Re: [Goanet] Where is my Goa? Nigerians hold the state to ransom. -- By Nisser Dias
Bravo Nisser! It is good to know that you hate these dark skinned people (niggers as you call them). I personally hate hindus, muslims and non Goans in general. Perhaps we can combine our mutual bigotry and racism and find common platform to clean up Goa. We could start by booting out all dark skinned hindus and muslims from Goa. While it is a difficult compromise on my part, I will for now, tolerate the continued residency of fair skinned hindus, muslims and non Goans in Goa. As quid pro quo, I expect you to allow the continue residency of all dark skinned christians in Goa. It is time us Goanese all unite and support Goa and Goanese businesses. I for one, will make it a point to solely visit Goanese drug joints (no paan intended) when I make my next run to restock my pharmaceuticals cabinet (wink, wink). Nisser, as for you, I do want to make it clear that I will not appreciate you hanging around the cheap non-Goan brothels around Bania. As a person who as been around you surely know that while the Goanese brothels may be a little more expensive, you get far better bang for your buck there ... if you know what I mean ;-) BTW, your coded messages for mob rule is simply brilliant! Yes, I get it. It is time we form roving gangs to patrol the streets of Goa to enforce our unique Goan values of laziness, drunkenness and holier than thou, hypocrisy. No cheers! Marlon On Tuesday, November 5, 2013 8:17 AM, Nisser Dias nisserd...@gmail.com wrote: *By Nisser Dias 5th Nov 2013* *Where is my Goa?* *Nigerians hold the state to ransom* Last week Goa was outraged by rowdy and wild Nigerians and our police who are supposed to protect our lives and property were literally made to look like tin soldiers. They did not know what to do or which way to turn while the rampaging niggers went about blocking the national highway, destroying the dividers and barricades, abusing and beating locals, police and even stripping nude in full glare of the public. That they did not have respect even for the dead was displayed when they removed the corpse of their countryman and dumped it on the highway thereby exposing their uncouth and uncivilized manner. Above all this, what was laid bare was the ineffective, hopelessness and lack of authority and decision making by the magistrate and senior police officers present there to tackle the situation. Due to which innocent people using the national highway had to face inconvenience for hours together. Not forgetting the suffering of the motorists was shamefully aggravated by the Porvorim MLA Rohan Kaunte, when he along with his cronies blocked the highway demanding transfer of a senior lady police officer. The question that is on our mind is why were the police hesitant in striking down on the unwanted guests when they waylaid them, assaulted them and even damaged government property and stripped the Goa police and the Home minister of their self respect. We are not ready to accept chief minister Manohar Parrikar’s statement or rather rhetoric that the police were outnumbered as the rein-enforcement were caught in a traffic jam and could not reach the site. Firstly, because hundreds of locals had gathered at the site and were willing to assist the police in curbing the rampaging niggers. The citizens do have an obligation to help the police in times of emergency. And in the end it was the locals themselves who decided enough was enough risking their lives took on the Nigerians and made them beat a hasty retreat. But now our popular chief minister wants to press criminal charges against the locals for restoring some degree of esteem. What Chief Minister who also rules over of the Home ministry has to do is initiate a thorough enquiry into the role of one of his favourite police officers namely DySP Mahesh Goankar for being in the midst of the Nigerians and over-ruling his senior officer SP Karthik Kashyap’s orders to lathi charge the Nigerians. SP Karthik is an IPS officer DySP Mahesh is a GPS officer. Let us assume for a moment that SP Karthik heed his junior officer’s advice since being a Goan he could have doused the tempers, but the situation or the attitude did not change, the Nigerians continued their riots. What is the connection between the DySP Mahesh Goankar and Nigerians? Does the all knowing Parrikar really want to unearth the truth? Chief minister who also hold Home portfolio arrived at the site and asked the police to take charge and then everything started falling in place that is the police started lathi charge. The question here is why did the police not adhere to the orders of the magistrate present there. Does the chief minister have magisterial powers to order the police to carry out lathi charge? Was it required that chief minister visit the site, could he not direct his force to take charge, arrest or round-up the Nigerian hooligans, disperse the locals and
Re: [Goanet] Off Topic: Industry Market Disruptors
First some basic info: Energy density (energy per unit mass) of a Li-ion battery is around 2% that of gasoline. Alternatively, I would need 50 pounds of Li-ion to carry the same energy as 1 pound of gasoline. Energy efficiency of a gasoline engine ~ 20% vs 90% for electric, which means that an electric car does not need the same amount of energy to move a unit distance, which means that the electric car would need ~10 pounds of Li-ion to have the same range as 1 pound of gasoline. Therefore, battery technology has to improve by a factor of 10 to become equivalent to gasoline (not including costs). This is definitely not going to happen in the next 5 years. A more likely scenario is that batteries will be competitive in 15-20 years from now. Next, about the claim that electric cars are zero emissions: In a typical country, around 50% of the electricity is produced by fossil fuels, which in many cases is coal, which is amongst the worst polluter in terms of COx per unit of energy output. Again, in 15-20 years from now, the energy mix will probably change drastically, with coal being displaced by cleaner gas and with nuclear being replaced with wind and some solar. But the bottom line is that electric cars are not necessarily zero emissions vehicles due to the source of their power. Now, regarding the Tesla: The cost of a battery in the Tesla is between $30K to 40K, depending upon the model. Even in the cheaper Nissan Leaf, around a third to half the price of the car is just the battery. Secondly, Tesla's super chargers are not compatible with parallel electric infrastructure that is being established with other companies and cities. It is like going to a gas station and finding out that the nozzle does not fit! About electric cars in general, the consensus is that there is not going to mass electrification of propulsion systems until the fundamental battery technology is figured out, which as I said may be 15-20 years away. However, there is going to be greater electrification of various subsystems in a car. Right now hydraulic steering and brakes are being displaced by electric steering and regenerative braking. Various components such as the fuel and water pumps are now becoming electric. Other components up for electrification are electric enhanced turbos and electric valve trains. All these additions can contribute to a significant improvement in engine efficiency, with modest battery capacities. These changes, coupled with continuous improvements in engine efficiency (combustion and mechanical) means that it is possible that the internal combustion engine will still be chugging along as the as main propulsion source decades from now. Finally, will the Chinese come up with something to threaten the establishment? By the time, battery technology becomes cheap enough, it will have become a commodity. Most of us don't care about what brand of gasoline we buy. It is the packaging and engineering of the overall product that matters, rather than the the brand of gasoline in it! It is also very unlikely that the Chinese will have a lock on battery technology. A few years ago, there was a big splash when China's largest battery maker, BYD announced its intent to build an electric car for a very low price. It even attracted attention from Warren Buffet. So far, BYD has failed to come up with anything substantial. Ironically, this battery company mostly makes cars powered by ... yep, gasoline engines! Marlon From: Mervyn Lobo mervynal...@yahoo.ca To: Goa's premiere mailing list, estb. 1994! goanet@lists.goanet.org Sent: Sunday, June 2, 2013 2:46 PM Subject: Re: [Goanet] Off Topic: Industry Market Disruptors Jim Fernandes wrote: Secondly, as a marketing strategy, the company is initially installing so called Super Charging stations along major interstate highways that take you from Los Angeles to New York - a distance of about 2500 miles (or about 4000 Kms.). These fast charging stations are charged using Solar Power to power themselves. Tesla's model-S takes only about 20 minutes to partially charge it's battery, that will take your car 200 miles at a time (a full charge can take you some 300 miles). To lure customers, the company is giving away the charging for free. Eventually, they may slap a fee to charge the car, but that is immaterial at this point. Jim, Good luck on your bet. Looking forward, the day will probably come when the car that does not cost anything to refuel, will also be on the top of the list of most stolen cars. I do not want to be Juan Carlos and be subjected to high insurance premiums. A more scary thought is if the 'free' fuel supply is electronically monitored, Uncle Sam will know exactly where and when you are in the land of liberty. Can you imagine what would happen if the company installs these solar powered fast charging stations along all major US
Re: [Goanet] Is your job safe?
So to summarize, if globalization effects someone else, it is good, but if it affects you, your career or your industry, it is bad! Marlon ps. if someone from India or planet Krypton can do my job for half or even quarter the price that I am being paid, I guess it would be time to look for a new career or move back to India. From: Jim Fernandes amigo...@att.net To: goanet@lists.goanet.org Sent: Wednesday, April 10, 2013 10:44 PM Subject: Re: [Goanet] Is your job safe? Marlon, As implied by your response, obviously you are too short sighted to understand the negative effects of globalization. When you come back with your next response, please bring some meat with your arguments - don't just dismiss my post with a one liner (or two) :) . The suggestion that globalization is always beneficial to its participants at all levels - is not true. However, globalization is great, when competition between participants is executed on level playing field. For example, when one nation (Nation A) produces goods and then exports it to another nation (Nation B), it benefits both participants in this trade, provided at least three things happen: 1. Nation A produces its goods at Market Prices without government intervention to subsidize its production 2. There is no currency manipulation between the participants 2. Trade barriers are removed between the participants. This type of trade is beneficial to both participants because it brings efficiency into the system, thereby benefiting the consumer. I am absolutely OK with this. Examples of situations where globalization is bad - is in situations, where we have an employer in Nation A, that bulk replaces a portion of its workforce by employing cheap labor from Nation B. I would describe this type of activity as nothing short of being termed as legalized human trafficking. What these so called Indian software companies (or human traffickers) do, is to merely provide cheap bodies to their Western clients. For this reason, these companies are sometimes referred to as body shops. Most of the techies the Indian companies send to the West, are 20-something trained software professionals, who are often single and un-attached and who are then paid below market prices in their destination countries. This is nothing but a glorified exploitation of humans - a situation where the foreign employee is willing to work for low wages in the West, because of even lower wages in their respective home countries. The reason many young Indian professionals are able to survive on lower wages in the West is because, they live in cheap cramped quarters as room-mates - often 4 to 8 persons living in a one bedroom apartment. In order to cut cost even further, they often share everything from a car to utilities to groceries and essentially give up on every sense of privacy. Had the US government not tied these guys as slaves to their India based employers, by way of hooking up their employment status in the US to their work visas, they would have readily jumped to another employer for a few Yankee bucks more! For all its weakness, this type of controlled globalization of labor, may be considered as beneficial, if there is a real job opening (that does not replace a local), mainly because it supports local economies. In this situation, the host country gets to collect taxes on salaries paid to the foreign worker and it is expected that the worker, spends at least a small portion of his/her earnings in the local economy. In the RBC article I included in my post, some of the foreign workers are expected to replace the locals in Canada - not because the local employees are duds, but because the local workers cannot compete with the foreign workers on lower wages. The reason? One cannot live like Ghattis in the West - specially, if you have a spouse to support and kids to send to school. That brings me to the meat of the RBC article: In the article, it is argued that a few dozen RBC jobs in Canada would be off-shored to India. If the employment was terminated for cause, nobody would have issues with it. But this is Bulk Replacement. What exactly is its benefit to Canada or to the communities RBC serves in Canada, where the bank supposedly makes it money? Please don't come back with a pathetic argument and state that RBC has no social / shareholder responsibility in this matter. So please read on For starters, the Canadian government collect no taxes on jobs that go overseas. Secondly, the ghost employees are based in a foreign country - they are not in Canada to spend their earnings, where the money would have circulated to support its economy. Thirdly, the employees who are displaced in Canada may have to foreclose on their mortgages if they cannot find employment that pays comparable salary to support their mortgages. This in turn, would hurt a local Canadian bank or worse, possibly
Re: [Goanet] Is your job safe?
What exactly is the problem here? If industry can get cheaper, but equally good employees, it should be able to do so. This is what globalization is all about. If you wish to over pay for your products and services, please do, but don't force your quaint ideas on all of us. Marlon From: Jim Fernandes amigo...@att.net To: goanet@lists.goanet.org Sent: Sunday, April 7, 2013 11:29 PM Subject: [Goanet] Is your job safe? The scumbags are at it again. Canadians should take their money out of RBS in masse and put it elsewhere. Or the least they can do is, find a legal excuse to terminate RBS license to operate in Canada. Smart Canadians should take this message to Twitter / Facebook or other social avenues and slam these pigs. Please see attached: http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/british-columbia/story/2013/04/05/bc-rbc-foreign-workers.html Jim Fernandes. New York.
Re: [Goanet] the end result of ideologies!
But then, Mario G does the same on GX! Marlon From: Santosh Helekar chimbel...@yahoo.com I guess Goanet will never be able to rid itself of xenophobic, conspiratorial, persecutory, chauvinistic, racist and casteist propaganda. Cheers, Santosh From: petronela Souza Roy petr...@mail.com What really died in AUSCHWITZ? Here's an interesting viewpoint. The following is a copy of an article written by Spanish writer Sebastian Vilar Rodrigez and published in a Spanish newspaper on Jan. 15 2011. It doesn't take much imagination to extrapolate the message to the rest of Europe - and possibly to the rest of the world. THIS WAS IN A SPANISH NEWSPAPER: EUROPEAN LIFE DIED IN AUSCHWITZ By Sebastian Vilar Rodrigez
Re: [Goanet] Mapusa, the failed city - NOT
Tony, As a Mapusacar, I find your post extremely upsetting. The Mapusa Friday market is, if I can quote Cecil, world famous, all over Goa. I find it extremely humorous that you, a resident of Vasco would dare comment about Mapusa. Vasco is so quaint, it makes a remote village in Bihar look like a bustling metropolis. Yes, we do have a parking problem in Mapusa - this is a reflection of our higher levels of economic development compared to you lesser Vascoites who keep trespassing our haven in your overfilled KTC buses. Regarding your reply from Reginald Laurenco, my suggestion is that you wait for another few more years. We Mapusacars have better things to do, than reply to some irrelevant request from an immigrant from Vasco. In any case, he is quite busy dealing with very mess being created by your Vasco brothers who keep migrating to Mapusa in the jam packed KTC buses. And you have the nerve to talk about garbage? As a blue blooded, true son of the soil, I find it very saddening to see my Mapusa being ruined by the immigrants from Vasco. This is written in the hope that some one like Nasci will hear the cry of agonized Bardezkars and do something about preserving Mapusa. Marlon From: Tony de Sa tonyde...@gmail.com ** Mapusa is a failed city. Sad that the taluka town of Bardez which once had the best organized market in Goa has been allowed to become a shambles by the powers that be. More so when the present Chief Minister and his Deputy are both from Mapusa. The bus stand is in a terrible state. There is garbage all around, people urinate freely and the stench is awful. Sewage oozes out and forms a lake in the parking lot of the bus stand. That is where the RTO conducts its inspections. Two years back I wrote to Reginald Laurenco who was the chairman of KTC - he promised an inspection which never materialized. The market is today badly organized with no order or system. Garbage abounds. The state of the gutters is unbeiievable. After seeing the state of the drainage system in Mapusa, could one believe that we live in a nation that is capable of a nuke and putting vehicles in orbit? Even Mohenjodaro and Harappa had better drainage systems. Parking space is not sufficient and no arrangements are made for restricting the entry of vehichles or controlling their flow. The traffic cops who patrol in Mapusa do not believe in preventive methods but rather punitive methods on hapless victims like motorbike riders. This is written in the hope that some one will hear the cry of agonized Bardezkars and do something about Mapusa. -- ** Tony de Sa tonydesa at gmail dot com **
[Goanet] Industrial blackmail - or Soter's hypocricy?
Talk about having your cake and wanting to eat it hypocrisy. Soter claims to be against the mining interests, but yet, wants employment to be created by the very same industry. If we want Goa to be less dependent on mining, then, let them layoff their staff and let us see what happens. Marlon From: SOTER so...@bsnl.in This is a perfect case of blackmailing to violate environment laws. Sometime ago mining transporters had descended on the streets. When the casinos were under pressure they paraded what is claimed to be theior over 4,000 employees to protest. how long will industry blackmail Goans?
Re: [Goanet] Hind-Christian dialogue (was: Sanal Edamaruku trial)
This is what you said: Protestants often spread misinformation about the Catholic Church, as can be seen now and then on this forum . Sounds like stereotyping to me! From: Gabriel de Figueiredo gdefigueir...@yahoo.com.au AFAIK, there has been no attempt by any Roman Catholic Church missionary to make a statement that converting to Catholicism would cure them of diseases and ailments. I also understand that this claim (of a cure) is made by certain cults purporting to be Christian. Although the Pope has full responsibility for the Roman Catholic Church, he is not responsible for the behaviour of the missionaries of the protestant churches and cults. Protestants often spread misinformation about the Catholic Church, as can be seen now and then on this forum. Gabriel. Marlon From: Gabriel de Figueiredo gdefigueir...@yahoo.com.au Marlon, I am not sure how you came to the conclusion that I had elevated Catholics over other trouble making christian groups. Gabriel.
Re: [Goanet] Hind-Christian dialogue (was: Sanal Edamaruku trial)
Barad, A couple of points before I proceed: 1) Please don't shoot the messenger. What I quoted is what many christians believe and what many believe to be the official policy of the catholic church. 2) Sarcasm alert 3) Note that the original poster (Gabriel) elevated Catholics over other trouble making christian groups. It is a very common attitude shared by many intolerant persons of any faith viz people of other faiths. So to answer your question, yes, many catholics/christians do believe that even a person like Mahatma Gandhi would be in hell. What is the official policy of the Catholic church? I guess it depends upon who you ask and how they interpret the policy of the church. In the long time past, the party line was very clear - if you were a non christian, you could say hello to hell. Today it is apparently more nuanced, but I am not an expert on these matters. Of course, the church continues to maintain its intolerance of homosexuality. What is hinduism's viewpoint on this? Marlon Marlon Meneses wrote: We catholics have our priorities right. We know that Protestants and other Christians have half a chance of attaining salvation. Cannot say the same about the non-christian heathens and migrants though! From: U. G. Barad dr.udayba...@gmail.com If Marlon was not saying the above in jest, then I would like ask him if he thinks that souls like that of Mahatma Gandhi are in hell.
Re: [Goanet] Hind-Christian dialogue (was: Sanal Edamaruku trial)
Good to know that Roman Catholics don't allegedly make statements about miraculous cures, except for the minor issue of eternal damnation and suffering in the after life if they don't accept jesus as their savior. I also fully agree with Gabriel that Catholics don't spread falsehoods about the Protestants - they only do it to the idol worshiping Hindus and the Muslim crazies, as can be seen very now and then, on this forum. We catholics have our priorities right. We know that Protestants and other Christians have half a chance of attaining salvation. Cant say the same about the non-christian heathens and migrants though! Marlon From: Gabriel de Figueiredo gdefigueir...@yahoo.com.au To: Goa's premiere mailing list, estb. 1994! goanet@lists.goanet.org Sent: Sunday, June 3, 2012 8:09 PM Subject: Re: [Goanet] Hind-Christian dialogue (was: Sanal Edamaruku trial) AFAIK, there has been no attempt by any Roman Catholic Church missionary to make a statement that converting to Catholicism would cure them of diseases and ailments. I also understand that this claim (of a cure) is made by certain cults purporting to be Christian. Although the Pope has full responsibility for the Roman Catholic Church, he is not responsible for the behaviour of the missionaries of the protestant churches and cults. Protestants often spread misinformation about the Catholic Church, as can be seen now and then on this forum. Gabriel.
Re: [Goanet] “Sanal Edamaruku would not have dared to offend Muslims”!
