Captain's Quarters Comments - Latest Comments in A California Emergency Means Grab Your Wallets

Re: A California Emergency Means Grab Your Wallets

Stillsaneafteralltheseyears — Tue, 18 Dec 2007 15:56:51 -0000

Boy do you have that one 'bagged'!!! We live in Nevada; can't believe the 'boom'. We know a number of Californians who are buying up property in Arizona (Bullhead City; Fort Mohave, Kingman, and Lake Havasu for example). Henderson 'boomed', over these past 9 years, and it's still pushing itself into the mountains. Casinos are going up - hotels; condos, and friends I have in Oregon have told us about the 'exodus' from California into their state.

Nevada doesn't have a state tax; their gaming and tourist industry is strong enough to allow (so far) to derive the needed revenue from these areas, rather than implement a state tax. They feel that people often gamble MORE than they'd pay for state taxes (smart way to grab the money when we all 'volunteer' to pay, rather than have it yanked from us).

I think we found Nevada to be a state where 'self-impression and airs' aren't dominate in the personalities of the majority of residents. We lived in New York; they can do 'airs' very well. California is pretty darned good at being infatuated with themselves. This no-nonsense state enjoys excellent food; offers interesting and fun entertainment, and isn't scouting the communities to find ways to part people from their money.

Many parts of Nevada still have smaller towns; communities are active, and the schools seem to focus solidly on teaching rather than partying (or taking a week off in the winter for Ski season as all the teachers in California did when we lived there and my children were in school).

One individual told me they can now enjoy a smaller class size (she claims it's almost like getting a private school education without paying for it); she moved from California for the SOLE REASON of getting a better education for her 2 youngest children.

People in Nevada don't seem bent on having new cars; high-cost and fancy clothing, and all the 'trappings' that many areas of our country often focus on. No doubt the fact it's so hot 4 or 5 months a year in some parts, means no one really wants to put on any jewelry; or 'layer' up with fancy duds. The desert has a way of 'humbling' a person; it's not easy to deal with the heat and we learn very quickly who's boss (Mother Nature).

We were included in those fire that took place in October; what an experience, and an eye-opening situation to be in. After we were evacuated (we were only visiting for the month), we saw some pretty shaken people who'd (earlier in the week) been eating at a restaurant where we'd also gone to eat. Those same people that had been partying in high style, were now somber, and obviously shaken. What more is to come that will 'humble' those in California that seem 'above' the rest of the citizens, probably will play out in the next 10 years (or less). If/when it does hit millions hard, at least they can start over with an attitude of stability and reason rather than the greed and wants they now often have. Essentially, they'll have their heads on straight after taking such a thumping!

For us in Nevada? We hope we don't wind up inheriting the clogged high-ways and smog that might travel right behind those moving in our direction - it's not fun to be the 'goal' of a floundering mass who're trying to find a place to start again. Nevertheless, since we did this 7 years ago when we saw the difficulties ahead, we can't be critical - just welcome them to the relief we now enjoy.

Re: A California Emergency Means Grab Your Wallets

Stillsaneafteralltheseyears — Tue, 18 Dec 2007 15:39:10 -0000

Another point on the 'volatile income tax' should be made. Droves of people run to become 'self-employed' - work on a contract basis, and that REDUCES their obligation to pay state income tax because they can REDUCE their net income with write-offs that often aren't even valid. By the time the state or IRS 'audit' the thousands that take this approach to avoid paying any tax (or a minimal amount), it's years after the fact.

The more and more individuals seek to avoid paying their tax obligation, the less California can count on revenue from the 'income tax'. If they raise the income tax, MORE people either decide to leave (that doesn't get California any incoming $$$), or they drop off the pay-roll, and (again) become contractors BACK TO THE COMPANY THEY LEFT.

During the 20 years I had my business in So. California, I lost count of the people who simply couldn't afford to deal with the high costs; they quit their jobs, and were taken back on a 1099 basis to the very same corporation they'd been working for. The common title used was 'Consultant'. I'd bet California has more 'consultants' than just about any other state in the nation.

I'm guessing the big 'computer in the sky' is plugged into the current trends, and they're tabulating the results so they can try to figure out an answer for the Californians.

Further trouble is when those who live in this lovely state as I did, start getting 'impressed' with themselves; have to 'spend' - for WANTS, rather than their NEEDS, and off they go driving up credit card debt, and over-spending because they live in the land of the sun. The vain sport tans so they can go back to their tiny town in Ohio during the winter and show off the 'good life' to those that are shivering. If many Californians can't pay MORE than what something is worth, they think what they're buying isn't worth anything.

