UPDATE: Senator Byrd Becomes Longest-Serving Congress Member, Speaks on Floor WEB EXTRA: watch Byrd's unedited appearance on the Senate floor" />
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Updated: 7:09 AM Nov 19, 2009
UPDATE: Senator Byrd Becomes Longest-Serving Congress Member, Speaks on Floor
West Virginia Sen. Robert C. Byrd has now been on Capitol Hill longer than any lawmaker in congressional history.
WEB EXTRA: watch Byrd's unedited appearance on the Senate floor
Posted: 7:31 AM Nov 18, 2009
Reporter: Kallie Cart; Anna Baxter, The Associated Press
Email Address: kallie.cart@wsaz.com; anna.baxter@wsaz.com
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UPDATE from 6pm Wednesday
CHARLESTON, W.Va. (WSAZ) -- While Sen. Robert C. Byrd was being honored in Washington, there was a celebration of the milestone here at home.

Friends and leaders came together at the West Virginia State Capitol to honor the longest serving congressional member.

The state House, Senate and Gov. Joe Manchin each signed into law Wednesday that Nov. 18 would be "Robert C. Byrd Day" in West Virginia..

As hundreds of political leaders and Byrd supporters gathered under his statue inside the State Capitol for a fitting tribute complete with fiddle music, reflecting on his many accomplishments and sharing stories about his love of learning, serving and the Constitution. There also was a surprise guest -- the nation's symbol -- a bald eagle.

They also sang "Happy Birthday" to Byrd who will turn 92 years old on Friday.

Sen. Byrd did make it out on to the Senate floor in Washington late Wednesday afternoon to talk about making American history. Fighting back tears, an emotional Byrd said his only regret was that his late wife Erma wasn't there to share the moment with him.

UPDATE: November 18 @ 7:30am
CHARLESTON, W.Va. (AP) -- West Virginia Sen. Robert C. Byrd has now been on Capitol Hill longer than any lawmaker in congressional history.

The Senate will mark the milestone when it convenes Wednesday morning and acknowledges Byrd's 56 years and 320 days of service.

It's unclear if Byrd will be able to attend due to frail health, but he issued a statement saying his only regret is that his late wife, Erma, isn't there with him. Byrd says she would probably congratulate him and warn him not to let his accomplishment go to his head.

Byrd's colleagues have elected him to more leadership positions than any senator in history. He has cast more than 18,000 votes and, despite fragile health lately, has a nearly 98 percent attendance record over the course of his career.

Friday is his 92nd birthday.

Statement from Senator Robert C. Byrd
“I am so deeply grateful to the people of the great State of West Virginia for demonstrating such confidence in me and enabling me to reach this momentous milestone. My only regret is that my beloved wife, companion and confidant, my dear Erma, is not here with me to witness this wonderful day. I know that she is looking down from the heavens smiling at me and saying congratulations my dear Robert -- but don’t let it go to your head.”

“Although we are marking a longevity milestone, it has been the quality and dedication of service that has guided me over the years. I have strived to provide the people of West Virginia the best representation possible each of the 20,774 days which I have served in the Congress of the United States. From the bottom of my heart I thank each and every West Virginian for the support they have given me during this time, and for putting their trust and faith in me.

The only way for me to close on this historic day is to say that I look forward to serving you for the next 56 years and 320 days! Thank you and may God bless you.”


ORIGINAL STORY
CHARLESTON, W.Va. (WSAZ) -- Next week, Senator Robert C. Byrd will hit yet another historical milestone in his career of public service.

Senator Byrd will become the longest serving Congressional member in history on November 18, 2009 with 56 years and 320 days representing West Virginia.

Carl Hayden From Arizona currently holds the title with 56 years and 319 days. According to autographcollector.com, Hayden came to the House when Arizona became a state in 1912.

West Virginia Governor Joe Manchin, along with members of the Legislature, congressional members and fellow West Virginians are planning a special celebration to honor the state's senior senator.

"On Nov. 18, a West Virginian breaks all records and makes history," Governor Joe Manchin said. "Sen. Byrd sets the gold standard for what it means to be an outstanding public official, and next week he will reach a historic national milestone for length of service."

The state's celebration kicks off at 3:00 p.m. next Wednesday in front of the senator's statue on the second floor Rotunda of the State Capitol.

Governor Joe Manchin, Judge Blane Michael, Charleston Attorney Ned Rose and Director of the Robert C. Byrd Center for Legislative Studies Ray Smock will all speak at the event.

Anne Barth, State Director for Senator Robert C. Byrd, is expected to deliver a message from the senator.

According to a spokesperson with the governor's office, the senator won't be able to attend the celebration in Charleston. He will be in Washington, D.C.

"Sen. Byrd is a man of the people who fights tirelessly for us every single day in Washington," Manchin said. "West Virginians are so thankful for Sen. Byrd’s service to our state and this ceremony gives us an opportunity to applaud his efforts. Gayle and I invite all West Virginians to participate in this very special day."

The ceremony will be followed by an exhibit that highlights the senator's accomplishments and includes photos from throughout his distinguished career.

The ceremony and exhibit are free and open to the public.

Statement from Congresswoman Shelley Moore Capito
“Senator Byrd’s lengthy record of service in Congress is something for which every West Virginian can be proud,” said Capito. “For nearly 57 years, West Virginians have elected Senator Byrd as their representative in Washington, DC -- and that’s a responsibility he has never taken lightly.

