For general discussion and debate. Possible talking point: should people who live in hurricane prone areas be required to pay an additional tax to cover the cost of potential damage to their property?
The question is obviously being raised concerning New Orleans for example where for the second time in three years a hurricane has caused damage that will require federal tax dollars to repair. Should such funds come from the federal coffers?
Should someone living in Peoria be required to fund reparations for hurricane damage in New Orleans? Or should folks that choose to live in areas below sea level be required to pay a special tax to cover the cost of protecting that area as well as repairing it when damage occurs?
Editor at Large
Comments Policy
no taxes but they should
September 6, 2008 - 10:49 ET by jkwtradingno taxes but they should take care of their own property..such as flood insurance etc.
Insurance
September 6, 2008 - 10:58 ET by Sergeant ROCKIf car insurance is mandatory, why isn't this? If not, then I should be able to get a new car should I smash-up my uninsured one!
At no cost to me, of course.
PALIN/McCain 2008
I always thought car
September 6, 2008 - 11:45 ET by balboaI always thought car insurance was mandatory in case you're the cause of a wreck that does damage to another car.
Not much chance of your house getting into a gutter-bender with the one next door. :-)
take it one step further
September 6, 2008 - 12:04 ET by Indiana JoeCar insurance prevents your bad decision (driving) from costing someone else money.
Maybe those living anywhere that has ever been declared a "disaster area" should be required to have property insurance to prevent costing others money in the form of FEMA funds.
I know, you just had to get the "gutter-bender" off your chest!
"... smells like... victory." - Robert Duvall
I take care of my own...
September 6, 2008 - 11:08 ET by CapedConservativeCapedConservative
I live on the coast in Southwest Florida. My property insurance is very high because of where I live. In addition, there is a "windstorm" clause where the deductible goes through the roof if the damage is caused by a windstorm. In addition, I am required to carry flood insurance, even though I will NEVER flood (unless the Gulf of Mexico fills up).
When I see all the people in the Mississippi valley required to carry flood insurance and all the others throughout the United States subject to tornados required to have a higher premium or higher "windstorm" deductible (ditto for earthquakes in those zones), then we can talk about a tax. My home is concrete block construction. New Orleans homes were literally shacks. Of course, that is controlled by local building codes (local government). We deal with hurricanes and pay for our situation, so, to put a finer point on it, take that hurricane tax and "put it where the sun doesn't shine".
CC
No taxes
September 6, 2008 - 11:09 ET by BlondeWhy should I pay more taxes?
I already pay $5,000 a year for windstorm coverage (which oddly enough, my lender doesn't require). That does NOT include my regular homeowner's, nor my flood coverage. And the deductibles are crazy, too.
What about fire coverage? Earthquake coverage? Flood coverage for the Midwest?
And where's the Sports Open thread today, Noel?
College Game Day was in Gainesville, this a.m., that shill Corso actually put on the Albert head.
Rick's not here yet, but it looks like the ECU game is going to be played today at 4:30, weather or not (sorry).
David Gregory, do you know which damn network you lie for? ~ Uncle Jimbo, @Blackfive
"Rick's not here yet, but
September 6, 2008 - 11:16 ET by ckc1227"Rick's not here yet, but it looks like the ECU game is going to be played today at 4:30, weather or not (sorry)."
It will be. And I will be there. Heading out in about an hour. The weather should be fine by then, though maybe a little windy still. The field will be nasty. For the most part though, the rain is over.
We beat VT last week, it would be sweet to take WV today.
Thing is, flood insurance
September 6, 2008 - 11:09 ET by ckc1227Thing is, flood insurance is a government program, so we still pay.
Thing is, flood insurance
September 6, 2008 - 11:23 ET by CapedConservativeCapedConservative
And I pay both... via the flood insurance I am REQUIRED to have, even though I will NEVER flood and through my taxes.
CC
Absolutely not! Residents should have to pay!
September 6, 2008 - 10:48 ET by jefflebowskiWhy should I be forced to rebuild the most corrupt city in the country that...by the way....is seven feet below sea level? Why should I be forced to pay for burned homes in California because environmental idiots have made it impossible to clear underbrush that ignites several times each year? Or the tools that build on a mud hill and watch their homes crumble into the sea?
People must be held responsible for the risks that come along with where they live? I sweat tornados here in Texas but don't expect you to rebuild my house if the worst happens.
