TomMcGiverin's Profile

I just watched Soylent Green on TV last night.

Gwendolyn2018 comments on Jul 24, 2020:

On the other hand, I will have no problem in eating another human if he/she is in the form of a cracker. Just sayin'.

TomMcGiverin replies on Jul 24, 2020:

Today's young children may get the chance to try the cracker...

I just watched Soylent Green on TV last night.

Druvius comments on Jul 24, 2020:

Overpopulation is a symptom of global poverty and war (refugee camps have the world's highest birth rates.) Complicated by the Church's decades long highly successful global war against women's reproductive rights. https://theness.com/neurologicablog/index.php/the-overpopulation-hubbub/

TomMcGiverin replies on Jul 24, 2020:

@Druvius Agreed.

I just watched Soylent Green on TV last night.

Druvius comments on Jul 24, 2020:

Overpopulation is a symptom of global poverty and war (refugee camps have the world's highest birth rates.) Complicated by the Church's decades long highly successful global war against women's reproductive rights. https://theness.com/neurologicablog/index.php/the-overpopulation-hubbub/

TomMcGiverin replies on Jul 24, 2020:

I think the article's author is overly optimistic about technology's likelihood of saving us.

Let's get real about online dating.

TomMcGiverin comments on Jul 23, 2020:

If the US had appropriate enforcement of antitrust laws, then dating sites would have to actually compete with each other and thus provide decent service to their customers. Instead, as the above post states, the industry has followed the same pattern as most American industries and ended up with ...

TomMcGiverin replies on Jul 23, 2020:

@Unpretentious I don't know about regulation other than standard FTC rules, but I have read articles and news online saying that some of them have been sued by customers, including class action lawsuits. Not that it seems to have done much good.

If you don't like Democratic Socialism what are you willing to give up?

BitFlipper comments on Jul 22, 2020:

Corporate subsidies.

TomMcGiverin replies on Jul 22, 2020:

And big bank bailouts. Time to act like Iceland and let the banksters go broke or to jail if they gamble with their bank's money.

"Dating for real people".

TomMcGiverin comments on Jul 20, 2020:

Until Covid is over, my view is that the dating scene of singles meeting new people to date will be taking a pause among my age group and older. The only dating scene that will continue to go on will be at bars among young adults, because they are at relatively less risk from Covid and are the age ...

TomMcGiverin replies on Jul 21, 2020:

@SKH78 How much is herd immunity going to change things for older adults?

The Trump campaign's strategy to win in November and why it's a problem. [youtube.com]

TomMcGiverin comments on Jul 20, 2020:

The good news is that his poll numbers so far are way worse than four years ago. Trump campaigning and acting as a fascist? Well, duh..

TomMcGiverin replies on Jul 20, 2020:

@RoboGraham With that, I totally agree. Dementia Joe is going to get creamed if he debates Trump. Still waiting to see if the DNC replaces Biden next month. That fact that Biden has still not named a running mate makes you wonder if he will drop out next month.

Why People Believe Conspiracy Theories by Michael Shermer What is a conspiracy, and how does it...

Donotbelieve comments on Jul 20, 2020:

Here's my theory...

TomMcGiverin replies on Jul 20, 2020:

@LenHazell53 "Just because you're paranoid..." You've stolen the words I live by....

Sums it up.

RoboGraham comments on Jul 19, 2020:

And the jobs didn't come back

TomMcGiverin replies on Jul 19, 2020:

But because the corporate Dems had been lying to the working class for decades about being on their side, losing all credibility with those voters, they took a chance on Trump and voted for him because he was a new face and he lied to them about bringing the jobs back. This time, the working class will believe neither Trump or Biden about being on their side with the economy. They will simply vote for whoever they believe is the lesser evil, which is exactly what the DNC wanted from the beginning of this cycle. And many of them will not vote at all.

A really good book that most of you would enjoy reading.

Fernapple comments on Jul 19, 2020:

So very true it is almost painfully so. And they often put in far more effort and talent into making their undervalued contributions, than the rich do into their overvalued ones.

TomMcGiverin replies on Jul 19, 2020:

Especially since so many members of the rich simply inherited their wealth and did nothing to earn it.

The best argument I've heard, so far, against my Anti-BNMW stance. Feedback, please. [youtu.be]

TomMcGiverin comments on Jul 17, 2020:

Movements have been here for decades to reduce economic equality and get single payer healthcare, but Obama ignored them and Biden has already said he won't back them either. This guy is either dishonest or naive to believe that Biden won't just ignore or do lip service to the left if elected. We ...

TomMcGiverin replies on Jul 17, 2020:

@skado I don't see how a fight in the streets is avoidable with the attitude of the rich and as it stands now the cops and military would easily mow down any rebellion from the masses, unless they somehow decided to side with the people, like what happened in Russia at the end of the Soviet system. I think the endless maintenance effort is all I have to look forward to witnessing before I die. How depressing...

Is anyone else concerned about fully reopening schools next month?

DaneintheUS comments on Jul 17, 2020:

Here in Nevada we are seeing a strong resurgence of the virus. I'm in Reno, which is overseen by the Washoe County School District. The plan for the 20-21 school year. Middle and high school, will have a half and half policy. Half the week at the school. Half via distance learning. But for the ...

TomMcGiverin replies on Jul 17, 2020:

You live in the home of one of my cult favorite TV shows, Reno-911.This pandemic is almost as ridiculous as that show, only not that funny.

