Off Topic · Now That Everything Is Free In NYC, Should I Move Back? (page 9)

martin @ 1/12/2026 2:55 PM
Capitalism rocks?

BigRedDog @ 1/12/2026 3:31 PM
Philc1 wrote:
Rookie wrote:
martin wrote:Is this communism or socialism?

Or being a first world wealthy city that can prioritize these things?

The gov’t in charge of more child care centers, what could possibly go wrong

It was gonna cost a million bajillion dollars and never happen que pasa?


Next up free buses. You know that thing that already exists in Communist Kansas City

AKA "Homeless Shelters on Wheels" wowie, can't wait!!!

martin @ 1/12/2026 4:07 PM
BigRedDog wrote:
Philc1 wrote:
Rookie wrote:
martin wrote:Is this communism or socialism?

Or being a first world wealthy city that can prioritize these things?

The gov’t in charge of more child care centers, what could possibly go wrong

It was gonna cost a million bajillion dollars and never happen que pasa?


Next up free buses. You know that thing that already exists in Communist Kansas City

AKA "Homeless Shelters on Wheels" wowie, can't wait!!!

What gives here? You are kinda rolling your eyes at helping people who need it the most. All this other shit going on in the world and this is what you feel like commenting on?

School kids get free busing every day, all across America. Parents everywhere are dependent on this and probably very thankful for not having to pay for it and having the convenience of it. None of those buses are shelters on wheels.

Free bus transportation did not make us a socialist country or whatever. It just helps people in need on a wide basis.

And this is what you poo poo?

BigRedDog @ 1/12/2026 4:16 PM
martin wrote:
BigRedDog wrote:
Philc1 wrote:
Rookie wrote:
martin wrote:Is this communism or socialism?

Or being a first world wealthy city that can prioritize these things?

The gov’t in charge of more child care centers, what could possibly go wrong

It was gonna cost a million bajillion dollars and never happen que pasa?


Next up free buses. You know that thing that already exists in Communist Kansas City

AKA "Homeless Shelters on Wheels" wowie, can't wait!!!

What gives here? You are kinda rolling your eyes at helping people who need it the most. All this other shit going on in the world and this is what you feel like commenting on?

School kids get free busing every day, all across America. Parents everywhere are dependent on this and probably very thankful for not having to pay for it and having the convenience of it. None of those buses are shelters on wheels.

Free bus transportation did not make us a socialist country or whatever. It just helps people in need on a wide basis.

And this is what you poo poo?


Free Buses, everyone wins, not so simple

In 2022, Kansas City's "Zero Fare" bus program—the first of its kind for a major U.S. city—faced several operational and safety challenges that complicated its initial success. While the program successfully removed financial barriers for many, critics and transit officials noted the following issues during that year:
Increased Safety Incidents and Disturbances: Reports indicated a significant rise in "bus disturbances" after the program began. Incidents rose from 972 in 2019 (the last year of fares) to 2,187 in 2021, with safety concerns persisting through 2022.
Driver Shortages and Safety Concerns: Bus operators reported feeling increasingly unsafe due to frequent altercations, leading to a labor shortage. This shortage made it difficult for the KCATA to restore service to pre-pandemic frequencies.
Sustainability and Funding Gaps: By 2022, the loss of roughly $10 million in annual fare revenue began to strain the budget. While federal COVID-19 relief funds initially covered these losses, there were growing concerns about long-term sustainability as those funds were set to expire.
Inadequate Service Coverage: Despite being free, only 12.8% of low-income households were located near a transit system in 2022, meaning the program's benefits were unreachable for many of the people it was designed to help.
Reliability Issues: Many riders experienced long wait times and frequent "ghost buses" (buses that never arrived), causing them to be late for work or medical appointments.
Loitering and Homelessness Concerns: Critics and some regular commuters observed that buses were increasingly used as temporary shelters by the unhoused population, which sometimes led to complaints regarding hygiene and behavioral issues on board.

BigRedDog @ 1/12/2026 4:19 PM
martin wrote:
BigRedDog wrote:
Philc1 wrote:
Rookie wrote:
martin wrote:Is this communism or socialism?

Or being a first world wealthy city that can prioritize these things?

The gov’t in charge of more child care centers, what could possibly go wrong

It was gonna cost a million bajillion dollars and never happen que pasa?


Next up free buses. You know that thing that already exists in Communist Kansas City

AKA "Homeless Shelters on Wheels" wowie, can't wait!!!

What gives here? You are kinda rolling your eyes at helping people who need it the most. All this other shit going on in the world and this is what you feel like commenting on?

School kids get free busing every day, all across America. Parents everywhere are dependent on this and probably very thankful for not having to pay for it and having the convenience of it. None of those buses are shelters on wheels.

Free bus transportation did not make us a socialist country or whatever. It just helps people in need on a wide basis.

And this is what you poo poo?

I really don't want to comment on everything fucked up in the world today but I grew up in NYC and I care about the city. So yes I can and want to comment on something that I think is wrong for NYC. Is that ok with you?

martin @ 1/12/2026 6:03 PM
BigRedDog wrote:
martin wrote:
BigRedDog wrote:
Philc1 wrote:
Rookie wrote:
martin wrote:Is this communism or socialism?

Or being a first world wealthy city that can prioritize these things?

The gov’t in charge of more child care centers, what could possibly go wrong

It was gonna cost a million bajillion dollars and never happen que pasa?


Next up free buses. You know that thing that already exists in Communist Kansas City

AKA "Homeless Shelters on Wheels" wowie, can't wait!!!