“I wish him all the best on this historic occasion and look forward to his continued service on behalf of the people of our great state.”

President Obama Statement on Senator Robert Byrd
“Today, my friend Senator Robert Byrd becomes the longest-serving Member of Congress in our nation’s history, and I’d like to take this opportunity to applaud him and extend heartfelt thanks for his nearly 57 years of remarkable service.

Senator Byrd has always represented the people of West Virginia with pride and passion, fighting to put working families first and make life better for the people of his beloved state. His knowledge and experience in the Senate are unparalleled, and he commands the respect of all those who have had the honor of serving with him. Countless colleagues – myself included - have looked to him for advice, guidance and leadership over the years.

He is one of the most steadfast defenders of the United States Constitution, and he never lets us forget the guiding values and principles that make our nation great. Michelle and I extend our most heartfelt congratulations to Senator Byrd and his family today, and our entire nation thanks him for his continued service and leadership.”

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Latest Comments

Posted by: Ryan Graley on Nov 27, 2009 at 07:41 PM

All positive comments are great... I am a Byrd fan. He has made Wv what it is today. He has created jobs,schools,bridges,highways, and is always making the best ideals for WestVirginias. He is in great Health to be 92. We need to keep him in Washington for many more years. Byrd your my idol and WV couldnt live with out you. Thanks so much love ya big Daddy..
Posted by: Jack on Nov 19, 2009 at 12:29 PM

A man whose has rode the on the backs of hard working and struggling West Virginians for over 50 years to gain such wealth. In politics, this is the only profession I know where our "employees" make that much more than their "employers" and give themselves payraises any time and live the life of luxury while their "employers" struggle to make ends meet.
Posted by: Michael on Nov 19, 2009 at 12:22 PM