The best argument I've heard, so far, against my Anti-BNMW stance. Feedback, please. [youtu.be]

TomMcGiverin comments on Jul 17, 2020:

Movements have been here for decades to reduce economic equality and get single payer healthcare, but Obama ignored them and Biden has already said he won't back them either. This guy is either dishonest or naive to believe that Biden won't just ignore or do lip service to the left if elected. We ...

TomMcGiverin replies on Jul 17, 2020:

@skado Movements are able to affect change if it doesn't cost the rich or corporate America anything, look at all the corporate support and news ads backing BLM. But it's a whole other thing to get the government to change policy on war, taxes, climate change, healthcare, or economic inequality because both parties are bought and funded by the same people and corporations, who do not want change on these issues. You can protest all you want in the streets, but until you can elect enough people in DC who are not bought by these donors, or have enough of a threat to get them elected, nothing will fundamentally change on the issues that actually cost something or affect the rich and corporations. And I don't see much hope as long as the vast majority of Americans who are eligible to vote either don't vote or else throw away their vote by continuing to vote only for the two major parties in the duopoly. If tens of millions began voting for third party candidates in federal elections, things would begin to change very quickly, not incrementally...

Good Morning Everyone!!!! I just got a call from my boss and I have to return to work August 3rd.

NoMagicCookie comments on Jul 16, 2020:

Going back? Yep. Although I love my job, I wish I could retire but with house paid for (expensive to keep) and only a couple hundred grand stashed away, I am not (to young) in a fiscal position to retire. If we (United States) had universal health care, I would have sufficient funds to ...

TomMcGiverin replies on Jul 16, 2020:

Isn't the American system wonderful? NOT... The only people with plenty of good options are those in the top 10%. Even most of the elderly retired are one serious illness away from being broke.

If this isn't the time for a Universal Basic income, I don't know when it would ever be.

SCal comments on Jul 15, 2020:

It really is weird that people here hate the rich, but also want the rich to pay them not to work. One day people might actually wake up and realize that taxes, politicians and regulations do not make their lives better, they make everyones lives far worse. Politicians and govt actors get rich...

TomMcGiverin replies on Jul 16, 2020:

@SCal You're a twit. Time to block.

If this isn't the time for a Universal Basic income, I don't know when it would ever be.

SCal comments on Jul 15, 2020:

It really is weird that people here hate the rich, but also want the rich to pay them not to work. One day people might actually wake up and realize that taxes, politicians and regulations do not make their lives better, they make everyones lives far worse. Politicians and govt actors get rich...

TomMcGiverin replies on Jul 15, 2020:

Libertarian Technocrat garbage.

(Trump) It’s not a campaign, it’s a criminal enterprise. [lincolnproject.us]

PBuck0145 comments on Jul 13, 2020:

I wistfully remember the days before Obama was elected, before insanity became the norm in US politics. With the Obama election the Republicans went crazy. Then Trump was elected and the Democrats went even more insane. I would like to see some rational opposition to the Trump presidency, instead...

TomMcGiverin replies on Jul 13, 2020:

@PBuck0145 You'll never have socially responsible capitalism as long as government is run and owned by corporations and the rich, as we have in the US, rather than a government that is responsive to the working class. As long as unlimited money is allowed in US politics instead of having full public financing of campaigns, we won't ever have socially responsible capitalism. And if, by some miracle, we did elect a government in DC that was not bought off by corporations and the rich, I am very sure that the PTB would stage a military coup, ala Chile 1973, to declare martial law and install a friendly dictatorship. I have studied economics, way more than most Americans, and I resent your snide insult to socialists as being ignorant or foolish. Not all of us are selfish and greedy, hence we are socialists AND understand economics. We just have different values than you, something I doubt you want to discuss...Time to block you, asshole..

(Trump) It’s not a campaign, it’s a criminal enterprise. [lincolnproject.us]

PBuck0145 comments on Jul 13, 2020:

I wistfully remember the days before Obama was elected, before insanity became the norm in US politics. With the Obama election the Republicans went crazy. Then Trump was elected and the Democrats went even more insane. I would like to see some rational opposition to the Trump presidency, instead...

TomMcGiverin replies on Jul 13, 2020:

SeaGrrenEyez is right. Fuck centrism, we need more socialism. It's the lack of that which gave us Trump after Obama. Working class people realized that Obama sold them out to his rich and corporate friends, so they decided to take a chance on Trump when he lied, just like Obama, about making things better economically for them. Both of them support the same trade policies, endless war in the Middle East, etc. The only differences between the Dems and Repubs in DC is that the Dems don't reject science, aren't as racist, and have some mild support for reversing climate change. Otherwise, they are two sides of the same coin if you ignore the BS differences they promote thru the culture wars-abortion, guns, religion, etc.-all as a distraction from being the same party on the most important issues, war, taxes and economics as well as civil liberties.

Mama, ooh, didn't mean to make you scream...

Spinliesel comments on Jul 11, 2020:

Oh. kitty, how kind of you to warn her. Mine are not so thoughtful. They just bring me body parts and deposit them on the sofa.

TomMcGiverin replies on Jul 11, 2020:

Have to remember that it's the thought that counts. The kitties bring you these gifts with love...

Curious on views of others on how our country has handled our Covid pandemic?

PhoebeCat comments on Jul 11, 2020:

While there's no doubt that the United States government did a terrible job from the get go and still are unable to form a decent plan, the reason the US is in such a horrible position is due to the absolute childish and self-involved response by a huge portion of the common everyday American ...