What gives here? You are kinda rolling your eyes at helping people who need it the most. All this other shit going on in the world and this is what you feel like commenting on?

School kids get free busing every day, all across America. Parents everywhere are dependent on this and probably very thankful for not having to pay for it and having the convenience of it. None of those buses are shelters on wheels.

Free bus transportation did not make us a socialist country or whatever. It just helps people in need on a wide basis.

And this is what you poo poo?

I really don't want to comment on everything fucked up in the world today but I grew up in NYC and I care about the city. So yes I can and want to comment on something that I think is wrong for NYC. Is that ok with you?

You comment on what you like.

Is the current proposal based on the Kansas City model? Maybe you can tell us what you don't like about the idea and how to make it a better one.

Or sit back and do nothing but make it a harder idea to implement.

HofstraBBall @ 1/12/2026 6:06 PM
BigRedDog wrote:
martin wrote:
BigRedDog wrote:
Philc1 wrote:
Rookie wrote:
martin wrote:Is this communism or socialism?

Or being a first world wealthy city that can prioritize these things?

The gov’t in charge of more child care centers, what could possibly go wrong

It was gonna cost a million bajillion dollars and never happen que pasa?


Next up free buses. You know that thing that already exists in Communist Kansas City

AKA "Homeless Shelters on Wheels" wowie, can't wait!!!

What gives here? You are kinda rolling your eyes at helping people who need it the most. All this other shit going on in the world and this is what you feel like commenting on?

School kids get free busing every day, all across America. Parents everywhere are dependent on this and probably very thankful for not having to pay for it and having the convenience of it. None of those buses are shelters on wheels.

Free bus transportation did not make us a socialist country or whatever. It just helps people in need on a wide basis.

And this is what you poo poo?


Free Buses, everyone wins, not so simple

In 2022, Kansas City's "Zero Fare" bus program—the first of its kind for a major U.S. city—faced several operational and safety challenges that complicated its initial success. While the program successfully removed financial barriers for many, critics and transit officials noted the following issues during that year:
Increased Safety Incidents and Disturbances: Reports indicated a significant rise in "bus disturbances" after the program began. Incidents rose from 972 in 2019 (the last year of fares) to 2,187 in 2021, with safety concerns persisting through 2022.
Driver Shortages and Safety Concerns: Bus operators reported feeling increasingly unsafe due to frequent altercations, leading to a labor shortage. This shortage made it difficult for the KCATA to restore service to pre-pandemic frequencies.
Sustainability and Funding Gaps: By 2022, the loss of roughly $10 million in annual fare revenue began to strain the budget. While federal COVID-19 relief funds initially covered these losses, there were growing concerns about long-term sustainability as those funds were set to expire.
Inadequate Service Coverage: Despite being free, only 12.8% of low-income households were located near a transit system in 2022, meaning the program's benefits were unreachable for many of the people it was designed to help.
Reliability Issues: Many riders experienced long wait times and frequent "ghost buses" (buses that never arrived), causing them to be late for work or medical appointments.
Loitering and Homelessness Concerns: Critics and some regular commuters observed that buses were increasingly used as temporary shelters by the unhoused population, which sometimes led to complaints regarding hygiene and behavioral issues on board.

Can you include link? “Critics”?

New study shows more “younger and female riders”
This study seems to be a far cry from “moving homeless shelters”
Think some feel that the right points to scary boogey man scenarios when anything that favors the poor and makes our government help with daily expenses is implemented. Instead of reasonably suggesting that most new programs will need time and adjustments before becoming a success. Believe you are right about homeless being a concern, problem is, the government will try to brain wash citizens to think anything they have to pay for is bad or socialist. Hoping less will care when they scrap the program and use that money to make the rich richer. Including themselves.

https://news.ku.edu/news/article/study-f...
“Findings indicate that the policy successfully attracted new riders, as 17% of respondents stated that they started using bus service because it became free. Younger people and women were particularly likely to be new riders. This aligns with broader U.S. trends showing that women and younger populations already use public transit more frequently. Also more likely to become new bus users are white residents, who were more than twice as likely to become new users when compared to users of color. This is significant as this segment of the population is generally less likely to use bus service. This reflects how the implementation of a fare-free policy can help transit service providers strengthen their core”

martin @ 1/13/2026 12:43 PM
Kansas City implementation started in early 2020. It's no wonder that in its first years they would be under budget because of Pandemic, etc. and probably other factors.

I do wonder how the Massachusetts implementation went, it was refereed to in the article.

https://www.eesi.org/articles/view/kansa...

Alpha1971 @ 1/13/2026 2:10 PM
Guess what guys, you know Pssy in NYC ain't free, Mamdani is worthless
Philc1 @ 1/14/2026 8:18 AM
BigRedDog wrote:
Philc1 wrote:
Rookie wrote:
martin wrote:Is this communism or socialism?

Or being a first world wealthy city that can prioritize these things?

The gov’t in charge of more child care centers, what could possibly go wrong

It was gonna cost a million bajillion dollars and never happen que pasa?


Next up free buses. You know that thing that already exists in Communist Kansas City

AKA "Homeless Shelters on Wheels" wowie, can't wait!!!

Clearly the apocalypse occurred in Kansas City

Btw where is the caliphate in NYC I was promised? All we have is a mayor whose name isn’t Bob or Joe

Chandler @ 1/14/2026 9:14 PM
martin wrote:
Rookie wrote:
HofstraBBall wrote:
Rookie wrote:LOL NYC you are fooked.