RETIRE ALREADY!!!!!
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The Yell: Comments this Week
The Yell: Comments for the Week of 3/7
  • Posted By: You are exactly correct COT: You nailed it. In past times, people had a direct relationship with the doctor; they paid the bill, they paid attention to costs, they purchased what they needed. Due to wage controls during WW2, union benefit packages began offering insurance as a benefit in lieu of salary; that took the one on one relationship out of things; it no longer mattered what cost was, because "someone else" was paying it. What should be done immediately to truly impact cost is, open up interstate insurance competition; encourage and promote HSAs; make the individual responsible for shopping around for the best care/price. Did anyone hear Sen. Dick Durbin, D-IL, say yesterday that anybody who tells you Obamacare will lower premiums is not telling the truth? Obama lies? Did anybody hear that Govt. ran Medicare rejects more claims than Aetna? Did you know that S. WV's own Nick Rahall STILL supports this bill? Your taxes will raise immediately; but, you get no "benefits" for 4 years. Sound like a good deal?
  • Posted By: Keith: You guys are right, conservatives as well as liberals are all at the mercy of Obama right now. I heard today where the democrat senate passed unemployment benefits through the end of the year; clearly, they are not expecting a recovery this year nor is anything being done to help recovery. There is a clear way out of a recession; look to history. The depression of 1922; chances are you have not heard of it. Immediate reduction in spending and tax cuts solved it. The exact opposite happened in 1933. The depression turned into the Great Depression and dragged on for 8 long, agonizing years, because of Keynesian ideas that are being followed by the current administration. Failed then, failing now. Reagan demonstrated tax cuts work by taking a country mired in double digit unemployment, 21% interest rates, and double digit inflation. It was so bad under Carter a new term had to be coined-The Misery Index. But, never fear, its a great day in the USA; only 36,000 of us lost our jobs in Feb.
  • Posted By: Craveontruth: What is really interesting is the part of health care that is not covered by insurance or the government.This would be elected surgery,like breast implants,lasik eye surgery,etc.This area of medicine is a true example of the free market and has the most reasonable and competitive rates.One might conclude that if there were no insurance or taxes paying for health care then the price of being treated when you are sick might just be affordable.
  • Posted By: Bluebird: Excuse me Jeannie, I did not say my kids were on CHIPS. They are not. I said most kids qualify for CHIPS. You misread. But I do not begrudge the care given for children on CHIPS and feel it is our responsibility to care for kids, however not people such as you. My husband was on UE for the winter-2 months. He went back to work. Had he not known he had work coming, I would gladly have gone out and gotten a job while he stayed home. Accident-we pay for my care and have auto insurance. Surgery- we pay. Cancer-I have already addressed that- I refuse treatment. That is my right.We have saved money for medical care, not treating ourselves to things we did not need. Get off your high horse. You all sure are quick to call people hypocrites without the right to do so. You are everything I stand against.
  • Posted By: RoaneCo.: So your saying the discriminatory tax that I pay on my cigarettes are helping to pay for insurance coverage for needy children? Now I wonder why these Pro-Life screaming churches don't forfeit their tax exempt status in order to help with the care of these children. Dare I say.........GREED!!
  • Posted By: food for thought: I did pay close attention, I repeated in not the exact words, but summed up what the representative said. He said it, you heard it and I heard it.
  • Posted By: annonomous: In the Garvin case, I believe that the testomony of Jessica Jenkins should not have even been considered. She is a known crack addict and criminal, who would steal pennies off of a dead man's eyes. She would say anything to reduce her own sentence even if she had to make it all up. I am not saying that I think Garvin is innocent, however Jessica's testamony could be nothing more than an attempt to plea bargain.
  • Posted By: RoaneCo.: Thank you jam6972. I realize no two people are going to agree 100% of the time, nor do I believe that two parties are going to agree 100% of the time. But all this finger pointing isn't getting us anywhere. Sadly, I don't ever see us, as a Nation, recovering from this economic mess until all parties start using "common sense". How can a country solve a problem of this magnitude when there is no agreement as to what the problem truly is? I swear sometimes our elected official have about the same level of logical thought process as some of us that post on here. And yes jam6972 I feel safe in saying that there are many conservative folks getting their just rewards. I bet some of them would love to have their big tax deductible donation, that they gave to their big tax exempt church, back in there little unemployed pockets. I also have a saying I would like to share. Tis better to be thought a hypocrite than to post a comment and remove all doubt.
  • Posted By: To Jeannie: Actually CHIPS is paid for by tobacco tax, not just all taxpayers....cigarette smoking taxpayers.
  • Posted By: jam6972: To Roane county: I heard that !!! I agree with you my friend, but some people cannot see this side. Only takes a little common sense to acknowledge there are two sides to all stories. Hmmmmm,....do you think there might be a conservative or two on unemployment? Surely not! (wink)
  • Posted By: Jeannie: Kris - that was quite an important post earlier about Sarah Palin that bears repeating. SARAH PALIN TOOK HER FAMILY TO CANADA FOR CHEAPER HEALTHCARE!!!! Does anyone understand what that means? Would anyone care to post the definition of hypocrite.... Sarah Palin and Bluebird would qualify.
  • Posted By: Jeannie: Bluebird: Did I read your post correctly? Your kids are on CHIPS, right? Are you aware that that is a government program that is subsidized by taxpayers. How dare you complain about others living off the govt! I am a fan of CHIPS; however, you need to understand you are against that which you take part in. Obamacare/CHIPS - same difference. If you have an accident and go to the ER and God forbid have to stay in the hospital or have surgeries, who exactly is going to pay for your care? Don't tell me that hospitals have plans for indigent care and that is what you will do. This, too, is taking from others who pay their way. Face it; you need Obamacare just like everyone else. Some people are incapable of simple logic and you are among them. If we truly don't want Obamacare, then you sick people need to get used to REALLY NOT LIVING OFF OTHERS. You should be turned away at ER's. You should not engage in risky behavior. You should never ever get cancer. Can you make those promises?