TomMcGiverin replies on Jul 11, 2020:

That's because in the US it's become all about individualism, not any concern about public safety or the common good. That's why we don't have single payer healthcare or reasonable gun control like the rest of the civilized world. As long as individualism rules here, with tons of help from the corporate media, we are doomed. In any reasonable country with a functioning democracy instead of our plutocracy, the pandemic would make it clear and undeniably time for universal single payer health care. But even that will not be demanded by the people now or conceded by the ruling class.

Studying behavior on an autodidact skill level is something I have been doing most of my life and ...

WonderWartHog99 comments on Jul 10, 2020:

> ## My thought is that the personality trials are being done to help them avoid a potential relapse of emotional trauma that the women have received in the past. Want to explain how that fits into my observation that women tend to find a DIFFERENT abusive spouse the next time around? While ...

TomMcGiverin replies on Jul 10, 2020:

@EyesThatSmile In my opinion, men and women who are seeking more spontaneous and fun rather than good people are more likely not that interested in long term relationships, whether they are aware of it or not.

Bill Nye on why we should all wear a face mask - CNN

beenthere comments on Jul 10, 2020:

When will it be acceptable to not wear a mask anymore? What is the criteria?

TomMcGiverin replies on Jul 10, 2020:

When there is either a vaccine or an effective treatment. Not likely to see either for at least another year.

[psiloveyou.

GreatNani comments on Jul 7, 2020:

Makes total sense. It is a choice and it is not the fault of the other party. Everyone has choices and what you do with them is what's important.

TomMcGiverin replies on Jul 7, 2020:

@GreatNani Unless it's a mutually-agreed open relationship or marriage, if things are dead or no longer working out, the mature and healthy thing to do is leave or end the relationship before you start something with someone else. Anything less is deceitful, selfish and immature. Sheesh, I thought or wish we were past the days of " My wife doesn't understand me", or " I needed to know I was still desireable, etc.".

What kind of standing do we guys have any more?

TomMcGiverin comments on Jul 6, 2020:

Beats me. I am taking a break from the dating game until Covid is over. Maybe by then I'll have figured it out, but more likely I won't. I also fear that by then the dating sites will have made the process even more frustrating and useless by removing more of the allowed profile info than they have ...

TomMcGiverin replies on Jul 6, 2020:

@BitFlipper I agree. I cop to being somewhat damaged, probably no more than most. I really do think Covid is currently making dating sites a total waste of time and money and my fear is that the sites are greedy enough that they will ruin any usefullness the sites may have had in the past for customers in order for the sites to try making up for their current losses with Covid by trying to become something different that won't be needed or appropriate after Covid. But by then they will stay with their new features instead of going back to something better from before Covid.

What kind of standing do we guys have any more?

TomMcGiverin comments on Jul 6, 2020:

Beats me. I am taking a break from the dating game until Covid is over. Maybe by then I'll have figured it out, but more likely I won't. I also fear that by then the dating sites will have made the process even more frustrating and useless by removing more of the allowed profile info than they have ...

TomMcGiverin replies on Jul 6, 2020:

@UUNJ Glad to hear it still exists, otherwise it wouldn't even be worth trying Match again after Covid. Before I quit using Match, I would only use the Mutual Match to look up new members every few days and then message the ones that seemed interesting. Without that, and otherwise only having my profile essay to let women know what I'm looking for, the whole thing would be a waste of time.

What kind of standing do we guys have any more?

TomMcGiverin comments on Jul 6, 2020:

Beats me. I am taking a break from the dating game until Covid is over. Maybe by then I'll have figured it out, but more likely I won't. I also fear that by then the dating sites will have made the process even more frustrating and useless by removing more of the allowed profile info than they have ...

TomMcGiverin replies on Jul 6, 2020:

@UUNJ I'm not surprised they did that, but I really hate that stuff. It shows that they really don't care at all about the customers, their wishes, the usefullness or effectiveness of the site in finding someone compatible. And my experience has been that the other sites are even worse as far as what information members are allowed to share with other members. I have not been on Match for quite a while. Do they even allow members to post a decent length profile essay anymore? OT sure as hell doesn't anymore. I remember that Match at least used to have a search tool called Mutual Match, which seemed to be based on only showing members who wanted the same age group, local area, and maybe a couple other preferences in common. Have they gotten rid of that too?

Tulsi Gabbard promotes peace, and opposes American imperialism.

UnknownError comments on Jul 4, 2020:

When it comes to vaguely justified wars we see bipartism like in nothing else.

TomMcGiverin replies on Jul 6, 2020:

We also see the same amount of bipartisanism in trade policy and taxation, mainly because war and globalism is profitable for the same people and corporations who fund both parties.

Since the first week in APR my usual work place has been shuttered.

TomMcGiverin comments on Jun 30, 2020:

You got a taste of what most or all blue collar workers experience during their working careers and I'm glad you seem to have gained empathy for them from it. There is a reason that in more civilized and fair parts of the world, like Europe, that workers with physically demanding jobs are allowed a...

TomMcGiverin replies on Jul 1, 2020:

@BufftonBeotch Most of the physically demanding jobs that I worked had either none or shitty benefits, mainly because they didn't have a union. It's ironic that way that the jobs most likely to ruin your health not only don't pay well, but they also have the worst benefits, if any. The whole reason is that those jobs are usually taken only by the most desperate workers in the economy, like meatpackers or migrant farm workers, who are undocumented and/or immigrants. All workers at the jobs with low pay, little or no benefits, and physically demanding work are treated like machines or disposable trash because they are doing work most white Americans would refuse to do and doing jobs that still can't be done by robots for the same or less money, at least not yet.

[vice.