I am a little confused by Gabe's post. Does he want the offended christian extremists belonging to the CSF to emulate that select group extremist muslims into conducting violence against civil society? Or is he implying that the christian extremists are not as violent as some of the muslim Jihadies and that Sanal should thank his lucky stars that he is still alive. In this post, Gabe is sounding a lot like former goanetter Mario G who would take any opportunity to disparage muslims. Marlon From: Santosh Helekar chimbel...@yahoo.com To: Goa's premiere mailing list, estb. 1994! goanet@lists.goanet.org Sent: Saturday, May 19, 2012 1:13 AM Subject: Re: [Goanet] “Sanal Edamaruku would not have dared to offend Muslims”! Wouldn't this comment about Muslims in the interview and in the subject line hurt the feelings of Muslims? Here is the rhetorical question in the interview, which insinuates ina public forum that Muslims in general are intolerant: QUOTE Would he have dared to make any uncharitable remarks against the Muslim community? UNQUOTE Please see: http://www.thesundayindian.com/article_print.php?article_id=34385 Perhaps, now Muslims have a reason to file a criminal law suit under the blasphemy law, IPC Section 295A. Cheers, Santosh - Original Message - From: Gabe Menezes gabe.mene...@gmail.com *“Sanal Edamaruku would not have dared to offend Muslims”!* * * http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GHS_kjfMRpY/T7Oy_mkXtcI/AKw/vpCE3dgfGtA/s1600/SundayIndianBishop.jpg * * *Targeting of Edamaruku has created an impression that the Church is intolerant of any * *rationalist viewpoint?* This is incorrect. We are not opposed to rationalist perspectives. In fact we encourage them. We never claimed that the dripping cross in Vile Parle was a miracle. It is quite possible that it has a natural explanation. Edamaruku’s comments were thus unwarranted.
Re: [Goanet] Support Sanal Edumaraku
Marshal, Are you talking about yourself? If I recall correctly, it is you who constantly wishes to portray the christians as a persecuted and threatened minority in India that is in the midst of the evil hindu hoards. It is also interesting that you only seem to engage in your verbal flame throwing against individuals with non christian sounding names (such as Santosh). On a side note, it is a real pity that organizations such as the Christian Secular Forum (CS?F) continue to bring such disrepute to the mostly moderate christian community in India, by their incitement of hate against gays, their attempts to muzzle free speech via judicial means (the Sanal case) as well as extrajudicial means (threatening violence during the showing of the DaVinci Code) and their seeming intolerance towards peoples of other faiths and view points. Marlon - Original Message - From: Marshall Mendonza mmendonz...@gmail.com When exposed for his ignorance, the poster develops a persecution complex. What's new? We have seen it all. Regards, Marshall *Repeated attempts have been made by the author of the post appended below to communalize this issue and garner cheap sympathy from co-religionist partisans by invoking Biblical quotes and associating me with right-wing Hindu extremists such as Bal Thackeray. A Thackeray reference has also been insinuated in this discussion by GA* Noronha. Despite these shenanigans, it is very refreshing to note that there is a broad agreement among secular-minded Goans in several Goan cyberforums on this issue. They are strongly opposed to the blasphemy law and the tactics used by right-wing religious fanatics in prosecuting and inciting hatred against Sanal Edamaruku. Cheers, Santosh *
Re: [Goanet] Manohar Parrikar, solve my problem yesterday
Perhaps a person like Soter would better fit into your model. Unlike a person such as Claude who has been steadfast in defending Goa's environment, folks like Soter gave the prior administration a token slap on the wrist, (or was it a pat on the back?), thanks to their apparently secular credentials. For a person so deluded into publicly predicting on Goanet that Kamat's Korrupt Kangress party was headed for a victory, the final results surely must have come as a shock. Marlon From: Rajan P. Parrikar parri...@yahoo.com Claude has a lot of patience, sometimes running into decades, when he pursues his cases in courts of law. It is perplexing that he gives no breather to Manohar Parrikar, who has just completed 4 weeks in office. Is Claude unaware that for the last 7 years we had a criminal raj? The Kangress crime syndicate that ruled Goa shat on it and looted it. Now you want a fix in a month or two or three? Which la-la land is Claude living in? Surely he and we will have plenty of time to slam Manohar-bab if he does not deliver.
Re: [Goanet] Congress defeat introspection
As a congress sycophant, you were predicting a great congress victory on goanet... but if wishes were horses... Time to get over it and get in touch with your inner elitist self, Soter. Your party was walloped and if you can't figure why, you have a problem. Marlon On Mar 10, 2012, at 8:19 PM, SOTER so...@bsnl.in wrote: Does Arwin Mesquita claim that the present dispensation is free from criminals and tainted elements? How would one classify a tainted individual? As per Arwin standards, Observer Standards, BJP standards, ? Does Arwin mean to say that the following evils will dissapppear during the rule of this new dispensation? (1) High level of Corruption (2) Crime at seriously high levels (3) Drugs Issue courtesy its own MLA's (4) RP2021 treachery (5) Ignoring promise by Sonia Gandhi to give Special Status to Goa for preserving its --- Protect Goa's natural beauty Support Goa's first Tiger Reserve Sign the petition at: http://www.goanet.org/petition/petition.php ---
Re: [Goanet] Cancelling Carnival was the RIGHT thing to do
We all know that the current administration cares a lot about the people of Goa. Hence what Rajan says does indeed make a lot of sense. However, I would not stop there. To show his deep concern for Goa, I would also urge the CM to also stop all diwali, christmas and New Years celebrations later this year. If Goa observes muslim holidays, those should be cancelled as well. Marlon From: Rajan P. Parrikar parri...@yahoo.com To: goa...@goanet.org goa...@goanet.org Sent: Saturday, February 18, 2012 6:43 PM Subject: [Goanet] Cancelling Carnival was the RIGHT thing to do To Goanet - BUT HE WAS RIGHT TO CANCEL THE CARNIVAL, the govt sponsored event, that is. No decent folk would think twice about it. --- Protect Goa's natural beauty Support Goa's first Tiger Reserve Sign the petition at: http://www.goanet.org/petition/petition.php ---
Re: [Goanet] The Gospel provides powerful hope for India's temple prostitutes | The CSF
I am surprised that Marshall did not accuse me of being a hinduvta apologist - after all, my opinions were in line with those of Santosh's. I think we can all agree that the CSF is a communal organization that seeks to promote what it sees as a christian point of view by projecting its views as being superior to those of competitor religions. Many on the receiving end would consider this to be abusive and denigrating. I say, it is free speech - a right that needs to be protected. Ironically, the CSF itself wishes to trample on the rights of others who disagree with its principles as was the case with movies like the Da Vinci Code, or the rights of gays and homosexuals. I would agree with Marshall that the CSF cannot be compared to the Sangh Pavivar due the latter's role in violence against minorities. However, a quick peek at the CSF's website gives a very clear insight to its fundamentalist and intolerant tone. Perhaps the lack of violence from the CSF is more due to its lack of ability than intent. Is the CSF secular? Hell no. It should rename itself to the CCF, the Christian Communal Forum. Marlon From: Marshall Mendonza mmendonz...@gmail.com To: goanet goanet@lists.goanet.org Sent: Wednesday, February 15, 2012 8:43 PM Subject: [Goanet] The Gospel provides powerful hope for India's temple prostitutes | The CSF As a sangh parivar (hindutva) apologist/sympathiser, Santosh's response was on expected lines. One can let one's imagination run riot and come to as many conclusions as one desires.Helping women in distress come out of prostitution can in no way be said to constitute anti-hindu sentiments as Santosh would like to mislead us and give a communal flavour. --- Protect Goa's natural beauty Support Goa's first Tiger Reserve Sign the petition at: http://www.goanet.org/petition/petition.php ---
Re: [Goanet] The Gospel provides powerful hope for India's temple prostitutes | The CSF
From: Marshall Mendonza mmendonz...@gmail.com 2. I went through the article in question. Nowhere does it point out any flaw in the Hindu religion. I quote from the article- A devadasis who discovers a relationship with Christ becomes a powerful witness in her community, according to one Christian worker. These new lives in Christ become witnesses against the practice that enslaved them and for the Savior who set them free. --- The above statement implies that this prostitution/enslavement is part of the Hindu practice while the path through christianity offers them salvation. Conclusion: hinduism is inferior, christianity is superior. If Nasci had a little more finesse in his writing ability, he would make a perfect reporter for the CSF. From: Marshall Mendonza mmendonz...@gmail.com 3. Further, Sandesh's response was against the Church and conversion and not against the CSF as Santosh would like to mislead us. I quote Sandesh 'in the end the motive of the Church is always to convert (as always)...'. Unfortunately, the false propaganda unleashed by the hindutva forces has taken root in the minds of ordinary people like Sandesh. The word conversion has been somehow given a negative meaning. Proselytising is done by all religions and even atheists. Has anyone seen the Hare Rama, Hare Krishna worshippers. I have seen them in Bombay, Poona, Delhi and even in Russia where they dance and pray in public and distribute their literature. change. -- I would agree with this. Bans on proselytizing as are currently in place in India, are just another intrusion by the government into the lives of its citizens. The right of constituents of one religion to propagate their favored religion, and their right to demonize competitor religions (as this article subtly does) should be sacrosanct. Religions, can often be equated to commercial enterprises that are out to capture market share using various marketing tools/propaganda at their disposal. If Tata can be allowed to compete with Maruti, why should not christianty not be allowed to compete with hinduism? So long as violence is not used to espouse one's point of view, I see no problem with it. Alternatively, there are many (the majority?) within their respective religious communities that do not seek to impose their belief system on their competitors and primarily undertake actions to benefit society as a whole. It seems like the CSF is part of the former category, but it is wrong for Sandesh to assume that the church as a whole and presumably christians in general share that attitude. Marlon --- Protect Goa's natural beauty Support Goa's first Tiger Reserve Sign the petition at: http://www.goanet.org/petition/petition.php ---
Re: [Goanet] British decorations/awards for Goans
- Original Message - From: Frederick FN Noronha फ्रेड्रिक नोरोन्या *فريدريك نورونيا fredericknoro...@gmail.com Marlon, Your attempt to derail the discussion with labels, strawmen and other bogeys doesn't appeal to me. Yes, Robert Mugabe was my hero -- but that was in 1983, when he indeed was an articulate spokesman for the intersts of the Third World. The corrupting influence of years in power does sadly distort people and their priorities, though one could say that Mwalimu Julius Nyerere and Nelson Mandela (though after a shorter stint in power) have come out in far better light. Let me quote Jessica Kuper to convince you that understanding society need not be the same thingy as working with applied materials. Yet, I must have said something right to get you worked up enough to enter this debate. - Fred, it is not that you were right, but, rather that you are always on the left :-) Your mention of Nyerere and Mandela in the same light as Mugabe is very valid. I shudder to think what could have happened if Gandhi or MLK were allowed the luxury of influencing their respective nations into their twilight years. The corrupting influence of years in power does distort people's views and priorities. Conversely, it could be argued that when one occupies the commanding heights of authority for a long time, one can anticipate and predict issues, plots and sabotage that most subjects fail to comprehend. As goanet's longest standing volunteer and head of its pre-crime unit, I'm sure you have encountered numerous activities that could have remotely or randomly subverted this forum. In fact you vaguely alluded to in the 2010 Goanetter's meeting. In light of this, the moderation of posts on goanet, the sometimes long and mysterious delays in posts etc, seem very understandable. Marlon --- Protect Goa's natural beauty Support Goa's first Tiger Reserve Sign the petition at: http://www.goanet.org/petition/petition.php ---
Re: [Goanet] British decorations/awards for Goans
I second Fred's sentiments on this. How can we celebrate the successes of these Goan quislings, who in effect assisted in the British subjugation of the native African population? Is this any different from the French Vichy regime that cooperated with the occupying Nazi regime in deporting the Jews to the concentration camps? I had always questioned Fred's sympathies for Colonel Mugabe's black first collectivist policies in Zimbabwe. I now know why. Fred has the innate ability to see a broader/longer term picture of issues and subjects that escapes most of us. Conversely, the positive comments made by Vichy Vivian D'souza in favor of these British awards in understandable, given the devastating role he played as Commissioner of vegetable oil production of East Africa. Vivian's ill gotten gains during his term in Africa are quite evident from the beautiful property he now occupies in Goa. I suspect Comrade Fred is already ahead of me on this, but if I were to humbly attempt to anticipate his thoughts, I would say that such illicit wealth owned by Vivian and others be expropriated and be given to the tens of thousands of destitute Goan freedom fighters, who continue to be treated as second class citizens in the very land they liberated. Marlon From: Frederick FN Noronha फ्रेड्रिक नोरोन्या *فريدريك نورونيا fredericknoro...@gmail.com To: Goa's premiere mailing list, estb. 1994! goanet@lists.goanet.org Sent: Thursday, January 12, 2012 10:29 AM Subject: Re: [Goanet] British decorations/awards for Goans On 12 January 2012 19:09, Vivian A. DSouza socorro...@yahoo.com wrote: Nice to hear that so many Goans were recognized for their sterling services to the Colonial Government in East Africa. Viv and others on this thread: Isn't this a contradiction in terms? In a post-colonial era, what does it mean to be have offered sterling services to the Colonial Government in East Africa or anywhere else for that matter? I'd rather celebrate the achievements of the handful of Goans who worshipped at the altar of social justice, and took the huge risk kof supported the underdog... and the Black African cause... when the wind was blowing in the other direction. Pio Gama Pinto. Fritz DeSouza. Aquino Braganca. Or even the Assagaonkar, Armande de Souza in the Ceylon of another era [http://groups.yahoo.com/group/goanet-news-backup/message/2428] Among others, I guess. --- Protect Goa's natural beauty Support Goa's first Tiger Reserve Sign the petition at: http://www.goanet.org/petition/petition.php ---
Re: [Goanet] Kingfisher Airlines to sell property to fly out of debt crisis
--- Goanet Classifieds --- Enescil, a Brazilian engineering firm requires Engineers, Architects and Draftsmen, proficient in AutoCAD, for their new office in Goa Those interested can email enescil@gmail.com by 15 November 2011 Selected candidates will be sent to Brazil for 2 months training --- Kingfisher's model was simply unsustainable. High level of service + low pricing simply does not compute. However, the government's role cannot be discounted either. If there is an airline that needs to be shut down, it is Air India. Despite massive write offs, just 10 years ago, It now has debts of over 42,000 crores - makes KF's debts look pretty puny. The govt. also continues to give preferential treatment to Air India for its domestic and international slots and has banned very large plans such as the A380 from India's airspace to ensure reduced capacity and higher prices for Air India. There should not be any state aid for KF or AI. Let them both die. Marlon From: Gabe Menezes gabe.mene...@gmail.com The management of the airline, which has cancelled 200 flights in the past week, leading to fears it is close to bankruptcyhttp://economictimes.indiatimes.com/search.cms?query=bankruptcy, says its plan will result in debt coming down from Rs 6,500 crore to Rs 3,000 crore. Over the weekend, reports that the government might move to bail out Kingfisher has met with strong opposition from politicians and sections of industry. If it's a free market economy, those who die must die, said Bajaj Autohttp://economictimes.indiatimes.com/bajaj-auto-ltd/stocks/companyid-21430.cms Chairman Rahul Bajajhttp://economictimes.indiatimes.com/search.cms?query=Rahul%20Bajaj. The principal opposition party, the BJPhttp://economictimes.indiatimes.com/search.cms?query=BJP, and the CPM have strongly opposed government help to Kingfisher. --- Protect Goa's natural beauty Support Goa's first Tiger Reserve Sign the petition at: http://www.goanet.org/petition/petition.php ---
Re: [Goanet] Through The Wormhole: Is there a Sixth Sense?
Totally agree with Nunes' views. If anyone wants to research a topic, there is a wealth of information online. Using a browser does not require much skill! While Con's intent to serve the online community is appreciated, the fact is that his posts are ad hoc and unrelated to the discussions on this list. Furthermore, he is not generating any unique content and is providing us a generic service that can be provided for by any of the thousands of readers on goanet. Imagine the chaos if even a handful of people started posting links to random topics on goanet. Unless Con in unable to elucidate his opinions, he would better serve goanet by partaking in the discussions on goanet, rather than demonstrating to us his now well established cut and pasting skills. Marlon From: lyrawmn lyra...@yahoo.com Anatomy and Physiology of the Immune System, Part 2. http://www.jonbarron.org/immunity/anatomy-physiology-immune-system-b-cells?utm_source=iContactutm_medium=emailutm_campaign=Jon%20Barronutm_content= The latter smacked of quackery. You guessed correctly which posts are more likely to be deleted, en masse. Further, I find the stated aim to enlighten Goanet readers: “to know all about things that matter concerning our universe, art, history, biographies etc., etc.,it is a 'mine of knowledge' waiting to be unearthed by your curious minds. ”, is condescending, arrogant and plainly offensive when the writer presumes that Goanetters are ignorant and in need of his brand of enlightenment. That is, in addition to his being a self-styled arbiter of what he considers “ Useless ad infinitum discussions!!! ” on Goanet. Cheers, I. Nunes From: Con Menezes cmene...@tpg.com.au To: Goanet goanet@lists.goanet.org Sent: Monday, September 12, 2011 4:26 PM Subject: [Goanet] Through The Wormhole: Is there a Sixth Sense? | Watch Free Documentary Online Sir, Appears that I have stirred up a hornet's nest in my 'unending discussions' criticism. mostly agreeably positive. As a departure from those boring topics, here is one of the many interesting documentaries that will enable Goanetters to know all about things that matter concerning our universe, art, history, biographies etc., etc., it is a 'mine of knowledge' waiting to be unearthed by your curious minds. Enjoy Con http://topdocumentaryfilms.com:80/through-the-wormhole-is-there-a-sixth-sense/
[Goanet] Goa's Occupation (was Pictures of dead Bin Laden won't be released....)
Guys, guys, The problem is not with America and nor is it with Pakistan. The real problem is India's continued occupation of Kashmir and Goa, that is forcing the Pakistani military to support extremists and insurgents to fight the mighty Indian occupiers. It is time that we the oppressed and occupied peoples of Goa join hands with our Kashmiri and Talibani brothers and break this yoke of occupation. We will need to decide on whether Rene Barreto, who leads the Global Goan World Government Alliance, or Bernardo Colaco, who leads the Goa Independence Clown party will lead us to new depths. Regardless, once freedom is achieved, we should all demand that World Goa Day be renamed to Goa Independence day. To quote the Beastie Boys:You gotta fight, for your right, to paarrty. I suggest this be made Independent Goa's national anthem. Marlon Jim Fernandes wrote: In an interview with '60 minutes' last night, President Obama made it clear, that anybody who has sympathies with bin Laden, need to get their head examined. From: Mervyn Lobo mervynal...@yahoo.ca Thank you for making my point so clear! Every time an African leader announces that he has killed his enemy, people climb trees around the state house, chant and start dancing, waving tree branches in the air. While I don't think this has happened in the USA, such scenes are now not too far away as everyone loves a strong man, one who goes to his enemy's hometown and kills him. Why bother with a court case when everyone knows that the accused is guilty?