  • Posted By: Jim: Bluebird I would not try and fool you you can check the numbers $39000 is the cost of living in NJ where as in WVA it is $26000.As Walt said everything cost more than here I recently vacationed in Hawaii they sell eggs by the half dozen for $1.89 where as here I can buy 3 times that many for the same money, bread over $4.50 a loaf,1 bed room apt $900-$1500 and their max benefit is $559 so 2 to 3 weeks is gone for rent alone power bill $100 a month plus depending on whether you use the air or heat phone $50 a month and you still have auto insurance home insurance auto payment and food so there is no way they could make it on unemployment alone without being homeless in a short order.As for your comment on people wanting to much you disappoint me why does anyone work if not to have things better. I know some people live outside their means but not all I have always heard it said don't live so high that you can fall if you find yourself without income.
  • Posted By: Bluebird: Perhaps, Walt. I am not a world traveler, nor have I made it habit to study various economies. But $600. a week equals at least $2400 a month there, doesn't it? Surely they can make it on that if we can on $600/month? That was the original argument, that they could not continue on unemployment. What I do notice is people. Morals are not popular at this time. Oh, I know people are struggling. And I am not unsympathetic. There are many good people out there trying. But there are just as many not. And this is not the time to add more debt to the economy. Spending money we don't have is not a fix. Adding to our government will be our downfall. Any extra money, I would gladly give to people in need, and do. But to tell me I have to? That just angers me. Our government has become Robin Hood on a grand scale. It is way past time for them to cut in their corner. Then there would be money for the needy without dragging more of us down to that category (needy). UE need extended? Cut pork.
  • Posted By: Walt: Bluebird, I'm not sure you appreciate the difference in cost of living between WV and, well...almost any other state in the union. It costs more money to live in NJ. Utilities cost more, rent costs more, highway tolls cost more, food (and other essentials) costs more, etc. Yes, you can live on $600 a month in WV. I've done it. But there's no WAY you could get by in NJ on that amount.
  • Posted By: Walt: morals...exactly. You take pride in your convictions, and you don't want to sit around and take handouts. Neither do I. And neither, I suspect, do the more than 6 million people who've lost their jobs since the current recession began, be they in NJ or someplace else.
  • Posted By: Not asking for sympathy: Look I'm not looking for sympathy but please do not assume that everyone collecting unemployment are dead beats who will collect until it's dried up. I lost my job through no fault of my own (along with several other co-workers)since the moment I was let go I have searched, applied, tested,called,filled out applications to every company hiring, those not advertising, jobs I'm not really qualified for,job service,employment agencies etc and I have yet to even be called for an interview. I have a lot of experience and skills but even the local grocery store/gas station is not hiring right now. My hubby and I have kids and don't have extras, grow a garden,thankfully have insurance through his job,only have one car payment but if I can't find a job in the next couple of months I'm out of luck. Again, not looking for sympathy just do not assume we are all bums looking for a handout. I know it's not your problem but really I appreciate the help. Thank you.
  • Posted By: Bluebird: If someone is making $72,000 a year and are living "a standard" on that amount and do not put back for a rainy day, well, WAAAH! Like I said, people want too much. Cost of living $39,000? I think not. Perhaps for people who want to have more house than they can afford or heat/cool. Swimming pools. Several car loans. Credit cards maxed. Whose fault is that? Mine? Any family could live on $600. a week if they lived the responsible life they should in any state in America. But it has become "the thing" to have outlandish debts. And we are tired of paying for it. Before you even see your check, state, fed., SS and UE are taken out. Spend some, state gets more. Save it, feds get more. Each year pay income tax to both on money already taxed. Too many people are waiting with their hand out for their part of your payroll check. UE is living off the state, Walt? Yeah, right. Where did the "state" get that money? Is the state/fed hurting? Look at how our leaders live and see your answer. CUT!
  • Posted By: RoaneCo.: So now our present economic crisis is the fault of the unemployeed? Hummm, that is funny, seemed not to long ago it was the working people and their mean old unions fault. You know, them folks and their union that were fighting for decent pay, health insurance, retirement and to keep jobs here in the United States. And who was it that broke many of the unions, forced wage and benefit concessions and took away health and retirement benefits from indiviuals that had already retired? After all of this, big business still chooses to operate in a foreign country where they can get the cheapest labor and the most relaxed regulations. Strange how some people talk out of both sides of their mounths. If the middle class working man fights for it, he doesn't deserve it...take it from him. If the government wants to give it to him...stop that to, make him work a part-time, low paying job without benefits. That will fix our economy, won't it?
  • Posted By: B.E..and mother earth: DID YOU SEE ON THE NEWS ABOUT THE MUSLIMS KILLING THE CHRISTIANS AND VISE VERSA.RELIGON IS PART OF THESE HIEONUS ACTS BUT THE MOST IMPORTANT PART IS THE LAND AND THE ABILITY TO SURVIVE.I WONDER HOW MANY MILLIONS OF ACRES ARE OWNED BY THEIR GOV.FOR WILDLIFE AND LAND CONSERVATION.WOULDNT IT MAKE MORE SENSE TO GIVE THESE PEOPLE PART OF THE LAND TO STOP THE SLAUGHTER OF HUMAN BEINGS.NAAA EVENTUALLY ONE SIDE WILL MAKE GENOCIDE WORK FOR THEM.REMEMBER THE MILLION KILLED IN DARFOR,I THINK WAS THE PLACE.THEIR POLITICANS ARE LIKE OURS TO A CERTAIN DEGREE,LIVE IN SQUALOR WHEN WE CAN NO LONGER AFFORD TO PAY HIGH UTILITIES,HIGH GAS PRICES,EVENTUALLY HIGH INFLATION ETC.BUT THEY THE POLITICANS WILL LIVE LIKE KINGS WHILE TAXPAYERS ARE GOOSESTEPED INTO POVERTY.CONTROL,CONTROL,CONTROL!!!BRING ON THE OBAMA WATERMELONS.WE RAISE THEM O.WILL TAKE THEM FROM US AND DISTRIBUTE THEM TO UNPRODUCTIVE LAZY PEOPLE.CONTROL.BUT IT TAKES MOTHER EARTH TO RAISE FOOD,THEY WILL PROBABLY TAKE IT OUT OF PRODUCTION.NO MELONS
  • Posted By: Kris: Hypocrite: Former Alaska Gov. Sarah Palin -- who has gone to great lengths to hype the supposed dangers of a big government takeover of American health care -- admitted over the weekend that she used to get her treatment in Canada's single-payer system. John McCain sure opened pandoras box when he tapped her as a running mate just to try and get elected. Peace to ALL!