TomMcGiverin comments on Jun 30, 2020:

It's a good article and nothing I hadn't already figured out. Dating may still be an option during Covid for people younger than my age group because their risk is way less than mine, unless they have an underlying medical condition. For my age group, however, I think dating will be out of the ...

TomMcGiverin replies on Jun 30, 2020:

@sassygirl3869 My health and safety are my top priority, so being on my own for another year or even two is how it has to be. When Covid is over I will try Match again, but my guess is that the online dating scene will be even worse than before the virus, so I won't expect much or hold my breath. It took me two years to find someone there last time.

What do you think makes a country socially progressive [youtube.com]

Charlene comments on Jun 24, 2020:

Free Healthcare, Free Education, Investment in Infrastructure, Progressive Taxes, Support for Unions, Longer Mandatory Paid Vactions...

TomMcGiverin replies on Jun 30, 2020:

@OwlInASack I agree. Voting for Biden is choosing to hope he is a little less dangerous even tho he will make nothing better in any important way. Electing either of them results in things continuing to get worse in each election cycle. The same way that Obama's fake hope and change resulted in people getting angry and frustrated by the lack of change and thus believing Trump's lies that he would change things for the better.

What’s your geographic range for dating?

TomMcGiverin comments on Jun 28, 2020:

55 miles at most. I am not a young pup anymore and don't want to put in the time and energy to drive all the time while building the relationship for months. Even then, someone would have to move after a year or so or else the relationship would probably end. Just being realistic. Since I don't have...

TomMcGiverin replies on Jun 29, 2020:

@FrayedBear Good for you..

The “peace” our enemies want is mounted on brutal war and in its continuation in modern/colonial...

TomMcGiverin comments on Jun 27, 2020:

BLM is becoming popular lately with the same kind of comfortable white suburban liberals that were against the Vietnam War and for racial equality back in the 60s, but now, just as then, those same whites will quickly betray the BLM movement and vote Republican if BLM becomes part of an alliance ...

TomMcGiverin replies on Jun 28, 2020:

@altschmerz Bernie advocates the right policies, but, as Chris Hedges says, he is more interested in being part of the club in DC and having his status in congress than in being a revolutionary...

What do you think makes a country socially progressive [youtube.com]

Charlene comments on Jun 24, 2020:

Free Healthcare, Free Education, Investment in Infrastructure, Progressive Taxes, Support for Unions, Longer Mandatory Paid Vactions...

TomMcGiverin replies on Jun 28, 2020:

@OwlInASack The two big reasons why the US has so little progressive government is all the money in politics, esp. at the federal level, and the corruption that comes with all that legalized bribery. The other reason is all the concentrated ownership of the mass media, almost all of which is corporate-owned and naturally supports only corporate-backed politicians and the agenda that corporate America wants. We technically have the right to vote, but as long as Americans who do vote keep voting within the duopoly, we will only get the policies the corporatists want.

Next time someone says ALM to you, remind then of Orwell: "All animals are equal, but some animals ...

TomMcGiverin comments on Jun 27, 2020:

The people who say ALM instead of BLM won't come out and say it, but they are very comfortable with there being a system of inequality based on race and class. Orwell was talking about that in Animal Farm.

TomMcGiverin replies on Jun 28, 2020:

@Jacar I would be fine with doing without most or even all of the modern technology of social media and cellphone technology, thank you.. I didn't ask them to make it and they don't deserve to be ungodly rich for making it either...

"The story I’m about to share with you about Joe Biden is special — in fact, I’m fairly ...

M4Amama comments on Jun 28, 2020:

I'm hoping he uses that humanity to help push Medicare for All (NOT a public option) legislation, criminal justice reform, humane immigration issues, The Green New Deal, and many other progressive justice-for-all issues. I'm not holding my breath.

TomMcGiverin replies on Jun 28, 2020:

@M4Amama He may be decent in his personal life, but as a politician he is a corporate sellout and that's what actually matters in how he would govern. That is why we progressives hate him and see him as a hypocrite, not matter how he is in his personal life. It all comes down to who you side with when it comes to issues of money and power.

The “peace” our enemies want is mounted on brutal war and in its continuation in modern/colonial...

TomMcGiverin comments on Jun 27, 2020:

BLM is becoming popular lately with the same kind of comfortable white suburban liberals that were against the Vietnam War and for racial equality back in the 60s, but now, just as then, those same whites will quickly betray the BLM movement and vote Republican if BLM becomes part of an alliance ...

TomMcGiverin replies on Jun 28, 2020:

@William_Mary I don't think socialism is a bad word, at least to me, but it still is to too many Americans and esp. to the corporate media here. I don't know what the answer or solution is for changing those things, but I do know that the answer for our current problems is not to be found in more permanent war, empire, neoliberal economics, and further authoritarianism in our government. The answer is more socialism. I agree with you that Bernie really betrayed his supporters and I am glad I did not give him money or volunteer for him this time as I feared he would cave again and I would not be able to handle the heartbreak under those circumstances..

The “peace” our enemies want is mounted on brutal war and in its continuation in modern/colonial...

TomMcGiverin comments on Jun 27, 2020:

BLM is becoming popular lately with the same kind of comfortable white suburban liberals that were against the Vietnam War and for racial equality back in the 60s, but now, just as then, those same whites will quickly betray the BLM movement and vote Republican if BLM becomes part of an alliance ...

TomMcGiverin replies on Jun 27, 2020:

McGovern was also very anti-war, which was another reason the establishment was out to get him, as they were Bernie this time.

WHAT IT IS REALLY LIKE TO BE INTUBATED AND PLACED ON A VENTILATOR Written by a nurse who works ...

