The Independent Message Board

May 11	Forgive Us Father, For We Have Sinned
Forgive Us Father, For We Have Sinned By Bobby Eberle May 10, 2004 This past week was the week of apologies. Since the pictures were first aired showing abuse of prisoners at the Abu Ghraib prison in Iraq, Arab nations have been expressing outrage, and those in the media have been clamoring for anyone in the Bush administration to wear sack cloth and beg forgiveness. Despite the fact that Middle East experts, time and time again, have gone on radio and television programs and explained that citizens of the Arab states, and especially individuals of radical, Islamic terrorist groups, see these apologies as signs of weakness, the media elite continue to demand apologies whenever situations go awry. These apologies do little to ease feelings in the Middle East and lead to anger back home, especially when the words "I'm sorry" seem drawn out by a forced hand. During the May 5 press briefing at the White House, reporters hammered press secretary Scott McClellan about the prisoner abuse story. One reporter even asked how President Bush felt about having to make the "moral distinction" between the United States and Saddam Hussein. That's right -- according to some on the left, apparently abuse of some of the prisoners at a prison in Iraq is the equivalent of decades of abuse, torture, rape, mutilation, and murder that Iraqis endured under the sadistic regime of Saddam Hussein. Because of the "similarities" between these offenses, American leaders must now beg forgiveness from the Arab world so that our "image" may be restored. During Secretary of Defense Donald Rumsfeld's testimony before the Senate Armed Services Committee last week, Democratic Sen. Jack Reed said that the image of America in the Arab world will be one of an American dragging an Iraqi prisoner by a leash. "This is a disaster," Reed said. My question to Sen. Reed is this: What do you think the image of America in the Arab world was before this? Uncle Sam eating apple pie? The fact of that matter is that to a large extent, America is hated in the Arab world. For a large part, this is due to our support of Israel. In addition, among the radical Islamic factions, the very way of life of America leads to hatred and resentment. We could have given every Iraqi prisoner a gold-plated cell, and we'd still be hated. War is hell, and in that hell, mistakes will be made. Yes, there will likely be mistakes made for which America is sorry, and if apologies are given, they should be given freely by those in leadership as the hearts of those individuals are guided to do so or not. This past week, I received countless e-mails from readers expressing outrage, dismay, and disappointment at the apologies issued by Sec. Rumsfeld and President Bush about the abuse of prisoners in Iraq. Why the sense of anger? Are these people simply cold-hearted conservatives? Quite the contrary. In fact, from reading the daily feedback, it is obvious to see that these people care deeply about America and are passionate about defending America in the war on terror. In actuality, their disappointment is two-fold. In one sense, they are enraged that liberals and media elite are clamoring for an apology from President Bush when no one has apologized for the killing of 3,000 Americans on September 11, 2001. When the Middle East expresses "shock" at the treatment of prisoners, their complaints ring hollow when compared to the silence coming from the region following the attacks on the World Trade Center and the Pentagon. Second, the apologies conveyed by Bush and Rumsfeld anger those on the right because they feel the apologies were forced -- that the left "made them do it." They do not feel that Bush or Rumsfeld should have apologized. To a certain extent, the conservative community is right. By reacting to pressure, the apologies came across as politically motivated. Worse, by first making public statements, and then issuing apologies later, undue emphasis is placed upon the apologies, and they take on the weight of being apologies for America rather than heartfelt, personal reflections. To differ slightly with the feedback I've been receiving, had I been president of the United States, I too would have apologized. The difference is that my apology would have come during my first public statements about the incident. Prisoners were abused in Iraq. Does that reflect American values? Of course it doesn't. Am I sorry that it occurred? Of course I am. And that's what I would have said. "The pictures of abuse of Iraqi prisoners at the Abu Ghraib prison are abhorrent and do not reflect the traditions of America's men and women in uniform, and most certainly do not reflect the values and ideals that all Americans hold dear. I personally am truly sorry these abuses occurred, and the American people can take as fact that I will do everything in my power to see that justice is done." But, I would not stop there, because to do that leaves a wound exposed for enemies to exploit. "Americans are not perfect. Yet, each day men and women of this great country strive for something better -- something better in themselves, and something better out of others. The American spirit prods us to be the best we can be. Sometimes we fall short, but let the world know that even during times of tribulation, American democracy allows us to solve our problems by respecting individual rights and giving everyone their day in court." "Let the world also know that we are at war. The hatred in the hearts of terrorists will not subside regardless of what we say. From the first World Trade Center bombing in 1993, to the embassy bombing in 1998, to the attack on the U.S.S Cole in 2000, to the horrors of September 11, these terrorists have shown that they do not respect the spoken word but only the drawn sword. They will continue their acts until freedom-loving countries either relent or join together for the sake of future generations. America will never relent. America will fight, and America will win the war on terror." I believe that America is blessed by God for greatness in society. If America owes anyone an apology, it is to Him for falling short of what we can do. To those still clamoring for more apologies, I'll send mine when bin Laden sends his. --- Bobby Eberle is President and CEO of GOPUSA (www.GOPUSA.com), a news, information, and commentary company based in Houston, TX. He holds a Ph.D. in mechanical engineering from Rice University.
