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<feed xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2005/Atom" xml:lang="en-US"><title type="html">Balanced News, Balanced Views</title><subtitle type="html" /><id>http://blogs.sandiego6.com/blogs/balancedviews/atom.aspx</id><link rel="alternate" type="text/html" href="http://blogs.sandiego6.com/blogs/balancedviews/default.aspx" /><link rel="self" type="application/atom+xml" href="http://blogs.sandiego6.com/blogs/balancedviews/atom.aspx" /><generator uri="http://communityserver.org" version="2.0.60217.2664">Community Server</generator><updated>2009-10-07T00:38:00Z</updated><entry><title>Tila and Shawne</title><link rel="alternate" type="text/html" href="http://blogs.sandiego6.com/blogs/balancedviews/archive/2009/11/20/4270543.aspx" /><id>http://blogs.sandiego6.com/blogs/balancedviews/archive/2009/11/20/4270543.aspx</id><published>2009-11-20T06:24:00Z</published><updated>2009-11-20T06:24:00Z</updated><content type="html">We asked you about the latest accusations from Tila Tequila against Shawn Merriman.
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Ms. Tequila comes across as an inarticulate skank.  I wish she would go away, but I'm sure we'll see her on "Celebrity Rehab" or some other cheesy reality show before long.  --  Travis
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I think that tilapia should just drop this. It's all about publicity and lied about merriman but by posting videos with cigars and fake words I don't think anything is true.  --  Wendy  
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I personally think Tila Tequila is just craving media attention. Everyone had already stopped talking about the topic and there she comes again bringing it up. I support Merriman and believe what he has to say. Go Chargers!  --  Andrea
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This lawsuit against Sean Merriman is all about money and publicity, plain and simple interesting that no charges were filed against Mr Merriman they were dropped for domestic violence so now plan B civil lawsuit the angle is money maybe Ms Tequila not doing well financialy.  --  Ruben
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this wpmen is nothing but a tv whore she will do anything and say anything to get attention even if it means hurting someone else if she can get some stupid tv spot this is just a sign of our time. stand your ground marriman we are behind you a %100  --  Michael
&lt;p&gt;&lt;img src="http://blogs.sandiego6.com/aggbug.aspx?PostID=4270543" width="1" height="1"&gt;</content><author><name>Mark Bunker</name><uri>http://blogs.sandiego6.com/members/Mark+Bunker.aspx</uri></author></entry><entry><title>U.C. Fee Hikes</title><link rel="alternate" type="text/html" href="http://blogs.sandiego6.com/blogs/balancedviews/archive/2009/11/19/4270314.aspx" /><id>http://blogs.sandiego6.com/blogs/balancedviews/archive/2009/11/19/4270314.aspx</id><published>2009-11-19T06:58:00Z</published><updated>2009-11-19T06:58:00Z</updated><content type="html">We asked you about a 32% percent fee hike for the U.C. system that appears to be set for approval tomorrow.
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My daughter goes to Aloha Taylor's alma mater HPU a private college and her tuition is less than the UC schools. I agree with the fellow you interviewed, why would students want to attend big schools like UCSD with hundreds of students and large classes when they can pay less at a private college.  Hawa'i is not cheap but it actually  less expensive than UCSD including all expenses!  --  Susanne
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It does not make sence we califonians have the highest unemployment rate in our history, we have many people needing to retrain, they should be forced to pay higher rates.  --  August
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raising fees in uc schools is not only wrong-especially during this terribly economic times-it prevents the importance of students to receive what is important to move onto this small world.  We are not making enough-don't take away any more than what is needed!  --  Kevin
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Great, as someone who worked and paid his own way through college I have no sympathy for the students now days. Most of them voted for Obama and now they will have to pay for what they elected. Maybe they will grow up before they vote again.  --  James Jolly&lt;img src="http://blogs.sandiego6.com/aggbug.aspx?PostID=4270314" width="1" height="1"&gt;</content><author><name>Mark Bunker</name><uri>http://blogs.sandiego6.com/members/Mark+Bunker.aspx</uri></author></entry><entry><title>*** Cancer Screening</title><link rel="alternate" type="text/html" href="http://blogs.sandiego6.com/blogs/balancedviews/archive/2009/11/18/4269918.aspx" /><id>http://blogs.sandiego6.com/blogs/balancedviews/archive/2009/11/18/4269918.aspx</id><published>2009-11-18T06:35:00Z</published><updated>2009-11-18T06:35:00Z</updated><content type="html">We asked your opinion on the new *** cancer screening guidelines.
