, as pointed out in my previous response to you, that's why they are so successful - you can't wait to be lied to in order to validate your own irrational fears. "

Mor-on-mor Later wrote on Feb 2, 2010 10:09 PM:

" Here's some freedoms lost: Ever heard of assualt weapons bans? What about school choice? Christian symbols removed? Parental notification in abortions? Must you trust so much in a government that carves and carves away freedom? Taxes by their very nature take freedom from us. The Bush tax cuts gave us 5million jobs (that Obama has erased completely) despite a Democratic congress increasing spending by 42%. It was congressional spending that eroded any revenues generated by the 2003 tax cuts. Congress spent $500B when they heard they have a $300B surplus (projected mind you). The fact is if you want to discourge or kill something you tax it. Another fact is you can't lower taxes on people THAT DON'T PAY TAXES. The top 50% of all earners pay 97% of the income taxes. Much much more than the top 1% received a benefit from the Bush cuts. The top 50% of wage earners includes Even the WSJ reported that the richest 1% saw a 2% increase (37 to 39% AFTER the Bush cuts). You want facts, stay off the tin-foil, black helicopter sites and visit Heritage.org or even the IRS's own website. The numbers don't lie. The poor just aren't paying their fair share and we have less freedoms. "

Wake Up Airon Later wrote on Feb 3, 2010 5:59 AM:

" You asked about loss of freedoms, let me suggest a few:
1) I cannot hunt unless I purchase a permit from the government
2) I cannot fish unless I purchase a permit from the government
3) I cannot improve my property unless I purchase a building permit, you guessed it, from the government
4) The law of the land requires me to wear a seatbelt in my car which is equipped with hundreds of safetly features including about 4 airbags that deploy in the event of a crash
5) Although I am not a smoker, we watched as locally a non-elected body passed legislation that essentially took away private property rights and then watched as the elected body tried to save face and modify the rules
6) We have recently seen the Obama administration expand the definition of streams to include any place that water will run off at all so they can essentially take away our right to make a living in the mining industry.
I believe the list could go on ad nauseam and you wonder why conservative folks of every political stripe - republican, democrat and independent - are less than trusting of an Administration that sees the expansion of government as the answer to everyone's problems. Let me quote a real Republican, Ronald Reagan, "Government is not the answer to our problems - it is the problem."
We have to find ways to decrease the tax burden borne by all our citizens so that free enterprise will flourish again in our country. Every parents dream is for their children to have a better life than they had and the only way to accomplish this is to give people an incentive to work hard to accomplish great things. The system of dependence only enslaves the poor to a party that would rather have them vote for a living than to give them real opportunity. I believe there are decent, honest, moral men and women on both sides of this political argument, but, as far as I can see, the only hope for this city, state and nation is to return to the values that put us ahead of every country in the world - honor God, work hard and love your family. These are neither Republican or Democrat values - they are American values. Also, thank God we live in a country where we can express these opinions. "

No Presidents Day Off wrote on Feb 3, 2010 6:34 AM:

" Not to seem politically incorrect or anything, but why did our school children just celebrate Martin Luther King, Jr. Day with a day off from school, but now the school board has declared Presidents' Day as a makeup day?? Dr. King's accomplishments are without question and I believe the national condition was improved for his contributions. But that in no way diminishes the value of the contributions of Presidents Washington and Lincoln we celebrate on Presidents' Day. President Washington led our nation to victory on the battlefield in securing our freedom from British colonization and then refused to be crowned as king of America, instead insisting that the 13 original "states" come together under a duly and regularly elected president. Abraham Lincoln presided over a nation horribly divided and, through the Emancipation Proclamation, began the process later championed by Dr. King. While all 3 of the aforementioned heroes accomplished great things for our country, we should not allow the accomplishments of the Presidents to be marginalized in the name of political correctness and our children be taught, directly or indirectly, that political correctness trumps historical accomplishment. I don't really want the kids home another day, but, in this case, it would be the right thing to do. "

Dont C wrote on Feb 4, 2010 10:43 AM:

" I don't get it. If the clerk was seen on video surveillance taking the purse, why was he charged with receiving stolen property and not the actual theft of the purse. I know the receiving stolen property is easier to prove becasue you only need to prove he received it but if you have him on video taking it, that should be jsut as easy to prove. Sounds like he stole it anyway and did not "snatch" it. Snatching it means he took it from her person with force. If he had done that, they would have known who he was and would not have to rely on the video and he could have been charged with a felony. If he took it when she was not looking, then that is theft and was a misdemeanor depending on the amount of money in the purse(which apparently in this case was under the felony threshold.) "

Shame on the Chamber of Commerce wrote on Feb 5, 2010 9:48 AM:

" Shame on the Chamber of Commerce -
This was taken from today’s (February 5) Messenger regarding the increase in unemployment taxes being inflicted on Kentucky businesses. Even if our legislators won’t make the tough choices and cut unnecessary spending in order to fuel economic growth, you would think the Kentucky Chamber of Commerce would act as an advocate instead of rubber-stamping this tax increase that is certain to cost us needed jobs and pay increases.
“Democratic Rep. Larry Clark of Louisville, the bill's lead sponsor, said the proposal would "start us down the road to solvency."
The bill would generate an estimated $213 million in extra tax revenue in the next 12 years to help replenish the trust fund. It would do so by increasing the so-called taxable wage base.
Employers currently pay taxes on the first $8,000 of an employee's wages to support the trust fund. In 2012, that threshold would be raised to $9,000. The amount would go up another $300 each year until that taxable base reaches $12,000 in 2022.
David Adkisson, president and CEO of the Kentucky Chamber of Commerce, said employers would face a much higher tax burden if the state does nothing to shore up the trust fund other than continue borrowing from the federal government.”
The state legislature has demonstrated their refusal to act responsibly and to make the difficult, even politically risky, decisions to cut unnecessary, wasteful spending and government programs. When will they realize that every tax increase, every increase of the burden they put on businesses and working men and women bring us one step closer to the financial abyss?
The only way to truly stimulate the economy is to cut taxes - to allow the taxpayers to keep more of their hard-earned money. I call upon the Kentucky Chamber of Commerce to reverse its support for this job-killing tax increase and truly be the advocate businesses are paying them to be. "