May 11	Patty Boy
JOHN!!! When are you gonna expose Patrick's affairs with the legislative lady? It's pretty common knowledge that Patty's wife did drop off the suitcase at the office and told him he was out! My question is a simple one. What job has been arranged for this girlfriend by brother Billy and his buddies in the Democrook party? John Woonsocket
May 11	iraq
JOHN I CAN'T TAKE MUCH MORE OF THIS B.....S..... WHAT IS HAPPENING IS NOT RIGHT.THERE SHOULD BE NO PRISONERS,NO MEDIA COVERAGE,NO FIASCO..... WE SHOULD JUST BE KILLING EVERY IRAQIE IN SIGHT PERIOD END OF STORY. OUR MILITARY FORCES AREN'T JAILERS THEY ARE KILLING MACHINES.THAT IS WHAT THEY ARE TRAINED TO DO. I THINK WHAT SHOULD HAPPEN, IS PRESIDENT BUSH SHOULD COME ON TV AND SAY WHILE I'M HERE IRAQ IS BEING MADE INTO A PARKING LOT HE,HE (YOU KNOW THAT LITTLE LAUGH THE GUY ON LENO DOES). THEN CHALLENGE ANYONE, PERSON OR NATION TO QUESTION HIM OR HIS ADMINSTRATION, AS WHAT WE ARE DOING.RUMMY, SHOULD HOLD THE FORT NOBODY, IN THE ADMINISTRATION WILL RESIGN OR BE FORCED OUT. IT'S A MEDIA CIRCUS AND THEY SHOULD LOOK ASHAMED FOR WHAT THEY'VE DONE TO THIS COUNTRY. HOW DARE THEY,OUR BOYS AND GIRLS ARE DYING EVERYDAY IT JUST MAKES ME SICK SINCERELY ALLAN CHAGNON
May 11	Prisoner abuse
Dear John, From today's headlines: BUSH SEES NEW ABUSE PHOTOS: DEEP 'DISGUST, DISBELIEF' The President is disgusted. Why aren't you? Jim from Cranston
May 11	Battista, a visionary or a legend in his own mind
Now that Battista is out at BCBS, the market will provide a measure of his value. If, as some have represented, he is a visionary, an extraordinary leader and a man with skills that merit such an extraordinary salary and benefits, then he will soon be gobbled up by a fortune 500 company. He is a free agent now and we will see how the "for profit" market views his skills. Talented free agents do not last long in the market. If, on the other hand, he languishes in the market and finds no significant job with comparable salary and perks, then the critics who claimed he was a greedy opportunist who worked the local system until exposed will have some support. I suspect that he will continue to golf frequently but now on his own dime.
May 11	did you see?
Hey John, John did you happen to see Guy DuFault's commercial on upn28 this Sunday? It's not a TV show and I won't call it that. DuFault or most likely some unions pay for the 30 minute time slot. Anyway DuFault had Scott Avedesian on and Avedesian was ripping on Gov. Carcieri because the Gov won't play ball with the dirty democratic dogs on Smith Hill. I was shocked to hear Avedesian acting like a DuFault lackey. John, this guy has got to go. Scott Avedesian is NOT part of the solution in this state and he is NOT a Republican in any way - he was embarrassing!! Hope you saw the interview and can comment on Avedesian. This guy has got to go , John. Scott Avedesian has GOT TO GO!!!!! He's a disloyal limp wrist!! Linda NK
May 11	For Immediate Release
May 10, 2004 For Immediate Release United States Army General Leon J. LaPorte, current commander of the United Nations Command, Republic of Korea/United States Combined Forces Command, and United States Forces Korea, will give the distinguished and rare honor of speaking at the Friday, May 21, 2004, 11:00 a.m. ceremony at Bishop Hendricken High School in memory of Rhode Island’s fallen Vietnam soldiers. The decorated commander’s presence is an important centerpiece of the school’s tribute to the fallen for the surviving families, fellow veterans, servicemen and servicewomen, and friends. Open to the public, the growing ceremony which on three previous occasions has progressively added more of the 224 serviceman to a “Wall of Remembrance”, includes a formal blessing and powerful individual reading of another group of names while each is added to the permanently illuminated collection on the memorial in Room 403. The event is a component of the Vietnam History course for seniors taught by retired serviceman Joseph Cichon, through which the names, faces and stories of the soldiers became an unforgettable experience for the young men studying them. In special recognition of Captain Matthew J. August, the Hendricken Class of 1993 graduate killed while serving in Iraq in January, his photo will also be added to a special section of the wall by members of the August family. General LaPorte, who received one of three respected degrees from the University of Rhode Island and whose polished leadership history prior to his current duties has entailed critical roles in Vietnam, Desert Shield and Desert Storm among a myriad of distinguished state side and international posts, remarked of his impending visit to Hendricken, "On behalf of the men and women of Rhode Island who are serving at this moment in dangerous places around the world so that we and others can be free, I salute Mr. Cichon's class for this very special tribute to our fallen who have paid the ultimate price for that freedom. For those who serve, as for those who die in that service, their sacrifice is not in vain if it is recognized and remembered. I'm honored by and very much looking forward to participating in this special ceremony." The event will last until 12:30 p.m. and will be followed by a brief reception. There is no cost to attend. For more information and to reserve seats, please contact Joe Cichon at the school at (401) 739-3450. Bishop Hendricken High School is located at 2615 Warwick Avenue, Warwick, RI 02889.