This seems like a common tactic on the right.
Scare everyone by claiming one knows the future, promise everything to everyone, when proven wrong say it’s all a conspiracy full of lies.

Funny thing is I own a business in NYC and Tampa.
The ones strongest about the right, including the ones opposing socialist policies are usually the first ones to refuse a normal paying job, first ones in line for unemployment, Medicaid and free food.

In my opinion, most politicians are scumbags and only in it for power and money. It just so happens the right has voted in one of the best politicians in history.
Qatar hated until they give me a plane and business deals in their country.
Saudis, part of 911 until they let me build for free in their country.
Give me all your money to fight the steal, and I’ll just keep it.
Help out my buddy, for a handsome fee, to take over the horrible Chinese tik tok killing our country.
Help my buddies in the oil biz by taking over Venezuelan oil, for a fee. Oh and take a few million barrels for my control. This seems like the best socialist implementation in history.
But if poor people want a piece, throw rocks and call them
Socialists?

At the end of the day, people have to educate themselves on how the rich and powerful obtain and maintain power and wealth. That’s by convincing everyone that they are doing something for their benefit. Then once they have your vote or support they only do what what benefits them the most. Even if it means killing hundreds of thousands of people, taking all their money or enslaving innocent people. In today’s modern society with current technology, this is extremely easy to do. People have an attention span for a killing of about a week. They can be convinced of anything with one post that goes viral. Whether true or not. Be aware of the machine. One that is real good at manipulation. Go out and play some ball and realize everyone is just like you. Trying to have some fun in a world surrounded by fucked up things and people.

All these replies are full of fear mongering for the opposing political party. It's all gloom and doom and the sky is falling. Lots of conspiracy theory BS and democratic talking points. This forum is an echo chamber for your chosen political affiliation so I don't waste my time trying to form any opposing arguments to your political opinions. I will not change anyones mind or opinion here. I have witnessed the ganging up on forum members with opposing opinions and watched them all leave or be banned so I will not make the same mistakes that they did and engage in meaningful conversation because it always escalates into hysterics and anger. I will say there are a few here who are educated, worldly and informed in their history but that is not the norm.

I lived in NYC my whole life. I left in 2016 and I don't regret it for a minute. I love to visit but I am always glad to leave after a few days, I still own an apartment in NYC which I rent out. Ive been trying to sell it and the current instability is making that impossible. I really don't think NYC is fooked. I do however think it takes years to correct political mistakes and mismanagement. They haven't had a decent mayor since Bloomberg. Mamdani and Hochul seem to be more political animal than serious policy makers. They will blow whichever way popular opinion sends them in search of appeasement, political survival and ultimately political advancement. Hopefully their ambition aligns with the residents of their state.

We have never banned anyone for have a difference of opinion. So get that out of your head.

I thought Briggs was banned largely for being pro Trump


I agree w Rookie about the futility of honest, fair discussion

Forum went from quasi-bar of knicks fans enjoying or rooting for their team even when they were putrid to immature political rallies when the team is finally good

martin @ 1/14/2026 9:27 PM
Chandler wrote:
martin wrote:
Rookie wrote:
HofstraBBall wrote:
Rookie wrote:LOL NYC you are fooked.

This seems like a common tactic on the right.
Scare everyone by claiming one knows the future, promise everything to everyone, when proven wrong say it’s all a conspiracy full of lies.

Funny thing is I own a business in NYC and Tampa.
The ones strongest about the right, including the ones opposing socialist policies are usually the first ones to refuse a normal paying job, first ones in line for unemployment, Medicaid and free food.

In my opinion, most politicians are scumbags and only in it for power and money. It just so happens the right has voted in one of the best politicians in history.
Qatar hated until they give me a plane and business deals in their country.
Saudis, part of 911 until they let me build for free in their country.
Give me all your money to fight the steal, and I’ll just keep it.
Help out my buddy, for a handsome fee, to take over the horrible Chinese tik tok killing our country.
Help my buddies in the oil biz by taking over Venezuelan oil, for a fee. Oh and take a few million barrels for my control. This seems like the best socialist implementation in history.
But if poor people want a piece, throw rocks and call them
Socialists?

At the end of the day, people have to educate themselves on how the rich and powerful obtain and maintain power and wealth. That’s by convincing everyone that they are doing something for their benefit. Then once they have your vote or support they only do what what benefits them the most. Even if it means killing hundreds of thousands of people, taking all their money or enslaving innocent people. In today’s modern society with current technology, this is extremely easy to do. People have an attention span for a killing of about a week. They can be convinced of anything with one post that goes viral. Whether true or not. Be aware of the machine. One that is real good at manipulation. Go out and play some ball and realize everyone is just like you. Trying to have some fun in a world surrounded by fucked up things and people.

All these replies are full of fear mongering for the opposing political party. It's all gloom and doom and the sky is falling. Lots of conspiracy theory BS and democratic talking points. This forum is an echo chamber for your chosen political affiliation so I don't waste my time trying to form any opposing arguments to your political opinions. I will not change anyones mind or opinion here. I have witnessed the ganging up on forum members with opposing opinions and watched them all leave or be banned so I will not make the same mistakes that they did and engage in meaningful conversation because it always escalates into hysterics and anger. I will say there are a few here who are educated, worldly and informed in their history but that is not the norm.