.45ACP wrote on Feb 6, 2010 1:10 AM:

" Mayor Stafford,
I'm glad this latest round of black eyes is over with for your city, best of luck choosing a new chief! "

BIG on Girl Scouts wrote on Feb 6, 2010 4:51 PM:

" Wow. The Feb 3 Messenger featured a GS fundraiser on page one featuring...you guessed it DESSERTS. Page 8 of that same issue featured an article of Mrs. Obama's goal of addressing childhood obesity. So now we have an interesting picture: On the one hand we are to support the Girl Scouts by consuming massive amounts of nutrition-less cookies and desserts and on the other hand we have the First Lady championing a focus on obesity. DR. DAN WHERE ARE YOU.... "

No Hope No Change wrote on Feb 6, 2010 4:56 PM:

" Mr. Lowery, after your many contributions to The Messenger, it comes as no surprise that ANY critique of the Messiah would be labeled "ignorant" by you. As you are don't feel the current mess is Obama's doing, how do YOU feel about the new $1.6T he HAS given us? At least we can agree on blaming him for that!? I hope you don't own a Toyota. That would show a lack of support for Obama-Motors. "

Rightside wrote on Feb 6, 2010 8:58 PM:

" The level of sensitivity of this administration has reached a new low. From Obama's "special olympics" jab to his girls being "punished" with a pregnacy to the recent Chief of Staff insult of "retards", they really are showing their stripes. Since Obama spent 20 years in one church but didn't hear any sermons, he may also have missed the "out of the abundance of the heart" scripture but that doesn't mean he won't apply it from time to time. "

Obama Mortition wrote on Feb 6, 2010 9:07 PM:

" I went to a funeral today. The deceased was wearing a shirt that said "I voted for Obama and all I got was this lousy T-shirt". "

Airon Later RE Girl Scout Cookies And Michelle Obama wrote on Feb 8, 2010 12:08 PM:

" I'm not entirely sure if you are attempting to make a slight against the First Lady or how the paper has chosen to be formatted for that date, but here's the simple answer.....

Just because a Girl Scout troop offers you cookies and you decide to buy them doesn't mean you have to gorge yourself on them. You can still enjoy yoru desserts and not be obese - it's a very simple concept. "

BIG on Girl Scouts wrote on Feb 9, 2010 9:46 PM:

" Airon, nice to see you recognize the fact that people don't need the government to assist them in everyday decisions. Too bad Mrs. Barack H. Obama doesn't feel the same way. Also, since second hand smoking was tackled by the Health Dept, it seems they have to find a new enemy; that being obesity. I guess it doesn't occur to many people that they can control themselves without some government entity telling them when, where, what and how much. BTW, I just write a check to my little solicitors and forego the cookies. "

Cross Words wrote on Feb 11, 2010 10:05 AM:

" I hate, hate, the new crossword format in the paper
Bring back the old crosswords "

For Whom Does the Bell Toll wrote on Feb 11, 2010 7:45 PM:

" Does anybody besides me think the bells downtown go on for a little too long? "

No Hope No Change wrote on Feb 13, 2010 11:00 AM:

" Bishop, your recent letter to the paper was a very overt and offensive racist remark. You believe that saying who voted for who infers racism? I supported Alan Keyes in 1992 and 1996 because the Republican candidates were weak and his message was spot-on. I'm sure you didn't support him; was that racist? You sir, as well as other week-knee'd accusors, attempt to back down critcs of Obama by playing the ol' "skin tone" card. If Mr. Cox voted for Obama, then he needs to stand up and show account as well as defend the "why". Too many Dems in this area vote party-only. If Mr. Cox's decision was such, then that shows intellectual weakness (or a political move to curry favor with the new Gov.) Obama's policies are killing our nation. In light of all the attacks Obama has suffered (J.Jackson, Clinton, Reid, etc) your citation of candidate Jackson's a funny one, but not in the "ha ha" way. I hope Pastor Wright has another saliant message for you tomorrow. "

Family Ties wrote on Feb 13, 2010 11:47 PM:

" I'm glad to see Rep Yonts championing prisoner issues if theyre riot over their choice of food. After that's tackled, perhaps he'll deal with prisoners rioting over their sentences. I'm sure more than one would like to have their convictions overturned or their sentences shortened. I mean, how's a person supposed to react when they are handed a 20 year sentence and EXPECT to serve it? It'd be nice if Rep Yonts could have everyone's sentence reduced to over half. "

JAY wrote on Feb 14, 2010 1:01 PM:

" Representative Yonts only decided to champoin the priison food issue after his son was sent to prison for a fatal hit and run in Calloway County Kentucky in which he was intoxicated. He continues to use the riot as the cause when everyone knows differently. The investigation revealed that the prison riot he continues to refer to was not caused by the food quality at all. And oh by the way family ties, he did use his political clout to get his son's prsion sentence reduced from what a jury of his peers recommended. "

Rightside wrote on Feb 14, 2010 8:40 PM:

" Linda Winstead's defense of man-made global warming comes as no surprise. The science was settled that the Earth was the center of our universe. The science was settled that the Earth was flat. The science was settled that the atom was the smallest particle. The science was settled on a coming ice-age and now warming. Yet, with each new day, year, century and so on science changes or discovers something new. Science fears extinction of animals but continues to discover new life. For the IPCC or any scientist to claim man-made global warming settled is a new height of arrogance. Ignorance of weather patterns and sun-spots as well as dissenting scientists alone cast more doubt on the subject. Those on the rightside of the issue knowit while those on the leftside fear it. As recently as 2005 citations of the lack of snow and snow patterns "proved" warming trends. Now, you can't sneeze, can sneeze, breathe, don't breathe; basically anything changing proves global warming. To think that curly light bulbs and electric cars can influence God-made atmospheric conditions places man above God. Therin lies the issue and why those on the left hate, yes hate, anyone willing to stand against them. Whether you fear God or not, oppose a liberal and watch the wrath. How dare you plebs question those annointed with power, education and influence? For all of her arguments for warming, there are 2 in opposition. "