Re: [Goanet] Bollywood Should Stop Insulting Goans
So how ironic then, that, in this unfolding drama, Angelo wishes to take the role of a male hero who swoops in and rescues weak and powerless women who are stuck in their kitchens (or bedrooms) and unable to act on their own. This issue is not about the right of groups to protest a movie, but rather whether extremist elements within society have the right to muzzle free speech or the right to freely conduct business by attempting to ban such activities. Nor do we need male vigilantes and bigots (like Bernard Colaco) to protect Goan culture and their women. Marlon From: pinheiro gift.pinhe...@gmail.com Response: Selma, lets not colour everything in artist form. Today, Art and literature has become more about money and less of Art and literature. Dum Maro Dum is not a documentary movie which highlights the evils of society rather a commercial film which is made to make money out of social evil.It is important that Goans wake and protest to derogatory remarks as it is related Goan Women. Goa tourism is not all about sun sand and sex. Besides, it is more important we respect our sisters, mothers and daughters. We Men are nothing without women. Stop treating women as slaves at home and outside. Women role goes far beyond KITCHEN and BEDROOM. Regards, Agnelo Pinheiro
Re: [Goanet] What the independent journalist does not want you to read
Will Parrikar jr. please provide us with evidence for his claim of the kangress purchased media, or is Penguin jr just following instructions from Parrikar Sr and jumping off a cliff? BTW, what's up with this hindi speaking pseudo-Goan migrant's continued obsession with poop? Also, can someone please tell jr. that there is no person by the name of Goanet. Marlon From: Rajan P. Parrikar parri...@yahoo.com To Goanet - The scoop on Advani's 'apology' to Sonia is now emerging. It was nothing of the sort although the Kangress-purchased media translated regret for Sonia's distress as apology and spun it as if she had been absolved of Swiss bank money. Our own local independent journo jumped headlong into what he thought was a scoop but instead it turned out to be poop. Oopsie.
Re: [Goanet] Death of Goa's fields - thanks to the lack of low cost
Marshal, just because Indian society frowns upon mental illness and keeps it behind the closet and just because the medical institutions do not have the resources to properly diagnose mental illness, does not mean that there is less of it there! Soter, it is not economic prosperity that is leading to the surge in diabetes and cardio-vascular issues, but rather ignorance about diet and health. Yet another misdiagnosis by Soter, who seems to be advocating a return to an age of poverty and ignorance instead of affluence and enlightenment. Marlon From: soter so...@bsnl.in Marshal wrote: Incidentally, the USA and Canada among the most affluent countries in the world have the highest number of psychiatric cases. Comment: Marshall, we do not need to support our case on the number of psychiatric cases in USA and Canada. All we need to do is measure the Goan prosperity after transition from farming to white collar and foreign jobs. Goa has now been declared the diabetes capital of India. We have doctors and clinics flourishing at every nook and corner of the State. Even our government hospitals are now being turned into private super speciality hospitals. The pharmaceutical campanies are thriving. It is not uncommon to find a Goan with a by-pass or stent or pace maker. Leave aside the cholestrol affected Goan trying to desperately fight the condition by spending thousands in the gym. Farming brings you poverty but economic prosperity brings even the cardio-vascular surgeon to your doorstep, leave aside the bank manager from the neighbouring State. -soter
Re: [Goanet] Death of Goa's fields - thanks to the lack of low cost
What Soter says about prices of produce is correct. But is it not the unchecked powers of the government that is responsible for this? It works both ways - sometimes in favor of the farmers and sometimes in favor of the consumers. When the government imposes price controls or bans exports, the farmer cannot get the market price for his produce. When the government subsidies water usage for the farmer (mostly ground water), it encourages waste and a receding water table. Ditto for fertilizers, diesel fuel, electricity . What does not change however, is regardless of whether the government giveth or taketh, it always gets its cut. Unfortunately, leftists like Soter believe that the government is the solution, when it is in fact the main problem. As far as mechanization, it has been already stated that this has not been implemented very successfully thanks to farm sizes being relatively small in Goa. Marlon From: soter so...@bsnl.in Mervyn wrote: As a former farm labourer, I can assure all here that farm work is back breaking and the sure path to poverty. Real economic progress comes from industrialisation. Green/golden rice fields should remain only in the realms of nostalgics and dreamers. comment: This is typical 'town boy' argument as Pinheiro has rightly labelled it in one of his posts. If it is cheap labour that was the problem then the machines have now been put into operation in several areas. This should fix the problem if it is so simple. Mervyn acknowledges that farm work is back breaking but no sooner the onions and potato prices increase, we have the 'town boys' screaming against price rice urging government to put curbs on exports and so on. Farming is back breaking for those who become habitual with living on other people's so to say blood and sweat. While we have a fast growing tribe of blood sucker 'town boys' who sell their services and skills to the highest bidder in the inudstrialised market, when it comes to agricultural produce this very 'town boy' wants cheap labour and his vegetables and milk at a throw away price. For his own rare product, he will keep a high price but when it comes to buying his food the same parameters will never be acceptable to 'Town boys'. This is the hypocrisy of an urbanised industrial economy and its exploitative mindsets. -Soter
Re: [Goanet] Eucharistic Magic .. aka Miracles
Santosh, I think the confusion in this discussion is in part the result of an erroneous subject header - which I have now corrected. Dr. ... er .. Fr. Ivo is an expert in the subject of Eucharistic Magic. Please give him the benefit of the doubt on this issue. Marlon From: Santosh Helekar chimbel...@yahoo.com To: estb. 1994!Goa's premiere mailing list goanet@lists.goanet.org Sent: Mon, February 14, 2011 11:58:39 PM Subject: Re: [Goanet] Eucharistic Miracles The response appended below shows that the detailed explanation I gave in my last post regarding the biological impossibility of having a type AB blood with only a single set of chromosomes derived from the mother was not understood at all. This is the problem with people who make these wild nonsensical claims about modern science confirming their parochial supernatural beliefs. They don't understand the science even if you explain it to them in simple terms. I hope the situation is different with others who cared to read my post. My explanation was pitched to a high school educated lay person. But a student with a 9th standard level of understanding of biology should have had no problem following the argument. Cheers, Santosh
Re: [Goanet] Death of Goa's fields - thanks to the lack of low cost
Pinheiro, No matter how you (or Soter) attempt to slice and dice it - the fact remains that the obsolete labor intensive methods of agriculture cannot survive without low cost labor. If in case you missed it, I vaguely mentioned it on the subject header. Unless you wish to invent a backwards time machine, it is highly unlikely you will get cheap Goan labor in the future. I also agree with you and Soter that the solution to the problem of high food prices - is even higher cost, low volume agricultural practices. You suggested subsidies for farmers to enhance more agriculture. Presumably the money for this would also grow in the paddy fields. As for Parrikar, the hindi speaking pseudo Goan migrant who has a penchant for picturesque verbal diarrhea, may I suggest he use his dung to promote sustainable agriculture in Soter's and Pinheiro's communes. Marlon From: pinheiro gift.pinhe...@gmail.com Back then (before 90's) the paddy cultivation in Goan households was more of family and neighbors affair. Back then, the Family structure was not as we see it today (1 or 2 kids) as most families had four or more children or they were living with extended families. Did some wrote on this forum that he cannot see many pregnant ladies in Goa. The field work was carried out by within each house hold or in barter system. The people use to work in each others fields (no money paid) even if outside labour was used, they were paid in kind (paddy) not cash. With the change in lifestyle and thanks to faulty education system the paddy cultivation and agriculture as a whole is on decline. Successive government failed to come with sustainable agricultural policies. Cumminidade land gifted to tiller who have no interest in paddy cultivation or any other crop. One solution for revival of paddy cultivation would be formation of co-operative movement and then government extending support to them by give free or subsidies to buy small / medium size machines to till and harvest paddy. From: Rajan P. Parrikar parri...@yahoo.com Translation: Although I, Marlon I-know-how-to-spell Menezes, got called out bullsh*tting on matters I know nothing about, I will continue to make an ass of myself in a public forum. Marlon-bhaiyya (as in UP bhaiyya) should wonder no more. Big daddy P is related to me, as is potato-head Digu.
Re: [Goanet] Death of Goa's fields
Perhaps Parrikar's name is real. In fact, one wonders if Parrikar is related to his big daddy namesake in the opposition and is ranting against current government officials to foster his master's agenda? As far as cheap labor is concerned, I guess, he shares Soter's leftist views in restricting the free mobility of labor. At least Soter lives in Goa. Perhaps non-immigrants, like him and Arwin should move back to Goa and replace the manual ghanti labor they so despise. They would both be well qualified for this work. Marlon From: Rajan P. Parrikar parri...@yahoo.com But on the topic of fields being destroyed, Marlon Menezes is talking out of his behind. I had given the specific example of Taleigao, where communidade land has been commandeered by Monserrate and his band of thugs for construction. The space for cultivation for the local gaude has shrunk to a patch here and a patch there. Exactly the same thing has happened everywhere else in Goa. Fields - often communidade fields - have been converted from agricultural to commercial purposes for the express purpose of erecting concrete structures and filling the pockets of politicos, sarpanchas, panchas, and of course the builders. All this is so well known that it is surprising that Marlon Menezes is so out of touch with Goa. Perhaps he is a non-Goan masquerading as a Goan. Many ghatis in Goa these days change their names from, say, Rudrappa, to Ronald D'Souza. Who knows, Marlon I-know-how-to-spell Menezes may well be one of those. Regards, r
Re: [Goanet] Re. Death of Goa's fields - thanks to the lack of low cost (manual)
From: Arwin Mesquita arwinmesqu...@gmail.com (1) Surely you must limitation of land in accomodating more people and the need to maintain a balance towards agriculture vs. destructive development. This has nothing to do with the migrant workers. From: Arwin Mesquita arwinmesqu...@gmail.com (2) Surely you must understand the essence of controlled migration and why its necessary; or maybe perhap you do not and your own personal interests immigrant status make up your myophic views. - Population migration is based on demand and supply. If there is no demand for their services, migrants will not come to Goa. What gives you the right to restrict a business person from employing any person he or she wishes to use? From: Arwin Mesquita arwinmesqu...@gmail.com (3) I appreciate that labour is an issue but do we follow a herd mentality in converting Agricultural land into concrete jungle; or to we look at CAN DO possibilities of maximising on agriculture. - Again, what does this have to do with migrant workers? If Goa is (and I agree it is) being turned into a mess, it is not because of the migrant workers, but because of people in power/authority who let it happen.The absence of cheap labor in the farms is another reason why agricultural land is being lost/sold. Furthermore, the small size of many farms plots, does not make them amenable towards mechanization. To make matters worse, you have unqualified socialists like Soter who are against any forms of mechanization. Please do yourself and others a favor and talk to the landowners who have difficulty getting manual labor to work on their lands. From: Arwin Mesquita arwinmesqu...@gmail.com Please do write to the Goan Media on you support to Goa turning into a concrete Jungle. Let see the feedback. Also please do state you status, i.e. in Goa/NRI/ Citizen of another country It is the policies that you support this is causing to the loss of agricultural land. I would add another status category to your list above - Hypocrite NRI. I think that is an apt descriptor of you! Marlon
[Goanet] Death of Goa's fields - thanks to the lack of low cost manual labor
This is another example of hypocrisy by anti-immigrant, non-resident pseudo Goans like Arwin and Rajan. One reason why agriculture is a dying industry in Goa because of the lack of manpower. There is limited manpower thanks to the large out flow of Goans, like Arwin and Rajan to other parts of India and the world. Landowners would like to get access to manual labor to get farm work done, but we have anti-immigrant bashers like Arwin and Rajan, and extreme leftists like Soter who oppose such free movement of labor to satisfy market needs. Have these anti-free market, anti-immigrant clowns ever spoken to farmers and landowners about the problems they face? With the land lying fallow, it makes a lot of sense for the landowners to sell their properties to the construction industry. It is almost as if the anti-immigrant groups are working hand in glove with the land sharks. Marlon From: Rajan P. Parrikar parri...@yahoo.com On the way back to Panjim this morning from an early photo shoot in Loutolim, I saw a Goan farmer selling fresh vegetables by the roadside in Agacaim. Gaunthi vaingim - http://www.parrikar.org/images/samples/vaingim.jpg Looking at these magnificent brinjals I couldn't help but reflect on what might have been if Goan agriculture - and with it our traditional farmers, mostly gaude - had not been systematically destroyed and diminished. You can't get this quality of produce and its taste anywhere in the world, not even in fertile California.
Re: [Goanet] misfired price blame
There is no fuel blockade on Cuba. The fact that they cant afford to buy fuel is a testament to their economic failure. Not that I am against organic gardening. I would be happy to send Soter some of my home made compost. The problem with organic gardening is that it is very labor intensive and fundamentally very costly. The high cost of organic produce may not be a problem for an elitist like Soter, but I suspect it would be a problem for those who do not engage in dodgy real estate transactions or who do not have the benefit of a rich inheritance. If Soter would take the trouble to talk to farmers in Goa, he would realize that one of their biggest gripes is the lack of manpower. Oops, I forgot, the great Soter also happens to against the influx of cheap labor from other parts of India. Perhaps Soter can join the anti-immigrant, immigrant Arwin in introducing sustainable organic farming in the deserts of the middle east. Marlon From: soter so...@bsnl.in Why does everyone shy away from citing the greatest miracle of Cuba that managed to survive the economic blockade imposed on it just through revival of agriculture and that too totally organic? Traditional means of tilling the land were recommissioned to cope with lack of fuel for the machines. We have capitalist champions talking about freeing the controls. Now see what has happened to petrol prices in India. One cannot expect an urbanised mindset to understand anything except be slaves of an economy and porocure their food from food chains. -Soter
Re: [Goanet] misfired price blame
From: Venantius J Pinto venantius.pi...@gmail.com He did reject the factory model of industrialization,and rather preferred that a machine be kept idle than a man/person. This I deeply believed from the time I was around 20 that this should have been the model for India, Not having NAM and then chucking it all away. It is know that Gandhi preferred that money be in the pockets of the factory owners rather than extra money in the hands of the workers. -- Venantius, You do make a lot of sense. Why implement automation and industrialization when thousands of workers could be gainfully employed instead? With that in mind, why don't your trash your computer and hand deliver your reply to me and the other 10,000 (Fred, please provide latest count) or so netters. I guarantee that you will be fully employed with this task and I will also pay you the several fractions of a paise it currently costs me to receive my messages electronically! Please do not rely on any mechanized form of transport to deliver me your reply. From: Venantius J Pinto venantius.pi...@gmail.com Also when we look at the license raj etc., it helps to note that Mrs Gandhi took advice from industrialists -- right so, but who in the first place could not imagine the idea of competition, Most of them simply could not see other ways of operating and furthering a country like India. --- This is false. At the onset of independence, the very few large scale private enterprises that existed was taken over by the government - it was after all decreed that the government will occupy the commanding heights of the economy. The takeover of all banks, the airlines, energy and the steel industries are some examples that come to mind. From: soter so...@bsnl.in It is only when we withdraw from the 'Mad rush' which Gandhi spoke about, that will we be able to see the contradictions in what is called progress. When we produce for profits that the rotting of food begins, when we produce to sustain ourselves we can enjoy every bit of it. --- Is Soter suggesting we all revert to an agrarian lifestyle and spend 12 hours a day tending to our own vegetable patch gardens? I thought they tried it out in the Great Leap in China and apparently folks in N.Korea are still perfecting this model, without much success. You may be shocked to know that even not taking into account currency/PPP factors, much of the basic necessities such as food and clothing are cheaper in absolute terms in N.America and it is in India. I suspect the concepts of efficiency and productivity are alien to you. If you don't believe in such concepts, I suggest you join Venantius in hand delivering your reply to me. Just so that I can recognize you, make sure you grow a beard and wear a non-dyed loin cloth when you come. Marlon
Re: [Goanet] Rahul's misfired price blame
So are you saying that India should revert back to the days of even greater government controls? If anything, it is the very lack of continued economic liberalization that is in part contributing to this inflation. Some 40% of India's produce gets ruined even before it reaches the market place. India's food processing and logistics need to be opened up to the free market. Right now, international multi-brand stores are banned from entering the Indian market. Without that, there is not going to be any best of practices expertise and implementation in food processing and logistics management. The leftists and congress are reluctant to implement these reforms because it would go against the interests of a large chunk of their vote banks - the mom and pop retail vendors. However, the benefits to society would be huge. There would be significant increases in income in India's rural hinterland which could potentially slow down the crazy rush towards urbanization. Furthermore, the reduction in waste would serve to keep prices in check. Abusive big government tyranny is the biggest threat to its people. Marlon From: soter so...@bsnl.in To: goa...@goanet.org Sent: Wed, January 12, 2011 3:00:24 AM Subject: [Goanet] Rahul's misfired price blame Rahul Gandhi now seems confused over the rising food prices. Blaming it on the allies in government is not a mature political statement. The faster he realises that the country is paying for the disastrous adventures of the economist troika of Montek Singh Ahluwalia, Manmohan Singh and PC Chidambaram, the better will it be for the nation. The mad rush to become an economic super power is only going to contribute to a breakdown of peace in this country. This has already been predicted by Mahatma Gandhi when he said; A day will come when they will exclaim, 'What have we been doing?' One after another many civilisations have risen, flourished, declined and disappeared. And inspite of their big boast of human progress, I am invited to ask; To what end all this? What's the purpose? -Soter D'Souza
[Goanet] will be in the UK next weekend
Paulo, We are making a 3 day trip to the UK. Arriving on the 18th and leaving on the 21st. What is your phone #? Marlon Menezes Austin, Tx. Cell 512 968 4744
Re: [Goanet] Re.Goan migrants in the Gulf are causing harm to Arab
Arwin, You obviously replied in haste, because you did not check your facts: 1) I did not know that the Gulf countries were beaming centers of democracy for its locals. Last time I checked, most were ruled by monarchies who deny the rights of their citizens and continue to let in migrant lemmings to do their bidding. At least Goans have the choice of the ballot box. They fact that some of them are easily fooled by politicians who give them cheap tokens or token interviews, is another story! 2) I lived and grew up in the Middle East and know the drill there. They have been talking about measures to protect their identities and economies for an eternity. The bottom line is that so long as migrants like you continue to live and work there and continue to vastly outnumber the locals, their cultures and customs will continue to be overwhelmed. 3) As a migrant worker in the Gulf, you do not have any rights to gain local citizenship as you claim. Isn't it ironic that you proudly claim Indian citizenship, while living abroad, while you choose to deny other Indian citizens to travel, live and work in parts of their own country! As for me, how do you know that I am still not an Indian citizen? In any case, I don't go around like a hypocrite asking that Indian citizen migrants be thrown out of Goa. The bottom line still remains: if you want to prevent migrants from coming in and taking jobs that you would have done, why don't you move back to Goa? You will also contribute to preserving the local Arab cultures that are under threat from migrants such as you. Again, please read this article to understand the destructive impact migrants like you are having on the native and now minority Arabs. Your simple act of moving back to Goa will alleviate both issues and perhaps people will take you more seriously. I know I will! http://www.nytimes.com/2010/05/14/world/middleeast/14qatar.html Qataris do not see themselves as coddled. Sure, they do not have to pay for electricity, water, education or health care, and they are given land and low-cost loans to build houses when they marry. They are eligible for public assistance if they do not have a job, often receive generous pensions and acknowledge they will not take any jobs they do not consider suitable for them. But they also complain that they do not get paid as much as foreigners, and that foreigners get most of the top jobs in critical industries, like finance, higher education and the media. There is also pervasive frustration that English has become the language of employment, not Arabic, and that local hospitals, restaurants, markets and streets are always crowded with foreigners. “There is a crisis here,” said Muhammad al-Mesfer, a political science professor at Qatar University. “The foreigners are crowding us out.” The tension in Qatar is similar to what has surfaced in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, where local people are also vastly outnumbered by foreigners and are sometimes likened to colonial rulers in their own land. Marlon - Original Message From: Arwin Mesquita arwinmesqu...@gmail.com To: Goanet goa...@goanet.org Sent: Wed, June 30, 2010 12:42:09 PM Subject: [Goanet] Re.Goan migrants in the Gulf are causing harm to Arab Marlon: -Perhaps you are deliberately ignorant of the fact that Goan Migrants do not get Citizenship, neither do they influence the Politics as they dont have voting rights - Perhaps you are even more Ignorant of the fact that Arab Government are slowly but surely adopting measure to protect thier identity. -It appears you are more defensive with the objective to protect your immigrant status in you adopted country. Unlike many I could have also given up my citizenship but chose not to..