May 11	your show
When I heard that "lincoln-lincoln-bo-binkon, banana-fana fo finkon" Chaffee was coming on at 1:00, I turned off my radio. I don't need to waste my time listening to that guy. I'll be back tomorrow when your show returns to real content.
May 11	Patricia Morgan
Hi! I was told this afternoon that Patricia Morgan will be on the John DePetro show tommorrow,Tuesday,May 11,2004,. Call-in number is 866-920-9455 and is toll free, I believe. It is simulcast over cable TV,. Obviously I am quite critical of Mrs.Morgan,our Rhode Island Republican State Chairman on how the at-large delegate selection process was held.She has much to answer for. Particularly when a "more open" process was touted for these selections and 10 of the 12 members of the Rhode Island Bush/Cheney Steering Committee appointed themselves delegates at-large. Regards, Scott Bill Hirst Member, Hopkinton,R.I.,Town Council
May 11	Battista, a visionary or a legend in his own mind
Now that Battista is out at BCBS, the market will provide a measure of his value. If, as some have represented, he is a visionary, an extraordinary leader and a man with skills that merit such an extraordinary salary and benefits, then he will soon be gobbled up by a fortune 500 company. He is a free agent now and we will see how the "for profit" market views his skills. Talented free agents do not last long in the market. If, on the other hand, he languishes in the market and finds no significant job with comparable salary and perks, then the critics who claimed he was a greedy opportunist who worked the local system until exposed will have some support. I suspect that he will continue to golf frequently but now on his own dime.
May 10	Re: John Harwood- a Comeback? 5/6/04
Phil and John: What do you expect from voters from Rhode Island? For the past 20 years I have been listening to radio talk shows and Rhode Islander's have been complaining about the corruption, pay off etc. I hear them calling a for REVOLUTION. I even joined Operation Clean Government. All this talk about getting the democrats out is just a lot of hot air. The politicians don't fear radio talk shows because it the same people complaining and will not influence the vote. Lets face it, this state is controlled by unions ,(State workers and school teachers) who's only interested is in their own benefits and vote for their union representatives. Look at Buddy, people still believe him.(Look what he has done for Providence) But he is a crook and belongs in jail. He must have read the book on Mayor Daley with his party machine. This control of unions results in patronage jobs. Loyalty to the party is saving my benefits and jobs. This vast voter block is hard to defeat. Guys like Hardwood,Irons,Celona, buddy and others keep getting elected. If it wasn't for federal authorities these crooks would never get caught. A lot of our elective officials are Lawyers and later become judges.and do you think they won't cover for themselves for wrong doings.. It's a small state and all lawyers know each other by first name. You can't tell me they don't know what is going on. Keep your mouth shut or every case you represent will lose. They know what judges to get. If it wasn't for newspaper to bring out the dirt, do you think our AG will bring it out. Hey his brother is the head of the party. This guy is only interested in his pencil. My father used to say, keep your pencil in your pocket and it will keep you out of trouble. Or don't get your meat where you get you bread. Remember we voted him in or should I say the machine. School teachers, lawyers, state workers make this statework??? Mayor Daley used to say the city that works We have officials on boards that are union presidents, teachers and lawyers only interested in their behave not for the rest of the people in the state. I used to write e mails to various groups such as the AARP and the response was degrading from Liberals, calling me stupid and should go to get educated by going on movingon.com. Notice how the far left is always complaining and shouting for their rights and the common people don't have any rights, just keep paying your taxes. Your rich. John there is no revolution, forget it, the people of this state and Ma will vote the same way they did for the past 50 years. Things are going to get worst and they only have to blame themselves. The old gray fox. from Portsmouth
May 10	Liberals are Feasting
The Liberals (Liberal Media) are having a ball, a feeding frenzy. For the last 3 months 60 Minutes has bombarded us with President Bush and our troops being incompetent, and incapable . That our guys have NO PLAN. That our guys are deceitful, and now are guys are committing 'Atrocities' against Arab combative prisoners. At every turn we see pictures, of mostly, our Female troops humiliating combatant prisoners. Our Media however chose to CENSOR the pictures and videos of innocent workers being dragged from their cars, BEATEN, SET ON FIRE, and KILLED. We citizens saw only 2 distant pictures of 2 of our peoples burned bodies hanging from that bridge for a couple of days. Has our Media EVER shown the pictures of the people jumping out of the buildings during the Horror of Sept.11? No. As a matter of fact, our Media has NOT collectively shown any video of Sept. 11 in well over a year. Even on Sept. 11 2003, we saw next to nothing. We have a Media that is SO DEMENTED that all they can do is think about the well fair of our Arab enemies. This Media is the SAME MEDIA that caused the U.S. to walk away from Vietnam were, after we left, between that country and Cambodia- 5,000,000 people were then slaughtered by the Communists. The same Anti - American Media is doing it again. And you know what; They Will Succeed, because we have, thanks to them FORGOTTEN... Tony N.P.
May 10	Battista
John: Now that Battista is gone from Blue Crisis, does he have to return his car?
May 10	CONGRATS JOHN! U GOT THAT SLIMEBALL!