  • Posted By: Jim: Bluebird $30,000 will not sustain a person in NJ the cost of living is $39,000 the $600 is the max from earned income from $52000 and up.Say your standard of living is based on income of $72,000 which is the state average household for NJ do you think $600 a week will cover that,will you kick back for down time.Maybe long enough to watch them reposess your car but no longer and usually without a car you wont be able to go to work anyway so no Keith was not right unless the people want to be broke and lose everything they have worked for they will not just ride out their unemployment.The lowest household income average for any county in the state is $49,000 and 70% of the people in that county make that.
  • Posted By: Bluebird: Morals. I could not live off the state. I believe "if you don't work, you don't eat" laws. And as I tried to say, I already live modestly. Growing a few more vegetables in the summer and putting up for winter would not be a big deal. I was saying it could be done. It does not mean you would lose everything. And I know many people who choose to wait until unemployment runs out. Extend it and there they would sit. I do not approve. Do they lose everything? No, they head right for the welfare office. If for some reason my husband could not work, then I would find a job while he cared for the kids, even if it was minimum wage. What my gripe is, people want too much. They don't try to live within their means.If they can't get what they want, they think someone else should provide it. And socialism says we should provide it. Now if I live modestly, why should I provide things for you that I do without myself? I want to choose if and how I spend my money I have left over. It is mine.
  • Posted By: Walt: Well let me ask you this, then. You can live off the state and adjust your standard of living accordingly...why don't you?
  • Posted By: Big Earl: Hello good coal miners of WV and there people these PETA types is at it again this time bothering MacDonalds I seen it on the news I seen where the tofu and aerogoula bunch is giving guff to Ronald on account of the type of fish they grow well I have two requirements for a fish one it grows in water two it tastes good with tarter sauce have you people ever seen that man from the Subway he used to wear jeans what looked like a pup tent but he got skinny eating submarines I say leave the Salamie alone Jared is living proof it is good for you pepperoni is to it comes from a goat and has lots of protein and minerals ten penny nails greenbean cans and old shingles is good nutrition to a goat really stick to your ribs when you put old Billy on your pizza stuffed crust down to the pizza hut is my favorite.
  • Posted By: Bluebird: Well, yes Walt I do. I guess we run in different "circles" as they say. I do see your point. But here is mine. I would not lose my house, because I have never bought one bigger than I needed. Mine is paid for. Fixed up by us. There are still people who do that. I don't have health insurance and don't want it. When I get sick, THEN I pay-cash. My purchases-cash. In the winter, we turn the heat down and put on sweaters and even a blanket if we feel chilly. I cook my own meals-usually enough for a couple of days. (Chili, Veg. Soup, Pinto beans and cornbread, etc.)I could live on $600. a MONTH, easy. I trust the Lord to keep me healthy. The exception is my kids. But most kids qualify for CHIPS. We manage fine without Obamacare. And IF by chance I get a serious illness such as cancer, I will CHOOSE to refuse treatment and go on Home. But the most important- I live in freedom. If my husband chose to ride out his unemployment for a while, we would be fine. These options would be for NJ also.
  • Posted By: Keith...well I do...: If your spouse is employed with health insurance, who would look for a job, as long as they are pulling in $30,000? Gov. Christie highlighted an individual in NJ who had paid a little over $100,000 into his retirement fund, but will reap well over 1 MILLION. So, I know the figures are correct and true. The point is, listen to the liberals; they are already hollering about the next cutoff date in July. No jobs, no plans, no progress; just keep the unemployment rolling. I saw a letter the other day from the chair of the Democrat party of KY, he went on and on and on about how evil Jim Bunning is, blah blah, went an entire page and not once mentioned job creation! You know why? Because it is abundantly clear they have no plan. Look at the economy, as bad as it; did you ever think the day would come in America when the majority leader of the US Senate would call it a great day when "only" 36,000 people lost their jobs!??! Lets party! 36,000 lost their jobs! HOOOOEEEEE! Hope and change.
  • Posted By: Walt: Bluebird, the point is that it's a specious argument. "I'm doing great here in NJ making $600 a week. I'll just quit looking for work." Well, you would NOT be doing great on $600 a week in New Jersey (assuming you qualified for that much, which you wouldn't)-- you'd be lucky to keep your house. And you could forget about health insurance. I don't know of ANYONE who would settle for less money and zero health care if they could go out and get a job that took care of all that. Do you?
  • Posted By: Hey Zippy: It was funny wasn't it? For those of you who missed it on Chris Matthew's show Sunday Dan Rather said Obama couldn't sell watermelons by the roadside even if a state trooper was stopping traffic for him. No kidding, he really said it. The more I hear it the harder I laugh too. Why didn't Rather say Obama could sell Oranges, or Pineapples, or maybe even Cantaloupes, anything but WATERMELONS! I swear next he will be making jokes about fried chicken. Never fear though, Dan Rather is a card carrying (remember that?) member of the say anything you want about dark skinned people club and no repercussions will be forthcoming. He is in good company-Harry Reid, D, Hillary Clinton, D, Joe Biden, D, Bill Clinton, D, Howard Dean, D. etc...
  • Posted By: Keith...paging Dr. Rahall...paging Dr. Rahall: The current figures have only 42% of Dems strongly supporting Obamacare; 72% of Republicans oppose. Independents strong support registers at 17%, while their strong dislike clocks in at 45%. Can anyone remember a more sleazy, crooked, underhanded machination behind a bill than Obamacare? Federal judgeship? No problem. Ethics investigation? Canceled. Nebraska's corn husker kickback. The Louisiana purchase. Perverts chasing down recalcitrant congressmen in locker rooms. Pledges of openness; transparency. Medicare has a higher rate of claim rejection than Aetna. Evil, no good insur...er Medicare. Folks, Nick Rahall is carrying Nancy Pelosi's water on this one, but the good news is we have a choice in this fall's election, with Judge Maynard. Everyone needs to light up the switchboard in Rahall's office and ask him why he continues to ignore his state and the clear majority of the country and support a govt. takeover of the health care system. Call him ASAP at 1-202-224-3121, do it today.