I lived in NYC my whole life. I left in 2016 and I don't regret it for a minute. I love to visit but I am always glad to leave after a few days, I still own an apartment in NYC which I rent out. Ive been trying to sell it and the current instability is making that impossible. I really don't think NYC is fooked. I do however think it takes years to correct political mistakes and mismanagement. They haven't had a decent mayor since Bloomberg. Mamdani and Hochul seem to be more political animal than serious policy makers. They will blow whichever way popular opinion sends them in search of appeasement, political survival and ultimately political advancement. Hopefully their ambition aligns with the residents of their state.

We have never banned anyone for have a difference of opinion. So get that out of your head.

I thought Briggs was banned largely for being pro Trump


I agree w Rookie about the futility of honest, fair discussion

Forum went from quasi-bar of knicks fans enjoying or rooting for their team even when they were putrid to immature political rallies when the team is finally good

You in fact have it exactly backwards. Use this as your example.

Rookie wrote:
Philc1 wrote:
martin wrote:Why? I don't get this

NY elected a Muslim person so Op is triggered

You’re a dick

jaydh @ 1/14/2026 11:08 PM
Rookie wrote:
martin wrote:Is this communism or socialism?

Or being a first world wealthy city that can prioritize these things?

The gov’t in charge of more child care centers, what could possibly go wrong

You care about government getting more involved in peoples lives? You must really hate the current administration.

BlueKnickers @ 1/15/2026 1:25 AM
jaydh wrote:
Rookie wrote:
martin wrote:Is this communism or socialism?

Or being a first world wealthy city that can prioritize these things?

The gov’t in charge of more child care centers, what could possibly go wrong

You care about government getting more involved in peoples lives? You must really hate the current administration.

Our Tombstones shall read:

"I went out for a bag of ice and ICE bagged me."

Nalod @ 1/15/2026 9:02 AM
Chandler wrote:
martin wrote:
Rookie wrote:
HofstraBBall wrote:
Rookie wrote:LOL NYC you are fooked.

This seems like a common tactic on the right.
Scare everyone by claiming one knows the future, promise everything to everyone, when proven wrong say it’s all a conspiracy full of lies.

Funny thing is I own a business in NYC and Tampa.
The ones strongest about the right, including the ones opposing socialist policies are usually the first ones to refuse a normal paying job, first ones in line for unemployment, Medicaid and free food.

In my opinion, most politicians are scumbags and only in it for power and money. It just so happens the right has voted in one of the best politicians in history.
Qatar hated until they give me a plane and business deals in their country.
Saudis, part of 911 until they let me build for free in their country.
Give me all your money to fight the steal, and I’ll just keep it.
Help out my buddy, for a handsome fee, to take over the horrible Chinese tik tok killing our country.
Help my buddies in the oil biz by taking over Venezuelan oil, for a fee. Oh and take a few million barrels for my control. This seems like the best socialist implementation in history.
But if poor people want a piece, throw rocks and call them
Socialists?

At the end of the day, people have to educate themselves on how the rich and powerful obtain and maintain power and wealth. That’s by convincing everyone that they are doing something for their benefit. Then once they have your vote or support they only do what what benefits them the most. Even if it means killing hundreds of thousands of people, taking all their money or enslaving innocent people. In today’s modern society with current technology, this is extremely easy to do. People have an attention span for a killing of about a week. They can be convinced of anything with one post that goes viral. Whether true or not. Be aware of the machine. One that is real good at manipulation. Go out and play some ball and realize everyone is just like you. Trying to have some fun in a world surrounded by fucked up things and people.

All these replies are full of fear mongering for the opposing political party. It's all gloom and doom and the sky is falling. Lots of conspiracy theory BS and democratic talking points. This forum is an echo chamber for your chosen political affiliation so I don't waste my time trying to form any opposing arguments to your political opinions. I will not change anyones mind or opinion here. I have witnessed the ganging up on forum members with opposing opinions and watched them all leave or be banned so I will not make the same mistakes that they did and engage in meaningful conversation because it always escalates into hysterics and anger. I will say there are a few here who are educated, worldly and informed in their history but that is not the norm.

I lived in NYC my whole life. I left in 2016 and I don't regret it for a minute. I love to visit but I am always glad to leave after a few days, I still own an apartment in NYC which I rent out. Ive been trying to sell it and the current instability is making that impossible. I really don't think NYC is fooked. I do however think it takes years to correct political mistakes and mismanagement. They haven't had a decent mayor since Bloomberg. Mamdani and Hochul seem to be more political animal than serious policy makers. They will blow whichever way popular opinion sends them in search of appeasement, political survival and ultimately political advancement. Hopefully their ambition aligns with the residents of their state.

We have never banned anyone for have a difference of opinion. So get that out of your head.

I thought Briggs was banned largely for being pro Trump


I agree w Rookie about the futility of honest, fair discussion

Forum went from quasi-bar of knicks fans enjoying or rooting for their team even when they were putrid to immature political rallies when the team is finally good

Briggs was complicated as are most of us which is not easy to convey given the economy of words we often use here. Not that I succeed in that most days. Politics are personal values which when pressed we back into our corners rarely if ever to retreat from. In fact most of us don't like to admit when we ae wrong as we dig pour heels in deeper and deeper and thats usually for our players or view on a coach! To debate via a site were we hold ananimity and participants holding various levels of intellectual capaicty it can get very interesting at times. We talk more than we listen. Nothing different than most of our society.
As for Briggs, I recall little detail but he took it to a level were it was uncomfortable for some. Martin can speak perhaps better about it if he is not exhausted from it by now, but my take is if you cross a line your given the opportuity to cool it down or leave. Briggs left. Many years ago I asked to do the same. Keep pressing to prove my points or find a more suitable forum to do so but not here. I choose to stay. I am a guest in this house and Martins rules of decorum are not unreasonable given first and foremost this is a forum about basketball and while we can dip our toes into other subjects its best we stick to what we do. He charges no fees nor subjects us to advertisements. Its his call. One is not censured or denied freedom of speech. One can do it elsewhere.