Jeff Lebowski
www.angrywhitedude.c...
I wouldn't go with a
September 6, 2008 - 10:57 ET by motherbeltI wouldn't go with a special tax, because it would just get dumped into the general fund and spent on entitlements.
Look what they did with the gas taxes. They were supposed to e used to "repair infrastructure." Then the bridge in Mpls collapsed, and they claimed they need to raise the gas taxes to "repair infrastructure."
I think people who choose to live in hurricane-prone areas should have that reflected in higher insurance rates.Why not? Auto insurance companies charge their rates by where the car is garaged and used...why not homeowners' insurance too?
I do, motherbelt
September 6, 2008 - 10:59 ET by Mica the MagnificentI live in Myrtle Beach and I can assure you I pay higher homeowner's insurance rates that my inland friends.
The problem is if your house is paid for, there is no law requiring you to have insurance.
Those people should just have to accept the loss of their property due to a hurricane if they choose not to buy insurance. No gov't handouts.
Period!
Mica,
September 6, 2008 - 11:52 ET by Indiana Joe"Those people should just have to accept the loss of their property due to a hurricane if they choose not to buy insurance."
That makes sense. You make the choice to double-down on 16, don't expect me to cover your bet!
"... smells like... victory." - Robert Duvall
Depending on the cards
September 6, 2008 - 13:31 ET by Dan The Man 2Depending on the cards played and teh dealers cards it could be fair odds. I wouldn't do it because likely you would bust. But if the dealer had 17 it might be good.
Nuke em til they glow then shoot em in the dark.
Works for me!
September 6, 2008 - 11:55 ET by motherbeltWorks for me!
It would for me as well, IF
September 6, 2008 - 13:56 ET by general companyIt would for me as well, IF insurance was ALWAYS avalible. Unfortunatly it isnt always avalible. I know many folks who (through no fault of their own) do not have insurance. If my insurance Co goes belly up on a property that has no morgage, I may NOT be able to replace it. and even if my property does have a morgage, the Bank will charge me for insurance to cover themselves, not me. This is a seriouse problem for many of us here. The propety cost are so inexspensive in some rual areas here that insurance co's do not consider them worthy of their investment. I am not sure what the solution is? We like living here, I love my community and Job. These storms do suck though, but then so do the fires, floods, earthquakes, and other heavy weather that other parts of the country have to suffer through. In spite of what many folks seem to believe these things have been going on forever, their are just a lot more of us in the country so it affects more and more folks every time something like this happends. Not to mention the coverage these things get nowadays.
This is a very hard working people here, (north shore LA) I hate that some folks think that most of us are just standing around with our hands out, that simply isnt reality. In my community there is only the sound of chainsaws and generators and the smell of freshly cut timber and BBQ.
"Television is a freak show" Bernie Goldberg
I wouldn't have a problem
September 6, 2008 - 10:59 ET by dmntd1I wouldn't have a problem with requiring an insurance policy be taken out by those in the hardest hit areas, however keep in mind, that would be EXPENSIVE. Insurance companies charge a relatively small amount, in the belief (hope?) that you won't require disbursement. At least, hoping that you won't need it for a couple of years.
In many of those areas, the insurance payment would practically be 1/4-1/2 the cost of the insured property. Force the people to take insurance, and watch NOLA become a virtual ghost town. The only places that will be occupied will be the high-ground.
I'm tired of the US Taxpayer being the insurer for those that are too stupid, or too arrogant, or too vain, to realize they're in a bad situation.
I got a huge kick out of the 'business owner' that was interviewed at the road block entering, I think, NOLA, that said it would make people not evacuate next time. When those people get to the point that they don't evacuate, I'm not sure I'd even be sending in the National Guard for them....
All this, and I survived Katrina (and I didn't even get a lousy t-shirt!)....
Fascism is a religious conception in which man is seen in his imminent relationship with a superior law and with an objective will that transcends the particular individual - Mussolini
Storms
September 6, 2008 - 11:08 ET by rick007I am 69 years old and have been going through Hurricanes since we moved to Miami Florida in 1947.
I now live in Mobile Alabama since 1971
I have insurance to cover my house and outbuildings. In all these years I have made two small claims against my insurance Co's and none to the Govt.
After about going through about 30 hurricanes or more.
Helping people caught in a disaster should be the Goverments job.