Dear John. I never call but listen everyday.. Ya got a big set on you kid we need more like you.. Next get that bottom feeder prick Montenaro! You made my day.. God Bless........ Harrison
May 10	Batista
Hi John: My sources are telling me they have spoken to people who know what really transpired about the Batista boot. He is going into a bunker mentality mode to get ready for federal indictments that are rumored to be coming down the road. It also seems like Spiderboy couldn't run any more interference for Batista in the probe with the feds! This is very premature info from someone who supposedly knows what is going on in both the state and federal sides of the health insurance probe! Also, there is some question out there from a couple of sources whether Spiderboy could get indicted by the feds for obstruction of justice in the stonewalling he has done on not cooperating with them on the Celona and Irons end of the investigation??? Mike
May 10	Great Work
john, Great news ---- resignation of Blue Cross head. We all should thank you, the Governor, OCG, and the many people (doctors too) who helped dump this disgrace to our state. Without your help, not only on this but many other issues, these sleazey people would be screwing the people of this state forevermore. Great work John! Keep at it! Especially with the attorney general. How the people elected this guy is beyond understanding. Our very best wishes to you! Beverly & Sam Parente
May 10	Re: Dave Kane 5/6/04
DAVE KANE E-MAIL IS DKANE41@COX.NET HOPE THIS CAN HELP YOU OUT KALI ====FREDDY FROM WARWICK
May 10	Montanaro and Burchfield
John, heard Montanaro has a cousin running for Celona's old seat his name is Joe Burchfield. This is the same guy who voted on a 9 percent property tax increase in the Town of North Providence. The State law is 5.5 percent so the Town has to get the Legislators to approve it. Montabano, Schadone, Corvese. So I guess they will endorse another big dipper in North Providence. M.R. North Providence
May 10	Bush lies catch up with him
The Iraqi army the United States summarily disbanded is now being reconstituted. Baath Party members who were persona non grata because of their presumed criminality are now being asked to return to their old jobs because, on second thought, many of them weren't really criminals after all. Some of them only joined the party so they could put bread on the table. The United Nations, once disparaged by the Bushies as little more than a dreamy student government with its own building, has now been welcomed back to Iraq with the hope it can govern the place. The plain fact is that Bush cannot explain why we are in Iraq in the first place. To do that he would have to concede that the original reason was really a cover for something else and that, anyway, weapons of mass destruction no more existed than did Saddam Hussein's ties to Osama bin Laden. The rule from time immemorial -- and including, of course, Vietnam -- is that a mistake must be compounded before it is acknowledged, and that is about to happen. We will stay in Iraq for the same reason we stayed so long in Vietnam: We cannot figure out how to leave.
May 10	The Blue Cross Answer to Everything
"Montanaro said Blue Cross was also willing to finance a study of appropriate reserve levels." Right, hire another consultant… geez…. Montanahole give me a break! Al Saiz… al from barrington
May 6	John Harwood- a Comeback?
John, In recent days with his new portrait hanging in the Statehouse-- there has been talk about former Speaker John Harwood making a comeback. It is certainly possible when you consider that he has: a brainless idiot voter base in his Pawtucket district who reelected him--- criminal political hacks like Joe the Barber who will defend him to the day they die--- and the union thugs who love him. I'm sure when he heard about the Explorer girl from the Warwick Police scandal--- he thought that she would be a good candidate for a high-paying state job. I hope that when you play Rhode Island Jeopardy in the future--- one of your questions is not: who in Rhode Island politics is known as "the comeback kid"? (with John Harwood being the answer). Phil... from Edgewood
May 6	Dave Kane
Hi John, I am hoping that you can help me. I guess I have been out on left field somewhere. I did not know that Dave's Son was killed in the Station fire. When my daughter died Dave had some real kind words for me. He also told me that if ever he could help in any way to let him know. Those words have never left me. You'll never know how much that meant to me. Now I feel as guilty as hell because I didn't even know his son died until a couple of weeks ago when he was on TV announcing for AG. Can you help me with an email address John. I would appreciate it so much. I have looked on the internet and came up with who I think is another Dave Kane. As far as Patrick.... I know the family Billy quite well from my job at the city. I worked under the Lynch, Kinch and Sarault Administrations, and one of the council at large, now deceased is my cousin. We always called them the clan. This really does suprise me of Patrick as the family is highly political but well raised. Something like this is just not heard of in the Lynch family. I do hope that this ends his career as I do know that all they want to do is to climb up that political pole to the very top... no matter who is in the way. I say let's rally around Dave and give Rhode Island a little change. At least we know he is honest. isn't that what we are looking for? I think Rhode Islanders have had enough pain with dishonesty. kali
May 6	iraqi prisoners
John, I think we should expect a little more from are military as far as prisoner treatment.When we stoop to the level of our enemy it is a sad day indeed.I don't think you would be singing the same tune if those were our men (or women)being forced to engage in what can only be termed bizarre behavior.And when a caller says that this is not going to make us look good on the world stage you equate him with antiwar demonstrators and liberals.Sorry to say that this is why I jokingly call you the "I know you are but what am I guy" because you are a joke in this case.Even the president doesn't agree with you on this one.And no I don't think we should pull out of this war as we do need to see it through to a successful conclusion and this type of behavior on our part is going to make it all the harder.
May 6	chairman of the board
john, you just called frank montanaro the chairman of the board. does that make him frank"sinatra"montanaro? pass the gravy, scott
May 6	Regime change
I would rather have a President who lies about having sex with an intern in the White House, than a President who lies about going to war and getting young men killed all for oil, daddy, and Israel. DUMP BUSH and elect JOHN KERRY. P.S You have to go to.