Some posters sulk and take it personally when called out if proven wrong. That't the prerequisite to getting asked to leave. Feeling victomized not by views but as if one is being "ganged up on". Again, listen rather than talk and sometimes its good to read the room your in. Don't like it? Go to one that is more suitable. Not everyone is open to exchange. They want validation.

The house of Martin has stood over two decades based on a formula that works for most that wish to talk mostly hoop and need to vent or share happy excitement in good times. It succeeds there.

Chandler @ 1/15/2026 9:33 AM
Nalod wrote:
Chandler wrote:
martin wrote:
Rookie wrote:
HofstraBBall wrote:
Rookie wrote:LOL NYC you are fooked.

This seems like a common tactic on the right.
Scare everyone by claiming one knows the future, promise everything to everyone, when proven wrong say it’s all a conspiracy full of lies.

Funny thing is I own a business in NYC and Tampa.
The ones strongest about the right, including the ones opposing socialist policies are usually the first ones to refuse a normal paying job, first ones in line for unemployment, Medicaid and free food.

In my opinion, most politicians are scumbags and only in it for power and money. It just so happens the right has voted in one of the best politicians in history.
Qatar hated until they give me a plane and business deals in their country.
Saudis, part of 911 until they let me build for free in their country.
Give me all your money to fight the steal, and I’ll just keep it.
Help out my buddy, for a handsome fee, to take over the horrible Chinese tik tok killing our country.
Help my buddies in the oil biz by taking over Venezuelan oil, for a fee. Oh and take a few million barrels for my control. This seems like the best socialist implementation in history.
But if poor people want a piece, throw rocks and call them
Socialists?

At the end of the day, people have to educate themselves on how the rich and powerful obtain and maintain power and wealth. That’s by convincing everyone that they are doing something for their benefit. Then once they have your vote or support they only do what what benefits them the most. Even if it means killing hundreds of thousands of people, taking all their money or enslaving innocent people. In today’s modern society with current technology, this is extremely easy to do. People have an attention span for a killing of about a week. They can be convinced of anything with one post that goes viral. Whether true or not. Be aware of the machine. One that is real good at manipulation. Go out and play some ball and realize everyone is just like you. Trying to have some fun in a world surrounded by fucked up things and people.

All these replies are full of fear mongering for the opposing political party. It's all gloom and doom and the sky is falling. Lots of conspiracy theory BS and democratic talking points. This forum is an echo chamber for your chosen political affiliation so I don't waste my time trying to form any opposing arguments to your political opinions. I will not change anyones mind or opinion here. I have witnessed the ganging up on forum members with opposing opinions and watched them all leave or be banned so I will not make the same mistakes that they did and engage in meaningful conversation because it always escalates into hysterics and anger. I will say there are a few here who are educated, worldly and informed in their history but that is not the norm.

I lived in NYC my whole life. I left in 2016 and I don't regret it for a minute. I love to visit but I am always glad to leave after a few days, I still own an apartment in NYC which I rent out. Ive been trying to sell it and the current instability is making that impossible. I really don't think NYC is fooked. I do however think it takes years to correct political mistakes and mismanagement. They haven't had a decent mayor since Bloomberg. Mamdani and Hochul seem to be more political animal than serious policy makers. They will blow whichever way popular opinion sends them in search of appeasement, political survival and ultimately political advancement. Hopefully their ambition aligns with the residents of their state.

We have never banned anyone for have a difference of opinion. So get that out of your head.

I thought Briggs was banned largely for being pro Trump


I agree w Rookie about the futility of honest, fair discussion

Forum went from quasi-bar of knicks fans enjoying or rooting for their team even when they were putrid to immature political rallies when the team is finally good

Briggs was complicated as are most of us which is not easy to convey given the economy of words we often use here. Not that I succeed in that most days. Politics are personal values which when pressed we back into our corners rarely if ever to retreat from. In fact most of us don't like to admit when we ae wrong as we dig pour heels in deeper and deeper and thats usually for our players or view on a coach! To debate via a site were we hold ananimity and participants holding various levels of intellectual capaicty it can get very interesting at times. We talk more than we listen. Nothing different than most of our society.
As for Briggs, I recall little detail but he took it to a level were it was uncomfortable for some. Martin can speak perhaps better about it if he is not exhausted from it by now, but my take is if you cross a line your given the opportuity to cool it down or leave. Briggs left. Many years ago I asked to do the same. Keep pressing to prove my points or find a more suitable forum to do so but not here. I choose to stay. I am a guest in this house and Martins rules of decorum are not unreasonable given first and foremost this is a forum about basketball and while we can dip our toes into other subjects its best we stick to what we do. He charges no fees nor subjects us to advertisements. Its his call. One is not censured or denied freedom of speech. One can do it elsewhere.

Some posters sulk and take it personally when called out if proven wrong. That't the prerequisite to getting asked to leave. Feeling victomized not by views but as if one is being "ganged up on". Again, listen rather than talk and sometimes its good to read the room your in. Don't like it? Go to one that is more suitable. Not everyone is open to exchange. They want validation.

The house of Martin has stood over two decades based on a formula that works for most that wish to talk mostly hoop and need to vent or share happy excitement in good times. It succeeds there.