One woman I knew was a dog-groomer who was reasonably priced. Over time this person saw another friend prosper in the same line of service. When the two of them met for lunch, they shared information about their fees. The one who was prospering found she HAD TO CHARGE MORE, before the rich patrons would stop by - coo and fawn over how lovely their darling critter looked, and then would plop a big tip in her hand to boot! So, the other lady (both are friends of mine), POSTED A NEW FEE SCHEDULE THAT WAS DOUBLE WHAT SHE'D CHARGED, and like magic - she's now doing extremely well. That example gives you a clue as to the mind-set of many residents of California.

To me, the quality of 'life' in California has an element of 'illusion'. If we don't travel and live in other parts of this country, we could get 'stuck' with this illusion, and never realize just how nice it can be in virtually every state (starting with our state of mind).

Your post certainly had merit, and seems dead-on in its accuracy.

Re: A California Emergency Means Grab Your Wallets

Stillsaneafteralltheseyears — Tue, 18 Dec 2007 15:27:24 -0000

......or not vote at all. Hmmmm - now that would be 'vedddddy interesting'. Liked your comment.

Re: A California Emergency Means Grab Your Wallets

Stillsaneafteralltheseyears — Tue, 18 Dec 2007 15:23:06 -0000

Let's see - we just came back from California after a month at the beach. We ate at a number of 'posh' restaurants, and the food has clearly deteriorated from what it was 20 years ago when I lived there.

We also finished up a visit to the mid-West to visit family; back east to also visit family, and the food was fresh, well-prepared, and priced much more reasonably. We saw the beauty of the changing seasons - the small towns with smiling faces, etc. and to 'have that glass of wine' is really no big deal since we order our 'choice imported wines' over the I-net.

I'd suggest your smug and pompous retort is indicative of those who live in California and think the rest of the country doesn't offer as much in the way of a quality life-style. Your 'plastic' brain probably matches up nicely with the 'plastic' you carry in your pocket. I'm surprised you got off your cellular phone long enough to post anything. I guess I wasn't 'nice', but I conclude you deserve a clip side the head for saying "the rest of you eat trash regularly". Shame on you - that wasn't fair, or accurate - you need to watch the REAL HOUSE-WIVES OF ORANGE COUNTY and see if you're not hidden in the scenery somewhere.

I lived in Cota de Caza; got out of there shortly after I realized what a bunch of vain, self-centered 'junkies' lived there....a gated community that hides from being served a subpoena more conveniently than most I know. As Ann Landers once wrote: "Scum and Cream float to the top"........and you're definitely floating.

Re: A California Emergency Means Grab Your Wallets

Stillsaneafteralltheseyears — Tue, 18 Dec 2007 15:15:51 -0000

That one single sentence is absolutely 'dead-on', in my opinion. You mention ...'unless he can figure out how to blackmail those that do' - WELL SAID!

It's insurance companies; banks, corporations of substantial size that really 'control' and call the shots - whether they are U.S.-based, or based in another part of the world.

Our 'elected officials' are but figure-heads; often (sad to say) 'puppets', and have to bow to the demands of not only those powerful 'financial entities', but to the results of public polling, and voices of those who congregate and take obvious, and strong steps towards what they believe needs to be improved/changed/eliminated, etc.

When one lives in a time that 'life' can be seriously 'snuffed out' in a swift attack, we need to remember that there's not much meaning in a 'super-power', other than to be (also) 'super-targeted' by the enemy.

Fortunately, we all are now focused on the climate changes; something that no one on this planet can escape. Possibly if we find a common 'threat' to the world, we might find some common ground to which we could begin to build something that lends itself to thinking beyond our own individual lives and view-points, and realize that those we 'appear' to be in control, aren't (or else they would actually be able to control).

I enjoyed Papa Ray's remarks!

Re: A California Emergency Means Grab Your Wallets

Stillsaneafteralltheseyears — Tue, 18 Dec 2007 15:08:21 -0000

Boy, you two really make some valid points for 'both side'. Since I was born in the cold-country; lived in California for 20 years, and now enjoy 7 years of living in the desert, I can see the value in all your remarks!

My dad used to say the common phrase: "We choose our own poison". Then again, we often say another man's (fill in your choice of a positive word), is another man's (again, fill in your choice of a not so positive word).

Bottom line: I determine it's a good thing we are all unique and different in our ideas of what is great (for us); what is right (for us), and with this large land offering many choices of climate; religions, career opportunities - jobs, and the means to live side-by-side with our own personal goals able to be met if we put forth the effort, it's good not everyone wants to swelter in the summer desert heat, or shiver through the frigid winters.

I love all the seasons; love this country and all that nature here provides for us with its beauty - just don't like the way parts of this country can live in such poverty and be devoid of the basic needs, while others enjoy a decadent life-style that simply isn't needed.