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I heard your story and am absolutely disgusted. My sister and cousin were diagnosed with *** cancer at an age under 40.  If it was not for awareness, mammograms and self exams I would hate to think of the consequences to me and my family.  Any one who recommends this, especially if they have a medical background should lose their license.  This task group has no right to dispute years of research by the medical field.  It is absolutely disgusting of them. I hope no one listens to this nonsense.

From someone who has been directly impacted by *** cancer in their family at an age under 40.  --  Sandra
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I am wondering if all of the women who voted for the Democrats last Fall will now be happy with the future of medical rationing which is a result of the so-called healthcare reform.  --  Greg
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Sounds like the beginning of rationed government health care.  Gary
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this is just stupid how could this new finding help fight this killer. let's wait till it's to late so we can get your money and the money from medicare shame on you for  lying to these poor women  --  Michael&lt;img src="http://blogs.sandiego6.com/aggbug.aspx?PostID=4269918" width="1" height="1"&gt;</content><author><name>Mark Bunker</name><uri>http://blogs.sandiego6.com/members/Mark+Bunker.aspx</uri></author></entry><entry><title>Sarah Palin's Book</title><link rel="alternate" type="text/html" href="http://blogs.sandiego6.com/blogs/balancedviews/archive/2009/11/17/4269439.aspx" /><id>http://blogs.sandiego6.com/blogs/balancedviews/archive/2009/11/17/4269439.aspx</id><published>2009-11-17T06:20:00Z</published><updated>2009-11-17T06:20:00Z</updated><content type="html">We asked your opinion on Sarah Palin's new book.
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I personally can't wait for the book. It looks to be great insight on a great public figure from the last presidential election. Go team Palin!  --  Jessica
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Sarah Palin reads ALL the newspapers EVERYDAY, so it is only natural that she WRITES a book, hopefully she'll READ it too. If Sarah Palin runs for President in 2012, well I will finally understand what the Mayans meant by 2012 being the end of the world.  --  Junior
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Palin is a moron and will not be a canidate for anything. But, still she knows more than Obama. Is this the best we have?  --  James Jolly&lt;img src="http://blogs.sandiego6.com/aggbug.aspx?PostID=4269439" width="1" height="1"&gt;</content><author><name>Mark Bunker</name><uri>http://blogs.sandiego6.com/members/Mark+Bunker.aspx</uri></author></entry><entry><title>Controversial Billboard</title><link rel="alternate" type="text/html" href="http://blogs.sandiego6.com/blogs/balancedviews/archive/2009/11/12/4267435.aspx" /><id>http://blogs.sandiego6.com/blogs/balancedviews/archive/2009/11/12/4267435.aspx</id><published>2009-11-12T06:32:00Z</published><updated>2009-11-12T06:32:00Z</updated><content type="html">We asked your opinions about a new billboard in La Mesa, questioning a belief in God.
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I appreciate the sign.  I'm not sure exactly what I believe yet but I'm more offended by the Mount Helix cross and the cross in La Jolla than this sign.  --  Damian
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I'm writing concerning the Bill Board, DON"T BELIEVE IN GOD" Its disturbing to show this in public, the people behind this don't care about other peoples beliefs , I think they should keep their comments to theirselves.  --  Oscar
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It's only a belief.  Why do we get so upset about someone expressing a belief?  This is a democracy and we do have free speech.  (And a right to our personal beliefs!)  --  Carol
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If a billboard message is all it takes to threaten your belief in God then your faith needs nourishment.  I believe in God and I also belive in equality, as he does.  The freedom to think and speak as you believe in essence is what believing in God is all about. --  Ed
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Why should anyone be offended? Just as Christians are allowed to erect crosses and other religious symbols along with building temples, others have the same right whether they believe in God or not. Let's not forget that we live in a free nation where Freedom of Religion is guaranteed under the First Amendment.  --  Alonso
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If believers think that God is damaged by a billboard, then their faith is a little weak.  --  David
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We are bombarded by numerous religious messages - handed to us on the street, put on our windsheilds or front doors, and on TV - all by people who believe they are spreading God's message. In a free country even Athiests have a right to pose a fundamental question about those beliefs and its messenger.  --  Erika
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The "Dont believe in god" sign is very affensive. I think they should take it down. Ive nvr done anything like this ever. I jus watch the news. I never thought i would do this. But this is just madness. I have always believed in god, and yes that sign should be taken down. In god we trust and will always. I just turned 20. But i know what i believe in. I Have more to say but i know you guys have more to read. God bless you.... P.s. Fav. News group. =] god is good.  --  Lydia
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As a nonreligous person, I often feel very bullied and alone.

