McCain-Kennedy

miamimike says on Mar 28, 2006, 08:22:

Go to ABC.com--you may be one of the Only Ones. Most of the Posters there, Democrats and Republicans, are four square against the Proposal because it does NOTHING to end Illegal Immigration,Plus what signal does this send to Law Abiding Visa Seekers who patiently stand in line at 4 am for their Emabssy Visa Appointments? Why Obey the Law? Just jump to the head of the line by coming here illegally! It hasn't passed yet and I hope it doesn't. Prez Reagen tryed Amnesty in the 80s as an End all to illegal immigration and now we have 11,000,000 to 12,000,000 Illegals so where did it work? HAHA

On Sept 17, 2008: Senator John McCain said, as he had many times before, that he believed the fundamentals of the economy were "strong."Hours later he backpedaled, explaining that he had meant that American workers were Strong.

0 funny, 0 helpful.

Miguel says on Mar 28, 2006, 08:57:

11 to 12 million illegals... That's on the conservative side; 20 million is also quoted con freqúencia.

I'll bet most of us here in PBH know many colombianos who have tried to go the legal route to come to the US without success, and we also frequent latino businesses in the EEUU full of illegal workers.

The OP wrote "Am I the only one who is following this or who would really like to see this enacted?"

Short answer: NO!

0 funny, 0 helpful.

Blue says on Mar 28, 2006, 09:16:

The problem is keeping non-mexicans out. When the U.S. invaded Mexico back in the 1840's and illegally annexed much of the S.W. the dye was cast for the present-day dilemma. Most Mexicans and rightly so, simply believe they are crossing into northen Mexico when entering the "U.S." "illegally". Things become more complicated for Colombians and others coming in. Mexicans are here and belong here. This McCain-Kennedy nonsense falls way short. I'm open to other countries having some claim to the U.S. but for now Mexico heads the list.

Blue

0 funny, 0 helpful.

nat718 says on Mar 28, 2006, 09:21:

My understanding is that it applies to people who arrived prior to 2004. Also, it requires a person to work for six years before applying for residency and another five years before applying for citizenship. Not exactly jumping to the head of the line. The govt stands to gain billions of dollars in fines and back taxes, and could reasonably charge more than the $2000 in fines.

0 funny, 0 helpful.

miamimike says on Mar 28, 2006, 09:29:

They entered Illeaglly or Overstayed a Tourist Visa.. Both of which are illegal. By coming here without a Visa instead of waiting in line, looks like line jumping to me. If you went to a Movie, payed $10 for your ticket then after your'e in the theater, find out your Buddy slipped in the back door free, would you say he jumped the line or back door? At any rate he didn't pay his dues to get in and thats what these Visa Overstayers or Border crossers are! Why reward Lawbreakers? Why have an enbassy where people wait for Visas? Just throw the Doors wide open and let everyone in, unbridled immigration....Maybe Muhammed Atta's Brother will decide this is the easier way also....

On Sept 17, 2008: Senator John McCain said, as he had many times before, that he believed the fundamentals of the economy were "strong."Hours later he backpedaled, explaining that he had meant that American workers were Strong.

0 funny, 0 helpful.

miamimike says on Mar 28, 2006, 09:31:

BTW, How will this prevent another 11-12 Million ... Illegals from entering in the Next 10 Years? Not one word has mentioned concerning this shortcomimg so far!

On Sept 17, 2008: Senator John McCain said, as he had many times before, that he believed the fundamentals of the economy were "strong."Hours later he backpedaled, explaining that he had meant that American workers were Strong.

0 funny, 0 helpful.

kernow62 says on Mar 28, 2006, 09:34:

I was reading something the other day that claimed that immigrants (legal or otherwise) pay far more taxes than the benefits they receive, something in the order of a 10 billion dollar difference to the government's benefit. Immigrants also make up the vast majority of grad students in medical and scientific fields. That is what made and continues to make the US the country it is, immigration. Same as in Australia. Despite the fact that much of Europe takes in more immigrants per capita than either country.

I don't condone illegal immigration, but I do think that Texas and much of the SW should be shared with the Mexicans.

0 funny, 0 helpful.

ajiaco99 says on Mar 28, 2006, 12:24:

This kind of idiocy is totally Fing annoying From Blue

"When the U.S. invaded Mexico back in the 1840's and illegally annexed much of the S.W. the dye was cast for the present-day dilemma. Most Mexicans and rightly so, simply believe they are crossing into northen Mexico when entering the "U.S." "illegally"."

1. It wasn't illegal. Invading Iraq was illegal. The system of international law governing the rules of invading countries wasn't made jus cogens until the middle of the 20th century. So quit it with your revisionist BS.

