mousecrazy

Back to the biased sources: Carlene, it was not a chastisement, but a point of contention. I was raising the point that the LANGUAGE of the documentation was emotionally charged, and I gave examples. "Bare-bones", and "prohibitive levels" are two phrases that show this bias...they produce an emotional response, but provide no useful information. We find in further research that the prohibitive level was actually a $50 enrollment fee, paid 2 times a year. This may or not be "prohibitive." Yes, Peggy Venable worked on some Republican campaigns. This does not speak to the facts I presented from the website. In my post, I made a great effort to say that two people with different viewpoints can look at the same statistics and see different things. In my view, I look at the statistics at decreasing CHIP enrollment and see good; you see bad. Again, I was not chastising you; I was pointing out the bias in the language of the quote.

Thank you T.O.M., for the quote. That was the post I was looking for. BJean, your post was thoughtfully written. There are shades of conservative and shades of liberal...and we, the public, must know our values and be sure we are voting for people who best reflect them. We cannot keep seeking perfection, and throw out the good because it isn't perfect. We will pay for that strategy by getting representives who are very far off from the views we hold. This applies whether you are Republican or Democrat. I've been both. Once your representatives are elected, then you have to watch their voting records. You have to contact their office and say thank you when they vote to reflect your position, and say "not so fast" when they don't. If we get lazy, which I believe most people have, then we get what we deserve. About the education question, for missy4gordon: your experience is NOT unique. In fact, it is not as severe as many I have seen and heard about. In the district where I work, which is considered a wealthy district, we are forced to give some of our tax money to the poorer districts in a "Robin Hood" finance plan...so now, we are "strapped for cash". But not so strapped that the curriculum office can't afford to hire several consultants each year...pay their way to our area, put them up at luxury hotels, pull hundreds of us out of our classes for a couple of days, feed all of us lunch, and then there is the consultant's fee...which can run in the thousands. We are not so strapped that the principals make in the 90,000s, mid-level administrators/superintendents make in the 150,000s, and there are dozens of them, and I've already mentioned what the superintendent makes. A starting teacher, brand new, makes 42,000, which is pretty good. After 29 years, I now make 57,000. Most teachers I know are not so much complaining about the salary, but the inefficient management, the crazy rules, the lack of support, the high-stakes testing, etc. Any of us COULD move up to administration...the point is this: what if you WANT to teach? What if you WANT to stay in the classroom with the kids, and that is where your gifts are? Hope this answered some questions about the state of education for you, and even more, hope it causes some of you to start digging around and asking questions of your school board and demanding fiscal responsibility. This is not depriving the kids of anything! Believe me, they will not be hurt if the district cuts back on things like "English curriculum coordinators" and "elementary gifted curriculum design implementation coordinator". Believe me. As for the insane teachers having sex with kids...I just wonder if they were authentic teachers with college degrees and teacher certificates, or were they "alternatively certified"? It's a question I've had in my mind, and have no way to find out the answer.

Hi everyone... I just wrote you a long letter, and when I tried to post it, it was gone...now I've gotta get going. Congrats, Beanie! Sorry, Eileen for the stupid social worker, and congrats on the happy fill. Mandy, your house plans sound great, and you can look forward to the results...we are so happy with ours! See you chicklets later....gotta run! Hugs, Cindy

Carlene, I am afraid I am unable to post the quote about Republicans and the filthy rich because in the Gov. Perry thread, there is an entire day of posts that are missing. There is a gap in the thread from Oct 31 to today, so everything we were posting on Nov. 1 is gone. The basic idea was that if Republicans had their way, there would be only two classes left: the rich and those who served them. Anyway, let's just say that my memory is incorrect and this is not what you said. Still, if there were not people who looked on issues differently, there would not be two political parties after all, wouldn't you agree? It may surprise you, but I voted strictly Democrat up until 5 years ago. That's the beauty of it. People can change their minds, think differently, see things a new way. That's what happened to me. BJean, yes, you wrote the post about teaching degrees that were easy to get when you were in school. I didn't choose to defend that one way or the other, because nowdays, it has been decided that teachers do not need to have a degree in education. Any ol' degree will be fine, and they can seek "alternative certification." Time will tell if this is an actual benefit to public education. Those of us who have taught for a long time are not sure about this. I think a post I wrote was lost, too, where I pointed out that if lots of money were suddenly handed to public education, I do not believe it would find its way into the pocketbooks of teachers, or even into most classrooms. I asked people who were really concerned about education to check into their local districts. I will give you a hint: local superintendents in this area make around $300,000/year. PLUS other incentives such as house allowances, car allowances, travel allowances, investment packages, etc. If I am unable to post again this weekend, aside from probably being relieved, please understand that my home computer is on the fritz and may not be working. Again, even though there are disagreements, I do applaud everyone's interest in the political process.