Thank you for posting it!  --  Tina
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I absolutely support the billboard and welcome the acknowledgement of other belief systems.  Although believers in God are supposed to be non-judgemental, their response to non-believers tends to be anything but. This billboard presents an avenue for non-believers to know that religious freedom in America includes the freedom to not adopt any religion.  --  Corey
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Any person of faith who is offended by the billboard is a hypocrite.  
For years our society has tolerated religious extremists who parade pictures of decapitated fetuses in front of our children.  Free speech is protected by the Constitution.  If the Christian faith cannot stand up to a bit of critical thinking, perhaps it SHOULD be questioned.  -- Travis
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I find it unfair that "controversy" must arise when someone shares one view on divinity but society must simply accept the plethora of christian propaganda that fills billboards and bumper stickers across the county.
I have no right to complain about "jesus loves you" signs, why should a christian have a right to complain about "do you believe in god?" billboards?  --  Brian
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The "Don't believe in God" sign is an affront to everything that this country was founded upon.

While the founders of our great nation granted us all the freedom OF religion, they did so with the conviction that God does exist, created all men equally and endowed us all with certain inalienable rights.  

Those who do not wish to embrace these core values are free to leave this nation and enjoy the oppressive and immoral rule of those who reject God or worship a false God.  

Their hateful speech should be no more welcome than those who would advocate and incite criminal behavior.  Those who own the sign should do the right thing, give them their money back and tear down that abomination immediately.  --  David
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Me, being an aithist, I think that billboard is not offensive. The chirch who posted that sign does have a right to do it. They are juest trying to tell people that thre are others who do not belive in god.  --  Liam
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God damn it! It is good to see educated and open-minded people such as atheists out there expressing their views. Amen to that!  --  A.C.
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I strongly believe that their is a God. many believe that there is no God, but everyone has their own opinion. And I completely respect that. So this billboard does not bother me in any way because I have my ground to stand on. I just think that it is kind of pathetic that people have to go to such an extreme to get attention. But oh well! we live our lives as it goes.  --  Melissa
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I think it is funny that people are so insecure they have to put up a bill board to show the world how insecure they are. I say if you don't believe in God you can just go to Hell.  --  James Jolly
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I cant wait to see the "Dont Believe in Allah?" billboard, I might even honk at that one as I drive by smiling.  --  Ed
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I DON'T believe in God. Yet, I don't complain about all the churches around town, all the crosses painted everywhere. All the "Jesus" signs, billboards, etc...get the point? Freedom of speech is for EVERYONE!  --  Juno
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This is a perfect example of freedom of speech. Anyone can buy a billboard and put whatever they want. I am a Christian but much less offended looking at someone else's opinion than a beer or casino advertisement.  --  Douglas
&lt;p&gt;&lt;img src="http://blogs.sandiego6.com/aggbug.aspx?PostID=4267435" width="1" height="1"&gt;</content><author><name>Mark Bunker</name><uri>http://blogs.sandiego6.com/members/Mark+Bunker.aspx</uri></author></entry><entry><title>New Chargers Stadium</title><link rel="alternate" type="text/html" href="http://blogs.sandiego6.com/blogs/balancedviews/archive/2009/11/11/4267049.aspx" /><id>http://blogs.sandiego6.com/blogs/balancedviews/archive/2009/11/11/4267049.aspx</id><published>2009-11-11T06:40:00Z</published><updated>2009-11-11T06:40:00Z</updated><content type="html">We asked what you thought about building a new stadium for the San Diego Chargers downtown next to Petco Park.
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A new stadium makes perfect sense for the city....from civic pride to the immense revenue of hosting a super bowl it only makes sense to keep the chargers the san diego chargers. -- Jerry
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i think it will be a great location for the charger because is right next to the padres satduim and it will be easier to get to from my locaion.  --  Amanda
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I think the stadium downtown is an excellent idea since the infrastructure is already in place to handle it. Keep the Chargers in San Diego where they belong.  --  Joe
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I can't believe anyone is still talking about a stadium in the city. There is no way the citizens are going to approve such an idea. That issue has been decided.  --  James Jolly&lt;img src="http://blogs.sandiego6.com/aggbug.aspx?PostID=4267049" width="1" height="1"&gt;</content><author><name>Mark Bunker</name><uri>http://blogs.sandiego6.com/members/Mark+Bunker.aspx</uri></author></entry><entry><title>Electric Bills</title><link rel="alternate" type="text/html" href="http://blogs.sandiego6.com/blogs/balancedviews/archive/2009/11/05/4264672.aspx" /><id>http://blogs.sandiego6.com/blogs/balancedviews/archive/2009/11/05/4264672.aspx</id><published>2009-11-05T06:23:00Z</published><updated>2009-11-05T06:23:00Z</updated><content type="html">SDG&amp;amp;E wants to change how you get billed, raising rates on people who uses the lowest amounts of electricity.&lt;div&gt;&lt;br&gt;&lt;/div&gt;&lt;div&gt;&lt;hr&gt;&lt;/div&gt;
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The facts are that I should not be charged MORE for using less. Further more, it's unfair that I should have to pay for someone who won't cut back like I have.  --  Ashley
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My concern is about the rate changes for electric bills SDGE.  Why not just charge everyone the same rate so you pay for what you use and there is not an imbalance in fees.