But only one time. Unless they rebuild with intelegence.
If the Govt. should help people go to collage than they should bring charges up against the ones that don't pay their loans back.
People say the folks of N.O. should move out. Well then who the hell is going to drive 100 miles each way to do yhe work they do?
Oil fields
Shipping jobs
Why did I pay for the 9/11 attack? I live in Al.
Should people who live in Florida , N.J. and Cal. pay a higher energy tax because they will not drill for oil and Nat. Gas . Then this money could go into an insurance trust fund for the people that get off their lazy butts and work on the rigs and oilfields and have to live near the Gulf Coast.
What about the people affected by floods,earthquakes and tornadoes. Should everybody move?
People get your heads out. Not only are you in the dark but it smells up there.
you're right
September 6, 2008 - 12:09 ET by bigpapaYou don't deserve a dime based on where you live anymore than those in Oklahoma from a tornado...
Nor those who worked in the twin towers...
It's all welfare and done for a feel good purpose..
As for NO... it's not all below sea level.. so build homes where it's not and open the flood gates to the rest.
We've pissed away more money there than we did rebuilding Europe after WWII..
I hope you don't get Social Security or Health Insurance from the feds..
NOBAMA 08 !!!
My wife and I live in one
September 6, 2008 - 11:13 ET by ConservativeRexMy wife and I live in one of the, if not the, most hurricane prone areas on the Gulf Coast (Galveston Island, Texas). We live overlooking the beach. I can see the Gulf from my dining room table as I eat my broiled flounder stuffed with blue claw crab meat that my wife and I caught ourselves. Never once have I asked anyone, much less the federali's to help me pay for a dman thing. I pay my way, I do not expect anyone to pay my way. I take care of what needs to be taken care of.
I was old enough in 1983 to own my own home when a large hurricane (Alicia) (Cat 3) came ashore in August, the eye passed right over my town and house. I did my own repairs on my roof and my fence and didn't even call my insurance agent (even though I was entitled to) and damn sure didn't call the federal Gov. to help me. Now, that's nothing special on my part, I was raised that way and a lot of other people are too. I think I can speak for a lot of Texans when I write, don't worry about us, we'll do OK. We look after ourselves. But if someone is paying their own way, they have nothing to be ashamed of. In getting insurance help. And besides, the mainland is too damn hot!
"the mainland is too damn hot!"
September 6, 2008 - 11:32 ET by jkwtradingyep couldn't have said it better...I look at hurricanes as way to keep a nice breeze flowing here in Florida.
Its september 6 th and it's UNDER 90 today...yipppeeee. Now i am working hard on getting the breeze to just keep my AC bill down...lol..
Speaking for the midwest,
September 6, 2008 - 11:47 ET by Indiana JoeSpeaking for the midwest, Gustav was a blessing. We had hot-n-humid for weeks until the dregs got here a couple days ago. Beautiful today.
;^)
"... smells like... victory." - Robert Duvall
Once Is Enough
September 6, 2008 - 11:41 ET by CellaNo, we should not continue to pay for these clueless people who won't move away from New Orleans.
I am stunned that insurance agencies continue to insure them.
Are most of these migrants renters? Here they come, in and out of Texas, everytime a storm comes. With four or five kids, cigarettes in their mouths. I have had it!
I know I sound like the meanest lady in town. I am truly sorry for the hand that they have been dealt. But it seems to me that we should consider the hand that they keep dealing themselves.
Cella
September 6, 2008 - 11:48 ET by BlondeHere's an interesting view of the situation, by one of the best milbloggers on the net (IMO):
The people who choose to live in NOLA (read, all of them) need to pay a significantly higher tax called an "evacuation tax" to offset the costs to you and me for flying/driving/busing them to high ground. Hell, I pay for flood insurance, even though I live 1000 feet above sea level on the side of a hill. That's my evacuation tax. Flood insurance is run by the gummint, but I'm sure insurance companies could make recommendations to the gummint (there's a good idea...) about which geographical regions are the most and least dangerous to live in. For example, Southern California is constantly on fire. People have to evac every summer. Gulf coast residents evac seemingly every fall. People in the great plains evac in the spring/early summer when the floods come. People who live in inland areas, with good drainage, and even better forest management, don't generally need to evacuate. Why should I pay for Mr. Mollineux and his band of inbred Cajuns to go to Houston every September?