[Goanet] Goan migrants in the Gulf are causing harm to Arab culture
Arwin has very little credibility in this matter: 1) He lives in the Gulf and wants to prevent people from other parts of India to move to Goa. 2) Unlike Goa, the expat populations in the Gulf far outnumber the local Arab populations. While so called Goan patriots such as Arvin call for the preservation of Goan culture from the hoards of outsiders coming into Goa, folks like him who live in the Gulf, outnumber the local Arab population and are contributing to the destruction of the local Arab cultures. Arwin can contribute to solving both issues by simply moving back to Goa. Unless Arwin is brave enough to do this, he is not a Goan patriot, but a phony hypocrite. Here is a relevant article regarding the issues being faced by the Arab locals, thanks to the destructive effects of immigrant workers like Arwin. http://www.nytimes.com/2010/05/14/world/middleeast/14qatar.html Qataris do not see themselves as coddled. Sure, they do not have to pay for electricity, water, education or health care, and they are given land and low-cost loans to build houses when they marry. They are eligible for public assistance if they do not have a job, often receive generous pensions and acknowledge they will not take any jobs they do not consider suitable for them. But they also complain that they do not get paid as much as foreigners, and that foreigners get most of the top jobs in critical industries, like finance, higher education and the media. There is also pervasive frustration that English has become the language of employment, not Arabic, and that local hospitals, restaurants, markets and streets are always crowded with foreigners. “There is a crisis here,” said Muhammad al-Mesfer, a political science professor at Qatar University. “The foreigners are crowding us out.” The tension in Qatar is similar to what has surfaced in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, where local people are also vastly outnumbered by foreigners and are sometimes likened to colonial rulers in their own land. “There are about 300 employees at my work and only 4 or 5 Qataris,” said Mr. Ali, the technician at an electric company. “I walk into work and I feel like I am in India.” Marlon - Original Message From: Frederick Noronha fredericknoro...@gmail.com To: Goa's premiere mailing list, estb. 1994! goanet@lists.goanet.org Sent: Tue, June 29, 2010 12:57:13 PM Subject: Re: [Goanet] Goan Tolerance (Letter in Goan Daily OHeraldo) Arwin, Are you suggesting that the borders of other states are closed to Goans going and settling there? We already have what you call a jolly good cocktail... and Goans have been benefitting from this for some generations now. FN On 29 June 2010 17:33, Arwin Mesquita arwinmesqu...@gmail.com wrote: Lets put ur logic to all other Indian States and Other Indian Countries. How are Indian States divided today? Why have borders/identities and lets be a jolly good cocktail? Let everyone do it and perhaps I could agree!!
Re: [Goanet] World Cup sweepstake entries....
My congrats to Elora and Milan for winning this competition :-) Marlon Menezes - Original Message From: Gabe Menezes gabe.mene...@gmail.com GERMANY - Elora Lobo; Milan Kojnok
Re: [Goanet] No woman is safe… Letter to the Editor in Herald
I do find it strange that someone would mix up toothpaste with rat poison. Furthermore, the family's public comments should not necessarily be taken at face value. Perhaps they have been threatened or been paid off by the powers that be. That fact that the deceased has been linked to a poli-goon makes this whole episode very suspicious. Marlon Menezes - Original Message From: Gabe Menezes gabe.mene...@gmail.com RESPONSE: The girl's folks contend that Nadia died after mistakenly brushing her teeth with 'Ratol' - guess she might have ingested some...who doesn't ingest toothpaste? There is no one else involved with her sad demise - end of story as far as the family is concerned. In come the women activists, quickly followed by the Police - Chances of getting anyone in this mess imlicated, are remote if not downright impossible. Any proof will have long disappeared if there was any. Records of Mobile phone calls mean nothing - they were family friends! Nothing will stick, now over to you voters of Benaulim Consitituency - stick to your dorji who killed seven with one blow. http://fairytales4u.com/story/sevenat.htm
Re: [Goanet] Subject: Re: For Goa?s sake, pl help achieving this target
Carmen, While your quest is noble, the online effort as structured may not be very effective. Almost 15 years ago, we had an online effort to set up an internet node in Goa - which was one of the first few nodes in India. There was an online petition component, which at that time got a lot of attention from the powers that be because it was novel. However, the key factor was getting many people and organizations on board. The current online petition has the following weaknesses: 1) As mentioned below, a online petition is not viewed as seriously as a hard copy petition. In fact in many multi-channel campaigns, an online signature is given a fraction of the weight as a signed signature. The reason of course is that the effort involved in garnering signatures online is trivial compared to a paper effort. 2) There is of course the issue of lack of verification of individual's identities which again reduces the legitimacy of the effort. 3) I may be wrong, but the effort seems to have been done in isolation and does not give the reader a close connection to the issues being faced. My suggestions are as follows: 1) There are many NGO and environmental groups and individuals who I would think would support this effort. Why not join up with them and form an integrated marketing effort with pictures, video and data to highlight this issue. Much of the content is already out there. Once this is done, an effort needs to be made to advertise it on as many online forums and websites as possible. 2) When you are online, it is very difficult to surmount the issue of identity verification. Still, interfacing it with social networking sites such as facebook would give a lot more weight to each signature as it would tend to give more credence to the signer being real. Marlon Menezes Austin, Tx. - Original Message From: Carmen Miranda carmitamira...@gmail.com To: goanet@lists.goanet.org Sent: Thu, April 29, 2010 4:47:38 AM Subject: [Goanet] Subject: Re: For Goa?s sake, pl help achieving this target Dear Mr Tony de Sa Regarding your reply to Venantius questions: Re[1] This is a very moot point. IMHO A physical i.e. paper petition is worth much more than an electronic one. When a physical petition is sent, there is acknowledgment by the receiver/ receiver's office. This gives the petition a reasonable chance of being seen by the addressee. As a rule I do not generally sign an email petition because the collection of email ids generated by the petition would make a spammer's day. Re: [2] In Goa at least this was not done. Like everyone else Mr de Sa, you are entitled to your opinion about this petition. However, I would like to point out that we are now living in a Global Village, and this is the era of internet technology and communication. The electronic petition is a modern way to tackle petitions and in our case was the only way to also give an opportunity to goans all over the world who are very concerned and distressed about what is going on in Goa to express their feelings and get involved. As it happens the Minister of Environment and Forests Jairam Ramesh is a modern minister using the modern technology of communications all the time, and is someone who we happen to know reads e-mails and responds to people who try to communicate with him. If at all necessary we can also send him a print out of the petition, but that would be a waste of paper. I myself participate in many such international petitions which have proved to be very efective. I don't get any spam as a result of participating in such international efforts. Finally, when was the last time you tried to get a goan in Goa to go from door to door, or stand in places of worship and public places trying to get signatures for a petition? You can't even get them to sign this petition which does not require any physical effort and time! We did actually try to get paper signatures in Goa for your information and failed. Carmen Miranda
Re: [Goanet] win 'humbles' Obama.
- Original Message From: J. Colaco jc cola...@gmail.com marlon menezes wrote: [1] MD, do you use your auto insurance when you do an oil change or routine work on you car? [2]Likewise, why should insurance come into the picture for routine medical care? [3]The whole notion of using insurance for routine care is bogus. [4]While there are some benefits (such as reducing costly emergency care) the new system only propagates this concept of using the costly insurance system for routine care for the entire population. COMMENT: From: J. Colaco jc cola...@gmail.com Isn't the Auto insurance that Marlon refers to - an insurance in case of a Collision? Is an (say) oil change necessitated by a collision? If not, why is he using that example to make a indefensible point? --- My point is that why do we have to bring in the insurance system that entails costly over head/paper work/documentation/high fixed cost etc for routine health care? It is like using a costly Saturn V rocket to pick up groceries. In my opinion, routine care should be a low cost direct cash transaction between the doctor and the patient, with no involvement of the bureaucracy. Would you rather prevent (say) Measles, Chicken Pox, Diphtheria, Tetanus, Whooping cough than treat those conditions? Would you rather identify the presence of early High Blood Pressure than treat the complications? --- I fully agree that prevention is better and more importantly, cheaper than the cure, to which I would add the corollary, that cheaper routine preventative care is better than expensive routine care. The costs of most of these routine care treatments are detections is quite low - unless one gets the insurance process involved, which then balloons the costs. This is true regardless whether it is paid for via the employee/employer or the government. The reforms are basically just passing the buck from the employee/employer to the government. While there will probably be cost savings from the reduction in costly emergency care, it will do nothing to reduce the costs of routine care. Furthermore, knowing how inefficiently governments work, routine care costs will probably increase. Again, I am not really arguing about public/private insurance coverage. What I am stating is that there has to be a monetary threshold before the expensive insurance system kicks in. Having a high cost bureaucracy (public or private) to deal with what should be low cost routine care, makes everything expensive. One way the insurance companies have tried to incorporate this concept is via a cumulative deductible. Jim gave an example of the $3000 deductible he has for his family. However, even here, the insurance process/bureaucracy is still involved (to a lesser degree perhaps) in tracking the deductible amounts, so the cost savings are not fully gained. The cost savings with this approach may be around 10-15%. On the other hand, if one were to skip the insurance bureaucracy for routine care, routine care costs could be even lower. Marlon
Re: [Goanet] win 'humbles' Obama.
Mervyn, There is a lot of fat in state (and federal) budgets that can and should be cut. For all its capitalist credentials, the average public sector (federal, state and cities) worker is better paid and has better benefits than one in the private sector. A lot of them have been promised lavish pensions that have not been budgeted for and reversing such entitlements will be very challenging from a legal point of view. The amount of abuse by state are quite incredible. For example pensions are based on the employee's last annual salary, so employees often spike their pre-retirement salaries by working overtime in their last year. Another common trick is to retire for a few years and join back again after a few years (as per local laws). Net result? These workers are effectively taking in a double salary thanks to their pension and salary with their new job. BTW, it was just announced today that the US Social Security program will experience a negative cash outflow this year. The earlier estimate was 2017. And now of course, we have this new boondoggle known as public health care. I'm sorry, but many aspects of society here has just gotten plain lazy if not spoilt. We just expect a lot for doing nothing. When I see bums begging for money in America, I am often tempted to give them a piece of my mind on what real poverty is. Marlon Menezes Austin, Tx. - Original Message From: Mervyn Lobo mervynal...@yahoo.ca While the US residents ponder how much more taxes they will have to pay for the new medical system in the country, the rest of the world has a weightier problem i.e. Should US states be allowed to go bankrupt? When you lend money to a company, you know the risks involved and you get a premium corresponding to the risk you take. On the other hand, people lending money to US states got low rewards as they relied on the fact that the state could always raise revenue by increasing taxes. Now that it is becoming clearer that some states and even the federal govt is in no position to raise taxes, because of the state of the US economy and the large number of unemployed people, there is this huge possibility that some govts will be unable to service their debts and will default on them. If you or your financial institution has lent money to a state govt, these are interesting times This new health system was long over due but the US will pay dearly for it. Mervyn1092Lob
Re: [Goanet] win 'humbles' Obama.
Vivian, As my late advisor in Grad school used to say, if something is being offered to you for free, you better watch out. The fact is nothing is or was ever free - unless you believe in the proverbial statement that money grows on trees. Even a socialist knows that! The pre-Obama socialized health care system forced medical institutions to provide free emergency health care to individuals regardless of their ability to pay. Two problems with that: First of all, emergency care is multiple times more costly to the hospital than routine care. Secondly, these costs are then passed on by the hospitals to those who have insurance, thus resulting in society and industry still having to pay for these costs. So, what exactly is free, or free market in the pre-Obama set up? Regarding the reforms that are being proposed, I have serious doubts about anything that has significant government involvement in it and am absolutely against it. In my opinion, we should be moving to a more pay at the point of service system in which routine care does not involve the the insurance middle men, who needlessly complicate the process. The whole point of insurance, whether for one's home, or one's vehicle or for health should be to take care of the unforeseen disasters - and not for day to day/routine issues. If I seek routine care in America and I tell the health provider that I wish to pay with cash, discounts of as much as 50% are possible because it saves them the costs and hassles of having to deal with the insurance companies. Marlon Menezes Austin, Tx. - Original Message From: viviana viviana_coe...@yahoo.com To: Goa's premiere mailing list, estb. 1994! goanet@lists.goanet.org Sent: Mon, March 22, 2010 11:47:28 PM Subject: Re: [Goanet] win 'humbles' Obama. Mervyn - Thank you for your response. I just can't figure out what it has to do with what I wrote? The fact remains that EVERYONE in the States has access to immediate health care, regardless of ability to pay; my nephew is only one example, I know many people who have the benefit of the best medical care in the world and they pay ZERO for it. ZERO ZILCH NADA NIENTE RIEN. So what's the point of putting a bureacracy between people and their physicians if not to get rich from it? Obama is in the pocket of the insurance industry or why would he want to force everyone in the country to buy insurance? Simple, HE AND HIS FRIENDS ARE GOING TO GET RICHER. Viv
[Goanet] Uncouth Goans and Goan Jews (was Rupya Reputation)
As a Goan Jew, I can say that we would have no issues with India adopting the swastik as a symbol of its currency. Most of us are quite aware of Hindu symbols and the need, nay the right, for Hindus and India to express its heritage with pride. The alliance and mutual understanding between Jews and Hindus is quite natural as we were both targets of Christian aggression and imperialism. Goan catholics in particular need to wake up from their slumber and cease the comical worship of their ONE god(s) ... you know, God the father et al, the Mother of god and the endless demi-Gods also known as the saints. And, what is it with Goans and their disgusting affinity to be named after anti-Jewish tyrants? I understand that there are quite a few Hitlers and Stalins living in Goa. In fact, isn't there a person by the name of Naz.. er.. Nasci on goanet? When a person such as this is allowed to broadcast his bigotry and intolerance on this forum, it sends shivers down my spine. The few prominent Churchills around, cannot make up for the verbal and emotional torture we Jews suffer, when we hear their names and what they have to say. Besides their terrible choices with names and their religion, catholic Goan cuisine is quite horrid as well. To have names such as Leitao is one thing, but to be eating a leitao makes me dream of the finer cuisine that was served to the prisoners in Aushwitz. Perhaps it is because I was scarred for life as a child. My renunciation of my imposed christian faith and Goan culture was sealed when I had to take the throne in my grand mothers house and watch the pigs lap it up from underneath me ... and not much later to have the same animal served to me on a plate. It does not stop there. The look of a goan sausage, all twirled up in a tidy brown pile is quite visually assaulting - if you know what I mean. If you want to eat pork, that is fine, but why do you take pleasure in eating it in a form that also resembles the animal's staple diet? Presumably this is Nasci's definition of a pork consuming Modern Goan culture! There are a lot of non-resident Goans who continue to screech about the non-Goan influx into Goa. Let me say that contrary to your christian tenant that we Jews are cheap, the fact is that we are rich and spend a lot of money. It is our desire to have another Jewish homeland in N.Goa and there are a lot of you willing to sell it to us at market rates. FYI, the next time, you visit the Goan Jewish territories of Aramabol, please make sure you respect our refined culture and values. Uncouth catholic Goans, with evil sounding names should stay away however. Shalom, Marlon - Original Message From: Nascy Caldeira nascy...@yahoo.com.au Well, mine is a 'modern Goan Indian' culture with a worldly look, not a narrow parochial one like the majority of Indians; and I must say, I had cultivated this modern Indian Culture much much before, I landed Down Under. My migration to being 'Modern Man' in the international sense was made possible first by my ancestors in Goa, who broke away from the conservative primitive madness of the Indian tradition, and reformed; that is, so many of us; so much so that we can integrate and make ourselves 'at home' in any culture, anywhere in the world, and Be Accepted!!! Sad to say that I feel most uncomfortable with the traditional Indian Culture whilst not only in India but even in the Goa of today. Why? Because everything is so much 'pochpochit' !!! No Hard Feelings! I mourn for the 'primitiveness' of the majority of Indians. I identify myself as truly modern and worldly integrating person of Indian origin. I love BEEF and BACON; most of the world does! Nascy Caldeira. - Original Message From: Cecil Pinto cecilpi...@gmail.com Geometrically, the Swastika can be regarded as (the area inside of) an irregular icosagon or 20-sided polygon. The proportions of the Nazi swastika were fixed based on a 5x5 diagonal grid. Characteristic is the 90° rotational symmetry and chirality, hence the absence of reflectional symmetry, and the existence of two versions of swastikas that are each other's mirror image.
Re: [Goanet] How many researchers are sincere to their research ?
There is academic research and there is industrial research. In academic research, where the results are public, the work is verified/replicated by competitor research groups. Since competition is fierce, every legitimate attempt is made the competitors to poke holes in the results, for it inevitably could mean more funding for the party that comes up with the best explanation or result. I'm sure many are familiar with the gene cloning fraud case in Korea recently, or the discredited cold fusion work about two decades ago. Yes, one can fake the results for a short while, but rather quickly, you will get caught. In industrial research, the end goal is to make the end product work in a way that is better (e.g. higher throughput, better quality/capability) and cheaper that what is currently out there, with the final critic being the end use customer. Again, one can't really fake your results, or else in the end, the company's profitability will be affected. What the company will usually do is that it will make attempts to maintain secrecy of or IP protect the approach taken to achieve the results. Folks like Gabriel and Mario seem to be quite out of touch, if not ignorant on how research is conducted and verified in academia and industry. Bottom line is that one does not rely on a scientist's or company's integrity or sincerity, but rather, on the impersonal collective exchange and verification of results to determine what works and what doesn't. Marlon - Original Message From: Santosh Helekar chimbel...@yahoo.com Samir is mistaken. The peer-review process and scientific research have served humanity quite well. They are singularly responsible for all the scientific and technological advancement on which Samir and Gabriel depend for their day to day living and livelihood. The self-regulatory and self-corrective mechanisms that are uniquely built into the nature of science ensure that truth always prevails over falsehood in the long run. Cheers, Santosh --- On Tue, 2/2/10, Samir Kelekar samir_kele...@yahoo.com wrote: If the results of your research means that you will lose a huge amount of funding, how many researchers will be sincere to their research and publish their findings sincerely? Some may not publish false things, but may remain silent and not publish contrary results. In many areas, research today is a game that is funded by big finance. And one requires very high level of integrity to stick to one's research findings, and go ahead. samir
Re: [Goanet] Colva (CD), Maina-Curtorim, Rachol, Fatorda etc - A report
Romeo, This is the Lord speading. How dare you claim to be GODfrey? Let me assure you that Joe's post below is in keeping with my intentions. You do know that I work in mysterious ways. Everything is under control and there is no need for you earthlings to stress too much about this issue. Rest assured that I have blessed Joe with abundant chalice fulls of peace and love. Lord nolRam. - Original Message From: Romeo Ferns dedicated2...@yahoo.com Hello Joe. Your tirade against Fr. Diego is astounding.Accusations of this kind are uncalled for unless you can substantiate them.If we catholics accuse our priests in such a manner, then what can we expect from our non christian friends. No wonder we have so many attacks on our churches. The best thing under such circumstances is to offer a prayer for Fr. Diego so that the good Lord will intervene and resolve the issue in His own way and in His time. Get rid of the malice you hold in your heart for Fr. Diego and I am sure that the Lord will bless you with peace and joy. Godfrey Rasquinha United Arab Emirates - Original Message From: JoeGoaUk joego...@yahoo.co.uk To: goa...@goanet.org Sent: Tue, January 26, 2010 4:42:19 PM Subject: [Goanet] Colva (CD), Maina-Curtorim, Rachol, Fatorda etc - A report Colva (CD), Maina-Curtorim, Rachol, Fatorda etc - A report So, it was right about the news that was making rounds on the internet (including some pvt mails into my inbox) that the priest did help or helping a lady including help with the new house. The report (see link below) also says that..