That makes more sense.  --  Niki
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I've thought about it all day and I still havn't changed my opinion. If I use less, I should pay less. If I save more I shouldn't have to pay for someone who doesn't. I your bill is too high USE LESS ENERGY AND DON'T EXPECT ME TO SUBSIDIZE THOSE WHO DO NOT.  I am having trouble supporting myself right now, and can't pay for myself let alone others.  That $2 dollars might mean I eat today or not.  AND one last thought: If SDG&amp;amp;E wants to make those customers who have to pay more seem more fair, let them take that money out of their own pockets (SDG&amp;amp;E) instead of mine.  --  Laurie
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Well if SDG&amp;amp;E does what they say I am in big trouble. My wife and I live in an all Electric condo. We try our best to conserve, our bill is low most months.For example our bill was $58.14 Just the two of us also I have a medical device allowance,   I guess San Diego Greedy &amp;amp;Expensive is not gouging it's customers enough. Oh well we try to conserve and we take it in the chops. Just like the water rates we conserve and they raise the price.  --  Pat
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The SDGE rate increase is absurd and ridiculou s!  I have several friends employed by SDGE that receive outrageous bonuses every year.  Sounds like a big scam to me!    --  Liz
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SDG&amp;E wanting to change it's rate structure to charge people who use less more, makes no sense to me.  If this happens then I'm through conserving.  I will not pay more and use less.  Lights will stay on 24 hours a day.  --  Mary
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I spent a lot of money to have a solar system installed on my house why should I have to spend more after I made this major investment costing me $16,000!

My neighbor happens to have the largest house plan next door, the owner not only has her family living there but also has boarders living with her in the same house to make the house payment.
Why should I be penalized because they use more with their larger house and I have gone to the extent of trying to conserve energy! 

If SDG&amp;E wants to change the rate structure they should start by doubling the rates on those that have larger houses whose demands are larger than others. Perhaps start by charging double to those living in La Jolla, Encinitas, Cardiff, Carlsbad, Del Mar.  --  Rachel&lt;img src="http://blogs.sandiego6.com/aggbug.aspx?PostID=4264672" width="1" height="1"&gt;</content><author><name>Mark Bunker</name><uri>http://blogs.sandiego6.com/members/Mark+Bunker.aspx</uri></author></entry><entry><title>Border Patrols</title><link rel="alternate" type="text/html" href="http://blogs.sandiego6.com/blogs/balancedviews/archive/2009/11/04/4264159.aspx" /><id>http://blogs.sandiego6.com/blogs/balancedviews/archive/2009/11/04/4264159.aspx</id><published>2009-11-04T06:28:00Z</published><updated>2009-11-04T06:28:00Z</updated><content type="html">We asked what you think about stepped up enforcement and seizures along the border.
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It is just my opinion the authorities are doing too little too late....I think it's a lot of grandiose news conferences, to tey and put a scare into the cartel's.
If it works more power to them.  --  Pat
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The stepped up drug enforcement effort is a joke. I am a student at SDSU and I know for a fact that any student could walk outside and buy any type of drugs within the hour. I believe this is true for the rest of the nation as well.  If we really wanted to stop the drug dealing cartel's we would have by now.  Billions of taxpayer dollars on the "war on drugs" has gotten us nowhere.  --  Dario
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I live in Mexico and the people that have been killed in the drug wars are people that sell death. they are from both sides of the cartels. and there are no go sides if you deal with the cartels. There are no such things as Drive by shootings here!If you do not deal, take, or have any thing to do with the cartels you are safe in Mexico! you can die in the U.S.becaue of a drive by shooting!!!  --  Louis&lt;img src="http://blogs.sandiego6.com/aggbug.aspx?PostID=4264159" width="1" height="1"&gt;</content><author><name>Mark Bunker</name><uri>http://blogs.sandiego6.com/members/Mark+Bunker.aspx</uri></author></entry><entry><title>Hidden Message?</title><link rel="alternate" type="text/html" href="http://blogs.sandiego6.com/blogs/balancedviews/archive/2009/10/29/4261821.aspx" /><id>http://blogs.sandiego6.com/blogs/balancedviews/archive/2009/10/29/4261821.aspx</id><published>2009-10-29T05:29:00Z</published><updated>2009-10-29T05:29:00Z</updated><content type="html">We asked whether you think the hidden message in a letter from Governor Schwarzenegger was intentional.