TomMcGiverin comments on May 23, 2020:

Everyone should be wearing masks when around other people indoors, even if they are healthy, because they may well be infected without symptoms or knowing they are infected.

TomMcGiverin replies on Jun 26, 2020:

@RavenCT bbyrd is a selfish asshole, that's why I recently blocked him.

Race: Leftists vs Conservatives (one conservative's viewpoint) [vdare.com]

Bobbyzen comments on Jun 22, 2020:

I like this. As a White Liberal who believes in racial justice, I’m well aware of Liberals’ hypocrisy on race. Lyrics from the 1960s Phil Ochs song, *Love Me, I’m a Liberal* are dated, but the hypocrisy in display has not changed: I cried when they shot Medgar Evers Tears ran down my spine...

TomMcGiverin replies on Jun 22, 2020:

That song spoke volumes and is timeless. Says everything that I and Chris Hedges hate about the morally and historically bankrupt history of liberalism vs. socialism.. The liberal class just wants to feel good about themselves and push multiculturalism and environmentalism, but most of all they want to keep the peace on class warfare and hold onto their privilege and affluence.

Race: Leftists vs Conservatives (one conservative's viewpoint) [vdare.com]

Bobbyzen comments on Jun 22, 2020:

Put another way: Conservatives are overt racists who deny White privilege exists. Liberals are covert racists who feel insulted when they’re called out on their White privilege.

TomMcGiverin replies on Jun 22, 2020:

That's why I proud to be a socialist or progressive, rather than the hated liberal that most progressives loathe. We are well aware of our white privilege and have been for a long time. We also know that racism goes hand in hand with American capitalism and that without radical change on the latter, we will only get temporary and minor reform of the former.

RETIRED SURGEON Sam Laucks, has this to say about wearing a mask: "I have spent the past 39 years ...

TomMcGiverin comments on Jun 19, 2020:

The problem is many people are just too damn selfish. They don't care about the health of others and don't believe in there being a society as a whole, yet they are eager to have the police or firefighters come to their aid when needed. And they gladly collect Social Security and use Medicare when ...

TomMcGiverin replies on Jun 20, 2020:

@bbyrd009 Time to block you, asshole..

Why I Stopped Talking About Racial Reconciliation and Started Talking About White Supremacy | ...

t1nick comments on Jun 20, 2020:

IMO White supremacy suggests a small extremist population that is outside the main stream of society. Unfortunately, systemic racism is not limited to a small splinter group. We would more appropriately talk about white privilege as opposed to white supremacy. White privilege suggests a greater ...

TomMcGiverin replies on Jun 20, 2020:

@ZenMasterD Bullshit..

Trump supporter on Tulsa rally, not worried about covid

hankster comments on Jun 18, 2020:

he's going to obliterate his own base.

TomMcGiverin replies on Jun 19, 2020:

@davknight That is the real problem. People need to realize that as long as they have public interactions with innocent other people, their choices to not wear masks or social distance, they will affect other people's health. That is why mask wearing should be required at stores, public buildings, and other businesses that people have to visit. If you want to be a selfish dick, then, fine, be that way. But your right to be one should end once you leave your little hole and you enter the public sphere. If you don't like it, then stay home and avoid other people who don't agree with you. Mask wearing should be like wearing a shirt and shoes in businesses, which are also requirements based on hygiene. If you don't like it, too bad, the business owner has the right to make you leave and if you don't like it, shop somewhere else, if you can find an alternative. You should be the one who stays home, instead of me having to avoid a business because other people are being selfish dicks and not wanting to do the right thing to protect the health of the more vulnerable.

Where did disco go?

TomMcGiverin comments on Jun 17, 2020:

I always hated disco and country music. It sucks to be so marginalized as these two genres have always been really popular, one or the other, ever since I was a late teenager. At the same time, I have always liked soul, R& B, and blues, so it's not about race. Disco was just very repetitious, bland ...

TomMcGiverin replies on Jun 17, 2020:

@Fred_Snerd I'm fine. Time to block since you want to play troll, Fred. Toodles...

Where did disco go?

TomMcGiverin comments on Jun 17, 2020:

I always hated disco and country music. It sucks to be so marginalized as these two genres have always been really popular, one or the other, ever since I was a late teenager. At the same time, I have always liked soul, R& B, and blues, so it's not about race. Disco was just very repetitious, bland ...

TomMcGiverin replies on Jun 17, 2020:

@Fred_Snerd I enjoy your comments on politics, Fred. Are we done here? You are being a pest..

Where did disco go?

TomMcGiverin comments on Jun 17, 2020:

I always hated disco and country music. It sucks to be so marginalized as these two genres have always been really popular, one or the other, ever since I was a late teenager. At the same time, I have always liked soul, R& B, and blues, so it's not about race. Disco was just very repetitious, bland ...

TomMcGiverin replies on Jun 17, 2020:

@Fred_Snerd I was not into dancing then when disco was big. I realize that the music was all made for the purpose of being dance music, but a lot of it ended up on the radio too back then. I have never enjoyed hearing it. I am proud of not being a typical Boomer in my music tastes.

Where did disco go?

TomMcGiverin comments on Jun 17, 2020:

I always hated disco and country music. It sucks to be so marginalized as these two genres have always been really popular, one or the other, ever since I was a late teenager. At the same time, I have always liked soul, R& B, and blues, so it's not about race. Disco was just very repetitious, bland ...

TomMcGiverin replies on Jun 17, 2020:

@Fred_Snerd I get that, but I prefer music with lyrics that are either intelligent or at least saying something heartfelt and passionate, not the typical disco lyrics of "Ohh, baby do that to me...etc.".