May 6	Another AMNESTY bill for illegals!!!
Hello, Please encourage your listeners to call, fax or email their representatives to stop this terrible amenesty bill (S. 1645 and H.R. 3142) that the cheap labor and openborder lobbiest are pushing (and they are winning - but there is still time to stop them)!!! I called my Senator and his immigration aide couldn't even tell me why we need this bill - especially since my state grows corn and not only do we have machines but we are losing farms on a daily basis. He did admit he didn't see a reason for this but that they were being heavily lobbied. When we have 10 million people in this country out of work why are we giving away all our jobs? If we really do need people then we they need to come in legally (like the 1 million others we bring in each year). If this passes they will get welfare, etc. and all their relatives will be able to join them. Isn't it REALLY cheaper to just hire Americans and pay them a little more? My state - like many others - are going broke so that these companies can have "cheap labor". Please send your listeners here: http://www.numbersusa.com/contactcongress.html to find their representative's phone #, email or they can fax them for free! They even have prewritten letters if they want to use them. Thanks for your help!!! Melissa Information about the bill: The AgJOBS coalition -- a coalition of organizations and associations promoting cheap labor and open-borders -- full-scale lobbying effort to pass the AgJOBS amnesty, S. 1645, is gaining speed in the Senate with the addition of the 60th cosponsor this week. This is a dangerous milestone because 60 is the number of votes it takes to stop a filibuster and force a vote. S. 1645 and H.R. 3142, the Agricultural Job Opportunity, Benefits, and Security Act of 2003 (AgJOBS), introduced by Sens. Larry Craig (R-ID) and Ted Kennedy (D-MA) and Reps. Chris Cannon (R-UT) and Howard Berman (D-CA), is a massive agricultural guestworker-amnesty bill. Amnesty for estimated 3 million Of the 1.2 million illegal aliens currently working in agriculture, an estimated 860,000 plus their spouses and children could qualify for this amnesty, so the total could reach three million or more. Past amnesty for agricultural workers failed The 1986 Special Agriculture Worker (SAW) amnesty showed that when illegal aliens working in agriculture are given green cards, they leave agriculture for other higher-paying occupations. And any form of amnesty entices hundreds of thousands of new illegal aliens, some of whom will work in agriculture, to enter thus continuing to depress wages in all fields including agriculture. Bill would doom agricultural workers to poverty S. 1645 (and its companion House bill H.R. 3142) would ensure that agricultural workers will never be paid more than minimum wage. Furthermore, it would ensure that taxpayers continue having to subsidize the workers and their families by providing public benefits of education, emergency health care, and income supplements (including tax refunds) for the workers and their families.
May 6	Schemers!
The Schemers Record Release Party - This Saturday This Saturday, May 8, The Schemers reunite to celebrate the release of their long awaited compilation CD, 'Remember.' The concert takes place at The Call, 15 Elbow Street in Providence, RI. Doors open at 8:30 pm. The Schemers go on at 9:30 pm. No opening act. $15 admission includes the full-length CD 'Remember' Tickets available at The Call (401-751-2255) Recorded over a span of twenty years, the 18 tracks on 'Remember' include such favorites as 'Valley Of Love,' 'Some Fun' and 'Remember.' Half of the songs were recorded recently - the rest digitally restored from past sessions, including two recorded live during the band's winning set at the WBCN Rock 'N' Roll Rumble in 1984. See you this Saturday!
May 6	Another brewing scandal
Here we go again John - Some time ago the State of Rhode Island created a company as the "insurer of last resorts". A place where one could not get insurance from anyone else. The state also granted this "special" company a tax break, and gave it certain exemptions... sort of like those things a "non-profit" organization gets. This company grows to the largest insurer and it doesn't have to make contributions like the smaller insurers...what would one call this "special favors" granted by the legislature. This company has grow to mega size over the years... money being made hand over fist...Here's the twist - we aren't talking about Blue Cross... the company is Beacon Mutual Insurance... the states largest insurer which according to the Pro Jo has 76 percent of the RI Workers Comp insurance market yet does not make any contributions into the insolvency fund. These contributions have been left to the less than a quarter of the state workers comp market to support and pay into. So now there is a money crunch and guess who will pay...the citizens...Rep. Brian Kennedy has introduced a bill to tap into the auto insurers and how does it get paid back... we the consumer will have to pay HIGHER RATES via our auomobile insurance rates! Now lets look at the other part of the story, the easier to put together part of the story...lets call it the darker side... the Sheldon Sollosy, Department of Buisness Regulation(DBR), RI State legislature, Blue Cross connection. Here we have the state creating a company for workers comp, Beacon Mutual headed by Mr. Sollosy and we have the state creating a health insurers company, Blue Cross and on the Board of Directors, Mr. Sollosy. Beacon had the advantage of only taking new claims, leaving the old claims to the existing companies who today can’t compete because of legislated advantages given to Beacon over the years including the way rates are calculated and would they (the insurance companies) dare to ask the General Assembly to review their status… all hell would break loose! Remind you of Blue Cross.... Now comes the insolvency fund who has asked insurance companies to jump in and increase our rates to take up the slack…BUT NOT