Re: [Goanet] Attack the Message - Not the Messenger!
Fred, What in Eddie's message makes you think that he is being defensive about attacks on NRGs? You're making an issue of a non-issue. All he said was that he was tired of the bickering. Personally, I love the bickering on goanet. Where else would one get such free entertainment? Keep in coming guys! Marlon - Original Message From: Frederick Noronha fredericknoro...@gmail.com My good and every-helpful long-time friend (since 1995 at least) Eddie Fernandes has many positive things to be said about him. But one aspect I disagree strongly with is his tendency to get ultra-defensive whenever expats are criticised... or get worked up when our dubious political class here threatens the questionably-bought properties of British expats here :-) We can agree to disagree, of course. But what is this about concentrating on the message, and not the messenger? Expats or even resident-Goans for that matter are not messengers here... They are key players in this you-versus-us drama.
[Goanet] The goan connection to the US president (was Poor American)
There is a Goan connection to the current American president. Fitz D'souza (http://lists.goanet.org/pipermail/goanet-goanet.org/2009-April/176250.html) , in a story told to me at this year's New Year's eve party at his house in Bambolim, told me that he was one of three on the committee who decided on the scholarship application of Barack's father to come to the US. Good or bad, the rest is history. Marlon - Original Message From: Tony de Sa tonyde...@gmail.com and then wondered why he can't find a good paying job in AMERICA AND NOW HE'S HOPING HE CAN GET HELP FROM A PRESIDENT MADE IN KENYA GOD BLESS AMERICA. UP THE STARS AND STRIPES.
Re: [Goanet] Talibanisation of Colva
--- http://www.GOANET.org --- Happy New Year Twenty-Ten --- Fred, Calvert is incommunicado, for obvious reasons. Some more facts on Calvert: He is another infamous alumnus from Mt. Abu and my classmate, who went by the pet name of crow or Kallu thanks to his name, dark complexion and his love of animals. He introduced me to birding and he and I would somtimes bunk school and go into the forests to check out the wildlife. Being in a bording school in the middle of nowhere, partaking in such an activity was highly illegal and subject to severe physical punishment. Luckily, we never got caught. While I have reformed ;-) it looks like Calvert has continued to be a rebel. Marlon - Original Message From: Frederick Noronha fredericknoro...@gmail.com Calvert Dogui Bodmas Gonsalves should be able to, as you appear to be on his Facebook friends list :-) http://www.facebook.com/friends/?id=819657172 FN 2009/12/30 marlon menezes goa...@yahoo.com: For once I fully agree with Soter. The attack by the church mob on the person's property, and more specifically, one that was holding his mother, child and wife needs to be condemned. Hopefully, the publicity will result in greater commercial success of his music video. Is there anyone who can provide me with the name and contact information of the priest?
Re: [Goanet] Talibanisation od Colva
Soter, Yes, basically, I have disagreed with pretty much all of your posts - until now. Your comments on the mob attacks on Calvert partly make up for it :-) Does anyone have the contact information of Bishop Nieare (spelling??). We need to our voice heard at the highest levels of the church. Marlon - Original Message From: soter so...@bsnl.in To: goa...@goanet.org Sent: Wed, December 30, 2009 2:27:35 PM Subject: Re: [Goanet] Talibanisation od Colva Marlon said: For once I fully agree with Soter.. Marlon, is it the case that you disagree with everything else from Soter? Time and experience is the best judge.-soter
Re: [Goanet] Talibanisation of Colva
For once I fully agree with Soter. The attack by the church mob on the person's property, and more specifically, one that was holding his mother, child and wife needs to be condemned. Hopefully, the publicity will result in greater commercial success of his music video. Is there anyone who can provide me with the name and contact information of the priest? Thanks Marlon - Original Message From: soter so...@bsnl.in To: goa...@goanet.org Sent: Tue, December 29, 2009 5:48:36 PM Subject: [Goanet] Talibanisation of Colva The attack on the house and other property of a person from Colva accused of producing a controversial CD is to be condemned. Such means resorted to by so called followers of Jesus Christ, that too during Christmas, and supposedly provoked by lay church leaders is all the more deplorable. Are we any beter than the Bajrang Dal, Ram Sena, Taliban and all such fanatical fringe elements that suppress freedom of expression through terror. The hurt sentiments are understandable but will violence acheive any solution? In fact, the attack on the producer generates more publicity, curiosity and sympathy among the people which would only boost the sales of the CD. Instead of denying his involvement in inciting the parishioners as reported in a section of the press, the Parish Priest should have outrightly condmened such use of violence as it is against christian teachings. It is unfortunate that people of Goa have got enough time and energy to quarrel on issues of religion but hardly anyone reacts over abuses against the human person, especially woman and children, and the mass scale rape and plunder of Goa's natural resources. Will Goans invest their capacities and energies for more productive purposes in the New Year 2010 in order to establish the kingdom of Justice and Peace in the world which the message of Christmas is all about? -Soter D'Souza
Re: [Goanet] Goa _ The paradise of criminals
Soter, You are unfortunately wrong, but in a good way! The real issue here is the negative impact tourism is having on Goa's unique culture. As you have so eloquently said so many times on this forum, Goa's culture needs to be protected at all costs from the evils of tourism, mining, the ghattis etc. The taxi drivers were probably drunk, thanks to the unique Goan culture of cheap (but good) booze. Also, they were simply trying to send a message to the tourists that they are not welcome here - something you will surely appreciate. I think your shrill cries for protecting Goa are finally getting though even to the taxi drivers! Marlon - Original Message From: soter so...@bsnl.in To: goa...@goanet.org Sent: Sat, December 26, 2009 1:48:53 PM Subject: [Goanet] Goa _ The paradise of criminals The corrupted society of Goa has once again demonstrated that it's enemy is within. Russian women had to spend the early morning hours of the Christmas hiding in the forest to evade the advances of their rapists. Our taxi drivers and motorcycle pilots were one of the safest mode of public transport and women would trust this mode of transport even late into the night. But now the news that a taxi driver had tried to rape some Russian women is very very very sad, but not at all surprising. Just like politicians and police have lost control over their sexual urge, even the public transport operators seem to be succumbing to their lustful desires. The naked truth that Goa has been highly criminalised is being exposed day in and day out. How long will everyone deny this? What more ghastly proof do we Goans require to be shaken up from our denial mode? Now what will Goa's ostrich Chief Minister Digmabara and North Goa MP Shanty Naik have to say? Going by their rhetoric, the answer will possibly be 'women must not travel by public transport in Goa. -Soter
Re: [Goanet] Goa to host India�s first carbon neutr al wedding
What Fred is actually saying is that as far as the environment in concerned, it is better that humanity remains of limited economic means - after all, the poorer you are, the less likely you are to over consume and thus emit less carbon. Unfortunately given Fred's leftist leanings, he also seems to be saying that remaining poor is also the solution to this problem. Given that today's economy is based on cheap carbon based energy, one can in general make the link between carbon emission and wealth/consumption. The solution to this is in the switch to non carbon based energy sources that continues to experience tremendous drops in costs due to technological progress. The second leg to this solution is to reduce the energy intensity per unit of production by increasing efficiency. As much as 40% of one's carbon foot print comes from one's home. In many places in the US, solar is already cost competitive with the grid, if the costs are amortized over 30 years. Unfortunately, this also means that users have to pay steep upfront costs to get such a system going. Many cities/utilities are now allowing these costs to be amortized via property taxes. Effectively, the home owners get a loan from the utility or city to pay for the set-up. They then payback the loan through higher property taxes, while saving the equivalent amount through lower utility bills. It is a zero sum game for the consumer, but a plus for the environment. The other advantage with this set-up is that it is portable. If the owner sells the home, the setup (costs and savings) are automatically and invisibly transferred to the new owner. The transfer rights/costs under this system are far less complicated than if the first owner paid for the system outright. With subsidies etc, the costs can be even lower. I recently converted our home to solar power. My long term solar costs come to around 3.9c/kwhr. This compares with the commercial rate from the utility at 11c/kwhr. Even better, these costs remain fixed over the life (30yrs) of the panels, while one can safely assume utility costs will increase over this equivalent period. Even with the recession in the US, demand for clean energy (primarily wind and solar) continues to increase at a rapid rate due to steady decreases in costs. This year for example, growth rates in the US are estimated to be around 40%. Over the past decade, it has been around 20% per year, compounded. Right now, thanks to very generous subsidies, the biggest market in the world by far is Germany (around 50% of the world's solar demand). However, based on current trends, the US will inevitably become the largest consumer of solar power within the next decade. Marlon - Original Message From: Gabriel de Figueiredo gdefigueir...@yahoo.com.au To: Goa's premiere mailing list, estb. 1994! goanet@lists.goanet.org Sent: Mon, December 14, 2009 5:57:11 AM Subject: Re: [Goanet] Goa to host India�s first carbon neutral wedding FN, Who said anything about planting trees in a rural setting? Plant them where you are - make sure you have enough space for trees when you are building a house. The context in which I said whatever I said was in the context of a couple getting married. Right. This means a house, in the long run, and children (if the couple are so endowed - there are lots of people not so lucky to have children, but that is another story). This is nothing to do with the rich and greedy and the foreign countries (do I sense envy here?), but is everything about being practical. Controlling population is not an old bogey. It is stark reality, and if you haven't already felt its effects in that super-populated area, it is high time you did. The more feet you have the more you consume.. Add to that greater affluence and access to modern trinkets, and you have massive pollution both in creation and in destruction of material goods, aside from being able to produce sufficient food and grain. Gabriel. - Original Message From: Frederick Noronha fredericknoro...@gmail.com To: Goa's premiere mailing list, estb. 1994! goanet@lists.goanet.org Sent: Sat, 12 December, 2009 11:52:05 AM Subject: Re: [Goanet] Goa to host India�s first carbon neutral wedding Theoretically, the trees would be planted in some rural setting in the 'developing' world, bringing money to the poor. But won't this result in a double-whammy really? The super-rich, rich and middle-classes, freed of the guilt of the responsibility, could easily go on to consume more AND the poor, getting the advantage of heightened purchasing power, would also do likewise? ... On one point though, a bit to differ: don't blame overpopulation alone. This has been made into a bogey for many decades now. The bigger threat, even here in the context of the Indian (and Goan) affluent classes, is over-consumption! FN
[Goanet] Technical analysis of mixing Virgin coconut oil with Holy water
Photos from Goa's 2009 mando festival: http://www.flickr.com/photos/fn-goa/sets/72157622843319441/ Event on Wed, Thurs evening from 5 pm onwards, Kala Academy, Panaji-Goa Dear Dr/Fr. Ivo, President Floriano and St. Fred: Some of my family members are strong believers in the power of holy water. Since the three of you have provided irrefutable proof on the power of virgin coconut oil, my obvious question is what do you think about the combination of the two? One would think that the multiplying/interaction effect could contribute to a tremendous revolution in personal wellbeing! When one mixes things, we must of course understand the interaction parameter between the constituents. For example, would mixing the oil with the holy water make the water less holy? My gut feeling tells me no, after all, the oil being virgin, should have a high level of holiness associated with it. On the other hand, if one were to mix non virgin oil ... things could get pretty screwed up, no pun intended. There would of course be some technical challenges. We all know that one can't simply just mix oil and water. Duh! One would need some sort of emulsifying agent to bind the holy water to the oil. Detergents are a good emulsifying agent. I postulate that detergents are quite holy - after all it is said that cleanliness is next to godliness. With the technical analysis complete, the next step would be to conduct clinical trials on unholy ailments such as AIDS and Erectile Dysfunction (ED). For this we should be able to count of Floriano's large voter bank that will theoretically going to vote for him during the next erection. Good publicity is key as well. For that, we can rely on the power of Goanet and its patron saint Fred to reach all the non-migrant infested corners of Goa (due to limited quantities, this Goan medical revolution will be reserved for Goans only). All true Goans having symptoms of blue blood, your miracle cure awaits you! Amen. Marlon - Original Message From: Ivo da C.Souza icso...@bsnl.in ***People die at any age. In our families there have been people who lived for long years (80 or more). But even today there are people who die young. Statistics will not give us accurately the data. True, medicine has advanced today by leaps and bounds. Yet there are limitations and other risk factors. People die young. Old people who have preserved themselves well can live for long (90 and more), not because of modern medicine, but because of self-care. Modern medicine helps, as well as homeopathy and other medical systems, and careful diet, prayer and peaceful environment. No one knows about the future. Regards. Fr.Ivo
Re: [Goanet] Where are the Goans?
As Goanet's patron saint, Fred is holier than thou. In Fred's world, if you live abroad, believe in free market capitalism, don't have a long beard, don't wear thick rimmed nerdy glasses and don't walk around in sandals (the cane is optional though) and keep muttering something about linux, open source, copyleft, open communism, er, commons, you cannot be one of the chosen few. George, did you not shave off your beard recently? Tsk, tsk. Marlon - Original Message From: George Pinto georgejpi...@yahoo.com To: estb. 1994!Goa's premiere mailing list goanet@lists.goanet.org Sent: Tue, November 24, 2009 12:13:16 AM Subject: Re: [Goanet] Where are the Goans? Frederick logic in the statement below suffers and here is why: what some expat Goans (myself) have been writing is very similar to what Goans in Goa are writing, saying on some current issues in Goa. Is it Frederick's position that expat Goans are wrong simply by virtue of being expats? George --- On Mon, 11/23/09, Frederick Noronha fredericknoro...@gmail.com wrote: I doubt very much that fulminations from another continent (or during holidays here) are going to take us any closer to the solutions that Goa need. FN
Re: [Goanet] Questioning the conventional wisdom on global warming
It looks like Mario gets his inspiration from Iran's Ahmednijad's school of thought. The latter claims that there was no holocaust. Given that only 0.2% of the world's population was eradicated in the gas chambers, I guess it is easy for both Mario and Ahmednijad to assume that such small fractions are inconsequential! Marlon - Original Message From: Mario Goveia mgov...@sbcglobal.net To: goanet@lists.goanet.org Sent: Mon, November 9, 2009 1:19:04 PM Subject: [Goanet] Questioning the conventional wisdom on global warming Mario Goveia wrote: Let's leave aside for now the questionable notion that 0.04% [rounded off] of a clear gas in the atmosphere can trap heat like a greenhouse while letting in heat from the sun.
[Goanet] Business Week's Asia's Best Young Entrepreneurs
One of them is Carlos Fernandes. He is of Goan origin from Mumbai and is currently based in Singapore. He was in the Bay Area for a short one year stint about 5 years ago. http://www.businessweek.com/globalbiz/content/sep2009/gb20090911_669889.htm
Re: [Goanet] Subject: Re: For Rs. 50,000/-, they killed 4 people
Mario is turning out to be quite the ladies man. No wonder Gabe is a little upset. Watch out Isabella! Just because Mario says he is tall, dark and handsome does not mean it is so. This is the internet! Marlon - Original Message From: Isabella Rebello-Hamm nandina...@gmx.net To: goanet@lists.goanet.org Sent: Tue, November 3, 2009 5:41:11 AM Subject: [Goanet] Subject: Re: For Rs. 50,000/-, they killed 4 people Thank you Mario! You are not only educated but also a gentleman. I respect you. Isabella.
Re: [Goanet] Healthcare in America
Sorry, but the whole concept of medical insurance in the US needs to be revisited. If I have a flat tire, or have to do an oil change, does my auto insurance cover it? No. Likewise, why does one need to get insurance into the mix for routine care? By its very definition, insurance, should be for catastrophic coverage and maybe for the very young. Yet, if I have have a cold, my super duper insurance system invariably gets involved. A simple visit will cost the system several hundreds of dollars. Yet, if one were to offer to pay the doctor cash, discounts of as much as 50% are quite normal. The proposed reforms will do very little to cut down such overhead and in the long run, will probably increase costs - after all the government is a bottomless pit in its ability to print money. I say no to routine care coverage for the general population, including the aged. If the aged were not intelligent enough to plan for higher routine, non catastrophic medical costs, too bad. Likewise, most provisions of the extravagant medicare system passed by the equally wasteful Republicans that covers prescription drugs for seniors needs to be scrapped. Bringing in insurance to deal with routine care leads to higher costs for the industry and masks the true costs for the end user. In the end however, someone has to pay for it, be it the employees, the government or whoever. Marlon - Original Message From: Gilbert Lawrence gilbert2...@yahoo.com To: goa...@goanet.org Sent: Mon, October 26, 2009 8:27:36 PM Subject: [Goanet] Healthcare in America With the political debate in USA about healthcare, all the worms are surfacing. See link http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2009/10/26/health-care-system-wastes_n_333589.html Regards, GL
Re: [Goanet] Motorbikes, two-wheelers and Global Cooling
Mario, I can give you a vial of cyanide with a concentration of 0.04%. If you think it is insignificant, please do us a favor and lap it all up. Just because a number is small does not make it insignificant. Dopants as little 0.01% (and much less) can change the properties of materials drastically. I suggest you stick to your tirades against islamic fundamentalism and muslims in general (preferably off goanet) and leave economics and science to others a little more qualified than you. Marlon - Original Message Date: Mon, 26 Oct 2009 16:38:51 -0700 (PDT) From: marlon menezes goa...@yahoo.com If MBA Scientist Mario's claim's of global cooling are correct, the though of public transportation in the freezing north sends shivers down my spine. From: Mario Goveia mgov...@sbcglobal.net Let's leave aside for now the questionable notion that 0.04% of a clear gas in the atmosphere can trap heat like a greenhouse while letting in heat from the sun.
Re: [Goanet] Motorbikes, two-wheelers and Global Cooling
-Original Message- From: marlon menezes Toronto (where I once lived) does have pretty good public transportation. As a foreign student (i.e., no parent's car to borrow), it was pretty much a necessity. Still, using it was a bitch - specially in the freezing winters. Waiting for a bus in -20C weather for 20 minutes is not something I recall with much fondness. - Original Message From: Bosco D bos...@canada.com RESPONSE: The Red Rocket has improved a fair bit this decade. While the bus frequencies have improved, the temperatures haven't.;-) --- If MBA Scientist Mario's claim's of global cooling are correct, the though of public transportation in the freezing north sends shivers down my spine. Marlon
Re: [Goanet] Motorbikes, two-wheelers...
Toronto (where I once lived) does have pretty good public transportation. As a foreign student (i.e., no parent's car to borrow), it was pretty much a necessity. Still, using it was a bitch - specially in the freezing winters. Waiting for a bus in -20C weather for 20 minutes is not something I recall with much fondness. The Toronto Metro area is large and sprawling, and its underground subway system is quite limited, which means that one has to rely extensively on its surface (slow, cold) bus system. Actually, even utilizing one's own private transportation in a snow storm can be downright scary. As much as I enjoy snow and skiing, this is one Goan who has no desire to move back from the land of the Free to the land of Freezing! Fred's comments regarding public transportation - also known as the last mile problem, are not unique to Goa. Coverage of remote areas is often spotty. Travel times are unacceptably long etc. Marlon - Original Message From: Frederick Noronha fredericknoro...@gmail.com To: Goa's premiere mailing list, estb. 1994! goanet@lists.goanet.org Sent: Sat, October 24, 2009 10:35:46 AM Subject: Re: [Goanet] Motorbikes, two-wheelers... mmdm, After hearing about how nice Canada is, could we have some way of (i) shifting the entire Goan population to Canada or (ii) trying to get solutions that work in Goa itself? Would appreciate any pointers in either direction. Best, FN PS: Marlon, commuting between the towns in Goa might be easier, but not if you're here permanently, have limited time in which to do one's work, and need to cross to diverse areas including villages. I'm sure anyone who has been a long time commuter in Goa would agree. In places like Saligao, the number of buses on the Calangute-Saligao-Panjim route have remained static for over 20 years, or even reduced in number!