Marion for City Council wrote on Feb 14, 2010 9:06 PM:

" Is it true that Bishop Raymond Marion is running for City Council in this years election? If it is true, I encourage the people of his district reject such divisive political rhetoric. Bishop Marion, if you kinew David Jackson, you would know that his is a multi racial family. (He and his wife adopted two children from Guatemala.) If you knew David Jackson, you would know that the church he pastors is multi ethnic and ministers to hundreds of African American children each year. But the sad fact is Bishop Marion, you don't know David Jackson. His criticism of Will Cox supporting any candidate who made clear statements against coal is not racially motivated, but it is a real statement of fact. I hope Bishop Marion, that one day you do get to know David Jackson - as the next Mayor of Madisonville. "

Winsteads Folly wrote on Feb 15, 2010 8:30 AM:

" Linda, back in the day, restrooms all over America installed (coerced?) those stupid hairdryers-on-walls. Each one plastered with the "save a tree / save the planet" sticker to make you feel better while your hands dripped water everywhere and water blew all over the front of your pants. Science at the time was worried about landfills and "non-renewable resources" such as trees. What science didn't tell the public was that trees are completely renewable, like corn, wheat & tobacco. What science didn't tell was those hairdryers used ELECTRICITY. How do we get electricity? We burn coal which they now say is killing the planet. So, the conundrum? Kill a tree or kill the planet? Next time you go to the restroom, please do your part. The restroom has a great receptical for your global warming theories too. "

Bye Bayh wrote on Feb 15, 2010 7:36 PM:

" So, Mr "I'll-vote-for-anything-you-say-Obama" Evan Bayh is now out! Thank God good ol' fashioned partisanship is still alive and kickin'. What I'd really like to know is why is partisanship such a hot button with the Dems these days? They (up to a few moments ago) had all the votes they needed to pass anything they want. Labeling the republicans as the party of "no" just makes no sense. If you can't get your own party to throw aside their "partisanship", where do you get off blaming republicans? I'll tell you this, partisanship is a good thing and extreme partisanship is extremely good. The slower the government moves the better. "

Family Ties wrote on Feb 15, 2010 10:15 PM:

" Jay, exactly my point. What Harrison did was despicable and hideous. The issue was only exacerbated by Fletcher caving in and commuting over half of his sentence. When an attorney has a conflict of interest, the attorney recuses him/herself from the case. When a politician has a conflict, they call in favors that no one publicly has access to. Rep Yonts is a disgrace to his office. That is by no means a reflection of his feelings for his son, but to use his influence to superceed the judicial process is unforgivable. His care for the prisoners will end once the sentence is served and Harrison is back behind the wheel. "

Death Penalty wrote on Feb 17, 2010 1:11 PM:

" Mr. Clinton, you've expressed your disagreement with the death penalty many many times. Often you cite that a long, languishing prison sentence is more "punishment" than a quickie execution. I'm sure I can find 3 people in Alabama that would disagree with you. Had captial punishment been mete after her first killing 20-some years ago, 3 lives would have been spared today, let alone the countless emotional issues for the injured and deceased family & friends. The death penalty is extreme for a reason. It exemplifies the highest value a moral (even under Obama) society has in valuing life. "

Tom Clinton wrote on Feb 17, 2010 2:43 PM:

" The death 20 years ago was determined to be accidental at the time. Whether it was or not, no court would impose the death penalty or even try someone for firing a gun in an "accidental death." I have never advocated turning convicted murderers loose, nor do I believe the state (us) has the right to kill in the name of life. A life sentence ought to be just what the name implies. "

Death Penalty wrote on Feb 17, 2010 10:25 PM:

" This is where the arguement gets convaluted. On one side, the death penalty is imoral and the only sentence should be life. But for what do we hand out a life sentence? Where is it's morality? Charles Manson was never convicted of killing a person first-hand yet he serves a life sentence (and he's up for parole every few years). People kill everyday and the "law" has developed various degrees for dealing with the taking of a life. Those degrees only cheapen the life that was taken. In cases of accidental death, the law judges the intent and circumstances. If it was indeed an accident, then freedom is obtained. A gun going off in the heat of an arguement might be considered on the same level as a hunting accident but the two differ enormously. The same thought process applies to abortion, at least those who disagree with it. Rape=fine but a one night stand is not ok. Either way, a baby dies. The death penalty is extreme for just that reason: Taking another person's life puts the taker in the position of a judge. In war, both sides have already relinquished their life to their respective country. In public people have not placed their lives in anyone's hand but their own. Extreme? Yes. Death Penalty proponets value life above all else. The taking of it should be held to that same standard. Recent posts about Mr. Yonts don't differ. That young man took a life (without intent I'm certain) but he carelessly took a life. For that act he'll pay only 8 or 10yrs. It's comforting isn't it that the "state" valued that young woman at only 3650 days. We could argue case-by-case all day long but the bottom line is when we de-value life, the certainty of our own existance becomes questionable. "

College Bound wrote on Feb 18, 2010 8:52 AM:

" In light of Ms. Chandler's letter in this morning's paper, perhaps a better suggestion is for all college students to be given a car outright. After all, no one should work hard to acheive anything in life; it should be handed to them....for free. Maybe colleges should just go ahead and hand out degrees. It's not like college teaches anything important other than the false premise of global warming, sensitivity training and "how the rich should dutifully pay your freight". (Watch out for employees denied tenure though). After they've given cars and degrees, I also feel that students be given the equivalent of 3yrs salary while they try to job hunt during the remaining years of the Obama administration. God (sorry), forbid that one take a transition job while working toward a goal. If that can't be done, maybe the college should mandate all students watch the movie "The Pursuit of Happiness". But then again, we're talking about public universities. "Constitutional" talk isn't typically welcome there. "

PJ Woodside wrote on Feb 19, 2010 8:56 AM:

" Regarding public transportation and the "College Bound" respondent who thinks it's too much to ask: The dedication of a student who will walk across town to go to class should be commended, not ridiculed. Most cities HAVE public transportation -- she is not out of line to suggest it. Have you trudged across town in the snow and back every day? Have you noticed there are few sidewalks in town, and none along College Drive? Have you ever walked along that stretch with traffic flying by? Owning a car and paying auto insurance is expensive, and if you don't have transportation it makes it tough to keep a job to pay for those things. Having worked with low income students, I know this is a REAL difficulty, a real impediment to people moving up and becoming independent. I am appalled someone would make fun of it. Have YOU walked a mile in their shoes? "

College Bound wrote on Feb 19, 2010 9:08 PM:

" Getting emotionally invested will not solve the matter. Beyond the fact that you don't know me at all, or what I've had to endure in my life is irrelvant because my beliefs still stand. Is public transportation in general bad? Certainly not, but the tax payers have to pay for it. Merely suggesting "I wish..." because of an individual, temporary circumstance does nothing more than elicite emotions that ignore reason. Here are some suggestions of people I've known and even myself: Quit school temporarily - work a lot of hours - save money to buy a car - go to school part time while working - keep saving money (no cable, cell phone, eating out). The list can go on and on. You cannot tell me that people haven't deferred higher learning before or endured hardships. (It doesn't snow here every day either). You thought my "suggestions" were aimed at the student when in fact they were aimed at the entitlement mindset. Should I too provide a list of issues I feel "the public" should help me with? If we had public transportation, the public would find something to complain about. If we gave them a free car, they wouldn't like the color etc. If we give them a check each month to sit at home, they'd complain it's not enough. Let me say this: I can relate to said student's hardships and because of that I can also offer: Stand fast, stay strong, endure and you'll come out a better person. "

Racist Motive Questioned wrote on Feb 20, 2010 12:34 PM:

" Bishop Marion - from my understanding of the speech in question, David Jackson was only pointing out the fact that Mayor Cox supported candidate Obama over other Democratic candidates even after candidate Obama made it clear that he does not support coal. Should Mayor Cox be held accountable to the hundreds of families in our community who depend on coal for their living? Is it true that when Bill Clinton came to Madisonville to speak on behalf of his wife's candidacy that he refused to meet with Mayor Cox due to his outspoken support of Obama? Is Bill Clinton a racist? Bishop one of the things that makes America great are the rights we have that allow for disagreement and dissent. Without those rights, the great accomplishments achieved by Martin Luther King would not have been possible. Why do you want to deny someone else those very rights by labelling anyone who has a differing political viewpoint as a racist? I believe the Bible you preach and represent speaks very strongly about those who bring false witness against another. "

Just Let Them Go wrote on Feb 24, 2010 9:06 AM:

" Basham and Fulks. Don't know what Basham is doing but have been reading that Fulks is trying to wiggle out of his death sentence that he plead to. (Yes, plead to).
Here's an idea; just let them go! But, before letting them go, make an announcement in SC and/or WV when and where they going to be let go to. Say high noon on a Saturday at the respective town square. Have official drop them off and all law enforcement officials suddenly get busy with something else.
Then they can be consumed by the monsters they created. "

Airon Later wrote on Feb 26, 2010 7:23 AM:

" State representatives have made the first step toward proselytizing to our children in shcool. A recent vote has now allowed for The Bible to be part of an "elective" set of courses at high schools across the state. I take issue with this not because it wasn't expected ( already Texas and Tennessee have enacted simular legislation ) but because who is going to be the one that determines what "valvues" and "traditions" from The Bible are to be discussed. And while the language within the legislation dictates that the cirriculum must follow State precident in regards to religious neutrality and diversity, the very fact that The Bible will be preached ( and that's exactly what is going to happen ) in school should have negated this legislative push to begin with. I will not deny anyone's freedom to practice the religion of their choice, but it does not belong in a place that is funded by public money. "

God Forbid wrote on Feb 26, 2010 9:27 PM:

" Airon, Airon, Airon..puh-lease. Can't discuss the Bible in an elective course? Schools, using my public money, discuss all types of crap that have nothing to do with education and your worried about teachers making disciples of children? Why do you fear that book being opened and discussed? Perhaps an elective on "Heather has two mommies" would suit your public dollar better? Why must you seek to censor that which is good and right, let alone a class to discuss it and open up young minds? I'm certain the teachers will not have any access to holy water or communion waffers. "

No Hope No Change wrote on Feb 26, 2010 9:35 PM:

" I didn't realize how many times I've violated the separation of Church and State. Sunday, I grabbed my Bible and walked to my car. I had to step on a sidewalk that was laid by City employees. Public dollars funded that sidewalk and I used it to access my car. Then, I drove my car, Bible in tow, on (gasp) public streets! When I got to church, I discovered that the electricity was, again, provided by the City. Public dollars used to spread religion. From now on, lest I offend, Christ needs to stay home and off anything financed, funded and supported with public dollars. Unless it's a church that Obama needs to visit to campaign in. (Forgive me Bishop) "

Rightside wrote on Feb 28, 2010 9:08 PM:

" It is amazing to see how invested people are in the Obama administration. No matter what music they play on the deck, this Titanic continues to, and will, sink. After one short year with majorities to pass anything they wanted, the party of "no" couldn't agree on a single thing, with the minor exception to place that label squarely on Republicans. Against the will of the very people who elected him, Obama "knows" better. Whatever it is that America wants, Obama's reply is "no". It's his way and you'll learn to like it. Afterall, every other bankrupt and failing nation has it so why shouldn't we? The Republicans stood in the interest of the majority of Americans and this President held his fingers to his lips with the underlying message "read between the lines". Talking points? You bet! America wants its points heard over and over and over until this failure gets it. We are tired of more government. We are tired of the intrusion. The coersion. The confiscation. The corruption. After shutting us out for a year, Obama now reaches across the aisle. But that hand was only extended to ensure more go down with him and can be there to take the blame. Sorry Mr. President. We're giving America a life raft. Tell Davey Jones "hi" without us. "

Thank you Jim wrote on Mar 1, 2010 10:24 PM:

" Hats off to you Senator! Thank you for your stand. Congress needs to abide by the very laws they pass. At the first sign of trouble, rules that apply to every constituant's check book, our government runs to the hills seeking to exempt themselves from the very (PAYGO) laws they pass. A recent, unbiased (ahem!) AP called you a "lame duck". Wear that title proudly. You sir, are showing these lame brains for what they are: Elites who should not, must not and will not abide by any rules. When our bank accounts reach zero, we HAVE to stop spending but not the government. You are truly a Hall of Fame-er! Thank you. "

Cell-you-lites wrote on Mar 2, 2010 11:36 AM:

" Thank you Ms. Poliszczuk for saying what I have been feeling for a long time. Well put. "

GM Recall wrote on Mar 2, 2010 10:52 PM:

" So, GM has to recall 1.3 Million cars and not one exec is called up to Washington. Wait, all the GM owners are already IN Washington. No news on this. No hearings. Nothing. Their assault on Toyota is frightening. Just because a company hasn't bowed to the almight Unions, Washington feels the need to shake down and embarass it's owners for a problem that hasn't been proven to exist. Grandma steps on the gas and not the brake and it's Toyota's fault. Driver error. Extra floor mats. Crumpled floor mats. Not a phantom "electrical malfunction". I hope Toyota has a stellar year while GM continues it's slide to irrelivancy. "

No Hope No Change wrote on Mar 3, 2010 10:48 PM:

" So, the history is out. Obama has a clear, consitent on the record stance of supporting super majorities before passing "major" legislation. Now, after having a super majority and not being able to get anything done, he's all for recon-silly-ation. What a joke and 3rd-stringer this guy is turning out to be. Historic election? You bet! He's making us pine for the good old Carter days. Another cigarette Mr. President? "

Voice or Wheezin wrote on Mar 4, 2010 12:43 AM:

" Bout time the Nortonville Council had teh guts to get rid of Noel, Noel is not a bad guy, he's just older and set in his ways, I dont think he's a crook by any means, and I dont think he stole a nickle from the city, I think he is just got too much going on for a man that should by age rights be retired, Most of his employee's are still there after 12 years, he cant be THAT hard to get along with, can he? Come on people , step back and look at yourselves first then speak, the man has a good heart, he's just confused sometimes on how to use it properly. and you cant forcr a stubborn man's hand if he don't wanna do somthing a certain we he int gonna do it. Remember Step bak.......................Take a look..............brainstorn......................then act, just don't let it get out of hand up there with the media, because they are only going to print what they want to. "

To Vanessa wrote on Mar 4, 2010 10:01 PM:

" Depending on what job the employee is being considered, a credit report is a valuable resource to aide in the determinantion of the character of the person. Not everyone incapable of paying bills has been subjected to forces beyond their control. Many dug the hole themselves and kept digging. Your argument could be applied to banks using a credit report to deny the extension of credit. How is a poor soul to drive to a job if they can't get a car loan? Should a bank be required to overlook credit history? Certainly not. What weight would you place on a fincancial planner who can't keep his own house in order? It would be like Liz Taylor becoming a marriage counselor or Megan Fox teaching an abstinance class or Obama providing debt counseling. Bottom line is Companies don't exisit to provide jobs. "

Giant Sucking Sound wrote on Mar 5, 2010 12:23 AM:

" If the state legislature manages to pass the bill discussed in today's (Mar 5) Messenger that prevents businesses from deducting losses - keep your ears tuned for the giant sucking sound as what businesses we have left in the state leave for more supportive territory. Recession is when your neighbor loses his job, Depression is when you lose your job and Recovery is when most of those clowns lose theirs. "

Kick Em While Theyre Down wrote on Mar 5, 2010 8:22 AM:

" House Bill 530, which cleared the House yesterday in a vote mostly along party lines indicates one of two things: 1) Greg Stumbo and the rest of the reps who voted for the measure intend to punish businesses who are suffering through the worst economic downturn in our lifetime or 2) Greg Stumbo and the rest of the reps who voted for the measure intend to punish those who did not support the Governor's call for expanded gambling. Either way it seems that the House has passed a bill that will punish Kentucky workers by driving more jobs out of the state. It could be an attempt to provide "cover" for Democrats in the certain spending cuts that will be required to balance the State's budget - this way they get to blame the Republicans and the sole Democrat who stood up for Kentucky's workers. Stumbo has already pledged to punish those who voted against the ill-conceived measure. "House Speaker Greg Stumbo indicated soon after the 64 to 36 vote on House Bill 530 that those who supported the revenue measure will be rewarded with job-producing building projects in their districts." If the bill was meant to plug leaks in the State's budget then why is it translating into building projects in districts that voted for the bill? Democrats have accused the Republican party of being the party of "NO" - in this instance we should be proud of those Republicans and the lone Democrat who voted "NO". They didn't crumble to Stumbo's bullying and neither should Kentucky businesses. Please contact your State Senator today - this bill needs to be DOA when it reaches the State Senate or else the Kentucky businesses who are hurting the most will be forced out of business or at least out of our State. "

Bunning Was Right wrote on Mar 5, 2010 8:35 AM:

" Senator Jim Bunning has taken a lot of pot shots from Democrats for his stand against the ever-increasing federal deficit. Instead of spending less somewhere else, the Democrats chose once again to reach for the credit cards that are already maxed out. Senator Bunning's courageous stand should be applauded by families everywhere - I don't want my kids and grandkids to be saddled by an even heavier debt load. If we give them the opportunity the Democrats will use your "Taxpayers Express Card" to completely bankrupt our country and believe me - they never leave home without it. It is time for change. "

Thank you Jim wrote on Mar 5, 2010 10:03 PM:

" Mustang, PAYGO was signed into law by Obama. Our government simply didn't want to abide by that law. Bottom line is they couldn't forego the equivalent of $10 against a $1000. Half of the bail out isn't spent. Why couldn't they tap a meger portion to shore up loose ends? Stop defending those idiots and crooks. Our government is harsher on home-grown businesses than terrorists and you cite Mr. Bunning for being a hypocrite? Turn on your curly-q light bulb and wake up: We're broke and broke for decades to come. Mr. Bunning was making a brilliant point of how our government wants US to sacrafice but not them! "