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Albeit this is utter rubbish... I think the message is clear. This is the professional way of doing things in politics. Well done Mr. Governor. 
However, I think the media should focus on myriad global topics and leave this this bloody nonsense to gossip magazines (i.e. TMZ).  --  Rene
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No chance the Gov's F-word comments were mere coincidence. This expression characterizes the tenor of Schwarzenegger's administration as well as any. The comment is worth a chuckle, considering the bill he vetoed with this added message was unaminmously passed by the legislature and will likely be approved regardless.  However, this attitude even without his creative writing has not and will not serve the people of the state well.  --  Mike
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I believe it was intentional, there is no way that the letter is only 7 lines long and  they all coincidently match up to spell out the F word. The governor is not always the friendly, specially considering their history.  --  Ray
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Somebody had to say it. -- Vince
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Now while I don't think the governor has the intelligence or wit to perpetrate this message, it is entirely possible that one of his aides did do this. Since this was most likely designed to get under the skin of a cantankerous, ill-manered buffoon like Tom Ammiano, I say well played Governor.  --  Tristan
&lt;p&gt;&lt;img src="http://blogs.sandiego6.com/aggbug.aspx?PostID=4261821" width="1" height="1"&gt;</content><author><name>Mark Bunker</name><uri>http://blogs.sandiego6.com/members/Mark+Bunker.aspx</uri></author></entry><entry><title>Distracted Pilots</title><link rel="alternate" type="text/html" href="http://blogs.sandiego6.com/blogs/balancedviews/archive/2009/10/23/4259424.aspx" /><id>http://blogs.sandiego6.com/blogs/balancedviews/archive/2009/10/23/4259424.aspx</id><published>2009-10-23T05:27:00Z</published><updated>2009-10-23T05:27:00Z</updated><content type="html">We asked what you think about the Northwest pilots missing their destination.
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Not only the pilots but the entire flight crew should be under investigation.
I find it very hard to believe that someone on the flight crew did not figure out that the had not landed when they were supposed to. Every flight that I have ever been on has always had a time schedule for the serving of beverages and meals. When tyhey were to start picking up things like drink glasses and coffee cups. 
If both of these pilots were so engaged in such a deep conversation that they missed the airport they do not need to be flying.   --  Pat
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I feel that pilots should be regularly checked upon. Look at the tragedies that have come from train and trolley drivers not paying enough attention.  --  Juan
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Oops, was that the airport we just flew over. Darn!  --  James Jolly
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Any policy by our government and it's subordinate agencies &amp; systems that does not give individuals freedom to live their lives fully and make choices to ask or tell anything that concerns their person is not commensurate with the ideals on which "we the people" were founded and have thrived. The choice to ask or tell should be up to the individual, not social,political or military constructs designed to support our liberty.  --  David
&lt;p&gt;&lt;img src="http://blogs.sandiego6.com/aggbug.aspx?PostID=4259424" width="1" height="1"&gt;</content><author><name>Mark Bunker</name><uri>http://blogs.sandiego6.com/members/Mark+Bunker.aspx</uri></author></entry><entry><title>Don't Ask, Don't Tell</title><link rel="alternate" type="text/html" href="http://blogs.sandiego6.com/blogs/balancedviews/archive/2009/10/22/4258807.aspx" /><id>http://blogs.sandiego6.com/blogs/balancedviews/archive/2009/10/22/4258807.aspx</id><published>2009-10-22T05:23:00Z</published><updated>2009-10-22T05:23:00Z</updated><content type="html">We asked you what you thought about the military's current policy.