Re: [Goanet] Motorbikes, two-wheelers...
Fred, I'm not too sure how you can say that pubic transportation in Goa is bad. I can pretty much travel to any location in Goa without having to rely on personal transportation. If you want bad public transportation, come to America! On the other hand, public transportation may not necessarily be an effective model here given the sprawling nature of its cities and the availability of cheap land. Marlon - Original Message From: Frederick Noronha f...@goa-india.org To: Goa's premiere mailing list, estb. 1994! goanet@lists.goanet.org Sent: Mon, October 19, 2009 5:53:40 PM Subject: [Goanet] Motorbikes, two-wheelers... One in five people in Malaysia have a moped or motorbike. Greece also has the second-highest proportion of two-wheeler ownership in the world (Public Radio International, Oct 19, 2009). Wonder how Goa would rate if judged on this scale? Higher than Malaysia? Does this reflect in the high accident rates (what with Goanetter Aires Rodrigues campaigning against helmets, etc)? Or is it also a reflection of the abysmal public transportation here? Or both?
Re: [Goanet] Remo Laments Goa's Woes, India's Ills in Latest Video
* G * O * A * N * E * T C * L * A * S * S * I * F * I * E * D * S * Planning to get married in Goa? www.weddingsetcgoa.com Making your 'dream wedding' possible Arwin, I don't recall his song lamenting about the alleged migrant hoard destroying Goa. So much for your failed attempt to link migrants to the environmental and political issues facing Goa. Marlon - Original Message From: Arwin Mesquita arwinmesqu...@gmail.com Courtesy Daijiworld.com *Sunday, October 04, 2009* *7:44:25 PM (IST)* Remo Laments Goa's Woes, India's Ills in Latest Video *By Mayabhushan Nagvenkar* *Panaji, Oct 4 (IANS)* Rampant mining, beach erosion and over zealous exploitation of land resources in Goa find 'top of the chart' mention in noted musician and singer Remo Fernandes' latest video India, I cry. The video was exclusively premiered on popular social networking site Facebook Oct 3, a day after Mahatma Gandhi's birthday in an uncharacteristic low key online launch.
Re: [Goanet] 'COLLECTIVE OWNERSHIP OF THE ECONOMY?'
* G * O * A * N * E * T C * L * A * S * S * I * F * I * E * D * S * Planning to get married in Goa? www.weddingsetcgoa.com Making your 'dream wedding' possible - Original Message From: Mervyn Lobo mervynal...@yahoo.ca The Govt's removal of the regulations allowed for financial institutions to make gambles that were insane. The sad part of the situation is that those who lobbied the Govt to remove the regulations are the very people who are in charge of the US treasury today. The cherry on the icing is that Obama's adm is unable/unwilling to re-instate the rules that prevent bankers from making insane bets with their depositors money. The situation is going to get a lot worse before it gets better. --- Mervyn, Actually, the banks in the US have become overly cautious now. There is very little lending going on in the real economy, despite the massive bailouts to the banks. Hence while money supply has technically increased ala quantitative easing, it is not really flowing into the economy, which is why we continue to be under deflationary pressure. The reckless lending by the banks has been replaced by reckless lending by the government. In the US, around 80% of the home loans have a backed by the US govt stamp on them. We see money being poured into stimulus programs that in my opinion are only bringing in future demand forward, but which do nothing to set up sustainable growth. Of course, the thinking is that the Keynesian approach will help stimulate growth. However the current world wide downturn is not because of a credit crisis, but rather should be labeled as a debt crisis. Debt based stimulation to solve a debt problem amounts to kicking the can further down the road. I for one, question this so called economic recovery, be it in the US or China. I see tepid growth in the US for the next few years and I think China will follow very shortly. The latter is on a govt. induced stimulus high right now, but will it last? I think less export driven economies such as India and Brazil will do better than China over the next few years. - Original Message From: Mervyn Lobo mervynal...@yahoo.ca As each day goes by, the countries with sound banking systems have been publically demanding an alternative currency to the dollar. Recently the UN and the IMF joined Russia, China, India and Brazil in this demand. Until an agreement can be reached on this new world currency, there is always the currency that has worked well in times of economic crises. Gold. It hit another record high price today. I would not put all my money in Gold, but it is certainly one of many hedges one should have. Averaged over the last 30 years, Gold has been a loser. A world currency? Huh, I think you have a better chance of wishing for world peace! No pun intended, but there are so many conflicting signs at the moment: Gold is up, the markets are up, which are in conflict with the fact that we are still witnessing deflation and high bond prices. One thing for sure: these are uncertain times indeed. Marlon
Re: [Goanet] Solar Installation
* G * O * A * N * E * T C * L * A * S * S * I * F * I * E * D * S * Planning to get married in Goa? www.weddingsetcgoa.com Making your 'dream wedding' possible Seb, What sort of solar installation are you looking for? Solar thermal heaters, photo voltaic? Marlon - Original Message From: Seb dc s...@upcdubai.com To: Goa's premiere mailing list, estb. 1994! goanet@lists.goanet.org Sent: Tuesday, October 6, 2009 5:14:00 AM Subject: [Goanet] Solar Installation * G * O * A * N * E * T C * L * A * S * S * I * F * I * E * D * S * Planning to get married in Goa? www.weddingsetcgoa.com Making your 'dream wedding' possible I am looking out to fit Solar equipment for my place in Goa. Can any goanetter guide me to the nearest agency in Margao, who does the installation work with Tel.no. Thanks alot for your help!! hAVE a nICE dAY Seb
Re: [Goanet] Frederick Noronha's GoaNet
Cecil, You make it sound like as if Fred has done a bad thing in raising goanet. He IS the person who has put in most of the grunt work in establishing Goanet as Goa's premier discussion forum. I for one salute Fred's presistence in keeping this forum going. You may call him Godfather, I call him Goanet's Patron Saint. Marlon - Original Message From: Cecil Pinto cecilpi...@gmail.com Look at Godfather. When we refer to the book we say Mario Puzo's Godfather. When we refer to the movie we say Francis Ford Coppola's Godfather. Similarly I suggest we start refering to GoaNet as Frederick Noronha's GoaNet or FN's GoaNet to avoid confusion in the years to come. No disrespect to Herman Carneiro who founded GoaNet or Bosco D'Mello who does most of the work, but we all know it is Frederick Noronha' baby finally. It is Frederick who 'raised' GoaNet and continues to nurture and protect it valiantly from real and imagined attackers. I think it will be a fitting tribute to our Frederick's effort to have GoaNet named after him. Anyone objecting to my proposal of referring to GoaNet as Frederick Noronha's GoaNet please state your objections clearly. We need not change the name or anything. Just common usage will do. Cheers! Cecil
Re: [Goanet] CHRISTIANs WITH HINDU NAMES ARE COWARDS.
Jorge, What about those of us who have both cristian and hindu names? If read in an alternate direction, my name is Nolram. Unlike all those cowardly cristian infant fluent speaking newborns who willfully chose hindu names, I was born mute. Thankfully a diet rich in the holy Goan trinity (feni, sausages, cashew nuts), inspired my parents to choose a name that paid homage to all the gods. Like you I wish and bray that the Lard will inspire more parents to be more daring in their choice of names for their children who are unable to speak 7 languages at birth. My favorite Goan Christian name is Leitao, as it is one of the key ingredients of the holy Goan trinity. May people with such names be unfraid, such they they boldly face persecution, ridicule and even emotional torture. May the Lard give these believers in the Goan trinity the courage that they do not hide their faith in the power of the sausage. Praise the Lard, Marlon - Original Message From: Jorge Dias jorges...@gmail.com Sent: Tuesday, September 22, 2009 2:32:20 AM Subject: [Goanet] CHRISTIANs WITH HINDU NAMES ARE COWARDS. Those Christians in India who are operating with Hindu names are doing this to protect their skin from Hindu facist forces. May God give these christians the courage that they do not hide their christian faith. May God also give the Clergy the wisdom and vision that they guide their flocks in the right direction and utilize church resources and properties for the welfare and upliftment of the poor catholics of their parish. May God also give the Christian missionaries the courage to preach the Gospel of Christ where the upper caste hindus and brahmins live and not just where the dalits, tribals and slumdwellers live. A *Christian* Warrior is someone who is not afraid to pick up their cross and follow Christ. They know that to live is Christ, and to die is gain, and they are willing to give what they cannot keep to gain what they cannot lose. They live by The Vision. They wake up every morning prepared for battle, waging the war against sin and death so that all might come to life in Christ. They are fearless. Unafraid, they boldly face persecution, ridicule, and even torture with unwavering faith and a steadfast heart. Their battles are often silent. Their victories go unnoticed by the world. They fight not against people, but against sin. They do not strive for earthly treasure, but for heavenly rewards. They wield the weapons of truth, prayer, and love. God Bless You. Jorge Dias. Bombay.
Re: [Goanet] Natekar Sonia's aam aadmi act
Vinay, You are stating the obvious. Obviously this is a political show by the Congress folks. However, unlike the infamous yatra by RSS thugs and Advani, this yatra is not leading to the deaths of thousands of people or the destruction on religious monuments. The Indian Minority electorate is faced with two choices: vote for someone who might rip you off (Congress) or someone who might kill you (BJP). The choice is obvious. Marlon - Original Message From: Vinay Natekar vinaynate...@yahoo.com To: goanet@lists.goanet.org Sent: Friday, September 18, 2009 5:57:35 AM Subject: [Goanet] Natekar Sonia's aam aadmi act HahaHaha!!! The dimwits like you fail to understand all this austerity drama by these thick skinned kkangress leaders. It is only a farce for one VVIP traveling economy class, dozens of genuine passengers has to forgo their travel as these VVIPs will be traveling along with their security and followers. Will your Sonia aka maintain this austerity for ever or is it just a publicity stunt in view of forthcoming Maharashtra Assembly elections ? If you add all the hidden and not-so-hidden costs, this exercise in austerity is in fact an eye-wash. Let us, therefore, bring some sanity into the debate over austerity. By shamelessly displaying this austerity these leaders are making fetish of simplicity. When things are turning horrible for common Indians these people play stunts to divert public attention from real spiraling problems. NDA rule had managed the finance effectively and paid part of the earlier taken loans. But this corrupt kkangress has screwed our economy. They are neither serious in security affairs nor sincere in handling economy. Travelling in economy class and train are just not enough to stop the wasteful state expenditure. Can you see what is happening in the country? Those who support corrupt kkangress, their minds never ask them are they SAFE in their own country ? Kkangress knows very well how to exploit people of our country because they know that Indians are not united and they have been doing this for last 60 years.
Re: [Goanet] Healthcare Horror Stories
- Original Message From: Mario Goveia mgov...@sbcglobal.net Marlon wrote: The focus of any reform in the US should be to tackle the issue of high costs. I don't see how the current government options alleviating this problem. The focus should be streamlining medical records and processes, tort reform and reducing the grip of the American Medical ASSociation, to name a few. Mario responds: Here we see some glimmer of wheat among all the chaff. However, this self-proclaimed paragon of libertarianism and free market principles, who nevertheless thought it wise to help the most radical left winger in US history elected President by relentlessly attacking his opponents with a barrage of selected half-truths, doesn't think it is a priority that the 1,300 health insurance programs who control payments for most private medical services in the US are not allowed to freely compete nationwide as all other insurance programs have to do. - Sure I want insurance companies to be able to sell insurance across state lines. When did I said I was against it? It would not have helped me when I had my injury though, because I was able to get medical treatment within the state I was visiting - I just had to drive 2.5 hours to a nearby city with a busted shoulder to get it. Maybe the problem is that there are 1300 health insurance programs around. The damn system is so fragmented and inefficient. One of the biggest strikes against a government system is that there can be very little incentive to control costs, specfically because the govenment can in theory print unlimited amounts of money to fund it. No private company can compete against the Government of the United States. As for the US elections that you keep shedding tears about, last time I checked, I was not supporting Obama - not that I liked Bimbo Palin either. My choice was Republican candidate Ron Paul. He is one of the few who as a good grasp of economics, history while lacking the illusions of reckless foreign empire building like the previous administration. The fact remains that the mostly incompetent and sometimes, immoral and anti-constitutional policies of the Cheney administration led to vast disillusment of the US replublican party, leading to an extreme counter revolt by the US electorate and hence the current left leaning US president. This is a normal self/over correcting mechanism that happens in most functioning democracies, including India. If only the same would take place in Goa! Never mind, in Goan politics, there is no choice between left or right, but rather a choice between corrupt and communal. Marlon
Re: [Goanet] Healthcare Horror Stories
I will admit that the current high cost medical system in the US is not that great. I've always had private health care. About 12 years ago, I had a sports injury while I had temporarily relocated out of state for some training. I was able to get emergency treatment for my injury, but when it came time to get follow up treatment, I was told that I had to drive two hours so that I could be within my private insurer's network ... except that I could not drive as I had busted my arm. Ouch! what a pain that was! Of course, I had the option of going for out of network care, but given that I was then a broke, fresh out of school individual, I would not have been able to afford it. Luckily, my training assignment was only for 6 weeks and I eventually returned home and got the follow up treatment that I needed. Mario is the only one who thinks the current medical system in the US is cheap and of good value... that is because the US government pays for his welfare, thanks to our tax dollars! Getting something for almost nothing is great for him I guess. The focus of any reform in the US should be to tackle the issue of high costs. I don't see how the current government options alleviating this problem. The focus should be streamlining medical records and processes, tort reform and reducing the grip of the American Medical ASSociation, to name a few. Marlon - Original Message From: Mervyn Lobo mervynal...@yahoo.ca To: Goa's premiere mailing list, estb. 1994! goanet@lists.goanet.org Sent: Sunday, September 13, 2009 3:59:07 PM Subject: Re: [Goanet] Healthcare Horror Stories GL, The WHO ranks France with the worlds number one health care system. Health care is free to residents in France. Wikipedia has some interesting info on their system: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Health_in_France The USA spends twice as much as France does and ranks 37th. There is something sick with a system that spends twice as much only to rank 37th. To add insult to sickness, the for profit insurance companies refuse to pay for treatment once a person gets sick in the US. Now what was the number for bankruptcies caused by health problems for PEOPLE WHO HAD HEALTH INSURANCE? Mervyn1650Lobo __ Yahoo! Canada Toolbar: Search from anywhere on the web, and bookmark your favourite sites. Download it now http://ca.toolbar.yahoo.com.
Re: [Goanet] Goanet] Goa Electricity Dept responsible for the death of Joaquim 55 and his Son 20?
* G * O * A * N * E * T C * L * A * S * S * I * F * I * E * D * S * Two new showrooms/office spaces, double height (135 sq m each with bath) for lease in upscale Campal/Miramar beach area, Panaji, Goa. Contact: goaengineer...@aol.com The question on who is to blame is an interesting question. The electricity department, the politicians? I say it is society in general. The lackadaisical attitude to safety is evident in many levels of society - road safety, hygiene, general maintenance, the environment etc. It is not only public infrastructure that is poorly maintained. For many, the sense of responsibility, hygiene and cleanliness seems to end at one's front door. Who elects the incompetent politicians? May one hazard to say that it is the generally ignorant and communal Goan population? The only long term solution for this is good quality education for the masses. Marlon - Original Message From: Naguesh Bhatcar sgbhat...@hotmail.com Samir, Booking the Electricity Department will not help. As I had mentioned in one of my previous posts, the person who will get suspended will either be the poor lineman or the Junior Engineer, in charge of that area. We need accountability at the political level. When the power line snapped and hit the ground, the safety devices should have tripped. However, all these circuit breakers must have been bypassed to see that there is no interruption in supply! In many cases because the fuses keep on blowing, thick wire is used, so much so that you can see red hot fuses in the open fuse boxes, below the transformers! India in general pays scant attention to the infrastructure that is necessary to build a nation. Goa is no different. There is no planning, substandard equipment is acquired and there is inadequate training for the staff. All the Ministers and the Chairmen of corporations need to have that latest car with the red light on it, whereas the Electricity Department will not get the vehicles or the equipment required to attend to faults. Politicians go and promote all these schemes to provide electricity to all. However, they don't ascertain if there is adequate supply available. Transformers are overloaded and there is fair amount of pilfering, not only to households but to industrial units, in connivance with the powers that be! Whatever infrastructure projects that are launched, only lead to lining the pockets of politicians. The factor of safety is compromised to allow the politicians to make more money. One must commend BEST and the city of Bombay for providing interrupted power supply to such a large city. Can we ever expect that to happen in Goa? I had heard recently, that Birlas offered to build power plants in Goa, using garbage that is generated. When the politicians asked for their cut, they withdrew. Naguesh Bhatcar sgbhat...@hotmail.com
Re: [Goanet] Goa... to Doha
August 25, 2009 - Goanet's 15th Anniversary Pretty good for people who live in Texas and in particular Houston as there is a direct flight from Houston to Doha. Beats having to take those wierd charter flights from Europe. Houston -- Doha -- Goa - Original Message From: Clinton Vaz klint...@gmail.com This is great news. I've been traveling by Qatar the past few occasions (via mumbai) as they have been the cheapest so far. Great connectivity, great facilities at the Doha Airport, Free WiFi, and above all the in fight service is exceptional. Seems you can get a Mumbai-Stockholm return ticket for endast 3800SEK!! (About 26000 Rupees!) I checked last week. That's great that they will start out from Goa itself. That finally makes Europe within 12 hours reach from Goa with a scheduled full service flight finally! Clinton..