And for acumen....h, scroll down a post or two over there, for your dose of "military humor".
David Gregory, do you know which damn network you lie for? ~ Uncle Jimbo, @Blackfive
Great link.....thanks Blonde...
September 6, 2008 - 13:06 ET by BEGRUNTI really like "Mudkitty" LOL
"If a man does his best, what else is there"?
General George S. Patton Jr.
Cella
September 6, 2008 - 13:05 ET by general companyYea your right, it is realy toughest on the folks who dont have to worry about the storm. So sorry you are put out so much by our crisis.
OK I will move, who do you recomend should buy my properties? Should I just loose it, give it up, should we call these areas inhabitable? Should we force my job to move with me? Maybe we should all come move to your little neck of the woods, would that satistfy you? Meanest lady in town, hell no, stupidest for sure though.
I dont think you have a clue what kinda problems evacuation put on those of us who are forced to do so. BTW, NOBODY has ever paid my way either and the cost are not trivial. Finding gas, rooms to stay in, food, clear roads, yea, no problems at all
"Television is a freak show" Bernie Goldberg
Well, this topic is stirring the pot
September 6, 2008 - 11:45 ET by Indiana JoeThis isn't an easy one. It's a question I've asked myself over the years. Every year, the Mississippi floods, people "lose everything," and the government steps in to help rebuild. Every year, there are wildfires in California that burn entire subdivisions, people "lose everything," and the government steps in to help rebuild.
And people rebuild in the same flood-prone, fire-prone areas.
Here in the midwest, tornados are the main weather danger. But they are a hit-and-miss danger across about a third of the country. It's hard to know when you build if a tornado will ever be a threat. And we have flooding, but flash floods are equally non-predictable. Building on land that floods pretty much every spring (the Mississippi) is another story.
In 40 years, I haven't had a tornado threaten my home. One did touch down a few miles away, destroying several blocks. The governor said the state didn't have money to help, and he didn't declare a disaster. I think that's required to get FEMA help. But, homeowner's insurance covers storm damage, so that's the answer here. That should be the answer everywhere. But what about "infrastructure?"
Flood insurance is federally subsidized. That tells me that insurance companies consider it a bad bet. But taxpayers are forced to accept that bet, and the availability of the insurance encourages people to build in high-risk areas. Maybe it makes sense to spread that risk over the whole country, but the result is that people that had no choice in the decision to build in risky areas end up paying when the risk causes damages.
Building a coastal city 7 feet below sea-level just sounds stupid. But we'd have to go back several hundred years to change that. We're stuck with it now.
Just some disjointed thoughts on the subject. But, overall, I think when someone else offers to cover your costs on a risk, most people will accept and take that risk. A special tax isn't the answer, since it would go the way of "highway funds" and "tobacco money," and be rolled into the general fund. Maybe we need to define upward what's really a "disaster."
"... smells like... victory." - Robert Duvall
I agree with you 100%, the
September 6, 2008 - 11:52 ET by jkwtradingI agree with you 100%, the answer is always it is our reponsibility as people to keep our own property repaired not anyone elses's.
It is not your responsibility to pay for me (taxes) or subsidies, regardless of how we define it (disaster) , unless you want to pay for me and tell me so.
not one single congressman, senator, president has ever asked me what I want
Well, there IS such a thing as a TRUE disaster
September 6, 2008 - 11:57 ET by Indiana JoeThe Twin Towers, for example. But I think the promise of FEMA aid encourages the declaration of "disaster" for anything a state doesn't want to handle itself.
"... smells like... victory." - Robert Duvall
well joe
September 6, 2008 - 12:16 ET by candanceThat's the difference we're talking about. A completely random, unforeseeable disaster is one thing. Building a luxury house on a beach that routinely sees hurricanes - that's quite another.
Maybe the government should start paying for car accidents when people text while driving.
Candance,
September 6, 2008 - 13:29 ET by Indiana JoeDon't give them any ideas! ;^)
"... smells like... victory." - Robert Duvall
tale of woe
September 6, 2008 - 18:08 ET by dmntd1First I got evacuated for Katrina, then a tornado hit where I moved. Within a year. American Red Cross came through with $2G the first time. My insurance paid the second time.
Really, I'm tired of people expecting the US Government to act like a charity. Free up our taxes, and after a short time (a little partying will occur, no doubt) I'm willing to bet that donations to charity will skyrocket. Food banks, homeless shelters, assisting evacuees....