People talking past each other.

nogod4me comments on Jun 16, 2020:

Combating racism? This woman did a great job, ...starting with one of the sources: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FBl1XcUsLIM

TomMcGiverin replies on Jun 16, 2020:

Yes, Karen, not only are you a racist, but your ass DOES look really huge in that dress....

Single again.

TomMcGiverin comments on Jun 15, 2020:

Same thing happened with me recently. The relationship began before Covid, but didn't get serious enough for her to want to risk getting infected by continuing to see me during Covid, since I seemed to be taking more, but not that much more, risk by going out to places with people. I now plan to ...

TomMcGiverin replies on Jun 15, 2020:

@UUNJ I am safer or more careful about avoiding Covid risk than most people I know, just not as careful as my former girlfriend. It is what it is...

Ex-US Police Officer debunks 'Black Lives Matter', taking a knee & protests - Brandon Tatum - BQ 19 ...

TomMcGiverin comments on Jun 13, 2020:

Oreo..

TomMcGiverin replies on Jun 13, 2020:

@Jetty I watched several minutes of it, that was enough to see that he was the typical black conservative, which I see as traitors to their race.

Confessions of a former bastard cop.

t1nick comments on Jun 10, 2020:

I would love to see the Trumpsters, Republicams, conservatives. Libertarians, and so called protectors of capitalism on the web site read this all the way through. That is they are capable of it.

TomMcGiverin replies on Jun 12, 2020:

@t1nick In a nutshell, they are selfish people who don't believe in sharing. That has been my experience with most Libertarians.

This made me laugh....

Lilac-JadeCanada comments on Jun 9, 2020:

Welcome home!

TomMcGiverin replies on Jun 9, 2020:

Who could ever turn away such a cute kitten with her suitcase?

Can’t be denied.

K9Kohle789 comments on Jun 8, 2020:

MAGA= MeAGiantAsshole

TomMcGiverin replies on Jun 8, 2020:

If they were going to be honest, I always thought their red hats should say MAWA, as in Make America White Again...

Four days ago Bubba Wallace, NASCAR's only African American, called out the others in his "sport" ...

Observer-Effect comments on Jun 7, 2020:

Not to stereotype . . . except I will - most NASCAR fans must have *hated* that!

TomMcGiverin replies on Jun 7, 2020:

No doubt. Outside of a Trump rally, I can't imagine a gathering that would be as full of rednecks, racists, and confederate flags.

Trump now

Emerald comments on Jun 7, 2020:

I love the racoon eyes. Nice attention to detail.

TomMcGiverin replies on Jun 7, 2020:

@Athena Raccoons are notorious for eating garbage, and yet, here they are the higher life form..

The elite are starting to sweat. "Everyone's running scared." Jun 5, 2020 [youtube.com]

FearlessFly comments on Jun 6, 2020:

Fox News ? . . . right, these protests are **just like** the weather underground (not). :P

TomMcGiverin replies on Jun 7, 2020:

The Weather Underground was blowing up govt. buildings and threatening to overthrow the federal govt.. These protests are, at most, connected to burning a few buildings and wanting to cut funding to police depts.. Apples and oranges..

The elite are starting to sweat. "Everyone's running scared." Jun 5, 2020 [youtube.com]

TomMcGiverin comments on Jun 6, 2020:

Conservative propaganda to scare the base and make sure they vote Repub in Nov.. These protests and any reform they might force in policing will not cost the rich or corporate America anything in the way of money or power, but they will probably succeed in fooling the masses into thinking we still ...

TomMcGiverin replies on Jun 7, 2020:

@Fred_Snerd I don't think they're worried about any real threat to the status quo, maybe just sweating that they might lose the prez election in Nov.. But we both know Fred, that anytime either party of the duopoly wins the election for prez with a neoliberal corporatist, the ruling class wins no matter what.

I had a really good conversation with a co worker this week.

DenoPenno comments on Jun 6, 2020:

Nicely worded. Today I went uptown to the local Christian mission place. It's a store that sells used things for profit and I was looking for some chair cushions I saw there the other day. They had already sold them but I was told they had to hold them 72 hours without anyone touching them to know ...

TomMcGiverin replies on Jun 7, 2020:

If this pandemic were really caused by 5G cellphone use, then I would be in the clear since I only have a tracphone that I almost never use these days. The tracphone is less than 5G, maybe 3G. I have no doubt this virus is real and that is why I am holed up at home about 95% of my waking hours.

So - for those of you, like myself, who wouldn't mind finding a partner, it seems yet more ...

BitFlipper comments on Jun 5, 2020:

I found one who meets all those criteria. I'm just not good enough.

TomMcGiverin replies on Jun 7, 2020:

@BitFlipper So David, to make sure I have this right, the woman in the photo with you found you thru FB, decided to try dating you because you resembled her previous boyfriend, then decided you didn't measure up to her standards? If so, that sounds pretty strange. Sorry it went that way.

I had a really good conversation with a co worker this week.

DenoPenno comments on Jun 6, 2020:

Nicely worded. Today I went uptown to the local Christian mission place. It's a store that sells used things for profit and I was looking for some chair cushions I saw there the other day. They had already sold them but I was told they had to hold them 72 hours without anyone touching them to know ...

TomMcGiverin replies on Jun 6, 2020:

Maybe she needs to remove her tin foil hat..

Sanders to supporters: Refusing to back Biden is "irresponsible" - Axios

TomMcGiverin comments on Jun 6, 2020:

As far as I'm concerned, Bernie betrayed his supporters, at least this time if not last time, and ought to refund their campaign contributions as he once again caved to the party without fighting to get his policies included in the Dem platform and promised to be promoted by Biden. Bernie no longer ...