2. Mexican's don't think "they are crossing into northern Mexico". If they did, they wouldn't bother going. They go into the US because there is work there. They go BECAUSE it is the US.

Stating that Mexicans belong in the US is like saying I deserve 10 million dollars, i.e. total crap. The US needs labor. For decades the government has turned one eye away from illegal immigration because illegals provide many undesirable services to the US, services that help keep the price of many (especially agricultural) products low. At the same time, they pay taxes, are constantly discriminated against, and receive no rights or benefits for the money the put into the system or the contribution they make to the country. IT'S TAXATION WITHOUT REPRESENTATION and they deserve better.

As to the question of whether this "stops" illegal immigration that's akin to Burn's idea of blocking out the sun (Simpsons reference). You can't stop illegals no more than you can stop the sun. It's INEVITABLE - no matter how many laws you pass, no matter how hard you try to stop them - they're coming. Fix trade and economic disparity between the have's (US, EU, etc) and the have-nots (Latin America) and maybe you'll slow the tide. But enacting discriminatory laws and generally acting the ass isn't about to do jack squat to stop illegal migration from the South.

In the end, it's about what type of country the US wants to be - one that lives up to that charming little inscription on the Statue of Liberty, or one that sees that inscription as a quaint little saying from a bygone era while erecting walls along the Rio Grande.

I for one, prefer that the country of my birth chooses the first option, steps up to the plate, and does the right thing.

0 funny, 0 helpful.

nat718 says on Mar 28, 2006, 15:51:

mm, you clearly have no concept of what it means to live in this country illegally. If you did you would realize that there is a price to be paid for entering "in the back door." Dignity, possibility, respect, etc are not an option. I would argue that illegal immigrants pay their dues moreso than legal immigrants. Whose shoes would you rather be in? This country could build walls around the entire perimeter and it would still get illegal immigrants. Why not give the ones already here the chance to have a visible, positive impact?

0 funny, 0 helpful.

Christian88 says on Mar 28, 2006, 15:57:

Ajiaco, I agree with 95% of your post, and most of it was well-expressed, but why on Earth drag Iraq into it?

0 funny, 0 helpful.

miamimike says on Mar 28, 2006, 18:19:

I may have more of a concept then you realize... Here in SW Miami I worked for 6 years at the Infamous Krome detention center and during that time, worked with literally 1000s of Immigrants from every country on the map. I also saw all types of Illegals from the Criminally Insane to the Honest Laborer who crossed over in Ca/Tx and made his way here. They were all at Krome because they Overstepped our Laws, for one reason or another. They knew the consequences from the getgo. On the comment about the Statue of Liberty Welcoming the Poor ect ect I am familiar as my Great Grandparents passed thru thru the Turnstyles there many moons ago. They passed through Legally and were welcomed as I welcome any Immigrant who comes legally and finally has the Oppurtunity to take his/her oath as a Citizen. I know many Law Abiding Colombians who went to stand in line at 4am in the morning in the Cold in Bogota at the Embassy to keep their Visa Appt and whether they were denied or were granted Visas they went by the Law and I admire that type of Stoism and Integrity. What kind of Message does this send to Honest Folks like the ones I mentioned who stood in long lines(after waiting months for their appt) and then come to find out they could have entered Illegally and would now be granted Amnesty for Breaking our Laws had they entered under the table? Remember aren't we, the USA, a Nation of Laws, that being one of the Main reasons People want to come here? What do you say to these Honest People who are attempting to enter Legally?

On Sept 17, 2008: Senator John McCain said, as he had many times before, that he believed the fundamentals of the economy were "strong."Hours later he backpedaled, explaining that he had meant that American workers were Strong.

0 funny, 0 helpful.

poco says on Mar 28, 2006, 19:11:

I nominate the French !!!! I'm open to other countries having some claim to the U.S.

The French have gained job experience by screwing with Colombias Politics. Their amazing abilities make them a shoo-in for cleanup jobs in New Orleans. They’ll need a few months retraining so they understand work,,,

I always thought the Louisiana Purchase was UNFAIR.

"When you men get home and face an anti-war protester, look him in the eyes and shake his hand. Then, wink at his girlfriend, because she knows she's dating a pussy." Quote - General Tommy Franks

0 funny, 0 helpful.

poco says on Mar 28, 2006, 19:26:

Great analogy Same as in Australia

Australia Immigration Policy
Right on,, keep up the good work,, don’t let the current facts get in the way of thought. Ha,, this is funny,, surely you don’t want me to post something “politically inflammatory” on the friendly talk zone page ???