This country is great in spite of the government, not because of it. We need to start taking back the power FROM the government. Leaving it to the people.
Fascism is a religious conception in which man is seen in his imminent relationship with a superior law and with an objective will that transcends the particular individual - Mussolini
I agree with you. I live
September 6, 2008 - 18:46 ET by RukusI agree with you.
I live in MS and did you know that in spite of us being one of the poorist states in the nation the we GIVE the most, number one! We are good, giving people down here. Thank you for your good post. We, down here, support one another in times of disaster, we get out and work together, let the government come in later, we work to help each other without all the whining about FEMA, MEMA, or whatever. We ROCK when disaster strikes! Thank you for the great post, we are about to be hit again with Ike, we will persavere! Thank you.
"Nuke 'em 'til they... oh hell, just shoot 'em!"
And I am sorry you got
September 6, 2008 - 18:49 ET by RukusAnd I am sorry you got nailed by a tornado. Bless you and your friends and family. I hope you are doing well and we will keep you in out prayers.
"Nuke 'em 'til they... oh hell, just shoot 'em!"
no new taxes
September 6, 2008 - 12:10 ET by candanceI'm going to go out on a limb here and agree with my fellow NBers. I don't believe for two seconds that any tax money paid for insurance would actually be put back for storm recovery. The government would spend it on more welfare and then panic, like always, when forced to recoup damages from an emergency.
You choose to drive a Mustang, you pay higher insurance rates. You choose to smoke, you pay more for healthcare. If you choose to build a house on the beach, you should assume the risk on your own shoulders. Unless I'm allowed to stay in your house on vacation I have no interest in paying for it to be there.
That Candance is the
September 6, 2008 - 14:13 ET by dscottThat Candance is the central issue, what the government does with the money it collects. IF the government were responsible in it's spending, national natural disaster insurance may well be a good idea. This is precisely why Hillary Care went down in flames back in the 90s, the public has had a belly full of incompetent government bureaucrats and politicians who recklessly engage in mission creep on every level. Efficient Government is an oxymoron for good reason. What makes anyone think given the track record of the government that they will be judicious with taxpayer funds??? There is absolutely no government endeavour I can think of that doesn't waste the taxpayer's hard earned money in some fashion via mission creep.
When politicians start BELIEVING the money in the treasury is the TAXPAYERS money and it is their FIDUCIARY duty to spend it wisely and not waste it on some politically correct boon doggle or social enabling program, then Hell will freeze over. In the meantime, insurance, building codes and local taxes should be the only means of dealing with natural disasters. Anything more and you give the spend thrifts more money to waste in their vote buying schemes. Obama basically already wants to buy your vote for a $1,000 a pop with his tax rebate scheme for 95% of households. Never mind where he'll get the money, the point is he is offering you $1,000 for your vote. If you are stupid enough to bite and there are millions of stupid people in this country you deserve to be fleeced by this con artist.
Nancy Pelosi and Harry Reid, starving the poor one gallon of ethanol at a time. Fill your tank with E85 and cull a village.
Whoopee!
September 6, 2008 - 12:27 ET by FoolicanHey, look, everybody! I'm PoopularTech.
I can make myself look smart just by posting this over and over.
My IQ just jumped 10 points.
One of my mortgages has
September 6, 2008 - 12:44 ET by general companyOne of my mortgages has been payed for sometime, and we cannot change insurance Co's. They are not interested in insuring what the law does not already require them to. I own 2 homes, one with a mortgage one without. BTW we still do not have power from Gustuv, and are not expected to have it for another week, unless Ike comes through as well. I am posting from our heath club in town. Here in LA the vegetation is the biggest problem in our area. Trees grow so fast here, any area not cut regularly will have 20-30 foot trees on it in just 7-10 years. We have High line Co's clearing lines year round, but still just on my street alone there are 5 trees of modest size laying on the power lines. Fortunately our homes were spared. It is a tough situation, and I am not sure how to rectify it completely. Anyway we all just want to thank everyone for their support and thoughts and prayers.
Edit, I screwed up the editing
"Television is a freak show" Bernie Goldberg
Hey GC
September 6, 2008 - 13:13 ET by BlondeGlad you came through Gustav with minimal damage.
As for the power thing....I'm sending you some virtual a.c. Not much I know.