BEACON, they of course are EXEMPT. One should ask the question – Who reviews the claimant in the insolvency fund for continued eligibility to continue to collect? Are the files and the activity on all these claims available to the news media? As we saw with Blue Cross, what is DBR going to say about Beacon and the management of the insolvency fund – It is worrisome but it is something we can’t do anything about….THEY WORK FOR THE GOVENOR! Not to get confused with the Attorney General… but again we have the "perfect storm" – Blue Cross and Beacon with interchangeable CEOs and legislative tax breaks that drive out the reduced rates provided by competition… now comes the insolvency fund to stir up the storm some more… this storm has been brewing for years. So far DBR is like the weatherman – they can accurately tell you what will happen but they can’t change anything about it! Prediction Mr. DePetro – This is going to flood the emergency rooms with a multitude of dislocated shoulders caused by people patting themselves on the back telling us how wrong we are and how they have been providing us with great service at the lowest price possible. Elizabeth
May 6	hello
John, You lost one listener today, by trying to minimize the human rights violations that happened in the Iraqis prison. You need to listen to President Bush. He did not justify the horrible behavior, he condemned it. Tom Patterson
May 6	Which RI Nonprofit CEO is:
Which RI Nonprofit CEO is: -being paid $900/mo. toward car payments -receiving multiple country club and social club memberships as "requirements of the job" -charges social meals and travel to company budgets? -receiving excessive retirement benefits while his employees get peanuts? -building a condo in Florida which requires his frequent presence in that good golf state (and his absence form his workplace)? -paying the Chairman of the Board $75K/yr for service -receiving a salary way beyond his performance (consistent losses for more than 5 years) and beyond that of his peers in other RI nonprofits? -laying off essential staff while maintaining contracts with cronies? -under investigation by a grand jury regarding healthcare bribes to legislators? -protected by political affiliations both on and off the Board -hand selects Board members to be compliant and enthusiastic cheerleaders? -has been penalized by the AG for misuse of charitable funds after his Board shielded him from criminal prosecution? -is generally regarded by employees of his corporation as a greedy, lazy do nothing who has an appointment for life? He occasionally shows up at work when the weather is bad (no golf) and some annoying duty requires his token presence. Perhaps in RI this could be a multiple choice question but this particular CEO distinguishes himself. I suspect your listeners will be able to identify him without much trouble. The question is why can't his Board identify these abuses and do something. He is the mini-me to Battista. They both have very low handicaps in golf, and everyone agrees that maintenance of a low handicap requires frequent practice.
May 4	News Story
GREETINGS, John! Just came across a new feature of the Kent County Daily TIMES re: our beautiful 'natural resource' tribute to all those lovely individuals and their families of the Station Nightclub tragedy we held last June. We are planning to organize another reflective, outdoor ceremony during our ECOLOGY DAY event on May 15th and want to welcome any and all participants for this poignant, yet uplifting service. Please let us know of any volunteers who would like to help. Best wishes! Ron Holloway, Chairman JAYCEE Riverwalk-Corridor Project http://www.kentcountytimes.com/
May 4	Where is the outrage!!!
Daily deaths in defense of our country should not be taken lightly, however, where is the outrage at the US daily deaths (below). If our loses in Iraq approached any of these numbers would cause a national crises.....WHERE IS THE OUTRAGE??? WHERE IS THE NATIONAL PRESS??? US DAILY DEATHS YEARLY DAILY 1 AUTOMOBILES 43,000 117.8 2 FLU 36,000 98.6 3 GUNS 26,000 71.2 4 FOOD-BORN 5,000 13.7 TOTAL 110,000 301.4
May 4	phone books
Though the new phone book might be the same size as the white and yellow combined.. I agree with you that it does not fit in a drawer the same way. It is difficult to take out the one large book than it was the two individual books. I have to find a new place for the new book, and chances are it may be in the garage! The old books will stay where they are.
May 4	Are you bored or just stupid???
I am not going to debate the morality of American soldiers abusing Iraqi P.O.W.'s. I am also not going the get into "the enemy has done far worse" discussion (I don't let my daughter get away with "But, daddy, Sally did something much worse than what I did", so why would I let our military get away with it?). The fact is abusing Iraqi prisoners and taking pictures of it is just plain stupid! Of course it was horrible when the terrorists beheaded Daniel Pearl. But let's face it, "terror" is their agenda. I was led to believe that part of our postwar agenda/plan in Iraq was "winning the hearts and minds of the Iraqi people". I don't quite see how this is going to help in that effort. Jim from Cranston
May 4	buddy c
John, I have heard that Buddy is getting out of prison soon. Some Providence employees are talking about it. Have you heard anything? Carol, Cranston
May 4	Jury
The United States Consititution mandates an "impartial" jury. Impartial to both the plaintiff (Mrs. Young) and the defendant (City of Providence and other defendants). Nothing has ever stated that the jury: "Appear" impartial; Be a "melting pot"; or any other of the buzzwords used today. The jury is to hear the facts presented in the case and make a decision based upon those facts. The judge decides what the law is and how it's applied. This applies to what evidence is or is not presented. It's the judge who instructs the jurors as to what the law is that they are to apply the facts they have learned in order to make a decision.
May 4	What If....