"When you men get home and face an anti-war protester, look him in the eyes and shake his hand. Then, wink at his girlfriend, because she knows she's dating a pussy." Quote - General Tommy Franks

0 funny, 0 helpful.

ws244 says on Mar 28, 2006, 20:39:

illegals Must be some really stupid ones in Florida if they are paying any taxes. Most do not pay any taxes. In Texas food in a grocery store is tax free. Employers hire them as sub and as sub sub contractors, and they either have 20 dependents listed on their W2, or are issued 1099's which means they pay little if any tax if they file, and with 1099's they do not even bother to file, and the employer is off the hook either way. No way an illegal Mexican with 1 or 2 kids with free public school, free healthcare, 3 families to a house in South Texas, etc is paying his own way in this Country. A real insult to the people waiting in line to come the legal way.

0 funny, 0 helpful.

Rubiazo says on Mar 28, 2006, 21:02:

US the country of laws YEAH THATS RICH!
everybody wants to come here because they ADMIRE OUR LAWS!!!
HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAH
AHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA
AHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAH
AHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA
AHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAH
AHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA
AHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAH
AHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA
AHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA

Next you're gonna be telling me people immigrate here because Old Milwaukee really is the best beer on Earth!!!

0 funny, 0 helpful.

aztec says on Mar 29, 2006, 03:24:

"Am I the only one who is following this or who would really like to see this enacted?" YES and NO!

"I'm open to other countries having some claim to the U.S. but for now Mexico heads the list." One of the crazy ideas sure to eventually lead to open hostility between the States and land of Fox"

0 funny, 0 helpful.

kernow62 says on Mar 29, 2006, 03:56:

Poco I was referring to immigrants making the US and Australia great countries, not their current policies.

However the two countries share a very similar history; both countries were former prison colonies where all the "dregs" of society were sent, both countries needed immigrants and welcomed them, both countries killed their native populations and generally treated them like shit, and now both countries don't want immigrants.

0 funny, 0 helpful.

kernow62 says on Mar 29, 2006, 04:05:

Yes, WS apparently the ones in Florida that I know are stupid. They have lived and paid taxes in the US for several decades and get no money back at the end of the year. Many Colombians are told to purchase (I believe in the $60 range) a Tax ID card, with this their employer will withhold taxes, however they cannot get any SS benefits because they do not have a SS#. You can go to many Colombian tax preparers in Orlando for example and purchase this ID#.

Now what the employer does with the taxes is anybody's guess.

It might just be a clever plan between the employer (usually Colombian) and the tax preparers to make a bit of money at their fellow Colombians expense.

I will ask a friend to see his Tax ID # to see what it actually says, because I haven't actually ever seen one.

WS if you needed an operation to save your life, would you ask if the surgeon and his assistants entered this country legally? ;-)

Texas being part of Mexico has different laws than the US.

0 funny, 0 helpful.

utopiacowboy says on Mar 29, 2006, 05:48:

I would bet dollars to donuts that WS244 does not know a single illegal. I know plenty of them personally and what he is saying is stereotypical nonsense.

Disclaimer: any comment I make is inane and is not to be taken seriously, and is so patently ridiculous that no one should take it seriously, even as an insult.

0 funny, 0 helpful.

platano says on Mar 29, 2006, 06:39:

Am I the only one here who thinks the borders between the... NAFTA countries (USA, Mexico, Canada) should be eliminated completely allowing free emigration and immigration with no visa or passport required? Free trade, free borders. Everywhere.

From that perspective it is a no-brainer to offer immediate citizenship to all "illegal" residents of any of the countries. This promotes and encourages economic activity among the countries. (Mexican citizenship for gringos "illegally" in Mexico, Mexican citizenship for Canadians "illegally" in Mexico, etc. Canadian citizenship for Mexicans and gringos living "illegally" in Canada, etc.)

No creo en las lineas imaginarias que dividen el mundo.

Take a look at the earth from outer space. What political borders do you see? All those imaginary lines are not there. Why so much fear of other human beings? We have invented those lines. We can eliminate them. The earth is one.

plátano

0 funny, 0 helpful.

Blue says on Mar 29, 2006, 07:36:

No creo en las lineas imaginarias que dividen el mundo. Yes Platano we're like dogs who piss around an area to establish territory. Although hard thought should be given to allowing Canada free movement. lol

Blue

0 funny, 0 helpful.

kernow62 says on Mar 29, 2006, 08:33:

You aren't the only one Platano. However it won't happen.