Bill Patterson wrote on Mar 6, 2010 10:16 AM:

" I find the Saturday format and layout of the paper is the most ridiculous mess for a daily paper I've every seen, I know things have changed and the paper is at the mercy of Owensboro, but find a consisent layout. What's wrong with a 12 page paper and Tab. "

Airon Later wrote on Mar 7, 2010 7:47 AM:

" It is truly a shame to see people on this message board actually praising the grandstanding, out-of-touch, fame-hungry tactics of Jim Bunning. Reading comments lauding Bunning's ignorance of his own state makes me realize that these are words spoken by those that have no idea what it's like to be unemployed. I can honestly say without equivocation that I am truly ashamed to state that Kentucky is my home. We have Mitch McConnell AND Jim Bunning. They are disgrace to this state and this nation. "

Airon Later wrote on Mar 7, 2010 7:55 AM:

" While watching Fox"News" ( and yes, the quotation marks are needed when using those words in conjunction ) I see a great deal of people talking about "ramming healthcare legislation down our throats". However, considering that polls from Gallup, Public Policy Polling, a variety of papers ranging from USA Today to Washington Time, on down to ABC an CBS show that a plurality of American WANT healthcare legislation and there are at least 58% of Americans that favor a Public Option. So, when are conservatives going to stop lying to their audience? My guess is no time soon, as they can't afford to admit their mistakes. "

Cross Words 2 wrote on Mar 7, 2010 6:34 PM:

" I still hate the new cross word format, please readers, post your views, if no one says anything then no one cares "

Airon Later wrote on Mar 8, 2010 2:42 PM:

" If you are ashamed to call Kentucky your home, please feel free to move. "

Mor-on Later wrote on Mar 9, 2010 12:43 AM:

" Airon, I know you're smater than everyone posting here so please continue to defend: Global Warming (proven false). School Proseltyzing (proven false). Government spending restraints (proven false). Obama against, now for reconcilliation. The stimulus package creating jobs (proven false). The most corrupt congress in history. Record unemployment. Record Deficits. Congress' inability to do without 10B. Government confiscation of the private sector. AIG bonuses bad but GM bonuses fine and dandy. CSPAN hearings (never happened). Obama's string of broken promises (remember unemployment would never see 8%+) We bow to your amazing intelect. The sad part is how defiant you continue to make your stand. The flood is coming and the rain is falling sir, yet you refuse to get on the boat but instead say you're dry and fine. Sad sad sad "

Airon Later wrote on Mar 9, 2010 4:04 PM:

" I'll address the comment urging my exit from the state in a moment, but first, let's get to this conclusive proof that apparently exists that I am wrong on everything and that certain things I have discussed have been proven wrong. If there is proof - then show it. Simply saying somethiing "is" doesn't make it so. Global Warming is real, and even though the "hockey stick graph" and hacked/stolen emails with no contextual background can be questioned, there is no denying the science. Global Warming is just that - GLOBAL. It's not about one snowstorm in DC or record temperature increases in Vancouver on the same week, it's GLOBAL. Preaching the Bible in schools hasn't been disproven, as the new legislation has yet to take effect. I expressed my concern because of what could ( and more than likely will ) happen. The spending of this administration pales in comparison to Republican rule in America. Reagan tripple the national debt in 8 years while Bush Sr. and George W. Bush virtually double it during their tenure. W ran near 1/2 Trillion dolloar deficits EVERY YEAR he was in office. Spending alone on Iraq occupation could have paid for healthcare coverage already, but conservatives wanted to "nation build" instead. Obama's reconciliation stance can be chalked up to his willingness to let both parties have their voice heard. He knew that it was an option, and also that we are a country built on majority rule, and he foolishly thought people would meet him half way. So now we, as Democrats, are going to take advantage of Reconciliation that Republicans once favored. In point of fact, 34 out of the currect 41 Senators now seated were behind using reconciliation to pass major domestic policy during George W. Bush's stay in office. If you think that Stimulus is an object failure. then you need to really do your research. Only a little over 1/3 has been spent and Republicans all across the nation have got their hands out for it. Before Palin decided to be a quitter, she took some, as did Bobby Jindal, Mark Sanford, and newly elected Governmor Bob McDonnell just to name a few. I will concede that the use of CSPAN for Healthcare debates didn't exactly happen like we all wanted it to. However, considering the way Republicans acted during the Healthcare Summit ( which DID appear on CSPAN ) I'm guessing it wouldn't have been much different. That being said, it's not always easy to get EVERYTHING on CSPAN. Ultimately, this was a mistake by the Obama administration and a fairly clever talking point generator for conservatives. As far as unemployment, that is something that any administration has limited control over, unless there is some form of stimulus distributed. Economists have been saying since the start that the current Stimulus isn't nearly big enough. Yes, unemployment went to 10%, and conservative were seemingly overjoyed with this fact, something I find utterly bizzare but predictable. However, we are at 9.7% and jobless claims are dropping. Despite conservativess insistance that Democrats view Obama as a "saviior" and "miracle worker", we know that the reality of this is that we are in a very unique economic situation and different steps have to be taken to solve the problems. Now, to the person that thinks I should leave. To them, I would say - why should I? I have been fighting people like you my whole life. People that think liberals/progressives are some beast bent on destroying this country. I've been challenging the stereotypes of Kentuckians for as long as I can recall, but I'm certainly not going to give anyone the satisfaction of me leaving. I love my state - it's the overwhelming number of willfully ignorant people and the fact that they think they rule this state are what I am ashamed of "

Mor-on Later wrote on Mar 9, 2010 11:54 PM:

" Thank you for your response. Global Warming: First, it isn't science and hasn't been based on science. It's a money and power grab. Even the IPCC had to admit that it hasn't warmed since 1995 and is now actually cooler than it was before man was on the Earth. If it is "global" as you put it, then why does your seudo-science actually use the singular events you cite as their own evenidence of man-made warming? Public schools have a well documented history of not teaching judeao christian values. Again, nothing to worry here. The Bible will be rendered sufficiently useless in these classes. Your comments on previous administration spending vs. Obama's is proof of your willing ingnorance of the facts. Obama has spent more than EVERY PREVIOUS administration added together. Bush, Bush and Reagan are pikers compared to this guy. You talk about the 1/2T deficits we used to run? We could only wish that's all we owe. The interest on Obama's debt is approaching that figure alone. Candidate Obama couldn't wait to end the war, now he celebrates the fact that he's prosecuting it exactly how Bush and Cheney did. Fact is, this greenhorn didn't want to know what it took to run a war and now shouldered with the resonsibilities had to face the facts that it was handled how it should have been. Again, you don't defend your side but cite "what about them, what about them". Well, what about them? Your guy's doing the SAME THINGS! Obama's reconciliation stance can be chalked up to one thing: He is a weak leader who can't even bring his own party together to pass legislation after being handed clear and decisive majorities to do and pass EVERYTHING he wanted. Explain that. Now, he's forced to talk to republicans but that only a show. Dems only reach across the aisle to make sure the knife is stuck squarely in our backs. That is why republicans are telling him we'll have no part in his sabotage of this country. Mr. Kerry was proud of his "I actually was against reconciliation before I was for it". Your loser side created that stupid rule in the first place and when republicans tried to use it for confirmations (which it was created for) the left threw a hissy, girlie fit "what about the minority". Well, what about it? American overwhelmingly wants healthcare scrapped and started over. Nope. Obama has no desire to legislate on behalf of the governed. He wants to legislate in spite of them. Over a year ago we had to HAVE the stimulus. As you pointed out, it wasn't stimulus, just a money grab. No shovel ready jobs. No job creation. Nothing. If it was "death or die" then, why is the money not being spent??? Maybe it's because you can't take money from me and hand it to you and get results. When you take the ketchup from my refridgerator and place it in yours, everyone goes hungry and I don't have any incentive to keep my fridge stocked for non-producers. Remember, this all started when deadbeats bit off more than they could chew. Mortgages they couldn't afford approved by banks FORCED to make the loans. Idiots all over this country in houses triple what they should have had with no ability to repay using government loans forced on banks to comply with CRA. CSPAN. Again, if the republicans can be shown in bad light, don't you think Obama would display that everytime he could? Do you also think the president has trouble booking airtime? He promised open and transparent debate. This is the first time I heard mention of how difficult it is to get something aired on CSPAN. You must have a colorful employment history to know that the president of the US has difficulty getting on TV. Jobless rate. First of all, it isn't falling and won't. When the next unemployement figures come out, guess what? They'll be higher than they are now. (I'll eagerly await your apology for being wrong). In an odd way you even prove how government spending doesn't create jobs. Republicans have never celebrated unemployment. Liberals celebrated every soldier death when Bush was in office. Each day we were treated with the new "body count" but now, you wouldn't know soldiers are still dying under Obama. Hillary Clinton celebrated the new patriotism as those that debate and disagree with any administation. Why don't you congratulate us on ours? OH, that's right! It's because we're effective and against you. Can't have that. We actually love this country. Can't say we have many friends that actually blew up the pentegon. We actually champion the success of all "57" states. "

Airon Consider This wrote on Mar 10, 2010 9:37 AM:

" Airon - I believe it takes both Liberals and Conservatives to keep our nation in balance. The truth is we need each other. Even though you may rail against the simple-mindedness of those of us who cling to our guns and religion, we cannoth fathom the Liberal perspective on abortion, fetal stem cell research, gay marriage and what seems to be a real animosity toward capitalism - what used to be called the American Dream. Please don't move out of Kentucky, as some have suggested, but also, please recognize that this State needs each of us to keep balance and perspective.
Your Friend,
A Thoughtful Conservative Republican "

Airon Later wrote on Mar 10, 2010 12:03 PM:

" You made an interesting point regarding "perspective" and what the liberal "perspective" is on certain things in life. Contrary to popular conservative narrative, liberals/progressives are NOT ant-capitalists. The American Dream is still the same for us, although those within the corporate elite favor profit over the well-being of the consumer. That isn't capitalism, that is economic slavery. Secondly, we do not advocate nor condone "abortion on demand" as many claim. We believe in "choice" and that legislating the female reproductive system into the stone age is wrong. Just look at what is going on in Utah. Women will be seen as murderers if they have a miscarriage. If a woman you know faces death or her unborn child will die, would you not prefer there to be that choice available? The mythos behind abortion has been so contorted that the subject is almost undebatable with many. I understand that there is a need for "balance" within all things, but for the life of me I can't accept willful ignorance as balance to anything. "

Airon Later wrote on Mar 10, 2010 12:18 PM:

" Your seemingly endless preamble is a wonder signifier of what the conservative narrative has done to the country. If you opinion ( not facts, mind you ) were true, then this country would be far more damned than you foolishly believe it is now. I'm not going to debate the laughably false allegations that liberals/progressive actually celebrated the deaths of soldiers, that conservatives somehow "love" the troops or this country more than anyone else. People like you love the troops like Micheal Vick loves dogs - to borrow a very true phrase recently used. You people love this country but want to rewrite it's history in order to cover up for your own ideologies mistakes. I'm not entirely sure where you are getting your finanicial figures when it comes to Republican leadership versus the Obama administration, but they are patently and provably wrong on all fronts. Counting for inflation, the spending Obama is doing literally pales in comparison to what the most precvious former Republican leadership did. But back to this whole war thing. Obama most certainly isn't running this just like Bush as a plurality of the Taliban leadership have been captured in the span of 3 months while Bush couldn't accomplish that in the sum of his 8 year occupation of the White House. Hate to burst your bubble, but that is a fact as well. And perhaps you should travel around your own state in order to see projects that are being funded by the Stimulus. just between Bowling Green and Louisville this past year I saw 3 highway projects in full swing with that pesky little "this project is being funded by" sign that conservatives complain about. They can't stand to see their rantings disproven so they have to find some inoccuous aspect of it to complain about instead. Even in the face of their own ideological failings, you conservatives will never even consider that maybe your deregulation, your torture, your anti-science stance, and your insistance that there is some malevolent "liberal media bias" were all wrong and pushed this country that you claim to love has actually put us precisely where we are today. "