John: For everyone who thinks the U.S. is an occupying nation What if...YOU TURN ON THE TV TONIGHT AND SEE G.W. BUSH GIVE THE FOLLOWING SPEECH: My fellow Americans, as you all know, the defeat of Iraq's regime has been completed. Since congress does not want to spend any more money on this war, our mission in Iraq is complete. This morning I gave the order for a complete removal of all American forces from Iraq. This action will be complete within 30 days. It is now time to begin the reckoning. Before me, I have two lists. One list contains the names of countries which have stood by our side during the Iraq conflict. This list is short. The United Kingdom, Spain, Bulgaria, Australia, and Poland are some of the countries listed there. The other list contains everyone not on the first list. Most of the world's nations are on that list. My press secretary will be distributing copies of both lists later this evening. Let me start by saying that effective immediately, foreign aid to those nations on List 2 ceases immediately and indefinitely. The money saved during the first year alone will pretty much pay for the costs of the Iraqi war. The American people are no longer going to pour money into third world hell-holes and watch those government leaders grow fat on corruption. Need help with a famine? Wrestling with an epidemic? Call France. In the future, together with Congress, I will work to redirect this money toward solving the fixing social problems we still have at home. On that note, a word to terrorist organizations. Screw with us and we will hunt you down and eliminate you and all your friends from the face of the earth. Thirsting for a gutsy country to terrorize? Try France, or maybe China. To Israel and the Palestinian Authority. Yo, boys. Work out a peace deal now. Just note that Camp David is closed. Maybe all of you can go to Russia for negotiations. They have some great palaces there. Big tables, too. I'm ordering the immediate severing of diplomatic relations with France, Germany, and Russia. Thanks for all your help, comrades. We are retiring from NATO as well. Bon chance, mes amis. I have instructed the Mayor of New York City to begin towing the many UN diplomatic vehicles located in Manhattan with more than two unpaid tickets to sites where those vehicles will be stripped, shredded and crushed. I don't care about whatever treaty pertains to this. Pay your tickets tomorrow or watch your precious Benzes, Beamers, and limos be turned over to some of the finest chop shops in the world. I love New York. A special note to our neighbors. Canada is on List 2. Since we are going tobe seeing a lot more of each other, you folks might want to try not pissing us off for a change. Mexico is also on List 2. President Fox and his entire corrupt government really need an attitude adjustment. I have a couple extra tank and infantry divisions sitting around. Guess where I'm gonna put 'em? Yep, border security. So start doing something with your oil. Oh, by the way, the United States is abrogating the NAFTA treaty---starting now. It is time for America to focus on its own welfare and its own citizens. Some will accuse us of isolationism. I answer them by saying darn tootin'. Nearly a century of trying to help folks live a decent life around the world has only earned us the undying enmity of just about everyone on the planet. It is time to eliminate hunger in America. It is time to eliminate homelessness in America. It is time to eliminate World Cup soccer from America. To the nations on List 1, a final thought. Thanks guys. We owe you. To the nations on List 2, a final thought. Drop dead. God bless America. Thank you and good night. Bruce C East Greenwich, RI
May 4	verizon phone book
I had to laugh when I heard the verizon rep tell us how much consumer opinion matters to them. The new phone book is almost laughable, that monstrosity is more convenient? Give me a break. Anyhow John, let me give you a good laugh... verizon cares about us so much that they have renamed our state for us ... if you look at the map section and look at page 18 you will notice that while seekonk is in Mass., East Providence is in Conn., on page 22 warren has been moved to Conn ... see also page 15, page11, page 7, page 4, page 3... I believe verizon is taking sides in the RI and Conn border dispute. Enjoy, Al Saiz, aka "al from barrington" Barrington, RI
May 4	phone book
I had to laugh when I heard the verizon rep tell us how much consumer opinion matters to themÉ The new phone book is almost laughableÉthat monstrosity is more convenient?Égive me a break. Anyhow John, let me give you a good laughÉverizon cares about us so much that they have renamed our state for usÉif you look at the map section and look at page 18 you will notice that while seekonk is in Mass., East Providence is in Conn., on page 22 warren has been moved to ConnÉsee also page 15, page11, page 7, page 4, page 3ÉI believe verizon is taking sides in the RI and Conn border disputeÉ Enjoy, Al Saiz, aka Òal from barringtonÓ Barrington, RI
April 30	hello from sunny Iraq
MR. DEPETRO, My name is Erik Lee Conley, a local rock musician from Providence who put his band on hold to come back in the Army to fight this war. After the Station fire, I couldn't find the will to write songs anymore so I'm writing a lot out here to put a CD out when I return to help raise money for my friends who were in the fire. Wish me luck. My band's site is www.point08.com and I'm putting my group back together with NEW members apon my return in 2005 (I HOPE). If any musicians want to email me, my only contact address is erik.conley@us.army.mil Hope to hear from you all. I'm gonna need drummers, bassests, keys and guitarists. Never forget the fire and SUPPORT THE F$@#ing TROOPS!!! Respectfully, Erik. Lee Con 401-331-2848 erik.conley@us.army.mil http://www.military.com/ www.point08.com
April 30	the polls
Hi John, You keep talking about Kerry being behind in the polls and how he is on his way out. I, for one, give the polls no validity. You know, the Red Sox are in first place, does that mean that they are going to win the World Series? Here are the polls out of today, check them out. http://story.news.yahoo.com/news?tmpl=story&u= /nm/20040429/ts_nm/bush_poll_dc_1 Tara
April 30	Lying Ryan
John, Lying Ryan went to URI ! Jack
April 30	No Integrity State
Instead of calling Rhode Island the Ocean State, maybe it ought to be called the No Integrity State. How about the State of Ignorance? I've always wondered why Rhode Islanders who have the F.O.P. medallions on their license plates put them on the back plate instead of the front? Could it be that they think they might catch a break from one of the state's law enforcement officers? By the way, it's supposed to be a violation of RI law to affix anything to a license plate except the registration sticker. The same goes for obscuring the plate in any way. I guess when it comes to raising money for the F.O.P., anything goes, including influence peddling. I wonder how many citations have been given out for violating this law? Probably zero. Nothing beats an honest cop! While on the subject of police in the No Integrity state, why do the police need their own bill of rights? Why isn't the same Bill of Rights the rest of us live with good enough for them? It's kind of ironic that those who are charged with upholding the law have special laws just for themselves. So much for equal protection under the law. Just another example of the No Integrity state's many double standards. Rest easy Rhode Island, - and by the way, while you're resting, remember the fox is in the chicken coop. Maybe the State of Ignorance is more like it. Let's talk about the attorney general's office next time.