Thank you for the information on Mr. McCormack. Our statistics seem to correspond. I found this information about CHIP on Americans for Prosperity, I think it's .org, but it might be .com. Just so you don't have to guess, here is the mission of AFP: AFP is an organization of grassroots leaders who engage citizens in the name of limited government and free markets on the local, state and federal levels. The grassroots members of AFP advocate for public policies that champion the principles of entrepreneurship and fiscal and regulatory restraint. It is definitely possible to look at the same exact statistics, and interpret them differently. That is the point I am making. From my point of view, it is reasonable to ask people to pay a $10 copay (at the most), or $100/year in 2 payments for medical insurance that the government, you and I, are providing. Yes, I believe it is possible that 225,000 children's circumstances improved enough to drop them off of assisted insurance coverage. I also think it is possible that parents would choose to provide health insurance from another source, if they could. I do not believe that one man, Rick Perry, is responsible, because that is not possible in a representative form of government.

No, it was not Carlene who made any comments whatsoever about teacher's pay...however, it was Carlene who stated, admittedly in another thread, that Republicans were filthy rich, and were looking out only for the rich. Thus, my pointed comment that I am a teacher AND a Republican. It is ridiculous to believe that the Republican party is full of filthy rich people; and ridiculous to believe that the Democrat party is for the downtrodden and the underclass. Neither are correct. Both are sweeping generalizations and very divisive in their nature. I betcha a nickel there are plenty of teachers, truck drivers and soldiers who are Republicans; I betcha another nickel there are plenty of millionaires, movie stars, and corporate CEOs who are Democrats. Life would be simpler if we could divide political parties according to income, but that just isn't IT.

Who is Thomas P. McCormack, the author of the documentation submitted in defense of your opinion about CHIP? I ask because some of the language in the excerpt you have included is emotionally loaded; for example, "The state has barebones eligibility coverage to begin with". Another example of loaded or emotionally charged language is found here: "raise CHIP enrollment premiums to prohibitive levels" There are other examples, and they all lead me to the conclusion that the documentation you have provided here is biased toward your viewpoint. Here are a few facts about the CHIP program. I feel that the changes are positive and in line with fiduciary responsibility most of us would like to see in our government: In 2003, the Texas State Legislature imposed new eligibility requirements for those seeking CHIP enrollment. CHIP is offered to those families who are up to 200% of the federal poverty line. Families who are enrolled on CHIP are subject to income/asset verification every six months. Those enrolled are also required to pay a $50 enrollment fee for every six month period. Recipients are also required to pay a co-payment of $3-10. These requirements are designed to provide increased accountability and ease of application. A new private sector vendor began processing CHIP applications on Nov. 28, 2005. Enrollment has declined 22,213 since that time. Why? As the Texas economy improves, fewer Texans need assistance In October, the leading reasons for CHIP disenrollment (based on actual experience) were: -- 45 percent didn't return renewal packet -- 19 percent exceeded CHIP income limits -- 17 percent were Medicaid eligible -- 11 percent didn't pay the renewal fee -- 5 percent aged out of the program -- 3 percent did not renew for various reasons I do hope that there is not any emotionally charged or biased language included in this documentation, and perhaps it may even clear up some misconceptions currently being held by some Texans. It would indeed be a shame to cast your vote based on incomplete information.

I wanted to find out what happened to CHIP (children's insurance program) in Texas, so I researched a little...one thing that could explain the lower numbers is that fewer children qualify, because there is less need. In other words, more parents are employed and have benefits with their jobs, or make above the required amount to qualify. That would be a good thing....right? Of course, I am probably wrong about this.

A point of fact: not all sources are created equal.

Thank you Leatha. I'm a teacher, a member of the proud-to-be-an-American middle class, and a Republican. I'm probably pretty stupid, and some may think I have to look up everything I write in a dictionary. I'm probably so dumb, that I am a pawn of the very wealthy, and fit into the category of "servant of the wealthy" for being stupid enough to be a teacher. After all, it was the easiest degree to get, and goodness knows, it is such an easy profession! God Bless America!

I haven't noticed if I'm not getting email notices...everything is so "out of whack"! I did notice that LBT was messed up...I couldn't get it to come up for a couple of days...and now our home computer is running so slow we can't figure out what is wrong... HI EVERYBODY!!!! Mandy, Abi is adorable! I can't post anything because the cameras and cords are all packed up at the moment, but Abi is the cutest pirate ever! Pat, thank you for understanding the chaos we're in right now! The tile guy left us a working toilet yesterday, but no working shower, so all three of us came to school/work showerless today! I think we'll pass for clean, but I hope we can shower tonight! On the positive side, the tile and trim looks really good together! I've gotta get...some of my "projects" are coming in the door! Hugs! Cindy

NO WAY! I'm the first to set up our chat this month! I'm so excited! Happy October, everyone!!!! It's really fall, even in Texas...even if it is going to be 94 degrees or something like that today! Fall is my favorite season...how about you?