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Dont ask Dont Tell? Another form of discrimination that the if your a high ranking official in the military, you get away with. Come on Mr.Obama get rid of this! Disgusting Military official we are supposed to trust with our lifes.  --  Virgil
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I believe "Dont Ask, Don't Tell" should be overturned. Any American--gay, straight, transgender, bi-sexual--who will VOLUNTEER to serve in the military, knowing there is a strong chance they will be sent to the Middle East in what is still an extremely dangerous situation, has my support and admiration. Sexual orientation has nothing to do with patriotism.  --  Stephanie
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The Don't ask don't tell policy is pretty self explanatory... it's simple knuckle heads... don't ask... duh... and well, don't tell. Dooooiiiiiiiii!   --  Happy
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Could you please explain what it is, I also think that that navy leader had no right to exploit the cadet's private issues.  --  Micah
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Having gays serve openly in the Military is NUTS. Then they will want a gay pride paraded on Memorial Day.  --  James Jolly&lt;img src="http://blogs.sandiego6.com/aggbug.aspx?PostID=4258807" width="1" height="1"&gt;</content><author><name>Mark Bunker</name><uri>http://blogs.sandiego6.com/members/Mark+Bunker.aspx</uri></author></entry><entry><title>Halloween Costumes</title><link rel="alternate" type="text/html" href="http://blogs.sandiego6.com/blogs/balancedviews/archive/2009/10/17/4256466.aspx" /><id>http://blogs.sandiego6.com/blogs/balancedviews/archive/2009/10/17/4256466.aspx</id><published>2009-10-17T05:45:00Z</published><updated>2009-10-17T05:45:00Z</updated><content type="html">We asked you about an illegal alien Halloween costume.
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freedom of speeech, jeez people, can we not laugh about anything anymore. I thought the illegal alien is a hilarous costum.  can we not be robbers at halloween anymore either , we wouldnt want to hurt any robbers feelings.  these are criminals "illegal" alien, and we should not be worried if we are hurting there feelings during halloween. i think i'm going to be an illegal alien  this year, i will make my own costum, even better,mabye my wife will be the border patrol agent hot!!!!!  --  Brian
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It's Halloween for cripes sakes, If I want to dress in an orange jumpsuit &amp; carry a "green" card (or wear purple polka dots and penny loafers) I expect comedy relief and laugter. I honestly don't believe this holiday is not meant for for political introspection and all that other crap we have to listen to constantly.  --  Laurie
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see nothing wrong with the costume...people need to develop a sense of humor!  --  Brian
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Comdemining illegal alien costumes only reinforces the efforts of ethnic ascendancy groups to commandeer the media and override U.S. immigration law, further exacerbating America's population growth problem. These costumes were not explictly offensive in any way and opposition to their sales is a fabricated political effort to gain support for the legitimization of illegal immigration. Humorous commentary on illegal immigration has long been a facet of American humor and is harmless inits intent and effect.  Hollywood's Men in Black movies are classic examples.  --  Mike
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people who do not see the humor in the target display online, are part of the problem.  they cannot see anything wrong with an illegal or an alien either.  --  David
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I THINK THEY SHOULD REMOVE THE COSTUME B/C ITS DISRESPECTFUL TO PEOPLE SO THEY SHOULD TAKE IT OFF!!  -- Arizabeth
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It's only Halloween! The whole point of the night is to have fun and look like a goofball... Not to make political statements or provoke debate. Lighten up.   --  Allan
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The costume is ironic.
If an alien from a foreign world were to come to this planet would we treat it the same as an alien from a foreign country?
Although the green-card is a bit much.  --  J.
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I think people need to  stop being so hypersensitive.
Although I think that costume is a dumb idea, I don't think people should be so outraged.
Hey, I'm Irish.
So shouldn't I complain when they show a Leprechaun costume at St. Patrick's day?
Or people talking in fake Irish accents?  -- Ed
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I think that the costume is not offensive. I believe that illegal aliens have enough rights in our country and now they are controlling what we can wear for a national holiday. i mean if your not suppose to be here in the first place. be proud you havent been deported, and laugh at it.  --  Derreck
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I think the Illegal Alien costume was perfectly acceptable.  I believe it has more to do with recent alien movies than it does as a wise crack on any group of foreigners.  Certain organizations are quick to jump the gun and assume it is an attack on them - but that is just their attention hungry assumption.  --  Danny
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This illegal alien costume is quite hilarious, it's a goofy costume and an expression. It's freedom of speech.  People make fun of each other all the time, get over it.  --  Joe
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My opinion about the costume sold by Target, is that It's funny, and if people are offended, then it's their problem.  --  Joanna
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This is america regualrdless of how people feel about the costume this is a free nation. People see many things offensive what if i were to say jesus was offensive are we going to take religion away too. This is rediculous. We live in a nation where we are free to express ourselves why are we being opressed on our rights.  --  Jeff
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I think this costume is offensive and should be taken off the market for purchase  --  Perla
&lt;p&gt;&lt;img src="http://blogs.sandiego6.com/aggbug.aspx?PostID=4256466" width="1" height="1"&gt;</content><author><name>Mark Bunker</name><uri>http://blogs.sandiego6.com/members/Mark+Bunker.aspx</uri></author></entry><entry><title>Hate Crime Laws</title><link rel="alternate" type="text/html" href="http://blogs.sandiego6.com/blogs/balancedviews/archive/2009/10/13/4254412.aspx" /><id>http://blogs.sandiego6.com/blogs/balancedviews/archive/2009/10/13/4254412.aspx</id><published>2009-10-13T05:32:00Z</published><updated>2009-10-13T05:32:00Z</updated><content type="html">We asked your opinion on a proposed Hate Crime law, to include attacks against gay people.