TomMcGiverin replies on Jun 6, 2020:

@bobwjr Biden is a terrible candidate and his dementia is only getting worse. If the DNC doesn't replace him in August, I am afraid he will lose to Trump. I think Bernie would not have.

So - for those of you, like myself, who wouldn't mind finding a partner, it seems yet more ...

Pralina1 comments on Jun 5, 2020:

I gave up long ago . There are no men around 50 who are willing to take their time . Everyone at this age is looking to get married , and I have no desire for that . Also , everyone pretty much does some type of drugs , and that’s a huge turn off for me . They see a high tech nurse and an ...

TomMcGiverin replies on Jun 6, 2020:

There are good men out there, I'm sure, but the ones who are not desperate to get married and willing to take their time are probably also not that confident or flashy in making a first impression. Most of them probably get ignored or rejected by most women who are more after the latest shiny toy in their vision.

So - for those of you, like myself, who wouldn't mind finding a partner, it seems yet more ...

BitFlipper comments on Jun 5, 2020:

I found one who meets all those criteria. I'm just not good enough.

TomMcGiverin replies on Jun 6, 2020:

I've been there. Connected with a few women on Batch that seemed perfect matches on paper, but none of them chose to date me, most of them wouldn't even meet me. Like you, I apparently wasn't good enough or check all the boxes on their list. Probably included looks, money, how I dress, not having kids, etc.

Biden formally clenches the democratic nomination. [apnews.com]

TomMcGiverin comments on Jun 6, 2020:

Don't get used to it. He will drop out in August for a "personal health emergency" (dementia) and will be replaced by the DNC at convention time with probably Cuomo or Warren.

TomMcGiverin replies on Jun 6, 2020:

@UrsiMajor Feel free. If I'm proven wrong, I'll admit it. I'm confident enough that I was willing to make $25 bets to friends on it, but no one would take me up on it.

Now that all four cops have been charged, and, I assume, arrested as well, do you think the protests...

intrepidinfidel comments on Jun 3, 2020:

Yes the protests should end, for now. But our federal government, which is currently headed by a racist I have to add, should consider working with state governments in building a database for blacklisting police officers that continually abuse their positions of power. It would be like maintaining ...

TomMcGiverin replies on Jun 3, 2020:

Good idea. We already should, but don't, have that for teachers that are sexual predators.

That's one way to get noticed!

TomMcGiverin comments on Jun 3, 2020:

Driving nude might also do the trick, at least for getting attention, as well as an arrest...

TomMcGiverin replies on Jun 3, 2020:

@Lorajay As if.... I am nothing if not very modest about my body..

Has anyone dated a narcissist? Breaking up might be freeing but still hurts.

t1nick comments on Jun 3, 2020:

Stormy Daniels did. Lol

TomMcGiverin replies on Jun 3, 2020:

Not sure I would call that one dating, more like a transaction..

Has anyone dated a narcissist? Breaking up might be freeing but still hurts.

Sticks48 comments on Jun 3, 2020:

No, I love myself way too much to do date a narcissist. :)

TomMcGiverin replies on Jun 3, 2020:

You are the man Larry! Being a musician makes you enough of a chick magnet that you don't need to settle for one of them.

Has Trump declared the opening of Civil War in America with the threat of unleashing the military ...

TomMcGiverin comments on Jun 2, 2020:

America held a presidential election during the civil war, so there is no legit excuse for Trump to cancel the election this Nov., despite the pandemic or the protests. I think most Americans and the military are smart enough to see that and would not stand for him doing that.

TomMcGiverin replies on Jun 2, 2020:

@FrankA It will and it should. Even the cops would see it for what it is...the end of even a pretense of democracy and an official dictatorship. Fuck the virus, if it comes to that even I will get out in the street and protest. I would rather risk dying from the virus than sit at home and just take it if Trump tries this.

Minnesota and New York governors spoke today about the murder of George Floyd.

RoboGraham comments on May 31, 2020:

So all of this public outrage and unrest is having some real effects on those in power. Wonderful. If we keep it up, they might actually do something about these systemic issues we have.

TomMcGiverin replies on Jun 1, 2020:

@RoboGraham The problem is nowadays few TV channels will show that brutality the way they did back then. Maybe MSNBC, if even that...

How Many Would Put Themselves In The Middle of This Diagram

RoboGraham comments on May 31, 2020:

The looting and burning is an unfortunate byproduct of the uprising but I was happy to see that police precinct burn.

TomMcGiverin replies on Jun 1, 2020:

@RoboGraham I doubt a bunch of rednecks and their guns could beat the cops and military with their tanks, superior firepower and much superior communications systems, and, don't forget aircraft.. You a fan of The Clash? "Police and thieves in the street... Fighting the nation with their guns and ammunition..."

Minnesota and New York governors spoke today about the murder of George Floyd.

RoboGraham comments on May 31, 2020:

So all of this public outrage and unrest is having some real effects on those in power. Wonderful. If we keep it up, they might actually do something about these systemic issues we have.

TomMcGiverin replies on Jun 1, 2020:

@RoboGraham I would hope you're right, but I am pessimistic. I doubt enough Americans would be selfless enough to risk their lives fighting the power in the streets here.

How Many Would Put Themselves In The Middle of This Diagram

RoboGraham comments on May 31, 2020:

The looting and burning is an unfortunate byproduct of the uprising but I was happy to see that police precinct burn.