Hi everyone! I'm "babysitting" in the new teacher's classroom (my old one) right now. It's Halloween, so the kids are hopped up on sugar and God knows what else. Scary, for real. Hope everyone is okay, and I'm praying for you, Mandy. Hugs, Cindy

Carlene, what I am trying to get across is an invitation to examine the idea that we should want to entrust the government (any level) with the task of solving these personal problems. Choosing a governor, while admittedly important, will not change things all that much. Hatred for a particular man/woman is misplaced. It might be better to look for policy/process flaws. As I have now mentioned three times, a Democrat governor seriously let down the Texas teachers in the past. I simply do not subscribe to the view that government should be responsible for individual financial and life decision problems. I do not like rent control, either. I do not like imminent domain. There are many similar issues where I would propose that government is not the best solution. Health care...I would absolutely not want to be part of state-funded health care program. I do not want to die while waiting for my name to come up to the top of a list for a diagnostic test or treatment, and that is exactly what happens in, say, Canada. Example: here at my school, we have a large population of free and reduced lunch recipients...the same kids who are getting free lunch are wearing $140 sneakers. THAT is poor decision-making, not true need. They are driving cars with $300 dollar rims per wheel, but choosing not to pay for insurance for their baby. Is everyone like this? I agree with you, no. Are many, I hope you will be able to agree with me, yes. That is why it is better to educate people in making good choices. Provide the opportunites, encourage people to take advantage of them, and understand that people will not always act in their own best interest. I don't know whether Rick Perry has pity for the unfortunate or not; I was referring to Jodi in that comment. She may or she may not. That does not imply that government should step in and correct poor decision-making.

Just because someone does not believe that the government should be the first responder to a personal financial situation, does not mean a person does not have pity for the unfortunate. Families should be looking out for family members in the situation above. Second choice - faith-based or other community-based organizations. The VERY LAST CHOICE should be government; having the government "equalize" living conditions is a socialist/communist situation and not in the American tradition. There are countries who have done this, or tried this. The Texas governor's race is really not going to affect this one way or the other, however. I have earlier made reference to the Democrat governor Mark White, who was elected by rallying Texas teachers (of which I was one) to his cause, and who then betrayed all of us by forcing the TECAT test down our throats(supposedly to justify a salary increase). This must be bringing up bad memories that refute the arguments presented here about how Republicans do not support public education. The sad fact is that no political party actually supports public education; they do, however, want the teacher organizations' support. There are some candidates who do want to see public education survive, and if it continues the way it is, it will not. The best thing you can do for Texas public education is to inform yourself about the candidates' past actions, their current views, and match them to your point of view, then vote your conscience. After that, get involved in your area's school district/school board/school and make sure they are spending money on programs that really benefit the majority of students. Make sure the money isn't concentrated in the ad. buildings. It will help if you have an accounting background, because they are very tricky about hiding it in very complex budgets. I'm not sure that even school board members really understand where all the money is going. I applaud everyone for their passion and interest in the political process.

Does anyone think that if public education were given more money, that very much of that money, if any, would actually go to the students in the classroom, much less the teachers? I believe that might be what Perry was referring to (not supporting him, just wondering). I am a teacher, have been for 29 years, and I firmly believe that much of the money entrusted to school districts happens to be mismanaged and misspent. How many of you know how much your superintendent(s) make? Make sure you find out the salary, PLUS benefits. How many assisitant superintendents, curriculum coordinators, special education, bilingual, gifted and talented specialist, athletic coordinators, special coaches, etc., does your district employ, and how do their salaries stack up next to, say, your average 7-10 year teacher? I have voted in several elections based on what a candidate says he or she will do for teachers, and have yet to see a big difference, Democrat or Republican. Any examples? Way back in this thread, I asked if anyone remembered Mark White...no one replied to that. Perhaps my old memory is just shot, but when is the last time teachers really benefitted from an increase in public education funding?

Hi, I'm not in a corner, but almost! Today was the big moving day at school...I am now mostly out of my old room, and in my new room...I just got my computer set up in my new room, so thought I'd make a quick post to say hi before I left for the day. The new "me" and I worked together in my old room most of the day, and tomorrow I will be in there less. And so on, until by the week's end, she's got the whole thing, and I'll start finding my little writing students and working with them. It's weird. But, I like it. At home, more transition. They are putting the poly protective sealant on today...have no idea what it will smell like, or even if I can walk on it when I get home. Guess I'll soon find out. The tile guy is schedule to tile the bathrooms on Wednesday, so had to get those ready also...then tomorrow is Halloween, so it's Trick-or-Treat time, too....so much to think about! Well, just wanted you all to know I was still alive, and not buried under a pile of sawdust! Luv ya, Cindy

I'm sorry you having to experience so much pressure! I think I would just smile (very sweetly), thank them for their interest in my health and well-being, and reply, "I am very happy with my progress! Thank you for noticing!" If their (weird) purpose is to upset you, and you get upset, they win. Be enthusiastic and upbeat. That'll beat them everytime! Take the offense, not the defense!