Re: [Goanet] Mario, Kerala and Cuba
August 20 - WORLD GOA DAY Celebrating the inclusion of Konkani in the 8th schedule of the Indian Constitution on August 20, 1992 For a list of World Goa Day events see: http://worldgoaday2009.blogspot.com Alfred The HDI values for both Kerala and Cuba are quite high and belie their low economic scores. My whole point was to identify yet again, Mario's inability to make a consistent argument. He praises Kerala's HDI achievements while previously slamming Cuba's model that is very similar to that of Kerala's. Ditto for his bashing of the health care systems outside the US, while then himself admitting that the US system that he praised so much earlier is bankrupt. Mario seems to have the problem of making adhoc, single parameter, idealogical based and often arrogant judgements on other (non US) countries and societies. As we can see, making sweeping statements with limited analysis continues to get himself into trouble. He is is worst critic! It is this all black or white, for us or against us type of thinking that has gotten the US into so much economic and military trouble over the past decade. In principle, I share many if not most of Mario's views on economic liberalism, but I try to avoid making grandiose and arrogant denunciations of other nations and societies that have chosen alternate models for their health care or their general economies. Mario, like Big Brother Government that he derides so much, seems to think he knows what is best for the rest of the world. Marlon - Original Message From: Alfred de Tavares alfredtava...@hotmail.com Marlon, Kerala holds the record for having had the first ever elected communist govt. On another tack, Cuba's medical infrastructure has been judged seccond to none, globally. Alfred
[Goanet] Mario, Kerala and Cuba
August 20 - WORLD GOA DAY Celebrating the inclusion of Konkani in the 8th schedule of the Indian Constitution on August 20, 1992 For a list of World Goa Day events see: http://worldgoaday2009.blogspot.com Sorry to be bringing up a red herring, or should I say a red flag, but Kerala also just happens to have had a communist led alliance leading it for the past few decades. Kerala has very high government spending, specially on social programs - quite the antithesis to Mario's supposedly free market credentials. Its per capita income is far below that of Goa's and for its large size has very little industry to speak of. Among the large Indian states, it has the largest percentage of its working population working as migrants in other parts of the country and the world. Luckily, Mario does not have to travel very far to enjoy such a socialist paradise. Fidel Castro's Cuba is only a few hours away from him. Kerala is the Cuba of India. It looks like Mario can't seem to be able to make his mind. Just a while ago, he was bashing Cuba. More recently, he was stating that the US medical system was the best in the world while he bashed those of Canada and Britain. But oops, now he admits that the medical system in the US is actually bankrupt. Global cooling or is it global warming now?? Was Pope John Paul actually an Al Qaieda operative?? Apparently, Mario thinks, we Goans are unique in electing bad politicians and choosing bad bureaucrats as well. Tell us more Secret Agent Mario. Comedic relief is always welcome on goanet. Marlon - Original Message From: Mario Goveia mgov...@sbcglobal.net While a small army of Goan crabs from politicians to bureaucrats to developers are busy tearing Goa down, people from another Indian state are busy building India up: 1. Indian Defense Minister is from Kerala 2. Indian Foreign Secretary is from Kerala . . Hats Off to Kerala
Re: [Goanet] Kerkar Art Complex Invite
* G * O * A * N * E * T C * L * A * S * S * I * F * I * E * D * S * Apartment for sale in Campal/Miramar area, Panaji, Goa. Spacious 3 bedroom flat (3BHK)available for sale in upscale area near Miramar beach Contact: goaengineer...@aol.com If I recall correctly, there were some folks on Goanet who were supportive of the attempts to ban the Da Vinci Code in Goa. The claim then was that the desire to ban the movie using any means possible only represented the democratic views of these folks. Marlon - Original Message From: Frederick [FN] Noronha * फ्रेडरिक न fredericknoro...@gmail.com Ironically, the apologists of one set of bigots are citing the other case of bigotry to justify their stance. FN 2009/8/19 George Pinto georgejpi...@yahoo.com: A few years ago, some extremists shut down The DA VINCI Code movie in Goa, now other self-appointed moral police want to impose their personal values on everyone in a secular democracy. Our freedoms are too precious to leave to the extremists.
[Goanet] MMs: Mario, Medicare and Marxism
* G * O * A * N * E * T C * L * A * S * S * I * F * I * E * D * S * Apartment for sale in Campal/Miramar area, Panaji, Goa. Spacious 3 bedroom flat (3BHK)available for sale in upscale area near Miramar beach Contact: goaengineer...@aol.com -Original Message- From: Mario Goveia The economically weakest nations, like Zimbabwe and many other African nations, many Latin American nations, and Cuba and N. Korea, are economic basket cases because of their own corruption, oppression and incompetent internal policies which assume that a small number of powerful elites know what's good for everyone else, better than they do. From: Bosco D'Mello bos...@canada.com : #1) What has Zimbabwe, N. Korea, etc have to do with the Pope in this instance? Or even Aiyar-ji for that matter. #2) I suppose the 'powerful elites' referred to above also include the avaricious pinheads on Wall Street who have sucked trillions of dollars of the tax-payers dollars. #3) Weeks later, Aiyar-ji continues to confound Mario-G. Kamaal hai!! Bosco, Don't you know, Mario is the resident expert and sole voice of truth - even in things he knows nothing about. He seems to be particularly knowledgeable about: i) Popes: His now famous claim that Pope John Paul was sympathetic to Al Qaieda because of the Pope's opposition to the Iraq war. His latest implication that the current Pope is a Marxist is a nice one too! Come to think of it, is there anyone on Goanet who he has not accused of being a Marxist! ii) Global Cooling: His many posts on goanet claiming that the planet was actually growing cooler (which he has recently retracted). iii) The evils of socialized medicine for others, while he himself has milked the US socialized medical system and made unhealthy lifestyle choices to boot. iv) The US economy is sound and strongest in the world - just before the economic collapse last year! As the saying goes, the truth hurts. Marlon
Re: [Goanet] socialized health care does not work in America
- Goanetter Francis Rodrigues (Vasco/Toronto) book launch in London, England @ the World Goa Day festivities on 15 Aug at 7pm Details http://www.konkanisongbook.com - Roland, Sometimes, the truth hurts. Marlon - Original Message From: Roland Francis roland.fran...@gmail.com Marlon, getting personal is a sure sign of weakness. Roland. On Sat, Aug 15, 2009 at 1:58 AM, marlon menezesgoa...@yahoo.com wrote: Mario, First of all, chill out. I am really concerned about your well being. Your high Body Mass Index, as well as the high levels of stress being caused to you by logic and facts makes you a prime candidate for cardiac arrest! If you were to depart us in cyberspace, who will replace your dim wit, your highly rationed rationale or your comprehensibly, incomprehensible logic?
Re: [Goanet] The euphoria has evaporated
From: Mario Goveia mgov...@sbcglobal.net In the meantime, life in the US is terrible and racist. Millions are not covered by health insurance. Millions are dying in the streets writhing in pain while others pass them by without compassion. The life expectancy is plummeting. --- I am quite surprised that Mario would change in views of the US in such a short time. It does not make sense for such drastic changes to take place in a matter of just 7 months of the Obama presidency.. but then again, this is the same Mario who has in the past advocated the claim of Global Cooling, or more recently claimed that the Pope supports socialism or that the late John Paul sympathized with 911 attackers because of his opposition to the Iraq war. From: Mario Goveia mgov...@sbcglobal.net We have a saying in America, You get what you pay for. The best never comes cheap, and the best does not involve waiting in line for a medical procedure or test when your life may be in jeopardy, or suffering excruciating pain because some government bureaucrat says so. --- That is very true. Or as my Professor used to say, if someone is offering you something for free, you better watch out. The problem with the above statement is that Americans want the best, but don't have the means to pay for it. Furthermore, those who are currently beneficiaries of this unsustainable system, quite logically fear that any changes would mean a significant reduction of their benefits. Mario, who so vocally opposes socialized medicine is one of its biggest beneficiary via the Medicare system. He is (logically) opposed to sharing his socialized benefits with those who do not have access to this. Unless services are cut, or taxes increased (after all you get what you pay for, right?), Medicare is accumulating trillions of dollars in unfunded liabilities. Other forms of implicit socialization of its medical care is that government diktat requires that hospitals provide expensive emergency care to the uninsured population. Unless Mario thinks that money grows on trees, or believes in ponzi schemes, someone has to pay for these costs. The current socialized system does not penalize its selective beneficiaries for their unhealthy lifestyles. Cardio related issues, most often due to unhealthy diets, being over weight etc is one of the biggest costs to the medical system. Unfortunately, this socialized system, does not penalize such individuals who are already in the system for their unhealthy choices. I recall, Mario himself admitting to being overweight. So here we have a case of a person who shrieks against socialized medicine, while attempting to exempt himself from the rules he wishes to set for others!! Contrary to Mario's claim that the socialized system in the US is functioning fine, the facts speak otherwise. On a per capita basis, the US spends around 40-60% more than the OECD average, but yet, ranks near the bottom as far as various health metrics are concerned. Clearly the current path of socialized medicine that the US is taking is not sustainable. My preferred path would be to have a solely private system with basic socialized coverage for children and the handicapped only. I also do not support free health care for the aged. Higher premiums should be expected for older people - that is an expected cost of getting older and should be factored in by individuals during their working years. Obviously, insurance companies should not have the right to terminate pre-existing medical coverage after a certain age. Marlon
[Goanet] Anyone done Lasik eye surgery in Goa?
I'm curious to know if anyone has done this kind of eye surgery in Goa. A quick google check does indicate that this is available in Goa, but my main intent is to get feedback from people who may know someone, or who may have themselves used it. Thanks, Marlon
Re: [Goanet] Influx of uncontrolled Migrants into Goa
Excuses, excuses! If you have flown out of the coop, you have done it because you value your economic interests more than preserving Goa's culture. And guess, what? There is nothing wrong with that. Most of us who live outside Goa, do so for economic reasons, because we have a stronger craving for physical wealth than for preserving some hard to measure aspect of preserving Goa or its culture. Trying to influence the future of Goa and attempting to victimize the migrants from afar is less likely to succeed than controlling the Mars rovers from Earth. Bottom line is that migrants, foreigners etc have come to Goa because it makes economic sense for them and for the economy as a whole. This is how free markets and free societies are supposed to work. The real issue in Goa is not the migrants, but bad governence - mostly Goans, elected by mostly Goans. Marlon - Original Message From: Freddy Fernandes ffernandes@emaar.ae Just because one has flown the coop, that does not mean all others have to do the same, we would rather hold on to, and fight it out. We have not abandoned like may be your good self, but are still in touch with reality and live and stay in Goa when ever we can and have taken active part in helping our villagers to fight mining, land grabbing and mega housing and continue to do so from outside Goa or from within Goa and I know for sure that if Arwin wants to settle abroad he would be able to do so without any problem but his love for Goa keeps him bonded with Goa. One who does not know Arwin may question his credibility but people who know him will surely not and for your kind information we are lot more than just a holiday Goans.
Re: [Goanet] Comedy Show
- Goanetter Francis Rodrigues (Vasco/Toronto) unveils his book, The Greatest Konkani Song Hits. Launch dates: Goa (Kala Academy) on 9 Aug. 4 pm. U.K. (Staines) on 15 Aug. Canada on 20 Aug and US on 30 Aug. Details http://www.konkanisongbook.com/ - Santosh, Count me in. Assuming I make it to Goa this year, I will at most only be able to stay at the Taj Aguada Prison for 2 weeks. Do they take rambunctious 3 and 5 year olds? If so, please inform them to make arrangements for my kids as well. Perhaps they can keep them locked up for a bit longer than 3 weeks (.. I'm thinking 10 years). Marlon - Original Message From: Santosh Helekar chimbel...@yahoo.com Mervyn, Here is what I think all of us should write in our emails to the speaker and other MLAs. But more importantly, we should write it as a letter-petition to the Herald newspaper with our names on it: LETTER Dear Sir, I agree with Samir Kelekar that the Goa Vidhan Sabha is a comedy show. The threat of imprisonment issued from its chair and benches against a private citizen for speaking his mind in public, just proved this fact. I am willing to spend time in prison with Samir to defend my right to freely express this opinion of mine in this free democratic country of ours. Sincerely, Santosh Helekar Goanetters, if you are willing to add your name to this petition, please say so in this forum or privately to me. I will send it to the editor of Herald as soon as I receive 100 names. I need to know how many people will be there with us because I have to make reservations at Aguada. We need at least 100 bodkam because ex-President Pandurang has told me that we get a special discount for a party of 100 or more. Regarding sending the above letter as an email to the actors in the comedy show, their email addresses are listed on the following website: http://www.goavidhansabha.gov.in/mlas.php Cheers, Santosh
Re: [Goanet] Influx of uncontrolled Migrants into Goa
- Goanetter Francis Rodrigues (Vasco/Toronto) unveils his book, The Greatest Konkani Song Hits. Launch dates: Goa (Kala Academy) on 9 Aug. 4 pm. U.K. (Staines) on 15 Aug. Canada on 20 Aug and US on 30 Aug. Details http://www.konkanisongbook.com/ - - Original Message From: Freddy Fernandes ffernandes@emaar.ae Some have even asked Arwin to leave the Gulf and go to Goa and start acting on his notions rather than filling up cyberspace, is it a guilt feeling that they have, of having left their home land for greener pastures, and want to be respected by their accommodators, they need not have that guilt feeling and I am sure our Goans in other countries will never ever out number the locals and dirty their surroundings, I would like to tell those guys who think like wise that Awirn has done and is still doing a lot more for Goa and Goans from here in the Gulf and during his numerous visits to Goa, than what the wise guys must have collectively done for Goa. --- Sorry, Arwin has very limited credibility in this regard, because he has himself abandoned Goa for greener pastures abroad. The large outflux of Goans is one reason why openings have been created for non-Goans to enter Goa. Rajan, who is a US citizen who maintains a US residence is another part time patriot. Based on your email, it looks like you too are holiday Goan. If and when I hear the real full time locals in Goa start complaining (e.g. FN, Cecil Pinto, my parents and family) about the so called ghatti (aka Indian Nigger) influx, I will reverse my opinions. If you guys don't like the way Goa is turning out to be, you have two choices: move to Goa permanently and bring change, or just leave Goa for good. Marlon
Re: [Goanet] Re. Non-Goans to exceed Goans in Goa in coming years
* G * O * A * N * E * T *** C * L * A * S * S * I * F * I * E * D * S * Sangath, www.sangath.com, is looking to build a centre for services, training and research and seeks to buy approx 1500 to 2000 sq mtrs land betweeen Mapusa and Bambolim and surrounding rural areas. Please contact: contac...@sangath.com or yvo...@sangath.com or ph+91-9881499458 http://lists.goanet.org/pipermail/goanet-goanet.org/2009-July/180028.html Rather that trying to fight it (you will lose trying to do so), the better approach would be to try and take advantage of this influx. At the low end, the cheap labor is highly needed. At the high end, the skilled non-Goans also provide skills that are not available locally, or which Goans have migrated out of state or out of the country to take advantage of. Why should a business person in Goa be restricted from hiring a Goan, when he or she may be able to get a cheaper or better person from another part of the country? Such restrictions are an implicit tax on businesses. 40% of the Silicon Valley's population is foreign born and only around 20% of its population is native and it is doing great. If you are so concerned about Goa being overrun by non Goans, why don't you put your money where your mouth is and go back to Goa. I do not buy your argument that you are a temporary immigrant. Goa should operate as a free market entity. There should be minimal restrictions of land and property ownership - either foreign or domestic. No self appointed God should have the right to restrict locals from selling their property to the highest legal bidder. Marlon - Original Message From: Arwin Mesquita arwinmesqu...@gmail.com To: Goanet goa...@goanet.org Sent: Monday, August 3, 2009 12:29:01 AM Subject: [Goanet] Re. Non-Goans to exceed Goans in Goa in coming years Ref below post: The “Cementing” principle has not only shaped Goa’s Identity today but also many other identities/countries around the world each in their respective way. But surely, we appreciate that other Countries will not allow inward migration to exceed tolerable levels, to the detriment of their local identity, language, living standards etc. Of course, we understand that migrations are natural but have to be in a controlled manner; for instance Goan Immigrants among other immigrants to overseas countries, are gradually being integrated into the culture/identities of their adopted counties, because those countries have and enforcing even stronger immigration policies to keep migration in control. But in Goa the rate of Non-Goans coming into Goa is too high/un-controlled and instead of Non-Goans being integrated into Goan Identity, the danger is that it will be vice-versa; needless to mention of course the other effects on Goa’s environment, ecology, living standards etc Arwin
Re: [Goanet] May be Rest in Darkness_McNamara: From the Tokyo Firestorm to the World Bank
I agree with Mario. I don't consider Cockburn credible. But then, I don't consider Mario very credible either. When McNamara himself states regret for the Vietnam war (in his book In Retrospect: The Tragedy and Lessons of Vietnam by McNamara), one has to take his words far more seriously than those of Mario or Cockburn. As far as the Khmer Rouge are concerned, it was Vietnam that ended the holocaust in Cambodia. Vietnam would have been incapable of doing so, were it under US siege. US policy at that time was to ignore the genocide in Cambodia as the Khmer Rouge were mortal enemies of Vietnam. Another example of the laws of unintended consequences - as was the case with the Mujahadeen and the Taliban in Afghanistan, or the 2nd Gulf War that made Iran the power broker in the Middle East today. These various failures show that no single political party in the US has a sole lock on stupid foreign policy. Unfortunately, some narrow minded individuals can't seem to understand this. Marlon --- On Wed, 7/8/09, Mario Goveia mgov...@sbcglobal.net wrote: From: Mario Goveia mgov...@sbcglobal.net Readers of Counterpunch and author Alexander Cockburn need to know that this is a far left wing publication and Cockburn is a vicious and mean-spirited Marxist-sympathiser and anti-Semite, as demonstrated by this sentiment at the death of a political opponent May He Rest in Darkness. Robert McNamara's legacy was marred by the left wing and the Democrat party in America when they cut the military budget on the verge of a VietCong military collapse. This is not my opinion but that of VietCong General Giap, who mentioned in his memoires that he was shocked when the Americans began to pull out because his forces were virtually on their knees after their failed Tet offensive. After the war, the VietCong and Khmer Rouge, whom Cockburn and his Marxist colleagues had described as benign freedom fighters, massacred some 3 million innocent Vietnamese and Cambodians. Real freedom fighters do not massacre their own people.
