I hear what you are saying Ryan, as far as tightening the belt and all. Also I am no fan of Michael Moore, who is referenced in this thread's original post. I believe he is a snake oil salesman, selling only the extreme viewpoint, and editing his gathered video and facts to fit his desired statement.

That being said, I do have to wonder about your response stating that "the food stamp thing is a little ridiculous".
I am not wanting to pick a political fight here, as I know that is against the APCF terms of service, but I do feel somewhat strongly that there does need to be a counter argument to your statement.

Specifically, I don't feel qualified to judge anyone's necessity for claiming a benefit. I have to wonder how qualified you are to judge another American citizen's desire to feed themselves, or their family. I would also state that if a pilot has been paying state and or federal taxes, they have contributed to the program they are now claiming from. Honestly, I do not know where most food stamps come from, or are specifically funded, although in Alaska I believe they are a state program. To me, it seems as if you would also advocate not claiming social security upon reaching the end of your working life, or unemployment insurance after an unexpected layoff. Both of those are programs which you have contributed to if you've ever earned a paycheck.

I understand the whole desire for self reliance, and freedom from government intrusion. I do not understand the impetus behind denying or ridiculing another American for claiming the help at feeding themselves and their family from a program which they have most likely contributed to financially through their working life.

I know there are exceptions to this, but I would caution you to not judge too harshly until you too have walked the same walk in the same shoes.

Respectfully,
KT