I agree with a lot of what you say but not sure how you’re addressing the part about futility of honest, fair discussion. Are you saying the solution is to read the room and leave if one doesn’t like it?

If so that’s a little sad and seems like a recipe for more polarization. I recall the days when common interest in Knicks (even when they stunk) fostered more trust and interest in the views and life experiences of other forum members. For example I remember learning a lot from knicksluva (sp?) about black history.

I might be wrong in my recollection but the place seemed to be more civil and less polarized and that made this place special.

martin @ 1/15/2026 9:57 AM
Chandler wrote:
Nalod wrote:
Chandler wrote:
martin wrote:
Rookie wrote:
HofstraBBall wrote:
Rookie wrote:LOL NYC you are fooked.

This seems like a common tactic on the right.
Scare everyone by claiming one knows the future, promise everything to everyone, when proven wrong say it’s all a conspiracy full of lies.

Funny thing is I own a business in NYC and Tampa.
The ones strongest about the right, including the ones opposing socialist policies are usually the first ones to refuse a normal paying job, first ones in line for unemployment, Medicaid and free food.

In my opinion, most politicians are scumbags and only in it for power and money. It just so happens the right has voted in one of the best politicians in history.
Qatar hated until they give me a plane and business deals in their country.
Saudis, part of 911 until they let me build for free in their country.
Give me all your money to fight the steal, and I’ll just keep it.
Help out my buddy, for a handsome fee, to take over the horrible Chinese tik tok killing our country.
Help my buddies in the oil biz by taking over Venezuelan oil, for a fee. Oh and take a few million barrels for my control. This seems like the best socialist implementation in history.
But if poor people want a piece, throw rocks and call them
Socialists?

At the end of the day, people have to educate themselves on how the rich and powerful obtain and maintain power and wealth. That’s by convincing everyone that they are doing something for their benefit. Then once they have your vote or support they only do what what benefits them the most. Even if it means killing hundreds of thousands of people, taking all their money or enslaving innocent people. In today’s modern society with current technology, this is extremely easy to do. People have an attention span for a killing of about a week. They can be convinced of anything with one post that goes viral. Whether true or not. Be aware of the machine. One that is real good at manipulation. Go out and play some ball and realize everyone is just like you. Trying to have some fun in a world surrounded by fucked up things and people.

All these replies are full of fear mongering for the opposing political party. It's all gloom and doom and the sky is falling. Lots of conspiracy theory BS and democratic talking points. This forum is an echo chamber for your chosen political affiliation so I don't waste my time trying to form any opposing arguments to your political opinions. I will not change anyones mind or opinion here. I have witnessed the ganging up on forum members with opposing opinions and watched them all leave or be banned so I will not make the same mistakes that they did and engage in meaningful conversation because it always escalates into hysterics and anger. I will say there are a few here who are educated, worldly and informed in their history but that is not the norm.

I lived in NYC my whole life. I left in 2016 and I don't regret it for a minute. I love to visit but I am always glad to leave after a few days, I still own an apartment in NYC which I rent out. Ive been trying to sell it and the current instability is making that impossible. I really don't think NYC is fooked. I do however think it takes years to correct political mistakes and mismanagement. They haven't had a decent mayor since Bloomberg. Mamdani and Hochul seem to be more political animal than serious policy makers. They will blow whichever way popular opinion sends them in search of appeasement, political survival and ultimately political advancement. Hopefully their ambition aligns with the residents of their state.

We have never banned anyone for have a difference of opinion. So get that out of your head.

I thought Briggs was banned largely for being pro Trump


I agree w Rookie about the futility of honest, fair discussion

Forum went from quasi-bar of knicks fans enjoying or rooting for their team even when they were putrid to immature political rallies when the team is finally good

Briggs was complicated as are most of us which is not easy to convey given the economy of words we often use here. Not that I succeed in that most days. Politics are personal values which when pressed we back into our corners rarely if ever to retreat from. In fact most of us don't like to admit when we ae wrong as we dig pour heels in deeper and deeper and thats usually for our players or view on a coach! To debate via a site were we hold ananimity and participants holding various levels of intellectual capaicty it can get very interesting at times. We talk more than we listen. Nothing different than most of our society.
As for Briggs, I recall little detail but he took it to a level were it was uncomfortable for some. Martin can speak perhaps better about it if he is not exhausted from it by now, but my take is if you cross a line your given the opportuity to cool it down or leave. Briggs left. Many years ago I asked to do the same. Keep pressing to prove my points or find a more suitable forum to do so but not here. I choose to stay. I am a guest in this house and Martins rules of decorum are not unreasonable given first and foremost this is a forum about basketball and while we can dip our toes into other subjects its best we stick to what we do. He charges no fees nor subjects us to advertisements. Its his call. One is not censured or denied freedom of speech. One can do it elsewhere.

Some posters sulk and take it personally when called out if proven wrong. That't the prerequisite to getting asked to leave. Feeling victomized not by views but as if one is being "ganged up on". Again, listen rather than talk and sometimes its good to read the room your in. Don't like it? Go to one that is more suitable. Not everyone is open to exchange. They want validation.

The house of Martin has stood over two decades based on a formula that works for most that wish to talk mostly hoop and need to vent or share happy excitement in good times. It succeeds there.

I agree with a lot of what you say but not sure how you’re addressing the part about futility of honest, fair discussion. Are you saying the solution is to read the room and leave if one doesn’t like it?