Ideally, it wouldn't be a choice of feast or famine, but a steady diet so all could reach their maximum potential, and enjoy not just the American Dream, but enjoy the brief time they spend on this planet

I'll keep on reading; you two have really sparked qutie an exchange of viewpoints!

Re: A California Emergency Means Grab Your Wallets

Stillsaneafteralltheseyears — Tue, 18 Dec 2007 14:39:28 -0000

Beautifully said and 100% accurate!

Re: A California Emergency Means Grab Your Wallets

Stillsaneafteralltheseyears — Tue, 18 Dec 2007 14:36:40 -0000

Your post sure reminded me of what I did 7 years ago. I also read Keemo's post as he/she reacted to your remarks, and while not all of my children still live in California, 3 of them do. Yes, not only do I pity them, but I here about the problems with owning a home (high costs); the fact all that are married are families that require both husband and wife working, but the costs for child-care, transportation to and from work, and the continued increase in utilities, taxes, and over-all living expenses are causing them to start thinking about moving elsewhere.

My business was building custom-computers for the military and aerospace business. After spending 17 years in this environment, it gave me the 'inside track' as to where the money is coming from that builds a great deal of the Southern California economy.

Working on the early refinements that we now incorporate into the I-net technology, also allows me to know what has driven the growth and revenue into Northern California.

I met Bill gates before his name became a household word; worked with Boeing and the NUWES in Washington, and (again), the trends in the 1980's were being set; the West Coast is 'weighty' with income from our government in all areas of its programs.

Essentially, the west coast is for the rich - those that come in from foreign lands, are wealthy when they make entry; weathier within 2 years of their residency.

The strong influence of the west coast on the rest of this nation, can really impact the economy - plus or minus. I lived through a few earthquakes; some of those 'trembling experiences' translate into economic terms, and I don't think we're even close to seeing what kind of future 'rumblings' and upheavals will occur within the next 20 years.

All of your remarks are viable; well thought out, and insightful.

Re: A California Emergency Means Grab Your Wallets

SouthernBoy — Mon, 17 Dec 2007 17:01:49 -0000

California is a joke. What is the next legislation..."No Farting Zones". I cannot pay me enough to move to California..

Re: A California Emergency Means Grab Your Wallets

Colorado resident — Mon, 17 Dec 2007 16:49:53 -0000

Ditto's. I was also offered a $130K job in Thousand oaks and decided to take a $100K job in Colorado. Best choice I could have made. Cost of living, quality of life and having a 3600 SF house for $320K, vice a 1500 SF rat hole in SoCal costing $800K. Then throw insurance, earthquake insurance, and 1% Realestate tax on top of it and you are paying over $3,000 a month just to own a house. If you don't make at least $150K a year you are below the overty line in California. I wish the people of California luck with your bleek future

Re: A California Emergency Means Grab Your Wallets

dmore — Mon, 17 Dec 2007 15:48:39 -0000

So, will there be consideration of going after the Proposition 71 Stem Cell Funding. Isn't that thing worth about 300 Million a year.

Re: A California Emergency Means Grab Your Wallets

runawayyyy — Mon, 17 Dec 2007 14:43:37 -0000

So you think the answer is higher taxes as well? No wonder you prefer california's fiscal irresponsibility to flyover country. I left in 1994 as it was obvious to me even then where california was headed. I was right and I'm financially better off for it.

Re: A California Emergency Means Grab Your Wallets

SteveA — Mon, 17 Dec 2007 13:41:04 -0000

Basic problem is that the legislative districts are drawn so as to eliminate competition in the general election. IIRC, only one district (out of 120-odd) has changed party hands in the last two elections. This means that the only competition is in the primary, between rabid and more-rabid partisans. This means that no one in the legislature, once elected, has any motivation to compromise, look ahead, or do anything for the good of the state.

To his credit, Ah-nold pushed a redistricting reform initiative a couple of years ago. Unfortunately, it was only one of four initiatives he was pushing at the same time, and a couple of the others made the establishment/unions very angry. So they pushed back, and all four went down. And Ah-nold, after that, capitulated and started building up his own personal popularity again by abandoning fiscal discipline.

California has a steeply "progressive" income tax, which means that a small percentage of the people are paying most of the taxes. This makes the revenue stream very bumpy and unpredictable. It also means that the people who pay the taxes are far outnumbered by the people who consume them. This is a "positive feedback" loop that ends, one way or another, in disaster.

My ex is a native and will never leave. To be part of my kids' lives, I have to stay close to them. If it weren't for them, I'd already be gone.

Re: A California Emergency Means Grab Your Wallets

123MarkW — Mon, 17 Dec 2007 07:28:19 -0000

It's so sad. How desperation to feel good about ones self, almost always turns into loathing of everyone else.