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IM 47 now , but remember when I was in my 20s back in the 80s. I had an experience that says HATE CRIMES should be against the law.  Years ago, I worked in A GAY OWNED RESTRAUNT AND BAR IN FUllerton. JUST 1/2 block from the FUllerton police station in Fullerton CA.  IT seems there was a hate crime at least once a week at this bar, people harrasing our customers. THREATS , customers getting beat up inthe parking lot. KNOWNING the police dept was just 1 block away.  I cant tell you how many times I THOUGH people out the back door trying to come in start fights with gay customers. ME being 6ft8 and 240 lbs I was able to get people out with out a fight or much of a confrentation.  On one night, the owners my managers DAVID KILBURN and AL BLACK told me that  A GUY named BILLY was in the bar, and he had attacked them in the past, and also attacked the police that removed him from the bar several weeks prior to them hiring me.  THEY asked me to get him out and to remind him he was banned from coming to the bar and get himout. WHILE talking to this guy, DAVID AND AL called the police.  Durring the next 45 minutes to maybe over an hour , I wound up fighting this guy , the fight went out into the street. WE blocked HARBOR BLVD because the fight got so big that it stopped traffic, in the mean time Im fighting this guy because he refused to leave and attacked me, his freind as well carring a butcher knife 2 guys against me, and as the fight went out the front door an dinto the street, the patrons from the HETRO SEXUAL BAR next door came out and started throwing BEER bottles at me becasue I was winning this fight wtih these 2 guys.  SO MY FEELINGS ON HATE CRIMES are very strong, all though they dont happen as much as they used to, the part that scares me is the POLICE took their sweet time coming to help me . AND I BELIEVE the only reason they showed up was becasue the fight stopped traffic on HARBOR BLVD . THEY didnt arrive til after I kicked both of these guys asses.  YES WE need to include HATE CRIMES against GAYS along with all the rest of the crimes that protect other americans.   ITS A SHAME that this type of crime happens today . IT makes me sick that we have to BEG for help like this when its against the law to be cruel to animals, we get tickets for parking in no parking zone, we get speeding tickets , DUI for drunk drivers. WHAT does it say about american when A TAX PAYING citizen has to do all that we do to get to be treated fairly like everyone else ?  WHY should we even have to ASK that hate crimes against GAYS be included? it shouldbe a given. THIS says a lot about our country and the people that run it. TO HAVE TO ASK for HATE CRIMES AGAINST GAYS to be against the law.  --  Roy

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I am a straight white male , if a gay or a black kills me is that a hate crime. This is dusgusting, stop crying about everything and just live your life.  --  James Jolly
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There's been talk about doing away with the Don't Ask, Don't Tell policy, as if the civilian sector knows what's best.  Trust me, this is a horrible idea, and if openly gay people are allowed to join the military, it'll be a recipe for disaster.  Military life involves close contact with other servicemembers and this won't fly.  As a leader of Marines, I wouldn't want any flaboyantly gay people serving with me in the combat zone.  --  Greg
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I think the idea of updating our nation's hate crime laws is scary... Scary because it should have been done long ago, and there shouldn't be a vote - it's just common sense!  --  Gary
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I feel that its about time, that we have the same protection as everyone else when it comes to violence. We have every right to be protected, and feel safe to walk the streets in any neighborhood.  --  Andrew&lt;img src="http://blogs.sandiego6.com/aggbug.aspx?PostID=4254412" width="1" height="1"&gt;</content><author><name>Mark Bunker</name><uri>http://blogs.sandiego6.com/members/Mark+Bunker.aspx</uri></author></entry><entry><title>Dog Park Rules</title><link rel="alternate" type="text/html" href="http://blogs.sandiego6.com/blogs/balancedviews/archive/2009/10/08/4252257.aspx" /><id>http://blogs.sandiego6.com/blogs/balancedviews/archive/2009/10/08/4252257.aspx</id><published>2009-10-08T05:23:00Z</published><updated>2009-10-08T05:23:00Z</updated><content type="html">We asked about the Encinitas Dog park Rules and the actions of law enforcement.&lt;div&gt;&lt;hr&gt;&lt;/hr&gt;&lt;/div&gt;
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Undercover police officers converging on the dog park at 6:05 to issue $445 tickets to dog owners with their dogs off leash?