Can you imagine Mexicans getting paid the wages they deserve for picking crops in the US. We wouldn't be able to afford to eat. The wages in the US would have to drop, those in Mexico would have to increase, nope never going to happen. We wouldn't be able to afford all the trappings of a consumerist society we have become used to because all our income would go for food; although homes should drop in price a bit.

Now lets see, what would be the language....

0 funny, 0 helpful.

ws244 says on Mar 29, 2006, 09:14:

taxes It does not matter, they tell the employer they have 8 dependents, and the employer then by rules deducts little if any tax. If the employer lets say issues them a 1099 they do not pay any tax as the employer under a 1099 does not deduct any tax, and the employee probably will not bother to file any return.

Being from South Texas I have seen every game there is, so for someone to say these people are paying their own way the numbers are not there. In Texas property taxes pay for schools. If 2 illegal families live in one rental house with 4 kids, the owner of the house pays little if any school tax because the house is appraised so low. As a rule apartments on the tax rolls are appraised on the low end, so again though the illegal pays rent, he does not make that much so the rent is not much, the owner pays little property school tax, and the public funds these people. These people are being subsidized by the legal taxpayers.

All the Colombians wanting to come here legally have to wait for years in many cases, so rather than defend illegals in this country why not defend people trying to come legally. One would think an educated attorney who imigrated here legally is being a somewhat of a hipprocrite in life to help support people here illegally.

0 funny, 0 helpful.

Christian88 says on Mar 29, 2006, 09:19:

Oh Lord. "Free Bird" as the anthem? Would that be the extended outtake version? Imagine the start of sporting events.

0 funny, 0 helpful.

poco says on Mar 29, 2006, 09:20:

Half right now both countries don't want immigrants.

Australia wised up. They ONLY accept those with an education or obtaining advanced education.

Australia has no desire to harbor losers, especially the poor uneducated type or those that promote "problems".

CANBERRA, AUSTRALIA:
Muslims who want to live under Islamic Sharia law were told on Wednesday to get out of Australia, as the government targeted radicals in a bid to head off potential terror attacks.

A day after a group of mainstream Muslim leaders pledged loyalty to
Australia at a special meeting with Prime Minister John Howard, he and his ministers made it clear that extremists would face a crackdown.

Treasurer Peter Costello hinted that some radical clerics could be asked to leave the country if they did not accept that Australia was a secular state and its laws were made by parliament.

"If those are not your values, if you want a country which has Sharia law or a theocratic state, then Australia is not for you," he said on national television.

"When you men get home and face an anti-war protester, look him in the eyes and shake his hand. Then, wink at his girlfriend, because she knows she's dating a pussy." Quote - General Tommy Franks

0 funny, 0 helpful.

poco says on Mar 29, 2006, 09:33:

History repeats Next you're gonna be telling me people immigrate here because Old Milwaukee really is the best beer on Earth!!!

No,, I think the danger is that once they get on the system they will quit working and DRINK BEER while voting for reduced taxes on imported beer. A Historical fact.

World History began around 12,000 years ago and the Andean region of South American is believed the cradle of civilization that spread world wide.

The indigenous peoples grouped together along the coastal areas where they lived on fish and lobster. Some moved to the mountains where fruits were in plentiful supply and animals could be domesticated and eaten.

Rapid growth coupled with a benign climate gave man time to ponder on how civilization could be improved and this lead to the two most important events in all of history, the invention of beer and the invention of the wheel. The wheel was invented to get man to the beer. These were the foundations of modern civilization and, together, spread throughout the world and were the catalyst for the splitting of humanity into two distinct subgroups: Liberals and Conservatives.

Once beer was discovered, it required grain and that was the beginning of agriculture. Neither the glass bottle nor aluminum can was invented yet, so while our early human ancestors were sitting around waiting for them to be invented, they just stayed close to the brewery and domesticated chickens or raised burros. That's how nomadic groups formed villages and is the basis for the coastal and mountainous cultures.

Some men spent their days tracking and killing animals to barbecue at night while they were drinking beer. This was the beginning of what is known as "the Conservative movement."

Other men who were weaker and less skilled at hunting learned to live off the Conservatives by showing up for the nightly barbecues and doing the sewing, fetching and hair dressing. This was the beginning of the Liberal movement. Some of these liberal men eventually evolved into women. The rest became known as girlymen.

Some noteworthy liberal achievements include the domestication of cats, hot tubs, the invention of group therapy, group hugs and the concept of Democratic voting to decide how to divide the meat and beer that Conservatives provided.

Over the years, Conservatives came to be symbolized by the largest, most powerful land animal on earth, the elephant. Liberals are symbolized by the jackass (burro).

Modern Liberals like imported beer (with lime added), but most prefer white wine or imported, bottled water (Perrier). They eat raw fish but like their beef well done. Sushi, tofu, and French food are standard Liberal fare.