  • Posted By: Bluebird: So after all those posts to correct Keith on the NJ unemployment, he was right after all? And if someone can make $30,000 on unemployment, even if they were previously making $52,000 in earnings, but were able to keep their bills paid and food on the table with that unemployment, you don't think many may take their time looking for another job? IMO that does not insinuate "welfare cheats" or people who refuse to work. People feel they have paid into it and would like some down time. I have heard many people say "Drawing that much unemployment, I am not in any hurry to go back to work." Not all are like that, but many are. My husband wears the carpet out, pacing, when he is off for the winter. But face it, most feel it is a welcome change and take advantage of it.
  • Posted By: Walt: Keith, the 79 weeks figure is the result of a temporary federal extension in unemployment benefits, the Unemployment Extension Act of 2008, signed by George W. Bush. The standard term for NJ (and most other states) is 26 weeks. Once the economy picks up, that extension will be history. Also, I think you're missing the point on unemployment insurance, which is that it's UNEMPLOYMENT insurance i.e. in order to get it, you have to have had a job. The law says you are eligible for "60% of average weekly income, but no more than $600" (your figure for this was correct...the max jumped to $600 on Jan 1., 2010) per week. So in order to qualify for that $600 per week benefit, you had to have had a job that paid at least $52,000 per year. I think you are trying to give the impression that the "welfare cheats," or the people who refuse to work, can earn great money in a state like NJ by doing nothing. And that just isn't true.
  • Posted By: jim missed my point ...: the school age children cant speak english.the teacher was hired to teach school age children english.evidently the parents camehere recently with small children that cant speak english.the cost of a teacher,benefits,family living in taxpayer housing,free breakfast,lunch,foodstamps,utilities,free health care,etc.wouldnt that all add up to 100,150 thousand taxpayer dollars.if we send illegals back,the legals who are criminals,legals who wont work etc,what do you think would be the financial benefit for americans.again if you cant feed em,dont breed em.
  • Posted By: Jim: Keith again the half truth's you forgot to mention the cost of unemployment insurance to the companies in NJ which is in some cases twice as much as the cost in other states,you of all people should understand what cost to a business means.The fact that NJ cost of living is so high is the reason that they have to pay for people to go there to work its the same thru-out the Northeast. I know several people from right here in the tri-state area who have worked there and they draw their unemployment from there also,they tax more of your wage for unemployment something like $28,000 dollars compared to $8000 in Wva.Unemployment is so different in all states do you know what $28,500 to $32,000 a year will buy you in NJ.The cost of living their is $39,000 a year as opposed to $26,000 in WVa $27,000 in Ky and $30,000 in Oh. SO if you make $50,000 a year in WVa you will have to make $60,000 a year to live the same standard of life in New Jersey
  • Posted By: Jim: Bunnung reply here's my take on an Spanish/English teacher that can not speak English.Who hired him/her sounds to me like they may have not been qualified for the job and if that is the fact dont blame them blame the board of education who hired them.I doubt very much that the person is an illegal though but if they are then thats another fault in the boards hiring policy.Myself if my kids attended a school where they hire unqualified illegals I'd be looking for a new school or new directors for the one they are attending.The last time I checked all college bound students had to have at least 1 foreign language class which is a plus for anyone. My grand-daughter is learning Spanish and she is only 4.As for work ethic yes it is taught in the home but there is nothing that will kill the desire to want more out of life which is the only reason anyone works any faster than seeing someone come here and make half again more money doing the same job you are and have been doing for 2 yrs
  • Posted By: Congressman Nick J. Rahall, Insurance agent: First off, I have no real experience with anything, but have I got a plan for you, solve all your problems. You start paying for it immediately, the rates keep going up, your taxes get higher, and you go deeper into debt, but don't worry, in 4 years you can start using the policy! Sound like a deal? Did I tell you I never really did anything of note in my life? Did I tell you that you really have no choice to buy my policy, if you choose not to you can pay a fine of several thousand dollars so somebody else can get access to this great deal. Oh yeah, before I forget, I get to appoint a panel to tell you what you can have in your policy and what benefits you will get. And since the other insurance company I own-Medicare-denies more claims than any private insurer in the country, well, lets just say you will get what I think you need. I need your help. Call your congressman, Nick J. Rahall. Now he already supports me, but he needs your encouragement lest he waver. Sincerely, B.Obama.
  • Posted By: bunning reply: i wasnt talking unimployment.the health insurance bill was one thing was talking about.what was your thought on the spanish ,english teacher in grade school for small children who dont speak english.if we sent back all illegals,the legals and their families that are here but are criminals,live off our hard earned money probably 75 percent of our financial problems would be elliminated.as for work ethic,that is taught in the home not in the fields.wait till all the college graduates start looking for jobs,what then for obama?cbs has obamas pole numbers,it even shocked me,coming from obama news network.maybe the young people will demand the constitution be upheld.i know they had better get their heads out of the sand and investigate where this country is headed.we are trully on the brink.there,ll be no watermelons for o to sell,they will be the property of gov.and you know how gov.destributes wealth.the peons,peasants,taxpayer raises them then distributes them to unproductive people.
  • Posted By: zippy: Posted by: Did anybody hear Dan Rather say... on "Mar 9, 2010 at 07:27 PM That Obama could not sell watermelons by the roadside if a state trooper was stopping traffic? It was on the Chris Matthews show Sunday morning." No, but I wish I did. R*O*T*F*L*M*A*O!!!!!