Somebodys shoveling wrote on Mar 10, 2010 10:55 PM:

" Stimulus reports: Mowed grass on courthouse: 30 jobs created or saved. Install new A/C at ACORN: 200 jobs created or saved. Road paved in Kentucky: 1000 Jobs created or saved. Not to mention the creation of state districts in this country that don't exisit. All from the Whitehouse. Couple that with the floating "uninsured" numbers (is it 20, 30, 40, or 50million) and you have a legacy of false information coming from Obama. However, I suppose you factor in inflation and we actually have created 8million jobs and gotten this country out of debt and are running a surplus. You should sign out as "Charles Schultz" because your "facts" are comical and nuts. "

To Airon wrote on Mar 10, 2010 11:01 PM:

" How on earth do you dismiss the fact that we are $14T in debt? The previous poster may not say it but we are indeed more damned than ever before in history. Back in my day, we had nuclear drills where we hid under our desks during the cold war. The left had ginned up the public that Reagan's finger hovered over the "launch" button daily. Now, in your day we are totally crippling our country; a country that can't act because it can't afford to and is set to implode on itself. "

No Hope No Change wrote on Mar 10, 2010 11:06 PM:

" I think Dan Rather and Obama need to have a beer. Blather's recent racist comment is getting zero airplay yet Fuzzy Zoeller was crucified for basically uttering a similar statement about a black person. Even NBC's own "Black History Month" menu, which was equally racist, received a similar yawn in the State Controlled Media. Where's the good Bishop when you need him. Forgive me, I'm about to make a racist statement: I won't support any candidate that voted for Obama. Time to go. I have to get back to bleaching Senator Byrd's wardrobe. "

Airon Later wrote on Mar 12, 2010 6:08 AM:

" RE: Someone's Shoveling. It's comments like yours that make it nearly impossible to hold any form of rational discourse with conservatives. While there were data entry mistakes concerning the use of Stimulus dollars, I challenge you to prove to me that you have never once made an error in your check registry - after all, that's YOUR money. Have you ever misplaces important receipts, lost your wallet? One can point out one mistake made regarding the "bookkeeping" of the Stimulus but the reality is that there are jobs being created and saved. The problem is that the media ( primarily Fox"News" ) that are praying for administration errors so they can report on them for 7 or 8 news cycles and overinflate their actual relevance. But here's a response to the debt statement. It's a provable fact that over 80% of our national debt is due to Republican spending. Where was this "outrage" prior to Jan. 20th 2009? Where is your proof that this country is somehow "doomed" to failure now? If you listen to Rush Limbaugh and Fox, you'd think that we were all plummeting into the 9th circle of Hell, but that simply isn't the case. "

Somebodys Shoveling wrote on Mar 12, 2010 9:24 PM:

" Airon, first of all: Deep breath, brother. Switch to decaf. There, feel a little better? Probably not, most libs are hard wired to overreact at those poking fun at their leaders. The fact is, the government is screwing with this country's money not their own private checkbook. No private business in America could operate the way the Feds to or report the numbers the way they do. As far as satire goes, it's every bit as plausible as what they report. You couldn't get two economists to agree on what constitutes a saved or created job especially since there is no professional measuring standard. The private sector creates job. The government creates siphoners. I don't want to raise your poor blood pressure higher than it already is (if you don't have health insurance, I'll say a prayer for you). Earlier this week, we heard 45000 people a year die because they don't have health insurance. Question? How many die with health insurance? Pretty much, the rest of them. The stupid, tear jerking logic of the left is exactly the stuff we should be making fun of to illistrate it's absurdaty. Again: Deeep breath. In with the good...out with the bad. "

Wear theirs smoke wrote on Mar 13, 2010 11:03 AM:

" I see the Health Departments #1 Enemy has made the paper again. Then, today's letter from Rene Gamblin was printed. I don't know if she intended but she bascially tripped over the fact that the smoking ban was not about stopping smoking, but about government exercise over private busiensses. Ms. Gamblin properly explained what the normal free market does: If patrons like a place, they can go there. If not, stay away (or use the drive thru). The people responsible for the children's welfare aren't guilty in the eyes of the Health Department or they would have chosen to pass a resolution to inspect each and every home to see if a child's constitutional right (as this paper has put it) has been violated. So the children deserve a meal without second hand smoke, but not a home free of that same smoke? Bottom line, this was a witch hunt and another example of government vs. freedom. Period. "

No Hope No Change wrote on Mar 17, 2010 10:29 PM:

" So, the desperate, washed up libs are set to go with "Deem and Pass". Michelle is chastising grocers for what they put on the shelves and how they market their items. The Obama administration releases a "10% unemployment! Get used to it!" update. Bin Laden is now no longer an issue. The feds are forced to keep rates low. Pepsi pulls out of schools. Studies released showing those on food stamps tend to be more obese. CBO monkey's with numbers (remember, no health care in the first 4 years but we pay for it anyhow). But, take comfort dear people. Uncle Sam knows what's best for us. "

For it or Against it wrote on Mar 17, 2010 10:33 PM:

" Mr. Kucinich: Spineless. Gutless. Unprincipaled. Thank you for not letting us question our expectation of our leaders. "

Smoking Ban wrote on Mar 18, 2010 7:43 PM:

" Mr. Clinton, apparently the arguement was not a clear as the nose on your face. The smoking ban was not against smokers, it flew straight in the face of private owners and private businesses who chose to have smoking available at their establishments. Your arguement is like walking into a door time after time and then demanding a ban on doors. Non smokers made the choice to EAT at places they full well knew smoking was an option. Now, where should the blame really lie? They kept walking into the door and blamed the door. But, since smoking is the flavor of the month, it was an easy pass by weak-kneed politicians and publicly paid employees to get their way by strong arm government confescation of private property rights. If you don't like the smoke, don't actively enter a place that has the RIGHT to make it available. And don't give me the "but what about the kids" arguement until you control the smokers' home and private life. Too bad those for the ban cannot be intellectually honest and seek to abolish freedom for a meal. If it's really about health then BAN TOBACCO (but then, you lefties can't do without the $'s can ya) "

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