Another interesting evolutionary side note: Most of their women have higher testosterone levels than their men. Most social workers, personal injury attorneys, journalists, dreamers in Hollywood and group therapists are Liberals. Liberals use the word “fair” as a cornerstone of their philosophy only when beneficial.

Conservatives drink domestic beer. They eat red meat and still provide for their women. Conservatives are big-game hunters, rodeo cowboys, lumberjacks, construction workers, firemen, medical doctors, police officers, corporate executives, fighter pilots, athletes and generally anyone who works productively outside government. Conservatives who own companies hire other Conservatives who want to work for a living.

Liberals produce little or nothing. They like to "govern" the producers and decide what to do with the production. Liberals believe Europeans are more enlightened than Americans. That is why most of the Liberals remained in Europe when Conservatives were coming to America. They crept in after the Wild West was tame and created business to specifically target the means to obtain more for doing nothing.

Here ends today's lesson in the history of beer.

"When you men get home and face an anti-war protester, look him in the eyes and shake his hand. Then, wink at his girlfriend, because she knows she's dating a pussy." Quote - General Tommy Franks

0 funny, 0 helpful.

kernow62 says on Mar 29, 2006, 11:19:

WS244, those illegals still buy goods other than food, they buy gas, they support the US economy not only in what they purchase (go to Walmart and take a look)they also enable you and I to eat cheaply so we can afford the second car or the bigger house. If we weren't so beholding to the almighty dollar we could perhaps say no to illegal immigration, but we need their labour so companies can show more profits. Don't worry though, pretty soon all our domestic manufacturing will be in China or Mexico and we will be sneaking over the border to pick peppers for a few pesos. In my business I would say 75% of the goods that were made in the USA are now made in Mexico.

0 funny, 0 helpful.

kernow62 says on Mar 29, 2006, 11:25:

Do conservative Europeans (that's not an oxymoron) drink domestic beer, and if so do European liberals import Pabst Blue Ribbon?

0 funny, 0 helpful.

ws244 says on Mar 29, 2006, 17:16:

taxes The American taxpayer is subsidizing these people. Most of them pay little if any tax versus the benefits they receive. The social costs to the American taxpayer is far more then they contribute in cheap labor. No different than half of Walmart's employees with no health insurance because Walmart lets the American taxpayer foot the bill.
This illegal issue is an insult to Colombians and others who stand in line and wait years to immigrate, or the ones here trying to sponsor their immediate family members. No one seems to care about them or the double standard.

0 funny, 0 helpful.

miamimike says on Mar 29, 2006, 17:37:

A A Primer On Immigrant Healthcare Costs In Miami, Florida... Saw this article yesterday in the Miami Herald; for those of you not Familiar with the Hospital mentioned in the below article, Jackson Memorial is a large Public Trust Hospital in our Area. Actually, the only and it also is the biggest Hospital in South Florida. Probably 90 of the Indigent care consists of Immigrants, Legal and Illegal. Imagine what a Shock to read that Jackson alone spends $500 Million USD alone on Indigent care. THAT IS $500,000,000 Yearly.........Who Pays-the taxpayers of Florida...

safety net for Jackson Memorial
OUR OPINION: INDIGENT CARE HOSPITAL DESERVES RECURRING FUNDS
The Legislature should provide Jackson Health System, Florida's largest teaching and charity-care hospital, the $20 million in recurring funds that it is requesting. The money would help narrow the gap between the public hospital's $500 million cost for indigent care and its income, which already includes $160 million from local taxpayers. Frankly, Jackson's request seems modest given the oversized role it plays in healthcare for the state.

Nor would Jackson be the first hospital subsidized by the Legislature.

Charity care

The H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center at the University of South Florida and Shands Hospital at the University of Florida both have been receiving recurring state funds for years. Shands has gotten nearly $10 million a year since 1980 to help it cover some $80 million in indigent care.

Since 1998, Moffitt has received $74 million in funds from the tobacco settlement -- though it isn't publicly owned and provided only $11 million of charity care last year.

Jackson, meanwhile, provides the most Medicaid and charity care, by far, in the state.

The VA Med Center just up the street from Jackson in Miami could use a little of that $500 Million. If anyone should get a FREE ride, its a Veteran who served this country!

safety net for Jackson Memorial
OUR OPINION: INDIGENT CARE HOSPITAL DESERVES RECURRING FUNDS
The Legislature should provide Jackson Health System, Florida's largest teaching and charity-care hospital, the $20 million in recurring funds that it is requesting. The money would help narrow the gap between the public hospital's $500 million cost for indigent care and its income, which already includes $160 million from local taxpayers. Frankly, Jackson's request seems modest given the oversized role it plays in healthcare for the state.