We were without power for about a week after Wilma, with restoration about ten days out. One of the elderly neighbors called FPL about her meds, she couldn't handle no electricity, etc. And voila, they bumped our neighborhood to the top of the list.
Those of us in the hurricane zones do the best we can to be prepared. Those big trees sound like a big problem. I lost all of my big trees to the storms, and have replanted them with nothing that will mature at over 25', or palms. And away from theh house and powerlines. I had virtually no damage during Wilma, after spending about 3 hours in the south eye wall.
Best of luck to you with Ike....I'm breathing a little sigh of relief, here, but it looks much worse than Gustav to me.
David Gregory, do you know which damn network you lie for? ~ Uncle Jimbo, @Blackfive
Thanks, we are hoping
September 6, 2008 - 14:11 ET by general companyThanks, we are hoping Gustav was not the pralimanary round. We still have a qite few very large (300yr old Oaks) trees left, although they have been pruned back quite a bit by Katrina and Gustav.
Thanks again for your thoughts.
"Television is a freak show" Bernie Goldberg
Hang in there
September 6, 2008 - 14:16 ET by attorneygirlThanks for the posting....
Sorry you don't have power--it's not fun.
You brought up a good point about power lines and trees. Is there any reason why Louisiana (and New Orleans) can't put power lines underground? I know this is a long-term process, but it might help with the power and weather issues.
Also, it's been my experience (and I'm an attorney) that insurance companies are bastards. They are not your friend.
attorneygirl
September 6, 2008 - 14:25 ET by BlondeFirst, welcome here.
As for underground powerlines....the reality of it is, it's not really doable in most coastal areas. I'll address Florida, because that's what I know.
First of all, our coastal water table precludes underground wiring for the most part (buried phone cables cause mega issues every bloody time it rains). Secondly, IIRC, the infrastructure alone to replace what we have underground was like $20 billion for South Florida alone.
As for the insurance companies, spot on. The power companies (well at least FPL) are even worse. Prior to the first storm in 2004 (the banner year, 4 hits on Florida), I woke up one Saturday morning with no electricity. After checking the outside breakers, I wandered into my kitchen in search of coffee (d'oh), to look out the front window. And what to my astonishment did I see? The power pole crashed on my neighbor's brand new pickup truck.
The pole had died of old age, it was dry rotted about 4', absolutely termite ridden, both above and below ground. When we asked the crew about that, they stated they only replaced them as they toppled over, and paid the damage claims. It was cheaper than pro-actively replacing their time damaged infrastructure. Nice, huh?
David Gregory, do you know which damn network you lie for? ~ Uncle Jimbo, @Blackfive
We have much the same
September 6, 2008 - 14:44 ET by general companyWe have much the same problems as Blonde. It could be done, but the cost would be very high. Out where I live I am sure it is not even a consideration. I used to live where everything was underground, Columbia MD, I dont think we ever lost power while I was growing up.
"Television is a freak show" Bernie Goldberg
That's a pretty
September 7, 2008 - 09:04 ET by dscottThat's a pretty non-qualified definitive statement from a lawyer. Not to be disagreeable with you or imply a personal attack, but... Why do you think insurance companies would be so picky about paying off claims? Would it be because ...ahem... lawyers have sued the insurance companies at the drop of the hat in a legal version of playing the lottery??? Isn't it the truth that trial lawyers as a group are traditionally adversaries of the insurance companies? As you know as a lawyer, the money the insurance companies pay out comes from the premium payers. Maybe you should also disclose as a lawyer you have a vested financial interest in suing the insurance companies. BTW-this is the same attitude Democrats have toward the taxpayers hard earned money, they think it's the government's to spend not the taxpayers to wisely use.
Are there insurance company adjusters who are a bit too cynical and stingy after seeing too many lottery winners from law suits? Probably yes. However, by and large most claims are paid promptly and fairly despite the stereotype that is commonly accepted.
Nancy Pelosi and Harry Reid, starving the poor one gallon of ethanol at a time. Fill your tank with E85 and cull a village.
Risks
September 6, 2008 - 12:42 ET by KC MulvilleI don't know what the counter-argument is here. I mean, in every other circumstance, people who build in risky areas are required to get stiff insurance, and the federal government takes no responsibility for it.