  • Posted By: Keith...you said it Jam not me...: Well Jennifer, Constipated, politics is interesting; sorry I am just not into Oprah and Ellen; the people I write about have the power to tax you, take away your freedom and ruin your life. Not important enough? What insurer denies the most procedures for patients? Medicare, at 6.85%. Closest competitor in the private sector is Aetna at 6.80%. Still think there will be no rationing of healthcare? You better wake up. Google the phrase “length of unemployment benefits in New Jersey.” Interesting reading. One fellow notes the benefits go on up to 79 weeks, which is more than a year. An article in the Employers Assoc. of New Jersey notes that this month, “Governor Chris Christie has proposed major revisions to the state’s unemployment system…weekly unemployment benefits would be reduced FROM $600 per week TO $550. Multiply that out and you get between $28,500-$32,000 yearly.
  • Posted By: Constipated: I get sick of all the people on here trying to talk politics. If you only knew what was really going on in Washington...
  • Posted By: Did anybody hear Dan Rather say...: That Obama could not sell watermelons by the roadside if a state trooper was stopping traffic? It was on the Chris Matthews show Sunday morning.
  • Posted By: Big Earl: Hello good coal miners of WV and there people this is Big Earl did any of you people read that story about that pig named Gordy was wondering around all over our capital city and no you hippies Doug Stone is not coming to load you up in a pine box for a grand tour of Georgia there have been some very well know movie pigs in the great history of American Television Arnold the Pig was on the Green Acers show some years back then there was that pig from Austrailia what thought it was a sheepdog and had a PETA type for a owner and an evil no good cat that lived in the house to next time you people got a wondering pig give it directions over to the Bob Evans restaurant by the looks of him he would make some mighty good breakfasts.
  • Posted By: Jennifer S.: Can you all ever talk about anything else? Liberal this and Obama that. Blah Blah Blah!! I use to love reading the yell, but anymore it's SSDD. Same sh*t different day. Come on guys make it interesting could ya?
  • Posted By: jam6972: I got your message Keith! ALL,..... I repeat ALL liberals are crooks, liars, connivers, and cheats! Right Keith ? And ALL conservatives are PERFECT ! It is easy to comprehend when you explain it so well! Thank you !
  • Posted By: Hey food for thought: I believe you should have listened a little closer the they the rep was speaking of is the republicans they are the ones wanting to keep kids on their insurance if you can call them kids at mid to late 20's
  • Posted By: Jim re bunning: Just thought I would add another little known fact to your reply,do you know that in 1986 Reagan {see Walt@950am} stopped a long time entitlement to the nations maritime industry only on Americans but did not end it to foreiners.It was called the maritime ticket for health care to mariners who became ill while on board any vessel in US waters.It was a simple form that the Capt.filled out and would hand to the worker and it entitled him free emergency room care any place in the country.Not only did this keep the transportation of goods flowing it helped by keeping the whole crew from being sick.It was seldom used unless it was a serious illness or injury that needed fast medical attention.US mariners where taken out of the program but ships coming in many with foreign workers were still covered,rather than quarantine them he let them come ashore to be treated,not using concern that what they had may cause a national epidemic.Another good faith deal at the expense of the American people
  • Posted By: Jim re Bunning: If you are talking the same bill the rest of us are the legal/illegal aliens drawing unemployment would be the direct result of the 2002 farm bill under Bush, it was this boon-doggle of a bill that paid farmers to hire migrant workers from Mexico to work the fields and set it up where they could draw unemployment benefits.It is Govt funding that matches the min.wage to farmers who hire them to work here thus destroying the summer jobs of thousands of young workers all across the country.Here's what happened in the tomato fields all over So Ohio the farmers would pay American kids min. wage but Mexicans doing the same job would earn half again as much thanks to the farm bill then we wonder why young kids have no desire to work when they see the unjust treatment in this.This work was a rite of passage for years but when the farmers seen a chance to make a profit from a tax payer funded bill they took it and you cant blame them,but at the same time we killed the work ethic of our own kids
  • Posted By: Walt: both the Senate and House versions of the current health care legislation explicitly bar illegal immigrants from receiving federal money to pay for health care. Illegals can receive emergency room care, under the Emergency Medical Treatment and Active Labor Act, signed by President Reagan in 1986.
  • Posted By: Jim: Keith Walt is right on the NJ situation many states whole set up is different than Ohio or WVa. Mass. has a max weekly benefit of $712 I beleive but the bottom # is the same you only get the amount that is paid into your account and when that is gone your out under normal situations,you get more a week but less weeks.What I was saying is if there had been no extensions then they could not be quoting the high unemployment rates these stats are taken from the number of claims filed and you have to figure that close to half are drawing off extended benefits so in that figuring instead of 9.7 you would be looking at 4.85 unemployment rate.Granted there are some that will not look for work but there are more that would work if given the chance rather than jump thru the hoops to draw a token check that barely keeps them afloat.Myself I have only drawn 3 checks in my life and several times knowing I was going back to work in a matter of a couple weeks it was not worth the hassle it is no fun
  • Posted By: food for thought: I heard a democratic rep. on Cavuto say that they want a part of the new health bill to include keeping "children" yes that's right"children" on their parents insurance up to the ages of 26-27 yrs. old. Now I see reasoning for kids that are in college. eg. medical field and what have you, but seriously do we ever expect our 26-27 yr. old "adults" to grow up? Sounds like a "woo" method to me. Or...maybe desperation. I dunno. I just say this I guess I moved out 10-11 years to early, married to young at 23, become a father to early at 25, and found a fulltime job w/insurance way to early at 20 yrs.old. Boy did I mess up.
  • Posted By: bunning...: we needmore bunnings,not less.he wont be here next year tho.did anybody step back ans dissect the bill?did you know that legal, illegal aliens are NOTexempt from the bill.they will get their share,maybe more.in ashland ky a school hires a full time spanish teacher in grade school to teach children english,so how long can these people have been in the country?and dont forget there is almost free housing,foodstamps,free breakfast,lunch,utilities,health insurance,etc.how much would that amount to in taxpayer money,probably ahundred,hundred fifty thousand dollars?my motto is IF YOU CANT FEED EM