TomMcGiverin replies on Jun 1, 2020:

@RoboGraham I agree with every word of your comment. We have to be strategic in how we act, because the bad guys own the media and have way more weapons than we do. The only chance we have for peaceful change is if we have the sympathy of the military and the overwhelming support of the people in the 99%.

How Many Would Put Themselves In The Middle of This Diagram

TomMcGiverin comments on Jun 1, 2020:

The only people who would not be in the middle are those who are either racists and/or believe that order matters more than justice..

TomMcGiverin replies on Jun 1, 2020:

@BD66 I still have to agree with the lower right. See my comment below. Champions for social justice realize that fighting the system means respecting the rule of law as well and accepting the punishment that goes with breaking unjust laws or commiting civil disobedience if they lose in the courts. Doing so is part of maintaining the legitimacy of your cause and gaining public sympathy for it.

Minnesota and New York governors spoke today about the murder of George Floyd.

RoboGraham comments on May 31, 2020:

So all of this public outrage and unrest is having some real effects on those in power. Wonderful. If we keep it up, they might actually do something about these systemic issues we have.

TomMcGiverin replies on Jun 1, 2020:

@RoboGraham True. As long as the govt. is owned by the rich and corporations, we will never get any lasting systemic reform. At best any reform we get will be temporary and only if the ruling class feels they have no choice for the time being with the cost of the unrest being too great or the threat of revolution becoming real in their minds. I think if the 99% attempts violent revolution again, like in the 60s, we will get mowed down by the brainwashed military and cops who would not side with us..

How Many Would Put Themselves In The Middle of This Diagram

RoboGraham comments on May 31, 2020:

The looting and burning is an unfortunate byproduct of the uprising but I was happy to see that police precinct burn.

TomMcGiverin replies on Jun 1, 2020:

I can understand that feeling, but I have read a lot recently about the radical movements of the 60s and 70s and I don't feel the same anymore about the legitimacy or feasibility of waging violent revolution against the government. Those groups tried it in those days and it didn't work. Burning or blowing up police stations or other government buildings is not the way to go. Too much like Tim McVeigh for me, whether the buildings are empty or not. It is a slippery slope, in my mind, to burn an empty police station.

Minnesota and New York governors spoke today about the murder of George Floyd.

RoboGraham comments on May 31, 2020:

So all of this public outrage and unrest is having some real effects on those in power. Wonderful. If we keep it up, they might actually do something about these systemic issues we have.

TomMcGiverin replies on Jun 1, 2020:

I hate to feel this way, but you are right. Continued unrest, as well as the threat of even worse violence from the Black Panthers and leftist radicals during the 60s, were why we got some temporary systemic change back then. The ruling class and their bought pols gave us some change rather than risk civil war and continued unrest. Of course, those were reversed beginning with Nixon and continuing under Reagan..

Morning cuteness!!!!

FrayedBear comments on May 31, 2020:

C'mon feed me! I didn't eat your face whilst you snored all night in bed!

TomMcGiverin replies on May 31, 2020:

That's one reason I don't have a cat. I have that fear of dying alone, except for the cat, and having my face eaten off before someone finds me and feeds the cat.

Good Afternoon Everyone!! Happy Sunday!! Wow up all night watching riots protesting racial ...

WonderWartHog99 comments on May 31, 2020:

>Peaceful non-violent protest is the way to go. It takes longer to get positive results than violent protests.

TomMcGiverin replies on May 31, 2020:

@Lorajay Getting real change against the capitalist and racist power structure in America takes both violent and non-violent protest at the same time. Don't think for a minute that the change brought about, temporarily, in the sixties happened only because of MLK and non-violent protests. The other part of it was Malcom X, The Black Panthers and other militant groups operating then that posed the threat and actual use of violence against the system. It was only because of that combination that LBJ and the power structure decided to make some concessions and allow change, because they chose to grant the demands of the non-violent groups rather than face worse consequences from the militant groups.

The Revolution Has Begun! Which side are you on? [edition.cnn.com]

Beowulfsfriend comments on May 30, 2020:

Need to burn the homes of the elite.

TomMcGiverin replies on May 31, 2020:

That and targeted assassinations of the elite would maybe get the ruling class to at least start making concessions to the 99%. But suggesting this stuff usually gets me bashed as being crazy or too supportive of violence. Plus, the rich and their homes are way too well-protected for either of these to happen. I think our best chance is not thru the above or electoral politics. It will take general strikes coupled with non-cooperation with corporate America over a long period of time to get real change in our economic system.

Prompted by calls to 'give grace' to cop who killed George Floyd, black activists question the rush ...

linxminx comments on May 30, 2020:

"To speak of violence done by black people without uttering so much as a word about the violence done to them is perverse. And by violence, I don’t mean merely that of police brutality. I mean the structural violence that flies under the radar of most white folks but which has created the broader ...

TomMcGiverin replies on May 31, 2020:

And that forgiveness needs to be earned...

A very sad commentary on the closed society of the police forces.

Petter comments on May 30, 2020:

Large cities seem to create extremist actions and opinions. Smaller societies are far more tolerant.

TomMcGiverin replies on May 30, 2020:

The larger the city, the more alienation there seems to be between the cops and the public, esp. on the part of the cops.

A very sad commentary on the closed society of the police forces.

Fred_Snerd comments on May 30, 2020:

It's nice here too. When I was in Texas, it varied greatly from county to county.

TomMcGiverin replies on May 30, 2020:

Same here in Iowa. Some cities have cops that are generally assholes and others have cops that are mostly good, caring people..

I just love all of the strange pickup lines I get from women in my junk box.