I'm not being rhetorical here, I genuinely don't understand: why is New Orleans different? In my travels, I've been to New Orleans a couple of times. Beautiful place, no question. You can have a lot of fun there, even if you wilt in the humidity like I do. I love the place. But I'm not willing to rebuild the place from scratch every three years. Would you be willing to rebuild a city ... a major city ... every three years?
Related question: New Orleans has been around for hundreds of years. Only in the last three has the federal government been expected to rebuild the city. What's so different now?
Some Palin opinions in Sat NYT
September 6, 2008 - 12:49 ET by ThisnThatJust thought I would browse the NYT today and see where the columists stand. For your enjoyment:
Judith Warner "It turns out there was something more nauseating than the nomination of Sarah Palin as John McCain’s running mate this past week. It was the tone of the acclaim that followed her acceptance speech. Drill, baby, drill,” clapped John Dickerson, marveling at Palin’s ability to speak and smile at the same time as an indication of her unexpected depths and unsuspected strengths. Why does this woman – who to some of us seems as fake as they can come, with her delicate infant son hauled out night after night under the klieg lights and her pregnant teenage daughter shamelessly instrumentalized for political purposes — deserve, to a unique extent among political women, to rank as so “real”?"
BOB HERBERT "Sarah Palin may someday become president, and for all we know she may be a great one. But she was not chosen as Mr. McCain’s running mate after long and careful consideration and consultation. The best evidence is that she was a somewhat impulsive choice. Voters would be well advised to proceed with caution."
GAIL COLLINS "On behalf of the big cities, can I point out that we have memorials, too? Palin had already suggested to her audience — which happened to be in a small town — that people who live in communities of modest size are harder working, more patriotic and definitely not community organizers. At least give us credit for honoring our war dead, Sarah."
Tobin Harshaw "— if you want McCain to lose and you think she’s so terrible, you should be happy to see Palin as the VP nominee. It will help defeat McCain."
Timothy Egan "She is, though, a very recognizable Alaskan. Among Alaskans, drunken driving, teenage pregnancy, shooting wildlife out of season and courting an independent political party whose founder once said, “the fires of hell are frozen glaciers compared to my hatred for the American government,” are not disqualifying issues."
Does stuff like this get written in the NYT every single day? The drumbeat goes on, and on. Sorry about the length of this, but thought you might enjoy the panic on the left, and the NYT's full-attack mode on display.
___________________________________
If you can read this, thank a teacher. If it is in English, thank a Soldier. - My barber
Delusional MSM
September 6, 2008 - 12:50 ET by Sergeant ROCKlol... wow.. these people are delusional!
PALIN/McCain 2008
A black minister rips into Osama Bama!
September 6, 2008 - 18:17 ET by goldenthroatWhether you agree or disagree with any or all of what this man says, this is worth watching - a black minister condemning Osama Bama!
http://atlah.org/broadcast/ndnr07-28-08.html
If this is any indication, is his lordship's messianic bubble about to burst?
"The sun's not going down, the horizon's moving up!" - Firesign Theatre
Hi gt... The msm has been
September 6, 2008 - 18:28 ET by bigtimerHi gt...
The msm has been ignoring Manning, purposely, I have put other links on here where he really rips into him a few months back.
You know the msm, if they don't report, you don't decide...unless you're a repub of course...then they do not mind reporting on any word that comes from a religious leader on the conservative side of the aisle, of any religion.
Silence is golden for them if the shoe is on the other foot.
"America isn't the problem...America is the solution." ~ Rush Limbaugh
goldenthroat.... I dug
September 6, 2008 - 18:42 ET by bigtimergoldenthroat....
I dug this out just for you...I put the link on here back in March...I think you will get a big kick out of it!
Of coure the msm was silent then too...
"America isn't the problem...America is the solution." ~ Rush Limbaugh
Bigtimer, I did find this link...
September 6, 2008 - 20:33 ET by goldenthroatRev. Manning's appearance on Fox with John Gibson...
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ygWExq7g2F0&feature=related
I get this strange feeling that Manning and the Reeeeevveraaaand Jeremiah Wright will not be having tea together anytime soon!
I did watch the link you posted - did you happen to catch him saying the phrase "nappy headed ho's"? Why is it OK for a black preacher to use that phrase when Imus got fired for saying that?
Ironic, ain't it?
"The sun's not going down, the horizon's moving up!" - Firesign Theatre
gt... Oh yeah...I caught
September 6, 2008 - 20:46 ET by bigtimergt...