Nor would Jackson be the first hospital subsidized by the Legislature.

Charity care

The H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center at the University of South Florida and Shands Hospital at the University of Florida both have been receiving recurring state funds for years. Shands has gotten nearly $10 million a year since 1980 to help it cover some $80 million in indigent care.

Since 1998, Moffitt has received $74 million in funds from the tobacco settlement -- though it isn't publicly owned and provided only $11 million of charity care last year.

Jackson, meanwhile, provides the most Medicaid and charity care, by far, in the state.

Jackson has the only burn unit south of Orlando. It is a major regional trauma center and the only hospital in the state that can perform every type of transplant. Jackson serves not only South Florida residents but also Floridians from all over the state.

Indigent cases

Yes, Jackson has had financial problems. But CEO Marvin O'Quinn has steadily been cutting costs and improving fiscal controls. In 2004, Jackson's losses reached $85 million, including adjustments going back to 1989. Programs instituted that year, however, have yielded $175 million in cost savings. Now the 2005 financial picture looks better. But the number of uniunsured and indigent cases keeps growing in South Florida -- just like the cost of charity care at Jackson.




Moffitt has received $74 million in funds from the tobacco settlement -- though it isn't publicly owned and provided only $11 million of charity care last year.

Jackson, meanwhile, provides the most Medicaid and charity care, by far, in the state.

Jackson has the only burn unit south of Orlando. It is a major regional trauma center and the only hospital in the state that can perform every type of transplant. Jackson serves not only South Florida residents but also Floridians from all over the state.

Indigent cases

Yes, Jackson has had financial problems. But CEO Marvin O'Quinn has steadily been cutting costs and improving fiscal controls. In 2004, Jackson's losses reached $85 million, including adjustments going back to 1989. Programs instituted that year, however, have yielded $175 million in cost savings. Now the 2005 financial picture looks better. But the number of uniunsured and indigent cases keeps growing in South Florida -- just like the cost of charity care at Jackson.

Fortunately, Jackson has garnered strong support for its revenue request from the Miami-Dade legislative delegation. The House appropriations bill already has $20 million earmarked for Jackson -- in one-time funds. The Senate needs to add Jackson funding, and Miami-Dade legislators should ensure that the funding is recurring. Florida's largest safety-net hospital deserves no less.

On Sept 17, 2008: Senator John McCain said, as he had many times before, that he believed the fundamentals of the economy were "strong."Hours later he backpedaled, explaining that he had meant that American workers were Strong.

0 funny, 0 helpful.

poco says on Mar 29, 2006, 17:40:

Another descendent of the world is flat crowd.
No different than half of Walmart's employees with no health insurance because Walmart lets the American taxpayer foot the bill.

Fact: Wal-Mart offers affordable health care coverage to both its full and part-time associates. We work hard to offer good, affordable coverage to our people. Historically, Wal-Mart has paid about two-thirds of the cost of the Associates' Medical Plan. Wal-Mart provides insurance to more than 1 million people and offers up to 18 different plans. Coverage is available for as little as $11 per month for individuals and 30 cents per day for children - no matter how many children an associate has.

Unlike many plans, after the first year, the Wal-Mart medical plan has no lifetime maximum for most expenses, protecting our associates against catastrophic loss and financial ruin. We have different deductibles to meet individual needs.

Associates also have access to world class healthcare at the Mayo Clinic, Stanford University Hospital, Johns Hopkins University Hospital and many other leading health care facilities without insurance approval.

In recent years, Wal-Mart has contributed 4 percent of an associate's eligible pay to the combined Profit Sharing & 401(k) plan. Our hourly associates, just like our management and executive associates, receive bonuses and other incentives for helping the company achieve its goals. In FYE 2005, we spent $4.2 billion on benefits for our associates.

Walmart Benefits

The Walmart situation has very little to do with their operations or benefits. Suggest you read up and do a little thinking. I do believe your statements evidence a lot of personal confusion. I’m sure you will get over it before you die,, then again, maybe not.

"When you men get home and face an anti-war protester, look him in the eyes and shake his hand. Then, wink at his girlfriend, because she knows she's dating a pussy." Quote - General Tommy Franks

0 funny, 0 helpful.

ws244 says on Mar 29, 2006, 18:24:

Walmart I recall Maryland passed a law last month dealing with Walmart's abuse and lack of health insurance towards employees and passing it on to the Maryland taxpayers. 11 dollars per month= so what does an 11 dollar per month medical plan entail, and .30 cents a day for a child cover? Even with Walmart matching that 2 times it still comes up to 33 dollars a month for an employee or 27 dollars for a child.
The numbers can not be correct or Walmart would not be making the news about their health insurance programs, along with news they actively are helping employees apply and qualify for different state social service health programs.