If so that’s a little sad and seems like a recipe for more polarization. I recall the days when common interest in Knicks (even when they stunk) fostered more trust and interest in the views and life experiences of other forum members. For example I remember learning a lot from knicksluva (sp?) about black history.

I might be wrong in my recollection but the place seemed to be more civil and less polarized and that made this place special.

How about this? Help me and everyone out in threads like this. There is plenty of opportunity to help nudge the discussion.

I don’t really want to moderate threads like this and would gladly welcome the input.

If you think there isn’t a fair back and forth, help step in to set it right. This applies to everyone.

martin @ 1/15/2026 10:15 AM
Re Briggs, it seems like I’ve explained this many times over: I had asked Briggs to keep the non Knicks discussion stuff - ie the political thread - to off topic forum. Asked online and in emails offline. He let me know that he would. Then he kept creating those exact topics and posts in the Knicks forum. I would ask him offline if he would keep to Knicks stuff for the benefit of everybody and he let me know he would. And then he’d be back at it weeks later.

I’d guess it’s the same thing you are alluding to here with your asks: can we just keep to Knicks banter? I don’t mind that.

I got tired of trying to remind him this was a Knicks forum, after lots and lots of offline emails. IMHO Briggs acted like an entitled asshole after I had taken time out of my life to try to persuade him to be better. He didn’t and so I banned him. I don’t have time for adults like that.

I don’t create the off topic threads, it’s others but I respond to them. I’m left to help move discussion, as is anyone.

It’s a collective here. I really have little interest in talking about the major of NCY, but Rookie felt it worthwhile.

Could you or anyone help me by reminding users that the team we like are REALLY good and we could keep to that topic? I’ll make you a moderator so that you can help me move these topics to the Off Topic forum, to share that responsibility with others.

Chandler @ 1/15/2026 10:34 AM
martin wrote:Re Briggs, it seems like I’ve explained this many times over: I had asked Briggs to keep the non Knicks discussion stuff - ie the political thread - to off topic forum. Asked online and in emails offline. He let me know that he would. Then he kept creating those exact topics and posts in the Knicks forum. I would ask him offline if he would keep to Knicks stuff for the benefit of everybody and he let me know he would. And then he’d be back at it weeks later.

I’d guess it’s the same thing you are alluding to here with your asks: can we just keep to Knicks banter? I don’t mind that.

I got tired of trying to remind him this was a Knicks forum, after lots and lots of offline emails. IMHO Briggs acted like an entitled asshole after I had taken time out of my life to try to persuade him to be better. He didn’t and so I banned him. I don’t have time for adults like that.

I don’t create the off topic threads, it’s others but I respond to them. I’m left to help move discussion, as is anyone.

It’s a collective here. I really have little interest in talking about the major of NCY, but Rookie felt it worthwhile.

Could you or anyone help me by reminding users that the team we like are REALLY good and we could keep to that topic? I’ll make you a moderator so that you can help me move these topics to the Off Topic forum, to share that responsibility with others.

I remember some of that with Briggs and agree he seemed to enjoy stirring things up. And I agree that when you (as moderator) ask him (or anyone) to keep things to "off topic" and he doesn't that's ban-able. Seems fair. Due process, and you're simply asking people to not clutter up the Knicks discussion. IMHO I think it would help things tremendously to move threads (like this one) to off topic

martin @ 1/15/2026 10:37 AM
Chandler wrote:
martin wrote:Re Briggs, it seems like I’ve explained this many times over: I had asked Briggs to keep the non Knicks discussion stuff - ie the political thread - to off topic forum. Asked online and in emails offline. He let me know that he would. Then he kept creating those exact topics and posts in the Knicks forum. I would ask him offline if he would keep to Knicks stuff for the benefit of everybody and he let me know he would. And then he’d be back at it weeks later.

I’d guess it’s the same thing you are alluding to here with your asks: can we just keep to Knicks banter? I don’t mind that.

I got tired of trying to remind him this was a Knicks forum, after lots and lots of offline emails. IMHO Briggs acted like an entitled asshole after I had taken time out of my life to try to persuade him to be better. He didn’t and so I banned him. I don’t have time for adults like that.

I don’t create the off topic threads, it’s others but I respond to them. I’m left to help move discussion, as is anyone.

It’s a collective here. I really have little interest in talking about the major of NCY, but Rookie felt it worthwhile.

Could you or anyone help me by reminding users that the team we like are REALLY good and we could keep to that topic? I’ll make you a moderator so that you can help me move these topics to the Off Topic forum, to share that responsibility with others.

I remember some of that with Briggs and agree he seemed to enjoy stirring things up. And I agree that when you (as moderator) ask him (or anyone) to keep things to "off topic" and he doesn't that's ban-able. Seems fair. Due process, and you're simply asking people to not clutter up the Knicks discussion. IMHO I think it would help things tremendously to move threads (like this one) to off topic

Done. And later today you will also be a mod that will be able to do the same.

Chandler @ 1/15/2026 10:58 AM
martin wrote:
Chandler wrote:
Nalod wrote:
Chandler wrote:
martin wrote:
Rookie wrote:
HofstraBBall wrote:
Rookie wrote:LOL NYC you are fooked.

This seems like a common tactic on the right.
Scare everyone by claiming one knows the future, promise everything to everyone, when proven wrong say it’s all a conspiracy full of lies.

Funny thing is I own a business in NYC and Tampa.
The ones strongest about the right, including the ones opposing socialist policies are usually the first ones to refuse a normal paying job, first ones in line for unemployment, Medicaid and free food.