Oh yeah...I caught it...the hypocrisy is wonderful isn't it?
We know would of happened to any white preacher that said such.
"America isn't the problem...America is the solution." ~ Rush Limbaugh
interesting story the MSM is ignoring
September 6, 2008 - 13:56 ET by candanceAccording to Michelle Malkin, an official Obama website is accusing Palin of censoring the Harry Potter franchise before it was even published.
Slate included the accusation in their open letter to Joe Biden as if it was the gospel truth.
Holding my breath for the correction starting now...
Suggestion to RNC for gag bumper stickers/buttons etc.
September 6, 2008 - 14:35 ET by ironchefofmunchiesOBAMA-MEDIA 2008
Fun to hand out at your next press event!
Bill Schneider, Obama Kool Aid Drinker
September 6, 2008 - 19:09 ET by AgentAmericanYou want to know how bad the pundits at CNN have gotten so drunk off the Obama Kool-Aid:
http://www.cnn.com/2...
Read at your own peril....errrrr... amusement!
I didn't think he was even still around!
Drill ANWAR
AA... Oh yeah, the CNN
September 6, 2008 - 19:28 ET by bigtimerAA...
Oh yeah, the CNN dunce that talks to us all out here like we are all five year olds is still going...I have no idea why they keep this simpleton around...but then again, that's CNN for you.
"America isn't the problem...America is the solution." ~ Rush Limbaugh
NB Marketing
September 6, 2008 - 19:53 ET by dodecahedronI think this would be one of the most popular sites on the Internet if more people knew about it.
Has NewsBusters thought about marketing - e.g. bumperstickers, t-shirts, etc.?
Even just a black bumpersticker with NewsBusters.org written in white (or vice versa) would attract attention and get people curious enough to visit the site.
dod...hey that bumper
September 6, 2008 - 19:59 ET by bigtimerdod...hey that bumper sticker thing is a great idea!
I know that NBs got mentioned a lot during the convention with the work the guys did in various areas...plus Brent Bozell did on Fox the other day too that I was lucky enough to catch in the morning Mountain time.
"America isn't the problem...America is the solution." ~ Rush Limbaugh
chat
September 6, 2008 - 22:14 ET by MrShyCandance and I have opened up the chat room .... well, that was never really closed. :p
Obama... a total fraud. Palin... a total hottie.
The Chat Is On !
September 6, 2008 - 22:18 ET by Free StinkerThe Chat Is On !
chatty chatty bang bang
September 6, 2008 - 22:20 ET by MrShy...... come one, come all!
Obama... a total fraud. Palin... a total hottie.
CHAT !!
September 6, 2008 - 22:22 ET by Free StinkerThe next three to enter chat get a years supply of Rice-a-Roni (1)
(1) Actuall results will vary.
if you don't join the chat....
September 6, 2008 - 22:29 ET by MrShyMr. Shy will see to it you're banished from NB.
:):)
Obama... a total fraud. Palin... a total hottie.
wheres the chat ? Linkage
September 6, 2008 - 22:32 ET by Blazerwheres the chat ? Linkage please.My Firefox is screwed up.
"You will never find a more wretched hive of scum and villainy. We must be cautious. "
- Ben Kenobi on Liberals, and the MSM.
" The Cake is a lie."
CHAT NOW, OR DIE
September 6, 2008 - 23:14 ET by MrShylinkage linkage linkage
Obama... a total fraud. Palin... a total hottie.
Enough of the Sarah Palin trash talk
September 6, 2008 - 23:15 ET by marvlI have grown really sick of all the disgusting trash talk about Sarah Palin. The last straw was that nonsense about calling Obama "Sambo." So I whipped out my credit card and donated $100 to the McCain campaign, even though I can barely afford it.
I call on every fairminded American to support John McCain and Sarah Palin in any way they can. I have had enough of the blood sucking insects on the left, as I'm sure many of you have. Let's do whatever it takes to elect McCain-Palin.
John McCain and Sarah Palin are the best thing to come along in American politics in many, many years. My wife told me she has not been this excited since John Kennedy ran for president. And, don't you know, if JFK were around today he would surely be a Republican.
Let's silence the nut jobs and fruit cakes, and all the other infestation affecting the health of this great country. Vote McCain-Palin! God Bless America.