0 funny, 0 helpful.

poco says on Mar 29, 2006, 19:41:

Not letting facts stand in your way 11 dollars per month= so what does an 11 dollar per month medical plan entail, and .30 cents a day for a child cover? Even with Walmart matching that 2 times it still comes up to 33 dollars a month for an employee or 27 dollars for a child.

I suggested you do some research. Guess you were busy.

Your display of ignorance is outstanding. EVEN social security costs the retired around $80 dollars a month. Add $100+ if YOU ARE RICH for supplimental. So,, you are one of those who wants something for nothing.

From what I see at Walmart the fact they pay someone $8.00 per hour to stand around and talk, not restock the shelves and walk past items on the floor and not pick them up is,,,,,, about $2.85 per hour toooo much.

PS: Walmart expects to hire 150,000 PLUS people in CHINA over the next,,, 5 years??? Snooze and you lose.

"When you men get home and face an anti-war protester, look him in the eyes and shake his hand. Then, wink at his girlfriend, because she knows she's dating a pussy." Quote - General Tommy Franks

0 funny, 0 helpful.

pedro says on Mar 30, 2006, 03:08:

Poco " ---
now both countries don't want immigrants.

Australia wised up. They ONLY accept those with an education or obtaining advanced education.

Australia has no desire to harbor losers, especially the poor uneducated type or those that promote "problems".
" ---

Poco, you might want to do a little research yourself on the topic of Australian immigration.

Look at the categories of immigration and note the categories "refugee", "family reunion", "spouse", etc, etc.

Australia is pretty good about settling refugees. I can tell you first hand you really notice the increase in African faces on the streets of Perth now. They have obviously come in as refugees after the Sudan conflict.

Oh, and we also have open borders with New Zealand. Imagine what kind of folks we get from there! (jk) ;op

que nota!

0 funny, 0 helpful.

kernow62 says on Mar 30, 2006, 04:16:

Probably letting in all the Kiwi rugby players so you can have a good team. ;-)

0 funny, 0 helpful.

poco says on Mar 30, 2006, 08:17:

Yes Australia is pretty good and so is Canada Oh, and we also have open borders with New Zealand. Imagine what kind of folks we get from there! (jk) ;op

I KNEW one U.S. man whos hobby is mountain climbing. Lost track of him but about 10 years ago he went to New Zealand for a mountain climbing trip. Great reports and I remember he had a good time.

These places have relatively large land mass in relation to "people". They know education is "key" to their expansion and provide excellent educational opportunities.

Not to say they don't accept others but they require an expanding economy to provide opportunities. There is always room for hamburger flippers,, but NOT those that believe it should be a lifetime career with all the benefits provided by their society.

I worked with a man from India, went to Canada and later Australia for advanced degrees. His family lives in Canada. His comments were that the educational opportunities are ALMOST free (actually they were, plus some cash living allowance) and he received excellent schooling.

He works outside Canada, mainly because he can make more money. Not a PHD but I'd imagine his daughter is by now, courtesy of Canada.

These places need educated folks and are pretty picky about who gets into the countries. If you qualify,, these countries are probably the best in the world to live and work. WORK being the key word.

I wouldn't be surprised to see Canada "split" into two countries, East and West. Perrier drinkers in the East, Molson in the West.

Percentages and trends are significantly more important than individual stats:

For instance, look at this data,, relate this to today, in a few cases it is surprising WHO ranks where.

Next,, check the worlds population,, 6.5 Billion today, then look up,, 30 years ago.

Rank or Rancid?

"When you men get home and face an anti-war protester, look him in the eyes and shake his hand. Then, wink at his girlfriend, because she knows she's dating a pussy." Quote - General Tommy Franks

0 funny, 0 helpful.

ws244 says on Mar 30, 2006, 15:16:

medical We jumped from the question of what 11 dollars a month and .30 cents per child covers in Walmart health insurance plans to Social Security at 80 dollars a month which has nothing to do with the Walmart question. Just answer the original question.

0 funny, 0 helpful.

poco says on Mar 31, 2006, 18:56:

Was this the question ??? I thought the question was answered. Nothing is FREE.
However, if you are referring to the Maryland problem, I believe this is fairly accurate:

Some employees say the CAN NOT afford the WalMart medical insurance, so THEY DON’T HAVE ANY. If and when they have medical problems they then signup for “STATE AID” (maybe some federal) which, I believe the state pays.