Love and prayers to you, John. God knows the plans He has for us, and they are plans to help us. What seems like an unbearable load, an unbearable sorrow, is part of His plan and is worked out in His wisdom. We are not able to see it or understand it now, but we will understand. Turn to your Faith. Lean on the Lord. If I could hold your hands and pray with you, I would do it. I am praying for you, your family, his family, and even him. God love you all. If it is any help at all, I do believe you are doing the right thing.

Hello everyone! Mandy, did you get by the shelter yet? I'm just wondering if any of the kitties seemed right to you? Our 3rd cat was a shelter adoption, the other two found us on the "underground kitty railroad." I don't know how they know to come here, but they did. I got the 3rd one because I wanted a "calico"...although she is more of a tortoiseshell. Good luck! Patty, I pray for your troubles to resolve...until then, could the bank call your landlord to explain the situation? I'm sure you've already thought of that, but that's all I can think of to help right now. Then the bank can explain how long until the funds are restored to your account and all that...I am so sorry you are having to go through this. Hugs to you. Sherry, have you looked at www.cooks.com for the recipe? Just enter orange cake, then scan through all the recipes for the ingredient you are looking for. I hope you find it. I have never made a recipe like that. Also there's a site called Cake Doctor (.com) that might have something like that on it. Good luck locating the recipe! We went to DD's school festival this morning, then Home Depot to get the tile stuff ready to do the bathrooms next week, then week after next, the rest of the house with the wood. That's the current schedule. I'm getting a wee bit gripey (my own, and my family's evaluation!) due to being misplaced...no place to sit, no place to relax, etc. Everything is in the garage... I know, it's not a big problem and I'm whining! LOL! The floor does look nice; it's stained now...Mon/Tues is the polyurethane sealant. Doesn't smell so great, though! Eileen, good luck with the next fill...it might be time, you know best about that! I know I would lose a lot faster if I could give up my ice cream, but we've been there, haven't we? LOL! I'm hanging in there, and for now, I'm okay where I am. We're here to support you, so go for it! Oh yeah, I bought new bras...now, a 38C! I started with 44Cs, so there ya go...it's quite a change. Still in the 18's in pants...I can't imagine being a 16, but I suppose it's gonna happen. Probably not until I can get used to the idea in my head, though. Girls, lov ya - all of you! Check back later, if I haven't lost my ever-lovin' mind! Cindy

Beanie, Haven is going to be a gypsy too! That's funny, what a coincidence!

Good morning! Sherry, blessings to you for a wonderful and up beat post! We share the same blood type, AB+! How 'bout that? Mandy, still hugging you, and hope you are finding peace with kitty's passing. You know, looking back, it wouldn't surprise me that Oreo showed up just when he did to be there for you during this time. God is good. Eileen, Hope you are feeling better...what are doin' this weekend? I thought I'd get more written, but just got a bunch of kids in here...more later! Cindy

Beanie, my question again, "What is wrong with people?" Why DOES everything have to be uniform? Why is that fair? What IS fair is that each person work what they are expected to work...8 hours, I suppose, in your business, probably more. I suppose these people don't want to punch a clock, do they? Too professional for that? (Gets out soapbox) See, the politically correct crowd strikes again...we are not allowed to judge, so it is not possible to tell Worker A that he is deficient and needs to show up for his 8 hours and document them. To avoid the impression that his work is being "judged" everyone must come and go at the same time. It is my pet peeve DELUXE! I'll be PO'd for you, Beanie! Thanks for understanding about John...thank goodness there is a corner of sanity in the world. Seriously, thank God! What would I do without our corner of the world? Hugs to all, Cindy

Hi everyone! We are having a blood drive here at school. I already gave, so I have my pretty blue bandage! I always try not to post on other threads, but the one that John posted on molestation (he has a friend who he found out was molesting his own children...it's very sad) got me interested...I wanted to give him some support. I"m glad I did, but then I had to read other people's philosophical beliefs on the subject, and the poor guy just wanted to express his hurt feelings, and then gets the big guilt trip. What is wrong with people? More later, Cindy

This thread was started by JQPublic to express his feelings about a friend, and the emotional distress that friend's actions have caused him and his family. John, how are you feeling today?