  • Posted By: Keith...a new poll question: What word best describes Obama: Crook, liar, conniver, cheat; doling out Federal Judge appointments to relatives of democrat congressmen, to try and con them into supporting Obamacare; sending a wierdo like Rahm Emmanuel into a locker room shower to cajole lawmakers; what a pervert; where does Obama find these people? The Cornhusker Kickback; the Louisiana Purchase; what a shame. If a candidate won an election by a 53%-42% margin, would you say it was a mandate? What about 55%-45%? Clear enough? Those are the poll numbers; a clear majority does not want this government takeover of the health care system. Ultimately the responsibility for this travesty lies with Obama voters. It is your fault. You empowered this sleaze. By hook or crook, lie, cheat, steal, con; he is hellbent to get his way, to He** with the American public. Obama voter, it is you who needs to apologize to the country. This is a deplorable, pitiful shame. Hope and change. What a joke.
  • Posted By: Bluebird: On the surface of things, it would appear that lawmakers in Washington just stall on issues to gain political points. But after following this forum for a while, it is obvious that Democrats and Republicans are oceans apart on their views. It seems the two sides can never agree on what are the best answers for America. It is for this reason that I hope a health care bill does not pass until it is complete. If it does, it will remain as is or doctored by the majority and is doubtful that it will represent the needs of the people. It looks to me like it should have been started over and built upon agreeing points, if any could be found. I really dread to see the end result if we are forced to accept this.
  • Posted By: to craveon the truth: Looks like you and old Machmmodd Hockmediniejad from Iran have a lot in common he thinks 911 was an inside job to. HaHa some company to keep.
  • Posted By: Gandalf: This is in response to Curt on 3/7: Your observation that melting polar ice will not raise ocean levels would be true if all polar ice was in water, like an ice cube in a glass. The problem however, is that ice masses that are on land like Greenland and Antarctica will run into the oceans and will indeed raise ocean levels, which has been occurring for some time now. The inverse has happened in the past Ice Ages, lowering sea levels several hundred feet.
  • Posted By: Words of wisdom: "A change in the Senate rules (reconciliation) that really I think would change the character of the Senate forever and what I worry about would be that essentially you have still two chambers the House and the Senate but you have simply majoritarian absolute power on either side and that's just not what the founders intended." "My understanding of the Senate is that you need 60 votes to get something significant to happen which means that democrats and republicans have to ask the question do we have the will to move the American agenda forward?" "Those big ticket items-fixing our health care system...one of the arguments I get...from fellow progressives...is this notion that we should function sort of like Karl Rove, where we identify our core base, we throw them red meat, we get a 50 1 victory, see Karl Rove doesn't need a broad consensus because he doesn't believe in govt. If we want to TRANSFORM the country though that requires a SIZEABLE MAJORITY." Quotes from Barack Obama.
  • Posted By: Walt: I think the $30,000 per annum figure for New Jersey is incorrect. According to the Legal Services of New Jersey website, the maximum allowed benefit for low-income cash assistance, for a person with no dependents, is $210 per month, and you are required to work up to 35 hours per week in order to get those benefits. The state of NJ does pay unemployment benefits of up to 60% of average weekly income, but no more than $521 per week, and those benefits expire at the end of 26 weeks. I don't see how any of those numbers could possibly add up to $30,000 per year, which by the way is peanuts in a state like New Jersey, which has the 5th highest cost of living in the US.
  • Posted By: Keith...wow! I am agreeing with a liberal!: You are right Jim, Delay is wrong; Obama is wrecking the country and economy, with no help in sight. Bunning, however, was correct. I saw a letter from a state democrat party chairman talking about unemployment benefits thru July; no talk of jobs, just staying on the dole. In places like NJ you can get $30,000 per year on unemployment; why should you look for a job? That is more than a lot of working WV and KY folks get. If Jim Bunning is Johnny Come Lately, I say, welcome aboard. I sure wish more would join him. Never too late to get fiscal sanity. Too bad there is not a single democrat in all of DC in that number. Did you guys hear the stuff democrat congressman Massa (NY) forced out this week by a scandal, said about Rahm Emmanuel? Absolutely hilarious! Look it up, it is a must read. Folks, we all need to act quickly, forcefully, and together to stop the Obamanation called "Healthcare reform." Call Nick Rahall, 1-202-224-3121, and let him know you will vote on this issue. Do it now.
  • Posted By: Jim: Well I see where another Republican has came to light and is expressing how they feel about the middle-class Americans,Tom Delay from Texas imagine that has just stated the only reason people are unemployed is because they want to be.I look at this 2 ways either they think 9% of Americans that use to work ad found theirself without work are useless in their eyes or that the %9 number should be adjusted which in turn makes one of their rallying points on the failed Obama policies misleading you cant have it both ways maybe there should be a poll of all politicians to see how they feel about the people they represent hook them up to lie detectors and then vote accordingly.Bunning worries about spending money we dont have when its for the people but not when it for wall street Delay says people in the real world knows no one wants to work if they can draw unemployment and they wont look for work until you take their benefits away like the brave Jim Bunning tried to do.How heartless is he
  • Posted By: Big Earl: Hello good coal miner people of WV and there kin these PETA types is at it again this time bothering the bears at that Zoo and no you hippies nobody went to JellyStone Park to see Yogy apparently these people never watched cartoons Rabbit used to put up a sign when Winnie the Pooh came around looking for honey that said Don’t Feed the Bears did any of you people see that story they tried to feed a black bear and it chomped down on there hand I don’t know what they tried to feed it maybe a hot dog or hamburger some mayor said alcohol played a part so they probably gave it something cheap like Falls City to wash it down with and it got mad and next thing you know anybody from WV especially Boone County could tell you don’t throw out the Snowballs and King Dons in the can that attracts bears worse than a jar of honey the only black bear I ever seen fit to pet is the rug in my front room.
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