You have got to be kidding.  This is where our tax dollars are being spent? 

I am laughing out loud because you have to be joking.  --  Jack
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I find it appalling that the Sheriff’s office held a closed door meeting – set with the intention of generating revenues from dogs getting exercise. They issued tickets and fines higher than those issued for traffic lights and many other more serious violations. They continue to ignore complaints regarding transients and the safety concerns that local residents have regarding these issues. Furthermore, in Cardiff, where the city does not monitor parking, does not have sidewalks, or even fire hydrants- it is unsafe to walk your dog after dark. This undercover sting has done more to damage neighborhood watch and community efforts for safety and crime prevention than it could have ever done for the amount of revenue raised.  --  Cyndy
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This is really very serious. They should locate snipers in the woods  around the park and anyone with their dog not on a leash should just be shot. We must halt this danger to our society.  --  James Jolly
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I've lived here in San Diego County for 26 years having moved from the Mid-West.  To this day I cannot comprehend why San Diegians feel they can thumb their nose at the law. Any law, whether it be the vehicle code, drug laws, beach regulations or dog on the lease laws.  --  Greg
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It's nice to see that the police have solved all the crimes in the area and can spend time going undercover to catch dogs off leash.  Yes, they are truly heros.  --  Blaine
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As far as dogs off of there lease, citicense'e getting citations suck's it is just another exsample of big brother letting there authority going to there frickin head.  --  Jeffrey
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I think for the safety of the dogs and their owners, a 6pm curfew on unleashed dogs is appropriate. It will be dark around 6pm anyway when the time falls back next month.  --  Richard
&lt;p&gt;&lt;img src="http://blogs.sandiego6.com/aggbug.aspx?PostID=4252257" width="1" height="1"&gt;</content><author><name>Mark Bunker</name><uri>http://blogs.sandiego6.com/members/Mark+Bunker.aspx</uri></author></entry><entry><title>Underage Drinking</title><link rel="alternate" type="text/html" href="http://blogs.sandiego6.com/blogs/balancedviews/archive/2009/10/07/4251345.aspx" /><id>http://blogs.sandiego6.com/blogs/balancedviews/archive/2009/10/07/4251345.aspx</id><published>2009-10-07T05:38:00Z</published><updated>2009-10-07T05:38:00Z</updated><content type="html">We asked what you think about parents being held responsible for underage drinking.

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Parents of underaged kids who provide and allow them to drink alcohol should be held criminally responsible. Where severe injury or death is involved as a result of parental negligence and alcohol abuse, parents should be charged with the appropriate crime and serve prison time as well as the the child committing the offense.  --  Brian
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I threw parties at my home when my parents were out of town and the cosequences weren't as strict.  Now that I am a parent, and society is becoming more strict with DUIs, I would rather have my daughter's friends either give me their keys or take a cab home after partying at my home.  That way the environment is more controlled and supervised.  --  Steven
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If the parents are home or are out for the night and aware their son or daughter is having a party and classmates are  drinking alcohol, the verdict is guilty of contributing to the delinquency of minors and possibly guilty of gross negligence contributing to manslaughter. They should be prosecuted.  --  Jake
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That would be the best idea to have, but we shuld offer Remain Anonymous  Rewards up to $200 to anyone reporting underage drinking better than people geting hurt outthere.  --  Sam
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Parents should never allow under age drinking. They should be put in jail. What are we teaching our kids??? Really? If a teenager is killed in a car crash because of drunk driving the person who gave them the liquor should be put in jail!!!  --  Kristi
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Parents who provide alcohol, or knowingly allow alcohol to be consumed in their house by anyone underage must also accept the responsibility of the danger underage drinking presents not only to the kids, but also on the roadway.  --  Tina&lt;img src="http://blogs.sandiego6.com/aggbug.aspx?PostID=4251345" width="1" height="1"&gt;</content><author><name>Mark Bunker</name><uri>http://blogs.sandiego6.com/members/Mark+Bunker.aspx</uri></author></entry></feed>