Re: A California Emergency Means Grab Your Wallets

123MarkW — Mon, 17 Dec 2007 07:20:57 -0000

I'm guessing that you have no idea what is involved in the service economy. It's a bit more than flipping burgers and saying "welcome to Wal-Mart".

Re: A California Emergency Means Grab Your Wallets

123MarkW — Mon, 17 Dec 2007 07:19:17 -0000

I've had several good job offers from companies in California. I turned everyone of them down. I have no intention of returning to California. Primarily because of their tax and regulation climate.

Re: A California Emergency Means Grab Your Wallets

123MarkW — Mon, 17 Dec 2007 07:17:36 -0000

It's a little more complicated than that.
Those who vote, are generally not the people who are being taxed.
It's not hard to be popular when you shower the voters with other people's money.

Re: A California Emergency Means Grab Your Wallets

123MarkW — Mon, 17 Dec 2007 07:16:27 -0000

I'm guessing that this is how Arnie plans to get California to meet his new greenhouse gas targets. By chasing all of the producers out of the state.

California politicians are one of the best things to ever happen to the surrounding states.

Re: A California Emergency Means Grab Your Wallets

Count to 10 — Sun, 16 Dec 2007 15:36:07 -0000

I may be wrong, but I think there is a line on the CA tax form that requires you to pay sales tax on anything bought online.

I voted for McClintock.

Re: A California Emergency Means Grab Your Wallets

George — Sun, 16 Dec 2007 15:08:52 -0000

Unfortunately Socialism, like the Terminator character, keeps coming back. The margin of victory or defeat of creeping Socialism is very small. A small change in election results here and there, a few missed vetos, and the size of government ratchets up. California's problems are our problems. We citizens can't wait for pandering politicians to do the right thing. We need to scare them into it. A volume of angry phone calls large enough to crater the Senate phone system killed "immigration reform". We need similar outrage against out of control spending. Call your elected representatives frequently and complain loudly. Vote against all bond issues on general principle. Make strategic protest votes in the many uncontested elections, throwing votes to long-shot primary opponents and the occasional Libertarian instead of not voting.

Re: A California Emergency Means Grab Your Wallets

Harry — Sun, 16 Dec 2007 13:51:19 -0000

I'm an ex-Californian-----lived there from 1987 to late 2002-----and I miss so much about that state. The magnificence of the Sierras along Highway 395, the Mojave on a winter day, the seals at La Jolla, the Trail of the Giants in Sequoia national Forest. . . . . . . all are reasons why California should be heaven on Earth. Sadly, too many Californians genuinely think government services are "free" and you can impose endless tax and regulatory burdens on business without consequences. I started my own business in California back in 1990, but one would have to be insane to do that now.

I'm now living near Austin, Texas. I miss California, but at least Texas has no state income tax and people here don't get upset at the notion of someone making a profit.

Re: A California Emergency Means Grab Your Wallets

red — Sun, 16 Dec 2007 13:02:24 -0000

Yes.

Re: A California Emergency Means Grab Your Wallets

BurfordHolly — Sun, 16 Dec 2007 10:37:39 -0000

Darned Hollywood Republicans. Do you really want Thompson?

Re: A California Emergency Means Grab Your Wallets

SDN — Sun, 16 Dec 2007 10:21:03 -0000

And Arnold doesn't even have Bush's excuse of having to buy the votes of enough Copperheads and RINOs to fight the war against our enemies.

Re: A California Emergency Means Grab Your Wallets

keemo — Sun, 16 Dec 2007 09:20:02 -0000

This comes from the San Diego Tribune:

Meanwhile, spending has grown under Schwarzenegger at a rate faster than under Davis. Tax revenue from a surging economy allowed general fund spending to increase from $79 billion in Schwarzenegger's first budget. The current budget signed by the governor in August, two months late, has a $102 billion general fund with a reserve of $4 billion.

Hill, the legislative analyst, estimated last month that the budget now has a $1.9 billion deficit. At the time, she predicted the budget gap next year would be $10 billion.

And some state officials said this week that the estimated shortfall next year has jumped to $14 billion in a general fund that would spend $111 billion unless changes are made.

A slowing economy, hit by the housing slump, is producing less tax revenue than expected, and some budget accounting maneuvers have unraveled.

Hill has suggested a potential midyear cut of $400 million from schools, whose funding is above the Proposition 98 guarantee. Before signing off on the idea, Ducheny said, lawmakers may need assurances that schools have not yet spent the money.

“If there is any opportunity where clearly there is no harm because they haven't spent the money, then I think that is something we have to consider – as much as we don't like it,” Ducheny said.

That's right folks, take funds from "schools" and give it to illegals; "take from the rich and give to the poor" mentality at work once again. Redistribution of wealth tweaked by modern day politicians.