[Goanet] Treatment of British families in Goa/need based buying
Fred, What exactly is need based buying? Who determines who needs and who does not need? Furthermore, are you really sure you are really reflecting the views of the local side? What about the locals who wants to sell their property at the highest price possible? Why do you wish to restrict their rights to get the best deal possible? Instead of promoting rather arbitrary laws that seek to restrict individual freedoms, the better approach would be to push for a system that provides greater clarity and transparency to all the parties. Everyone who has bought or sold property in Goa (perhaps this applies to India in general) knows that there are two books - official and under the table. Accurate official statistical information on parameters like prices is an oxymoron and ownership rights are byzantine. Conversely, there is much data from around the world (as well as within India) to suggest that your rent and price control schemes do not work, for they only serve to choke long term supply in the affected market. Marlon --- On Sun, 6/28/09, Frederick [FN] Noronha * फ्रेडरिक न fredericknoro...@gmail.com wrote: You guys talk about local thinking. But what about expat thinking? Isn't it strange that nobody sheds a single tear for the many Goans-in-Goa who can't afford to buy a home after working hard their full life here? And the expat/foreigner/non-resident buying of homes is only pushing up speculation (not need-based buying) in the unreal real estate sector. It all says something about our attitudes, values, and which side we choose to take! FN
Re: [Goanet] Governments Goan Identity Hypocrisy
--- On Thu, 6/11/09, Arwin Mesquita arwinmesqu...@gmail.com wrote: For instance, it is well known that Mega-Projects have a detrimental effect on the demography of Goa; by not bringing in so many migrant workers but also by the huge influx of Rich Non-Goans purchasing apartments; which are beyond the reach of most Goans!! --- What about the needs of the rich Goans? Why should their rights be trampled upon? Sorry, I believe in equal rights for rich and poor Goans. For instance at Sirvoii, Quepem there is Mega-Project called “PEACE VALLEY” by Sanathan Buiders; details can be viewed over the internet i.e. 200 crore project over 75,663 sq km complete with 57 villas, 174 apartments Golf Courses, Horse Riding, Helipad etc I would understand that these apartments would be beyond the reach of ordinary goans and am curious to know who the purchasers will be? --- It may be out of reach of ordinary Goans, but what about the extraordinary Goans, expat Goans, temporary (for most of one's life) expat Goans, such as you, wanna be Goans etc? Since places like Peace Valley seem to be antithetical to Goan culture, perhaps you can establish an alternate venue to promote our dying culture. We can call it Death Valley. Instead of golf courses etc, we can have shooting ranges, so that we can shoot ourselves in the foot. Dev Boredom Korum Marlon
Re: [Goanet] Villains of the Financial Mess (inflation)
--- On Fri, 6/5/09, Mario Goveia mgov...@sbcglobal.net wrote: Mario responds: Nice try, Marlon. But Cheney is a lot smarter than the morons who try to demonize him with facts out of context. He was not talking about 12% of GDP deficits. In the range he was talking about, he was, in fact, correct. The morons obsessed with the absolute size of the deficits rarely stop to consider that it is not the absolute size of the deficit that matters but the deficit as a percentage of GDP, which in Cheney's world, since 1980, were in a range of 4% or less as a percentage of GDP, and we had low inflation as well throughout the period. - Not really. The problem was that the Bush administration went into huge deficits to artificially grow an economy that was already growing. From a +2% surplus, it left the nation with a 4% deficit, clearly one of the worst records ever. As we now know, the economic growth during the Bush era was a mirage. He managed a 6% change from surplus to deficit when the country was still growing. In many ways, that is worse that what Obama is doing now - also a 6% delta thanks to Bush's economic parting gift - the worst recession since the great depression. Every basic household knows (or should know) the importance of saving during the good times in order to cover the bad times. Unfortunately the Bush administration failed econ 101. Inflation has more to do with the growth of the money supply and productivity, which is why it will kick up out of sight pretty soon. Marlon wrote: The US core CPI value does not include such components as food, energy and housing. Hence if you don't eat food, don't drive a vehicle, or don't own a home, then yes, there has not been any significant inflation in the US! Mario responds: Sigh! I have no idea where you come up with such silly ideas. Perhaps if you take the time to read the following you will see exactly what is included and why: http://www.bls.gov/cpi/cpifaq.htm#Question_12 Sigh!, where do you come up with your cut and paste research. The Federal Reserve, which has a lot more authority and power than the BLS uses the core inflation rate to determine govt. policy. These are the guys that set important economic parameters such as interest rates. This core rate does not include such things as food and energy. Please do a search on core inflation rate and the Federal reserve. You are chasing up the wrong agency. Marlon
Re: [Goanet] The state of US capitalism and Ayurveda medicine
--- On Sun, 6/7/09, Mervyn Lobo mervynal...@yahoo.ca wrote: Folks, For those who are not aware of it, the Canadian health care system is funded by the Federal Govt AND the province you live in with most services provided by private entities. As a frequent user of the system, I am totally satisfied with the services I receive in Ontario. -- Isn't it ironic that Mario, the self appointed critic of other nation's socialized health care is one of the biggest beneficiaries of the patchwork socialized medicinal system in America? Right now, for example, he is entitled to virtually free coverage of all his prescription medication - an extravagant legacy of the previous US government. Furthermore, no budgetary allowances were made on how to pay for this by its beneficiaries, or by the government in general. This means that US society will not just be paying for Mario's health care now, but also after he is long gone. --- On Sun, 6/7/09, Mervyn Lobo mervynal...@yahoo.ca wrote: I am confident that Barrack (blessed be, his name) will use the Canadian model to radically change the US health care system. However, since the US is essentially broke, there is the possibility that the needed changes will only be implemented in a watered down or superficial manner. --- The problem with the US system is definitely not because it is underfunded. Quite the contrary, the US spends a far larger share of its GNP on health care than Canada. For a variety of reasons, US health care is just too expensive for the return one gets. Marlon
Re: [Goanet] NEWS-INDIA: Cheapest Car Rides on Govt Subsidies (IPS)
Fred, You live in Goa, not me. I am not an expert on what the mining companies in Goa are doing. Why do you choose to highlight some claims made against the Tatas and the Nano, while choosing to be silent about the apparent environmental degradation happening in Goa? Marlon 2009/6/4 marlon menezes goa...@yahoo.com Hence the net annual revenue for the State is $75million. Assuming simple interest, it will take the state 8000 years to recoup its investment in this project. This does not make sense. Fred, where do you get this stuff from? --- On Thu, 6/4/09, Frederick [FN] Noronha * फ्रेडरिक न fredericknoro...@gmail.com wrote: Inter-Press Service (IPS). http://ipsnews.net/ Btw, I wonder if Marlon would have a calculation on the number of years it would take Goa (her environment, the people and the State) to recoup the investment in mining here? Does that make sense? FN
Re: [Goanet] NEWS-INDIA: Cheapest Car Rides on Govt Subsidies (IPS)
I agree with Nagesh. The author of the article seems to have an agenda against TATA. Some of the claims made in the article seem to be verge on the ridiculous, specially the claim that the State of Gujrat is offering subsidies worth $600 billion, as mentioned below: According to an internal document that was leaked to the media, the Gujarat government is providing Tata Motors subsidies worth a substantial 600 billion dollars for locating its plant in the western Indian state Lets do some basic math on these numbers: 1) As rough ball park, we can conservatively assume that each car will be sold for around $3000, which is 50% more than the base price. 2) Production volumes are planned to be around 250K per year. 3) Assume state taxes are around 10% (this is obviously too high). Hence the net annual revenue for the State is $75million. Assuming simple interest, it will take the state 8000 years to recoup its investment in this project. This does not make sense. Fred, where do you get this stuff from? Marlon --- On Mon, 6/1/09, Naguesh Bhatcar sgbhat...@hotmail.com wrote: From: Naguesh Bhatcar sgbhat...@hotmail.com Subject: Re: [Goanet] NEWS-INDIA: Cheapest Car Rides on Govt Subsidies (IPS) To: Goanet goa...@goanet.org Date: Monday, June 1, 2009, 10:30 PM This by far is the most negative article about the Nano. I have read that the Nano has been generally well received across the country. Granted that more cars on the road will create more pollution, but the current sales of scooters and motorcyles with 2 stroke engines will pollute the atmosphere, more than the Nano. All this is the price that the country pays for progress and economic development. I hope the author of this article also goes after all the Industrialists like Ambanis, Birlas and the rest. The author has to come to Goa and do an investigative reporting on the effects of mining. I would be curious to know as to which company has stuck to the rules and has not been controversial in its dealings. I never understood as to what Mamta Bannerjee achieved by her agitation, other than giving away thousands of jobs to Gujarat. Now as Minister for Railways, she can employ a lot more from West Bengal! Naguesh Naguesh Bhatcar sgbhat...@hotmail.com
Re: [Goanet] Villains of the Financial Mess
The former US Vice Moron, Dick Cheney said that deficits (ie. debt) did not matter. That administration then went on a spending spree with its major expansion in Medicare, its poorly executed wars in Iraq and Afghanistan etc. Instead of facing up to these costs then and asking its citizens to make the hard sacrifices, President Bush and the feds encouraged its citizens to go into a debt induced spending spree. The same was tried during the failed Vietnam war. The result was huge deficits and hyper inflation in the US after an initial period of false prosperity. The problem with Paul Krugman is that he is advocating huge levels of deficit spending to get the US out of the current mess. I really don't understand how anyone can solve the problem of excessive debt, but going into even more debt. They should have let GM and many of the banks fail. Nations often perform best under adversity. This downturn is a natural correction to the excesses of the past. I fear the policies of the current US government are only pushing the day of reckoning to some date in the future. I don't want to be holding too many US$ when that happens maybe it is already happening. Marlon --- On Tue, 6/2/09, Gilbert Lawrence gilbert2...@yahoo.com wrote: From: Gilbert Lawrence gilbert2...@yahoo.com Subject: [Goanet] Villains of the Financial Mess To: goanet@lists.goanet.org Date: Tuesday, June 2, 2009, 11:07 PM Yesterday was a red-letter day for American industry. General Motors, the largest private company in the USA, and perhaps the world, filed for bankruptcy. The auto industry in the USA was started about 100 years ago. Now the largest auto-market in the world is reported to be China. It is just a matter of time that Chinese and Indian made cars will be sold in the USA. One report, I read gives three years for the Tata Nanos to be sold in the USA. As in any failure, there are multiple factors at work. And these factors are usually at work over a long period of time. Here are two articles from the New York Times that reviews the villains of the financial mess. One of the articles written by a respected authority who won a Nobel prize in economics. He could be described as the model of respectable intellectual centrism. http://www.nytimes.com/2009/06/01/opinion/01krugman.html?_r=1partner=rssnytemc=rss
Re: [Goanet] The state of US capitalism
If high quality medical services can be provided in India, then why not? The cost structure in the US, specially for medical care is way out of whack. As a fraction of GDP, the US pays 50% more than the UK (or around 60-70% more on a per capita basis), but yet, an average citizen in the UK has a longer life expectancy than in the US. The US must look into medical outsourcing to reduce costs. Older individuals and people who have unhealthy lifestyles (eg. over weight, smokers etc) should be made to pay higher costs to reflect their true costs. Hospitals in the US should have the right to reject treating emergency patients if they don't have insurance, even it is fatal to the subjects in question. The current approach in the US is that basic health care is ignored, but the govt. then steps in and forces hospitals to provide high cost emergency care. Marlon --- On Tue, 6/2/09, Mario Goveia mgov...@sbcglobal.net wrote: From: Mario Goveia mgov...@sbcglobal.net Subject: [Goanet] The state of US capitalism To: goanet@lists.goanet.org Date: Tuesday, June 2, 2009, 6:45 PM Date: Mon, 1 Jun 2009 19:08:25 -0700 (PDT) From: Mervyn Lobo mervynal...@yahoo.ca The US Govt today became the owner of General Motors. As one Toronto paper explained, the US govt will also simultaneously serve as the company's regulator, tax collector, customer. pension backstop and lender. I love it. Mario responds: Of course you do, since you were one of those who supported the election of the radical socialist government of Messiah Hussein [Peace be upon him!] Now he is trying to make the US just like Canada. If he succeeds in making the US health care system as efficient as Canada's the Canadians will have no option but to go to India for serious treatments.
Re: [Goanet] Is It True?
That is because America still rules Europe. Maybe in a few years, the Eulopeans will get a little more Chinese. Marlon --- On Tue, 5/19/09, Mario Goveia mgov...@sbcglobal.net wrote: From: Mario Goveia mgov...@sbcglobal.net Subject: [Goanet] Is It True? To: goanet@lists.goanet.org Date: Tuesday, May 19, 2009, 1:34 PM Date: Sun, 17 May 2009 12:49:29 -0400 From: Roland Francis roland.fran...@gmail.com Johanna the Icelandic runner-up of the 2009 Eurovision Song Contest. Is she a beauty? http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gW3ivrbq7Twfeature=related Mario responds: Yes, she is. How come they all sing in an American accent in Europe?
[Goanet] The Goanet McCarthy Award (was Muslim Demographics)
Fully agree with Fred. Like the stock market, past performance is no guarantee for future results. If anything, the numbers clearly indicate that the trend in the more educated muslim countries is way, way down. According to the latest stats produced by the UN, 8 of the 15 fastest declines in population growth rate were in the Middle East. http://dotearth.blogs.nytimes.com/2009/04/03/un-sees-big-drop-in-middle-east-fertility-rates/ From the statistics, one will note that Iran's rate is now below replacement rate (ie. it will soon have a declining population). The biggest military power in the Middle East - Israel, has a growth rate that is almost double that of Iran's. Why does Mario persist with his Muslims be damned rhetoric? Is he competing with the other M for the Goanet McCarthy award for anti-christian paranoia? Marlon --- On Sun, 5/10/09, Frederick [FN] Noronha * फ्रेडरिक न fredericknoro...@gmail.com wrote: It's interesting to see the post-Cold War search for a New Enemy (Islam is unfortunately the prime target) bring Rightwingers and Islamophobes of all kinds onto the same side. Date: Sat, 9 May 2009 23:46:05 -0400 From: Roland Francis roland.fran...@gmail.com An undeniable trend, or skewed statistics designed by fundamentalist Christians to scare. Which is it? See the seven and a half minute YouTube video. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6-3X5hIFXYU Mario responds: Do you have some facts to show that the statistics are skewed, or are you trying to obfuscate or deny the undeniable trend??
Re: [Goanet] Shantidoot
I am who I am. Poetic justice, shall we say? Marlon --- On Sun, 4/19/09, Mario Goveia mgov...@sbcglobal.net wrote: Mario asks: Are you Shantidoot, or his abuser?
Re: [Goanet] Chicken soup in Anjuna
Sorry Maria, you are way off ... yet again. I have a clothes washer that uses silver nano particles to disinfect clothes, without needing detergent or hot water. I think in Mervyn's case, it would have to be gold dust. As Mervyn has educated us on this forum, gold is the magical elixir for lot of problems :-) Marlon Date: Sun, 19 Apr 2009 19:55:06 -0700 (PDT) From: Mervyn Lobo mervynal...@yahoo.ca It is funny (to me) to find out that there are Goan doctors who will even contemplate 'chicken soup' as medication. Mario adds: C'mon, Mervyn, give me a break. This shows you know as much about chicken soup as about gold or the USA or the stock market or Somali pirates:-)) If you knew anything about the stock market you would know that Gilbert is one of the biggest stockholders in Campbell's Soup and is also the guy who writes all those Chicken Soup for the... books which have made him a gazillionaire:-)) All his patients are fed chicken soup for three days before he examines them: ))
Re: [Goanet] Shantidoot
Thanks to popular demand, I shall return! Marlon --- On Sat, 4/18/09, Mario Goveia mgov...@sbcglobal.net wrote: From: Mario Goveia mgov...@sbcglobal.net Subject: Re: [Goanet] Shantidoot To: goanet@lists.goanet.org Date: Saturday, April 18, 2009, 11:11 AM George Pinto wrote: I am deeply troubled that one poster or a few posters caused Shantidoot not to further post his daily limericks. Whatever the facts were, I request Shantidoot to start resume posting. His creative genius, along with Francis' Daily Grook, are gifts that cyber Goans should not be denied due to the actions of one person (or a few). Date: Fri, 17 Apr 2009 23:40:39 +0200 From: Alfred de Tavares alfredtava...@hotmail.com Hear! Hear!! Mario responds: Deeply troubled??? Hear! Hear!??? Kitem re??? Tsk, tsk, tsk. Surely we can muster a lot more passion and outrage than this !!!???
Re: [Goanet] America - A Socialist Economy
--- On Thu, 3/26/09, Mervyn Lobo mervynal...@yahoo.ca wrote: I am sure you are aware that the Japanese Govt has been financing the research for the hybrid cars of Toyota and Nissan for the past ten years. Japan wants to clean up the air in its cities. The US car manufacturers, on the other hand, put all their money and efforts into lobbying the US govt NOT to improve emission standards. For that reason alone, people want the US car manufacturers to pay the price. They are voting with their wallets, buying hybrids instead of gas guzzlers. --- And the US companies are now paying the price, as they should. The US has also announced a battery research program - basically to fund basic research at various universities. I think this a better approach than working with industry. This is a reversal of the last decade or so, which saw significant cut in university science budgets via the NSF (in god we trust!). WRT Hybrids, let me say that they are a money looser. They make their manufacturers no money and save their drivers none even with gasoline at double the current price. The math on this is pretty easy. Sales are actually down significantly now because consumers are realizing that they are not a good value proposition, and have the driving dynamics of a golf cart. Like their American counterparts, the German manufacturers have so far stayed away from Hybrids, but they are still doing quite well. For now, hybrids are a halo marketing gimmick. The problem with US cars, and specially with Chrysler is that they simply suck (there are few gems however). Tractor like driving dynamics, cheap interiors, so-so gas mileage etc. Let me go on record to say that Toyota, is at risk of becoming the new GM. Most Toyotas have personalities that are as appealing as bath tubs but I digress :) Just this morning, Bloomberg had a slew of reports about the Chinese Govt introducing subsidies to promote alternative energy production. Here are the numbers, the Chinese Govt will provide a subsidy of US$2.93 per watt for solar projects with a generation capacity of at least 50 kilowatts. Note the price is per watt. This is a heck of a lot of money. All the Chinese solar stocks prices jumped (went thru the roof?) today. If you are interested, the ones that trade in N. America are: Suntech Power Holdings, STP Yingli Green Energy, YGE JA Solar Holdings, JASO LDK Solar Co, LDK Yes, it was a good boost to the market. The US federal government also has a 30% tax rebate. Current solar prices are around $7/watt (installed). That comes to a subsidy of $2.10 per watt. Where I live, I also get an additional local rebate of $4.50 per watt. I am waiting for final IRS interpretation of the laws (on whether rebates are taxable), but if the above holds, I can basically get solar to power around 80% of my needs for a few thousand dollars. That is a one time payment and the electricity needs are covered for the next 25-30 years! As solar programmes like this proliferate across the world (Germany is the leader right now by far), it is possible that a solar boom could occur sooner than expected. The current expectation was another 5-10 years as solar costs come down to become competitive without govt. rebates. In addition, this morning, Hussein bin Obama said on his Internet Town Hall meet that the US auto industry must be preserved, not symbolically but so that people could have jobs. Socialism at its best. - This is really upsetting, specially in the case of Chrysler. They are privately owned, which means that share holders and the country at large get no benefits of this largess, their products stink and their sales have fallen off the cliff. Unlike AIG, Chrysler is too small to survive. I really don't get it. Marlon
Re: [Goanet] America - A Socialist Economy
--- On Wed, 3/25/09, Mervyn Lobo mervynal...@yahoo.ca wrote: Marlon, The request was for numbers. I live in a world where numbers are everything, and sentiment is not worth a penny. In simple terms, it is much easier to understand a salesman who informs you that your investment will make 4% annually verses a salesman who tells you, I will make you lots of money. -- I think you missed out my comment that 70% of the world's venture capital was being invested in America. Technological innovation and its commercialization is what ultimately determines a nation's standard of living. --- On Wed, 3/25/09, Mervyn Lobo mervynal...@yahoo.ca wrote: WRT your two points: 1) The Chinese have and are marketing an electric car that is far more advanced than anything the US has to offer. This is just the beginning of inovation that will surely come out of China. Here is the link to the NPR program. http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=99286134 --- BYD is a good company, but the details on this car remain sketchy. Lithium ion has several issues: cost, safety, recharge speed and energy density . Except via fuzzy accounting or excessive govt. subsidies, I do not see how anyone can make these cars so cheap ($22K). Toyota, a company that is acknowledged to be the most efficient auto manufacturer in the world, loses money on every hybrid car its sells - and hybrids are far cheaper than plug in electrics. For now, they are a marketing halo product. Even GM's soon to be released and much acclaimed plug in electric car, the Volt, is a dubious proposition. GM is marketing this car as something that will save it. It will not. In the next 10 years, I believe the biggest bang for the buck in engine efficiency will come from the implementation of Homogeneous Charge Compression Ignition (HCCI) technology - and not from the more sexy hybrid or battery technology. Perhaps by then, battery technology will become more mainstream. As far as battery research is concerned, most of the cutting edge work is happening in America - not China. Ironically, the future may be in the use of a variation of the common lead acid battery known as the lead carbon battery. See: http://seekingalpha.com/article/115257-lead-carbon-a-game-changer-for-alternative-energy-storage --- On Wed, 3/25/09, Mervyn Lobo mervynal...@yahoo.ca wrote: 2) When you report false numbers in China, the Govt takes you outside and shoots you. When you report false numbers in the USSA, the govt gives you a bonus, prints money to pay the bonus and then passes legislation to tax 90% of the bonus. The final part of this process is for the USSA govt to appoint managers to run the companies that have fantasy profits/losses. In this regard, it feel that the Chinese method promotes far more fiscal responsibility than the USSA's 'democratic' method. In China, anything is the truth - so long as the government says it is so. Your understanding of China is rather naive. Regarding the much maligned issue of the AIG bonuses, the fact is that the original core team responsible for this mess, were fired, forced out or had quit a long time ago. The current staff that were supposed to get the bonuses were brought in at the government's request to clean up house and many of the executives were receiving no salaries. But yes, fundamentally, the US is wrong in letting these companies live. They should have been shut down in the first place. Marlon