In my opinion, most politicians are scumbags and only in it for power and money. It just so happens the right has voted in one of the best politicians in history.
Qatar hated until they give me a plane and business deals in their country.
Saudis, part of 911 until they let me build for free in their country.
Give me all your money to fight the steal, and I’ll just keep it.
Help out my buddy, for a handsome fee, to take over the horrible Chinese tik tok killing our country.
Help my buddies in the oil biz by taking over Venezuelan oil, for a fee. Oh and take a few million barrels for my control. This seems like the best socialist implementation in history.
But if poor people want a piece, throw rocks and call them
Socialists?

At the end of the day, people have to educate themselves on how the rich and powerful obtain and maintain power and wealth. That’s by convincing everyone that they are doing something for their benefit. Then once they have your vote or support they only do what what benefits them the most. Even if it means killing hundreds of thousands of people, taking all their money or enslaving innocent people. In today’s modern society with current technology, this is extremely easy to do. People have an attention span for a killing of about a week. They can be convinced of anything with one post that goes viral. Whether true or not. Be aware of the machine. One that is real good at manipulation. Go out and play some ball and realize everyone is just like you. Trying to have some fun in a world surrounded by fucked up things and people.

All these replies are full of fear mongering for the opposing political party. It's all gloom and doom and the sky is falling. Lots of conspiracy theory BS and democratic talking points. This forum is an echo chamber for your chosen political affiliation so I don't waste my time trying to form any opposing arguments to your political opinions. I will not change anyones mind or opinion here. I have witnessed the ganging up on forum members with opposing opinions and watched them all leave or be banned so I will not make the same mistakes that they did and engage in meaningful conversation because it always escalates into hysterics and anger. I will say there are a few here who are educated, worldly and informed in their history but that is not the norm.

I lived in NYC my whole life. I left in 2016 and I don't regret it for a minute. I love to visit but I am always glad to leave after a few days, I still own an apartment in NYC which I rent out. Ive been trying to sell it and the current instability is making that impossible. I really don't think NYC is fooked. I do however think it takes years to correct political mistakes and mismanagement. They haven't had a decent mayor since Bloomberg. Mamdani and Hochul seem to be more political animal than serious policy makers. They will blow whichever way popular opinion sends them in search of appeasement, political survival and ultimately political advancement. Hopefully their ambition aligns with the residents of their state.

We have never banned anyone for have a difference of opinion. So get that out of your head.

I thought Briggs was banned largely for being pro Trump


I agree w Rookie about the futility of honest, fair discussion

Forum went from quasi-bar of knicks fans enjoying or rooting for their team even when they were putrid to immature political rallies when the team is finally good

Briggs was complicated as are most of us which is not easy to convey given the economy of words we often use here. Not that I succeed in that most days. Politics are personal values which when pressed we back into our corners rarely if ever to retreat from. In fact most of us don't like to admit when we ae wrong as we dig pour heels in deeper and deeper and thats usually for our players or view on a coach! To debate via a site were we hold ananimity and participants holding various levels of intellectual capaicty it can get very interesting at times. We talk more than we listen. Nothing different than most of our society.
As for Briggs, I recall little detail but he took it to a level were it was uncomfortable for some. Martin can speak perhaps better about it if he is not exhausted from it by now, but my take is if you cross a line your given the opportuity to cool it down or leave. Briggs left. Many years ago I asked to do the same. Keep pressing to prove my points or find a more suitable forum to do so but not here. I choose to stay. I am a guest in this house and Martins rules of decorum are not unreasonable given first and foremost this is a forum about basketball and while we can dip our toes into other subjects its best we stick to what we do. He charges no fees nor subjects us to advertisements. Its his call. One is not censured or denied freedom of speech. One can do it elsewhere.

Some posters sulk and take it personally when called out if proven wrong. That't the prerequisite to getting asked to leave. Feeling victomized not by views but as if one is being "ganged up on". Again, listen rather than talk and sometimes its good to read the room your in. Don't like it? Go to one that is more suitable. Not everyone is open to exchange. They want validation.

The house of Martin has stood over two decades based on a formula that works for most that wish to talk mostly hoop and need to vent or share happy excitement in good times. It succeeds there.

I agree with a lot of what you say but not sure how you’re addressing the part about futility of honest, fair discussion. Are you saying the solution is to read the room and leave if one doesn’t like it?

If so that’s a little sad and seems like a recipe for more polarization. I recall the days when common interest in Knicks (even when they stunk) fostered more trust and interest in the views and life experiences of other forum members. For example I remember learning a lot from knicksluva (sp?) about black history.

I might be wrong in my recollection but the place seemed to be more civil and less polarized and that made this place special.

How about this? Help me and everyone out in threads like this. There is plenty of opportunity to help nudge the discussion.

I don’t really want to moderate threads like this and would gladly welcome the input.

If you think there isn’t a fair back and forth, help step in to set it right. This applies to everyone.

Fair back and forth goes something like

Person A says something you're not sure you agree with, or you know you disagree with but you're honestly curious how a seemingly intelligent person can have such an opinion.

Fair response from person B: How did you come to that conclusion? WHat's the evidence or logic behind that? What about this other evidence or logic that contradicts your view?

Unfair response: putting words in people's mouths, e.g., "if you think that then you must think [something crazy]" or completely dodging fair responses or criticisms and just respond with an attack eg you're a zionist, fascist etc. I.e., the all too frequent now shouting down or talking over your opponent.


I may be in the minority on this view but this place used to be a refuge from the BS of everyday life and where at least I thought it was safe to raise one's views if done so respectfully.

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