April 30	Traffic and weather reports in the morning
Dear WHJJ, I could not find a general managers website to send this to so I had to pick the person closest in time to the Morning News/Imus show. This is a small matter but every day WHJJ Traffic and Weather Reports as well as the local news comes on 4 times per hour. This is great, however, no one ever gives the current temperature. As I am lying in my bed early AM listening, it would be nice to hear "this is WHJJ it's 6:15 and the current temperature is 52 degrees". It would help to plan my morning and my day. Thanks for the consideration, Gail Casci
April 30	Re: Providence Journal Spanish section 11/13/03 -- 4/27/04
I am so tired of the illegal immigrant thing that I have changed to a yard company that speaks English.
April 30	Batista becoming a "scapegoat" to short circuit much-needed larger investigation
It is a MISTAKE for the RI Medical Assn. to think that just "getting" Batista will fix SYSTEMIC corruption in RI's legislature and healthcare system. CONSIDER: 1. Tom Ryan and CVS's (and possibly Brooks Pharmacy's?) apparent schemes to destroy competitors. 2. To succeed (which it did), NUMEROUS legislators and state regulators needed to be "manipulated" to "vote the right way" or to "look the other way". 3. Who were they and who orchestrated the schemes to get them to vote "right" for BCBS, CVS and other special interests? And what types of payoffs, perks, "gifts", trips?, club memberships, girls, drugs or other "enticements" were offered to get them to vote "right" for CVS/BCBS? 4. Although the RI Medical Assn. thinks Batista is the SOLE problem...and the FBI is investigating Celona and Irons ...these three are only the tip of a much, much larger and looming iceberg. 5. WHO, I ask, will INVESTIGATE and PROSECUTE all involved; from CEO's and top level managers, to a wide range of legislators, state business regulators, and bureaucrats? ANSWER: So far: No one. The NETWORK that made this mess possible has been at work for YEARS ...and it is the NETWORK what needs to be ferreted out, removed from office, and PROSECUTED. So far, neither the FBI, State Police, or our State Attorney General have dared launch such a wide investgation.
April 30	re: crying from the Cranston School Department
Hi John: What's the matter with Mayor Laffey? He has been very quiet lately regarding the financial problems with the school department. Why didn't Mrs. White mention to the croud last night about all the nice raises that the employees of the school department will be receiving come July lst. 3% across the aboard and 6 l/2 percent for any employee who retires at the end of the 2005 school year. Where are they getting the money for these raises? Wake up Cranston. We (the taxpayers) are being taken for a nice ride at their expense.
April 30	RI Salutes Her Troops
John, Suggest you encourage folks with web sites to put notice about this event on their front page. We have a site, www.CoventryRI.com and will be posting an announcement on our site's front page. Regardless of how one feels about this war, we need to honor our young people who haves given up so much in our service. Jerry Hoff CoventryRI.com
April 30	Warwick PD
John, The dirty Warwick police officers need to be fired. The argument that the intern initiated it are insane. A cop that has so little respect for his honor, the young womans honor , and the respect of his supervisors let alone the publics respect for the LAW needs to go. I don't want that cop patrolling my town with the authority of the law to use at his warped discretion. Im sure Warwick has more than enough ethical, qualified applicants to actually make this situation have a positive outcome within a year or two. 4 more years, JK
April 30	About John Kerry's HAIR CUT
Dear John, First of all, I would like to say that I love your talk show. I watched John Kerry with Tim Russert on "Meet the Press" and aside from his eloquence, I absolutely loved his haircut and gorgeous tan. He has a nice thick head of hair. He looked HOT! So, for all you people knocking his haircut, I recommend that you try his stylist. I saw you, John, on Channel 6 News last evening and although you looked hot yourself, I think Kerry's hair was a lot nicer. Therefore, those thousand dollar haircuts do matter. You get what you pay for. ;) -Kimberly P.S. I am an independent, but Kerry will most definitely get my vote in this upcoming election. Furthermore, sure, Kerry travels with his butler and might not make his own peanut butter sandwiches, but at least he can speak off the top of his head unlike Bush who needs an entire entourage traveling with him before he can say a sentence. Thank you. "
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