Maryland has enacted legislation that says WalMart must PAY their insurance. THE LEGISLATION DOESN't SAY WALMART,, just employers with over 10,000 employees IN MARYLAND. Guess what,, Walmart is the only corporation with that many employees.

A review shows the premium is $100 to $200 per month. This is unbelievably CHEAP. Individual premiums for those w/o paid or partially paid plans might be $350 for single folks to $800 (plus) per month for families. THAT IS IF YOU CAN GET IT,.

Company sponsored Group policies DO NOT ask about pre-existing conditions,, so you CAN pay for a policy. Attempt to obtain a policy IF YOU HAVE a pre-existing condition,, HA,,HA,, you won't get one.

There are ways,, but start thinking about $800 AND UP.

It is a shame folks make $20,000 per year and can’t afford $2,000 dollars for insurance but why should they work and extra job or “do without” lifes conveniences when they know that if push comes to shove they will get care.

It must be tough to personally admit they are a failure and the best they can do is be a floor person at Walmart and have no desire to better themselves but last time I checked no where was it said someone deserved something just because they were alive.

With the huge amount of revenue generated by simply having the Walmart stores in Maryland you would think they would be tickled to death to have that source of revene but people are always looking for gaining more and paying NOTHING.

Maryland Facts:
In Maryland, the total number of Wal-Mart associates is 16,134 (as of January 2006).

The average wage for regular full-time hourly associates in Maryland is $9.97 per hour (Wal-Mart Discount Stores, Supercenters and Neighborhood Markets). Additionally, associates are eligible for performance-based bonuses.

In recent years, Wal-Mart has contributed four percent of an associate's eligible pay to their combined Profit Sharing and 401(k) Plan.

In 2004, Wal-Mart Stores, Inc. spent $677,710,237 for merchandise and services with 661 suppliers in the state of Maryland. As a result of Wal-Mart's relationship with these suppliers, Wal-Mart supports 37,332 supplier jobs in the state of Maryland.

Wal-Mart collected on behalf of the state of Maryland more than $112.2 million in sales taxes in 2004.

Wal-Mart paid more than $13.2 million in state and local taxes in the state of Maryland in 2004.

In 2004, Wal-Mart Stores and SAM'S CLUB gave $3,070,898 to local causes and organizations in the communities they serve in the state of Maryland. In addition, many charities and organizations received in-kind donations and additional funds raised through stores, CLUBS and distribution centers in the amount of $611,633, for a grand total of $3,682,531 contributed through Wal-Mart's presence across the state.

Examples of some of the efforts in Maryland that our company made in 2004 to reach out to the community include:

Safe Neighborhood Heroes Grants: $103,200
Literacy Grants: $80,450
Community Scholarships: $71,000
Teacher of the Year Grants: $60,000
Maryland's 2005 Teacher of the Year is Michael Powell from Patuxent Elementary School in Upper Marlboro.


Look at Miamimikes post,, Worrying about Maryland is like thinking about a "hangnail" while someone is cutting your legs off.

"When you men get home and face an anti-war protester, look him in the eyes and shake his hand. Then, wink at his girlfriend, because she knows she's dating a pussy." Quote - General Tommy Franks

0 funny, 0 helpful.

poco says on Apr 1, 2006, 09:08:

Dad, what did you do to help Colombia? Years from now will your answer be “I WAS AN IDIOT” ?

The U.S. can afford a certain amount of idiocy,, aka: Walmart,, Generations have proven,, Colombia can't.

Paris Burning, Once Again
By Claire Berlinski
Sunday, March 26, 2006; Page B02
PARIS

Last Saturday morning, needing help to move several heavy cartons of books from my apartment in central Paris to a storage room, I hired two movers and a van from the want ads. Students were in the streets protesting the Contrat de Premier Embauche (CPE) -- a law proposed to combat unemployment by giving employers more flexibility to fire young employees -- and the barricades and traffic diversions made our four-block drive into a half-hour ordeal. As we turned down one obstructed street after another, the movers -- both Arab immigrants -- became more and more incensed."They're idiots," said the driver, gesturing toward the ecstatic protesters. "Puppets for the socialists and the communists." He pantomimed pulling the strings of a marionette.

Paris Burning, once again

Mark Twain:
If you pick up a starving dog and make him prosperous, he will not bite you. This is the principle difference between a dog and a man.

"When you men get home and face an anti-war protester, look him in the eyes and shake his hand. Then, wink at his girlfriend, because she knows she's dating a pussy." Quote - General Tommy Franks

0 funny, 0 helpful.